Disappointments Abound

So...I have had a few Disappointments this past week. I am trying not to focus on them because that gives them too much power over me. But I want to get them off my chest and here is as good a place as any to do it.

First of all, this week marks the 18th anniversary of my fathers passing (July 3rd, 1990) and I always get a bit melancholy about that. I miss my father very much. There are so many things I want to talk about with him and questions I want to ask and stories I want to hear! I realize that this is the natural order of life, but that doesn't mean I have to like it.

The Fourth of July was actually a really good day for me! I spent the majority of it at home working on projects intended to aid me in my photography and that just feels good! Then I continued a tradition that was started several years ago by The Dark Ones and that is to view the Glendale Community College fireworks display from Sahuaro Ranch Park! It was really hot but that's to be expected in Phoenix AZ in July! But then we had a bit of a Monsoon storm come thru. The clouds covered the sun and the wind gusted strong for a few hours to aid in cooling things down a bit, but that wind was a bit of a hindrance to any attempt to enjoy all the BB-Q goodness that was available! I was really afraid that the show would be canceled because of it as well, but the wind calmed down in time for the show to take place. It was a very nice display of pretty lights and colors! (I got some good shots too! Including a really cool lightning picture! Woot!)
The next day (yesterday) was, again, a combination of fun and disappointment. I had a scheduled photo shoot with a model who was coming up from Tucson for the weekend. So I spent more time cleaning and setting up the "Studio". The disappointment came as I was still tweaking the lighting. I snapped 25 images...and as she sat on the stool she was posing on, said she wanted to reschedule because she was feeling sick. She had told me on the phone earlier that she had eaten something on the 4th that had made her ill. She thought she was over it, but then it kinda snuck up on her all of the sudden. So, hours of work to prepare...and 25 images to show for it.
But the silver lining here is that it allowed me to attend a birthday/pool party at Jeff and Nola's that I otherwise wouldn't have been able to go to! I have to say that I had a really wonderful time. It was relaxing and fun. There were about 35-40 people there splashing in the pool and having more BB-Q goodness! I hadn't been swimming like that for such a long time I almost forgot what it was like!

Then, today as I was getting ready to work on the photos from yesterday's abbreviated photo shoot, the RAW files up and disappeared! I mean POOF! Gone! And I didn't delete them either! What happened was this: I was using picasa to view the pics. Picasa has a "rotate" function and I utilized it to get the correct orientation of the RAW images. Well...long story a little shorter, the RAW files were "poofed" before my eyes! I mean GONE! They weren't in the Deleted Items folder...nor in a "hidden" folder...they were just GONE!
I had only one option to get them back and that was to pay $40 for a piece of software to recover them from my CF card which I had already re-formated! Man what a royal pain! But it was a successful venture and now I have something to use if this ever pops up again.

But here is the main thing that has disappointed me: I had a model cancel a shoot scheduled later this week for "Personal Reasons". Frankly that has really eaten away at my self confidence. I mean, I understand completely when life throws a curve ball and things don't go as planned. I think I demonstrated that when my model asked to reschedule during a shoot! But what gets me here is this: I feel that I did everything correctly and professionally with this other girl. We met to discuss creative ideas. I bought her lunch and we brainstormed and I thought came upon a really great concept that I was really excited about! We even planned to meet a week before the shoot to shop for things we would need for the shoot that likely I would have paid for and she would have kept. But she no-showed me that day. Didn't return my calls on that day asking what happened...and then today when I called her again and left a message asking about the status of the shoot all I got was a text message saying she had to cancel for "personal reasons". Not that she had to reschedule...but cancel.
So, what happened? I mean if she doesn't want to shoot with me, I can't change that, but I really want to know why...! I was professional, friendly and genuinely excited to work with her and on this themed shoot... Now I sit and languish with the thought that somehow I did or said something to make her feel uncomfortable. But honestly I don't know what it could have been! And the bit that gets me the most is that I likely never will! Even if she did tell me what it was, all it would do to me is make me more upset because I guarantee it would be something she misinterpreted or misconstrued and no amount me saying "no, that's not the case..." would change things.

Well I could go on and on about this stuff. And who knows, I may come back and visit this topic, but for now, I am tired.

Good night.

Myst Nightclub Lingerie Show

Here are the first three images from the Lingerie Show event at the Myst Nightclub in Scottsdale AZ. The event took place on April 9th, 2008.

I shot over 750 images...so there is a lot of work yet to be done!

Rush: Snakes & Arrows

The Rush tour came to Phoenix on the first. John got us tickets which was really cool of him. Then, he won a contest and we got to MEET THE BAND!!

So...here's me and John...with these silly grins on our faces standing next to two Rock & Roll LEGENDS: Geddy Lee and Alex Lifeson... This was the best day I have had in a looooong time! As soon as I can get the pics & Vids off my phone I will post some here!

At the Gates of Heaven

As you know St.Peter guards the gates of heaven.
One day he needed to pee and asked Jesus to guard the gates for him for a little while.
Jesus, being a very kind and willing man said that he would.

Soon after, an old man with a beard appeared and started to walk towards Jesus. When the man got to the gates Jesus thought he looked familiar.

Jesus stopped the man and said, "I don't mean to be nosey sir, but did you have any children?"

"Yes" replied the old man in a sad voice. "One son, but he died. Then he had nails put through him."

Then Jesus asked the old man what type of work he did on earth.

"I was a carpenter"

"Father?"asked Jesus.

"Pinocchio?" asked the man...

Baby Girl Born With Two Faces and Four Eyes, Worshipped as a God : Environmental News Blog | Environmental Graffiti

I can't really think of anything else to say here...

OK...that's not true. I have many comments I COULD make, but I would prefer to know YOUR thoughts. Please leave your comments on the blog rather than reply to me directly.

Thanks!

Baby Girl Born With Two Faces and Four Eyes, Worshipped as a God : Environmental News Blog | Environmental Graffiti

Rough time part II

In the distant past I was posting a few very personal thoughts in an attempt to help clear my head. For whatever reason, I stopped. Or at least held back on the personal stuff because sometimes it's not something I wanted the Internet to know.
But tonight will be a bit of the old style. A look at my inner thoughts.
It won't be overly long, but it will be "potent".

So...It's been over a year since my mother passed away and I am still missing her. It's a hard feeling to admit to because I spent so much energy resenting her presence in my home. But as time passes, and the emptiness gets larger, I have to say that the time she spent living with me was good for us both.

I have a roommate now, who is a very nice guy and I am very fortunate to have found such a trustworthy person to share my home, but it's not the same as being able to go into her room and know that I could unload all of my problems and come out of there feeling better than when I went in.

I recently found an old video tape from one of the first Deadman's Parties I ever had here. There is a very brief moment with mom in it. At first when I saw it, I kept thinking that she looks drunk or medicated. But now I just want to watch it to feel closer to her and see her alive again. That is one of my regrets: That I don't have more video footage. Ah well...live and learn.

===Steven===>>

Rough time

These past two days have been kinda rough. I've been in a daze, and I still feel that way as I type this rare blog post about my personal life. Today is my mother's birthday. It was one year and 2 days ago that she died. Should I tell you what I did on the one year anniversary of her passing? I worked. But before I worked, I did something really stoopit...I fell victim to a lame fishing scheme that put my bank account in the hands of thieves for a day. Yeah...Me...the guy who is always telling other people not to fall for those emails that promise the world if you will just give them your bank account number so they can deposit it in there for you.
I won't get into great detail about that suffice it to say I had to spend a couple of hours at the bank filling out all the paperwork to fix the problem. So, I didn't have much time to think about anything else...and the day passed without my remembering Mom.
It wasn't until much later in the day that I realized what significance of the day was...And now, today, her birthday...what did I do? Worked. Walked the dogs. Felt depressed. Blogged.

Photo's of the Gig

I guess there was a photographer at the show...and it wasn't me! Well, technically since I was there, and I am a photographer...oh, nevermind..

Click this link to go to the PhotoBucket site holding our pics!

Reminder: Violet Wing Concert This Saturday 1/12/07 @ 7pm

Hi again Groovy Guys and Gals!

This is just a friendly reminder that "The Violet Wing A Go Go And Psychedelic Music Experience" is happening THIS SATURDAY, January 12th, 2008 @ 7pm.

The Violet Wing is a Real Honest to Goodness band from the 60's! Three of the members performing started playing together as young adults, and the incredible music of that generation has stayed with them thru the years! Then they asked me to join them, so here I am! Back in the Spotlight and banging the skins!

The Wing will be playing a TON of the most popular Rock songs from the 60's, as well as a few other surprises. We have a couple of special musical guests, and the prettiest Go Go Girls set to be dancing in golden cages to get you up and out of your chairs!

Take a look to see what I mean:

Tickets are just $10 in advance and $15 at the door. If you can tell me how many you need by THIS THURSDAY Jan 10^th, I will be sure to get you the discounted rate.

Once again:
Date: Saturday January 12, 2008
Time: 7:00 pm - 11:00 pm
Location: Women's Club of Mesa
200 N. MacDonald Mesa AZ 85201

Click here for a Google Map

Come on out for a great night of Music and Fun!

===Wilgar===>>

Hot Wookie Walking

A new version of a Walking Carpet

If you get the reference, you should appreciate this image! (Warning! This is NOT "Work Safe"...but it's not "Porn" either!)

Here's a Neat Little Somethng...

Models and Snakes

I was just cruisin' the 'net and happened across these images and I just had to share them!
Maybe, someday I will do a shoot like this!

The Violet Wing in Concert!

Coming Soon to the Woman's Club of Mesa: The Violet Wing In Concert!

Saturday, January 12th, 2008! Follow this link for more details: http://thevioletwing.com/html/play_dates.html

Notice that the admission is $15.00. But I have a little pull with the band and can get you in for only $10!

Contact me through MySpace and I will take care of it for ya!

BTW: If you haven't already seen the promo pics of some of the AMAZINGLY gorgeous girls who will be our Go Go Dancers...why not!! http://www.flickr.com/photos/keyholeprod/sets/72157603158382560/

Peace!

===Wilgar===>>

Proud to Present: Keyhole Productions Photography

It is Done! A new place for me to post my pictures and talk about my photography! There isn't much there at the moment, but that will change! Come take a look! Leave some comment...Show some Love!!


===Steven===>>

ModelMayhem.com

Ok...Look. If you know me at all, you know I am a photographer and a drummer and even a gamer. I have always thought that was an interesting and even slightly unusual, dare I say unique combination of interests.
Now, follow this link and read this man's profile. If you laugh as hard as I did (in a good way!) then let me know!
ModelMayhem.com

This guy is a PHENOMENAL photographer! But I have to warn you his portfolio is not "work safe" as he has some "Artistic Nudes" posted.

So, wait until you go home, then check it out and tell me what you think!!

Post your comments here for all to see...It'll be Fun!!

"Keyhole Productions Photography" blog?

So...I am considering starting a Blog to highlight my photography. I am thinking I would post some of my favorite pics and try to give a little backstory on the image, as well as whatever technical information I can remember about how I made the image. You know, the "EXIF" data as well as any photoshop techniques I used. That kind of thing.
This is not by any means a "groundbreaking" idea as there are MANY photography blogs to be found. But I am thinking it would be good to have a "Conversation", even if it's just with myself about my passion. Hopefully I will entertain my friends, and if possible even make some new ones.

What do you all think? Leave me your comments!

Oh...in case you didn't already have them, these are the links to the places on the net that I regularly post my photos:

"Keyhole Productions" on Flickr

"Wilgar" on Flickr

"Keyhole Productions" on My Space

"Wilgar" on My Space

"Wilgar" on Tribe.net

Sometimes I post duplicate pictures and sometimes I don't. But I am always interested in your opinions!

Thanks everyone!

===Steven===>>

Steampunk Flat-Panel LCD Mod

This is one of the most AMAZING computer mods I have ever seen and it would be a shame if more people didn't see it too! Thanks to Amberwolf for turning me on to this amazing site!

Steampunk Flat-Panel LCD Mod

Oshiah, You are the main reason I am blogging this site.

A funny thing happened to me...

...Well, different is more appropriate than "funny". I went to the gym. I wasn't planning on it, it just sorta happened. Have you ever lent a book, or a movie to a friend, and then had an overwhelming urge to read that book, or watch that movie? Well, ever since I got home from the hospital and was healing from the procedure, knowing that I wasn't able to go swimming, all I have wanted to do was swim. Knowing that my gym has a pool, and is open 24hrs during the week has only made the desire more intense.
As I have been out and about, the thought keeps coming to me that I want to be in the pool...but it never happens when I can actually GO to the gym. But tonight as I sat in front of the computer, it occured to me that I could. I had already walked the dogs thru the park earlier and there was nothing stopping me. So I pack my gear and head out. Then, on the way to my usual gym, I remember that a brand new facility opened not too far away at Loop 101 / Union Hills.
I walk in and realize just how run down my old club looks. But then that's to be expected with any new building. I also realize that I don't know where anything is here! But it's not hard to find the locker room, and from the the pool area.
So, after changing out, I head through the showers and find myself in the chlorine soaked room of water. The pool and jacuzzi are here and as a reward for getting this far, I hit the jacuzzi first.
There are a couple of people there already, guy and girl who are talking as if they know each other, and they completely ignore me. Well, that's not unusual. After a few minutes they leave, and I decide to swim for real. The temperature difference between the jacuzzi and the pool is amazing, but it's not long before I am acclimated to it. And off I go!
One lap, taken at a nice easy pace. I get to the end of the lane and just...relax. This is nice! Time for more. The second lap is still slow and pleasant. With a break at the end...just because. On the Third lap I realize I am not kicking my feet enough and make an adjustment. Big Mistake! The extra energy requires more oxygen and that's harder to come by when your mouth is in the water...I make it to the end, panting and weak and realize I need a longer break.
This isn't the first time I have had this experience, but it's the first time in a long time. Finally, I do one more painful lap and head, once more to the jacuzzi. There are differnt people in it this time, but one of them actually strikes up a conversation with me. That made the whole thing worth doing. It's nice to know I am not incapable of talking to folks I don't know. Somehow, it's a validation for me and I needed it more than I knew. In fact, I didn't realize that until just this moment as I typed it. hhhmmm...funny 'bout that.

The Dark Ones: Highway to Hell. August Party 2007 - a photoset on Flickr

At long last the wait is over!

The pics from "The Dark Ones August Party 2007: Highway to Hell" are now available for your viewing and commenting pleasure!

http://www.flickr.com/photos/wilgar/sets/72157601721236453/

As always, if anyone sees a pic of themselves that they either want to own at full resolution, or want me to remove from Flickr, please let me know. Also, please forward the link to anyone you feel would enjoy seeing the images.

Oh, and I am serious about the comments...leave me comments! I LIVE for the Comments!! Must have Comments!! (Was that too much?)


===Wilgar===>>

On the Mend...

Hang on, this is going to be a long, rambling post filled with a lot of "Stream of Conscienceness" typing!

So...this is life without a gallbladder. Ick. Well, it's not so bad, but I am still dealing with recovering from the procedure. When I came home from the hospital last Saturday, after being there for a week, I sill had this drain thingy in me that was making life a tad more interesting (and disgusting) than normal. But it's out now (yeah!) and now all I have to do is heal up the muliple little holes in my abdomin and life will be just peachy! Funny...I don't know why I use that term as I don't like peaches!

So, being at home has finally afforded me the time to get a few things done...like going thru old piles of stuff that has been on my floor for a REALLY long time! I really put my shredder to the test! Filled two bags in the process of cleaning up. Then, once that was done I tackled a project I had been wanting to do for a while: connecting a second monitor to my computer. This should facilitate my photo editing by giving me a LOT more desktop space and two different screeen types to compare things on. The LCD and CRT show images very differently and it's nice to know I can check the colors of the images so easily.

I also had the opportunity to put together a new shelving unit that I bought about 6 months ago and now have the opportunity to organize things even more! With any luck I will be able to clear all the stuff off of my drafting table and be able to actually USE it for it's intended purpose! Wish me luck on that.

On a completely different note: I am still dealing with the recent passing of my mother Loretta. She died of complications from the treatment of her lung cancer just 2 days before her birthday. Now THAT is irony. I was there at her side when she passed. I am not going to go into details here, but let me just say it's something I will never forget. I was also there at my fathers side shortly before he passed away in 1990. I would have been AT his side had I known he was leaving...but as he was in ICU the staff made me leave the room. These two events weigh pretty heavily on me and I am having a hard time dealing with life at the moment.

But! Not to worry! I know things will work out. I have the love and support of both of my amazing sisters and that means the world to me! Whenever I am really down, I know I can call on them to help snap me out of it.

My friend Judy is also a HUGE help in giving me confidence and letting me bend her ear when I need to vent. Thank you for being there for me, Cutie Pants.

So, that is the update on my physical, mental and emotional state of being. If you'll excuse me I think I will go off and try to cry. It hasn't happened yet, but I am hopeful!

My love to all of you!

===Steven===>>

How Dumping TV Allowed Me to Quit My Job, Create an Online Business and Fund My Retirement Account - SavingAdvice.com Blog

How Dumping TV Allowed Me to Quit My Job, Create an Online Business and Fund My Retirement Account - SavingAdvice.com Blog

For those of you who know me personally, this may seem to be a strange article to blog about. For those who don't know me: I make my living working for the local cable company, so the fact that people watch a lot of TV is a "Good Thing" for me.
But my PERSONAL viewing habits warrent a review.

It's true that I don't watch any particular programs with any regularity, and that I have a DVR and avail myself of the joys of Time Shifting and skimming thru commercials, but still...

When I am bored, I do watch a lot of junk just because it's there. I surf thru channels that I normally don't watch often and find little gems that capture my attention (and drain my creative impulses) for hours at a time. Considering all the things on my "To Do" list...TV should be a very low priority. But it's so EASY to turn it on and lose myself for a few hours. I guess that's an important thing to do...but there are other, better ways of doing that (like reading, or photography...hhmm, There's a Thought!)

Enjoy the article!

===Steven===>>

Health Update: Botulism Warning Expanded Additional consumer products & pet products - The Emergency Email & Wireless Network .......... www. EmergencyEmail.ORG ........ NewsEmergency.com

Health Update: Botulism Warning Expanded Additional consumer products & pet products - The Emergency Email & Wireless Network .......... www. EmergencyEmail.ORG ........ NewsEmergency.com

This is for real everyone. Please read the article and ensure that you do not have any of these contaminated food items.

Thank you.

it's what I do...: Yep... It Works

A couple of weeks ago I attended a photography workshop that was put on by Don Giannatti (WizWow on Flickr). In that workshop I learned more about lighting and working with the light modifiers in the first two hours of that day than in all the personal experimentation I had done to that point.
I began using a technique that I learned in my home studio and posting a few of the images on Flickr, and here's one that caught Don's eye. He posted a commentary on his blog with it and I just wanted to show it off a bit! Hey! If I can't toot my own horn, what's the point in having a Brass Section?

Yesterday was my Birthday

...and this is how I celebrate...
I had to work yesterday because I was too stoopit not to take the day off in advance. But, that's really OK because even if I had been off work I wouldn't have done anything that great. Gone out to eat...alone...as I so often do. Maybe gone to a movie...alone. Since the heat is so intense, I have to leave the girls in the house all day which means I can't go "party" for hours since I have to come home to let them out and walk them.
I DID go to Phx Con Games last night (after walking the dogs...) and spent some time with some friends. And I do plan on returning later today to see my friend Jessie assisting in a martial arts "self defense" demonstration. And there is a Dark Ones Party tonight as well... But I will have to come back home to deal with the girls before the party. Just so you understand, the Con is roughly 30 miles away from my house. So it's a pain to drive back and forth so much. Ah well, the price I pay for the love I get from them. They are worth it!

Wow...that last bit sounded a lot more positive than I was expecting!

Well...it's 11:42 am and I still haven't eaten breakfast so I am off to do that next.

Talk to you soon.


===Wilgar===>>

Lost Girl has been found

I got word that the lost girl was found. She was at a friends house and is reunited with her family. All is well. Thank you to everyone who read this and passed the word along!

Missing Girl in Phoenix AZ: Please Read

My friends' daughter is on the streets in Phoenix and we need your help in finding her.

I am reposting the message she posted to an "SCA" (Society for Creative Anachronism) message board in an effort to assist in spreading the word.

I know some of you who get an email from me when I post to my blog live out of state, but it can't hurt to include you in this too! So, here is Tina's message:

Ariana decided that she wasn't going to take "no you're grounded and cannot go to the movies with your friends after school" for answer and took off from school yesterday at 11:30 am. We were able to track her down as far as AZ Mills but when we got there (Tom 5:02 pm, Me 5:15 pm) there was no sight of her. The girl she was with, whose mother runs a flea bag weekly/monthly hotel/apt. place
on the SW corner of 24th St. and Van Buren, swears that they left her at the mall and haven't seen her since 5:00 pm yesterday.

Out of desperation, I am posting this, just in case someone happens to run into her or she decides to call one of our friends because as far as we know, she doesn't have any money or access to any money and her bus card expires at midnight today.

We found out that running away is not a juvenile crime and that the police won't actively look for her. We do have a detective assigned to the case. On the other hand, if she's caught out after curfew and a cop realizes that she's only 14, they will pick her up.

I put her picture up as my default picture on my MySpace page. www.myspace.com\battgirl1968 Her hair is shorter than it is in this picture. She left the house in a white shirt, with a black spaghetti strap tank under it, jeans and black, suede skater-style shoes with camoflage fabric on them. Please feel free to re-post this if you think it will help.

Thanks for keeping your eyes peeled.

Lady Elena
House Staghold
Barony of Atenveldt
Kingdom of Atenveldt

Please! If anyone has any information about Ariana's whereabouts contact me thru this blog site. If anyone has the inclination and/or ability to repost this message, I encourage you to do so!

Thank you so much for taking the time to read this!

===Steven===>>

JPG Magazine: Stories: Photo Essay: Romance In The Park

If you have a moment, please view my latest postings on JPG.com.
JPG Magazine: Stories: Photo Essay: Romance In The Park

Thank you!

Phoenix Faerie Festival 040807 - a photoset on Flickr

Phoenix Faerie Festival 040807 - a photoset on Flickr

Az Ren Faire 040107 - a photoset on Flickr

Az Ren Faire 040107 - a photoset on Flickr

My latest set of pics from the last day of Ren Faire.
Comments on the pics are always appreciated!

Telekinetic Contest

Telekinetic Contest

Film Short, it's about 5 minutes or so, but worth watching.
Also totally Work Safe.

SPASSPOST = SPAPO, Dam funny

SPASSPOST = SPAPO, Dam funny

This is just what the title says it is. Dam Funny. And, believe it or not, totally Work Safe!

Vote for my Photo to be Published Please!

The Platypus Man is Dead

Comedian commits apparent suicide, police said - CNN.com

I became a fan of Richard Jeni so many years ago I can't count them. He never failed to make me laugh out loud during his stand-up specials. I learned this morning of his death. Self-inflicted. By gun. To the head. For his sake I hope he's not Catholic.

JPG Magazine: Photos: "Cherry Bomb" by Steven Goldstein

JPG Magazine: Photos: "Cherry Bomb" by Steven Goldstein

I just discovered a new Photography site that is really interesting. It's a magazine that is "built" by the people using it and submitting photos. I just posted a few pics there and wanted to spread the word. What better way than to share it with all of my Blog friends!

New Pics on my Flickr Site

I shot almost 1200 pics at the Ren Fair. But because I like you, I trimmed down the number of pics that I posted...Lucky You!

www.Flickr.com/photos/wilgar/sets

Amtgard.com - The Home of Amtgard

Amtgard.com - The Home of Amtgard

Amtgard Homepage

The SCA seems to have a little Fantasy Competition!
This organization bears more investigation...

This is a man you HAVE to meet

The Dark Ones February Party was last night. As usual I was there with camera in hand wandering and snapping pics when I stepped into the backyard and encountered someone I hadn't seen/met before (but whom I honestly thought I had "seen around" in the past). He's in garb (as am I) and I say to him: "I have to take your picture." Not "Hello" or "Hi, I'm Wilgar, can I take your picture?". It was just a feeling that I had that I already knew him. So, after snapping the pic a few times (damn! Low Light photography is challenging!) we started talking. And THAT'S when it happened. The things he told me about his life and how he came to be a traveling performer (he's a Juggler and works the Ren Faire circuits for a living) opened my mind. He's also a Martial Artist, and a Photographer. If he played drums, I would have asked him to marry me right there!
A little later I introduced him to my best friend Oshiah who is my Martial Arts teacher as well and pretty soon Thomas and Oshiah are lost in conversation. (Guess I done good!)
I will be working on posting the pics from the party and posting them to my Flickr page very soon. In the meantime, watch Thomas's Demo Video to get a hint at what he does.
Thanks everyone!

Wicked, Wickedthoughts

John Wick is an amazing man. I met for the first time in person at DarkCon, but have known about for a looong time previous, thanks to Oshiah sharing some of John's writings in Pyramid Magazine with me.
He keeps a Live Journal and was good enough to steal some of my photo's from the Con to emphasize how much fun he had! So, naturally I have to link to that page and share it with you all!
(The Hyperlink is in the Title of this entry)

I will post more personal entries soon. There are a lot of things happening in my life at the moment and I think it will be a good idea to talk about them in the open as it were. Keep your eyes posted for more in the near future...

A little late, but better than nothing

I guess I haven't said this "Officially" yet online. Happy New Year!
Mine has started out with a combo punch of a stellar accomplishment, (DarkCon '07) and a rather depressing set of setbacks. Namely my mother's failing health and my own health issues in the form of the Con Plague (as some are calling it) that is an upper respiratory infection that just won't go away! As a result of it, I am unable to visit my mom in the hospital which is really killing me!

Tomorrow I have an appointment with my Dr. to get some antibiotics that should help speed things along the path of healing.

This isn't how I wanted to start my year. But there is a long road of opportunity ahead so I will be making the best of it as it happens.

One benefit from the plague is that I reconnected with a friend I hadn't seen in a long time. It was a really nice and chocolatey way to spend some time.

The down side is that I have been feeling so icky I haven't been able to accomplish any of the household tasks that I had planned (like cleaning my room!). sigh.

OK. This is all I can write at the moment. I need my Nyquil.

Good Night everyone.

Digital Journal - MIT Interactive Whiteboard Simulates Real-Life Engineering Environment

This is just wicked cool!

Digital Journal - MIT Interactive Whiteboard Simulates Real-Life Engineering Environment

FDA Issues Nationwide Alert on Counterfeit One Touch Basic/Profile and One Touch Ultra Blood Glucose Test Strips

FDA Issues Nationwide Alert on Counterfeit One Touch Basic/Profile and One Touch Ultra Blood Glucose Test Strips

Ok everyone, this one hits pretty close to home since I have had Diabetes for about 8 years or so. Normally when I see these types of alerts in emails and such I am the first one to investigate it and verify it's a legitamate issue. I strongly encourage you to do the same. But, if you follow this link, you will see that this is for real. If you or someone you know use these test strips (I do!) PLEASE read this information and check the Lot Number on your supplies. It just makes sense to me to be safe...

Here is a link straight to the manufactures site that talks directly to this issue:

http://www.lifescan.com/company/about/press/counterfeit/

LIZARD BIRTHING

My sister in Austin TX sent this to me and I just HAD to share it! I don't know the author, so please forgive me for not posting credit to him, but whoever he is...THANKS!


LIZARD BIRTHING

"If you have raised kids (or been one), and gone through the pet syndrome including toilet flush burials for dead goldfish!

Overview: I had to take my son's lizard to the vet.

Here's what happened:

Just after dinner one night, my son came up to tell me there was "something wrong" with one of the two lizards he holds prisoner in his room.

"He's just lying there looking sick," he told me. "I'm serious, dad, can you help?"

I put my best lizard-healer statement on my face and followed him into his bedroom. One of the little lizards was indeed lying on his back, looking stressed. I immediately knew what to do.

"Honey," I called, "come look at the lizard!"

"Oh my! gosh," my wife diagnosed after a minute. "She's having babies."

"What?" my son demanded. "But their names are Bert and Ernie, Mom!"

I was equally outraged.

"Hey, how can that be? I thought we said we didn't want them to reproduce," I accused my wife.

"Well, what do you want me to do, post a sign in their cage?" she inquired. (I actually think she said this sarcastically!)

"No, but you were supposed to get two boys!" I reminded her, (in my most loving, calm, sweet voice, while gritting my teeth together).

"Yeah, Bert and Ernie!" my son agreed.

"Well, it's just a little hard to tell on some guys, you know," she informed me. (Again with the sarcasm, you think?)

By now the rest of the family had gathered to see what was going on. I shrugged, deciding to make the best of it.

"Kids, this is going to be a wondrous experience, I announced. "We're about to witness the miracle of birth."

"Oh, gross!" they shrieked.

"Well, isn't THAT just great! What are we going to do with a litter of tiny little lizard babies?" my wife wanted to know. (I really do think she was being snotty here, too. Don't you?)

We peered at the patient. After much struggling, what looked like a tiny foot would appear briefly, vanishing a scant second later.

"We don't appear to be making much progress," I noted.

"It's breech," my wife whispered, horrified.

"Do something, Dad!" my son urged.

"Okay, okay." Squeamishly, I reached in and grabbed the foot when it next appeared, giving it a gentle tug. It disappeared. I tried several more times with the same results.

"Should I call 911," my eldest daughter wanted to know. "Maybe they could talk us through the trauma." (You see a pattern here with the females in my house?)

"Let's get Ernie to the vet," I said grimly.

We drove to the vet with my son holding the cage in his lap. "Breathe, Ernie, breathe," he urged.

"I don't think lizards do Lamaze," his mother noted to him. (Women can be so cruel to their own young. I mean what she does to me is one thing, but this boy is of her womb, for God's sake.)

The Vet took Ernie back to the examining room and peered at the little animal through a magnifying glass.

"What do you think, Doc, a C-section?" I suggested scientifically.

"Oh, very interesting," he murmured. "Mr. and Mrs. Cameron, may I speak to you privately for a moment?"

I gulped, nodding for my son to step outside.

"Is Ernie going to be okay?" my wife asked.

"Oh, perfectly," the Vet assured us. "This lizard is not in labor. In fact, that isn't EVER going to happen...

Ernie is a boy. You see, Ernie is a young male. And occasionally, as they come into maturity, like most male species, they um....um....masturbate. Just the way he did, lying on his back." He blushed, glancing at my wife. "Well, you know what I'm saying, Mr. Cameron."

We were silent, absorbing this.

"So Ernie's just...just... excited," my wife offered.

"Exactly," the vet replied, relieved that we understood.

More silence. Then my viscous, cruel wife started to giggle. And giggle. And then even laugh loudly.

"What's so funny?" I demanded, knowing, but not believing that the woman I married would commit the upcoming affront to my flawless manliness.

Tears were now running down her face. Laughing It's just...that...I'm picturing you pulling on its... its...teeny little..." she gasped for more air to bellow in laughter once more.

"That's enough," I warned. We thanked the Vet and hurriedly bundled the lizards and our son back into the car. He was glad everything was going to be okay.

"I know Ernie's really thankful for what you've done, Dad," he told me.

"Oh, you have NO idea,"

Closed mouth, my wife agreed, collapsing with laughter.

2 - Lizards - $140...
1 - Cage - $50...
Trip to the Vet - $30...
Memory of your husband pulling on a lizard's winkie... Priceless!

Moral of the story - finish biology class - lizards lay eggs!"




I don't know about all of you, but I forgot that last bit about the eggs too!!

P vs N Vote Early, Vote Often

Shiver me Timbers! It's INTERNATIONAL Talk Like a Pirate Day!
http://www.talklikeapirate.com/piratehome.html

But more important ye swabbies thar's VOTN' ta be done!

http://piratevninja.com/

Avast, me maties! Vote now, a'fore Davie Jones comes t'claim ya!

Cap'n Wilgar!

Pink Vader

'Nuff Said...

Welcome to The World

Ever wonder what the Ultra Rich do with all their money? Well, for some, philantropy is a natural thing:(http://www.gatesfoundation.org/default.htm)
But for those who can't see the plight of their own people whom they have enslaved to make themselves wealthier, they have other ideas: Welcome to The World

Flickr Photo Download: Courtney in the Window

I think I have a new favorite!

Chameleon on Flickr - Photo Sharing!

Chameleon on Flickr - Photo Sharing!

I like these. I would love to have your input as well! Leave a comment on the pictures page on Flickr!

===Steven===>>

Troopers Batman & Robin are here to save the Gothem City Empire

So, I am cruising the web, looking at pics from the last DragonCon, and this is what I find. (There are tons more pics to see, but THIS one was worth sharing!!)

Share and Enjoy!

(You'll have to follow the link to see the pic. Don't worry, it's "Work-Safe". Unless, that is, you are not aloud to laugh out loud at work... If THAT'S the case, you need a different job!)

The Black Citadel: Remember this?

I want to make sure as many people as possible have a chance to experience this. Take about five minutes of your time to watch. Or, do as I did: Listen. (I didnt' see the video at the bottom of the page, so I was only hearing the audio, and I think it was more potent. But make up your own mind on that score...
I want to say Thank You to my brother Chris for sharing this with me.
I Love You!

The Black Citadel: Remember this?

Odd but True! Twinkies Cookbook

And the world keeps getting stranger and fatter. Stranger and fatter. But I have to admit, the burrito sounds intriguing...

On a Hot Summer Day...

Elizabeth 061706 (14)
Originally uploaded by Wilgar.

Wouldn't you like to do this when it's 112 degrees? I know when I TOOK this picture yesterday the temperature was rising a bit where I was standing!
Follow this link for a few more pics from this impromptu photoshoot. There is more to come in the following weeks so be sure to keep checking in!

===Steven===>>

Today is my birthday

Thanks to my friends and family who have wished, emailed, and sung "Happy Birthday" to me today! (Yes...SUNG!)
For those of you who may not know it, I turn 40 today! Woot!
So, to celebrate I have decided to post this comment on my blog. BRILLIANT!

And you thought this was just for fun in Guild Wars!

Sometimes you just have to stick you tongue out and give life a Raspberry! :P~~~~

Judge to lawyers: Play the game - Jun. 7, 2006

DarkCon '07 Is Coming!

This is going to be a GREAT convention!

Created by Gamers FOR Gamers, and fans of Sci-fi / fantasy, LARPing, etc.

There's going to be 24hr gaming of all kinds! RPG, Boardgames, Cardgames, Computer gaming, a Merchant Bazaar and Artisan Display, Great parties, events for the "Gamer Widows", Childrens programming!

Check out www.DarkCon.org for all the details!!

BTW: The photo of the Lady in Green is Chameleon of The Dark Ones. She's the Chair of the Con. SHE'S going to be there...are YOU??

Tragedy

Today I learned of a terrible tragedy that has befallen a dear friend of mine. Dorinda’s eldest son Bradley died in an accidental drowning a day ago. I have no information about what happened, or who was involved. All I could think to do when I learned of this was to call her and just let her know that I love her and offer my support. What can you say to someone going through this? There is nothing that can ease this pain. Nothing. I know the feeling of loss when my father Morris passed away 16 years ago. But children are supposed to out live their parents. To lose a son this way is terrible and I just don’t have to words to express my feelings adequately enough. But I am willing to bet that I don’t have to. I am sure that each of you reading this, whether you know me personally or not can make yourself understand not only Dorinda’s loss, but how it feels to be her friend at this time. If you can’t, then I would ask that you simply take a moment to think about how you would feel in this situation. I don’t want to depress you, but it’s important to come to terms with grief. This is my way of coping: Talking to you in this electronic medium.
I have to say that I am thinking a bit more about mortality. My mother, who lives in my home, is not a healthy woman. And although I am sure she will not pass away suddenly in the night anytime soon, I am pretty sure that I will be here after she is gone. And I don’t know how I will handle it. I know that when my father died, I wound up on the floor in my living room crying into Heathers arms like a little baby. And the pain of having to return to the office where he and I both worked at the time and seeing all the people who knew us both was extremely difficult. Knowing that this pain lay in my future is doing nothing to improve my somber mood. Sigh.
This is all I can type for now. I need to rest my mind and my fingers.

Good Night.

Child Bride

This is a disturbing story, but still has a small feeling of hope in it.

Just read it please.
Kevin Sites in the Hot Zone From Yahoo! News

ABC News: Ind. House Wrongly Valued at $400 Million

ABC News: Ind. House Wrongly Valued at $400 Million

There are times when you come across a story so strange that it needs to be shared! This, to me, is one of those times!

We humans keep gumming up the workings of how we govern ourselves and every so often the technology comes back to bite us in the butt!

Share and Enjoy!

DarkCon 2007

DarkCon 2007 has a new design and it is WONDERFUL! Check it out! Bookmark it! Add it to your Favorites and check it often for updates to DarkCon '07!

For those who need some help believing.

One Whole Year... Later
Originally uploaded by CherryVega.

In the tradition of non-linear storytelling, I would like to introduce you to Matt and Cherry. They met before they knew each other. They lived hundreds of miles apart, and traveled thousands of miles more to come together at a place that neither had ever been before. He saw her, but she didn't see him, and neither of them saw what was to come.
This story is true. But you have to read it for yourself to believe it.

Start HERE.

The title of this book speaks for itself

Originally uploaded by Wilgar.

May your Cud never Sour.

Paperclips

I would like to share something with you. I won't waste a lot of words here, because what I am sharing is an article that is a tad lengthy and I don't want to wear out your patience.
Please, read this and if, afterwards you have the desire, share your thoughts about it here.
I would like that.

Thank you friends.

===Steven===>>

KT Tunstall is here!!

Woo Hoo! The CD I ordered that was shipped from the UK is hear and it kicks butt!!! My ONLY complaint is that it's too short. I mean, her songs are all about 3 minutes and there are only 12 of them here, so I am not getting as much music as I would LIKE to have from her. Sigh. Guess that means I just have to get more of her CD's. Well, she is one artist I am really enjoying supporting! I wonder if she will ever make it across the pond and tour the US. hhhmmm...

What is the point?

Is life really worth the trouble? Is it worth the pain? Is it worth the effort? Is it worth missing your favorite TV show for? I mean, really. We have to have our priorities. Don't we?

Interstate 10 Overexposed

Interstate 10 Overexposed (10)
Originally uploaded by Wilgar.

I was about 30 miles out of Phoenix on I-10 and decided to play around with some long exposure photography. There are a few more pics like this on my Flickr site. Let me know what you think!

Meet my New Obsession

:: K t T u n s t a l l ::
The other day, my friend Mike (AKA Amberwolf) sent me a link to the website of an artist who is using a technique called "looping" to really amazing effect in her music. I followed THIS LINK and watched, spellbound and enthralled as this girl performed 3 songs live in the studio. With nothing more than her acustic guitar, a tamborine and her amazing voice she built the sound into a full and rich melody that quite frankly took me by surprise.
I was so impressed with this artist, that I ordered her CD then and there!
So, it's only logical that I would share the discovery with you, my friends. I hope you enjoy the discovery as much as I did.
Oh, would you please do me a favor? Post your opinions of KT Tunstall here? I would really like to know what you all think.

Thanks!

Petition Spot - Free Online Petitions

If you are a fan of Firefly, please take a moment or two to read/sign this petition. It's an attempt to show that the Firefly has an audience and is worth reviving!
I know I will watch it when it comes back!

http://www.petitionspot.com/petitions/revivefirefly

===Wilgar===>>

Arizona Cardinals Stadium 004

Arizona Cardinals Stadium 004
Originally uploaded by Wilgar.

I just thought the heatwave patterns were really cool here. Get it? Heatwave? Cool! Sometimes I crack myself up! (It's not hard to do ya know...)

Not for Sale - 060905

Not for Sale - 060905
Originally uploaded by Wilgar.

I was cleaning out the pics on my phone and came across this one I took while riding my bike around Phoenix. I guess it makes it's own statement.

Shirl, Steven and Brenda

Shirl, Steven and Brenda
Originally uploaded by Wilgar.

While in line for the Preview of Serenity, I found the Colbaths. They are the parents of my best friend, Chris. And to see them here, was just the opportunity I needed to break out the old Camera Phone! (Like I NEED a reason to take pictures...)
The funny thing is...the theatre filled up before I could get in! (THEY made it in though...)

Oh. My. GOD!

This is funny! Really! TRUST me!
Click HERE

(Thank you Mhoram for posting this link on your site so I could steal it from you...)

My Life: An Update

A very good friend of my just sent me an email today that was rather short and to the point. The email said: "You've been quiet lately, what's up?"

Hhmm...What's up indeed!

Admittedly I have been lax in my postings here, and to those of you who think that is a problem, I am sorry. To those of you who think that is just the way things go in the world of blogging, I say: Thank You!

I have had a lot on my mind lately. Some of which I have shared with friends and family and I won't go into tremendous details here. I am not claiming that my life is any more complicated that anyone else's life on this planet. I have always found that life is a cycle of good, bad and indifferent things happening. In fact it is often possible to find the "good" in many "bad" situations. There ever elusive "silver lining" as t'were.

But I want to go on record as saying that the lining in THESE clouds is VERY well hidden!

So, lets just take today, shall we? I was driving to Sedona on my day off. I actually had an APPOINTMENT at the Sedona Pines Resort for them to pitch me the wondrous benefits of time-shares. And for my compensation was to be a gift of $75 cash, plus a free lunch at the resorts restaurant as well as free hotel nights in Vegas. All of this for me to sit there for 90 minutes and have them try their "low pressure" sales tactics on me.

But, as cool as the gifts and such were, the REAL draw for me was the chance to try my NEW camera in a fantastic location like the Red Rocks of Sedona! See...As SOME of you
know, I blew a metric TON of money I couldn't afford to spend on a Canon EOS 20D Digital SLR camera. I waited for over a week for the 3 day delivery to get the thing all the way from Brooklyn NY to my doorstep. After dealing with the tremendous disappointment of UPS telling me the package would be delivered on Monday by 7pm, and then learning that the packing wasn't even loaded on the TRUCK on Monday, I decided to go get the thing myself! Which I did! But, on the same day that I took into possession this wondrous miracle of technology which I had been researching for the previous MONTH (this tidbit of trivia is ALSO already known by some of you...) I had to take my mother to the Hospital for a scheduled MRI examination. So, this left me very little time for me to examine All the GOODIES that was in the shipment. And almost no time whatsoever to actually play with the big toy itself.

However, there WAS enough time for me to discover that the vendor shipped the wrong lens! Gah! You should know that the lenses were such a key factor in my decision to buy THIS package from THIS vendor that to have the wrong lens sent is heartbreaking! During the week I was waiting for the delivery of this camera et el I would frequently look at the webpage that showed me all the goodies I had just bought and I would smile with pleasure that I was able to find someone selling the lenses that I wanted at a price that was within reach.
So in learning of the error, and realizing the time difference between Arizona and New York, I had JUST enough time to call the 800# to obtain an RMA.

Finally my mother and I are out the door on the way to her appointment. Running late, but on the way. We arrive at the hospital and follow the directions on how to get into the very small parking lot of the MRI department. But something was wrong with the directions and we end up having to park in the garage and walk to the MRI Appointment. It's about 3 blocks in the heat at 1:30pm. with my mother who simply has no stamina for walking let alone walking 3 blocks in the heat! But...we arrive and she is eventually taken in to have the MRI done.
After the testing is complete, we head off to take another look at my friend Sherryl's Care Facility that we were scheduled to move mom into on Sept 1st. (For those casual readers of this blog, or just folks that may not know, my mother has been living with me for the past few years.) At the house, which is really a very nice place: newly renovated, comfortable space...I get the feeling that this move is not the right thing to do. But I don't say anything because I honestly want mom to get back on her own and to get involved with other people again because at this point in her life, she has no significant human contact. She doesn't have a car, and isn't physically capable of driving even if she did have one. She simply never leaves the house. Which is a "WHOLE 'Nother Story"...

Well...to speed the story up a bit, yesterday my truck overheated as I was on the freeway heading to Sedona. I got as far as Anthem and had to head back to Phoenix to deal with the problem. As I type this, the mechanics are performing Cooling System Surgery to the tune of some $600. (They originally quoted $700+!) I hope to have possession of my truck by mid-afternoon. However, this was not the "News of the Day", nor even the Hour. You see, at the same time that I was on the phone getting the news about the repairs, my mother was getting the news from her doctor that the results of the MRI show a possibility of an /Embolism./ Now without drawing out the story even further, we KNEW that she likely has a different medical condition called Normal Pressure Hydrocephalous, which is why we were there for the MRI in the first place. But the embolism is a bit of a shock, and far more concerning.

So...all in all it was quite a day yesterday. But, not to be too much of a "gloomy Gus", the evening turned out to be WAY better that I was thinking it would be! And no...I won't tell that story here...

One more thing before I post this to the site and expose more of myself to my friends (and strangers) who read this. There is something I wanted to share with you all that may help you out in times of personal doubt.

- Be True. All Will Be As It Should Be -

===Steven===>>

Your Birthdate: June 15

With a birthday on the 15th of any month, you are apt to have really strong attachments to home, family and domestic scene. The 1 and 5 equaling 6, provide the sort of energy that makes you an excellent parent or teacher. You are very responsible and capable. This is an attractive and an attracting influence. You like harmony in your environment and strive to maintain it. You tend to learn by observation rather than study and research. You may like to cook, but you probably don't follow recipes. This number shows artistic leanings and would certainly support an talents that may be otherwise in your makeup. You're a very generous and giving person, but perhaps a bit stubborn in ways.

What Does Your Birth Date Mean?

Pittsburgh first: A $250,000 automatic public pay toilet, 25 cents per visit

Pittsburgh first: A $250,000 automatic public pay toilet, 25 cents per visit

As many of you know by now, I have been remodeling my bathroom for what seems like an eternity. And all of the efforts I have made in thinking about what to do with the space have now turned out to have been for naught! At least...in theory. There is a new option for what the WC can be!

Granted, the price tag is a tad out of my budget, and the space requirements would have forced me to cross the property line with my neighbor, but hey! It would be worth it just to have the rolling floor!!

Let me know what you all think about this, and if you would like to see something like this either adorning the streets of our fine city in Phoenix, or perhaps even a version that really could be used in the home.

Leave me your comments here on my Blog! And don't forget your quarters!

The week went by so quickly

I took last week off from work so that I could get some things accomplished that HAD to be done. My taxes for one thing as the extension was running out. And doing more work on my bathroom remodel project. I was able to get 99% of the painting done, and installed the new toilet. That was an adventure in itself, but I won't bore you with the details. Suffice it to say that I have no desire to do it again even if the damned thing does start leaking again!
I also obtained a few more things for the room like the baseboards and such. But before I can put them in, I need to stain them. And that takes time. And now that I am back to work, I have to wait for my days off again. I just hope I can keep up the motivation and get it done soon. Not only the staining process, but then I have to cut the baseboards etc to size and make it all fit in the right places! Wish me luck!

Technophant

DSC07814
Originally uploaded by EssG.

Well, as always, it amazes me not only the things you find just web surfing, but to think that someone had the creativity to conceive of and BUILD this thing!

Birthday Boy

So tomorrow is my 39th birthday. This is it. The last year before the big Four-Oh. Yippie. I should celebrate somehow. Do something fun and exciting and totally frivolous. Anyone have any ideas? I am open to suggestions! Make 'em wild! Make 'em Sexy!! Make me an offer I can't refuse!

Oh, BTW: I have some cake at my desk. Anyone want a piece?

What makes 100%?

This was sent to me via email by my good friend Paula And to me it was Laugh Out Loud funny. Yes, even more deserving then the standard "LOL" or, "LMAO" or even the coveted "ROFLMAO!"
This little piece of wisdom deserves it's own entry:

What Makes 100%? What does it mean to give MORE than 100%? Ever wonder about those people who say they are giving more than 100%? We have all been to those meetings where someone wants you to give over 100%. How about achieving 103%? What makes up 100% in life?

From a strictly mathematical viewpoint it goes like this:

Here's a little mathematical formula that might help you answer these questions:

If:
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z is represented as:
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26.

Then:
H-A-R-D-W-O-R-K
8+1+18+4+23+15+18+11 = 98%

and

K-N-O-W-L-E-D-G-E
11+14+15+23+12+5+4+7+5 = 96%
But,

A-T-T-I-T-U-D-E
1+20+20+9+20+21+4+5 = 100%

And,

B-U-L-L-S-H-I-T
2+21+12+12+19+8+9+20 = 103%

AND, look how far ass kissing will take you.

A-S-S-K-I-S-S-I-N-G
1+19+19+11+9+19+19+9+14+7 = 118%

So, one can conclude with mathematical certainty that While Hard work and Knowledge will get you close, and Attitude will get you there, it's the BullshiT and Ass kissing that will put you over the top.

See what I mean?

Thanks Sis!!

Nueve de Mayo

A few days ago there was a party. Unless you live in a cave, you know that it was Cinco de Mayo. The 5th of May. A Mexican celebration of Victory against Oppressors from long long ago. The parties I have attended have all centered around one theme: Beer. Now, since I don't consume alcohol of any kind, beer has little interest for me. Other than the fact that I attend a lot of Dark Ones Parties, and drinking is the primary reason people go to these parties, I wouldn't spend my time around people who are drinking. They tend to be obnoxious and self-absorbed most of the time. Occasionally I encounter what I can only refer to as a "Happy Drunk" when I am in a bar listening to a band, or hearing Karaoke singers (More reasons that Alcohol is a dangerous drug not to be abused. Vocal Chords can be used as a deadly weapon!!) But, I digress (Eight Tech Levels!!! Uh! Uh!)

A few days ago there was a Cinco de Mayo party at a local Mexican Restaurant that I frequent. They have the celebration every year, but this was the first time I went myself. There was a live band "Mogollon" playing some really good Cover Tunes. There was overpriced, yet tasty food...and there was Beer. Beer was everywhere. Beer even found it's way to me. But not to be consumed. Oh, no. To be Worn. Even my Camera wore some beer.

This was my second go round at the party that night. Earlier I attended with my friend Cherry and really enjoyed myself. I ate some tacos and was really getting into to music. But, I had forgotten my camera (Oh, the Shame!) So when Cherry and I had had our fill of the party, we left and I drove her home. But I still had my wristband on, so I came back with the camera. The intention was to get some good candid shots of the people dancing.

I walked through the crowd looking for victims...er, I mean SUBJECTS, when suddenly I felt liquid being sprayed on me and the camera from behind. At first I thought that someone in the crowd had a squirt gun, and I was either the intended target, or an innocent bystander taking a hit from a poor marksman. Then I noticed the smell. THAT was not Water! It was beer that came gushing out of a bottle someone opened nearby! No one at the table even acknowledged that they had doused me and my camera! Well, since I am a lover, not a fighter, I turned to the people sitting at a table nearby and asked if they had a napkin I could use to wipe the beer off my camera. They didn't. But they let me use the table cloth! Then, when the noticed I had a camera, they asked me to take pictures of them! I remember one guy asking me how much the pics would be. He seemed astonished when I told him they would be free. All I needed was an email address to send the link to when I post the images on Flickr.

So, after I took their pics, the folks at the next table over wanted pics for themselves too! At about that time, the band announced they were done for the night. I started walking through the crowd again hoping for some last minute pics to present themselves to my lens when I heard a voice behind me and a hand on my shoulder. It was Security. He was talking into his earpiece radio saying "...we found the camera guy". My heart skipped a beat. I remember when I was hear earlier seeing other people with cameras. I didn't see any signage prohibiting photography. I didn't know why I was being singled out, but as I said before...I am a lover, not a fighter. And I am especially not a fighter of the Security crew! So, since the party was over anyway, there was no feeling of missing anything. We walked thru the crowd, the Security man in front, glancing back to make sure I was still following. I stopped for a moment thinking someone wanted to talk to me about something, but no one even seemed to pay me any attention, so out the gate I went.

I got about 30 feet from the exit when they called to me again. I was thinking, "this is going to be interesting if they smell the beer and assume I am drunk..." Two or three more men approached me and asked why I was taking pictures. Specifically was I taking pics for some magazine or something. Well. No. Not with THIS camera. So, I showed them the group pics I just took and they were entirely satisfied that I wasn't doing whatever they THOUGHT I was doing. They wished me a good night and walked away. Strange.

I start walking back through the parking lot to my truck when I see a group of kids (man am I old) sitting at the drive through for Arby's. So I ask: Hey, can I take your picture? Well, one girl is just jazzed at the thought and her boyfriend seems skeptical. Understandable. But he agrees and so we snap a few quick shots and he gives me his email address so I can send the link to him and off I go.

The only thing that would have made the night weirder is if I had been pulled over and the cop smell the beer on my thinking I am drunk would ask me to do a field sobriety test. That would have been kinda fun really. if it weren't for the fact that the cop could still arrest me if he wanted...So I am glad that didn't happen!

So, this has been the story of how I spent Cinco de Mayo. It only took four days to write it, aren’t you proud?

And SPEAKING of Star Wasr Pics...

It's time once again to share something with all of you that I found totally by accident. I really don't remember what I was doing, or searching for that lead me here but I am glad to have found the place! I am thinking about buying a T-Shirt. Which one would YOU get??

Don't Call Me Jr.!

LepreCon 31

This weekend I "attended" LepreCon, and I had a GREAT time there! There were several reasons for this. One of them was that The Dark Ones had a Very Successful Party and those are always fun. Another reason was that I got some really great pics at this convention! The link will take you to my Flickr page where the pics are posted. I think you will get a kick out of some of them...and I hope you post some comments about the images that you like! (Or even the ones you DON'T like!

Ok...I know this is a short post, but it's 1am and I have to work tomorrow so I am going to sleep now!

Good Night Everyone!

It's Official! I am REAL Amateur Photographer!

Yeah...like THAT'S something to jump up and down about! Well, actually, it is!
You see, for many years I have wanted to get involved in photography, but I never really did anything about moving forward in that direction. Well, a few weeks ago I decided to change that. I started posting ads on Craigslist offering free photography sessions to ladies just so I can get the experience. And last night it happened! A lovely girl named Lili took me up on the offer! When I started posting the ad, I had no idea what the actual photo session would be like. Since I am NOT a pro, and don't have "Pro Gear" (Just a nice Digital Camera...but you all should know that by now) I thought that the best way to go about it was to talk to the potential client to learn what she wanted to do and figure it out from there. I never thought the shoot would be taking place in my bedroom or that it would be going on past 2:30am! (Well...now I know better!)

Since my Blogging time is really limited at the moment, I will just say for now that we shot over 500 images and she seemed genuinely pleased with the results. I really hope she posts a positive ad on CL to let other ladies know that this is a good deal! There is more to this story, but I will have to save that for another session.

Oh, in case anyone is wondering, I promised that I wouldn't post her pics anywhere so I can't show you what we did. All I can say is: Wow. (Yeah, I know. I am such a tease!)

Ah...the Corporate Machine is in Full Motion in our Fast Food Nation today!

MSNBC - Sales fall at Wendy's after finger discovery

This link takes us to a story that is talking about the impact on sales that the fast food chain "Wendy's" is dealing with after a women found a Human Finger in her Chili at a Wendy's in Cailifornia. The analysts say that the restaurant won't suffer much in the long run. And really, I for one believe them. I mean, it's not like the food killed the poor woman or anything. (anyone remember back in 1993 when E. coli O157:H7 killed customers who ate at Jack in the Box? There was Bad Meat and quite a few people ate it.) Oh, wait. People still eat at JitB. Lots of people. Do you ever wonder why? Why we knowingly eat food that is not only nutritionally poisonous, but is fed to us by people who literally don't care if we die? Well, they care. If you die, you can't spend your money in their stores. It's because we are ADDICTED to it. It's cheap, it tastes good, it's readily available, and NO ONE thinks that eating that one time in the fast food store of their choice is a problem. Well, in case you missed it in the Theatres, you really need to take a look at this movie: Super Size Me. And THEN you need to read the book: Fast Food Nation. These two resources together speak far more elegantly than I ever could on the subject.
Do me a favor, let me know your thoughts on this subject. Really. I am interested to know. Leave a comment here on the Blog. Let's start a discussion!

Oh, I was doing a bit more reading on line, and I found this interview with the author of Fast Food Nation: Eric Schlosser that you may enjoy.

Working like a Dog...I WISH!

As far as I can tell, my dogs jobs are to lay around the house, bark when someone is at the door, run in the yard and play, eat food they don't have to buy, drink water they don't have to fetch, look cute when they want something, lay around the house (more), get all the attention they could ever want just by walking up to you, lay around the house (still more) and then sleep.
THAT is the JOB for ME!

Instead, I have a job that puts my on my butt 10 hours a day infront of a computer and talking on the phone. Sigh...

Over the past few weeks there have been some good things and some bad things happen to me and the world in general that have severly affected my desire to write things here. And then, when I DO want to write, I want to write about EVERYTHING. And I know that this is not possible. So, let me take one or two things and see if I can make sense out of them. I went on a date last Sunday. An honest to goodness date. Met her through an on line personal ad and talked on the phone and set up a date and went. Whew! It has been a loooonnng time since THAT happened to me! I think it went well, but there doesn't seem to be a big spark-o-romance from it. In fact, it took about a week before I got an email back from her after the date, only to learn that she has "Pink Eye" and is laying low for the weekend. And I believe her too since her eye was a bit red when we met. But the thing is, I did it. And it was fun. And I want to do it some more. (Ladies, any takers?)

Let's see...what else. My business dealings are not going as smoothly as I would like, but I won't bore anyone with the details here...

Oh, They caught the man who abducted and killed a little 9 year old girl in Florida. At this time, I am working on rusting up a really dull knife I have and thinking about a day trip to FLA to try and speed up the process of clensing the gene pool. Anyone want to go for a ride with me?

Hhhmmm...Tax season is here. 'Nuff said about that...

And this is about all I can write at the moment because Unlike my dogs, when I go to Work, I have things I actually need to accomplish, and Blogging is just a temporary distraction. Back to the grind for me...

Feeling a little inadequate

There are so many times when I encounter other people in one way or another that just makes me feel...inadequate. I know that there are friends and family members in my life that would vehemently disagree with that sentiment. But, that's what friends and family do. Hell, I do that for friends and family too when I discover thier feelings of inadequacy. I can't help it. I see them as the people that I need them to be. Intelligent, kind, generous, loving, worthwhile people. But even though all of those words are accurate, it doesn't stop them from feeling the way they do at times. We all go through it. At least, that is what I tell myself to comfort myself when feeling this way. But even if it's just SOME people and not ALL people that feel this way, I know it's a natural feeling. The issue is whether we let that feeling rule our lives or not. Recently I have been. I need to stop, but I am having difficulty finding the fire to light under my own butt.
For those of you who know me that are reading this...don't panic. I am just going through a "down" cycle. Maybe it's the meds I have been taking for my diabetes. Maybe it's something else. Whatever it is, it won't last forever. I know this. I just hope it ends soon.

Thanks for letting me bend your ears (eyes??) and vent to you a bit. It really does help.

It's been a while

I haven't been posting here as often as I would like. Mainly because I haven't been in the mood to examine my life closely enough to write anything interesting enough to merit bothering people with it. In fact, this post falls into that exact catagory. But, I felt that interesting or not, deeply introspective or not, worthwhile or not...I need to write something. If only to be certain that I still know how to type without staring at the keyboard the whole time. And it seems that I do since these last two sentences were typed while staring at the TV screen here at the office only pccasionally spot checking my spelling when I feel that I flubed a word or two. How am I doing?
OK...enough drivel for now. I hope to be more in the mood to write something interesting soon. When I do...you all will be the first to know. Well, technically the second to know since I would really be the first to know...you know?

War! What is it good for!?

Well, a lot actually. There are Parties, and Food and Music and beautiful dancing girls...Oh, yeah. And Fighting.
Yes, War is all of those things that I knew it would be, but I never knew it would be so wet!

You see, I camped out all week at the SCA's 21st Estrella War. And, as luck would have it, it rained. Not just once, but every day. Really. Starting on Wed night, and not stopping all the rest of the War, which ended on Sunday but I stayed until Monday to help break camp. So every night, while people were reveling and partying, I was seeking shelter to avoid getting soaked! Fortunately for me, there were enough moments of dry weather that I was actually able to get around enough to join a few drumming circles and see a little dancing action!
Here are some Pics if you are interested in them. Remember, there are 10 seperate "albums" to view here, so be sure to check them all out!

Polly want a Cracker?

Ok...this is just one of those really cool things that the Internet lets you share instantly with your friends. Click on the title of this Blog entry to take a look!!

To Blog or Not to Blog

Well, there isn't enough time for me at the moment to give a real run down of my day, as interesting as it was, so here is a summery: Last night my truck broke a fan belt. This meant I had to miss a day of work while it was in the shop. Today my friend Cherry came over to start working on repainting one of the bedrooms in my house. (She is so cool!) And we spent about an hour or so moving all of the furniture out and cleaning up before I left her alone to work on the room.
I had to leave, and when I got back the room had it's first coat of new paint on it and is in the process of drying. Tomorrow Cherry returns to continue the project. In the mean time, here are some pics of the project so far!


Repainting 


Repainting 002 


Repainting 004 


Repainting 005 


All this stuff was in that little room! 

The Quest for (a) Vanity

About a week or so ago I took the PLUNGE. Something that I had been wanting/needing to do for quite a long time finally happened...or at least started happening and now that it has started, there is no way to stop it.
I am talking about remodeling my hall bathroom. As you will see by the photos, there is really no way NOT to finish this project, so I am forced to forge ahead and (GASP!) Make Decisions!!
Now, to be sure, I have already made a few decisions such as the type of flooring I am putting in: Ceramic Tile. And the type of tub I want: Renaissance Whirlpool. And with any luck, the cost of wiring a new outlet will be reasonable enough to be within my budget. Otherwise my tub will have to be slightly less fancy!
But, I have faith that when this project is over, it will all have been worth the effort and expense. The cool thing is that my friend Chuck (He's the dangerous one swinging the Hammer of Destruction in the pics) is very knowledgable about construction and is doing the lions share of the work since I am about as usless as can be when it comes to this type of project!
I am hoping that as the project progresses, I will be able to keep things up to date here, and to chronicle the events as they help transform my bathroom into something I will be proud to showcase to my friends!

Cross your Fingers for me!!!

A Crackle of Thunder in the Darkness

A crackle of thunder in the darkness; the stillness of the room when the lights are off and the sound from other distractions is pushed into the background; the only light source comes from a small phone on my hip which I flip open to use the screens luminance to see my way around. It doesn’t cast light the same way as a flashlight, it’s more like a candle in the way that it allows me to see only those things that are nearby. Things that are an immediate threat to my safety while I step cautiously down the hallway avoiding the partially chewed rawhide bones that the girls leave laying around like landmines, just waiting for someone to either step on., or sweep away.

This is the mood that I find myself in again. It doesn’t happen all the time. In fact, it seems to be less and less frequent. But when it does happen, I feel...creative. In a way that has become so very rare in my life I feel focused on the thought of creating something. A tapestry of words if you will. And you are the witness to the results.

Please don’t judge me too harshly in reading what I have written. It is being done by a man with a great emptiness surrounding him. A chunk of me has gone missing and I am desperate to get it back. Some might say that it’s linked to my failed relationship. But I would have to disagree. I feel that it’s much deeper than that. This goes to my core. This is the dreaded truth that lingers just beneath my surface that will on occasion, such as right now, allow itself to be known for just the most short lived of moments. For this incredibly brief stint of time I can put a face and a name to my internal enemy and see it for the life-sucking being that it really is. But it’s a part of me and I am unable to do battle with it in full on my own.

I can’t stop the beast within from taking hold of me and forcing me to make ALL the wrong decisions. It lies in wait until such times as I am most distracted from my purpose and my goals and it throws all of the obstacles in my way. Food. Boredom. Forgetfulness. Sleepiness. Memories of the past and incomplete visions of the future. They are all there within me and are brought out by this beast who seems intent on forever dominating my life and my decisions to keep my securely in place. Tucked away in my “Comfort Zone”. The beast within me does have a name. I call it “Fear”. If I were more skilled at words I would be able to use all methods of description to create a description for your entertainment. And mine as well. Let’s face it, I do love to read my own writings!

But this isn’t that type of tale. It’s just a single battle raging in an ongoing war between myself and myself. You see, I have no one to blame but myself for my predicament as I am my own boss in the way I choose to live my life. And to be honest…at the moment, I am losing the battle! I feel sleep coming to claim me and that is something that I have a very hard time fighting. I feel the distraction happening as I type these words.

And now, I think I shall, for the moment allow myself to surrender to it as it will have its way with me if I keep going this way…so, for now...Goodnight

Pink is the new Red

Man, I don't really know where to begin.
Earlier today, my good friend Dorinda and I were IM'ing at work. It was a typical conversation between us as we each cracked jokes inbetween complaining about whatever was bugging us at the time. I know for my part I was falling asleep at my desk again and grumbling that I wanted to go home. And, of course, the occasional innuendo. And, seemingly out of the blue, she asks if I have seen "Pink Five" yet. At first I thought it was some sort of Anime show on TV or something of that nature. But I am told that it is really a Star Wars Fan Film. And she gives me the link in an IM.

Now, normally when I am at work I never try to watch movies and such...mainly because I know that I could get in trouble if the thing I am watching is not appropriate. But, something compelled me to take a look, and WOW! Am I ever happy I did!!

Pink Five is one of the best Star Wars fan films I have ever seen! And the best thing is that the makers of this film, have made a sequal and are working on the final chapter even as I type this. There is a blog I want you to see as well: Return of Pink Five
A Totally Random Production Diary by Trey Stokes. Also, take a look around the website of the company that is responsible for the Pink Five series: The Truly Dangerous Company and learn more, much more about this amazing production company! I think you will enjoy it!

Also, I have to say this here since I have become so completly enthralled by this whole project. Amy Earhart, the actress who plays Stacy (Pink Five) is a beautiful woman and I am looking forward to seeing her career get going with real, for pay acting gigs! See for yourself!

Ok...well, it's 2 am, and I can't believe I am up this late again! Since I have to be in the office by 8:30am, I will have to end this here and now. Good night (morning??) everyone!

Bawk Bawk!!

OK...look. I didn't make the thing up, so you can't blame me for it. I am only here to show you the oddness that is the Internet. That's all. Really. I am not promoting that you yourself become odd. I just think that it's something that happens to you over time as you are exposed to the strange things that are out there in the world.

So...with that in mind, take a little time and check this out.


And then, after you seen it, if you want a little more info/background about it, go here.

This is technically a "Work Safe" site...but that's just referring to the content, not the amount of lost productivity from you hanging out there...

Don't say I didn't warn you!