The Life of Brian

I Don't Know Why You Say Goodbye, I Say Hello....

2010-06-09T15:51:00.006-04:00

I promised you big blog news and here it is...

This blog as you know it...is shutting down.

1st of all, this is not an April Fools joke. 2nd, I'm still going to blog...I'm just going to switch sites and change a few things about the way the blog operates.

Now lets catch our breath, because everything is going to be ok.

The biggest change is that I'm switching to "Tumblr" which is just another blogging site...like "Blogger." The reason I've decided to go with Tumblr is because it's a lot easier to use. It formats most things for you and it has better, more helpful templates for posting. I think it will be a good move.

Now then, I'm sure some of you may be wondering what prompted the change and such? Well, many things, actually.

For starters, I was unhappy with where the blog was heading. With the blog's second birthday coming up...I just felt stuck. I wasn't enjoying posting, I couldn't figure out the best way to shake things up and quite frankly...it started to feel like a chore that I had to complete every day. I'm sure some of you felt the same, the lack of production and enthusiasm on my end was probably clear.

Further, when I started this blog...I really didn't have much going on. I was unsure what I wanted to do with my life, My girlfriend and many of my friends had moved away, and I just wanted to write a blog, not only to keep in touch with them...but also because I was bored and writing to you guys was a way of entertaining myself. Taylor's back now, I'm in grad school, I'm getting married...my free time is simply just running out.

Finally, I've been pretty open about myself and my feelings on this blog. While I have loved sharing my thoughts and such with you guys...it's probably time to keep my mouth shut...just a bit. Since I'll be applying for jobs in the near future...I figured I should watch my mouth a bit more and make sure I don't blog about anything that could get me in trouble down the road.

I had all of these things going through my head and I thought...maybe I'll just stop blogging all together? Well, that's just not gonna happen. Not only have our visitor numbers been at an all time high the last few months (I still don't understand that), but also...I still have things I want to share with you guys. So, since I still planned on blogging...I figured it would be better to start fresh with a new blog instead of trying to change this one.

Now, with the new blog will come new things...some bad...some good. So, now we'll play a little, "good news...bad news" and talk about the new blog.

Bad news: The standard Monday through Friday blog post that you guys have come to expect will not be making the trip to the new blog.

Good news: This now opens up the option for multi-post days and posts on weekends. Often, I'll find a good tidbit or youtube video...or I'll have a good idea for a blog post, but I will wait to post them because I want to save them for Tuesdays or I have something else I want to blog about that day. Well, that's not gonna happen anymore. If I find something I want to share...it's going up. If I think of something I want to rant about...I'm gonna get on the blog and rant. While there may be days that I don't say anything (I imagine I'll post something most days, though), there will also be many days where I post multiple times.

Bad News: Tuesday Tidbits will not be making the trip either.

Good News: I'll be posting videos and pictures all the time! Not just Tuesdays...All days! Plus, tumblr allows for MP3 streams...making it easier to post music!

Bad News: It's the end of an era. No matter how you shake it...the blog will never be the same. It may end up being better, but it is going to be different. I've had a blast writing this blog the past two years and I've appreciated all of the comments and kind words that people have posted or said to me in person. This blog has been a place for me to vent, celebrate, talk things out, laugh, cry, etc. and I have to say...I'm a lot sadder than I thought I would be as I type my final post on this particular blog. Thanks again for reading and I hope you make it over to the new blog.

Good News: The new blog will still be similar. It will have a similar look and I will still be writing it. Plus, it looks classier and is much easier for me to use. Most importantly, I'm excited. Like I said above...I haven't really enjoyed blogging for quite some time now. But, with this change...I'm energized and eager to get to blogging.

Now then, without further ado...I hope you guys will all make the move with me...as I give you:

THE LIFE OF BRIAN (2.0)

Thanks again for a wonderful two years. I look forward to blogging to you guys on the new site.

Have a good one!

Picture of the Day: For old time's sake...

Song of the Day: Blogger says Goodbye and Tumblr says Hello

Tuesday Tidbits...

2010-06-08T16:22:00.005-04:00

And in the end, the tidbits you make are equal to the tidbits you take...

* Let's get one thing straight...I don't like umpires or referees of any kind. Less than a week after an umpire ruined a perfect game...an umpire made a ridiculous call to ruin the Cards' chances at a Super Regional. Now, I know the Cards still had chances to win the game and that Vandy played really well. But, a batter's interference call in the Top of the Ninth during a one run game...that's absurd.

* Now that the Cards' baseball team has been bounced from the tournament we have hit what I like to refer to as...another boring summer. That's right, no more cheering on the Cardinal Birds until September when football starts. Ugh.

* Luckily, in addition to the Braves being in first place...the World Cup starts on Friday.

That should help feed my sports addiction for a bit. U-S-A! U-S-A!

* Are you guys familiar with the youtube video, Leeroy Jenkins!!!? If not, you should be. Check it out

Let's Do This!!! LEEROOOOOY JEEEEENNNNKKKIINNNSSS! Classic.

* The other day at the Lakers game the "Kiss Cam" started on the jumbo-tron. Like always, there was a star-studded crowd for the game. Soon, the Kiss Cam landed on Dustin Hoffman. While Hoffman's wife was sitting next to him on his left...Mr. Hoffman elected to swing to his right and kiss.........Jason Bateman:
Absolutely hilarious. Always good when famous people show that they don't take themselves too seriously.

* Big blog news coming tomorrow....I MEAN BIG!

Picture of the Day: Cumberland Brews-Tues Tonight
Song of the Day: Wilco - She's A Jar

Monday Facts...

2010-06-07T16:21:00.003-04:00

It's the start of a new week....let's get our facts straight.

1.) Bachelor parties are fun. This weekend was a blast, the campsite turned out perfectly and Ben's bachelor party was a great success.

2.) Bourbon distillery tours are not super fun after a night of drinking. I enjoyed the bourbon tours that we took on Saturday, but I'm not sure the whole gang did. Twisty Kentucky country roads, massive amounts of heat, a strong scent of bourbon, bourbon tastings....yeah it got a little rough at times.

3.) I am exhausted. Not even a strong 8 hours of sleep last night could fully replenish my energy. Hopefully, tonight's sleep will do the trick.

4.) Major changes will be coming to the blog later this week. Stay tuned.

5.) The Louisville Cardinals baseball team needs a win tonight. The Cards play Vandy in the regional championship tonight at 6. The winner moves on to the Super Regionals and the loser goes home. GO CARDS!

6.) LeBron James is an ego-maniac. Seriously, you're a really really great basketball player and all, but stop being such an diva.

7.) The Twilight Saga is lame. Taylor and I watched the MTV movie awards last night and the most important thing that I learned was that I hate Twilight. The awards had some funny parts, thanks mostly to host Aziz Ansari, but the whole thing was a Twilight love fest....and those actors/actresses are lame. I dunno, I've never seen the movies or read the books...but those dudes just seemed like tools and it was annoying.

8.) The World Cup Starts in 3 days. Get excited! U-S-A! U-S-A!

9.) I am very very tired.

10.) I'll talk to you folks tomorrow.

Picture of the Day: Just like last year, boys. GO CARDS!
Song of the Day: Dire Straits - Sultans of Swing

Let's Hear It For Benny Boy....

2010-06-04T11:36:00.003-04:00

I'm off in a very short while to have what is sure to be a great weekend....

That's right....it's Ben's bachelor party!
As the best man of his wedding I was charged with coming up with a plan for the bachelor party. Let me tell you, it is not as easy as you'd think. After some phone calls, lots of e-mails and a bit of stress it's all set now.

About 10 of us will be camping tonight and tomorrow and then we'll tour some bourbon distilleries tomorrow afternoon. It's going to be a blast.

Have a great weekend all, I'll talk to you guys on Monday.

Picture of the Day: Knight Faces
Song of the Day: Thin Lizzy - The Boys Are Back In Town

W....T.....F?

2010-06-03T16:39:00.004-04:00

I found out recently that Paul McCartney won the 3rd annual Gershwin Prize for Popular Music. I was excited by this news because winning this prize means you play a wicked awesome concert at the White House and other awesome musicians play along with you. Paul Simon won the first year, Stevie Wonder won last year....each time awesome concerts followed and they were aired on PBS.

With all this said, you can imagine my excitement when Paste Magazine offered a sneak peak at the concert by posting a youtube video of Paul singing Hey Jude with other awesome people such as: Stevie Wonder, Jack White, Dave Grohl, Herbie Hancock, Elvis Costello, Jerry Seinfeld, Emmy Lou Harris, Barack Obama, etc. It's really cool, check it out...

Man isn't it awesome to see all those amazing people singing along with Paul Mc......Hey, wait a minute...IS THAT A FRIGGIN' JONAS BROTHER ON STAGE!?!?!?!?!

Yes, the sucky Jonas Brothers were there too. Bull....Shit. I mean honestly, the Jonas Brothers? You've got to be kidding me. Sure there are people who like the Jonas Brothers and maybe the Jo-Bros make little girls smile...but WHY IN THE HELL WOULD YOU PUT THEM IN A TRIBUTE CONCERT TO PAUL MCCARTNEY?

I'm not really sure why I'm so mad about this. Oh yeah I remember...because the concert was supposed to honor one of the greatest musicians of all time and the friggin' Jonas Brothers were on the bill.

Seriously, I would have rather Fergie been there....

Actually, that's not true. But still, you mean to tell me James Taylor, Neil Young, Eddie Vedder, John Prine, Lyle Lovett or any other great musician was too busy to play with Sir Paul McCartney at the White House? Yeah, I doubt it.

Sometimes...I hate the world...for little reasons.

Picture of the Day: Sorry America made the Jonas Brothers play your music for you, buddy.
Song of the Day: Paul McCartney - Maybe I'm Amazed

Wipeout...

2010-06-02T16:43:00.004-04:00

I've added something to my list of things to do before I die....

Compete on Wipeout...
I don't know if you guys watch this show...but it's hilarious. Basically, they just take these normal people and run them through a few ridiculous obstacle courses. I like to sit there and laugh at the poor soles as they get smashed, tossed and roughed up...but I've always wondered how I'd do on the course. Should I just keep my mouth shut and stop insulting everyone because it's mega hard? Or would I be pretty good at it? I don't know...but I'm dying to find out.

If anyone knows how I can get on the show...please let me know. Also, you should watch the show when it comes back on in about 3 weeks...I guarantee you laugh out loud at least twice.

Have a good one, folks.

Picture of the Day: Wipeout's famous "Big Red Balls" claim another victim
Song of the Day: Temple of the Dog - Hunger Strike

Tuesday Tidbits...

2010-06-01T16:33:00.004-04:00

It's Tuesday, Really?

* I've been aware it's Tuesday pretty much all day. However, it wasn't until about 10mins ago that I realized it was also tidbits day. With that said...

* Taylor is home...officially. She got in last night and it's pretty great having her home so far. It still seems like she'll be leaving again soon...but she won't and that's a good feeling.

* Abbey Road on the River was this weekend and it was a mega good time. See here...
Good music, good people, good beer, good times.

* I watched the movie "Pirate Radio" this weekend and despite not featuring Captain Jack Sparrow or a retarded Cuba Gooding Jr. it was really good. The music in it was awesome, Phillip Seymore Hoffman was great and it was pretty hilarious. I suggest you see it.
* The World Cup starts in nine days....get excited! U-S-A! U-S-A!

* The UofL baseball Cardinals had a season to remember and now they've set themselves up for a post season to remember by grabbing the #7 national seed. This means that as long as the Cards keep winning, they get to play at home until they would have to head to Omaha for the College World Series. Come on Cards!

* Shockingly, I will not be attending the UofL baseball games this weekend and that is because this weekend will be taken up by Benny's bachelor party...it's going to be awesome.

That's all for today gang, I'll try to do better next time. Until then...Goodnight, Canada!

Picture of the Day: Happy 15th birthday, Lauren!
Song of the Day: Procol Harum - A Whiter Shade of Pale

At Last...

2010-05-28T16:25:00.005-04:00

With a three day weekend and plenty of festivities ahead...there is plenty to be excited about. However, one thing has me buzzin' like nothing else....

She's coming home.
On Monday Taylor moves home...for good. It's been a long two years since she first left for Charleston and while there have been lots of good times and we've each grown independently as well as grown closer together, I'm not sorry to see the time come to an end.

Long distance relationships are not fun. Anyone who tells you they are is an idiot. It's hard and it takes a great deal of patience, understanding and trust. You also need lots and lots of love....and I've got a ton of it for that girl.

It wasn't always fun, it wasn't always easy...but it's over now. She's coming home on Monday and I've never been happier to see her.

Enjoy your three day weekends folks. I'll be back on Tuesday!

Picture of the Day:Song of the Day: Etta James - At Last

Top 5 Beatles Moments....

2010-05-27T16:15:00.009-04:00

Abbey Road on the River has officially started. Instead of going on my yearly rant about why the Beatles are so amazing...I'm going to list the 5 best Beatles moments of my life. Basically, to be involved in the discussion for the list it just has to be something that occurred in my life that has something to do with the Beatles.

5.) Abbey Road on The River Sing-A-Long (May 2006)
2006 was the first time I attended Abbey Road on the River. Mom, Ben and I got a hotel room at the Galt House and it was awesome. After spending all day rocking and rolling, we headed up to the room...but in the lobby people began to gather around a piano. Soon, about 100 people, some performers with guitars, others just fans armed with their voices, began to sing the songs of the Beatles. It went on for several hours until about 4 a.m. Now the "Late night Sing a longs" are advertised as part of the festival, but being a part of the impromptu jam session was something I'll always remember.

4.) Singing "Imagine" with Brian Brody and a crowded bar in Dublin, Ireland. (Late May 2008)
This is Brian Brody and he is a bad ass. Someday, I'll devote an entire blog post to him. Anyway, he sings and plays guitar at pubs around Dublin and he's great at what he does. He can get the whole bar singing along to songs no one even knows. On my second trip to Dublin with my dad and Ben, we had spent the whole night singing, clapping and dancing along to Irish drinking songs, Beatles songs, U2 songs and more. Finally, when it was closing time Brian Brody led the bar in a sing a long of John Lennon's "Imagine" and it was awesome. Total strangers with the arms around each other, singing and drinking along.

3.) Walking across Abbey Road (Late May 2008)
This actually took place the same day as #4. With a few hours to kill before flying from London to Dublin Ben, Dad and I took what ended up being a hilarious and expensive cab ride to Abbey Road Studios....where I finally got to cross something off of my "Bucket list"
2.) Visiting the Cavern Club and drinking a beer at The Grapes in Liverpool (Late May 2008)
On the same trip as the previous two on this list, we also headed to Liverpool for a day. It was incredible. We headed to Mathew Street where the Beatles "grew up" and saw the club they used to play in and the bar they used to drink at. Honestly, the Cavern Club is the coolest place I've ever been in my entire life. Another check on the bucket list too!
1.) Seeing Paul McCartney in Concert (May 5, 1993)
For my 7th birthday my Mom got me tickets to see Paul McCartney in Cincinnati at Riverfront stadium. I remember opening the tickets and not knowing what they were. I then remember how excited I was when she explained to me what was going to happen. I remember buying a tshirt while crossing the bridge into Cincinnati and waiting in traffic. I remember the amount of people there, I remember the light show and performance that accompanied the music and I remember certain songs such as, Let it Be, Hey Jude, Yesterday and Live and Let Die. I also remember going to skyline chili after the show. Most of all, I remember it being the coolest experience ever. I had never been to a concert before that and even though I've been to lots of great shows since...nothing will ever top it...except maybe seeing Paul again.

An item crossed off the bucket list before I even made a bucket list.

I actually found the setlist on line...

"Drive My Car"
"Coming Up"
"Looking for Changes"
"Jet"
"All My Loving"
"Let Me Roll It"
"Peace in the Neighbourhood"
"Off the Ground"
"Can't Buy Me Love"
"Robbie's Bit"
"Good Rocking Tonight"
"We Can Work It Out"
And I Love Her
"Ain't No Sunshine"
"Hope of Deliverance"
"Michelle"
"Biker Like an Icon"
"Here, There and Everywhere"
"Yesterday"
"My Love"
"Lady Madonna"
"C'mon People"
"Magical Mystery Tour"
"Let It Be"
"Live and Let Die"
"Paperback Writer"
"Back in the U.S.S.R."
"Penny Lane"
"Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band"
"Band on the Run"
"I Saw Her Standing There"
"Mull of Kintyre" (Canada only)
"Hey Jude"

What a show!

So there you go, my 5 favorite personal Beatles memories. I'm sure there are more that I'm leaving out, but those seemed to stick out a bit more than the others.

Have a great day.

Picture of the Day:
Song of the Day: The Beatles - In My Life

Why Don't We Have...

2010-05-26T16:21:00.006-04:00

Every once in a while I think of something and then I think, "It's 2010, why doesn't that exist yet?" I mean honestly, the i-phone is cool, the Internet is amazing...but where are my flying cars? Why do we not have an immediate cure for hangovers? and why isn't every channel in HD? These things seem simple, yeah? But still, I think of things all the time that don't exist yet. Naturally, I thought I'd start sharing my concerns with you guys in a new feature called, "Why don't we have...?"

Today's item is...

Cell phone caller I.D.

Seriously, why do I have to type in everyone's name in order to get it to show when they call? It's absurd. I mean seriously, this is a picture of my phone...
On my phone I can...listen to music, check my email, talk to someone in another country, take a picture, shoot a movie, play tetris, text message, instant message and calculate math problems...but if someone calls me and I don't have their number programmed in, it won't tell me who it is.

I mean really, is this too much to ask? Not even i-Phones have this capability. Plus, standard caller I.D. is something that has existed on home phones for like 10 years or more.

Don't tell me that it can't be done, but cause I'm sure there is someone out there who can do it.

So really, Why don't we have caller I.D. on cellphones?

Have a great day everyone!

Picture of the Day: Abbey Road on the River starts tomorrow. To commemorate, here's a picture of me and Ben crossing the real Abbey Road in London
Song of the Day: The Beatles - Nowhere Man

Tuesday Tidbits...

2010-05-25T16:37:00.003-04:00

Shaz Bagle....

* Tonight is the season finale of Parenthood. If I were you, I'd go to hulu.com and start watching all the episodes from this season right now. You won't be able to watch them all before 10:00, but you'd be a better person...and you could watch tonight's episode tomorrow.

* Speaking of TV season finales...this send off from 30 Rock was absolutely hilarious:

* Yim Yames is playing with John Prine on Letterman tomorrow night. Don't miss that. Also, I think the Black Keys are playing on Letterman tonight.

* So I actually won tickets to Abbey Road on the River the other day! I won them on twitter via "Gotolouisville.com" which was awesome because I've never won anything like that in my life. However, they haven't gotten back to me to inform me how or where I get my tickets. If they don't give me my free tickets...I'll throw a tantrum.

* UofL's baseball team pulled off a weekend sweep at Notre Dame and won their 2nd consecutive Big East Championship. Pretty bad ass! Go Cards!

* The biggest news of today is that Ear X-Tacy is moving:
They're new location at the Douglas Loop won't be awful and it's certainly better than closing...but I'm still bummed out about this. I just worry that this is the beginning of the end for one of my favorite places on earth.

* Last but not least, I leave you with a super awesome Nike commercial to get you pumped up for the World Cup!

Just over two weeks away gang! USA USA USA!

Have a great Tuesday everyone!

Picture of the Day: This is how I'll always remember Ear X-Tacy:
Song of the Day: The Roots ft. Yim Yames - Dear God (2.0)

Monday, Monday, Monday...

2010-05-24T16:24:00.003-04:00

Monday's are super not fun. However, my weekend was pretty cool. Let's recap and look forward to some things this week...

* Friday I headed down to Centre to hang out with some old friends. Words simply can't express how much I love going back to Centre. It is one of my favorite places on earth and every time I go back I'm reminded of how awesome my college experience was. I love that place, I really do.

* Saturday I came home and headed over to Ben and Megan's new house! Yup, they're home owners officially. They're new house is a little further away, but it's not too bad. Overall it's pretty cool that they have their own place. Congrats again, Ben and Megs!

* Later on Saturday, I went to Ryan's state championship lacrosse game. It was a pretty good game and St. X beat Trinity for their 3rd straight title. Congrats again Rhino! Also, Trinity's PA announcer was/is the biggest tool box in the whole world...that just needed to be said.

* Yesterday I slept late and then cleaned my car inside and out. It was a long, boring task...but it needed to be done. Having a clean car is a pretty good feeling.

* Also, our volleyball team, The Law Dogs, took all 3 games last night. We're on a roll people!

* Now, we've got a new week a head of us and lots of stuff to get psyched about. Such as....
- The last Monday Night Basketball until the fall
- The Season Finale of Parenthood
- Team Shuck Fence's attempt at not getting run ruled
- Abbey Road on the River!

The only bad part about this week is that Taylor left for her cruise today. It's not so bad for her, but I'll only get to talk to her once between now and Saturday...so that's lame. Still, she gets to go on a cruise and she'll be home for good one week from today...so neither of us will complain too much.

Hope you guys had good weekends too! I'll talk to you tomorrow.

Picture of the Day: Congressman John Yarmuth speaks at the "Louisville Loves Mountains" music festival. I've met him before and he's a great guy. I'm sure he gave a really thoughtful, intelligent talk. However, I wonder what his crotch had to say?

Song of the Day: Band of Horses - Laredo

Friends...

2010-05-21T16:30:00.003-04:00

This week I've been reminded of a very important thing...I have terrific friends. I don't mean that to sound like I'm bragging about myself, I just really like my friends.

On Tuesday I was able to meet up with Tom and Chris. Tom and Chris, along with Todd, have been my best friends since grade school. We grew up together and even though we've all gone our separate ways, we stay in touch and make sure we see each other a decent number of times each year. Tuesday we went to a UofL baseball game and it was just a really good time. We drank beer, we talked about what we had been up to, we laughed about things that happened in the past...it was just a really good time.

Last night was another example of good friends. Team Shuck Fence made a big time improvement, but still lost 17-7. However, our team of random friends had a blast. With every hit, run, catch and throw we laughed, slapped high fives and made fun of Lautaro for trying to lead off first base in a slow pitch softball game. Plus, when Matt P made a full extension diving catch after covering about 30 yards...we all felt as if we won the game. Plus, we went out for beers and food at BBC afterward. Truly a great improvement from the team. It's all about camaraderie.

Finally, tonight I'm heading back to Centre College to meet up with Will, Roy Lee and Danielle. Lautaro will be there too and some others will stop by to say hello...but I can't wait to get there and have some fun.

These get togethers will be better once Taylor gets back in town and it's always a bummer when someone can't make it to, what I like to call, a "Friend Reunion." However, I love the fact that my friends try to stay in touch. It's so easy to let friends fall by the wayside, but in reality...good friends aren't something you can take for granted.

So if you'll excuse me...I'm off to tell stories, play drinking games and have a good time with some of my best friends.

Have a great weekend everyone!

Picture of the Day: This is from last year's end of the year celebration at Centre and it's one of my favorite pictures of all time. We were drinking and I thought it'd be hilarious if I gave Roy Lee wet willies every chance I got. I literally hit him with like 20 of them. He hated it, but I thought it was hilarious. He then tried to get me back...but he had no luck. This picture is a perfect representation of that night.
Song of the Day: Old Crow Medicine Show - Wagon Wheel

Play Ball...

2010-05-20T16:28:00.002-04:00

In about 3 hours, unless it rains, I will be making my Men's C League softball debut. It should be pretty wild.

Personally, I have no idea if I am good at softball. I played tons of baseball growing up and was pretty good in my prime. I played in a co-ed softball league in the summer of 2004, but we had to hit left handed. As a result, I was horrible. However, I'm hoping that once I snag my first fly ball and take my first cut at the plate...all my days of little league come back to me and I can help the team a bit.

The good news is that it's a Men's C League and our team is mediocre...at best. We had one game so far and let's just say...we lost....by 20...after 3 innings. Now our sponsor, Shuck Fence Co., is threatening to pull their support...not really, but I'm sure we're not helping their business.

However, In defense of my team, we had one less player, we had 0 time to warm up and none of us had played in several years. Hopefully tonight turns out a little better.

Regardless, it'll be nice to dust off the old glove and get beers with the team afterward.

Go Shuck Fence!

Picture of the Day: It's go time!
Song of the Day: John Fogerty - Centerfield

10 Things I Like and Dislike These Days...

2010-05-19T16:29:00.003-04:00

I'm feeling 6 and 4 today...

* LIKE: Charlie Strong. I mean honestly check out this video...

We're going to "play our balls off this year!" I'm officially excited for football for the first time in years.

* DISLIKE: Jeans. I am on a never ending search for the perfect pair of jeans. I'm not asking for much, I just want them to fit correctly and not cost more than 60 bucks. I don't care if they're straight fit, relax fit, boot fit, etc. I just want them to fit without being too baggy, too tight, too long or too short.

* LIKE: Yahoo Sports Blogs. I don't know if you guys have ever checked out Yahoo Sports' Blogs, but they're outstanding. They have one for every sport and they're usually very informative, well written and entertaining. "The Dagger" and "Ball Don't Lie" are my two faves.

* DISLIKE: The NBA Playoffs. Seriously, I had high hopes for the conference finals and both series appear to be headed for sweeps. I know the Suns are only down 1-0, but I just can't see them beating the Lakers...at all. Hopefully, I'm wrong.

* LIKE: Parenthood. Seriously, this show is awesome. I don't even know how to describe why it's so great, but it is. It's funny, it's dramatic...it's real. Also, they have great music on the show. So far this season they've played, Monsters of Folk, The Avett Brothers, Wilco, Ben Sollee, Josh Ritter, Alexi Murdoch and Neko Case. Seriously, watch it on Hulu...it's just great.

* DISLIKE: TV Season Finales. Tonight is the last Modern Family of the year. I hate when shows go off for the summer because they usually end in some cliff hanger...and plus I don't get to watch them each week. Sigh....I guess it wouldn't kill me to watch less TV.

* LIKE: Music. The past few weeks/months have produced some excellent new albums. Dr. Dog, The New Pornographers, The National, Band of Horses, Jakob Dylan, Josh Ritter, She & Him and Broken Bells have all put out fantastic albums in the last few months. As a result, my ears are very happy.

* LIKE: Snickers Ice Cream Bars. Lautaro bought some mini Snickers Ice Cream bars the other day and I had forgotten how delicious those things are. I mean they might be one of the tastiest things on the planet.

* DISLIKE: Facebook. What's with this new profile thing where you have to "Like" things? I really enjoy using Facebook, but with each change my interest dies a little.

* LIKE: Qdoba. I've had it twice in the last 4 days...It's just so tasty. I can't explain how excited I get when I walk into Qdoba...it's sad.

Have a great Wednesday folks.

Picture of the Day: I took this picture in London two years ago. I want to go back.
Song of the Day: The National - Bloodbuzz Ohio

Tuesday Tidbits...

2010-05-18T16:21:00.003-04:00

Not at the table, Carlos...

* It's a super awesome day to be a music fan! Two of my favorite bands, The Black Keys and Band of Horses released albums today.
I bought them both at lunch today and after giving them a spin for the first time...I like what I'm hearing. Also, the Black Keys' album changes colors when you play it!

* Also out today, an album by LCD Soundsystem and an album by Damien Marley & Nas. Let me know if anyone has heard either of those.

* Next Wednesday Yim Yames and John Prine will appear on the David Letterman show together! They're appearing to promote a new Prine tribute album that includes, MMJ, The Avetts, Bright Eyes, Bon Iver and more. I'm going to buy that album.

* I'm totally rooting for the Suns in the NBA playoffs...but it's not looking so good after game 1. Kobe is awesome...there's nothing else to say.

* My old buds Chris and Tom are in town for a little while. We're headed out to the UofL baseball game in a bit and I'm really looking forward to it. Haven't seen those guys in a while.

* 2 years ago today I graduated from Centre College. I'm still sad.

* NBC's Parenthood will officially return in the fall. This is great news because it is my favorite show on TV not named "Modern Family." Also, it's on tonight at 10...watch it.

* Here's a hilarious video of Paul Rudd that I saw on the Card Chronicle:

Paul Rudd is hilarious....I wish we were friends.

* Lastly, here's a new SportsCenter commercial to get us in the World Cup mood:

The World Cup is just around the corner...USA! USA! USA!

Have a great Tuesday folks!

Picture of the Day: Found this awesome pic of MMJ drummer Patrick Hallahan while browsing the "Morrison Hotel Gallery" recently. Patrick is a beast.
Song of the Day: Black Keys - Tighten Up

(That's the official video for that song...it's odd to say the least...but, funny still)

Back in Town...

2010-05-17T16:14:00.003-04:00

Hey Gang! Did you guys miss me? No worries...I'm back to my normal life now, which means back to normal blogging as well. Wooo! Here's a recap as to what has been going on for the last 11 days.

- Taylor is now a Master of English! Hooray! She graduated two Fridays ago and it was pretty cool. It's been a long two years, but she got the job done and now she's coming home! Congrats again, dear.

- After her graduation we joined her parents, my mom and some other folks at the beach for 5 days. We stayed on the Isle of Palms, just outside of Charleston, and it was muy bueno. Lots of laying on the beach, eating at Poe's (the best tavern in South Carolina), drinking, laying in hammocks, etc. It was great...as usual.

- I got back from South Carolina on Thursday night and then had to work the Big East Softball tournament on Friday. Now that that's over my work with the UofL Athletic Department will more than likely be finished until the fall. It sucks, because I enjoy working there...but it will give me more free time.

- Saturday Ben, Megs and I headed to Knoxville for a wedding. Our good friends Matt and Stephanie got married and it was a blast. Lots of dancing and drinking with a lot of people from college that I hadn't seen in a long time. Drinking with old friends is one of the better things you can do.

- Yesterday I returned home to help celebrate my little step-brother's graduation from high school. It's hard to believe that he's actually old enough to be going to college, but he'll start UofL in the fall. Congrats again, Ryan...the next four years will be a blast.

- Now then, I'm back in town...school's done for the summer...my internship at UofL is done for the summer and I don't have any large trips coming up until a pretty important journey to Wisconsin in about a month. Nevertheless, with Taylor coming home, summer time heating up and everyone under the sun getting married...there are plenty of things to get excited about in the near future.

For now, I've got some time to relax and get the blog back in shape.

Have a good one!

Picture of the Day: That's me napping on the beach while trying to avoid sun-burn last week...it was successful.

Song of the Day: M. Ward - Chinese Translation

Back to Charleston...

2010-05-05T16:12:00.003-04:00

Three days back at work and now I'm headed to the beach...again!

I'll be headed down to Charleston tomorrow morning for Taylor's graduation and then we're staying at the beach until next Thursday...yes.

I majorly excited and there are many reasons why...let's review.

1.) I get to see Taylor again.

2.) I'm spending a week at the beach!

3.) This is the last time I'll visit Taylor in Charleston...because she's moving home at the end of the month...wooo!

It's been a wild past 2 years, most of you know that since you've read the blog. Long distance relationships are what I like to call, "lame." However, while it sucked being away from Taylor for the majority of the past 24 months...it's turned out just fine. The time apart has allowed us to grow independently (to an extent) and set ourselves up for the future. Now she's coming home, we'll get married and the rest is all gravy...right?

I know they'll be more bumps along the way...but for now...I'm headed to South Carolina to celebrate the end of a long two years. What better way to cap it off then with a week on the beach!

As always, I'll do my best to keep in touch with you guys over the next week, but I won't make any promises...I may be too busy drinking beer on the beach.

Hasta Luego Ned!

Picture of the Day: Beach Bound
Song of the Day: Little Joy - Next Time Around

Tuesday Tidbits...

2010-05-04T16:28:00.003-04:00

Let's roll...

* I'm getting my hair cut in less than an hour. While I desperately need one, I'm still angry. Haircuts are the worst.

* So have you guys started watching "Parenthood" yet? The show just keeps getting better every week! It's funny, but not in a 30 rock way...more of an O.C. way. I dunno, it's on at 10 tonight, just watch it.

* Speaking of The O.C. I've started re-watching season 1 on DVD. It is, in fact, the greatest season of television ever created. Sandy Cohen is amazing.

* Is there anything worse than waiting for people to reply to e-mails or text messages? I understand friends or family members not responding, especially when it's not a pressing issue (even I do that from time to time), but I'm waiting on like 4 responses right now. It's driving me crazy.

* The New Pornographers released a new album today called "Together." I picked it up at lunch and I like what I'm hearing so far. I'd recommend it if you're looking for some new tunes.

* I'm still riding pretty high from last week's MMJ concert. Here's a video of One Big Holiday from the show:

I want to go to there!

* Also, MMJ played with the Preservation Hall Jazz Band at Preservation Hall a few weeks ago, it looked like it was epic:
I want to go to there, too.

* Day 2 on my summer break and I still have no idea what to do with my free time. Cumberland Tues tonight? Probably.

* I like the spring and the summer and the nice weather and sitting outside and being active and all...but I don't like the heat. It's quickly approaching boiling point.

* NBA Playoffs update...I'm rooting for the Suns

That's all for today, I'll talk to you guys tomorrow.

Picture of the Day: Don't ask why or how I stumbled across this during a "Google Image Search" but I did and it's awesome.

Song of the Day: The New Pornographers - Your Hands (Together)

Monday Reset...

2010-05-03T16:40:00.002-04:00

Hey gang! How are you? Good, I hope.

I'm back from Charleston and I thought I'd take today's post to catch everyone up on what's been happening/is going to happen. Sound good? Good.

* Charleston was fantastic. The MMJ concert was unbelievable, we went to the beach, we saw "Date Night", we did lots of loungin' around. It was great to spend some free time with Taylor after we both finished super busy semesters.

* I'm now officially finished with my first semester of Grad School. It's kinda nice to go back to the 9-5 gig for a little while and I'm welcoming my summer break with open arms. Also, I finished my first semester with a 4.0! Sports school rules!

* The Derby was pretty cool, although it would have been cooler if my buddy Tom's horse would have won. But he did come in 3rd and Tom was on TV a bunch...so that was cool.

* Softball starts Thursday...its' going to be awesome.

* My work in the Athletic Department is pretty much finished for the summer as well. I'll work the Big East Softball tourney next week and I may do a few things with them over the summer. But, as it turns out, there isn't too much to do in an Athletic Department during th summer. Still, hopefully I get to do some stuff and hopefully I'll get to continue my work in the Fall.

* Now that school and AD work is pretty much done...I have no idea what to do with my time. Prior to last week I was busy like 24/7...now I have lots of down time...it's nice.

* I'm actually headed back to Charleston on Thursday. Rough isn't it? Taylor graduates on Friday and then it's off to the beach for a few days. It's going to be awesome.

* I feel like there's more news to share...but I can't think of it.

That's all for now. Tidbits served up for you guys tomorrow!

Picture of the Day: In honor of summer break
Song of the Day: DJ Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince - Summertime

Kentucky Derby 136

2010-05-01T12:36:00.003-04:00

My Old Kentucky Home

The sun shines bright in the old Kentucky home,
'Tis summer, the people are gay;
The corn-top's ripe and the meadow's in the bloom,
While the birds make music all the day.

The young folks roll on the little cabin floor,
All merry, all happy and bright;
By 'n' by Hard Times comes a-knocking at the door,
Then my old Kentucky home, goodnight.

Weep no more my lady
Oh! weep no more today!
We will sing one song for the old Kentucky home,
For the Old Kentucky Home far away.

I've traded in bluegrass for palm trees this year, but I'll be watching and drinking bourbon, still.

Happy Derby Everyone!

Song of the Weekend: Stephen Foster - My Old Kentucky Home

MY MORNING JACKET...

2010-04-29T15:02:00.005-04:00

Hey gang, I'm hanging out down here in Charleston and I got a minute to do some bloggin. Last night, Taylor and I headed to Daniel Island for a My Morning Jacket concert. We got there fairly early with hopes of grabbing a good spot upfront, since our tickets were general admission. We were successful and it was amazing. Honestly, it'd been a while since I had seen the Jacket and it'd been even longer since I had seen them up close. If there is a better band on the planet...I'd like to see them.

The thing about the Jacket that makes them so good is their stage presence. The energy, the sound, the antics...it's just amazing. Also, after watching MMJ grow over the past several years, it's clear they're also becoming better musicians. Each of the five members brings a great deal to the table.

In addition, The Preservation Hall Jazz band opened for them. They were great as well. In fact, Jim James joined them for a few songs and then the whole band came out to lend a hand. The Preservation Jazz Band returned the favor by adding their sound to the Jacket's encore (after their sax player played a bad ass "Somewhere Over The Rainbow" solo). The sound of the Jazz band with the Jacket was awesome and the song selection of the encore turned the concert into a big dance party (they finished with a cover of Curtis Mayfield's "Move On Up"). Also, Jim wore a holster with Duck Hunt Guns...I don't know why, but it was awesome.

I honestly can't say enough about how much I enjoyed the show. MMJ is back and better than ever and my ears are still ringing this morning...

Preservation Hall Jazz Band

The Jacket

Jim and Carl

Their light show is crazy!

This is how close we were...I took this with my phone and it doesn't have a zoom.

This is the setlist...I didn't take this picture.

Good times indeed! Have a good rest of the week gang.

Song of the Day: My Morning Jacket - Tonight I Wanna Celebrate With You

Monday Need to Knows...

2010-04-26T15:25:00.003-04:00

Hola Gang! Everyone have a great weekend? Mine was alright. I don't have a lot of time today, but here are today's need to knows...

1.) I am headed to take a final in about an hour. I've never wanted to take a test less in my entire life. However, after tonight I just have a short test in the morning and then I'm finished!

2.) I got some promising news on my future at UofL over the weekend, I'll share more when I have the time.

3.) Our volleyball team won all 3 games yesterday and have improved to 8-1 on the season....boom goes the dynamite!

4.) I'm totally exhausted right now. This semester has been a lot of fun and it's been helpful for my future and such...but I'm ready for it to be over. The 60+ hour weeks are starting to get a little old...luckily there's hope on the horizon.

5.)Tomorrow after I take my test, I'm headed to Charleston for the rest of the week. I'll try to blog once or twice if I think of it...but I'll probably be too busy hanging out with Taylor, going to MMJ concerts and celebrating the end of the semester.

Alright, I'm off now gang. Wish me luck on my test! I'll talk to you guys soon.

Picture of the Day:
Come on Charleston!

Song of the Day: My Morning Jacket - Mahgeetah

On to the weekend...

2010-04-23T14:50:00.004-04:00

Is it just me or has this been an extremely long week?

Anyway, this weekend is looking to be pretty relaxing. I have to work a UofL lacrosse game this afternoon, but after that I'm probably just going to see if I can round up some folks to grab a beer or something.

Tomorrow, I have to work a Softball double header and then I may head to the UofL baseball game for a while....after that, who knows?

Sunday will be less fun because I have to work a softball game and then spend the rest of my time studying for my final on Monday. I hate finals and this one looks to be pretty tough. Luckily, I have a Volleyball game on Sunday as well, so I'll get to enjoy myself a little.

I love weekends like this though. Not too much planned, but enough to keep me from sitting on the couch all day. Who knows, something may come up and make tonight or tomorrow super fun...or perhaps I'll just watch a movie or something? Either way, this time of year is always fun in the Louisville area. The Derby buzz starts creeping in, school is wrapping up and the weather's usually nice (although it's supposed to rain all weekend).

I dunno what the point of all this is...I think it's just an expression of satisfaction and delight. With a long semester about to be over and lots of fun and exciting things (Taylor moving home) on the horizon...I'm just in a good state of mind.

Have a great weekend everyone.

Picture of the Day:
Happy Birthday, Will!

Song of the Day: Arctic Monkeys - Fluorescent Adolescent

Top 5 Baseball Intros...

2010-04-22T14:47:00.004-04:00

While working the softball double header yesterday (I didn't get on TV, by the way), we were talking about the different songs that the girls on the team had picked as their "intro" songs. Naturally, our conversation turned to what song we would choose to have played while we walked up to the plate. Here are my 5:

5.) Guns N Roses - Welcome to the Jungle

4.) Rage Against The Machine - Testify

3.) Jimi Hendrix - All Along the Watchtower

2.) Wolfmother - Joker & The Theif

1.) My Morning Jacket - One Big Holiday

Obviously, I'd have to pick the right segment of each song. But I'd blare OBH over the loudspeakers, then I'd walk up to the plate like a total bad ass...then try to hit a seeing eye single. I've always been a contact hitter.

What about you guys? What would your intro songs be?

Picture of the Day:
To celebrate the fact that MMJ is officially ON TOUR again!

Song of the Day: Lyle Lovett - I've Been to Memphis

Quick thoughts...

2010-04-21T10:59:00.003-04:00

Hey gang, I'm off to work a UofL softball double header in a short while so I don't have much time today. Here are the two important things to know.

First, the UofL softball games are at 1 and 3 and will be televised on ESPNU. I will be in the press box, sitting practically next to the commentators. I suggest you watch the games because I'm going to do everything in my power to get on TV. It's not going to be easy, but I'm going to channel my inner Jim Carrey:

If I do get on TV, the first person to text me and say, "Hey, I just saw you on ESPNU" will win a prize.

Second, and most importantly, since voting ends in an hour...it looks like "Picture of the Day" is going to win the "What should we add?" poll. With that said, I'm going to go ahead and start "Picture of the Day" off with a picture to represent today.
Yes, today is Taylor's 24th birthday! Woo! I wish I could be in Charleston to celebrate with her, but I'm heading down one week from today...so it's not too bad. Anyway, I hope you have a wonderful birthday, dear!

That's all for today, look for me on TV and wish Taylor happy birthday if you get a chance.

Have a good one!

Song of the Day: The Beatles - Birthday

Tuesday Tidbits...

2010-04-20T15:17:00.005-04:00

And they're off...

* Guess what gang? I totally forgot to blog yesterday. Yeah, I took a "personal" day to finish the massive amounts of school work I had due this week and while I was busy writing papers and such...I totally forgot about the blog. I apologize.

* Now then, I just turned in my final paper and all that stands between me and a bad ass MMJ concert/summer are three tests...Ugh! Still, they're all done a week from today!

* If you haven't heard, UofL's new arena will be called the "KFC Yum! Center" I can't say I'm overly pleased with the name...but I saw it coming.
The best news is that not only will the Cards host Butler in the first game at the new arena (3 days after my wedding), but also...I'll be able to eat a Cheesy Gordita Crunch while watching games in person! Yeah, they're going to have Taco Bells inside the arena. It's going to be amazing. Also, there's talk of nicknaming the arena, "The Bucket" and I am 100% behind this idea.

* I seriously have to get a haircut. I've been so busy the past two weeks that there just hasn't been a chance...but the time has come.

* I had to work the UofL spring football game on Friday and it was totally awesome. I shook hands with Coach Strong, met Tom Jackson and watched the game from the sidelines with other UofL football alums. I also got to help put on a football clinic for kids at the Trager Center. It was pretty cool.
* Also, while messing around at the Trager Center (which is basically just an indoor football field). A couple of the other guys and I attempted the "punt, pass and kick" competition. For those not in the know, this is where you start at the back of the end zone and punt the ball. Wherever it hits first (you don't get the roll), you throw it from there, wherever your throw hits...you have to kick a field goal from there for a new car. They do it at halftime of UofL games and I always thought it looked kinda easy. Let me tell you...it is not. I was the best of our three participants and I had a 36 yard field goal for the "car." However, my field goal attempt barely made it to the 5, was wide left and never got more than about 6 inches above my head . So yeah, it's hard.

* "Picture of the Day" is leading by one vote on our "What to Add Poll." Voting ends tomorrow morning so be sure to vote if you haven't already.

* I watched the movie, "I Love You, Man" again over the weekend...and that movie is hysterical. The first time I saw it I thought it was just ok...but really...it's Paul Rudd at his finest. If you've never seen it I suggest you rent it this weekend, City Slicka.

* Parenthood is on tonight! You should watch that show, because it's awesome.

That's all I have for today. I'll try to do better next time. Until then...

Goodnight Canada.

Song of the Day: Youth Group - Shadow Land

What Should We Add???

2010-04-16T13:55:00.004-04:00

As you can see, I've added a nice little poll to the left side of the page. This is for you guys to help me decide what the new daily feature should be.

A while ago, when I did away with Beer of the Day and GRE word of the day, I suggested some things that could keep song of the day company. However, I never got around to incorporating any of them.

Now is the time to give "Song of the Day" a friend. Here are the contestants..

- Picture of the Day:
I'd add a picture to represent each day. The picture will represent something I'm doing that day, how I feel that day or it will just be something cool or funny I've seen recently. For instance, today's picture would be...
I chose this because in 30mins I have to head out to Papa John's Cardinal Stadium to work the Spring Football game. Also, while I'm there I'm going to become best friends with Charlie Strong.

- Quote of the Day:
Basically, I'd just choose a different quote everyday. It might be a song lyric, it might be meaningful, it might be a movie quote. It would just be a quote everyday. Here's what today's would be:
"Now if you'll excuse me, I'm going to go on an overnight drunk, and in 10 days I'm going to set out to find the shark that ate my friend and destroy it. Anyone who wants to tag along is more than welcome." - Steve Zissou, The Life Aquatic

- Weird Fact of the Day:
My brother gave me this book of useless information a while ago and it's really pretty interesting. Each day I'll just share a fact. Example:
---The dot over a lowercase i or j is called a "tittle"

- Life of Brian Fact of the Day:
Each and everyday I'll tell you something about me that you may not known. Today's would be...
---LoB Fact of the Day: I took a blind date to my senior prom

- Favorite of the Day:
I love playing the "favorite game." Everyday I'd just tell you my favorite something. It could be cereal, ice cream flavor, article of clothing, etc. I'd then encourage you all to share your answers.
Ex. Favorite Candy Bar - Almond Joy

So there you go, a little taste of each option. Vote for your favorite and then we'll add one to the regular rotation. If you have any questions or can't decide on just one let me know...we'll work something out.

Alright gang, I'm off to hang out with Charlie Strong. Have a great weekend!

Song of the Day: The Zombies - Tell Her No

Still a bit confused...

2010-04-15T15:06:00.002-04:00

Hey gang, how are we today? Good? Good.

So I haven't really figured out what I'm going to change about the blog...or if I'm going to change anything at all.

For the past 3 or 4 weeks, I just haven't really been diggin' the blog too much. A lot of it is linked to the fact that the end of the school semester is near and I have assignments out the wazoo. But, it's not all because of that. Part of me just feels like the blog needs to be revamped. The current system has worked for quite some time now, but maybe it's run it's course? Maybe a less structured schedule would be more effective? For instance, I've kind of established this 5 days a week schedule...but there are often times I think of something that I'd like to share on Friday night or Saturday and instead of just posting it, I think..."I should save that for a post next week." Then I forget what I was gonna share and everyone loses.

On the other hand, the current system has worked for almost 2 years now. So maybe no change is needed?

I just don't know.

However, here's what I do know.

1.) I'm not going to stop blogging
2.) I do want to inject some more excitement into the blog
3.) This is going to be a trial and error scenario
4.) I have some ideas about changes that need some polishing before going into action
5.) I need more time to think about all of this
6.) Any input you guys could share would be helpful

One thing I know I'm going to do is add more pictures and videos. I've noticed that when I read blogs, they are much more fun to read when there are pictures and videos present. If it's just a bunch of text, it can feel like homework after a while.

With that in mind, I'm going to try to add a youtube video of the song of the day everyday...this way you guys can get a quick listen without having to go to itunes or anywhere else.

That's all I know for now, hopefully I'll have more polished ideas and a better vision for the blog tomorrow...or Monday.

Until then...

Song of the Day: The Black Keys - Strange Times

Ch-Ch-Changes...

2010-04-14T16:40:00.002-04:00

Hey everyone, I'm considering some possible changes to the blog. Nothing major (I don't think), but I just feel like the blog has been watered down as of late. I'm brainstorming ideas on how to kinda revamp it and add some excitement. I've got some ideas, but I'm just not sure yet. However, because of the way my mind works...I can't focus on anything blog related until I settle these possible changes. Which means this is the extent of your Wednesday post. I know it's lame, but I think everyone will benefit from this in the long run.

I'll be back tomorrow with some ideas. Rest assured, I am not quitting the blog and any big changes will be voted on by the readers.

Also feedback from you guys would be helpful. What do you like most about the blog? Least? Any ideas, comments or suggestions? I appreciate any and all input.

Stay tuned for more info. Thanks!

Song of the Day: Llama - To Believe

Tuesday Tidbits...

2010-04-13T15:32:00.003-04:00

Annnd they're off...

* My allergies are killing me today. Maybe it's because of the massive amounts of pollen in Louisville right now? I mean seriously...let's get it under control.

* On Friday night I went to Ear X-Tacy to buy some new tunes. I turned the corner to head to the "Rock/Pop" section and almost bumped into some dude. It was Jim James. I didn't say anything to him, but it was pretty cool. I kinda wish he would have bought one of his own albums, that would have been funny. To commemorate the fact that we're now best friends...here's an old video of Jim James that I found the other day:

* I've always hated Ben Rothlisberger. He just seems like your typical a-hole football player. Naturally, when he issued a statement yesterday, where he apologized for being an idiot, I was still pissed off. The reason I was pissed? Because he failed to apologize for his haircut!
Really? That's just terrible. How can you expect to be taken seriously with that going on?

* With college basketball winding down and school about to be through for the semester, I've decided that I'm going to finish the 2nd season of The West Wing soon. Also, I've decided it's time for my yearly viewing of the first and second seasons of The O.C.! I'm pretty pumped.

* Here's an article from SI about how studly Charlie Strong is...check it. Honestly, how awful was Steve Kragthorpe?

* I'm posting this last video for two reasons. First, so you can see some highlights of new UofL player Justin Coleman, especially the dunk at the 1:30 mark (The kick pass is from a potential new Cardinal as well). Second, so you can hear the most random selection of music for a basketball video ever...enjoy!

That's all for today kiddos! Enjoy your Tuesdays!

Song of the day: Alexi Murdoch - Orange Sky

It's Go Time...

2010-04-12T15:28:00.002-04:00

I had a pretty busy but relaxing weekend. Now, it's time to regroup because the next few weeks are going to be crazy. Let's take a look at what's going on...

In the next two weeks...
- 3 presentations
- 3 papers
- 3 exams
- Work 6 softball games
- Work 3 Lacrosse games
- Work the Football Spring Game

The two weeks after that get way more fun...
- Trip to Charleston for My Morning Jacket Concert
- Softball Starts
- Trip back to Charleston for Taylor's Graduation, plus some beach time
- Work the Big East Softball Championship
- Abbey Road on the River
- Seems like there is something else going on too...Oh yeah, Taylor Moves Home For Good!

So yeah, the next month and a half is super busy, but once the next two weeks of work are over...there's good times on the horizon!

Also, we opened our Volleyball season last night by winning 2 of 3. Get 'em Law Dogs!

Time to buckle down and get after it!

Song of the Day: Jakob Dylan - Lend A Hand

Quick Friday Facts...

2010-04-09T16:13:00.004-04:00

The weekend is just minutes away and I almost totally forgot about blogging today. Let's make it quick...

1.) I have to go to a mixer tonight. Grad School is hosting an alumni speaker series this weekend and while we weren't forced to go...being absent is majorly frowned upon. It won't be so bad, but getting dressed up and mingling with strangers isn't exactly how I enjoy spending my Friday nights. Plus, the last mixer I attended was in the 8th grade and it included slow dances to Kci and JoJo and plenty of Lou Bega's Mambo #5! I'm guessing this mixer will be different from the one in 8th grade...but let's hope the Lou Bega part is still involved. Also, wearing a suit and having to be somewhere at 9 a.m. on Saturday is not what I call "fun." At least, we're talking about sports and I get to do some networking....which apparently is mega important when you're an "adult."

2.) The Tiger Woods craze is...crazy! (See what I did there?). I don't agree with Tiger's actions and I think Tiger's a decent size tool box...but I still kinda want him to win. Quite simply, Tiger makes golf more exciting than the other golfers. Except Freddy Couples...I love Freddy Couples.

3.) Tom Jurich is a stud. He spoke to our class and some other folks (including the basketball team) last night. He talked about his vision and how thrilled he is with the current state of Louisville Athletics. Needless to say, it got me all jacked up.

4.) KFC is trying to kill us. If you haven't seen it, this is the new item for sale at KFC...The Double Down:
Yeah, that's a bacon and cheese sandwich with fried chicken as the bun. There's a small part of me that thinks that looks delicious. There's a bigger part of me that wants to vomit while looking at the picture.

5.) I would love to take a nap right now. Leaving work and taking a nap when I got home would be phenomenal. Not gonna happen though, I have to go mix with people.

Have a great weekend everyone!

Song of the Weekend: The Jayhawks - Save It For A Rainy Day

Club Trillion...

2010-04-08T14:51:00.003-04:00

Today I want to talk about the phenomenon that is Club Trillion.
Club trillion was started a couple years ago by three walk-on basketball players for Ohio State. They never played except for the final minute of blow out games. During that minute they would try to accomplish absolutely nothing. Therefore their box score would be a 1, for minutes played, and then a bunch of zeros...better known as the "trillion."

Club trillion also started a blog that consists of "life views from the end of the bench" and it is absolutely hilarious. As the years went on, two of the original members became more important players on the team, which left Mark Titus as the lone member.

Now some of you may have heard of Club Trillion and/or Mark Titus and that's probably because in the last two years he's become mega famous. In fact, in a recent poll the people of Columbus, OH were asked to pick their favorite OSU b-ball player and Titus almost beat Evan Turner...yes, player of the year, Evan Turner. Or maybe you heard of him when he tried to put his name in the NBA draft "early entry" list after last season and had the NBA deny his request because they claimed he was "mocking the system."

I had heard about Club Trillion a while ago, I started reading his blog and I follow him on twitter. However, I kinda lost track of the blog and such during the last year. Luckily, my brother sent me this video the other day:

Simply brilliant!

In the last few days I have started reading the blog posts he has written for the last few months. The guy is simply awesome. He is the first celebrity bench warmer ever!

I really suggest reading his blog here. It is 100% worth your time.

Also, if you want to buy a Club Trillion t-shirt and become part of the Trillion Man March, you can do so here. Some of the proceeds from the shirt sales go to helping kids with life threatening illnesses and some proceeds will also go to scholarship funds that Titus is setting up for future benchwarmers/walk-ons.
Song of the Day: Peter Bjorn and John - Young Folks

5 Songs I Wish I Would Have Written...

2010-04-07T15:19:00.003-04:00

Every once in a while I hear a song and I think to myself, "I wish I had written that. If I did nothing else in my life, I'd feel successful for having written that song." These songs aren't neccesarily my favorite songs, but they're just brilliant songs. The two perfect examples of this are "In My Life" by the Beatles and "Imagine" by John Lennon. "In My Life" is not my favorite Beatles song, but man...I wish I had written it. Same is true for "Imagine." I have a running list and it changes from time to time, but here are 5 songs that I wish I had written.

5.) Colin Hay - Waiting For My Real Life To Begin

4.) The Avett Brothers - Murder In The City

3.) Van Morrison - Sweet Thing
No video, click here.

2.) My Morning Jacket - Bermuda Highway

1.) The Beatles - You've Got To Hide Your Love Away

If anyone has any songs they wish they had written...feel free to share.

Have a good one.

Song of the Day: Dr. Dog - Where'd All The Time Go?

Tuesday Tidbits...

2010-04-06T15:18:00.003-04:00

The ball is tipped, there you are...

* What a game! Honestly, Gordon Hayward was about an inch away from making the greatest shot in the history of college basketball. That's not an overstatement either. A half court shot at the buzzer for the national title? Man, literally too good to be true. Still, what an amazing tournament and a great game! Please leave it be, NCAA.

* As great as the game was, Jennifer Hudson's rendition of "One Shining Moment" was equally as awful. I was going to post it, but I can't be responsible for other people's ear drums shattering from all the screaming. Plus, why do we need to see Jennifer Hudson 10 times during the montage? She's not that attractive. Ugh, way to blow it CBS.

* Also, here's my favorite play from the game:
In case you missed it, Matt "The mustache" Howard absolutely leveled Kyle Singler (aka, that creepy monk from the DaVinci Code) on the last play. It was awesome.

* If you're like me, you're probably pretty bummed about the end of college b-ball season. Well, Gus Johnson can keep you company through the off season right here.

* Braves rookie Jason Heyward homered in his first Major League at-bat yesterday. Also, the Braves started the Bobby Cox farewell tour with a 16-5 thrashing of the Cubs. Boo-Yah!

* Dr. Dog has a new cd "Shame, Shame" out today. I really loved their last album and this one has a song that features the one and only Yim Yames. I bought it at lunch and I'm mega excited to listen to it later.

* Not doing anything tomorrow? Come on out to Ulmer Stadium at 6 for the UofL v. UK softball game. I'll be running the video board and/or the music. Fun will be had by all.

* Parenthood is on at 10 on NBC tonight...you should watch it.

That's all for today. Enjoy your Tuesday.

Song of the Day: Dr. Dog - Shadow People

10 Things I Like and Dislike These Days:

2010-04-05T15:07:00.002-04:00

Haven't done this in a while...

* DISLIKE: Internet troubles. The blogger site was down for most of the afternoon and prevented me from posting on Friday. I apologize for that, but there wasn't much I could do about it. Nevertheless, I'm sorry to those of you who thought my April Fool's joke was for real and spent the whole weekend worrying about the future of the human race.

* LIKE: Sports. NCAA b-ball championship and opening day are both today. The Braves play the Cubs at 4 today, hopefully the Braves start the Bobby Cox farewell tour off with a bang. Also, go Butler!

* DISLIKE: Sweaty classrooms. Why do schools refuse to turn on the air conditioning? Honestly, it's 80 degrees in Louisville today and I bet the air isn't on at school. Every school I've ever attended has had a hard time pulling the trigger on the A/C when spring rolls around....it's awful.

* LIKE: Infusing Bourbon. I infused some bourbon with oranges last week and it's delicious. I'm thinking about doing a lime infusion next. After that....I'm going for bacon infused bourbon!

* DISLIKE: Haircuts. I need to get one...I'm not excited in any way shape or form.

* LIKE: Fantasy Sports. We all know about the CrapBags magical run through the fantasy football season and playoffs...and now the JuwannaMen have followed. I came from behind to knock off Lautaro's team in last week's championship. That's right, that makes me 2 for 2 in Fantasy Championships this year and puts me in the driver's seat for the "fantasy coach of the year" award.

* DISLIKE: End of Semester School Work. I had forgotten how awesome it is to have all of your teachers hurl assignments at you during the last 3 weeks of school. Between now and April 26th I have 3 group presentations, 3 tests and 3 papers due. I hate it.

* LIKE: Old Friends. Todd was in town this weekend for Easter and he came over for a bit on Saturday to hang out and have some brews. Additionally, Tom is back in town for like 3 months. We've all gone our own ways the last few years...but when we do get together it's like nothing's changed. Good times.

* LIKE: Softball. Our roster is pretty much full for the upcoming softball season and I'm totally pumped. I still need to get some equipment, but most importantly we still need a team name...we have some pretty good suggestions, though.

* LIKE: My Porch. I spent about an hour on Saturday, scrubbing, sweeping and vacuuming the porch at my apartment. Not to brag, but it looks fantastic now. With the warmer weather and a clean porch...good times are ahead.

That's all for today gang, sorry again about Friday. Hope you guys had wonderful Easters. Until tomorrow...

Song of the Day: Thin Lizzy - The Boys Are Back In Town.

Blog Blues...

2010-04-01T15:26:00.002-04:00

So...I'm afraid I've got some not so hot news. With school, work, my internship, getting married later this year, etc....I've decided that the blog will be coming to an end. When I started this blog my mind was full of great ideas to blog about and I had a ton of energy and time to devote to writing about them everyday. However, as the days and weeks go by...I'm simply not finding the time, energy and creativity to blog at the same level that I used to. The posts are shorter, I'm finding it to be more of a chore...and quite frankly...I think we're losing readers.

I know some of you will be sad about this decision...and I apologize. However, I signed up to blog to the best of my ability and right now that's just not happening. I think maybe the "Life of Brian" just got too big too fast...kinda like the O.C. Perhaps I just blogged at such a high rate, I emptied the tank too soon. You feel me?

Anyway, I'm terribly sorry to those who have read for so long. I'm sure there's lots of questions you guys have and I'd be glad to answer all of them. I will have one final blog "finale" post in a few days, but also, while I won't rule out blogging again sometime in the future...I can honestly tell you guys that I won't be blogging on a regular basis anytime soon. I need to just stop it all for several weeks at the least...like I said it just got to be too much of a chore. On the flip side I do have one request for you guys...I'd like you to just take a minute and think about today and what this day means....then realize you guys have been fooled. Now that we all realize I was just having some fun, I'll include one final line to dupe the people who skim the LoB and just read the first and last sentences of each post.

Once again, I appreciate your support. I've enjoyed writing for you guys and I hope you guys have enjoyed reading. I'm sorry it has to end like this...but I think it's best to go out on top. Take care everyone.

Song of the Day: Jeff Buckley - Last Goodbye

Dustin' off the ol' ball glove...

2010-03-31T16:19:00.003-04:00

When I was younger I loved playing baseball. In fact, I just loved baseball in general. As I've gotten older, my love of baseball has dwindled. However, I've re-gained some of my baseball passion this spring. Some of it has to do with the fact that UofL is crazy good at baseball, some of it has to do with the excitement surrounding Jason Heyward at Braves Spring Training, but most of it has to do with the fact that I'm starting a softball team.

For quite sometime I've wanted to play on a softball team and this year some of my buds and I have put that plan into action. This morning I went over and signed up for the Men's C league at Seneca Park. I'm totally pumped.

Here are the main reasons that I am so pumped:

1.) I get to be active.
- I simply have to exercise more. I'm not fat, I'm not unhealthy...but it's a slippery slope and there's no reason for me to be so lazy. Also, I just like playing sports. My fitness will also be helped by Volleyball which begins in about 2 weeks.

2.) Sunflower seeds.
- I love sunflower seeds, but if you're not playing baseball/softball...it's tough to find a time to eat them. I plan on averaging a bag a game.

3.) The Dugout.
- More than any other sport, baseball lends itself to some good ol' fashioned camaraderie. When you're in the dugout there is a lot of down time, so there's lots of talking, trying to spit in things, etc. When I stopped playing baseball the shenanigans in the dugout were what I missed most.

4.) Beers after the game.
- It's the spring/summer so after the game there will be plenty of time to head to a nearby watering hole and grab some beers and some wings with the team. When I was younger our baseball team would go to Hooters after big wins. It was fun and there wasn't even any beer involved. I imagine beer will make the post game meal more enjoyable.

Also, I'm dedicating this season to Bobby Cox. The Braves skipper is calling it quits after the season and it breaks my heart. However, what better why to honor a man who represents all that is right in baseball, than by getting together with your buds to play some ball and drink some beers? This one's for you Bobby!
Get out your gloves and put on your caps, gang...it's time to play ball!

Song of the Day: John Fogerty - Centerfield

Tuesday Tidbits...

2010-03-30T15:27:00.003-04:00

It's Me Mario...I'ma gonna wiiin!

* Check out who stopped by my local guitar shop the other day:
Yup, Mr. Yim Yames his self paid a visit to Mick and the other folks at Steilberg String Instruments. One of the biggest bummers about starting grad school is that I don't have time to take lessons anymore and as a result, don't get to head to Steilberg's as often. Still, pretty cool that Yim stopped in.

* In addition to the fine bourbon that I blogged about on Friday, Lautaro has also recently picked up a bottle of Jefferson's:
I haven't tried it yet, but the bottle is cool. Man, we've got bourbon out the wazoo.

* The New Jersey Nets won their 10th game of the season last night, meaning they will not be known as the worst team in NBA history. They've actually been decent this past month and much of that is credited to the outstanding play of their rookie Terrence Williams. Seriously, T-Will's playin' like a bad ass this month...his future is bright.

* We've all had bad days...but I think this chick just experienced one of the worst days ever:

I mean seriously, it's bad enough to miss a shot that could send your team to the final four...but to miss a wide open layup...twice...that's what we call "choking." Still, gotta feel bad for her.

* It's always lame when College Basketball comes to an end, but it does allow me to relax a bit and focus on some of my other hobbies, such as music. Luckily, this spring we'll get hit with some new albums from some outstanding artists...check it:
4/16 - Dr. Dog
5/4 - New Pornographers
5/4 - Big Boi
5/11 - The National
5/18 - Band of Horses
5/18 - The Black Keys
I will but all of those, it will be awesome.

* There are few things I hate more than the NFL draft. I mean honestly, it's still like 3 weeks away...who cares?

* Tuesday's are not super exciting.

That's all I have for today. Have a good one!

Song of the Day: The Whigs - Right Hand On My Heart

My Old Kentucky Home...

2010-03-29T15:13:00.003-04:00

Everyone knows that the University of Kentucky lost to West Virginia in the NCAA tournament this weekend. Most people know that I don't particularly like UK. I was out to eat with some friends on Saturday and I didn't even watch the game. Yet, I still kept track and the UK loss brought a smile to my face. One of our friends lives in Shelbyville, KY (Shelbyville: We take what we can get!) and asked me why I was rooting against UK. She is a fan of the state of Kentucky and made the point that across the nation Kentuckians get such a bad/unfair reputation, shouldn't we root for all of our teams to win so we can be known for something else? I said, yeah in a perfect world that would be awesome. In fact, I root for all other teams in Kentucky (WKU, Eastern, Murray St, etc.) but I don't root for Kentucky. She then asked me to explain why and I thought I should probably explain to everyone why I hate UK.

To start off, I don't root against UK because I'm jealous and I don't simply root against UK because their our rival and I don't want them to win. I root against UK because if they win...I have to hear about it from their fans....and god are they obnoxious.

I know what you're saying, "But Brian, you celebrate when Louisville wins...what's wrong with that?" That's true, but I don't rub it in UK fans' faces. I celebrate the fact that my team won and I move on.

Also, this isn't something that has started recently...here are some highlights in my life as a UofL fan.

- In 2nd grade UofL lost to UK, I was sad. However, my best friend was a UK fan and decided that it wasn't enough for his team to win and my team to lose. That little bastard actually sent me a kleenex in the mail that said, "use this to wipe up your tears! Go Cats!" The best part is that his parents actually helped him send that. I mean really? Way to be a good sport. Now, I know that was a looong time ago and I'm not bringing it up because it still bothers me...I'm bringing it up to show how long this has been going on.

- In 1996 and 1998 UK won the championship. Guess what happened? Within 10 minutes of the final horn in both years, my cousins on my Mom's side (UK fans) called my house. Thank God for caller I.D., I didn't pick up. Still, they left messages saying, "We're #1! Go Cats! UofL stinks!" I mean honestly? Your team wins the national championship and the first thing you think of is, "Oh, let me call my cousins to rub it in their faces!" I can assure you that if UofL wins the national championship in my lifetime, the last people on my mind will be UK fans. Not to mention I'd be crying so hard and drinking so much that I won't be able to work a phone.

- After UL loses in High School I would often walk into homeroom to find a note on my desk that would read something like, "Nice game Loserville!" or "UL Sucks" both super creative and unnecessary.

- Throughout the rest of high school and college UofL started to get better and UK started to get a little worse. Hell, we even beat them a few times. Still, I had plenty of phone calls and text messages after UK wins and UL loses. All saying the same thing, "UL SUCKS!" "GO CATS" "GO BIG BLUE" It was predictable and it was lame.

Now, those are just highlights...I could write you a 200 page book about how many times UK fans have been terrible to me over the years. I just don't have that kinda time. I still have UK fans call, text or e-mail me on a regular basis, it's sad really.

Here's the kicker though...most people would probably say, "Well, Brian...you've rubbed it in when UL's won and UK's lost before, so don't play that sympathy card with me!" Honestly, that's not true. I'm not going to say I haven't taken the occasional shot at UK in my lifetime because God knows I have...but I've never sought out a UK fan just to rub it in when they have lost and I've never done it when UL has won a big game.

People probably find that hard to believe and I'm sure UK fans don't believe it...but prove that I'm not telling the truth and I'll admit I'm wrong.

Here's the reason why I don't rub it in....losing sucks. There is nothing worse than your team losing a big game or getting knocked out of the tournament. Actually, the only thing worse is having that happen and then having some idiot rub it in. It sucks a lot and when it happens to you several times a year for 24 years...you tend to develop some hatred toward those fans that do it and the team they support. Especially, when you don't return the favor when you win or they lose.

I don't root for UK, in fact...I hate UK. But I don't just hate UK for the hell of it, I have 24 years of reasons. I know there are UofL fans out there who are obnoxious and do rub in UK losses...but I'm not one of them, so start calling and texting them after games....they deserve it.

In fact, I've never started an argument about UL/UK stuff. If you bring it up, you better believe I'll get into it with you and defend my team...but I don't bring it up. If you comment on a Facebook status of mine, I'll respond...but I've never commented on a UK fan's status and trust me...there are some real gems out there that I've wanted to respond to.

At the end of the day, it's not worth it, it's like arguing politics...which is another thing I don't do. I root for UofL, UK fans root for UK...nothing is going to change that. I root against UK because I don't want to hear their fans rub it in my face if they win, it's pretty simple.

The UofL vs. UK rivalry is the ugliest in all of sports, I'll argue that till I die. During Football and especially Basketball season it causes a bunch of tension and anger across the state. It would be nice if we could all support each other and give Kentucky a better reputation across the nation...but that won't ever happen.

But basketball is over now and with 4 months until football starts, we can all rest easy and focus on Spring, which allows us to shed our redneck image for a few months...only to obtain the image of drunk, southerners who love to yell at race horses! At least we do that together.

So, fellow Kentuckians...I raise a glass of bourbon to you. We may seem like drunk-inbred-barefoot-rednecks to everyone else...but we all know the truth! (Just 80% of us are drunk-inbred-barefoot-rednecks).

Here's to Derby!

Song of the Day: John Prine - My Old Kentucky Home

Stocking My Bar...

2010-03-26T16:12:00.005-04:00

For most of my adult life, I've enjoyed the occasional drink or two. Over the last year or so I've really expanded my horizons and I've developed a good appreciation for fine liquor....especially bourbon. The problem is that I don't make a lot of money. As a result, I tend to be cheaper liquor and I only buy it as needed. However, with this past Christmas and my recent birthday my bar is looking more and more...how do you say it....bad ass!

For Christmas I added a nice bottle of Woodford Reserve courtesy of Taylor's Parents
While Woodford isn't my favorite bourbon, it's very good and I enjoy it quite a bit. Also, the bottle came with a horse bottle stopper.

Also for Christmas I received a bottle of Four Roses Small Batch from my Mom.
Four Roses is my favorite bourbon and the small batch, which I hadn't had until this bottle, is fantastic. Extremely smooth and delicious.

When my birthday rolled around, I didn't know what to ask for...but booze always makes a good gift.

Ben and Megs gave me a bottle of Basil Hayden's
I've tried this before, but never owned a bottle. It is one of my favorite bourbon's for sure though. In addition, I love the bottle and the fact that this bourbon was first made when Kentucky, as a state, was 4 years old and George Washington was president.

Finally, as a final birthday gift, my dad gave me a bottle of Four Roses Single Barrel.
I haven't tried this one yet, but it's on my immediate things to do list for this weekend. My mouth waters a bit just looking at it.

In addition to these four, My mom also gave me this UofL decanter for my birthday
It fits the collection nicely.

So, while I'm not bourbon expert by any means...I like bourbon a lot and I've been wanting to stock my bar with a good selection of bourbon for some time. Luckily, thanks to good gift givers, I've finally been able to stock my bar like an adult. Don't worry though, there's always room for some Very Old Barton and Kentucky Gentleman on my shelf.

Also, the top shelf of my desk, which used to be full of CDs, proved to be a good spot for my "private stock."

Have a good weekend everyone. Cheers!

Song of the Day: Billy Blues - Water, Wood and Corn

Spring Cleaning...

2010-03-25T15:25:00.004-04:00

Recently I noticed that my room at my apartment was getting over run with stuff. Old magazines, books, CDs, etc. I'm a bit of a pack rat so this wasn't too unusual. However, I realized a little spring cleaning would fix this issue.

The main issue was my desk. I feel like desks tend to be places where junk collects most often. I needed to fix two things about my desk. First, I needed to find a different place to store old magazines, pieces of mail, cards, etc that I have collected. Luckily, I have a Beatles box for an end table and I was able to stash all of that stuff in there. Next, I needed to find a new home for some of my CDs. I tried moving them to different areas and nothing was working. It was frustrating.

Luckily, my next move was to head to Target and look for a shelf of some kind. While looking at Target I realized I didn't really have room for another shelving unit in my room. Finally, I decided I could get some new shelves to put my TV on...which would also give me some shelf space for CDs. I got home and assembled the shelves and they're perfect...here's a pic I took with my phone:
It's not amazing, but it's certainly better. The funniest thing is how happy it made me. The TV stand I had before was too big, too low, it didn't match and it was overall a piece of crap. I hated it from the moment I bought it, but it was cheap and easy...so I put up with it and lived with a cluttered room for a year and a half.

Overall my spring cleaning took me about 2 1/2 hours and cost me 24 dollars. It's crazy how such a small amount of time and money changed so much. I've been sitting at work all day thinking of how pumped I am to sit in my room later, drink some bourbon, listen to some music and enjoy the lack of clutter.

Less is more, people...less is more.

Have a good one.

Song of the Day: The Replacements - Can't Hardly Wait

101 Small Pleasures You Can Enjoy Everyday....

2010-03-24T16:33:00.002-04:00

On the front page of yahoo they had a link to an article called, "101 small pleasures you can enjoy every day."

I'm always interested in these kinds of lists because they are often absurd and ridiculous. So, I read the list while keeping in mind that these are things I can do for a bit of enjoyment...every single day.

When taking that approach, the list becomes hilarious. Let's take a look:

5.) the first daffodils of spring
- I'm sure that is nice, but I bet it's tough to enjoy in October.

11.) the way babies smell
- Hmmm...what if you don't have any kids who are babies? Or any sort of access to a baby? Do they make baby air fresheners? I'm lost on how to enjoy this one everyday without looking like a creep.

15.) finding a couple forgotten dollars in your pocket
- When this happens it is totally awesome. However, if every day you reach in your pocket and find some money you forgot about, you might want to go to the doctor because as it turns out...you're kinda stupid.

20.) playing hookey
- I actually thought that said "hockey" the first time I read it. Still, hookey every day? I think that means you're unemployed...or will be soon.

28.) old fashioned photo booths
- What? I don't even really know what to say to that one...unless you own an old fashioned photo booth.

32.) rainy afternoons
- I love rainy afternoons. However, in Louisville today there is a 0 percent chance of rain. Hard to enjoy this one today.

43.) The Beatles
- True

47.) staying in your pj's all day
- Every day? Just like the hookey one...unemployed or soon to be.

59.) sunshine
- What!?!? How am I supposed to enjoy sunshine and rainy afternoons each and every day. This list is bull shit.

70.) the perfect taco
- Hahaha. That should just read...eating a taco. They're all perfect.

76.) the smell of gasoline
- Whoever made this list has issues.

86.) reading your child a bedtime story
- Again, no kids and no access to kids.

101.) bacon and pancakes cooking on Saturday morning
- Haha, save the best for last. Good luck enjoying that one on the other 6 days of the week.

I realize that before the article starts it says that you shouldn't enjoy these all in the same day, but if you're going to make that statement wouldn't you change the title? Plus, pretending to do all those in one day makes it much more hilarious. The should have called it, "101 small pleasures you can enjoy every day if you are a forgetful, lazy, unemployed, taco-loving, gas huffing, creepster who hangs out with other people's kids....and love the Beatles.

I got a pretty good kick out of that list...I'm not gonna lie.

Song of the Day: Black Keys - I've Got Mine

Tuesday Tidbits...

2010-03-23T14:35:00.003-04:00

Sit back, relax and enjoy the tidbits...

* While the games in this year's NCAA tourney have been outstanding, the commercials have been pretty legit too. Here are my two favorites so far:

* The new She & Him album came out today. For those of you who don't know, She & Him is Zooey Deschanel and M. Ward. I picked it up at lunch today and I'm enjoying it so far, nice record for the spring time.
* Also, Wes Anderson's take on "The Fantastic Mr. Fox" is out today on DVD. I haven't seen this yet, but I really want to...I bet it's good.
* I got my grade for my first midterm test last night. I was pretty worried going in and so were a bunch of the other students. Never fear, I got a 95% yo! I was/am super pumped. It's good to know that all of that SportsCenter is paying off.

* Guess what? I was officially invited to be a member of my brother's volleyball team today. I subbed quite a bit last season, but I was unsure if I'd get asked to be full time. I'm super pumped. Our first game is Sunday. I've got a feeling we're taking the Championship this year!

* Some of my buddies and I are thinking about starting a softball team. We'll probably be in a "C" league...that way we can focus on beer drinking and not worry too much about the game. The first step is finding a team name, J.D.'s suggestion is in the lead right now..."The Master Batters"

* The weather in the 'Ville is gorgeous right now. Kinda cool, but sunny and warm enough. I really liiiike it.

* Best part of being out of town on your birthday? It turns into a week long celebration! Woo!

That's all for today kids, I'll try to do better next time. Until till then...

Goodnight Canada.

Song of the Day: The Beatles - And Your Bird Can Sing

Back to Reality...

2010-03-22T15:19:00.005-04:00

That was me last week....it was nice.

The past week was great. While not as rambunctious or wild as Spring Breaks of the past, it was great to not only visit Taylor, but also hang out with Will and Danielle. Here is a list-style recap of the past week.

* Charleston has nice weather this time of year

* I got new shoes

* Bat Fight

* I feel like I gained about 15 pounds last week, lots of good food.

* UofL lost on my birthday...it was lame.

* I ate a bacon, chili, cheese burger on my birthday...it was not lame.

* Taylor gave me a cool beer stein.

* The Beach is awesome.

* I'm not so good at the new Fifa

* meat sale

* We successfully made "Can't Hardly Wait" and "Mean Girls" drinking games. Two fantastic movies.

* I've had Jamison before, but I never really realized how delicious it was until this past week.

* How crazy is this NCAA tourney? You gotta pull for St. Mary's, No. Iowa and Cornell...especially Cornell.

* Who's chair is that? Not my chair...No way.

Some of those things are inside jokes. I'll explain in person if you care.

It was a bummer to head back to the normal grind, but things are about to get crazy. I have more than 3x the amount of projects and papers due in the next month than I had the entire semester so far. Also, I'll be done with my first semester of Grad School in 36 days. Also, Taylor moves home in less than 2 months! Crazy awesome things are going on!

Enjoy your Mondays.

Song of the Day: Blink 182 - Dammit

March Madness...

2010-03-12T16:08:00.004-05:00

Wooo! I'm super pumped today! Anyone know why? It's because I'm about to embark on the best 10 day stretch of the year. As the weather keeps getting nicer, people continue to wake up from their winter slumbers to help me celebrate these wonderful days. It's fantastic, feel free to join.

Here's what's going on:

1.) St. Paddy's Day:
For me St. Paddy's began last night with the "Blessing of the Beer" at O'Shea's, will continue Saturday at the St. Paddy's parade and then will go out with a bang on March 17th! I love Ireland, I love Guinness, I love Jamison, I love St. Paddy's day!

2.) Spring Break 2010
I'm back in school now, so that means I get a Spring Break! Woo-hoo! Next week, I'll be heading to Charleston with Will and Danielle to stay with Taylor and celebrate the craziness that is Spring Break. While this one will probably be a bit different from the Spring Break trips I've been on in the past, it's still going to be wicked fun. We leave on Sunday and we'll be back next Saturday. Boom!

3.) The NCAA Basketball tournament opening weekend.
I love the whole tournament, but nothing is better then the first weekend. Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday there will be games all day long...and they are all significant. The Cards are limping into the tourney and they probably won't do much, if any, damage. But, they'll get a shot to do something crazy and so will 64 other teams!

4.) My Birthday
I've never been a huge fan of my own birthday, but I'm pretty excited about this one. I'll be 24, which is an alright age, but most importantly...I'll be on SB in Charleston and I'll be able to go to a bar and drink beer and watch basketball all day long! So, it should be a good day!

Alright guys, I hope you all have great weekends of your own. I wont have daily posts next week, but I'll try to stop by and say hello. If I don't, it's because I'm at the beach, or at a bar, or watching basketball, or having a wonderful time celebrating the best 10 days of the year.

Take care.

Song of the Day: LMFAO & Lil John - Shots

The Sound of Your Own Voice...

2010-03-11T15:23:00.002-05:00

I'm I alone in saying that I hate the sound of my own voice?

Now, let me clarify that just a bit. I don't hate the way my voice sounds to me when I talk, but whenever I hear my voice played back in a home movie, phone message, etc., I always cringe and think I sound like a doofus.

I mean honestly, when I talk I can hear the words coming out of my mouth and they sound fine. I don't have a strong accent, I don't have a speech impediment or anything, but I just don't like the way it sounds when it's played back to me.

I actually did have trouble saying my R's when I was younger. I guess all kids talk funny for a little bit, but I couldn't pronounce my "R's" until I was like 5 or 6 (I think). It was made even worse by the fact that I loved playing cards and my favorite game was...War. Or as I called it, "Wauw." It also sucked the entire year that I was "Fauw" years old. Oh well.

I don't really know what the point of this post is, I just know that I don't like the way my voice sounds when I hear it played back to me. Do you guys think I talk funny? Do you think you talk funny? This might actually explain why I think I'm an outstanding singer and the rest of the human race disagrees. I don't know.

Actually, I think there is a way to resolve this issue...I have to start talking with an accent or something. Or maybe I'll talk like Morgan Freeman. Ooh, what about a British Morgan Freeman? Yeah, I like that, gov-na'!

Alright guys, have a good Thursday!

Song of the Day: 38 Special - The Sound Of Your Voice

Wednesday Tidbits...

2010-03-10T16:24:00.004-05:00

I know it's weird...just roll with it.

* First off, I want to apologize for yesterday. I actually had a pretty nasty virus on my computer and it took pretty much the whole day to get it fixed. For the record, if you type "Independence and Probability" into google and then click on the wikipedia page, prepare for a virus. I'm not sure how that gave me a virus, but it's fixed and that's all that matters.

* Also, my midterms are over! Woo! I actually have a take home one to do tonight, but it's pretty easy and it will allow me to participate in one of my favorite pastimes...drinking beer while taking a test! Woo! School is awesome!

* Speaking of awesome, how about this weather, Louisville? Pretty amazing stuff. For those of you not here, it's about 69 degrees and sunny.

* So, you know what you should do on this gorgeous day? Sit inside and watch basketball!
Honestly, you can do what I do...which is open your windows (or in my case doors to my porch) and watch basketball. It's awesome. But really though, is there anything better then basketball during the (week) day? No, there isn't.

* Anyone else getting in the St. Paddy's Spirit? Apparently you can get a growler full of Guinness at Value Market, so that's cool. Also, I love St. Paddy's day.

* With the wedding just around the corner, Taylor and I talk often about our future home and what we will put in it. Sadly, she doesn't find all of my pieces of sports memorabilia, Beatles dolls, Keg-o-rator and drum set as things that should go in the living room. So, we've decided that I'll get a room, basement or garage to myself...basically, a man cave. With that in mind, I was surfing ebay recently and found this magnet for the keg-o-rator:
Totally awesome huh? For those of you that can't see, it's a cave man running out of the cave, which has a dart board, while wearing a UofL garment, holding a beer and spinning a basketball. There's also a grill involved....and what looks to be a dinosaur.

* Here's a cool picture of Freedom Hall that I ganked from the UofL website:
* Daylight savings time is this weekend which means we lose an hour of sleep. I hate springing forward.

* Broken Bells released their cd yesterday. Broken Bells is the group made up of DJ Danger Mouse and James Mercer (singer for the Shins). It's a pretty bangin' album.

That's all I have for today, I'll try to do better tomorrow. Until next time....

Goodnight Canada.

Song of the Day: Broken Bells - High Road

Tuesday Technical Difficulties

2010-03-09T15:38:00.002-05:00

I know you guys were expecting some tidbits today...but it's not going to happen. We've been experiencing some technical difficulties at the LoB headquarters and I've got a midterm in less than an hour. So, I'm just going to say sorry and tell you to go watch the Big East tournament instead of wasting your time on this blog.

Also, you should watch this again:

It never gets old!

Sorry gang, I'll give you some tidbits tomorrow.

Song of the Day: Wilco - Either Way

All Hail The Cardinal Spirit, All Hail Our UofL!

2010-03-08T14:19:00.004-05:00

At the last minute I was able to grab a ticket to Saturday's Freedom Hall finale. It was the greatest sports experience of my entire life and not even Walt Disney could have imagined a better finale for World Famous Freedom Hall!
I woke up on Saturday without a ticket. I didn't care, I was going to that game. Taylor's parents had their two season tickets and they both tried to give them to Taylor and/or me, but we didn't feel right taking them. My Mom had been in talks with a guy from her work who's friend runs the ticket office, but he was unsure if he could get tickets. Nevertheless, we all headed out to the hall around 11:00. When we got there we found there were no tickets to be found. One guy was selling one, for $250. We needed three. As hope began to die my mom got a call and there were two tickets waiting in Will-Call for her...YES! Next, mom found Taylor's parents' friend Doc and he had a pass that could get one more person in the gate. So there it was, we were all in...it was a minor miracle.

When we got to our seats the crowd was already electric. You could just feel that it was a special day. They played past UofL highlights on the video board before the game and the crowd was loud. Next, they honored the seniors and then UofL's living All-Americans were honored and then they honored the 86 and 80 championship teams and Denny Crum. The whole place was in a frenzy with Denny, Pervis, Griff, The McCrays, Dejuan Wheat and Billy Thompson in the house.

Next it was time to tip it off and Griff got us going (Fast Forward to the 50 second mark)

"Louisville, this is it. Let's Rumble" Said Dr. Dunkenstein. I've never been more jacked up in my entire life.

The game went on and Jerry Smith go us going with two threes and a dunk! The crowd was getting louder and louder. We went a little cold from the field and at the half we trailed by 5.

Halftime brought more Famous Alumni to the court and they somehow brought more energy to the crowd.

When the 2nd half started, the Cards tied it up within just a few minutes. Then Kyle Kuric entered his name on the UofL legends list by giving the greatest performance of his young career.
The sophomore wing player was averaging 3.5 points per game this season and less then 10 mins of playing time. With Jerry Smith out with a bruised hand and Reginald Delk cramping up, Kuric got some minutes and made some things happen.

19 mins, 4 threes, 4 dunks! It was amazing!

Right after his first Alley-Oop put us up 14, I found myself standing on top of the seats, pumping my fist in the air, yelling GO CARDS and high fiving everyone around me. It was the greatest moment I've ever experienced in Freedom Hall.

The game came to a close with the Cards up 78-68...It was time to celebrate.
Kuric was 6th man of the game:
Some fans rushed the floor and hoisted Jerry and Edgar up on their shoulders:
I still don't know how we all got in:
I even had to say goodbye to the Guinness stand:
And give one last C-A-R-D-S Cheer while going down the ramp:
Everyone else had left, a police officer came and made us leave...otherwise I'd still be there.

Then Denny said a few words, got choked up, made all of us cry and said, "Freedom Hall...Good Night!"
It was as perfect as it could be. A recording of John Tong welcomed us to Freedom Hall, they did the "Beat Purdue" cheer, the C-A-R-D-S guy led the loudest cheer I've ever heard. It was a big win, on senior day, over the #1 team in the land, locking up an NCAA bid, closing out Freedom Hall. I'll never forget the way I felt, the noise level , the pride, the excitement, the adrenaline, the joy, the happiness...it was a wonderful celebration of Louisville Basketball and the perfect way to bid farewell to Freedom Hall.

Go Cards!

Song of the Day: Kenny Loggins - This Is It

Freedom Hall...

2010-03-05T15:41:00.004-05:00

I had this plan to write a big, long, sappy post about how much I love Freedom Hall, but I'm not going to do that. Instead, I'm just going to list my favorite things, games, memories, etc. and talk about what I'll miss most about the greatest place to watch College Basketball.

* The Smell. The first thing you notice when you enter the Hall is the smell of caramel corn. I've always loved it and I've always associated it with UofL basketball. If they made a body wash that smelled like that, I'd use it. I love the smell!

* Getting autographs before games. For about a 5 year stretch, when I was a kid, I would go to the games super early and get all of the players to sign the team media guide each year. I still buy the media guy each year, but I don't get autographs anymore. I'll never forget getting Dejuan Wheat's in 1997. He was my favorite player and the last player I needed that year. I caught him just before he went to the locker room and he signed the front which had a picture of him on a Wheaties box, but it just said, "Wheat." It's one of my favorite pieces of sports memorabilia I own.

* The famous fans. The C-A-R-D-S guy (who has unbelievable timing), the guy who did the crazy hand stands on the rails, the guy who ran back and forth to spell out CARDS, The Boogie-Cam man, The old guy who always waves the ref shirt. They were/are all great!

* Marques Maybin's shoes. One game while I was getting autographs, Marques Maybin was sitting on the bench with his shoes off, adjusting his socks. Tony Williams came over and took both of his shoes and threw them in the stands. Marques asked me if I would go get them for him. Maybin was by far my favorite player and while I tried to act cool, I was so excited that I got to help him out. Although, I remember thinking that I should try to keep them.

* The Cardinal Bird Flying from the rafters. About 12-15 years ago, before they announced the starting line-up, the mascot would drop form the ceiling and "fly" over the crowd. IT WAS AWESOME! I wish I had a picture of that.

* Fans chanting "C-A-R-D-S" while walking down the ramps after a big win. The party always carried over to the parking lot after that.

* The three game home stand last year. Edgar's dagger to beat UK, an OT win over Notre Dame and then beating #1 Pitt. All three of those games were loud and exciting.

* Senior Day. Dejuan Wheat in 97, Reece Gaines in 03, Larry O'Bannon (The crowd chanting LAAARRR-EEE) 05, David Padgett 08, T-Will 09.

*Taquan Dean's three to beat Memphis in the 2003 C-USA tournament. One of the loudest games I can remember. Tom, Todd and I went to the game right after school, it was great.

* Winning the 2003 C-USA tourney. Everyone threw their "3" signs on the court and it looked like it was snowing 3's.

* Reece Gaines' buzzer beater against Princeton in the NIT. I remember being so excited that my dad went to give me a five and I just hugged him and jumped up and down.

* John Tong announcing, "Steps Called", "GOOOOAL BY WHEAT", "ANNND TIME IS OUUUT ON THE FLOOR"

* Sean Moth announcing, "THHHHHHRRRRREEEEEEEEE GAAAAARRRRCCCCCIIIIIAAAA"

* The pep band playing "Can't Turn You Loose" with one minute til tip. I always watch to see if they're gonna make it before the buzzer sounds.

* Seeing Michael Jordan play an exhibition game with the Bulls in 1996.

* Hearing how loud the crowd gets when our guys force a shot clock violation.

* Staying after for the Coach's press conference on the video wall.

* Giving the player of the game a standing-o when they came out to talk to the radio guys

* Listening to the radio post game show while sitting in traffic on the way out.

* Too many more to name.

The thing about Freedom Hall is that it's been the home to so many great memories. While I love the buzzer beaters, big wins, senior nights, etc. It's the whole experience that has made me love Freedom Hall and Louisville basketball. I love feeling like everyone in the crowd is your friends and family and you all are supporting one cause. Talking with other fans and high fiving them during big games will always be one of my favorite things. In the end though, my absolute favorite thing about Freedom Hall and Cardinal games will be the chance to watch games with my mom, dad, brother, fiance, best friends, soon to be in-laws, etc. and getting so excited that we hug, high five and cheer as loud as we possibly can. Nothing beats Freedom Hall and the thrill and excitement of Louisville Basketball.

One more game, let's go out with a bang Cardinals!

Go Cards!

Song of the Day: The Beatles - In My Life

Earliest Freedom Hall Memories...

2010-03-04T15:26:00.002-05:00

When looking back at the thrill and excitement that I've been a part of while attending UofL games at Freedom Hall, I can point to my two of my earliest memories as to why I'm such a fanatic today.

In 1994, my Dad took Ben and me to one of the last home games of the year. I don't really remember who we were playing (Tulane maybe?), but I remember being super excited because it was on a school night and we got to stay up late. Anyway, we got to the game early and Dad took us down to the court to see if we could snatch some autographs. It was literally hours before the game and there were only about 5 other fans in the stands. Ben and I walked down by the court with our eyes wide open and smiles on our faces. I can remember the security guard starting to come over to tell us to step back, since we were practically on the court, but he soon saw the excitement on our faces and just let us go.

So there we were, 11 year old Ben and 8 year old me, standing under the basket as our heroes warmed up. I will never ever forget how small I felt. I mean, they were giants! Soon, Ben got up the nerve to ask for an autograph, "Clifford! Hey, Clifford! Could we get an autograph?" We watched as All-American Clifford Rozier shot free-throws and didn't respond. Ben tried again this time a bit louder. Finally, the same security guard said, "Hey Cliff, you've got some fans over here!" Cliff smiled and said, "Huh, I thought I heard somebody calling my name." To this day I remember feeling so nervous and excited as big Cliff walked over and scribbled his name on a piece of paper. After we got one autograph, the flood gates opened. We got the whole team! Dwayne Morton, Greg Minor, Dejuan Wheat, Alvin Sims! It was awesome!

I have no idea how that game turned out, and it didn't even matter! I went to school the next day and showed off my prized autographs and it was the coolest. Sadly, I think someone at school stole some of Ben's autographs or something...it was lame, but kids are kids. Nevertheless, I'll always remember how excited I was to talk to the Cards, see them up close and get their autographs.

My next memory is from January 30, 1997. This time I cared about the game, a lot. This was about the age when I started to understand basketball and I really cared about winning. The Cards had the late Thursday night ESPN game (9 o'clock) and they were hosting the #8 Cincinnati Bearcats and their All-American Danny Fortson. It was for first place in the conference and I wanted to win badly. My mom came up with some tickets to the game and I got to go with her.

When we got to Freedom Hall there was a buzz in the crowd that I had never felt before. With each and every basket the Cards scored the place got louder and louder. I remember Dejuan Wheat hitting a big 2nd half three and thinking, "This is so loud, is it going to hurt my hearing?" Then we got a steal and a bucket and the place got even louder! It was like the building was shaking! Mom and I high fived and I will always remember being more excited and pumped up then I had ever been before.

As the game went on that feeling grew and grew. The Cards won that game 81-70 and I will always remember walking down the ramps and people just chanting "C-A-R-D-S! CARDS!" over and over again. Strangers were high fiving and hugging in the parking lot, cars were honking their horns. It was the craziest feeling that I had ever experienced...and it changed my life forever.

Without those two early Freedom Hall memories I wouldn't be who I am today. I know that sounds crazy, but they laid the foundation for the thing, with the exception of family and friends, that I love most in the world....Cardinal Basketball!

One last Freedom Hall goodbye post tomorrow! Have a good one!

Song of the Day: Ryan Adams - To Be Young

Favorite Freedom Hall Moment, pt. 1...

2010-03-03T16:14:00.004-05:00

With the Cards set to play their last game in Freedom Hall on Saturday, I've decided to dedicate the rest of this week's blog entries to the wonderful arena who has helped shaped my entire life.

Today, I'll tell you my favorite Freedom Hall moment that had nothing to do with basketball.

On Feburary 5th 2003 the Cards were ranked 5th in the nation and set to face arch rival Cincinnati at Freedom Hall. It was a big game and luckily my Mom was able to score 4 tickets that were only about 8 rows from the floor. I called my buddies Tom and Todd and we all headed to the Hall for the game.

We got to the game and the crowd was rocking. While we were all into the game, Todd, Tom and I were a bit distracted because we soon noticed that there was a very attractive 20 something lady sitting behind us. The three of us were yelling at refs and cheering loudly and the girl behind us soon joined in and began flirting with us big time. (I realize this sounds pathetic, but we were 15 year old dudes...any attractive female that talked to us...we fell in love with. ) Needless to say, we were enjoying her flirtation.

That's when the magic happened.

It's really awesome to sit so close to a game, the players are gigantic, you can hear the players and coaches talk, you feel so close to the action, etc. But those tickets are very expensive...and we were about to find out why.

During halftime the National Champion LadyBirds came out to perform. They've been National Champs like a million times in a row, and yeah...they're not ugly:
Once again, Tom, Todd and I were having a blast.

The LadyBirds began their routine and they were wearing some rather tight fitting tube tops. They were moving and shaking and bouncing and then...

The good lookin' chick behind us stood up, pointed and yelled,

"HER BOOB IS OUT!"

Sure enough, the Lady Bird on the end had let her left breast pop completely out of her top. WE WENT CRAZY!

I mean you can imagine the reaction from three 15 year old boys. The best part is that the lower level of seats in Freedom Hall is notorious for being occupied by an abundance of not-so rowdy old people. But, even they had to give a laugh at our reaction.

Here's the real kicker, though. She finished her routine before fixing it! That my friends is not only why those seats cost so much, but it's also the reason the LadyBirds are like 10 time national champions. I'm mean that's dedication.

The Cards went on to beat Cincinnati behind 8 three pointers from Freshman Francisco Garcia. After the game we waited around and I had brought a sign, which made ESPN, and I had it signed by Rick Pitino and Francisco Garcia. For the record, my sign said...

Expect
Some
Pitino
Net-cutting

Bad-ass...I know! It's hanging in the bar-room at my apartment.

It was a great night all around and as we were walking out my mom said to us, "What was your favorite part of the game?" All of us laughed and said, "the boob!" However, then Tom (I think) paused for a moment and so wisely said, "No, the hot chick pointing out the boob!"

Todd and I concurred.

Todd and Tom don't live in Louisville anymore, so we don't go to games together. But, the legend of "the boob" lives on. We talk about it often when we get together and every time the LadyBirds take the court for their halftime performance I laugh a bit to myself and think how wonderfully immature we were and how great that memory of Freedom Hall has become.

More Freedom Hall stuff tomorrow. Have a good night gang!

Song of the Day: Blink 182 - What's My Age Again?

Tuesday Tidbits...

2010-03-02T15:19:00.005-05:00

RISE AND FIRE....COUNT IT!

* I'm not going to lie, College Basketball has pretty much taken over most of my thoughts. But for real, it's March. What do you expect?

* I don't know who keeps making these videos after every Cardinal victory...but this one is amazing.

Boom.

* You know what's depressing about my life? I have a much harder time eating an entire orange than an entire Qdoba burrito. I like Oranges, but once I get about 2/3 of the way through one, I'm spent. That is not the case with Qdoba Burritos. Hooray Health!

* Speaking of health, I realized recently that I drink more water then anyone else on the planet (I looked it up, it's true). I mean honestly on any given day I'd say I drink between 150-200 ounces of water. Does that win me some kind of prize? It should.

* I saw the Lebron James documentary "More Than A Game" over the weekend and I really liked it. I'd suggest it if you're into basketball at all.

* I took a pretty solid knee to the thigh while playing basketball last night and it hurts pretty bad today. I don't have to walk with a limp or anything, but I'm crying on the inside with every step I take.

* I read on Yahoo today that the earthquake in Chile shifted the earth's axis quite a bit and as a result it has made our days shorter. They acted like it wasn't a big deal, but I'm pretty sure the world is coming to an end.

* Looking for gift ideas for my birthday? I want this poster:
Yeah, they don't make it anymore. But I've always wanted it. If you can find one for me...you can also find your name atop the list of people Brian would like to buy a beer for! Make it happen.

* Here's a great article on Edgar Sosa.
If anyone has the nerve or is dumb enough to boo Edgar Sosa at any point during Senior Day on Saturday, I will hunt you down and beat the crap out of you. Deal? Deal.

* Taylor's home for Spring Break of Friday! Boo-----Yah!

That's all I have for today! Have a good one!

Song of the Day: White Rabbits - Percussion Gun

March...

2010-03-01T15:44:00.003-05:00

You feel that? Palms sweating, stomach tied-up in knots, knees shaking? Yeah, it's March...and I love it!

While there are plenty of reasons to love March (my birthday, warmer weather, St. Patty's Day, Spring Break, etc.) the main reason is college basketball.

Now there is just one week left in the regular season and here's what I know about my Louisville Cardinals...nothing.

Every time you count them out, they come up with a big win. Every time you count them in, they drop a game in unthinkable fashion. This team could honestly not win another game this year. They could also win the Big East tournament and then make some noise in the dance. I honestly have no idea what's going to happen. But isn't it great?

Beginning with the Cards last second win yesterday at UConn, each game from here on out has a ton riding on it.

Tomorrow night, the Cards head to Marquette with the winner pretty much locking up an NCAA tournament birth.

Saturday, the Cards will host their Senior Day and say goodbye to this place:
Oh yeah, we'll be playing the #1 team in the nation as well!

Then next week we'll head up north to Madison Square Garden for the Big East tournament.

Then, hopefully, we'll get a chance to dance in the NCAA's!

We might miss the tournament, we might make the tournament, we might lose our next 4, we might win our next 7 or 8! You just can't tell with this group.

But man, doesn't it feel great? I've got an extra hop in my step today and it's all because I'm dreaming about the Cards doing crazy, exciting things.

Seriously, is it crazy to think that this picture:
could turn into this picture:
in the next week or two?

It's probably crazy, but I've got a case of March Madness and you can't cure it!

Song of the Day: Kenny Loggins - This Is It

Quick Weekend Thoughts

2010-02-26T10:12:00.002-05:00

Howdy Gang!

I'm spending most of today, tomorrow and Sunday working softball games over at UofL...so here are a few quick thoughts for the weekend.

- The Olympics are coming to an end. Be sure to watch the Curling gold medal match on Saturday and follow the USA Hockey team as they try to win today and reach the Gold Medal Match.

- I entered a contest to win 2 tickets to the Freedom Hall finale. If I don't win, I'm going to be crushed. It's pretty much my last hope.

- There was a Beatles category on Jeopardy last night. I was so pumped! Every time I watch Jeopardy I hope there is a Beatles category...it was awesome. Now, I have to hope for a UofL Basketball category.

- Can we just get on with Spring already? I'm sick of snow, I'm sick of wearing a jacket and I'm sick of being cold.

- The Cards play @ UConn on Sunday. We need a win...badly! Go Cards!

- Louisville's own Falls City Beer is being re-issued. However, it's now a craft beer and apparently is selling for around 5-6 bucks a pint! They're only testing it at a few bars around town to see the reaction, but I can go ahead and let them know that if they sell a beer that used to cost $6 a 12-pack for that kinda price...it's not going to last. It's still cool though.

- Apparently, Scott Van Pelt dropped an accidental F-bomb on SportsCenter the other day. I realize that's not supposed to happen, but who cares? Let's just move on...Van Pelt is the coolest.

- I need to wash my car.

- Conan O'Brien has a twitter account now and it's hilarious! Here are his first two posts:

@ConanOBrien "Today I interviewed a squirrel in my backyard and then threw to commercial. Somebody help me."

@ConanOBrien "This morning I watched Remington Steele while eating Sugar Smacks out of a salad bowl. I was naked."

Also, his page description says, "I had a show. Then I had a different show. Now I have a Twitter account."

He's awesome.

- One week until Taylor is home for Spring Break!

- 3 days til March!

That's all I've got for today. I'm off to some Softball games!

Song of the Weekend: Belle & Sebastian - If She Wants Me

Three Sheets...

2010-02-25T14:21:00.004-05:00

Remember when I told you that blogging about college sports would be my dream job? Well that was a lie. I didn't lie to you guys on purpose, I simply didn't know that my REAL dream job existed. But, thanks to Dude (who told me about this)...I've found my true dream job.

You see there's this show on the Fine Living Network (FLN) called "Three Sheets" and it is awesome.

Here's how the show works. This guy named Zane Lamprey travels around the world...and drinks...all day. He goes to bars, breweries, vineyards, etc. and he talks with locals, drinks the local drink and basically parties. Wine in Italy, Absinthe in Amsterdam, beer in the Czech Republic...he does it all. It's pretty cool because each show teaches you what kind of booze the city/country/region is famous for and then explains how it's made or gives you tips on how to drink it, etc.

I mean really...not only do they pay this guy to do this...he has his own tv show!

The thing that ultimately makes the show, however, is Zane Lamprey. After the first few minutes of seeing the show I was afraid I wasn't going to like him. But, he's actually really funny.

You really should watch it a few times. It's on M-F at 10 and 10:30. Or you can watch it on Hulu. It's awesome to see how people drink around the world...and it makes you want to quit your job and start drinking around the world!

Also, there is a drinking game that you can play while watching...that way Zane's not the only one having fun.

Yeah, sorry college basketball blogging. I'd much rather travel the world, drink for free and have my own tv show.

Have a good Thursday everyone!

Song of the Day: Allen Toussaint - Fast Train

I'm just gonna sit this one out...

2010-02-24T16:28:00.003-05:00

Here's the deal, I'm in a shitty mood. There are about 13,000 things that are pissing me off today. None of them are too big or important, but the list is growing by the minute. I was going to post a big long blog entry that broke down the different reasons that I'm in a bad mood...but I'm not going to do that. I don't want to complain and I don't want to bring you guys down.

Instead, I'm just not gonna say anything. Tomorrow is a new day and as a result I should hopefully be in a better mood. For now, I apologize for my mood and ask you guys to come back tomorrow for a better post.

It's just one of those days. Let's chalk it up to Karma and move on.

Song of the Day: Jay-Z - 99 Problems

Tuesday Tidbits...

2010-02-23T15:09:00.003-05:00

Hey-Oooooo!

* Hey Louisville, stop messing around with this crazy weather. Last Monday I had a snow day, last Friday I watched a Lacrosse game outside with a t-shirt on. Sunday it was sunny and 60 degrees. Today it's 34 and it might snow. Just make up your mind...this is annoying. I'm ready for Derby.

* I've been watching the West Wing like crazy lately. I've finished season 1 and I'm 4 episodes in to season 2 now. It's a really fantastic show. You really have to devote time to it because the dialogue is quick...but I'm hooked.

* You think this kid is going to be getting a call from ESPN anytime soon?

Haha, he's almost as good as "boom goes the dynamite" kid.

* So the Cards play tonight and I'm headed out there with my Dad after class. It's a big game and unless something magical happens, it will be my last game in Freedom Hall. Crazy.

* If you didn't pick up on it, that last tidbit was supposed to read, "I still don't have a ticket to the Freedom Hall finale against Syracuse on March 6th. If someone can come up with a way to get me in the building, I will be indebted to you for the rest of my life. Please, please, please, please, please!" Alright, just making sure we were all on the same page.

* She & Him are set to release a new album this year and they've already put out 2 new songs. You can hear them here. I dig.

* I'm really having a hard time getting into the Olympics. With just a few days left I keep trying to force myself to watch more of them, but I just can't. I've gotten into curling quite a bit, and I watched the USA v. Canada hockey game the other day. But, it seems like every time I turn NBC on they have some ice dancing event. It's just lame.

* Also, part of the reason I haven't been able to enjoy the Olympics is because every commercial break they show a promo for Jay Leno hosting the Tonight Show. Then I get mad and pissed at how stupid NBC and Jay Leno are...and then I turn the channel.

* I felt like I had another tidbit for you guys...but I don't think I do. Sorry.

Have a good one gang.

Song of the Day: John Prine - Illegal Smile

Shoelace Problem

2010-02-22T15:32:00.003-05:00

I've got a shoelace problem.

I have two pairs of casual brown shoes. These two pairs of shoes are worn like 70% of the time that I have shoes on my feet. Needless to say, they're important to my feet and my well being.

Here's the problem...I need new laces for them. They both feature just two lace holes (Aren't those called like eyelets or something?) on each side of the shoe. Therefore, the laces must be pretty short. The shortest laces I can find are for 4 eyelet shoes.

Anybody have any help? I've checked many different places and I've yet to find anything.

The first person to point me in the direction of 2 sets of brown, 2 eyelet shoe strings wins a special surprise. It will be really awesome with a value between 2-10 American Dollars.

Please help, my feet are worried.

Song of the Day: M. Ward - For Beginners

Saving Ear X-Tacy...

2010-02-19T11:40:00.003-05:00

As I mentioned before, the best record store in the world, Ear X-Tacy, announced they were having trouble with business and they might have to close. Well, that's simply not ok with me. So...I went and did what any normal music fan with no money would do...I bought some new tunes. Often, I buy an album and I later regret the purchase or wish I would have bought something else. This week I got 5 albums that I'm totally stoked to own. Here's what I've purchased this week.

1.) Sam Cooke - Portrait of a Legend
I've always listed Otis Redding, Paul McCartney, Jim James and Van Morrison as my favorite "voices" of all time. But in reality, Sam Cooke is my favorite. I've been wanting to buy this album forever and I figured now was the time. It's just fantastic.

Favorite Tracks: You Send Me, Bring It On Home To Me, Touch The Hem of His Garment

2.) Ben Sollee & Daniel Martin Moore - Dear Companion
This as an album by two Kentuckians, produced by another Kentuckian (Jim James) to benefit Mountain Top Removal. I love Ben Sollee and I had heard a bit of Daniel Martin Moore and I really liked what I had heard. The two of them sound great together. It's a great album.

Favorite Tracks: Dear Companion, Needn't Say A Thing, Something Somewhere Sometime

3.) Preservation Hall Jazz Band - Preservation
The world famous Preservation Hall Jazz Band teamed up with some big name singers to produce this album to benefit Preservation Hall. This is probably my favorite album I bought this week and I got 5 great albums. Each song is so good and their collaborations are so different with each singer. It gets better with every listen.

Favorite Tracks: Tootie Ma Is A Big Fine Thing (w/ Tom Waits), Louisiana Fairytale (w/ Yim Yames), Freight Train (w/ Ani Difranco), Nobody Knows When You're Down And Out (w/ Jason Isbell)

4.) The Flying Burrito Bros. - The Gilded Palace of Sin & Burrito Deluxe
A few years ago I wouldn't have touched this album, but as I get older...my tastes get twangier. I picked this up on a whim and I'm glad I did. While it's probably my least favorite album that I bought this week, it's still good. Gram Parsons is wonderful.

Favorite Songs: Sin City, Hot Burrito #1, Hot Burrito #2

5.) Frank Sinatra - Nothing But The Best
When I got my new computer I had to switch over all 7,956 songs in my i-Tunes library. The most surprising and disappointing thing that I noticed was not the fact that I had 2 Chingy songs in my music...but that, with the exception of Christmas songs, I only had four Frank Sinatra songs. That had to change. I headed to Ear X-Tacy and picked up this album. It's true to it's name and everyone should own a good dose of Sinatra.

Favorite Songs: Come Fly With Me, The Way You Look Tonight, Summer Wind, The Best Is Yet To Come.

I shouldn't have spent the money I did on these CDs, I know that. But, I had to. While I may have to eat Bologna for my next few meals to make up for it, I had to do my part to keep Ear X-Tacy open. I'm going to want buy music in the future and I don't want to do it on i-Tunes and I don't want to order it online. I want to buy my music at Ear X-Tacy. If you've never been to the store, you really should stop in next time you're in Louisville. It's a wonderful place and it has definitely helped my love of music.

Have a great weekend.

Song of the Day: Sam Cooke - A Change Is Gonna Come

Fun at Freedom Hall...

2010-02-18T15:19:00.002-05:00

Last night was the third to last game in Freedom Hall for the Cardinals. It was also one of the most awesome games I've attended.

I got a ticket late in the day from Taylor's mom and headed out to the game with Taylor's dad. I was already pumped since I wasn't expecting to go.

When I got to my seat, I was locked in and ready for the game, then this guy came in and sat down right in front of me. It was Patrick Hallahan, the drummer from My Morning Jacket.

The weird thing about Patrick Hallahan is that my family knows his family (we all went to the same school), in fact, the house I grew up in was lived in by the Hallahan's before us. But, this guy is a world famous rock star, so I was sure he'd have no idea who I was.

The game got going and the Cards never could quite pull away from the Fighting Irish of Notre Dame. We played alright, but ND always had an answer.

Soon Jim, Taylor's dad, recognized Patrick and said, "you're in My Morning Jacket, right?" Patrick then introduced himself to us and when I told him my name, he was like, "You went to St. Martha, right?" I told him yes and he immediately said, "yeah you guys bought our old house!"

He then asked how my brother, Ben, was and how the rest of my family was doing. I was careful not to geek out.

At halftime I struck up a hilarious and awesome conversation with him on what the band was doing and when they started their next tour. Patrick was super nice and kept saying how anxious he was to get back on tour with MMJ and get back in the studio. It was a very cool conversation.

The best part of the whole night was the fact that as the 2nd half went on and the game got really exciting, Patrick started giving us high-fives, cheers-ing us with his beer and yelling at the refs...just like me. It always blows my mind to see somewhat famous people do regular things, but this was a new kind of crazy. I mean this guy is legitimately a rock star, a damn good one, and he was just enjoying the game the same way I was.

The game ended up going into double ot before the Cards pulled it out by 2 points. Samardo Samuels was an absolute animal, scoring 36 points for the Cards.

It was one of my final games in Freedom Hall and with 20ish years of experiencing Cardinal games in the hall, it was a pretty great memory.

I mean for real, I just watched an awesome UofL game in Freedom hall while, cheering, high-fiving and cheers-ing beers with the drummer of my favorite band. It was awesome to say the least.

Also, I got coupons for free meals at Qdoba.

What a night!

Song of the Day: My Morning Jacket - Anytime

School Project...

2010-02-17T16:05:00.004-05:00

I have a project due tomorrow in my financial aspects of sports class. The project: take a sports related company and give a thorough analysis of the company's finances by including the proper financial ratios, short-term and long-term outlooks and any other important data. The problem... I don't know what that means. We haven't gone too in-depth in this class and after talking to other students, I realized I wasn't alone in sweating this project a bit.

I always get nervous when I have to turn something in for the first time in a class. What exactly is the teacher looking for? What kind of grader are they? Did I follow the prompt correctly? It all just eats at me until I get my grade.

Nevertheless, I picked Dick Sporting Goods as my company. I went online and obtained their financial records and I was well on my way....kind of.

You see, I could read the numbers on the company balance sheet and income statement, but I was still unsure if Dick's numbers were good, bad, etc. Nevertheless, I stayed up until about 2:30 last night calculating the proper ratios and crunching some data. Still, I woke up this morning a little overwhelmed by the fact that I hadn't put any of this data on paper and I was still unsure how to thoroughly analyze a company's financial statement.

I talked to my dad this morning about it and he gave me some knowledge that helped quite a bit. Explained some basic terms, said what he thought were the most important aspects, etc. Then as I started to get a grip on the whole thing...the real kicker occurred...I got an e-mail from my teacher saying that the project should be about 3-4 pages typed...double spaced! Are you kidding? I honestly thought this was going to be like a 10 page jobber. The 2008 annual report for Dick's Sporting Goods is 80 pages and I just have to report the most important 3-4 double spaced pages worth? That's not so bad...at all.

I've already got an outline and I've got the data so I should be able to go home and knock this thing out. It's still going to be difficult, but it's not nearly as difficult as I thought it was going to be. So, basically I freaked myself out over something that really shouldn't have freaked me out so badly. Hopefully, I'll get it finished and get a good grade and the class will be off to a great start.

Anyway, I'm an idiot.

Also, I just scored a ticket from Taylor's mom to the UofL game tonight! Sweet! We play Notre Dame and their All-American Luke Harangody was supposed to be out with a knee injury, although now it looks like he's going to play. I'm willing to bet someone informed him that Earl Clark no longer plays for the Cards and Harangody got to feeling better real quick. Can you blame him?

Right at the Crew-Cut!!!

Go Cards!

Song of the Day: Ben Sollee & Daniel Martin Moore - Dear Companion

Tuesday Tidbits...

2010-02-16T13:48:00.003-05:00

Can I kick it? Yes I can...

* Happy Fat Tuesday everyone! Hope you guys are knee deep in gumbo, king cake, beads, red beans and rice, etc. I don't have anything super Mardi Gras-ish going on tonight...but it's still fun. Live it up people.

* I did buy the new Preservation Hall Jazz Band album today. I guess that's kinda Mardi Gras related. It's pretty cool.

* I also got the new Ben Sollee & Daniel Martin Moore album. I've only heard it a bit, but I like what I'm hearing. They'll be playing for free at Ear X-Tacy tonight at 6. I have class and can't go...I'm pissed.

* Speaking of Ear X-Tacy. My Morning Jacket is offering their recent live EP 'Celebracion De La Ciudad Natal' for $4.99 with all proceeds going to help Ear X-Tacy. You can buy the album at Ear X-Tacy's digital store. Here's more info. It's only 5 bucks, you get some bangin' MMJ in return and you help out Ear X-Tacy. Just buy it already.

* The snow days in the past two weeks have thrown my schedule for a complete loop and as a result...ruined any motivation I might normally have. I am not happy about going to class later. I wasn't super pumped about coming to work, but then I got here and there were donuts...so it was all good. If there aren't donuts in class tonight...I'm gonna throw a fit.

* The "Truman Show" was on TBS over the weekend and Taylor and I watched a bit of it. I forgot how wonderful it is. If it weren't for Dumb and Dumber, The Truman Show would be Jim Carey's best movie by far.

* What is this Google Buzz shizz? I keep getting buzz updates on my g-mail and I'm not really sure what they are. Is it like Facebook for g-mail? I don't understand what the kids are into these days.

* Not doing anything this weekend? Come check out the UofL women's lacrosse team! Woo-hoo! They play Friday and Saturday. I'll be there, helping run the video board and making sure things run smoothly and such. It's gonna be awesome...you should come.

* I'm sick of walking in snow.

* Paste has a cool list of the best Nike commercials ever. Check it out.

* I have a project due on Thursday and I'm really letting it stress me out. It's not super hard, but it's a bit unclear and it's...blah. I always hate the first assignment in a class because it's hard to tell how a teacher is gonna grade, what kind of stuff they look for, etc. Hopefully, I'll get a good grade and we can just move on. I just wish it was finished.

That's all for today kids. I'll try to do better next time. Goodnight Canada.

Song of the Day: Preservation Hall Jazz Bad w/ Tom Waits - Tootie Ma Was A Big Fine Thing

Monday thoughts...

2010-02-15T16:41:00.003-05:00

I'm back from an outstanding weekend in Charleston with Taylor. Here's some thoughts for today.

1.) I really had a great weekend with Taylor. Friday it snowed in Charleston for the first time since 1989. We went to the beach and it was crazy awesome! Saturday we went to the SC Aquarium where I discovered that the River Otter is my favorite animal (because it looks like they have mustaches), had a wonderful dinner at a fancy restaurant and then watched the Cards win a big one on Sunday. It always sucks to leave her, but with each visit, it becomes more and more real that she'll be home soon!

2.) The Olympics are on! While I haven't seen much of them yet...I'm getting into them tonight.

3.) Got another snow day today. It's really crazy. Centre didn't have snow days, but I've already had 3 at UofL...it's nuts.

4.) I have a UofL duffle bag and on my plane home yesterday an older lady asked me, "Do you play a sport for UofL?" I told her, "No, but I go to grad school and work in the athletic department." She then proceeded to thank me for all of my hard work and told me what a huge fan she is and how much she loves the Cards. It was awesome.

5.) Go buy things from Ear X-Tacy. Everyone will benefit from it.

6.) How awesome was this?

I don't understand this team, but they fought hard and deserved the hell out of this win. The next month should be interesting!

7.) Gin is officially my 2nd favorite liquor behind bourbon.

8.) The West Wing is awesome. I've been using my snow days to watch season 1 on DVD and I'm hooked. My mom and Ben have always been into this show, I should have joined earlier.

9.) I have a project due on Thursday...ugh.

10.) A big LoB congrats to good friends Matt and Leigh who got engaged over the weekend. Way to go kids, welcome to the club!

Let's make this a good week.

Song of the Day: Flying Burrito Brothers - Hot Burrito #2

Wednesday Tidbits...

2010-02-10T16:23:00.002-05:00

Not as good as Tuesday Tidbits...but still enjoyable!

* One of my favorite things about a snow storm is seeing people drive their cars without properly clearing off their windows. I know that it sucks to brush all the snow off of your windshield, but it's awesome to be able to see. I saw a guy driving today that only had about a 12 inch box cleared on his windshield. All his other windows and his back windshield were still covered with snow, though. I feel like he probably got in a wreck.

* Ear X-Tacy is holding a press conference on Friday to address the fact that they might have to close their doors. The bad economy and the crappy music industry apparently have taken a toll on the store and they're not sure how much longer they can continue. Let it be known that if Ear X-tacy closes, I'm going on the bender of a lifetime. For now, join the "Save Ear X-Tacy" group on Facebook and stop buying music off i-Tunes.

* We didn't really get to talk about it...but how awesome was that Super Bowl? It was an outstanding game and I was really happy the Saints won. The on-side kick was awesome. Way to go NFL, good postseason. College Football...take note.

* I thought the commercials were alright. I liked the Doritos kid, the Bud Light auto-tune and the Lebron and Dwight Howard McD's commercial. The others were just so-so.

* New Modern Family tonight. Seriously, it's the best show on TV.

* Speaking of good shows, I spent a good portion of my day watching the West Wing yesterday. I've always wanted to get into that show, but you have to pay close attention and the episodes are an hour long. I watched about 5 yesterday and I'm hooked. More tonight!

* UNC and Duke play tonight. I'm not wild on this rivalry and I dislike both teams...a lot. Still, it's usually fun to watch. Nolan Smith is one of my favorite non-UofL players.

I'm off to Charleston tomorrow. I hope you guys have a good Valentine's day! I'll be busy having fun with Taylor so I won't have time to blog. If you have withdraws you can follow my Twitter.

Have a good 'un.

Song of the Day: The Beatles - All You Need Is Love

Tuesday Tidb.....SNOW DAY!!!

2010-02-09T15:57:00.007-05:00

Yeah, we're not going to have any tidbits today. That's because today my fine city got hit with about 6 inches of snow! So, I did what anyone would do when they find themselves with a free day...put on a fuzzy hat, walk around and take some pictures. So, here's how it went down:

That last picture is me realizing that walking in 6 inches of snow is exhausting. But, snow days are awesome. Yeah, they're a pain if you have to be out in them...but, people are happy (for the most part) when there's a snow day. As I walked today people waved, smiled, and said hello. It was a nice way to spend the day.

Song of the day: Dean Martin - Let it Snow, Let it Snow, Let it Snow

Let's get things sorted out...

2010-02-08T15:21:00.002-05:00

I'm not going to lie to you, I'm about 100% more busy these days then I was about 2 months ago. I'm still figuring out how to best manage my time and I think we can all agree that the blog has suffered a bit because of it. I'm sorry about that. Now then, let's spend today setting up this week and then tomorrow we'll get back to the grind with some tidbits.

Tonight: I have class and then basketball and then some homework to do, nothing too crazy. Also, Big Monday is looking phenomenal. WVU vs. Nova and Kansas vs. Texas...nice!

Tomorrow: I have work, meeting at the athletic department and then class. In addition, when I meet at the athletic department I'll be assigned my first set of projects to work on...that's exciting.

Wednesday: Work, possible stuff at the AD. Pack for Charleston.

Thursday: Flying to Charleston for the weekend. Woo! I'll get in around 4 and I'll spend the weekend with Taylor for Valentine's Day. Also, the Cards play at 7.

Friday: In Charleston..nice.

Saturday: In Charleston...boom!

Sunday: Back from Charleston...boo.

I guess when you break it down...it doesn't seem so bad. But, when I was planning it all it seemed like a lot more. Anyway, it's going to be a good week and it'll be topped off with a great visit with Taylor. So that's good! Anyway, just wanted to break it down so it seemed less crazy. Also, I've got some homework to do in there somewhere. But yeah, things will get rolling again for the blog soon...just needed a day to sort everything out and let you guys know what the immediate future looked like. Tomorrow, I'll have some terrific tidbits for you guys.

That's all for today...class in a few.

Song of the Day: Louis Armstrong - When The Saints Go Marching In

10 Things I Like and Dislike These Days...

2010-02-05T16:03:00.002-05:00

Haven't done this in a while...

*LIKE: Modern Family. This show continues to be the funniest 30mins of tv each week. I keep waiting for them to have a bad episode or for a character or two to get worn out...but it's not happening. It's just a really funny show.

* DISLIKE: College Basketball. This season has just been crappy. There are no elite teams, just some pretty good teams and then a lot of mediocre teams. Referees have dominated far too many headlines. There's too much talk about expanding the tournament. Recruiting is becoming disgusting. It's just sucky. College Basketball is the best sport...people would stop trying to change it.

* LIKE: MacBooks. So I've had my computer for just over a week and I really love it. I don't want to beat a dead horse or brag or anything...but it's just an awesome computer. It's worth the extra money.

* DISLIKE: The Weather. Normally I like cloudy, rainy days...but it's cold and we keep getting an annoying amount of snowfall. If it's gonna snow, that's cool...bring it. But a "dusting to 2 inches" is just annoying. I'm ready for Derby.

* LIKE: Taylor's teaching ability. Taylor had to teach a class by herself today and she was a little anxious about having to do it. Naturally, she did very well and the kids really participated. That's my lady!

* DISLIKE: ESPN's Superbowl coverage. I get it, it's a big game. Peyton Manning is good, New Orleans could use something to cheer about. Please just play the game already.

* LIKE: BoomBozz Tap House. Yeah, I bashed it when it first opened and truthfully...it deserved it. However, the people at BoomBozz have done a great job listening to their critics and making some important changes. They now have a better, craftier, local brew selection. They have better happy hour prices and they have cool new menu options...like the Hot Brown Pizza. Needless to say, I'm impressed and I'm going to have to give them another shot.

* DISLIKE: Lack of UofL Tickets. Last year I went to every UofL home game. This year, I have not. It makes me super sad, especially since there are only 4 more games at Freedom Hall. So, if anyone has any extra tickets. You know where to find me.

* LIKE: Twangy Music. Ever since I saw "Crazy Heart" I've been on a real twangy music kick. Lots of John Prine, Johnny Cash, The Jayhawks, The Band, etc. I suppose you could classify this music as "Country" but ever since the "She Thinks My Tractor's Sexy" song I've made it a life long goal to never refer to any music I like as country. Still, I'm enjoying the twang.

* DISLIKE: Friday afternoons. I swear the hours from 1-5 on Friday afternoon last 4x as long as normal hours. Ugh. It's always the longest part of the week. Oh well, almost home now.

Have a good weekend!

Song of the Day: John Prine - Glory of True Love

Work update...

2010-02-04T16:35:00.003-05:00

So this week I began my unpaid internship at the UofL athletic department. I'm working in the marketing department and my first task is to help market the upcoming softball and lacrosse seasons.

So far my work has been minimal but it's going to change soon.

Yesterday, I went to my first "pitch/brain storming" meeting. It was pretty cool, it made me feel a lot like Don Draper...except they don't let me drink on the job. Still, we came up with some promotions and thought of people that could throw out the first pitch at softball games, etc. I contributed a few ideas and I feel like I didn't do anything to embarrass myself too badly.

Today I got to help with the Lacrosse promo video shoot and then I went to another meeting, this one was with the people in charge of sponsorships.

It's pretty cool to see how much goes into running an Athletic Department. I'm really enjoying being able to get some experience and my work in the near future will have to do with getting people to come to games and making sure game day activities run smoothly.

Hopefully, I can earn my keep and they'll offer me a real job in the future.

For now I've just taken to the Tobias Funke way of creating a name for myself...which means I just stand around the water cooler and say, "That Brian is some kind of something. Boy, this Brian guy is all anybody's ever talking about. So sick and tired of hearing about how brilliant that Brian is. Overrated. "

I think it's working.

Enjoy your Thursday's people.

Song of the Day: The Very Best - Warm Heart of Africa

Classroom Pet Peeve...

2010-02-03T16:08:00.003-05:00

As you guys know I have many pet peeves. However, last night during my stats class someone did something that reminded me of a pet peeve that I've always had but haven't experienced since I've been out of school.

So my class runs from 4:30 to 7:00. I arrived at 4:20 and sat in my assigned seat. Luckily, there is an empty chair next to where I sit so I can put my back pack and coat on that chair. However, it is by the door. What does it matter if it's by the door? I'll tell you in a second. About an hour and 15 mins into class (half way) our teacher is trying his damnedest to teach us standard deviation and probability. It's not the easiest thing to learn, but he was doing a pretty good job. However, that's when this chick comes storming into class, making tons of noise and of course wants to sit in the seat next to me...even though that's not her seat. No problem, I'll move my bag...we'll get on with class...right?

Wrong.

This is where I start to get pissed off. The chick has already disrupted the flow of class and now she keeps asking me questions about what was going on. Then, she tries to tell me why she was late, while the teacher is talking. She says a meeting ran long. Really? An hour and 15 mins long? Whatever, I don't really care. Here's the real kicker...She then asks if she can copy my notes. I reply, "We'll figure something out after class...I need my notebook for other classes." She replies, "No, I meant right now...do you mind?" Hell yes I mind! I'm here to learn. I communicate to her that it's fine, but I'm not going to turn the page back because I still need to take notes (since the professor is still teaching). Naturally, she then asks another girl for a piece of paper because she didn't have her notebook...causing more disruption.

I mean really? First of all, if you are more then about 30mins late to class...why come at all? He doesn't count attendance and clearly you're going to be lost. Why not arrange to meet with him later to discuss what you've missed. Also, way to plan a head to realize that you had class and a meeting before hand and I don't know...maybe you should bring your notebook with you to your meeting in case you're running late. Finally, why in the hell do you expect me to stop paying attention to the teacher and spend the rest of the class catching you up on what you missed? Let me tell you something...I'm not going to do it.

I can't stand people like that. Yeah, sometimes stuff happens and you're forced to deal...but how about being a little bit responsible and not disrupting everyone around you. I know that chick had other stuff going on and maybe it was really out of her control...but I bet it wasn't. Thing is, I would have been happy to share my notes if she had asked after class and not been so inconsiderate.

It's the same as when someone asks for an extension on a paper. I can't stand that. Mr. Professor I'm not finished because my dog got sick and I had 3 other assignments for other classes and the book I ordered hasn't come in yet....can I have an extension? Ummm...NO! Guess what people, everyone has other crap going on in their lives. You know how you deal with that? It's called time management and organization. Everyone knows when class is...everyone knows when things are do...mark those things down and adjust your life accordingly.

Now, I know there really are times when you have to be late or you have to turn in a paper late (Death in the family, illness, etc.) But let's be real...that's only true about 1 out of every 25 situations like this one.

It's not hard, just be responsible. If you can't...it's really not my problem.

Sorry for the rant, I'm really not in a bad mood...that was just bothering me. Have a good one everybody!

Song of the Day: Fruit Bats - The Ruminant Band

Tuesday Tidbits...

2010-02-02T15:35:00.003-05:00

Lets get down to the Nitty Gritty....

* That's the way we handle business Cardinal birds! I know UCONN is strugglin' even more then the Cards right now, but that was an absolute must win. We didn't play lights out, but we played pretty darn well. Let's keep it going on Saturday vs. Rutgers!

* The next person who talks about how excited they are to watch "LOST" tonight is going to get a nice punch to the face (or a pile drive to the face). I know I don't "get it" because I don't watch the show, but let me tell you something it's not worth getting so jacked up about. You're excited, it's a good show...let's just leave it at that.

* My mac is awesome. I was having trouble with my Internet at my apartment, but I bought a new router and it's fast as hell. Also, I found out that garage band not only has its own guitar tuner...but it also allows me to hook my guitar hero drums up and play them as though I had an electric drum set. It's awesome.

* As manager of the Juwanna Men and three time fantasy sports champion, sometimes you're faced with tough decisions. However, rules are rules and if someone breaks a team rule...they must pay the price. That's why Lebron James has been suspended one week without pay for an obvious violation of team rules. I mean honestly, you know better then that Lebron.

* I have a marketing meeting at UofL tomorrow to discuss possible promotions for Lacrosse and Softball this year. Should be fun. Let me know if you have any ideas.

* The Heartless Bastards' album "The Mountain" is fantastic. Buy it.

* We're talking about standard deviation and probability in my stats class tonight. I'm not super pumped. Luckily, my professor is pretty cool. If he finds a way to makes this interesting I'll be mega impressed.

* Are you guys aware of this doppleganger fad that's goin wild on Facebook? Apparently you're supposed to change your facebook picture to a picture of the celebrity who looks the most like you (or who other people have said you look like). If I were going to do it, I'd have to pick Eddie Cahill....Tag from friends:
* It is amazing how much better my day is if I recite Nacho Libre quotes all day. It's the best! I love it!

That's all I have for today until tomorrow....Hug hug, kiss kiss, hug hug, big kiss, little hug, kiss kiss, little kiss.

Warning: If you haven't seen Nacho Libre, not only will you not understand some of my jokes, but also we're not friends until you do.

Song of the Day: Heartless Bastards - Could Be So Happy

College Basketball...

2010-02-01T14:15:00.002-05:00

Alright, let's not bullcrap each other here...this college basketball season has sucked. Well, at least for me it has. Everyone knows that I love watching my Cardinals and I take my fanship (word) very seriously. However, in this season where the Cards can't seem to catch a break, something needs to change.

Last year our team was great. We had an amazing year that was full of big wins, Big East Championships and excitement. It's no coincidence that last year my full attention was on the Cards. I never missed a game, I attended every home game, I had my gameday wardrobe set...basically, I had things under control.

However, we also remember how last year ended and how crushed I was. I mean I'm still not over that loss to Michigan St.

That's why I'm here today taking full blame for the Cardinals' season so far. Basically, between getting engaged, starting grad school and trying to get involved with the athletic department, I've neglected my Cards somewhat. Now, I realize it's good for my health and well being to focus on those things more, but that's not the point. I'm not here today to say that I'm going to stop pursuing my career or going to school. I'm just going to say that I need to do a better job of being a fan. Too often I've been easily frustrated with this team and I've had a short temper or unrealistic goals when it comes to certain players or games. Also, I've been a little shy about getting too involved with the team because of how badly the end of last season hurt me. Basically, I just want to tell the basketball Cardinals....My bad.

Here's the good news...it's not too late. Sure the Cards have dug themselves a hole and they need to fight hard to make the tournament...but it's not impossible. With games against UCONN (twice), Georgetown, Syracuse (twice) and @Marquette we can still make a run at this thing. Plus, unlike college football, as long as you're in the tournament...anything can happen.

Now then, it's a new month and in my mind a new season. The Cards need to win 7 out of their remaining 11 games to put themselves in a good position for the tourney. They can do it and I'm gonna do my best to help. It all starts tonight when UCONN comes to Freedom Hall for a Big Monday game. We need this win!
Please bring a smile back to my face, gang! Let's go Cards!

Song of the Day: Kenny Loggins - This Is It

My New Toy...

2010-01-29T16:11:00.002-05:00

After a long wait, I bought a macbook last night. To put it simply...it is the balls! I've used macs before and I thought I was pretty familiar with them, but the more I used this thing last night the more I realized that this thing will do much more.

I'm in the process of taking all my stuff off my old computer and putting it on the new guy and while it's taking a while...I'm totally geeking out on it. Making sure I have all my songs labeled correctly, making sure they all have album art, organizing my photos...it's just awesome.

So yeah, this weekend I'm going to be playing with my computer. Is that sad? Maybe, but I'm totally pumped about it. Expect a pretty good post in the near future with songs, videos and pictures I've made on this incredible machine.

Have a good weekend all.

Also: My Morning Jacket is touring the South with the NOLA Preservation Hall Jazz Band this spring. They're not coming to KY, but they are stopping in Charleston on April 28th. Oh yeah, my last exam is on the 27th....boom baby! It's going to be awesome.

Song of the Day: My Morning Jacket - Easy Morning Rebel

J.D. Salinger, Mr. Yochum and Holden Caufield...

2010-01-28T14:43:00.007-05:00

I just read that J.D. Salinger died yesterday. I know very little about J.D. Salinger and I think that goes for most people. I know that he spent most of his life shut in from the public eye...I also know he wrote my favorite book of all time, The Catcher in the Rye. Anyway, I felt an odd feeling of sadness when I found out about his death today. There are certain famous people (Paul McCartney) who's deaths will really affect me, but I didn't think Salinger's would cause any reaction at all.

When I was growing up I hated reading for school. To tell you the truth, I'm still not wild about reading. However, when I was a sophomore in high school I had an English teacher named Mr. Yochum and he made us read The Catcher in the Rye. This was the first time I can remember really wanting to read. I wanted to know what was going to happen next to Holden Caufield and I wanted to be able to participate in the next day's class. The combination of Mr. Yochum and J.D. Salinger was unbelievable, maybe not to all of the kids in my class...but certainly to me. Mr. Yochum was an awesomely sarcastic teacher and we all thought he was hilarious. Through Mr. Yochum's teaching and Salinger's creation of Holden Caufield...I learned to like reading...at least a little. Actually, I ended up being an English major as some of you know, not so much because I liked reading, but because the English teachers at Centre are quite possibly the best set of professors on the planet. I wasn't a great English major...but I got by. Perhaps if more people had written like Salinger (or Salinger had just written more) I would have earned better grades. Probably not...
Anyway, I re-read Catcher in the Rye a few summers ago and I remember enjoying it even more then I did the first time. I was looking at quotes from Holden online earlier...here are some of my favorites:

"I'm the most terrific liar you ever saw in your life. It's awful. If I'm on my way to the store to buy a magazine, even, and somebody asks me where I'm going, I'm liable to say I'm going to the opera. It's terrible."

"When I really worry about something, I don't just fool around. I even have to go to the bathroom when I worry about something. Only, I don't go. I'm too worried to go. I don't want to interrupt my worrying to go."

"All morons hate it when you call them a moron."

"Sensitive. That killed me. That guy Morrow was about as sensitive as a toilet seat."

"I was half in love with her by the time we sat down. That's the thing about girls. Every time they do something pretty, even if they're not much to look at, or even if they're sort of stupid, you fall half in love with them, and then you never know where the hell you are. Girls. Jesus Christ. They can drive you crazy. They really can."

"There isn't any night club in the world you can sit in for a long time unless you can at least buy some liquor and get drunk. Or unless you're with some girl that really knocks you out."

"People always clap for the wrong things."

"I'm always saying "Glad to've met you" to somebody I'm not at all glad I met. If you want to stay alive, you have to say that stuff, though."

"The thing is, it's really hard to be roommates with people if your suitcases are much better than theirs - if yours are really good ones and theirs aren't. You think if they're intelligent and all, the other person, and have a good sense of humor, that they don't give a damn whose suitcases are better, but they do. They really do. It's one of the reasons why I roomed with a stupid bastard like Stradlater. At least his suitcases were as good as mine."

"If a girl looks swell when she meets you, who gives a damn if she's late? Nobody."

""You ought to go to a boy's school sometimes. Try it sometime," I said. "It's full of phonies, and all you do is study so that you can learn enough to be smart enough to be able to buy a goddam Cadillac some day, and you have to keep making believe you give a damn if the football team loses, and all you do is talk about girls and liquor and sex all day, and everybody sticks together in these dirty little goddam cliques. The guys that are on the basketball team stick together, the goddam intellectuals stick together, the guys that play bridge stick together. Even the guys that belong to the goddam Book-of-the-Month Club stick together.""

"People never give your message to anybody"

"Boy, when you're dead, they really fix you up. I hope to hell when I do die somebody has sense enough to just dump me in the river or something. Anything except sticking me in a goddam cemetery. People coming and putting a bunch of flowers on your stomach on Sunday, and all that crap. Who wants flowers when you're dead? Nobody."

"If you had a million years to do it in, you couldn't rub out even half the 'F**k you' signs in the world. It's impossible."

"Don't ever tell anybody anything. If you do, you start missing everybody."

What a great book. You really should read it sometime. However, you might want to call Mr. Yochum and see if he'll discuss it with you when you're done. It makes it better.

Song of the Day: Belle & Sebastian - Piazza, New York Catcher

Nothing...

2010-01-27T16:44:00.003-05:00

I'm not going to lie to you guys...I have nothing to talk about today. Sometimes, I struggle to come up with a blog topic and then I eventually think of something. Today...nothing. So...here's 10 random things that have occurred recently.

1.) I went to Cumberland Brews last night...Mr. Bitters is a delicious beer.

2.) I finally got my financial aid money!

3.) School is going well.

4.) I'm going to buy a new computer on Friday.

5.) I had Qboda for lunch...it was good.

6.) I'm going to take a nap when I leave work.

7.) Modern Family is on tonight.

8.) T-Will and Earl won't be participating in the NBA rookie game...boo.

9.) I stopped taking guitar lessons for the time being.

10.) I have a new shirt on today!

I'm sorry...that was terrible. I'll do better tomorrow. Have a good night!

Song of the Day: The Beatles - Nowhere Man

Tuesday Tidbits...

2010-01-26T14:32:00.002-05:00

Here we go...

* Juwanna Men are still dominating. I'll let you know if anything changes.

* Has anyone seen "Crazy Heart" yet? I think I might have to check it out this weekend.
Also, if anyone knows Jeff Bridges...tell him I'd like to hang out and drink bourbon. That guy is awesome.

* Here is a hilarious video of a Syracuse fan celebrating the Orange's win over their rival Georgetown:

Kaboom! I'm going to celebrate like that after every UofL win from now on.

* Speaking of UofL wins, some dude keeps making awesome youtube videos of every UofL win. Since we seem to be inconsistent this year...these videos haven't been as prevalent as I would have liked. Still, check it:

Go Cards!

* Has anyone seen Venus Williams' outfit at the Australian Open? Yeah, it looks like she's naked out there. She's not, she's wearing flesh colored spandex shorts...but it looks like she's going commando. I won't post a picture because this is a family place...but you can see it here. Crazy.

* Did you guys see the Avetts on Austin City Limits this weekend? Sadly, I have to give their show a B- overall. I didn't like their setlist that much and the version of "Die, Die, Die" was terrible in my opinion. They're still awesome though. However, the Heartless Bastards came on after them and were totally awesome, I thought. Even if their singer is creepy looking and I can't understand the words...I thought they were really good.

* So I'm totally rooting for the Saints to win the Super Bowl. If they do win, I'm going to New Orleans to celebrate. I've recovered from my last trip there finally...and I'm ready to roll again. Here's an awesome video of bourbon street during the winning kick on Sunday:

Saints Video: Bourbon Street

(That's a weird video format and I don't know how to resize it...sorry.)

* Finally, speaking of NOLA, our buddy Yim Yames is featured on an upcoming Preservation Hall Jazz Band compilation. Click this link to hear the track "Louisiana Fairytale" which Yim sings through a megaphone. I'm totally diggin' this song.

I'm fresh out of tidbits...we'll try to do better next time. Goodnight Canada!

Song of the Day: Heartless Bastards - Out At Sea

Weekend Recap

2010-01-25T15:04:00.002-05:00

Good afternoon gang? How's everyone holding up? Considering I woke up this morning and thought it was Saturday (not even close), I'm hanging in there quite nicely. Anyway, I hope you guys had a great weekend...here's a recap of how mine went:

- I got down to Charleston at about 7 on Friday, Taylor had been craving chili (that's my girl) so I made some for dinner and then the two of us hung out with some of her friends and watched Conan's last show. For the record, Conan is awesome.

- Saturday we got up and wandered around King St. before heading for some lunch at Mellow Mushroom. Then, we were off to Kudu coffee shop to do some homework. For the record, I love coffee shops. I don't think I'd ever just go and sit there 5 days a week, but I do enjoy the atmosphere. After that we headed over to Taylor's friend Lindsay's house to play some trivial pursuit. Taylor and I totally won, just as we had the night before when we also played.

- Sunday I had to start my drive home. It was a bummer to leave Taylor in Charleston, but it was great to see her...especially since this trip wasn't really planned. Hopefully the time will fly until I see her again. My drive home wasn't so bad, I was able to listen to the UofL game, thanks to Mom who sat the phone next to the radio for most of the 2nd half. Then, I got to catch most of the colts/jets game and I was home at halftime of the Saints Vikings game. For the record, I called Favre's INT on the last possession. Lautaro owes me a beer.

- Now it's back to the grind. School's heating up, I'll hopefully be starting my internship work with UofL soon and after jumping through a few more hoops I think I finally be able to get my financial aid money...which means a new computer! Woo!

Alright, new week, things are getting busy...time to roll. Also, if you see me...try to refrain from laughing at the perfect diagonal line of zits that have made their way to my forehead. I honestly haven't had a zit in over a year and right now I have 4. It looks like a pimple constellation on my head...attractive. Oh well.

Song of the Day: Gordon Lightfoot - Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald

Today is a Better Day...

2010-01-21T15:11:00.002-05:00

Some days, like yesterday, are bad. Others, like today, are much better. After a frustrating Wednesday, things are getting better all the time. Here's a look at some stuff that's going well today...

1.) I had a meeting with the Athletic Department at UofL and it went well. They're going to e-mail me a schedule soon and I'll be working in their marketing department. I won't get paid and I'll only work like 15 hours a week, but I'll be working in the office some, promoting games, helping out at games and doing all sorts of other crazy stuff. I'm pretty pumped.

2.) Not only did the Internet people come and fix my Internet at 9 this morning. I also got a call from the Senior Vice President of Operations. He apologized and told me that if I ever had any more trouble I could just call him directly. Turns out, I have a pretty important connection with the company!

3.) With my schedule about to get crazy busy with school, internships, work, etc. I decided to take off and head to Charleston this weekend. It'll be nice to see Taylor and rest up before coming back and hitting the ground running. That also means I won't be blogging tomorrow, sorry.

4.) New Office & 30 Rock tonight. Even though I hate NBC right now, I still love those shows.

5.) Get the DVRs ready. Conan's last show is Friday night and it will feature Tom Hanks, Will Ferrell and Neil Young. Also, the Avett Brothers are on ACL this weekend on PBS.

6.) Jeff Bridges has officially been added to the LoB "Awesome person" list. After seeing him at the Golden Globes and seeing him on Conan the other night...the guy is just a bad ass. I mean, he's The Dude.

7.) So I heard about this new Beatles movie about John Lennon's early life called "Nowhere Boy" (clever I know) and I watched a trailer for it today. Check it:

Did you guys pick up on that too? Yeah, the guy playing Paul McCartney is the little boy (Sam) from "Love Actually." Crazy, huh?

Alright, I'm off to class in a bit. Have a great Thursday/Weekend.

Song of the Day: Jeff Bridges - I Don't Know

I'm being tested...

2010-01-20T16:14:00.002-05:00

Every once in a while I have a day where several things go wrong. It can be a variety of things that happen, but in every circumstance I feel as though some greater being is testing my stress, patience and overall attitude. Today is one of those days.

The Internet at my apartment went out recently. I called on Monday night and scheduled an appointment for this morning. The lady informed me that someone would be there to fix the internet between 8:30-11:30. Lautaro goes into work at 11 so when it came to be 11:00 and there was still no sign of the internet guy, I had to leave work and go home.

Question: When someone is delivering something or fixing something at your house and they give you a 3 hour window for when they'll be there...has anyone ever had the people show up within the first hour? I didn't think so.

Anyway, I get home at 11 and I sit and wait until 11:35. Then I call the internet company and tell them the situation. They inform me that they tried to call to confirm the appointment this morning and the number they had was not working. Since it was the same number that I called from to have the conversation with the guy, I told him that was not true. Nevertheless, he apologized and said they'd have someone call me in the next 10mins and send someone out immediately. Cool. Except, I waited about 25 mins and didn't hear anything. So then I had to call back again. This time I got a different person and he informed me that someone tried to come by my address at 11:20. I informed him that he was wrong because I had been sitting in my living room the whole time. He then put me on hold for 10 minutes and came back to inform me that the people he needed to talk to were probably at lunch. Then he said he sent someone an e-mail and he hoped to get some info soon and he hoped they could have someone there by 3.

Are you kidding me?

I told him that I couldn't do that and I wanted them to come tomorrow morning before 10:30 and fix the internet. He then failed to apologize for any inconvenience and tried to get me to use the internet company's land line phone service as well. I told him I didn't want his phone...not now...not ever. (Please don't get me started on the whole phone service thing).

To sum that part up, I still have no internet, I wasted 2 hours that I could have been working and I still have to pay a full month's worth of a bill even though I will not have had internet for 4 days.

As if I wasn't already frustrated enough, I went to McDonald's to grab a quick lunch to take back to the office. I ordered food for my dad and I got two McChicken sandwiches for myself. When I pulled up to the second window, the lady handed me my food and then this convo happened:

Me: Could I have a couple BBQ sauce packets with that?
McD Lady: But you didn't have any Chicken Nuggets?
Me: Yeah, but I have two chicken sandwiches.
Lady: Oh, well...we're not supposed to give sauce unless you have nuggets.
Me: Are you kidding? I just spent 9 bucks on food and you can't give me some BBQ sauce?
Lady: We're really not supposed to...
Me: Really? (starting to get pissed)
Lady: Oh well, I guess...I mean...Alright you can have one. (Laughing)

I took the sauce packet and just stared at her for about a minute before driving off. What I really wanted to do was take the packet and chuck it against the window. I mean, really? You're a multi-billion dollar company and you can't give out a couple of BBQ sauce packets to someone who just paid money to eat at your food?

Somehow, I didn't really get mad either time today. For one, I knew I was being tested and I wanted karma on my side (I swear to god if the Cards don't win tomorrow I'm going to pour BBQ sauce all over the McD's). But also, in both cases the person I was dealing with wasn't really at fault. The insight guy on the phone wasn't the driver who didn't show up and the worker at McD's wasn't the idiotic boss who decided to save a few cents by being stingy with his BBQ sauce.

Note: I should have pointed out to her that I've been eating McD's for 23 years and there have been at least 50 times in my life where I have ordered nuggets and asked for sauce...only to get home and realize THERE WASN'T ANY SAUCE! So technically, I have a 50 sauce packet credit at McD's.

Actually, the thing that bothers me most about all of this is that I expected it. When I got up today I knew that the internet wasn't going to get fixed on schedule like it should. I know going to any restaurant that it's far more rare to get great service then it is to get crappy service. People just don't care anymore and people aren't dependable. It's really sad. For instance, I'm supposed to get my financial aid money for school between January 5 and January 22. I've filled out all the necessary paper work, accepted the student loan and everything. However, I've not received my money yet and I really truly do not believe it's coming in the next two days. So on Monday (because they won't be open this weekend) I'll have to call someone and they'll try to blame it on someone else. Then, I'll have to call someone else and they'll blame it on the first person. The reality is that I don't care who's fault it is, JUST STEP UP AND FIX IT! Our customer service is absolute crap in this country and it makes me crazy.

Sorry for the rant, I've been ready to burst all day and I've actually done a pretty good job keeping my cool. I guess Blog ranting is a good way to relieve stress.

Have a good one people!

Song of the Day: Modest Mouse - The Good Times Are Killing Me

Tuesday Tidbits...

2010-01-19T15:12:00.003-05:00

Here we go...

* I had to read a book for class today. It was about 320 pages long and I've known about the assignment for over a week. I read the book and was finished with it on Sunday, leaving me yesterday to just relax. It's the first time I've done something like that in my entire life. Grad school makes you do crazy things.

* Speaking of grad school, I have a meeting on Thursday morning with a lady from the UofL athletic department. If all goes well, I'll be doing some sort of intern work there in the future. It would be both awesome and huge for my career goals/plans.

* I you haven't played Zilch...you're missing out. The game is awesome.

* Anyone see the Aziz Ansari comedy special on Sunday night? I caught some of it and DVRd the rest. The guy is hilarious. I think it's on again Thursday night...but maybe Friday. I'm not sure, check Comedy Central's schedule. You should really watch it.
* Today is going to be a super test of my dedication to Grad School. I'm insanely tired, it's cold and foggy and I have a three hour class starting at 4:30. I'll do my best to stay awake. Wish me luck!

* The Juwanna Men won 2 of 3 this week, we're going to win the league for sure. Especially because everyone else has stopped playing.

* The new Spoon album came out today, someone with more money then me should buy it and tell me how it is. Since I'm back in school I can't take too many chances on CDs anymore...it's sad.

* Is it sad/wrong that since about 2:00 I've been thinking to myself, "after class tonight I'm going to Taco Bell and getting 2 Cheesy Gordita Crunches" and that thought makes me feel like a kid on Christmas? Whatever, if you've ever had a Cheesy Gordita Crunch you'd feel the same way.

* I recently played the new Mario game for the Wii and it's fan-friggin-tastic. It really is the best game for the Wii, I think. I'd buy it but I'd like to get good grades in grad school and the two things can't coexist.

* Jay Leno...you suck! Nobody likes your show, you're not funny and you continue to look like an ass at all times. Long live Conan O'Brien!

* I think there's a new Scrubs on tonight. If you haven't seen the new edition of Scrubs you really should check it out.

That's all for today gang. Have a good Tuesday night!

Song of the Day: The Beatles - Please Please Me

Idiots...

2010-01-18T16:28:00.002-05:00

Today I'm having a little case of the Mondays. I'm not sad or angry or anything...it's just kind of...blah! Luckily, I know exactly what to do when I have a day like this. No I don't look at funny youtube videos or find something to laugh at on failblog.org. I look at comments under sports articles and I find someone who says something really stupid and then I count the ways they are stupid and it makes me feel better. Is this mean, childish and immature? Probably, but it's also lots of fun. Plus, I'm a college basketball fan and I read lots of articles and blog posts about basketball around the Commonwealth. Luckily, UK fans are easy targets when it comes to my "case of the Mondays" fix.

Here's one I enjoyed from this afternoon. The blog post is from the Courier Journal's Rick Bozich:

"My friend Richard is a huge Kentucky basketball fan. I'm sure he'd be happy to be the "Y" guy for the Kentucky cheer on the floor at Rupp Arena if he got the invitation.

But he made an excellent point today:

Kentucky's three signature wins this season have come against North Carolina, UConn and Louisville.

Three six-loss teams.

That might explain why Kentucky still hasn't impressed the computer rankings.

I believe the Wildcats are 13th in the Pomeroy rankings, 14 in the Sagarin predictors and 10th in the RPI.

Thoughts?"

Within about 30mins a UK fan named J shelbordt had this to say: "Hey Bozo, Your an idiot. How can you ask such a question? sorry the cards cant beat UNLV"

Let me start by saying I don't really like Rick Bozich either. Let me also add that, from the looks of it, it's possible this UK fan can't read. Now, let's go on to dissect the ways this man is an idiot.

1.) "You're" is what the man was looking for in his insult. Also, it's usually a good idea to begin sentences with a capital letter. But hey, I make grammar errors all the time on the blog, so we'll let that slide.

2.) The dude asks Bozich how he can ask such a question. Which is funny for a few reasons. One, the topic was actually brought up by one of Bozich's friends who is a UK fan. Two, the question Bozich asks is "thoughts?" That seems like a pretty reasonable question to me.

3.) The guy says "sorry the cards cant beat UNLV." What does that have to do with anything? Bozich brings up UofL only to mention that they're really not all that great this year. Also, if you're going to make fun of UofL for a loss...I'd pick between the home losses to Charlotte and Western Carolina. Apparently any negative comment made towards UK automatically makes you a Cards fan.

Now, I realize I say and do dumb things all the time. Also, I know that people who comment on sports articles are probably the same people who call into sports radio shows...which means they're morons. There are UofL fans out there who do the same thing, but the UK fans make it a lot easier because there are so many of them and they get offended by any negative thing said about their Wildcats. I mean honestly, Bozich wasn't saying UK sucked and her certainly wasn't supporting UofL in any way. But, this Cat fan couldn't stand the fact that someone would question the legitimacy of the Wildcats in any way. In retaliation for Bozich questioning the magnitude of UK's best wins this guy felt it was necessary to call Bozich an idiot, take a shot at the Cardinals and make himself look like a well rounded human being. He pulled it off well.

I know most of you don't care about stuff like this. But, it puts a smile on my face and makes me think about how many dumb people there are in the world. So yeah, next time you have a case of the Mondays, let me know and I'll point you in the direction of a good blog.

Have a good one.

Song of the Day: Phantom Planet - Always On My Mind

Friday Facts

2010-01-15T16:41:00.003-05:00

Before you worked here, were you an ass scientist? Blah, blah, blah...you get the point.

1.) I almost forgot about blogging today. No, this isn't a sign of me losing interest in the blog. Yes, this is a sign of me having had a crazy busy week.

2.) I got a new cell phone. I finally got a new cell phone after dealing with my old piece of junk for far too long and it's awesome. I'm usually nervous about getting a new phone, but this one has made the transition easy.

3.) NBC sucks. Luckily, Conan O'Brien rules and he's not going down without a fight.

4.) My teacher from my class last night is awesome. He's an associate AD at UofL, he went to college and is still good friends with Jay Wright, he made fun of a UK fan in our class and he has a beard.

5.) This game is crazy awesome. Zilch.

6.) Target is the best. Went in to grab a few things last night, ended up getting nothing that I went in for...but did get two sweaters and a shirt for under 19 bucks!

7.) Francisco needs a bath. It's finally above freezing...I'm gonna give the man a little rinse on the way home.

8.) New Year's Resolutions are going well. Started Grad School, Engaged, Eating less, haven't had any liquid besides water, Powerade zero and coffee, doing a better job not rushing...things are good.

9.) Waiting for an e-mail is the worst. I've been in contact with UofL's athletic department about setting up and internship...all I need to do is set up a time to meet with a certain lady...but I'm still waiting to hear back from her about a time to meet. It's depressing when I check my mail like 50 times a day and there are no new e-mails in my in-box.

10.) From now on the Song of the Day on Friday will be re-named the "Throwback jam of the day." Basically, I'll pick a song I listened to in grade school or high school that I used to love and it'll be fun. Also, it should be noted that most of the songs would have been featured on 106 and Park from 1997-2001....also they will all be awesome. The rules may change a bit...but we'll see.

I'm off now. Sorry for the rushed/quick post. We'll try to do better next time. Good Night Canada.

Throwback Jam of the Day: Peter Gunz and Lord Tariq - Deja Vu (Uptown Baby)

"The Shopping Zone"

2010-01-14T15:05:00.004-05:00

When I shop...I do so in a hurry. It doesn't matter if I'm at Target, Kroger or the mall. I don't know why I do it, but I do. There is nothing wrong with this type of shopping mentality. I get in, get what I need and I get out. It's fast, easy and painless (unless people don't know how to use the U-Scans). Basically, I get into what I call, "The Shopping Zone."

"The Shopping Zone" is when my one and only focus is locating and grabbing the next thing on my list. I move through the store like a running back and I dodge and ignore anyone and everything in my way. I actually like it because it's like a game. Every trip to the store is a competition between myself and myself to see how fast I can get out of there.

Anyway, I've noticed a problem with "The Shopping Zone" and it's occurred twice in the last few weeks. When I'm in the zone, I pay no attention to the people's faces that I am zooming past. I know there are people there, but I just maneuver past them as fast as possible. As you can imagine, sometimes there are other people that I know at the store. Old friends, relatives, co-workers, there's no telling who you might run into. Still, when I'm in the zone...I pay no attention to anyone and I often walk past people I know...it makes me look like an ass.

Here's an example: The other day I was wanting to grab the ingredients to make some chili. I grabbed a cart and started going around grabbing everything I need. While I went from ground beef to the shredded cheese my friend Lindsey saw me and said "Hey Brian!" I looked up and was pretty puzzled to see her there. I also wondered how long I had been looking at her and how many times she had to say my name.

You see, the problem with all of this is that when I do see people I know...I'm caught so completely off guard that it takes me a minute to realize who that is and what's happening. I mean I had seen Lindsey like a week earlier and she's my friend so it's not like I didn't recognize her. However, I felt totally out of it while talking to her because my mind was still focused on getting the cheese for my chili and getting out the door.

The same thing happened the next time I was in the grocery when I ran into Catherine from college. She said Hi and I was totally startled.

Alright, this is a lot of rambling...but basically here's my main concern. I don't want people to think I'm a jerk or that I don't like them when I see them in the store. It's not that I don't care to see them or that I don't have time for them...it's just that I'm in the zone and our conversation is messing with my time. I know the easy solution would be to slow down and actually look at people in the grocery...but I'm not sure I can help it...I get in the zone as soon as I enter a store.

Anyway, I realize this is all very weird and pointless...but I just wanted you guys to know that if I look you directly in the eyes while I'm shopping and I walk right past you...it's not that I hate you...it's because I'm in the Zone. Also, if you stop me and I seem a little rude/stand offish while in the store...it's not because I don't care to talk to you...it's because I got to get the cheese and get out of the store so I can beat my old time.

Glad we could clear all of that up.

Song of the Day: Jack Johnson - Symbol in My Driveway

Stuff...

2010-01-13T16:30:00.004-05:00

This post is like a mix of Tuesday Tidbits and...something else. Basically, I don't have any one thing to talk about today, but it's not Tuesday and there's a few things to mention. I'm just going to do a numbered list:

1.) Steve Nash is still my favorite NBA player, but Baron Davis is catching up. Check out this awesome rap video he's in:

The coolest part of that video is by far his t-shirt and shoes which feature his new "Beard Man" logo.
First person to find me that t-shirt for sale wins a prize.

2.) I had my "Intro to Research Methods and Statistics" class last night. It's a class that all grad students have to take and let me say, I was not excited about it. However, my professor is a pretty cool guy, he's young and likes bourbon, Guinness, basketball and Josh Ritter. Also, he didn't make us buy a text book. It shouldn't be so bad.

3.) Conan O'Brien is one of my favorite famous people. It is absolute crap what NBC is trying to do to him and I'm so glad Conan had the balls to stand up to them. Jay Leno's time is over...make him retire. Having the "Tonight Show" start at midnight makes absolutely no sense.
If you haven't read Conan's full statement you can read it here. The last line is my favorite...

Have a great day and, for the record, I am truly sorry about my hair; it’s always been that way.

Yours,
Conan

4.) I made a "Best of 2009" mix and I'll post it's contents soon.

5.) I didn't get the YahooSports College Basketball blogger job. Damn. I knew it was a long shot all along, but it really was MY job. Oh well, hopefully I'll get some work in UofL's athletic department soon.

6.) My favorite TV show is SportsCenter. I can try to tell you it's something else...but while I was watching SC last night I realized that if you added up all the minutes I've spent watching the show, it probably equals a whole year of my life. I'm not kidding. I watch it for at least 30 mins every single day (usually more like an hour). Also, true to Da Kaizah's words, Scott Van Pelt is the best anchor on there. There are lots of great ones, but he's my favorite.

7.) I think I get a new phone today...that's cool.

8.) So far so good on the New Years resolutions. However, this eating and drinking less thing puts me in a situation where I am starving 24/7. It sucks.

9.) Modern Family has been picked up for a second season by ABC. Hooray! Don't forget to watch tonight.

10.) Also, the "new" Scrubs is pretty good too. I was skeptical, but I really enjoy it. Check it out next Tuesday on ABC.

That's all for today, I'll try to do better next time. Good Night Canada!

Song of the Day: A Tribe Called Quest - I Left My Wallet In El Segundo

Tuesday Tidbits...

2010-01-12T13:33:00.002-05:00

I don't have many tidbits today because I have to be at school early for an orientation meeting. Also, I'm not in a great mood. Now that I've lowered your expectations...here goes nothing.

* I had my first class yesterday and it was alright. It's hard to tell from the first day of class. However, I was a little disturbed by the fact that my professor in the Sports Administration program had no idea that UofL was playing against #4 Villanova last night. Maybe it was some joke that I didn't get...but when someone asked if he was going to the game he said, "What game?" Then after we filled him in he said, "Oh no, I did go to a swim meet the other night and I plan on trying to attend a basketball game sometime this year." WTF? Are you kidding me? Hopefully it was some kind of joke that I didn't understand.

* Still have to get my Student I.D. and Parking Pass...I hate dealing with UofL when it comes to things like this. They are terrible at helping you out.

* One thing I did notice yesterday as I walked around campus was the feeling of envy I had toward all of the undergrad students. They were happily walking too and from their dorms, chatting with their friends. I want to go back to college.

* A couple notes from last night's UofL marathon game. 1.) MAKE A FRIGGIN SHOT, CARDS! 2.) Hey Big East Refs, thanks for making that game last forever and completely ruining any enjoyment a fan might have received. 90+ free throws in a Big East game? Also, it is possible to steal the ball from Scottie Reynolds without fouling him. He's a great player, he doesn't need you to protect him when one of our guys picks his pocket. 3.) Shit...we needed that one.

* To add to my bad mood after the game last night, I dropped my keys on the ground and my car key broke. It didn't break enough to stop working, but the part that holds it on a key ring is now broken. It sucks. I don't have a spare and a replacement costs 100 bucks. Hooray!

* Also, I got hit in the nose while playing basketball last night...and this morning it feels like someone is stepping on my face at all times. There's no swelling or bruise or anything...but man it hurts.

* I had a couple other things to talk about today...but I don't wanna. I'll be back tomorrow...hopefully more upbeat.

Take 'er easy people.

Song of the Day: Nina Simone - Sinnerman

New Year's Resolutions...

2010-01-11T14:01:00.002-05:00

For me...today marks the beginning of 2010.

I know that it's a week old, but last week I was traveling and there was a snow storm...so things got delayed a bit.

Nevertheless, today is a new year...and with a new year comes resolutions. Resolutions are rarely met, the idea of them is great but they're usually hard to stick to. Because I'm aware of this...I'm going to give myself seven resolutions and hope to stick to at least 4 of them (better than 50%). These aren't going to be outrageous goals, but most of them will require some dedication and work. Here they are:

1.) Improve my health. I'm not obese and I'm not sickly, but for a 23 year old dude...I should be healthier. Now, I'm not going to promise to go to the gym 5 times a week or give up fried food and beer...but I'm going to drink less, eat less and exercise more. I'm not shooting for a certain number of pounds to lose or anything like that...my goal is just to feel better and fit into all of my t-shirts that are size Medium. I seriously have like 10 awesome shirts that are just a bit too tight. Note to people who make clothes: Invent a size XM (Extra Medium) those clothes would fit me perfectly.

2.) Go to Grad School. Should be pretty easy...I'll take care of this one in about two hours. But also, I'd like to do well. I've always earned pretty good grades, but I've never really given 100% effort at all times. I plan on changing this, I'm not promising straight A+'s, but I'm promising that I won't blow off reading for video games and beer.

3.) Spend less Money. Since I'm going to be in school I won't be able to work the same number of hours...so that means my funds will decrease. I bet I spend between $100 - $200 every month that could be saved. Less fast food, less CDs, less beer....it all adds up.

4.) Manage my time better. I don't want to continue rushing out the door to get to work on time every morning. I'd like to wake up at a certain time, shower, eat breakfast and get to work with time to spare. Actually, I just want to stop rushing in general.

5.) Cut the Cussing. I really do say too many cuss words. I'm not going to cut them out totally because sometimes you need them (I'm looking at you Mr. I don't know how to use the Kroger U-Scan.) However, I could probably cut them in half.

6.) Get Married. Only 10 months away!

7.) Land a Sports internship. Hopefully, I can land one in the UofL athletic department...if not I'd like to land one somewhere around town before summer.

So there you go, 7 goals for the new year. Completing all 7 isn't out of the question...but 4 out of 7 is my goal. Wish me luck gang!

Song of the Day: M. Ward - For Beginners

Friday Facts

2010-01-08T16:05:00.002-05:00

Big lazy weekend ahead...let's get our facts straight.

* I have homework. I got an e-mail from one of my teachers today and he informed me that over the next two weeks we'll be reading two 320 page books. Damn. I'm gonna try to get started this weekend.

* There is one good sign from grad school. Some guy named Rich who is in the SPAD program sent an e-mail out last night that said, some of us are going up to Flanagan's to watch the BCS championship. You should come. I didn't get the e-mail until today so I didn't go...but, that's the kind of thing I was hoping would happen in this program. Now if I can just take that "Watching SportsCenter" class.

* The BCS Championship was odd. It sucked that McCoy got knocked out. It sucked more that Alabama barely had to try in the second half. It sucks the most that there are still two undefeated teams and only one gets named national champ. However, the game did bring some entertainment...Lee Corso was totally drunk at halftime and the onside kick where Texas just banged it off a Bama player was awesome! Also, the Flea and Josh Groban National Anthem collaboration was the weirdest thing I've ever seen. Still, congrats to Alabama! I talked to Will, who goes to Alabama, and he said the celebration was pretty crazy. Some rednecks, drinking and lots of "Sweet Home Alabama." So basically it was like an SAE party at Centre. Apparently it was too cold to burn couches. Also, when facing a third down and goal during a tense moment, with the game on the line, Will sent me a text message that said, "Better get it in." Guess what my reply was? Michael Scott would have been proud....those jokes will never get old.

* The most fun part of the game last night was following sports writers and fans comments on twitter. The funniest post of the night was right after Alabama got the sack/fumble by coming off the blind side and basically locked up the game. Instantly, there was a tweet that said, "Where the f--- was Sandra Bullock's son on that one?" A+ for whoever said that...I can't remember. The second funniest came from NBA on TNT's David Aldridge that read, "Mike Leach would put McCoy in a shed." Great work gang. I love Twitter.

* New Year's Resolutions are coming on Monday. I was going to do them today, but I'm giving myself this weekend to do whatever I want. 2010 officially begins on Monday...for me.

* I've had Taylor Swift's "You Belong With Me" in my head for about 4 days. I'd be more upset if I didn't love that song so much. I can't deny it...I'm a Taylor Swift fan. Also, remember that I'm engaged...to a woman.

* This weekend is going to be awesome. What am I doing? Nothing! I'm literally going to lay around and watch sports all day tomorrow and all day Sunday. NFL playoffs, Cards vs. St. John's, UConn vs. Georgetown. It should be grand. Also, here are my NFL picks (wishes).
- PACKERS over the Cardinals
- EAGLES over the Cowboys
- FIGHTING TOM BRADYS over the Ravens
- BENGALS over the Jets

* That last fact was a lie. I also have to take down my Christmas decorations this weekend. I hate taking down Christmas decorations about as much as I love putting up Christmas decorations...it's a drag.

* I really like snow and snow days...for a little bit. Once it stops snowing for a day or so...I'm ok with it warming up a few degrees and melting all of it. I mean some of it's brown, most of it has been walked on and it makes your shoes and floors wet. Come on 35 degree day!

That's all for me today. Have a great weekend folks!

Song of the Weekend: The Beatles - When I'm Sixty-Four

NOTE

2010-01-07T14:55:00.002-05:00

Ignore that previous post...I just got the news...SNOW DAY!!!

I know it was my first day and I was anxious/excited to start school...

...but I'll take a snow day anytime! School should start on a Monday anyway.

It's really unbelievable how giddy and happy I am right now...

I'll never grow older...at least not in my mind.

I'm going sledding.