In preparation for our deployment in September, my squadron is going through tons of readiness and wartime training. We spent today at the exercise play area on base in preparation for an exercise next week (which, consequentially, is preparation for the deployement). I sometimes think I'm totally in the wrong line of work. I hate all these stupid wargames. They seem so over-the-top, and the chances of us ever using this training in a real-world situation are slim to none. If it ever comes down to a civil engineer in the Air Force having to pick up a gun and fight, then we're in some serious trouble.
But you know what's funny? As much as I hate it all, I'm really good at it. I executed the low crawl with finesse. I was extremely thorough in searching a potential tresspasser and avoiding a security breach. And when it comes to taking apart and reassembling the M-16 rifle, I'm Forrest Fucking Gump.
I guess that's one of life's little jokes. It's a shame there's not a job in the Air Force for shopping.
Saturday, June 17, 2006
Wednesday, June 14, 2006
Passover Feast
The formal list for Tech results doesn't come out until tomorrow, but I happen to know a guy (who knows a guy who knows a guy) that saw the list today, and my name wasn't on it. I don't really have any reason to be upset, seeing how I didn't study at all. Not to mention I had three hours of sleep and was severely hung over when I tested.
Regardless, I still feel a little emptiness in the pit of my stomach. Every year, I keep saying if I don't make it, I'll study for the next time, which obviously hasn't happened yet. The only thing that eases my pain is the fact that the promotion rate was only 15%.
So, tonight, I'm going to indulge. I don't know if it will be with food or beer or even just taking in a movie, but I'm going to forget about it all. Especially since tomorrow and Friday will be very long days full of pointless readiness training. Ugh.
Regardless, I still feel a little emptiness in the pit of my stomach. Every year, I keep saying if I don't make it, I'll study for the next time, which obviously hasn't happened yet. The only thing that eases my pain is the fact that the promotion rate was only 15%.
So, tonight, I'm going to indulge. I don't know if it will be with food or beer or even just taking in a movie, but I'm going to forget about it all. Especially since tomorrow and Friday will be very long days full of pointless readiness training. Ugh.
Breathe In, Breathe Out
Ever notice that things usually aren't as bad as they first seem? After reading my e-mail yesterday afternoon, I was kinda overwhelmed with everything going on at work. But I went in this morning and re-read everything and prioritised and organised things on a calendar, and it just doesn't seem like a big deal anymore. There's still a lot on my plate with classes and training and TDYs, and I'm not exactly looking forward to it. I don't freak out about many things, but for those rare times I do, I just have to remember to take a deep breath, count to ten, and calm down a bit.
By the way, I wanna wish a Happy 37th Anniversary to my parents. I love you guys.
By the way, I wanna wish a Happy 37th Anniversary to my parents. I love you guys.
Tuesday, June 13, 2006
Until My Middle Name Was "Excess"
Yeah, I guess that little diet of mine is going to have to start tomorrow. I had a small dinner consisting of an organic burrito, salsa, and fat free sour cream. Then John called and we went swimming. A small meal and a little physical activity. So far, so good, right?
And then John said, "You know what sounds good? Margaritas!"
So we went to Chili's where we drank margaritas and ate several bowls of their damned "bottomless" chips and salsa followed by some veggie fajitas. I haven't eaten until I was sick since I was seven years old and got into the cookie dough. It's not fun.
I'm not blaming John or anything. I'm just sick of not having any will power. I mean, what else could I do today to make myself more gluttonous?
I'm going to bed before the ice cream starts calling my name.
And then John said, "You know what sounds good? Margaritas!"
So we went to Chili's where we drank margaritas and ate several bowls of their damned "bottomless" chips and salsa followed by some veggie fajitas. I haven't eaten until I was sick since I was seven years old and got into the cookie dough. It's not fun.
I'm not blaming John or anything. I'm just sick of not having any will power. I mean, what else could I do today to make myself more gluttonous?
I'm going to bed before the ice cream starts calling my name.
The Slackingest Slacker That Ever Slacked a Slack
My bed is so comfortable. I mean, like, REALLY comfortable. So much so, that I ended up spending the greater part of my weekend horizontal. Other than the occassional shower or trip to the bathroom or kitchen, the only time I really got up was to hang with the Wendts on Friday and Saturday night. I did lots of reading and watched the first ten episodes of Six Feet Under and surfed the internet for hours on end. As a result, when I weighed myself before work this morning, I clocked in at 161. That's about 14 more pounds than I weighed three months ago. On one hand, I don't really care because I know I'm going to the desert in September, where I will lose it all, and then some. On the other hand, it is summertime and I plan on doing lots of swimming and other various outdoor activities not requiring a shirt, and I don't want to scare anyone. Therefore, I think I'm going to up my running regiment as well as go on a mini-diet (i.e. limit myself to two beers per sitting, one dessert each week, no night-time snacking, etc.).
In other news, I shot M-16 today. I scored a 39, which is pretty good. A 43 is expert, so I barely missed it. It doesn't really bother me, though. I hate guns, and the only thing shooting expert would mean to me is an extra ribbon on my blues jacket. I also went by work afterward to check my e-mail. Big mistake. I had a huge inbox full of tasks, appointments, and other various responsibilities, about which I'm a little stressed now. I should have just waited until tomorrow. Plus, my boss handed me two EPR shells. Both of my troops are great, so they'll be easy EPRs to write, but it will still be time consuming. On top of all that, there's tons of training going on in preparation for this deployment, most of which will be hot and dirty and totally useless.
Anyway, I just felt the need to vent. I now have to run by the post office to pick up a registered package that couldn't be left at the office. I'm seriously in the mood to drink tonight. But only two beers.
In other news, I shot M-16 today. I scored a 39, which is pretty good. A 43 is expert, so I barely missed it. It doesn't really bother me, though. I hate guns, and the only thing shooting expert would mean to me is an extra ribbon on my blues jacket. I also went by work afterward to check my e-mail. Big mistake. I had a huge inbox full of tasks, appointments, and other various responsibilities, about which I'm a little stressed now. I should have just waited until tomorrow. Plus, my boss handed me two EPR shells. Both of my troops are great, so they'll be easy EPRs to write, but it will still be time consuming. On top of all that, there's tons of training going on in preparation for this deployment, most of which will be hot and dirty and totally useless.
Anyway, I just felt the need to vent. I now have to run by the post office to pick up a registered package that couldn't be left at the office. I'm seriously in the mood to drink tonight. But only two beers.
Sunday, June 11, 2006
Bon Voyage
Last night, I went over to Josh and Sarah's new place, which was super cool, for dinner with Nate and Thaddeus. Nate is moving to Japan on Monday. Natsuko, Jake, and Tatsu are already over there.
Thaddeus and Ashley have been living in Minnesota since August, where Thaddeus goes to law school. This is the first time he's been back, and it was great to see him again. He's leaving to go back to Minnesota today.
As you can see, Tanya was pretty upset about seeing them leave.
I so appreciate the entire Wendt clan. They really helped me out when I first came to Utah, and made sure to invite me to their house and hang out and stuff. And they're all so much fun.
Good luck, Thaddeus and Nate! We'll be seeing you around.
Thaddeus and Ashley have been living in Minnesota since August, where Thaddeus goes to law school. This is the first time he's been back, and it was great to see him again. He's leaving to go back to Minnesota today.
As you can see, Tanya was pretty upset about seeing them leave.
I so appreciate the entire Wendt clan. They really helped me out when I first came to Utah, and made sure to invite me to their house and hang out and stuff. And they're all so much fun.
Good luck, Thaddeus and Nate! We'll be seeing you around.
Friday, June 09, 2006
What To Do
There's an air show going on this weekend, and it's a pretty big deal. But, you see, the thing is, I hate air shows. They're overcrowded and loud and just plain annoying; however, this is the big chance for the Air Force to show off, and, to do so, they need the help of pretty much everyone on base. And if you're in CE, like I am, then it's guaranteed you're going to get "volun-told" to help out...unless you take leave. Which I did. Over a weekend. Yes, it's important enough to me to get out of the air show and spend a few days of leave. And I figured if I'm going to take leave over a weekend, then I might as well take Friday, too. So I did. I slept in this morning, then went to lunch and shopping with John, and it's been totally worth it.
Also, last night, after Rooster's, John, Chad, and I went to the Mynt Lounge down in SLC. It was super-fun. I got to meet some of Chad's co-workers like Candy and Amber, who I've met several times before, but we were both pretty tipsty.
John had A LOT to drink. It was a good thing I was driving.
Hot.
On the way home, John passed out mid-sentence before we even left downtown. Conveniently, he woke up just as we pulled into his apartment complex. He's such a good drunk.
Also, last night, after Rooster's, John, Chad, and I went to the Mynt Lounge down in SLC. It was super-fun. I got to meet some of Chad's co-workers like Candy and Amber, who I've met several times before, but we were both pretty tipsty.
John had A LOT to drink. It was a good thing I was driving.
Hot.
On the way home, John passed out mid-sentence before we even left downtown. Conveniently, he woke up just as we pulled into his apartment complex. He's such a good drunk.
Screamy
I just happened to come across this article written by Chuck Palahniuk (author of "Fight Club") about the horror movie genre. A very interesting read regarding both the movies and our nature.
Thursday, June 08, 2006
Day To Shine
Smoosh is made up of sisters Asya and Chloe. Asya sings and plays the keyboard, while Chloe plays the drums. They create some of the most interesting indie-pop I've ever heard. One more thing: Asya is 14 and Chloe is 12. They opened for Eels last night at The Depot, which, ironically, is a 21-and-over venue.
It was an interesting atmosphere with everyone there last night, many of whom were a little tipsy, applauding these two tween girls who were totally rocking out on the stage. All I had was an overpriced Crown & Coke, and I felt a little weird. Regardless, the sounds those two girls made was enough to keep a grin on my face for their entire 45-minute set. Asya seemed very at home on stage, and Chloes beats were complex and frantic. Every song was three minutes of enthusiastic bliss. I guess when you've grown up together, you probably have your shit together. They only have two albums, the second of which was released yesterday, and I picked it up at the show. I was hoping they would be out to autograph it for me, but the merchandise table was next to the bar, so no such luck.
There was a brief intermission before the Eels came out. Eels is basically a band of rotating members centred around one constant--Mark Oliver Everett, or, more commonly known as E. They burst on the scene back in 1996 with their debut album "Beautiful Freak" and the single "Novocaine for the Soul" with a stunning video directed by Mark Romanek. Their next album, "Electro-Shock Blues," dealt with the suicide of E's sister and his mother's battle with cancer. There are currently six albums, and each one delivers something new and different.
Now, when you go to an Eels show, you never really know what's going to happen. It could be E and his acoustic guitar or E and a twelve piece orchestra. Last night's show was a nice little three-piece indie rock set featuring dancy, guitar-driven versions of songs from every album. It was totally different from what I expected, and very enjoyable. Plus, the crowd was really into it, too. The band members were all wearing flight suits and aviator goggles; and, an added bonus was the stern-looking "security guard," a fourth member of the band who stood to the side and, between songs, interjected remarks like, "That's some good calamari!" and "Existentialism!" He also played the triangle or tambourine or danced a jig during a few songs. The best thing about going to a show is seeing something totally unexpected, and that's what I got.
It was an interesting atmosphere with everyone there last night, many of whom were a little tipsy, applauding these two tween girls who were totally rocking out on the stage. All I had was an overpriced Crown & Coke, and I felt a little weird. Regardless, the sounds those two girls made was enough to keep a grin on my face for their entire 45-minute set. Asya seemed very at home on stage, and Chloes beats were complex and frantic. Every song was three minutes of enthusiastic bliss. I guess when you've grown up together, you probably have your shit together. They only have two albums, the second of which was released yesterday, and I picked it up at the show. I was hoping they would be out to autograph it for me, but the merchandise table was next to the bar, so no such luck.
There was a brief intermission before the Eels came out. Eels is basically a band of rotating members centred around one constant--Mark Oliver Everett, or, more commonly known as E. They burst on the scene back in 1996 with their debut album "Beautiful Freak" and the single "Novocaine for the Soul" with a stunning video directed by Mark Romanek. Their next album, "Electro-Shock Blues," dealt with the suicide of E's sister and his mother's battle with cancer. There are currently six albums, and each one delivers something new and different.
Now, when you go to an Eels show, you never really know what's going to happen. It could be E and his acoustic guitar or E and a twelve piece orchestra. Last night's show was a nice little three-piece indie rock set featuring dancy, guitar-driven versions of songs from every album. It was totally different from what I expected, and very enjoyable. Plus, the crowd was really into it, too. The band members were all wearing flight suits and aviator goggles; and, an added bonus was the stern-looking "security guard," a fourth member of the band who stood to the side and, between songs, interjected remarks like, "That's some good calamari!" and "Existentialism!" He also played the triangle or tambourine or danced a jig during a few songs. The best thing about going to a show is seeing something totally unexpected, and that's what I got.
Wednesday, June 07, 2006
Ballsy
I got the most dreaded e-mail ever this morning. It was the follow-up to my physical health assessment (PHA) that said I had to make an appointment for a "male exam."
Ew.
I was even more horrified when I called the hospital appointment line and they had an opening today.
So this afternoon, I stood in the cold, white examination room with my pants around my ankles and let Dr. (Capt.) Yates play with my nuts. Luckily, I didn't have to endure the "other" exam, but I know it will happen one day soon. I feel so bad for females who have to tolerate equally humiliating exams on a yearly basis. I don't envy you girls at all.
By the way, to all the fellas out there, if your doctor ever asks if you perform your monthly testicular self-exams, tell him "yes." You'll save yourself a lot of time and rubber-gloved hands on your gear.
Ew.
I was even more horrified when I called the hospital appointment line and they had an opening today.
So this afternoon, I stood in the cold, white examination room with my pants around my ankles and let Dr. (Capt.) Yates play with my nuts. Luckily, I didn't have to endure the "other" exam, but I know it will happen one day soon. I feel so bad for females who have to tolerate equally humiliating exams on a yearly basis. I don't envy you girls at all.
By the way, to all the fellas out there, if your doctor ever asks if you perform your monthly testicular self-exams, tell him "yes." You'll save yourself a lot of time and rubber-gloved hands on your gear.
Monday, June 05, 2006
To the Sandbox
As of today, it's official. I will be deploying in September. I've known for a long time I was on the list, but today the official paperwork came down. I'm actually looking forward to it. It's been nearly two years since I last deployed, which is the longest I've ever gone without deploying in my entire Air Force career, and I'm getting antsy. Plus, it's only for four months, which means I should return in January and won't miss too much of the snowboarding season. The worst part about it will be all the ridiculous training and prep work we'll have to do before we go, which really doesn't have anything to do with our job once we get there. The best part will be making big bucks, getting lots of reading done, and hopefully, coming back with washboard abs and a decent tan. My only real worry is that I won't be able to update "the wax" very often, if at all; however, I think, with a little help from my friends, there might be a way around it. But I'll cross that bridge when I get to it.
Pretty, and Witty, and Gay
This weekend was Utah Pride, which is a big festival to celebrate diversity and focus on the gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender community of Utah. It's been going on for a few days, but it all culminated downtown today. I have lots of friends who are gay and lesbian, and they invited me to go down to the festival and see what it was all about. This was the first time I'd ever been to a Pride Festival, and it was interesting, to say the least.
It all started at 10 AM this morning with a big parade featuring people marching and waving flags.
Followed by more people with flags.
And, of course, Dykes on Bikes, which is a real organisation. There were also plenty of floats featuring go-go dancers and drag queens, but I seem to have missed getting pictures of them.
The parade ended at the main festival site, next to the State Building downtown. I couldn't believe how many people were there. I would guess there were at least 15,000. The weather was sunny and warm, and everyone seemed to be having a great time.
It was a lot like going to a county fair, minus the rides. There were booths set up all over the place for things from AIDS awareness and political candidates to gay sports leagues and, um, leather goods.
The whole thing took up two entire city blocks. We had a good time just walking around and people-watching. It was definitely a diverse crowd. The theme this year was "Pride, Not Prejudice" and I can definitely see where they're coming from, especially in a place like Utah.
It was a fun day, and it was great to see so many people be not ashamed of who they are.
It all started at 10 AM this morning with a big parade featuring people marching and waving flags.
Followed by more people with flags.
And, of course, Dykes on Bikes, which is a real organisation. There were also plenty of floats featuring go-go dancers and drag queens, but I seem to have missed getting pictures of them.
The parade ended at the main festival site, next to the State Building downtown. I couldn't believe how many people were there. I would guess there were at least 15,000. The weather was sunny and warm, and everyone seemed to be having a great time.
It was a lot like going to a county fair, minus the rides. There were booths set up all over the place for things from AIDS awareness and political candidates to gay sports leagues and, um, leather goods.
The whole thing took up two entire city blocks. We had a good time just walking around and people-watching. It was definitely a diverse crowd. The theme this year was "Pride, Not Prejudice" and I can definitely see where they're coming from, especially in a place like Utah.
It was a fun day, and it was great to see so many people be not ashamed of who they are.
Sunday, June 04, 2006
Hole-y
I made a decision. My body is now metal-free. I just decided it's kinda over, and I don't really have any desire to keep it in any longer. I can now walk through airport metal detectors with no stress, whatsoever.
By the way, this does NOT mean I won't be getting any more tattoos.
By the way, this does NOT mean I won't be getting any more tattoos.
Players
Last night, John, Ryan, Jessica, Ryan, and I went to a Bees game down in SLC. It was a good game, but unfortunately, the Bees lost to Tacoma, 5-3. Afterward, we went over to Brian and Ryan's for a party. Now, there's pretty much a party there every weekend for the regulars. Occassionally, they have a big party and the place is packed and I meet tons of cool new people and see people I haven't seen in a while. As was the case last night. I took tons of pictures--way too many to post individually on here; therefore I put together a photostream on flickr that you can see here. Enjoy!
Friday, June 02, 2006
Like a Reply
At the Madonna show the other night, I sent out the following text message to several friends:
"I am in the presence of Madonna. I think I'm going to faint. Seriously."
These are the replies I received:
1) Get some!!!
2) Oh man- dont freak out!:) where r u?
3) That is beautiful
4) That was so freaky'i so was just about to text you. Was wondering whats up with you. You at her concert?
5) You lucky son of a bitch
6) I'm jealous
7) Flippin sweet man. Give her a kiss from me.
8) I'm a lot bit jealous!
9) Is she amazin?
10) Wait till she crucifies herself
11) I'm so damn happy for you! Or i'm hard core drunk!...not sure! Ha ha
12) That is great! Will she revive you if you do? It would be worth it for that.
13) Hey... Was being at the concert like being a virgin being touched for the very first time? Hardy har har har. I thought of that one in the shower. I'm sure someone else already texted you that
Thanks to Sarah for that last one. I laughed way hard. And then laughed again.
"I am in the presence of Madonna. I think I'm going to faint. Seriously."
These are the replies I received:
1) Get some!!!
2) Oh man- dont freak out!:) where r u?
3) That is beautiful
4) That was so freaky'i so was just about to text you. Was wondering whats up with you. You at her concert?
5) You lucky son of a bitch
6) I'm jealous
7) Flippin sweet man. Give her a kiss from me.
8) I'm a lot bit jealous!
9) Is she amazin?
10) Wait till she crucifies herself
11) I'm so damn happy for you! Or i'm hard core drunk!...not sure! Ha ha
12) That is great! Will she revive you if you do? It would be worth it for that.
13) Hey... Was being at the concert like being a virgin being touched for the very first time? Hardy har har har. I thought of that one in the shower. I'm sure someone else already texted you that
Thanks to Sarah for that last one. I laughed way hard. And then laughed again.
Another Long Weekend Begins
Last night, after Rooster's, Chad and I had martinis at The Red Door, a nice, mellow little bar in downtown Salt Lake City. It's the second time we've been there, and I liked it so much, I ended up purchasing a membership.
Both the conversation and the martinis were outstanding.
I took today off work. There are a bunch of pointless meetings going on, and basically, I just didn't feel like putting up with it. Plus, there's a flurry of activity going on in SLC this weekend, and I just figured I'd start out a little early. Sometimes I think it would be great to just take leave for the rest of my military career.
Both the conversation and the martinis were outstanding.
I took today off work. There are a bunch of pointless meetings going on, and basically, I just didn't feel like putting up with it. Plus, there's a flurry of activity going on in SLC this weekend, and I just figured I'd start out a little early. Sometimes I think it would be great to just take leave for the rest of my military career.
Thursday, June 01, 2006
Wellington
"Prime numbers are what is left when you have taken all the patterns away. I think prime numbers are like life. They are very logical but you could never work out the rules, even if you spent all your time thinking about them."
--from "The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time" by Mark Haddon
Have I mentioned how much I love this book?
--from "The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time" by Mark Haddon
Have I mentioned how much I love this book?
Tuesday, May 30, 2006
Future Disco. Consummated.
I still remember the very first time I ever heard Madonna. I was eight years old, and my friends and I were playing in a big field near my house. Julie Spencer brought over her boom box, popped in a cassette tape, and hit 'play.' Suddenly, the most fun, joyous melody I'd ever heard sprung forth, prompting us all to dance around. It was "Holiday," and I'll never forget how it made me feel.
At the time, however, I didn't know who it was, and when subsequent songs like "Borderline," "Material Girl," and "Papa Don't Preach" were putting Madonna on the charts (and in the headlines), I was too young to know what all the fuss was about. It wasn't until I randomly purchased "The Immaculate Collection" during my junior year of high school that I realised all these songs (to include "Like a Prayer," "Express Yourself," and "Vogue") were sung by the same woman. During the summer of 1991, that was the only tape in my car, and I totally rocked out to it.
My admiration (or borderline obsession) for Madonna grew rapidly over the next few years. I was always at the record store early in the morning whenever a new Madonna album was released. I covered my college dorm room in posters. I purchased two copies of the notorious Sex book. At the end of basic training, on my town pass, I made my parents take me to see Evita.
But, over the years, my tastes changed and even though I still considered myself a fan, it seemed to be mostly out of habit. I would pay attention whenever a new album was released, but didn't really scan the headlines or buy all the maxi-singles anymore.
When Madonna toured in 2001 for the first time in eight years, I was a kinda bummed I was going to miss it, especially since she was playing two nights in Vegas, and I had just moved from there to Japan. She toured again in 2004, and again, I missed out. A few months ago, when she announced plans to tour behind "Confessions on a Dance Floor," my heart began to flutter with excitement that this might finally be the time when I would be in the presence of Madonna. And it was.
This great event occurred on May 27th, 2006 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada. It was the fourth night of her 58-show Confessions Tour. The show was scheduled to begin at 8 PM. I arrived at 7. All day long I had been nervous with anticipation, and I couldn't believe it was finally happening. As I walked into the arena, I saw the stage, which included a main catwalk toward the center, and two smaller ones toward the sides. My seat was on the side, directly to the right of the end of the main catwalk. It was a great seat, and I immediately sat down and began fidgeting and wondering how slowly the next hour would pass by. (Thanks to Paul for letting me talk to him to calm myself down a bit.)
I kept looking at my watch, and eventually, it was 8 PM. But still, no Madonna. 8:10...8:24...8:37. Finally, at 8:45 PM (because apparently, Madonna likes to see me squirm), the lights went down. The whole place started screaming.
Spot lights began swirling and strobe lights started flashing. The huge video screens began showing footage of Madonna walking around her stables with her horses. A giant disco ball slowly descended from the middle of the arena, and landed at the end of the main catwalk.
The disco ball opened up to reveal Madonna wearing a black equestrian outfit. She launched into "Future Lovers" while her dancers, all wearing saddles, gyrated around her.
Now, this whole time, I'm not really sure what kind of expression was on my face, but my mind was working overtime to take it all in. Everyone around me was dancing, and eventually, I began dancing, too. But this moment, seeing Madonna for the very first time, will forever be burned into my memory.
It was probably the most extravagant, theatrical production I've ever seen. There were several video screens that moved all over, trap doors in all parts of the stage, a talented dance troupe, elaborate costumes, and a brilliant light show. But at the center of it all was Madonna herself, dancing and singing and loving every minute of it. I would expect it to be difficult for one person to be able to entertain a sold-out crowd of over 17,000, and make every single person feel they got their money's worth, but she had no trouble at all.
She seamlessly moved from one song to the next. Most of the evening concentrated on tracks from the newest album, but she threw in some old classics like "Like a Virgin" and "La Isla Bonita" just to keep us on our toes. And as she did, the entire stage was perfectly orchestrated to move around her. Even the interludes and costume changes were designed to be fluid so it never got boring. After the "equestrian" portion of the show, Madonna emerged on a giant disco ball/cross singing "Live To Tell" while images of African children with AIDS shown in the background. Later, she wore a big glam-rock outfit and rocked out on her guitar to "I Love New York," which was one of my least favourite tracks on the new album, but seeing it live made me love it.
For the evening's final disco theme, Madonna arrived sporting a white suit (a la John Travolta in "Saturday Night Fever") and singing "Disco Inferno" which segued nicely into "Music." The evening ended with high-energy versions of "Lucky Star" and "Hung Up." I don't think I stopped dancing the whole time, nor did anyone else.
A few days before the show, I started to get nervous. Not just because I was seeing Madonna, but because I was wondering if I was making too big a deal out of it. What if I went to the show and it didn't fulfill my expectations? A lot of people have asked if it was worth paying $400 for two hours of entertainment, and now I can answer with a resounding "YES!" Who knows when she'll tour again, or if I'll even be able to go? Madonna is a living legend, and this performance proved why. It was a wonderful, once-in-a-lifetime experience that I'll never forget. Ever.
At the time, however, I didn't know who it was, and when subsequent songs like "Borderline," "Material Girl," and "Papa Don't Preach" were putting Madonna on the charts (and in the headlines), I was too young to know what all the fuss was about. It wasn't until I randomly purchased "The Immaculate Collection" during my junior year of high school that I realised all these songs (to include "Like a Prayer," "Express Yourself," and "Vogue") were sung by the same woman. During the summer of 1991, that was the only tape in my car, and I totally rocked out to it.
My admiration (or borderline obsession) for Madonna grew rapidly over the next few years. I was always at the record store early in the morning whenever a new Madonna album was released. I covered my college dorm room in posters. I purchased two copies of the notorious Sex book. At the end of basic training, on my town pass, I made my parents take me to see Evita.
But, over the years, my tastes changed and even though I still considered myself a fan, it seemed to be mostly out of habit. I would pay attention whenever a new album was released, but didn't really scan the headlines or buy all the maxi-singles anymore.
When Madonna toured in 2001 for the first time in eight years, I was a kinda bummed I was going to miss it, especially since she was playing two nights in Vegas, and I had just moved from there to Japan. She toured again in 2004, and again, I missed out. A few months ago, when she announced plans to tour behind "Confessions on a Dance Floor," my heart began to flutter with excitement that this might finally be the time when I would be in the presence of Madonna. And it was.
This great event occurred on May 27th, 2006 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada. It was the fourth night of her 58-show Confessions Tour. The show was scheduled to begin at 8 PM. I arrived at 7. All day long I had been nervous with anticipation, and I couldn't believe it was finally happening. As I walked into the arena, I saw the stage, which included a main catwalk toward the center, and two smaller ones toward the sides. My seat was on the side, directly to the right of the end of the main catwalk. It was a great seat, and I immediately sat down and began fidgeting and wondering how slowly the next hour would pass by. (Thanks to Paul for letting me talk to him to calm myself down a bit.)
I kept looking at my watch, and eventually, it was 8 PM. But still, no Madonna. 8:10...8:24...8:37. Finally, at 8:45 PM (because apparently, Madonna likes to see me squirm), the lights went down. The whole place started screaming.
Spot lights began swirling and strobe lights started flashing. The huge video screens began showing footage of Madonna walking around her stables with her horses. A giant disco ball slowly descended from the middle of the arena, and landed at the end of the main catwalk.
The disco ball opened up to reveal Madonna wearing a black equestrian outfit. She launched into "Future Lovers" while her dancers, all wearing saddles, gyrated around her.
Now, this whole time, I'm not really sure what kind of expression was on my face, but my mind was working overtime to take it all in. Everyone around me was dancing, and eventually, I began dancing, too. But this moment, seeing Madonna for the very first time, will forever be burned into my memory.
It was probably the most extravagant, theatrical production I've ever seen. There were several video screens that moved all over, trap doors in all parts of the stage, a talented dance troupe, elaborate costumes, and a brilliant light show. But at the center of it all was Madonna herself, dancing and singing and loving every minute of it. I would expect it to be difficult for one person to be able to entertain a sold-out crowd of over 17,000, and make every single person feel they got their money's worth, but she had no trouble at all.
She seamlessly moved from one song to the next. Most of the evening concentrated on tracks from the newest album, but she threw in some old classics like "Like a Virgin" and "La Isla Bonita" just to keep us on our toes. And as she did, the entire stage was perfectly orchestrated to move around her. Even the interludes and costume changes were designed to be fluid so it never got boring. After the "equestrian" portion of the show, Madonna emerged on a giant disco ball/cross singing "Live To Tell" while images of African children with AIDS shown in the background. Later, she wore a big glam-rock outfit and rocked out on her guitar to "I Love New York," which was one of my least favourite tracks on the new album, but seeing it live made me love it.
For the evening's final disco theme, Madonna arrived sporting a white suit (a la John Travolta in "Saturday Night Fever") and singing "Disco Inferno" which segued nicely into "Music." The evening ended with high-energy versions of "Lucky Star" and "Hung Up." I don't think I stopped dancing the whole time, nor did anyone else.
A few days before the show, I started to get nervous. Not just because I was seeing Madonna, but because I was wondering if I was making too big a deal out of it. What if I went to the show and it didn't fulfill my expectations? A lot of people have asked if it was worth paying $400 for two hours of entertainment, and now I can answer with a resounding "YES!" Who knows when she'll tour again, or if I'll even be able to go? Madonna is a living legend, and this performance proved why. It was a wonderful, once-in-a-lifetime experience that I'll never forget. Ever.
Monday, May 29, 2006
Traveling, Tents, & Treats
I'd been looking forward to this weekend for quite some time, for obvious reasons. There was so much planned, and I wasn't sure I'd be able to fit it all in, but I did, and it was great.
Early Friday afternoon, John, Kyle, Kyle, Ryan, and I caravanned down to Moab to meet Brian, Ryan, Mike, Rob, and Matt at their campsite.
And of course, we had to stop at the State Liquor Store in Price to pick up some supplies. Price is a very interesting town, but if you stay too long, you're likely to develop kankles.
When we got into Moab, we were way hungry, so we stopped at a local brew-pup, where I had a scrumptious hummus wrap and a couple pints.
Isn't Moab gorgeous? It's easy to see why this is such a popular destination.
We finally got to the camp site just in time to set up our tent before it got dark. Then the drinking commenced.
I was drinking Crown from my flask, but for some reason, I just wasn't feeling it. Maybe I had too much food in my stomach.
John, however, was drunk in no time. I'm lucky I got a picture of him before all his clothes came off.
The next morning, we went into town for a bit, then went back to the camp site to socialise for a while.
It was a super fun time, and I would like to have stayed all weekend, but there were important events in Vegas that required my attendance.
So I got in my truck and drove...
...and drove...
...and drove...
...and drove some more. It was a seven-hour drive from Moab to Vegas, which was a little longer than I anticipated. But nothing was going to stop me. I checked into my hotel room, took a REALLY long shower, and headed downtown.
But that's another story to which I will get on an entirely different post (hopefully tomorrow), as it merits so much information that I'm still processing it.
After the show, my friend Jason and I went to toss back a few pints at the Crown & Anchor, which, as I may have mentioned, is probably my favourite bar in the world. It was great to see Jason again, and we had a great time catching up.
Sunday morning, I met Melissa and Andy for brunch. I was having dinner with Jim and Nicole, but there was a stretch of time in-between that had to be filled. And if you know me, you know I can't go to Vegas without doing at least a little shopping. So I made a quick trip down to the Forum Shops at Caesar's Palace. I limited myself to one item, which happened to be a pair of kick-ass jeans from Armani Exchange. Considering all the cool stuff I saw, I was pretty disciplined.
I had dinner with Jim and Nicole at the Mediterranean Cafe, which is probably one of my favourite restaurants in the world. I also finally got to meet their newborn son, Owen. Babies are great.
I considered staying another night in Vegas, but decided to go ahead and head back home last night. I'd rather have a full day to recover, plus traffic is going to be horrible today. I spent 18 hours driving over three days, which is a lot, but I enjoy driving by myself. It was a super trip, and it came in way under budget, even with the jeans.
Early Friday afternoon, John, Kyle, Kyle, Ryan, and I caravanned down to Moab to meet Brian, Ryan, Mike, Rob, and Matt at their campsite.
And of course, we had to stop at the State Liquor Store in Price to pick up some supplies. Price is a very interesting town, but if you stay too long, you're likely to develop kankles.
When we got into Moab, we were way hungry, so we stopped at a local brew-pup, where I had a scrumptious hummus wrap and a couple pints.
Isn't Moab gorgeous? It's easy to see why this is such a popular destination.
We finally got to the camp site just in time to set up our tent before it got dark. Then the drinking commenced.
I was drinking Crown from my flask, but for some reason, I just wasn't feeling it. Maybe I had too much food in my stomach.
John, however, was drunk in no time. I'm lucky I got a picture of him before all his clothes came off.
The next morning, we went into town for a bit, then went back to the camp site to socialise for a while.
It was a super fun time, and I would like to have stayed all weekend, but there were important events in Vegas that required my attendance.
So I got in my truck and drove...
...and drove...
...and drove...
...and drove some more. It was a seven-hour drive from Moab to Vegas, which was a little longer than I anticipated. But nothing was going to stop me. I checked into my hotel room, took a REALLY long shower, and headed downtown.
But that's another story to which I will get on an entirely different post (hopefully tomorrow), as it merits so much information that I'm still processing it.
After the show, my friend Jason and I went to toss back a few pints at the Crown & Anchor, which, as I may have mentioned, is probably my favourite bar in the world. It was great to see Jason again, and we had a great time catching up.
Sunday morning, I met Melissa and Andy for brunch. I was having dinner with Jim and Nicole, but there was a stretch of time in-between that had to be filled. And if you know me, you know I can't go to Vegas without doing at least a little shopping. So I made a quick trip down to the Forum Shops at Caesar's Palace. I limited myself to one item, which happened to be a pair of kick-ass jeans from Armani Exchange. Considering all the cool stuff I saw, I was pretty disciplined.
I had dinner with Jim and Nicole at the Mediterranean Cafe, which is probably one of my favourite restaurants in the world. I also finally got to meet their newborn son, Owen. Babies are great.
I considered staying another night in Vegas, but decided to go ahead and head back home last night. I'd rather have a full day to recover, plus traffic is going to be horrible today. I spent 18 hours driving over three days, which is a lot, but I enjoy driving by myself. It was a super trip, and it came in way under budget, even with the jeans.
Sunday, May 28, 2006
Until...
I'm currently in Vegas. I spent last night camping with the crew in Moab. Tonight is the night. I'm actually kinda queasy because I'm so nervous. Is that weird?
I'm not sure if I'll head back to Utah tomorrow or spend another day in Vegas. Either way, when I get back home, I'll put together a nice photo stream of my weekend.
As for now, I'm on my way to the MGM Grand Garden Arena for a date that's been years in the making.
I'm not sure if I'll head back to Utah tomorrow or spend another day in Vegas. Either way, when I get back home, I'll put together a nice photo stream of my weekend.
As for now, I'm on my way to the MGM Grand Garden Arena for a date that's been years in the making.
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