The Working Man!

Saturday, February 17, 2007

So it's been like a month and a half since I've updated… I've been kind of busy. I'm a working man now. I was hired on as a project estimator for a company called Venture in Dallas. I interned for them previously and am now working there full-time. It's been a crazy couple of weeks because I've been doing so much training. So far, I love my job. I can see myself being happy in this field. If you want to hear more about my work… feel free to ask me. I will spare the rest of you the boring read. I haven't been doing much besides working and sleeping... and the occasional going out.

Recently I got to hang out with a friend I met while I was in Paris. Dave is from Ireland. He was visiting some friends in Texas, so we went out for a few drinks. I took Heather along and we had a blast. It's been two years since I've seen Dave last.

This past weekend Heather and I went to Lubbock to visit some friends. Levi came down from St. Louis (his sisters came up too) and Jeff drove up from Midland. Sabrina came up from Houston. Heather and I stayed with Kelly and I got to hang out with my old roommates as well. It was great to see everyone. I actually do miss the LBK!

I recently read a book called Raise High the Roof Beam, Carpenters, by J.D. Salinger. Oddly enough, it had nothing to do with carpenters. It was a very good read. It's about a guy named Buddy who takes leave from the Army during World War I to attend his brother's wedding (that never really takes place). His encounters are very descriptive and enjoyable.

Currently, I am finishing up Travels with Charley, by John Steinbeck. It's interesting. It's about Steinbeck's 10,000 mile journey across America with his dog, Charley. In the book he describes the desire to see the land. He says, "I've lost the flavor and taste and sound of it. I'm going to learn about my own country." I'll let you know what I think when I'm done.

I am not sure what is next on the list. I want to re-read Bridge to Terabithia, by Katherine Patterson. It was one of my favorites as a kid. Disney is coming out with the movie version – I hope they don't screw it up.

Music I've been listening to:

A guy a work gave me a Carlos Santana CD. I've also been listening to Colbie Caillat http://www.myspace.com/colbiecaillat. She's the #1 unsigned artist on MySpace right now. (listen to Realize). She does a lot of collaboration with a guy named Jason Reeves http://www.myspace.com/jasonreeves. He's pretty good too. Listen to Photographs and Memories. Other than that, I've been listening to some Mat Kearney, The Postal Service, and Green River Ordinance. If you have anything new you've been listening to… I'd love to hear it.

Is everyone else tired of turning on the radio and TV and hearing about Anna Nicole Smith?!? Do an effin DNA test and figure it out. End of story. I'm tired of her story trumping real news…. like Britney shaving her head (I am seriously just kidding), but I did see a picture and she does look like an alien.

Okay, I am going to go do something productive with my Saturday… The Karate Kid is on ABC Family today! Heck yes!

The Unthinkable Thoughts of...

Thursday, January 04, 2007

It's nearly 5am and I am sitting in bed. I can't sleep. I just got finished reading The Unthinkable Thoughts of Jacob Green by Joshua Braff. He is the brother of actor/writer/director Zach Braff. I heard of the book through Zach and decided to pick it up a while back. I just now got the chance to sit down and read it. It was a very good read. I finished it in about four sittings. I suggest you pick it up.

I have this thing, where the book that I am currently reading becomes my favorite. I spend my time researching the author, as well as previous works and eventually move on to another book. The last book I read was Less Than Zero by Bret Easton Ellis. It was pretty weird. I am not sure what is next on my list. I want to read The Unbearable Lightness of Being by Milan Kundera, but Heather has made it very clear that if I want my book back I will have to pry it out of her cold, dead fingers. I guess I better search for a new copy. I buy a lot of books. Heather comes over and borrows them and I am lucky if I get them back. I think she's read more of my collection than I have... or damn near it.

I go in and out. Sometimes I read every night and other times I won't touch a book for weeks. I would like to get on a regular reading schedule. That is my new goal... I'll just add it to my current "List-o'-Goals" --okay, I am kidding. I don't actually have a list, but it'd be pretty cool if I did.

Speaking of Zach Braff, I saw his new movie the other night and I wasn't too impressed. I enjoyed it, but I guess I expected more. I understood going into it that it wasn't going to be another Garden State (he neither wrote nor directed this movie), but the soundtrack is kickass. definitely go pick that up. The Last Kiss Soundtrack. Braff and I share a lot of the same likes when it comes to music.

I am pretty stoked. I found The Graduate on DVD the other day for under 10 bucks. I've been looking for it for a while. I also bought The Office: Season One and Two. I watched the first season. It's pretty funny. I am looking forward to the second season. Steve Carell is a funny man.
I am interested in what you are reading/listening to/watching. Do share!

I've been pretty unproductive lately, other than helping my folks out. Since Dad had surgery everything's been kinda crazy around here. My mom needs all the help she can get. I like being able to help, and I guess it gives me the opportunity to catch up on a few things as well.
Okay, it's 5:15am. I have to go to sleep. I have a busy day tomorrow.... err today. I have a busy day today....err, kinda.

The Graduate...3 Days & Counting

Tuesday, December 19, 2006

So, I finally graduated college. Yep, 3 days ago. I just updated my profile to say "alumni" instead of full-time college student... and I am not okay with that.

If you aren't a college student... that means you are an adult. I think that is the part I am not okay with. I've been out of college for a few days now and I am having withdrawls already.
My last days in Lubbock were pretty spectacular. Dub came to town and I partied it up with some old friends. My brother and Robin came in the night before graduation. I showed them around town (and by that I mean we hit up about 4 bars). Graduation was pretty overwhelming too. I didn't think much of it until I walked into the arena and there are tons of people cheering and stuff. I guess that is what it feels like to be a rockstar... only there are a ton of other "rockstars" and we are all dressed in black robes and square caps (..and by the way, who invented the cap that you wear to graduation... it's pretty pointless). Packing up my apartment was kinda sad.

I moved back to the Dallas area today. I am gonna help take care of my pop (who just had surgery), and then I guess I'll start the job hunt. Hopefully I will find myself in graduate school somewhere soon. I've decided that college suits me all too well. I deserve to continue. I have way too many friends who have earned their degree and have started their careers... and HATE it. I don't want to be that person.

I guess I should also say that if you know of any good jobs available, please let me know. I am hoping for something to fall right into my lap. I'm being serious.
Okay, it's 4:15am. I've really gotta start a decent sleeping pattern.... maybe tomorrow.

g'night kids.

"I hope you had the time of your life..."

So, I went my entire last semester of college without blogging once. Sorry about that. I really just wanted to enjoy it and re-cap later, which I did.

Since I’ve last written a lot has happened. Nicole got married (as I mentioned in the previous blog). Her wedding was a lot of fun. I got drunk. What more can you ask for at a wedding. Grant moved to Connecticut to work for a company. He also gets to go to Europe and work for 6 months in April. I am pretty excited for him. Blake moved to Delaware for his job. He got promoted. He is still getting married in May.

TAB had a successful semester. I planned the SUB Grand Opening in September, which was a lot of fun. I booked 9 bands to play over the course of three days. We joined together with the Student Union to put the entire thing on. We also brought in SNL comedian Finesse Mitchell. It was a pretty good event. There were a few more events that I organized. Most of them went over really well. It is going to be weird not being here next semester to put on these concerts.

I just finished up my internship at the radio station. I got to do a lot of really cool stuff while working there. I got to work with the Tech Athletics Dept. to plan a segment similar to Jay-Walking on The Tonight Show. I came up with a lot of Tech Football related questions, and then one of the DJs went to the mall and asked all of the questions to random people. The questions are simple, so when they cannot answer them… it’s funny. They played a video at all of the home games. It was pretty cool to see that up on the jumbo-tron. I also got to organize an online charity auction. The station auctioned off tons of signed guitars. That was pretty cool. Towards the end of my internship I learned how to operate the boards. Overall, it was a great experience. I don’t know if I will pursue a career in radio though. It was fun while it lasted though.

I went to Dallas periodically to see the family. My Mom’s b-day was in October. I got to go home and have dinner with everyone. Heather would try to go home when I did so we could hang out. It was weird not having her here this semester. I’m glad I got to see her as much as I have though.

In November, I turned 23 years old. I had a blast. It definitely ranks up there as one of the best birthday’s ever. Heather and Vanessa came up to surprise and Brian and Jeff came into town as well. We went out a lot, and I hit on some old ladies. It was one of my finer moments. My Dad came to Lubbock on Sunday (my actual birthday) and about 17 of us went to dinner and had drinks. I am glad that my Dad got to come.

The Wednesday after my birthday I took off school/work and flew to Austin to see Shelly. I stayed at her place in the ATX. It’s the first time I’ve gotten a chance to visit since she moved there. I love hanging out in Austin. The music scene is very good. I think I would like to live there one day. When I landed, Shelly took me to dinner at this place on the lake. It was pretty cool. Over the next couple of days we went to see a band play and went to several bars. I got to hang out with Stuart and Kayla a little bit too. Shelly knows everyone in Austin, so a lot of the places we went to were free, which is always good for my pocket. I had a really good time in the ATX. That Friday I flew to Dallas for a job interview, and then back to the LBK on Monday. The following weekend Dad came again to go to the OSU vs. TECH game. We had a really good weekend.

I went back to Dallas for Thanksgiving break. I got to see all of the family and a ton of friends. When I got back I had a lot of projects/papers/presentations due, and then finals started. I had a couple of hell weeks throughout the semester, but nothing out of the norm. It was a great last semester. Dad had surgery last week, so we’ve been dealing with that lately. I am done with finals. I graduate on Saturday. My brother, Robin, and my Grandma are flying in this weekend for graduation, and to celebrate with me, and then I am heading back to D-Town and figuring out what I want to do with the rest of my life.

I am looking forward to Christmas. Steph is going to visit Phil in Europe, and then they are both coming back to the States together for Christmas. I haven’t seen Philip in a long time. I can’t wait to hear all of his stories.

I finished reading Blue Like Jazz a little while ago. It was a great book. I’ve just recently started Less Than Zero by Bret Easton Ellis. So far – so good. You should also check out Green River Ordinance. They are from the DFW area and well worth your time.

Ahh, I cannot believe I am done with college (well, at least my undergrad). It’s been a great run. I don’t regret any of it… the good, the bad… it was all worth it. Thank you to those of you who stuck around and were there for me. Especially to the ones that have made an impact on my life (as most of you have). I appreciate it all.

Time to start the next chapter…

Endings & New Beginnings

The Update: Since I last updated a lot has been going on. D-Fest in Tulsa was awesome. I had a blast hanging out with Heather, Nick, Keith, and the guys from Gooding in Oklahoma. After that I made a long trip from Tulsa to Lubbock (which was not too much fun …but I made it!). I got back to Lubbock and immediately went to see Stephanie. She had just gotten back from Europe. I was excited to hear about her travels.

The following Monday I started my Rec Class, which was pretty cool. The TA was laid back, so I didn’t mind going to class. I did not work at the radio station much while I was taking my summer II class, but my boss said it was not a big deal. He was on vacation a lot during that time.

The next few weeks were full of partying and hanging out with all of my friends who would soon graduate. We had to move out of the apartment @ University Courtyard on the 31st, and Kris and I could not move into the new place until the fifth, so we were in limbo for a few days. We ended up getting a hotel room. Moving sucked as always, but we survived. I really like the new place. It is a little smaller, but it definitely has its perks. Kelly and I live right next door to each other, so that is a lot of fun. I met her new Roommate Lacie and she is a really fun girl. We’ve all been hanging out a lot.

Last week Heather and Catherine came back into town for their last two days of class before they graduate. They have both been gone for the past 10-weeks working. It was a lot of fun having them home. They stayed with me, so it was a full house. Philip also got back from Camp and he ended up staying a week. He leaves for Austria soon, so I am glad I got to see him.

Graduation was the 12th. It was the day I'd hoped would never come. Practically everyone I know graduated and is leaving soon. It is so crazy! This next semester is going to be a lot different for me, but I still have lots of great friends here. A lot of people still do not have a set plan (like where they are moving or where they are going to be working), but I know everything will work out for them. We all partied for 5 days straight. It was crazy. I am convinced my body hates me now. Heather left to go back to Tulsa and I miss that kid already.

This weekend I am heading to Dallas with Grant. Nicole is getting married on Saturday and everyone is going to be there. I cannot believe it is already time for the wedding, but I guess time flies when you are having fun. Nicole and Tim will be happy together. They are probably the only “college couple” that I know that is a healthy couple. They are going to Jamaica for their honeymoon. I am also excited to see Vanessa. I have not been home in a while so I am really jones-ing to see my folks.

Well, I’ve been babbling on for a while. I am almost done with my book and I am going to start reading Blue Like Jazz by Donald Miller. I keep hearing it is a great book. I have also been listening to Blue October lately. They have a sad song called Congratulations that is really good. Check it out.

Get a hold of me and let me know what is up with you!

Greetings from my pit-stop in D-Town

Last weekend when I was in Dallas, I went to Jared and Whitney’s wedding. I had such a good time. Typically weddings are boring, but I really did have a good time. Hollie was my date to the wedding and afterwards we went to the Bird Bash with my Dad. The Bird Bash is a big ‘ol BBQ that my dad and his hunter friends put on every year. It’s great. They get together and cook all of the birds that they hunt throughout the different seasons… it’s also a great excuse to drink a lot.

For the past week my cousin Randy has been in Lubbock with me. I had a good time hanging out with him. It was interesting trying to keep a 16 year-old entertained the entire time, but I think he had a good time. He’s a really cool kid. I did feel bad because when I was working at the radio station or at the ATLC he just had to hang around the house. I guess between my roommates, his guitar, and the computer he had enough entertainment while I was gone.

Saturday I was at X-Fest (Rock Show that FMX puts on) all day. This year Rob Zombie headlined, and Anthrax and Powerman 5000 played, as well as a few other bands. It was a blast. Basically since I am interning with the station I had to do a lot of promotional stuff, but it didn’t take up too much time and Randy and I got to enjoy the show. I must say Zombie puts on one helluva energetic show.

Sunday I drove into Dallas to drop my cousin off and hand out with the folks for a couple nights. It’s nice being here during the week. Tonight I didn’t feel the need to go out. Some friends called, but I just stayed in and had dinner with the ‘rents. Tomorrow morning I am headed up to OKC for a couple days, and then up to Tulsa for the rest of the week. I am hella excited. I get to see Heather! and D.Fest is gonna rock my socks off again!

After that, I have to go back to the LBK because summer school starts and I have to work. This next month is going to be weird. I have a ton of friends graduating this August and then they are all headed out to start their lives in the real world… Sometimes I wish I would have just busted ass and graduated in August, but I am glad I did it the way that I did. I am looking forward to another fall in Lubbock. Come December who the hell knows where I’ll be. Hopefully it will be somewhere good.

Other than that… I am getting tired of turning on the TV and seeing crap about the Star Jones and the View scandal. Who cares? No one watches that show anyway. I went to see The Omen in theaters. It’s okay. If I were you, I’d wait till it came out on DVD if you insist on seeing it. I have been obsessively watching Hogan Knows Best on VH1. I know, it’s sad… but something about that show intrigues me (maybe it’s the hot daughter) … and besides that, we are dealing with summer programming… what else is there to watch?

I have a crick in my neck that won’t go away. I wish I had a muscle relaxer and fifth of tequila haha.

G’night friends.

Rockin' out in June...

It feels like time is flying by. I blink and I am in the next month. I have been hella busy these past couple weeks. I am interning for Clear Channel Radio at the Rock Station here in Lubbock and I love it. The people that I work with at the station are cool. I have not gotten to know them that well yet, but I enjoy being there as much as possible.

Work at the ATLC is pretty boring and it does not pay well, but it also isn’t very demanding so I guess it is okay. I am starting to get to know the people I work with a little better. I have been busy with TAB stuff as well. I have been planning the Student Union Grand Opening that is taking place in September. So far, I have booked a few bands to play. Nick is going to play one day and then he is also going to open for Tyler Hilton on the last day. It is a 3-day event. On the first couple of days there will be a ribbon cutting ceremony, live music, free food, and (Saturday Night Live Comedian) Finesse Mitchell. On the last day, Nick and Tyler will perform in an outdoor concert that is free for all students. It should be a lot of fun.

This past month has been so weird. I think this will be my first full summer in Lubbock. I normally go back and work in Dallas over the summer (mainly because the pay is much better in d-town and plus my family is there)… However, I got the internship here and plus many of my friends are graduating this August, so I decided to stay here.

I did have to say bye to a couple friends already and that was weird. Blake left for Indiana already. I talked to him not long ago and he is settling in. I am going to miss that kid. Heather is working in Tulsa now. She is getting a taste of the real world, but she is doing great. I still talk to her all the time, but it is different not having her here. I miss her a lot. We hung out everyday her last few weeks here. I am still adjusting to that change. Catherine is in LA now working for a company out there. We had fun partying it up before they all left though. When August gets here, I will have to say a whole lot more good-byes.

The next couple of months should be pretty busy. This coming weekend I am going to Jared and Whitney’s wedding in Dallas. It is going to be crazy. This summer I have a few friends getting married. It is weird to think that we are at that stage in our lives.

My cousin Randy is going to come back up to Lubbock with me for about a week to hang out, which is going to be nice. I am glad that I can give him the chance to get away from DFW for a little bit. He is a good kid.

At the beginning of July I am going to OKC to stay with Nick and Keith and see Gooding in a 4th of July Music Festival there. After that, I am going to go hang out with Heather in Tulsa for a few days. Then Keith, Nick, Gooding, and the fellas are all headed over to Tulsa as well and we are staying in a hotel for the (Diversafest) D-Fest Music Conference and Festival. I am looking forward to D-Fest. I went last year with these guys and it was a blast. It is a real insight to the music industry. It consists of two days of music, 10 stages, music conference panels, 100 artist showcases, clinician workshops, and a tradeshow. Heather is going to go to the concerts with us. Nick is playing and Gooding is one of the bands headlining the whole thing. It should be a great time.

Ah, other than that… I guess it is pretty much same ole – same ole on my end. If you are into comedy... I have been listening to a guy named Daniel Tosh lately. He is so funny. You should definitely check him out and pick up his cd/dvd.

Take it easy people... there's no need not to!

Just a little bit about March, April, and May!

Man, it has been forever since I updated this thing… sorry about that. I am not even sure who still reads this… but thanks for keeping up!

Let’s see, the end of March was great. Chris and Amanda got married. Kris and I both were in the wedding. It was a lot of fun, but it was also crazy seeing one of our high school buddies taking the looong walk. I wish them the best!

April went by pretty quick. I was really busy with school. I also planned and hosted a Casino Night with TAB on April 6th. There were about 200 people there. It was awesome. I had a lot of fun putting the whole thing together. The event even drew a little press.

Around the 15th, I went with Vanessa to see Matt Nathanson in Dallas. It was awesome. I love seeing that guy live. He is a lot of fun. I came home for Easter to hang out with the family. It was good seeing everyone. My Grandma moved into a new house, so it isn’t the same anymore… but I guess we will make plenty of good memories in this new house.

April 28th Kelly and I drove to Dallas for the weekend to hang out and go see a couple of bands. We saw Wideawake and Bob Schneider @ the Granada that Friday, and we saw Mat Kearney and Matt Wertz on Saturday. Friday night was also Vanessa’s birthday so we went and hung out on lower Greenville.

Then I headed back up to school to start finals… it was another crazy semester. I procrastinated like crazy, but I got everything done and made really good grades. My parents flew in the beginning of May for this honor society thing that I was inducted into. That was pretty cool. I am glad my parents made it up.

I came back down to Dallas on Sunday, May 7th. I am here in Dallas for almost a week. Tuesday me and the family went to the Rangers game. Wednesday I hung out with Stephanie because she is leaving soon to study abroad in Norway for the summer.

Today I went with Heather and some other friends to see The Damnwells and The Fray @ Gypsy Tea Room. It was a great show! I really miss living in Dallas because of all the good music.

Tomorrow afternoon I am going to the Byron Nelson Classic PGA Tour with my Pops… and tomorrow Night, Vanessa and I are going to Taste of Addison to see The Fray (again) and Hootie and the Blow Fish.

Saturday I am going to head back up to school. A few of my buddies are graduating and I want to hang with them before they start their journey into “the real world.” It is so weird. Blake got a job in Indiana, Heather got a job in Tulsa, Dub is heading to Dallas (and getting married in aug)… it so weird. Everyone is growing up and moving on.

This summer I will be in Lubbock (for the most part) interning at Clear Channel’s KFMX 94.5, The Rock Station… and working part time for the Advanced Technology Learning Center (computer lab on campus). I am gonna try to take it easy this summer and not do too much other than that.

WHAT TO LISTEN TO:
The Fray, Schuyler Fisk, KT Tunstall, Matt Nathanson, Brendan James, Sanders Bohlke, Mat Kearney, Amost Lee, Gooding, and Joshua Radin (google it!)

WHAT TO READ:
I have been reading a little bit of Kahlil Gibran (a famous Christian Lebanese-American author, poet and artist.) ... and I am still trying to finish up James Frey's A Million Little Pieces... and Killing Yourself to Live, 85% of a True Story by Chuck Klosterman.

I hope all is well with you. Let me know how things are going!

SPRING BREAK 2006!

The month of March is winding down. It seems like this semester is going fast. I am sure all of that will change when finals time comes around. That time of the year always drags ass. The beginning of the month was full of tests and papers, and a couple of events for T.A.B.

I just got back from Spring Break, and I must say that it was a blast. Hollie, Nathan, and Lacy drove up here from Dallas on Thursday the 9th, and stayed the whole weekend. It was a lot of fun hanging out with them. I left outta the LBK and headed to Oklahoma on Saturday morning. I stayed with Nick and Keith, which is always a good time. I hung out with Nicole and Tim as well while I was there. I have not seen them since December. They have been hella busy getting ready for the wedding.

Saturday, Keith and I went to Coach’s (the bar Nicole works at) and had a few drink and then we met up with Nick and headed to Bricktown Brewery to see Gooding (goodingband.com) play. I have not seen Gooding and the fellas since the last time I was in OKC. They rocked the house, as always. The next afternoon Keith and I met up with them for lunch at their hotel, and then went back to the house to hang out. Sunday night I went to dinner with Nicole at Yellow Tail, the place Tim works. After that, we headed to Tulsa to meet up with Nick and Keith at Cain’s. Nick played a set and then we watched another band play… and then I had to head home to my folk’s house.

Monday some friends came and picked me up and we headed down to South Padre Island for the week. I had a really good time hanging out on the island! We did tons of partying and a little relaxing on the beach. The weather started out kind of gloomy, but quickly changed for the better. I met Ace and Alton from the Real World. Amanda and Alden came down from Texas State and I hung out with them one night. I met a ton of people from all over. It was a great week. I got back to Dallas Thursday night and hung out with my friends and family until Monday. While I was in Dallas, we went out a few times, and went out for Nathan’s 23rd birthday! I got back to the LBK around 4:45pm. My Senior Spring Break is officially over. I did a lot of traveling, but it was all worth it. The people that I got to hang out with and the experiences that were had were some of the best!

Kris and I are headed to Dallas again this coming weekend. One of our best friends from high school is getting married on Saturday. We are both in the wedding, so we have to go pick up our tuxes and stuff… I hate wearing tuxedos, but I guess sometimes you just gotta do what you gotta do.

Ahhhh….. back to the daily grind!

Give me a shout!

February Fun!

It has been a little over a month since I have updated this thing… I have been busy with school. I recently finished a book that was broken down in essay form but as a package was the memoir of a man’s life. Have you ever heard of David Sedaris? He is a funny… uncanny writer. I must say that in some parts I was like “whoa, what in the hell is this,” and in other parts I found myself extremely interested in this man’s eccentric life. I guess because it is so far from my own. I want to write a memoir, but I am afraid my memoir might be lacking.

The first weekend in February, I went to Dallas to visit. My parents went on vacation for a week, and I wanted to see them before they left. I had a blast in Dallas, as always. I went with some friends to Cuba Libre and to Lower Greenville, which has become a staple for any decent Dallas visit. I got to spend some time with the folks. They celebrated their 25th wedding anniversary in Hawaii over Valentine’s Day. They said they had a blast and it was beautiful weather (besides the morning rain showers… Mom wasn’t too fond of them).

The following weekend we booked a cabin up in the mountains in Ruidoso, New Mexico. Seven of us went up for the weekend to get away from Lubbock. It was a good time. My three roommates went, so it was good to spend some quality time with them. I guess that whenever you live with someone you often grow a little distant, although I do believe that roommates are a whole lot closer than friends are, or at least in my situation. It was awesome just getting away with some close friends for the weekend. We checked into the cabin on Friday afternoon and partied it up all weekend. The cabin had a hot tub. it was kind of small, but it made for a lot of fun.

Last weekend was my roommate, Kris’ birthday. Ten of us went out to dinner and then headed back over here to play some drinking games and hang out. Looking back, I am glad that we opted not to go to the bar, and instead stayed in and had a blast. Kris turned 23 years old. I cannot believe that we are all getting so old!

I joined the TECH ACTIVITES BOARD (T.A.B) on campus a few weeks back and I effin’ love it! Basically, it is a group of about 20, and we plan and promote different events that take place on campus (welcome week, speakers, comedians, and free movies). I am on a committee that is planning an After Hours Coffee House Series. I booked a couple of local people to play next Tuesday. It should be a cool atmosphere... live music and coffee and stuff. The week after that T.A.B is hosting an open-mic night. I am also heading-up a committee for a Casino Night. I am in the process of getting all of that booked. I enjoy working with this organization and it a decent resume builder.

Next weekend I am going to go back to Dallas. It has been about a month since I have been home and plus I want to see Bob Schneider in concert. He is playing on Friday, and a couple of my friends from home are going to go! I am looking forward to it! School is starting to kick my ass again.

The Daily Grind...

We are about to start our third (and first full week of classes) … the past couple week have been shortened for holidays and whatnot. This semester seems to be starting out very slow. I have a job interview this Wednesday. I applied for another “on-campus” job in the BA. Tons of people apply for this job because it is one of the most flexible ones that is offered. So, around 100 people applied and they will fill about 20 spots. I probably have no chance in hell, but I will try anyway. I need a job pretty badly.

Nicole and I have been talking a lot more lately... She and Tim got engaged over winter break. They are having their wedding in August… the same month as Dub and Holly’s wedding. Blake and Stephanie got engaged around New Year’s… and Jared and Whitney are getting married sometime this summer. It is so weird to think that so many of my friends are approaching marriage. I mean, I think all of those couples will definitely be happy… I just cannot believe that part in our lives is almost here. I am in no way… shape… or form ready for something like that. Big props to them though.

Speaking of marriage… my parents are celebrating their 25th wedding anniversary in Hawaii next month. They are going for one week. I think that is pretty cool. I am proud of my folks.

I think I am gonna go home the first weekend in February to see my folks before they leave… and hang out with some friends from back home. I haven’t been back in the LBK that long, but I already am starting to miss Dallas a lot.

The second weekend in February a bunch of my friends and I are going to Ruidoso, NM to go skiing for the weekend. We are renting a cabin up there (as we did freshman year) and staying for the weekend. Needless to say… my next couple of weeks are going to be pretty darn busy.

until next time, keep it real!

BACK TO THE LBK!

SPRING SEMESTER 2006 STARTED TODAY!

It is weird to me that I have been here for 3 and a half years! Heather and I sat down the other day and went through a lot of her pictures and albums, and I had a blast just kicking back and rehashing freshman, sophomore, and junior years. It is not over yet though. I still have to bust my butt until I graduate.

The winter break was awesome! I had such a good time. Hollie and Elisha both had birthdays, and I got to hang out with Vanessa a lot. Nathan moved to Rockwall so we got to see each other and hang out a lot. Kelly is back from Europe! Grant came into town and we went to the bar. Actually, I went to the bar a lot over break! I saw shelly for about a minute. She graduated from A&M and I am so proud of her! She had a graduation lunch that Andrew and I attended. Lacy and Michael moved into a house in Dallas. Their house looks great, and I am really proud of them. I hung out with Jessica, Jason, and Jennifer over break too… and got to see Amanda for about a minute before she went back to San Marcos. I miss old mesquite friends.

Christmas was great. I had a good time hanging out with my family. It was very much needed. I received some good gifts for the holidays and gave a few too (which is always my favorite part). My grandma sold her house in Lewisville, so the holidays are going to be so different from now on.

New Year’s Eve was a blast. A ton of us went out to Gilley’s in Dallas to see Jack Ingram Play. We had dinner there and then proceeded to get wasted the rest of the night.

On the 2nd, Texas Tech played in the Cotton Bowl. My dad got us tickets, which was quite a surprise. Dad, My brother, Grant, and I went to the game. We lost, but I still had a great time.

I got back up here on the 8th. We had a BACK TO SCHOOL BASH over @ Heather and James’ place. It was fun. My classes so far seem okay. I hope so… I need to make the grades that I made last semester… that would make me proud.

See you cool kids around!

"I'm a Riot, You're an Effin Riot! Get it?"

Fall 2005 is OVER! There has been a lot going on lately. I have been hella busy with school: finals… papers… projects… it’s really been kicking my butt. However, that is all over now. My grades are looking good and I am very proud of myself.

Lets see… what have you missed…? Thanksgiving was good. I got to spend some time with the fam and friends. We all went out for Jordan’s 22 and got hammered in Dallas. When we got back to school my 3 weeks of hell began, but there was a lot of fun partying going on in there somewhere. Carol of Lights was pretty cool. The bar afterwards was waayy cooler.

I have been reading a lot lately… and coincidentally sleeping a lot too… nothing like a good book to put my ass to sleep. Every time I read a book… or re read a book it becomes my favorite. There are so many on my list to read, and I really do enjoy that. If you have any books to recommend let me know.

There is so much changing. I have friends graduating from college this semester…I have friends coming back to the US, after traveling and studying all over… and I have friends getting engaged. One friend is getting married in less than a month. It’s all very unreal. My friends are growing up right before my eyes. I am not ready yet.

I have done some of my Christmas shopping, but not nearly all of it. I am kind of broke. It’s hard buying gifts for other people when you are flat-ass broke.

I just got back to the Dallas area tonight. It feels good to be home, but I know I am going to miss the LBK by the end of the week. I know things are going to be so different whenever I get back… and I am not ready to think about that yet.

If you are reading this… thanks for keeping up with my life… I am not even sure I do a good job of that!

My Birthday Weekend.... and D-Town!

Now that I am 22, I feel so much older and more accomplished. I am such an adult now. That is a complete lie. Being twenty-two is not different from being 21, except the fact that I am one more year closer to being the big 3-0…, which I refuse. I am going to pause right here.

My birthday was a lot of fun. It was on a Saturday, and we played A&M (and won)… so, since I knew we would all be busy with game day stuff, everyone got together and went out to eat the Thursday before. Me and twenty-three of my closest friends went to Rosa’s. I had such a good time. After that we headed to the bar and then to a party. It was a lot of fun.

Friday I skipped class and hung around the house. Then Heather took me to lunch and then took me to see two movies at the theater. It was an awesome birthday present. I had a good time hanging out with her all day. That night, Shelly and Blair got into town and we kind of had a little shindig over here. Then we headed to the bar. When we got back, some more people came over and we continued getting drunk. Towards the end of the night, Christy, Shelly, Ben, Blair, and I were the last ones standing. I do not think I got in bed until 6:30am.

Saturday, we slept in and then Shelly and Blair took me to Gardski’s for lunch, and then we headed to the Tailgate party. The game was over that evening…, went to eat dinner, and then headed to the bar. Sunday, Amanda and Kasey brought me lunch for my bday.

It was a kick ass weekend. I really appreciate all of my friends here and everything they do for me.

This past weekend Heather and I headed to Dallas for the weekend. It was needed. I missed my parents… and I got to see some friends. We went to Cuba Libre in Dallas. I have not been there in forever. It was a good time.

Over the next couple of weeks, I am going to be hella-busy with projects and papers. I am looking forward to seeing my whole family for thanksgiving.

hella-good times...

Geez, I am not good at keeping up with this thing.

I kind of feel like rambling for a little bit… I have no idea what I am going to do when I graduate. I actually do not really have a clue when I am going to graduate. I am thinking this coming August… so not very late or anything… just a few months later than I am supposed to, but hey, who actually graduates on time anymore? Heh, losers.

So anyways, what I am getting at here is … I really need to start networking. Networking will take you far in this world. It is not about what you know… it is all about who you know! (My spell check is telling me to use whom instead of who… but I just think that sounds stupid haha)

Look people, I need all I can get. If you know someone who has an interesting… kick-ass job let me know. Not necessarily so you can “hook me up” (okay maybe a little bit), but so that I can learn more about different professions. Okay, I am lying… I will take all the hook ups I can get. HA.

Moving on …

The weekend before last we played Texas and got our asses handed to us. Vanessa came into town… it is always a blast whenever I get to hang out with her. I did not go to the bars much because of the whole cash flow situation. It was kind of fun taking it back to the roots and grabbing a 30pk and chilling out with friends, playing drinking games.

This past weekend was HALLOWEEN! We had a blast. Hollie, Elisha, and one of their friends came up from M-Town and hung out. Friday night we went to Chimy’s, Rocky’s, and then Crickets to play some shuffleboard. That game rocks!

Saturday… watched the Baylor game on the tube. Kicked their asses. Saturday night went to the girl’s house for a few drinks and meet up with everyone. I dressed up as a doctor. Everyone’s costumes were hilarious. Then we headed on over to a kegger @ Amanda, Kasey, and Allison’s house. That was pretty fun.

This week I have had a 5-page paper, a 2-page paper and a test… but I am pretty much done for the week… other than classes and whatnot.

My birthday is Saturday, and we are playing A&M… I hope we whoop up on those Aggies. I am sure there will be some hella-good partying going on this weekend. I cannot believe I am about to be 22!

HOMECOMING WEEKEND!

What is going on party people? How is everything going? I am doing pretty good… besides the fact that I am pretty much broke. I have a problem managing my money. I have to hit up the reserves (if there is such a thing). I am pretty convinced that money does grow on trees somewhere… I’ve just gotta find it.

This week was pretty busy @ school… but it flew bye. Thursday, Nicole flew into town. I have not seen her since this summer. We went to Chimy’s and then over to the girls’ house to play drinking games and hang out like the old days. Take it back to the roots. We wanted to have a night to hang out like we did when we were all under age. We had a blast.

Friday I kinda skipped class. Oops. Instead, I went to Gardski’s for lunch with Heather, Nicole, Christy, Ashley, and Dub. Then just hung around all day with Will and Holly. I had a good time. Friday night Jason Lawrence came into town with a couple of friends and we went to Bonfire. This weekend was our homecoming versus KState… so there were a lot of festivities. Bonfire was fun. It has changed since I last went… which was before Spain. After that we went to Gardski’s for a couple drinks and then on to Pour House with a bunch of people.

Saturday I slept-in and then watched Tech kick some KState ass. We are now 6 and 0 …undefeated! Saturday after the game, I went to dinner with Stephanie, Phil, and their parents. They came up for the weekend… then I headed over to the girls house to hang out for a bit. Saturday night we went to The Library… I ran into so many people up there… got pretty drunk and headed home around closing time.

Today I got up and hung around the house all day long… then went to the movies with Heather and Nicole.

This coming week I have a test in coms research class and I have my midterm paper due in my film class. I am terrified of this week. I hope it goes smoothly.

Hit me up, let me know how you are doing! Hollar.

Life: One Week @ A Time...

Ah, let’s see… I have been hella-busy this past week. I got back from Dallas around 3:30am Monday morning. Saturday night, Nick’s show was awesome… then we just kinda hung around with the guys watching a few more bands… and then heading to eat. Sunday I went with my parents to the Texas State Fair. It was a lot of fun. I like going to the car shows… and we went to eat. Then I had to start getting ready to come home. We got a late start but it was a lot of fun.

This week I have had a couple tests and papers due, but it was not anything I could not handle. All of my grades are still decent. I have spent a lot of time up at the library studying and stuff… or trying to study at least. That place is a prime people-watching place… for all of you other people-watchers out there.

The week flew by, as did the weekend. Friday was my Mom's birthday! I sent her 18 assorted roses to her work. She was surprised. I feel bad because I couldn't be there.. but I guess that is life! Friday night we went to dinner for Joey’s birthday, and then Heather and I went to see Levi’s CD release show. They guys did a really good job. I picked up the new CD and hung around and talked to Justin and Levi for a while… then headed back to hang out with Heather and play with Maxim (her lab pup)… and then ended up @ the Fox and Hound with Amanda, Chris and Aaron. We left around closing time and Amanda and I headed back to her place, polished off some wine, and hung out with Kasey.

Saturday I slept late because I did not get home till really late or early, however you would like to look at it. I went back to the girl’s house for a cookout and to watch the game… Tech won again. 5-0 baby! That night we went drunk bowling… and then to the bar. After that, grant and I went to the girl’s house to drink a little more and then I headed over to hang out with Blake and one of his friends. I got home around 8am and decided I was not tired… so I ended up going to Starbucks with a friend…and didn’t get into bed till around 10:30am. I got up around 2… and hung around the house all day and watched tv. It was rainy and cold outside so no one left the house.

Well, that was my weekly wrap up. I hope you enjoyed it at much as I did.

Austin City Limits (ATX) & The New Music Fest (Dallas)

So this past weekend was a hella-good time. AUSTIN CITY LIMITS! I flew into Dallas on Thursday and hung out with the folks for the night… and then went out with a couple friends to the bar. Hollie and I got a chance to catch up.

Friday, Andrew and his friend Gooch came to pick me up and we headed to the ATX for the weekend. We got there and dropped Gooch off and headed to Kirby Lane… and then to the bar … where we stayed from around 6 in the evening until 2 in the morning. Andrew and I hung out with Marco (friend from HS) and some of his friends… and Kayla (one of Shelly’s friends, and roommate in London) came out for a little while. We were in “good” spirits at this point... when we left the bar we went to Alex’s apt… (Shelly’s other roommate from London) where she and Blair were camped out… She is a really cool girl, and I am glad that I got to meet her. We stayed at her place all weekend.

Saturday we went to ACL Fest and saw a handful of different bands. It felt so good to be back @ ACL. It was hella hot, but a great time all-around. That night shelly finally got into town and we all hung out. We didn’t get in bed till really late… or really early… however you want to look at it.

Sunday was the last day of the concert. I had so much fun. Overall my favorite performances were… Coldplay, Oasis, Jet, Robert Randolph and the Family Band, Jason Mraz, the Black Keys and Jack Ingram. It was one hell of a weekend.

I got home Monday morning… and slept all day until I flew back to the LBK Monday night.

OVERALL HIGHLIGHTS OF THE WEEKEND…
vodka snow cones, bar fights, sticky bras, the mag light, 6th street for 8 hours, waking up to the sound of high pitched squealing and blinking lights, the dust storm, 2-stepping by the porta-potty, group dancing to coldplay, kirby lane, walking home from austin's pizza, 4 dollar lonestar, i want you gringo, snoring like a train, kayla burning the mexi-baby’s ear, andrew making fun of alex’s driving, shelly's conquest to find more facebook friends, blair's turban and dancing, the yellow hand towel... and a whole lot of bad ass music...

This week @ school has been pretty decent. I had a speech to give on Tuesday, as well as a test… and then a paper due Thursday, so I was pretty damned busy. Today Heather and I drove to Dallas to hang out all weekend. This will give me a good chance to hang with the folks and plus Nick is play @ the New Music Festival in Dallas.

Tonight we headed out for the first day of the festival to hang out with Nick and Keith… and to see Hero Factor play (and a few other bands). Then we headed over to Taco C to eat and hang out with a couple people. It was a pretty fun night

Tomorrow I am going with the guys to these industry panels and then to the Clearview VIP room where Nick is playing.

Feelin' Good in The LBK!

Two weekends ago, my brother flew into town… and we had a blast. I took him out to a few of the bars here. During the day, we played volleyball and hung out. Our friend Eric drove down from Wichita Falls… and hung out one night.

It is always nice when Chris comes into town. He is away doing the married… house… job thing… and I am way the heck out here doing the college … bum thing J I hope he had a good time.

This past weekend I hung out with a bunch of my friends around here. We hit up a lot of places… it seems like every time I go out I run into a ton of people. It is hard to believe that this is my last year here!

School is going pretty good. I am taking 15 hours. A bunch of communications classes and a film class for my English minor. I think my film class is going to be my favorite.

Ahh…. Austin City Limits is coming up soon. I am flying into D-Town and then riding to ATX with Andrew. I think we are going to crash with Shelly and her friend… I think.

The next weekend Nick is playing @ the North Texas Music Festival in Dallas. That should be fun.

Until next time….

Weekend in Okie-Land...

OK bitches… I am back!

Lets see… I left here Friday and headed for OKC. Got there around 5pm and headed to Keith and Nick’s place in Edmond. They have a nice house… I liked it. Then we headed over to Bricktown to the festival that Nick was playing in that night. Kris and I went to grab a bite while they set up. We met up with Nicole and Tim… and headed back to the festival. The show was full band… so Saxon was on drum and Ryan was playing bass. I hadn’t seen Ryan in forever. The show was really good. We hung around for a few more bands and then Me, Kris, Nicole and Tim headed to the bars. We hit up a couple and then met the guys back @ their place. It was a fun night.

Saturday we went and ate @ Coach’s … this place that Nicole works at… and then hung around all day. We watched the TiVo’d news show that Nick performed/ interviewed on Friday… did some running around and then went to have dinner @ The Flat Tire… and headed out to the festival again. It had been raining so they moved it inside Bricktown Live. Gooding played… which was a great set… and then a band called Shiny Toy Guns played. They are based outta LA. They were pretty cool.

After the show we hooked up with Gooding, Billy, and Jesse and went to IHOP. There were like 8 of us… it was a really good time.

Went back and crashed out. We got up Sunday and went to eat at this sandwich shop and then hit the road back to Lubbock.

Grant got home from Cali / Las Vegas around 5am Monday morning. I had only been asleep for an hour whenever he got home… Yesterday we did some running around and finished fixing up the apt.

My brother is coming this weekend…. So that should be fun.