Get Lifted: Thoughts by Chie

Translator* Use it.

2006-06-20T16:50:00.000-07:00

ok....so if you would like to translate my blog into a language that you can understand more clearly, click on the translator.

Tranzliate this Shiznit to Jive!

Click the Spinn'n Rim Beotch!

www.myYearbook.com -- Created by 2 high school students to kick myspace's ass

Add the Tranzizzle-ata' to Your Site!

Luminous Molten Rock

2006-06-17T15:16:00.000-07:00

Yep! you guessed it...it's a lava lamp. Thought you might want to sit and watch the "lava" flow up and down. ENJOY!

/

Color Quiz! (Thanks Miss Sara)

2006-06-12T17:10:00.000-07:00

It's weird how accurate this is....

Richie took the free ColorQuiz.com personality test!

"Needs a change in his circumstances or in his rela..."

Click here to read the rest of the results.

Matcli

2006-06-11T22:39:00.000-07:00

Ok....so this is my friend Brandon's Band. He's the lead singer! You should check them out. www.myspace.com/matcli

How many of these have you done?? (or can U name? --speakers needed)

2006-05-24T17:35:00.000-07:00

saddened

2006-05-17T22:43:00.000-07:00

I must say...I am saddened that Elliot Yamin was kicked off American Idol tonight. I definately think out of the top 3 he was the best and hos vocal performances the other night were consistently good. Oh well....I'll still buy his cd when it comes out over Taylor. Don't get me wrong. I think Taylor is a delightful performer, but I don't like his vocals nor his "white boy" dance moves. Neither Him nor Katherine did fabulous this week, IMO. I'm just sad to see Elliot not win the whole thing, but let's face it; you make it that far on American Idol and you're getting a recording contract anyways! So overall, he's a winner! Go Elliott!!! Eagerly anticipating your cd!

It's coming!!! Arm yourselves!

2006-05-10T20:36:00.000-07:00

Screamo for the masses!!!

Long Hiatus...

2006-04-30T10:41:00.000-07:00

Sorry....I've been busy with life and not really interested in Blogging lately. It's kinda lame. My life has changed a bit since last I blogged. I turned a year older. well....i suppose that's about it. How very sad. Oh yeah....a man from my church died this week. That was a shocker. I've been battling a bit of depression lately and was really hit hard the other day and then got the email about his death and was like..."maybe there is a correlation?!?!" Who knows?! All I know is a man, that I unfortunately didn't get to know as well as I'd liked to have, is dead and has left behind a wife that is I'm sure totally taken aback at this whole thing. I just hope that she holds on to the love that Christ has for her and doesn't get pissed at God for "taking away her husband". Randy....You will be missed. Cindy.....Hold tight to Jesus and to your friends that Love you. Here's to you 2.

Click Here to put this video in your profile!

Fall Out Boy???

2006-03-26T06:56:00.000-08:00

Ok...so I like this band a lot, but I just thought this video spoof was classic! Enjoy!

and the truth shall set you free! (and make you laugh a bit)

2006-02-21T11:02:00.000-08:00

OK....SO HOW TRUE ARE THE FOLLOWING STATEMENTS!?!?! TOTALLY HILARIOUS!
**********************************************************************************

60 degrees - Floridians wear coats, gloves, and woolly hats. Chicago people sunbathe.

50 degrees - New Yorkers try to turn on the heat. Chicago people plant gardens.

40 degrees - Italian cars won't start. Chicago people drive with the windows down.

32 degrees - CHICAGO--NO PLACE LIKE IT! Distilled water freezes. Lake Michigan's water gets thicker.

20 degrees - Californians shiver uncontrollably. Chicago people have the last cookout before it gets cold.

15 degrees - New York landlords finally turn up the heat. Chicago people throw on a sweatshirt.

0 degrees - Californians fly away to Mexico. Chicago people lick the flagpole and throw on a light jacket over the sweatshirt.

20 below - People in Miami cease to exist. Chicago people get out their winter coats.

40 below - Hollywood disintegrates. Chicago's Girl Scouts begin selling cookies door to door.

50 below - Santa Claus abandons the North Pole. Chicago people get frustrated when they can't thaw the keg.

60 below -- Microbial life survives on dairy products. Illinois cows complain of farmers with cold hands.

460 below - ALL atomic motion stops. Chicago people start saying. . "Cold 'nuff for ya??"

500 below - Hell freezes over. The Chicago Cubs win the World Series

You must learn to pronounce the city name. It is Shi-ca-go, or Sha-ca-ga depending on if you live North or South of Roosevelt Rd, respectively.

Next, if your road map is more than a few weeks old, throw it out and buy new one. If in Naperville and your map is one day old, then it is already obsolete.

Forget the traffic rules you learned elsewhere. Chicago has its own version of traffic rules... "Hold on and pray."

There is no such thi! ng as a dangerous high-speed chase in Chicago. We all drive like that!

All directions start with, "I-94" ... which has no beginning and no end.

The morning rush hour is from 5AM to noon. The evening rush hour is from 3PM to 10PM. Friday's rush hour starts Thursday morning.

If you actually stop at a yellow light, you will be rear ended, cussed out and possibly shot.

When you are the first one on the starting line, count to five when the light turns green before going to avoid crashing with all the drivers running the red light in cross-traffic.

Construction on the Northwest Tollway is a way of life and a permanent form of entertainment. We had so much fun with that we have added the Elgin O'Hare Expressway (which oddly enough doesn't go to Elgin OR O'Hare) and I-355 to the mix.

All unexplained sights are explained by the phrase, "Oh, we're in Cicero!"

If someone actually has their turn signal on, it is probably a factory defect.

Car horns are actually "Road Rage" indicators.

All old ladies with blue hair in Mercedes have the right of way. Period.

First Ave, LaGrange Rd, NW Highway, all mysteriously change names as you cross intersections (these are only a FEW examples).

If asking directions in Cicero you must have knowledge of Spanish.

If in Bridgeport, Mandarin Chinese will be your best bet.

If you stop to ask directions on the West or South side you better be armed.

A trip across town (east to west) will take a minimum of four hours, although many north/south freeways have unposted minimum speeds of 75.

The minimum acceptable speed on the Dan Ryan is 85. Anything less is considered downright sissy.

The wrought iron on windows near Englewood and Austin is not ornamental.

The Congress Expressway, commonly referred to as the Eisenhower Expressway is our daily version of NASCAR (though often at speeds that don't exceed 5 mph).

The Dan! Ryan is called "The Death Trap" for two reasons: "death" and "trap."!

If i t's 100 degrees, it's Taste of Chicago. If it's 10 degrees and sleeting/snowing, it's opening day at Wrigley Field. If it's rained 6 inches in the last hour, the Western open Golf Classic is in the second round.

If you go to Wrigley Field pay the $25.00 to park in the "Cubs Lot." Parking elsewhere could cost up to $2500 for damages, towing fees, parking tickets, etc. If some guy with a flag tries to get you to park in his yard, run over him.

The left hand lane of the Eisenhower/290 is for those who have just snorted cocaine and/or have injested speed, the far right lane is for those who are too drunk and/or high to go any faster than 10mph, and the middle lane is for anyone who is sober.

Damn it feels good to be a gangsta

2006-02-20T08:26:00.000-08:00

ok...so this is probably the cheesiest thing I have seen in a while, but it is a little funny.

Check this out.

http://www.unc.edu/~shoyle/BigBibles.wmv

Damn it feels good to be a gangsta.

This is a new band coming out on Tooth and Nail Records....check them out.
Oh...and check out these guys too...

2 things.

2006-02-05T19:46:00.000-08:00

Well, for starters....The Seahawks choked. No surprise here. I figured they would. No big personal loss to me.

For 2...This might just be the funniest video about myspace that I have seen in quite a while! Ohhhhh So true!

Later peeps.

Eric Jeffery Perez

2006-01-29T08:09:00.000-08:00

Well, here he is. My new nephew. Born 1-24-06. Exactly 3 years after his brother.

Uncle times 2

2006-01-24T16:35:00.000-08:00

OK...just to let everyone know.

I became an uncle again today for the second time. Eric Jeffery was born today around 3:10pm at St. Anthony's in Michigan City, IN. Weighing in at 5 pounds, 10 ounces and 18 inches in length. Mom and baby are doing fine. (As well as my nephew Levi and my brother.) He was actually born on his big brother's birthday, so now they'll share that special day together forever! HAHA

I'll post a pic as soon as I get one.

Work

2006-01-18T09:18:00.000-08:00

OK folks....so I'm kinda getting excited about next week at work and kinda not.
See...I have been working 3 twelve hour shifts a week for the past 3 years and it has been awesome to have 4 days a week off. Starting Monday I will begin working 5 eight hour shifts. The shift is nice, 7a-330p, but it's getting up early everyday of the week and then driving down to work 5 days a week. I know....you are probably all sitting there reading this thinking...what a wuss, but I have really liked being able to do stuff during the week if I wanted to. Oh well. I guess I'll have to adjust to "normal" work life now. The advantage to this is that I won't have to leave my poor dog at home alone so much. I'm sure he'll be happy about that one. So, wish me luck.

We're gonna die like this you know...

2006-01-12T09:17:00.000-08:00

Miserable and old....really gotta hand it to you. Really gotta hand it to you

Are you positive? Absolutely Sure?

That is all.

Have a great day.

New Pet...

2005-12-22T13:20:00.000-08:00

HEY....if Miss Sara can have a green hampster, then I can have a Blue tiger! ;) Here he is...his name is Grover. Play with him.

adopt your own virtual pet!

Shake ya tailfeather

2005-12-21T09:06:00.000-08:00

i know it's a dumb title, but it's just the song that was on when i started writing this.

SO....Everything has defrosted and I'm thinking our early cold streak is over. It's supposed to be 55 degrees today! Can you believe it? It's 4 days before Christmas and I have to finish MOST of my shopping and mail out my family gifts today! I have just been a little short of cash, and I haven't really thought about it a whole lot until this week. That's kinda sad, but it's the truth. I'm not super excited about christmas this year. I am on call at work Christmas Eve and the day after Christmas. If that doesn't sound like fun to you, you're TOTALLY RIGHT, It's not. Yes, it is time and a half if I get called in, but I'd much rather either be totally scheduled to work or have it off. Being on call sucks. You are a slave to your phone/pager and you can't really do anything but stay within 30 minutes of the hospital. I personally hate it.

Oh well, enough ranting about working on the holidays. I have to get in the shower and then head out to the store and do some shopping. Adios and Merry Christmas.

Ice Blast

2005-12-15T20:13:00.000-08:00

Dang!!! It is FLIPPIN COLD!!! I cannot wait for this cold rush to get over with!!! Can't wait for the spring/summertime. Have I ever told you how much I HATE being cold?!?! Well, I do. It's totally not my favorite thing. Just thought I'd share.

It's Winter!

2005-12-01T15:13:00.000-08:00

Well.....it's official...It's winter in the Skagit Valley. It's been snowing for the last hour or so pretty hard and it's actually sticking to the ground!!! AMAZING! I have to be honest here. I am not one for snow, but it is pretty darn beautiful to look at.

Here he is...My Dog, Radar.

2005-11-17T15:07:00.000-08:00

Well, Here he is. Everyone say hello to Radar. He's really awesome.

Every little thing that you say and do, I'm hung up...I'm hung up on you

2005-11-16T18:21:00.000-08:00

What up y'all!!?!?!?!

I have been super blogger slacker lately!! Wow! Sorry. Well, what's been up with me lately? Hmmm...
I have been working, we're all going to 8 hour shifts so I'll have a 5 day a week job again for the first time in almost 4 years. I'll be working day shift 7am-1530. Should be interesting especially since I now have a pet. His name is Radar. He's a fox terrier/ yorkshire terrier mix. Super cute! I'm having a little trouble getting him to adjust to his name and for him to come to me with it while outside. All in due time. I've only had him since Thursday of last week. I saved him from the Everett Animal Shelter. He's shaping up nicely. He's pretty much house trained especially since I got him his crate and put one of my blankets in it, plus the baby gate keeps him in check while I'm at work. I gotta wait a while to see how he's gonna do alone in the house while I'm at work. It's totally gonna help once I start 8 hour shifts. I won't worry so much about being gone for 8 hours than I am for 12 hour shifts. I essentially am gone for about 14 hours during my 12 hour shifts but he's been really good since the kennel has arrived. Soon I'll have a pic up for y'all to see. He's super cute.

On a different note. Has anyone purchased the new Madonna cd?!? "Confessions on a dance floor" It's fabulous. Totally a dance album from start to finish. Definately a plus for the club kids/dancers out there. Even those who LOVE to dance alone at home would love this album. Great fun. Well, that's all for now. Talk to y'all later. Blessings.

Live Music!

2005-10-27T13:57:00.001-07:00

Soooo....

I went to this show last night.

I would suggest YOU doing the same if they are coming to a city near you. You WILL NOT be disappointed. I promise.

Finally, it happened to me....

2005-10-20T10:18:00.000-07:00

Well....sorry for the very long break in blogs....hopefully some of you will still be checking in occasionally. I've been very busy as of late, but am not coming to a place where I can slow down for a bit. I just finished moving into MY VERY OWN CONDO!!! It's really just a glorified apartment, but it's MINE!!! I'm finally getting excited. Now that I don't have to go back to the apartment and pack up or clean anymore. I must say that it really doesn't feel any different except that I am living in a different place. I am used to living alone so that's "normal". It's all the strange new noises that I'm still getting used to. Plus the fact that people can get to my place because it's on the ground level. There is no warning as to when someone is coming to the door. Kinda weird, but good. Ahh...the beginnings of my "new" life. I just want to be fully finished with getting all the stuff I need for my new place. Shelving, lighting...paint...that sort of thing. I am very excited to paint the condo as it will be the first time IN MY LIFE that I can paint how I want!!! How liberating is that?!?! HAHAHA Ahhh..the joys of homeownership! ;)

Well kiddies....Keep it real! Don't forget to enjoy life as much as possible! We only get 1 chance at this game; make it count!

Peace!

4 New CD Reviews

2005-09-21T12:18:00.000-07:00

Well, well, well.....Here we are again with the latest in my music collection.
Last week was a banner week for new music releases. I purchased 4.

The first of which was a Houston, TX based rapper named Paul Wall. His CD is entitled "The People's Champ". If you haven't been paying attention to the recent trends in the hip hop culture then you haven't heard that Houston is the latest star on the hip hop map. They have developed their own version of the "dirty south" sound. It's definately more laid back especially on their "Chopped & Screwed" versions of their cds. Which was actually included in the "People's champ" cd. The Chopped and Screwed sound is a rather interesting one. It's the album slowed down and including a lot more scratches. Kinda makes you feel stoned without the drugs. Pretty interesting. The album is pretty full of club bangers, especially if you are into that Dirty South sound. His flows are pretty tight and he's not all ego-centric, screaming his name in his songs like his fellow "Swishahouse" artist Mike Jones.(He's irritating as hell) The Guest apperances are pretty good too. The likes of Kanye West, Bun B (from UGK), Three 6 Mafia and Trey Songz, just to name a few. A worthy buy.

The second cd is The Pussycat Dolls "PCD". This is overall a pretty pop cd. It's fun for what it is. I mean, who can't sing along when they hear the chorus "Don't cha wish your girlfriend was hot like me?!" They did record 2 cover songs for the cd though that they could've left off. One being "Hot Stuff" (which isn't that bad) and the second being "Tainted Love" (shoulda left it alone). Both of which could have and probably should have been left off the cd, but seriously....it's the Pussycat Dolls. They are a manufactured pop band. It basically boils down to this. PCD = Sexy, strip club/dance club anthems with a few R&B dittys thrown in for good measure. Over all about a 3-3.5 stars out of 5 for the project. I think that overall it could've been a sexier album as a whole.

The next cd is by Damian "Jr. Gong" Marley's "Welcome to Jamrock". Yes, you read that right, Marley as in Bob's son. It is a reggae cd (obviously) but he has taken a decidedly different approach towards reggae. He goes more the way of hip-hop/dancehall reggae. Which is good because I really like dancehall. He has some pretty amazing collaborations on the cd. A highlight of which would have to be with BOBBY BROWN! Yes, the same Bobby Brown from New Edition fame. It's a great song. Other collabs include Nas, Bounty Killer, Eek! A Mouse, and his brother Stephen Marley. He definately holds down the Roots Reggae though....very reminicent of his father Bob Marley. His Dancehall chatting is pretty decent, but some of his beats are a little weak. Mostly a great cd though. 3 out of 5 stars.

Finally....the creme de la creme...."Takk" by Sigur Ros. What can I say about this album? If you are a fan, you already have it and don't need a discription. Sigur Ros is one of the few bands that is beyond description. They create beautifly moving music the touches the deepest parts of your soul. Their new cd is different than their previous effort "( )" in the way that there is actually song structure. There is melody and song structure that wasn't present in the last cd. Now, I'm not saying that there wasn't song structure in the last album, but this one actually seems to use the A,B,C method of song writing as opposed to just flowing into each song seemlessly. Both styles are great, but I'm really liking the new cd a lot. It's a lot noisier which is cool. Very anthemic and while listening to the music, however unintelligible the lyrics, I cannot help but get a feeling of Triumph and Hope through the music. So for me the album, Takk, is very hopeful and triumphant. 4.5 out of 5 stars.

So, In closing, I would say out of the 4 cds i've just purchased I would suggest Sigur Ros and Paul Wall cds. Both of which are great in their own right. All the albums are great, and recommended if you have teh extra cash, but if you can only scrape up enough dough for 1 new album I would absolutely suggest Sigur Ros, "Takk..." . It has to be the best album I've heard this year so far. No one can bring forth emotions in me with their music like they can.

Over and out!

If you're happy and you know it clap your hands

2005-09-14T14:04:00.000-07:00

I think it funny when people talk about how they don't feel "up to par" or are feeling unhealthy and complain about it, yet don't truly do anything to change how they are living to get up to par. Sure you can do a little excercise, but if you keep eating all the wrong things just as much as you did before you won't lose any weight. You can buy new shoes, but if they don't fit right or have the right support in them, then they don't do you any good. I am not trying to sound preachy, but if you want a change, YOU HAVE TO CHANGE YOUR LIFESTYLE. Diets don't work. It's all about lifestyle and activity and your intake. Yes, your diet (meaning what you ingest) makes a difference, but all these fad diets and such....it's a bunch of crap. Stop talking about how much that donut at work is just staring you down and just don't eat it. Be bigger than the freaking donut. I am talking to myself he a little, but currently I am quite satisfied with how I look and feel. I am keeping my weight under control and still losing weight. I just wish I would eat a tad bit better than I have been. I just need ideas. New Food ideas mostly. Ahh well....it's all gravy.

SO here's to staying healthy and loving life.

P.S. This is not directed at anyone inparticular, this is just a general commentary. I, in no way, am claiming to be perfect by any means. We all know that losing weight is a difficult thing, but it's not an impossible thing. Keep at it! If you are trying to lose weight, Keep it up! You CAN DO IT!!!

Ain't that funny?

2005-09-12T22:10:00.000-07:00

Hmmm.....

Well, It was an extremely busy weekend. My parents had come to vist me over the weekend. (From Wed-Sunday) It was wonderful. So good to see them. I showed them a bit of the wonder of this beautiful state I live in. (If ya haven't been, Washington is TRULY God's Country.) They really enjoyed themselves. I was sad to see them go this morning, but couldn't dwell on the fact as I had to drop them off at the airport and then rush off to work my 12 hour shift. Good Times.

On another note, I just read on Levi's blog that his brother just had his 3rd baby! WOO HOO!!! Congrats John and EZ!!! AWESOME!

funny thought.

It's never ceases to amaze me when people think that you have negative feelings towards them. I am a pretty peaceful, laid-back type guy, but for some reason or another people think that I harbor feelings of ill-will toward them when truly that isn't the case at all. I am just not a game player. I don't like to speak in circles, I don't enjoy playing mind games. I just speak my mind when I feel it necessary. I truly don't mean anything bad. I simply state my mind. I know that I can look "intimidating", but I'm just a softy on the inside. My true friends know that. Anyways....that being said, I don't want to fight with anyone. If anyone who reads this blog has thought that I have spoken ill-will of them or has been offended by me, please let me know. It can only make me a better person to know what others think about potential "issues" in my life that I can change. Thanks.

Later days, and almond glaze!

9 o'clock and all is well...

2005-09-06T20:49:00.000-07:00

well, today I worked my first of many a 12 hour shifts to come in the main OR. It wasn't too bad. I am making quite the impression at work. I'm trying to keep it on the DL, so as to not get a big head or anything, but everyone seems to be impressed with the way that I am working. I have been told by numerous people that they are impressed with how fast I am "learning/picking up" on procedures. I must say that I am extrememly excited that things are working out for the best. I really like it and am getting to the point of excitement in havign to take call and make that extra cash. yeah, it could mean some sleepless nights, but isn't extra money worth it sometimes? I think so.

In other news, I might very well be becoming a homeowner. I'm excited and scared to take on this new task/chapter in my life. It seems like such a permanent and responsible thing. Does that mean that I'm getting old? Hmmm.....
Cool thing is that I can finally get a dog when I get my own place! That'll be really exciting. I'll have a new place to take care of and wuite possibly an animal that will need me to take care of it also. I'm needing something to take care of. I'm sick of the self-focus being single brings. Don't get me wrong, I LOVE my independence, but it'll be nice to have something that'll love me and that needs me to love it. Y'all know what I'm saying, don't ya?

In other FABULOUS news.... My parents are visiting me for the first time since I've lived in Washington, TOMORROW!!! They should arrive around 9:30 am and will be here for a long weekend. I'm super stoked as I know they are also. It'll be soooo great to see them. It's been almost a whole year! WoW! That is weird.

Anywho.....have a fantabulous day and always remember....wear clean underwear....you never know if you'll get into an accident and someone has to take care of you in your stinky drawers! LOL Peace out y'all!

So Far, So Good.

2005-08-31T17:55:00.000-07:00

Well, so far work has been really good. I'm experiencing new things and am realizing how much I knew from before. It is a little stressful, but so long as someone shows/tells me what to put up for the doc....I'm pretty much golden. Getting used to working days is still a little difficult, but it's happening slowly but surely. It's been pretty cool. I have impressed the charge nurse and the scrubs and nurses I've been working with in the OR. That has been nice. People there are a lot nicer than I thought they would be. I don't know about you, but whenever I get put in a new situation (whether I did it to myself or not) I am a little taken aback at first. I really withhold the "Real" me for a bit especially in a new job situation. You kind of have to just be chill/low-key for a while. You don't want people to think you know it all or that you are unteachable. You want to be submissive and teachable. And I truly am feeling that way. I'm glad that I am making a positive impression and that my co-worker's like me. That's good stuff.

In other news. I have an offer in on a condo here in Mount Vernon. I should here back sometime this week to see if I get it. I am sooooo nervous, but I've been told that if you are able to enter into the housing market, DO IT! The market here on the west coast is CRAZY!!! So I am making my move, but if it doesn't happen, so be it. I am not gonna get all stressed out about it. I'll just have to make myself a promise to start saving money for a downpayment on a house so i won't have to take out such a huge loan and so I might have the 20% down on a house when the time comes.

In More news.....My parents are coming to visit me next week!!! I'm SOOOOOOO excited....It's almost surreal. It's been 4 years and this is their first time out to visit me. I know they'll love it, I'm just hoping that the weather is good for them. I want them to experience the true beauty of Washington.

So, Until next time...live hard, die young!

Funny Thought.

2005-08-20T14:51:00.000-07:00

So I was thinking about some things. Mostly abotu blogging and how we place this "importance" on it and how if you don't do it you aren't evolved into the 2000's. That is such B.S. I mean seriously. People have things to do, like work. I mean...if someone doesn't want to blog because they don't feel they don't have much to say, then so be it. It's really not that big of a deal. The Big deal comes from the so called friends that jump on people and think that they are so much better than others because they have all the time in the world to blog, but can't seem to pick up a phone and call a friend to see how they are doing because they haven't blogged about it. That's what this world seems like it's coming to. It's rather rediculous. Oh well. Enough ranting from me. I do enjoy a good rant though. It's kinda fun. Keep on enjoying your weekend.

It's gonna be a rough one...

2005-08-15T01:37:00.000-07:00

Well, Tonight (Monday night) is my last "official" night at the Pavilion. It's with mixed emotions that I will be arriving to work this evening. I took the job as an "in" to the hospital system so I would eventually take a job in the main OR when the opportunity arose. Unfortunately, in the process I fell in love with my co-workers. I just wanna tell you all that the people I work with at teh Pavilion in Labor and Delivery are AMAZING! We have definately become family and I will truly miss working with them, but a new chapter is about to begin in my life. I look forward to the new challenges that will arise in my life working in the main OR. It should be fun and challenging all at the same time. SO here's to you my Pavilion staff. I tip my "40 to your memory"!!! HAHAHA Chessy, i know, but what are ya gonna do?

The tears will be streaming tomorrow night...that is for sure.

Blessings.

the countdown has begun

2005-08-14T04:05:00.000-07:00

Well....

as the title of this blog suggests....the countdown has begun for me starting my new job at the hospital. To say the least I am a little nervous, but excited at the same time. It should be a great learning experience for me. I have committed myself to staying in the main OR for at least 1 year. Even if I hate it. I'm thinking that I won't, but it's hard to say. Working with a new crew is always a difficult, but a rewarding challenge. I think I'm up to the task. If you think about it, throw up a prayer to the Big man for me. My last day in labor and Delivery will be this monday. It's mixed feelings really....I LOVE my girls, and quite honestly....my job is really cake. I just need the challenge in my life. Besides, if I stay there a year and get that experience under my belt I can do the travel thing. Imaging this....Workign in Honolulu, HI and having your livign expenses paid for and getting paid on top of that!!! I think Hawaii in the winter could be a WONDERFUL thing! DOn't be jealous...You too can live the extravagant lifestyle I live. Well..then again..maybe not...HAHAHAHAHA

It's all good though. (and for the haters...that was a joke)

In other news.....I think I found a condo I want to look into purchasing in Mount Vernon where I am currently living. It's a townhouse/4-plex type. The price might just be right, so I really need to get on this seeing as how the housing market is really crazy around these parts.

Until later.

Peace, Love and artichokes!

(long pause)

2005-08-04T00:10:00.000-07:00

Hello all...sorry for the long absence on the blog-o-sphere. My computer has been (and currently is still) down. I'm taking it in tomorrow to the Apple store to see if they can help me figure out how to get it running again. Well, I went to Creation West this past weekend. That was fun! It was no Cornerstone, not by a long shot, but it was still very fun. I just love the Christian music festival...so many bands...so much worship...so much fellowship. I rode my motorcycle out to it also. That was a BLAST!! It was the longest ride I have done on my bike since I've owned it and was a beautiful one it was. It's amazing the climate change from western to eastern washington. Going from the high 70's over the pass into the high desert where the temp reached up to the 110's!! It was awesome! Such a beautiful and diverse state I live in, this here Washington.

If you don't see me comment on any of your blogs don't fret...I just haven't gotten my computer up yet, but hopefully that'll change here by the beginning of next week. For now....Keep on truckin and I'll see y'all later!

Job news...

2005-07-12T16:01:00.000-07:00

alrighty then....

after much anticipation.....I have recieved the phone call from the manager of the main operating room at the Colby campus to let me know whether or not I got the job. So.....much to my dismay....I didn't hear back all day from him.

UNTIL....just about 20 minutes ago.....

The announcement is......

I GOT THE JOB!!!! 3 twelve hour shifts....day shift plus on-call. Life will be rapidly adjusting once I get into my new position. So it'll be a little weird, but it'll be sooooooo awesome! I'll get my life back. I love nights, but I'm so excited to be able to attend homegroups during the week. Thanks for all the prayer and support! I appreciate it.

Lateral Move

2005-07-07T08:34:00.000-07:00

ok...so I just interviewed for a new position in the hospital this morning after work. It's in the main OR!!! I'm sooooo excited, but totally nervous at the same time. I know changing jobs can be and is a very stressful and scary situation, but I think it's time to prove to myself and my co-workers that I am a SURG TECH and am quite capable of doing the job even though I haven't done anything but C-sections for the past 2 years. The OR manager seemed very POSITIVE, actually gave me the thumbs up as I was leaving the interview. I was worried about the change for a couple reasons.
1. The money issue, but I have to take call and any time I come back in on call I make time and a half!! So that isn't an issue.

2. My skill level. I haven't been doing anything but C-sections for the past 2 years and quite frankly, that is monkey work. It's time to prove to myself I CAN DO IT!!!

Nothing is official yet, but I'm pretty sure that I'm "in". Please pray for me that I don't go insane with anticipation while I am waiting for the results of my interview. I was told to call Tuesday after I got off work, so that would be Tuesday morning after I got off my Monday night shift. Thanks for all your support throughout the years. I really think that this is Jesus opening a door I've been knocking on for the past 4 years. My patience might have actually paid off this time. I don't wanna say too much more because I don't wanna build up something that isn't there. Just pray for peace and confidence that I did what the Lord has put before me.

Suicide

2005-06-27T02:03:00.000-07:00

OK....
So this morning at church our pastor was giving a "memorial" at church for a member of our congregation that had committed suicide. I really don't know what to think about that. All my life I have thought that if you kill yourself, whether a christian or not you have automatically bought yourself a one way ticket to eternity without Jesus. Pastor Randy was speaking of something different. He was exhonerating our departed "brother" as a great man, but was he? I know we all have our problems and sometimes they just seem overwhelming, but should Pastor Randy really have stated that our congregant is is Heaven, when he quite possibly could not be. Scripture doesn't directly deal with the issue of salvation post suicide, but it does speak of not walking with Christ and it's concequences. I just don't know what to think of the situation. I've been discussing it at work with a few friends and their arguements truly make sense. At the moment you pull the trigger/draw the knife, you have chosen to walk away/turn your back on Christ. Saying that Christ Isn't enough for you to handle you life.

I just don't know what to think. I don't think that Randy should have stated that our brother was in heaven, but then what could he say? I understand why he would say it, so as to help those new in the faith, or those who are having difficulty grieving, but does that potentially do more damage?

I would just like to be more solid in what I believe in this sort of situation. My personal opinion is that people who commit suicide have copped out and hence lost my respect. I think it's a horrible way to go. Totally selfish. That is my honest opinion. So what I'm saying is I have a very difficult time grieving for someone who commits suicide.

Jesus IS enough to help me in my time of need. He's ALWAYS been there! I've always just had to turn and look. (I'm not saying that I'm suicidal or anything. I'm actually quite satisfied in my life so no worries.)

Any thoughts? Please help me sort out these feelings. Thanks.

A Death in the Family

2005-06-22T07:57:00.000-07:00

It is with great sadness that I must report this, but approximately 1pm yesterday, June 21st, 2005, "Papa" Drell Butler has slipped away from us here on this planet Earth to be with Jesus in Heaven rejoicing for all eternity. He was the father of my Pastor, Randy Butler, and the grandfather to many of my friends here in Washington. He was an AMAZING man of Faith and will be sorely missed. I'm sorry I never got to know him better. God Speed Drell. See you in Heaven brother!

QUICK UPDATE

2005-06-21T03:09:00.000-07:00

I am gonna be an uncle for the second time!!! I was leary at first, but so long as I get another Nephew/Niece as cute as my Levi, I'll be good! I love that little boy so much and I don't get to see him much at all. :(

Also....For those of you keeping track. I weighed myself at work today when I got here and the new grand total is.....(suspenseful music!!!)

13.5 pounds of total weight loss!!! HOORAY FOR ME!!! I'm just taking it in stride. I still pretty much eat what I want when I want, I just know that if I eat entirely too much, my progess comes to a screeching halt. I am dieting a little with my excercising, but it's not a complete lifestyle change. It's mostly making sure that I am hitting the gym on my days off. It's working too. I HATE it when I miss a day at the gym! I feel like I'm gyping myself if I do. Besides, what is 45 minutes at the gym compared to my life long health?!?! Ya know?

SO I just wanted to give you an update for those keeping track.

Blessings.

the neverending dilema

2005-06-13T16:50:00.000-07:00

ok guys....I need some opinions here.

Check out this car and tell me what you think.
http://autotrader.com/fyc/vdp.jsp?rdpage=thumb&car_id=181977501&dealer_id=81598&car_year=2003&make=TOYOTA&distance=50&lang=en&max_price=&model=CELICA&sponsorModel=&end_year=2006&min_price=&certified=&address=98273&search_type=both&advanced=&start_year=2000&isp=y&cardist=49#vdptop

As many of you know I have been thinking about buying a car for quite a while. The opportunity might just be upon me to purchase one. I have checked out the Toyota website and built a Brand new one of these cars and the MSRP is around $28,900 and that is without the aftermarket rims that the car above has.

I just know it's a huge undertakign to take on a car payment again, but to have the car that I want finally beyond having a car that I have needed. It might just be worth it to me. Lemme know what you think. Do you think the above car is a deal? Should I wait to potentially find a "better" price? Honest opinions here.

I need to feel Alive!

2005-06-08T08:26:00.000-07:00

Quick update!

So.....really cool new band out there. They are called Forever Changed, they are on Floodgate Records. You should all go out and purchase this cd. There is a $4 off coupon on it at Family Christian Stores.

Also on Floodgate Records and releasing on June 14th is a Seattle band by the name of The Myriad. Amazing band! You should go buy that cd when it comes out also. They are so awesome. You can check them out on Myspace at http://www.myspace.com/themyriad

Scottie can attest to the wonderfulness that is The Myriad. His band Farewell Addison opened for them at a show in Seattle TWICE!!! They are so awesome....and great guys to boot! So there are 2 new cd's that you all should pinch your pennies and go out and get RIGHT NOW!!!

On a side note.

I DROPPED A PANT SIZE!!!! The working out and going to the gym is really working!!! I am looking quite debonaire, if I do say so myself, and I DO! :) hahahaha It's all gravy! I'm hoping by next year y'all won't even recognize me! I'll be totally different. A SEXY M.F.!!!! :P

So How y'all doing? I rarely get comments on this thing so I don't know who's reading. Hence, I don't post a lot because it seems like a waste of time. (but enough whining from me!)

Love you guys! stay strong!

I'm back!

2005-05-26T09:20:00.000-07:00

Well...Hello, Hello my little dirty birdies!!! ;) (Wink) How I've missed you. Anywho....So in the last couple of weeks I've been really NOT busy! Work has been fun, but uneventful. I've done 1 C-section in 2 weeks of work. Cool, but boring. I NEED More ACTION!!!! It's just been a slow time in the baby factory. So All you Married folks out there....Get to making those babies!! Give me something to do at work! I mean, it's cool that I still get paid whether I sit on my butt and do nothing, or whether I'm running around setting up delivery carts, helping cut babies out of moms or whatever! (LOL, I did that one for pure SHOCK value!)

Visit me here also.
Check me out! Myspace is a weird place. Kinda cool, kinda lame. But, I'm there. :)

So that's my latest post! happy Levi!?! LOL ;) I'm now up to date. Sorta. :P

Later days people.

You Fixed it!!

2005-05-06T10:08:00.000-07:00

Posted by: getlifted

You Fixed it!!
Today is my former Roomie's birthday!!! He's 31 today! Drop him a line at his blog. http://scottieblog.blogspot.com

HAVE A GREAT DAY!!! I got you a cake!! (wink)

Aloha! Are ya Hanging Loose?

2005-04-25T12:36:00.000-07:00

Posted by: getlifted

Aloha! Are ya Hanging Loose?
Aloha from Mt. Vernon! Well, I'm back from Hawaii and dang it all, I wanna go back something FIERCE!!! Hawaii has to be one of the most beautiful places on Earth. 82-85 degrees all the time. Slight Ocean breeze. Sunshine and warm water. Does it really get any better than that? I'll post more later, I just wanted to get a pic up for everyone to see. So this is me at "Germaine's Luau" on my birthday!! So much fun! I loved it! Well, I'll post more about it later, I still have things to do before I go to work today. So much fun! Mahalo!

New total.

2005-04-14T14:22:00.000-07:00

Well everyone....I've officially lost 11 pounds!!! WOOHOOO!!!!

GOD BLESS THE INVENTOR OF THE ELLIPTICAL TRAINER!!! I haven't been in this weight bracket for a long time!!! I'm SUPER excited! I am feeling the best I have in years. I'm looking waaaaay better. I have a ton of energy even when I don't get a ton of sleep. Thank you Jesus for the motivation and continued encouragement to press on towards the goal of a healthier life!!

If you're feeling fat or have no energy....MAKE YOURSELF get active!!!! I promise you....a 30 minute walk 3 times a week and you'll start noticing a difference.

anyways....Be Encouraged! I know I am....plus, I'm going to Hawaii on Monday!!! And Tuesday is my birthday!!! Happy birthday to me!!

Did you hear?

2005-04-13T10:24:00.000-07:00

OK.....so this was totally not that surprising, but it IS "news" afterall!!! HAHAHAHA LOL....

Big Flippin' Deal, but Did you really think anything different? I'm hoping her wanting to be a mommy is true and this just isn't some publicity stunt as a child will be involved. Ugh....the perils of Hollywood. God help us all.

http://entertainment.msn.com/celebs/article.aspx?news=187947>1=6428

Weird..

2005-04-11T14:21:00.000-07:00

ok...so today is the weirdest day ever in washington.....well, since I've lived here. I've heard Thunder twice so far and it's raining really hard and then it hailed, A LOT!!! I even put my car in the garage! Crazy! Anyhoo....Here's another quiz I took...Kinda funny outcome if ya think about it! Have a great day!

Your Inner European is Spanish!

Energetic and lively.

You bring the party with you!

Who's Your Inner European?

A little from here....a little from there...

2005-04-11T01:41:00.000-07:00

OK....well...here are 2 little tidbits from both of the regions of this country I've lived in. Those of you who have lived in both as I have realize the truth in these lists. Quite Humorous actually.

You Know You're From Washington When...

You know the state flower (Mildew)

You feel guilty when you don't recycle.

You use the phrase "sun break" and know what it means.

You know more than 10 ways to order coffee.

You know more people who own boats than air conditioners.

You feel overdressed wearing a suit to a nice restaurant.

You've stood on a deserted corner in the rain waiting for the "Walk" Signal.

You understand that if it has no snow or has not erupted, it is not a real mountain.

You can taste the difference between Starbuck's, Seattle's Best, Veneto's, Peet's, and Tully's.

You know the difference between Chinook, Coho, and Sockeye salmon.

You consider swimming an indoor sport.

You are well versed in the difference between Japanese, Chinese and Thai food.

In winter, you go to work in the dark and come home in the dark -- while only working eight-hour days.

You never go camping without waterproof matches and a poncho.

You are not fazed by "Today's forecast: showers followed by rain," and "Tomorrow's forecast: rain followed by showers."

You have no concept of humidity without precipitation.

You can point to at least two volcanoes, even if you cannot see through the cloud cover.

You notice "the mountain is out" when it is a pretty day and you can actually see it.

You put on your shorts when the temperature gets above 50, but still wear your hiking boots and parka.

You switch to your sandals when it gets about 60, but keep the socks on.

You've actually used your mountain bike on a mountain.

You think people who use umbrellas are either wimps or tourists.

You knew immediately that the view out of Frasier's window was fake.
td>

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You Know You're From Chicago When...

You say "Wanna go with?" when you mean "Do you want to come with me?"

You know what Kennedy, Dan Ryan, Eisenhower, Edens, and Bishop Ford, have in common and curse one of them daily.

You know what "the Hillside strangler is."

You can name three or four extra taxes nobody else pays.

You know the difference between Richard J Daley and Richard M Daley.

You can use two or three Daleyisms in context.

You can imitate the Mayor's whine.

You say Chicawgo and not Chicaago.

You think going to a Bears game in single digit temperatures with a wind off the lake (and freezing rain) is fun.

Da is a proper definite article.

You expect corruption in local politics.

You go to the Dells in the summer to get away from the other 20 thousand that followed you.

You've been caught speeding in Wisconsin because you had Illinois plates.

You guard your shoveled parking space with an old chair and unusable broom.

You know why they call it "the Windy City."

You know dead people who voted.

You understand the Democratic machine and don't fight against it.

You've never ever considered the idea of hiring non-union laborers.

You've never been to Springfield.

You know a good gyros joint.

You know what Giordanos, Lou Malnati's, and Gino's have in common.

You know when the last time the Cubs won a pennant.

You know exactly how many cars are "legally" allowed to turn left after the light turns red.

You don't know which ethnic "fest" to choose on any given Summer weekend.

Your idea of relaxing and getting away from it all is Ravinia (with 10,000 others who have the same idea).

You can recite many of "The Blues Brothers" lines and know where they filmed certain scenes.

You consider paying someone to watch your car at a sporting event as just another "city tax."

The "Living Room" is called the "front room"

You don't pronounce the "s" at the end of Illinois. You become irate at people who do

You measure distance in minutes (especially "from the city"). And you swear everything is pretty much 15 minutes away

You refer to anything South of I-80 as "Southern Illinois"

You refer to Lake Michigan as "The Lake"

You refer to Chicago as "The City"

"The Super Bowl" refers to one specific game in a series of 35 played in January of 1986

You have two favorite football teams: The Bears, and anyone who beats the Packers!

You buy "The Trib"

You think 35 degrees is great weather to wash your car!

You know what goes on a Chicago Style Hot Dog

You know what Chicago Style Pizza REALLY is

You understand what "lake-effect" means

You know the difference between Amtrak and Metra, and know which station they end up at. You have ridden the "L"

You can distinguish between the following area codes: 847,630,773,708, 312, & 815

You respond to the question "Where are you from" with a side" example:"WEST SIDE", "SOUTH SIDE" or "NORTHSIDE."

You know what the phone number is to Empire Carpet!

You wear gym shoes, not sneakers.

Your favorite melody to hum is "Bang,Bang,Bang-Skeet,Skeet,Skeet!!!!"

You faithfully attended Lil Louis parties at The Bismarck.

You GOT to have spaghetti at your barbecue.

You are STILL a Bulls fan........

You think kicking it outside of White Castles parking lot, (79th and Stony Island) is the "Freak Nik"

You go to Harold`s and order 4 pc wing, mild sauce, salt and pepper.

You have a picture of Harold Washington in your kitchen, living room, family room or basement.

You have ever waited in line at Home of the Hoagy on 111th for 30-45 minutes for a steak samich wit cheese

You have ever been to the Tiki Room lounge in Hyde Park

You have Y made a special trip downtown because you had a craving for Garrett's caramel and cheese popcorn.

What!!! We don`t get a Fifty? Oh yeah....

You drink at bars called "Bud on Tap" or "Milwaukee's Best" -- no names, just beer signs out front.

It's January and you see someone's kitchen chair in the street, and you know that if you're a responsible citizen and bring it back to the sidewalk you will be shot on sight

You live two miles from work and it takes you two hours to drive there

You don't flinch when you pay the fifth toll of your 45-minute car ride on the highway

When you read a big story in the paper about mob ties in the city government, your first reaction is "So, tell me something I don't know."

You know Lincoln Towing is Satan incarnate.

You've paid $105 for towing, $30 for more than one "street cleaning" ticket, $58 for a city vehicle sticker, and $70 for a license plate sticker -- and chalk it all up to "neighborhood taxes."

You pluralize grocery stores and retail chains: "I'm going to Jewels"; "I bought it at Targets"; "I couldn't find parking at Wal-Marts"

You've taken the Red Line past the point where all white people get off and all black people get on -- or vice versa.

You've cursed at a cyclist, pedestrian, or in-line skater on the lakefront path.

You know the significance of State and Madison.

You wonder if the fries will taste the same at Sammy Sosa's Restaurant.

You don't miss Planet Hollywood.

You're not ashamed of wearing a big fur Russian hat, or a headsock with one hole in it, in public from November through March.

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Hammock

2005-04-06T09:26:00.000-07:00

Hello all.

Ok....I JUST found out about this new music project/band called Hammock. It's Marc Byrd's (former lead singer of Common Children and GlassByrd, co-writer of "God of Wonders") new band. You MUST GO to the site and check out the music!!! If you enjoy Sigur Ros and dreampop/slowcore you will absolutely love this!!! It's so refreshing and relaxing.

Enjoy!

http://www.hammockmusic.com/Hammock_Music.html

APRIL FOOL'S!!!!

2005-04-01T11:45:00.000-08:00

Why hello!!

Welcome to national prank day! Have fun pranking people today!

Does anyone know the history of April Fool's day? it would be interesting to know I think.

This Photograph is Proof

2005-03-30T16:55:00.000-08:00

Well....For all you screamo fans out there....I bring you Taking Back Sunday. Currently on tour with Jimmy Eat World! (Unfortunately that tour isn't coming to the Seattle or Portland Area, not yet anyways) :(

Video code provided by MusicVideoCodes.com

Ella Te Gusta la Gasolina!

2005-03-29T08:08:00.002-08:00

GOOOOOOOOD MORNING FRIENDS!!!

How was everyone's night? mine is coming to a close here. I'm home from a wonderful night of working in Labor and Delivery. It was slow, but the night went by fast!!! Hooray for fast clocks when the unit is slow!

Oh....Just wanted to tell everyone hello before I went to bed and that I have lost another 2 pounds!!! WOOHOO!!!
Three cheers for the Gym and working out!! Hip Hip! Hooray! Hip Hip Hooray! Hip hip Hooray!!! Such an inspiration it is to go to the gym and see results! For those of you who are around here and see me often, have you noticed my body changing at all? I sure do. Mostly in my face and the way I walk. I have a ton of more energy. Usually on my first night back to work I am DEAD to the world by about 3am. But, since I've been working out I have noticed that I am full of energy to get me through the night! (and yes, I know you aren't supposed to start a sentence with a preposition! ;))

Like JT said, "I'm Lovin' It!"

Anyways....I suppose it's time for bed.

3 weeks (approx.) until the sandy beaches of Hawaii!!! So excited!!! It's gonna be RAD!!!

Have a Blessed Day!

Take, Take, Take, Take, Take, TAKE IT AWAY!!!

2005-03-27T23:47:00.000-08:00

Well, hello there my internet friends and blog readers!

I hope everyone was blessed this Easter Weekend. I know that I was.

I kind of slacked a little on the gym and eating right thing. Kinda stinks, I can feel the difference in myself.

I did, however, go to an AWESOME concert Saturday night. It was the "Taste of Chaos" Tour and it was in Everett, WA of all places!!! The Line up was Senses Fail, A Static Lullaby, Killswitch Engage, My Chemical Romance and The Used!!! SOOOO GOOD! I had a total blast! I think that Killswitch Engage is my new favorite live band! Of course, I kinda dig the metalcore thing anyways. So Jake and I went to the show and were kind of in the back of the main floor crowd at first. I was taking some pics of KSE (got some for ya Charlie!) and then I think almost at the same time, Jake and I looked at each other and needed to get up closer to the ACTION! I packed all my stuff in my front pockets and we were on our way up closer towards the pits. Just hearing KSE I was seriously feeling the NEED to be in the pit slamming into some people. Those of you who were ever into the hardcore scene know what I'm talking about. So as we made our way up closer I caught my first glimpse of THE PIT! I turned to Jake and was like...I GOTTA GO! I made a bee line and totally pushed my way through in about 2 seconds and started slamming with all the metal and screamo kids! SUCH FUN! I haven't been in a pit in a few years and DAMN IT FEELS GOOD TO BE A GANGSTA!!! I Loved it! I got so hot and sweaty, but it was soooo much fun. I really enjoyed MCR and The Used also...Both really great live bands. Were were mere feet from the stage during those sets....Well, we kind of took a breather during MCR and watched from the sidelines and during The Used's set we were totally UP IN THE MIX! Man....I can't believe how much fun I had. One thing that got old though was the bands abundant usage of the "F" word. It really got irritating, plus they were just crass at times. It was still a GREAT show, However immature the band members were, but it was "punk" right?!?!?

LOL
Anyways...anyone do anything else this weekend? What's new in your life?

JESUS! Keep me near the cross!

2005-03-23T08:00:00.000-08:00

WOW. I am seriously beginning to passionately dislike my sister-in-law. She is totally an unfit mother for my nephew! I hate hearing all these negative stories from my mom about how my nephew is treated. I don't want this to sound as though he is being abused physically or anything, it's just that I feel that my sister in law doesn't truly care about him. She feeds him candy all the time so he doesn't like to eat real food. She doesn't change his diaper right away when he's poopy or has peed on himself, so he gets rashes all the time and now associates diaper changes with severe pain and crys through them and clenches his leg together so you can't clean him up. It breaks my heart to hear these things. I GET SOOOOO PISSED OFF! It's instances like this that I'm glad that I don't live close to them because i would absolutely GO OFF on her!

My brother is really trying to provide for his family, he's working 12-14 hour days at work (sometimes even 15). She can't even have a tidy home for him to come home to. It's a DAMN shame. She doesn't "work", she's a stay at home mom (which is a full time job all in it's own), but that's part of teh stay at home mom job description. Take care of the home, take care of the children and make sure there is a meal for your husband when he gets home. Some sort of "welcome home". He can't even come home and feel like his day is over because she is so lazy that the house is in such disarray. I'm tired of hearing all the negative stories from my mom about how she doesn't do anything. It's aweful.

Can you please pray for me that i don't hire someone to off her!!! (tounge in cheek, sorta)

I really would covet your prayer in this one though. It's a constant issue. It really breaks my heart to hear about this. I wouldn't be so upset if it was just my brother, but my innocent nephew is involved and that hurts my heart.

Any Suggestions as to how to approach this situation? How to resolve it for myself.

Please help me.

Ch-ch-ch-ch-ch-CHECK IT OUT!

2005-03-19T13:03:00.000-08:00

What up party people!!! Found a new little quiz! Put in your info and check out what it says about YOU!

Your love is... by ChibiMarronchan
Your name is...
Your kiss is...	erotic
Your hugs are...	gentle
Your eyes...	burn into my heart
Your touch is...	the only thing I desire
Your smell is...	refreshing
Your smile is...	encouraging
Your love is...	unique

Quiz created with MemeGen!

ENJOY!!! (wink, wink)

Unfinished Business

2005-03-18T12:15:00.000-08:00

Hey y'all! Sorry it's been so long since I've last posted. i forget I have to update my blog myself. :) LOL

Anywho...so I've pulled out an "older" cd of mine and have been pumping it through the speakers as of late. "Unfinished Business" by R. Kelly & Jay-Z. It really is a good cd. It's not a "clean" cd as far as language and subject matter, but it's really fun. It's the ghetto in me y'all....I can't escape it! It comes out more now that I live in Washington, I think. Mostly because there are more "rocker" types here and I get bored with that and have to have my own spin on things....but also I miss the Hip Hop Radio from Chicago!!!! I miss B96 and my favorite station right before I moved out here Power 92! THAT was my station! I loved it! WHen I moved here there wasn't any sort of station that i could get in on my radio, car or otherwise that was clear enough to compare to those stations....BUT THEN....There came THE BEAT 94.7 out of Vancouver, B.C., Canada. There was the return of my favorite ghetto station! All Hip Hop all the time! and Good stuff too, plus some Canadian acts that I hadn't heard of yet. It's been a crazy thing listening to the radio out here, and I actually don't do it that often. I HATE commercials and static. So, I mostly listen to cds.

Anyways....I think I am going to go to The Rose's homegroup tonight and then to the Forrester/Marietta Home tomorrow night, but I am not sure what to do in between time. Maybe a movie? I am definately hitting the gym! 30 minutes on the elliptical! Going to hawaii, going to HAWAII!!! Gotta look good! Oh yeah....I've lost 7 pounds so far! that's pretty cool!I only have about 40 more to go for the beginning of my weight loss plan! ;) No worries though...I'm gonna do it the healthy, correct way. Not the Atkin's way. Good for rapid weight loss for heart surgery.....not good for lifestyle!

OK then....I think I'm gonna go eat something, or drink a protein shake and hit the gym!

See ya later!

Waikiki Beach...HERE I COME!!!

2005-03-14T13:23:00.000-08:00

WHOO HOOO!!!!

I am sooooo excited!!! Well, as I said to a few of you....I was probably going to be going on a vacation trip for my birthday. As of about 2 minutes ago the travel agent called me back and I am now OFFICIALLY going to WAIKIKI BEACH for my 30th BIRTHDAY!!!! (Screams excitedly and runs around the room jumping up and down like a little girl!!!)

HOW COOL IS THAT?!?!

I want you to know that I definately feel...The More the Merrier, but i can understand about finances, time off work ,etc...BUT, it would be so fun!!! I am planning on having a blast!!! Lots of fun in the sun...mostly just relaxin and maybe some beach bunny scouting. (wink, wink) What would a 30th Birthday Party be without a little Bunny on my side?!

So, this weekend was fun. Friday night went to dinner with Adrienne and Kim in Lynnwood at The Macaroni Grill. Quite Delicious. Recommended. I had the special of the night which was the Italian Trio. It started with a Ceaser Salad, then they brought out the Meatball lasagna (oh sooo tasty, I didn't finish it, too much food), and to finish it off was a piece of chocolate cake with chocolate frosting and fresh crushed walnuts on top! TOOO DIE FOR!!! Oh soo good....not only did I eat all of that, but they have Fresh Foccasia bread that they bring out to your table and I basically ate 2 of those loaves by myself. (I'm not a pig, I just hadn't eaten at all that day until then, i was hungry adn it was so good) While at dinner we discussed our plans for our vacation to Hawaii. Quite exciting.

Saturday night I went to a FREE....Yes, that's right FREE CONCERT!!!

The Featured bands of the evening were Echocast, GRITS and Pillar!!! It was in Lynden, Washington. Quite a cute town! A lot bigger than I thought it would be. TOTALLY FUN SHOW! Grits are just amazing! So much energy and you know you gotta be good to get all those little Dutch kids to jump around if you aren't a rock band. Oh yeah....Lynden is pretty much a Dutch Community....for all your folks from NWI....think DeMotte, but a little bigger. So much fun....and for free, you couldn't beat it.

I also rode the motorcycle this weekend as much as I could. It was so nice I couldn't help myself.

Nothing I could tell you, you look good when you wear it well

2005-03-11T13:00:00.000-08:00

Sooo....How are things? I wanna have some fun this weekend Not exactly sure what to do, but I'm thinking about hitting up a restaurant that I haven't gone to yet at the NEW Alderwood Mall. The Macaroni Grill. Anyone ever been to one? I've heard great things. I am also going to work today to put in a request for time off...Something has come up and I might just have the BEST 30th Birthday EVER!!! I may just be taking a pretty freaking awesome trip. I won't let you in on the secret yet as it's still really close and I don't know if I'll get the time off from work yet. Let's pray that Richie gets time off work for a special birthday trip. Even though it's last minute. I was getting really excited last night thinking about it. I just need another guy to go with and it'll be THAT much better...going on vacation with 2 girlfriends is cool, but it might just be Estrogen overload?!?!? LOL It'll be mad fun though...I need to head to work and put in my request!!! Later all!

REVENGE OF THE SITH!

2005-03-09T16:41:00.000-08:00

Just a quick FYI peoples!!!

This Thursday IMMEDIATELY following "The O.C." on Fox, the station will be airing the "EXCULSIVE" teaser trailer for the Next installment of the Star Wars Saga, "Revenge of the Sith"!!!! I know it' sonly going to be like a minute or so, but I am super excited!!! In all likelyhood I'll probably miss it because I'm horrible at making sure I watch things on TV at specific times at home. Give me the Real World, Road Rules Or RW/RR challenge or "The Inferno" on MTV on Monday and Tuesday nights and I won't miss it even though I am at work, but "normal" TV at home...I always forget. I'm gonna have to fix that. :) Oh well, I am off to finish my last night of work for the week! It's so beautiful!!! I might just ride my Motorcycle to work tonight! Yes...I think I WILL. Don't be jealous! ;)

Love and mashed Potatoes!

oops, i forgot...VRRROOOOMM!!!

2005-03-07T14:08:00.001-08:00

Sorry....I almost forgot the most important part of the weekend that I did!

I fixed my motorcycle!!! Replaced the battery and got it started!! took it out for a ride Saturday night....LATE and got it up to speed! Well.....OVER the speed limit!! 85 MPH in about 4-6 seconds!!! SO MUCH FUN!!!! I cannot wait for the summer!!! I want all of my friends to buy themselves motorcycles!! Then we could start up a club! How cool woudl that be?! riding all over washington together?! Good times!

I heart Huckabee's (and other atrocities of the film industry)

2005-03-07T13:48:00.000-08:00

HELLO! So how was everyone's weekend? I had a great one! Full of excitement and adventure! Friday night I went to Upfest in Bellingham. A large concert full of the local bands I enjoy so much....favorites were Mindhead, The Pale (now know as The Pale Pacific), I even enjoyed Late Tuesday! Their vocal harmonies are wonderful and Tara is sooooo hot! I want her to be my girlfriend. :)

Saturday I slept in and then headed down to Bothell to the Crawford's home for worship team practice. It went really well. They are such really great folks. I don't spend enough time with them. Their boy Caleb likes me! I like that! Kids and me...we're like this....(imagine me crossing my fingers really tightly) I don't get it, but it seems like the children enjoy my company. I'm cool with that. They trust me and that speaks volumes. I love going to church and having all these kids come up to me and tell me about what they did this week. I don't even know some of their names!! But they know me and that is what matters!!

Sunday...had a blast at church. Worship was great. Teaching by Brett was amazing as usual. But then the unthinkable happened. We went to lunch. Well, not so unthinkable...we do that all the time, but THIS sunday we went to Taco Bell! I don't know about y'all, but my stomach isn't used to Taco Bell anymore and it totally messed me up!!! (No more decision by a certain person.....NETTA! to go to Taco Bell!) :-) It's all good, I just had some serious gas and stomach problems for the rest of the night! Whew...glad that night is over. Watched the movie "Saw" during the day. It was pretty good. Not what I thought it was going to be. The movie wasn't as scary as it was billed as. It was a total head trip though. You just weren't sure who did it and what was going to happen next. Someone was obviously on something when they wrote that movie. Quite deranged. Then went to The Murphy's later in the evening and hung out until late into the night talking....such fun, such good people. Anyone have as much fun as I did this weekend?

I'm so tired...(YAWN)

2005-03-02T22:30:00.000-08:00

Wow....I am seriously tired. I have been all week. I an excited and happy though. I have GREAT news!!! I have officially lost 5 pounds!!! Who knew that excercising and eating right would actually pay off?!?! I still have a good amount to go, but it is encouraging to hear my friends tell me that they can already tell that I've lost/am losing weight. I am totally gonna stay on this track. I feel better then I've felt in a long time. I am even noticing a difference in myself. I am getting more confident. I don't really know what's going on in my life, but I'm liking it. Soooo....what's been going on with y'all? Any cool plans anybody has for the weekend? I have a feeling that my weekend is going to be full and fun again! I'm thinking about going to Macaroni Grill with some co-workers on Friday night. Maybe head to "The Royal" in Bellingham go "clubbing", Get my DANCE on. Saturday night I have practice for worship SUnday morning at the Crawford's in Bothell. That should be fun. Grant is such a cool guy, he comes up with cool arrangements. SHould be pretty fun for sunday morning. Anyways....i'm going on and on about nothing. Talk to ya later!

bonfire

2005-02-28T13:57:00.000-08:00

Posted by: getlifted

bonfire
Well, It's official. Last night was the first official picnic/bonfire at the Murphy's house! How exciting is that?! I love those guys! I really like the fact that they ask their kids if they wanna go play with "Uncle Richie." Warms my heart.

Well, This weekend was really fun. It started Friday morning with Breakfast at Maltby Cafe in Maltby, WA. Little nowhere town in washington. really cute cafe, GREAT FOOD! Met up with people from work there. It was great fun. I love my co-workers! They aren't the best for me at times, but I love them so much! Then I went with my Girlfriend from work, Yvette to the mall shopping for the rest of the day! That was fun. I didn't get much. Only a leather trucker hat from Wilson's Leather, but it's really cool. I dig it. Got back from the mall and then went out to dinner with my homeboy Jake. Went to the usual haunt, Applebee's for boneless buffalo wings and drinks!!! We were feelign a little fiesty that night, too bad He had to work at 4:30 in the morning!!! I'm thinking we woulda partied a lot that night. DAMN RESPONSIBILITIES!!! J/K

Saturday I slept in until 1:30 in the afternoon and felt wonderful about it until I got a phone call that I was late for a band rehersal that I totally forgot about!!! Not good! But I made it there with enough time to chill and then get into practice. Went to Adrienne and Kim's apartment saturday night. Watched a movie with them. Part of I heart Huckabee's (retarded!!) and then Collateral, which was a good movie. Turned in kind of early.

Sunday, went to church, Rocked the worship set! I love playing on the worship team! thanks Sheri for giving me another chance! I know I'm not a professional bassist, but I just love grooving up there and then when I get locked in that moment, worshiping and playing great, locking down the groove, it's all worth it! I was on the verge of tears all morning while playing. I could just feel God sooooo close. After church I went to our "favorite" after church spot. The infamous "TDM" or Taco Del mar for those of you not on the west coast. had some Lunch and then headed out to the Murphy's for some fun and fellowship. Bonfire, smores, ziplines and trampolines....what else do you need in life?!!?

So, what did YOU do this weekend?

Giant Puerto Rican Spotted in Seattle!!!

2005-02-21T13:14:00.000-08:00

Giant Puerto Rican Spotted in Seattle!!!
Posted by: getlifted.

Actually!! This is me in Chicago at the Museum of Science and Industry's model train set. I was excited to see that there was actually a model of Seattle in Chicago. So, when my parents took me to the Museum this past christmas I could sort of "show them around" Seattle. It was fun.

I miss my parents a lot(NO they are not dead, they just live in Indiana and I live in Washington). They are pretty rad people. I think you'd like them, if you don't know them already. Hell, most peopel like them. I've grown to really appreciate my parents wisdom and opinions. They speak volumes into my life and I might not agree with everything they tell me all the time. I do totally lean on them for wisdom to make the correct decision.
(single tear)
Ok....enough about my folks. I miss them. Love you MOM AND DAD!!!

I have to go to work tonight! UGH! but then again, what am I complaining about?!?! I work 3 days and get 4 days off. Never work a weekend unless I want to if someone calls in sick. My life is pretty reasonable. Now back to the important things....to buy a house, or to buy a car....hmmmm....decisions, decisions....

I need you now....More than words can say...

2005-02-20T23:26:00.000-08:00

Well, Hello Kiddies!!!

This weekend was actually really fun! I went to the movies on Friday night and saw "Constantine" with my friend Kim. It was a good movie. Pretty entertaining.
I totally DIDN'T go to the gym! :( Bad Move Richie....oh well, I took the weekend off, that's allowed, right?
It's been an interesting weekend in the fact that I have been chatting more online with random folks. Well, They have been finding me to chat with and I have been chatting with them and making some new friends. Like for instance, My friend Charlie....I have no idea what his last name is, but I know he's from Tulsa, OK and he's a pretty cool guy. He introduced me to his fiance(then, girlfriend) and I've been having a wonderful time chatting with them and getting to know them. Who knows...maybe I'll actually get to go to his wedding!?!?! :) Then I have made a new friend online also who is local. She lives in Lynnwood, WA. Her name is Jill. She's a fiesty one. We are having a good time chatting also. She has 2 kids, 4 and a half and 7; and she works at the....well, I shouldn't tell you....all those internet stalkers out there. She's pretty cool.
I took a trip to Granite Falls, WA to hang with a friend from work. That was an interesting time. He let me ride his Yamaha R-1!!! That was cool! And yes, I am getting delusions of purchasing a crotch rocket!!! TOOO FUN!!! All that power! Loved it!

Ummmm....let's see....what else did I do???
I finally went shopping and bought a slammin pair of new Adidas'!!! I also bought a new game for my XBOX...MechAssault 2. Pretty fun stuff. I hadn't bought a game in a while. It was Used....so I saved like $10! HOORAY FOR SAVING MONEY!

Ohh....last but not least....This week's cd review...(so far!)
David Crowder Band "Sunsets & Sushi"
Fabulous "new" cd by a wonderful worship leader. He's the only worship leader I know that has fully embraced the power of electronic music to enhance the worship experience. This is a new cd as far as it is new interpretations of songs from his last full length cd, "Illuminate"; but they aren't "new" songs. This is a remix album. Musically it falls somewhere in between The Postal Service and Delerium at times, but it is full on David Crowder Band. A definate MUST HAVE cd!!!! So much so that I made about 4 copies of it and distributed them to friends. (People I know that don't have the extra money for a cd or as a witness tool) I don't condone burning cds....especially of christian artists, but it can be a real ministry....besides, if they really like it they'll eventually go out and get it for themselves.

ok...enough of me talking about nothing. So what did YOU do this weekend?

Weekend Fun?!

2005-02-18T15:38:00.000-08:00

Well..it looks like it'll be another weekend full of boredom. I really need to get a life. So maybe on my days off I should just spend all my time at the gym? At least there I'll get fit. It'll also save me some money. Ya gotta love saving money.
Question for y'all. I am sort of coming to a crossroad in my life.
Do I: A) Get a new car! or B) Look into getting a house/condo?
I would love to get a house/condo because then I would actually get a tax break, but in doing so I would increase my spending per month on Utilities, mortgage(which would be double what I'm paying now for rent), etc... I also would love to get a new car as my car is old and has never been the car that i really wanted. I still wanna keep it because it's a wonderful work car! It has NEVER let me down! My "Green Lantern" has really done me good for a lot of years. The downfall of getting a new/er car is that then I'd have a car payment again and my insurance might go up again. Ugh! What to do, what to do. Being an adult is sort of draining. I wish I was just a kid again and had people making decisions for me at times. Any Suggestions?

Hello & Welcome

2005-02-18T13:55:00.000-08:00

Hello all. It's official. I am now a "Blogger". Just wanted to say hello and let you all know I was here.

For my first topic I will suggest cd's for your listening pleasure! (maybe this will be an every week thing?)
My latest musically love is John Legend! His new cd is called "Get Lifted" and has inspired the title of my blog. He's the first signing to Kanye West's new label, G.O.O.D. (Getting Out Our Dreams) music. He's a wonderful mix of R&B and Hip Hop on the first few tracks and then the cd takes a twist. It becomes this amazing soul cd laced with classic soul influences. At times you feel like you are attending a church service in the deep south at others you are in a dark, smokey jazz bar where the music is your guide. It's AMAZING!!! I would have to not recommend track 6 as it is slightly offensive, but the rest of the album deals with love and family. It's really, really good. Skillful musicianship and songwriting. Excellent production. Great vocals. It is a classic in the sense that it stirs many emotions and you feel comfortable when you listen to it. Like a familiar friend.

OK...well I suppose that is enough for a first time. See ya later!

Muppets in Space!

2005-02-18T08:02:00.000-08:00

Posted by: getlifted

Muppets in Space!
Hey y'all....I figured I'd put a pic on here so you'd have a reference point of me! ;) This is me at the Museum of Science and Industry in Chicago, IL! Gotta rep yo' city! I miss it a lot sometimes. I don't miss the air quality though.