One week until Football

We are getting ever closer to the football season. it should be lots of fun. I went and watched the pokes final scrimidge on Wednesday. We looked good in some areas, and need work in others. Next week should go by nice and quick too. I am in Denver on Tuesday for a conference, then am off Wednesday for a doctor appointment for my knee.

I am really liking my new phone. It is nice to have Internet access when I want it, and instant email.

Finally a new phone.

I ordered a new cell phone today. I am replacing my Motorola e815, which has served me well, but broke last weekend when I got caught in the rain. My new phone is the Motorola Q. Along with the new phone I am changing up my plan. I am getting the family plan with 1400 minutes, and adding a data plan for my Q. My sister is going to switch her phone over on my plan and share the minutes with me.

I got a good deal on the phone, and the plan rate isn't bad either. it helps that I get an 18% discount because of where I work. The phone should arrive tomorrow.

Back from Denver

I got back from my trip to Denver last night. I had a good time. We stayed at the adams mark hotel on 16th street. It is a fairly nice hotel, and we got a great price. The cubs won the first two games, but lost the third.

On Friday We golfed 9 at the JFK course, and on Saturday played 9 on a small par 3 course in Englewood. The golf was fun.

We didn't eat anywhere to fancy. We had lunch at rodizio's on Friday, and ate at ESPNZone on Saturday before the game.

We got caught in some rain while golfing friday,and my phone got wet, and will no longer charge. I guess its time for a new phone. I'm going to go with the Motorola Q I think. My other option is the blackberry 8830.

MLOARPD

In short this is just a compilation CD. But instead of just picking a track because I liked it I decided to try and pick tracks for their lyrical content. I have picked out the lyrics that seem to have some meaning to me, and arranged them by song. I suggest you get the songs and listen to them, and also read the lyrics as i have arranged them. Why? because I wanted to. Some tracks may be very hard to find, and some tracks have no lyrics. If I decide to share them sometime I will.

Track Listing:
Parabola by Tool
Be Me by Jonathan Rhoades
Creep by Radiohead
Don’t Follow by Alice In Chains
Mighty K.C. by For Squirrels
Glycerine by Bush
Nothingman by Pearl Jam
Now I know by Pennywise
Everything by Jonathan Rhoades
Songs Remain by H2O

A musical and lyrical look into life. Every note evokes a feeling on some level. Every word has its place even if they are not mine. There is no true deeper meaning. What you see is what you get. Everything does not have to make sense, and probably shouldn’t. Please make sure your hands and arms remain by your side at all times. Make sure your chair is in the full upright position. Sit back, relax, and let the music take you.

We barely remember who or what came before this precious moment. We are choosing to be here right now. This whole experience; choosing to be here in this body, holding me, is my reminder that I am not alone … that all this pain is an illusion. Twirling round with this familiar parable; Spinning, weaving round each new experience. Recognize this as a holy gift and celebrate this chance to be alive and breathing. This body holding me reminds me of my own mortality. Embrace this moment. Remember; we are eternal and all this pain is an illusion.

[I can be no one but myself. Despite what I wish would be. We often look at other as being the ones who are special and we don’t feel we live up by comparison. All of us have these thought and feelings at some point. Everyone is perfect except me.]

You're just like an angel, Your skin makes me cry. You float like a feather In a beautiful world. I wish I was special; You're so fucking special; But I'm a creep I'm a weirdo. What the hell am I doing here? I don't belong here. I don't care if it hurts. I want to have control. I want a perfect body. I want a perfect soul. I want you to notice when I'm not around. Whatever makes you happy, whatever you want. You're so very special. I wish I was special.

Hey, I ain’t never coming Home. I’ll just wander my own road. I can’t meet you here tomorrow. Your living’ Life full throttle

Hey you, you can’t shake me round now I get so lost and don’t Know how and it hurts to care. Forgot my woman, lost my Friends Things I’ve done and where I’ve been. Sleep in sweat the mirrors Cold See my face it’s growing’ Old. Scared to death no reason why. Do whatever to get me by. Think about the things I Said Read the page it’s cold and dead. Take me home

[There is always something good to find. As we step into something new and unknown we need to seek the positive.]

She lies in a bedpan with her name scrawled on her back. He lies in an empty room with his hair burnt to the back.

And by the grace of God go I into the great unknown Things are going to change in our favor. And if we gather, if we fall over the great unknown Things are going to change in our favor. And I am numb from watching TV. Please don't break me

[Time moves on with or without us, We all have regrets, and wish we could change things, but if we focus to much on wanting to change the past we miss the present that we are in. We need to focus on the now, because that is all we really have.]

Must be for real cause now I can feel and I didn't mind it's not my kind not my time to wonder why everything's gone white and everything's grey now your here now your away I don't want this remember that I'll never forget where your at don't let the days go by

I'm never alone I'm alone all the time are you at one or do you lie we live in a wheel where everyone steals but when we rise it's like strawberry fields

If I treated you bad you bruise my face couldn't love you more you got a beautiful taste don't let the days go by could have been easier on you I couldn’t change though I wanted to could have been easier by three our old friend fear and you and me

I needed you more when we wanted us less I could not kiss just regress it might just be clear simple and plain that's just fine that's just one of my names

once divided, nothing left to subtract. Some words when spoken, can't be taken back. Walks on his own, with thoughts he can't help thinking. Future's above, but in the past he's slow and sinking. Caught a bolt of lightning, cursed the day he let it go. Nothingman. Isn't it something? Nothingman.

she once believed in every story he had to tell. One day she stiffened, took the other side. Empty stares from each corner of a shared prison cell. One just escapes; one's left inside the well, and he who forgets will be destined to remember. Nothingman. isn't it something? Nothingman.

Oh, she don't want him she won't feed him after he's flown away into the sun. Burn nothingman. Could have been something, Nothingman.

Woke up to a perfect day no hope in sight but the futures bright ahead. Today things will go my way I got to fight - can rest when I am dead got no time for your explanations give me the frustrations and strained relations can't wait for what waits for me got to get out and find what’s right for me now I know

I can hear the voices in my head they're telling me what to do next can't figure it out - I guess we'll see - I know nothing comes for free no one can say what the future holds and now I know I’ve lost control who knows what waits for me - no hope in sight - the futures bright for me

Too long I’ve been denied and hypnotized by the lies they've told to me and too long I’ve been controlled I’ve got to know what it feels like to be free of the grasp of their expectations - their tribulations - no reservations can't wait for what waits for me to get out and find what’s right for me.

Well those 5 years are gone now, so I’ve got a plan that's new.
I'm seeing the future but I can't forget my roots cause it's still not a concept someone made up on TV. It's still something real way down deep inside of you and me.

All the bands we loved the most, all the songs that give us hope reasons we're still here today, people change but songs remain!

Songs remain in our hearts no matter what we do, I know you can feel it, despite our different views. so if you make a connection, we'll have both sides to see, and no one can take that away from you, and no one can take that away from me.

And when you put that music on you can feel it, you just know it, it's right for you. And even though the times have changed that spirit, I still feel it, it carries on, and even though your life has changed that spirit, you still feel it, it carries on, it carries on in every song.

All the bands we loved the most, all the songs that give us hope, reasons we're still here today, people change but songs remain!

I finally used Myspace and Facebook ...

I have had account at those two places for some time, but never got into using them. I finally went ahead and contacted a few friends (or had a few contact me). I still don't see why people get all excited about those. Most of what people do seems completely pointless, and could be better accomplished in person, via telephone, or by e-mail. Granted I understand when people live a long ways away and want to use that to communicate - but it still seems like email would be quicker. I usually wait until I have an email telling me there is something in my account before I go check it. If that something was just in my email I'd save time.

As far as sharing pictures etc - I think a personal website would do the trick.

But I guess I'll use those places only because others are forcing me to if I want to interact with them. Maybe I'll re-think my interaction with such people .....

Soriano out for a month

That will definitely hurt the cubbies. Hopefully they can stay afloat until he gets back.

I will get to go see the cubs in Colorado this weekend. I also get to do some golfing friday afternoon. It has been several weeks since I went golfing.

*

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First Place Cubs!

It is nice to type! Lets hope they can keep winning and not look back.

I have seen the Simpsons Movie ...

and it is good.

Simpsons Movie Today!!!

I have my tickets! I will be watching the new Simpson's movie tonight!

WOO HOO!

In other news Rumors are flying that Directv will be picking up The MTN (mountain West conference sports network) and adding it to their sports tier in mid August. I called Directv customer service to try and verify for myself. The rep I spoke with was named Steven. When I asked him if Directv had plans to add the MTN he said that they would be adding it this year before the football season starts, but he couldn't give an exact date.

While I am very hopeful to be receiving the MTN on Directv, I am still in a wait and see mode. I know he told me they would get it, but until I see an official release I am not holding my breath.

Me as a Simpson ...

Using the new Simpsonizeme.com website I created myself as a simpsons character. So ... This is me ... not 100%, but thats ok.

Cubs continue to roll

The cubs have now won 4 in a row, and are keeping the pressure on the Brewers. The cubs also picked up Jason Kendall from the A's. Kendall is slumping this year, but is a lifetime .298 hitter, and should fit in well with the cubs. It give some good experience behind home plate.

Baseball All-Star Break

Today is the last games before the All Star break. The cubs have finally started playing well. They are 4.5 games back in the division, and 3 games back in the wild card. Hopefully they win today and keep some momentum to start the 10 game home stand.

What this also means is that tomorrow and Wednesday are sports "Dead Days" The only days when no major sports are played. No baseball, no football, no basketball, and no hockey ... Tuesday we at least have the all star game.

Sam

This is Sam. I just created him on the simpsonsmovie.com website. It is a great way to use an hour...

My Own Simpsons Character!

As many have found out you can now create your own simpson characters by going to simpsonsmovie.com and using their "Create Your Own Simpsons Avatar". It is loads of fun. I just created my first one...

Welcome to July

July has finally come. The cubs are playing very well. They took 2 of 3 from the brew crew, and have won 8 of the last 9. Hopefully they will keep winning into the all star break.

I got to try out my new driver on Saturday morning. I like it very much. I am able to get more distance with the driver, and it feels better in my hands. I still need to work on my twisting my wrists and opening my club face and slicing the ball.

My brother and his family arrived yesterday. I hadn't seen some of them in quite a long time.

New Driver should arrive today

I decided to buy a new driver. It is scheduled to arrive today. Instead of spending $500.00 - $800.00 on a driver I decided to by a replica for much much less. I got a replica of the Taylor Made R7 driver.

I plan on going and hitting it this weekend to see how I like it. If all goes well I may use it for my next scheduled round (July 4th)

Cubs Win Wild One

It was a wild win for the Chicago cubs today. The cubs had an 8-3 lead heading into the 9th inning against the rockies. The rockies scored 6 in the 9th to take a 9-8 lead, only to see the cubbies score two in the ninth to win the game.

Cubs are 36-39 - inching closer to getting above .500

In other news Cowboy Football kicks off in just over 67 days.

Back to Work

Well, My vacation is over so its back to work for me.

I had a great time in Chicago. The Cubs won both game I went to, and I got lots of great food. I ate at places like Maggiano's, Kinzie chop house, Lou Malnati's, and the billy goat tavern.

I went and saw Sears tower, China town, and the United Center.

I may post some more pictures some time...

Chicago China town

I'm attempting to post a Pic I took today in china town. Jason doesn't think I can post it by reading my digital camera with my pda. This is my attempt to show I can.

Hello from Chicago

I am posting this with my Dell AXIM handheld, using free Internet at our hotel
The Cubs won today. The brats were very good too.
I've been to a few great restraunts.

I hope too are doing well too.

3 ... 2 ... 1 ... Vacation Time!

My vacation begins this evening. I have a full schedule of events planned. Here are a few highlights:

Tonight I am going to stay up late watching movies.
Tomorrow I am going golfing at jacoby.
Wednesday I am flying to Chicago
Thursday and Friday - CUBS! and visiting sites in Chicago.
Saturday - Something in Chicago, then fly back home
Sunday and Monday are still up in the air...

Let the vacation begin!

New Look

I decided I wanted to customize the look of my blog. I am still deciding on what exact colors I want. I like the black gray and red so far. I also re-did most of the little graphics on the page like the arrows, corners etc.

Let me know what you think.

Snow in June

I am looking out my office window and It is snowing. It has been snowing now for several hours. You have to love Wyoming's June weather.

Summer was nice this year. I enjoyed both days!

Countdown to Chicago

In less than 1 week I will be in Chicago watching the Cubs play.

Funeral

My Grandfather passed away last week, and I was able to attend his funeral this past weekend. I really enjoyed the service and many of the stories I got to hear about my grandpa. A service such as that is a good way to celebrate someone's life, and know that they are in a better place.

For the first time in several years all of my immediate family were together. We took a few pictures.

In other happenings I have another laptop ready to be turned into a digital picture frame. I think I will hang it on my wall when I finish it.

Memorial Day

For this memorial day holiday I went and visited my brother and his family. We got to go golfing which was very fun.

that is all for today.

Starcraft II

I've spent countless hours and nights playing starcraft, and finally 9 years later Starcraft II will be coming out. It looks pretty cool from the screenshots I've seen. This might give me an excuse to build a new computer. http://www.starcraft2.com/

No More Windows

I have been running Ubuntu now for a littlt over six weeks, and I plan on running it for the forseeable future. My system is still dual boot, but I haven't booted into windows in a month, and have no reason to. As soon as I transfer my important data from the windows partition I will format it.

I have really liked Ubuntu. It has been fairly easy to use, and stable since the beta went final. There is only 1 program I ran in windows that I can't find a replacement for - Newsleecher. I do have VMware though, and can launch a virtual windows if I ever need it for anything.

One of the thing I have set up on my linux box is a Tivo Server. I can now use my tivo to watch any videos I have on my linux box. I have 100's of more choices now, and get to watch them in comfort in my living room on my TV.

I also like the 3D effects available with Beryl in Linux. Windows burn up when I close them, I have a 3D cubed desktop, etc. The new Nvidia card I picked up is working out much better in linux than the ATI 8500 AIW I had before.

Invisible Children

Not much new to report. This last weekend I went to denver for the Invisible Children "Displace Me" campaign. InvisibleChildren.com - they are a non-profit group that is working to help the people - especially children in northern Uganda.

I got my plane tickets to Chicago - I still need to get a hotel.

Ubuntu Kernel Panic

I have been running Ubuntu 7.04 (Fiesty) beta for a few weeks now, and yesterday there was an update that caused the computer to fail to boot. The kernel 2.6.20-14 would return errors about hard drive space and files even though there were no errors.

Fortunately I still had two previous kernels. I was able to boot with one of them in recovery mode, then install the newly released 2.6.20-15 kernel. That fixed the problem and I was able to boot. I had to rebuild the Nvidia drivers and VMware to work with the new kernel, but I finally have everything working again.

The final version of 7.04 is due out on the 19th. Hopefully I won't get any more scares before then.

Ozzfest is Free

Some had asked question about Ozzfest being free - It is true Ozzy and Sharon decided that ticket prices for Ozzfest were getting to high and preventing some fans rom being able to see the show. They decided to counteract that problem by making Ozzfest free this year.

Details can be found at
http://www.ozzfest.com/news_2007.html

Time for an update ...

So far I have been pleased with running Ubuntu. I don't miss windows. I have been able to get all of the programs and features I've wanted thus far.

At work I installed and started using Office 2007. So far it just looks different from office 2003, and runs a bit slower.

Ozzfest will be playing in Denver, and as was announced earlier tickets will be free. I am going to try to go.

Baseball has begun ...

The cubs lost their first series, and sit at 1-2. Only 159 more games to go!

Up and running in Linux

I have a dual boot setup working now. I transfered all my email and music, etc. to Linux.

Transitioning from Windows

I have decided that I no longer want to use windows as my primary operating system. I have had a second computer with linux on and off for many many years. I have decided that I need t transition for good.

I will start off with a dual boot setup - Windows Xp and Ubuntu. If tings go according to plan I will eventually drop the windows portion.

Hopefully things go smooth. I'm rebooting now to start the process.

WNIT Championship Sold Out!

It only took 12 hours for the WNIT championship game to sell out. Fortunately I bought 6 tickets last night after the cowgirls won in triple overtime.

I'm looking forward to being one of the 15,000+ fans on Saturday!

WNIT Final 4 and 1 week until baseball

The cowgirls will be playing at home in the WNIT final 4 tomorrow (Wednesday). They have has some very large crowds - over 11,200 at the last game. I plan on attending.

The Cubs baseball season kicks off in less than 6 days now.

I had a job interview over the weekend in Lexington. I thought it went well. I also got to help my brother and his family move to a new house. It is a very nice house, but their basement flooded already. They will have to get some new carpet for the downstairs.

Bracket Madness

It is that time of year again - every sports site on-line is having a bracket challenge. I have filled out 10 different brackets. I'm sure I won't do well, but thats ok.

In other news McClain, head coach of Wyoming was fired on Monday. I'm happy to see the program take a new direction.

The cowgirls play in the NIT on Thursday.

Cowboys Beat Air Force

Wyoming sent Air Force to anther one and done in the MWC tourney - same as last year, and the previous 13 years.

Wyoming led almost the entire game. Wyoming plays BYU tonight at 7.

GO POKES!

Dropkick Murphys

I went to Denver last night and saw the Dropkick Murphys in concert. It was a good show - lots of fun. I am a bit banged up today because of it, but thats ok.

Wyoming plays in the first round of the MWC tourney today (mens side) the womens team won yesterday. We play Air Force this afternoon at 3:30.

Rumors are flying about whether Wyoming will fire McClain. Hopefully we keep winning no matter what choice is made. Personally I am ready for a new basketball coach, but will continue to support the pokes either way.

Return to Mecca

I purchased tickets today for two games at Wrigley Field. June 14th I will be along the right field line, and June 15th I will be a bleacher bum!

I guess this means I will be going to Chicago for sure this June.

Spring Training

Pitchers and catchers have reported, and we are now only two weeks away from the first spring training game. I love baseball.

GO CUBS GO

Updates ...

Well since my last post a few things have happened...

I turned 30, the Bears lost the super bowl, I am almost finished with my book, and Baseball Spring Training is only 5 days away!

I am planning my trip to Chicago for the week of June 10th - Watch a few cubs games.

I took this whole last week off, and it has been very relaxing and much needed to get away from the chaos and stress of work.

Sweep the Sheep!

The CSU Sweep is complete.

Football, Mens basketball, and Womens Basketball ... All won by Wyoming.

We still have some more basketball games - Lets hope the sweeping continues.

Da Bears!

Da Bears took it to the saints today winning 39-14 and advancing to Super Bowl XLI (41)

The play on my birthday. I hope the same defense we saw today shows up because thaat was a sweet performance today.

Cold Cold Cold ...

It has been freezing here in Laramie recently. This morning was -11, yesterday morning was -15, and the other night it got down to -29. It never makes it to 30 degrees during the day. It has been this way for over a week now, and it looks like it will continue.

In other happenings I have the first part of the frame together for my mom's gift. I will post full pictures and explanation when I finish it.

I asked for and got a week of in the beginning of February to celebrate turning 30. Man that looks old writing that number. I am going to go to Nebraska and visit my brother, watch the super bowl (hope the bears make it) etc. The rest of the time I have off I will work on my book, and audio project.

Cowboys Win in OT!

Whew! ...

Wyoming came back from 9 points down in the final 5 minute to beat UNLV 86-76 in overtime. Wyoming is now 2-0 in conference with wins over 2 of the top three teams. Air Force is next, that could be a huge win. Also Taylor's dunk in the first half made ESPN top plays (#6)

GO POKES!

Another Project to begin ...

Man I am starting a lot of projects now - I guess I'll stay busy for a while.

I finally got a hold of a couple of old laptops. I am converting them into digital picture frames. One will be a gift for my parents. It was supposed to be for Christmas, but I didn't get the laptops until now. I am putting DSL (damn small Linux) on them and will have it auto login and start showing pictures. I will post some pictures of the project a it comes together.

Book Expanding; and other projects

As I have been working on my book the project has expanded. I will probably write three times as much as I had originally planned. The first section is almost done, and I will start on the second and third sections soon.

I think I have found a publisher too. I'll look around a bit more before I make a final publishing decision.

My other Project has been moving really slow (My life on a round plastic disc) It is about half finished. Hopefully I'll find some motivation to finish the writing portion, along with at least one more new song.

The New year

I'm back to work now, and its 2007. I guess last year was ok. My book is progressing slowly now. If I focus on it I should have the first draft done within a couple weeks. Then I'll spend a while editing it, then figure out how I want to publish it.

Football was fun last night. Boise St won with a wild finish against Oklahoma.

End of 2006

We'll it is about time to start the final weekend of 2006. Its been a good year. I'm not sure what I'll do to send it off - Probably sleep.

Until next year ...

See Ya!

After Christmas ...

Christmas is over - It was an OK time - Nice to have a day off at least. but it is back to work now.

I though of a little project to work on - A short book of sorts - I may start writing it soon.

Computer is Back ... and a surprise

My computer is all finished and working fine again. It didn't take long to rebuild.

I also received a surprise today at work - In the form of a promotion. I am now an Information Technology Analyst. Along with the new job title comes a nice raise, which is appreciated, and deserved.

Computer Rebuild

My computer has slowed enough that it is time for me to format and rebuild again. I seem to do that every 6 months to a year.

As soon as my install files finishing copying to my USB key I'll reformat and say goodbye. I hope to have it up and running later today.

My 100th Post

This is my 100th blog post. Nothing too exciting to report.

Concert news:
The dropkick Murphy's are touring outside of Boston finally. They will be playing the fillmore at Denver on March 7th 2007. Tickets go on-sale tomorrow.

The bears are 11-2 now, and playing well. Hopefully the QB position will get better, and they'll get to the super bowl.

Review of Lovejoy's Bar and Grill

Lovejoy’s bar and grill is a small restaurant and bar located in downtown Laramie at 101 Grand Avenue. When we stopped by Lovejoy’s on a Friday evening it was very full. Despite being full we only had about a 15 minute wait to be seated.

The restaurant was very clean, and nicely decorated with local sports photos. They also have a large screen TV to watch games on, and several TV’s at the bar. The atmosphere was vibrant. It felt like we were at “the place to be” that night. The restaurant was filled with young people in their 20’s and 30’s with a mixture of singles, couples, and the occasional child. The restaurant was a bit noisy, including some music coming from a stereo system, but no one seemed to mind. It appeared that everyone was having a good time.

Lovejoy’s features several types of burgers, sandwiches and wraps. The menu also has a few Mexican and Italian style dishes. Prices range from $7.00 to $13.00. They also feature a full bar, and several brews on tap. One of the things I had heard about Lovejoy’s was that they have great burgers, so I had to try one.

I had the Lovejoy’s burger. A ½ lb burger topped with apple wood smoked bacon, pepper jack cheese, and guacamole. It is served with choice of sides. The burger lived up to its reputation. It is by far the best burger I have had anywhere in Laramie. It was juicy and very flavorful, not to mention very filling. The others in my group were all very satisfied with their dinner choices as well, and no one was left hungry.

Because the restaurant was so full I though that maybe our service would suffer a bit, but I was once again surprised by Lovejoy’s. The service was prompt, friendly, and our drinks never seemed to empty.

If you are looking for excellent food, with good sized portions, a fabulous atmosphere, and want to hangout with a younger crowd, then Lovejoy’s is perfect. If you would like to try Lovejoy’s with a bit less commotion, then stop by for lunch some day when it isn’t quite as happening as it is on the weekends; but definitely make a stop to this local favorite.

Service: 23
Atmosphere: 23
Food: 24
Experience: 24

S.A.F.E. Score: 94

S.A.F.E. Score explained:
Each restaurant is rated in four categories with a possible 25 points available in each. Service rates how friendly the staff was, how long it took to get seated and order, were drinks refilled promptly, etc. Atmosphere covers the look, feel, and sounds of the establishment. The Food rating is based on taste, satisfaction, and portion size. The experience score is the overall experience of the restaurant and includes items that don’t fit into other categories such as value. The total of those categories is the S.A.F.E. score. The higher the score the more “SAFE” it is to say you’d enjoy that restaurant.

No posts in a month

Sorry about no posts. I've been busy. I do have two more restaurant reviews to post sometime - so be on the lookout for those.

Review of El Conquistador

El Conquistador is located in downtown Laramie next to the buckhorn bar at 110 E Ivinson. Upon entering you notice the colorful walls, dimly lit décor, and well worn dining areas. The tables and chairs reminded me of a cafeteria; while functional they do not add anything to the experience.

The menu features a fairly standard choice of tex-mex favorites such as tamales, chile rellanos, enchiladas, burritos, etc. Prices average around $10 per plate. One item that caught my eye was the stuffed sopapias. While waiting for a friend to join us we sampled their chips and salsa, and also got an order of chile con queso made with hot green chili sauce. Even though the red salsa was nothing special the green chile con queso was wonderful.

The staff was friendly and patient with us while we waited for a friend to arrive. They did a good job of keeping our drinks filled and checking up on us occasionally.

For dinner I decided on a chicken stuffed sopapia smother in green chile. The food was served piping hot on a hot plate with a small amount of shredded cabbage and a quarter of a slice of tomato. The sopapia was beautifully crisp and chewy, and tasted wonderful. The green chile was a great addition.

After a satisfying meal we were treated to complimentary sopapias sprinkled with cinnamon sugar and served with honey. It was just the right amount of sweetness to cap off a wonderful meal.

The food was definitely the star of el conquistador and although there were few sides served with the dish I ordered I didn’t find myself wanting after the meal. If you can endure a run down décor and dining room, you’ll be thankful you did when you enjoy the food.

Service: 20
Atmosphere: 17
Food: 22
Experience: 20


S.A.F.E. Score: 79


S.A.F.E. Score explained:
Each restaurant is rated in four categories with a possible 25 points available in each. Service rates how friendly the staff was, how long it took to get seated and order, were drinks refilled promptly, etc. Atmosphere covers the look, feel, and sounds of the establishment. The Food rating is based on taste, satisfaction, and portion size. The experience score is the overall experience of the restaurant and includes items that don’t

Watching the border

I came across an interesting site today. http://texasborderwatch.com/
You can view 8 different web cams and report suspicious activity such as people illegally crossing the border. It is an interesting idea and use of technology. I can sit in Wyoming and watch the Texas border in real time.

My Knee

I hurt my knee last week somehow, and it as been hurting really bad for longer than I though it should. I went to an orthopedic surgeon on Tuesday, and I have some bad arthritis, and wearing of my knee joint. X-rays didn't show any other damage. A steady dose of naproxen is what I've been told to take, and give it two weeks. If it isn't better then a cortisol shot would be next.

So I'm trying to take it easy. Sleeping is the hardest now, my legs just aches enough to keep me up at night. It also aches while I sit at work. I even brought lunch to work so I wouldn't have to leave during lunch time.

In other happenings for Halloween I watched "The Haunting" orig 1962 version. It was pretty good.

Review of J's Prairie Rose cafe

The first thing I noticed about J’s Prairie Rose Cafe, was the name. J’s is located at 410 S 2nd street; the longtime location of Rose Cafe, a small family run Chinese restaurant. Rose Cafe closed its doors last September, and I think it is no coincidence that J’s is trying to use the name recognition that Rose Cafe developed over its thirty years in Laramie.

The restaurant is still in the process of decorating. Most of the walls are blank and freshly painted white; others have a few small pictures hung on them. There were some strange silver-wear and horse shoe structures hanging from the ceiling. The counter seats had been recently re-upholstered, but the counters were worn and faded. The wait staff was polite, but quiet and non talkative. Sitting at the front counter I didn’t have to wait long to get my drink refilled.

The food served at the Prairie Rose Cafe is classic diner cuisine. They feature several types of burgers, fried chicken, club sandwiches, soups, and sides such as fries, onion rings, and cottage cheese. The food seems reasonably priced. One could expect to spend less than $9.00 for lunch. J’s also features a Daily lunch special for $5.99, although it was sold out when I arrived. Currently J’s is only open during breakfast and lunch hours; from 6 am until 2 pm.

I decided to try the Big Laramie burger with pepper-jack cheese and bacon. The burger was very big, and perfectly cooked. The big Laramie comes served on a large toasted sesame seed bun with the usual burger toppings on the side: lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, and onions. The fries are seasoned with a type of seasoning salt, and while there were plenty, they were a bit on the soggy side.

As I was waiting for my food I was able to watch the kitchen staff work through the food service opening between the kitchen and the counters. I noted that none of the kitchen staff were wearing hats or hair nets. Seeing this type of thing doesn’t help a restaurant experience.

While the prices are reasonable, Prairie Rose Cafe seems to be lacking in charm, hospitality, and identity. All things it could use to help to make up for some of its other shortcomings. I don’t see myself returning anytime soon.

Service: 17
Atmosphere: 13
Food: 15
Experience: 14

S.A.F.E. Score: 59


S.A.F.E. Score explained:
Each restaurant is rated in four categories with a possible 25 points available in each. Service rates how friendly the staff was, how long it took to get seated and order, were drinks refilled promptly, etc. Atmosphere covers the look, feel, and sounds of the establishment. The Food rating is based on taste, satisfaction, and portion size. The experience score is the overall experience of the restaurant and includes items that don’t fit into other categories such as value. The total of those categories is the S.A.F.E. score. The higher the score the more “SAFE” it is to say you’d enjoy that restaurant.

Restaurant Reviews

I have decided to begin to write restaurant reviews of various places in Laramie. One of the things I love to do is to go out to eat, and I have eaten at just about every single restaurant in Laramie. the other day I was in a new place eating, and the thought occurred to me that I should start reviewing restaurants. Of course I also had thought of Homer Simpson being a food critic shortly after. I think I will put my reviews on my Blog to start, but will create a page on Laramieweb.com to house restaurant reviews to more easily share with the public.

Cowboys Shutout Rams 24-0

Wyoming really took it to CSU in the second half, and now the boot is back home where it belongs. Our defense was superb. They held the rams to -9 yards rushing in the second half.

We need to keep this momentum going at TCU, and get some revenge there.

The Border War (and happy birthday dad)

This Saturday will be the 98th Border, and the 107th anniversary of the Wyoming CSU rivalry.

Wyoming has been without the bronze boot (The traveling trophy) for two years now. This is the year to take it back. Our defense should shut them down, and our new QB is on a roll. It should be a fun game.

Dad had a birthday he is now 2^6. This weekend he gets to be an honorary assistant coach for the Wyoming CSU Game. He will be in team meetings all morning, etc. then get to watch the cowboys win. I'm glad that they invited him to do this - I think he'll enjoy it.

GO POKES!
BEAT THE SHEEP!

HOLY BEARS!!!

I have never in my life seen anything like that before. The bears were down 20-0 at halftime, and looked like they had overlooked the cardinals and would lose.

Down by 20, 6 turnovers, no offensive touchdowns, and they WIN! This defense stole this game. Two fumbles ran in for touchdowns, then a punt return for the game winner.

I'll have to watch this ending again and again.

WOW!

GO BEARS

Good 'Ol butt whoopin

The Cowboys really took it to utah yesterday. Our defense dominated them helping us get to a 24-0 halftime lead, and lead by as much as 31-0 before letting up.

The final score 31-15 doesn't really reflect how dominating we were.

Our defense have moved up one spot to #3 in the nation in overall defense, and still remains #1 in the nation in pass defense.

Now at 2-1 in the conference that puts us in third place. The border war is next. Time to beat the sheep.

Cowboys Win 14-10

Finally!

We spotten NM 10 points with 3 turnovers in the first half, but came out strong in the 2nd half to get the win 14-10.

Overtime Loss and Golf

Well Wyoming lost in overtime to Syracuse 40-34. I did like the coach's decision to switch to sween as our new quarterback. I hope it will pay off this year. We have had to many close losses this year and last.

I was able to get 18 holes in on saturday at least. I started out ok, but I did horrible on the back nine. That may be my last round this season.

Apple fixed iTunes 7

Aplle released iTunes 7.0.1 which fixes the choppy playback problems I was having. I am now enjoying the new features.

Not much else to report ... I think I'll go see Rancid again in SLC on Oct 5th and 6th.

Grandma Kirtley

My grandmother passed away this evening at 9:35 pm MDST. She was very peaceful and comfortable. She was 83 years old.

I remember one time when I was younger she was visiting, and was watching the kids while my parents were gone. We took all the pillows from the couch and around the house and piled them at the bottom of the staircase. We then got out our sleds. We told grandma that mom let us do this - and sled down the stairs ... fortunately no one got injured.

I love you Grandma!

Another Loss ... And iTunes 7

Well Wyoming lost another close game. Our defense is Awesome, but our offensive is offensive, and couldn't put up many points. Air Force is next week.

I downloaded and installed the new itunes 7, and have had mixed results. At work it runs great, and I love the new interface and album art options etc. At home it cannot play back an mp3 without being choppy. I believe it is a video issue, I updated some drivers and that has helped some. Some things I read suggested it may deal with the new quicktime and directx 3d acceleration. I uninstalled iTunes 7 at home and went back to 6.0.5 until they can work that bug out.

At work I have a GeForce 6800
At home An ATI Raedon 8500

Maybe it is an issue with ATI cards...

Tough loss for Cowboys

Man Missing a PAT in overtime is a tough way to lose - especially after dominating the whole game. Once again it was turnovers that caused problems. The fumble at the goal line in particular (although some say it was a TD first).

There is always next week.

Go Pokes

Golf Report

Well we had a good time. The weather was absolutely perfect. We did all 18 holes at Jacoby. As far as scores ... Well I did get par on hole #1. I shot a 124 on a par 72 ... lol But I still like it.

In other news my couch will be here on Friday.

Labor Day Golf

I was able to get a Tee time for tomorrow at 8:30 am. My brother and I plan on golfing all morning, it should be fun. Unfortunately My golf clubs are locked in a friends garage, and he is out of town until tuesday, so I guess I'll just rent a set from the pro shop - Not that the clubs would make a difference to me.

Hopefully my gameplan and concentration will work for me tomorrow...

Cowboys win 38-7

A nice win today. Our defense stut down USU, and our offense had a great balanced attack.

New Business Cards

I got some new business cards for work - the only difference is it says Information Technology instead of Information Systems - because of our department name change ...

New Sofa

Hooray! I ordered a new sofa today - I'm excited to be able to sit in comfort in my apartment now. It is an olive green microfiber sofa. Nothing too fancy, I didn't want to spend to much on it, but it should last me a good 5+ years (It has a 5 year warranty on it against rips, tears, burns, structure, etc.) It is long enough to sleep on too - if desired.

This also means I get to throw out the old brown love seat I have been using that is as old as me.

Thats all...

The Countdown...

Cowboy Football is coming soon ... I have my season tickets and have high hopes for this season.

GO POKES

Simpsons Season 8 / New Beck Album

The Simpsons Season 8 is now out - I will purchase it soon.

"The Information" is coming out soon (Oct 2) The first single has been released. It sounds pretty good so far.

being sick sucks

So I am sick right now, and I don't feel well. I went to the doctor, and I have an infection of some kind. My throat is all swollen up, I had a hard time breathing this morning. Hopefully the medicine I have will fix it all up.

Laramieweb.com has been rebuilt again. i will probably redo the front page sometime. In the mean time I have the mail server working, and am creating accounts for family and friends - if you think you want one then ask...

Department name change

Well I learned today that our department name at work is finally changing. Instead of being I.S. (Information Systems) we are now I.T. (Information Technology) In addition we no longer report to the head of administrative services, instead we report to the assistant city manager. It isn't a huge change, but it is a nice move in the right direction.

Rancid Rocks! - Night 2

Wow - tonights set list was awesome, as was the show. I had much more energy tonight for some reason. I was ready to go another hour. I got some good pics too.

Once again I can't remember the entire set list or the order - the two shows are somewhat blended together now ... Here is what I do remember:
Roots Radicals
Tenderloin
Nihilism
journey to the end
adina
Salvation
Sidekick
Listed MIA
Time Bomb
Radio Havana
7 years down
Lock step and gone
Sound system
Who would of thought
hyena
Otherside
ruby soho
radio

Rancid Night 1

The unseen played with rancid, all their songs sound the same.

Anyway Rancid was great. They played a good variety of songs. I'm hoping I get to hear many new ones later tonight for the second show.
From what I can recall they played the follow - I am probably missing s song or two and they are not in exact order...
Radio
journey to the end
11th hour
Lock step and gone
Unity
Black and Blue
Skunx
loki
Hyena
Old Friend
To have and to have not
Fall back down
Time Bomb
Hooligans
Rejected
Knowledge
She's Automatic
Antennas
ruby soho

Rancid Concert Aproaching

Aug 2 and 3rd in Denver - I'm looking forward to it.

Cubs Sweep Cards

It was an exciting weekend in baseball for the Chicago Cubs. They completed the 4 game sweep of the cardinals today. They are 10-3 against the cards this year, and 7-0 in Wrigley against them. To bad they didn't play that way against the rest of the league.

We finished moving our servers for work - things went smoothly.

I'm looking forward to some time to relax now.

More overtime work

I got to work late again last night. We got our Internet connection moved, and all the servers that do external data. Fortunately everything is working as it should again. This Saturday we should be able to finish moving the last of our servers. A few more weeks then we can start moving users into the building...

Daddy of em All

Well on Monday night I ended up going to Cheyenne Frontier Days and watching some professional bull riding. It was interesting to see. I'm not sure it was worth all the money, but I guess it is ok to go and see new things now and then. The rest of the crowd sure loved it. There were actually several riders who were able to post scores, which I guess doesn't always happen. The winner successfully rode twice - including a 90 in his second ride.

In other news I get to work more overtime this week. Fun Fun Fun.

Moving a Sofa?

I found a web-site that can help with the math involved in moving a sofa around a tight corner. Now with these simple calculations you can know before hand if the sofa will fit.
http://www.mathcad.com/library/constants/sofa.htm

work work work

I had a work-filled weekend. On Friday I got to work from 8 am until 3am the next morning. Then I got to come in again on Saturday at 10am and work until 3 pm.

And the best part is I'm still not done with the overtime. I get to work late this week on Wednesday and Thursday, then again Friday night and Saturday.

I'm hoping that with the extra $$ from the overtime I can buy a new couch - exciting huh.

Well thats my life - while my friends scamper off to India and Brazil - I work work work.

Murder in Laramie ...

Steven called my last night and told me that he had read on-line about 3 students that were found dead just south of campus. It was probably a murder suicide, but police are still looking into it. This type of thing is rare in Laramie.

I'm willing to bet that alcohol played some role in this - as is does with many crimes.

New Modem and Firefox

My new modem is all setup and in place.

I also downloaded the new Firefox 2.0 Beta 1 today. I love it so far.

Ascii Star Wars

I ran across an unusual item yesterday - an ASCII version of star wars that you can watch through telnet.

Telnet to: towel.blinkenlights.nl

And enjoy the show

Updates ...

Well I should receive my new DSL modem today, which will be nice. I was able to get my old DSL modem working enough to have an internet connection over the weekend. I took it apart and when it wouldn't connect I just threw it on the floor and went to bed. The next day I plugged it in and it worked - for about 36 hours, then it just quit again.

I figured that maybe it was overheating so I stuck the circuit board in the freezer for 5-10 minutes, and took it out, I fliped the on/Off swith a couple times and Success. I have had to freeze it twice now waiting for my new modem to arrive. but it runs for over a day when I do.

I bought a bbq / grill for the 4th of July, and I bbq'd some chicked, and some ribs, then grilled some hamburgers and corn and pineapple. It was good.

Well nothing else of interest has happened lately.

Internet Connection Down

I am without an Internet connection at home right now. Yesterday sometime between 2:30 and 5:00 my ADSL modem died. Until I can get a new one laramieweb.com will be down.

Chicago Part 3

Besides the baseball games I did a few other things in chicago ...

I got to eat at the Chicago Chop House on Wednesday night. I had a wonderful New York Strip Steak. It was the best cut of meat I have ever had - It was wonderful, and huge. After I finished dinner it was raining and my knee was hurting from walking around china town earlier that evening so I decided to not walk the several blocks to the train and instead had the matradie get me a cab. They were even nice enough to walk me to the cab with an umbrella so I didn't get wet at all.

On Thursday I ate lunch outside in downtown Chicago at the corner bakery. It was a beautiful cool morning. After the cubs game on Thursday I went to the Art Institute of Chicago, and looked at all their paintings, and other items. It was neat to see paintings from so many famous artists, although by the end my knee was killing my - I could hardly walk. Pictures from the art institute can be found here:
Museum

On Friday I ate lunch At harry caray's before flying back home. I really enjoyed Chicago, and would like to go back and see some of the other places I missed this time like the field museum, sears tower, etc.

If you have any questions about my trip please ask ...

Chicago Part 2

After we went to the aquarium I had Karen drop me off at my hotel. It rained on us as we were going back to the car, so I changed and got ready for my first Cubs game at Wrigley Field. The rain died down a bit and I walked over to the L and caught the red line to addison, and wrigley field. The game was fun, but the cubs lost. I took the train back to my hotel. I went to three baseball games while I was there, The cubs won the middle game. I have three sets of pictures from the three games:
Game 1
Game 2
Game 3

Fedora Core 5 and Apache

So I installed Fedora Core 5 - Brand New install, and it includes Apache Server 2.2 - seems like everything should work fine so I try to start the service and it fails. That is strange for it to fail in a brand new install. it is giving me an error in the httpd.conf file So I start looking at that file, and for some reason it has the apache 2.0 conf file - Well apache 2.2 changed the names of some of the modules. I looked some more and saw that in the same directory there was an httpd.conf.bak file - I looked at that, and guess what - it was the version 2.2 file. A quick rename and httpd is up and running.

That seems like a pretty dumb mistake to include the 2.0 conf file for the 2.2 version - which won't run. And the weird thing is they include the 2.2 file that you need as a .bak file. Oh well...

Anyway what this means is that Laramieweb.com is back up and running again. I haven't configured my mail server yet, but that will be coming soon too.

Laramieweb.com is down

Well my Linux server crashed tonight, so Laramieweb.com is down until I can re-build it. I hope to have it fixed soon.

Chicago Report Part 1

Well I arrived in Chicago and was met at the airport by Karen, Nathan, and Braiden. We then drove to Wrigley Field where I went on a tour of the ball park. It was awesome to get to see just about everything in the park - from locker rooms and dugouts to broadcast booths and the security room. I took a bunch of pictures which I have placed on-line here: Wrigley Field Tour Pictures

After the tour I went to Wisconsin for a few days. On Tuesday Karen and Braiden drove me back to Chicago and we took Braiden to the Shedd Aquarium. We all enjoyed looking at different aquatic life from all over the world. the above picture was taken on our way to the aquarium. Most of the aquarium pics didn't turn out well, but I posted them anyway here: Shedd Aquarium Pictures