Grace
Looking in the papers
Makes me sorry to be human
A little ray of hope won't hurt at all
A price on every head
It's cheaper when you're dead
Quality of life will have to fall
Muffled voices , world in action
Stir the peaceful need for longing
What's the sense in senseless violence
Hear the silence too forgiving
I cannot describe
the fear inside my heart
I therefor do swear
To live my life
In accordance with grace
Friday, September 16, 2005
Wednesday, September 07, 2005
My Irish hertiage
Since we had no other plans for the weekend, we decided to attend the KC Irish fest down at Crown Center on Saturday. I've always known that I have a very Irish name, so I thought it was a good idea that I go and connect with my roots (I've told that I actually look more Greek than Irish, but Wah Wah agrees however that I have an Irish temper.). I thought it be like returning to a home that I've never been to. Ireland is what I identify with as being the home of my hero (Bono) and my family.
To give a little background, my hertiage can be traced about a hundred years to an area outside of Dublin. My father's side of the family is very Roman Catholic and very traditionally Irish. I remember growing up with pictures of the Pope and the Virgin Mary in my grandmother's house. The Irish like to drink so there was always plenty of alchol around. I'm not sure how my Grandmother felt when I told I was leaving the Catholic church. I am the first in my family( and only one so far) to leave the Catholic church.
I found the Irish fest a attempt to capture the feel of what Ireland is like even though it was in the middle of downtown Kansas City. The fountains were dyed green and there was Irish music everywhere ,no U2 or the Cranberries, but Irish folk music. People were dancing and singing along with it and having a good time
Personally, I love to go to these things and try the different ethnic foods. Then it occurred to me, that Ireland doesn't have a lot of ethnic food. Ireland is known for many things, but food is not one of them.
I think our day would have been much more enjoyable if it wasn't so hot. It definately didn't feel like Irish weather. I was also very interested in seeing more of the music, but was unable to due to Woogy and Pinky not being comfortable in the heat.
Ireland is one of the first places I want to go before I die. I got to know some Irish people when I was in Germany. I found them to be fun people. They could drink like fish but they look after their own. They love being social and singing folk songs in the bar. I guess until I go, KC Irish fest is as close as I'm going to get.
To give a little background, my hertiage can be traced about a hundred years to an area outside of Dublin. My father's side of the family is very Roman Catholic and very traditionally Irish. I remember growing up with pictures of the Pope and the Virgin Mary in my grandmother's house. The Irish like to drink so there was always plenty of alchol around. I'm not sure how my Grandmother felt when I told I was leaving the Catholic church. I am the first in my family( and only one so far) to leave the Catholic church.
I found the Irish fest a attempt to capture the feel of what Ireland is like even though it was in the middle of downtown Kansas City. The fountains were dyed green and there was Irish music everywhere ,no U2 or the Cranberries, but Irish folk music. People were dancing and singing along with it and having a good time
Personally, I love to go to these things and try the different ethnic foods. Then it occurred to me, that Ireland doesn't have a lot of ethnic food. Ireland is known for many things, but food is not one of them.
I think our day would have been much more enjoyable if it wasn't so hot. It definately didn't feel like Irish weather. I was also very interested in seeing more of the music, but was unable to due to Woogy and Pinky not being comfortable in the heat.
Ireland is one of the first places I want to go before I die. I got to know some Irish people when I was in Germany. I found them to be fun people. They could drink like fish but they look after their own. They love being social and singing folk songs in the bar. I guess until I go, KC Irish fest is as close as I'm going to get.
Tuesday, August 30, 2005
No Daddy's Girl
While on my vacation in Oregon, I tried to get our infant, Pinky to take a bottle. Up till now, she has been nothing but breast fed and now Wah-Wah is returning to work this week. Since she wasn't taking the bottle, this was bringing up a lot of anxiety that Wah Wah will not be able to return to work.
Nearly everynight, myself and my mom tried to feed Pinky with a bottle. All she did was scream at us. I even went so far as to buy a bottle shaped like a breast (yeah I know what you are thinking). Not even the breast shaped bottle would fool Pinky. My mom, who was so optimistic in the begining, told me that it was hopeless. At that point I was beginning to examine our options.
Finally, when we got home, and I pushed Wah Wah to try to feed her with a bottle. After a few hours, Pinky took the bottle from Wah Wah. Much of last week, Wah Wah spent with our baby sitter getting Pinky use to her. It seems to be successful. God does answer prayers.
One problem still remains, Pinky will not take the bottle from me. Infact, she will not let me hold her. Even when Wah Wah is not around, Pinky still cries. Apparently Pinky will go to strangers better than her own father. Over the weekend, my sister in law, watched Pinky while Wah Wah and I went out. When we returned, my sister in law said she did fine.
It would seem that Pinky is no daddy's girl. She only smiles at me in the morning as I'm leaving. I get the feeling that she is happy that I'm gone. I hope this is just a phase, and in 15 years from now, she is still screaming at me.
Nearly everynight, myself and my mom tried to feed Pinky with a bottle. All she did was scream at us. I even went so far as to buy a bottle shaped like a breast (yeah I know what you are thinking). Not even the breast shaped bottle would fool Pinky. My mom, who was so optimistic in the begining, told me that it was hopeless. At that point I was beginning to examine our options.
Finally, when we got home, and I pushed Wah Wah to try to feed her with a bottle. After a few hours, Pinky took the bottle from Wah Wah. Much of last week, Wah Wah spent with our baby sitter getting Pinky use to her. It seems to be successful. God does answer prayers.
One problem still remains, Pinky will not take the bottle from me. Infact, she will not let me hold her. Even when Wah Wah is not around, Pinky still cries. Apparently Pinky will go to strangers better than her own father. Over the weekend, my sister in law, watched Pinky while Wah Wah and I went out. When we returned, my sister in law said she did fine.
It would seem that Pinky is no daddy's girl. She only smiles at me in the morning as I'm leaving. I get the feeling that she is happy that I'm gone. I hope this is just a phase, and in 15 years from now, she is still screaming at me.
Monday, August 29, 2005
Wednesday, July 27, 2005
Best BBQ
I love BBQ. My family loves BBQ. In fact when they come down to visit KC, that's always something they expect. But where is all the good BBQ?
It is not Arthur Bryant's. As I write this, I'm recovering from my lunch there. I remember the first time I tried that place, I wasn't very impressed. But I decided to give it another try. Today I tried the Burnt Ends and they were terrible. It tasted like stewed meat, covered in mustard BBQ sause. The fries were cold and rather bland. I can't understand the popularity of this place. It was way over priced, and I didn't even want to take the left overs home.
Then there is Gates which isn't too bad, if you like being yelled at when you walk in the front door. "May I Help You!?" is yelled everytime when I walked in. Once you get past that, the food isn't so bad. Probably not for everyone.
Wyandott BBQ isn't too bad either, as long as you get it in Wyandott (which I happen to work down the street from) The meat is usually juicy and fries are nice and salty.
Hayward's is pretty bad. I remember their ribs are really fatty.
Zarda's is pretty good. Usually their BBQ is pretty safe (meaning it's not too mustardy or oily). I think anyone who enjoys BBQ would enjoy Zarda's. I haven't tried Rosedale or Johnny's recently to give it a fair review. Overall, I didn't think they were the best.
So what is my favorite? Oklahama Joe's. I usually get the Z-man sandwich. It's hard to want to try anything else when you have "sandwich perfection" like the Z-man. That onion ring they add makes all the difference. Their fries portion is huge and zesty. Some of the best fries around. You can't beat that gas station atmosphere either.
Right up there, would be Jack's Stack- if you want nice-sit down BBQ. I may get in trouble for this, especially with loyal KC BBQ people, but I've always liked "Famous Daves". Their meat is not too gristly and sause is good too. At least at Famous Dave's, I don't leave regretting I ate there.
It is not Arthur Bryant's. As I write this, I'm recovering from my lunch there. I remember the first time I tried that place, I wasn't very impressed. But I decided to give it another try. Today I tried the Burnt Ends and they were terrible. It tasted like stewed meat, covered in mustard BBQ sause. The fries were cold and rather bland. I can't understand the popularity of this place. It was way over priced, and I didn't even want to take the left overs home.
Then there is Gates which isn't too bad, if you like being yelled at when you walk in the front door. "May I Help You!?" is yelled everytime when I walked in. Once you get past that, the food isn't so bad. Probably not for everyone.
Wyandott BBQ isn't too bad either, as long as you get it in Wyandott (which I happen to work down the street from) The meat is usually juicy and fries are nice and salty.
Hayward's is pretty bad. I remember their ribs are really fatty.
Zarda's is pretty good. Usually their BBQ is pretty safe (meaning it's not too mustardy or oily). I think anyone who enjoys BBQ would enjoy Zarda's. I haven't tried Rosedale or Johnny's recently to give it a fair review. Overall, I didn't think they were the best.
So what is my favorite? Oklahama Joe's. I usually get the Z-man sandwich. It's hard to want to try anything else when you have "sandwich perfection" like the Z-man. That onion ring they add makes all the difference. Their fries portion is huge and zesty. Some of the best fries around. You can't beat that gas station atmosphere either.
Right up there, would be Jack's Stack- if you want nice-sit down BBQ. I may get in trouble for this, especially with loyal KC BBQ people, but I've always liked "Famous Daves". Their meat is not too gristly and sause is good too. At least at Famous Dave's, I don't leave regretting I ate there.
Tuesday, July 26, 2005
Me and the Heat
I guess there is not much going on in my life since I feel it nesscary to respond to other blogs. I'm writing this one in response to aforrest's blog on the age old question, what is better-- too hot or too cold?
Personally, I'll take the cold. I find that as I get older, I can't tolerate the heat like I use to. My father is the same way. He hates the heat (that's why he bought a house off the coast of Oregon). Frankly, there are just too many uncomfortable feelings I associate with the hot weather.
Years ago, I lived in Cedar Falls Iowa, and my apartment would bake in the summer. The genious who designed the apartments, put the air conditioner on the roof, so during heat waves, the air conditioner couldn't keep up. To make things worse, I lived on the top floor, so hot air kept my apartment feeling like a oven. Even at night, it wouldn't cool down. I remember my referatgator couldn't keep up and spoiled everything. My poor ferret (my beloved, Basil)was actually close to expiring.
Years later, that summer still effects me. I get really cranky if the environment gets too hot. This summer has really been bad. It seems I run from one air conditioner to another. It's too hot to go to the park with Woogy or do anything else outside. I have even let my lawn go. I don't want to mow the yard in 100+ heat. The bottom line is, unless you have an air condtioner to go to, there is no escaping the heat. This must be what life is like on Mercury.
During the evening in the summer, who wants to relax with a nice warm cup of coffee? Usually, I spend an evening making gallon after gallon of Kool-Aid. When it gets as hot as it has, I try to convert Feinheight to Celeius. Then instead of being 100 F, it is 37 C. That sounds cooler.
Personally, I'll take the cold. I find that as I get older, I can't tolerate the heat like I use to. My father is the same way. He hates the heat (that's why he bought a house off the coast of Oregon). Frankly, there are just too many uncomfortable feelings I associate with the hot weather.
Years ago, I lived in Cedar Falls Iowa, and my apartment would bake in the summer. The genious who designed the apartments, put the air conditioner on the roof, so during heat waves, the air conditioner couldn't keep up. To make things worse, I lived on the top floor, so hot air kept my apartment feeling like a oven. Even at night, it wouldn't cool down. I remember my referatgator couldn't keep up and spoiled everything. My poor ferret (my beloved, Basil)was actually close to expiring.
Years later, that summer still effects me. I get really cranky if the environment gets too hot. This summer has really been bad. It seems I run from one air conditioner to another. It's too hot to go to the park with Woogy or do anything else outside. I have even let my lawn go. I don't want to mow the yard in 100+ heat. The bottom line is, unless you have an air condtioner to go to, there is no escaping the heat. This must be what life is like on Mercury.
During the evening in the summer, who wants to relax with a nice warm cup of coffee? Usually, I spend an evening making gallon after gallon of Kool-Aid. When it gets as hot as it has, I try to convert Feinheight to Celeius. Then instead of being 100 F, it is 37 C. That sounds cooler.
Thursday, July 21, 2005
Humor
It has recently been brought up among fellow bloggers the question; what makes good humor? I have always considered myself to be a good judge of humor, but without sounding conceited, I know what makes one person laugh is not necessarily what makes another laugh. I could easily illustrate this by spending a evening with my wife watching the classic BBC show "Fawlty Towers", or the "Simpsons". I find these shows timeless and funny, when she doesn't. These are the two best shows that I can think of that take the absurd, and run with it to who knows where.
I read were pessimistic people are more funny than optimistic people in general. Being the pessimistic person I am, I could only conclude that the pessimistic person uses humor as a way of bringing light into a world, where they don't see any light. I know personally, humor is very important to me. Seeing some of the things I've seen on my job, humor is a way of coping and making sense of things that have no sense. I think most people I know understand that about me. Just the other day I got an email from a coworker I barely know and was thanking me for turning a other wise awkward therapy session into a stand up rountine. She said the clients really got a lot out of it and enjoyed themselves.
I also I think have a humor switch which is always "on" and looking for that one absurd moment. Of course the problem is turning the switch "off". This would be helpful especially around my boss who is not on the same level with me (which ever level that is).
I know a couple of things about humor; it is also all about timing and not being predictable. It's like going for that first kiss with someone. You look for the right moment and you want it to be perfect, but if you miss the opportunity, you may not get it back.
I also would compare humor to art. It captures the moment and changes emotion. Some people it offends, others appreciate it, but there is beauty in it. There are techniques but no rules. It is also takes creativity and thinking outside the norms.
Lastly, I would say about humor is that humor keeps us young. The second you begin to lose your sense of humor, is the second you begin to grow old.
I read were pessimistic people are more funny than optimistic people in general. Being the pessimistic person I am, I could only conclude that the pessimistic person uses humor as a way of bringing light into a world, where they don't see any light. I know personally, humor is very important to me. Seeing some of the things I've seen on my job, humor is a way of coping and making sense of things that have no sense. I think most people I know understand that about me. Just the other day I got an email from a coworker I barely know and was thanking me for turning a other wise awkward therapy session into a stand up rountine. She said the clients really got a lot out of it and enjoyed themselves.
I also I think have a humor switch which is always "on" and looking for that one absurd moment. Of course the problem is turning the switch "off". This would be helpful especially around my boss who is not on the same level with me (which ever level that is).
I know a couple of things about humor; it is also all about timing and not being predictable. It's like going for that first kiss with someone. You look for the right moment and you want it to be perfect, but if you miss the opportunity, you may not get it back.
I also would compare humor to art. It captures the moment and changes emotion. Some people it offends, others appreciate it, but there is beauty in it. There are techniques but no rules. It is also takes creativity and thinking outside the norms.
Lastly, I would say about humor is that humor keeps us young. The second you begin to lose your sense of humor, is the second you begin to grow old.
Tuesday, July 19, 2005
My weekend
Now that my work seems to have settled down, I can focus on my important things-like blogging.
Last weekend was our 5th wedding anniversary. Seems hard to believe, but just five years ago, I was starting my job, living in an apartment near Shakedust, and just beginning a relationship with the Lord. There was no management work, dogs, Woogy or his little sister (who I can't think of a clever nickname yet). Things seemed a little simplier then. I wonder what the next 5 years will hold.
To celebrate, we traveled up to Iowa to visit Wah-Wah's parents, and introduced them to Woogy's little sister. We traveled back to Des Moines and went out for a nice dinner on Des Moines "plaza" area (I'm comparing it to the plaza, because they have the same resturants). Their plaza area is build around a small man-made lake that couples walk around while waiting for dinner. It was a great night for a walk because they had a live piano being broadcasted around the lake and was putting on a free concert. It was a nice way to celebrate our anniversary.
The next day I took Woogy to the Iowa Science Center which is just like our Science City. Woogy loved it, but the highlight came when Woogy found another wooden train table. Out of all the things to play with, he wouldn't leave the train table (not as good as the one he has at home). Woogy truely has "train on the brain".
Last weekend was our 5th wedding anniversary. Seems hard to believe, but just five years ago, I was starting my job, living in an apartment near Shakedust, and just beginning a relationship with the Lord. There was no management work, dogs, Woogy or his little sister (who I can't think of a clever nickname yet). Things seemed a little simplier then. I wonder what the next 5 years will hold.
To celebrate, we traveled up to Iowa to visit Wah-Wah's parents, and introduced them to Woogy's little sister. We traveled back to Des Moines and went out for a nice dinner on Des Moines "plaza" area (I'm comparing it to the plaza, because they have the same resturants). Their plaza area is build around a small man-made lake that couples walk around while waiting for dinner. It was a great night for a walk because they had a live piano being broadcasted around the lake and was putting on a free concert. It was a nice way to celebrate our anniversary.
The next day I took Woogy to the Iowa Science Center which is just like our Science City. Woogy loved it, but the highlight came when Woogy found another wooden train table. Out of all the things to play with, he wouldn't leave the train table (not as good as the one he has at home). Woogy truely has "train on the brain".
Thursday, July 14, 2005
Dogs
Lately with 2 kids, I find I'm just getting annoyed with my dog. I think my dog means well, but he's just digusting. For example, when ever I try to change one of the kids diapers, Monty (our dog) is always has to put his nose in it. I've always had bad luck with dogs.
My first dog was a shite zu named Tie. This was the most digusting dog ever. He would love to eat out of the cat box. He'd eat his own grap too (which in a way, he cleaned up after himself). It was pretty embrassing when he would go into other dogs yards and help himself to any grap in their yard. I really hated that dog because he destoryed all my Star Wars figures, which today would hold sentimental value as I try to introduce Star Wars to my son.
We owned that dog for a couple of years and then dropped him off on a farm (I can't remember if that farmer wanted him or not). After Tie, we tried our luck again, this time with a cocker spanel named Casey.
Casey would pee before anybody that came in the house. That was embarassing if you were bringing friends over. Casey would also eat anything. I remember one Christmas, she some how got our ham that was up on the counter, while we were at church. The Christmas after that, she managed to eat a whole bag of ferret food from my ferret that my future wife had given me. The dog had suffered from serve gas and we had to clear out the living room.
This brings me to my current dog Monty. He is probably the best dog I've had, but that isn't saying much. Frankly, I think I like cats better. It is tragic however that my wife is allegric to cats, and we will never own one.
My first dog was a shite zu named Tie. This was the most digusting dog ever. He would love to eat out of the cat box. He'd eat his own grap too (which in a way, he cleaned up after himself). It was pretty embrassing when he would go into other dogs yards and help himself to any grap in their yard. I really hated that dog because he destoryed all my Star Wars figures, which today would hold sentimental value as I try to introduce Star Wars to my son.
We owned that dog for a couple of years and then dropped him off on a farm (I can't remember if that farmer wanted him or not). After Tie, we tried our luck again, this time with a cocker spanel named Casey.
Casey would pee before anybody that came in the house. That was embarassing if you were bringing friends over. Casey would also eat anything. I remember one Christmas, she some how got our ham that was up on the counter, while we were at church. The Christmas after that, she managed to eat a whole bag of ferret food from my ferret that my future wife had given me. The dog had suffered from serve gas and we had to clear out the living room.
This brings me to my current dog Monty. He is probably the best dog I've had, but that isn't saying much. Frankly, I think I like cats better. It is tragic however that my wife is allegric to cats, and we will never own one.
Saturday, July 09, 2005
My Day With Thomas
Yesterday, I had the pleasure of taking my son, Woogy, to his first "Day Out with Thomas the Tank Engine". I must say, I was pretty excited to see his reaction to meeting his favorite character pull up on a train track. I was more excited than he was.
Woogy and I drove about an hour south to Baldwin City were we had tickets to ride Thomas. Woogy was of course very excited to see this place. Basically it was a couple of tents with Thomas stuff in them. I spent almost $30 for two tickets on Thomas and I must say, the ride was awful. Woogy and I rode in a 100 year old passenger car with no circulation or air condition. It was already a hot day, and sitting inside the passenger car was like a oven. When the train finally did start, it went backwards for 15 minutes then forward back to the station. No senic sights or even a complimentary glass of water. Woogy and I both enjoyed our ride on the train at the Omaha Zoo last weekend much better, and it was only $3.
After the ride, we went to a tent were they were playing Thomas stories, all of which Woogy had seen a 100 times. Woogy's favorite part of the day was going over to another tent were they had a Thomas Train table. It was just like all the other train tables he's ever played with including the one in his room. I did learn that I'm not the only parent that has to carry their child kicking and screaming when asked to leave a Thomas table.
Woogy and I drove about an hour south to Baldwin City were we had tickets to ride Thomas. Woogy was of course very excited to see this place. Basically it was a couple of tents with Thomas stuff in them. I spent almost $30 for two tickets on Thomas and I must say, the ride was awful. Woogy and I rode in a 100 year old passenger car with no circulation or air condition. It was already a hot day, and sitting inside the passenger car was like a oven. When the train finally did start, it went backwards for 15 minutes then forward back to the station. No senic sights or even a complimentary glass of water. Woogy and I both enjoyed our ride on the train at the Omaha Zoo last weekend much better, and it was only $3.
After the ride, we went to a tent were they were playing Thomas stories, all of which Woogy had seen a 100 times. Woogy's favorite part of the day was going over to another tent were they had a Thomas Train table. It was just like all the other train tables he's ever played with including the one in his room. I did learn that I'm not the only parent that has to carry their child kicking and screaming when asked to leave a Thomas table.
Friday, June 17, 2005
My procedure
Today I put a end to the question -"will I have any more kids?"The answer is --no. I got to experience the pleasure of having a vasectomy. I am slowly recovering and should be able to walk normally soon. In case anyone is wondering what a vasectomy feels like-- I can only describe it as the feeling you get when someone kicks you in the crotch, repeatedly, and it won't go away.
The procedure starts with 2 shots to the crotch. The first hurts. The second burns. I decided not to watch the rest of the procedure and covered my face with a "TIME" magazine. After the shots, the procedure isn't painful, but you can still feel the doctor moving things around down there, which you can imagine isn't pleasant. I think the most unpleasant part came when the doctor began to sow up the stitches. That felt pretty weird, like she (the doctor) was pulling something out of there.
After I returned home, I quickly discovered it is not a good idea to have your kids jump on you. I also think I might skip my daily bike ride. Frozen peas never felt so good. I guess it is worth it if it gives me the peace of mind that I won't be fathering anymore children. I love the two I have- one boy and one girl. But I think another would be too much.
The procedure starts with 2 shots to the crotch. The first hurts. The second burns. I decided not to watch the rest of the procedure and covered my face with a "TIME" magazine. After the shots, the procedure isn't painful, but you can still feel the doctor moving things around down there, which you can imagine isn't pleasant. I think the most unpleasant part came when the doctor began to sow up the stitches. That felt pretty weird, like she (the doctor) was pulling something out of there.
After I returned home, I quickly discovered it is not a good idea to have your kids jump on you. I also think I might skip my daily bike ride. Frozen peas never felt so good. I guess it is worth it if it gives me the peace of mind that I won't be fathering anymore children. I love the two I have- one boy and one girl. But I think another would be too much.
Sunday, June 12, 2005
What's New
How some people can find the time to blog everyday, I'll never know. I'm lucky to get it done once a week. But since I'm doing it now, let me tell you what's new.
First I've had two big events happen in my life. The first one happened last Tuesday- I picked up a copy of the new Coldplay :X&Y. This is one great album. Once in a great while you pick up a new album and think, "wow, this is great! This album really changes things. It takes music to a new level. I'll listen to this till the day I die." U2 did this with "Achtung Baby" and nearly all their albums. The Cure did this with "Distintigration", the Smith's did it with "the Queen is Dead" and Radiohead did it with "Kid A". Now Coldplay's X & Y is one of those albums. Standout tracks include "What if?", "White Shadows", "Fix You", "Talk" "The Hardest Part" and "Speed of Sound". In the tradition of the Edge, Guitarist Jonny Buckland, creates his own styles of "walls of sound". I could go on, but I should probably mention the second major event in my life, and that is the birth of my daughter.
Last Wednesday, my wife went into labor. I was really hoping my wife would go into labor in the morning, that way hopefully by night time, Our daughter would be born. But instead she went into labor at night making it one long day. We went into the hospital at around 9:30pm. The nurse doing the medication messed up and only the left side of my wife's body went numb, leaving the right side able to feel every contraction. Even the regular nurses noticed it wasn't done right. So with a contraction happening every couple of minutes, it was a long night for both of us (mostly her). Finally around 7:30am, with just 4 pushes, our daughter was born weighting in at 8'12. Pretty big baby for my wife.
Our daughter thankfully, is very healthy and has a mean appetite. I forgot how they only sleep and eat for the first couple of days. So far big brother Woogy is adjusting well, but it's only been a few days. His favorite person, Grandma, is here to give him special attention. I've always wanted a daughter, and now I'm been blessed with one.
First I've had two big events happen in my life. The first one happened last Tuesday- I picked up a copy of the new Coldplay :X&Y. This is one great album. Once in a great while you pick up a new album and think, "wow, this is great! This album really changes things. It takes music to a new level. I'll listen to this till the day I die." U2 did this with "Achtung Baby" and nearly all their albums. The Cure did this with "Distintigration", the Smith's did it with "the Queen is Dead" and Radiohead did it with "Kid A". Now Coldplay's X & Y is one of those albums. Standout tracks include "What if?", "White Shadows", "Fix You", "Talk" "The Hardest Part" and "Speed of Sound". In the tradition of the Edge, Guitarist Jonny Buckland, creates his own styles of "walls of sound". I could go on, but I should probably mention the second major event in my life, and that is the birth of my daughter.
Last Wednesday, my wife went into labor. I was really hoping my wife would go into labor in the morning, that way hopefully by night time, Our daughter would be born. But instead she went into labor at night making it one long day. We went into the hospital at around 9:30pm. The nurse doing the medication messed up and only the left side of my wife's body went numb, leaving the right side able to feel every contraction. Even the regular nurses noticed it wasn't done right. So with a contraction happening every couple of minutes, it was a long night for both of us (mostly her). Finally around 7:30am, with just 4 pushes, our daughter was born weighting in at 8'12. Pretty big baby for my wife.
Our daughter thankfully, is very healthy and has a mean appetite. I forgot how they only sleep and eat for the first couple of days. So far big brother Woogy is adjusting well, but it's only been a few days. His favorite person, Grandma, is here to give him special attention. I've always wanted a daughter, and now I'm been blessed with one.
Sunday, May 22, 2005
Absences of God
Today in aforrest's Sunday school class we discussed the U2's "Wake Up Dead Man" in comparison to the absences of God. Indeed the U2 song illustrates the frustrations a non-believer might feel when he doesn't see God with all the suffering in the world.
With that in mind, I had a rather trying week at my job trying to rationalize the presences of God. I had a little 5 year old boy come into my office for a intake( This is when I first meet a client and try to set them up with mental health services. Since I have no available staff due to cuts in Medicaid, I will personally work with this kid.). Anyway, the foster mom of this child was telling me about this 5 year old's abusive past. He had his two front teeth knocked out by his mom's boyfriend when he was 3. The doctor says that he will not have his teeth back until he is about 10. I then saw this boy's back which had cigarette burns on it (apparently he must have been a human ash tray).
Being the father of a three year old, I couldn't make sense of why would anyone do that, or what kind of a mother would allow that to happen to her child? The boy even cowarded when I reached over him to grab a pen. I've been in this business for 5 years and this is one of the more worst cases of child abuse I've seen. The system hasn't really helped this kid much either. They have shuffled him around 6 foster homes.
About the only good I could see to come out of this horrible situation is this boy's foster parents seem to be good people. They have had this child for a year and he seems to be making progress. His temper tantrums are now only a hour when they use to be 4-5 hours. Sadly, this child wants to return to his mother which is not looking like a possiblilty.
Ontop of this, I had a visit from a 13 year girl that I wrote about earlier. When she was younger she was rapped by her uncle. Usually kids that have endured a rape grow up to be a nun or the opposite. She has turned the opposite and is trying to draw the attention of older men. She is no longer able to make eye contact like she used to.
With all this going on, it does make you wonder where is God is all this. I can't fix these kids, why does God permit such things to happen? Well if he didn't, I wouldn't have a job. Maybe I'd be neutering animals (you can make a good living doing that). I can only guess that there is a greater plan here and it makes it more of a reason to seek Him.
With that in mind, I had a rather trying week at my job trying to rationalize the presences of God. I had a little 5 year old boy come into my office for a intake( This is when I first meet a client and try to set them up with mental health services. Since I have no available staff due to cuts in Medicaid, I will personally work with this kid.). Anyway, the foster mom of this child was telling me about this 5 year old's abusive past. He had his two front teeth knocked out by his mom's boyfriend when he was 3. The doctor says that he will not have his teeth back until he is about 10. I then saw this boy's back which had cigarette burns on it (apparently he must have been a human ash tray).
Being the father of a three year old, I couldn't make sense of why would anyone do that, or what kind of a mother would allow that to happen to her child? The boy even cowarded when I reached over him to grab a pen. I've been in this business for 5 years and this is one of the more worst cases of child abuse I've seen. The system hasn't really helped this kid much either. They have shuffled him around 6 foster homes.
About the only good I could see to come out of this horrible situation is this boy's foster parents seem to be good people. They have had this child for a year and he seems to be making progress. His temper tantrums are now only a hour when they use to be 4-5 hours. Sadly, this child wants to return to his mother which is not looking like a possiblilty.
Ontop of this, I had a visit from a 13 year girl that I wrote about earlier. When she was younger she was rapped by her uncle. Usually kids that have endured a rape grow up to be a nun or the opposite. She has turned the opposite and is trying to draw the attention of older men. She is no longer able to make eye contact like she used to.
With all this going on, it does make you wonder where is God is all this. I can't fix these kids, why does God permit such things to happen? Well if he didn't, I wouldn't have a job. Maybe I'd be neutering animals (you can make a good living doing that). I can only guess that there is a greater plan here and it makes it more of a reason to seek Him.
Tuesday, May 17, 2005
My operation
Today I met with a Urologist about getting myself fixed. I wasn't I knew what to expect. As it turns out I had to watch a 25 year old video on the subject that sounded very much like a old sex ed movie. With the raising cost of healthcare, you would think they could afford to update the video to at least a decade ago. I had to spend 20 minutes listening to real life couple Steve and Carol discuss "being fixed" and how it didn't effect their sex life. To say it was cheesey would be a understatement. I wonder how this nice couple is doing now?
After the rather entertaining movie on why Steve and Carol don't want anymore kids, I met my doctor. Thinking it was going to be a rather manly man- grizzled old doctor that had been doing these kind of things half his life, I was pleasantly surprised to find it was a nice young lady about the same age as my wife. Well this is definitely off to a interesting start.
After the rather entertaining movie on why Steve and Carol don't want anymore kids, I met my doctor. Thinking it was going to be a rather manly man- grizzled old doctor that had been doing these kind of things half his life, I was pleasantly surprised to find it was a nice young lady about the same age as my wife. Well this is definitely off to a interesting start.
This weeks picks
This weeks picks are:
Glen Phillips "Winter pays for Summer"
If you are a fan of"Toad the Wet Sprocket" this is the album for you. After a horrible first album, Glen is back with the honest singing and song writing that made Toad a good band.
Joy Electric "Robot Rock"
This album was a big hit nowhere. It probably would have been if anyone outside of Ronnie Martin's fanbase heard it.
Charaltans UK "Melting Pot"
A greatest hits of a band that came out around the time and place the "Stone Roses' hit it big. But unlike the Roses, this band is still around and putting out albums
Glen Phillips "Winter pays for Summer"
If you are a fan of"Toad the Wet Sprocket" this is the album for you. After a horrible first album, Glen is back with the honest singing and song writing that made Toad a good band.
Joy Electric "Robot Rock"
This album was a big hit nowhere. It probably would have been if anyone outside of Ronnie Martin's fanbase heard it.
Charaltans UK "Melting Pot"
A greatest hits of a band that came out around the time and place the "Stone Roses' hit it big. But unlike the Roses, this band is still around and putting out albums
Sunday, May 08, 2005
Child abuse
The other day my boss reminded me I've been at my job for 5 years. I started as a case worker for abused child with mental illness. Some of the kids that I've met and worked with, I'll never forget. Most of them are craving attention, but there are some with awful stories to tell-stories of abuse, neglect and rape. I remember about a year into it I started with an 8 year old girl that had been raped by her uncle multi times. She was a nice girl and I could never figure out why someone would do that to her. I just didn't make since. In my field, you really see people at their worst. So I began writing a little :
He's already been inside me
and I know it doesn't feel well
I keep looking in the mirror
but it's hard to tell
He's already been inside me
and I would stop him if I could
nothing feels the way it should
Would he hold me in his arms again
and wipe away my tears
Or has he already taken my best years
Fortuately, the girl I wrote this about is doing better. We recently closed her case. It took four years of therapy and a loving grandma, but she is doing better.
He's already been inside me
and I know it doesn't feel well
I keep looking in the mirror
but it's hard to tell
He's already been inside me
and I would stop him if I could
nothing feels the way it should
Would he hold me in his arms again
and wipe away my tears
Or has he already taken my best years
Fortuately, the girl I wrote this about is doing better. We recently closed her case. It took four years of therapy and a loving grandma, but she is doing better.
Friday, May 06, 2005
This week's picks
10,000 Maniacs " Camp Fire Songs"
Long before Natalie Merchant was in the poster child for adult contemporary, she was in a folk rock band consisting of college professors called 10,000 Maniacs. This hippie bunch wrote songs about social issues such as illiteracy, alcoholism, violence of television, teen pregnancy, and corporate creed. My personal favorite "What's the Matter Here?" is a song about a bystander who sits ideally by why her neighbors abuse the crap out of their child (this song actually inspired me to get into Social Work).
All of 10,000 maniacs best comprise "Camp Fire Songs" first disc. The second disc is full of B-sides, rarities, and demos. Duets with Michael Stipe on "To Sir with Love" and David Byrne "Let the Mystery Be" highlight this disc. Also featured are covers of Morrissey's "Everyday is like Sunday", David Bowie "Starman" and Tom Wait's "Hope That You Don't Fall in Love with Me".
sadly, founding member and guartarist Robert Buck has passed, which means no reunion tour. This means we will have to continue to listen to Natalie rack up the top 40 hits like the over- thankful "Thank You", and the bleak sounding "Carnival".
Long before Natalie Merchant was in the poster child for adult contemporary, she was in a folk rock band consisting of college professors called 10,000 Maniacs. This hippie bunch wrote songs about social issues such as illiteracy, alcoholism, violence of television, teen pregnancy, and corporate creed. My personal favorite "What's the Matter Here?" is a song about a bystander who sits ideally by why her neighbors abuse the crap out of their child (this song actually inspired me to get into Social Work).
All of 10,000 maniacs best comprise "Camp Fire Songs" first disc. The second disc is full of B-sides, rarities, and demos. Duets with Michael Stipe on "To Sir with Love" and David Byrne "Let the Mystery Be" highlight this disc. Also featured are covers of Morrissey's "Everyday is like Sunday", David Bowie "Starman" and Tom Wait's "Hope That You Don't Fall in Love with Me".
sadly, founding member and guartarist Robert Buck has passed, which means no reunion tour. This means we will have to continue to listen to Natalie rack up the top 40 hits like the over- thankful "Thank You", and the bleak sounding "Carnival".
Sunday, May 01, 2005
May 1st- this weeks picks
New Order"Waiting for the Sirens"
On Wednesday I went out and picked up the new New Order- "Waiting of the Sirens". What a great ablum. Peter Hook gives his signature bass and Benard Sumner voice hasn't changed or lost it's innocent appeal. This one is a little more dance sound than 2000's "Get Ready" but still very fresh sounding. It's worth the title track alone.
Social Distortion "Sex, Love, and Rock and Roll"
I've been listening a lot to my favorite hard- luck-punk band for some reason. Social D was the first concert I ever went to- back in 1990. They put on a great show. Filled with raw energy that only Mike Ness's guitar can create. Their comeback record picks up where they left off (before their drummer died). These guys were living the punk life long before Green Day died their hair.
On Wednesday I went out and picked up the new New Order- "Waiting of the Sirens". What a great ablum. Peter Hook gives his signature bass and Benard Sumner voice hasn't changed or lost it's innocent appeal. This one is a little more dance sound than 2000's "Get Ready" but still very fresh sounding. It's worth the title track alone.
Social Distortion "Sex, Love, and Rock and Roll"
I've been listening a lot to my favorite hard- luck-punk band for some reason. Social D was the first concert I ever went to- back in 1990. They put on a great show. Filled with raw energy that only Mike Ness's guitar can create. Their comeback record picks up where they left off (before their drummer died). These guys were living the punk life long before Green Day died their hair.
What is old is new again
This afternoon I spent some time in my favorite store- Borders- drinking coffee and reading the latest issue "Q" maginize. If you don't know, Q is everything in British music. This has been a magnize that I've read that successfully predicted the rise of Coldplay and with other great bands- Muse and Keane to name a few. What Q is predicting now is bands like Block Party, Kaiser Chefs, and the Bravery will take their place along side Coldplay of being great bands from Britain.
The only problem is all these bands sound the same- retro 80's. Like Interpol (who shamelessly sounds like Joy Division), the Killers, and Franz Ferdand, these up and coming bands are riding the retro waves of success. What they will find is that this wave will become stagnate.
These retro bands will find it difficult to make a second album because everything has already been done. There is nowhere else to take the "New new wave" sound. New Wave bands in the 80's discovered that (that's why they are not around any more). As long as these bands continue in this direction, they shouldn't plan on having a long career. It's ok to be influencend by New Wave, just don't build your career on it.
Like all phases of music, in a year or two, this retro phase will end. The secret to staying power is to be edgy and try something new. Forge a new sound (that is what music needs). Build off and take your sound in a different direction. This will keep your fans guess and eager to see what you put out next. That is what art is. Andy Warhol didn't go back and do the Mona Lisa. Van Gogh didn't rip off Monet. Be original. I don't mean to sound preachy (feel free to listen to whatever you want to), but life is too short for bad music.
The only problem is all these bands sound the same- retro 80's. Like Interpol (who shamelessly sounds like Joy Division), the Killers, and Franz Ferdand, these up and coming bands are riding the retro waves of success. What they will find is that this wave will become stagnate.
These retro bands will find it difficult to make a second album because everything has already been done. There is nowhere else to take the "New new wave" sound. New Wave bands in the 80's discovered that (that's why they are not around any more). As long as these bands continue in this direction, they shouldn't plan on having a long career. It's ok to be influencend by New Wave, just don't build your career on it.
Like all phases of music, in a year or two, this retro phase will end. The secret to staying power is to be edgy and try something new. Forge a new sound (that is what music needs). Build off and take your sound in a different direction. This will keep your fans guess and eager to see what you put out next. That is what art is. Andy Warhol didn't go back and do the Mona Lisa. Van Gogh didn't rip off Monet. Be original. I don't mean to sound preachy (feel free to listen to whatever you want to), but life is too short for bad music.
Friday, April 29, 2005
The Da Vinci Code
For Christmas, I was given a great book to read from my sister called "Angel and Demons." I quickly noticed that it was by the same author who wrote the very controversial "Da Vinci Code", but I didn't have anything else to read so I decided to give it a try.
As it turns out, "Angels and Demons" is one of the best books I've ever read. It's fast paced, suspense filled, and a real page turner. In a nut shell, it's about a group called the "Illuminti" who are trying to blow up the Vatican in the middle of a pope election. The main character, Robert Langton, races around Rome trying to stop the murder of cardinals, and a bomb.
After reading this book I decided to read the next book in this serious-"the Da Vinci Code". Yes I decided to venture were no Christian had gone before and see what the big deal was. As you know, Rome has called for a ban on the book, as well as many Christians. My opinion on this book is that it is ridiculous, and if so much attention wasn't paid to it, it would probably go unnoticed.
The controversy comes from the plot that Robert Langton stumbles on to proof that Christ was married to Mary Magdalene and they had a daughter and that Mary is the "Holy Grail". This idea was borrowed from a book 20 years ago called "Holy Blood, Holy Grail" and offers no physical proof what so ever. If this book shakes your faith, than you never had much faith. I found this book more ridiculous than controversial. You should know that nowhere in this book does it state that Christ was never the son of God or that he died for our sins.
If anyone would be offended in this book, it would be the Opus Dei- a far right wing sect of the Catholic church. In the book, the church dispatches a albino monk (yes, that's right, an albino monk) to kill Langton before the secret gets out.
With a movie coming out next year directed by Ron Howard and starring Tom Hanks, it is likely that the "Da Vinci code" will get more attention. Frankly I don't see what the big deal is. This is clearly fiction. Mildly entertaining at that.
As it turns out, "Angels and Demons" is one of the best books I've ever read. It's fast paced, suspense filled, and a real page turner. In a nut shell, it's about a group called the "Illuminti" who are trying to blow up the Vatican in the middle of a pope election. The main character, Robert Langton, races around Rome trying to stop the murder of cardinals, and a bomb.
After reading this book I decided to read the next book in this serious-"the Da Vinci Code". Yes I decided to venture were no Christian had gone before and see what the big deal was. As you know, Rome has called for a ban on the book, as well as many Christians. My opinion on this book is that it is ridiculous, and if so much attention wasn't paid to it, it would probably go unnoticed.
The controversy comes from the plot that Robert Langton stumbles on to proof that Christ was married to Mary Magdalene and they had a daughter and that Mary is the "Holy Grail". This idea was borrowed from a book 20 years ago called "Holy Blood, Holy Grail" and offers no physical proof what so ever. If this book shakes your faith, than you never had much faith. I found this book more ridiculous than controversial. You should know that nowhere in this book does it state that Christ was never the son of God or that he died for our sins.
If anyone would be offended in this book, it would be the Opus Dei- a far right wing sect of the Catholic church. In the book, the church dispatches a albino monk (yes, that's right, an albino monk) to kill Langton before the secret gets out.
With a movie coming out next year directed by Ron Howard and starring Tom Hanks, it is likely that the "Da Vinci code" will get more attention. Frankly I don't see what the big deal is. This is clearly fiction. Mildly entertaining at that.
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