Ands.

Mary Margaret Blanchard

2012-02-05T20:07:00.000-08:00

If you've seen the show, great. I've seen it. It's called Once Upon A Time. It's sentimental, it's yuppy-ish. It's great. Our main lady is seen below.

Oh, Mary Margaret. You're a true lady. That is all. Where are you? If a person happens upon a lady like her, we have a matter of urgency. I must meet her. Immediately.

Finer Things

2012-01-30T22:07:00.000-08:00

Thanks to my dear sister, Anna Corinne, (who is a creative mastermind and great knitter) I have taken up. Knitting. Extensively? No. Oh, but I pick up those needles; I knit; I purl; I knit. And so on. I'll have you know that knitting is not just for ladies. It is for all. If you don't believe me, consult this book. A few days ago, I found myself with music on and knitting needles in my hands. I thought to myself, "What if I got into football? Or any sport? Even if I just watched it on TV? What if I bought an Xbox and went into gaming? What if I said, 'dude?' What if I owned a pair of gym shorts?" ...

And then? I laughed.

Be it known: I was absolutely not laughing at those who play video games, sports, and so on. Rather, I was amused at the idea as it pertained to me. All I'm saying is... to each his own.

Classy

2012-01-23T20:48:00.000-08:00

So there I was thinking about some things - and I've had this conversation with several people - I'm ready to make this opinion public. People use all kinds of words to describe each other, right? Fun, kooky, boring, ugly, happy, and so on. (Adjectives. Heard of 'em?) Each carries a unique connotation. But which contains the greatest combination of connotations? "Classy".

Says Merriam-Webster.

classy. adj. \ˈkla-sē\

: having or showing class: asa : elegant, stylish <a classy clientele>b : having or reflecting high standards of personal behavior <a classy guy> <a classy act>

So when someone calls you classy, sounds to me like quite the gesture. Classy is clean. Classy is well-mannered. Classy is timeless. What do you think of when you think of classy? I think: a cultured mind, a pleasant demeanor, and a proper understanding of good etiquette.

Do I understand that true worth lies in self-worth? Of course. But let's put that aside as a general understanding for the moment, okay? Just go along. Classy = a wonderful thing to be known as, and a wonderful thing to regard others as. Oh, to be classy. 'Tis the quest.

Walkin' After Midnight

2012-01-21T23:43:00.000-08:00

And now, writin' after midnight.

Oh, but no walkin' after midnight here. 'Tis a no-no at BYU campus, as are a number of things. To be fair, many acts are perfectly acceptable! Like PDA's (Public Displays of Affection), jeans & Reeboks, and so on.

Yes, I've arrived! Provo is now home. Despite the satiric semantics seen above, I have enjoyed the last few weeks quite a bit. I'm taking 14 credit hours - all generals - and it's going well. BYU, I've found, has more rigorous classes than I'm accustomed to. Regardless, I've put good effort into planning, and great effort into studying. Boy, howdy, I've got a schedule for what to study when! You'd be proud. (Whoever "you" are.)

More importantly, I've got a great set of roommates. There are four of us in a basement, just south of campus. I walk three blocks to campus; it's easy. And then there's the job. Remember California Pizza Kitchen? Well this kid's working there yet again, but in Orem. Great people, great money, a great time.

Is the vibe in Happy Valley different? Yes, but it's great. I am not surprised to be greeted by a total stranger on campus: eye contact, a wave, then the audible "hi". I think, "Do I know you?" The answer is usually, "No, I don't." And then, "But that sure was nice of you, wasn't it?"(This is still me thinking, by the way. Not talking.) People are friendly here. They are encouraging and positive. The quirks are many, but so are the reasons to love Provo.

I began my days here with a very put-off, annoyed mindset. I fought loving this place, and I'm not certain as to why that is. I guess I didn't want to be some mindless bandwagon lover of BYU. The verdict? I had to be honest with myself eventually: I liked it. I like it, still. In addition to that, there is something powerful in deciding to enjoy the circumstances you're placed in, even if everything doesn't fit your personal version of Utopia. And isn't that selfish, anyway? Isn't that ungrateful? To expect society to conform to some personalized set of qualities? I feel that true happiness, in a social sense, can come when you buck up and decide to be happy. It comes when you decide to do some introspection, and cultivate gratitude for everything.

Tis the Season.

2011-12-11T20:05:00.000-08:00

At last. 'Tis here.

To all Grinches...

By the time we hit early-mid December, ain't no one complaining about "Ohhh it's too early to celebrate Christmas." blah blah blah. Guess what folks - and I mean all y'all - it's the season! This, in case you thought otherwise, is the absolute best time of year. Period. Think about it.

Studies show that people are less likely to fight, argue, and commit violence. People are, on the other hand, more likely to give, to love, and to compliment. Whose studies? Mine. I know Christmas is super-commercialized; that's true. But heck, everything sings, jingles, or lights up! How can that not inspire at least a bit of cheer?

I so dearly enjoy these few weeks. And this year? I'll be doing all I planned to do.

1. Get cool cards for people. (done. not sent.)
2. Make my own wrapping paper. (done)
3. Do something nice for someone every day.
4. Wear red and/or green every day in December. (in progress)
5. Watch It's A Wonderful Life. for the first time.
6. Watch A Christmas Story as many times as possible.
7. Deck the room.
8. Host a holiday get-together with pals.
9. Eat junk.
10. Enjoy time with the best people on Earth. The fam.

There are more things, but you've got a general idea.

All right! It's Christmastime!

How now, Brown Cow?

2011-11-28T20:29:00.000-08:00

1. That saying is great.

2. I'd love to go on blathering the deets of the exquisite California trip that just took place. Then I think to myself, "Who the heck wants to read some kid talking about himself?" Is it egocentric to have a blog? I like havin' a blog, but hate that I'm just talking about myself, as if my ideas about life are worth publishing or something. You know? So I'm just going to post a video about someone besides me.

This is really great. And funny.

You're probably wonderin' to yourself, "How did I not see this 'till now?" And you're absolutely right.

Back To Chiaroscuro.

2011-11-10T17:15:00.000-08:00

chi·a·ro·scu·ro/kēˌärəˈsk(y)o͝orō/
Noun:
1) The treatment of light and shade in drawing and painting.
2) An effect of contrasted light and shadow created by light falling unevenly or from a particular direction on something.

A diagram..

A great example, compliments of Rembrandt...

Why all the mumbo-jumbo?

First, you needed an art lesson. (We all do.) You needed to know that this principle, or practice, rather, is one of the most fundamental to understand if you're to have any hopes of drawing well or understanding art. By telling you this, I ain't tryin' to be a high-minded guy. It's just a common concept that's relevant to my point.. which is to follow.

Second, I'm getting back into drawing - full force! Sketching has always been happenin', but I oughta be drawing. By that, I mean taking time to study an image (live or from a reference) and conveying it onto paper. Or illustration board or pastel board, etc. It's an essential practice! So. I went to a figure-drawing workshop at the Bountiful Davis Arts Center last night, and was awakened to the long road of practice ahead.

I was invited by a local artist who was once my teacher. Yep, Mike Call. He taught me art lessons when I was in 8th grade or so. I contacted him the other day, and he told me to come on down for the workshop. Luckily for me, Mike is still happy to act as a mentor. This, of course, includes an honest analysis of my skill-level. And, in the most kind and helpful way, he sure offered it. He pointed out things that, once upon a time, were part of my thought-process while drawing. You know, the subtleties of a soft-edged shadow, nuances of reflected light, values of the several darks and lights - those kinds of things. They were like breathing, but have since been... eh, lost. I had forgotten about ol' Chiaroscuro. how. embarrassing.

It was like I was throwing some charcoal onto paper and trying to make it look decent. But I wasn't drawing.

Regardless, my mentor's comments have made an immediate impact on my view of where I am and what's to come. And I'll tell you just what that is: a whole-lot-a-hard-work and practice. Am I up to it? You better believe it.

Here's to you, Art.

You're great.

Big news.

2011-11-06T18:36:00.000-08:00

Christmas Countdown

Less than 50 days, people. Less than 50!

The Christmas Season is soon at hand! And I do put in a kind word for Thanksgiving. 'Tis a wonderful holiday, and the Christmas season would not be the same without it. After all, Thanksgiving marks the beginning of the Christmas Season.

So there it is. Yahoo!

Facial Hair. All Hallow's Eve.

2011-10-31T21:37:00.000-07:00

Thanks to my peeps in the Dino class (who claimed that I couldn't grow legitimate facial hair) I grew my facial hair for 10 consecutive days. I can't say that it was burly whisker-hair, but it's not exactly peach fuzz. I think it was something like this...

Nappy.

But I sort of liked it, only because I have now graduated from "peach fuzz" to "semi-whiskers". Next stop - real facial hair. It may be another five years, but at least there's some progress. Regardless, 'twas time, and I shaved today.

Speakin' of today... Today is Halloween! I love Halloween. I like having a costume ready and making it clever. This year I did not have that luxury, but it was still a nice Halloween. I did not dress up at school, but someone did say, "Oh, hey! You're Buddy Holly for Halloween!" ... .. I took it as a compliment and responded, "Yes. Yes, I am."

I got home from work and had a good 20 minutes to prepare for trick-or-treaters. I found the face paint, tried to look pale and scary and threw on a black shirt. Voila: vampire. It was nice, eh? At least something for the kids who stopped by. You know, so they didn't think I was a killjoy. Oh, and no. Not this kind of vampire....

The real kind, as seen below.

Halloween. Great. I loved it, but I also love that it's over! For me it means....

Nuff said.

You want funny?

2011-10-25T18:07:00.000-07:00

This video. ... is hilarious. Always has been. Always will be. Enjoy it.

You loved it.

The Long Way Home

2011-10-22T18:50:00.000-07:00

My first though was, "Heck. How 'bout I give a day-by-day update." That was quickly ruled out. Here's what I came up with.

Since last I wrote in August...

School's begun. I'm crazy and took 16 credits - that's 5 classes. I'm enjoying, though. It's great! My favourite is World of Dinosaurs. And no, it's not an "easy-A" class. We have to memorise the entire dinosaur family tree and label all the bones in the skeleton. It is, therefore, fairly academic. And then there are the clips of Jurassic Park and the like that my teacher throws in every so often. Great.

I got a job. It's awesome! I am working in the Travel Department at the U of U, where I'm also attending school. Thankfully, they were hiring two people, and my pal Sarah filled in the spot. It's a nice office-setting, and all our office folk are kind, happy people. We love paper.

I also applied to BYU. Long story short, I'm transferring in January. I've got housing lined up, and probably a job. Great, right? Mostly. Salt Lake City, to me, is incredible. I could spend all day roaming around and enjoying what it has to offer. Provo? We'll see. The main motivation is twofold: I have decided to major in what I love and dream of doing for life - drawing. BYU's Illustration program is awesome. Also, I've always wanted to be at the Y. Provo, Ands is on his way. That's that.

We had a family trip to Jersey with Pops, and it was fantastic. I loved being back in Ocean City, and the East Coast in general. We saw Amish Country (again... I loved it just as much, if not more.) And if you ain't seen Autumn in Lancaster County, get it on your bucket list, or drop everything and go now. It's beautiful. We ate great food, enjoyed the beach, and just soaked in all the family time.

Matt, dear brother Matt, left home as "Elder Simmonds" on Wednesday. What an incredible kid. He's in the MTC now, and I have no doubt that he's whoopin' it up! I miss him already, but at the same time I'm proud of him and excited for what lies ahead. Look out, New York.

More recently - as in today - I took a field trip with my Dinosaurs class to the Cleveland-Lloyd Quarry somewhere near Price. Did I see actual rock containing fossilised dinosaur bones? Yes. And it was great. Below is a picture of a shelter they've built over an excavation site where they're in the process of uncovering a gigantic concentration of dinosaur fossils.

And if that's not enough, my teacher looks eerily similar to none other than Rubeus Hagrid. I find it no coincidence, then, that he wore knee-high socks today... crimson- and gold-striped.

The end.

Fonder all the time.

2011-10-20T18:26:00.000-07:00

What has been happening all this time? As I constantly repeat - I can't imagine there's a whole crowd of people on the edge of their seats because Ands hasn't blogged in a while - but heck, why not say what's been up?

I'm trying to move away from Facebook, at least a bit. A few minutes a day, usually to see what relatives are up to and my Africans, of course. I am also finding myself with more free time now. Don't ask why, just be happy that it means I get to say a lot more on here. I knew it would put a smile on your face. It always did.

Hufflepuff! I always knew.

2011-08-10T21:29:00.000-07:00

I've always placed myself in this house. No particular reason, but that it just seemed to make sense for me to be in Hufflepuff. Took an online quiz, which I am sure was Sorting-Hat-Approved.

This is a confirmation of my inklings.

Which Hogwarts house will you be sorted into?

And Hufflepuff takes the house cup!

Famous Hufflepuffs? Cedric Diggory, Tonks, Pomona Sprout. Also, the House Ghost is the Fat Friar. By far the best ghost. Not a bad crowd to be a part of, eh?

Cape May, a Victorian Wonderland.

2011-08-08T18:24:00.000-07:00

And it is!

Have you been to Cape May, New Jersey? Heard of it? Thought of it? Well you've probably seen it in your dreams, because it is the manifestation of one of mine. That is, if I had a dream of streets lined with beautifully-restored authentic Victorian homes... it just came true.

Now I've been to Cape May before, but it has not lost its thrill. Sort of like Disneyland, in the sense that you are just as excited to go as you were the last 3 or 4 times. I've included a snapshot of one of our particularly favourite abodes.

Dad likes it, too. So Pops says (regarding said home), "If that white became a cream, then it would be dead-on authentic." Yep. I have a father whose knowledge of architectural history goes beyond what I could dream to know. I attribute my love of architecture to him.

Jersey is fantastic. I am, however, excited to get on back to ....

... on Wednesday. 10:22 a.m. I love home. I love Utah. By the way. Don't you wish you could take all your loved ones with you everywhere you went? Then you'd have a blast anywhere you'd chose to be! I would love to have all my good fam and friends here. But if we could all have everyone with us everywhere we went, that would be impossible because we can only be in one place at a time. Maybe it's not such a great idea after all.

Free Therapy.

2011-07-31T17:57:00.000-07:00

There is something therapeutic about this job. Namely, restoring antiques. I have always appreciated old things, in great part because of my father's deep knowledge of and love for them. In this case, we recently finished a few windows. It is tedious labour. But it's simple. I tune out everything. I pick up my sandpaper, turn on the iPod, and the only thing in the world is me and that window - that 2 square feet of 130-year-old wood and glass.

Slowly, but most certainly, paint sheds away and rusty nails are removed. Ragged, tough surfaces are smoothed. And all by hand. There come occasions where the wood in a particular piece refuses to be tamed, and I begin to feel that this thing has a mind of its own, that it's become stubborn. Yet, a bit like a friend, I give it a little more work, "talk to it", you might say, and it eventually cooperates.

I sing along to Ray, or maybe Norah (or the Folka Dots!) and commence in taming a sort of a wild creature; a piece that has been made, installed, and probably reused several times. Their stories, each unique, are told by layers of paint, apparent attempts to repair or modify, and so on.

And then, after hours of effort, there it stands, and we get to see what it may have looked like when it was first created all those decades ago. And while the result is gratifying, it is the process that provides this sort of therapy. That is what I love. If I was crazy enough, I might consider spending my life around the globe collecting and restoring such things. Unfortunately, or fortunately, I am still relatively sane and will follow plans to return to school (The University of Utah) in a few weeks and begin a new adventure there.

Mountain. man.

2011-07-27T18:34:00.000-07:00

Nuff said. But I will explain. We saw Mountain Man, a beautiful and talented band, in Philadelphia on Monday night. Incredible venue, too - the First Unitarian Church. The building itself is, eh, just a couple centuries old. It was ornate and cozy - perfect for these peeps.

We were right in the center of Philly - yes, Mom, at night. It was fantastic. Show started at 9:00. We enjoyed 84 minutes of pure delight. Those voices. Have you heard their voices? These three ladies, clad in Deseret Industries, sang like you ain't ever heard. They sing mostly a capella, sometimes with a guitar. And that's it. I'll attach a like of one of the songs they played called "Holy Father". 'Twas a delight. I already used that word, but it's a perfect description, so sue me. As we walked out, I gave Molly a wave. She totally waved back.

Well Matt left yesterday and it's a tad boring. Not that Dad is boring. He's very much entertaining, but none can fill the Matt-void. All y'all who know and love Matt (which is anyone who's met him) know what I"m talking about. Aw, shucks. But we had one heck of a blast together. That. Is certain.

Sidenote. Or rather, like a P.S.:

Matt and I pretended to be British while in Philly on Monday night. Everywhere we went, we had accents. To me, they sounded corny and fake. To the people we met, they must have sounded quite convincing. We had a good amount of people convinced - some ladies at the cafe where we ate a giant caramel brownie. Also a lot of the people at the concert, ha! Lying never felt so fun. ... I just said that in a blog.

Amish country, land of enchantment.

2011-07-26T12:55:00.000-07:00

I am 2 ounces of common-sense away from joining an Amish community. And that, only because things are not in place where that would be feasible. At least not now.

Perhaps you are thinking, "Oh, Ands. This is mere infatuation with a novelty." I reply, "Not so."

Their way of life is so minimal. Not in terms of its value, but of its facets. There are no Facebook profiles to update, no e-mails to check, no expensive vacations to budget for, nor any superfluous matter. They assure there is food, education (both academic and practical), home, horses & buggies, and of course... family. Most everything else is irrelevant. They deal with the modern world only to the extent they need to, but otherwise life is peaceful and simple.

My first encounter with an Amish individual? We drove into Lancaster County and spotted a fruit & veggie stand. We met a young lassie with blond hair and blue eyes who had a twinge of an accent. So I do admit that there was a little infatuation there. Just sayin'. Sue me. Aside from the people and how they entirely inspired me, there were several wonders of Lancaster.

The Old Candlebarn, The Woodshop, and the several antique stores whose treasures I explored for hours with gladness.

The FOOD. Oh, the food. A few lil' faves. Homemade lemonade. Homemade by the Amish, and not with some false label "Amish-made" just so you'll buy it. An Amish family ran the store. After such lemonade, I want never again to drink any other kind. Homemade ice cream, not Amish-made, but still homemade and delicious. And the retro-diner along a country road that served killer food.

The scenery. Subtle rolling hills of farmland and meadows, tree clusters, silos, barns, and charming old homes. Green, green, green. 'Twas beautiful.

The music! We attended "Music in the Orchard" at the Hans Herr farm. It was literally an orchard. Albeit a small one. Anyway. First up was The Stray Birds, who sing traditional American and Appalachian folk songs - of course some originals as well. They're wonderful.

I shan't get too long in this post. Another's yet to follow. About the Mountain Man concert in Philly.

Quarter-back? I thought that was Bank Lingo.

2011-07-23T04:13:00.000-07:00

Rich Gannon. So Matt & I were a-working Friday and up comes a man with his daughter. He's about 6'3", late 40's, all hoity-toity-looking. And definitely a visitor, as opposed to a worker, on the site. Up comes Buck, who introduces us to this man: Rich Gannon. (Who has come to know Dad pretty well, by the way.) "Hey there" he says. We shook hands and talked briefly. He soon left. That was that.

As the day goes on, we come to find that this "Rich Gannon" was an all-star quarterback for the Oakland Raiders. We're talkin' big bizness here. Pfft. Shows how much we know about football, or sports in general. Anywho. He was a nice guy.

Cuisine a la Dad.

2011-07-21T19:39:00.000-07:00

Pops whooped out the cooking skills and got to work, with his sous-chefs, Matt & I, on hand. What, praytell, did we eat? Seafood crepes.

Crepes: crepe, scallops, ocean perch, shrimp, really good sauce with a French name. Topped with melted romano & swiss cheese. Just sayin', they were incredible.

Also salad and roasted veggies - zucchini, squash, white mushrooms.

That was dinner. All y'all sorry saps missing Dad's cooking back home, eish. Hope you're coping without these kinds of meals. We are, as our friend Mike says, "living the dream". Not sure, but we're having a heck of a great time.

A potpourri.

2011-07-20T16:05:00.000-07:00

Buck Marczak. Age? Around 65, but you'd never know. A real "Philly" guy, accent to boot. About 6'3" and balding, but enough hair to know that it's white hair. May I add that he has a healthy and neat equally-white-ish comb-moustache. It's classy. He dons, on most days, a sleeveless henley t-shirt. Quite a large guy, not in terms of excess weight, though. Well this sleeveless T is usually tucked into jean-shorts, with tall white socks that protrude 4 inches above his tan calf-high construction boots.

Buck is constantly doing something, for everyone but himself. His daily phrases? "Anything you need?" "Can I go get anything for you?" "I hope you're drinking enough water." He is big and abrupt, but an extremely thoughtful person. What can we say? He's also full of hilarious lines, which could not possibly all be collected. Buck drives a big black truck. You'll find just above his steering wheel on the dash: 9 photos of his several grandchildren. They are arranged in a fan-structure.

That's the man who makes this job even better, and a heck of a lot funnier. Buck. Picture to follow once I can snag one.

New places. Thanks to some local Church members' suggestions: "A la Mode", perhaps the best ice cream place in Ocean City. Home. Made. Ice cream. "Primo Pizza", darn good pizza [prizza] located on the Boardwalk. Voted "best in South Jersey".

Substance Abuse. (not really) Bondo. My new love. 'Tis a bonding substance used to fill cracks, holes, etc to make a smooth surface. Usable on wood, MDF board, and a bunch of other things like cars. Bondo is a best friend to sanding, especially when you're here. We love Bondo.

Harry Potter. and the Deathly Hallows, Part 2. Saw it, and I cannot believe what a remarkable film it was. Just sayin', it was awesome. My new favourite Harry Potter character? See below.

Dilemma.

2011-07-18T19:58:00.000-07:00

Is this procrastination, or is this me not wanting to be a crazed-every-day blogger? (Nothing wrong with blogging daily. Foot in the mouth.) I think I will post tomorrow. Updates need to be given, Buck needs to be described. And heck, you're all waiting, right? all 4 of you.

1. Mom, 2. Auntie K, 3. Me, 4. Dad (who's physically with me here in NJ, but appreciates reading this, and I appreciate that.)

Ke tla "blog" ka moso.
I will blog tomorrow.

-- Ands.

Pizza.

2011-07-14T18:25:00.000-07:00

How many pizza joints are here? I think 2.3 per block (if we're averaging it out).

A day in the life.

6:00. Alarm goes off. I get up. I walk out to our front room, sometimes sit out on the porch. I get dressed in my work clothes. (Some cruddy khaki shorts, a t-shirt, my old Nike running shoes, "Matt socks" which are white socks that come up just above the ankles.) I look cool.

6:30. If Matt & Dad aren't up, I wake them up. We eat breakfast, usually cereal or oatmeal. Cinnamon Life was on sale for $1.99; I am enjoying it.

7:00. Off to work. We walk about 3 blocks to the jobsite - a gigantic house. It is incredible. The exterior is basically finished. Interior? Getting there. That's what we're around for. We commence work (usually) at this time.

12:00. Lunch.

1:00-ish. Back to work.

4:00-ish. Finished. Walk back to the condo and try to wash various kinds of dust out of my hair.

The rest of the day. Any kind of thing. Sometimes we go to the boardwalk. Yesterday we went swimming in the ocean. (First time since 2009, for me at least.) Dad favours taking us to dinner. Places we like? The Point Diner, Charlie's, Best Food in Town (Chinese), Kessel's Korner, Mac & Manco's Pizza.

I enjoy this. For those who thought ol' Ands couldn't enjoy a regular work schedule, joke's on you. Honestly, it's a great time! Plus, I get to be with Matt and Pops. 8-hour days never felt so great.

Next post: I will attempt to properly describe our new favourite person. Buck Marczak. Here's a taste of his ultra-cool boots.

Sanding. I'm a big fan.

2011-07-11T18:54:00.000-07:00

We're pooped, yes, but in a great way. [ This is the first and last time you will see the word "poop" in part of a blog post, or in this blog at all. ]

This'll be short. I want to make frequent entries, but I will refrain from my normal verbosity. Today was the first day! Among our duties: cleaning up the jobsite, sanding, sanding, sanding, sanding, sanding. 7.76 hours. Approximately. Matt & I enjoyed ourselves, as well, singing all the way.

I'm well. Matt's well. Pops is well. .. He hopes that his precious dog-daughter is well.

All's well that ends well.

-- Ands.

East Coast Lovin'

2011-07-10T15:54:00.000-07:00

Jersey. (accent-ized... "Joizee")

And it's great. Here we are, not on vacation, actually. Matt & I have made the journey out here with father to help with a house he's working on. He's designed it, inside and out. It's pretty-well built and now needs to be cleaned up and ready to be furnished and painted. That's where we'll come in. And, for me, for the next 5 weeks or so! Great.

We got in late last night and attended Church today in Linwood. I absolutely loved it. Right after Sacrament meeting a lady in a wheelchair pulled me aside and said, "Young man, could you push me out to the Ladies' Room?" Much obliged. And I did; we made friends; her name is Sister Sabus and she's a little angel.

Also went to a free concert this eve at Ocean City Tabernacle. A brass band specialising in gospel-themed music. Organ/piano/drum backup with trombones, trumpets, horns, a tuba. King's Brass, they call themselves. I was amazed how crowded the hall was, and the music was incredible. For a few occasions, we were all asked to stand and sing. One, "Praise Ye the Lord" was a majestic culmination of the whole experience. It is comforting to me to know I have the truth, and the authority; being part of that is a remarkable privilege. But to see people of all faiths gathered to offer thanks to the Lord for all He has done? It invited a special feeling, and it was a perfect ending to the Sabbath; and it was followed by a stroll down the lovely boardwalk.

Longwinded? Sue me. Well enjoy the week, one and all! I shall update soon. If I can figure out how to get pictures loaded on here from my camera, photos will accompany the narratives.

Adios.

Two of 'em.

2011-06-26T23:21:00.000-07:00

Count 'em. Two.

Two years. And it went by like some incredible dream. Oh, Africa. I love it with all my heart, and them peeps thur. To attempt to describe what it was like, I don't think would be wise. Let's just say that it was absolutely and entirely incredible.

See you in two!

2009-06-23T16:44:00.001-07:00

Make fun of that phrase all you want, but it fits. That's right. I'm gone! Or almost gone. And I can't wait. It will be the greatest adventure yet. And the hardest. But the best, definitely the best. I love you all and hope you stay safe and sound while I'm gone. May the Lord bless you and I'll see you in two years!

Corinne. She rocks. Hands down.

2009-06-01T22:37:00.000-07:00

Just saying. She got into my Facebook a few days ago and changed my status to some adoring phrase - in her favor of course. But she really is the greatest! And here's a video to prove it. (If you haven't already seen it on Facebook. My favorite part is the very end.)

Did I mention Chase rocks too? That pair is one of a kind. In fact, they are probably the greatest. Ever.

Subliminal messages. I suspect subliminal messages.

2009-05-27T16:37:00.000-07:00

This morning, I finished my bowl of cereal - in my green bowl - rinsed it off, and opened the dishwasher. Upon pulling out the bottom rack, I found... all green dishes! Green plates, green bowls. All green. Why this happened, I had no clue. I even took a picture, but my camera is being difficult. I will post it. I promise. But my suspicion is that subliminal messages have played a part in this.

Has anyone else wound up with a dishwasher full of green?

Also. You can still donate!!! You can help homeless pets - helping to end euthanisations and provide humane alternatives for stray/abandoned pets. Read post below for full info.

Here's the link:

http://www.firstgiving.com/andysimmonds

Strut Your Mutt! How you can help.

2009-05-20T23:51:00.001-07:00

So this year, I'm finally doing the Strut Your Mutt run. I've been wanting to for years! With Gus, of course. Anyway. Strut Your Mutt is an annual 1.5 mile dog walk/run in Sugarhouse Park on May 30th. It's also a fundraiser.

This event is based off the "No More Homeless Pets in Utah" foundation. It's a great cause! Seriously. So everyone registered to run joins, and gets in on the fundraising.

I'm one of 'em!

Here's where you come in:

To the right is a link to my own fundraising website. Through this website, you can donate to this amazing cause. Whether it's $5, $10, or $1,000 - anything is so greatly appreciated! I don't get anything from this, I just want to help homeless pets. The website is completely safe, secure, and so easy to use. Honestly.

Since 2000, No More Homeless Pets in Utah has done so much! In fact, the number of animal euthanisations in Utah has decreased by 30%. Wow! They have put into place some awesome programs to help get animals adopted to good homes. These are great people! And you can help, you really can. So please, donate. You really will be glad you did.

Thank you thank you! Spread the word and do some good in the world.

Anniversary.

2009-05-19T18:43:00.000-07:00

Also. How could I forget? Today is my mom and Bart's 2nd anniversary! Happy happy anniversary to those two love birds.

Boxing. (not the sport)

2009-05-19T18:12:00.000-07:00

That's right. Boxing. I've already begun.

You better believe it.

And believe this, too: 5 weeks until I leave! I know, right? Crazy. (I'm also into this font-size-switch-up everyone's doing. (I'm not quite ready for the font-color-switch-up.) Don't like it? Sue me. Anyway. I'll have you know that every single drawer/dresser/organizer is now completely empty. It's sort of eerie looking in drawers and seeing nothing there. But satisfying nonetheless.

So where is all my stuff?

Well, due to lack of boxes and my lack of motivation to go buy boxes - it's all on my floor.

All of it.

At first, it was one gigantic mess. I began by filling two boxes. (Okay, I lied. I do have two boxes, but boxing things before all your stuff is out and categorized gets things mixed up. There.) Like I said, it got unnecessarily confusing. So I decided to dump it all on my floor. But first: I got masking tape and masked off a few sections. ie: school, art stuff, nostalgia, church stuff... you get the idea.

I know, it seems bizarre. But it works great! I have everything categorized, and even organized within the categories. And as of just barely, it's all ready to box. So the moment I cease to be lazy and get some more boxes, the boxing will begin.

Let me specify my reasoning here. I know, I'm leaving soon, but I can hear you saying "Five weeks early? That's unnecessary." It is. Unless you ask my dear mother. Since Jake and Corinne both left her with some boxing to do herself... she made it very clear to me that she wanted me to leave nothing for her to do. And I don't blame the lady!

So there it is. My adventures in packing.

It's been a while.

2009-05-12T14:22:00.001-07:00

It really has! Well, almost two weeks. Anyway. What have I been up to lately? Mostly getting ready for the mish. That includes getting my visa. Boy oh boy, it's a whirlwind of craziness. But it's all going swell and I grow more excited by the minute.

Also lately, I've been a-hiking quite a bit. And it sure is swell.

Overlooking the great land of Bountiful. Don't ask me why I can't do a normal smile for pictures. It's a major medical condition, but just take it for what it's worth. Also. I wear a bandana because I think I'm really hardcore.

Next. Matt and I took a stroll to Smith's one day in our pj's. We wore them hiked up high with long socks and, well, it was just great. Here's the product of our trip to Smithee's. Sundaes.

NEWS!

2009-04-29T08:40:00.000-07:00

Well, well, well. I got a call from the Stake pres last night. He got a call from the missionary department, and they wanted to know if I could leave on... June 24th. He gave me the night to decide and think about it. And after much prayer and study and pondering, I have made the decision.

JUNE 24TH!!

It's crazy. It really is. And it was one of those decisions where there's not necessarily a "right" and "wrong" way. It was really tough. It seriously was. But I know it's the right decision. There's still a visa to be had, clothes to buy, TONS of study to do, and a thousand other things. But it will all fall into place. I know the Lord provides a way, and He certainly will for me!

Whoopee!

One fish, two fish, dead fish, blue fish.

2009-04-18T17:08:00.000-07:00

Yes. You guessed it. Another fish has passed away.

And no.

It's not because I don't take great care of them. It was... the filter. Again. That murderous contraption has claimed a second life. I will be getting a new filter, so as to keep my fish safe from further horror and mutilation. On the bright side, Ray was sort of a mean-ish guy. But he was nice, and I'll miss him. Almost as much as Faye.

One fish, two fish, red fish, new fish.

2009-04-17T13:25:00.000-07:00

In the wake of Faye's tragic death, I went out that very night and got a new fish for Marvin to hang out with: Ray. Marvin, on the right. Ray on the left.

He, like Marvin, is a good old 13-cent goldfish. And upon getting my aquarium water tested today, I found that my tank is finally ready to house some real fish! You see, when you set up an aquarium, you must put into place a healthy fish environment. I have successfully accomplished "The Nitrogen Cycle"!

Yeah, I don't get it either.

So as a birthday present to myself, I adopted another fish into the family. He is currently unnamed. Only because I can't decide on any names. Eustace, Moby, Walter, Ronald, Lawrence, Wallace. Those are all ideas. Feel free to add your own. Anyway, here he is. What a guy!

Seriously?

2009-04-14T16:46:00.000-07:00

I saw this little ad while surfing the net. Keep this in mind: it is an ad for those looking to be TEACHERS. Oh, the irony! "We have the career options 'your' looking for..."

Poor Faye...

2009-04-11T17:30:00.001-07:00

Today was a sad day. My little goldfish was taken from this earthly life. The filter's current was too strong, and we mourn the loss of Faye, the most beautiful 13-cent goldfish to ever life. Her lover, Marvin, is despondent. He won't eat.

Now we know what might have happened to Nemo had his friends been unsuccessful in saving him.

We'll miss you, Faye.

Friday-night coloring!

2009-04-10T21:45:00.000-07:00

Well, well, well. Another Friday night... with nothing to do! And what do I do to fill the time? You guessed it. Color. Color in my Cars coloring book.

I think this is the beginning of a beautiful tradition. Friday-night-coloring. Here is the product of some of the colored-pencil extravaganza. Guido!

(I don't know why on earth my pictures keep going upside-down. If anyone can help me out, they'll get a big fat gold star.)

The news!

2009-04-02T20:07:00.000-07:00

Well. Here we are. I was called to the

SOUTH AFRICA, JOHANNESBURG MISSION!

Can you believe it? I'm going to be an African! Yep. It goes into all of Botswana and Lesotho as well. I'll be speaking English. But the local dialects are usually picked up on and involve clicking. It's temperate, nice, and most importantly, the greatest mission on the earth!

No joke. No joke!

2009-04-02T14:22:00.000-07:00

My mission call came today. IT'S HERE! I can't believe it. And now I know that the Lord has quite the sense of humor. What a guy! I haven't opened it yet, however. I'll post later tonight. I don't have all your numbers, so Facebook and this blog will have to do. I know, lame. Hope that's okay! Stay tuned....

My apologies!

2009-04-01T23:25:00.000-07:00

In the whirlwind of April Fool's and the ensuing complications of pranks, turn-around-pranks, etc, etc, etc... there is probably some confusion among those who are wondering. Did Andy get his call? Let me set the record straight.

No.

It was never my intention to April Fool's on anyone. Trust me! Whether you thought I got the better of your for thinking my call came or thinking my call really came when I said it didn't - you're wrong. It didn't come. The Quorum of the Twelve played quite the prank on me. Maybe next week.

Tomorrow, tomorrow! It comes tomorrow!

2009-03-31T20:39:00.000-07:00

So. Guys. Fam. Friends. It comes tomorrow. My mission call!

Unless the Brethren decided to play a nasty April Fool's prank on me... those rascals.

Regardless, you can pass by anytime tomorrow to watch me sitting on my porch, staring nervously at the mailbox... I think my face will look something akin to what Barney Fife looked like after he crashed his brand new station wagon.

Loo-oo-oopy.

2009-03-27T19:34:00.000-07:00

Got my wisdom teeth out yesterday, and am still on Vicodin. Not by choice, of course. And man am I loopy. But living off Kevas, yogurt, applesauce, Gatorade, mashed potatoes and pudding is great! I've watched Kung Fu Panda, Twilight, An Affair to Remember, and countless episodes of Paula Dean's Home Cooking.

Life is just peachy. Peachy keen. And just as a reminder, I get my call on Wednesday!!! Philippines, here I come! (No no no. That's not the call. Just a guess. Purely a guess. Don't fret, family. I'll let you know for real.) Till then, adios.

What happens on Trax...

2009-03-24T20:47:00.000-07:00

So. I had an experience on Trax today that cannot go unmentioned! (Trax is the light-rail system around SLC. I take it to and from school at the U. Just for anyone who doesn't know.)

There I was, standing and waiting for the train when some crazy man approached me. My first thought: he was homeless. But upon further inspection, I don't think he was. Let me explain. His face looked homeless. He acted and talked like a crazy homeless man. But he said he was heading to his apartment and was wearing dress clothes, carrying groceries. Therefore, not homeless.

But he sure was crazy. A good crazy.

So he and I. (Let's call him Jeb.) Jeb and I got talking about the weather. He told me all about living in Hawaii for the past two years and finally returning to Utah. Jeb then tells me about how he hates the weather in Hawaii. He prefers Utah weather, or the weather he grew up with: Northern Wisconsin. (Which is frigid.) And in the middle of our conversation, two homeless men cut in.

(I'm going to call them Steve and Redbird.) Steve is a gangly 6'3" man who can barely communicate. He is what appears to be the product of years of drug-addiction and lack of dental care. But Steve is nice. Redbird is a 5'6" native American man. Short hair, trucker hat, and quite cordial. He's the main communicator. Steve pulled out a small radio - brand new.

"Uh, we're selling this radio for only 4 dollars. We need the money to catch a bus back home." Redbird's words. Steve adamantly encourages Jeb and I to buy this radio, complete with a 10-station-preset, headphones, and all for only 4 dollars. "This is normally twenty bucks." Steve's words.

There I am thinking to myself, "These guys are legitimate. They seem nice. They don't smell like alcohol, and I might just help out." Before I can even reach for my wallet, Jeb's beat me to the punch! He hands Steve an Abe Lincoln. "Keep the change." Jeb's words. The three continue in a conversation about what high quality this little black piece of radio technology is. Then.

Redbird breaks out into a slurred Indian chant.

(Imagine a slightly-impaired homeless native American man shouting what seems to be indian language at the top of his lungs. This includes some minor hand gestures.) Everyone at the station quits any conversation or activity - no matter how important - to focus on Redbird. Steve is oblivious, Jeb is fascinated, and I am... incredibly confused. And in awe. Note that not only are they looking Redbird's way, but also Steve's, Jeb's, and mine. Most begin looking at me with a look that seems to expect an explanation. I have none.

The song continues for about two minutes. It's loud. Really loud. But he stops, shakes Jeb's hand and tells him he has left a blessing for him. Wow.

Wait.

Jeb walks onward to the raised wheelchair entrance to the train, listening to the radio as he goes. (No. Jeb is not in a wheelchair. Nor is his walking impaired at any length.) While I look, slightly perplexed as to Jeb's decision of entrance, Redbird goes at it again. Louder.

This time is an angrier chant. But much shorter. And again, everyone is staring in my direction. Steve is, once again, seemingly oblivious. Jeb is busy listening to KODJ 94.1. The chant ends, and a group of teenage girls scurry a few feet further away. "What? You never heard a warcry before? That's a war cry. My people's war cry. Oh and you, you'll know. Yeah, when you're going 50, 60 down the road and you're going to find out pretty quick. That's right. Because that's life." Redbird's words.

After spouting off a bit more about something that also did not make sense, Redbird shook my hand. "Nice to meet you, young man." I boarded the train and remain confused to this very moment.

Sketch-o-Rama.

2009-03-18T21:32:00.000-07:00

Sketching, sketching, sketching. Boy do I love sketching. Today has resulted in a revival of my motivation to sketch. That is, not doodle or draw, but sketch. There is a significant difference. In my sketch adventures today, here are some for your enjoyment. (Or horror, I suppose. Depending on how lenient you are to amateur art...)

They're all upside down! Except for Gus. Sorry. Not sure how to fix 'em.

Oh, Gus-gus.

A good old figure study.

A character I'm working on. Just for the fun of it.

They're in.

2009-03-17T17:47:00.001-07:00

Mission papers are in! They're in! They're in! They're in!

I expect my call on... April 1st. Mwahahahaha...

Oh, that Mr. Welk.

2009-03-11T23:46:00.001-07:00

I've been noticing more and more that I'm beginning to grow a love for the things Grandpa used to love - that I thought of as stupid. Things like old westerns, trains/tractors, and songs like "Don't Fence Me In". And now... The Lawrence Welk Show. Home to the greatest theme song ever to be conceived.

I remember many a-time being at Grandma and Grandpa's watching Lawrence Welk with them, thinking.. "Will this show ever end?" And now? I love it. I think partly for the fact that it reminds me of them. But also, it's great. I've set up my DVR to record every episode. And I can't wait to hear the voices of the lovely Lennon Sisters.

Thank you, Grandma and Grandpa, for instilling deep within me a dormant love for these things. You'll be thrilled to know, that affinity is no longer dormant.

Extra updates.

2009-03-08T22:21:00.000-07:00

I thought I'd fill in anyone who wants further details on the new (and only) exciting events in my normally mundane life.

The restaurant I have the piece for sale in is Sicilia Kitchen. Right east of the Broadway Theatre. I just have one piece, but if it sells, they will want more! Whoopee.

The book is called The Pencil People. The author is my friend's mom. Therefore she isn't, by any means, famous. Although I hope this book gains some fame - if only for the fact that her story is so clever. And hilarious. (School supplies that talk? Haha! It's so great.)

The logo designs I'm doing were for this guy to put together and ad campaign for the company. Fall Line - a brand new wakeboarding company. Anyway, he got the gig! So. They've got a couple more meetings, and if he accepts... I'll be working quite a bit.

Also, I'm officially an elder. I have a meeting with the Stake pres next Tuesday. March 17th. Then those papers are in in in! If all goes well,... my call will come on April Fools Day. I'm banking on a Bangkok, Thailand mission. Although I honestly and truly do not care where.

There's the updates for anyone (is there anyone?) who reads my little ol' blog.

Raise that roof.

2009-03-05T22:10:00.000-08:00

Life. Is. Awesome.

That's right, awesome! I am so blown away by what's happening in my life right now. I'm so blessed and it's... it's just awesome. Let's start with my new art gigs.

1. I'm illustrating a children's book! My friend's mom writes children's stories, and wants me to illustrate her children's chapter book.

2. A guy I work with is having me illustrate his new company's ad designs. He wants me to sketch out all the basic designs, and then draw them! Then he digitizes, etc, etc. So, I get to design ads!

3. I have a piece going up in a restaurant. There's this restaurant that is supporting local artists, and they have artists' pieces for sale in their restaurant. And they want one of mine. Can you believe it? And I could make money off it.

Even better....

I get ordained an elder on Sunday!!! I'm so excited, overwhelmed. I feel inadequate, excited, and ready all at the same time.

And even better...

Mission papers go in next week!!!!!!!!!! (Yes, the exclamation marks are necessary.) After all the doctor/dentist visits, interviews, etc, etc, etc... I meet with the Stake Pres next week. And they're in. In!

Just had to share. Life is nothing short of phenominal right now. Gee wiz, it's great.

Quotable quotes.

2009-02-24T12:31:00.000-08:00

Who doesn't love a good quote? Just thought I'd share my two favorite. The first, you've probably heard a lot before. But it really is incredible. The second is so great. C.S. Lewis = super cool guy. Enjoy a little philosophy.

"Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness that most frightens us.' We ask ourselves, Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, fabulous? Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God. Your playing small does not serve the world. There's nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won't feel insecure around you. We are all meant to shine, as children do. We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us. It's not just in some of us; it's in everyone. And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we're liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others." - Marianne Williamson

"We all want progress, but if you're on the wrong road, progress means doing an about-turn and walking back to the right road; in that case, the man who turns back soonest is the most progressive."
- C.S. Lewis

One step closer!

2009-02-22T22:49:00.000-08:00

Today was Stake Conference. And guess what?

I was sustained to be made an Elder! I'm s'darn excited. I get ordained in a couple weeks, and the mission papers get sent in a week and a half. And there I go. One step closer to being an "Elder" Elder. You get what I mean.

Apology.

2009-02-20T12:03:00.000-08:00

I can see that a few people, both from my blog and Facebook, to not appreciate my feline denouncement. So, I apologize for any hurt feelings! To be quite honest, I'm not that much of a cat-hater. I just think cats are incredibly peculiar and thought I'd write from an arbitrary viewpoint. So. Sorry. Mostly to Ali... and Whisper.

Here's this picture to make it all better.

Cats. Why?

2009-02-18T18:13:00.000-08:00

I do not appreciate the domesticated feline species. Lions? Cougars? Tigers? Cool. House cats? Not. Not at all. Most people who share this opinion usually sputter out their argument something like this:

"Cats are fat and lazy and don't do any tricks."

Okay now. I'm sure all us cat-dislikers have better reasoning than this. Perhaps all cat-dislikers are incapable articulating? Not sure. But I'll give it a go.

1. Cats are on a high horse. That's right, and they won't get off that high horse any time soon. They sit up there all cozy while us humans offer them luxuries like cat trees, plush mouse toys, and "Fancy Feast". And do felines reciprocate love? No. Okay, perhaps some do. If so, it is for two purposes: to obtain more luxuries or to give the lowly human something to smile about. Two words: superiority complex.

2. Cats SHED. I have yet to meet a dog who sheds like cats do. They all shed, every one. (Okay, except for the hairless ones. What cuties.) And it's not just any hair that they shed. Felines slough off that nasty whisp-hair that will not come off anything, that is, unless you own a sandblaster. It gets everywhere; in your bed, on your clothes, your food .. and .... in your mouth.

3. What on earth are cats useful for? The only answer I've ever been given to this are these few: love, companionship, killing mice (and lastly) humor. Now I agree with the humor part. As for love and companionship? I don't think so. If cats could provide for themselves, they would completely abandon us. Don't shake your head. You know it's true. And what can a cat do that a few mouse traps can't? Oh wait. Maybe you like bloody entrails left on your porch. What a gift.

4. Cats don't do anything for you. Very few cats do tricks. Why? Because their owners have to up the stakes to get them to do anything. The trick cats only do tricks because there's more at stake. Perhaps a steak. Fine. Some cats actually come when you call them. It's true. They come, sure. After you've surrendere the last scrap of your dignity, calling "Here, kitty" a thousand times in a falsetto tone jingling their favorite mouse toy with bell attached. Food is most likely involved as well.

5. Those four are my essential argument, so I'll throw these in as a combined number five. Hairballs, creepy bumpy tongues, claws, rubbing on your leg, litter boxes, litter boxes (Yeah, it deserves to be stated twice.), creepy old cat ladies, milk-mongers, and arching their backs as you pet them and expecting you to continue all the way along to the end of their tail - because they're just that great.

I brought up this topic with my father. He shared with me an essay he wrote from high school. I'm paraphrasing here.

"There's my dog, Jetson. Jetson does anything I tell him to. Right now, he's standing on his hind legs. He'll stand on his hind legs all day if I really want him to. He's the best dog to ever live.

Over there on the couch is my cat, Barney. Barney knows he shouldn't be on the couch, but he's giving me 'the look'. That look that says, 'Yeah, you better believe I'm on the couch. And I'll stay here as long as I want. You just try and get me off here. I'll claw your eyes out. Yeah, that's right. I'm staying. I'll stay here all night if I feel like it. Got it? Oh and while you're at it, get me something to eat. I'm hungry.' "

And that, ladies and gentlemen, is the quintessential cat.

I know, I know. I haven't convinced any of you from the feline side. You'd rather get a cat, give it a little carpet-cat-house, Fancy Feast, plush toys, and then scoop their Fresh-Step litter box twice a day... all for fur-infused furniture, daily puncture wounds, oh and of course... a purr. Maybe two, providing your cat is feeling generous.

Favorite.

2009-02-16T10:42:00.000-08:00

Wow, my love for the movie Dan in Real Life has been reignited. Full blast! From the movie itself to the music... it is spectacular. For those who haven't seen it, there is no excuse. No excuse at all. And you need to see it as soon as possible. How about right now?

Here's a bit of what you're missing.

Sure do miss these days.

2009-02-12T23:03:00.000-08:00

I miss the days when life didn't involve all the complications it did today. School, work, finances, all this adult junk. (And it's only the beginning...) I love life, I do. I have an incredible and wonderful family; I am so fortunate in just about every aspect. But sometimes it's nice to reminisce on days when all I had to think about was what I would paint at preschool or which Dick & Jane book I'd read next. Days when I'd run over to Grandma and Grandpa's house to play Candyland or put puzzles together. Days like these.

Love is in the air...

2009-02-11T19:54:00.000-08:00

..everywhere I look around! (What a swell song, eh?) Yes .Valentines Day is on the horizon, and love is in full bloom. Hopefully spring will follow.

In case you're all wondering my plans for the 14th, here they are. Work in the day. Go to Matt's recital. (Which will be awesome!) Then, I'm coming home, getting in my sweats, popping some popcorn, and watching a movie with my best friend, Gus. Yes, the dog. Who needs a woman when you've got a fam, a job, a movie, and a dog?

How did Valentine's Day get so misconstrued anyway? I believe it was originally created to honor two early Christian saints, both named Valentine. Both were martyrs, I think one to save marriage or something. Anyway.

Happy Valentine's Day, one and all! I love you all.

Poor WALL-E

2009-01-31T08:40:00.000-08:00

Well, as we all know, the Oscar nominees are out. Yet again, the same five films get chosen for every single nomination. One great film that is not among these? WALL-E. Despite the fact that the story and characters are far more entertaining, universal, and relatable than any of the other films, it didn't get the nominee for anything but Best Animated Film. (Well... that and Music, Song, Sound Editing, Sound Mixing, and Writing.)

It has more greatness in it in the first 45 minutes than the rest of them have throughout their entirety! And that's without dialogue. Alas, the Academy continues to look upon this masterpieces like this as "cartoons". Some may argue that it is being taken seriously, as it was nominated for Writing of an Original Screenplay. Touche. It's a step closer to a nomination for Best Picture. Hopefully, Pixar will be able to attain such a nomination one day.

Regardless, WALL-E was still robbed. Even if it, and all the Pixar films, beat out any Oscar winners since 1996.Cute little guy.

A Sybel Story... one of many.

2009-01-29T19:00:00.001-08:00

Well. I've got my story for the week. It goes something like this...

Sunday night, my mom is writing her weekly e-mail to Jake. Apparently, she'd been in there an hour and a half. (Not much longer than usual for her e-mails, but still a sizeable chunk of time.) I had just come home from a farewell and was heading to my room when I hear a flat-out scream. More like a scared scream. Mix a little "whine" in there and there you have it. The noise I heard.

The next five minutes was filled with these lines, I put them together to figure out what had happened.

"No!" "I hate that computer!" "My whole e-mail is gone!" "I can't recapture that emotion!" and my favorite "Why?"

Turns out the internet had failed to load the page after she clicked "send". She tried going back to her e-mail (not sure why) to compose a new one, somehow expecting it to be there. I tried not to laugh, but it was, after all, funny. The kind of funny that's sad, but you can't help it anyway.

So I remembered that pressing the "back" button usually goes back to the e-mail. Tried it. It worked. She ran into the room when I told her I fixed it. She scrolled down to check that it was all there. The rest is the best part, but requires some background info.

(Jake had a nickname for me on his phone: Schmarthy. When my mom inherited the phone, my number was still under the nickname, and apparently, she's adopted it.)

Well Mom hit her knees. "Thank you Lord for my son, Schmarthy! Thank you."

Needless to say, she was elated.

2 Days in a Row!

2009-01-23T18:01:00.000-08:00

Everyone, congratulate me. This is unprecedented. But I figured if I'm starting to be faithful to my blog, why not go all out?

I'll tell you who went all-out last night. Me. Well, me and Corinne. While waiting for Chase's class to be done, we drove around to kill time. Little did I know she had quite a trick up her sleeve. My dear sis found this little restaurant on Redwood Road. Name?

Mama's Plantation.
Yes. That picture is on the front of their menus.

It. Was. Incredible. Southern food, pink & white cottage-cheese walls, and let's not forget the white and gold fountain adoring the middle of the room. That's right. A fountain. Anyway, Thithter and I ordered "suicides". (You know, every drink mixed.) It's a tradition for her at this place. We also ordered peach cobbler and sweet potato pie. I was tempted to get a bucket of fried chicken. I was also thinking about the collard greens. But we decided on dessert. Regardless, we went all-out.

My apologies.

2009-01-22T16:13:00.000-08:00

After the holidays, I found myself in a sort of "Christmas Coma" if you will. More like denial. Couple that with laziness, and my blog's been stuck in red and green for the past month. Actually, much longer than that.

So. I revitalized it! Not that anyone reads this or really cares all that much, but I do apologize. To sum up what I've been doing lately, I'll just post this picture.

Hollywood. Eat your heart out.

Let it begin.

2008-11-29T19:03:00.000-08:00

With Thanksgiving over - and what a wonderful one it was - the Christmas season is in full reign. I simply can't express my excitement, as Christmas is my favorite time of the year by far. And to make it all the better, there will be a wedding five days prior! Boy oh boy, this will be a holiday season to remember.

And thank heaven, my family can't nag at me for listening to Christmas music anymore. I'll be blasting Bing Crosby till Christmas Day!

Now THIS is art.

2008-11-21T15:23:00.000-08:00

Temple Square. What a beautiful sight.

Quite like this robo-Santa.

I will live in this village some day.

A festive house, complete with a snow-couple.

And Santa, riding his sleigh. What a guy!

Being involved in art at school means a lot of political/psychological mumbo jumbo being poured onto me. I say art shouldn't be like that at all. So, there is some real art. No politics, no sociological messages, just good art. It's also Christmas art.

New Preview from Pixar!

2008-11-20T14:24:00.000-08:00

Pixar's upcoming film, Up, has a new trailer. One that gives a little more insight into the story.

Here's the link.

http://www.apple.com/trailers/disney/up/

Enjoy! And start counting down... May 29th.

Mere weeks away.

2008-11-16T21:12:00.000-08:00

Christmas! Yes! It's coming quite soon. 39 days, to be exact Everybody better be getting ready for the holiday season. More importantly, let's all prepare to enjoy it. After all, it's the greatest time of year. Hands down. And if you haven't already, go to www.elfyourself.com. You're sure to enjoy.

I enjoy the occasional three-scoop ice cream cone.

2008-11-14T09:04:00.000-08:00

What can I say? I like to indulge. Who doesn't?

Fine.

2008-11-12T22:08:00.001-08:00

Here it is. A blog. Happy? It does give me something to do in my freetime... This could be good. Once I figure out how to work this puppy.