So if you have been following this blog (all 2 of you) then you know that I just got back from a trip to Vegas with Sandra. You can probably catch all the details I will be omitting over at her super blog.
Drove out there early in order for me to watch the Eagles game. We made great time even with snow on both sides of the 15. Crazy to see snow in the desert. Anyway got into Vegas, checked in at the hotel, Planet Hollywood and then I went down to the sports book to play video poker and watch the game. Sandra went to the mall for some Christmas shopping. The bartender was super cool and was mostly interested in getting me drunk, great plan. Needed the drinks as the game sucked. But I did win some $$$ and met up with Sandra for some lunch. The rest of the afternoon is blurry with gambling, winning, drinking and winning. We both won a bunch of $ on the slots and video poker. It was surreal actually as we both won consistently. Those of you who have been to Vegas know that never happens. This was basically the way the weekend went for us. It was so good that we barely left the hotel. Good thing we did though. I won $500 at the Golden Nugget and Sandra won as well.
Bailed out of Vegas on the 3rd day but before heading home we hit a couple of off the beaten path spots. The neon bone yard and the remains of the Moulin Rouge. That was actually kind of fun as we had to trespass to get the good photos. The neon bone yard was really cool but the tour was too long. Or maybe I know I too much about Las Vegas history. Anyway back on the 15 for the drive home. Very excited about our winnings but more excite to see the guys.
Hope you are thoroughly bored now and want to listen to some tunes. While you listen to the couple songs below feel free check out the list of shit I'm feeling lately. Mainly just random things that have been getting me hyped lately.
Shit I'm Feeling
in no particular order
The Eagles smashing the Cowboys to get in to the playoffs. I'm still laughing...
Doodling - does doing the same thing over and over still count???
The Bourne Ultimatum - awesome! No explanation necessary.
Bomb the System - see this movie!
Piecebook - dope graffiti book!
Tagging - keep it street
Stickering
Radley and Stevie playing chase
Play these. Classic skate tunes. You know them, you love them.
Operation Ivy - Knowledge
Was there ever a better skate band than Op Ivy?? Nope. Did they make the H-Street videos better than they were already? Yes.
The only other band to be as closely associated with eskating in my mind are the Odd Numbers. They did a million songs for The New Deal videos when New Deal was the shit!
Odd Numbers - Holiday
from The New Deal promo video
Until next time keep it dirty.
Monday, December 29, 2008
Tuesday, December 23, 2008
Back from Vegas!
Still a bit delirious from the trip but glad to be home. My brain is fried from bright lights, loud music, and slot machines ringing. Must sleep. Will be back soon...
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
Rainy day treats...
Pour yourself some hot chocolate or a hot beverage of your choice, take your eyes away from whatever work you are doing and waste some time!
Enjoy!
Enjoy!
Sunday, December 14, 2008
Fantasy football - my curse
This year I joined a fantasy football league with some of the fellas at the old office. I figured why not. There was a computer draft, which I figured was fair as I was a late addition and had not really done any research anyway. My starting squad had a lot of potential. Thoughts of the playoffs danced through my brain...then the season started and all hell broke loose. Now it is week 15 and I sit with a record of 4-11. Totally pathetic. Granted my QB's have sucked all year but still. I have LT and Marshawn Lynch, I should be dominating. But this week really sums up my season. My starting QB Jeff Garcia (don't ask) was a late scratch for the game. This left me down a player to start. Great...
It is now 83-80 the other guy. We both have 3 guys still playing so I have time and the ability to get back but this season has been torturous. I lost one week by 80 points, that is freakin ridiculous. Next year I will be much more prepared and ready when the season starts. I am addicted now and will be back...once again with playoff visions in my brain!
Oh yeah watch this below, just in case this was a bit too jockish of a post.
It is now 83-80 the other guy. We both have 3 guys still playing so I have time and the ability to get back but this season has been torturous. I lost one week by 80 points, that is freakin ridiculous. Next year I will be much more prepared and ready when the season starts. I am addicted now and will be back...once again with playoff visions in my brain!
Oh yeah watch this below, just in case this was a bit too jockish of a post.
Sunday, December 7, 2008
I wanna stay young until I die
I turned 35 yesterday.
Never thought I would be this old.
Now what...?
Never thought I would be this old.
Now what...?
Friday, December 5, 2008
Where are the cities...
So I am back. It seems like a long time since I wrote anything but it's really only been a few days. Things around here have been fairly quiet. Mostly just hanging with Raddles and riding bikes. I have been drawing a bit more lately. I feel more creative than ever (not that I am some artist) but it has been nice to rediscover photography and other outlets I used to have.
While we were in Philly for Thanksgiving I had some time to walk the city. It is still one of my favorite things to do. Walk around large cities and check out the people, styles, architecture and graffiti. I get to listen to the sounds, see the sights of city life not found in LA county. I miss it. The smells, the crowds, the anonymity, the cement and metal.
Out here is different. Driving almost everywhere leaves me disconnected. While walking through the city I felt connected, plugged in and hyper aware of my surroundings. Not in a nervous scared way, but in a take it all in and process it sort of way.
Since being back I have ventured to "downtown" Long Beach in order to stay connected. While it has some of the characteristics I am looking for, mostly it feels hollow. Too many chain stores, not enough independent business, almost nothing to offer in the way of shopping and a general stale atmosphere.
Where are the cities...?
While we were in Philly for Thanksgiving I had some time to walk the city. It is still one of my favorite things to do. Walk around large cities and check out the people, styles, architecture and graffiti. I get to listen to the sounds, see the sights of city life not found in LA county. I miss it. The smells, the crowds, the anonymity, the cement and metal.
Out here is different. Driving almost everywhere leaves me disconnected. While walking through the city I felt connected, plugged in and hyper aware of my surroundings. Not in a nervous scared way, but in a take it all in and process it sort of way.
Since being back I have ventured to "downtown" Long Beach in order to stay connected. While it has some of the characteristics I am looking for, mostly it feels hollow. Too many chain stores, not enough independent business, almost nothing to offer in the way of shopping and a general stale atmosphere.
Where are the cities...?
Monday, December 1, 2008
The concrete playground where I learned who I was
Just got back from Philly for Thanksgiving. It was a great trip, maybe the best Thanksgiving I have had in a long, long time. The dinner was just Sandra, Andrew, myself and my parents. Just the way I like. No crazy relatives giving off bad vibes, no excess drama, just family and good times.
We hung out with Andrew on Fri night and Sat and had a blast. He is a funny ass dude and we can have fun anywhere, anytime. On Fri we cruised around Center City (where he lives now) and did some shopping. I came up on a pair of Puma Clyde's! So psyched! I love just walking around down there as it brings back all kinds of memories. I see old skate spots everywhere I look. Reminds me of simpler times.
On Fri night we hit up a happy hour at a bar Andrew frequents, called Northstar. They have great wings, jerk and buffalo. After indulging in quite a few wings and some alcoholic beverages we went back to a friend of Andrew's house. I have known Josh Satinoff now for 20+ years now so I guess he is my friend as well. It was really fun as there were close to 20 people there partying and having a blast. It was a great time. Except when we tried to call a cab that never showed. We made it back to Andrew's around 2:30 and crashed out. I woke up on Sat morning with a craving for a "real" slice of pizza and a fountain coke (is there anything better). My personal post drinking favorite meal. We found a spot and grubbed down. Then a bit more shopping and back to my parents house to hang.
This was the first time I have picked up the camera in quite sometime. I took a bunch of pics and it sparked me to carry my camera around more. So in honor of the trip back to Philly, below is a selection of pics from the trip and some music that always reminds me of home. Grab a wooder ice, fire up the song below and check it out.
Tuff Crew - My Part of Town
Slide show of Philly trip
We hung out with Andrew on Fri night and Sat and had a blast. He is a funny ass dude and we can have fun anywhere, anytime. On Fri we cruised around Center City (where he lives now) and did some shopping. I came up on a pair of Puma Clyde's! So psyched! I love just walking around down there as it brings back all kinds of memories. I see old skate spots everywhere I look. Reminds me of simpler times.
On Fri night we hit up a happy hour at a bar Andrew frequents, called Northstar. They have great wings, jerk and buffalo. After indulging in quite a few wings and some alcoholic beverages we went back to a friend of Andrew's house. I have known Josh Satinoff now for 20+ years now so I guess he is my friend as well. It was really fun as there were close to 20 people there partying and having a blast. It was a great time. Except when we tried to call a cab that never showed. We made it back to Andrew's around 2:30 and crashed out. I woke up on Sat morning with a craving for a "real" slice of pizza and a fountain coke (is there anything better). My personal post drinking favorite meal. We found a spot and grubbed down. Then a bit more shopping and back to my parents house to hang.
This was the first time I have picked up the camera in quite sometime. I took a bunch of pics and it sparked me to carry my camera around more. So in honor of the trip back to Philly, below is a selection of pics from the trip and some music that always reminds me of home. Grab a wooder ice, fire up the song below and check it out.
Tuff Crew - My Part of Town
Slide show of Philly trip
Saturday, November 22, 2008
Modern man evolutionary betrayer, modern man ecosystem destoyer, modern man destroy yourself in shame
Went out for a few drinks last night with Sandra and our friend Jeff. We used to work together at Podium. Actually before that he sold me my Steamroller when he worked at King's in Seal Beach. We hit the usual spot, the Red Room in Long Beach. It is one of the few bars in LA that reminds me of SF. Plus the bartenders are all really friendly. It is a skate scene but I guess it could be worse... believe me.
Anyway back to last night. Nothing spectacular happened but we had a blast and shots were had which always set's it off. But you know what really annoys me; when people skip your songs on the jukebox. The newer style jukeboxes allow you to pay extra to hear your song right away. That is some serious bullshit and you will be verbally harassed. Last night the exact same thing happened during Sandra's set. Some douchebag skipped her second song to hear a T.I song, a fuckin T.I song, are you freaking kidding me. I immediately asked the bartender to skip said shit song due to Sandra being skipped by said douchebag. The bartender obviously and understandably did not want to get involved. Frustrated, I did what any normal person would do. I threw a straw at the back of his head. Then mad dogged him through some stupid Lil Wayne song. Who the hell puts an extra $1 into the jukebox just to hear those two songs which are on the goddamn radio, or MTV or BET or some other Top 40 bullshit music outlet all freakin day? A douchebag that's who. I thought the rules were simple, I guess not.
All in all it was fun time and it was good to sit and have some drinks outside the house for a change. I have been staying at home quite a bit lately.
Yesterday afternoon we watched a movie called What we do is secret?. It is the story of The Germs, "the" LA punk band of the late 70's. If you don't know the story about Darby Crash, I highly recommend this movie and even if you do it is still entertaining.
In honor of the punk afternoon I have some songs below for you. Enjoy! and break some shit!
I hate children - The Adolescents
Tim - This is for you!
Inside Out - No Spiritual Surrender
Anyway back to last night. Nothing spectacular happened but we had a blast and shots were had which always set's it off. But you know what really annoys me; when people skip your songs on the jukebox. The newer style jukeboxes allow you to pay extra to hear your song right away. That is some serious bullshit and you will be verbally harassed. Last night the exact same thing happened during Sandra's set. Some douchebag skipped her second song to hear a T.I song, a fuckin T.I song, are you freaking kidding me. I immediately asked the bartender to skip said shit song due to Sandra being skipped by said douchebag. The bartender obviously and understandably did not want to get involved. Frustrated, I did what any normal person would do. I threw a straw at the back of his head. Then mad dogged him through some stupid Lil Wayne song. Who the hell puts an extra $1 into the jukebox just to hear those two songs which are on the goddamn radio, or MTV or BET or some other Top 40 bullshit music outlet all freakin day? A douchebag that's who. I thought the rules were simple, I guess not.
All in all it was fun time and it was good to sit and have some drinks outside the house for a change. I have been staying at home quite a bit lately.
Yesterday afternoon we watched a movie called What we do is secret?. It is the story of The Germs, "the" LA punk band of the late 70's. If you don't know the story about Darby Crash, I highly recommend this movie and even if you do it is still entertaining.
In honor of the punk afternoon I have some songs below for you. Enjoy! and break some shit!
I hate children - The Adolescents
Tim - This is for you!
Inside Out - No Spiritual Surrender
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
Sunday, November 16, 2008
Weekend update not with Norm MacDonald
Went on on mission Fri to get some skate shoes. I knew what I wanted and where I wanted to buy them. Off I went out to the OC, to my favorite skate shop, Liberty Boardshop. Upon arrival I immediately notice a large shoe wall filled with all types, shapes, and styles. Upon closer inspection my choices were actually pretty slim. I am on a mission for Half Cabs. Nothing too spectacular. Looking at the wall, lots of high end Half Cabs, and low tops. No regular Half Cabs. I guess they don't sell as well as the high end material styles. The higher end Half Cabs with leather and designs are cool and what not but you can't skate those. Or at least I can't. So after looking around for a second I jetted. That was a long ass drive for nothing. Oh well at least I was out of the house and cruising around. Since I have been laid off and injured I have been trapped in the house. I have neglected to mention the craziness of driving in an area like Fullerton/Brea/Yorba Linda where the world revolves around each privileged "human being" in their cars out there. It was amazing and dangerous, lots of lane switching without signals in traffic while on the phone. No look pull outs of shopping centers, along with an over abundence of large SUV and tank type vehicles. As well as the last remaining Yes on 8 and McClain/Palin stickers. You see what I am getting at...
Next stop another legit shop on my way back to the LBC. This time they had them but not in my size. OK, Late. Last stop a little spot I know in Seal Beach. Get there, it's freakin' deserted, but I see they have them on the wall. Hope they have my size. Hit the dude up in the shop (LBC pro from the late 90's) up to see if they have them in my size. Nope. Sweet...strike 3. WTF!?! I can't get a pair of plain Half Cab's at a skate shop (usual bitter old guy comment).
So there I was a beaten dude standing on Main St alone and without Half Cabs...
I am not going "shopping" for skate shoes. I just want to cruise to the shop and pick them up, same as I would a board or wheels.
So I bought them online at an un-named website. Bummer, but really...no regular Half Cabs at the shops. I guess at least I can get them. But it takes 3 days or so and I would much rather give the little bit of $$ I spend on product to the shops. It just seems like a sad state of skate affairs. You have to pay the bills and when times are tough you have sell as much of what you can to keep the lights on. But still...
Last night our neighbors had a bbq and bought the latest UFC championship fight. They had invited us over earlier in the day. We spent the evening drinking, eating and watching goons beat each other stupid for an arena full of spectators. I really like boxing but I cannot get into this MMA deal at all. It seems to me that a lot of these dudes actually like to fight and would whether or not there was an audience. That is the big difference for me between boxing and MMA. Either way Sandra I and hung out and chilled and watched until it was late. Radley spent the entire time playing with Marley (neighbors Boxer). He is all sleepy today and just laying in the sun on the back of the couch.
The Eagles played to a 13-13 tie with the Cincinatti Bengals today. Yes, a tie. Yes, the Bengals had only won 1 game previous to this all year. No I am not happy about the way the Eagles are playing, but what can you do.
At least there is hockey on tonight!
What happened to skaters like this? Where are you Robbie Gangemi?
Straight up East Coast raw shit!
Next stop another legit shop on my way back to the LBC. This time they had them but not in my size. OK, Late. Last stop a little spot I know in Seal Beach. Get there, it's freakin' deserted, but I see they have them on the wall. Hope they have my size. Hit the dude up in the shop (LBC pro from the late 90's) up to see if they have them in my size. Nope. Sweet...strike 3. WTF!?! I can't get a pair of plain Half Cab's at a skate shop (usual bitter old guy comment).
So there I was a beaten dude standing on Main St alone and without Half Cabs...
I am not going "shopping" for skate shoes. I just want to cruise to the shop and pick them up, same as I would a board or wheels.
So I bought them online at an un-named website. Bummer, but really...no regular Half Cabs at the shops. I guess at least I can get them. But it takes 3 days or so and I would much rather give the little bit of $$ I spend on product to the shops. It just seems like a sad state of skate affairs. You have to pay the bills and when times are tough you have sell as much of what you can to keep the lights on. But still...
Last night our neighbors had a bbq and bought the latest UFC championship fight. They had invited us over earlier in the day. We spent the evening drinking, eating and watching goons beat each other stupid for an arena full of spectators. I really like boxing but I cannot get into this MMA deal at all. It seems to me that a lot of these dudes actually like to fight and would whether or not there was an audience. That is the big difference for me between boxing and MMA. Either way Sandra I and hung out and chilled and watched until it was late. Radley spent the entire time playing with Marley (neighbors Boxer). He is all sleepy today and just laying in the sun on the back of the couch.
The Eagles played to a 13-13 tie with the Cincinatti Bengals today. Yes, a tie. Yes, the Bengals had only won 1 game previous to this all year. No I am not happy about the way the Eagles are playing, but what can you do.
At least there is hockey on tonight!
What happened to skaters like this? Where are you Robbie Gangemi?
Straight up East Coast raw shit!
Thursday, November 13, 2008
In my brain
I know I have been pretty skate heavy on the content lately so I wanted to put up a couple songs that have been bangin in my brain for a hot minute. I think it shows how all over the place I am right now. Lots of free time due to not being employed, and being injured will make your head spin.
KRS-One - Out for Fame
Jamie T - Operation
Agnostic Front - Anthem
What is the thread tying all these together...I don't know.
KRS-One - Out for Fame
Jamie T - Operation
Agnostic Front - Anthem
What is the thread tying all these together...I don't know.
Monday, November 10, 2008
Is that a needle in my knee, dr?
Yes, it was actually a needle in my knee. Great...Now as you may have read (or may not, since I am not sure anybody reads this) last week, I have had some ongoing knee problems. I finally went to the dr this morning and had some xrays taken, which did not show anything. Then a dr injected my knee with steroids and lydocaine. At first I was super happy as there was no more pain, but now that I am home waiting to go get an MRI, the pain has returned. I hope this is nothing super serious. It is a real bummer since I actually have free time to really skate a lot but I can't take advantage until I feel more comfortable with my knee.
So what have I been doing then, you may ask. Not much. Watched a ton of ESPN and played Xbox360 (big shout to Zach for the hook up on games) and watched a ton of youtube clips.
Right now I am writing this with Radley curled up next to me staying warm. It has been super nice to spend all this time with him. He is a blast to walk around with as he is curious about everything and everyone. Always really friendly with strangers and he absolutely love kids. I have seen him turn a little girl who was afraid of dogs into a dog lover with a dog of her own. All because Radley is so sweet!
Today's clips fall under the what the hell ever happened with these 2 dudes?? They both rip, no wack styles and seemingly no lame gimmicks. I wonder what these two are up to these days...if anybody know let me know.
1st up is Keith Cole - no sponsors, but pure rippage. Enjoy!
2nd up is Jess Mcraney - 1 part in 411VM then ghost...
Until later.
So what have I been doing then, you may ask. Not much. Watched a ton of ESPN and played Xbox360 (big shout to Zach for the hook up on games) and watched a ton of youtube clips.
Right now I am writing this with Radley curled up next to me staying warm. It has been super nice to spend all this time with him. He is a blast to walk around with as he is curious about everything and everyone. Always really friendly with strangers and he absolutely love kids. I have seen him turn a little girl who was afraid of dogs into a dog lover with a dog of her own. All because Radley is so sweet!
Today's clips fall under the what the hell ever happened with these 2 dudes?? They both rip, no wack styles and seemingly no lame gimmicks. I wonder what these two are up to these days...if anybody know let me know.
1st up is Keith Cole - no sponsors, but pure rippage. Enjoy!
2nd up is Jess Mcraney - 1 part in 411VM then ghost...
Until later.
Thursday, November 6, 2008
Freedom from the constraints of modern day marketing plots to rule the world
Over the last few years I had been spoiled with free clothes, shoes, any sort of skate related material, including decks, videos , basically anything. And now since the supply has been cut off I feel surprising good about it. Like an imaginary weight had been lifted. Not that I didn't like what I was wearing, I did. But it gets to a point where you don't have anything in the closet other than "company" gear. I swear I'm not complaining because most skaters never get anything for free.
I never did before I started working in the "industry" where "promo" has almost no end.
Yesterday I had a good purge of clothes, mainly logo stuff that used to be daily wear. I kept a few of the better designs but most are getting the old heave ho. No more free advertising from me. Next up is going to be the shoe collection. Which if you know me is pretty ridiculous. And by ridiculous I mean stupid. Not only I do I have a closet full of sneakers, I have a garage space with multiple, multiple boxes of shoes. It is actually somewhat embarrassing. What the hell does anybody need with that many shoes??? Many of which are still in paper. Ltd edition...oooohhh...coool. Time to trim the fat. Some will make the cut some will end up in Goodwill, on E-Bay (Ltd's son!!), or at the final resting spot for promo, Buffalo Exchange.
All this rambling brings to me what I was thinking about earlier today while playing Skate on Xbox 360.
Did I tell you I am unemployed??
Now that I am no longer tied to a particular brand of skate shoe, what will I wear while shredding. I know that does sound a bit stupid since I have already said I have all these shoes stockpiled. But after how it all went down I really don't feel comfortable running the gear, however I will wear the boxers, socks, and jeans I have as I don't have a job. And unwilling to drop coin on that shit right now.
So I have narrowed the choices down to 3 styles of shoes. In honor of this new found freedom I have created my very 1st poll. I will skate whatever shoes win at the end.
Your choices are below.
Half Cab's
Skate Mid's
Adidas Campus Vulcs
I have been watching this like it was going out of style. This is the newest offering from Traffic Skateboards. If you did not know they are a company out of Philly run by Ricky Oyola.
Oh yeah and then there is this. How can you front on Mac Dre and Nickatina?! You can't that's how! Get it.
I never did before I started working in the "industry" where "promo" has almost no end.
Yesterday I had a good purge of clothes, mainly logo stuff that used to be daily wear. I kept a few of the better designs but most are getting the old heave ho. No more free advertising from me. Next up is going to be the shoe collection. Which if you know me is pretty ridiculous. And by ridiculous I mean stupid. Not only I do I have a closet full of sneakers, I have a garage space with multiple, multiple boxes of shoes. It is actually somewhat embarrassing. What the hell does anybody need with that many shoes??? Many of which are still in paper. Ltd edition...oooohhh...coool. Time to trim the fat. Some will make the cut some will end up in Goodwill, on E-Bay (Ltd's son!!), or at the final resting spot for promo, Buffalo Exchange.
All this rambling brings to me what I was thinking about earlier today while playing Skate on Xbox 360.
Did I tell you I am unemployed??
Now that I am no longer tied to a particular brand of skate shoe, what will I wear while shredding. I know that does sound a bit stupid since I have already said I have all these shoes stockpiled. But after how it all went down I really don't feel comfortable running the gear, however I will wear the boxers, socks, and jeans I have as I don't have a job. And unwilling to drop coin on that shit right now.
So I have narrowed the choices down to 3 styles of shoes. In honor of this new found freedom I have created my very 1st poll. I will skate whatever shoes win at the end.
Your choices are below.
Half Cab's
Skate Mid's
Adidas Campus Vulcs
I have been watching this like it was going out of style. This is the newest offering from Traffic Skateboards. If you did not know they are a company out of Philly run by Ricky Oyola.
Oh yeah and then there is this. How can you front on Mac Dre and Nickatina?! You can't that's how! Get it.
Tuesday, November 4, 2008
Wow!
I have to say I am surprised the election went the way it did. Very happy but also somewhat shocked. If you know me you know how cynical and untrusting of authority I am so whenever things like this happen it surprises me. I have seen some shady shit go down in politics during my life time.
So this time I did my civic duty. I went and voted this afternoon, what else did I have to do. After a bit of confusion on my part, I found the polling place and I was able to cast my ballot.
Then Sandra and I went to have my favorite meal, lunch special at the chinese restaurant. It is the perfect amount of food. Then off to finish the errands for the day.
I am going to try and post more random shit since I am getting bored of talking about my daily routine. I mean if something interesting happens then maybe it is post worthy, but what was written above...not sure.
Anyway on to some videos you should watch from dudes you may or may not have heard of.
Ted Barrow - Has a great blog as well - http://teddybarrow.blogspot.com/
Slam City Skate Rats - whats better than some grimy London skating
Itoshin - Japanese shredder - the spots in this are amazing
Until next time. Keep it earl.
So this time I did my civic duty. I went and voted this afternoon, what else did I have to do. After a bit of confusion on my part, I found the polling place and I was able to cast my ballot.
Then Sandra and I went to have my favorite meal, lunch special at the chinese restaurant. It is the perfect amount of food. Then off to finish the errands for the day.
I am going to try and post more random shit since I am getting bored of talking about my daily routine. I mean if something interesting happens then maybe it is post worthy, but what was written above...not sure.
Anyway on to some videos you should watch from dudes you may or may not have heard of.
Ted Barrow - Has a great blog as well - http://teddybarrow.blogspot.com/
Slam City Skate Rats - whats better than some grimy London skating
Itoshin - Japanese shredder - the spots in this are amazing
Until next time. Keep it earl.
Sunday, November 2, 2008
Sunday...my new Saturday?
At least for the time being as I am un-employed for the 1st time in my adult life. So I have been relaxing and trying to stay positive by doing the tings I enjoy. Mainly watching sports and indulging myself. It is still really weird and uncomfortable I do not have a job to wake up to tomorrow. I always wanted an extra day of the weekend when I was working. The world works in crazy ways...
I have been hurt for the past few weeks and my knee is not getting any better. Tomorrow I have to get an appt to see a dr while I still have health insurance. I hope it is a just a bad strain and nothing more serious. This has also hindered my ability to take my mind off the current situation. No skating and no bike riding. The two things I use to relax. Unavailable i turn to other ways to relax...see below.
Beverage of choice
Been listening to quite a bit of early 90's hardcore. My favorite band from then, Gorilla Bicuits
Believe me I see the humor and contradiction of the 2 images above. But I am a complicated person with contradictory beliefs. So in conclusion it's Sunday the Eagles beat the Seahawk's and my fantasy squad is down but not out. I am now off to drop in on True Blood w/ Sandra.
I have been hurt for the past few weeks and my knee is not getting any better. Tomorrow I have to get an appt to see a dr while I still have health insurance. I hope it is a just a bad strain and nothing more serious. This has also hindered my ability to take my mind off the current situation. No skating and no bike riding. The two things I use to relax. Unavailable i turn to other ways to relax...see below.
Beverage of choice
Been listening to quite a bit of early 90's hardcore. My favorite band from then, Gorilla Bicuits
Believe me I see the humor and contradiction of the 2 images above. But I am a complicated person with contradictory beliefs. So in conclusion it's Sunday the Eagles beat the Seahawk's and my fantasy squad is down but not out. I am now off to drop in on True Blood w/ Sandra.
Thursday, October 30, 2008
Out of work/Phillies are the 2008 World Series Champs!
This past Wed was one of the craziest, weirdest, most surreal days I have had in my entire life.
I was laid off yesterday. It was out of the blue. The company I worked for laid off 20 other people as well. That's equal to a 20% reduction in staff. I never expected to be a casualty of this recession. We had run the sales dept extremely lean to avoid situations like this. I know it wasn't job related for a couple of reasons, my #'s were up and have been for sometime now and I was told in my exit meeting that it had absolutely nothing to do with performance. Not much consolation as I have been working for them for the past 6 years but at least it was something. Packing my office was very strange. I did it in about 10 minutes and just left without saying goodbye to anyone. I was in shock. The drive home was surreal, I barely remember it now.
Some crazy things go through your mind when you are being told that you no longer have a job. The weirdest one for me yesterday was that at least I was going to miss the lame Halloween party they try to throw each year. Funny how the mind works.
Now what you ask...I don't really know where this is leading but I am looking at it as an opportunity to start a new chapter in my life. It is very scary but they say things happen for a reason. Right now I am trying to enjoy my new found free time.
But the day was not over yet. The Phillies were less than 3 innings away from a World Series win and I was not going to let what happened earlier in the day effect how I watched and celebrated. I am thrilled to say they won and I celebrated like I should by drinking too much and being a bit too loud!
I was laid off yesterday. It was out of the blue. The company I worked for laid off 20 other people as well. That's equal to a 20% reduction in staff. I never expected to be a casualty of this recession. We had run the sales dept extremely lean to avoid situations like this. I know it wasn't job related for a couple of reasons, my #'s were up and have been for sometime now and I was told in my exit meeting that it had absolutely nothing to do with performance. Not much consolation as I have been working for them for the past 6 years but at least it was something. Packing my office was very strange. I did it in about 10 minutes and just left without saying goodbye to anyone. I was in shock. The drive home was surreal, I barely remember it now.
Some crazy things go through your mind when you are being told that you no longer have a job. The weirdest one for me yesterday was that at least I was going to miss the lame Halloween party they try to throw each year. Funny how the mind works.
Now what you ask...I don't really know where this is leading but I am looking at it as an opportunity to start a new chapter in my life. It is very scary but they say things happen for a reason. Right now I am trying to enjoy my new found free time.
But the day was not over yet. The Phillies were less than 3 innings away from a World Series win and I was not going to let what happened earlier in the day effect how I watched and celebrated. I am thrilled to say they won and I celebrated like I should by drinking too much and being a bit too loud!
Monday, October 27, 2008
Sunday, October 26, 2008
Saturday Night in Laguna
Well as I had written about previously, Sandra and I went to wedding last night. It was for her friend Mark and his partner Richard. It was a nice affair with a short service (bonus!), then right to appetizers and drinks (my favorite part of any affair). But during this whole time the Phillies are playing a WS game and I am at a wedding. My mind was just not there. We enjoyed ourselves but as soon as it was time to go I was out the door.
We made it home in time to watch the last 2 innings. The 9th was crazy with Carlos Ruiz knocking in the game winner in walk off style. What a way to win the 1st WS game in Philly since 93. Tonight is game 4 and I am not going anywhere. This is a great ride and I want to be on for the whole time!
Go Phils!
We made it home in time to watch the last 2 innings. The 9th was crazy with Carlos Ruiz knocking in the game winner in walk off style. What a way to win the 1st WS game in Philly since 93. Tonight is game 4 and I am not going anywhere. This is a great ride and I want to be on for the whole time!
Go Phils!
Sundays!
I love Sundays in the fall. Why you ask? The NFL is in full swing! I can sit and watch games, dick around on the web and play with Radley all day. Yes, I have a touch of the ADD, but I have it under control...
Even though my knee is still hurting, I want to skate this week. We'll see. In the meantime I have been watching skate videos like it was 95. I've been into the European and smaller local style independent ones that show a scene or local board company. They have a certain feel that the big budget "fly to the hot spots", and double your coverage, get a magazine article, and film for the video's don't have.
The spots are generally more rugged, making them easier to relate to as most of us don't have a marble ledge paradise at our disposal. Plus the vibe is more skating for fun not just progression. I have no issue with progression as a matter of fact some of my all time favorite videos are considered to be extremely progressive not just for the tricks, but spots, filming, editing, etc. But mostly what I enjoy are seeing new spots, not just another stair added on for Billy Sunglasses ad to jump down.
So to finally cut to the chase below are a couple of you tuber's I have been watching.
Danny Sommerfeld - German ripper
Jordan Sanchez - Seattle smooth operator
Even though my knee is still hurting, I want to skate this week. We'll see. In the meantime I have been watching skate videos like it was 95. I've been into the European and smaller local style independent ones that show a scene or local board company. They have a certain feel that the big budget "fly to the hot spots", and double your coverage, get a magazine article, and film for the video's don't have.
The spots are generally more rugged, making them easier to relate to as most of us don't have a marble ledge paradise at our disposal. Plus the vibe is more skating for fun not just progression. I have no issue with progression as a matter of fact some of my all time favorite videos are considered to be extremely progressive not just for the tricks, but spots, filming, editing, etc. But mostly what I enjoy are seeing new spots, not just another stair added on for Billy Sunglasses ad to jump down.
So to finally cut to the chase below are a couple of you tuber's I have been watching.
Danny Sommerfeld - German ripper
Jordan Sanchez - Seattle smooth operator
Friday, October 24, 2008
Tough Luck
Phillies head back home for game 3. Earning the 1-1 split was huge. Not hitting with men on base...not so huge. Overall they can play better. I however will not be watching. Where will i be? In Laguna at a wedding, a same sex wedding between Sandra's friend Mark and his partner Richard. Amazing timing, I know. Maybe there will be a TV there...a boy can have a dream. Right?!?
Still haven't picked the hotel for our Vegas trip, but we are going to stay someplace nice for cheap so we can have more $$$ for other things, such as gambling! or maybe a massage with Sandra.
Still can't skate since my knee is hurt. Not sure what happened but it feels weak on every step . Sucks as I have been feelin the new park at the office. Still haven't got my legs back completely but it gets closer all the time. My confidence is not back yet at all. Have to get through this and keep it going.
I've started to skate the box a bit. Ollie timing is way off. It feels like one of those weak skate photo's from TJ Maxx where the "skater" is doing a trick and their feet are both off in mid air. Not good.
Still haven't picked the hotel for our Vegas trip, but we are going to stay someplace nice for cheap so we can have more $$$ for other things, such as gambling! or maybe a massage with Sandra.
Still can't skate since my knee is hurt. Not sure what happened but it feels weak on every step . Sucks as I have been feelin the new park at the office. Still haven't got my legs back completely but it gets closer all the time. My confidence is not back yet at all. Have to get through this and keep it going.
I've started to skate the box a bit. Ollie timing is way off. It feels like one of those weak skate photo's from TJ Maxx where the "skater" is doing a trick and their feet are both off in mid air. Not good.
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
Are you kidding me....!
I'm sitting in the office going crazy right now thinking about the Phillies game tonight. It is game 1 of the World Series and I'm pumped. The last time they were in the World Series I was still living in Philly and somehow managed to finagle tickets to game 4. I went with my good friend Mike Meyer. Ultimately the Phil's lost the game and the series but it was still an awesome experience.
Now I am 3000 miles away and watch every game I can and will be flying the colors tonight when I get home. We are bringing in cheesesteaks to keep it real Philly style. Of course I will be on my usual 14 and wizard smoke combo! What better way to watch!
That's all for now and I will be back after work.
Go Phils!
Now I am 3000 miles away and watch every game I can and will be flying the colors tonight when I get home. We are bringing in cheesesteaks to keep it real Philly style. Of course I will be on my usual 14 and wizard smoke combo! What better way to watch!
That's all for now and I will be back after work.
Go Phils!
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
Looking ahead...way ahead.
I'm just another working stiff.
Glad to have a job in this crazy economy. Who, like many out there have very few vacation days to look forward to. Now, I understand lot's of people are in similar working situations or worse or no job but fuck it, I am already looking forward to my winter vacation and it's only October. I'm burned out and need more than two rushed days off to clear my head. It's been a long year already.
Sandra and I have this holiday tradition of heading to Vegas around Christmas for a couple of days of R&R. More like video poker and 14's in the am. I'm thinking we should carry on the tradition this year. I love Vegas (understatement of the year)! It has everything I look for in a vacation; anonymity, gambling, and restaurants galore.
So the question is where do we stay? I'm not one to jump into things without a little research so I have been on the hunt for room deals. The question has morphed into; Do we stay someplace extravagant for a great price or stay someplace real nice for cheap? I am leaning towards staying someplace real nice for cheap. This would free up some loot for a massage or a show. Or more roulette downtown, whatever I'm on vacation! ....in my brain.
Glad to have a job in this crazy economy. Who, like many out there have very few vacation days to look forward to. Now, I understand lot's of people are in similar working situations or worse or no job but fuck it, I am already looking forward to my winter vacation and it's only October. I'm burned out and need more than two rushed days off to clear my head. It's been a long year already.
Sandra and I have this holiday tradition of heading to Vegas around Christmas for a couple of days of R&R. More like video poker and 14's in the am. I'm thinking we should carry on the tradition this year. I love Vegas (understatement of the year)! It has everything I look for in a vacation; anonymity, gambling, and restaurants galore.
So the question is where do we stay? I'm not one to jump into things without a little research so I have been on the hunt for room deals. The question has morphed into; Do we stay someplace extravagant for a great price or stay someplace real nice for cheap? I am leaning towards staying someplace real nice for cheap. This would free up some loot for a massage or a show. Or more roulette downtown, whatever I'm on vacation! ....in my brain.
Monday, October 20, 2008
Well here goes
Hello there -
This is my 1st attempt at anything like this. I never had a diary, secret notebook or anything of that sort. This blog will hopefully be used as an outlet for my thoughts, random observations, rants, questions, theories and anything else I please.
A few of things I am feeling these days;
Radley chasing Stevie around the house
Afterwork Podium Park sessions - photo coming!
Jamie T
Phillies
Vegas
Street Murals
That's all for today.
This is my 1st attempt at anything like this. I never had a diary, secret notebook or anything of that sort. This blog will hopefully be used as an outlet for my thoughts, random observations, rants, questions, theories and anything else I please.
A few of things I am feeling these days;
Radley chasing Stevie around the house
Afterwork Podium Park sessions - photo coming!
Jamie T
Phillies
Vegas
Street Murals
That's all for today.
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