If you ever start feeling like you have the goofiest, craziest, most dysfunctional family in the world, all you have to do is go to a state fair. Because after five minutes at the fair, you'll be going, "You know, we're alright. We are dang near royalty."
-- Jeff Foxworthy
I'm not too fond of state fairs, but I've cycled with some pretty strange characters. I could probably even include myself in the mix. So as this weekend is the official start of training season, here is a little something to get the mind (and wheels) rolling.
Kings And Queens by 30 Seconds To Mars
Just when I thought I was out, they pull me back in.
-- Michael Corleone from The Godfather: Part III
As if I dont have enough time in the day, somehow, some way, I've been pulled back into the thrall of Magic The Gathering. If you've never heard of the game, its basically a card game that is a mix of chess, poker, and Dungeons & Dragons. Which explains how I got trapped into this. Again.
Last week, during a user testing session, I found out a couple of the customers we were working with had gone to high-school with my brother and that he had taught them how to play Magic. I found it ironic since I had taught him how to play. There was even a time that we were competing in the national amateur ranks.
Not only I do feel really old now, I found myself actually missing the game. It has always been fun and imaginative. To make matters worse, the guys are talking about how they got back into it last year. Next thing I know, I am being talked into joining them the next day during lunch for a few quick games.
Thats when Magic The Addiction resurfaced. I spent that night going thru the boxes of cards of all the old cards I had, modifying the older game decks a little bit, reviewing what was allowed nowadays, and even realizing I had a few boxes of cards still unopened. Then there was the enjoyment of the new artwork and all the little toys that the cards had become. The possibilities were endless. Again.
Now the one major downside to this game, other than the time factor, is the cost. A booster pack of 15 cards run an average of $4 per pack. During the height of playing days, it wasnt uncommon to buy an entire box of 36 packs. And since the cards are released as sets, it wasnt uncommon to buy a box (or more) per set. Then there were the single cards that cost as much as baseball cards. Oh and of course, there were the tournaments and conventions. Its a seriously expensive habit which is why the game garnered the nickname Paper Crack.
When the weekend rolled around, I knew I was going to go shopping for some of the updated versions of the cards. I swore that I wouldnt do what I had done in the past. I swore that I wouldnt go and buy a box of each set. I swore I would be good and I was.
I only bought mix of the last few sets. Granted, I ended up getting 25 packs, but nevermind that. It was still much less than what I used to get.
So yes, now I can say that I've got your mana load right here.
Nevermind. That joke still sounds lame, even a decade later
You like a close shave, don't you?
-- Pussy Galore from Goldfinger
How about a little accoustic action to start the week? This is an older song, but just as fun. If this ever made to Rock Band, I would definately have to play it.
Golden Touch by Razorlight
Imagination is the voice of daring.
-- Henry Miller
Damn you Sirius XM. Now I've got this stuck in my brain. Not like there was much there to begin with.
Rnw@Y by Linkin Park
One of the most important tasks of a manager is to eliminate his people's excuses for failure.
-- Robert Townsend
We all get stuck with work that we really dont want to do. You can whine and complain about it or you can just do it.
I am a firm believer that you really should do it.
Man must evolve for all human conflict a method which rejects revenge, aggression and retaliation. The foundation of such a method is love.
-- Martin Luther King Jr.
It's an old song and the time described is incorrect, but its still as powerful as it was back then.
Pride (In The Name Of Love) by U2
We find that advertising works the way the grass grows. You can never see it, but every week you have to mow the lawn.
-- Andy Tarshis
Ever need your yard worked on? Call this guy...
Or you can be like me...
You can't turn back the clock but you can wind it up again.
-- Bonnie Prudden
Seems time has been going by, hasnt it? Nevermind the new year's bit, but rather with everything going on around us.
One of the kids, an intern, moved on to a new job when it seemed like yesterday when she started with the us. A co-worker recently mentioned that we practically grew up here. More music that I'm used to hearing has been playing on the "oldies" stations.
Even movies I watched in their first run are now called classics. It didnt even occur to me that The Fugitive came out in 1993. Its been nearly ten years since Gladiator came out.
Maybe I'm just feeling nostalgic, especially when Hulu made Ralph Bakshi's American Pop available. This movie came out in the 80s and still some of the best animation around.
Monique: He keeps putting his testicles all over me.
Lane: Excuse me?
-- from Better Off Dead
Languages have always been an interest to me especially by women with their thick accents. Take this for example...
Baby Baby Baby by Make The Girl Dance
Of course there is the sequel...
Ok, maybe that wasnt such a great idea.
You gave birth to a freak of nature. Doesn't mean it's a good idea to treat him like one.
-- House from House M.D.
This is just a pretext in order to play another great Kate Isitt video, not to mention the fact I wouldnt mind accompanying her to her happy place. Bwahaha...!
Wilson: Tim, are you familiar with the I-Ching?
Tim: Sure. The itching, the scratching, the chafing. That's why I switched to boxers, my friend.
-- from Home Improvement
As you can tell, I've finally gotten around to actually changing the Castle. We all need abit of change in our lives and even the littest things can be helpful. Its either that or else become stagnant.
Next will come the memory loss...
...Sounds just like me. Heh.
Anyone can achieve their fullest potential. Who we are might be predetermined, but the paths we follow is always of our own choosing. We should never allow our fears or the expectations of other to set the frontiers of our destiny. Your destiny can't be changed, but it can be challenged. Every man is born as many men, and dies as a single one.
-- McGee from NCIS
So we gather once more my friends. To start anew. March forward and conquer. It's a brave new world.
This Is War by 30 Seconds To Mars
Nothing is done entirely for nothing. Nothing is wasted. You are older, and you have made decisions, and you are not the fox you were yesterday. Take what you have learned and move on.
-- from The Dream Hunters by Neil Gaiman
So ends another year. We go thru our lives quickly it seems, but in everything we do, its been a learning experience. Even an adventure. And no matter the time or place, they are the days that create our memories.
These Are The Days by 10,000 Maniacs
Of course we have a smile at the end of this day.
Happy New Year to all of you. Cheers, mates! Stay safe and we'll see you next year.
Lucy: Do you really think Santa Claus is going to bring you something Mom doesn't want you to have?
Rerun: Oohhh... Supreme Court stuff...
-- from I Want A Dog For Christmas, Charlie Brown
I still have the urge to play Ding Fries Are Done so I must be in the seasonal spirit. I dont know why since I'm actually sick of the overall madness that has been going on all week. Every time I've gone by the mall, I've almost got hit by another car either not paying attention or too much of a fraking rush to realize they just ran the red light.
Suffice it to say, Merry Frickin Christmas. Stay safe out there.
And to all, a good night.
You make 'em, I amuse 'em.
-- Dr. Seuss
I will admit that I hurt myself laughing at this. I dont know why. I just did.
Maybe its just the season that makes it way too damn easy to laugh at everything.
Aye, its definately the season.
Oh look. We're being attacked by a crossword puzzle.
-- Leslie from Toys
While Toys was decent enough film, the soundtrack was so much better. And although I'm not one for celebrating the holidays as fervently as most, I hope this brings a little bit of joy to you.
The Closing Of The Year by Wendy & Lisa
I will admit that its strange seeing how young Wendy & Lisa look in this video, not to mention Seal.
Dance for yourself. If someone understands good. If not, then no matter. Go right on doing what you love.
-- Unknown
I'm not too familiar with South Korean bands, but here is one song that definately will have you dancing. The fact they included the riff from the original Bruce Lee movie makes it even more enjoyable.
Enter The Dragon by JTL
There are somethings that you just miss too much. I really should return to my kung fu training.
You wait for a gem in an endless sea of blah.
-- Lawrence Grossman
This is the first time I've ever heard anyone cover Adam Sandler, but the fact its Neil Diamond makes it just as funny.
Decorate your home. It gives the illusion that your life is more interesting than it really is.
-- Charles M. Schulz
I dont decorate for Christmas. Its not that I am not into the spirit of things, but quite frankly, I'm just too sodding lazy. But if I had thought about it beforehand, I definately would have made things look like this.
I dont know how true this is, but words from the owner:
Good news is that I truly out did myself this year with my Christmas decorations. The bad news is that I had to take him down after 2 days. I had more people come screaming up to my house than ever. Great stories. But two things made me take it down.
First, the cops advised me that it would cause traffic accidents as they almost wrecked when they drove by.
Second, a 55 year old lady grabbed the 75 pound ladder almost killed herself putting it against my house and didn't realize it was fake until she climbed to the top (she was not happy). By the way, she was one of many people who attempted to do that. My yard couldn't take it either. I have more than a few tire tracks where people literally drove up my yard.
Damn it! Why couldnt I have thought of that first?!
Now for those wishing to celebrate Hanukkah, here is a little something for you. If you havent seen this before: 1) Where the hell have you been? and 2) If you dont have a sense of humour, dont watch it.
Bwahahaha!
Am I a bad person that does 'good' things? Or I am a good person doing 'bad' things?
-- Dexter Morgan from Dexter
I cant remember if I've posted this before. I'm sure I have. This is what happens when you get as old as me.
So I'm going to blame Mermaid for this one since we both feel this way today. Heh.
Once again, we come to the holiday season, a deeply religious time that each of us observes, in his own way, by going to the mall of his choice.
-- Dave Barry
Yes, its that time of year again. For those looking forward to this festive, snowy time, I say, bah humbug. Now excuse me while I turn on the air conditioner, grab a beer, and turn on some music.
Christmas Can Can by Straight No Chaser
God grant me the courage not to give up what I think is right even though I think it is hopeless.
-- Admiral Chester Nimitz
I've put this up before but it always seems appropriate on a day like today.
There are always two sides of a fight and not everyone wins, regardless of where you stand.
Kenji by Fort Minor
The song cuts out the final words of the woman:
I, I remember my husband said
"Are we gonna stay 'til last?"
Then my husband died
Before they close the camp.
It is absurd to have a hard and fast rule about what one should read and what one shouldn't. More than half of modern culture depends on what one shouldn't read.
-- Algernon from The Importance Of Being Ernest
Finally the 30th!
If you hadnt figured it out yet, I've been participating (and I put that loosely) in the NaBloPoMo or in English, National Blog Posting Month. In other words, do a blog post every day for the month of November.
Actually this started about because of Nanowrimo aka National Novel Writing Month. The last three times I did Nanowrimo I came up severally short on the story. I would a beginning and an end for the story, but nothing in the middle. Nada. Zip. Zilch.
What made it worse was the lack of quality time to actually type out the madness in my brain. I used to take the laptop to a restaurant and type while having dinner. Not so much any more since I barely have time for dinner as it is.
Even then, when you go to a decent place, the wait staff continuously ask you how you are doing, how the food is, or do you need anything. I mean its not like their job or anything. Hell, if you are hunting them down so you can have a clean fork, they are nowhere to be found. What the frak is that about?
I am digressing.
I knew this was another year of not doing the novel. I even had the bright idea of making the blog entries as part of the novel. Type on the fly so to speak. But that fell by the wayside, when I realized that I would have to actually sit still for a while. This wasnt something I could do at the office. Maybe what I will do is just write the start and the end, then post them here. That still sounds like alot of work though.
For NaBloPoMo, it was supposed to be abit easier. Just something every day for thirty days, right? That's when I realized something very important: I am one boring mother-humper.
Don't get me wrong. I've got plenty of stuff going on in my life, but not enough to actually discuss it. I mean that is like talking... And stuff... Even like... Revealing stuff... Definately, not my cup of tea.
Suffice it to say, I just started posting the first things that came to mind. There were times I even made a couple of entries and scheduled them to display. I don't know if that is classified as cheating in this game, but to hell with it. Its not like the content was being graded and we were getting a prize at the end. That is, what little content I actually provided.
Literacy and dictation are definately not my strong suit so its not like anything I write would ever make me some sort of fantastic author. They would always just be some jumbled thoughts that got tossed onto the wall like when you check the spaghetti to see if its done. Which apparently I found out that you are supposed to do before applying the tomato sauce.
I digress again.
If you have been following this blog, my thanks to you. I hope you've gotten a smile and a laugh along the way. The journey will continue, but not as much. It will definately be abit more chaotic. There are still those chance thoughts that permeate in my mind that would drive me mad if they aren't committed to paper. Or in this case, notepad.
Besides, I'm too obtuse. I would never, ever compose anything greater than a paragraph.
The mob has many heads, but no brains.
-- Thomas Fuller
I read on Consumerist where on Black Friday, a California Wal-Mart had to close down for 3 hours because several customers started fighting inside and basically acting like idiots. They refused to wait until 5am to get into the merchandise and when everyone was kicked out, they banged on the doors as well as tried to sneak in thru various areas.
Seriously, folks? This is the sort of customers you are rubbing elbows with.
Well, ok, maybe I wouldnt mind rubbing against that. Heh.
Hat tip to People Of Wal-Mart
Only in death does duty end.
-- motto of the Adeptus Astartes in Warhammer 40,000
I've always been a little behind in the times. Dawn of War 2 still sits on my shelf unopened and requires attending.
There will be a rain dance Friday night, weather permitting.
-- George Carlin
Another Black Friday has come and gone. How many of you were brave enough to actually venture outside in that madness? I refuse to do it any more. I would be more afraid of assaulting some dumb sod that wanted to argue over a sale.
You know who those people are. The ones that demand to have their item to be on sale, even if it isnt. Or worse, the store ran out of whatever it was and they must absolutely have it.
Again, I'm simply amazed by those that confuse "want" with "need." Those people end up being a bunch of zombies out roaming the streets between 4 and 6am.
With that being said...
Paint It Black by Gob
Do you remember how we used to play basketball at night? It would get so cold that our hands would go numb. We coudn't even feel the ball with our fingers.
-- Brian from Taps
I hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving.
A few weeks ago, I was able to participate in the first annual Breast Cancer ride here in town. The primary purpose was to get used to cold and prepare for today's Turkey Ride. That event was fun since it was around the same general area where alot of Team Blue trains anyway. It was just cold enough to start wearing the cold weather gear as well as for an excellent cause.
With that said, it was nowhere near as hard as today's ride. what the hell was I thinking?
The cold weather wasnt really the issue at the start as much as the 20mph headwinds that we had, regardless of whatever direction we traveled. Even with a ferry ride to help us travel, the wind blew across the deck, chilling everyone on board. It got to the point where one man rode the deck in order to stay warm. That definately didnt make the ship's crew too happy.
By the time we got to the second leg of the trip, the wind picked up more and then the cold became a factor. In my infinite wisdom, I forgot to put on my shoe covers so by this time, my toes were numb. It seemed par for the course since my fingers were pretty numb too. The legs begin cramping from the exertion and the effort required just to keep the blood flowing.
Usually by the last leg of the ride, most riders are ready to strip off the extra layers because the weather had warmed up. Not this year. Oh no. This year it simply got colder. Again, begging the question, what the hell was I thinking?
Aye, for all my complaints, it was a fantastic ride. The 115 riders enjoyed the ride and despite the cold, it was alot better than if it was cold and raining like it was last year.
And of course, there was turkey afterwards. Not too mention the annual stop to Dunkin Donuts.
Yeah, I got your cream filling right here.
Beauty of style and harmony and grace and good rhythm depend on simplicity.
-- Plato
This had me cracking me up as well as singing along. Its always the simplest things that can the most joy.
I was busy pushing bodies around, as you well know. And what would a note say, Dan? "Cat dead, details later?"
-- Dr. West from Re-Animator
Is it just me or do you get a craving for ham after watching this?
P5hng Me A*way By Linkin Park
Maybe its just me.
And what would you know about a normal frame of mind?
-- Ann from sex, lies, and videotape
I'm abit of a movie buff, especially with foreign films. Hong Kong action films mostly, but even I would dabble in the art house film such as Amelia, The Tin Drum, and Eat Drink Man Woman. So my interest was piqued when I stumbled on this piece from Australia called Alexandra's Project.
The lead actress, Helen Buday, is known to American audiences as the beautiful Savannah Nix from Mad Max Beyond Thunderdome.
I wouldnt say that Alexanda's Project was a bad film, but it could have been better. It was a wee bit long by say, oh, 40 minutes. Some scenes were refreshing and even caught me by surprise, but for the most part, the film took too long to get started with the rest of it being pretty predictable.
On the plus side, we get to see Buday naked. Among other things. Heh.
Individuals play the game, but teams win championships.
-- Unknown
Definately another winning pair.
I am Ergo the magnificent. Short in stature, tall in power, narrow of purpose and wide of vision. And I do not travel with peasants and beggars.
-- Ergo from Krull
I picked up Dragon Age: Origins and got hooked. The game is all about choices and having fun. well that and the wholesale slaughter of skeletons and orcs.
Several people had told me that it was worth the money. The promotional video had me tempted, but just like everything else in the software community, its just a demo.
Damn you, Best Buy and your frequent buyer coupons. Now I have even less time than before.
Change is inevitable except from a vending machine.
-- Robert C. Gallagher
Ever get in the mood just for particular music? As of late, I've been wanting to listen to more live, accoustic sounds. Its just a bit more mellow than what I normally listen to, especially in the car.
I think its because then I dont sound so off-key when I sing at my desk. At that point, only a few people go off screaming in terror instead of the entire area.
Spin by Lifehouse
The true object of all human life is play.
-- G. K. Chesterton
Remember, to err is human. To arr is pirate. To dance is to be out of yourself.
Sometimes we miss the simplicity of being a child, but then we would miss out on all the other fun things in life.
Human by Carpark North
To attempt to advise conceited people is like whistling against the wind.
-- Thomas Hood
This song had been awhile before I first heard it on FIFA 2008. It was another one of those fun tunes that stuck in your mind. Too bad its been used for silly tv shows like Gossip Girl and Grey's Anatomy.
Ah well, hope you enjoy it nevertheless.
Young Folks by Peter Bjorn and John
Memory is the diary that we all carry about with us.
-- Oscar Wilde
I found this by accident and found it alot of fun. Hope you do too. That was always the best thing about John Hughes' movies; they were always fun.
Thats some of the best memories to carry around.
Baba O'Reilly by The Who
Smile, breathe, and go slowly.
-- Thich Nhat Hanh
The new Doctor Who should be available to we Americans soon, but nevertheless, I am impatient as ever. So here is a little fanfare to stem the tide, just a wee bit.
If I Ever Leave This World Alive by Flogging Molly
After enlightenment, the laundry.
-- Zen Proverb
Definately a win in my book. Ironing is definately not my forte and the fire dept is tired of coming to my house.
Just because you're paranoid doesn't mean they aren't after you.
-- Kurt Cobain
Its dance night. Get up and get to it!
Stop The Rock by Apollo 440
There's no half-singing in the shower. You're either a rock star or an opera diva.
-- Josh Groban
Sometimes its the silly and simple stuff that make us laugh. I'm not sure if this qualifies as either, but its definately of the campy sort.
Direct Hit by Art Brut
Music conveys moods and images. Even in opera, where plots deal with the structure of destiny, it's music, not words, that provides power.
-- Marcel Marceau
It just amazing to me that influences can come from anywhere without even realizing it. I'm not much of a fan for opera, but its hard to deny its influence on modern music. One of my favourite metal bands is Nightwish with their music being a combination of tradtional melody and modern instruments.
Over The Hills And Far Away by Nightwish
Although the original singer isnt with the band anymore, Nightwish has been able to retain that mix of harmony and harshness.
Be advised. I'm mean, nasty and tired. I eat concertina wire and piss napalm and I can put a round in a flea's ass at 200 meters. So why don't you go hump somebody else's leg, mutt face, before I push yours in.
-- Gunnery Sgt Highway from Heartbreak Ridge
Its Veteran's Day. Please remember to give thanks to those that fought for us, those that are fighting for us now, and those that will fight in our future.
They deserve words much more eloquent than my own.
If you are able, save them a place inside of you and save one backward glance when you are leaving for the place they can no longer go. Be not ashamed to say you loved them, though you may or may not have always.
Take what they have left and what they have taught you with their dying and keep it with your own.
And in that time when men decide and feel safe to call the war insane, take one moment to embrace those gentle heroes you left behind.
Major Michael Davis O'Donnell
January 1, 1970
Dak to, Vietnam
Technology is overrated
-- House from House M.D.
If you watch ever watch House M.D., then you may recognize this song. The video is just as visual stimulating as the show's intro.
Teardrop by Massive Attack
Birthdays aren't important when you don't have a real identity.
-- Alan from Hard Boiled
I've been a John Woo fan ever since the days of The Killer and A Better Tomorrow, long before Hard Target and Face/Off. Now his latest film is coming to the US in December. I will be impatiently waiting...
Talk doesn't cook rice.
-- Chinese Proverb
I missed the release of the comedy White On Rice so I'll have to catch it with the dvd release. You know, since we asian people tend to be so funny.
For now, lets enjoy the theme song while I figure out how to get my hair to stand up like that.
White On Rice by Goh Nakamura
The guitar is a small orchestra. It is polyphonic. Every string is a different color, a different voice.
-- Andre Segovia
Fracking Youtube. I didnt realize the fantastic unplugged version of Wonderwall was pulled from the library.
The song has always been one of my favorites so I play it constantly on Rock Band. Noel's version was absolutely brilliant and I had posted awhile back. Fortunately, he did another version for Much Music.
So sing along with me...
You're not drunk if you can lie on the floor without holding on.
-- Joe E. Lewis
I normally dont drink because I tend to be an obnoxious drunk. Ok, more obnoxious than normal. But when hanging out with everyone, its abit tough not to want to have at least one or two. Or even three...
During tonight's festivities, we were watching Elizabeth Lambert of New Mexico bringing the smackdown onto BYU.
Of course, the lads were cheering throughout the highlights. No, its not sportmanship, but there is just something about watching a couple of women fighting it out.
Dinner, drinks, and entertainment. What a great night!
A smile happens in a flash, but its memory can last a lifetime.
-- Unknown
Looks like a win to me. 
An epic win. Heh.
Muad'Dib knew that every experience carries its lesson.
-- Frank Herbert
The first time I'd listen to DMX was during the introductory credits of Jet Li's Romeo Must Die. So when I found this song on my backup server, I had to add it to the new mp3 player.
I'm Gonna Crawl by DMX
Too bad DMX hasnt learned his lesson yet. Hopefully his up-coming foray into the mixed martial arts will help him along.
Going out and playing music. That's what I do. I don't do much else.
-- Dave Grohl
The Foo Fighters released their greatest hits cd and dvd today. So I had been singing their tunes on and off all day, much to the chagrin of anyone that happened to be sitting by me. Heh.
Breakout by Foo Fighters
You keep playing them, Dave. We'll keep jamming along.
What do you mean there's no ice? You mean I gotta drink this coffee hot?
-- from Clerks
Remember, there are no stupid questions, only stupid people. Considering how things went at the office today, it seems ironic that I was listening to Ron White's You Can't Fix Stupid.
Wait! This is crazy! I'm not a natural dancer! No one in my family is!
-- Ryan from Boys And Girls
Here is a song that will have you get up and dance, even if you think you cant.
Born To Run by K-Os
Violet: Gee, I got a candy bar!
Kid: Boy, I got 3 cookies!
Lucy: Hey, I got a package of gum!
Charlie Brown: I got a rock.
-- from It's The Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown
Its a festive mood all around. With the combination of Halloween and the big game, its hard not to enjoy the day. So I was torn about what to put up here if anything at all.
Thank goodness for Robot Chicken.
Shall we play a game?
-- Joshua from War Games
I played in my first volleyball tournament today. Matter of fact, this is the first year I've ever competed in the game. Volleyball definately isnt my primary sport, but it still takes it out of you. Between the digs, blocking, and kills, thats alot of frigging work. Then again, its not a game until you've got sand up your nose, in your eyes, and down your shorts.
The courts where we played looked like a little tent city. Everyone was camped out, eating, drinking, playing, and having fun. After several hours of playing several games, the teams met up at a local tavern where everyone was camped out, eating, drinking, playing, and having fun.
That's probably the best facet of the entire game (or come to think of it, any organized sport). The camaraderie that draw people together and the fun to be had. If it wasnt for the fact that some of my friends were on the same team, I wouldnt have been playing at all. It was definately worth it. We had so much fun this year and the tournament capped off the entire season. 
So the 2009 campaign for Team Rock-N-Sprawl ends on both a high and loud note.
Thanks for the memories, mates! I'm already anxious for next season.
Boards dont hit back.
-- Lee from Enter The Dragon
When I was younger, an anime movie came out on VHS that really turned me into a fan. Fist Of The North Star was unique, imaginative, and nothing like I had ever seen. I even considered the dubbing pretty decent despite the slight off-timing and plot holes it created.
For American audiences, the best we had were things like Transformers, Battle Between The Planets, and Voltron. They werent as good. Even, the 1995 live action film wasnt as good as the anime.
So finding the movie on YouTube is a guilty pleasure.
Too bad anime hasnt gotten that much better for the US since then.
Enough of this Sunday stroll.
-- Muzzin from American Flyers
Once again, the MS Ride was upon us. Team Blue joined the fray with another 2,000 cyclists for this great charity event. So once again, the action report must be scribed.
1. What happened to the rain?! Many riders were sunburned just from the first day. Even I look brown now.
2. Congrats to all the new riders that made it with us this year. Now you truly understand the things that only a cyclist can understand: the preparation, the frustations, the exhaustion, and the pain. And that is just to get up in the morning.
3. What recession? If there were less people this year, I couldnt tell. Hundreds of people trying got leave thru an exit the size of a garage still means its freaking crowded.
4. Thanks must go out to the tent team. They were the first group that Team Blue saw when we came in at the end and they made us feel right at home. Well that and they had to use a spatula to get my lazy arse up.
5. Thanks must also go out the rest stop crew. Not only did you help out Team Blue, but you helped out every rider in the event. If it was feasible, I would have gotten them to put those molasses cookies into an IV for me.
6. There were other teams that obviously didnt know what "On Your Left" means. We might have forgiven the father from the Boy Scouts' who was pinned between the Scouts on his right and the two pace lines passing on his left except for the fact he was too busy stretching and acting like the Running Man.
7. Granted, cars can still be a problem, especially those mini-vans that decide to turn into a drive-way right in front of a 20 man paceline.
8. The live band decided to play "Crash Into Me" by The Dave Matthews Band. It seems abit ironic considering some the accidents a riders had.
9. Sign of a hard-core cyclist: After a crash, the first thing a rider asks "Is my bike ok?"
10. The battle still rages on. MS is still out there and the fight continues. Enjoy the time off because we will be riding again soon. 
Don't get set into one form. Adapt it and build your own and let it grow. Be like water. Empty your mind. Be formless, shapeless - like water. Now you put water in a cup, it becomes the cup. You put water into a bottle, it becomes the bottle. You put it in a teapot it, becomes the teapot. Water can flow or it can crash. Be water, my friend.
-- Bruce Lee
Into the fray we enter once more, dear friends.
Gather your gear.
Pick up your helmet.
The battlefield calls our name.
We scream and cry and gnash our teeth
Even if the enemy is within ourselves.
Prepare to fight.
On wings of carbon and steel,
Prepare to fly.
Don't Drink The Water by The Dave Matthews Band
It won't hurt at first. It's too hot, you see? The flame sears the nerve endings shut, killing them. You'll go into shock. And all you'll feel is... cold.
-- Castle from The Punisher
Its time to get ready for the big ride for the year. As part of the preparation for this event, I've been uploading more music to the mp3 player. The funny part is that I've been finding music that I had forgotten about because its been on the old player and I've been taking it for granted.
One of those forgotten songs happens to be this tune from Cake. The animation has always been been pretty good for a low budget video.
Sheep Go To Heaven by Cake
Now if I can only figure out whether or not I'll need a frigging parka for the ride, I'll be set.
Yeah, right.
A lifetime of training for just ten seconds.
-- Jesse Owens
Ever have those moments where you need some music for motivation? Whenever I ride, I have to play music. Otherwise I go absolutely mad with aggrevation. Its my bit of motivation.
Yesterday's battle with the wind lasted for 45 miles. Everything just hurt. Legs cramping. Lungs burning. The body screaming in pain, begging me to stop this craziness.
Then this song came on the player and it all just seemed to fit.
Gotta Get Thru This by Daniel Bedingfield
Then I realized I still had 44 miles to go. If I had the ability to breathe, I would have cursed at every car that passed by.
The thing is, Bob, it's not that I'm lazy. Its that I just don't care.
-- Peter from Office Space
Sometime laughter really is the best medicine, especially with everything we go thru at our jobs. I made the mistake of listening to Robert Schimmel at the work again.
Well, it really wasnt a mistake. NFSW so put the kids to bed.
You can only be young once, but you can always be immature.
-- Dave Berry
Have you noticed that there have been alot of athletes in the news lately? Oregon University's running back LeGarrette Blount ruined his college career for punching another player. Serena Williams' tirade cost her the US Open and some credibility. Roger Federer's own outburst was so uncharcteristic. Several of the Ohio State alumni voiced their anger at Terrelle Pryor as the young quarterback showed his support for the returning Michael Vick.
If you think about it, this is not uncommon. Considering all the hockey dads, basketball moms, and football parents, is it no wonder this sort of thing becomes more and more prevelant?
Somewhere along the way, many of us have forgotten that sports is not only entertainment, but helps define the athletes, especially the young ones. After all, they are in it for the fun, the pure enjoyment. For the love of the game.
Time to let 'em play.
Celebrate Youth by H-Blockx
Hm, I may have to start playing golf.
You're not so tough without your car, are you?
-- Phoebe from Kindergarten Cop
Venting is supposed to help release alot of that pent up anger so lets see if this works.
ANGRY RANT MODE ON
I really had no idea who James Martin is. As an American, I've never seen his tv shows or read any of his articles. Regardless, I still want to punch the wanker right in the face.
Martin writes luxary car reviews for a UK paper. Last Saturday, he published an online article where he not only does he discuss Tesla's electric car, Martin mentions how he hates cyclists. As part of this article, Martin describes in detail how he used the car's quiet drive to sneak up on a group of unsuspecting riders, honked the horn, and forced the cylists to crash into a hedge while he speed away.
Ha ha. Very funny motherfucker. That shite would have been real funny if someone got seriously hurt or killed, hm?
I know alot of this sounds self-rightous, but most road cyclists have known someone who had either gotten hurt or killed by something like this. A friend of mine was struck by a car and hospitalized for several weeks. Another one was dragged under a car for several feet due to a drunk driver.
Several years ago, a teenage cyclist was killed during a charity event when a speeding driver lost control of their car. She wasnt even riding at the time. She was just standing on a curb while waiting on her father to catch up.
Two months ago a triathelete was killed as he was struck and crashed into the car's windshield. While the rider was bleeding out, the drunk at the wheel continued to drive until a near-by officer forced him to stop.
People can have their opinions, but when someone blatently goes out of their way in order to harm someone else, then retribution is bound to follow.
In Martin's case, he has raised the ire of the international cycling community. Professional cyclists like Bradley Wiggins and Robbie McEwen have pretty called him out to say it their faces. I wouldnt doubt McEwen to knock the living hell out Martin.
The online paper that published the article ended up having to disable the comments section due to the sheer volume. Then they had to remove the paragraphs where Martin gleefully describes the damage he caused. The car company, Tesla, refuses to even use the article as any sort of promotion and are distancing themselves as far as possible.
Martin has offered some half-assed apology for his comments, but he still has to pay for his actions. Police are asking for the group that were forced off the road to come forward. I dont know if anything could really be done. It depends on what happened to the riders.
We'll see what happens. Maybe they'll make the prat have to ride a bicycle during on-coming traffic.
ANGRY RANT MODE OFF
Lets see. Did writing that out help any?
Hm. No, I still want to stomp a mudhole on Martin.
What I really need to do is blow off some steam.
Life gives us brief moments with another, but sometimes in those brief moments we get memories that last a life time.
-- Unknown
Do you remember where you were eight years ago? Some do. Some dont.
Its a fact of life that memories fade as time goes by. Today should not be one of those days that we trivialize. After all, tomorrow doesnt come for all of us. You never know what the day will bring you, even just a simple day at the office.
These are the times of our lives. Never forget that.
Yeah, those acts of God really stick it in and break it off, don't they?
-- Seth from From Dusk Til Dawn
When I first saw the trailer below, the first thing that flew thru my mind were the Prophecy movie series. But after thinking about it, the Hellblazer and Preacher books seemed more appropriate. Garth Ennis always had a way of combining religion and gore in some sort of thoughtful way.
Holy Councilman: This is about mankind's salvation.
Starr: This is about my genitals. Go on to extinction, holy men.
Ok, maybe he just fits my way of thinking. So is this.
Here's to hoping the movie will be as good as the trailer.
UPDATE: I had to change the video since Sony claimed rights to the R-rated version of the trailer. Grr!
Frogs have it easy. They can eat what bugs them.
-- Unknown
Did you ever hear the story about the man that started drinking a Diet Pepsi and there was something in it? After gagging, the man saw the contents looked like pink linguini and some other dark stuff. He and his wife freaked out thinking there was a mouse inside.
Now Consumerist shows that there is an upside to this story: Good News! That Dead Mouse In Your Diet Pepsi Was Actually A Toad.
So of course I grossed out a few people from work about this. Me, I was laughing for abit about it. Yes its gross and disgusting, but it damn well reminded me of this original Monty Python skit.
Andrew Zimmern would be proud.
I come in peace. I didnt bring artillery. But I am pleading with you with tears in my eyes: If you fuck with me, I'll kill you all.
-- Lt. General James Mattis, USMC
We all need help every so often, especially when starting on something new. Many speakers make a fortune motivating others to do things they normally wouldnt do themselves. R. Lee Ermey has always been one of my favorite speakers. Here is a sample of his good work. Just dont play it in front of the kids (NSFW).
The only drawback with this sort of thing is that when a lad gets beat up enough, he either ends up going mad or blowing his brains out in the bathroom. Sometimes both.
If you feel like singing along: Don't.
-- James Taylor
We all have those moments where we embarass ourselves. Most of mine tend to come up when I'm singing and thats because someone is inevitably wiping the blood from their ears. Ha!
Last week it was in the office when an intern could hear me singing In The End quietly to myself. From a row away.
This week it was in the car while singing this song.
Wonderwall by Oasis
The unplugged version seemed to fit this occasion. Prior to the show being taped, lead singer Liam Gallagher bowed out, citing a "sore throat." His brother and lead guitar, Noel, took over the singing duties and performed absolutely brilliantly.
Unlike the lad who sang this tune while sitting at a red light, with the windows wide open, and the group of girls in the next car.
Let no one weep for me, or celebrate my funeral with mourning; for I still live, as I pass to and fro through the mouths of men.
-- Quintus Ennius
You can only be sad for so long. It cant rain all the time. So smile and do a little dance. Here, lets help you along the way.
Motown Philly by Boys II Men
Whatever the struggle, continue the climb. It may be only one step to the summit.
-- Diane Westlake
Its been hectic again so I havent been doing the updates like I'm supposed to do. Despite all the craziness and headaches, it was nothing compared to what others have been going through. Last week, the Fat Cyclist's beloved wife, Susan, passed away. Her battle with cancer was so inspiring and had touched so many people. Even some guy named Lance.
Our condolences go out to Fatty's family and friends. I may never be eloquent as others, but I can say that you will get to be with her again soon, sir.
Until that time comes, we will continue to fight like Susan. The battle isnt done yet. Allez Fatty! Win!
Here lies one whose name was writ in water.
-- John Keats
There are just some days when you want to play the music loud and proud. So mix it up and enjoy yourselves.
Remember The Name by Fort Minor
Take time to deliberate, but when the time for action arrives, stop thinking and go in.
-- Napoleon Bonaparte
I've lost my frigging mind, not that its any surprise to anyone. More evidence of this lies in the new multi-sport bicycle I bought. Otherwise known as a time-trial or triathlon bike, it requires the rider to be leaning more forward on the handlebars to be in a more aerodynamic postion. 
Its not that I plan on doing any time trials or triathlons in any near future, but I wanted to try something a little different. After all, my off-road cycling skills are already pretty well renown. Thats because I've hit almost every fracking tree at the local park and could be heard swearing from miles away. I cant even remember if I was banned from there for two years or three.
Anyways, it was a chance to diversify and improve what little skill I have. well, that and I made the mistake of talking to the same bike shop guy who sold me my last four bikes. I might as well call him my dealer.
When he knocked off another 20% from Quintana Roo's Seduza, it felt like giving crack to a recovering addict. If I had the chance, I probably would have snorted this thing up my nose somehow. 
So now here I am with yet another bicycle in the house. Nevermind that she is one of the lightest bikes I've ever owned. Nevermind that she is one of the fastest bikes I've had. And nevermind that she rides like an absolute dream. The other four bikes are plotting my death out of jealousy. I can hear them.
As I did my first ride, this song came on my mp3 player and everything just fell into place.
How ironic.
That's what I love about Torchwood. By day, you're chasing the scum of the universe. Come midnight, you're the wedding fairy.
-- Ianto from Torchwood: Something Borrowed
I dont know about you lot, but I found Torchwood: Children of Earth absolutely frigging brilliant. Season two was fairly weak in my humble opinion, so this season brings the series back to the way it was meant to be. After watching this on BBC America, I've been craving more. Thankfully, the dvd comes out this Tuesday.
Now if we can only convince BBC to continue on with another season.
The other day when I was walking through the woods, I saw a rabbit standing in front of a candle making shadows of people on a tree.
-- Steven Wright
Its been a pretty hectic week. With everything going on, its been constant motion. Just go, go, go. Continuously climbing up that hill. Pedal, pedal, pedal.
So in this brief moment of quiet, here is a little something that kept creeping into my mind through this maddening time.
Solsbury Hill by Peter Gabriel
I'm glad I'm not the only guy that sings while riding a bicycle. Heh.
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