Jon's Random Bloggings

This Blog Has been moved ...

2010-03-19T09:18:00.003-06:00

I have decided to merge my blogs into one site.

Introducing my new site ...

JonUnraveled.com

With the launch of my new site I will no longer be making updates here.

Pitchers and Catchers to report Wednesday

2010-02-16T16:19:00.001-07:00

Spring training baseball is almost here. I'm looking forward to another season of baseball.

Go Cubs Go

Happy Groundhog Day

2010-02-02T08:30:00.002-07:00

"If you want to know next, you must read my text. As the sky shines bright above me, my shadow I see beside me. So six more weeks of winter it will be."

Punxsutawney Phil saw his shadow this morning at Gobblers Knob, so six more weeks of winter is our reward.

In the words of Phil Conner "This is one time where television really fails to capture the true excitement of a large squirrel predicting the weather."

Pictures from my trip to Puerto Rico

2010-01-16T09:28:00.012-07:00

Hola From Puerto Rico

2010-01-06T07:50:00.002-07:00

Just a quick hello. I am having fun, here are a few pictures of me having that fun.
At the Hotel

At the pool
At the beach

Vacation time

2010-01-03T21:31:00.003-07:00

well tomorrow I depart for my vacation. I am leaving behind months of cold and piles of snow. If I can get internet access while I am gone I will try to post a few pictures; otherwise I will post them when I return.

Later

2009 New Mexico Bowl Champions

2009-12-21T08:50:00.003-07:00

What a great football game. a 4th quarter comeback, a goal-line stop, and a Cowboy win in double OT. I had a lot of fun in Albuquerque this last weekend. Here are some pictures:

Bowling and the Boot

2009-12-07T11:47:00.003-07:00

Wyoming beat CSU in ft Collins the day after thanksgiving and as a result were extended a bowl invite this weekend to the New Mexico bowl to play Fresno St.

It was nice to watch the pokes take back the boot. ACS had a great stiff arm on his 50 yard TD run.

I am planning on going to New Mexico for the bowl game. I'll probably drive down on Friday, and back on Sunday. I may head over to the official announcement / acceptance today at 1:00 at the ROC.

Wyoming Grabs the boot and brings it over to the fans to celebrate the win.

Go POKES!

Border War - Beat the Sheep!

2009-11-24T11:55:00.005-07:00

On Monday I was able to be at the Wyoming Colorado border for the football exchange. For those not in the know each year the game ball is run from the stadium of the game the year before to the border by the ROTC where is is handed off to the other school's ROTC and ran to their stadium for this years game. Here are some pics from Mondays event.

4th quarter Comeback

2009-11-16T10:44:00.002-07:00

Down 27-6 entering the 4th quarter I wasn't very confident that the cowboys would win. It was awesome to see them step it up and score two relatively quick touchdowns. I knew we would come back and tie after we blocked the SDSU field goal try. After SDSU fumbled the kickoff I knew we would win the game. 24 points in the 4th quarter to win 30-27. A great comeback win.

Go Pokes!

Raditude and Puerto Rico

2009-11-06T12:49:00.004-07:00

I finally got my copy of Weezer's new album and gave it a spin. I'm not sure what to think yet. there are some very good tracks, and good music, I'm a little baffled by some of the lyrics though, I'll have to listen a few more times.

In other news I am going to Puerto Rico in January for some fun and relaxation. I just bought tickets to fly down for a week. My friend is going to hook me up with some Marriott discount for the resort down there (in San Juan), and my sister is also coming along for the fun. I'm excited to finally go somewhere outside the '48. The one downside is I will miss two home basketball games including a game against CSU.

I am thinking of going to Germany this next summer too. I have time to plan that out still.

I am finally getting over being sick for 2 weeks. I had a cold, then developed a sinus infection.

Cowboys Win 37 - 13

2009-10-10T19:08:00.003-06:00

A great win for the pokes today. Lots of snow and cold, and a good time. here are a few pictures.

Game Day Snow

2009-10-10T07:57:00.003-06:00

It is Game Day - Homecoming. It is about 10 degrees outside, we have several inches of snow on the ground, and it is still coming down. Kickoff is in 4 hours (Assuming New Mexico can make it into Laramie from Cheyenne - all the roads are closed right now.)

I haven't been to a good snow game in a while - I'm excited to bundle and and watch the pokes.

Cowboys won - next up FAU

2009-09-28T09:37:00.003-06:00

Wyoming won a fun game Saturday against UNLV. Next we get to travel to FL to play FAU. I'm excited to be able to fly down for the game and meet up with Brandon and Dave. It should be lots of fun. Go Pokes!

Goodbye Summer - Hello Snow

2009-09-21T11:15:00.002-06:00

Well Summer is officially over, and we were greeted this morning with a cold blanket of wet snow. Tonight is supposed to dip down to 20 degrees - killing off any plants that survived last night. I need to remember to turn off and clear my sprinkler system before tonight's hard freeze comes. I may get to turn on my furnace for the first time too.

To celebrate I am having hot Chocolate here at work.

Time for a post

2009-09-18T15:31:00.003-06:00

It has been a while since my last post, so I best be posting.

Wyoming kicked off its football season with a win over weber state, then lost to Texas the next week. tomorrow we play @ Colorado - I plan on going.

I was REALLY sick the weekend of the weber game I barely made it to the game, and probably should have stayed home. Afterwords I was extremely dehydrated and tired. I've been feeling sick this week too.

Work has been very busy this week - we went live with a new system and all my time has been spent on fixing small issues on the system. Hopefully things will calm down soon.

I saw a nice bumper sticker the other day. It said "You need a lot of balls to play golf like I do."

New Weezer

2009-08-27T10:20:00.002-06:00

I got to listen to the new Weezer song "I Want you to" Today off of their upcoming album Raditude. It is a very catchy song. I like it and am looking forward to the new album. It is set to hit shelves on October 27th.

btw you can listen to the song on weezer's website, or buy it from Amazon or iTunes.

Groundhog day in August ...

2009-08-17T12:34:00.005-06:00

I came across an interesting write up today - trying to figure out how long Bill Murray was stuck in the movie groundhogs day

How long does Bill Murray spend trapped?

8.7 years is the article estimate. In the DVD commentary they say 10 years.

I recall a conversation with Brandon about trying to count how many days, and losing track. It is a good piece of information to know - just in case...

Denver Vacation

2009-08-13T09:17:00.002-06:00

Here are a few pictures from my recent time in Denver. Saturday was an especially busy day. We got up and ate a good breakfast, then went and golfed 9 holes.

My ball actually made it on the green, so I had to take a picture.A scenic view while waiting for the people ahead of us.

After golf we had a drink at jamba juice next to the university of Denver campus, then we went back to our hotel and went swimming. The pool is on the 5th floor, but outside amongst the tall buildings. After a good swim we went to Mario's two fisted pizza and grabbed a few slices before heading to the Cubs Rockies game. We had great seats - Club level.
And the Cubs won - there were a ton of cubs fans there - Lots of W flags out after the win.
After the game we ate at Rodizio Grill before finally calling it a day.

Table

2009-07-31T09:48:00.002-06:00

So I ordered a new coffee table about a month ago - July 9th. I may finally get it on Monday. Turns out the delivery company was waiting for a non existent 2nd box, and I could have had my table on the 16th or so...

My battle with a mole, or whatever has been living in my grass, I think is over. I haven't seen any new mounds in over a day. I'll keep checking and hope for the best.

Time for a new post

2009-07-20T12:11:00.002-06:00

So I'm not sure what to post. I don't have any great ideas to share, or new pictures or happenings, but it has been a while and I feel I need a post.

Well I did rearrange my living room to better set it up for surround sound. I'm busy at work, and excited for football in another few months.

Oh - I do have a ground squirrel or ground hog, or prarie dog living in my yard. I wouldn't mind but he is ruining my grass, so he's got to go.

Orlando and a cow picnic

2009-06-29T15:58:00.003-06:00

A few recent pictures from my trip to Orlando, and then in the mountains outside of Laramie.

Universal in Orlando

Me at the Loews Royal Pacific resort
A Cow Picnic

Washer and Dryer come today + Steak

2009-06-18T09:13:00.003-06:00

The last of the items for my new house (for now at least) is coming today. I will soon have my washer and dryer. It will be a new experience not bagging up all the laundry and taking it somewhere to wash.

I grilled a steak last night on my new grill. It turned out well. Here are a couple of pictures. it is making me hungry again now.

My new Grill

2009-06-16T09:21:00.003-06:00

So I bought a grill over the weekend. I fired it up for the first time last night and cooked some brats, corn on the cob, and some pineapple.

This is the grill I got:

Rancid

2009-06-12T13:02:00.002-06:00

I got to see Rancid again last night at Red Rocks. It was a good show - I wish they could have played longer, and done a few more tracks from the new album. They only played East Bay Night (acoustic) and Last One to Die from the new record. In my opinion they were by far the best musicians on the stage last night. I appreciate being able to hear all sorts of different notes, singing, etc. on not just loud noise that doesn't seem to change pitch much.

The riverboat gamblers were OK, and Rise against was OK. All of their (Rise Against) stuff sounds about the same, and kinda high pitched and whiny. The only good stuff they did was when they played a few acoustic tracks.

My House

2009-06-08T18:41:00.009-06:00

So here are some pictures of my house. I'm still unpacking, and things are messy.

Rancid's new album

2009-05-26T22:46:00.002-06:00

They posted the album on myspace, so I got to listen to it all today. It is pretty awesome. There are already several songs I really like - some good catchy tunes.

I can't help but compare it to the new green day album I've been listening to recently, and I must say I like this record WAY more than green day's new record. It just has more power and emotion to me - much easier to connect to.

2 weeks or so and I'll see rancid in concert again!!!

My trip to Chicago

2009-05-21T09:23:00.010-06:00

I just remembered that I never posted about my recent trip to Chicago. Here are some highlights. The main purpose of my trip was to go back to Wrigley field and watch the cubs. Wednesday night I sat out in the bleachers. During the Padres batting practice I caught my first ever baseball at a ball game. it was a home run that bounced off the seats then came right to me. I don't know who hit it. The Cubs won the game. It only lasted 8 innings because of rain. Here is a pic of the ball I caught.

While in Chicago I stayed at the Intercontinental on Michigan Ave. It is in a pretty good location - not too far from the red line, and always easy to catch a cab to go to a restaurant. The hotel is expensive - I got a good deal on the room, but if you opened the bottle of water in the room it was $6.50 a snickers was $4.00. I ordered room service my first night as I needed a snack and was to lazy to go out. I had some hot wings with blue cheese, a ginger ale, and some black raspberry sorbet. You don't want to know how much it cost - too much, but I was living it up in Chicago. The wings were very good, as was their blue cheese. One thing I must say about the place besides being expensive they do have good service.

Day two I took a cab over to the original pancake house for a late breakfast. I had buttermilk pancakes with fresh strawberries and strawberry syrup, with a side of bacon and freshly squeezed orange juice. It was an excellent breakfast. I sat outside in the heavy breeze and enjoyed a sunny morning. I then walked over to the L and went up to Wrigley for the afternoon game. I had amazing seats. Right behind home plate row 2. Here are some shots of my view, and a shot of the highlights where you can see me. The cubs won again. baseball is great to watch when you are so close.

Later that night I had a reservation at Gibson's to enjoy a nice steak. I showed up a bit early and had to wait a while. The place was very packed. They jammed tables just about everywhere you could. I went with a bone in strip steak. The first bite was great, but when I cut again I saw the steak was undercooked. I ordered medium it was medium rare at best, so I had to send it back. My replacement was cooked properly, and was very tasty. It isn't the best steak I've had, but it was good. I was disapointed in the side I ordered - twice baked potato.

Well that is my chicago trip. I hope to do it again soon. Next time I will eat at David Burke's primehouse for my steak fix.

As for my steak rankings unfortunately for Gibson's they don't rank real high.
My Current Rankings (Based on where I've eaten, and my personal experience)
1. Boa (Las Vegas)
2. Chicago Chop House (Chicago)
3. Delmonico (Las Vegas)
4. Kinzie Chophouse (Chicago)
5. Ruth's Chris (Denver)
6. Gibson's (Chicago)

21st century breakdown

2009-05-12T19:23:00.012-06:00

Green Day's new album is another "punk rock opera", maybe even more so than "American Idiot" although less punk feel. The first single Know your enemy has been getting a lot of playtime, and after listening to other tracks it is not a favorite of mine -it isn't bad but other songs are better.

The Album is broken into Three Acts Act I: Heroes and Cons (tracks 2-7) Act II: Charlatans and Saints (tracks 8-13) Act III: Horseshoes and Handgrenades (tracks 14-18)

My first impression is that I need to listen to it again a few more times. There is a lot more to this album than any other they have done. There are a wide range of styles on this record. They seem to flow together fairly well, and because of that I think it is better to devote some time to listen to at least the acts as one, if not the entire album (69 minutes).

I do miss some of the old green day style and humor of their older work on Kerplunk and Dookie. I just felt like something was missing from this record. There was no real stand out moment or song, and I wanted one. I found myself wanting more energy from the album at times - the way green day used to get me pumped up.

I enjoyed it enough to listen again and recommend buying it. My favorite song from this album is "The Static Age" (track 15) Maybe I like it the most because it sounds the most like classic Green Day, but that is not a bad thing. "21 guns" is also pretty good. The third act is by far the best imo, which I guess is good for this style of album.

For additional info I think Steve Kindell of Spin gives a good review. Spin Review

Thoughts on books ...

2009-05-11T15:23:00.003-06:00

So I've finished my first two books in my 'reading the classics' idea I had.

I read catcher in the rye and of mice and men. I liked of mice an men ok, but I didn't like catcher in the rye very much. Some of the writing style annoyed me, and there was no real point to the novel - at least that spoke to me in some fashion.

I hope to finish 1984 while flying to Chicago and back, then I'll probably move on to thicker books...

Steak in Chicago

2009-05-06T14:41:00.002-06:00

After much contemplation I have decided that next week when I go to Chicago I will eat at Gibsons Bar and Steakhouse. I have made reservations for dinner.

I also considered David Burke's Primehouse, but I will have to eat there another time.

In other news the closing date for my house is getting closer. It is still set for June 12th. I have been looking at buying a washer and dryer for my new house, and also a new grill. I'm contemplating an infrared grill.

Reading the classics

2009-04-23T22:38:00.002-06:00

So I decided today that I should read some of the 'classic' novels that I always hear mentioned. In the past I've read manly horror and science fiction (I love to your scattered bodies go by Phillip Farmer, part of his 'riverworld' series) I figure it is time to expand my - whatever I am expanding by reading.

I decided to start small with "Of mice and Men" I never read it in High School, but I figure since it is short it is a good place to start. I am open to other suggestions of 'classic novels' I should read.

let the dominoes fall

2009-04-15T00:06:00.001-06:00

Rancid's new album finally has a name and release date. I can't believe it has been 6 years. I just listened to the first new track, and I like it.

15 Years and memories

2009-04-08T23:20:00.004-06:00

Today is the 15th year anniversary of when Kurt Cobain's body was found. I listened to a lot of Nirvana today. I still love their music. I remember how devastated I felt that day when I heard the news. It was probably the first tragic thing I had witnessed that I felt somewhat connected to in my life. I loved that music so much. Sometimes I wonder what other music we are missing out on because of his death.

Almost every year on the anniversary I have done something to remember Nirvana and Kurt; watch videos, listen to music, etc. After some time had passed many people thought I was strange (maybe still do) and my memorials started to be just by myself instead of with friends.

I remember the first time I heard Nirvana. I was in art class in junior high and a friend, I don't remember who, gave me a copy of nevermind on a cassette tape. it was the greatest thing I had ever heard, and probably still the greatest today.

I'm thankful for my sister who knew that I loved nirvana, and took me to my first concert on December 18, 1993. I'm so glad I got to see Nirvana. Thank You Rachel.

Baseball Today - 8 Hours away

2009-04-06T08:17:00.001-06:00

The cubs start play in about 8 hours. It is still too cold with snow on the ground here in Laramie for baseball.

Here's to hoping for a third straight division title, and more importantly a pennant.

GO CUBS GO

If only it was real - Squeeze Bacon

2009-04-03T08:46:00.001-06:00

Squeeze Bacon

World Premier: Survivor Jon Vs the Wild

2009-03-30T19:41:00.000-06:00

Episode 1: The Arizona Desert

Final Jonapalooza Report

2009-03-30T16:09:00.002-06:00

I don't have any more pictures to share. On Sunday we went to church, then relaxed outside. We had a birthday dinner for Ellie, and ate the cake. I packed my bags and went to bed so I could catch my 6:50 am flight. I got to the airport at about 6:15, and got through security just as my plane finished boarding,I got on, then we got to sit on the plane for an hour and a half because of snow in Denver. I finally arrived in Denver, and drove home. It is snowing with heavy winds, and temps in the 20's right now. It is still good to be home. I had a blast at Jonapalooza 2009. I hope to do it again, maybe even at another location.

ANNOUNCEMENT

Coming soon ...
The world Premiere of Survivor Jon Vs the Wild: Episode 1; the Arizona Desert.

Stay tuned to this blog to be the first to see it.

Jonapalooza Report day 3

2009-03-30T15:47:00.005-06:00

I rested at home in the morning, then went to watch the cubs in spring training.
Then after we got home I was still hot from the ball game, so we jumped in the pool.
After Dinner Joshua and I decorated a tiger castle cake for Ellie's 7th birthday.

Then we went to bed.

Jonapalooza Report Day 2

2009-03-28T12:02:00.010-06:00

We spent the morning making a film. I will share it with you after I finish the conversion and upload it. After that we had lunch at Mi Nidito. It is supposed to be a really good Mexican restaurant that lots of famous people visit. the food was pretty good, but could have been better. It was a good lunch. The place was very busy.

After Lunch we began film editing, then ate dinner.

We finished the evening with roller dancing ...

and homemade Cheesecake Ice Cream.

Jonapalooza report - Day 1

2009-03-27T15:00:00.005-06:00

The first full day of Jonapalooza has come to an end. here are the pictures and report.

We started out enjoying the warm Arizona sun
Then we cooled off in the pool with a nice refreshing glass of homemade lemonade.
We then had to replenish the lemon supply to have more lemonade later, so we picked lemons.
Not all were as perfect as this one, but they are all just as refreshing.For dinner we went to In-N-Out, and enjoyed a burger and a shake.Jonapalooza day 1 ended with a guitar playing sing-a-long.
We all slept well, and are looking forward to Day 2!

Jonapalooza 2009 has begun.

2009-03-26T10:14:00.006-06:00

I'm now in Tucson, AZ where it is nice and warm. I left snow on the ground and high winds. Check out the drift by my front door overhanging the ledge.
A view from underneath.
and was greeted in Tucson with this...

Now its time for lemonade by the pool, and warm sunny afternoons!

Taxes are done

2009-03-22T15:33:00.003-06:00

I finally finished my taxes today. I would have done it long ago, but I've been waiting for my K1 from the company I owned last year. We finally finished the taxes for Tech Caddies, so now I've finished mine.

From the experience I can see why companies hire accountants to take care of that crap, and we were a very small company and not complex.

Two more days of work then it is off to Tucson for vacation. I'm looking forward to it.

sweet seats for cubs game

2009-03-13T11:59:00.002-06:00

So the VIP Box seats went on sale and even though I already have a bleacher ticket for Thursday afternoon game (may 14th) I took a look at the box seats. I was able to get one right behind home plate row two, and I couldn't pass up the chance to sit that close, so I bought the ticket. I'll have to throw up the bleacher one on stub hub, or sell it at the game. Maybe it will be on a TV set near you, and I can be the guy acting dumb in the background.

March Madness is coming ...

2009-03-12T09:25:00.002-06:00

I'm looking forward to the tourney starting next week. This week there are some good tourney games. Wyoming plays tonight at 9:30, and the MTN is finally broadcasting in HD for the MWC tourney. They need to go to HD permanently.

Go Pokes

More toys

2009-03-06T09:41:00.002-07:00

So I finally decided to buy a guitar. I have been wanting to buy one for over 10 years really, but never wanted to spend the money, didn't know what to buy etc.

I ended up buy a relatively inexpensive fender acoustic guitar. Now I'm trying to memorize fingering positions for chords. I have a few down, but I need to get better calluses on my fingers, and be able to change chords faster. I hope that my time spent playing the piano, drums, trumpet, baritone, etc. will help with the other musical aspects of learning the guitar.

Wyoming has its final home game of the year this Saturday against New Mexico. Hopefully we can win and finish 19-11. We have come a long way this year.

Chicago and rancid booked

2009-02-27T11:46:00.003-07:00

Well I have solidified some of my spring and summer plans. I booked a round trip flight to Chicago, and a Hotel downtown for May 13-15. Then today I bought a ticket to see Rancid on June 11th at red rocks. This will be my 6th time seeing rancid in concert. Rancid isn't headlining although they are much better than who they will play with (imo). Rise Against is the headlining act. I've heard some of their stuff, and it is ok, but a little whinny and all to similar to each other. I'll give them a shot. I don't plan on walking out early like I have with other crappy bands. Once my friend Kelly and I went and saw Eve6 and Goldfinger, then the last act was Good Charlotte. We made it through maybe two songs of theirs before we bolted. My only other concert that I missed some of was when I dozed off while Incubus was playing at fiddlers green - I was with my man Ross Dawg that time, and it was a long day and lots of fun.

The Sheep Sweep!

2009-02-25T21:15:00.002-07:00

Once again the Cowboys have pulled off the sheep sweep beating CSU tonight 82-79. It was a great game to watch. Wyoming came through down the stretch.

In other happenings I finally set up my twitter feed. http://www.twitter.com/nirv117 if you want to follow.

Cubs Tickets

2009-02-20T11:14:00.002-07:00

Well today is the day. The yearly race to buy cubs single game tickets.

So far I have bought 1 bleacher seat for May 13th vs the padres. I am trying to buy a ticket for the 14th also for a short two day trip to Chicago to watch the cubs. I've decided to wait on the September games and try another day for those.

In other news I am scheduling to have surgery on my back - most likely in Denver. I should know some details soon.

Back Update...

2009-02-17T12:39:00.002-07:00

I got some shots in my back on Friday, and they have relieved some of the pain. My left foot is still slightly numb and my leg still hurts a little. I'll give it some time, but if it doesn't heal soon surgery may be the answer.

Cubs Spring Training

2009-02-11T00:18:00.003-07:00

Well It looks like I am going to go watch a cubs spring training game this year. I plan on flying down to Tucson to visit my brother and watch the Cubbies on the road against the rockies. They play on Saturday March 28th. I'll fly back home on Monday.

I've been thinking since I canceled my Egypt trip (Well postponed) I may go to Chicago twice this year. Maybe once in May (13-14), for just a game or two, then again late in the season like September 15 - 17. I may need to check some football schedules for home games to be safe first. Tickets go on-sale on the 20th, so I plan on buying then at least for May. I haven't decided if I want to do all the games in the bleachers, or maybe one a bit closer. I'm thinking bleachers, although If they offer the premium seats like they did last year I may try to do that In the middle of the season they sold the row 1 and 2 seats behind homeplate for a premium to help raise money for something or other. It would be fun to sit that close at least once. I'll keep my eyes and ears open for that.

Aug 7 - 10 the cubs play in Colorado, so I'll probably get some seats for at least the ones not on Sunday... Well I just looked and they are already on sale so I bought seats for Friday and Saturday. Good Box seats. Hopefully it will be a fun weekend including some golf.

Blown / ruptured disc

2009-02-09T14:15:00.004-07:00

So I have a blown / ruptured disc in my back. I got to see my MRI. A bunch of gunk squirted out of my spine, and is causing increased pressure and pain on my nerve.

My foot is still weak and numb. I am on Oxycodone now instead of vicodin. It works OK. Our plan is to try some steroids (shot in the back) and see if that relieves enough to get rid of the numbness and weakness. If it doesn't then surgery is the plan. I'll probably have to go to Ft Collins or Denver for the surgery as they would have the table I would need to be on for it to be the safest.

In the mean time I am still working, and drugged up, and in pain.

Trip postponed ...

2009-02-03T14:46:00.003-07:00

Well my fancy plans to go to Egypt look like they will have to be put on hold for another time. It is looking like I will need back surgery, and that will take a couple months to heal from, and I've decided that this spring won't be the best time to try and travel overseas, especially since I will be recovering with my back, and spending a bunch of money on doctors, tests, etc.

I'll have to plan for another time...

I had an MRI done today. I've seen them on TV, but never had one done. It would be horrible if you were claustrophobic. They shove you into a tube and your not supposed to move. You sit in the tube for 35 minutes or so. I just closed my eyes, and almost forgot that I couldn't move anywhere if I wanted to. For some reason when you can't move you get itches in places like your ear, or toes, and you can do nothing about it.

I don't know when I'll get the results. My left leg is really numb now, and it hurts pretty good.

I got my first birthday present ...

2009-01-29T10:50:00.002-07:00

I got my first birthday present today ... Jury Duty

No not a dvd of that crappy 1995 pauly shore movie, Real jury duty. I have to appear on my birthday Wednesday February 4th at 8:00 am.

Luck Me

I think I like Driving ... well parts of it

2009-01-25T00:52:00.005-07:00

I had the opportunity on Friday night to drive over to Cheyenne to pick up a friend from the airport. He had arrived in Denver late and missed the flight to Laramie, so he grabbed one to Cheyenne since it is closer. It isn't a real long drive, about an hour, but since I recently hurt my back I wasn't looking forward to sitting that long. As it turned out I took some drugs and my back did OK, and I decided there is something I really like about driving; listening to music. I put my i-pod on random, and cranked the volume very loud (I do have a nice stereo system), and it was a lot of fun. I ended up having to wait at the airport for almost 3 hours because of delays, but I kept myself entertained by sitting in the car with the music cranked. I think if I had a more comfortable front seat I could really enjoy taking long drives.

This got me thinking about something that I kind of enjoy, but never really get to do, and that is taking a Sunday drive to look at the mountains and listen to music - some might not think my music is Sunday appropriate, but sometimes I'm not Sunday appropriate, so I don't care what others think. I suppose you could go for a drive any day for that matter. The only problem I have now is I would like someone to go with who would enjoy the music as I do.

At times I wish I didn't have a TV, so I would spend more time playing music. To often I sit on the couch and watch crap for hours when I could have been listening to something good, and all this because I am to lazy to go put a record on. I need to play my records more. I especially like listening to some of the old records I have that I had never really heard of before. I enjoy the experience of playing vinyl because I feel more involved with the listening. I do listen to MP3's on my computer - usually anytime I sit down at it and do something - like right now as I am typing, but it just isn't the same; although I do have much more music on MP3 - I have about 15,000 songs on my computer. Now that I'm thinking I never really play CD's anymore except in my car. I have 200 - 300 or more CD's and I never touch most of them because they are digitally imprinted on my PC. I'm missing out on the insert art and strange writings you find.

Well it must be late because I'm kinda rambling now so I better be "Movin' On" (that is the song playing right now on my PC. "I'm Movin' On" by Ray Charles - and as I get ready to post this the song "Shut UP" by the bloodhound gang just started. Good advice.

... and there goes my back

2009-01-12T14:42:00.002-07:00

So on Saturday I was putting away some dishes, and I grabbed a sauce pan and turned and bent down to put it on a lower shelf and hurt my back. It seems I may have torn a ligament or something. It really hurt to walk and move. I'm am a bit better now, I can walk some and it doesn't hurt as much. I finally got to see my doctor this morning and he gave me some muscle relaxers and pain killers. Hopefully they will help. It seems I have way to many pills to take now. It makes me look old, which maybe I am.

new laptop for apple fanboys

2009-01-06T12:46:00.002-07:00

Apple Introduces Revolutionary New Laptop With No Keyboard

Back to work

2009-01-06T11:21:00.003-07:00

Well It was nice to have a couple of 4 day weekends, but that is all over now, and it is back to a regular work week.

I put in a good 12 hours playing Metal Gear Solid 4, I still have more to play. I like that game a lot more than the other games I have so I will probably stick with it for a while before moving on to others.

I am waiting to hear back on my passport. It will probably be another month or so. For some reason my netflix que seems frozen. I mailed back 2 movies just after Christmas, and another right at new years, and they haven't received any of them. I'll have to go and report them missing if I don't hear anything by tomorrow.

After Christmas Post

2008-12-26T12:36:00.005-07:00

Well I have today off, which is very nice - So I am using my time off to do important Christmas things like play with presents. I have played a few games on my PS3, and I love it. the graphics are great. I have also watched some blu-ray movies, and They look amazing.

Some people wanted to see the name I got for my desk, so I took a picture, and am posting it here. It is made out of a very special wood that unless you are in the family and know what dad has been working with, you'll never guess the type of wood. The color that you see in the wood (ie the yellow) is naturally occurig in this wood.
I need to go and have mom take some pictures of me so I can submit them with my passport application on Monday. Assuming I get my passport in time and a visa in time I am tentatively planning on traveling on April 30th for about 10 days.

more cold and Projects

2008-12-21T13:48:00.002-07:00

it is cold outside this week, so I've been inside more.

I emailed my cousin, and unfortunately he will be leaving Israel before I head out that way so our paths will not cross this time. I think because of that I will probably just focus my vacation on Egypt, and leave Israel for another time.

Since I've been inside more, and watching HD, I have especially started watching the discovery channel. It has given me an idea for a small project to work on. I am going to make a short film. I don't have a cam corder, so I may just use my digital camera's video mode. I have a few parts written, but I still have more to write.

Well thats all for now...

I need a vacation ...

2008-12-17T22:25:00.002-07:00

Well I guess I really don't need one, but I think I want one. I've decided to plan a bit more extravagant vacation too.

I'm not certain on my time frame yet, but I think I have narrowed down my travel location.

And I plan on going to ...

Egypt, and Israel.

I am going to contact my cousin in Israel and see if he minds if I visit him. There are so many thing to do and see in Egypt I'm not sure which I want to do. I'd love traveling the desert on a safari, taking a cruise down the Nile, and of course visiting the pyramids. And round of golf in Egypt sounds nice...

Hopefully I'll get my plan laid out i the coming month or two. I'll keep you informed when I do. oh and if anyone wants to come with let me know.

High Def and Cold

2008-12-05T10:32:00.002-07:00

Man it got really cold last night. -18 F.

I now have High Def TV. It is great. I love the picture quality. I did have a little trouble with directv creating a second account instead of using my current account, and then not deactivating the old receiver I was replacing, and putting me on a new channel package, but a couple of phone calls, and I am all setup how I want to be.

I get to keep my old programming package, and just add HD to it which is great because I have a 4 year old package that they don't offer anymore and it gives me some extra channels that you can otherwise only get with the premier package or the sports pack (CBSCS in particular). Plus my old package costs less than the current similar package.

The new DTV HD Receiver is ok, but I was really used to my tivo and its features. I especially miss being able to switch back and forth between two channels and rewind either one. With the new setup you can only be buffering one channel. Also the receiver is now leased instead of owned, so you can't make any modifications to it. They seem to offer the features I want like being able to use my cell phone to tell it to record, so maybe that won't be to bad. I probably won't be able to stream video from my computer anymore, so I may keep the old receiver around for that purpose, I'll need to test it out to be sure. Also I don't like the 30 second skip on the new receiver. It fast forwards 30 seconds while the old one instantly jumped ahead 30 seconds. Minor things really.

I thought about upgrading to premium with HD, but I calculatd that would be $121.00 a month. I'm not sure I'm ready to pay that much for tv.

mmm 52" of simpsons on TV

2008-11-23T14:50:00.003-07:00

I now have my new TV. It is a 52" Sony Bravia HDTV. I really like it so far. I haven't got to see High Def on it yet as I won't have HD TV until December 4th. Regular dvd's look great on it though. I also got a new stand for the TV and my receiver, dvd player, etc.

Border War time

2008-11-21T15:29:00.000-07:00

It is time once again for the annual Border War.

Go Pokes, Beat the Sheep!

All work and no TV make homer something something

2008-11-18T16:49:00.004-07:00

Go Crazy?
Don't Mind if I do!

So My TV quit working on Sunday. Life is different with no TV. I am in the process of getting a new TV. it will be bigger, faster, and better.

For $9.99 a month I am going to upgrade my DirecTV to a High Definition DVR. I was hoping to hold out until the new Tivo DirecTV HD receiver comes out (due out 2nd half of 2009) but the need for a new TV has changed my plans.

I will be watching TV in HD on December 4th ... Let the countdown begin.

Down goes Tennessee

2008-11-10T09:51:00.002-07:00

The Cowboys beat Tennessee this past weekend 13-7. Wyoming's defense had two interceptions that led to all of our points, and held Tennessee to just one TD in the second half. Another key was UW limited themselves to only 1 turnover, and ran the ball well.

at 4-6 there is still an outside chance to become bowl eligible. If we can beat UNLV this Thursday in Vegas, and beat the sheep in Laramie then we'll probably go to the New Mexico bowl.

Election Day, campaign ads, and the economy

2008-11-04T09:02:00.007-07:00

Today is the day to vote. (Legal US Citizens only) This also means all those stupid campaign ads will finally end! 90% seem to really say nothing, take items out of context, and are worthless. I made some of my own below...

"Mark Nobody hates babies! He voted against babies 3 times! He also hates seniors! He'll take all your money!"

"Jane Person is accusing Mark Nobody of hating seniors and babies - but lets look at the facts. Both of Marks parents are seniors, and Mark was once a baby - would he hate his own family? Jane is unclear on the facts."

I hear on the news frequently how bad the economy is now, and I guess maybe that is a personal thing, because I am making more money than I ever have, and have more disposable income than I've ever had. I know some are without jobs, and things can be tough, but I think there are jobs out there if you are willing to relocate, and work. Yes gas and food prices have increased some, but in my opinion not that much. I think the real problem with the economy is that people are living beyond their means, often by incurring debt. They buy the biggest house they think they can afford, and get two cars, and finance them, they go out to eat, and buy fancy bottled water, and are living paycheck to paycheck on decent salary. Then if inflation happens or prices change, or they lose a job they are in serious trouble.

I haven't always followed my parents advice, but I was taught that if you want a car, you save up your money then you buy a car, and it might be a used car if that is what you can afford. (and to add to that a stake president, Pratt, taught us if you can afford a $40,000.00 car then buy a $20,000.00 car and give the rest to fast offerings). My parents taught me the principles to live within your means. Just because you can get a 300,000.00 loan doesn't mean you should buy that much house. Looking back we didn't have lots of money growing up, especially considering there were 8 kids, but I never felt like we were poor. We were happy and well taken care of because we lived within our means.

As a younger generation I think we look at all the things our parents and grandparents have; houses, cars, jewelry, lawnmowers, tools, furnishings, etc. and we decide hey I want that too. That is fine, but what we often forget is that our parents have worked for 30-40 years or more to obtain all that they have now. We can't go out and try to get it all for ourselves in 1 year. If we do - then we are probably living beyond our means, and it will catch up to us.

So learn to live on a little less, and be happy with what you have. And if gas prices go back up, or bread costs more, you won't suffer because of it.

Working on halloween

2008-10-31T19:16:00.002-06:00

So like a true computer nerd I am working on Halloween night. i am doing a full system save, and applying some updates to our IBM iseries.

I did see a lot of kids out "trick or treating" On my way back to work from dinner. It brought back great memories.

Nothing else really to report on.

Our first snow

2008-10-22T08:45:00.001-06:00

We didn't get a whole lot, but we did get our first snow last night.

a post just because

2008-10-14T14:54:00.003-06:00

So nothing new or exciting has happened recently. Wyoming continues to lose every football game they play, and post season baseball isn't exciting without the cubs.

I am happy that I will have a full staff at work soon, and be able to start on several projects, but work stuff isn't exciting to talk about on a blog is it?

well I have nothing to say.

Not this year ...

2008-10-06T09:54:00.003-06:00

The cubs forgot to show up again for the post season. They looked really bad.

Wyoming looks worse, and was shutout again. Joe Glenn needs to be replaced as head coach. The sooner the better.

Back up against the wall

2008-10-03T11:09:00.002-06:00

The Cubs had a great regular season, but have forgot how to play so far this post season.

They are now down 0-2 and can't lose again or it is all over this year.

Ah the life of a cubs fan.

Final Weekend in baseball

2008-09-26T15:18:00.003-06:00

It is finally here. The final weekend of the baseball season. The cubs have home field for the playoffs and dempster is starting game 1.

Eddie vedder recently released his cubs song - "Al the Way" It is very good. You should listen. If you can't listen then here are the lyrics:

Don't let anyone say that it's just a game
For I've seen other teams and it's never the same
When you're born in Chicago you're blessed and you're healed
The first time you walk into Wrigley Field
Our heroes wear pinstripes
Heroes in blue
Give us the chance to feel like heroes too
Forever we'll win and if we should lose
We know someday we'll go all the way
Yeah
Someday we'll go all the way

We are one with the Cubs
With the Cubs we're in love
Yeah, hold our head high as the underdogs
We are not fair-weather but foul-weather fans
We're like brothers in arms in the streets and the stands
There's magic in the ivy and the old scoreboard
The same one I stared at as a kid keeping score
In a world full of greed, I could never want more
Than someday we'll go all the way
Yeah
Someday we'll go all the way
Someday we'll go all the way
Yeah
Someday we'll go all the way
Someday we'll go all the way

And here's to the men and the legends we've known
Teaching us faith and giving us hope
United we stand and united we'll fall
Down to our knees the day we win it all

Ernie Banks said "Oh, let's play two"
Or did he mean 200 years
In the same ball park
Our diamond, our jewel
The home of our joy and our tears
Keeping traditions and wishes made new
A place where our grandfathers, fathers they grew
A spiritual feeling if I ever knew
And if you ain't been I am sorry for you
And when the day comes with that last winning run
And I'm crying and covered in beer
I'll look to the sky and know I was right
To think someday we'll go all the way
Yeah
Someday we'll go all the way
Someday we'll go all the way
Yeah
Someday we'll go all the way
Someday we'll go all the way
Yeah
Someday we'll go all the way
Someday we'll go all the way
Yeah
Someday we'll go all the way
Someday we'll go all the way

Here's hoping the cubs go all the way this year!

GO CUBS!

Another Cubs Victory

2008-09-25T09:16:00.002-06:00

The cubs beat the Mets again last night for their 96th win. 4 games left (+1 if needed, and it won't be)
I'm excited for the post season.

The cowboys are 2-2 now, and host Bowling Green this week. We better win or it will be a horrible season (it might be anyway) We are moving toward needing a new coach.

CUBS WIN DIVISION

2008-09-20T17:34:00.002-06:00

The cubs won the central division today by beating st louis 5-4.

Go Cubs!

Messed up date

2008-09-18T16:11:00.005-06:00

Apparently blogger is having date problems. My last post was on the 19th not the 18th...

Talk like a pirate day.

2008-09-18T16:11:00.004-06:00

Avast!

Take out ye Hornpipes and smartly play a tune for it be talk like a pirate day!

Arrrrrr!

http://www.talklikeapirate.com/piratehome.html

Cubs magic number is 2

2008-09-18T16:11:00.002-06:00

Oh so close to clinching the division. I hope they can do it on the last home stand against the cardinals.

Today was a great comeback win scoring 4 in the 9th to tie, and then 1 in the 12th to win.

LETS GO CUBS!

The Bacon Equation T = (N x (Th + C)) x (1000 / P)

2008-09-15T09:03:00.005-06:00

So in coming across a new bacon product I discovered the bacon equation for microwave bacon. This will help you determine your cooking time using the WowBacon.

T = time in seconds
P = microwave power in watts
N = number of bacon strips
C = Crispy factor (0-6)
Th = Bacon Thickness factor; thin = 30; thick = 45

T = (N x (Th + C)) x (1000 / P)

Lets try some sample problems.

Jane wants to cook 5 strips of thick bacon to medium crispness. She has a 1000 watt microwave and a Wowbacon. How long should she cook her bacon for in minutes?

T = (5 x (45 + 3)) x (1000 / 1000)
T = (5 x 48) x 1
T = 240 x 1
T = 240

Answer: She should cook her bacon for 4 minutes.

Now you try one:

Paul loves bacon. He wants 3 strips of thin cut bacon just barely crispy. He owns a powerful 1300 watt microwave. How long should he cook his bacon?

NOTE: The WowBacon microwave bacon cooker also catches all the grease in a cup which you can put a popsicle stick in and put in the freezer to make bacon pops.

No-No Zambrano!

2008-09-14T20:37:00.003-06:00

Carlos Zambrano just pitched a no hitter for the cubs against the Astros at Wrigley North (Milwaukee)

Cubs magic number for the division is now 7 with 15 to play.

Cubs Magic Number ...

2008-09-11T23:51:00.003-06:00

With 16 games to play the Cubs magic number to make the playoffs is now 8. The magic number to win the division is now 11.

Pokes lose, cubs finally win

2008-09-07T00:30:00.001-06:00

Wyoming looked horrible today on offense and lost to Air Force 23-3.

The cubs finally won a game at least.

Cubs slumping, and Big Z hurt

2008-09-04T13:37:00.002-06:00

The cubs have hit their low point of the season having lost 5 in a row now, and Zambrano has "rotator cuff tendinitis" Thankfully with the lead the cubs have they should be able to still get into the post season while resting Z. We need him in the playoffs.

It is time for the cubs to regroup, and step up and play like they have most of the season.

Cowboys 1-0

2008-09-02T12:01:00.002-06:00

Well Ohio kept it a lot closer than I wanted, but Wyoming still won 21-20 over the bobcats to start the year 1-0.

Air Force is up next.

Cubs keep winning

2008-08-29T15:32:00.002-06:00

The cubs keep on winning. Today the cubs beat philly again 3-2. the cubbies have won 7 in a row now, and are a MLB best 85-50.

I'm excited for football tomorrow too.

The MTN is on DirecTV

2008-08-27T11:54:00.003-06:00

This morning while I slept at 4:00 am local time DirecTV began broadcasting the MTN (Mountain West Sports Network) on channel 616. It is available on the Sports pack. Select regions have it included in the basic package. I am in a region to receive it on the regular package.

However this morning when I woke up early to watch the new channel I was not getting it. When I go home for lunch I will try resetting my receiver, and if that doesn't work then I will be calling DirecTV.

I called at lunch time and spent an hour on the phone with them and no lick. They finally transfered me and said they are having a problem, and I should call back in a few hours.

After work I called back into the system and told the computer system I'm getting an error to call extension 721, or something similar. the computer re-sent my programming signal and in 20 seconds I had the channel, and didn't have to speak to a customer service rep.

A New Job ... IT Manager

2008-08-26T15:56:00.002-06:00

I am now officially the new IT Manager for the City of Laramie.

I signed my paperwork today.

My Interview and school starting ...

2008-08-25T12:05:00.002-06:00

Well it was very apparent today that School has started again. There are a lot more cars and people around.

I completed my Interview today for the IT Manager position. I thought that I did well, but it is out of my hands now. I hope they hire the best person for the job, and that that person happens to be me.

One funny thing in the interview they asked a series of 'technical' questions. I of course knew the answers to all of them, because I had written those question for previous interviews.

No more ESPN Gameplan

2008-08-21T19:36:00.003-06:00

Well I canceled my ESPN gameplan just now. With Wyoming games being available on the MTN I no longer need gameplan. I'll watch more MWC football instead.

The money saved will be spent entirely on hot wings for watching games on saturdays. and since I can fry my own hotwings for not to much, I will be eating a whole lot of hot wings.

You may recall my hot wing recipe from this post. Hot Wings

New Video Board

2008-08-20T18:40:00.001-06:00

Here is a picture of the new video board in action at the war.

Countdown to the MTN

2008-08-20T12:14:00.002-06:00

Only 1 week until I will start to get the MTN on Directv. then 3 more days and football will start. This will be the first year ever that I finally get to watch every Wyoming football game. I will have to buy the Tennessee game on PPV, but I get all the rest with my DTV setup.

Meanwhile the cubs are still winning a ton of games, and have a nice lead in the division right now. Only about 6 weeks of baseball left, hopefully they'll finish strong.

My interview for the IT Manager position is on Monday at 10:00 am. I'm hopeful that I get offered the job.

Cubs doubleheader

2008-08-13T15:29:00.002-06:00

The cubs have a doubleheader today at Atlanta. They took the first game easily. Then won the second. Cubs are playing very well.

Vacation Report

2008-08-07T13:40:00.004-06:00

Well after way to many hours of travel I am finally home from vacation. Here are some of the Highlights ...

I ate at the Capital Grille with Randy. It was a very good steak, and a great cheese cake. I also enjoyed the prosciutto wrapped mozzarella with tomatoes.

Monday morning we went to the field museum. There are a ton of animals etc. to see there. I really liked all the ancient Egypt mummys and artifacts. For lunch we went over to Lou Malnatis and had some deep dish pizza, then we took the L to Wrigley field to watch the cubs. We made it through the 5th inning when the rains came, then the lightning, then the tornado sirens. we waited under the stadium for a long time, then randy and trisha took the kids home. I stayed and watched 2 1/2 more innings until lightning struck VERY close a few times and the game was called.

The next day the game was much better, although It was very hot and very humid for me. About 87 degrees and 70% humidity. The cubs rallied to win 11-7, and I got to use my new W flag. After cleaning up at my hotel I went to the Twin Anchors to try their ribs. The ribs tasted great, although I'm not a huge fan of their sauce. The bbq beans were excellent with bits of shredded pork in them, and the slaw was pretty good. I took a pulled pork sandwich back to the hotel and ate it for a late dinner, it was very good too.

Wednesday turned out to be a long day. I slept in then finally checked my bag at the front desk and went to the green door tavern. I had some hot wings and a cheeseburger. their wings were good - standard wing sauce recipe, the burger wasn't that great. I then stayed at the bar and watched the cubs score 8 in the 3rd inning on their way to an 11-4 win. I left and went back the the hotel grabbed my bag and began the journey home. I got the the airport fine, and we took off, then took all kinds of detours flying to Denver, and finally landed in Colorado springs. We waited on the ground for an hour or more then got refueled and finally flew to Denver arriving at 10:30 pm. we were supposed to arrive at 7:20. By the time I took the shuttle and got to my car and drove home it was 1:30 am.

It was a fun trip and I'm glad I got to watch the cubs win.

GO CUBS GO

Cubs Sweep Brewers!

2008-07-31T15:17:00.001-06:00

A 4 game series at Wrigley north and all 4 games go to the cubs!

A great sweep!

Rancid Rocks and Go Cubs

2008-07-28T11:28:00.003-06:00

I got to see Rancid in concert again this past Saturday at the Filmore in Denver. It was a pretty good show. I am Ghost opened, then Murphy's law played a short set followed by MxPx. Rancid was very good as usual. I'm excited for their new album come september.

The Cubs are in first place by 1 game going to Milwaukee for a 4 game set. Hopefully the bats will get hot and the pitching will remain as it has been recently. Next week at this time I will be in Chicago watching the Cubs play. I hope it will be watching the First Place Cubs play.

Building my new PC

2008-07-19T10:32:00.006-06:00

Here are the pictures from my PC project.

Hello from my new computer

2008-07-15T23:16:00.002-06:00

Well I got my new computer all put together and 64 bit Linux installed. It is much much faster than my old one. I still need to transfer data, and I am contemplating making it a dual boot machine. Pictures to come.

Microsoft Certified Professional

2008-07-15T13:34:00.004-06:00

I took and passed my first Microsoft test today. I am now officially a Microsoft Certified Professional. I get to use this fancy logo on my business cards, and techcaddies website now. The test was a little easier than I thought it would be. I'll probably study and be taking more tests in the coming months.

My computer parts have arrived. I may start building tonight. My phone still is not here yet and I am getting impatient.

New Beck album and more

2008-07-14T11:28:00.003-06:00

I've listened to the new beck album a few times now. I like it OK. I haven't picked out any favorite tracks yet.

My cell phone broke, so I have ordered a new one. I hope it arrives today. My new phone is a blackberry curve.

I will be building a new computer this week too. My parts have started to arrive. I should get them all by Tuesday. I may take some photo's of the process for fun - if so I'll post them here.

Vacation is over

2008-07-09T17:29:00.001-06:00

Here are the results:

We went to the beach in South Carlsbad, Ca. and camped.

We played in the water, and boogie boarded.
We relaxed at the beach too.

We roasted and ate hot dogs at our camp on the beach.

We saw some sites around San Diego such as the Temple.

We also saw local wildlife.
After 4 nights at the beach we went to Tucson, Az.
I painted on the tree in the girls playroom.
I painted a bat.
We swam in the new pool.

... but then I had to go home.