.....nonphenomenal lineage

2010 Review In Photos

2011-01-12T12:13:00.005-08:00

So, I haven't blogged since September 21, which is terrible. But, in my defense, quite a bit has happened. I got offered a job in Boston, and have left Las Vegas. Right now I'm living in an apartment on Commonwealth Avenue in Back Bay. I am now working for the First Church of Christ, Scientist. More about that later!

What brought me back to the blog was my annual 2010 Review in Photos—my favorite blog post of the year. I chronicle my life and show off my favorite photos from the past year. This year, I had a hard time narrowing it down, since so many things happened, so I have a total of 89 photos, including the one above. I am breaking them down by month this time.

JANUARY

FEBRUARY

MARCH

APRIL

MAY

David and I's first anniversary!

JUNE (none)

JULY (got a new camera..lots!)

AUGUST

SEPTEMBER

OCTOBER

NOVEMBER

DECEMBER

Mom has the best face ever here!

That's it! What a fun year!

Years past:

2009 Review in Photos

2008 Review in Photos

2007 Review in Photos

2006 Review in Photos

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Currently listening to Every Day by the Cinematic Orchestra

Thingamagoop 2

2010-09-21T22:36:00.008-07:00

Last weekend was David's 30th birthday. I got him a Thingamagoop 2 kit from Bleep Labs. Here are some photos of him assembling it, followed by video of its talents. I think it's super hot my boyfriend is so handy with the tools.

Box

Case

Circuit Board

Populating the circuit board with switches and chips

Soldering the circuit board

Adding wires to the audio board/Last angry gesture of David's youth

Wires on the helpy hands

Audio board with wires

Soldering the audio board

Soldering the speaker

Circuit board a little further along

David assembling Thingamagoop

Parts

Face parts

LEDacle

Innards

Attaching the speaker to the case

Surgery

Putting in the circuit board

Securing the speaker

Attaching the faceplate

Adding the knobs and dials

Finishing touches

Ta-dah!

Some video:

Thingamagoop 2, 1 from Sarah Nichols on Vimeo.

Thingamagoop 2, 2 from Sarah Nichols on Vimeo.

This thing is sooo cool. You can plug it into your amp or keyboard and probably many other things. We have the volume kinda low in this video because my roommate was asleep, but it gets quite loud! I really want one now, too. They come in red, blue, green, and a special RGB version. Bleep Labs website

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Currently listening to: Bleep bleep bloop beep

Chasing the Skill

2010-07-28T11:13:00.005-07:00

While I should blog more regularly, because I do think about it often, I never seem to get around to it like I should.

July's almost over and 2010's halfway over! I can't believe how fast this year is going, and all the things that are happening.

Mostly it seems like I never have free time anymore, and I don't see getting it back anytime soon. I have a happy life, and things are generally good, however I feel like I want a few months of nothing—nothing at all —happening.

I've been doing a ton of freelance work lately; clients just seem to appear out of the woodwork. I'm having a hell of a time learning how to manage it all and still maintain sanity. But I'm learning a lot that's good. For a while I began to think I maybe wasn't cut out for design work and thought maybe I should pursue something else. I guess I never really feel like I really hit that genius stride.

Back when Dad was alive, he was my True Believer. Although everyone in my family is truly supportive and wonderful, Dad was always the one who really, really thought I was something. He kept my self esteem and hope for future greatness alive and well. I never took his praise and expectations for granted. I always thought I would work into them.

Now that Dad is gone, I wonder, what happened to that sense of hope? I feel myself slowly working into middle-class normalcy, dropping that dream of becoming a great designer, a great artist. I just never possessed that talent to get me to the top, I think sometimes.

I was listening to a RadioLab podcast yesterday with Robert Krulwich and Malcom Gladwell and they were talking about genius. Gladwell was going on about how he doesn't like the term genius...that someone got somewhere because they were preternaturally challenged. He maintains that a pure, unadulterated love for a particular thing, like how Wayne Gretsky loved hockey or Beethoven loved music, was what made them special. He talks about how if someone can put 10,000 hours into something, they will inevitably be considered a genius in their field. And it's more about the love and the time committed than it is sheer dumb luck of talent.

And I consider this: Even though I haven't dedicated every moment of my life to design and art, I've dedicated a significant amount. Maybe at some point, it will equal 10,000 hours. Will my art be considered great then? I suppose that's not what's important. The importance is expanding the skill, and, contritely, the journey. I will spend the rest of my life trying to be come better at art. I'm chasing the skill, and learning more, but know that I'll never be finished with this.

I realized yesterday after the podcast that, although I might not spend the rest of my life as a graphic designer, I do love to make stuff. Drawings, food, furniture, masks..as long as I'm combining things to make new things, I think I'll always feel happy.

Will I be doing graphic design in 10 years? Who knows. I know that I do have a new love; I bought a Nikon D90 DSLR camera that takes amazing photos. I've been experimenting with it here and there, but haven't done any real photoshoots yet, A) because it's FREAKING hot outside...the temperature rarely drops below three digits these days, even at night, and B) because of the business of the freelance gigs, which, thankfully, is paying for the rather pricey camera, and some nice things I've been buying this summer.

Darren and family were here a couple of weeks ago, and David and I spent time with them and the Clarks. We rented a room in the Flamingo and had a great time swimming and drinking beer there. Next week I fly to San Francisco to visit Troy, Robert, Mikkel & Hillary and to see the city. I've never been, so I'm excited about seeing the city, as well as having this amazing camera to go along with me.

I am bringing back at least 500 photos.

It's Justin and Josh Kenny's last weekend here in Las Vegas. We're spending the weekend with them, as well as celebrating Jorge and Wells' birthday. Another busy weekend coming up!

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Currently listening to: Black Moth Super Rainbow

Super Mario Cupcakes

2010-06-28T00:05:00.004-07:00

Super Mario Cupcakes, originally uploaded by Pocheco.

This was my first time working with fondant. I've been dreaming about fondant ever since I first saw Colette Peters of Colette's Cakes use it in a recipe about 8-9 years ago. From the first time I saw it, I was transfixed: how could something look so smooth and beautiful and still be edible?

Since then, I've done hundreds of searches on fondant, falling in love with fondant and the seemingly infinite forms it can take. I've even read up on recipes on how to make it, but was always a little intimidated.

This weekend, it was my friend's birthday party, and I wanted to make cupcakes for them. I asked David what I should make as a theme, and he replied with Super Mario Brothers. Of course! Perfect. I did a quick internet search, and this is what I saw.

I've seen these before, and always thought they were awesome, so I thought I'd try to make them. I was a little intimidated by how much the fondant would cost and how hard it would be to work with, but I decided to go for it anyway. I know of a great party store in Vegas that has a wide variety of cake decorations, called The Party Supply House.

David and I drove over there, and sure enough, there was fondant there. About $6 for an average covering for 24 cupcakes (the smaller package on sale, made by Wilton). Not bad! I bought some red gel dye, $1.99 (since the red kind you buy in a 4 pack at the grocery store only turns it pink) and then we went home.

Whipped up a box cake mix, Pillsbury's Funfetti, and stuffed them in the oven, and got to work on the fondant.

It was SO fun! I really loved it. I opened up the package and cut off a chunk. I looked up instructions on how to add color, and the first thing I saw was that you're supposed to use gel not liquid color. Since red was the only gel I had (Allison lent me her black gel too) I decided to go ahead and try mixing in liquid color from my basic super market set.

I made the blue first. I added a couple of dots, folded it over, and proceeded to knead it like play dough. After a couple of minutes, the blue was evenly distributed and I got a nice color. Fondant is made with some funny ingredients, including glycerin, and I was worried that adding the liquid coloring would destroy the consistency and that's why the internet advised gel color.

OK: liquid works fine. The only reason I could see that you wouldn't want to use it is that the liquid just squirts right out and can get really messy as you begin to knead it. If you do it slowly though, it's totally fine and seems the same as using the gel color.

I used and upside down drinking glass to make the blue circles (I just went through my glasses in the cabinet until I found a mouth that was about the area of the cupcake.) Once I mixed the blue into the fondant, I rolled it out on parchment paper until it was about 1/8 inch thick. Then I cut 12 circles and used a little buttercream frosting to glue the fondant to the top of the cooled cupcake.

I had a lot of fun mixing all the colors, and deciding how to make the various shapes from the game. David helped too, since we were running a little short on time. Overall, the experience was so much fun and really a lot easier than I thought. I am not going to be afraid to use fondant again, and am looking forward to the next excuse I have to use it!

I was happy overall with how they turned out, especially for a first go, but am hoping I can do better next time. They were a big hit at the party! Everyone loved them. Most people removed the fondant before eating it, but I'm one of the few people I know that actually likes to eat it.

FYI, I had edible marker that I used to make the eyes on the various characters. Those are really fun to use and can be found at cake decorating stores too. And overall, the whole thing, including cupcake liners I found for .99 was about $10 for 24 awesome cupcakes.

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Currently listening to War by U2

Podcast Party

2010-05-24T10:32:00.005-07:00

I actually look forward to working on Mondays lately...not because I love my job particularly or that I'm so glad to begin a new week. Rather it's that Monday mornings means a slew of new podcasts waiting for me like little gifts accumulated in my iTunes.

Forever I was a music girl; if I was going to listen to anything during the day at work, it was almost always my iPod or Pandora. But sometime last September-ish, David was and I were talking about This American Life with Ira Glass and I got hooked. I had listened to maybe one or two TALs a few years back at my job at Kennard Design, but since hadn't listened to them although I remember them being good.

I got to work, went onto the iTunes store, and subscribed to a whole slew of free audio podcasts that I could listen to throughout the day. In the 9 months since, I've become a bit of a podcast freak, and now have a few regular ones that I get really excited over.

I know there are more out there, but these are the ones that I believe are truly worth listening to and that I wholly recommend. Most of them have curses in them, and some have bizarre subject matter, so I suggest headphones if you're going to be listening to them at work. Below are my top 10 favorite, ones that I guarantee you'll like, maybe even love:

Dan Carlin's Hardcore History
10: This show approaches history like no class you've ever taken. Dan is a great speaker; he talks about these subjects with the fluidity and knowledge as if they happened personally to him. It makes history exciting and fun. Visit the website.

Get-It-Done-Guy
9: I like this podcast for a few reasons; it's informative, it's short, and quirky. I like these little life-hacks podcasts; I always feel short on time, but this guy gives you tips to make life a little more productive. The podcasts are usually around 5-6 minutes, and he's odd-duck funny. Visit the website

My Brother, My Brother and Me
8: I just started listening to this one, but it's become an instant favorite because these guys are just pure hilariousness. It's a ridiculous advice show. From the description on their website: My Brother, My Brother and Me is an advicecast for the modern era featuring three real-life brothers: Justin, Travis and Griffin McElroy. For about one-half to two-thirds of an hour each week, with new episodes dropping every Monday, the brothers McElroy will answer any query sent our way, each fielding questions falling into our respective areas of expertise. We operate like a streamlined, advice-generating machine. It’s both terrifying and humbling to behold."
Visit the website

Freakonomics
7: Quirky, funny, and topical, this show breaks down current issues around the world and twists them into interesting journalistic shows. I believe it was originally a column in the NY Times; it's now a weekly podcast. Check it out: Visit the website

PRI: Selected Shorts
6: Hosted by the sweetly proper Isaiah Sheffer, Selected Shorts is a great series of often poignant short stories which are always good. Stories are often read by actors, the most notable voice, and favorite of mine is Alec Baldwin, who appears often and knows how to read a good story. This show makes me want to be a writer. Visit the website.

Risk
5: Brainchild of The State cast member Kevin Allison, Risk is often a recording of stories told live on stage. Some people are just average, but then you'll have the occasional celebrity telling their favorite story, like Reno 911!'s Kerri Kenney or The State's Michael Showalter or A.D. Miles. Each week has a specific topic; where stories of risk reflect the topic. Almost always surprising, funny or sometimes horrifically embarrassing, Risk is a show you can't miss. Visit the website

The Moth
4: Amazing, crazy, riveting true stories told live on stage. What else needs to be said? These stories are amazing. I really, really look forward to this podcast. Visit the website

3: Stuff You Should Know
Josh Clark and Chuck Bryant hilariously and intelligently cover any kind of topic you should know about but probably don't, including things like "How hard is it to steal a work of art" or "Will the moon save humanity" or "How near-death experiences work" or "Are stupid people happier?" and many, many more. You'll laugh, AND you'll learn, and you will find yourself loving these two hosts, who are sweet, funny, sarcastic and cultural geniuses. Visit the website

This American Life
2: Ira Glass and his team of human-interest journalists head out across the country to explore stories stranger than fiction. Always excellent, always funny, and always poignant, this is the most popular podcast available. Visit the website

RadioLab
1: I think this is my favorite podcast of all time. Robert Krulwich and Jad Abumrad host this amazingly sonic and fantastically interesting show. Their website describes it best "Radiolab believes your ears are a portal to another world. Where sound illuminates ideas, and the boundaries blur between science, philosophy, and human experience. Big questions are investigated, tinkered with, and encouraged to grow. Bring your curiosity, and we'll feed it with possibility." When I first learned about this show (from This American Life) I devoured all four seasons in about 1.5 weeks. I think you will, too. Visit the website

Other podcasts that I listen to:

APM: Sound Opinions on Demand (music critics discuss new and old, with live performances!)

The Sporkful--How to eat more, how to eat awesomely and how to eat more awesomely

Comedy Death-Ray Radio with Scott Aukerman

I Love Movies with Doug Benson

Savage Love Podcast with Dan Savage

Today in the Past with John Hodgman

The Nerdist with Chris Hardwick

The New Yorker Fiction with Deborah Treisman

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Currently listening to This American Life

Happy Anniversary to David & Me

2010-05-16T13:50:00.002-07:00

David and I have now been together for one year! It's been a wonderful time, and I love him so much.

Since our anniversary fell on a Sunday this year, I kind of treated the whole weekend as our anniversary. It happens to be Jorge and Marisol's anniversary too. Since Marisol has been out of town for a month, David and I went to Jorge's house on Friday for dinner. We were joined by Greg. We had a catered shrimp meal that was delicious!

Saturday, we woke up and had chorizo and eggs with coffee. Then we played some Nintendo, watched a little TV, and went from his place over to mine. We ate at a local burger joint called CREATE, where we David is in the above photo. It was tasty! That night we watched a bunch of Buffy the Vampire Slayer, SNL, and ate mac & cheese.

We slept in Sunday, had eggs and bacon for breakfast, and then we just kind of hung out working on stuff and playing games until it was time for more burgers and ice cream at dinner. A quiet weekend, but nice and relaxing! I was happy with it.

Here are some more pictures of me & David from the past year. I love you, David!

Easter 2010 at Allison's & my house

Mustache Party, March at Kenny Manor

The bottom half of the above photo!

In Phoenix, before a Coyotes Hockey game at Westgate in February

Family picnic at South Mountain in Phoenix, February

With Ariana, at Hoover Dam, December

Halloween party at Kenny Manor

At my 30th birthday party at Serendipity3

September 26 Beer Vs. Liquor derby scrimmage after party at Mickie Finnz

David's 29th birthday celebration, part II, at Dino's Saturday night, September

David's 29th birthday celebration, part I, at Hofbrauhaus Friday night, September

>
In Outer Space, August

In Sedona, July

With Morgan, June

Pearly's decade birthday party at The Office Bar, May

At the Downtown Cocktail Lounge, May

At Taco Yayo, our third date, May

I love you baby!

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Currently listening to Lykke Li

Las Vegas 51s Game

2010-05-13T13:39:00.000-07:00

Me, with peanuts or Crackerjack in my mouth

I enjoy baseball games. The time spent outside in the evening with friends, the excited crowd, the raucous cheers. Baseball, as a sport, is only mildly entertaining for me, but I still like to go to the games. We went on $1 beer night, although I only had a couple of sips of David's beer to help the crazy saltiness of all the peanuts I was eating.

Jessica invited us, and we went with her and her family; Debbie, Josh & Justin, all good friends. They feel like my family too. Plus, they all call David, "Dad."

The 51s played the Iowa Cubs, and lost, 8-4. Oh well, it was still a good time and I'd go back again.

Hubble Gotchu!

Justin with megaphone/peanut cone

Jessica & Debbie

I wanted to take photos of Josh & David, but everytime I turned around, they were gone!!

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Listening to The xx

Hike to La Madre Spring

2010-04-19T12:43:00.002-07:00

David, Henry and I hiked La Madre Spring. This hike, as you can see in the map below, is in the very northwest corner of the park. I hadn't really explored this area before, so it was pretty exciting to see some new parts of the park!

It was a Bea-uuuutiful day. It was one of the last weekends of the year where it's still cool enough to hike without breaking much of a sweat. There were tons of people out and lots of dogs. One person quipped in passing, "There are more dogs than people out here today!"

Near the trailhead

The hike was about 2.5-3 miles round trip. It's a hike-in, turnaround, hike-out trail. It's uphill almost the entire way in, sometimes the steepness reaching like 30 degrees, which is pretty damn steep! It was a hard climb, even for a coolish day. Henry kept making us stop while he would plop himself in the cool shade under a juniper tree.

I like the blurriness of this photo..it adds a painterly quality

The trail is 4 wheel drive accessible, which I have on my Rav4, but I think its more fun to walk it.

Some nice flowers and cactus I saw along the way. There was quite a bit of this kind of cactus on the trail, more than I've seen in other parts of the park.

Henry under a juniper tree

Didn't see any significant wild life, which was kind of sad. A chatty Canadian couple we passed a couple of times told us they saw a rattlesnake, and I was SUPER disappointed I hadn't seen it.

A ways up the trail revealed some of the calico rocks...very pretty.

We finally made it to the top of the trail were the spring was. It looked fresh and cool, but the sign said the water wasn't tested, so we didn't drink it. But it supplies the animals in the mountains with water, so I figured it was probably safe. I let Henry run around in it to cool off. He hasn't really played in water before, but seemed to enjoy it. The water wasn't that deep, and for most of the springs, it came halfway up his legs. He'd walk through, and occasionally dip his wiener in the water to cool it off, which we thought was hilarious.

Thinking about dipping his wienie

The spring wasn't much to look at, however. It was small and a little ugly. But it's still neat to know it's there for the mountain animals.

La Madre Spring

We passed an old homestead--now just the foundation--but there's no information listed about it on the Red Rock website. You can see what was left of the floor in the photo below.

The trail took about 2.5 or 3 hours, and I enjoyed it for what it was worth. Don't know if I'd hike it again, although it turns out that there's more of a trail beyond the spring that leads to a dam. We didn't walk that far, but someday I'd like to see it so maybe I'll go back. I don't think I'd bring Henry again on this trail unless it's an overcast or chilly day; it seemed a bit too much for him. But I think other dogs, ones with longer noses and better sinuses would do fine.

Here's a picture of him with his giant ladel-like tongue by some of the many pricly pear cacti we saw along the trail.

It was a good hike and we certainly got our day's exercise! This might be the last hike we'll take for the season, now that the major heat is coming on, at least in Red Rock Canyon. I think we might still be able to hike Mount Charleston trails, but, we'll be staying out of Red Rock until it gets cool again in the fall.

Here are links in my blog to other trails I've hiked and noted in Red Rock Canyon:

Ice Box Canyon Hike
Pine Creek Canyon Hike

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Currently listening to Gulag Orkestar by Beirut

Downtown Las Vegas

2010-04-15T10:13:00.005-07:00

I have a fascination with downtown Las Vegas. If you've never been here before, it's important to understand the difference between the Strip and Downtown. They are both located on Las Vegas Boulevard, but the Strip is considered all the properties south of the Stratosphere, which is all the modern hotels, like Mirage, Wynn, Bellagio, Palazzo, Aria, the Venetian, New York New York, and so on. Most of these properties have been built since the 1990s, with a few exceptions, like the Riviera (1955), the Sahara (1952) and the Circus Circus (1968).

If you drive northbound on Las Vegas Boulevard, you eventually will pass the Stratosphere and you will leave the Strip. Then you'll start time-warping into the 1950s, or so it feels. It's the Vegas of Elvis and Marilyn Monroe and the Rat Pack. You'll encounter such gem motels at Fun City and The Yucca Motel. You'll pass all the tiny little chapels where you can get married at any time of the day by Dolly Parton or Frank Sinatra or the King himself. There's even a drive through chapel!

A little farther north, you'll come into the Fremont Street area, which has all the great old hotels, like Binion's, the Golden Nugget and 4 Queens. Down here, it's much cheaper than the Strip, and the gambling's good, or, so I hear. The city has been trying to keep it going, to foster growth and interest, because I think everyone that lives here knows this where the real culture of the city is.

Anyway, it's my favorite place to photograph; seems I'm always thinking of my next project down there, photographing old hotels and chapels that seem so sincere in their tackiness, it is endearing.

Here's a series of photos I took three years ago, and is still one of my favorites.

Anyway, here are some photos I took last Saturday; I wanted to take more buy my camera died, so here's what I got.

I drove past this place, and stopped to take pictures because Gold & Silver Pawn is the star of the show Pawn Stars, which you can see here.

Here is a line of people waiting to get into the store. I don't think anything special was happening; just a line of tourists, but there were still velvet ropes and a bouncer. Hah! Made me laugh to see such a big deal for a pawn shop.

A woman came out while I was photographing the place and said to the waiting line "It's not as big as you think!"

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Currently listening to "Dance Floor" by Apples in Stereo

Ice Box Canyon

2010-04-14T15:34:00.008-07:00

David and I went hiking at Red Rock Canyon National Park a week or two ago and I wanted to post pictures of the hike. Red Rock Canyon is an incredible park and I love going there. Now that I have moved back to Summerlin, I live a 15-minute drive from the park. I feel like it's a crime if I don't go there at least once a month.

This time, David and I decided to do the Ice Box Canyon trail. I have heard it's called this because it's normally 20 degrees cooler than the rest of the park, which makes for a bearable hike in the summertime.

As you can see, we were wearing t-shirts, although it wasn't that hot there that day. I think Red Rock is a little cooler than the rest of the city, but it's still April, so it's not really that hot yet at all. In face, we're having a really mild spring. Usually by this time it's already in the 80s—although I think it's suppose to get there this weekend.

Anyway, here are a couple of photos

You can see the Calico Hills (red rocks) and Turtle Head Peak (on left) in this photo.

There were a lot of people out on the trail that day. We climbed about half way and then backtracked and took a different trail where there wasn't anyone else.

We found a little creek with and sat down on the rocks to relax. David dubbed this 'sofa rock'.

Here I am doing a goofy pose on the creek. I kept accidentally putting my feet in the water while this picture was being taken.

Here we are at the trail head. The trail goes back into those mountains you see behind us.

I was hoping to see some cool animals, but there wasn't much out there that day. David saw a small lizard (I missed it) and it seems that several of the trees had large communal larvae sacks full of some kind of small caterpillars.

I was happy to hike this trail; it's one of the ones I've been wanting to do for a long time. We didn't actually finish the trail; we ran out of energy and no provisions. But we'll head back sometime and finish it.

Pine Creek Canyon Hike

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Currently listening to The Killers.

Breaking the Chain

2010-04-12T09:43:00.005-07:00

Drive Through Starbucks in Washington State USA
Originally uploaded by AbsoluteArt.net

Have a couple of bucks left in my account til I get paid on Wednesday, so I thought I'd buy myself a much-needed coffee this morning.

Was in the drive through at Starbucks, and when I got to the window to pay for the drink, the girl at the window told me the person in the car in front of me had already paid for my drink.

"He's trying to start that chain where you pay for the drink of the person behind you."

"Well," I said, "how much is the drink of the person behind me?" Turns out, their drink was significantly more than mine! "Uh, I don't have that much money," I said.

She looked at me, disappointed, and then sighed "OK." I drove off, feeling pretty shitty about myself.

But, then, as I was driving, I thought to myself 'Why do I feel this way?' There's no need to feel shitty. True, maybe if $5 is all I have left in my account, I shouldn't be at Starbucks, but does that mean that I need to feel obligated to pay $7 for a cup of coffee? Whoever was behind me was getting breakfast and coffee, and I just kind of felt it was unfair.

I suppose if that happens again in the future, I can just pay what I owe on my drink towards the cost of the person to offset their cost. That's what I should have done. Instead, I have a free coffee that makes me feel kind of guilty.

Ugh.

Favorite Video of the Week, Vol. 2, No.7

2010-04-09T10:15:00.001-07:00

5D and EX1 Lady Bug Swarm from Michael Ramsey on Vimeo.

Love!

TIKI!

2010-04-06T16:24:00.006-07:00

I am proud to say that I have finally completed my collection of Tiki Mugs from Frankie's Tiki Room (if you count the one of David's that's living at my house!) First let talk a little about Frankie's. It's the best Tiki Bar in Las Vegas, and possibly the world. Started by P. Moss, the gentleman who also started DoubleDown, possibly the world's saltiest and craggiest punk bar, Frankie's is a small, out-of-the-way little venue on Charleston Ave. It's got a bright pink neon sign that's hard to miss.

There's hand-carved tiki chairs and tables, original artwork, including a Vice Tester by SHAG, and the juke box is full of Polynesian-inspired surfer rock. There are big illuminated colored orbs hanging from the ceiling for light, and several puffer fish mounted with colored lights in them too. There's even a fog machine surrounding the 8 foot tall tiki god with red dice for eyes that greets you when you walk in.

The drinks are strong, fruity, and have great names like Fink Bomb and Zombie. My friends and I go there all the time. We went there on my 30th birthday party and it was fantastic! Anyway, the specialty drinks either come in a regular glass, or, for a little extra, you can get them in the fantastic ceramic tiki mugs, 8 in all, designed especially for Frankie's.

I am proud to say that, over the past year, I have collected them all! Here are photos of each one and the memory I have from it. Also are the descriptions, taken from Frankiestikiroom.com

Lava Letch
"A lecherous concoction made with demon rum, brandy, raspberry liqueur and ginger beer. Lock up your daughters."

This is the first one I got, because I think it's my favorite. I am actually a little fuzzy on the memory of getting this, but I think it's a night when I went with a bunch of people: Jorge, Justin, Josh, Jessica & Andrea are among those that I remember. I got this sometime around January 2009.

Bombora Blast
"Loaded with 151 rum proof plus a jolt of guava-based energy drink, this volcanic eruption will keep you soaring all night."

This one I got in April of 2009 when Mikkel, Robert & Troy were visiting. It was their first time there and Justin, Josh, Lisa and Allison all came. It was a fun night, as always!

Malekula
"A glowing island elixir prepared with coconut rum, Tuaca, melon liqueur and pineapple juice. The perfect refresher for that perfect buzz."

Bearded Clam
"This tiki twist on the classic mojito includes light rum, mint leaves and a whisper of passion fruit. Guaranteed to part that grass skirt."

The two above were attained in early June when Angel was visiting. I think she enjoyed the bar too! She, David and I went to Frankie's with a bunch of friends. This was only a couple of months into our relationship, it seemed as if and David, my roommates, their S.O.s and I had been partying non-stop for a the entire summer. It was great! I got the volcano one for me, and the other for David, although it's lived at my since.

Thurston Howl
"A powerful explosion of rum, brandy, gin and Pernod. A couple of these and Lovey Howell will look like Ginger Grant."

Kahiki Kai
"This creamy delight of pure island freshness features coconut rum, banana liqueur and pineapple juice. The perfect escape to the perfect state of mind."

I got both of these on my 30th birthday party in October 2009 at Frankie's, which followed a dinner at the lovely Seredipity3. I was only planning on getting one, but then my friend Kobbe hit it big at the video poker and donated $400 to the party's bar tab. Needless to say, it made a good party great! So, I splurged and got these two.

Tiki Bandit
"A jackpot of pineapple rum, 151 proof rum, apricot brandy and blue curacao. This dreamy nectar will keep you rolling sevens."

6 months later, we went back to Frankie's again when my dear friend Leah was visiting from San Diego in March 2010. I got this one, which appears to be a second edition, because it has green details, where as Allison's mug, from an earlier time, has red lettering. I also got Leah the Lava Letch for a souvenir. I think the Tiki Bandit is competing with the Lava Letch for my favorite mug, it's just so dang great.

Green Gasser
"This lethal blast of citrus rum, melon liqueur, 151 proof rum and energy drink will knock you on your ass, then make you get up and beg for more."

A week later, we were back at Frankie's with Matt and Amanda visiting us from Phoenix. Greg joined us there and I got the last mug to complete the collection! I am quite proud of them and love them all.

We've taken so many visiting people, even the bartender remarked, "Say, you brought some new friends tonight!"

Here are a couple more photos, including the entire set, and the swizzle sticks that come in each and every drink. The first year Frankie's was open, all drinks came with the purple stick. Now, in its second year, all drinks have the red swizzle stick, with the face of P. Moss, the owner.

I hope they release more mugs someday! I love having them, and remembering the nights that I have spent there.

PS: If you got there, order the Fink Bomb or the Kahiki Kai. The Fink Bomb tastes like a liquid pineapple Life Saver and the Kahiki Kai's creaminess are both awesome.

frankiestikiroom.com

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Currently listening to Plastic Beach by Gorillaz

ViFavorite Video of the Week, Vol. 2, No.6

2010-03-24T10:31:00.001-07:00

Adobe Photoshop Cook from Lait Noir on Vimeo.

OMG this is adorable.

Favorite Video of the Week, Vol. 2, No.5

2010-03-12T10:20:00.000-08:00

The Sandpit from Sam O'Hare on Vimeo.

Shrinking, Expanding

2010-03-10T21:33:00.003-08:00

Been looking at the sky a lot lately. Going over to my friend's house this weekend to paint clouds on her bathroom ceiling. I have been practicing them all week to get them right. This is a second sketch. Much better than the first, but I've still got to step it up a bit. Currently I am waiting for the freshly-gessoed canvas to dry so that I can try again.

Got the news today at work that we've renewed our contract with the health insurance company. Premiums, co-pays and deductibles have all risen. This means that to keep my insurance, I will have to pay $30 minimum more per month, not counting the extra cost I'll have for doctor's visits. That brings my total pay to $146 per month to keep myself insured. I guess that's probably what most people pay, but that extra $30 bucks a month seems to be such a big deal to me.

Not only was I crestfallen when I read that I'll have to pay more, I was worried: Can I afford this? I already have a tough time paying for food and gas on top of all my other bills, how will this affect me? It's been a year now since I got my pay cut, and there is no sign of that cut money returning, let's not even talk about a raise.

I've told them several times that I need more money, that I'm struggling. They've told me several times no. So, my options are to get a different job or get a second job. I've done some freelance work lately, so the extra money coming in covers what my pay check does not. But there is a finite amount of money in those jobs. After it's gone, then what? I don't know. I don't know how I'm going to keep going.

All I know is that I've fallen into the horrible trap of worrying about money, and how hard I've fallen! I remember being young and observing my dad mired in a constant fear of not having enough. As far as I could tell, he seemed constantly agitated by the thought of money. It seems he always had trouble with it. I saw how this fear wore him down, and I vowed to never fall into this same trap. Well, now that I'm 30, I see that I've realized my fear, and have been ensnared into this horrible constant fear of cash, despite my best efforts.

This fear of not having enough money has slowly crept in, and I feel like I've betrayed myself, because, here I am, still fairly young, and yet my mind is plagued by this horrible sense of lack. This fear snuck in through the back door, it seems, quietly looming, and then suddenly striking.

If I've learned one thing, it's that I always make it through. Years past, I've been tight on cash, but I've always had a good life, never gone without. The past always seems clear of fear; like yesterday was a good day but tomorrow I will be without. When will I be able to reconcile this fear? I know that I will always be ok. I will make it through.

When my boss told me today that I had to pay another $30 a month, I felt like the walls around me closed in just a little bit more. Like my quality of life would have to shrink, because a precious means would be stripped.

Sometimes I wonder if all of this is a big test; like all this crap I'm going through now is preparing me to fully appreciate what I will have later. Sometimes I believe in fate. Or, I should say, I used to believe in fate. Nowadays I kind of just see life not as something where we learn lessons or grow closer to our souls, but rather just a blip in a huge machine. That nothing makes sense or has fate because we are not a spiritual miracle, we just are. Like ants are and plants are. So I have a difficult time feeling that somehow I cosmically deserve to be wealthy and rich later because I have spent so much time worrying about money now.

I've got to get outside and above this fear. I've got to transcend my nightmares of not having enough supply. I fully believe that this fear of loss and lack have easily taken control over my happiness and contentedness. Somehow I have to learn to live outside the constraints of desire for money.

But how? Where do I begin? Actually, I think this past year, I have begun to learn. It has been slow and full of mistakes, but I think I am finally starting to learn to live within my budget. There is little breathing room, yes, but I know that I can make it work. I know that if I work to re-channel my thought, I can realize what I'm taking for granted now, and the need for money will lessen as I take note of whats around me. I have all the tools I need to expand my happiness. I just need to stop using lack as an excuse. I have all I need. But it's hard.

This too, shall pass.

----
Currently listening to Zoe Keating

Favorite Video of the Week, Vol. 2, No.4

2010-03-03T10:21:00.001-08:00

I love this video! It's super clever. And makes me want to make commercials.

Too Much

2010-02-23T21:41:00.012-08:00

Above is a picture of David taken on South Mountain in Arizona. We were there for an afternoon with his family one weekend in February. I love this picture for a few reasons. 1) It has David in it. I love pictures of him, and this one especially because he seems isolated and contemplative, but not unhappy. I think it was a simple pause in the conversation between us as we walked up the side of a hill to a plateau that looked out over Phoenix. 2) I also like it because at this moment I felt at peace, at the present, and unconcerned about the future.

I felt this way on our vacation, but I rarely find myself feeling this way at home. I think I feel better on vacation because I loose hold on two things: Control and responsibility. All those things that occupy my time in Las Vegas; work, the computer, and most people, have been left behind. More often than relaxed; at home I feel jumpy, overwhelmed and responsible. There are several reasons why, most of which at I am just beginning to scratch the surface.

A couple of observations:

1) I wake up usually feeling pretty good about the day...there is so much time. By the time I go to bed, an impending doom of tasks unfinished and goals unreached have mounted on me with enough pressure to drive me to anxiety. It's like the myth of Atlas, with the boulder being at the top of the hill when I wake up, and hurtling toward the ground during the day, only to be pushed reluctantly towards the top again while I sleep. I wake up with a sense of purpose, confidence, and crawl into bed defeated, nothing seemingly accomplished except using another one of my very limited days.

2) When I do accomplish things, I feel a temporary sense of relief, purpose. But while I'm enjoying that sense, my mind drifts uncontrollably to my next task, tasks, endless tasks. It's almost like a fix of a substance; it's brief, fleeting, and it's difficult for me to enjoy the high because I know that withdrawl is inevitable and I will only be able to sate that withdrawl with another task.

Tasks, tasks, so many tasks. What's on my to do list? Well, there's laundry. And freelance projects. And roller derby. And within derby, there's practice. And meetings. And posters and programs. And tickets. And drama. And responsibility to my position on the board. Beyond roller derby, there's the responsibility I have toward Henry. Is he happy? Am I walking him enough? Is the house clean? I need to pick up the dog poop in the back yard. I haven't been keeping up on my share of the house chores lately. Are people building resentment towards me because I don't call them enough? I miss my mother, and should call her.

There's also this abstract need to keep up the pop culture aspect of my life: What about those programs I've stored on the DVR? Do I feel any closer to accomplishment when I watch that episode of The Simpsons I missed on Sunday? Not surprisingly, no: Watching TV does not make me feel more accomplished, although by recording something on the DVR, I immediately feel some sort of responsibility to watch it; like it's waiting for me there, willing me to not disappoint its flickering existence by not watching it. And forget about my blog reader. There's millions of things there. I could spend months reading all that shit.

Most of these tasks have rewards: Henry is happy when I walk him, I have clean clothes when I do laundry; I get a rebate when I finally get around to doing my taxes.

But this constant nagging is always at the back of my head...a huge to do list like a ball and chain I carry around. I've come to the point where I feel completely lazy if every waking moment is not spent doing something productive.

Except, and here's the worst part: Sometimes I sit around and spend so much time worrying about what all I have to do that I actually get none of it done. That's right. I sit on my bed, stewing; my chores looming big and ugly and chaotic. I can't pin them down, and have to work so hard just to prioritize them.

I feel myself shutting down; I am becoming less and less social. I begin to loathe social interaction at times, because I feel it's unnecessary in light of other things I owe to myself and to other people to finish. A couple of times I've come home at night and spent hours crying on my bed, for reasons I can't totally define, except that I know anxiety is at the root of the trouble.

A couple of things I've learned: This huge horrible sense of anxiety is bad and good. It's BAD because it's aging me. I'm not able to extract as much joy out of life as I should because I'm causing myself to stress out over stuff that does not matter in the long run. It's GOOD because it's my impetus to change. It is forcing me to forge ahead and slowly move through a mountain of tasks that is taking me from childhood to adult, from irresponsible to responsible, from unhealthy to healthy. It's also GOOD because it forces me to be more on task; to answer that email immediately rather than putting it off until later. To wash the dishes after I use them because I don't want them to pile up and become a huge chore later.

My problem is that I can't operate in a big picture way. I'm drowning under all the details and the methods and the rules. So, this is what I propose to do: For the next two days, I am going to make an experiment: I am going to only thing of the next two things I need to do. All the other shit I am going to empty and clear from my mind. I am going to refuse errant thoughts of things I should be doing to creep in and distract me from things I AM doing. I will let routine and my calendar dictate the rest.

I chose two days because I don't honestly know if I am going to be able to handle it. If it works for two days, maybe I'll try a week. Uh oh, there I go again. Thinking ahead too much. OK.

Two days, two things at a time.

What do I do now?

Oh. Yes. My bed needs to be made. And I need to put the laundry in. I will only focus on these two tasks now, until they are done. I will only let thoughts of bed and laundry into my mind until I am finished. I will will myself not to become distracted. And then, then I will begin with the rest of my life, two tasks a time.

Wish me luck.

-----
Currently listening to Set Free by American Analog Set

Pigeon

2010-02-22T11:08:00.003-08:00

Allison and I arrived at our house half an hour before midnight on Sunday. I glanced at the floor and noticed a single gray feather there on the tile. Uh oh, I thought. Where did this come from?

Book club had ran late tonight, but it had been worth it. After reading The Art of Racing in the Rain by Garth Stein, our host DeAnna had created a lovely Italian meal to reflect themes of the book. We'd had Caesar salad, Caprese salad, gnocci with a lovely sausage sauce, Portabello mushroom risotto with delicious crunchy dinner rolls stuffed with roasted garlic. For dessert we'd had gelato, Pepperidge Farm's Milano cookies and coffee liqueur. All this food blessed, of course, with Book Club's staple...red wine. A great dinner lead to happy conversation for the 8 of us--a record turnout for the past few months--and which lasted later than it usually does. When it was over, we took Marisol home and then arrived at our house, both expecting to go straight to bed.

Allison turned to climb the stairs to her room, and said 'Hey, there are feathers here'. I looked at Morgan and Henry, who didn't seem to have guilty faces at all. They trotted after us up the stairs, where the feathers became more and more intense.

"Oh no" I heard from Allison at the top of the stairs--but I already knew.

There, on the hallway between our two bedrooms was a pigeon carcass surrounded by an explosion of feathers. The pigeons head was tucked into it's wing, which leads me to believe it had come to the yard to die, as I had seen them do before. After dying or perhaps during, the bird had been apprehended by the dogs and brought inside via the doggy door.

I grabbed a plastic grocery bag to put the pigeon in, and Allison was able to vacuum up most of the feathers. Those suckers cling to everything.

Anyway, it's not the first dead pigeon I've dealt with.

Favorite Video of the Week, Vol. 2, No.3

2010-02-16T09:53:00.002-08:00

Out Of A Forest from Tobias Gundorff Boesen on Vimeo.

Ok. There are a couple of reasons why I like this song. #1: Uses one of my favorite songs of all time, "Slow Show" by The National. #2: It's a stop animation about bunnies.
#3: It's moody and kind of like a fairy tale.

That being said, I am not sure if I like the song with the video. I mean, I can see how the tone of the music fits the movie, but the lyrics? The part where he starts singing about falling in love with someone after 29 years is also the part where the wolf/hog is trying to kill the littlest bunny. Hmm

Favorite Video of the Week, Vol. 2, No.2

2010-02-02T13:14:00.001-08:00

This comes as a suggestion from David, who claims that, even though it's only February, this video might sweep the year.

NSFW (lots of cursing)

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Currently listening to Under the Pipal Tree by Mono

Macarons!!!!!!!!!!!

2010-01-28T14:08:00.009-08:00

Macarons!!!!!!!!!!!
Originally uploaded by 4GoodnessCake!

Man, I wish I had made these cookies. Or at least had some to eat. I've been obsessed with these cookies lately, (as apparently, the rest of America is starting to become) and I dream everyday about making them. They are so awesome. Please visit Paulette Macarons to see more. Will be making them soon, mark my word.

Life's been good lately. Although I feel like I'm getting a lot accomplished lately, I feel like the strain of getting everything done has been taking it's toll.

Something has changed in my life in the last year, something that's hard to define. I no longer want to drink alcohol as much anymore, and suddenly feel much happier about life. Well it's obvious they must be connected. Also it's been two years since I quit smoking, which I feel pretty awesome about.

All the good things I have going in my life right now: David, living with Allison, job future looking brighter than before, health getting back to where it should be, and general calmness and purpose have set me back into a happy and productive mental state. Things are great right now, and I really couldn't be happier!

Tomorrow morning, Allison and I are working with the "Dog Whisperer" of Las Vegas. Should be interesting!

Guess I don't have much more to say right now except Life IS Good, after all. It's a good feeling.

----
Currently listening to Rubber Factory by The Black Keys

Favorite Video of the Week, Vol. 2, No.1

2010-01-18T09:41:00.002-08:00

This is soooo brilliant. My favorite part is at 3:08, at the Nut Cracking School. But watch the whole thing, it's awesome.

Roller Derby Poster for Feb 20, 2010 bout

2010-01-11T09:41:00.004-08:00

My newest design. Nerdy, I know.

Notorious VIPs vs Tommy Gun Terrors

Commercial Center & Sahara

8:30 pm

$7 in advance, $10 at the door.

February 20, 2010

2009 Review in Photos

2010-01-01T09:24:00.002-08:00

Dad, January 1, 2009. 1940-2009

2009...Wow. This has probably been the most eventful year of my life. It's been a year of trial, a year of great love, a year of roller derby, a year of stress and pain and a year of scarcity and abundance. 2009 was a year of crossing into a new age, and a year of innumerable tests and questions. Was it a hard year? Absolutely. Was it a good year? Certainly. Most of all, it was an enlightening year: a year of clarity.

In January, my father died. Although Dad's health had been slipping for a few years, his death seemed sudden and came as a shock. Suzanne, Jay, kids and I drove down to Tulsa for his funeral service, which was somewhat somber, somewhat tranquil and wholly cathartic. I miss Dad especially now, during the holidays...this time last year, we were hanging out together.

Me, with the brightest hair ever, May 16 at the derby track, TGT vs. VIP.

What else happened this year? I really began to play Roller Derby much more. I was in 8 games, and spent countless hours learning new techniques and working on my endurance, skill and agility. I feel like I've come a long way, although I still have a long way to go to get where I want to be in the sport. It's the first team sport I've ever played, and something that I feel has been a rite of passage, because I was forced to push myself into a new form, a new attitude about myself and my ability. I am thankful for it. And, most importantly, I've got to spend time with a great group of strong, aggressive, happy and lovely angry derby ladies.

David, at the May 16 Derby after party at Mikey Finnz.

This year I met David, whom I love more than anything. His love is the thing I've wanted most in my entire life, and it's great. We met in May and fell in love fast. I can't wait to see where 2010 will take us; for sure it will be fun!

At Frankie's Tiki Lounge, with the TV Dinner birthday cupcakes Rusty (in background) made me.

Also, I turned 30 this year. Oof! This birthday came at me full-speed. I can't believe my 20s are over! They were so fun, and so chaotic. In some sense, I'm relieved that decade in my life is now lived. I am hoping for a new decade a little less rocky, a little less loud, and this decade I want to use to fully expand and explore my art and creative side. Hopefully a little less moving and little better handle on my bills will allow me to paint and play some music.

Those were the major events in my life this year. In addition, I:

Got robbed (twice! one out of my bank account, and once out of the back of my car)
Got what was robbed returned to me (money out of my account, skates out of my car)
Sprained my knee
Got two root canals and 2 crowns
Got swindled by a car repair shop, then got practically free service from an honest mechanic
Got my first car ticket
Moved into a new house
Took my first trip to Phoenix and Arizona
Finally got to drive a Dodge Challenger
Taught Henry to bark when I say "Speak!"
Got a pay cut
Lost my magazine, Casino Connection
Mom, Ariana, Angel, Mikkel, Troy and Robert visited me
Bought the first dress I've gotten since I was 16
Made a mask of my Dog
Learned how to make marshmallows
And witnessed the opening of the largest private construction project to date in the history of the country

So, here are some pictures from the year!

Henry realizes how much he loves hiking, at Red Rock

Lisette shows Justin how to press a tamale casing at our Tamale Party

Max turns 7

Allison, Jorge, Henry, Morgan and I hike Calico Tank at Red Rock

Henry looking Dapper in his new red shirt

The day I ironed my name on to the back of my Notorious VIP shirt for our February game

Me and Hippy Jorge at the Kenny's 70's Party

Pearly Gates, Bruce Killis, Skid and Devil's AdvoKate at Down & Derby at the Beauty Bar

Leah comes to visit!

The Welcome to Las Vegas sign, turned off for 60 minutes during Earth Hour

Mikkel, Troy & Robert and Jorge's friend Saul come to visit us

Meatloaf and Mashed Potato cupcakes for Justin's birthday

Morbid Mangler and Nikki Nuke 'Em at Down and Derby at the Beauty Bar

Bruce Killis with Sahara sign in background

David and me at Pearly's "Decade" birthday party at The Office Bar.

David races his Challenger on the Strip at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway

Bruce and Shirley at The Downtown Cocktail Lounge, Memorial Day weekend for Allison's promotion party.

Henry turns 1 on July 7.

David and I make a road trip to Phoenix & Sedona

I almost get sprayed by a skunk taking this picture on our trip to Phoenix

Vinessa stands in her new house before they remodel the rooms in Oklahoma

Don't Tell Mama, a piano bar on Fremont Street

Top: Quad Zilla; Middle: Shock & Me pose with an Imperial Guard; Bottom: Cute Seth Green at the Robot Chicken Star Wars DVD Release Tour at Crystal Palace. Seth Green laughed at my derby name! (top and middle photos courtesy of radiantphotography.com

Old Vegas Neon on Fremont Street

New wheels, new toe guards, new laces and freshly-painted racing stripes! At the practice track, West Flamingo Park

David' 29th birthday weekend extravaganza at Hofbrauhaus and Dino's

Beer vs. Liquor Scrimmage, September 2009...photos courtesy of Radiant Photography.

Flowers from Allison on my 30th birthday

David roasting a hot dog on our camping trip at Atlatl Rock at Valley of Fire.

My birthday party at Serendipity3 and Frankie's Tiki Lounge

My roller derby team photo...photos courtesy of Radiant Photography.

Press conference with Garth Brooks and Steve Wynn at the Encore

Halloween party at Kenny Manor

CityCenter opens December 2009

View of Vegas from Aria

December Roller Derby game versus CCAD...photos courtesy of Radiant Photography.

Ariana visits from Boston

Christmas

Years past:

2008 Review in Photos

2007 Review in Photos

2006 Review in Photos

Albums of the Decade

2009-12-31T10:13:00.001-08:00

Holy Hoo I can't believe it's the last day of 2009, of the decade. This decade is OVER? Man, I just learned how to use TiVo, too. What other fantastical inventions came out during the 2000s...lessee...MySpace, iPods and Segways. What about those crazy Roombas, you ask? Well, I have a dog who likes floor food. That's good enough.

But what about the music? David and I were just going discussing how some youngsters he knows were referring to Nirvana as 'Classic Rock'. Really? Why don't you just save me the trouble of the rest of my life and bury me now, I'm old enough. Jesus. H. Christ. But while the 90s were great for bands, how do we rate THIS decade?

It's hard. And if we were to pick individual songs, I'd be here for ever and ever. Instead I'm just going to list a few albums that I think are great! Without any further ado, and no reason behind my choices other than a smug sense of self-righteousness, here goes:

The Arcade Fire, Funeral (2004)
Good to listen to when you're looking back over your life or need impetus to change it.

Beck, Sea Change (2002)
Good to listen to on cloudy days when you're sad and nostalgic.

Beck, Modern Guilt (2008)
Good to listen to when you feel listless, unimportant or feel like you've failed.

Bjork, Vespertine (2001)
Good to listen to when you need some creative balm. Makes me dream of what would happen if it snowed inside the sea.

Black Keys, Attack and Release (2008)
Good for playing pool and drinking in bars. Or sex. Sex, too.

Bon Iver, For Emma, Forever Ago (2007)
Good music for cuddling and lying around with no clothes on.

Bonnie 'Prince' Billy & Matt Sweeney, Superwolf (2005)
Good music for the aftermath of murder, so I believe.

Broken Social Scene, You Forgot It In People (2003)
Good to listen to while drawing or painting.

Calexico, A Feast of Wire (2003)
Good for listening to while driving through the country at night, esp. on a dirt or gravel road.

The Cinematic Orchestra, Every Day (2002)
Great for listening to at night, while drinking wine, or walking through the rain.

Dan Auerbach, Keep It Hid (2009)
Good for listening to in dive bars, playing pool and drinking cheap beer.

Eagles of Death Metal, Peace Love Death Metal (2004)
Good for: ROCKING OUT! Great live band! See them live. Do it! And take this CD on a road trip with you, you won't regret it!

Elbow, Cast of Thousands (2004 in the US)
Good for listening when you feel betrayed and or alone, and super dramatic. Esp. "Fugitive Motel".

Explosions in the Sky, The Earth is Not a Cold, Dead Place (2003)
Good for listening to at night to relax, and/or while taking a bath. Also good for playing late at night in the car.

The Faint, Wet From Birth (2004)
Good dance music, or good if you're feeling superior

Flaming Lips, Yoshimi Battles the Pink Robots (2002)
Good for rash decisions, or art making.

Flaming Lips, Embryonic (2009)
Good for anything. This album is seriously amazing, maybe my favorite of the decade!

Fleet Foxes, Self Titled EP, (2008)
Good for winter listening.

Ghostland Observatory, delete.delete.i.eat.meat. (2005)
Great for listening to on headphones while walking through crowds of people on the street at night.

Gorillaz, Demon Days (2005)
Good for making changes in your life and accepting things, RE: Title Track Song!

Grandaddy, Sophtware Slump (2000)
Good for pondering your life in a post-modern world. Also, for being really, really lonely.

Grizzly Bear, Veckatimest (2009)
Great for listening to in the middle of nowhere in winter, day or night. Esp: Two Weeks, probably one of the catchiest songs of the decade.

Iron & Wine, The Shepherd's Dog (2007)
Good for getting job promotions, and for pining for life in a small town.

Jim White, Drill a Hole in That Substrate and Tell Me What You See (2004)
Good for solitary highway drives and walks in the fall leaves

Kanye West, Graduation (2007)
I know how much everyone wants to hate Kanye, but, crappy personality aside, it's still a good album. It's interesting and awesome while driving through the night lights of Las Vegas.

Kings of Leon, Only By the Night (2008)
Good for falling in love and nostalgia

The Knife, Deep Cuts (2006 in US)
Good for obsessive, compulsive repetitive listening, and painting canvases.

M83, Before the Dawn Heals Us (2005)
Good for listening to if you need inspiration for a novel, movie or comic book. Imaginative, epic, sweeping, amazing.

Madrugada, Grit (2002)
Good for wallowing in self-pity and feeling hopelessly romantic

Manu Chao, La Radiolina (2007)
Perfect for singing along and feeling maniacally happy and bouncy.

MGMT, Oracular Spectacular (2007)
Good for pulling yourself out of modern life and reconsidering your actions with a "Lord of the Flies" action plan. If that makes sense.

Minus the Bear, Menus El Oso (2005)
Good for considering love and life in a post-war apocalyptic future where humans are mannequins and alcohol doesn't make you drunk, just tired.

Modest Mouse, Good News for People Who Love Bad News (2004)
Great for transplanting yourself to new towns via road trips. I listened to this over and over on my trip from Tulsa to Boston.

My Morning Jacket, Z (2005)
Good for reconsidering what exactly country music is, and incredible when listened to live in the Boston Symphony, in Accompaniment with the Boston Pops.

The National, Boxer (2007)
Good for walking alone through big city streets, and dreaming of love, and December.

Neko Case, Fox Confessor Brings the Flood (2006)
Good for hiking through mountains in the desert.

Okkervil River, The Stage Names (2007)
Good when you need to break your life down into a series of one-act plays

Peaches, Fatherf***er (2003)
Good for pissing off your ex-boyfriend. And looking around a mid-western college bar to see that every female in the bar seems to know every word to every song of this album. And, I could only imagine, sex with strangers in European dance clubs.

PJ Harvey, Stories From the City, Stories From the Sea (2000)
Good for...simply everything. Incredible album.

The Presets, Apocalypso (2008)
Good for rollerskating!

Queens of the Stone Age, Songs for the Deaf (2002) & Era Vulgaris (2007)
Good for desert road trips at night, excellent live.

Radiohead, Kid A (2000) and Hail to the Thief (2003)
Great for drawing, driving through snow, and viewing your life in stop-motion.

The Shins, Wincing the Night Away (2007)
Good for getting left behind. And post-breakup solace.

Super Furry Animals, Rings Around the World (2001)
Good for listening to in trolley cars and while working on the computer. Or at pool deck bars with lots of palm trees.

TV on the Radio, Desperate Youth, Blood Thirsty Babes (2004)
Good for listening to on the subway, and walking fast through crowds in the street.

The Walkmen, Bows + Arrows (2004)
Good for being frustrated, misunderstood.

Ween, White Pepper (2000)
Good for everything. Preferably mellow days alone at your house.

Yeah Yeah Yeahs, Fever to Tell (2003)
Good for being super angry and destructive.

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Currently listening to Embryonic by The Flaming Lips, which might be my favorite album of the decade, coming in at the 11th hour!

Favorite Video of the Week, Vol. 1, No.14

2009-12-11T09:56:00.001-08:00

Man, I need to be more like monkeys. ALSO, this is my 500th blog post. Yay me!

Vdara Ribbon Cutting: CityCenter Begins to Open

2009-12-01T16:12:00.006-08:00

Nancy Rubins' "Big Edge", a large art installment at Harmon Circle in CityCenter.

The country's single largest private construction project in history, CityCenter, coming in at about $8,500,000,000 dollars, is opening in stages over the next couple of weeks. Despite setbacks, a recession, and many funny stories I've heard about the project's faults, it's finally opening, in all its cold, modern, stark beauty and grandeur.

Today was the ribbon cutting for Vdara, a non-gaming hotel/resort with a spa, bar and a restaurant. Here are some photos.

Ribbon Cutting Ceremony

Big Scissors

Jim Murren, Chairman and CEO of MGM Mirage, cuts the ribbon

Bobby Baldwin, Chief Design and Construction Officer President and CEO CityCenter Group

Jim Murren Speaks

Room at Vdara

Another Room at Vdara

View of Las Vegas from the room at Vdara

Second view from Vdara

Peter Wegner's light and wall art, entitled Day for Night, Night for Day2009, in the Lobby of Vdara.

Frank Stella's Damascus Gate Variation I, at the Front Reception at Vdara

Spa at Vdara

Silk Road, a restaurant at Vdara, designed by Karim Rashid

Caitlin takes a drink of a strawberry smoothie, a tasty treat offered at the Vdara Ribbon Cutting Ceremony.

Another photo of the mesmerizing "Big Edge" installation by Nancy Rubins.

Unknown sculpture, a nice blobby, futuristic, round contrast to the stark straight edges of the building.

CityCenter.

PS: I have been obsessed with the Frank Stella piece ever since I saw it. It is so dramatic and graphic and intense when you see it in person. I think I might have to make regular visits to the Vdara just to gaze upon it.

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Currently listening to: Verve Jazz Masters 30, Lester Young

Favorite Video of the Week, Vol. 1, No.13

2009-11-27T09:50:00.000-08:00

This is probably the contender for best video of the year, or decade. I LOVE!

Favorite Video of the Week, Vol. 1, No. 12

2009-11-22T21:43:00.002-08:00

WARNING: Video NSFW. Contains sex & pooping. But is totally awesome in all its 8-bit glory.

So, this is coming a few days late, but I've been crazy busy lately, so I haven't been posting as much as usual. Doesn't look like it's going to slow down at all before Christmas, either. Ugh.

Today me & the other Roller Girls showed up at the Las Vegas Neon Graveyard for our league photo shoot. I am totally excited to see these photos!

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Currently listening to Embryonic by the Flaming Lips.

Favorite Video of the Week, Vol. 1, No.10 & 11

2009-11-13T09:36:00.010-08:00

Click here to see the video. What an awesome video! A little NSFW because there's tons of nudity. However, the nudity is all very innocent and vibrant, shameless and natural. Wayne Coyne gets naked too!

Another note, this album is my favorite OF THE YEAR and maybe even OF ALL TIME. I'm not a music reviewer by any means, but I will say that this is unlike anything else I've ever listened too, and reminds me of my childhood in this bizarre way. I love it and have been listening to it constantly.

Click this: CollegeHumor to watch Seth MacFarlane's Secret, also amazing.

MG, it's Friday! And I can't tell you how happy I am today. Woke up in the best of moods, and am determined to stay that way all day. David is coming over tonight, and I am very excited to see him. Tomorrow, I have a roller derby game at 8. Good weekend up ahead!

Happy Friday the 13th!

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Currently listening to Embryonic by The Flaming Lips

Halloween Weekend 09

2009-11-01T09:24:00.000-08:00

Henry & Me, Video Blog #1 from Sarah Nichols on Vimeo.

Henry Halloween Mask

2009-10-31T09:27:00.004-07:00

Fake Henry, Real Henry

Happy Halloween! So, for this year's mask, I decided to make a Henry Head. I used cardboard, tape, newspaper, balloons, gesso, paint and construction paper. I didn't make a step-by-step instructional, but you can see photos of my progress here:

Here's me building the form for the head from balloons and a beer box.

Skip ahead a few steps to after the first time I paper mached it, with the help of David and Allison.

Now I've taped on the giant cardboard ears.

Here it is after I've paper mached the ears to the head.

Here's another picture of the Final Product, featuring Rainbow Brite.

Finally, here are links to masks from years past....
2008 Rosie the Robot from The Jetsons Mask
2007 Donkey Head Mask

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Currently listening to Hail to the Thief, by Radiohead

Favorite Video of the Week, Vol. 1, No.10

2009-10-30T12:42:00.004-07:00

AS ONE from makoto yabuki on Vimeo.

So, this week's video comes from Drawn yet again. I think at least 6 of the 10 videos I've posted come from there. They have excellent content.

I love Yabuki's videos. They're very architectural and yet very organic. Also, the music is great. Check out his Vimeo page for more...

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Currently listening to The Sounds of The Sounds of Science by Yo La Tengo

New Website!

2009-10-29T10:01:00.003-07:00

www.pocheco.us

I have updated my portfolio website. Check it out!

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Currently listening to Embryonic by The Flaming Lips

Favorite Video of the Week, Vol. 1, No.9

2009-10-23T09:43:00.004-07:00

Pictorial Webster's: Inspiration to Completion from John Carrera on Vimeo.

Book making porn. I love books, and this is great process to see. Wish I could afford one, at $4500...

Glad it's Friday. It's been a wild week, what, with a dentist telling me I need a root canal (which is happening Monday), yelled at at work for non-work related stuff, and finishing up my Henry Halloween mask, which I will post here soon.

I am looking forward to a fun and mostly relaxing weekend with David. We're going to go see Whip It (finally!), going to watch some Dave Chappelle Show, going to a wedding and a Halloween party. Yay weekend.

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Currently WISH I was listening to Them Crooked Vultures.

(Kind Of) New Drawing

2009-10-22T10:50:00.013-07:00

ere's a drawing I did for David. Kind of a shitty photo with the glare on the glass, but you get the idea. Drew it last month. Haven't sat down and drawn anything in a while, it felt pretty good. I have more illustration board, so I'm thinking of doing some more drawing projects.

This one is a collage of architecture I photographed while living in Boston. I rather enjoyed layering the buildings. I am thinking of doing more repetitious-type drawings. I am considering doing one of rabbits next.

For the moment, I'm working on my new Halloween costume, which is a paper mache mask of Henry. Photos to come soon.

Size: 11x17 inches
Materials: Black ink (V7) on cold press illustration board
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Currently listening to HEALTH.

All Beef Patty w/ Special Sauce

2009-10-21T10:46:00.001-07:00

Here's my official league photo, where I'm looking particularly carniverous. All Beef Patty, 100%, Fabulous Sin City Rollergirls.

Photo by the supremely talented Radiant Photography.

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Currently listening to Calexico.

Game Tonight + Fresh Meat!

2009-10-17T09:48:00.001-07:00

Have a roller derby game tonight. 8pm at the Las Vegas Roller Hockey Center. If you live in Vegas, come! Also, here's the flier for our next game in November....

Favorite Video of the Week, Vol. 1, No.8

2009-10-16T09:42:00.010-07:00

ardboard! My favorite part of this is when the gray pill bug at 0:43 falls on his back walking along the brick wall.
I can't believe how fast this week went! It was just Sunday, now it's Friday again. I'm in a good mood today. David and I are going to see Whip It tonight. Roller Derby game tomorrow, and book club on Sunday! Good weekend coming up, yay!

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Currently listening to O'Death

Thirty

2009-10-08T15:04:00.000-07:00

So, I turned 30 today.

Woke to my radio alarm sometime around 7:30, feeling not-quite-settled in my new room, with vestiges from my youth of that old birthday excitement flitting around all fire-fly like in my stomach. I felt good, and, for a nice change, pretty; thanks to my sister, who had just dyed my hair a darker shade of red, and trimmed the ends in time for my birthday.

It was a pretty regular day at work, although I did feel kind of special because Leah came to pick me up for lunch. I chose Robertos, the classic and beloved Mexican restaurant. Caitlin came with us, and we had burritos and sodas.

I received some flowers from Allison, in the picture above. They're pretty. And I got lots of nice calls, texts and emails from friends and family to wish me a happy birthday. I couldn't have wishe for more love, really.

After dinner, sweet David met me at my house, gave me some sweet birthday gifts, and we went out to dinner at Gordon Biersch.

During the course of our dinner conversation, David asked me the inevitable question you ask someone when they cross a major age milestone: "Do you feel any different?"

I think mostly people expect you to answer "No" to that question, to which they add that age is 'just a number'; but the truth is, I do feel a little different.

I think it's because I've always forgiven myself certain flaws, excesses and indulgences under the umbrella of the 20s, like rebelliousness is to teenagers or temper tantrums are to children.

I look back on this past decade as one in which I did my best to channel Dionysus and his Hedonism in to every possible aspect of my life. I never went to far down the rabbit hole, although I took my pleasures where I could get them: sleeping in a little later than I should, having one-too-many beers on a week night, eating that extra cookie, as if these little gratifications were how I kept my child-like wonder alive.

Like, with each moment I drank in the sunlight a little longer when I should have been working, or spent a little too much time loitering on the Internet when I should have been cleaning, are all part of that cliche I often think of, which is to "Stop and Smell the Roses". Trite, yes, but wise, and ultimately, much easier on the mind and body when the alternative is getting up on time, cleaning the coffee pot right after you drink the last cup, instead of before you need to use it next time, and thinking ahead of what you might need to buy to feed yourself a square meal at dinnertime.

Not like those little work ethics are immediately and without fail going to replace my tendency towards laziness or desire to eat take out or drink myself into a stupor with the advent of my 10,958th day on being alive (yeah, that counts leap days, too). Rather, I am willing, no, wanting myself to grow out of these habits. And I've sort of used my 30th birthday as a cap for these things.

For instance, when I was still smoking, I'd promised that I'd quit on my 30th birthday, if I couldn't find a good excuse to quit before then. And luckily enough, I did somehow manage to quit at 28, nearly two years ago. But that's the kind of limit I've set for myself on all my silly excesses. That 30 was the age that I'd finally shed the skin of my childhood...I no longer have the craziness of the 20s to hide behind, I'm now a full-fledged adult and I should now act like one.

Ugh, re-reading all of this makes it sound like I'm just going to slide right into boring middle age, although, to be honest, I hope quite the opposite will happen: Laziness and indulgence, I have learned, impede one's ability to actually get anything done. Why draw a picture, when I could get drunk? Why learn a new skill when I could just watch TV? Why take a walk in the morning when I could sleep and extra hour? I want this decade of my life to be about achieving, about coming into my own and really working to express my talents and interests. Maybe now I'll be free from my lifestyle of every-weekend hangovers to finally start that painting, learn that instrument, write that book.

This is the time to be doing something with my life, instead of life just doing something to me, as I have been allowing it to for such a long time. Not that I begrudge those years, no, I believe them not only beneficial but necessary for a full life. I fully believe that you need a decade of observance, partaking and fully-preventable, repeated mistakes to prepare you for success in adulthood. It almost feels like I've finally mastered life without my parents, and now it's time to stop fucking around and get busy.

I suppose this change has been coming for a while in my life, and I've been wratcheting myself up year by year as the day comes closer. I don't think it will be immediate, this change from lazy kid to productive adult, but, now, at age 30, I don't see any alternative but to start moving toward that point.

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Currently listening to Embryonic by the Flaming Lips.

Last Day of my 20s

2009-10-07T10:12:00.004-07:00

So, tomorrow is my 30th birthday, and so today is the last day of my 20s.

I've been living here in Las Vegas for 3 years now, too. Now, at the start of the 4th year, I've just moved into the fourth house I've lived in since I've moved here. Another year, another decade, another move. Although I'm pretty far from what I expected when I was young, I am not unhappy. When I was 12, I thought that by the time I was 24, I'd be married with a kid. Well, what did I know, I was only 12! 12-year-olds have no idea.

I have to say that now, even at 30, I'm happy that I don't yet have kids, and pretty happy with my life. After 3 years of living here in Las Vegas, I have come to enjoy it here. For a while I hated this place, then went to loving it, now I'm just content. I could see myself buying a house here, or, moving somewhere completely different.

Career wise, I'm pretty happy with where I am now, money-wise, I'm disappointed. But, then, we are in the middle of a recession. Or, at the end? Either way, I'm just skimming by, but at least the bills are all paid. I have less than $2.00 in my bank account right now to get me through the next week. And my net worth is around -$17,000. I guess I'm ok with that; I have food and a place to live and friends and family. And I keep chipping away at the debt.

I feel like my life is well-balanced, and that makes me the happiest, although that balance is tricky to maintain. I am enjoying roller derby, and, for the first time, feel like I am making significant improvements in my performance. That makes me happy. I still eat and drink like a 20-something year old, however. That will have to change, and I suppose I've been gearing up for it.

I find myself happy to be a little more domestic, and find myself a little less restless, which, to be honest, is a relief. It's nice being content at home, baking cookies. I am good with that lifestyle.

Originally, for this birthday, I wanted to do some sort of adventurous outdoor trip, like a weekened Death Valley or trying to land sail, but due to my lack of planning, and serious lack of funds, that's not happening. However, David has agreed to go to Valley of Fire with me for a night's camping trip. I'm excited about that! We will have a lot of fun.

Resolutions for my third decade of life? Draw more, walk more, learn to cook more, and get my own house.

I wish my Dad was around for this birthday; I hope he would have been proud of me.

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Currently listening to Gulag Orkestar

Death Clock

2009-10-05T15:35:00.003-07:00

Today I visited the Death Clock, a site that tells you when you're going to die, based upon your age, BMI, whether or not your glass is half full, and if you smoke. While I think it's a bit ridiculous, I was at first annoyed, and then, on second thought, relieved, when the page wouldn't load that tells me when I'm going to die. I know I'll sleep better tonight. 30th birthday is approaching, and quickly. I turn 30 on Thursday.

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Currently listening to the Stuff You Should Know podcast with Chuck & Josh.

Favorite Video of the Week, Vol. 1, No.7

2009-10-02T10:25:00.009-07:00

Jib Jab "Hey!" from mauro gatti on Vimeo.

riday is finally here. I've been waiting for this day all week. Didn't post a favorite video last week, because I was simply too busy. I've been busy finishing G2E Preview at work, which is finally done and printed. Plus I had a roller derby game last weekend (we won!), topped off by having to move this week. We started moving stuff over to my new house Saturday, and I've been moving stuff every day since. Lesson learned: Next time, rent a U-Haul. It's been a ton of work, not to mention that Jorge, David and I spent all the time we weren't moving scouring the old house to make sure it was perfectly clean.

Well, it's all done now. We finished about 7:30 last night, then went to David's to deliver a piece of furniture Jorge is willing to him, as well as eat some Fresh & Easy dinner and do some much-needed relaxing in front of the television. We watched SNL Weekend Update, Parks & Recreation, The Office and Community, which were all funny.

Anyway, I am finishing up a couple of projects here today, and then I have a relaxing weekend to look forward to, spending time with my David and happily putting all my things away in my new house and getting settled in to life in Summerlin.

Thanks to David and Jorge for all their help this weekend!

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Currently listening to Only By The Night by Kings of Leon

New Place

2009-09-27T23:39:00.002-07:00

So, here's my new house. Or, rather, the new place I'm renting a room in. I just moved out of my beloved house on Mezzana into Summerlin to save a few bucks a month, and to live with my cousin and be close to my sister.

I'll miss that house, I loved it, and I'll miss Jorge, who was a great roommate, but I am excited about this new house. And Henry is glad to be back with Morgan. They've been having a great time ever since I moved in.

Allison's gone for the week, so I have a few days to get acclimated and unpacked before she returns.

I have been suuuper busy the past few weeks, and after I get my old house cleaned and fully emptied, and moved in here, my life will (hopefully) return to a peaceful state.

Had a game last night! Was super fun. Maybe pictures later.

Right now, I'm enjoying a beer, and getting verrrry sleepy.

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Currently listening to Boxer by The National.

David's Birthday Weekend

2009-09-23T11:35:00.003-07:00

David drinks from the boot at Hofbrauhaus.

So, this past weekend, David turned 29. Happy birthday David! We celebrated by going to Hofbrauhaus, Dino's & The San Gennaro Feast. Here are some of my favorite photos.

David, Me, Greg, Andrea,Jorge & Marisol at Hofbrauhaus

Greg & I make Comedy and Tragedy faces. Can you guess which one I am?

Vincent, Heidi, David at Hofbrauhaus

Jorge & Marisol try to figure out Greg's camera

Here's David explaining something.

Here's David & Me (and in one shot, Heidi) having a good time at Hofbrauhaus.

Here's the next night at Dinos, with Justin, Erin, Bobby & Lisa

Allison & Josh at Dino's

Justin & Jessica sing "Weak" by SWV, dedicated to David.

David, Josh & Jorge at Dino's.

Some Dude Bought Everyone at Dino's a Round of Shots. And Then Another Round. And Then 200 Hotdogs.

Andrea, Danny & Jen at Dino's

Me & Andrea

Some of the best faces I've ever seen.

Whose arm is that?

Birthday congrats from Chops

Danny & David singing "Hunger Strike" by Temple of the Dog

The always amazing Danny G, host of Dino's karaoke, who is excited because someone popped a Benjamin in his tip jar.

Los Hermanos Kenny

Lisa & Justin

Danielle rocks out to Pat Benatar

The crew, happy at 4:00 am.

Josh, Marisol & Jorge singing "I Love Rock N Roll"

David Sings "What's Up" By 4 Non Blondes.

A claw machine. But not for cheap stuffed animals. For lobsters. Amazing! At San Gennaro Feast.

David, San Gennaro Feast

David's birthday cake I made for him.

Here's a link to the entire Flickr set.

I love you baby!

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Currently listening to Verve Jazz Masters 30, Lester Young

Roller Derby: Liquor VS Beer

2009-09-19T16:56:00.004-07:00

Here's the newest roller derby poster I've created. We're playing a booze-themed scrimmage. I will be on team beer.

YAY!

Favorite Video of the Week, Vol. 1, No. 6

2009-09-18T08:38:00.004-07:00

Favorite video of the week, hands down! I love Tim Heidecker. Also, song is growing on me...a sad song, I think.

Also, I've been meaning to post more content-y posts lately, but I've been crazy busy. Isn't going to slow down for another month. But I'll be back after that!

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Currently listening to CLUES

Favorite Video of the Week, Vol. 1, No.4 &5

2009-09-11T10:10:00.005-07:00

The Cat Piano from PRA on Vimeo.

So, this week, I have two favorite videos. The first, above, is a mysterious and dramatic noir cartoon called "The Cat Piano", narrated by Nick Cave.

The second, well, I couldn't resist, because this took me back 20 something years to my babyhood... Behold, "Teeny Little Super Guy" from Sesame Street...

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Currently listening to Tal Farlow

Favorite Video of the Week, Vol. 1, No.3

2009-09-04T09:48:00.000-07:00

Dog plays pool!

David Floats Away Into Space

2009-08-29T13:44:00.007-07:00

David holds Earth

David & me in outer space

David floats away

So, here is a little series of photos taken with Photo Booth, a program on my computer, with one of the fake backgrounds you can add in. (We're really just sitting in my room). They look a little sketchy, but that just adds to the charm. I love this series, especially the bottom one, where David is floating off into space. I laugh every time I see it. And, since I went to see Steel Panther last night at Green Valley Ranch, my laugh is super hoarse today from screaming so much last night. Good times!

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Currently listening to Guero by Beck

Favorite Video of the Week, Vol. 1, No. 2

2009-08-28T13:10:00.002-07:00

The Colouring from Dan Britt on Vimeo.

Here it is, favorite video of the week. Creepy!

Skates

2009-08-23T19:44:00.002-07:00

Season Five is coming up for Sin City Rollergirls. To prepare, I got some new wheels (Flat Outrageous by Radar) some new laces, some new toe stops, and I painted a white stripe on them to jazz em up a bit. Feels like new skates!

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Currently listening to Keep it Hid by Dan Auerbach

Favorite Video of the Week, Vol. 1, No.1

2009-08-21T16:02:00.004-07:00

Dance of the Neon Knight from Paul Rayment on Vimeo.

So, I look at a lot of videos throughout the week, cause, well, I have the time, usually. Some of them are too good not to share. So, I'm going to start posting my favorite one from each week on Friday. Here is the first one, Dance of the Neon Knight, by Paul Rayment.

Summer Vacation in Oklahoma

2009-08-17T14:38:00.005-07:00

Little Vinny J, at her new house

So Mom surprised Suzanne and I with a pair of plane tickets to come visit her in Oklahoma this summer. She's been steadily remodeling the house since Dad passed, and she wanted a weekend for me and Suzy to come out and see it and spend a weekend with her. We didn't have much planned, other than just hanging out, something I've been needing a lot of lately—A break from my life here to revel in the dog days of summer in good old T-Town. Don decided to join us with his family for part of the trip, and we also got to see Diane and Vinessa. Highlights from the trip below...

Thursday, August 13: After boarding the plane and taxiing out to the tarmac, surprisingly we taxied back to the gate only to find out there was some problem with the plane that was going to prevent the plane from flying. So we exited the plane, and were told the next flight would be at 7:50. Since our connecting flight to Tulsa flew out of Denver at 8:00 pm, we new we would not make our flight. But the airline offered us food and hotel coupons to stay the night in Denver if we waited for the next flight, and, after some discussion, Suzanne and I decided it would be best to fly into Denver rather than return to our homes and try flying in the next day.

As 7:50 pm, the scheduled time of our second scheduled flight to Denver was delayed due to a fuel leak, we almost gave up hope. But the mechanics were able to repair the fuel leak and we boarded the plane and had an uneventful flight to Denver. After we got off the plane and got in line for a shuttle to our hotel. The shuttle was small, and packed with passengers from our flight. On our way to the hotel, at 11:30, after a long time at the airport and no dinner, I can't say I was in the best of moods as we were driving along some foreign Denver highway to a hotel' this was NOT how I intended to spend our evening, trapped and crowded with my carry-on luggage on my lap. But a few things saved my sanity: 1) I listened to "First Breath After Coma" by Explosions in the Sky, which was one of the best listens I'd ever had to any song, and 2) some poor woman got a rolling carry-on suitcase dropped on her head. I know it sounds evil, but her reaction "Bloody Hell!" (we think she was from Australia) was the butt of like every single other joke my sister and I made on the trip.

We arrived at the hotel, Aloft, sometime after midnight, and I was delirious, hungry tired—and pissy, as you can probably imagine. That's why it was so comical when we walked into the hotel and it resembled some sort of fancy nightclub. Striped walls in modern gradients, angular lights and mod wood furniture everywhere. There were colored box lights and super yuppie decorations. The music in the lobby was a techno-remixed version of Elton John's "Benny and the Jets". I felt like I was missing my gold lame skirt. Even the elevator had this sort of sea blue water panel that moved when you stepped on it. A couple of god-send alcohol drinks and some hotel food later, Suzanne and I were relaxing in our super-hip modern loft room with teak paneling and fancy pillows and a big wall mounted flat screen.

Friday, August 14: Our trip into Tulsa was uneventful, and as we were descending over Green Country, Suzanne and I were gazing out the window at the vast tracts of verdant farm land. "What are those things?" she asked, pointing to something below. "They look like pearls" she said. Before I could realize what she was talking about, she said, "Oh, of course. They're bails of hay." When I finally saw what she was pointing too, I thought she was right; they did look like little golden pearls on a green shag rug.

Mom met us at the baggage claim, and it was a joyful reunion. Mom is perhaps one of the sweetest, most selfless people I know. It was great to be with her again. We drove back to her house. Spending half my life in Oklahoma, I rarely paid attention to the surroundings. But after spending three years in the desert, I was able to truly appreciate the amount of luscious grass and trees that cover most of Tulsa. I haven't been to Tulsa in the summertime since 2005, and it was something to love in all its summertime glory. As we pulled into the driveway, I was shocked to see the tree in the front yard, perhaps 15 feet tall and gangly when we first moved into that house in 1987, had grown into a monster of a tree, at least 8 feet in diameter and shading the entire street; the biggest tree in the neighborhood, no doubt.

Mom had decorated the house very fashionable and lovely; she has a sharp sense of taste, classy and elegant, and has always been one to decorate well. The house looked like something out of a magazine spread. Most impressive was my father's office, which she and Suzanne had cleaned out—not an easy chore considering my father loved eBay and was notorious for being a pack rat. It was a completely different room, and I stood at the threshold, gazing around the room, taking in the new pictures on the wall, the new carpet and bed. I think she was pretty proud of the house overall, and she deserved to be, it looked great.She presented Suzanne and I with gifts; new pairs of summer sandals, and then we spent a lazy Friday visiting around her house and going out for dinner.

Saturday, August 15: Don, his wife Sherryl, and Don's kids Alex and Rosie arrived at our house around noon. We chatted for a few hours, catching up on family business and stories, and then headed out for a quick dinner before we drove down to the Spolight Theater near the river, to see the theatrical production of The Drunkard, and old vaudeville-style play where you were asked to cheer and boo at the actors on stage. The theatre was small and very intimate, with hand painted sets and an upright piano at the corner.

A little old lady warmed up the crowded audience of 70 or so people with old time favorite songs like "I've Been Working on the Railroad", "Home on the Range", and "Oklahoma". The audience got involved, and soon my whole family, even Don's 15 and 12 year-old kids, were singing along. It was fun. The show opened with a little girl and her dad playing the fiddle and guitar on stage for the audience. The girl was about 7, and she was dressed in a white summer cotton dress and an authentic cowgirl hat. Her father was dressed in a classic cowboy gentleman's white button-down shirt with pearl buttons. He had his hair combed to the side, and just strummed away at his guitar softly in the background, as he beamed at his little girl as she delighted the audience with bluegrass classics like "Turkey in the Straw" and "Orange blossom Special". There was something magical about that pair, standing onstage in front of the red curtain, something simple and humble, like the smell of fresh hay and the glow fireflies on the midway of the county fair.

Alex bought me a red satin garter belt from the little gift shop, and we laughed and took pictures with it. We watched the show, and had a good time booing and cheering at the campy actors. We left the theater and drove home for a quick desert of angel food cake and strawberries before heading off to bed.

Sunday, August 16: Don and his family came over to visit for a while and say hello to Aunt Diane, cousin Vinessa, and her two children, Juddson, 2, and Adeline, 6 months, when they came over. Don and family said goodbye a short time later, and then I sat and played with little Addy for a while; she is one of the cutest and happiest babies I've ever seen. Of course, Suzanne teased me about having baby fever. I ignored her.

A bit later, Mom, Suzanne, Dianne, Vinessa the kids and I caravanned out to Wagoner, OK, to see Vinessa's new house. She and her husband had just bought 10 acres of land along lake Fort Gibson, and are in the process of restoring a house built on rugged land there in 1883, before Oklahoma was officially a state, before the famous Land Rush of 1889. To get to her house, we drove half an hour along the freeway, exited and drove a few miles into tiny Wagoner, population less than 10,000, and the left Wagoner and drove even further into the, well, sticks. But don't let the word "sticks" color your opinion, because even though it was out in the middle of nowhere, the houses there were decent and the lawns were well-kept and clean. We passed through acres of farmland—beans, I think—and by several ponds. One large pond had several wild pelicans, a species I did not know was native to Oklahoma. We exited off the paved road, and drove down a narrow dirt/rock road that was crowded on either sided with dense woods, full of turkey and deer. After weaving our way around and catching a glimpse of Lake Fort Gibson a few hundred feet beyond and below, we turned into this abrupt little clearing, with big oak trees, several hibiscus plants, a tire swing, a shed and an old, dilapidated-looking house with it's wood panneling covered in 4 different colors of peeling paint.

Vinessa and her husband, Chad, are fixing up the house so that it can be lived in again. The house is old, and filled with many problems that needed to be fixed, but it's a solid old house with gorgeous wood floors and a lot of neat old details you don't find in modern houses. But let me tell you, it's so far out in the woods and so old and creaky and filled with spiderwebs, ticks and wasps, and I wouldn't be caught there dead after dark by myself...*shudder*. That place has the potential to be very creepy like, the perfect setting for a horror movie. But I can't wait to see what it looks like when they're done with it! The top picture's of Vinessa showing us around the house. Here she's in the master bedroom.

After we went through the house, we drove back to the small town to have lunch. We said goodbye to Diane, Vinessa and the kids and drove back to Tulsa to spend the rest of the evening relaxing around the house. At dusk, I put on some headphones and walked around the old neighborhood, admiring some of the places I used to play and fight when I was growing up.

Monday, August 17: Got up pretty early and headed out to the airport. We said goodbye to Mom, and had a safe easy flight to Dallas, then to Vegas. Now I'm home with Henry. Everyone else is gone. It feels a bit lonely.

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Currently listening to "From West Texas" by Explosions in the Sky

Robot Chicken on Wheels

2009-08-03T11:30:00.007-07:00

So, last night Robot Chicken was in Las Vegas promoting their new DVD. They brought Seth Green, Breckin Meyer and Gym Class Heroes. Also a few characters dressed in costume, including a few Storm Troopers, and the nameless mysterioso above who posed with me & Shock. I feel bad that I don't know who this is. I feel like I should. Is this a character from Star Wars? Darth Vadar was there too, but on his cell phone when we were getting this picture taken.

The line to get in was kind of ridiculous—we had to wait an hour. But mostly I think it was because of the free Gym Class Heroes show, which we didn't even stay for. They had their concert stage set up on the skate floor.

We finally got in the door at about 8:40, and I put on my skates and headed out on the floor. It was pretty packed, but still open enough to skate around. A bunch of the rollergirls were there, so that was fun. Breckin Meyer and Seth Green were also on skates, mingling in with the rest of the crowd.

At one point while I was skating, I felt a hand on my back, and turned around to Seth Green grinning at me, then he whizzed past. I'd like to think he thought my skate name (printed on the back of my shirt) was awesome and he was congratulating me for it.

A few skaters from RollerCon were there, and Quadzilla was in the center of the floor break dancing in skates. That guy really is amazing.

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Currently listening to Massive Attack

Cats and Dogs

2009-07-25T14:34:00.003-07:00

It's raining super fast and hard and windy today. Summer monsoons flooding the Mojave. Henry is worried cause he's never seen rain like this before.

I am sitting here in my room, nowhere to be but here. For the first time in a very, very long time, I am loving the rain.

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Listening to Veckatimest by Grizzly Bear

This Heat

2009-07-24T12:10:00.003-07:00

Is it just me or is everything harder to do when it's so goddamned hot outside? Even inside in the comfort of air conditioning, I find myself lethargic and slothish. Everything I do has become abbreviated, half-assed. I come into work late, I want to always leave early, and sometimes I do. I get home, and every single movement seems weighted, like walking through water. Roller derby practice is harder because of the pure force of heat, walking the dogs is such a chore because we're all panting.

Most of these things aren't that bad when it's a bit cooler. In some ways, it feels like it takes me so much longer to get simple chores done. I'm standing around feeling fat and sweaty in this desert heat, kind of like Jabba the Hut. It takes an hour to get out of bed. And another hour to get my ass ready for work.

In other places, I always prided myself on not being one of those people completely addicted to ac, but it's almost impossible to be that way here. If you've never been to the desert, it is seriously like walking out into a giant, earth-sized blow dryer. I wonder how much time I actually spend outside the protective wing of generated cool air. Ugh, I want this oppression to end, and to give me back what it's taken from me: my productivity.

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Currently listening to Jesu

Arizona

2009-07-20T13:51:00.006-07:00

David and I took his sexy car, above, on a road trip to Arizona this weekend. We drove to Phoenix, Tempe, Sedona and a few other small towns along the way. Here are some photos...

We left Las Vegas Friday evening after work when it was a balmy 113 degrees. To get to Arizona, we drove through Hoover Dam. One picture is us entering the dam area and just above is a picture of a big suspension bridge that is being built to accommodate traffic. I am not sure when it's going to be finished, but they've been working on it for a few years.

A summer storm was darkening the skies across the valleys and mountains of the Southwest, and we drove hoping to meet the desert rain. We caught a little rain, but not much, and by the time we got to Wickenburg, in the picture above, the rain had stopped. I saw this cactus neon sign and asked David to pull over so I could photograph it. I got out of the car, walked down next to this building to take the photo and discovered a terrified and angry skunk was waiting for me there!

I got pretty close to being sprayed, but as soon as I notice the skunk, I screamed and ran back to David's car.

We arrived in downtown Phoenix around 10:30, and checked into the Hotel San Carlos, a historical hotel famous for being haunted by a lady who used to work in the hotel. We dropped our bags and then went next door to the Irish pub to have a few drinks.

Saturday we drove to Cottonwood to say hello to David's grandmother, and then we drove to Sedona to see the park and town. Sedona is a gorgeous place with red sandstone rock towers and giant pine trees. Also, it's a touristy town, full of fun little shops and galleries and an impressive array of beautiful homes.

First we drove to The Church of the Holy Cross, a famous church in the rocks, high above the town. We parked and walked into the church to see the view of the town and to see the inside of the church. Below are some pictures we took there:

Above is a photo of the view from the church across Sedona. The large house under construction in the foreground is a crazy huge house that must have cost a fortune. It's bright and garish and even has an observatory, which I think is ridiculous.

In the picture above, you can see a rock shaped like an eagle by the tree.

My favorite thing about Arizona is all the different types of cactus living there. Along with Prickly Pears and Chollas, above, the Saguaro cactus (seen in the neon sign above from Wickenburg) is native to the Sonoran Desert, which spans across most of Arizona and part of Mexico.

David took me to Oak Creek Canyon, a favorite place of his next to the town of Sedona, in Slide Rock Park. We drove deep into a densely wooded canyon, cool and green and packed with giant pine trees and juniper trees. We drove on a curvy road parallel to a creek where people were fishing and swimming.

We parked and walked down to the creek to put our feet in. The temperature dropped to 70 and the water was very cold; it was a nice escape from the summer heat. The land is beautiful and verdant there, virgin and untainted and everything smelled wonderfully of fresh water and juniper and pine. We found some fish swimming in the creek, and stood watching them for a while.

We drove back to Sedona, where it was hot and dry, and ate dinner in the center of the little touristy part of town at a Mexican restaurant called Oaxaca. We sat on the balcony of the hotel and had spectacular views of the valley and red rocks.

We drove back to Phoenix and arrived around 10 and met up with David's friend Erin for a drink and then, after taking her home, collapsed, exhausted at a nearby hotel, an Embassy Suites which was a lovely hotel.

Sunday we got up and had breakfast with Erin, did some shopping at some nearby stores, and then said goodbye to Erin and met up with Amanda, another of David's friends. We did some more shopping and then had lunch at one of David's favorite restaurants, Pita Jungle, and then we had to drive back because it was getting late into the afternoon.

The drive back was beautiful and glowing; we drove through a Joshua Tree forest, and also through several miles of hills where thousands and thousands of Saguaro Cacti stood like silent sentries. I've never seen that type of cactus in the wild before, so it was a surreal and amazing experience to see all those cacti.

This is the last picture I took on the trip, yesterday evening, of a rocket with Snoopys and a Woodstock on it in Wikieup, AZ.

Overall, it was a spectacularly fun trip with stunning views and great food. Best of all, I loved having David there to share it with me. I love you David!

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Currently listening to Mr. Beast by Mogwai

Brooklyn Fare

2009-07-07T22:20:00.001-07:00

Brooklyn Fare from Mr. Mucca on Vimeo.

this video is awesome on so many levels.

Stone Wash Jeans? Really?

2009-06-16T16:26:00.004-07:00

The fanny packs were one thing. Scrunchies another. But people, the return of stone wash jeans is one of the four horses of the apocalypse. We must NOT let these rise again. Srsly, these jeans are fucking hideous. UGLY! And they come in purple.

Why does Dov Charney think he must exhume every single one of the most jarring styles from the past 30 years? Who does he think he is? Must. Be. Stopped. I present my evidence to you, gentle jurors:

These things can be bought RIGHT NOW, in 2009, at the American Apparel website. Is this irony? Cause it's gone a little too far. If it's not irony, well, I'm going to boycott fashion and wear burlap sacks unto infinity. How can we, as a race, progress when we're being fed cyan and black tye-dyed jumpsuits? Answer me this and I will tell you why we have not yet achieved world peace.

Although I am guilty of loving these socks, and I have them in almost every color. Sue me.

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Currently listening to "Slow Show" by The National

The Cause Of and Solution To

2009-06-15T13:36:00.008-07:00

We were drinking this weekend again. I was over-drinking. Double shots? Really? Come on, now. How is it possible that I still get sick from drinking? How many years have I been doing it? Can I not learn to handle that shit? When am I going to learn that drinking is not a contest?

Sometimes I think I love the idea of booze more than I love the booze itself.

David quoted the Simpsons this weekend.... "Alcohol is the cause of, and solution to, all of life's problems". What else is to be said about it?

Angel and I were talking about it as we walked along the Strip yesterday, watching the fountains at the Bellagio. I started to wonder why I always need to drink. She says maybe it's cyclical, and suggested that maybe we spend our lives phasing in and out of periods of excess.

I think I've come to the conclusion I drink so crazily because it seems like the thing to do while I'm in my 20s. And, since the end of this decade looms, perhaps I am racing a clock to make sure I experience the best possible time. Except that drinking doesn't end when you turn 30. So I need to make sure it doesn't become too much of a habit. I'm not making any resolutions, no. I'm just making observations. Do I really need alcohol? No. Do I really want it? Sometimes. Is it always there? Yes. Does it always cure? No.

Still, I bought a 12 Pak of Pabst Blue Ribbon the way home.

Well, shit. The beer fridge was empty. And that seems like a crime.

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Currently listening to William Orbit.

Whoops MGMT!

2009-06-09T10:09:00.005-07:00

So, here is the new video for a fantastic song. I truly love it. Annnd, they include one of my favorite quotes *of all time* in the beginning of the video, which is awesome. It's

Battle not with monsters, lest ye become a monster, and if you gaze into the abyss, the abyss gazes also into you.

There's only one problem. Mark Twain didn't say that. Friedrich Nietzsche did. Has no one caught this yet??!?!??! For shame.

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Currently listening to well..."Kids".

Excellent Animations

2009-06-04T10:03:00.006-07:00

Some awesome animations found via Drawn! The Illustration & Cartooning Blog.

Exhibit A: Karnival by Jun seo Hahm. Also, probably the weirdest logo I've ever seen...

Watch all of them here.

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Exhibit B: Subprime by Mike “Beeple” Winkelmann

subprime from beeple on Vimeo.

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Exhibit C: Stop Motion Jolly Green Giant commercial. Now, you too, can share my terror as we watch the Evil JGG.

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Exhibit D: Tea Light Animation: Happy New Year from Electrabel.

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Exhibit E: Seriously depressing and dark hyperreal animal animation:

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Exhibit F: Chalkboard animation:

Firekites - AUTUMN STORY - chalk animation from Lucinda Schreiber on Vimeo.

Currently listening to Feast of Wire by Calexico

K9 Lit

2009-06-01T22:56:00.001-07:00

I'm reading 4 books right now. They are all about dogs! Well, one is about werewolves, but that counts, right?

Speaking of dogs, check out this adorable photo of Henry:

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Currently listening to Sigur Ros

David & Me

2009-05-26T11:08:00.002-07:00

IMG_1609, originally uploaded by spacedog1313.

I had the best weekend ever! I'm so tired. More later.

Closing the Door

2009-05-22T11:15:00.004-07:00

So, I was rummaging through my Flickr photos and found this one. It's kind of a boring photo, whatever, but it brought back this flood of memories from 2004-2005. This is the apartment I lived in with Danny. Man, this was a pretty tumultuous year. There were many good things, and also many bad things that took place in this shitty little one bedroom place.

I think I loved that apartment; it was the first apartment that felt like it was really mine. I loved living in Allston (Allston Rock City!) and that little part of Boston really felt like a rite of passage into my adulthood.

I think about that apartment, and all the things that happened there, and it occurred to me that some parts of that time still feel like an open wound. Well, I am here to officially close that wound, and I think it's proper to take a moment to really focus on saying goodbye to a place that affected my life in a way that I can never take back, but for which I am eternally grateful.

Goodbye 48 Glenville Ave, Number 6, Boston, Massachusetts, 02134. I am moving on, and life is better now.

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Currently listening to Guided by Voices

Desert Versus Otter Pops

2009-05-21T15:01:00.009-07:00

The desert is a hot place! And this one is full of odd and wonderful things to look at. For instance, the onion you see above, which is part of the architecture of Sahara on the strip.

Brucie and I went down to the strip yesterday to try to get some pictures of the development of Fontainbleau. We went to the top of the parking lot at Sahara to take the pictures from a higher vantage point.

I like these pictures. They don't feel like Las Vegas. They feel like some place more exotic.

I'm bored at work today. We were supposed to start working on the magazine, but it's been postponed. So, been catching up on reading the Internet, which is a big job! Also, I realize that my spirit animal is /not/ a donkey like I'd hoped, but is clearly a raccoon, because I cannot resist shiny things. I bought TWO books in the last two days, which I should not have, but I couldn't resist. I bought them because a) I love hard cover books, and b) they are gorgeous books. Gorgeous!

First: Sharp Teeth, by Toby Barlow. It's supposed to be a story of lycanthropy and dog catchers in LA. Written like an epic poem! How cool is that. But that pales in comparison to how incredibly freaking beautiful the cover is. I want to frame this book.

And, Curious: Discover the Missing Ingredient to a Fulfilling Life by Todd Kashdan. This book is bright, yellow and irresistible. If you know me, you know I love grapic design. And what's more graphic designy than super stark typography? Nothing! I can't wait to get this. I hope it's a fairly large book. Like a text book or something.

So, we have an industrial-size box of OtterPops in our work fridge. I have been chain eating them all day. I think I've had like 8 so far. They are awesome. And I want #9 right now! I am getting a sugar rush. I think I'm going to take a walk in this delirious heat to sweat it out.

Blame it on the heat, gotcha feeling beat

Blame it on the flavored ice, gotcha feeling crazy

Blame it on the o-o-o-Otterpops, blame it on the O-o o-o o-o-Otterpops.

So, I'm sitting here listening to a CD that David made for me of a bunch of crazy cover songs. They are alllll great! I love this CD. It's making my day wonderful. Did you know what Tom Jones and Portishead collaborated? Simply delicious.

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Currently listening to the sweet sweet sounds from the library of bfd.

Afterparty

2009-05-18T16:31:00.006-07:00

David & Brucie at Mickey Finnz

So, this weekend was pretty awesome. After I got better from H1N1 or whatever the hell it was, I was in the mood to party! Friday I went over to Suzanne's and got my hair dyed super red, and then we went out to dinner at Buca's for to celebrate Morgan's 11th birthday! I went over to Blue Martini to meet Allison and crew for a bit, but wanted to get home early cause Saturday I had my last roller derby game of the season.

Saturday I got ready for the game and headed over to the track around four. I wore fish net stockings and my black skirt that Pearly says makes me look like a cupcake. Plus my magenta hair, which is so awesome, thanks to my darling sister.

My new friend David came to the game, as well as Allison, Josh, Jorge, Suzanne, Jay, Morgan, Mariah, Max & Anthony. Plus two of Jay's ex-coworkers, who were super cool. The game went well! It was super hot outside, but our team kicked ass nonetheless.

Afterward, I got a trophy that is a gold beer can mounted on a gold block. "The Taste of Winning", it says. Thanks to Bootsi's group of Andre Agassi kids for making those! A girl named Brianna made mine. How awesome, thank you, Brianna!!!

After we cleaned up the game, I sat in the park and had a beer with the friends and family, and then David took me in his super hot Challenger to downtown Vegas. We met up with the rest of the team and had dinner and drinks out on the veranda of the Mickey Finnz. We spent the night laughing and cavorting around. If I may bring up some Irish slang, I will permit myself to say there were a few 'shenanigans'. Good times! I rode a mechanical bull. David has a video of it somewhere.

It was a fantastic night, one enjoyed by all. I spent the next day with David, recovering. Here are some more pictures.

David & Brucie, part deux

Shock Kira

"In the pants?"

Handsome David

Beaver and Lou Brakent

Bruce Killis & Megan M. Wett

Seemore, Rusty, Skid & Face

Caught in the act!

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Currently listening to Benny Goodman

Electrolytes

2009-05-14T11:35:00.002-07:00

I can't seem to shake this weird feeling in my body, and it doesn't matter how much I sleep. I'm starting to get worried. I need this to go away by Saturday for sure, so I can play in my game. I'm getting aggravated.

I slept for like, 24 hours, and it doesn't seem to do much. My brain is still swimming in a gray, murky lake inside my skull. And I don't like it at all.

So, I'm pumping myself full of electrolytes, cause I hear they're good for you. So, it's like 15 Vitamin Waters for me today. I'm not complaining, I love that shit.

Crying Bear

2009-05-06T17:00:00.000-07:00

This is a sketch by Jim Woodring. It's just a study. But I seriously love it. I think it is like, my all-time favorite drawing.

Dream

2009-04-30T10:27:00.013-07:00

Here's a photo I took last Saturday at the Beauty Bar. Pictured are Nikki (foreground) and Morbid talking to a potential customer. This little booth is an old camper that's been converted into a merchandise hut, which sits quaint and cheeky in the little courtyard in the rear of the bar. Without a tripod, I can't quite capture the colors here, but there were blue lights and magenta lights and it reminded me of what it would feel like approaching an outpost in the empty desert somewhere west of Albuquerque at midnight, lodged between heartache and a blue grass jamboree. Somewhere I hear a hawk. Sounds echo and moths fly, unrepentant, into the buzzing orange overhead lights.

I had this dream last night:

Walked into my favorite little cafe in Boston late at night, to find my father sitting by himeself at a table towards the back. I wasn't expecting to see him there, seeing as he's dead. I did a double take, and then walked over to the table. He was sitting there with nothing in front of him except a glass of water, patient and expectant.

I smiled and said hello to him, I could tell he had been waiting for me. He looked good: he was wearing a double breasted jacket and tie. He was younger, in his late forties, and thinner too. His hair wasn't quite yet gray, and he had it cut in a buzz cut, a haircut I've never seen on him before.

He said hello to me, motioned for me to sit down.

"Where have you been?" I asked. "We all thought you were dead."

"I have my reasons for being gone. I had to do it to protect you."

"Protect me from what?" But I trailed off, cause I was just happy to have him there, alive and with me. "Are you coming back to us? Will you be in our lives again? I miss you, Dad."

"Oh, yes, I'm coming back. And I feel so much better these days. I can walk again, I feel healthier and I miss your mother."

I was so happy and it felt so real. It felt like real life. It didn't seem improbable in the dream. I didn't think I was dreaming. I was hanging out with Dad again, and he had gained this sort of wise and relaxed attitude about life, like two months hiding in the realm of the perceived-dead had somehow revitalized him.

I woke up feeling great and happy and lovely, until it slowly dawned on me that it was, after all, just a dream. Dad wasn't coming back. Death is a place from which you never return.

Not the happiest way to start the day, I'll tell you. Now I'm sitting here, crying into the cup of coffee I never got around to making.

I've got that feeling again where I want to drive into the desert and walk around until I can't remember what conversation sounds like anymore.

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Currently listening to Fox Confessor Brings the Flood by Neko Case

Can Somebody Tell Me Who Does This Song?

2009-04-27T12:34:00.004-07:00

Sounds a bit like Ween, but I don't think so. I need to know who this is so I can buy it! It's going to be my summer album. No one on the Internets seems to know who this is, either.

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Currently listening to: A tantalizing song, origins unknown.

Tilt Shift

2009-04-23T11:50:00.002-07:00

For fun, I've been trying out the fake tilt shift effect on some of my photos. I've posted some of the interesting results here.

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Currently listening to The Sandworm Cometh by My Morning Jacket

Happy Birthday, Blog! + Fun Cakes, M Resort & Peanut, the Chihuahua

2009-04-22T10:51:00.004-07:00

Today marks four years of blogging. Here's the original post. I think I originally started posting on Friendster, then added Bebo and next MySpace. Now I only blog on Blogger.com, and re-post my entries on MySpace. I have a Live Journal that goes back even further...perhaps some day I'll consolidate all of them. I am thinking of switching over to WordPress soon...there are just so many cool themes there.

The above cupcakes are made out of meatloaf, with mashed potato frosting! The frosting is colored with beets. Recipe is here [click].

These cupcakes were actually made for Justin, who turned 29 last weekend. Happy birthday, Chops! Also happy belated birthday to Jessica and Bobby, both of whom also celebrated their birthdays this past weekend. Here they are blowing out the candles:

Speaking of cool cakes, check out this red velvet cake made by my friend Deanna:

For book club this month, we read Anthem by Ayn Rand. Rand was born in St. Petersburg in 1905, so our book club dinner was themed Russian. Kudos to Deanna & George for taking the Russian theme all the way! There was white fish caviar with vodka shots, pickled mushrooms and cucumbers, chicken kiev (yum!) and potato pancakes. A very delicious dinner.

Friday night, went to M Resort for the first time. It's on the very most southern tip of Las Vegas, 20 minutes from the border of California. It's the newest resort in Las Vegas. It's absolutely beautiful. Modern, stark in design, but lush in color and vegetation. Plus you get a great view of the mountains. It's very close to my home, but going there, just for drinks, felt like a tropical retreat. I'm definitely going back. Spy on Vegas was there and they were serving free mango mojitos.

Also, for fun, here is a picture of Jorge with Peanut the Chihuahua.

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Currently listening to () by Sigur Ros

Must.Stay.Awake.

2009-04-17T10:46:00.004-07:00

OMG, I am really tired this morning. I stayed up late last night while Jorge was hanging out in my room working on his car showboard templates on my computer. I was reading Anthem by Ayn Rand and intermittently giving him tips on Photoshop. And making sure the dogs felt loved.

Fell asleep around 2 am. Woke up at 7:30. Ugh. I've got to figure out a way to make it through the day. I haven't slept in in I can't remember how long. Tomorrow I will sleep in, hallelujah.

Tonight, I'm going to M Resort with Allison. Spy on Vegas is supposed to be there and I here there'll be free drinks. M is the newest resort in town and it's really close to my house. I haven't been there yet. Should be fun.

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Currently listening to "Eve" by California Guitar Trio

If You're Looking to Turn Me On

2009-04-15T15:04:00.021-07:00

So, yesterday, I posted a blog about what turns me off. So, I figured I would counter that with what I think is worthy, sexy. Which, as it turns out, is much more difficult to articulate than what I absolutely hate. It's because, so many times, I've met people that embody a collection of traits that I despise, while it's not so easy to find a person who embodies a collection of traits that I love. Beware, this gets a little muddy, and it's probably way more than you want to know about me. Plus it's long. But, here it is anyway:

I wouldn't say that I have high standards, more that, through trial and error, I have cultivated a specific set of standards. I guess it doesn't have anything to do with a particular look or style, although, of course, physically, there are traits that I'm more partial to than others. However, that's not what I want to talk about here. This is more of a list of desirable personality traits.

The Passionate: Now, this doesn't necessarily mean the kind of person who walks into a room, grabs a rose out of a nearby vase, and comes up to sweep me into some sort of wild dance. No, this is more about people who feel passionate about specific things in their life. And it mostly doesn't matter what it is.* If you're passionate about gardening, socialism, architecture, deep sea diving, Guitar Hero, blue grass, collecting antique toys, cauliflower, whatever. I really don't care. It's just neat to see people get really excited about things. People who know a lot about something, research it, admire it and dedicate a certain amount of their life to it are so much more interesting than someone who adheres to nothing.

The Curious Experimentalist: I like curious people. I like adventurous people. Hey, I made this beet ice cream and I put some BBQ sauce on it. Will you try it? Hey, do you want to run through this field and catch lightening bugs? Hey, I know we've driven down this road a million times, but I've never seen this building before. Will you stop and investigate it with me? Hey, want to try to this restaurant where they serve food with bugs in it? Hey, want to see what happens if we don't sleep for three days straight? Hey, how many shots of Tequila can you take? Hey, want to move to Prague? Hey, want to take a class on silk-screening with me? Hey, want to run naked through this town? Hey, want to go whale watching? Hey, want to visit the grave of Mel Blanc? I hear his tombstone says "That's All, Folks!" Hey, do you think there are aliens? Hey, what's say we build an igloo and live in it for a couple of days? Hey, want to see what happens if we don't watch TV for a month? Hey, I read that in Very Large Array, New Mexico, there is a humming noise that sometimes drives people mad. Wanna see for ourselves? Hey, let's look for buried treasure. Hey, let's race!

The Ready Conversationalist: When I say "ready" I mean, someone who is able to carry on a conversation about almost anything, at any time, when the situation calls for it. I value silence and reflection. I also value gregariousness and wit. A perfect mate would encompass both of these traits: the ability to sit in a car or at a table in a comfortable silence, but ready and willing to chat about whatever when called upon. It doesn't mean you have to be well versed-in all subjects, it just means that you have a willingness and eagerness to engage in social behavior, and it brings you joy. That joy is infectious, and I want it around me at all times. You don't have to be laughing every second of the day, I just want to see your eyes twinkle when I'm telling you a good story, ok? So pay attention.

Also, and this is something small but so important: when I'm talking to you about something serious, look at me. In the eyes. Also, a wonderful quality about people, in general, is that, when you're telling them something, they wait until you stop completely, then pause for beat before responding. It tells me they've been listening, and aren't just jumping in with something they thought of half a minute ago. I don't interrupt, and I expect the same courtesy.

The Unassuming Intellectual: When I was younger, and people would ask me, "What qualities do you want in a mate?" I would almost always start with the word "smart". These days, I still say that, but with a modification: Don't be too smart. It's frustrating. Everyone knows that people who are too big for their britches are a total yawn. The sexiest kind of guy is a simple, humble kind of guy who knows when it's appropriate to bring out the big brains. There are some situations when it's not appropriate, when to play dumb may be your best bet. And I want a guy who knows the difference.

The Reader: A second part to the Unassuming Intellectual is The Reader. People who read are sooooo sexy. I've been trying to analyze why this is so for a long time, and what I have come up with is this: The written word fosters imagination. It expands your mind. And it adds dimension to your personality. I am constantly remembering scenes I've read out of books that I'll never see in a movie, on TV or in real life. And when I think of how these scenes have enhanced my life over the years, I can't even recognize myself without them. Heart of Darkness, A Streetcar Named Desire, The Tempest, The Ground Beneath Her Feet, Slaughterhouse Five are just a few books that I recall on a weekly basis. Some of them I haven't read for 15 years. But I still think about them. I want someone to share this with. I want to know that there is a mysterious part of your mind that perhaps you can't express, but can be shared if I'm only willing to read Sedaris or Sarte or Sinclair. And I am! Let's meet there on that other plane. We can talk about it, or we don't have to. But don't read for me; do it for yourself. You'll be a happier person.

The Clown: I love a funny man. Even if you're an asshole, you're a cynic, you're sarcastic or just plain goofy, if you can make me laugh, I'm yours. Laughter is so important!

The Believer: You don't have to believe in God. You just have to believe in something. Love, fate, happiness, reincarnation. There may or may not be anything else out there than just our life and death. But, for me to feel like my life is worth living, I want to believe there is some reason for life. My man has to be that way too.

The Genuine Heart: I love a good, genuine heart. I love that, even if you're really mad at someone, you'll still listen to them. Or, even if you claim you hate kids, you'll still buy them a new ice cream cone when they drop it on the ground. People who are kind to animals and love and respect their parents and are always fair to their siblings are my favorite. Even if you need to pretend to be a badass to maintain your testicles, keep a golden heart and clear, genuine eyes. I will love you.

The Patient But Insistent Judge: If you want to judge me for my actions, it's fair. If you've known me for a while, tell me exactly what you think of me. I find it totally gratifying when someone tells me how I'm acting and then why I'm acting that way. I like that the man's been paying attention. It makes me feel understood, even if my actions were deplorable. If a guy does it fairly, I will respect what they say. But, above all, they need be patient. I will be patient with you. If you think I've got something to say, ask me to say it. If I don't tell you right away, press me to say it. Then press me again. Don't leave me alone until I tell you. Like a frightened child, sometimes we have to be coaxed out from underneath the bed. We need it!

The Naturalist: Now, I've been called a hippy before, but I don't think I am. I just love thinking about the outdoors. I love campfires, I love hiking, I love camping. I love men who know a lot about outdoor survival, men who love animals, and men who will talk to me about evolution for hours on end. I think evolution's the wildest, most interesting thing ever and it's my favorite conversation topic. You don't have to be a member of the Sierra Club to impress me, but if you know how to point out a constellation or two, and you think visiting Monument Valley would be super-cool, I'll be entranced.

Also, if you're three or more of these things, I probably will want to date you, and I don't have to explain myself on these: You play (or used to play) an instrument. You can cook something that doesn't come out of a box. You like Pink Floyd, Grandaddy or Calexico. You enjoy walking in the evenings. You don't watch a lot of TV. You think the old wild west is really cool. You like to go camping and hiking. You like dogs. You can draw (doesn't matter what, as long as it's not only Manga). You're horny all the time. You like sitting quietly by a fire. You like my cooking. If you're going to travel abroad: you'd rather visit a non-western country. You make a lot of eye contact. Your idols are Bear Grylls and Adam Richman. You always want to go to bed at the same time as me. You love my dog (and my dog loves you--I trust him, after all).

* Fanatical religious/mystical people, porn addicts and sports people, you are the exceptions--again, this is purely subjective to what I want.
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Currently listening to Calexico

If You're Looking to Turn Me Off

2009-04-14T09:57:00.014-07:00

I am on OKCupid. It's a free online dating site. In theory, it's a fun, easy way to meet people like yourself you may later consider dating. When you sign up, you're asked to write a few things and answer a few questions, so that people who may be interested in you have a little more than just your photo by which to harshly judge you. For some, it's a way to hook people in with dazzling wit that may not come across in your photo. For others, it's a "Beware all ye who dare enter here" sign for those with issues. I have compiled a list of personalities, in no particular order, which turn me off.

The Ostrich: This type of person named thus because when asked to write about themselves, they quickly shove their head in the sand. The first line you read about them is "I hate these things, I'm no good at writing about myself." Oh, really? That's fascinating! Tell me more. If you're incapable of writing a paragraph about yourself, it follows that you must be a complete and total bore.

The Hater: I can't tell you how many people have written this in their first paragraph about themselves: "I hate stupid people." In fact, dating site or just regular life, I can't even tell you how much this phrase makes me want to wring people's necks. The first thing I imagine when I read this is 'this person is narrow-minded'. This is the kind of person who sits in front of the television 24 hours a day and complains about everything and everyone. Rather than looking a little deeper into humanity to see the struggle, the pain, the injustice, the happiness that people express, The Hater is quick to place themselves on a high horse above all that isn't lined up perfectly with his/her system of beliefs. It's a very us-them situation. Now, as I compare the next two kind of people, please make your own judgment about which kind you think is the sad, angry loveless loser, and who is the one who will find the most joy out of life: The person who prattles on and on about how much they hate what they consider to be stupidity, or the person who smiles at others with dignity and says "I still have much left to learn".

The Non-Reader: Now, this may come off as sounding horribly arrogant of me, especially with regards to the paragraph I just wrote above, but I almost always write someone off immediately if they don't read. I equate someone who is well-read, or at least trying to read some good stuff, with a vast imagination. Books require you to sit down, focus and create a vision in your mind from little black words on a white page. What, you say you can't do that? You're too ADD? You don't have the time? But yet you list 45 television shows under your profile? Ugh, how depressing. Yeah, I know TV is easy and fun sometimes, but you really can't pick up a book? So many wonderful things can be gained from taking a little time out of your day to read. And BTW, just reading "The Dark Tower" series doesn't count. Stephen King is great, Dean Koontz is alright. What about Chabon, or Rushdie, or T.S Eliot? Fiction not your thing? Well, fine: What about historical novels, or non-superhero comic books? Nothing, still? Well, we will probably have nothing in common. I can't think of anything that turns me on more than someone who's more well-read that me.

The Noncomittal Music Fan: Here's something we've all read before "I like all kinds of music, I'll listen to anything". Ok great. That tells us absolutely zero about your personality, except that maybe you don't really know anything about music. Music is passionate! It invokes emotion! Why can't you give it its due respect and at least tell us what you hate and love about it! And that doesn't mean you'll be able to escape scrutiny with a phrase like "I like all kinds of music except country or rap". No, that doesn't cut it. You need to be specific. Like it or not, a person's musical preferences are a major insight into their personality. You will be judged on your musical tastes, deal with it. And when I read that you like everything, I immediately think you are either a)ashamed of the kind of music you love or b)insipid an colorless. Let's hear of some bands, some composers! I'd bet there's someone out there who can relate to your musical tastes!

The Overtly Sexual: When I get to the section of your profile where you're supposed to list the things you're really good at, and I see "I'm really good at going downtown", it doesn't matter how hot or interesting you are, I roll my eyes and move on. Yes, every man thinks they are great at kissing or cunnilingus. Let me tell you, that's not something I want to read about in your profile.

The Passive-Aggressive Sexual: I can't explain it, but when I read in your profile that "You like to give back-rubs" and that "you really love to rub feet", I almost want to barf. It's the same feeling as finding a strange pair of dirty underwear in your clean laundry. Gross. It is worse than The Overtly Sexual, because at least with them, they're upfront about what they want. You're trying to hide behind what you think women want, and that is slimy.

Also, if you're three or more of these things, I probably won't date you, and I don't have to explain myself on these: You're still being supported by your parents, you haven't finished high-school, at age 35 you still work at Chili's, you have more than two cats, you have a Ren-faire costume that you spent more than $100 on, You don't know how to cook anything, you have bleach blonde hair, you play more than 6 hours of online gaming a week, you say you're an artist, but only draw Manga, list Linkin Park as one of your favorite bands, wear clothing with giant brand names all over, you seem to not shower, or, even worse, shower obsessively, you think Family Guy is better than The Simpsons, like UFC, or eat a lot of Cheetos.

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Currently listening to Telepopmusik

Earth Hour, Robin Leach, Buttermilk Biscuits & OKCupid

2009-04-08T15:36:00.007-07:00

Went down to the strip during Earth Hour a few days ago, and here are some pictures I took of the dark(ish) casinos. Vegas without lights is really strange.

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So Greg and I went to see David Spade perform stand-up at the Venetian last Friday. We got free tickets from work and an invitation to the pre-show cocktail lounge.

We arrived a little buzzed at the lounge, and the proceeded to drink a few more and take in the crowd before the show. The bar was stunning; everything you expect out of a fancy socialite Vegas cocktail lounge: lots of marble, fancy lighting and expensive kidney-shaped everything. We saw a bunch of interesting people there, including Spade wandering through the crowd, with a baseball cap on, hiding his face, and Robin Leach sitting with a girl 1/8 his age. Leach's mouth was set like he had just drank some vinegar.

We wandered into the auditorium. The seats were good, we were close but not too close, and almost directly in the center, and the venue was fairly intimate, probably only about 800 people there. When we walked to our seats, we had to cross a rather narrow pass between the next row of seats and the other audience members. I sat down and within the next five minutes the urge to pee slowly came over me. I didn't want to get up and cross back over the large group of people, especially during a comedy act, cause you're just asking to be made fun of. Also, Leach & his girltoy were sitting right next to me! What luck.

I eventually did get up, and had to SQUEEZE past Leach in a rather embarrassing move as I made my way to the bathroom. I also stepped on an elderly lady's foot. As I returned, I was feeling even worse about the lady and Leach; luckily I didn't step on her again, but I did have to SHOVE my ass in Leach's face as I made my way to my seat. Greg gave me a taunting smile; it sucks to have to put your ass into a celebrity's face.

Leach's girl was pretty; maybe she was 33 and wore a tight black evening gown. To his credit, she was a brunette, and didn't seem too ditsy. Couldn't decide if she was an escort or a girl hanging on to him for money or what is left of his fame. I should probably feel bad about saying this, since he wasn't unkind about me practically walking on top of him as I passed, but man, he has NOT aged well.

He looked like a bag of rocks and was wearing this threadbare velvet jacket that reminded me of a bloody brain. He's put on weight and looks super old. Plus, he seems completely humorless. He didn't laugh or smile at all during David Spade (who actually was pretty funny sometimes) UNTIL Spade got to the part in his act when he started talking about strippers. That got a mirthless giggle out of Leach. Probably could relate.

Anyway, David Spade was better than I'd thought he'd be. Remember how heartless and assholly he is in movies like Tommy Boy and some of his sketches on SNL? Well, live he seems to have a heart and even unconsciously used some old timey idioms that made me smile—oh, so he /is/ human, after all.

So, that's the highlight of my life lately.

I haven't been skating for three weeks because I fell and sprained my knee. The knee is feeling better, so I'm going to return to practice tonight. The first few days after my fall, I was feeling itchy to return to skating. However, after a few weeks of not too much physical activity, I am getting used to being sluggish and that is bad, bad, bad. I must get back into skating regularly again.

Allison moved in and Ashley moved out. Ashley's been gone for a week now, and it's a little strange, even though she was never there in the first place. I really enjoy living with Allison, and I think Jorge is happy with the arrangement, too. Even though our dogs got off to a rough start, I think they're getting along fine now, and I have no problem leaving them alone together outside when I'm at work.

I've been feeling the need lately to make food from scratch. I made another loaf of bread a couple weeks ago and Allison and I served it with pastrami, cheese and lettuce to our book club, yum! I also got a pastry mixer and made some buttermilk biscuits for the first time, yum yum! The first batch turned out ok, but I made a second batch the next day that were even better. I want to make some more soon, to perfect them. Allison, Jorge and I are having the Clarks over for Easter dinner, and I have been scouring Tastespotting.com for tasty recipes. I am excited to be able to make some good dinner. And maybe some pavlova.

Also, because Logan seems to have had such great luck with OKCupid.com, I have re-opened my account and started trotting myself out to the online dating community. They've updated the look of their website, which I like. I have been out on one date so far, which was pretty good. We ended up at the famous Double Down at 5 am on Friday morning, playing pool, eating Fritos and drinking Red Stripe. I think I may have a few more dates with other people pending.

BTW, 'dating' is so weird. I really haven't done it much before, but it's really odd. More on that as it develops.

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Currently listening to Gorillaz

Talking to Robots on Mars

2009-03-24T23:25:00.008-07:00

Not just a clever blog title. Yes, you, too, can chat with Meliza, a robot stationed on Mars. She can be found zooming around near the giant Human Face Rock in a region of the Red Planet called Cydonia.

Meliza seems the teensiest bit pushy & malevolent; she keeps asking me "isn't it obvious?" when I ask her questions and "do you have anything more interesting to say?" when I make statements. Jeeze.

You should get Google Earth 5 if you don't already have it. Click on the planet icon at the top, and you can view Earth, the ocean, or Mars. You can even view new Mars pictures every few hours, courtesy of Nasa's probe.

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Currently listening to some serious static from a bossy robot.

Last Video of Dad

2009-03-22T23:29:00.001-07:00

Darren took this video while visiting Mom and Dad. This was the last video taken of him before his death. Still seems strange...

Roller Derby Showdown Poster

2009-03-18T11:48:00.002-07:00

Here is a new poster I've designed for the next Roller Derby game. Versions of pink and green.

In other news, life has been throwing me nonstop curveballs. First, Wal*Mart broke my car. They're now fixing it, and I have a kick ass rental that's a Toyota Corolla.*

Someone stole money from my bank account. It's now being investigated, ugh. But what a pain in the ass. Damn thieves.

Ashley, one of my roommates, is moving out. Allison is moving in! It'll be nice to live with her. I am excited about that.

For those of you who live in Las Vegas: Friday night, March 20, the Beauty Bar is hosting Down & Derby II. At 9pm, you can arrive there and drink and rollerskate out back in their courtyard. It's got a live DJ and of course, skate rental if you need it. Come! It's going to be fun.

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Currently listening to The Black Keys

* I must be reaching middle age to think that a Corolla is kick ass. Sigh...

The "It's Been A While" Blog

2009-03-04T20:59:00.009-08:00

What I get to see on my way home from work.

There is no such thing as a boring moment in this town. It's more than the strip, it's more than the mountains. The time that I've spent here in Las Vegas has been wonderful, it's been hazardous; it's been amazing, it's been death-defying, but it has never been dull. And while I think I'll look back on this time in my life as one of the most interesting periods of my life, for right now, all I ask for is a little boredom. A little stability. A little rest. I just want nothing unusual to happen for a while, so I can catch up with myself.

And although I've been thinking about blogging a lot, I haven't pushed myself down in a chair to do it. Well, I finally sat down to share a few of the major things that've been happening over the past couple of weeks.

The last picture taken of Dad on January 1, 2009, in Tulsa, OK

Dad on a pony, 1942

First and foremost, Dad died on the last day of January. I knew his health was fading, but his death did come to our family suddenly, and as a shock. I miss him, even more now that it's been over a month since I've talked to him. A lot of kind people have offered me sympathy and have offered me empathy, too. But, really, I don't want those things.

Before, when I watched others lose their loved ones, I sat on the outside, fidgeting nervously, not knowing what to do or say to help them. Now that it's my turn, I don't need a big, dramatic apology from anyone, all I really want is a kind smile, and a hug. That's all, nothing fancy.

Suzanne, Jay, the kids and I drove down to Oklahoma for a few days in early February. It was a good trip. We arrived to my mom's house in Broken Arrow to greet a house-full of relatives that had made the trip from many states to come honor Dad. We had a nice funeral service and I felt really close to my family. I think Mom is doing ok.

We headed back a few days later, stopping for the night in Albuquerque and resuming the second half of the trip the next day. We got caught in a wicked snow storm outside of Flagstaff and had to exit the highway and travel slowly along Route 66 until Kingman. It seemed rather hazardous; as we passed several overturned semi trucks and wrecked cars. We made it back to Las Vegas in one (well, two—it's another story) pieces, where of course, it was dry and pleasant.

So far this year, I have been skating a lot. I am getting better as a skater and as a derby player. I am having a lot fun with it, and can feel my body slowly starting to get in shape. It's really hard, but also really great.

Last Saturday I had my first roller derby game***. My team, the Notorious VIPs, played against the other SCRG team, The Tommy Gun Terrors. I don't have any photos of my game (yet), but I do have some photos of me ironing on my name to the back of my shirt. I felt pretty crafty making it. Here is the front of the shirt with our team logo:

Here's me ironing on the letters, and....

Here is the finished product...I f*d up a little on the second "0" in 100, when I accidentally ironed over it once it had been transferred to the shirt. But, oh well. It still says my name, that's the important part.

Henry's good; here he is resting in freshly-washed sheets, and then on Elephant, a stuffed toy I have had since I was six years old. Elephant is Henry's new BFF.

He is finally over his puppy stage of vomiting a lot, and eating all kinds of stuff he shouldn't be, thank goodness. With the rare exception, he's completely potty trained. And now it's warm enough for me to leave him outside in our back yard while I am at work, so he no longer has to spend time in his crate.

Even after surgery, his cherry eyes returned. At first, I was deeply stressed about it. However, I have stopped worrying about it; it doesn't seem to bother him. If it doesn't go away in a year or so, I will consider worrying about it then.

So, I have been trying to be really good about not eating sugar, but I have a weakness for Holiday candy. Easter candy is the worst. I have been scarfing some down. But it's made me sick enough that I'm starting to get over candy altogether.

Also, I had to get a root canal + crown a couple of weeks ago. I think the cause of that was pretty sturdily tied to the fact that I love Easter candy. It was very expensive, and it makes me think twice about eating candy now. I think I still need a bunch more work done on my teeth...sigh. It's all so very expensive.

I like the feeling of my new crown; it feels smooth like marble in my mouth and has real gold in it. Probably the most expensive piece of jewelry I own.

And finally, there are certain little things about life that make me happy. One of the best things is the bar top in my kitchen. Over the course of a year of living in this house, it's been happily populated with a lot of kitchen-y flotsam jetsam that I've been collecting. Every time I pass it, it makes me smile. Here are some details, for posterity.

This is Lava Letch, from Frankie's Tiki Room, Las Vegas, and my orange dog silicon oven mitt from Lisa.

These pineapples smell delicious and I love having in the kitchen, even if I just look at them. But of course I love eating them too. These were 3 for $5 at Mariana's, the local Mexican market. I love going there, the produce is always such a steal!

Flour Box, my Deer & Birdie flask, with the soap stone number 8 spice bowl

Jicama (again from Mariana's) in the red colander, and the Muscle Mail Men in the background

10 Peso Pig Bank, and Mr. Mandarin, my Citrus Squeezer

Oranges, Ribbit, The Magic Tooth Pick Rabbit, and My Demi-Tasse from Paris Hotel

One last thing before I go...Dad was always the family member who religiously read and commented on my blog. I always enjoyed hearing what he had to say about my photos or what I wrote. He was always my biggest fan, encouraging me to pursue my creativity professionally. In some ways, this blog was for him. It was a little window into which he could view my life, so many miles away in Las Vegas. I am sad that I have lost that connection, sad that he is no longer a part of my life. Dad, I love you.

**** Here is a slideshow of some of the photos from my roller derby game. Can you find me?

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Currently listening to Actung Baby by U2

Tim Tams Come to America!

2009-02-18T13:47:00.011-08:00

So, a couple of years ago, my friend Angel sent me a package of Tim Tam cookies from Australia. According to the package, they are "Australia's favorite cookie". You can read the blog post here...

Fast forward to a few weeks ago, when a lady named Tanya contacted me to let me know that Pepperidge Farm is now making Tim Tams for the US! She asked me if I'd be willing to review the cookies on my blog if she would send along a package of the cookies.

Never one to turn down free cookies, I accepted. Sure enough, they arrived a few days later. Above are my photos of them. I've always thought Pepperidge Farm made quality cookies, and these are no exception.

They're chocolate crunchy cookies sandwiching a layer of chocolate creme, and are coated in chocolate. That's a lot of chocolate! At first, I expected these to taste something like Oreos or another sandwich cookie. However, they are much better. The chocolate flavor is better than Oreo's, for certain, and the Time Tam's creme filling would beat Oreo's creme filling in a fight any day of the week. Plus, did I mention the whole cookie is covered in chocolate?

They're sweet, but not too sweet, rich, but not too rich. I received the package at work, and opened it at once. I passed them around to my coworkers, and everyone liked them. One of my coworkers came to my office the next day to ask if I had any left. Sadly, I did not, because I ate them all.

If that's not a good endorsement, I don't know what is! Anyway, they come in a couple of different flavors, chocolate, and caramel. I had the chocolate, and would consider the caramel.

On a scale of one to 10, I'd give them about an 8. They're upper-class cookies, the kind you'd save for a tea party. Try some for yourself! According to the website, they're on sale at Target, and you can get a coupon for them on their website, ilovetimtamcookies.com.

One last thing: I like that the cookies actually look like what's on the packaging. Sometimes things look good on the package, but are completely different when you open them. WYSIWYG with these.

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Currently listening to Ma Fleur by the Cinematic Orchestra.

Cupid's Requiem -- Roller Derby

2009-02-07T22:12:00.000-08:00

Here is a new poster I've designed for the Fabulous Sin City Rollergirls bout at the end of the month. It's my first game. Please come!

Henry Is Healing! It is Miraculous.

2009-01-27T00:26:00.003-08:00

I noticed tonight that Henry's eyes are dramatically better from yesterday, and I am blissful. Also, isn't he a hot item in his new red shirt?

Henry last night, wrapped in Heatherface's knitwear. You can see his left eye has the bubble, which is now gone.

Henry, just before the operation, with both cherries.

*****

Since the second day I have had Henry, he has had cherry eye, then soon cherry eyes when both became infected. Not responding to steroid drops, the only other alternative for fixing his eyes was surgery. After getting the surgery done in December, his right eye-cherry receded, but his left, the one that appeared right after I got him, remained stubborn. I even took him back to the hospital to get it fixed again. They only made it worse.

I have been in despair, having to look at the horrible red inflated bubble in his eye practically since I have owned him, knowing that even surgery was not fixing him. Knowing that, although it wasn't causing him much pain, it was traumatic to be operated on, as well as expensive. But I couldn't stand the thought of him, so young, being saddled with that disease for his entire life.

On Sunday, I went in early to the vet again, to seek another option. The vet came back to me with a sad face to tell me that his left eye needed surgery again, it had never healed. She presented me with the cost of the second surgery, and I calmly looked her in the face and told her that I had already paid a lot of money for something they had never fixed, and that I would like them to pay for the surgery this time.

The doctor, young, inexperienced and somewhat cowardly, looked at me for a moment, possibly shocked and without a ready response, and told me that she would ask her boss to see if they could help me out.

She called later that day, and told me that the doctor had offered 25% off the surgery. I told her no, that I wanted them to pay for it all. I asked to schedule an appointment with her supervisor so that I could come in and explain the situation to him. She seemed shaken, but told me when I could call to speak with him.

I knew for a fact that it was an easy surgery, but, being my vet's first time performing it, that she had made a mistake, and I was going to make sure I wasn't punished for her lack of experience.

Dreading talking to these people, because although I will confront people, I don't like it, I steeled myself in preparation for visiting the vet to demand justice.

However, the strangest thing happened tonight. I went up to my room for the evening, and started playing with Henry for a bit. I was rough-housing with him a little, when I looked at his eye and did a double-take. The red bubble had deflated and the tissue that had portruded outside of his eyelid for most of his life was regressing back into his eye.

For four months I have wished for this to magically happen, and it has not. Then, tonight, poof, it seems to have (mostly) gone. I stared at his face for like 15 minutes solid, willing it not to reappear on his face. I put some drops in his eyes, and adjusted myself to his new face--a perfect and normal dog face. I cried.

Although I think he has some healing to do yet, I feel the worst is over. I can't even believe how many maladies, sicknesses, diseases and pains this little dog has suffered since I have had him. For the moment, and hopefully forever, they have all left him. I am so happy and relieved, it is the first time in months I have felt truly at peace.

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Currently listening to Mickey Mouse Operation by Little People

Melting Rabbit

2009-01-21T10:49:00.003-08:00

Disturbing and heartbreaking. Note the soft and sweet soundtrack. Makes me recoil and cry a little.

Other neato videos HERE.