30 Something and counting.....

A year has passed

2013-08-28T11:18:00.000+11:30

Hello World,

A year has passed since my last post. A lot of really good things have occurred. When I look back to at least acknowledge what bad things have happen....I cannot rightly say! Since the last time I published a blog posting, I have changed homes, gained friends (lost friends), realized a few of my goals and...I found love. Not bad for a year's worth of living eh?

I was perusing through TV channels recently. I ran across the evening news and I viewed a scene of war coming from Syria. There was this girl convulsing from chemical weapons used on her earlier that day. It was downright disturbing. I do not condone the United States of America always going in to someone's country and imposing our believes on someone else. I do however oppose turning a blind eye to those in need. Is it right to let kids (or adults for that matter) suffer from tyrants (al- Assad) whom abuse their citizens?

All of a sudden, a lot of (my) life began coming in to perspective. So far, at 32, my life is fun and exciting....even through the savagely rough navigable waters that I wade in from time to time. The older I become, the more I notice my friendships with others are changing. It's OK though, I think that is supposed to happen. It is all a part of maturation. However, I am noticing, that my core group of friends, remain the same (I'm pretty proud of that).

Soon, I will update this blog with new pictures and new posts in general! Thanks for tuning in World. So far, I have over 5,000 views!

Until the next time,

Cheers

Facebook is for your friends and family, Twitter keeps them from knowing your'e crazy

2012-08-05T10:32:00.001+11:30

Hey Folks,

I hope everyone is doing well this Saturday! This last week has been full of news and fun events. With the Olympics, back to school madness, the national jobs report and life in general, ...let's just say waking up this Saturday was a welcomed change of pace. I drove to meet friends for breakfast and noticed that between my Facebook app and my Twitter app, my phone was one buzzing, beeping box of bantering broadcasts. After awhile, the phone began to buzz so much, that I turned a deaf ear to the tones by turning up the radio. While I was racing to the next possible television to see Serena Williams beat down Maria Sharapova, I thought, "man, do I really need a Facebook and Twitter account. My first inclination was that they serve the same purpose: keeping up with your friends (and family). Then as I pondered over the issue further, I could not figure out which account would be less painful for me to delete. Here is how I broke things down:

When I am on Facebook, I am aware that there are some pretty meaningful people in with whom I am connected to. As of a few months ago, my Mother has connected with me on Facebook (I am still getting used to having to elaborate on a posting that did not meet my Mother's (aka Momma's) approval)! I will admit it; without Facebook, I would not remember many if not most birthdays. I am not talking about just birthdays in general, but were talking, aunts, cousins and close friends. Simply put, Facebook helps to keep me out of hot water! The things I do and say on Facebook have real repercussions. If I post that I made dinner, I better be ready for company. If I tag myself somewhere and did not send the appropriate invitations to my family and friends, I would be labeled as being "shady". On the other side of the coin, if I post that I am feeling bad or need help, I have a wonderful group of support to rally me to brighter days. Looks like I am keeping Facebook.

When I am on Twitter, I feel as though that account is my personally crafted peep hole into life and society in general. The individuals you subscribe to, basically help to keep you abreast to who and what are making headlines. From quirky facts, to worldwide news, to the Tweet of God (OK, he is not God, but boy does he put some one liners out there!), my Twitter account is better than reading most mainstream media magazines. Twitter provides easy to access forums to keep up with and find people who share similar interests. If you liked a TV show and want someone to talk about it with...go on Twitter, it will be easy to find someone to chat about it with...in real time! Also, Twitter is made to be constantly updated. So, whatever is on your mind or whatever you would like to put in the atmosphere, seems to be 20 times less offensive to read and or see. Between garnering more followers and always having fresh news (that you care about) to read, Twitter has made itself almost indispensable to the guy or girl on the move. Looks like I am keeping Twitter,

Okay, so maybe I will just adjust the settings on how many notifications I receive. It looks like each account has it's own purpose. In order to be a good family member and friend, I will keep the Facebook account. In order to be an up to date and "with it" type of guy, Tweet I must. ....I'll just be sure to not have my Mother as a follower on Twitter (I can only explain so much)!

Have a Fantastic Saturday!

TADA

The 2012 Olympic Uniforms: The USA's True Colors

2012-07-18T04:45:00.001+11:30

Good morning Everybody,

I hope the morning finds everyone happy, productive and well intended! The first few texts I received this morning all hinged on "...it's Tuesday, four more days to go.". To that, I hope everyone's day flies by...unless your'e off, then I hope your day trickles by as you squeeze out every iota of enjoyment you possibly can during your day of respite. Enough of the salutations, let's get down to business.

I have been following the concerns about the 2012 Olympic uniforms. It has been said that Americans should be ashamed and that our athletes should be wearing American made uniforms. Part of the argument is that jobs are being taken away from Americans because the uniforms for the Olympics are foreign made (China). Another part of the argument is that the team is less patriotic because they are wearing foreign made uniforms. These notions have rang out so loudly that six Democratic senators will introduce "Team USA Made in America Act of 2012"! That's right, a law stating that the USA Olympic Uniforms will be made only in the USA. This piece of legislation- if passed, would take affect in time for the 2014 Olympics.

My questions is this: Are we trying to address a problem or are we politicizing an issue?

Nearly half the clothes in the closets of Americans are made in China. That's right, half (feel free to look up the statistics folks)! Not just in my closet or in the closets of Congress, but in everybody's closets! We should not embarrass ourselves by lamenting over the uniforms of 530 athletes traveling to represent the USA's commitment in WORLD SOLIDARITY. Just the mere moaning and groaning about it leaves a foul stench internationally. To sponsor legislation over this issue is petty and trivial! We have people losing jobs daily, Americans starving from a lack of malnutrition, immigration issues and EDUCATION issues...and we want to waste our time on legislation to have uniforms made in America for an instance that only comes around once every four years?! Are you serious right now!?!

If you want to change something, change the red tape that makes these textile/factory businesses outsource or go out of business in the first place. If you want to boost consumption of American goods, talk about that as the issue; but please, please don't politicize and issue as if the solution will bring 1,000's of more jobs or boost American patriotism for our outstanding US Olympic Athletes. Let's not have our 2012 Olympic Team go to London with this ugly cloud lurking over their heads.

Have a Great Day Folks!

Tada

Where did all the R&B Groups go?

2012-07-17T10:08:00.001+11:30

Good Evening Everybody,

For the last few months I have noticed that my iphone playlist has been in heavy rotation while I have been riding around Atlanta. This is not unusual, as I pride myself on having a well rounded iphone library. I was talking to one of my friends during our weekly Sunday night dinner and True Blood viewing, and the questions came up, "Where did all of the R&B Groups go?".

While I was growing up the mere utterance of groups such as: The Commodores, Color Me Bad, Shai, Silk, 112, Envogue, SWV, Xscape, Brownstone, BlackStreet, Ideal, Jade, Destiny's Child, TLC and Jodeci sent instant good music vibrations up down your body. Those were groups that had harmony, style, great lyrics and soul. I am not so jaded as to assert that there is not any good music out today. There are plenty of Artists making good music. However, what the heck happened to the R&B Groups?! I mean come on people, why are we listening to Rappers singing? They are supposed to rap, not sing! All of a sudden, my car rides are being inundated with these bone head rappers, squawking out some weak melody. Chris Brown and Trey Songz cannot be on every track that needs a good R&B singer; neither can Beyonce nor Alicia Keys. The world (or at least the USA) is not so bereft of soul singers that we have to depend on Rappers to sing, right?

So, what should happen? How about we get a group of individuals together who want to form a group and they get together with some awesome song writers (if need be) and give the public what they have been starving for...some awesome R&B groups?!

Also, as long as I am making this wish list, how about a group that can stay together for more than two or three years! I mean Danity Kane would have been awesome today! As would have Destiny's Child (although I am sure they were together for longer than five years...well most of the members) would have made awesome music today. Missy, Coco, Kandi....can you all help our singers...or even form a group of your own. The R&B groups need you now more than ever!

P.S. - P. Diddy, you created some amazing groups, in the future, could you please ensure that they have some longevity. Thanks...an avid music fan

TADA

Time to kick it up a notch!

2012-07-17T08:54:00.000+11:30

Hello Everybody,

After a year of intensively being back in school, I am back in the Blogosphere. While being away from my blog I have thought about writing an awful lot. Also, I am still amazed by the amount of views my blog has received while I have not been writing.
There are so many things that I would like to comment on and tackle. Before, my blog was ran by random thoughts and ideas that came to mind. That is fine some of the time. After putting a few feelers out on how I could improve my blog, I came up with the following new directions: social commentary on current events, more pictures, updated pictures and consistency. That's right, I am able to call myself out on the consistency piece. To everyone....thanks for peeking in on my blog. I will be sure to make things more interesting for future posts.

Tada

It's Iowa Caucuses Time.....and I'm Excited!

2012-01-04T03:07:00.000+11:30

Good morning World,

I hope that you all had an OUTSTANDING NEW YEAR! Although I did not bring the New Year in with my usual rituals of being rowdy, rambunctious and darn out risky, I enjoyed waking up hang over free! Like the rest of The United States of America, I methodically chose some obtainable (with earnest work) goals/resolutions. So, bring on 2012 and all the excitement that is inevitably will bring with it! What excitement do you ask I speak of? Why the 2012 Presidential Elections is the excitement I speak of!

Tonight is the night of the Iowa Caucauses! This is U.S.'s first election in which the Republican Party will vote on who they would like to see as the Republican Nominee for the President of The United States of America. Now, I will admit that I have been paying close attention to the candidates that will appear on Iowa's ballots tonight. As a son of an elected official, my interest in government has always been keen. I enjoy evaluating both sides of our nations political parties (sometimes three sides....counting the Independents) and making a sound decision on who to vote for.

Crazy thing about this Iowa Caucuses..... I actually care about who wins and how it will affect the rest of the GOP Candidates! That's right, I do! Here is my reasoning.....if The President is defeated then I do not want the most racist, rigid, gun happy, homophobic, misogynistic conservative candidate to become my next President. Either way, I as a responsible American, will support whoever becomes the President of the United States. That's how a country stays united right? So, I will pay close attention to the GOP field. As I view the field, there are some solid candidates. I look forward to seeing how Iowa will rank the GOP candidates......it gives me an early indication of who else The U.S. thinks is capable of running the country! ....and this, I have just got to know who, they will come up with...cause I'm not convinced!

Really...did you think I wasn't going to give my opinion somewhere in here!?

Have a Great Day! .......and Thank You for reading :)

As the New Year approaches... Why not get better at something?

2011-12-30T02:52:00.000+11:30

Good morning World,

I hope that you all had a fantastic Holiday Season! I was fortunate enough to go by four different homes (all family) for Christmas. Other than a huge drain on my gas tank (my mother lives 50 miles away from me) I greatly enjoyed the day. On a high note, I was able to have my nephew with me all day and he met a whole side of his family for the first time! Awesome, it was just awesome!

So I've been pondering over New Year's Eve and Day. Will I go out of town, will I stay in with friends, will I say "the heck with it all" and stay home that night? Well, I have not quite come to the answer to those questions, I have however, figured at least one thing out for the New Year.....I am going to get better at something this year!

Don't get me wrong, I will rang in with the rest of The United States of America and put losing weight and exercising more on my list as well. I mean, LA Fitness is making the come up off of me, so common sense says I'd better start frequenting the place more often. But, in such a rocky economy and (admittedly) topsy turvy times, everybody should take the time to get better at something! What makes you stand out as an individual, what is it that makes you happy, what would you do if you had more time to do it? I find when I ask people these questions, it takes more than a few minutes for people to respond back. The answers to the aforementioned questions should have less than a 10 second response! Aren't these some of the most important questions that one should know about themselves?

So aim at getting better.....cause if you do not, nobody else will take the time to do it for you!

This Public Service Announcement has been brought to you by the word: Happy- cause that's what were supposed to be!

Merry Vacation...I mean Christmas!

2011-12-19T02:10:00.000+11:30

Good morning World,

I hope that this day finds you all in good spirits. If it does not, then maybe you should get a job where they give you over three weeks off during the Christmas season! I know what your saying....."how is I, going to get a job that gives me all that time off?" (I accept that folk's English is not where its supposed to be these days ...not my reader's of course!). Well, if you cannot obtain one of these jobs, then look to me and bask in some of my glory!

Besides going to the gym and doing a little more shopping, I have absolutely no agenda! Please note, that I am not looking for an agenda as well. That's right, NO- I don't want to help, assist, cooperate with, please, endure, aid, support, back up....Anything or Anybody. I just want to do whatever I please until I January 3rd 2012.

Merry Vacati......I mean Christmas...Very Merry Chriscation!

Top Ten General Rules that SHOULD Be Common Knowledge but sadly are not :(

2011-12-14T11:03:00.002+11:30

Alright Alright Alright, it's Tuesday!,

Hello Everybody! I enjoyed hearing all the great feedback from yesterday's posting. Looks like the blog hit over 125 views yesterday! Outstanding and thank you so much for reading. As I ended yesterday post, I began wondering what today's post would be about. The first thought that came to mind was "Please No Socks with Flip Flops". While so true, I do not believe that a whole blog should be dedicated to this subject...however, it still should be mentioned! So, instead of a whole blog on how I am against people (except for prisoners...those jail cells get drafty ...I hear) wearing socks with flip flops, I give you:

The Top Ten General Rules that Should Be Common Knowledge But Sadly are Not :(

10. Unless were intimate, please stay at least two feet back from me

9. Conversate is not a word (C'mon, I am serious, please use "converse")

8. It's not OK to watch a bootleg movie on the first date

7. If you have not given me at least a kiss after I have paid for the 3rd date, there wont be a 4th

6. Herman Cain did it

5. Kids really should be quiet when grown folks are talking

4. Telling on your siblings should stop after the age of 18

3. An Ipad is just a bigger version of the Iphone...without the phone (yeah I said it!)

2. If you work hard, then your hard work will pay off

1. Your Mom will always have something to say about something (so accept it and move on)!!!!!

Today's Top Ten has been brought to you by Kriss Kross ......cause inside out, they're wiggity wiggity wiggity wack!

Cowabunga....... Im out.

How about a "No Baby" Shower?

2011-12-13T12:09:00.000+11:30

Good Evening Everybody!

Today has certainly been a busy Monday. Not that it was particularly unpleasant, just very busy. I am asked over 100 questions a day (give about 50 questions more on really interesting lecture days). By the end of the day, I am out of answers! Even on things that I know I have the answers on...such as: What's your date of birth?, What's your middle name? Are you hungry? How many siblings do you have? . Even the simple answers become one big amalgamation of thoughts that spew out randomly in front of an unasuming audience.

On to today's topic: How about giving me a "No Baby" Shower? That's right, I said it! Over the last year, all my closest friends have managed to have a baby or become pregnant. Good good, congratulations, I really am (really I am) very happy to welcome a new member of my "family" into this world. However, I have been ransacked for presents, time, food and patience! #1 I am a man, and I should not be made to go to your baby shower! I do however believe that I should most certainly give a gift. If you must have a baby shower, can it be some place like at a restaraunt? That way, I can eat, leave a gift and dip out before you all began playing those ridiculous baby games.

I believe that if someone reaches the age of 30 and they have not had a baby, then all their friends with babies should throw them a "Happy You Have No Baby Shower". The way I look at is is that by the time you are 30, you have spent over 2 to 300 dollars on parties that you have not planned nor asked for. Why not a little appreciation for the single and childless friends of yours?

***There are a few of you who may read this that I have rsvp'd for your shower, resisted your shower or that you plan on inviting me to your shower. ....well, if you have enough leverage, I'll capitulate ( yes, Tina, I'll be there and I will smile about it), but aside from Tina.....you better have some leverage!

Now, where's my party?

Have a Great Evening Everybody!

I made it to 31....and am ready for what is being brought on!

2011-12-12T10:19:00.000+11:30

Hello World,

It's great to be back with you all. Since I have last blogged, a lot of wonderful things have taken place. I had another successful year of volleyball coaching, I began playing on a volleyball league, and I made it through the summer and have started teaching high school once again. This this year has been full of surprises. I managed to get into an ESOL graduate program (in which I am currently earning all "A's")! I am in my second class of the program and I can honestly say I am learning more than what I ever imagined. I am grateful to have made the qualifications to get into this "all expenses paid" program.

This year I have seen almost all of my closest friends become pregnant. At first this was a gradual transition, however it seems as though all of a sudden all four of my closest friends are pregnant at the moment! I am very happy and excited for them! They will be excellent parents. ....however, this whole "all my friends having babies thing" only amplifies the fact that I am 31; and at 31, people are supposed to be getting married, married, and having babies! .........that or either making their way towards a goal (which is what I am doing!)

As I have been riding this Super Trolley I call life, I have checked in on my blog. I have had over 1400 views, at least one view per day and am now in over 50 countries. The world has become a lot smaller, cozier and warmer. Opportunities are abound for those who want a change in life and the future and world is bright! Because of the constant views, I have received many requests to pick up my blog. So....after much debate....I am going for it again.

Please be on the look out for daily posts and feel free to send me ideas on topics of what you would like to hear about. Cheers to a good 2011 and an even better 2012.

It's getting exciting y'all! Have a Merry Monday Eve

Tada

Just because I am a nice guy, doesn't mean I plan on taking the "L"!

2011-03-03T12:01:00.000+11:30

Good Wednesday to you All,

The week is creeping along.....thank God! As I meander through another day, I stop and take notice of the happenings. I have old friends popping up to say "hello", new friends popping up to ask "what's going on" and prevaricators all around in the meanwhile.
Like the rap song goes....dust the dirt off your shoulders! As I made it home unscathed (and tired after coaching track practice), I contemplate what I would blog about today. In the middle of the shower (so fresh and so clean) I had the topic come to me....Just because I am a nice guy, doesn't mean I plan on taking the "L" (L= loss).

I am a firm believer in the Golden Rule. This rule states that you should treat others the way you would like to be treated. Simply put, if you violate this rule, I may not hold it against you, but I will definitely remember the occurrence.I put a great deal of effort into the Universe in order to strive to become a better person everyday. In my strivations (yeah, I made that word up), I am beginning to understand that you may have to let people go in order to move on. It's not that you do not love them anymore, its just that after awhile, you are either taken for granted or only called when your needed.
It's fine, my love for my friends won't diminish, however, the selfless acts that everyone is accustomed to, will be opened to more scrutiny as it relates to how often I dole them out. In short....refer back to my topic for today! For today, 30 means = guy is still nice, but just not as nice as before!

Have a Wonderful Wednesday!

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Today's Topic: I'm a slave to my cellphone...there, I said it!

2011-03-01T10:15:00.000+11:30

Good afternoon World,

I hope everyone has safely made it through their Monday. (For me) This week is going to be filled with great times and hard work. The interesting part is, that I am not sure if I am ready for it. ....however, just like The Fugees sang, "ready or not, here I come, you cant hide.". There is nothing to do but grip it and rip it. Batter up!

While I am going full speed ahead, I notice that I do this obsessive patting of my pants leg. As I go down the hall at work, I pat my pants leg. As I sit down for lunch, I pat my pants leg....as I leave the bathroom, I pat my pants leg (...okay that last one was just solely for the purposes of drying my hands). What am I patting about for? Simple, the answer is that I am doing a phone check. That's right, I am making sure that my phone is on my person. All day long, I automatically check to make sure that I'm not without my hand held laptop. The last thing I want to do is leave it!

Sad part is that I was born in 1980. I did not get used to having a cell phone with me until 1999! For a period of 19 years, if I were out, then I was out. My answering machine let me know who missed me...when I arrived home. Now... let me leave my house without my phone, bet I am going right back home to retrieve my precious! ...Hmmm I wonder, if it is really that convenient if I can't live without it?

I'm just saying!

Have a Splendiferous Monday!

Things that were considered "lame" in high school now equals:

2011-02-28T04:22:00.000+11:30

Good Sunday to you All,

I hope everyone is doing well. This weekend has been great so far. Down here in Atlanta, GA, mother nature has painted us a picturesque view of beauty to behold for the day. I had a chance to see my Mother yesterday, I talked with several of my cousins and I hung out with one of my best-friends (and thusly some of my old friends as well). It was great! I really appreciated folks who I haven't seen in years and relished the joy I was able to help one of my best-friends ever usher in her birthday.

As I grew up with a number of my Jr. high school and High school friends, I thought about something. We are all turning 30...ain't no more "being a lame". I heard someone say "...oh man, such and such is just as lame as ever.". Then we all laughed at the terminology of being "a lame".

Things that were considered "lame" in high school now equals:

Staying in on a Saturday night- not lame, you're just tired from a long week of work.
Listening to B 98.5 -That's not lame, they play the music we grew up with now!
Wearing solid colors- that's not lame, you just don't have to worry about matching
Not drinking until you get drunk- lame...I think not, you don't want to lose your license, which would make you lose your job!
Going to sleep by 10pm on a weeknight-That's not lame, that's smart sleep planning
Making it rain at the club - that's not lame, that's stupid, "do you know how hard I have to work for that money!".
Not wanting to drive- not lame..after all that driving you did through the workweek, why bother!?
Taking a nap - that's not lame, your pre- stocking up on sleep in order to make it through the week

All of a sudden, looks like what was lame is now just plain...GROWING UP!

Have an Oustanding Day!

Baked fried chicken IS NOT fried chicken!

2011-02-25T11:27:00.000+11:30

Good evening World,

I hope everyone is on the up and up! I would like to officially welcome Denmark and Japan to the reading flock. Welcome! On this Friday eve, I was wondering what in the world would I blog about today. By the time I paid my 2.75 for lunch, I figured out exactly what I would talk about.

In an attempt to be health conscious, I tried the baked fried chicken. Now, to be honest, the chicken looked really great. It was golden brown, seemingly crispy and even aromatic. I took my tray, I added fixings in each compartment. There were mashed potatoes, collard greens, peaches, the baked fried chicken breast and an Arnold Palmer(sweet tea and lemonade mixed). Oh yeah, lunch was set and I was ready to go in! I sat down, I sanitized my hands and I picked up my prize piece of chicken. I took a bite.

....next thing I know, I am grabbing for the Arnold Palmer and trying to drown my esophagus in order to flush the chicken down. Ive been in deserts that contained more moisture than this chicken! Each bite was a non crispy dried out catastrophe after the other. I thought to myself...looked and smelled like fried chicken..then it must be (right?). I got up immediately and asked the kitchen, "what's the deal with the chicken?". My answer was "Oh baby, dis is baked fried chicken...its healthy.". MORE LIKE IT WAS DISGUSTING!

Why torture avid chicken fans by not keeping it real? I threw the uneaten plate away in disgust. Hmmph! If anyone ever offers you this baked fried chicken mess....run, run far far away Forrest!

Have a banging evening!

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When did having a carpeted home go out of style!?

2011-02-24T11:58:00.000+11:30

Good evening World,

I hope everyone is doing well. We have an awful lot to be thankful for (you know, the living, breathing, seeing and thinking processes we are all able to execute). As I sit on my couch after a very very long afternoon of track practice I began to feel like my muscles are tightening. As a Coach, I know that means its time to stretch and get fluids into your system. As a guy from Montgomery, Alabama, this means it is time to get off the couch and onto the floor.

Thanks goodness I have carpet or it would be a very very painful stretching process! From these thoughts, I then think of how it is almost not modern to have carpet in your home. At what age is it that adults began to think about the upkeep it takes to have carpet? It seems as though when everyone starts out to buy a home (or lease an apartment) they look for a place with carpet. The carpet is all new smelling, lavish and plush to the touch. Then about two or three years later, everyone goes and yanks out their carpet and replaces it with "lovely" hardwood floors.

Sure, the hardwood floors are easier to clean. Yeah, I get that. But, what about the comfortability of lying on the floor or making a pallet on the floor and watching TV? There is something to be said about stretching out on the floor of your home and not having to get up immediately because the cold, hard floor is dusty. Is it that when you have kids, you keep the carpet and when you don't...you don't keep the carpet? Or is it strictly an energy saver for some?

All I know is, this country boy, is sticking with the carpet! That's right, keep your easily scratched and scuffed floors! They are hard, less inviting and definitely less comfortable. If the home is where you can relax, then carpet is where it is at. ....except for in the bathrooms and the kitchen (cause cmon, Momma didn't raise no fool).

That's just my two bits people!

Have a Great Wednesday evening!

Watch and Observe!

2011-02-22T12:25:00.000+11:30

Merry Merry Monday to you all!,

Whoa, was today a whopper! I woke up at 4am (I am supposed to wake up at 545am), I hit the ground running at work, I covered for others, I attended a meeting AND coached my track team. By the way, did I mention, we lifted weights and went on a 1.5 mile run!? ....yup, me too! I'm not even going to mention the shenanigan run I made after work! If this were 1995, I would be in style if I referred to this Monday as a Head Bussa Monday! As it is now 2011 and I still use that term...I'm suddenly reminded that..mmmmhmmm, I'm 30!

As I went through my hectic and yet enlightening day, I made myself proud. There were so many instances where pockets of temptation (to do wrong) existed. From frivolous complaining, to disobeying rules, to avoiding gossip, the day was jammed packed with holes of negativity. I simply, watched and observed! That's right, I decided that that was not the type of characteristics I wish to draw into my day. Today, I understood that my plate of growth had absolutely no space for getting caught up!
Did the day kick my butt? A little. Do I have any pangs of conscience or anxiety over a bad decision today? Nope! Why? Cause I simply watched and observed!

p.s. when you do watch and observe, it's amazing how easy it is to learn and understand a lesson.

Today's Topic: There is an art to being able to just go with the flow

2011-02-20T10:06:00.000+11:30

Good afternoon Everybody,

I hope everyone has been able to enjoy the day in some shape or form today. I have friends in LA, friends working at their stores (big shouts to The Website Shop owned by Mr. Butler www.thewebsiteshop.net ), friends in the mountains for the weekends and a friend coming over. In each of those stories, there are many sub stories and plots that weren't quite planned, but sure worked out really well.
The reason why it has worked out well is that my friends and I have learned that...sometimes, its okay to go with the flow. When you are able to relinquish control of a situation or go with the "greater good consensus", you let others know that you respect them and trust them enough to follow an idea that is theirs. It's not that you cannot come up with the better idea or that you are a follower. The idea here is that you are a big enough man (or woman) to take someone's suggestion and let their light shine.
To be this type of person, takes time. You have to know when to hold 'em and know when to go for the gusto! ...In the long run, you will also find out that your friends will seek you and appreciate you more when you adopt the "go with the flow" attitude. The art of being a "go with the flow" person usually takes a lifetime to figure out. People get all stressed out over being in "control", when in actuality, you're always in some form of control....you just have to look at instances from a different point of view.

....PS...Going with the flow has sprang me Mexican food, good company and a great night to look forward to!

Try it out sometimes

Today's Topic: Work hard.......PLAY HARD!

2011-02-19T11:07:00.000+11:30

Forever Friday to Everyone,

Talk about a fly by week! I woke up on Monday and it seems like I didn't get to sleep until Thursday. I'm all smiles though because its been a great week. It was not so much a great week, just because of the rapidity of the clock, but because the week was full of productivity!

Tests were taken, meetings were held, presentations were demonstrated, practice was executed and my personal life seems to have spiked up a bit. To boot, I've began Spring conditioning, so the losing the pounds gained from October through February is well under way.

So, what am I getting at? I am getting at the balance of life. Sure, I have been square edged throughout the week. Sure, I've graded papers, called parents and have generally been "Mr. Responsible". But now, ....now, it is the weekend! My first thought was to just take it easy and have a restful night. However, the truth be told...I did that all through the week. It is now the weekend and that means it is time for the balance of PLAYING HARD when you have WORKED HARD!

That's right, I mean, all work and no play makes for a stressful and dull life. If you have earnestly put the work in all week, then please do not for get to pat yourself on the back as a reward and PLAY HARD! It's simple, cause you deserve it. If you do not treat yourself well, then how can you expect for anyone else to do so either!?

Have a Great Friday.....PLAY HARD!

My monthly "Top Ten Things I've figured out now that I am 30." list !*!

2011-02-18T10:05:00.000+11:30

Teflon Thursday to Everybody (let it slide right on off)!,

Good afternoon Everybody. Today has been pretty hectic. Maybe less hectic and a bit more disheveled. There were pitches thrown my way and I made a hefty contact with each one. All in all, I can safely call the day a success. I hope it went the same for all of you. Just think, tomorrow is Friday and for some of us that means a much needed rest.
For the sakes of good cheer and me starting a monthly "tradition" if you will, welcome:

The Top Ten Things I've figured out now that I am 30 list!

10. Gas for your car is a legitimate bill that you should put money aside for each check

9. A freezer without ice is a home "no no"

8. Letting go of petty things are easy when you look at the consequences first

7. My parents are starting to age!

6. I do not like watermelon anymore (the aftertaste makes me nauseous)

5. Antacids must be present before I eat : hot wings, hot sauce, tomato sauce, pizza, onion rings

4. The Golden Rule still holds strong (it's my mantra)

3. Watching the morning news is like reading the daily newspaper

2. Music is not as well written today as it was when I was younger (I sound old just saying that)

1. Patience is the name of the game....when to use it or lose it!

Have a Merry Friday Eve

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Want to know who you really are....look at your friends!

2011-02-17T12:14:00.000+11:30

Winging it Wednesday to Everybody!,

By everyone, I mean the world! A HUGE WELCOME to my new readers in The Netherlands, Russia, Italy, Germany, Ireland, Indonesia, The Philippines, Mexico, Canada, Australia, Romania, United Arab Emirates and Morocco. I am humbled and honored that you all have taken the time to check out my corner of the web. And to all my U.S. fans....its not a day that goes by that I am not amazed by the encouraging responses. The other day I hit 64 individuals reading my blog in one day (my highest count so far)! Outstanding and THANK YOU!

After a toxy turvey weekend and an even more hectic Tuesday, I thought of a few subjects that would be awesome to discuss. Our topic for today: Want to know who you really are, then look to your friends! That's right, its that simple. Want to get to know someone, see who they hang out with. My theory here is that you do not choose your family, but you definitely do choose your friends.

I am fortunate enough to have 5 of the best friends a guy could have in the world. If you look to this group of five guys and 1 girl (Go G. go!) you'd see a great representation of me: comical, industrious, charming, full of pranks and jokes, viciousness, sharp at the tongue and sharp of with, commanding and big hearted. Now those are just my best of friends.

To really see the correlation, look at how their friends treat them! If you see the person's friends (let's talk about someone not us!) frequently flake out on them, not return phone calls, never invite them anywhere or constantly bickering...beware! There is a reason why someone is constantly getting the short end of the stick. ....In short, you cant judge a book by its cover, but you can judge a person by their friends!

Remember, it takes you being a good friend to have a good friend.

Have a Wonderful Wednesday

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Cupid's play day!

2011-02-15T09:11:00.000+11:30

Happy Valentine's Day Everyone,

Valentine's day at and around a high school is hilarious. The students who are into the holiday wear red. Those not into the holiday wear black or grey. The little ladies are all dressed up and hoping that someone gives them something. The young men are toting in bags, poems, candies, teddy bears and are all dressed up as well.
Oh the grandiose love gestures, oh how everyone is holding hands and talking about plans for the evening. (I think at that age, the only plans for the evenings that they should have should be homework, chores and maybe 15 minutes of talking on the phone....about homework and chores!). All in all, its a nauseous but sweet time to be had around the high school.
However, not to be out done, the teachers manage to show out as well. Oh, the amount of delivery men, bouquets, candies and shimmery red shirts and pants could not be counted today! Even the most stern of teachers (men and women) were being broken down by flattering texts, compliments and limos parked out front. I hate to admit it, but the day wasn't so obnoxious as usual.
As for myself...no Valentine and that's OK. Today, I believe I have learned to appreciate and be happy for those who are in love and share love. It's way better to see than folks arguing and crying over pettiness. In short, viva Love!

no bah humbug for me today!
ENJOY!!!!

I should put my body on an internal weekend alarm clock!

2011-02-13T23:32:00.000+11:30

Good Sunday Everybody,

Over the past several years a disturbing trend has begun to happen. I have been fortunate to work jobs that afford me having the weekends off. This is great because I grew up the same exact way. On Friday evenings, I would take plenty solace in knowing that I would be able to sleep in as long as I wanted to on Saturday mornings. Not so much on Sundays, because I went to Church most Sunday mornings. Between waking up at 8am for 930am Sunday school and staying all the way through for regular Sunday morning worship, Sundays were a wrap! So, Saturday's were all my day.
However, on Saturday's I would wound up waking up early in order to beat my older brother Rico to the T.V./ Saturday morning cartoons (stay tuned for that topic in the future). I was successful about 50% of the time on that endeavor, for my big brother was quite the early bird on his behalf as well. It was from those habits that began me waking up (without an alarm clock) early even on the weekends.
The only thing not so cool about waking up now is that....I actually NEED to be sleep. The only thing worth waking up at 545am in a Saturday and Sunday morning now, is waking up to go relieve oneself and taking my butt right back to sleep! There are no more Saturday morning cartoons, no Mom or Dad's breakfast's or fights to be battled with my brother about rather we would be watching the Smurfs or the G.I. Joe shows.
Now when I wake up all extra early in the morning, I am only reminded of my body being a slave to the corporate time clock. I now, mutter an expletive or two, began to clean the apartment and just give thanks that at least the dvr will have something entertaining waiting on me.....until I (get this part), pass back out around 9am and wake back up at 12pm! GO FIGURE!!!! Aaaaaargh

Have an Outstanding Sunday Folks!

Big Shout Outs to Lajoi for moving back to the Atlanta! Im excited...and I know Adrienne is as well!

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Today's Topic: It's your ex...what makes you think I want to talk to them!?! ...and why are you still talking to them?

2011-02-11T11:49:00.000+11:30

Salutations Everybody,

This has been a rip roaring day. I mean, it started off great! I woke up in a good mood, go to work on time...and then, everything turned out not so cool. Commitments were broken, my job made the news, my colleagues are going through "it"....and now my personal life just hit a "whoopsie daisy".
Why is it that folks can't let their ex's go? I mean it, dagnabbit, why even attempt to start a new relationship if you're not even over the last one? Then to make matters even worse, you try to tell me: oh, this is just my friend! No it's not! I mean y'all have done the horizontal bop...that ain't just friends. ... And, I definitely don't want to hangout and be friends!
Simply put, they are your ex for a reason. Remember the love...that's fine, however don't bring an ex into the new relationship arena...it's tacky, rude and inconsiderate!

Have a great Thursday...besides, at least someone should

Your dog did it, now pick it up! ...Oh and there is a conspiracy a brewing.

2011-02-09T10:06:00.000+11:30

Terrific Tuesday to you All,

Hello Everybody! I hope you all had a great day. In this year of 2011, I'm finding it strange that Mondays feel more like Sundays and Tuesdays are the new Monday. Let's not even talk about how the horoscopes have changed and really....I don't know what sign to follow! Alls I'm saying is: I'm noticing that there has been a shift in the air since 2011 started. ....now for the real part!

See...ain't no owner in sight!

I've owned two dogs in my life. One dog was a 100 pound Weimawaner and the other was a mid sized Labrador Retriever. Both of these dogs poo'd like crazy! Oh the times I've been in my own yard and have accidentally stepped in chocolate soft-serve. The rank, abominable smell, that uncomfortable squish, that instant rage you feel as you take in the whole experience, is all nothing short of having a nervous breakdown! It's all so traumatizing that it only has to happen to you once, before you "get it". You have to pick your dog's poo up sometimes.
For those who do not have their own yard. Go ahead and grab a plastic baggy and pick up your dog's poo. The only thing worse than stepping in dog poo is when that dog does not belong to you and you step in the poo! The only hot lunches I want to happen upon are the one's that aren't from the entrails of a canine. So, don't be that guy, neighbor, chick or idiot....clean up after you dog Dawg!

This has been a public service announcement, brought to you by your friendly: DO IT AGAIN AND SEE IF I WONT BE COMING FOR THAT .,,,, LATER society.