Friday

Tried to vote this am, too crowded, probably the man trying to quiet the masses. Will try again this after.

I noticed every kid seems to have a TV in the back seat of the car nowadays. Is this what we really need? More TV? I can see it for long trips, but just for the daily ride to school? Maybe it's because I'm a big music fan, or maybe it's because I have memories of riding in the car as a child listening to music. Lincoln NE was band on the run, the 101 in LA was Summer breeze, and Ventura Highway, the hills of ARK was to the tune of Fleetwood mac rumors (8 track) and so on. The car seems to be the last vestige of a music first environment. I hate to see it die this way, for what? Barney? As a kid you learn a lot about the world through the window of the car as well. Everything from Cranes to bumper stickers etc. there is a whole world to observe and learn about out there. You won't see Sponge Bob, but he will wait for you to come back home.

Maybe next time we can look at the virtues of playing outside and getting some exercise.

In the middle of the night last night I had the light on and I was up on a ladder. It seems my smoke detector needed a new battery and wouldn't take no for an answer. This is not the ideal environment for sleeping.

Step one- ignore it and hope it goes away. (approx 2 hours)
Step two- put pillow on top of head in the hope of not being able to hear it. Of course you become acutely aware of the sound at this point, and you could hear a dog whistle you are so focused. (approx 5 minutes or until the next beep)
Step three- get off your ass and do something about it. Luckily I had a 9 volt and the ladder was not buried in the garage. (five minutes tops)
Step four- regret steps 1 and 2 and the time they wasted.

Halloween costume idea- wear a backpack under an oxford shirt, claim it's just that the shirt is not well tailored. Put an ear piece in your ear, and before you answer even the most basic question pause with your hand to your earpiece. 'Why yes the American people need some more punch'

So let's review, we went to Iraq for WMD, they weren't there but we found some other ammo, that we promptly lost. It's ironic that we were safer when Saddam had those weapons than we are now that they are scattered and two pounds could be in a backpack next to you on the train, or in the cargo hold of a plane etc.

No, I'm not buying the Lindsay Lohan cd...sheesh...honest....I'm not...unless the cover is really good.


Netflix brings Amacord, and Rivers & tides
Music is the Rough Trade shops electronic comp.

R

Thur

Music-The blues (any will do)

Wrote a song about it like to hear it? here it go..
Couldn't get my post on yesterday, just as well since I hadn't anything to say.

I will bite down hard and vote for Kerry, and secretly hope he finds a revenue stream in the back yard of the Whitehouse. Otherwise I'm not sure how we will pay for all the stuff he's promising. Bottom line is I think Bush has lost credibility in the world and with at least half this country. I'm not looking for global approval, policies of appeasement, or capitulation, but I do think we need to try and work and play well with others.

Glad the Sox broke their curse, now let's start working on breaking the small market=no money curse that currently keeps many from really competing.

Highlight of my day yesterday came whilst playing NFL 2K5. After falling behind 27-14 to the feared and hated Broncos, I came storming back and with 17 seconds left took the lead 28-27 final. Sad I know.


R

That's life

Riding high in April shot down in May.

Things are not good, personal problems that I would prefer to keep from my blog.

Sometimes I really pull an Ashlee Simpson here, the music starts and I have a big bag of nothing to type.

Crooked rain crooked rain reissue comes out today.

Since my commute is hell, and my workday is long I will go vote on Saturday and get it out of the way.

The good news is Michael's book 'America's Game' comes out today. The book is really good, and makes a great gift. It is essential reading for any fan of pro football.

Music-Thrills, Libertines, and Interpol
Netflix-La Dolce Vita
R

Kerry slams Bush over Minter Blog 'failures'

Kerry slams Bush over SNL/Simpson gaffe

SNL

Shouldn't SNL be booking better acts than Ashlee Simpson anyway? I mean C'mon already.

Interpol, Ambulance, Thrills, Killers all come to mind as better choices. Or do a throw back with Camper Van Beethoven, AMC, or even Duran Duran would at least be a curiosity. Wilco maybe?

Enough with these phony acts that have not talent, and can't even perform their own songs.

SNL should be hip, and a bit more forward thinking. Just a thought.

Sawks backlash; Ok enough with the woe is Boston stuff ok. I'm still pulling for them, but enough already, they've had more success than a number of teams, and more importantly they have money to go buy players. I'm not a fan of either Texas team, but Hou, and Texas would both trade with you. They only 'deserve' to win if they go out and win it.
R

Monday

Oh the Ashlee Simpson clip is golden. I can't decide what's the funniest part, I think when she panics and leaves the stage is my favorite, or maybe when they awkwardly throw it to commercial.

What a nice weekend. My teams won big, Ashlee was exposed as a fraud. Lot's of other fun happened along the way. Now it's back to work and scores of visiting Euros. Our office is invaded with well dressed hipsters from SWE who drink beer with lunch.

Have you noticed cell phone companies only are good to potential customers, if they already have you all bets are off. Sprint keeps giving new customers better perks than I get and I've been with them for a while. This mentality encourages customer free agency, and makes me sad.

Red Lights is ok, but not that great. Next I need to see Sideways.

Music today is by Ambulance, and Ed Harcourt.

R

Friday

Music is an unstable mix of things-Porcupine tree (I like the blurry bits much better than the Prog parts) David Sylvian, Fiery Furnaces (can't decide if they have anything or not, but this record is difficult) and George Jones.

Was that squeeze play exciting or what, don't see that one enough these days.

Should be an exciting weekend, at least I hope anyway. Gonna try and see Red Lights, and watch my Netflix La Dolce Vita, and Eyes of Tammy Faye.

Lot's of creeps around here these days. A Gap manager was taping people in the changing room, and a 50 year old dude was taping women in the showers around my town. EEEWWWWW! Is this problem increased because our society is ok with violence, but really uptight about nudity/sexuality? Or are there just a lot of creeps out there anyway?

Don't these guys have the internet?

R

Sawks

So glad the Red Sox beat the evil empire. As a fan of a small market team it's tough to care much about the second highest payroll beating the highest, but that's the way it goes.

My music is all over the map today. Traffic, 10CC, Interpol, Super Furry Animals.

Netflix brings the eyes of Tammy Faye, but baseball comes first.

Supposed to be 92 today, not very fall like. I have to go to a BS luncheon at some hotel near downtown today, and I'm so not looking forward to it. Otherwise a bit boring this morning.

R

Great Fire

In the wake of the Great White tragedy I was forced to contemplate my own heavy metal concert past. My boy Steve Reynolds used to drag me to the Backroom in Austin to see all sorts of spare and fringe groups. I'm glad none of them cost me my life. "watch this blazin' solo dude' as some hair God made love to a hot pink Les Paul.

Seen but not dug by me;

DAD
Dangerous Toys
Faith no more
Danger Danger
Junkyard

I didn't like any of them, and I didn't own any of their stuff. I just went cause Steve was my only friend who could go out every single night of the week. That and there were lots of metal chicks there.

Anyway glad I didn't die in a fiery rock accident at least not yet. Hey watch this blazin' solo...


R

Keep out

The biggest problem is I'm nice to coworkers even if I think they are wankers, this is passive aggressive, but it's also good business. They are coworkers, and my opinion of them should be left out of most discussions.

In order to keep Flanders and the other undesirables from loitering in my office I do a few things;

1. I have no seat for guests in my office (kinda like an unwelcome mat)
2. I play Tom Waits music often
3. I act aloof and disinterested (ok maybe it's no act)
4. I can close my door but since the foundation has shifted it is so loud, and can be a bit to dramatic.

If none of the above works I could always paste 50 pictures of my cat on the wall, and cry a lot.

Tuesday

What a difference a little communication can make. I hope this is a sign of better things to come.

Music-Interpol *again* Gilles Peterson impressed & Peter Green cryin' won't bring her back'

Should papers really endorse candidates? And if a paper endorses a GOP candidate can they still be labeled 'liberal media'

My favorite slogan right now is from Chunklet magazine it says 'we're all in this together, except you. You're a dick.'

Haven't been to the movies in ages, I need to see Red Lights this weekend.

R

Dear Blog

When we started this venture I had every intention of being completely open with you, but the fact is I've had a hard time being honest with you. I find that I have a hard time being honest with anyone on the subject of my feelings. I've lied to my own blog, it's not just that there are people out there who read this (not many I know) it's more I feel I cannot be honest with you.

Blog I've lied about the hurt I feel over my stupid teams, and I've lied about the hurt I feel in relationships. I've lied about what makes my heart race, what my intentions are, and even who I am (though in that case I think it's because I do not know)

The fact is Blog I'm selfish, too selfish to even write in my blog without spinning everything or leaving out the most pressing issues. I admire my friends that are honest with their Blogs, but it ain't me babe.

What's more feudal than trying to dictate the way we are perceived?

I'm sorry Blog but I'll never change.

From where I stand

I'm tired of people saying that it's such a good thing that we know where Bush stands, and though they may not agree with him blah blah blah. While this is true, it should not be counted as a positive. Using this logic we should all run out and support the Ku Klux Klan, I mean we may not agree but at least we know where they stand.

If you support Bush, that's your choice but let's give better reasons than just knowing where someone stands. I know my boy Kerry is promising the moon and no way to pay for it, but I'll take my chances.

R

Monday

Music -the Specials, Lloyd Cole, and Steve Earle

Friday I took lunch at the park and read my book. Nice day good book, perfect setup. Today it is supposed to be 90 so not so much today.

Weekend was ok if uneventful, dresser problem resolved finally. My team lost again even though they played pretty well on D. Stopped on the way home from my brother's yesterday for a haircut, and I think I found my new stylist. Yes the days of going to any old barber are over, now I get my style on. I'm surprised I haven't picked up on this dynamic before. Someone you pay to make some of your problems go away, listen to others, and all the while feign interest. Money well spent me thinks, much cheaper than therapy.

Haven't seen the Great Escape in years, but watching it now with films like Schindler's list out there it strikes me as awfully Hogan's heroes. Still worthwhile to see the cool Steve McQueen in action.

R

Friday

Music today is 'Tangerine' from Led Zeppelin III dedicated to K. YNWA


Watched the amusing Rock and Roll circus last night. The song that really sticks out is Yoko's. Here's yoko on stage with Keef, Eric Clapton, and John Lennon and she just does this tuneless wail the whole time. It has no words, and no melody at all. I imagined the discussion back stage;

John "can yoko do a song'
Keef "well, that's the thing man it isn't a song at all is it?"


Netflix brings the Great Escape.

R

Rattlesnakes

Music by Lloyd Cole and the commotions Rattlesnakes Reissue.

Not much to report just wanted to extol this fine album. If only this had played at Chuck E Cheese and Miller's Outpost when John and I were in high school.

Fact check .org says both candidates are full of shit....feel better?


R

Halloween Candy

I find that the stuff in the black and orange wrappers (long a punch line) is not that bad.

Candy corn, overrated? Waxy? discuss.

Chocolate is still the high runner in this office, whereas laffy taffy will still be around next summer.

More than once as a child I got .07 cents. I don't know how they arrived at this figure, but I thought if every house would agree to do this a kid could theoretically become a millionaire over the course of several years of intense trick or treating. But my childhood theory doesn't hold water, you would have to hit 14,285,714 houses, that's 1,428,571 in each of the ten prime trick or treating years. You'd have to subcontract labor, and that would never do. Fuzzy math for ten year olds.

R

Wed

My apologies to Red Sox fans. I watched the first few innings and I was pulling for the sox. Later after I gave it up they fought back, but it was too late the damage had been done.

Don't worry tonight I will watch the debate. I hope since it's supposedly only on domestic issues they can each steer clear of the same catch phrases they both have over used.

Speaking of the election, is it time we change the way votes are counted? It's not much fun knowing that you vote doesn't count unless you live in one of a handful of swing states. I plan to vote, but I can't help feeling it doesn't matter. In Texas as with New York and California it doesn't matter much.

I love Bjork, but on the new a cappella album too often she sounds like she is faking an orgasm.

After reading about the competition committee in the NFL* last night I dreamed I was a place kicker, but the ground wasn't level and never stopped moving.

Music-Ian Brown

*'America's Game-the epic story of how pro football captured a nation' by Michael MacCambridge rel 10-26-04 random house Pre-order yours at Amazon.com

R

Tue

Last night I was exercising while watching 'sand and fog' what a downer this film is. Even Jennifer Connelly's eyes can't save it from sending me into a funk. I was disappointed to see the benefactor was cancelled or preempted or whatever. I hate it so much it's become essential viewing during my Monday workout.

I didn't feel any better watching the Packers struggle last night. I was pulling for them in honor of Pat, but it was rough. Since my team is in the AFC getting Tenn buried was ok by me also, but it wasn't to be. I'm turning into a real jinx this year if I pull for a team they seem struggle.

Today brings the DVD release of the Rolling Stones Rock n Roll circus which is so unintentionally funny, and has a few nice moments as well as I recall.

I deal with a Korean company called PNS, say that fast and yes it sounds like well you know.

Music is by Hope of the states (not sure if I like it or not but having your guitar player hang himself in the studio while you are making the record will do a lot to get your angst cred card validated)

R

Dark days

For three days we've had not so much rain but mist and drizzle. Not exactly the recipe for me to get going on a Monday morning after a disappointed but not surprising Texas loss. Listening to the ultra average new REM album isn't helping. This band really used to matter to me, but that was long ago. Never mind that postal holidays always set me off.

I will attempt to suck it up and focus on the positives.
US won it's world cup qualifier, and England won as well.
Rain is better than heat.
Every cd in my bag is better than this REM
My team didn't do what the Cowboys did yesterday (just gave the game away)
My new dresser is coming next Saturday if I'm around to sign for it, and I love it.

Few job prospects if I am unwilling to start right now, so I'll chill til the end of the year and see what kind of bonus I get.

R

issues

I have unresolved issues with so many people. Not issues meaning an ass kicking I'm owed, though there are probably a few of those as well. Issues meaning the last time I spoke to them wasn't supposed to be last time, and in most cases the ball is in my court. Trouble is it's hard to return calls after 10,20, or 30 years. I just fall out of touch, always have. It's not personal, not intentional but it happens with shocking regularity. I'm not just talking about girlfriends here, in those cases some time and distance are required. Had I stayed in touch with everyone that I cared about, everyone that mattered to me more than I could ever show, my cup would runnith over now. My email, and cell would be so active, and I'd feel a greater connection to this world we live in. I'd be happier and I like to think I'd make those people happier in some way also.

Most of you who read this are exceptions, you've fought through my BS and stayed in touch in spite of my poor correspondence, and I'm very thankful for that.

My excuse? not much of one really. I'm insecure and I'm sure that's part of it, but by no means enough to explain it. In most of these cases it was before email and cell phones, so that figures in a bit I suppose. Mainly it's just a character flaw that I have, though I hope it's better now.

When I've tried to build a bridge with people that I've lost touch with I've been told I made them feel 'blown off, forgotten or 'ignored' which I suppose are all true. Though I never intended that.

The sad part is if I ran into them on the street I'd be so happy to see them, but I somehow doubt the feeling would be mutual. It's sort of like denial I guess. I'm in my own little world which has so little in common with reality. In my world ten years is nothing, like a day to some people.

I'm in danger of sounding like lyrics from 'Fire and Rain' now, so enough already. So if you're out there Steve, Steven, Jennifer, Megan, Amy, Beth, Todd, Walter, Geoff, Jay, Dave, Charles, Dan, Christie, Scott, Pat, Bill...and countless others. I'm sorry, my bad, I'd like a do over.

Que Jason Robards 'goddam regrets!'


I suppose we rarely know when we are speaking to someone for the last time. I'm still hoping for a next time.

R

Icons

In a strange coincidence three bands that once held the title of favorite for me have reformed. And in an even stranger coincidence they all release new albums the same week.

Camper Van Beethoven, American Music Club, and my high school favorite Duran Duran. (no need to do the math let's just say I'm old)


I'm nothing if not loyal (read-stupid) so I will pony up for all three next week.

R

Taking islands in Africa

Friday, finally.

Got my GQ in the mail and it's still in the package, though I doubt it would pass the black light test. All is forgiven as far as Mr. Clavin is concerned.

Got my hair slicked back (sort of) today. I was going for a Peter O'Toole in Lawrence of Arabia kind of vibe (mostly to hide the fact that I need a haircut) but I fear it hasn't worked out as I'd hoped. I'm sure I look more like a local TV weatherman.

Music by the Engineers which has it's moments that recall MBV or blur, but it would not be fair to compare them to such bands.

As a Texas fan I'm very happy to see OU on the cover of SI this week, get your Jinx on. I won't remind you of the score last year, it's just too painful to type. At least last year I was on the road to Green Bay, this year I don't have such a distraction.

I wish I cared a little bit about the baseball playoffs, but so far I haven't watched a single pitch.

More debates tonight but I need to trek to the gym so I dunno, Tivo maybe not sure it's worth taping.

Netflix-Finished 'Le Trou' started 'In the mood for love'
R

Hating

Ok Dick Cheney helped me get my hate on again. After the Presidential debates had me feeling like Kerry had run up the score a bit, Dick got me back in the right frame of mind. Sorry that guy is just so hate able.


Using the next blog feature I stumbled onto a series of nude shots. It isn't clear if these are pictures of the bloger or (more likely) the blogger's ex. But it was jarring to say the least.

Don't look for too many pictures of me with it out on here.

By the way if you go to the state fair of Texas, mind the bees. They are especially fond of the root beer. Persistence paid off as I ended up sharing my root beer with a number of the little critters. I'm a fan of the bee.

Please Mr. postman
In all the excitement of the last couple days I forgot about my GQ which I still don't have. WTF? I know Lindsay Lohan is looking fetching on the cover, and I know it looks like she's about to take those panties off for you, but mister she's a takin' em off fer me. I know it's hard to deliver a mag when you could just as easily keep it for yourself, but c'mon. What happened to the rain, sleet or snow? I don't even care about Lindsay I need it for the articles...honest...GQ has articles right?......

R

Digging out

There is a ton of work on my desk, I'm glad to know I'm so needed here. Two days out, and double work awaits.

The fair was actually pretty fun this year. Didn't have the fried Oreo this year. From what I saw yesterday the tobacco companies have plenty of customers out there. Cigarettes were way too high a priority for many. There is a show that feature housecats, it was indeed surprising that the trainer could get the cats to do anything at all. They jumped through hoops, walked on a tightrope and caught a piece of fish throw to them and that's about it. Still it's more than I can get my cat to do on a good day.

My son has more fun at the Science Place which he goes to year round and has little to do with the fair at all.

I do have some questions for the young people';

What is Hollister? There were hundreds of Hollister shirts, all different styles. Is Element the same thing? I'm pretty sure Independent is skateboard trucks correct?

I feel a bit old nowadays. It's funny I don't see myself as old, but I am shocked when I think that my first girlfriend is now 35!!! Zoinks! She probably doesn't know Hollister either.


First thing Saturday morning I emptied out my dresser and threw all my clothes on the bed, took the TV and DVD player off the top, and moved the dresser upstairs. The new dresser was due sometime Saturday before noon. The delivery never showed up, I called several times and got a different story each time, the first time they called me was at 9:40 PM!! and it wasn't to apologize or reschedule but to say he would be there in a about an hour. I told them they can keep it, I don't generally accept deliveries for anything other than Pizza at 10:30 on a Saturday night. So now I have the old dresser upstairs and full of stuff, and the bedroom TV on the floor and my clothes in storage tubs. I need to shop for another new dresser ASAP. That's what I get for being prepared and offering more courtesy to the store than they were prepared to offer me.

My grandfather has taken a turn for the worst, and now they say he cannot return to the retirement home he lives in. He requires a nursing home. This is heartbreaking for me, this man was my hero when I was a kid. I will be going up there in the next couple of weeks it looks like.

Now I'm back at work and it feels like Monday.

Music- Junior Boys, Interpol
Netflix-Le trou (still since i had to disconnect for the effing del..... nevermind)

R

Friday

me-'hullo'
caller-'Robert? this is Harvey blah I with blah and I wanted to see if you were available to come in for a second interview on Monday morning'
me-No, Monday and Tuesday I have my son cause it's his fall break, but Wed would work'
Caller-'Ok thank you'...click

DICK! He calls at 3 pm on Friday and is shocked that I have a commitment on Monday morning? WTF? Glad to know now, rather than go work there and find out.


Strange, of course this is the cat who didn't interview me so much as talk about himself in interview one. I remember thinking at the time he wouldn't need a second interview if he would ask me questions in the first one.

Oh well screw it.

My request for more money was not refused just delayed, I'm told my year end bonus will reflect the excellent work I've done. Notice I'm not holding my breath. We will see i suppose, in the short term he offered to pay for any training I want. So I signed up for a few seminars, at least it's a chance to get out of the office for a few days.

Tue I travel to the state fair of Texas, so I'm sure I'll be complaining about it on Wed.

Music- Ambulance
Netflix this weekend- Le Trou

R

Debate

It was no fun watching that last night. I realize I don't really like either candidate all that much. Kerry's plan for Iraq is so similar to Bush's, it seems the only difference is Kerry wants more international contribution. I'm sure Bush would like some more help from our allies too, but at this stage who wants in..yeah I know Poland got it, I won't discount Poland's contribution.

It reminds of the old Steve Martin bit about how to become a millionaire;

'first get a million dollars, next....'

It's easy to say but how do you actually get people into your own personal quagmire?

I did think Kerry was good, maybe too good in fact. Even though it's well documented how little I like Bush, I still found myself feeling sorry for him at times. I know he deserves it, and I know he's a real cocky eff up, but he's still our president (at least for the moment) and I do think he's tried to do what he feels is right. Never mind that he's been wrong in most cases.

So they both got in all their buzz words and catch phrases, and they were so vague about issues that you couldn't really sink you teeth into much. Maybe this is the year I finally vote for LaRouche.jj

Music provided by Ambulance (thanks M) and the Michael Point collection


R