I love reading "Best of..." lists, but I don't usually make any of my own. Pete says he makes a "Best Albums" list every year, so I decided to give it a try. I couldn't narrow it down to 10, so I just included all the ones I really liked. Here they are, in no particular order:
Arcade Fire - Neon Bible
I shouldn't like this album. It's derivative, predictable, melodramatic, and, at times, even boring. But I can't stop listening to it. I liked their first album okay, but not enough to buy this one. Then I saw them put on one of the most magical shows I've ever seen. I still think they're a little pretentious, but this album is nothing short of spectacular.
Bjork - Volta
This is probably her funkiest album to date, which is saying something. Even with tracks produced by Timbaland, it took me a few listens to get into this one. This is a more accessible Bjork, but she's still just as weird as ever.
Britney Spears - Blackout
Come on. Admit it. You sing along, too. This album sounds like Britney put in about 30 minutes of studio time and left the producers to do the rest. Lucky for her, she's got enough money to hire the best, making this the best electro-pop album of the year.
Eisley - Combinations
This was, in many ways, a repeat of "Room Noises," with melancholy tunes about heartbreak and loss. But they also threw in some left-field tracks about gossip and aliens (like, the outter-space kind). Plus, "Taking Control" was probably one of the most singable songs I've heard in a while.
Feist - The Reminder
I really wish she hadn't done that iPod commercial, but I can't deny that this album (along with her last album) is like sugar. So sweet and addictive.
Once - Soundtrack
If you haven't seen this movie yet, do so now. It's simple and tender without being sappy. And the whole thing is brought together beautifully by the music within. You can tell Glen Hansard has lived the lives of the characters in his songs, and Marketa Irglova provides a wonderful muse.
Kanye West - Graduation
Not as good as his first two albums, but nonetheless, the best hip-hop album of 2007. Sure, he has a huge ego, but he's got the talent to back it up.
Les Savy Fav - Let's Stay Friends
Stellar, melodic indie rock from NYC. This is their first album in six years. The riff in "Patty Lee" is alone worth the price of the whole album.
LCD Soundsystem - Sound of Silver
The lyrics are dark, but the music is so danceable. It's a phenomenal punk-funk album that hints at the political and tragic.
Peter Bjorn & John - Writer's Block
There's nothing better than indie-pop, except when it's indie-pop from Sweden.
PJ Harvey - White Chalk
The word most used to describe this record is "haunting," and I couldn't agree more. You know when the first lines of a song are "The ceiling is moving," you're in for a trippy treat. Usually, PJ belts out big songs with huge choruses, but this time she went for a more minimalist, piano-driven, soft approach. It compliments her very well.
The White Stripes - Icky Thump
They got experimental with their arrangements and instrumentation, but there's no denying the characterisics that make this a White Stripes album. Meg pounds away on the drums (with tons of cybals) while Jack's guitar screams and his voice strains into some amazing blues-rock.
Tegan and Sara - The Con
Not as poppy as "So Jealous" and maybe even darker; but their voices coincide so well, and accentuate the power of their songs. The title track is especially wonderful.
Amy Winehouse - Back to Black
This album actually came out last December, but this really has been her year, despite all the personal problems. Her voice is amazing, and the songs are well produced. They have a cool retro feel, while still looking forward.
The Hives - The Black and White Album
Swedish garage rock that shouldn't be as fun as it is. This is their third album, and their most experimental.
Radiohead - In Rainbows
It's a pretty big deal when Radiohead releases anything. They could probably poo in a bucket, mix it with some vomit, throw it on some staff paper, play the resulting notes, and still achieve a masterpiece. That's how good they are. With this record, they've relaxed somewhat, and didn't go as far left with their experimentation. Many Radiohead songs can seem cold or angry, but this album is full of deep emotion, at times even romantic. It suits them well.
Modest Mouse - We Were Dead Before The Ship Even Sank
I know I said these are in no particular order, but if I had to pick the single greatest album of the year, this would be it. To be honest, I don't know what makes a good album. But I listened to this one far more than any other this year, and even gone hoarse singing along with it. It's one for the ages. At once, dark and hopeful, strange and catchy. Isaac Brock is one of the most talented songwriter/lyricists working today, and I can't imagine how empty my iPod would be without any of MMs albums.
Best Posthumous Album:
Elliott Smith - New Moon
Potential Best Albums:
(These are ones I've recently bought, and haven't had the chance to dig into yet. But they sure look promising.)
Against Me! - New Wave
M.I.A. - Kala
Rilo Kiley - Under the Blacklight
The Go! Team - Proof of Youth
Burial - Untrue
Lupe Fiasco - The Cool
Disappointments:
(Albums I had high hopes for, but just didn't turn out very well.)
The Shins - Wincing the Night Away
Bloc Party - Weekend in the City
Interpol - Our Love To Admire
It seems almost dishonest to put out a personal Best Albums list, as I'm sure there are tons of records out there that would totally blow me away that I just haven't heard (yet). I'd love to do a Best Movies list, as well, but so many great films don't get released around here, or not until next year. Still, if you tend to have the same musical tastes as me, you should enjoy any of these albums. And if you know of any you think I'd appreciate, please let me know.
Monday, December 31, 2007
White Out
Nick and I headed up to Snowbasin this morning. We read the weather report, which wasn't promising, but decided to go anyway. Visibility was next to nothing, but there was so much new powder on the mountain, we couldn't help but have a good time.
Luckily, things started to clear up in the early afternoon, and we still got to enjoy all that wonderful powder.
Not so luckily, Nick took a nasty tumble and kinda jacked up his knee. He didn't want to go to the hospital, but we decided to call it a day. I asked if he wanted me to give him the Mr. Miyagi treatment, but he declined.
Luckily, things started to clear up in the early afternoon, and we still got to enjoy all that wonderful powder.
Not so luckily, Nick took a nasty tumble and kinda jacked up his knee. He didn't want to go to the hospital, but we decided to call it a day. I asked if he wanted me to give him the Mr. Miyagi treatment, but he declined.
Sunday, December 30, 2007
Round Trip
I walked in my door a few minutes ago, and it's nice to be back in my own place. It's kinda empty now, though, because Ryan has packed out all his stuff. I'll be spending the rest of the day unpacking and recovering. It's gonna be kinda slow because Billy and I went out drinking last night, and I didn't get too much sleep. By the way, here's a word of advice: never fly with a hangover.
Friday, December 28, 2007
A Cloudy Departure
I can't believe how fast the past two weeks have gone by. I head back to Utah tomorrow, and, as always, it will be nice to get back to my own place. Still, I can't deny that being back in Kentucky has made me a little nostalgic and somewhat emotional. I almost lost it yesterday when Mom and I were taking down the Christmas tree. Maybe it's hanging out with my family, maybe it's the holidays, or maybe it's just seeing everyone growing older.
It's hard to see everyone in such a short period of time, but everyone has been so gracious and loving. E-mailing and talking on the phone just isn't the same as being able to hug someone. I know my Mom is going to start crying when we get to the airport tomorrow, and for the first time, I might, too.
It's hard to see everyone in such a short period of time, but everyone has been so gracious and loving. E-mailing and talking on the phone just isn't the same as being able to hug someone. I know my Mom is going to start crying when we get to the airport tomorrow, and for the first time, I might, too.
Thursday, December 27, 2007
For Unto Us A Child Is Born
When I was younger, my brother and I would wake up at 5 AM on Christmas morning and go jump on Mom and Dad's bed. The rule was that we couldn't open presents until everyone was up and in the living room. We also read the Christmas story straight out of Luke. Finally, we got to rip into into our Santa-bounty.
Now that we're older, things aren't quite as chaotic. This year, we woke up and waited for my brother and his family to arrive, which wasn't until 11.
We spent the day opening presents, eating, and just being a family.
Chris and Angie got Andrew and John a Wii for Christmas.
And Mom totally dominated at boxing. And golf. And bowling. She's a video game junkie at heart, but she'd never admit it. She's even played guitar hero.
That evening, we went to my Grandparents' house for more celebrating with Dad's side of the extended family.
I really can't describe how great it was being home for Christmas again. I love my family so much, and I'd come home more often if I could. It's a shame Christmas comes but once a year.
Now that we're older, things aren't quite as chaotic. This year, we woke up and waited for my brother and his family to arrive, which wasn't until 11.
We spent the day opening presents, eating, and just being a family.
Chris and Angie got Andrew and John a Wii for Christmas.
And Mom totally dominated at boxing. And golf. And bowling. She's a video game junkie at heart, but she'd never admit it. She's even played guitar hero.
That evening, we went to my Grandparents' house for more celebrating with Dad's side of the extended family.
I really can't describe how great it was being home for Christmas again. I love my family so much, and I'd come home more often if I could. It's a shame Christmas comes but once a year.
Tuesday, December 25, 2007
Rejoice, Emmanuel
I spent last Christmas in Iraq, and I can't even remember what I did. I guess it just goes to show it's not really the day that's important, but spending time with family and friends. This is the first Christmas I've spent at home since 1999, and I'm doing my best to cherish every moment.
...the cornucopia quivering with desire and the ecstasy of unbridled avarice
Mom and I are finishing wrapping the last few gifts while watching the "A Christmas Story" marathon. This is why I love this holiday.
Monday, December 24, 2007
Gateway to the West
Wednesday afternoon, I took a road trip to St. Louis. My first destination, the home of Don and Jessi. I'd never met Jessi before, and she was just as charming and fun as Don described her. We had a great time eating and bonding and obsessing over Kurt Cobain. Thursday, Don and I hung out all day in St. Louis. We checked out a few galleries and saw the Body Worlds exhibit. We also spent some time with Kasey, who's turning into a wonderful and talented young lady. That night, I drove to hang with Paul and Trish, who are in the middle of moving to St. Louis from Seattle, and were staying with Jen and Jason, Trish's sister and brother-in-law. Roxy has gotten so big, and she's probably the most adorable 2-year-old in the whole F-ing world. Friday, I helped Paul move their belongings from a trailer into a U-Haul van in transition to their new place. And Saturday, I had breakfast with Jean-Marie and Jim before heading back to Kentucky. I know this is the Cliff's Notes version, made even worse by the fact I didn't take any pictures. Yes, I'm a total bonehead. You'll just have to take my word that it was a stellar trip and I'm so glad I got to see everyone before I depart for Italy. Love you guys.
Tuesday, December 18, 2007
Trim It Up and Down
My Grandparents live in a big house out in the woods, and every year, they get a huge twelve-foot Christmas tree. Since it's such a big tree, decorating it every year is a family event. For me, it's almost as fun as Christmas morning.
The big tree-trimming party was Saturday night, only a couple hours after I flew into town.
Since it's such a big tree, it takes over an hour just to get the lights on. And when you have as many opinionated women as my family does, the lights have to be just right.
We don't have any basketball players in the family, so we have to get ladders and stools to reach the upper branches. My Grandpa is big on traditions, and he makes sure everyone hangs at least one ornament.
My grandparents have ornaments dating all the way back to the 1920s. It's wonderful to see everything come together. And exciting to think of all the gifts that will be underneath it on Christmas morning.
After we left my Grandparents' house, Mom, Dad, and I drove around looking at Christmas lights, including this very overwhelming display, which is the stuff of local legend. It runs nearly the entire block, and can probably be seen from space. Isn't it great when people get into the holidays?
The big tree-trimming party was Saturday night, only a couple hours after I flew into town.
Since it's such a big tree, it takes over an hour just to get the lights on. And when you have as many opinionated women as my family does, the lights have to be just right.
We don't have any basketball players in the family, so we have to get ladders and stools to reach the upper branches. My Grandpa is big on traditions, and he makes sure everyone hangs at least one ornament.
My grandparents have ornaments dating all the way back to the 1920s. It's wonderful to see everything come together. And exciting to think of all the gifts that will be underneath it on Christmas morning.
After we left my Grandparents' house, Mom, Dad, and I drove around looking at Christmas lights, including this very overwhelming display, which is the stuff of local legend. It runs nearly the entire block, and can probably be seen from space. Isn't it great when people get into the holidays?
Sunday, December 16, 2007
C-Dawg's Odyssey
I've always been pretty lucky when traveling. I've never been stranded in an airport overnight, had to get violent with an airline attendant, or had a cancelled flight. Until yesterday.
I fly into Evansville, which is a small, regional airport; therefore, the only places they fly are places like Atlanta, Cincinnati, and Chicago (where my layover was yesterday). When I got off my flight from SLC to O'Hare, there was a message on my phone saying my flight had been cancelled, and the next available flight was Sunday morning. Thoughts filled my head of having to sleep on the floor of the airport while the rest of my family was drinking cider and decorating the tree.
I immediately picked up the direct phone line to American Airlines help desk. The lady told me there was an earlier flight that was boarding right then. I dropped the receiver and totally hauled ass across the airport.
I arrived at the gate, gasping for breath. The nice man told me the plane was delayed, and I'd have no problem getting on board. I let out a huge sigh of relief, and called my parents to tell them I'd be in even earlier than expected.
See? Christmas wishes DO come true! (Now, if only I had my luggage, too.)
I fly into Evansville, which is a small, regional airport; therefore, the only places they fly are places like Atlanta, Cincinnati, and Chicago (where my layover was yesterday). When I got off my flight from SLC to O'Hare, there was a message on my phone saying my flight had been cancelled, and the next available flight was Sunday morning. Thoughts filled my head of having to sleep on the floor of the airport while the rest of my family was drinking cider and decorating the tree.
I immediately picked up the direct phone line to American Airlines help desk. The lady told me there was an earlier flight that was boarding right then. I dropped the receiver and totally hauled ass across the airport.
I arrived at the gate, gasping for breath. The nice man told me the plane was delayed, and I'd have no problem getting on board. I let out a huge sigh of relief, and called my parents to tell them I'd be in even earlier than expected.
See? Christmas wishes DO come true! (Now, if only I had my luggage, too.)
Saturday, December 15, 2007
Altered Moods
I'm packed and ready to go. I'm just waiting for Johnny to arrive and take me to the airport.
I spent yesterday morning doing laundry, running errands, and packing. I finished earlier than expected, so I decided to head down to SLC to catch Atonement. It was a great movie, but something rather unfortunate happened while I was in the theatre. I had set my jacket and sunglasses in the unoccupied seat next to me, and when the theatre began to get more crowded, a lady sat in the seat before I got the chance to grab my stuff. It gets kinda complicated, but basically, that bitch stole my sunglasses. And when I asked her, "Excuses me, ma'am, but did you happen to see my sunglasses?" she replied, "No!" and walked away. It totally ruined my afternoon, until...
...several of us went to CyberSlut Bingo again last night. It was Tanya, Caleb, Brian, Kyle, and Kevin. It was a great time, made even better when both Kevin and I won. Afterward, we went to Mikey and Floyd's place for a few social drinks. Hanging out with all my friends made me totally forget about the sunglass incident. And winning at bingo didn't hurt, either.
I get to spend all day today on planes and in airports. It's not my ideal Saturday, but it will all be better when I get off the plane and see my family waiting for me. I can't wait.
I spent yesterday morning doing laundry, running errands, and packing. I finished earlier than expected, so I decided to head down to SLC to catch Atonement. It was a great movie, but something rather unfortunate happened while I was in the theatre. I had set my jacket and sunglasses in the unoccupied seat next to me, and when the theatre began to get more crowded, a lady sat in the seat before I got the chance to grab my stuff. It gets kinda complicated, but basically, that bitch stole my sunglasses. And when I asked her, "Excuses me, ma'am, but did you happen to see my sunglasses?" she replied, "No!" and walked away. It totally ruined my afternoon, until...
...several of us went to CyberSlut Bingo again last night. It was Tanya, Caleb, Brian, Kyle, and Kevin. It was a great time, made even better when both Kevin and I won. Afterward, we went to Mikey and Floyd's place for a few social drinks. Hanging out with all my friends made me totally forget about the sunglass incident. And winning at bingo didn't hurt, either.
I get to spend all day today on planes and in airports. It's not my ideal Saturday, but it will all be better when I get off the plane and see my family waiting for me. I can't wait.
Friday, December 14, 2007
Snow Legs
The snow came late this year, and I was wondering if I'd get any snowboarding in at all. Luckily, we got quite a load of the white stuff last weekend, and I made it up to Snowbasin today.
It was insanely cold (the thermometer at the top of the lift read 4!) and a little overcast; plus the entire mountain isn't open yet. But I didn't let any of the stop me. Luckily, lift tickets were cheaper than normal.
I spent over six hours on the slopes, and since I was by myself, I went at my own pace. My thighs started hurting on my last couple runs, so I decided to call it a day. It's snowing right now, and the conditions are supposed to be ideal tomorrow, but alas, I'll be doing laundry and packing all day. This was just a little teaser for when I get back to Utah later this month.
It was insanely cold (the thermometer at the top of the lift read 4!) and a little overcast; plus the entire mountain isn't open yet. But I didn't let any of the stop me. Luckily, lift tickets were cheaper than normal.
I spent over six hours on the slopes, and since I was by myself, I went at my own pace. My thighs started hurting on my last couple runs, so I decided to call it a day. It's snowing right now, and the conditions are supposed to be ideal tomorrow, but alas, I'll be doing laundry and packing all day. This was just a little teaser for when I get back to Utah later this month.
Ice Capade
I'd always heard there was an outdoor skating rink in SLC, but I never knew where it was. I found out in August when we went to the Peter, Bjorn, & John concert, because the ice rink is in the same plaza.
So last night, I gathered up a group of people to strap on some skates and slide around for a couple hours.
It was Kyle, Mikey, Caleb, Mike, Jake, Sara, Johnny and me. The whole downtown area was decorated with Christmas lights, and it looked wonderful.
I hadn't skated since I lived in Japan, and was surprised at how easily it came back to me. The rink wasn't too crowded, and we all had lots of fun.
Johnny and Sara both grew up playing hockey, and were great skaters. Johnny kept threatening to body check me, but he never did. I guess he knew I'd totally kick his butt.
After skating, we decided we needed to warm up a bit, so Mike, Jake, Kyle, and I went to Squatters for a few beers, where we were joined by Brian. It ended up being a night of several beers at many different places. It's a good thing I didn't have to work today.
So last night, I gathered up a group of people to strap on some skates and slide around for a couple hours.
It was Kyle, Mikey, Caleb, Mike, Jake, Sara, Johnny and me. The whole downtown area was decorated with Christmas lights, and it looked wonderful.
I hadn't skated since I lived in Japan, and was surprised at how easily it came back to me. The rink wasn't too crowded, and we all had lots of fun.
Johnny and Sara both grew up playing hockey, and were great skaters. Johnny kept threatening to body check me, but he never did. I guess he knew I'd totally kick his butt.
After skating, we decided we needed to warm up a bit, so Mike, Jake, Kyle, and I went to Squatters for a few beers, where we were joined by Brian. It ended up being a night of several beers at many different places. It's a good thing I didn't have to work today.
Thursday, December 13, 2007
Accidentally Inebriated
It seemed like Monday's drive back from Vegas was extra long, probably because of a nasty combination of weather and traffic. I finally got home just after 7; but no more than ten minutes after I set my suitcase down, Neil and Kyle knocked on the door looking for drinking buddies to join them at The Republican. How could I say no?
As soon as we walked in the door, Neil bought us each an Irish Car Bomb, which I'd never had before, but was pretty tasty. John joined us for a while, too, and even though it wasn't a very late night, it wasn't a very sober night, either.
As soon as we walked in the door, Neil bought us each an Irish Car Bomb, which I'd never had before, but was pretty tasty. John joined us for a while, too, and even though it wasn't a very late night, it wasn't a very sober night, either.
Prep Time
Today was my last day of work this year. I don't fly home until Saturday, but I decided to start my leave a little early because the rest of the week is booked solid and I hate packing in a hurry. Also, I'd like to get a little snowboarding in. I've got plenty of leave, so I might as well use it.
Wednesday, December 12, 2007
The Power Of Five Keeps The Love Alive
When I was in Air Force Basic Training, we didn't have much contact with the outside world. After graduation, however, we were allowed to once again enjoy the luxuries of watching television and listening to music. The day after we graduated, a guy in my flight was wearing his headphones and offered me a listen. When he pushed play, I heard the most sugary, energetic song the world has ever known. It was "Wannabe" by the The Spice Girls. Little did I know what a phenom they'd become.
You can laugh all you want, but I'm not ashamed to admit I bought both of their albums and even saw Spiceworld in the theatre (which wasn't THAT bad). They came through Vegas in '99, but it was after Geri split from the group, and it just wasn't the same. So a few weeks ago, when they announced their reunion tour and Tanya asked if I was interested, she was met with a resounding "YES!"
The show was Sunday night, the second of three sold-out shows in Vegas. Also in attendance were Posh's husband David Beckham, Tom Cruise, and Katie Holmes. There was no opening act, and even though the show started an hour late, nobody seemed to care. As soon as the lights went out, the crowd went wild. Suddenly, on the stage, there were those five ladies, looking almost doll-like. The music started pumping, and we all started dancing to the latin beat of "Spice Up Your Life." It was near impossible not to feel all tingly, especially when Scary shouted out, "People of the world!" and the crowd, hands in the air, responded, "Spice up your life!"
It was a very high production show. They sang all their hits, even the ones made famous without Geri. The middle section consisted mostly of each girl's solo work. Highlights included Mel B's S&M-induced cover of Lenny Kravitz's "Are You Gonna Go My Way?" and Geri's vamped up "It's Raining Men."
But by far, the best thing about the show was the overwhelming sense of pure fun. Every person in the audience was on their feet and dancing the whole time. And each Spice Girl was there to do whatever it took to keep it that way.
The encore was "Wannabe," because you know they're not leaving until they sing it. That was followed by a reprise of "Spice Up Your Life," which wasn't just a request to the crowd. It was a demand to the world.
You can laugh all you want, but I'm not ashamed to admit I bought both of their albums and even saw Spiceworld in the theatre (which wasn't THAT bad). They came through Vegas in '99, but it was after Geri split from the group, and it just wasn't the same. So a few weeks ago, when they announced their reunion tour and Tanya asked if I was interested, she was met with a resounding "YES!"
The show was Sunday night, the second of three sold-out shows in Vegas. Also in attendance were Posh's husband David Beckham, Tom Cruise, and Katie Holmes. There was no opening act, and even though the show started an hour late, nobody seemed to care. As soon as the lights went out, the crowd went wild. Suddenly, on the stage, there were those five ladies, looking almost doll-like. The music started pumping, and we all started dancing to the latin beat of "Spice Up Your Life." It was near impossible not to feel all tingly, especially when Scary shouted out, "People of the world!" and the crowd, hands in the air, responded, "Spice up your life!"
It was a very high production show. They sang all their hits, even the ones made famous without Geri. The middle section consisted mostly of each girl's solo work. Highlights included Mel B's S&M-induced cover of Lenny Kravitz's "Are You Gonna Go My Way?" and Geri's vamped up "It's Raining Men."
But by far, the best thing about the show was the overwhelming sense of pure fun. Every person in the audience was on their feet and dancing the whole time. And each Spice Girl was there to do whatever it took to keep it that way.
The encore was "Wannabe," because you know they're not leaving until they sing it. That was followed by a reprise of "Spice Up Your Life," which wasn't just a request to the crowd. It was a demand to the world.
Pranks and Pleasures
Saturday night, while we were down on the Strip, Megan and Ali got separated from the rest of the crowd. They called and said not to worry, and that they'd find their own way back to Kari and John Paul's place. But Sunday morning, we all woke up to find no trace of Megan or Ali. You can imagine our surprise when they finally got back and told us they'd gotten married the night before, especially since they'd never met before that weekend.
But then again, we had more important things to handle, like getting ready for the Spice Girls that night. All the girls dressed up as a different Spice. This featured...
Tanya as Baby Spice...
Dawn as Scary Spice...
Megan as Posh Spice...
Kim as Sporty Spice...
and Kari and Ginger Spice.
All the girls put so much time and effort into their outfits, and when we finally saw them all together, it was really impressive.
The excitement before the big show was undeniable.
After the show, we all had a bite at In-N-Out Burger, then split up. While some went home to sleep, Tanya, Caleb, Megan, Ali, and I decided to enjoy Vegas a little more. We went to one of my old haunts, the Champagnes Cafe. It's got a vintage Vegas feel, with big leather booths, velvet wallpaper, and great martinis. I hadn't been there since 2002, and it hadn't changed a bit. Frank Sinatra was playing on the jukebox, and it was a perfect way to end our evening.
By the way, Megan and Ali didn't really get married. They just wanted to get a rise out of Kim. And it worked.
But then again, we had more important things to handle, like getting ready for the Spice Girls that night. All the girls dressed up as a different Spice. This featured...
Tanya as Baby Spice...
Dawn as Scary Spice...
Megan as Posh Spice...
Kim as Sporty Spice...
and Kari and Ginger Spice.
All the girls put so much time and effort into their outfits, and when we finally saw them all together, it was really impressive.
The excitement before the big show was undeniable.
After the show, we all had a bite at In-N-Out Burger, then split up. While some went home to sleep, Tanya, Caleb, Megan, Ali, and I decided to enjoy Vegas a little more. We went to one of my old haunts, the Champagnes Cafe. It's got a vintage Vegas feel, with big leather booths, velvet wallpaper, and great martinis. I hadn't been there since 2002, and it hadn't changed a bit. Frank Sinatra was playing on the jukebox, and it was a perfect way to end our evening.
By the way, Megan and Ali didn't really get married. They just wanted to get a rise out of Kim. And it worked.
Sunday, December 09, 2007
Caravan
I'm in Vegas right now. Yesterday morning, we road-tripped down here; Dawn and Tanya rode with Kim, Ali and Caleb with me. We're staying with Kari and John Paul, people I'd never met before but are very hospitable. All the girls went to school together, so there's lots of inside jokes and giggling.
Last night, we went down to the Strip, ate, and did a little shopping. There was a big fight at the MGM, and it was amazingly crowded. Tanya had never walked down the Strip before, and I think it was a little overwhelming. Regardless, it's always fun to be in this city, and we're already having a good time. Pictures and details of the main event will come later.
Last night, we went down to the Strip, ate, and did a little shopping. There was a big fight at the MGM, and it was amazingly crowded. Tanya had never walked down the Strip before, and I think it was a little overwhelming. Regardless, it's always fun to be in this city, and we're already having a good time. Pictures and details of the main event will come later.
Friday, December 07, 2007
Three Amigos
The Dinki are moving from Seattle to St. Louis. Trish and Roxy already flew there, but Paul is driving, so Don flew up to Seattle to keep him company along the drive. Last night, they came through Utah, and spent the night at my place. It had been over two years since I'd seen either one of them, and they hadn't changed a bit. We stayed up late talking and making crude jokes. It was just like old times. What's even better is I'll be seeing them again in a couple weeks.
So Fresh, So Clean
On a scale of 1 to 10 (1 being a total slob and 10 being immaculate), I'd rate myself about a 7 on cleanliness. I'm expecting a visitor or two tonight, so I spent all last night bringing my place up to at least an 8.5. There's nothing fun about cleaning one's bathroom, but somehow, listening to Le Tigre the whole time makes it a little better.
Wednesday, December 05, 2007
Open Book - Mad Props #7
Last night, I finished "The Abstinence Teacher," the fifth novel by Tom Perrotta, which was just published in October. What turned me on to his writing was Election, a film based on his second novel (and one of my favourite movies ever). Since then, I've read all his books. Each is very true-to-life, and punctuated with humour and heartache. His characters are likeable, even when they're making stupid mistakes (see the novel or film "Little Children"). I just found some of his short stories, articles, and essays on his website, which should keep me occupied for a while. There's also a great interview on The Onion's AV Club here. So, Mad Props to Tom Perrotta. Already, I can't wait for his next book.
Tuesday, December 04, 2007
Food Science
Last night, I threw together some chili. I didn't eat any, though, because I think chili is best when it stews for a day or so. Plus, I never really know how it's gonna turn out. I don't have a set recipe, so sometimes I add extra tofu or less black beans. Sometimes I add chipotle or leave out the garlic. It's never the same, but sometimes it's better than others.
I came home for lunch today just to try it out. I don't know exactly what I did, but this batch turned out phenomenally. My main goal was to make it a little soupier than last time, which was so thick it almost bent my spoon. This one also has a little more kick, which I appreciate. I stored what I didn't eat, which should hopefully last me all week. Cooking for one isn't easy, and chili is the ultimate bachelor food.
I came home for lunch today just to try it out. I don't know exactly what I did, but this batch turned out phenomenally. My main goal was to make it a little soupier than last time, which was so thick it almost bent my spoon. This one also has a little more kick, which I appreciate. I stored what I didn't eat, which should hopefully last me all week. Cooking for one isn't easy, and chili is the ultimate bachelor food.
Monday, December 03, 2007
Whomever discovered the many uses of cocoa should be made King of the Universe.
Since I worked today, last night was kinda chill. The main thing I did was make fudge. I just had the first piece a minute ago, and seriously, we could get invaded by giant Richard Simmons monsters from outer space, and I wouldn't care. It's THAT GOOD.
Nobody's Home
You know what the worst feeling in the world is? The dread of not being able to find your phone. I worked today (Johnny is in Disney World this week with Sara and her family), and it was kinda hectic getting ready this morning. After I'd been at work for a while, I reached into my pocket and realised it wasn't there. I figured I'd just left it at home. No big deal. But when I got home I couldn't find it anywhere. Panic ensued.
Here's a brief list of the thoughts that went through my mind:
"Where the F is my phone?"
"I'll just have someone call it, and see if I can hear it."
"How can I get a hold of someone when I don't have my phone?"
"Well, I'll just text them."
"Duh, Curtis! You need your phone for that, too."
I ended up retracing my steps this morning, which included taking a trip back onto base. I found it next to one of the computers at work, and let out a huge sigh of relief. I can be such a bonehead sometimes.
Here's a brief list of the thoughts that went through my mind:
"Where the F is my phone?"
"I'll just have someone call it, and see if I can hear it."
"How can I get a hold of someone when I don't have my phone?"
"Well, I'll just text them."
"Duh, Curtis! You need your phone for that, too."
I ended up retracing my steps this morning, which included taking a trip back onto base. I found it next to one of the computers at work, and let out a huge sigh of relief. I can be such a bonehead sometimes.
Sunday, December 02, 2007
I get a little warm in my heart when I think of Winter
After the concert last night, we went to Jeff's place for games and bourbon. We started off with Twister. Here's a tip: never play Twister with Trevan. That boy is ruthless.
I'm sure all the alcohol we drank didn't help much, either.
From there, we migrated to a game of Settlers--another game best played not under the influence, especially when Pete had never played before and was definitely trying Trevan's patience.
Did I mention there was booze involved?
Needless to say, we all crashed on Jeff's floor. Pete got the munchies at 3 AM and totally delved into some ice cream. Those guys are a riot.
When we woke up this morning, we were delighted to find several inches of fresh snow had fallen. We dressed and headed to breakfast at The Bakery, where I had the best croissant ever.
Everyone else had stuff to do the rest of the day, but I decided to take advantage of my time in SLC. I took care of a little Christmas shopping and went to see Before The Devil Knows You're Dead. It was pretty intense, but I really liked it. Then I had some afternoon coffee with Jonathan and Freddie.
After coffee, I was going to head home, but as I passed Liberty Park, I couldn't help but notice how lovely it looked with a fresh blanket of snow. So I took these pictures.
The pond was almost frozen over, and the poor ducks had no clue what to do. I wished I had some bread to feed them.
I wasn't exactly dressed to trek around in the snow, so my feet were pretty soaked after a few minutes, but it was worth it. The branches of the trees hung so low under the weight of the snow, and it got me all excited. Not just for snowboarding, but for hanging indoors with friends and hot cocoa and going home for Christmas.
I'm sure all the alcohol we drank didn't help much, either.
From there, we migrated to a game of Settlers--another game best played not under the influence, especially when Pete had never played before and was definitely trying Trevan's patience.
Did I mention there was booze involved?
Needless to say, we all crashed on Jeff's floor. Pete got the munchies at 3 AM and totally delved into some ice cream. Those guys are a riot.
When we woke up this morning, we were delighted to find several inches of fresh snow had fallen. We dressed and headed to breakfast at The Bakery, where I had the best croissant ever.
Everyone else had stuff to do the rest of the day, but I decided to take advantage of my time in SLC. I took care of a little Christmas shopping and went to see Before The Devil Knows You're Dead. It was pretty intense, but I really liked it. Then I had some afternoon coffee with Jonathan and Freddie.
After coffee, I was going to head home, but as I passed Liberty Park, I couldn't help but notice how lovely it looked with a fresh blanket of snow. So I took these pictures.
The pond was almost frozen over, and the poor ducks had no clue what to do. I wished I had some bread to feed them.
I wasn't exactly dressed to trek around in the snow, so my feet were pretty soaked after a few minutes, but it was worth it. The branches of the trees hung so low under the weight of the snow, and it got me all excited. Not just for snowboarding, but for hanging indoors with friends and hot cocoa and going home for Christmas.
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