Glassman Runneth

2010-02-26T01:03:00.000-08:00

So another week has past us by and the Olympics are almost done. There are good points and bad points to these games. The tough part is being able to partake in them while still maintaining a sense of sanity. I would love to go downtown and visit the Canadian Mint House and see the medals and the 3.5 million dollar coin and the rest of the stuff but I just can't see myself waiting in line for the amount of time they are saying people are waiting. Upwards of 3 to 5 hours at times. Since the house is expected to close up right after the games are done, this weekend will be even busier. So a wait time of how long? I think I have something else to do with my day besides standing in line. Then there is the Da Vinci collection. How neat would it be to see documents that are 500 years old, written by the man himself, from the private collection of the Queen. These things just don't make their way to our town too often. In fact, these things don't make their way anywhere too often. So another line-up is to be expected for this one as well. The only thing that makes this one not all that bad is it will be around a little longer after the Olympics. Its just that its free during the Olympics and you have to pay admission later. That sucks. More line-ups are to be had at probably every single place this weekend as people do whatever they can to take it all in before the games end and the places leave.

But Hey, what about the Paralympics that follow. Are the houses not staying open for them? Do they not rate important enough for them to stay open? The Paralympics have athletes who have worked just as hard as the Olympic Athletes, in some cases harder due to their limitations. They should be given the same deal, the same festivities, the same parties and the same respect as everyone else.

Oh well, that's my two cents worth and you can take it to the bank.

2010-01-27T21:39:00.001-08:00

Okay it has been awhile since my last rambling. I know I said I would write more but some things just have a way of falling off the radar once in awhile. Some things fall really far and take awhile to find and bring back. This would be one of those things that fell so far it eventually circled around and landed right back in my lap. A bit beat-up and ragged but by all accounts not that much worse for wear.

This all comes from watching the fire. The fire is pure. The fire is unpredictable. The fire is our friend and also our enemy. We are to trust it and in the same breath never take it for granted. Leave it unguarded and it could strike out and destroy everything close and dear to us. It dances and amuses us, warms us. Its roots, the embers beckon us to touch their rosy glow. Colours ebb in and out of its rhythmic motion. Constantly moving, eating at the very fuel it needs to survive. Snapshot taken, it hypnotises our gaze, studying the curves of the flame, the point of its reach.

There it is, the muse of the flame. Caught in a millisecond of time. She is quick but we found her in all her glory. Dancing away, leading her coloured minions above the hot embers. Soon she will slip away into our dreams or nightmares, to return another day.

Another Day.

Whoa...Time flies

2008-05-04T03:02:00.000-07:00

Where did the time fly. I just noticed that it has been just over two years since I first wrote something on this blog space. Now mind you I haven't been writing as much as I should, it has been fun nevertheless.

Hopefully this will change. I will make room in my daily schedule to think about writing something. I will then reflect upon this and take the next step by sitting my butt down in front of the computer. Now that 2 steps are down the third step should be approached. The actual writing, but what to write.
Do I make it witty or profound? Do I make it reflect the growing I am doing internally or just make up some random bullsh_t and hope it comes across witty or profound? Do I reflect on the present political climate and the intrastucture of society as we know it today, or the ongoing economical struggle within the structure of the working man? These are all valid points to bring up.

So I pledge this to you, I will write more. Be it total crap and a waste of the thousands if not millions of electrons that are needed to present this on the monitor, or it will be so uplifting and entertaining that .... oh who am I kidding. I'll just write whatever and see where the crap falls.

Where did the weekend come from...

2008-05-02T07:51:00.000-07:00

A hush came over the crowd as they made their way slowly to the large obelisk looking thing protruding from the ground. It was only yesterday that the street was clear of debris and now this morning this thing had appeared. It's origin was unknown but many speculated on a theory that was bouncing around. They had been working for many days now without a rest and as they made their way to start a five straight day of work it had arrived. A few braver souls had edged out closer then the rest.
For some uncertain reason it had a calming effect on them, a sort of lifting of one's spirits as they drew closer. At a distance it was vaguely indiscreet, but as one got closer it was full of amazement and wonder. They all stood around it, looking, wondering what to do. A decision came from the crowd. At the end of the day, they would take the next two days to study this calming thing. They would spend the next two days not working but taking time to embrace this new thing that seemed to lift their spirits. For they were weak and it was decided that they no longer wanted to be weak.
Thus it was born a way to end their weakness. If after the two days were over they still had not figured out this thing or had discovered it's unknown properties, they would work for another 5 days and then spend another two days researching it again. And this was called "The way we make the weakness end".
Which was later changed to weak endness and finally to weakend and then weekend as we know today.

And that's how we come about having a weekend and enjoying it so much.

It's been awhile but we still roll along.

2007-10-11T07:43:00.000-07:00

So we've come upon another Thursday. So we can safely say the tough part of the week is done and we can slide on down to the weekend, right ?????? It's never an easy slide anymore. So much to do, so many responsibilities now. Sometimes I sure wish for the good ol' days of going to school and playing afterwards. Let someone else worry about the bills and how to pay them. As a concerned youngster I knew it was our job just to ask for everything and of course we always thought money grew on trees. Which I may add as I grew older is not the case. Funny how some things reveal themselves as you add on the years. No money on trees, that hourly pay you get is reduced by a government contribution, and no Easter Bunny or Tooth Fairy or Santa Claus. Whoops did I say too much there. Didn't mean to scare you about the government thingy. Now if I can just find one of those money trees, I'm sure the shade under it would be a nice place to relax.

2007-06-01T07:29:00.001-07:00

You gotta love a good viking movie, unfortunately the latest one, Pathfinder, just tanked at the box office. Didn't read the reviews but the trailers painted a slow moving, GQ starring, MTV looking movie. Maybe it might play better on DVD but I don't think so.

2007-05-31T08:50:00.000-07:00

I remember these days, at least at my local McDonalds while growing up. The only place that had a sort of drive through was A & W and that was way out in Richmond. It was more like White Spot where you would drive up and stop, turn on the head lights and wait for the person to come and take your order. You would then wait for them to bring it out, then you would eat and leave. This was many years ago, when I was just a young lad.

2007-05-30T07:50:00.000-07:00

2007-05-29T08:26:00.000-07:00

Hockey's almost over

2007-05-28T08:14:00.001-07:00

What a way to start the week.The sun is out, the clouds are sparse and a Vancouver hockey team has won a major cup. The Memorial Cup was won by the Vancouver Giants yesterday in what was a real battle against the Medicine Hat Tigers. The amount of hits and collisions that I saw would make you wonder why anyone would play this game. Thankfully they're young and have the ability to heal. Well done lads, it's good to keep the hockey excitement going.
Which brings me to the Stanley Cup. Yes, remember that other trophy. They decided to take a week off, I guess to allow the players to rest or maybe to give the Memorial Cup tournament a better focus. Either way it starts up again today and that means we only have 4 to 7 hockey games left to watch. Hey does that mean summer is just around the corner?
Thankfully I still have my own hockey to play for a couple more weeks at least. I think I will take the summer off again this year. It just doesn't seem right to carry one's equipment to the rink when it's 25 degrees out. When it's warm one should be lying beside the pool or basking on the beach, riding a bike or walking the dog. What, did I say that!!! That should be taking a walk with someone who is walking a dog. That's better. All is in order now. Let the week begin.

Pirates Be Seen

2007-05-26T08:09:00.000-07:00

By the light of the setting sun a lone ship drifts into the harbour. Its sails capturing the gentle breeze as it glides into port. Cautiously we watch as the events unfold in front of us, ever weary of the possible danger that could appear at any time.
Then we awake from our little daydream and head out with the many who dare venture into the theaters this weekend to watch, Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End. Thanks to some smart planning we picked up our tickets earlier in the day, for our desired showtime was sold out when we arrived at the theater. Arriving far ahead of the listed time we expected lines-up and major crowds, thankfully this was not the case. It could have been the 5 screens it was playing on siphoned off the crowd quickly and made a much more enjoyable entrance.
Now as the audience grew to a sold out mass, we must have had the theater gods on our side as none in our group was stuck behind large headed people and our view of the screen was unhampered.
The lights dimmed on time, the standard playing of the trailers arrived and then the movie started. No commercials played so we were off to a good start. From the moment the movie began till the last flicker of the frames, we were captivated. No spoilers here to report except that DO NOT leave the theater until the credits are done, the movie is not over yet.
There are moments when the movie slows to allow for story to twist itself around while getting to the pay-off at the end. All the possible questions raised from the first two movies are answered, favorite characters are seen and special moments of nostalgia are in place. Always keep your ears open, you'll never know what you will hear.
Naturally the special effects are mind blowing. Visually stunning while staying grounded enough to really make one believe they placed a camera on a tripod and actually filmed two pirate ships battling during a raging storm. Whoops, was that a spoiler.
At a running time of around 2 hours and 50 minutes it just flies by. Well paced with so much to take in make for an enjoyable evening. Placed in a record amount of screens and theaters this weekend it should do hugh box office numbers. I read it did $17 million of Thursday night alone so it would not be out of line to say it could bring in over $160 million by the time the weekend is done, thus setting another box office record.
All in all I would say see this movie on the big screen. So much will be lost when it comes to TV. Now, what's next on the list for summer movies.

There be Pirates now

2007-05-25T08:05:00.000-07:00

Ahoy mateys, there be Pirates here. The theaters have now been thoroughly invaded by the dreaded Pirates Caribbean. I have read that this installment will be in even more theaters then Spiderman 3, which is a lot of places showing it. At my local 6 theater multiplex, Pirates was in 5 of the 6 screens, for a total of 15 times it was playing a day. I think they are trying for a new record in opening ticket sales.

Its amazing how far the movie going public has come since the days of Cutthroat Island, which I may add was not all that bad. Sure it had some acting issues, but the action was nicely done and over the top. It had many great locations with beautiful scenery. Plus it was exactly what it was suppose to be, a pirate movie to be watched on a rainy day while munching down popcorn and not thinking for a couple of hours. At least that's how I saw it.

So be one of the horde that just has to see Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End this weekend and let us know what you think.

Less is More.

2007-05-24T07:56:00.000-07:00

Depending on who you are and how much your need to see a pirate movie is, you have until 8:oo tonight to wait to see the latest installment of the Pirates of the Caribbean movies. Now unless you have been completely avoiding all forms of mass marketing, you may not have seen any advertising for this movie. I have seen a lot of little behind the scenes features showing many aspects of the movies, complete with interviews. I think this may be a case of less is more. I thought the trailer did enough to hype what was already a sure thing. How much more of the movie do they need to show us before it comes out. Where is the mystery and surprise when they give away many key moments.

Which brings me to another point, trailers in general. I can say in honesty that I have seen a few movies in my days. Added to that the quantity of trailers, previews and such, and I have some experience in saying that less is more. Sure it's nice to see some 2 and a half minute trailer showing all the action and laughs from the latest big blockbuster, but sometimes too much is given away. Too much is shown to keep any suspense when watching the full movie. You would see the extended trailer, then as watching the movie you would recognize a scene and would know what was going to happen. It spoils the movie, period. I remember watching a teaser trailer for the movie Castaway that showed the plane crash, the stranded on the island and the isolation he felt. End of trailer. It didn't show if he was rescued, or got hurt or even died. I wanted to see this movie. Then the full trailer came out and it showed him back after rescue. So why would I want to go watch a movie about a stranded plane crash survivor if I already know he was going to be rescued. Now I did watch it and it was good but it would have been better not knowing before hand.

That said, sometimes less is more, mystery helps build a movie and you don't always need to know everything about a movie before you watch a movie.

Movies awaits a better picture

2007-05-23T07:23:00.001-07:00

Arrgg matey, there be only a couple of days until the pirates take over the theaters. Joyous over the top summer fun is at hand, so it be a good thing you can see a little better now.
I just recently found on the web some information on a new type of TV set. With all the talk of high definition picture with two competing formats and two different types of TV sets, now there is another one coming into the fray.
Right now the standard TV set uses the old technology of a single tube as a screen. Going to a big screen allows for some upgrading to three separate guns to project an image on the screen, but still the old technology.
Then we come to the LCD and Plasma style of TV sets. These allow for a sharper picture and wider image, providing you have the proper input from either a High Definition broadcast source or DVD. These TV sets have been seen as small as 7 inches and have grown to over 60 inches in size for your viewing pleasure. Now with the breakthrough of LED technology, TV sets are growing to 120 inches in size. Now the viewing of such a large TV set is best from a minimum of 5 meters so unless you have a real big room its unlikely this will be sitting on your average home's wall. It's when this technology is used on smaller sizes that the real advantage comes through. Unlike LCD and Plasma TV sets, LED sets have a more vivid picture. Brighter colours and picture screen so viewing in brighter rooms pose little to no problems. This will allow for a sharper picture from your high definition source and thus a more satisfying viewing experience. Now all this wonderful technology doesn't come cheap, but as we've all seen, prices do come down as time goes on. Just more information to chew on.

Possible links are here:
http://www.gizmag.com/go/4880/
http://news.softpedia.com/news/Phillips-120-inch-LED-TV-Is-Still-Alive-41333.shtml
http://www.gizmag.com/go/6118/
http://www.i4u.com/article1966.html

You can dream can't you, you can dream.

Pirate week begins

2007-05-22T08:21:00.000-07:00

It should come to no one's surprise that the day after the long weekend is not one of my favorites. You've just spent not only a weekend doing your own thing but you've gained a whole extra day and got paid for it, so heading back to work kinda sucks. Things were looking so good, three days of sleeping in, gotta love it. Extra time for movie watching, even better.
Which brings me to the summer movies.
Now that the second big summer blockbuster has arrived we can honestly say the movie season is upon us. I found SpiderMan 3 to be a little disappointing, kinda dragged on to much in spots. Thought the second one was better.
Shrek the Third was funny and in some moments hilarious, but overall it too was pushed. Almost like if it was a little shorter the slow parts may not show up as much. But on both of these movies I was a little tired so that could have something to do with the dragging feeling.
So I start today with pirate humour as this weekend we will see the arrival of the big blockbuster, Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End. How is it that the first big movies of the summer are all sequels and the third in the series? Lots of sequels this summer that's for sure.
I am looking forward to this movie partly due to it's completely over the top visuals and partly to make up for the second one.
So keep your hat on, it's going to be a popcorn munching, twizzler chewing, guilty pleasure movie viewing summer.

Morning Giggle

2007-05-18T07:47:00.001-07:00

I always like the play on popular movies. Naturally for a good spoof you need to know the source material so anything involving movies works out just fine for me. It's a good start to the day, one that may or may not become busy. The movie industry is really slow and doesn't look like it will be picking up until mid-June or July, which may pose a problem. Stay tuned for more on that.

Morning Laugh

2007-05-17T09:37:00.000-07:00

I found this morning funny to be quite good as I do believe this is really happening right now. It's amazing how much stuff is available to download. Anything, and I do mean anything can be obtained from the web. Music, movies and pictures galore. Sometimes movies before you should be allowed to get, you can get. Not that I would have anything to do with that mind you. Now all we need is a real big hard drive to hold them all, should you be one of those people that happen to download movies, music and such.

The Game

2007-05-07T23:04:00.000-07:00

As far back as I can remember I have always played the game, yet I don’t remember the first time I laced up the skates, nor do I remember where I stepped on the ice for the first time.

As far as I can tell, I have always done it. Truth be known that’s not exactly correct. I obviously learned to walk first and I’m sure I was speaking before I stumbled out on the frozen stuff, otherwise how could I ask my parents to take me skating. I should find out if I asked to skate or they put the blades on my feet first. Hopefully they will be able to provide me with an answer before they forget and I’m left with this eternal question.

So unlike many firsts in one’s life, my initial contact with this magnificent game is a complete blank. Oh sure there are pictures of me in hockey gear, smiling, posing for the camera. However, these standard photo opportunities don’t jog any memories other then vague recollections of the general pandemonium created by the multiple teams of hyper-kinetic youngsters who would have a scant 10 minutes to organize and get these treasured moments in time.

Thankfully I remember some moments in my early hockey career that stand out - scoring a penalty shot at the first hockey school I attended, dramatic comebacks in a tournament, the blades of a frantic skater trying to out run the biggest player on the opposing team, various hits, cuts, bruises and injuries. So many to list that eventually they have all blended into one big long game.
If I were to guess at what period I would be at now, I would say the second period, and only halfway through that one. Luckily I have spent most of that time on the ice and not in the penalty box, but that is best left for another story.
Now what makes these startling revelations all the more relevant right now is the fun I have experienced recently playing the game. Like everyone I’m sure, we’ve all had our moments of disappointment in our playing ability. Those fleeting timeless screw-ups where we question our talent and wonder if we should either hang the skates up or finally admit we’re playing in a game or league above our playing abilities.

Thankfully these moments are few and far between, and quickly leave our thoughts when our playing ability comes back and we rise up and deliver a royal whip-ass on another team who we find out has the average age equal to the lifespan of a hockey puck. It is here that the years of experience kick in and combine with the youthful desire I still hold. That is until all the groaning from the aching body parts kick in after the game. I was once told that, “youth is wasted on the young for we are too naïve and stupid to realize the vast potential of our bodies, bodies that when subject to aging rarely respond the way we want them to.” For me, it seems that the only way to soothe the aches and pains of the game is to either bathe in A5 –35, down a club Pack bottle of Ibuprophen, or sequester myself to the bed and hope that Homeopathy does actually work. There is a reason our league spaces the games out on a weekly basis and it’s not for lack of ice time.

As far back as I can remember, I do remember the days of putting on the equipment at home. Going into the hockey room where all the equipment was stored, airing out, neatly all in place. Taking the time to systematically put on each piece of equipment, knowing I would grow into them, the anticipation of the ride to the rink, arriving at the rink and putting on the skates with the assistance of the lace puller device while sitting at the rink side bench.
Then at some point in my early minor hockey life, the first period, I started going into a dressing room. It is here the first of many superstitions appeared. That is the practice of sitting in a certain place every time I would be in a dressing room. I don’t know why it mattered, but to this day the dressing room seating position can determine one’s playing ability.

The dressing room was a place to arrive and greet all those who you played with. The place where friendships started regardless which school you attended or what economic background your family hailed from. Many acquaintances grew from all the teams I encountered and I am in awe as to the number of people I have played this game with. I couldn’t even begin to name all the fellow players, let alone how many of them crossed my path.

It was in these dressing rooms that the knowledge of the game was past on from coaches and parents to a young player’s mind. The chalk talk, the strategies, the breakout (everyone was taught that a million times). Then as I grew older the knowledge I found was past on from player to player, as new ideas on an old way took root. Now the talk in the dressing room before a game is anything but hockey. It’s our watering hole, our chat room, our place of sacred transferring of knowledge of parenting, politics and pop culture events. Okay, a slight amount of hockey talk may slip into conversation every once in a while, but only in tense playoff situations and or when every other topic has been discussed.

The most important aspect of the dressing room is the laughter. The comments can be classic, the comebacks priceless and the ‘digs’ legendary. One should not want to miss a game, not so much for the fear of missing the actual game, but for the fear of being the butt of many comments and jokes. Only, it’s these jokes and comments that in most cases builds a team, brings all its players together, and makes them better on the ice. As soon as the laughter is gone though, the game is over and thankfully the laughter is far from over.

I still can’t remember the first time I played this game and I’ve come to terms that it really doesn’t matter now. I’ve come to terms with what matters and that is the love of the game, the passion to play, the desire to achieve and the hope it never ends. To walk into an arena carrying my equipment over my shoulder, to smell the cold rink air, to hear the slap of the puck on sticks, the crunch of skates on the ice is as much a symphony to me as Mozart is to someone else. To lace up the skates is only a teaser for what is to follow. Each and every time I step on the ice, I’m young again, re-born. The troubles of the day have been placed on the bench, to be dealt with after the 3rd period buzzer. My focus for the next 75 minutes is getting that little black disc down the ice surface and into the opposition’s goal. The sweeter the goal the more satisfying it is. To deny the opposition a goal is equally important and in some cases even more satisfying.

So as far back as I can remember I’ve always played this game, and as far forward as I can I will always play this game, right down to sudden death if I have to.

Brain Fart or is it Verbal Diarrhea

2007-03-14T08:26:00.000-07:00

Well. As I sit here thinking of some way to be witty on this hump day, I find myself with a massive brain fart. No, not the type of fart normally associated with an Uncle, Father or distant family member, but one that is more of a constipated variety. The idea is in there somewhere, only it requires that deep bowel push to get it out. Now the scary part is the fear of turning this brain fart into something worse, verbal diarrhea. You know the type of fart that starts out airy and trumpet sounding, only to become a rhythm section. The type of fart that is smooth until the unexpected release of unwanted wet chunks that propel the inner butt cheeks into a rapid clenching motion and the inevitable waddle to the nearest restroom facility.

Now imagine this in the form of the written word.

The smooth sounding sentences scroll across the page, each word working on enhancing the one previous. Each word creating a desire for the next only to be upset by the upside-down collection of rambling phrases and mismatched words that could only be an English teacher's worse nightmare. The once Shakespearian prose is met with an abrupt end by the appearance of sloppy, un-ending, grammar challenged, spelling confused, run-on sentences that take over the main structure of the paragraph and only send the reader into a tail spin of continuously sounding out words to grasp their intended meaning which then they find themselves to be overtaken by the rapid clenching motion of the butt cheeks while trying to shuffle to the nearest "word check" device or "wikipedia" styled reference tool.

Now those who are not fortunate enough to have the facility to "clean up" the collection of words presented before them are left with a smelly pile of ramblings that must be dealt with and embarrassingly apologized for. The modern form of this whole brain fart, verbal diarrhea dilemma can be best shown in the ever present and growing world of daily text messaging and blogging.

The dropping of words from whole conversations in order to facilitate a quicker response time and in some cases whole words being abbreviated will eventually create a society of people who's conversational skills will evolve back to a series of grunts, 3 and 4 letter combinations and the occasional happy smiley face.

Now mind you the "blog" (as defined by the ever popular Wikipedia, The term is a portmanteau, or, in other words, a blend of the words web and log ) is a unique way of transforming the ever growing brain fart into an endless stream of verbal diarrhea. Never have so many have so much to say about nothing. Never has the ability to reach out to a limited less audience been so easy. Can you imagine 60 million blogs all reaching out ideas and commentaries about everything from Apple addictions to Zebra zoning laws. Nothing is too far-fetched, nothing is out-of-bounds and nothing is simpler in exhibiting ones ability or lack of ability to communicate using the written word. I could continue but I don't think I have the time needed to properly address this immense topic.

So I guess while sitting here I have been able to manifest my brain fart into something tangible and coherent. I had a scare there for a moment that the butt cheeks would be needing a squeeze, but I was able to give it a last second internal check and saved off the waddle. Or did I.

A West Coast Monday

2007-02-19T08:35:00.000-08:00

Heard an interesting sound this morning as I was standing in my kitchen. A sound not normally heard at this time of year but considering the climate I found it quite appropriate.

It was a distinct quacking sound. One that was made, I can only assume, by a duck.

Now normally I wouldn't think too hard about something like this but at 6:30 in the morning, with the sun all blocked out by the thick rain clouds, it just fit perfectly. I almost expected to exit the front door and witness the little fowl gliding down the river of water passing our house.

Sadly this was not to be and it's quacking disappeared not too much later. Probably just a passing quack on his way to a central quacking station. Even more of a downer was the fact he didn't take the wet falling stuff with him. It did stay as I made my way out the front door. Oh is the joy of the wet, I mean west coast.

It's Just Tuesday

2007-02-13T08:08:00.000-08:00

Haven't posted for awhile. The hamsters in the brain have been lazy. Then I got thinking which in itself can lead to something not normally associated to me.

Now we have come upon the second day of the week. No fanfare, no applause. Just a normal day. You can't even give it a nickname. Not the dreaded Monday, nor the favourite Friday. Not even a hump day. Although it may be Hump Day Eve, that just doesn't sound right. But think of the presents in the stocking, nudge nudge say no more.

No Tuesday is a rather bland day. The week may have already started yesterday, and all the rough moments have been taken care of. Excuses can be used on Monday because it is just that, Monday. Tuesday does not have that luxury. It's Tuesday so you had better be ready to get on with it. No weekend blahs, no mid-week lows, no end-of-the-week excitement. Just Tuesday. Now sometimes it gets to be the first day back from a long weekend, replacing the Monday. Only it is a temporary day and after a long weekend the same hatred usually associated with Monday is lessened by the fact that it is a short week and that less days are needed to get to the weekend once again. So Tuesday is sort of just dealt with.

What Tuesday needs is a little pick-me-up. Something that makes us all look forward to it. Something that makes fighting through Monday worth while. Something that makes us sad when the day is done. Something like Won-Ton Tuesday, where everyone gets a bowl of won-ton soup. OR Hug Tuesday, where everyone gets to hug someone they haven't hugged before. This one would lead perfectly to Hump Wednesday.

So think about it and maybe our collective minds can come up with something that will make Tuesday a real nice enjoyable day. This may be a ramble, but when isn't it.

Just another day

2007-01-05T08:25:00.000-08:00

I woke up this morning expecting to see
The regular wet stuff coming down on me
Opened the door and lo and behold
The wet stuff was white, it had turned cold.
Not a little but a lot, covered the car
I wasn't expecting today, this is bizarre
So off with the shoes and slip on the boots
I sure hope they plowed the main routes
It's packing snow, you know the wet stuff
It will make things more tricky, but it won't be that tough.
The car moved not bad on the barely covered streets
It is now I wish for my warm bed covering sheets
To snuggle down deep, instead of struggling it out
I could enjoy some more sleep time, snow I do without.
But wait it's Friday, my joy increases ten-fold
Now I don't care if the wet stuff turned cold
For now there will be two days of sleeping in
If you could see me I have a big happy grin.
On with the day, I await the next surprise
Something will happen, something will arise.

To Travel or Not To travel

2006-12-04T18:51:00.000-08:00

When one decides to travel, usually a couple of factors are taken into account before the actual travelling begins. Primarily the destination is needed and then the time needed to accomplish the said primary task.

Other minor factors that fall into play are the presence of additional vehicles on the road, which may or may not slow one’s progress, the ever important human waste disposal breaks and the always important uncontrollable weather. It’s this last factor that I wish to address. Not to say that the human waste disposal break are not important enough to discuss, it’s just I will wait for another time.

Now I’m not one to drastically alter my destination or plans due to weather but I am sure to take into account the delay weather can have on one’s journey. Now granted, should the travel plans start out with the weather in my favour and remain there, all is great. It’s when the weather takes a drastic turn do we have ourselves an adventure. I’m not talking about an Indiana Jones type of adventure but more like I’m stuck in a room watching paint dry adventure.

Recently I was a participant in what could best be described as an adventure into the Twilight Zone of endurance. In this episode the narrator would enter and casually start his introduction.

“It started out a normal day for one man and his passenger aboard one vehicle, travelling down one road towards their single destination. A path well travelled by many, would today experience it in a whole new way. All looked pleasant and normal enough until he entered the Twilight Zone.”

The rain made it’s appearance at the beginning of the adventure, producing in some moments a beautiful rainbow brought on by the sun punching through the clouds. As the sun slowly set, a chill is felt in the air. More moisture is gathering as the middle of the journey is at hand. Then it hits. A cascading flurry of snowflakes envelope the vehicle as it speeds down the highway. Like a ship travelling through hyper-space, this was no dusting crops boy.

We sped on as the snow gathered. Pushing ever so forward, the vehicle made its way to the foothills beyond the glow of the city lights, to the darkness of the mountain forests. Up ahead we could make out a glimmer of lights weaving its way into the hills, like a large red snake. Then our forward motion slowed and we came to a halt. Quickly we were joined by many others at the tail end of this red snake, knowing full well that many others were somewhere ahead in the midst of the snake. We were not that far from our destination and having met this momentary delay, we figured on still arriving within our targeted time frame. So we thought, but this is the Twilight Zone of endurance.

I have a tough time putting into words the sheer scale of what lay ahead of us as we slowly inch our way northwards. Ahead lay hundreds of little red lights, glowing as far as the curving road would let us see. Each set representing one if not more equally frustrated vehicle passenger, eagerly waiting for that little spurt forward. Each time the vehicle moves forward is a gentle tease. You notice a few vehicles ahead have some movement or in some cases dimming of the little red lights. Slowly one by one this movement extends towards your vehicle. “It has started to move”, you exclaim, as your hope in seeing your warm bed returns. Only to have been teased as the vehicle ahead applies the brakes, bringing itself and yourself back to your least favourite stationary position. At first this becomes a game, which lane progresses the farthest, how far can you go each time and is it possible to hit the 10 mph mark once again. It has become your worst nightmare, a slow moving train to a snowy grave. It reminded me of the long lines cutting into the snow up the Chilkoot Trail during the Gold Rush. We were moving just as fast.

Then after what seemed like an eternity and probably the closest I would come to one, the tease turned into something more. The slight movement continued and continued as we slowly snaked our way through the mountains and on into Bellingham. A snow and ice covered road with nicely placed ruts to guide us through. A wonderful steady 30 mph was achieved at this point. It was at this moment that the warm bed at the end of the trip was once again within reach. It was also at this moment that I realised that the butt was not meant to be sat on for this long and along with frozen butt syndrome my legs were not very pleased with me. By the snow covered sign to my right, it was only 12 more miles to Blaine.

All in all I found the adventure disappointing. For if I was to be delayed then there should have been a pay off somewhere down the road. A few vehicles were pushed or slid off to one side of the road. No carnage, no tangled metal, no real visible reason for a 5 hour delay. This was definitely not an E ticket ride home.

A Long Time Ago in a Theater Far Far Away

2006-06-27T22:04:00.000-07:00

In my daily scouring of the internet, I came upon a news announcement regarding the release of yet another version of Star Wars. Two reasons why this caught my fancy was I grew up on this movie and an internal thought, How many versions have they released already?

It just may be closing in on the Bond series for the most different versions the studio can come up with to get the fan base to fork out more money on something they already own, multiple times. At last count I do believe this may make 6 or 7 versions of Star Wars that has been released.

In most cases a new release usually has something more or extra added to make the fan (or uber-geek) need to own this version. The uniqueness of this release is that the film makers have decided to release the original theatrical version of Star Wars in it’s basic form. Nothing special added, no fancy effects. Just the basic movie. The really sad part is they will probably still sell a crap load of them.

But in learning all this I thought back to the very first time I ever saw Star Wars on the big screen and the excitement it brought.

It was a warm night in Vancouver, B.C. on May 27, 1977, or should I say late afternoon. Star Wars had just opened on Friday and by Sunday night, (late afternoon), the frenzy was well underway. My parents decided to see what all the hype was about and since my father never gave into hype of any type, we all went to the theater.

Now being a young lad of almost 13 years of age, I was in awe of the quantity of people lined up already. Past movie experiences had not had this much buzz or hype. I personally don’t think there was much of a line up for Herbie The Love bug or The Apple Dumpling Gang releases.

Thankfully we had the good fortune of having Star Wars come to a theater that both my Mother and Grand Father had worked in. Knowing that the manager was still and being a very good family friend, there we were able to bypass the incredible line-up and proceed directly into the theater for the first show of the night. What we didn't know was close to 600 people had already entered the theater before us and this left us with only two choices for seats, at the extreme front, or the very back of the balcony. The kids out voted the parents 3 votes to 2 for the front. Unfortunately for the kids, parents get double votes. We sat at the back.

Now the Dunbar theater was one of those classic long throw theaters that had a balcony. Not very wide, it still held about 700 people. The place was all abuzz with excitement. Popcorn was being consumed with eager anticipation of the movie to come and there wasn’t a spare seat in the place. As I sat at the very back I could just barely see the whole screen. The bottom being cut off by a gigantic head, (back then all adults heads were gigantic). So I stood up and sat on a wall behind the last seats. Now I could see the whole screen. Then the theater dimmed, the screen curtain opened and the audience let out a deafening scream of excitement.

Now I am not one to bore you of the minor details of what trailers played but then again I don’t remember. I know there was no damn commercials that’s for sure. But I do believe I started in on a new chapter of my life when the opening bars of the main theme accompanied by the emblazed Star Wars logo came across the screen. You could see everyone reading the scroll and then the pan down to the Tatooine planet lulled us into a sense of calm.

Then it hit.

One of the greatest moment in cinematic history. The Star Destroyer coming over from the top of the screen. From that moment on, Earth did not exist. I have been transported to a new place. I had nothing here now, I needed to come with Ben and learn the ways of the Force.

Unfortunately the movie had to end and us poor Earth bound souls had to vacate the theater. As I left I walked by all the eager souls who stood in what was by far the longest line-up I had ever seen. How little I knew that this was only the beginning of the line-ups.

The summer of Star Wars had begun and I had to go back to school the next day.
Thankfully it was only a half a day. So I promptly left at noon, convinced my friend to join me on a hike and off we went to the theater once again. Not wanting to repeat the experience I opted for the front row. I was not to be out voted this time.
It was just as good the second time around, new stuff that was missed on the previous night was seen, jokes were laughed at again and the booing of Darth Vader was done. The thrill was still there and thankfully it has never left.

Isn't Love Grand

2006-06-09T07:30:00.000-07:00

He had seen her across the room. She gave him a look that called out to his soul. He had to go to her. It was primal in nature but he had no choice. She beckoned him and he came.

He had never seen a model like this up close yet as he approached he knew something electric was happening between them. The evening would become a blur.

Many hours later he was still in her company. He was slowly caressing her body, touching her arm, stroking it gently.

“Come on baby, you know you want it. You know I’m the man for you”, he softly spoke to her. “Don’t tease me any more”.

She looked at him with her big eyes. Yes she was teasing him, testing his resolve. Finding out just how long she could make him wait, make him beg for it.

“Come on baby”, he whispered again, “how much longer are you going to make me wait?”

Again she kept quiet, well maybe a little seductive hum but she didn’t have to say a word. Her eyes talked volumes. Her body said mouthfuls. Her presence spoke like the gods.

Then as he was nearing his breaking point she knew she couldn’t hold on any longer. She relented.

His eyes opened in astonishment as she finally spoke. “oh yes, oh yes” she cried out.

He was overjoyed and delirious all in the same breath. “That’s it baby, give it to me.”

His eyes were blinded by the lights of passion, by the sound of adrenaline ringing in his ears. He was giddy pure and simple.

“More, more, give it to me. Don’t stop, keep it coming” he shouted at the top of his voice.

“I know you have it baby, you can give so much more. Give it to me faster, oh much faster.”

This could have never happened to him back home. Only in the fast pace of the Las Vegas light life could he have encountered such a beauty. All night he had spent his time flattering her, giving her his undivided attention. All night he fawned over her, told her his secrets, spent his money on her. Finally all his hard work and his patience was paying off. Oh how this beauty gave him a ride he would never forget.

“I like it, I like it, keep it up, keeeeep it up” he exclaimed.

The sweat was dripping from his brow. His knees were weak and his heart pounded from so much pleasure. Again he cried out to her, “I love you baby, give me more.”

He knew it wouldn’t last, that it would have to end sometime. She had held back for so long but she had a lot to give and he wasn’t tiring either. He would try and make this last as long as possible.

Grasping her he shouted, “more, oh more”, as if it would assist in extending the ecstasy.

“Send me to heaven baby”.

Then as soon as it had started it abruptly came to an end.

He sighed a hefty “thank you”, as he looked down at this vision of beauty. Gently caressing her body he whispered, “this was the greatest night of my life” and bent over and kissed her on the tip of her head.

She kept quiet, kept to herself. He was just one of many who had come through her door and probably wouldn’t be the last.

Then he wiped the sweat off his brow and gave her a smile of total contentment.

“Isn’t life grand” he said to himself, “and sometimes isn’t it worth a grand”.

He gave her one last look, then turning, he slowly walked away from the now quiet slot machine.

Terror Stalks the Stables

2006-06-08T13:47:00.000-07:00

This short story was originally written by Christie for a school project. It was re-worked for the blog. Enjoy.

It was a dark and stormy night. As wind howled down at the Sea to Sky stables, there was a quiet and eerie feeling in the air. Natalie was just finishing up her daily routine when she was startled by an unsettling noise.

Turning around quickly, her eyes opened wide with fear. There in the distance, surrounded by darkness, two green eyes staring straight at her. Stepping back she stumbled. Landing on her backside she tried to retreat from the on coming danger. The muddy ground slipping under her as she pushed with her feet.

A growling grew closer and closer. The mud becoming slippery and slippery.

Not wanting to turn away from the danger, Natalie reached behind her, feeling for something to grab a hold of. Fumbling, her hand moved frantically across the ground. Finding nothing Natalie broke her stare and looked away from the direction of the noise.

There not two feet away was the handle of a fallen pitch fork. Spinning her body she scampered as best as she could in the mud. With every step she took she could feel the ground shaking from the heavy thump of the menace behind her. Faster and faster her feet kicked out. Louder and louder the thumping became.

With her fingers outstretched and grasping the pitch fork handle, Natalie gained her footing and spun to face the darkness. Armed with the four deadly spiked tongs, she gazed back at the darkness with a strength she knew she had inside her.

The horses in her stables could be heard above the howling wind. With their whinny and hoof stomping, they tried to warn Natalie of the danger that was closing in. A foul odor filled the air. Then Natalie saw a large black shadow out of the corner of her eye. Spinning quickly she lunged the pitch fork in it’s direction. Striking nothing she held her ground. A deep heavy breathing slowly circled her. Keeping the pitch fork will in front of her, Natalie’s knuckles turned white from her tightened grip.

Then it happened.

Through the darkness a thunderous beast broke into the light. Natalie stabbed forward with the pitch fork. The beast screamed out in rage. It’s heavy paws thumping the ground around it. Natalie looked at the tips of the pitch fork. A red crimson liquid dripped from the tips. She had made contact. Only now the beast was more upset. It’s breath hung in the air like dead meat, rotting and fowl.

Natalie was able to get to her feet quickly enough. Both of them circled each other in the glow of the overhead light. Beads of sweat had formed on Natalie’s forehead, while the beast left droplets of blood.

Then the beast raised it’s immense body, towering over Natalie. With a yelping cry it swooped down it’s large paw. Barely missing Natalie as she ducked, the paw smashed the door knocking a kerosene lantern into the stable. With a crash the lantern exploded into flame and timbers from the stable lit up like dry kindling.

Backing up against the stable wall Natalie felt herself trapped. The fire flickering in the stable, bouncing off the saddles that rest on the railing. Feeling the increasing heat on the wall Natalie had to make her way to the main water valve to put out the fire. She feared not for her life but of her horses who were trapped in the stables.

Trying as she could, slowly she inched herself along the wall. Only five feet away from the door and she had to stop. The beast blocked the way. Growling ferociously it studied her every movement. It’s green eyes piecing her soul.

From within the stables Natalie could hear the horses getting frantic from the fire. Banging and kicking the walls as the flames made their way towards the trapped animals. The dry hay igniting quickly, producing flame and smoke.

In the split second that it took for Natalie to glance at the stable doorway, the beast raised it’s paw again and struck the pitch fork out of Natalie’s hands. Defenseless and trapped Natalie could only brace herself against the wall. The beast slowly made it’s way closer and closer to Natalie. Warm saliva dripping out of it’s mouth, drooling at the expectation of fresh warm flesh.

Raising up over Natalie, the best prepared for it’s final strike. Claws extended, teeth bared, in a deafening roar it stood menacing.

Fearing the worst, Natalie slid down the wall, curling up, hoping for a miracle. Tears forming in her eyes, she was beyond being scared. She only felt a sadness in knowing her horses might parish in the flames. Vowing not to go down crying, Natalie defiantly rose to face the challenge head-on. With her shoulders square and arms at her side she stared into the beasts shallow enraged eyes.

“Do your best”, Natalie screamed. “I’m not afraid!”

Then with a mighty roar the beast lunged at Natalie with it’s claw swooping down.

“CUT !! PRINT THAT ONE!”
The director yelled out through the megaphone.

Slowly the raging flames sputtered and went out, helped along the way by the various men with fire extinguishers. The mechanical horses stop their stomping and stood silent. Natalie was quickly surrounded by various people, hair, make-up and wardrobe. Each one attending to one aspect or another of Natalie’s appearance. From within the giant beast’s belly a zipper unzipped and a small man crawled out.

“Okay everyone”, called out the Assistant Director. “That’s a wrap for today. See you all tomorrow.”

Just another day in the world of movie magic.

Getting Away From It All

2006-05-28T22:15:00.000-07:00

It had been a long week. Countless meetings, insane overtime, pressing deadlines. I felt some relief as I sped along the highway. My friends had invited me up to their lakeside cabin for the long weekend, a little rest and relaxation. While only being a couple of hours away from the big city, it’s remote location should add to the enjoyment factor of the weekend if not the feeling of getting away from it all.

The sun had set an hour ago so the twilight glow of the sky was slowly ebbing away. The moon had already risen and begun it’s journey across the sky. I caught a glimpse of the exit sign my friends had told me to take just ahead up on the right. Slowing down I came to a stop just before the entrance to the road, a dirt road not much unlike that of a city lane in width, cutting into the thick forest. The directions said to follow the road for a few miles until it would open to a large clearing. The cabin would be on the right with the lake straight ahead.

Turning onto the road, I was quickly swallowed by the rich forest vegetation. Not being a very smooth road, I slowed down a bit, actually I slowed down a lot. At this rate it would take another half an hour at least, to make it to their cabin. The forest was very thick and the now darkened sky was almost completely blocked. Only the occasional moonbeam shone through.

Then up ahead on my right I noticed a faint light. As I continued to drive I realized that the light was from an old lantern hung from the porch of a little shack on the right side of the road. Sitting back maybe ten to fifteen feet from the road, the shack had a small porch across the front of it with a lone rocking chair sitting at one end. Although it looked rundown and abandoned, someone must have been there to have the light on.

I continued on down the dirt road hoping to see the clearing soon when up in the distance I saw another light. A typical situation I thought, little cabins spread out along a dirt road, so rural. As I approached I noticed the light was on the left side of the road. Again it was another little shack, lit by an old hanging lantern. The cabin looked exactly like the previous one, right down to the lone rocking chair. The right cabin, my friend’s cabin should be appearing shortly. After a few more minutes I could see the preverbal ‘light at the end of the tunnel’. There ahead of me was a large clearing lit by the glow of the moon. No forest covering the ground. Smiling to myself I knew I had arrived.

Pulling into the clearing I stopped quickly. The car’s front wheels resting on the edge of some asphalt. To my left was a large sign. I was back at the highway. I had somehow been turned around and had come back to the entrance to the dirt road. Cursing, I stepped on the gas and made a u-turn over the highway and back onto the dirt road. Again I was engulfed by the forest, again I was devoured by the darkness.

As I approached the first shack once again the light was still on, but the rocking chair was now at the other end of the porch just underneath the light. Stopping I took an extra long look at the cabin to see if there were any lights on inside. Getting out of the car I went around and walked through the low underbrush and up onto the porch. Knocking on the shack door brought no response from inside. The only noise I could make out was the hum from my car. Getting no answer to my knock I decided to continue on my way.

For not much more then ten minutes later I noticed for the first time a break in the forest to my right. A small path that lead away from the dirt road.
“How did I miss that. It surely wasn’t here the last time I came this way”
Turning down this pathway I noticed the branches of the trees now almost touched the sides of my car and no light from the moon seemed to break into this part of the forest. The only light was from the car’s headlights and then occasionally a fern branch would get in the way creating a flickering of light and shadow.

Then this pathway came to an abrupt turn to the left. I slowly navigated the angle and quickly stopped the car. Dead ahead was a tree resting neatly across the path. With the high beams on I thought I could make out some shimmering far off in the distance. I knew the lake had to be just down this path.
Gathering up a few things I turned off the car and turned out the lights. Darkness surrounded me immediately but thankfully it didn’t take too long before I was able to get my eyes adjusted. Locking up the car I climbed over the fallen tree and headed down the path.
I had a small pen light but it offered only a glimmer of light, enough just to allow me to see a few feet ahead. It’s lack of power was easily swallowed by the incredible abyss of the forest. Still I foraged on.

Looking back I was no longer able to see my car, even with the assistance of the little light. I figured I was now past the point of no return. I then heard some voices, children’s voices. Only they were coming from my right, from deep in the forest. Flashing the light I wasn’t able to see very far, the foliage was too dense. Then a shrieking noise from down the path startled me and in shock I dropped the light. The noise wasn’t stationary but moving quickly by me. Looking down I saw the light flicker and go dead. Now in the complete darkness the voices turned to giggles and laughter.
I felt down for the light in hopes that it may provide one last gasp of light. The ground had a moist feel to it and I could feel the hairs on the back of my neck rise. Just then something crawled onto my hand. Drawing it back quickly I stumbled. In the process I was just able to right myself without dropping any more of my belongings. Only now I had no idea where to start to feel for the light and I didn’t want to touch any creepy bugs. Without the light I was surprised by the amount I could see. In the distance down the path I could make out some light, a shimmering, a reflection. Quickly I stepped in that direction, my pace now assisted by the adrenaline pumping through my veins.

Then as before more voices came from the forest, now this time from the left. I felt a rush of air blow by me and then more noises from behind. I allowed if not begged my feet to move me quicker down the path. Three loud thumps sounded just to my right assisted with the rustling of the bushes. The path looked to be opening not far off and I somehow increased my pace. Another brush of wind flew past my head only this time it was accompanied by a foul smell. Not wanting to turn around I focused straight ahead. Then it hit from behind, knocking me down.

Grabbing the nearest item, a small bag, I leapt to my feet and begun running as fast as I could. Only once did I turn and look over my shoulder to see what could be there. Unfortunately it was at the worst time. I could see nothing but as I turned back to see ahead the road abruptly ended. More to be precise, the land ended. I stopped myself just in time and precociously balanced on the edge of a very large cliff. I could see the lake below, very far below. The moon bounced off the still surface of the lake. It’s reflection was as good as looking at it straight on. I managed to regain my balance and take a step back. Gathering my wits I thought “it should have been a left turn, cause this isn’t right.”

Kneeling down on one knee I surveyed the surroundings and thought of my options. Behind me was an incredibly dense forest full of questionable entities and creepy bugs, I never forget the creepy bugs. Ahead of me was a rather steep and formidable cliff with a frighteningly dark lake below. I could surmise that daylight was a good nine hours away and any camping supplies I had brought were either spread out on the path being inspected by my creepy bugs or back in the car. The options were limited but something had to be doable.

Then the lake echoed a scream that went up that night for some time. In the clear moonlight birds took flight and a breeze shook the trees. I heard the scream and realized it was coming from my mouth. A burst of wind came out from the forest, ripping into me and knocked me over the cliff edge. Falling into the darkness I screamed what I thought was my last breath. My arms flailed as I reached out for something, anything to grab. When I thought all hope was lost I did grab something. Another arm reached out and together we locked wrists.

“Jim”, a voice cried out, “wake up Jim !!”

Startled, I sat up in a bolt. My face drenched with sweat.
“You were having a bad dream”, my assistant said.

Relieved I lay back. The pressures of directing my first film, ‘Deliverance 2’, were beginning to wear me out,. I thought, “Now I sure wish I could make a movie as scary as my dreams”, and promptly rolled over and fell back to sleep, perchance to dream again.

Moment In Time

2006-05-26T19:00:00.000-07:00

In a brief moment of time, my life changed. I must confess to you here and now something I find extremely incredible. In everyone’s life there come a singular moment that defines their existence. I just had mine.

I didn’t plan on it, no one really does. For I just killed a man.

Simple words to say. Only I’m not just saying them, I am feeling their impact. I actually extinguished a man’s life with my own two hands. The look on his face as the knife entered between his ribs and the warmth of the blood rushing over my hand can not be easily described. Any vain attempt would only lessen the impact. I can give you only the tiniest details of my feelings as I felt his soul leave his body, as his eyes lost their sparkle. Sounds echoing in my mind, tearing flesh, gasping breath, pounding heart. It was not as I would have expected.

I didn’t think he would lunge after my throat. I figured he would use what ever strength he had left to save himself, but he didn’t. In his final moments he could only think of retribution and revenge. He would have rather seen me dead then save himself. At that moment I saw and understood the basic element that makes up mankind. I understood there and then that we are all just animals, some a little more refined then others, but animals all the same. We have basic desires and needs, and we need to supply them to live. To live without our desires is to only just exist.

So with his blood on my hands I stood back and looked down on his lifeless body. No remorse, no sorrow, no grief. I actually then felt a warm feeling come over my body. I actually felt my adrenaline surging through my body. My life now had it’s desire, I no longer just existed, I had a life. My life was now to be spent in the pursuit of extinguishing the life of others. If my school guidance councilors could see me now. I don’t think this was one of the selections they had in mind.

Wednesday philosophy

2006-05-10T12:59:00.000-07:00

Well it looks like another week has hit it's mid-way mark, half-way there, it's hump. But is it really downhill now and if it is downhill should we coast. Could we not still continue upwards to greater things before the week is over. Maybe the hump is only an illusion on the road to advancing our quest for ever increasing knowledge. Maybe this downhill thing is only a mirage floating on our sea of discontent towards an ever changing world of labour. Maybe this hump is a metaphor in regards to the general populous and their feelings towards the standardized work week.

We may never know the true meaning. It may take millions of dollars in government grants and countless nights philosophizing, but it must be done. Millions if not billions of human lives are depending if not expecting us to enrich their meager existence on this place they call Earth. Millions if not billions of humans are anticipating us to confirm their importance in relation to the grand scheme of life and millions if not billions are hoping their addiction to reality shows truly have meaning and are not just a waste of time.

Now we may have to sequester ourselves to some remote South Pacific island, complete with servants to take care of our everyday needs, so that we may spend our energies on the difficult endeavor ahead. This pampered lifestyle along with a healthy amount of carnal pleasures should bring about the desired results over a period of unknown duration. It is this unknown duration that may be the greatest challenge. The myriad of philosophers over the innumerable years of man’s existence on this planet have yet to answer these key questions, nay inquiries. So the ultimatum put forth by this challenge is a hefty one to say the least.

It is a demanding venture full of risks, and as all the great philosophers have been known to say, “Bugger, last call already?”, or is it, “Nothing ventured nothing gained”. I confuse the two frequently. Should I take this as on an individual or should this sort of endeavor be a group task?

To ponder one last thing, I am happy to report that on this day, May 10, 2006, this is the 2,175th Wednesday I have experienced. Where does the time go.

What To Say Today

2006-05-04T08:36:00.000-07:00

I could say I would love more pay, and in a way that would be okay.
I could confess to be a success would be more than wonderful and much less stress.
I will state that I would love to create the greatest movie to this date.
I suppose that as this prose goes, it would be interesting if I wrote it without any clothes.

So you could say, on what may, be a wonderful day that it would be okay to have more pay.
And you could confess to be more of a success, to constantly impress, but I only guess.
You might even state, you might go on a date, find a great mate and procreate.
And I suppose as this prose flows, it would be interesting if you read it without any clothes.

So go out and have fun, enjoy a good chuckle or two,
Good laughter is needed and now I bid you adieu.

Eternity

2006-05-03T20:19:00.000-07:00

It was lonely sitting on his balcony that night. It had been some time since he had any serious conversation. He remembered back some time ago when people of all ages scurried about the streets below. Now the noise was considerably less. He liked to think of the days when food was plentiful and easy to obtain.

Of course man in his infinite wisdom had decided to screw things up as usual. Oh sure it was to be a small battle. Nothing but a little skirmish, a conflict contained between two small countries that really only fought for the sake of fighting. They knew no better, no real reason for fighting, only that they had too. Passed on from generation to generation. Only this time it got a little out of hand. Soon other nations had to stick their noses into the fray. Then naturally the various militant groups took up their sides, then the religious zealots and not to be outdone, the classic terrorists factions. Before you know it the whole world was bickering and whining about something. To this day he never did actually find out what it was. But it had to happen, some smart-ass decided to show a little muscle and launched a few too many missiles. That set off a chain reaction and presto-chango, we have ourselves a nice little nuclear fallout on our hands. A self imposed man made winter.

Now the cities didn’t get vacant too soon. There were a lot of survivors. Food was still plentiful at this point in time but not as fresh as it use to be. Law and order was non-existent so it truly was survival of the fittest. He had moved around a lot at this time, mostly following the food. I think he was better suited for the prolonged darkness then the average person. All those long years on the graveyard shift made for an easier adjustment to the lack of sunlight.

So he had wandered until he found a home that would suit his needs best. A lovely 5 story brownstone with a quaint view over a large portion of the city. The iron grate railing surrounded the large balcony which covered the whole front of the building. Nestled on a busy street, he was sure to follow the pace of the remaining people. But tonight, it sure was quiet.

He had lost a lot of weight over the past few months as the food supply became smaller and smaller. Now he sometimes lacked the strength to get up out of bed and forage for some food. It could have been easy enough to skip on down to the local blood bank but after a while, even that doesn’t supply enough nourishment. For a vampire, the blood bank is like a fast food restaurant for humans. You can get filled up but no real nourishment is obtain. No, it looks like another night of fasting, or was it day. So hard to tell with the eternal darkness from the fallout. Sometime eternity can be a bitch.

Me and My

2006-05-01T19:40:00.000-07:00

I sat there in my kitchen, in my house, in the dark. I sat there all alone hoping he wouldn’t find me. The moon barely cast any light through the drawn blinds. I needed it dark, it had to be dark. I held the match in my right hand. The single match for a single candle which stood patiently on the table, in my kitchen, in my house, in the dark.

I knew I should light it but feared he would show up. I feared that with the glow of the flame he would show his ugly face and torment me once again. Oh how I hated him. Wherever I went, there he was. Out for a walk and he would tag along. I once went on a date and he decided to appear, naturally at the most inappropriate time. I would try running and he would only follow quicker than before. I knew it was serious when I caught him in my house, uninvited. The police wouldn’t do anything. They said they couldn’t do anything until he did something first. I mean how insane is that. If I’m lying in a pool of blood then they can do something? So that’s why I sat there in my kitchen, in my house, in the dark.

He never showed up when I was in the dark. The only time I felt any comfort was when it was completely pitch black, no light at all. I knew he couldn’t find me, I knew I was safe. But I had to face my fears, I had to face him and show him I was no longer afraid. I had to light the candle, I had to strike that match.

Slowly I placed the match at the end of the striking strip. Gritting my teeth and in one fluid stroke, I lit up the room with a flash. The flame flickered and danced as it sputtered to life only to settle back down and slowly glow with it’s newly found heat. I gently held it to the candle’s wick and it woke from it’s slumber. At first it didn’t want to light but it then caught hold and grew and grew in brilliance.
Blowing out the match I sat there waiting, in my kitchen, in my house, now in the light. Waiting for him to show up.

Then out of the corner of my eye I saw a flicker of darkness on the kitchen wall. I spun to see what it was and there he stood. His motionless body taunting my frozen stare as I sat there petrified with fear. He didn’t make a single movement towards me. The flickering light from the candle danced all around the room but still he didn’t move. Then as I gained my composure and moved to watch him closely he moved ever so slightly.

Standing up quickly I bellowed, “Damn you evil, you don’t frighten me anymore. You will no longer make me quiver in fear or cower in your presence. Stay if you like for I no longer care.” He didn’t say a word. He never moved closer nor did he move away. He just stayed where he was.

I sat down smiling, knowing I had conquered my foe. I had beaten my adversary right there in my kitchen, in my house, in the light,…. in the light. Finally the roles had been defined and each one now knew their place. Finally there was an end to all this madness. For now there was peace between me, and my shadow.

My First Time

2006-05-01T10:31:00.000-07:00

Since this is the first of what should be many ramblings, I should keep this to a minimum. But what frame of reference should I use as a minimum. Do I dare speak endlessly, without thought and continue into the wee hours??
Some may say this is excessive and overdoing it. Dare we say this whole blog thing is excessive and overdoing it.
Should I write something that is concise and to the point??
Then some may say this is not the point of a blog.

So I am left with this overwhelming desire to ramble, which might make it annoying to anyone who wishes to read this. So I think for the first blog I will keep it short and worry about all that other stuff later.

But then where would the fun be in that. Would it would be much more interesting if I spoke in riddle and conversed in rhyme. I could write with varying degrees of humour and keep a dry wit in place throughout. Possibly this whole rambling thing could take on a new direction, it could evolve to a higher level of rambling. Think of the possibilities.
Unfortunately time is limited and thus sadly one must end.

In my humble opinion this may be true, but I could be wrong.