apathy : version 1.2

[Under Construction]

2006-03-24T18:08:00.000-08:00

After a brief hiatus, I am returning to back to my normal post, I am currently working on redesigning this Blog to match my MYSPACE profile. Yea, I said MYSPACE, I too have been bitten by this atrocious internet bug. I never payed much attention to myspace before. Its ugly GUI, and users ghastly attempts to skin, or create templates for the profiles, always turned me away. It is just plain out ugly. It wasn't until, reading a blog, that I found out it was possible to cover up, myspace's ui, and create a div overlay, and use css to refine and create your own personal look. I was immediately intrigued. No longer bound by mypsace's graphical limitatios, I was able to do what I want, when I want, and best of all. Make it how I wanted it to look. Absolutely wonderful, only one problem, I didn't know CSS and I only knew a handful of HTML codes. So I turned to the greatest resource available to me www.GOOGLE.com. I'm not a huge fan of google, due to the numerous amounts of ADSENSE trash that litters the net. But, I hate yahoo, more. So... I pointed it int the direction of CSS tutorials, and started my descent into the unknown realm of CSS. Surprisingly, it wasn't to hard to understand, the basics. So here I am, working on this blog, and my NEW MYSPACE profile. In time.everything will come to look more and more appealing to the eye.
Smiles

2006-03-16T06:38:00.000-08:00

2006-03-14T22:14:00.000-08:00

Blog Skin

2006-02-22T13:06:00.000-08:00

Ehrm... well I submitted, my current Blogger Template, to blogskins.com & blogflux.com
I'm gonna work on more later today. This one is a bit small for me, but maybe perfect for some.

Apathy Template

2006-02-22T05:37:00.000-08:00

Blogger Template Design #2

Creative Junction Template

2006-02-22T01:19:00.000-08:00

My first attempt at a web template. This one is very simple, and makes it very easy for users to make their own.

Weezer - Perfect Situation

2006-02-16T22:24:00.000-08:00

Every now and then, you find a song that verbalizes your current mood. Maybe not every word. Sometimes its just one verse. Well I listen to music almost non-stop. :) So I'm always running into a song that displays my current mood. I'm sure I'm not the only one... Weezer has a vibe about them. When I listen to some of there songs, there is a certain emoion to it. As if they knew exactly what I was thinking, and sing it in a way, I could never say it. I change a few words hear and there to suit my needs, but there is nothing wrong with that. Is there? hehe. Anyway. Here's the Lyrics:

What's the deal with my brain?
Why am I so obviously insane?
In a perfect situation
I let love down the drain.
There's the pitch, slow and straight.
All I have to do is swing
and I'm the hero, but I'm the zero.

Hungry nights, once again
Now it's getting unbelievable.
'Cause I could not have it better,
But I just can't get no play
From the girls, all around
As they search the night for someone to hold onto.
I just pass through...

singing...
Ooohhhhh oh. Ooohhhhh oh. Ooohhhhhhhhhh.
Singing...
Ooohhhhh oh. Ooohhhhh oh. Ooohhhhhhhhhh.

Get your hands off the girl,
Can't you see that she belongs to me?
And I don't appreciate this excess company.
Though I can't satisfy all the needs she has
And so she starts to wander...
Can you blame her?

singing...
Ooohhhhh oh. Ooohhhhh oh. Ooohhhhhhhhhh.
Singing...
Ooohhhhh oh. Ooohhhhh oh. Ooohhhhhhhhhh.

Tell me there's a logic out there.
Leading me to better prepare
For the day that something really special might come.
Tell me there's some hope for me.
I don't wanna be lonely
For the rest of my days on the earth.

[solo]
Ooohhhhh oh. Ooohhhhh oh. Ooohhhhhhhhhh.
Singing...
Ooohhhhh oh. Ooohhhhh oh. Ooohhhhhhhhhh.
Singing...
Ooohhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh

Luc Besson: Who is he?

2006-02-15T04:38:00.000-08:00

Luc Besson? He directed 2 of my favorite movies. Léon (The Professional) and La Femme Nikita. Both movies deal with assasins. Both also have Jean Reno in them, one of my favorite actors. Both movies are wonderfully scripted, and the actors cast for the part, do an excellent job in their roles. Many people remember the scene in Léon, when a young Natalie Portman, knocks on Leon's door after her family is murdered. Begging for him to open the door. CLASSIC! And La Femme Nikita (1990), was Remade in 1993, for the American public. It was called Point of No Return and starred Bridget Fonda. The original was in french, and acting wasn't the greatest, but nor did it need to be. The story was great.

Luc Besson, is behind many movies. Writing, directing, or producing. Not just the ones mentioned above.
How about: Transporter I & II, Kiss of the Dragon (Jet Li), Unleashed (Jet Li), The Messenger (The Story of Joan of Arc), Fifth Element, Taxi (Jimmy Fallon, Queen Latifah) Recognize the movies? Thought you would. Heh! Just useless info from me. If you haven't seen Léon (The Professional) and La Femme Nikita, I suggest you rent and watch them. They aren't too shabby.

Alive - Raiko (Naruto Season 4 Closing Theme)

2006-02-15T03:41:00.000-08:00

With Valentines Day, winding down to an end. I turn to my mp3 player, and listen to "Alive by Raiko". The first verse translates to:

Everyone makes mistakes at times
It's not something embarrassing
Don't waste these scars
Keep on going laughing, and it'll all be good

It's songs like this, that make life more bareable. It helps makes those days, when the sky is gray, and the world is cold somehow disappear for the few minutes the song is playing. Anyway, try to look toward the sky, looking down will only get you there faster.
Song lyrics can be found Here in English & Romaji. In case you want to sing along. Hehe.
I also found a link, that has the actual video openings & endings. Which are from the anime "Naruto", where I first heard the songs. Here. This song is Naruto's 4th season closing theme.

CJ: Creative Junction

2006-02-14T09:45:00.000-08:00

Creative Junction was started as a school project. This project was a class assignment given to my girlfriend, "Christine J." The project was to use your initials to come up with a (fake) company name. Then to design a identity system for it. (eg: business card, letterhead, logo, envelope, etc) I have to be honest. I wasn't quite sure about "Creative Junction" when it first rolled off my tongue. But, sure enough, it grew on me. Now I like it more than my own company name of: "Darklotus Designs" funny huh?
I decided to re-design or illustrate, my version of it. I used something she had in her original concept. A butterfly. To me it symbolizes her, the word "free", and "creative". I think it's a great name, and great idea. Below is my latest revision. (I apologize for my pic being dark, not in the greatest of moods, these days.)

Creative Junction (Revision)

Update: New Random Banner Images

2006-02-12T18:19:00.000-08:00

Quote Me!

2006-02-10T02:44:00.000-08:00

The path of the righteous man is beset on all sides by the inequities of the selfish and the tyranny of evil men. Blessed is he, who in the name of charity and good will, shepherds the weak through the valley of darkness, for he is truly his brother's keeper and the finder of lost children. And I will strike down upon thee with great vengeance and furious anger those who would attempt to poison and destroy my brothers. And you will know my name is the Lord when I lay my vengeance upon thee.

-Jules (Pulp Fiction)

Sorry to deprive you of "Quote Me!"

SR-71 - Goodbye (Naruto AMV)

2006-02-08T14:11:00.000-08:00

The Jetsons: Rosey the Robot

2006-02-07T22:50:00.000-08:00

This is part of the week I dread, LAUNDRY Day. *sighs* If only I didn't have to wear clothes, then I wouldn't have to do laundry. Naw that won't work. Maybe, I could remove my sweat glands or something. ... naw.. I got it, self-cleaning clothes. Yeah, that's it. But, that doesn't exactly take care of the whole problem. I still have a room that needs cleaning, and laundry to fold and put away. Not too mention, vacuuming, dusting, and other things. *sighs* Aha! I'll just get someone to invent Rosey, from "The Jetsons" and have her clean my room. PROBLEM SOLVED. HEHE I'm a genius! Yupp!
Now, to look in the Yellow Pages under Robotics!

Update: Random Banner

2006-02-07T22:18:00.000-08:00

Tonight, I was able to implement a script that, changes my banner image, upon the reloading of the page. A simple as it might sound, this was a task that took some time, to get right. Needless to say I am quite happy, with this issue now out of the way. Next is probably a color scheme change. The current scheme is a bit glum, and gloomy. Don't you think? I don't know how much work I'll be able to get done this week. I have a pretty busy schedule. Which includes: Funeral detail on Friday. MOUT training on Sat. & Sun.

Random Banners

2006-02-07T21:28:00.000-08:00

apathy: Temporary Banner Images

2006-02-03T05:16:00.000-08:00

I'm working on banner images for my blog. My goal is to display a random header image, for each time a user views the blog. I am searching for a script that will work for my needs. Below was the 1st temporary header image, I created. Unfortunately, the dimensions were a bit off. The current header image you see, is also a temp. image. If you have any suggestions, please feel free to leave a comment under this post. A new color scheme is also in the works. Perhaps something lighter.

The Used - Pieces Mended

2006-02-03T00:24:00.000-08:00

Being faced with what I'm faced with I feel
Like I can't rock
Like a rock hit my heart
Started to chain the day
And exploded into pieces

Marry me
Stay the same
Lie to me and try to say you never will

Marry me
Stay the same
Lie to me and try to tell me

I've got a feeling in my gut now fills me
With so much hope
Said "fuck it" I'm fine
Dine and dashed
The pianist peddled into morning
(scream)
Morning

(scream)
Marry me
Stay the same
Lie to me and try to say you never will

Marry me
Stay the same
Lie to me and try to say you NEVER
MORNING, MORNING, MORNING, MORNING

Being faced with what I'm faced with I feel
Like I can't rock
Like a rock hit my heart
Started to chain the day
And exploded into pieces

Pieces, Pieces, Pieces, PIECES, PIECES, PIECES, PIECES, P I E C E S

Being faced with what I'm faced with I feel
Like I can't rock
Like a rock hit my heart
Started to chain the day
And exploded into pieces

A brief look at love through the eyes of a few.

2006-02-02T23:09:00.000-08:00

There is always some madness in love. But there is also always some reason in madness.
Friedrich Nietzsche (1844 - 1900)

Of all forms of caution, caution in love is perhaps the most fatal to true happiness.
Bertrand Russell (1872 - 1970)

Anxiety is love's greatest killer. It makes others feel as you might when a drowning man holds on to you. You want to save him, but you know he will strangle you with his panic.
Anais Nin (1903 - 1977)

When we lose one we love, our bitterest tears are called forth by the memory of hours when we loved not enough.
Maurice Maeterlinck (1862 - 1949)

One word frees us of all the weight and pain of life: That word is love.
Sophocles (496 BC - 406 BC)

Age does not protect you from love. But love, to some extent, protects you from age.
Jeanne Moreau

When you have loved as she has loved, you grow old beautifully.
W. Somerset Maugham

As the 14th, gets closer and closer, it is hard not to think about our loved ones. With each passing day try to remember to say something "nice" or "endearing" to that loved one. You might read this, and laugh. For those of us who have lost someone, or realised the errors in our ways, we know how important it is. You never know when that loved one, is no longer there for you to love. There are a million things I wish I could take back, but the one I would trade my life for. Would be the ability to show love to someone, who deserved that tiny courtesy. Do me a favor this coming holiday. Show someone you care about, that you love them. Not by buying their love. Not by just saying it. Show Them. If you don't know how, don't worry your heart will tell you!

*Update: Structure?

2006-02-02T22:26:00.000-08:00

Well, today I decided that my site needed to be a little bit more me. (whatever that means). Anyway, I am going to start by re-structuring my site. If you have been here before, you might or might not notice the 3rd column on the left side of the page. This section will feature: [Updates], which will be completed or pending additions/changes I plan on making to my blog. [Words of the week], this section contains words, I have looked up or words I feel people should know. [Songs of the week], this section will list a song(s), that I have listened during the current week. [Recently seen movies], I don't go to the movies alot (not that I'm a hermit, but $7.50 for a movie, is a bit much.) So I watch movies at home. I have just recently discovered IFC. (International Film Channel), they host all types of movies. Classics like: "Massuer Ichi" Series (Zatoichi) to Indie films like: "Rabbit-Proof Fence".
I will also try to keep post titles a bit more descriptive. NOTE: I said, I will Try. Try being the key word there. hehe.
I have placed a temporary banner image on the blog. I have not been able to think of anything fitting yet. (Suggestions anyone?) I have also renamed the blog to "apathy", I think it is more fitting than the previous "Darklotus". I however could not use the url: http://apathy.blogspot.com/ as it would not let me choose it. I will see if they will allow me to switch to that url. It has not been used since 2001, it seems anyway.

intentionally left blank: Assignment #7

2006-01-30T12:41:00.000-08:00

intentionally left blank: Assignment #7

The weirdest thing.

2006-01-29T08:07:00.000-08:00

*previous post Retracted.

Delineation of Deviant.... (Pay Attention!)

2006-01-26T08:26:00.000-08:00

Aries is the first Sign of the Zodiac, and that's pretty much how those born under this Sign see themselves: first. Aries are the leaders of the pack, first in line to get things going. Whether or not everything gets done is another question altogether, for an Aries prefers to initiate rather than to complete. Do you have a project needing a kick-start? Call an Aries, by all means. The leadership displayed by Aries is most impressive, so don't be surprised if they can rally the troops against seemingly insurmountable odds -- they have that kind of personal magnetism. An Aries won't shy away from new ground, either. Those born under this Sign are often called the pioneers of the Zodiac, and it's their fearless trek into the unknown that often wins the day. Aries is a bundle of energy and dynamism, kind of like a Pied Piper, leading people along with its charm and charisma. The dawning of a new day -- and all of its possibilities -- is pure bliss to an Aries.

The symbol of Aries is the Ram, and that's both good and bad news. Impulsive Aries might be tempted to ram their ideas down everyone's throats without even bothering to ask if they want to know. It's these times when you may wish Aries's Sign's symbol were a more subdued creature, more lamb than ram perhaps. You're not likely to convince the Ram to soften up; these folks are blunt and to the point. Along with those qualities comes the sheer force of the Aries nature, a force that can actually accomplish a great deal. Much of Aries's drive to compete and to win comes from its Cardinal Quality. Cardinal Signs love to get things going, and Aries exemplifies this even better than Cancer, Libra or Capricorn.

Aries are ruled by the Planet Mars. Taking a peek at Roman mythology, we find that Mars was the God of War. Our man Mars was unafraid to do battle, and much the same can be said for Aries. These folks are bold, aggressive and courageous. They can summon up the inner strength required to take on most anyone, and they'll probably win. Aries do not lack energy or vitality, and they can stay in the game longer than most anyone else. Now that's a winning edge. Rams are also, for the most part, independent and well aware of their own interests in a given situation. This sometimes myopic view may not be for everyone, but it does help Aries get things going. Further, their competitive natures ensure that they will play the game with zeal and vigor. At times, their approach may be construed as arrogant and domineering, but it takes a lot of focus to be a leader (or so an Aries would say). Sadly, the Aries won't usually be around for the final victory (defeat? never). These folks will more than likely have bolted to the next project before the first one is done.

The Element associated with Aries is Fire. Think action, enthusiasm and a burning desire to play the game. Aries love physicality, so they won't sit on the sidelines for long, if at all. They'll jump into the fray full force and will contribute much in the process. Talk about eager beavers! Sure, some of their decisions may later prove to have been hasty, but you'll never find an Aries who regretted taking a shot.

Making things happen is what it's all about to these folks. Aries are also unafraid of stepping onto new terrain. The challenge inherent in taking on the unknown is heaven on Earth for Rams. Sure, they may appear arrogant when they take on the world, but they'll be quick to tell you it's the only way to go. While a common Aries refrain might well be 'me first,' there's no point in arguing with them since, in their minds, they are first. Is this unbridled ego? Maybe, but that might be what it takes to blaze a new trail. Oh, and on the subject of arguing, it's the Ram who will have the last word, so save your breath.

Aries seem to play as hard as they work. These folks are happiest in a spirited soccer match or engaging in the martial arts. In the game of love, the Ram's ardor is unquestioned, although Aries can also be playful and romantic with their mate. With Aries ruling the head, face and brain, those born under this Sign need to be on the lookout for headaches and are well-served to take the occasional deep breath. The Ram's color is bright red, a sure sign of the fire that breathes within.

The great strength of the Aries-born is in their initiative, courage and determination. These folks love to get things going and are fearless along the way. Their dynamism and competitive spirit add considerably any of their endeavors.

Asian Kung Fu Generation - "Haruka Kanata" (Far-off Distance)

2006-01-26T07:42:00.000-08:00

Fumikomu ze akuseru kakehiki wa nai sa sou dayo
Yoru wo nukeru
Nejikomu sa saigo ni sashihiki zero sa sou dayo
Hibi wo kezuru

Hit the gas! There's no need to finagle, oh yeah!
We'll go all through the night.
I'll complain at the end, the balance is zero, oh yeah!
We'll whittle the days away...

Kokoro wo sotto hiraite gyutto hiki yosetara
Todoku yo kitto tsutau yo motto sa aa

When you open your heart a little, and pull someone close to you,
Your feelings will surely reach them deeper, yeah...

Iki isoide shiboritotte
Motsureru ashi dakedo mae yori zutto sou tooku he
Ubaitotte tsukandatte
Kimi janai nara imi wa nai no sa

Hurry it up! Wring it out!
Though my legs are all tangled, they will surely take me far...
Even if I steal it and manage to grasp it,
If it isn't you, then what's the point?

Dakara motto motto motto haruka kanata

So I'll go further and further away!

Fumikomu ze akuseru kakehiki wa nai sa sou dayo
Yoru wo nukeru
Nejikomu sa saigo ni sashihiki zero sa sou dayo
Hibi wo kezuru

Hit the gas! There's no need to finagle, oh yeah!
We'll go all through the night.
I'll complain at the end, the balance is zero, oh yeah!
We'll whittle the days away...

Kokoro wo sotto hiraite gyutto hiki yosetara
Todoku yo kitto tsutau yo motto sa aa

When you open your heart a little, and pull someone close to you,
Your feelings will surely reach them deeper, yeah...

Iki isoide shiboritotte
Motsureru ashi dakedo mae yori zutto sou tooku he
Ubaitotte tsukandatte
Kimi janai nara imi wa nai no sa

Hurry it up! Wring it out!
Though my legs are all tangled, they will surely take me far...
Even if I steal it and manage to grasp it,
If it isn't you, then what's the point?

Dakara haruka kanata

So I'll go far into the distance...

Itsuwaru koto ni nareta kimi no sekai wo
Nuritsubusu no sa shiroku shirou

Your world will become a thing of deceit
painted all in white...

Quote Me!

2006-01-26T01:56:00.000-08:00

"Curiosity can kill, I suppose... but apathy is lethal."
-Unknown