Being home for an extended period of time does have some benefits, especially when that time is quiet and free to be spent as one sees fit. The healthy supply of food doesn't hurt either.
I find my soul is rather tranquil here at home, without the hustle and buslte and distraction of a dormitory. It's very...Jedi like for want of a cooler term. I find myself able to focus on music and reading without my emotions getting the better of me. A few songs and things till hit home, but they don't throw me as badly as they could. to be driven by wanting to play my music well instead of trying to take out my frustrations or anything like that.
I'm not troubled by the things that may or may not be, or the fact that the road of life is openingup to grand new vistas. these do not faze me. they will be dealt with at the appropriate time and not before.
My musical selection has been very mellow as of late, shifting away from the aggresive thrash and melodic death metal that propelled me through the semester onto power ballads (of varying quality) and lighter fare, grasciously provided to me on the CD 'Rod's Radical Rhythms', and even the crooning of Roy Orbison. Yes, this a place of peace. Even when I play my own aggressive fare it is with a cool detachment, and attention to detail that has been lacking as of late.
Of course " life is a map and is quite confusing" , but everyone's life is like that, and mine is no different. I hope the serenity and rest I'm finding here will help me with the coming semester.
May the Peace that surpasses all understanding
Be with you all
Thursday, December 28, 2006
Saturday, December 23, 2006
What I've Learned over the Last Week
1. When you see something that looks suspisciouly like the Christmas List you sent to your family, DO NOT GO IN FOR A CLOSER LOOK! it is your Chirtmas list, and will have things checked off. Way to ruin the gift exchange part of Christmas for myself...unless the list is lying...at least somewhat. Come on vacation property in Hawaii!
2. I will not just go away in a game of Wii Tennis. Ask Joel. He may have won the match 3-1 but he earned everyone of those wins. Also, in Wii Bowling, 4 strikes in a row will orchestrate you a come back on your friend who previously scord 3 strikes in a row. boo ya! Addendum: My Wii character is stoked beyond all reason, all the time. He must being getting some...high scores. muhahaha
3. In the Oilman board game, do not push too hard. it will cost you oil in Greenland!
4. An hour of recording will earn you approximately 5 minutes of useful material. And recording tracks underneath each other is much harder than you think it would be.
6. (Five is dead to me). When travelling; if the truck shimmies twice, you should maybe back off the throttle. Also, choose your travelling partner well. It can make a bad situation worse, or can make a bad situation a pretty cool adventure.
7. The 80s aren't coming back. The Transformers will look different. Monter Trucks will be faster. He-Man is not as cool as you remember. But 80s metal will always reign supreme (apparently).
11. (8,9 and 10 are having issues and fistfights). when i get home, i graze like a cow. Mooo! hooray for food with nutrients!
2. I will not just go away in a game of Wii Tennis. Ask Joel. He may have won the match 3-1 but he earned everyone of those wins. Also, in Wii Bowling, 4 strikes in a row will orchestrate you a come back on your friend who previously scord 3 strikes in a row. boo ya! Addendum: My Wii character is stoked beyond all reason, all the time. He must being getting some...high scores. muhahaha
3. In the Oilman board game, do not push too hard. it will cost you oil in Greenland!
4. An hour of recording will earn you approximately 5 minutes of useful material. And recording tracks underneath each other is much harder than you think it would be.
6. (Five is dead to me). When travelling; if the truck shimmies twice, you should maybe back off the throttle. Also, choose your travelling partner well. It can make a bad situation worse, or can make a bad situation a pretty cool adventure.
7. The 80s aren't coming back. The Transformers will look different. Monter Trucks will be faster. He-Man is not as cool as you remember. But 80s metal will always reign supreme (apparently).
11. (8,9 and 10 are having issues and fistfights). when i get home, i graze like a cow. Mooo! hooray for food with nutrients!
Tuesday, December 19, 2006
A Good Biting Track is What It's Built For
Random Trackside Commentator (RTC): So, Rod, you've done a lot of work on the truck since last we saw you can you tell us a little bit about what you've done to it?
Rod: Well, we've got one of the biggest motors out here, but we've had a few stability issues with the truck which was effecting traction, and really screwing around with us the last few times we'd been out with it. We're hoping to find a little more bite with it once we get it up on two-wheels.
RTC: You talk about balance, how important has it been for you to find it, and put that out on the track.
Rod: It's been huge. Like I say, very few guys can run with the motor that we've got in here, so for me balance has been everything.
RTC: What do you think about the track in particular?
Rod: This is a great track, a lot more consistent than the last few we've tried to pull on, and it seems like we're getting a lot of traction when we put power to the wheels, so hopefully it'll work out. The last few tracks we've been on have been very hit-or-miss, this one seems like one where we can finally put the motor to work and blow away the competition. we had a lot of time to see how things can work, so it looks promising.
RTC: There seems to be a lot of guys eager to get out there and put you away, what do you think about that?
Rod: I guess that just means I'm the one with the target on my back, which is a compliment to the crew that helped me put this thing together. They're still going to have to try and beat me though, because I'm not going to roll over for just anybody on this one.
RTC: You seem confident, even though a lot of people say you're taking the wrong lane and angle down the course.
Rod: Well, I just have to have confidence in the motor and everything else right now. We've done a lot of work since we first came out of CCI and in the last few years we've done and learned alot, so hopefully we can make use of all that and get a straight run for the distance even if people think we're going about it wrong. The truck has changed, and the driver's learned a lot since we got here to CUCA, so we're just hoping to make one last clean pass to the finish line here. Thanks to everyone who's been supporting us. See you at the finish line.
Rod: Well, we've got one of the biggest motors out here, but we've had a few stability issues with the truck which was effecting traction, and really screwing around with us the last few times we'd been out with it. We're hoping to find a little more bite with it once we get it up on two-wheels.
RTC: You talk about balance, how important has it been for you to find it, and put that out on the track.
Rod: It's been huge. Like I say, very few guys can run with the motor that we've got in here, so for me balance has been everything.
RTC: What do you think about the track in particular?
Rod: This is a great track, a lot more consistent than the last few we've tried to pull on, and it seems like we're getting a lot of traction when we put power to the wheels, so hopefully it'll work out. The last few tracks we've been on have been very hit-or-miss, this one seems like one where we can finally put the motor to work and blow away the competition. we had a lot of time to see how things can work, so it looks promising.
RTC: There seems to be a lot of guys eager to get out there and put you away, what do you think about that?
Rod: I guess that just means I'm the one with the target on my back, which is a compliment to the crew that helped me put this thing together. They're still going to have to try and beat me though, because I'm not going to roll over for just anybody on this one.
RTC: You seem confident, even though a lot of people say you're taking the wrong lane and angle down the course.
Rod: Well, I just have to have confidence in the motor and everything else right now. We've done a lot of work since we first came out of CCI and in the last few years we've done and learned alot, so hopefully we can make use of all that and get a straight run for the distance even if people think we're going about it wrong. The truck has changed, and the driver's learned a lot since we got here to CUCA, so we're just hoping to make one last clean pass to the finish line here. Thanks to everyone who's been supporting us. See you at the finish line.
Wednesday, December 13, 2006
Growing On Like Mold and Massive Amounts of Confusion
The Growing of Mold
Alright, I've owned the album Sacrament by Lamb of God since...July? I bought it shortly after I saw them live in Toon Town. And you know what it did nothing for me. Zip. Zero. Nada. There was nothing there for me. I didn't want to get rid of it but I had it relegated basically to the backburner of my collection, and I expected it to collect dust for the foreseeable future. I didn't hate it, I just didn't like it in that special way that new albums typically take with me. In my mind bands like Dark Age and Children of Bodom were doing it faster and cleaner and more to my liking.
Time went on. I tried giving it the pity spins in my CD player just for kicks, but still nothing. I knew intellectually that this was an album I should like: it had the makings of a 'Rod' album: the fast guitars, the ferocious lyrics, the intense mid-pitch screams, but still nothing. I was perturbed. I had invested 20 bucks on this CD, I wanted my return dammit!
So a couple days ago Eric and I were in 'Lets watch DVDs that talk about bands and their lives/recording process' mode so we ended up watching the Lamb of God one, because in my infinite wisdom I bought the collector's edition. And it was like listening to it with new ears. I heard the guitar work that I knew was there. I felt the emotion of the lyrics and the vocals, and the pounding of the drums. It was ridiculous. Now, I actually like the album. In short, sometimes things grow on you, and it's awesome.
Massive Amounts of Confusion
Let's turn things over to the boys at Mosaic Stadium at Taylor Field, Glen Sui...err Eric Moffett and Rod Parker
Moffett: What the HELL is going on down there? The Riders defence looks...stunned
Parker: Indeed they do. They seem to be holding their own despite the fact that they HAVE NO IDEA what is going on.
Moffett: It doesn't hurt that the opposition have Randy Moss playing. And by playing I mean dropping balls all over the damn field. Those receivers are morons, I mean what do they get paid for?
Parker: Well that's good new for the Riders D because they're coverage well good, has been far from stellar. But at least it's been more solid that the Riders offence.
Moffett: I know. The Riders O has a bunch of retards out there. They had one good play on 3rd and 15, but they struggled mightily after that, and ended up getting rejected in the red zone. I don't know why they pay those receivers? Like come on boys, come on. Not even a field goal. That whole team should be cut.
Parker: They really iso'ed in on a receiver early on and it hurt production in what was looking to be a promising 4th quarter.
Moffett: This seems to be a problem with the Riders in general: Abandoning the running game in the fourth, and trying to take to the air which never turns out for them. I don't even know why the come out in the 4th quarter. My grandma plays better 4th quarter ball than these pussies.
Parker: Well there's still 7 minutes left in the 4th. Any suggesstions for this struggling Riders team?
Moffett: Yes. Don't drop the ball! Keep the defence in a position to make a huge play, go for the forced fumble or the interception and take that to the house. And for the love all things holy, don't committ turnovers, and run the ball! And keep it out of the hands of the morons.
Alright, I've owned the album Sacrament by Lamb of God since...July? I bought it shortly after I saw them live in Toon Town. And you know what it did nothing for me. Zip. Zero. Nada. There was nothing there for me. I didn't want to get rid of it but I had it relegated basically to the backburner of my collection, and I expected it to collect dust for the foreseeable future. I didn't hate it, I just didn't like it in that special way that new albums typically take with me. In my mind bands like Dark Age and Children of Bodom were doing it faster and cleaner and more to my liking.
Time went on. I tried giving it the pity spins in my CD player just for kicks, but still nothing. I knew intellectually that this was an album I should like: it had the makings of a 'Rod' album: the fast guitars, the ferocious lyrics, the intense mid-pitch screams, but still nothing. I was perturbed. I had invested 20 bucks on this CD, I wanted my return dammit!
So a couple days ago Eric and I were in 'Lets watch DVDs that talk about bands and their lives/recording process' mode so we ended up watching the Lamb of God one, because in my infinite wisdom I bought the collector's edition. And it was like listening to it with new ears. I heard the guitar work that I knew was there. I felt the emotion of the lyrics and the vocals, and the pounding of the drums. It was ridiculous. Now, I actually like the album. In short, sometimes things grow on you, and it's awesome.
Massive Amounts of Confusion
Let's turn things over to the boys at Mosaic Stadium at Taylor Field, Glen Sui...err Eric Moffett and Rod Parker
Moffett: What the HELL is going on down there? The Riders defence looks...stunned
Parker: Indeed they do. They seem to be holding their own despite the fact that they HAVE NO IDEA what is going on.
Moffett: It doesn't hurt that the opposition have Randy Moss playing. And by playing I mean dropping balls all over the damn field. Those receivers are morons, I mean what do they get paid for?
Parker: Well that's good new for the Riders D because they're coverage well good, has been far from stellar. But at least it's been more solid that the Riders offence.
Moffett: I know. The Riders O has a bunch of retards out there. They had one good play on 3rd and 15, but they struggled mightily after that, and ended up getting rejected in the red zone. I don't know why they pay those receivers? Like come on boys, come on. Not even a field goal. That whole team should be cut.
Parker: They really iso'ed in on a receiver early on and it hurt production in what was looking to be a promising 4th quarter.
Moffett: This seems to be a problem with the Riders in general: Abandoning the running game in the fourth, and trying to take to the air which never turns out for them. I don't even know why the come out in the 4th quarter. My grandma plays better 4th quarter ball than these pussies.
Parker: Well there's still 7 minutes left in the 4th. Any suggesstions for this struggling Riders team?
Moffett: Yes. Don't drop the ball! Keep the defence in a position to make a huge play, go for the forced fumble or the interception and take that to the house. And for the love all things holy, don't committ turnovers, and run the ball! And keep it out of the hands of the morons.
Tuesday, December 05, 2006
Stealing this from Lauren
1. Open your library (iTunes, Winamp, Media Player, iPod, etc)
2. Put it on shuffle
3. Press play
4. For every question, type the song that's playing
5. When you go to a new question, press the next button
6. Don't lie and try to pretend you're cool...
OPENING CREDITS: Heaven Can Wait - Gamma Ray
WAKING UP: Starlight Kingdom - Battlelore
FIRST DAY AT SCHOOL: Under the Ice - Blind Guardian
FALLING IN LOVE: The Village of Dwarves - Rhapsody (my iTunes is on a power-metal kick)
FIGHT SONG: Valley of the Damned - DragonForce
BREAKING UP: A Tout Le Monde (Live) - Megadeth
FORMAL: The God That Failed - Metallica
FINAL BATTLE: Elysian Fields - Megadeth
DEATH SCENE: Killed by Death - Motorhead (How hilarious and appropriate)
FUNERAL: Time What is Time - Blind Guardian
ENDING CREDITS: Touch Like an Angel of Death - Children of Bodom
Apparently this is the soundtrack to some strange mystical medieval horror flick. I should get to work on that.
2. Put it on shuffle
3. Press play
4. For every question, type the song that's playing
5. When you go to a new question, press the next button
6. Don't lie and try to pretend you're cool...
OPENING CREDITS: Heaven Can Wait - Gamma Ray
WAKING UP: Starlight Kingdom - Battlelore
FIRST DAY AT SCHOOL: Under the Ice - Blind Guardian
FALLING IN LOVE: The Village of Dwarves - Rhapsody (my iTunes is on a power-metal kick)
FIGHT SONG: Valley of the Damned - DragonForce
BREAKING UP: A Tout Le Monde (Live) - Megadeth
FORMAL: The God That Failed - Metallica
FINAL BATTLE: Elysian Fields - Megadeth
DEATH SCENE: Killed by Death - Motorhead (How hilarious and appropriate)
FUNERAL: Time What is Time - Blind Guardian
ENDING CREDITS: Touch Like an Angel of Death - Children of Bodom
Apparently this is the soundtrack to some strange mystical medieval horror flick. I should get to work on that.
Saturday, December 02, 2006
My Train of Thought has Become a Wreck
Please, excuse this post as it promises to be random, potentially mean, and inarticulate to the max.
I've been at work for 2.5 hours and I've changed CDs more than 5 times. That just doesn't happen to me.
What I am searching for? A voice of understanding? I don't know. I can't it in my music for some reason.
I don't want to be angry I'm tired of it. I'm tired of being jealous. I'm tired of hating myself because of my weaknessess. This is pathetic. Everyone has weaknesses, don't they? So, why do mine seem to be so particularily destructive and damaging? Am I not worthy of what I'm after? This is dumb. Everything is futile!
I Hate your contention
I hate your violation
I hate your corruption
I hate your life destruction
I will resist ENDLESSLY!
~ Transgression - Fear Factory
Why is it people seem to be most capable of destroying what they're after? Is it human nature to lose everything we hold dear through our own doings? Is that the fate of us, do be undone by our desires, or our needs?
You should be a saviour
Once on earth to bleed for the weak
Try Modern behaviour
For a world that cannot seek
This fallen belief I know
Has no prospect
Will never achieve to grow
If we carry on hiding
What is deep inside of us
~ We Who Suffer - Dark Age
It's just frustrating because I know, know for a fact that I'm better than this, that I'm better than what comes through. But who will be there to see me through my follies and weaknessess and darkness. Who will be there to hold me when it all gets to be too much? Do I even dare show that to anyone? Or will it be my guitar that pays for my frustrations again?
Caged inside
I cannot seem to end the battles
Breaking down, I worship the insane
~ Oscillation Point - Scar Symmetry
Is there no other road, then the way of pain? Of course if success comes my way the road was worth, but dammit I've been here before, and I feel like screaming because I am not dreaming.
I cannot get out of here anymore
Cause none of my keys fit the door
There's fear and anger
Hate and love
I must confess
It's out of hand
If there's anyone in
It soon will be over
We'll burn out
Our soul's aflamed
And we're on our own now
Give up your cruel invasion
Your insane I'll show you
~ Another Stanger Me - Blind Guardian
It's hard. This game we call life. This has gotten all out of hand. I wish I could rewind and see the moment where all this came to be. Hopefully if the sowing is sweet, but germanation and growth is bitter then the reaping will still be sweet. If not...gah!
This year wasn't supposed to be like this! It just wasn't! It was supposed to be mop-up duty, simple tricks and fun. How do I do this to myself?
Do not turn your face towards me
Confronting me with my lonliness
You are in a forest unknown
The secret orchard
And your voice is vast and achromatic
But still so precious
~ Black Rose Immortal - Opeth
I've been at work for 2.5 hours and I've changed CDs more than 5 times. That just doesn't happen to me.
What I am searching for? A voice of understanding? I don't know. I can't it in my music for some reason.
I don't want to be angry I'm tired of it. I'm tired of being jealous. I'm tired of hating myself because of my weaknessess. This is pathetic. Everyone has weaknesses, don't they? So, why do mine seem to be so particularily destructive and damaging? Am I not worthy of what I'm after? This is dumb. Everything is futile!
I Hate your contention
I hate your violation
I hate your corruption
I hate your life destruction
I will resist ENDLESSLY!
~ Transgression - Fear Factory
Why is it people seem to be most capable of destroying what they're after? Is it human nature to lose everything we hold dear through our own doings? Is that the fate of us, do be undone by our desires, or our needs?
You should be a saviour
Once on earth to bleed for the weak
Try Modern behaviour
For a world that cannot seek
This fallen belief I know
Has no prospect
Will never achieve to grow
If we carry on hiding
What is deep inside of us
~ We Who Suffer - Dark Age
It's just frustrating because I know, know for a fact that I'm better than this, that I'm better than what comes through. But who will be there to see me through my follies and weaknessess and darkness. Who will be there to hold me when it all gets to be too much? Do I even dare show that to anyone? Or will it be my guitar that pays for my frustrations again?
Caged inside
I cannot seem to end the battles
Breaking down, I worship the insane
~ Oscillation Point - Scar Symmetry
Is there no other road, then the way of pain? Of course if success comes my way the road was worth, but dammit I've been here before, and I feel like screaming because I am not dreaming.
I cannot get out of here anymore
Cause none of my keys fit the door
There's fear and anger
Hate and love
I must confess
It's out of hand
If there's anyone in
It soon will be over
We'll burn out
Our soul's aflamed
And we're on our own now
Give up your cruel invasion
Your insane I'll show you
~ Another Stanger Me - Blind Guardian
It's hard. This game we call life. This has gotten all out of hand. I wish I could rewind and see the moment where all this came to be. Hopefully if the sowing is sweet, but germanation and growth is bitter then the reaping will still be sweet. If not...gah!
This year wasn't supposed to be like this! It just wasn't! It was supposed to be mop-up duty, simple tricks and fun. How do I do this to myself?
Do not turn your face towards me
Confronting me with my lonliness
You are in a forest unknown
The secret orchard
And your voice is vast and achromatic
But still so precious
~ Black Rose Immortal - Opeth
Friday, December 01, 2006
Holding Out for a Hero
First off I love this song. I've been learning it on my guitar, b/c that's how sweet it is. The lyrics however I'm going to have to change the lyrics for me to sing it. Then my friend Holly was like, it could be a statment abouthe pressures facing men in Western Culture, which I almost dismissed out of hand, but here I am challenging the lyrics because I am bored, and it could be fun. So here we go foolios!
Where have all the good men gone and where are all the gods?
Well, I know some good men. They're hanging out in Founders hall. My particular room number is F217. You should swing by time. As for the gods, there is only one True God!
Where’s the street-wise Hercules to fight the rising odds?
Whoa, smart and strong? Pick one. While I'm not terribly strong, I am smart. Although apprently when I'm clautrophobic enough adrenaline kicks in for me to force my way out of a mosh pit. Fancy that.
Isn’t there a white knight upon a fiery steed?
Will black leather count? And I have my choice of steed if you will, and one definately falls into the category of fiery! *Sounds of tires squealing*
Late at night I toss and turn and I dream of what I need.
That is unfortunate. I recommend seeing a shrink. Or Doctor Steve.
I need a hero, I’m holding out for a hero ‘til the end of the night,
Just till the end of the night? Aww man, my cars aren't that fast. Although I would suppose that would depend on your current location. Call me.
He’s gotta be strong and he’s gotta be fast,
a) Hooray for adrenaline b)Oh, you should see my guitar skills.
He’s gotta be sure, and it’s gotta be soon,
Sure, okay. Soon, well contact me. I'll figure out something.
And he’s gotta be larger than life...
Boo yea! I got that one covered! (Get your mind out of the gutter you sickos).
Somewhere after midnight in my wildest fantasy
I'm listening...attentively no less...
Somewhere just beyond my reach there’s someone reaching back for me.
Is that so? I was uninformed.
Racing on the thunder and rising with the heat
Oh yea! I'm rockin' this thing now!
It’s gonna take a superman to sweep me off my feet, yeah!
That's unfortunate. Superman's not real. I'm real enough, and super enough.
...
The rest doesn't really apply until...
I can feel his approach like the fire in my blood
That's right, I ride in on Fire and Thunder. That's how I roll!
Where have all the good men gone and where are all the gods?
Well, I know some good men. They're hanging out in Founders hall. My particular room number is F217. You should swing by time. As for the gods, there is only one True God!
Where’s the street-wise Hercules to fight the rising odds?
Whoa, smart and strong? Pick one. While I'm not terribly strong, I am smart. Although apprently when I'm clautrophobic enough adrenaline kicks in for me to force my way out of a mosh pit. Fancy that.
Isn’t there a white knight upon a fiery steed?
Will black leather count? And I have my choice of steed if you will, and one definately falls into the category of fiery! *Sounds of tires squealing*
Late at night I toss and turn and I dream of what I need.
That is unfortunate. I recommend seeing a shrink. Or Doctor Steve.
I need a hero, I’m holding out for a hero ‘til the end of the night,
Just till the end of the night? Aww man, my cars aren't that fast. Although I would suppose that would depend on your current location. Call me.
He’s gotta be strong and he’s gotta be fast,
a) Hooray for adrenaline b)Oh, you should see my guitar skills.
He’s gotta be sure, and it’s gotta be soon,
Sure, okay. Soon, well contact me. I'll figure out something.
And he’s gotta be larger than life...
Boo yea! I got that one covered! (Get your mind out of the gutter you sickos).
Somewhere after midnight in my wildest fantasy
I'm listening...attentively no less...
Somewhere just beyond my reach there’s someone reaching back for me.
Is that so? I was uninformed.
Racing on the thunder and rising with the heat
Oh yea! I'm rockin' this thing now!
It’s gonna take a superman to sweep me off my feet, yeah!
That's unfortunate. Superman's not real. I'm real enough, and super enough.
...
The rest doesn't really apply until...
I can feel his approach like the fire in my blood
That's right, I ride in on Fire and Thunder. That's how I roll!
Saturday, November 25, 2006
Spark of the Forge III
So it's been a crazy week, well not totally crazy but kind of. Here's what I've learned.
1. When you lose your voice and are not able to sing, there seems to be an inordinate amount of singing going on around you, and it can become quite frustrating not being able to join in. At least I had someone who is basically awesome to keep from doing anything dumb like singing and therefore making my own predicament even worse. But I totally wanted to sing out Fly at the top of my lungs. I will when I get healthy.
2. The new Megadeth demo song 'Gears of War' fills me with glee. It's a little slower but that riff is crushing. And by crushing I don't mean like a girl crushing on a guy, I mean a batallion of tanks and monster trucks that can transform into giant robots crushing the skulls of the hundredfold swinging the judgement hammer, in a cacophonic symphonic epic of devastation. It's awesome. I want, nay, I NEED that new album.
3. Epic of Devastation would make a cool band name.
4. The girls I take to church make me happy. They're so cute when the kids come up. And I then I look at the gals thinking they're so cute. Somewhere in the church there is probably someone watching me going 'Aww, he's so cute.' It's probably God looking down from on high thinking that, and 'Sure, I made him look tough, but inside he's a sweetheart.'
5. Not having a voice can make rehearsing a pain in the buttocks. At least, typically my guitar gets to talk for me.
6. I should probably get around to naming my guitar. Something feminine yet strong. Like Darksyde. or Dark Lightning. Black Lightning? Mistress of Chaos? V of Misery? Rhombus of Terror! Now I'm just being silly.
7. Red vs. Blue and Dane Cook leave me in stitches. They make me smile. Not safe for work or more polite company but high-larious all the same. Thanks for that disc Holly. It is awesome to the max.
8. School's almost done for the semester. Only one more semester to go, and I'll be graduated. Woot!
9. When your friend tells you he's gotten engaged, you should probably remember something like that. Congratulations Vince, you sly dog! Take that matty, I stole your saying. Seriously though, I was missing the lynch pin. I had all the piping laid out, somehow missed the lynch pin. Maybe no more important conversations after 11pm.
1. When you lose your voice and are not able to sing, there seems to be an inordinate amount of singing going on around you, and it can become quite frustrating not being able to join in. At least I had someone who is basically awesome to keep from doing anything dumb like singing and therefore making my own predicament even worse. But I totally wanted to sing out Fly at the top of my lungs. I will when I get healthy.
2. The new Megadeth demo song 'Gears of War' fills me with glee. It's a little slower but that riff is crushing. And by crushing I don't mean like a girl crushing on a guy, I mean a batallion of tanks and monster trucks that can transform into giant robots crushing the skulls of the hundredfold swinging the judgement hammer, in a cacophonic symphonic epic of devastation. It's awesome. I want, nay, I NEED that new album.
3. Epic of Devastation would make a cool band name.
4. The girls I take to church make me happy. They're so cute when the kids come up. And I then I look at the gals thinking they're so cute. Somewhere in the church there is probably someone watching me going 'Aww, he's so cute.' It's probably God looking down from on high thinking that, and 'Sure, I made him look tough, but inside he's a sweetheart.'
5. Not having a voice can make rehearsing a pain in the buttocks. At least, typically my guitar gets to talk for me.
6. I should probably get around to naming my guitar. Something feminine yet strong. Like Darksyde. or Dark Lightning. Black Lightning? Mistress of Chaos? V of Misery? Rhombus of Terror! Now I'm just being silly.
7. Red vs. Blue and Dane Cook leave me in stitches. They make me smile. Not safe for work or more polite company but high-larious all the same. Thanks for that disc Holly. It is awesome to the max.
8. School's almost done for the semester. Only one more semester to go, and I'll be graduated. Woot!
9. When your friend tells you he's gotten engaged, you should probably remember something like that. Congratulations Vince, you sly dog! Take that matty, I stole your saying. Seriously though, I was missing the lynch pin. I had all the piping laid out, somehow missed the lynch pin. Maybe no more important conversations after 11pm.
Thursday, November 16, 2006
Guardian of the Blind!
"We are following the will of the one
Through the dark age
And into the storm"
~Into the Storm - by Blind Guardian
Well, greetings to all my loyal readers! I've safely arrived after the Blind Guardian concert in Vancouver. I must say it rocked my boxxorz to the maxxorz. My goodness, words cannot do justice to the awesomeness that the show was. Let's just say it was the best of mix of geeks and metalheads that could ever be put together. It made for some very interesting conversations throughout the night
"This is a Blind Guardian concert. This is going to be the biggest group of outcasts ever"
"The biggest group of outcasts since Jesus and the disciples."
- Rod responding to a fan
"I wish we had some lightsabers so someone could have a duel to entertain us."
- fan outside the Commodore Ballroom
"I failed my dragon riding licence exam last week. I can only ride rancours."
"Dude you can totally pick-up chicks with a rancour!"
"Except it eats them"
[ . . .] conversation shortened due to ridiculousness.
"I have get to the front of the crowd boots +3!!"
"This is taking so long. i should have brought a game table and we could have played"
"I attack the orc. I roll a six. Do I hit him?"
"Yea, you kill him, he was hanging on by a thread."
- the obligatory D&D convo held by Rod and another guy while waiting for Leaves' Eyes
"Stop. Be quiet now.
Out with the light
Then up and down it goes
Fly
Out it goes!"
~Fly by Blind Guardian
I was so totally stoked by the time BG hit the stage, it was ridiculous. Hansi, Marcus, Andre, and Fredrik tore that stage up! I was so pumped. They played all the songs I wanted to hear! Valhalla, Fly, Skalds & Shadows, And The Story Ends, And Then There was Silence and The Bard's Song were all music to my ears. It was like taking a quadruple billion dose of Audio Ecstasy. I don't think I spent more that 30 seconds total on my feet during And The Story Ends.
I was so excited to hear Fly. I wish one of my friends could have been there for since that the only metal song she actually likes...doesn't find completely annoying? I don't know. It would have been awesome...but I LOVE THAT SONG!!! It's so raw and powerful when it's played live.
"I know that Vancouver is not the coldest place in Canada. But I think that you are still well acquainted with ice and snow. Acquainted well enough to walk with us through the halls of VALHALLA!"
- Hansi moments before launching into Valhalla
I loved rocking out there. I totally found what I'm passionate about. I'm passionate about intense, heavy music. And speaking of passionate intensity watching the band play was soooo cool from Andres leads, to Marcus' riffs and swirling hair, Fredrik playing like a beast on the drums and Hansi's voice was as driven, raw and on-pitch as I have ever heard it on the Live CD and DVD. I wanted to play chapel this coming Friday just so I could attempt to give all you here some of the intensity that they gave me. So I'm going to try and bottle it all up for next weekend's (Nov. 26) Sunday Night Praise. If all is well with the world you should see me at my most driven and passionate (hopefully).
"We feel that you deserve a few more songs. And that you probably don't care how tired we are. So here it is! Imaginations from the Other Side!"
- Hansi just before the three encore songs.
I cannot do this show justice on a mere blog. You'll have to come visit me, hear the tales, see the merchandise and view the photos. Until next time...
"The only thing you have to do Vancouver, is the same thing you've done all night...just try to be a little bit louder"
- Hansi before The Bard's Song
"And then there was silence
Just a voice from another world
Like a leaf in an icy world
Memories will fade away"
~ And Then There was Silence by Blind Guardian
Through the dark age
And into the storm"
~Into the Storm - by Blind Guardian
Well, greetings to all my loyal readers! I've safely arrived after the Blind Guardian concert in Vancouver. I must say it rocked my boxxorz to the maxxorz. My goodness, words cannot do justice to the awesomeness that the show was. Let's just say it was the best of mix of geeks and metalheads that could ever be put together. It made for some very interesting conversations throughout the night
"This is a Blind Guardian concert. This is going to be the biggest group of outcasts ever"
"The biggest group of outcasts since Jesus and the disciples."
- Rod responding to a fan
"I wish we had some lightsabers so someone could have a duel to entertain us."
- fan outside the Commodore Ballroom
"I failed my dragon riding licence exam last week. I can only ride rancours."
"Dude you can totally pick-up chicks with a rancour!"
"Except it eats them"
[ . . .] conversation shortened due to ridiculousness.
"I have get to the front of the crowd boots +3!!"
"This is taking so long. i should have brought a game table and we could have played"
"I attack the orc. I roll a six. Do I hit him?"
"Yea, you kill him, he was hanging on by a thread."
- the obligatory D&D convo held by Rod and another guy while waiting for Leaves' Eyes
"Stop. Be quiet now.
Out with the light
Then up and down it goes
Fly
Out it goes!"
~Fly by Blind Guardian
I was so totally stoked by the time BG hit the stage, it was ridiculous. Hansi, Marcus, Andre, and Fredrik tore that stage up! I was so pumped. They played all the songs I wanted to hear! Valhalla, Fly, Skalds & Shadows, And The Story Ends, And Then There was Silence and The Bard's Song were all music to my ears. It was like taking a quadruple billion dose of Audio Ecstasy. I don't think I spent more that 30 seconds total on my feet during And The Story Ends.
I was so excited to hear Fly. I wish one of my friends could have been there for since that the only metal song she actually likes...doesn't find completely annoying? I don't know. It would have been awesome...but I LOVE THAT SONG!!! It's so raw and powerful when it's played live.
"I know that Vancouver is not the coldest place in Canada. But I think that you are still well acquainted with ice and snow. Acquainted well enough to walk with us through the halls of VALHALLA!"
- Hansi moments before launching into Valhalla
I loved rocking out there. I totally found what I'm passionate about. I'm passionate about intense, heavy music. And speaking of passionate intensity watching the band play was soooo cool from Andres leads, to Marcus' riffs and swirling hair, Fredrik playing like a beast on the drums and Hansi's voice was as driven, raw and on-pitch as I have ever heard it on the Live CD and DVD. I wanted to play chapel this coming Friday just so I could attempt to give all you here some of the intensity that they gave me. So I'm going to try and bottle it all up for next weekend's (Nov. 26) Sunday Night Praise. If all is well with the world you should see me at my most driven and passionate (hopefully).
"We feel that you deserve a few more songs. And that you probably don't care how tired we are. So here it is! Imaginations from the Other Side!"
- Hansi just before the three encore songs.
I cannot do this show justice on a mere blog. You'll have to come visit me, hear the tales, see the merchandise and view the photos. Until next time...
"The only thing you have to do Vancouver, is the same thing you've done all night...just try to be a little bit louder"
- Hansi before The Bard's Song
"And then there was silence
Just a voice from another world
Like a leaf in an icy world
Memories will fade away"
~ And Then There was Silence by Blind Guardian
Monday, November 06, 2006
The Coming Week...
So, what all is new in the land of Rod, you ask? Not a lot, actually. The weekend was unspectacular up until Sunday afternoon. I went and saw the school play Saturday night too.. Holly's scream made my blood curdle. Good job Holly!
Ah, but what a day Sunday was. I assembled as many members of the Rider Nation as I could (in this case 2) to behold an epic struggle between to arch enemies. The Saskatchewan Roughriders and the Calgary Stampeders. It looked bad for the Green & White early in the second quarter, until Isildur, took up his father's sword and cleft the Ring from...oops, wrong channel. Until Kerry Joseph hit a wide open Matt Dominguez for a touchdown and a major momentum shift.
It was nerve-wracking, it was heart-pounding, it was everything great CFL play-off football should be! And then when the dust finally settled...the Riders had won! But, alas, jubilation did not last long as Rider Nation quickly turned their gaze toward the coming Sunday when the battle-hardened Roughriders must enter the Lions Den. This will surely be a mighty struggle, in which two teams will rip, slash and tear at each other to claim dominance and mastery over the other. This Western Final may prove to be a much more intense game than the Grey Cup.
Ride for Ruin. Ride for Wrath. Go Riders!
Onto the coming week though. As if it's not enough to be able to watch the Riders in more post-season action, Steven and I will be off to Vancouver to witness the might Blind Guardian concert. Ah, what greatness shall that be? Steve's first metal concert! My first trip to Vancouver in 6 years. This will surly be a trip that will be talked about for years to come. I'm ready to rock and roll on the West Coast!
One warning should follow though. If the Riders should defeat the Lions, and Should the Blind Guardian concert kick ass, and then I find a girlfriend within two weeks of all that...the world is truly, truly doomed. Just a head's up for y'all.
And Ash, they definately won't know what hit them. When you put our combined amount of Awesome and Cool on the floor, it's like a Tornado of Awecoolsomeness!
Ah, but what a day Sunday was. I assembled as many members of the Rider Nation as I could (in this case 2) to behold an epic struggle between to arch enemies. The Saskatchewan Roughriders and the Calgary Stampeders. It looked bad for the Green & White early in the second quarter, until Isildur, took up his father's sword and cleft the Ring from...oops, wrong channel. Until Kerry Joseph hit a wide open Matt Dominguez for a touchdown and a major momentum shift.
It was nerve-wracking, it was heart-pounding, it was everything great CFL play-off football should be! And then when the dust finally settled...the Riders had won! But, alas, jubilation did not last long as Rider Nation quickly turned their gaze toward the coming Sunday when the battle-hardened Roughriders must enter the Lions Den. This will surely be a mighty struggle, in which two teams will rip, slash and tear at each other to claim dominance and mastery over the other. This Western Final may prove to be a much more intense game than the Grey Cup.
Ride for Ruin. Ride for Wrath. Go Riders!
Onto the coming week though. As if it's not enough to be able to watch the Riders in more post-season action, Steven and I will be off to Vancouver to witness the might Blind Guardian concert. Ah, what greatness shall that be? Steve's first metal concert! My first trip to Vancouver in 6 years. This will surly be a trip that will be talked about for years to come. I'm ready to rock and roll on the West Coast!
One warning should follow though. If the Riders should defeat the Lions, and Should the Blind Guardian concert kick ass, and then I find a girlfriend within two weeks of all that...the world is truly, truly doomed. Just a head's up for y'all.
And Ash, they definately won't know what hit them. When you put our combined amount of Awesome and Cool on the floor, it's like a Tornado of Awecoolsomeness!
Monday, October 30, 2006
Happiness is Good
Wow, crap. I can't say this past little bit has been anything short of mystifying. I mean really, just mystifying. There's so much going on that I never expected, good and bad.
The good though:
Ballroom Dance Lessons. It's always nice to see that old rhythm guitar influence coming out in an arena where girls actually see the benefits of it (surprisingly most don't understand thrash metal.What is up with that? Come on ladies! Seriously! That's like sexxing rhythm to the max at 3000 miles per hour. Rattlehead!). I can waltz, swing and rumba like nobody's business (well not quite).
Marcus. Always good to see members of the old crew doing well. Apparently I'm the last member of the crew without a significant other. However, I am the one with bitchin' guitar and the sweetass car. We'll call it a draw. At any rate, always good to see a buddy and putz around and shoot the breeze for a couple hours.
Sunday Night Praise: At a 1:1 band to congregation (?) ratio things can be interesting, but it was awesome to set aside the axe and take up the vox for awhile though. *Sigh* I remember why I loved Concert Choir, Vocal Jazz, and Chalice so much.
The Riders. Into the playoffs for 5 years straight! How sweet is that? 30 more to go and we'll catch the Eskischmoes.
My last birthday present. A wicked cool Optimus Prime t-shirt from my Aunt, Uncles and cousins back in Saskatchewan. "Megatron must be stopped. No matter the cost."
Cookies. From Grandma & Grandpa. These are the life savers of every college student, and my life in particular. So good.
Steak. Particularily when cooked by Vince. Holy crap. Best meal in a long, long LONG time. Steak it tr00 m3thul!
Friends: The people, not the show. Thank God for my friends, or this would the most miserable exitance EVAR! Eric we need to rock out and come up with sweet new chapel tunes (complete with lead fill solo). We can do it!
Thank you Detroit. Goodnight, We Love You!
P.S. I will give you hand with your blogging questions Ash.
P.P.S. Blind Guardian in Motherf**king TWO WEEKS!!!!!!!!!! VALHALLA!!!!
The good though:
Ballroom Dance Lessons. It's always nice to see that old rhythm guitar influence coming out in an arena where girls actually see the benefits of it (surprisingly most don't understand thrash metal.What is up with that? Come on ladies! Seriously! That's like sexxing rhythm to the max at 3000 miles per hour. Rattlehead!). I can waltz, swing and rumba like nobody's business (well not quite).
Marcus. Always good to see members of the old crew doing well. Apparently I'm the last member of the crew without a significant other. However, I am the one with bitchin' guitar and the sweetass car. We'll call it a draw. At any rate, always good to see a buddy and putz around and shoot the breeze for a couple hours.
Sunday Night Praise: At a 1:1 band to congregation (?) ratio things can be interesting, but it was awesome to set aside the axe and take up the vox for awhile though. *Sigh* I remember why I loved Concert Choir, Vocal Jazz, and Chalice so much.
The Riders. Into the playoffs for 5 years straight! How sweet is that? 30 more to go and we'll catch the Eskischmoes.
My last birthday present. A wicked cool Optimus Prime t-shirt from my Aunt, Uncles and cousins back in Saskatchewan. "Megatron must be stopped. No matter the cost."
Cookies. From Grandma & Grandpa. These are the life savers of every college student, and my life in particular. So good.
Steak. Particularily when cooked by Vince. Holy crap. Best meal in a long, long LONG time. Steak it tr00 m3thul!
Friends: The people, not the show. Thank God for my friends, or this would the most miserable exitance EVAR! Eric we need to rock out and come up with sweet new chapel tunes (complete with lead fill solo). We can do it!
Thank you Detroit. Goodnight, We Love You!
P.S. I will give you hand with your blogging questions Ash.
P.P.S. Blind Guardian in Motherf**king TWO WEEKS!!!!!!!!!! VALHALLA!!!!
Saturday, October 21, 2006
News From the Lab
Welcome everyone to the Saturday edition of the CKCK News @ Noon.
Our top story this hour is how bored I am. However, here are some stories that we are working on at this hour.
What I've felt
What I've known
Never shined through in what I've shown
- The Unforgiven by Metallica
This week has been a lesson in frustration with just very little going right, well not right, but certainly not spectacularily. I feel just stuck in a bit of rut, like I'm going to relive the previous two years in microcosm, and you know, I don't really like that idea at all, b/c it seems like I'm going to be reliving the negative aspects of it, and that would suck immensely.
The above quote illustrates this for me a lot of ways. One example is SNP. I practiced for it, and did what I could and I still went out and played poorly, and got lost and confused and so very, very frustrated. It doesn't matter to me that no one noticed, I noticed And then Wednesday morning to go into my Drama class and perform my scene poorly is irritating to the maximum. Of course this sort of frustration gets carried over into my friendships, which causes gaps and separation that I don't want to exist which causes more frustration...you can see where I'm going with this.
And as for what I've felt never shining through we'll get to that later is this broadcast.
*Station Break*
And I still
Can see through the mist
To the very end
There I'll face
What I fear the most
- Carry the Blessed Home by Blind Guardian
This also has been weighing on the ole gray matter as well. As I come up to the end of the section of my academic career, the end is what I fear the most. I've become very attached to this place and to the people here. I'll admit it. I'm scared to leave. The reason I've made this far has been because of you my friends. It will be tough to part with you. But unfortunately my time here at CUCA is reaching twilight and soon the night must fall. Although perhaps I should embrace what sweet dreams may lie therein. Rockstardom to the max!
*Commercials for PUMA Pest Control Products*
Summer is miles and miles away
And no one would ask me to stay
And I should contemplate this change
To ease the pain
And I should step out of the rain
Turn away
- In My Time of Need by Opeth
Oh this could apply to so much right now, it is ridiculous. Summer is miles and miles and if someone asks me to stay...then well crap I'll stay. I know it too. Hooray! Or it could apply to right now, and just turning away from the previous problems and trying to just to get on with my life as best I'm able as that's all we're really capable of doing. Although some time for contemplating the changes right now would be welcome and perhaps even necessary to ease some of the pain of life. And certainly stepping out of the rain right now could be good too.
*Commercial for the new Corvette!*
All I ever want
Is to be at your side
- Skalds & Shadows by Blind Guardian
This one is pretty self-explanatory, and also goes back to how I feel never shining though. Here, let me kick sand in your face and make fun of you! Show you how I really feel? Why should I? What's in it for me? Would you accept if I showed you anyway? Can you see through the shallowness of my actions into my core and my fears? Geez, no wonder I have people problems 3.5 days out of 7. You'd think at 21 you'd be secure enough in yourself just let how you feel dictate your actions instead of trying to mask them or becoming resentful toward them. I mean, why should we resent our own feelings? Isn't that just pure hypocrisy? Although writing this down has helped me decide that just being honest with my feelings and allowing them to dictate my actions might be a good idea. Who said blogs are good for nothing. Oh wait; uh...this concludes the CTV News @ Noon.
Our top story this hour is how bored I am. However, here are some stories that we are working on at this hour.
What I've felt
What I've known
Never shined through in what I've shown
- The Unforgiven by Metallica
This week has been a lesson in frustration with just very little going right, well not right, but certainly not spectacularily. I feel just stuck in a bit of rut, like I'm going to relive the previous two years in microcosm, and you know, I don't really like that idea at all, b/c it seems like I'm going to be reliving the negative aspects of it, and that would suck immensely.
The above quote illustrates this for me a lot of ways. One example is SNP. I practiced for it, and did what I could and I still went out and played poorly, and got lost and confused and so very, very frustrated. It doesn't matter to me that no one noticed, I noticed And then Wednesday morning to go into my Drama class and perform my scene poorly is irritating to the maximum. Of course this sort of frustration gets carried over into my friendships, which causes gaps and separation that I don't want to exist which causes more frustration...you can see where I'm going with this.
And as for what I've felt never shining through we'll get to that later is this broadcast.
*Station Break*
And I still
Can see through the mist
To the very end
There I'll face
What I fear the most
- Carry the Blessed Home by Blind Guardian
This also has been weighing on the ole gray matter as well. As I come up to the end of the section of my academic career, the end is what I fear the most. I've become very attached to this place and to the people here. I'll admit it. I'm scared to leave. The reason I've made this far has been because of you my friends. It will be tough to part with you. But unfortunately my time here at CUCA is reaching twilight and soon the night must fall. Although perhaps I should embrace what sweet dreams may lie therein. Rockstardom to the max!
*Commercials for PUMA Pest Control Products*
Summer is miles and miles away
And no one would ask me to stay
And I should contemplate this change
To ease the pain
And I should step out of the rain
Turn away
- In My Time of Need by Opeth
Oh this could apply to so much right now, it is ridiculous. Summer is miles and miles and if someone asks me to stay...then well crap I'll stay. I know it too. Hooray! Or it could apply to right now, and just turning away from the previous problems and trying to just to get on with my life as best I'm able as that's all we're really capable of doing. Although some time for contemplating the changes right now would be welcome and perhaps even necessary to ease some of the pain of life. And certainly stepping out of the rain right now could be good too.
*Commercial for the new Corvette!*
All I ever want
Is to be at your side
- Skalds & Shadows by Blind Guardian
This one is pretty self-explanatory, and also goes back to how I feel never shining though. Here, let me kick sand in your face and make fun of you! Show you how I really feel? Why should I? What's in it for me? Would you accept if I showed you anyway? Can you see through the shallowness of my actions into my core and my fears? Geez, no wonder I have people problems 3.5 days out of 7. You'd think at 21 you'd be secure enough in yourself just let how you feel dictate your actions instead of trying to mask them or becoming resentful toward them. I mean, why should we resent our own feelings? Isn't that just pure hypocrisy? Although writing this down has helped me decide that just being honest with my feelings and allowing them to dictate my actions might be a good idea. Who said blogs are good for nothing. Oh wait; uh...this concludes the CTV News @ Noon.
Thursday, October 19, 2006
Reflections of my Mood on the Water...
"What I've felt
What I've known
Never shined through what I've shown
Never be
Never see
Won't see what might have been"
- The Unforgiven by Metallica
"Blind my eyes
And I still
Can see through the mist
To the very end
There I'll face
What I fear the most
Blind my eyes
But it all doesn't matter
Right now"
- Carry the Blessed Home by Blind Guardian
"This time there is nothing left for you to take, this is goodbye
Summer is miles and miles way
And no one would ask me to stay
And I should contemplate this change
To ease the pain
And I should step out of the rain
Turn away"
- In My Time of Need by Opeth
"Do not fear for my reason
There's nothing to hide
How bitter your treason
How bitter your lie
Remember the runes
And remember the light
All I ever want
Is to be at your side"
- Skalds & Shadows by Blind Guardian
What I've known
Never shined through what I've shown
Never be
Never see
Won't see what might have been"
- The Unforgiven by Metallica
"Blind my eyes
And I still
Can see through the mist
To the very end
There I'll face
What I fear the most
Blind my eyes
But it all doesn't matter
Right now"
- Carry the Blessed Home by Blind Guardian
"This time there is nothing left for you to take, this is goodbye
Summer is miles and miles way
And no one would ask me to stay
And I should contemplate this change
To ease the pain
And I should step out of the rain
Turn away"
- In My Time of Need by Opeth
"Do not fear for my reason
There's nothing to hide
How bitter your treason
How bitter your lie
Remember the runes
And remember the light
All I ever want
Is to be at your side"
- Skalds & Shadows by Blind Guardian
Thursday, October 12, 2006
Concerning Hobbits and Being 21
So on a momentous occassion today I became 21 years of age. And this has given me pause and cause to relfect back on the previous 4 years, and to speculate about this my final year (God-willing) here at CUCA.
"Back when I was just seventeen
I thought that I knew everything
I could make it in this scene
To be a rising star that only gleamed
But all the answers disagreed
With the questions held for me"
Of Mice and Men - Megadeth
There's not much to tell about 1st year. My first love and relationship began. I turned 18 a few months before that, and the world was still large and fresh. Still a some crap went down, feelings were hurt, things were said. Shirts were taken off and a giant green 'D' was painted upon my chest in -30 degree weather. I took my first language in a long time, I took voice lessons. And I grew slowly toward the person who stands before you today.
"Outside on a winter's night as the rain begins to fall
There's a chill in the air and the howl of a wolf while the rain beats at the door
Seven kings will ride on the wind up towards the mountains high
And the only sound that will break the air is the warrior's bitter cry
Burning starfire shine in the sky
For the lives of great men who stand by your side
When the night fall on we will ride
For no lost souls will live on forever"
Starfire - Dragonforce
Second year was much more hectic and taxing on me. Dealing with mentors, and trying to breaking out from under their wing, and still trying to learn from them. Learning how to balance a job, Stats, Hebrew and a relationship taught me time management. I found a community of faith that I could belong to, and participate in.
I went to my first ever Megadeth concert and that was awesome beyond all reason. The relationship taught me things about myself both good and bad, and further galvanized my personality. And the break-up taught me even more. Babysitting my cousins was fun that summer though. As was watching anime with Joel and Nick. And making new friends in Regina (Hey Heather *waves*) was coolio to the max.
"Brace up, defend,
never ever be outdone in bravery
This is the way we want it to be
This is The Way Of The Warrior
This is the way we want it to be
Walking the way, the honest will see
Walking The Way Of The Warrior
Walking the way, The Way Of The Warrior"
The Way of the Warrior - Hammerfall
Third year was interesting to say the least. It started off with a bang though as Gowan, Joel, his friend Laura and I embarked to the first-annual Gigantour show headlined by Megadeth, oh it was sooo good and a kick ass way to start a year off. On the rebound and seeking to recover, well let's just say things didn't go so well. The old guard of friends I had at CUCA had moved on, and in a sense I was able to move out from underneath their shadow, and take some of the limelight.
New friendships and bonds were formed, and they still stand to this day. I learned even more about myself and life in general. I found what I would and would not stand for, and how I would approach and deal with people. a new knighthood was formed (Vince, where's our Constitution?, lol). My heart took a beating but it was worth it. Then the summer came, a guitar was bought, a tour guide I became. A new confidence was found and carried into the coming year.
"Some words will trigger certain acts
Belief in limitations we have learnt
Some acts will trigger certain states
I'm taking back what I gave away
Deviate from the form of nothing
Deviate from the norm to something
Deviate from the form of nothing
I deviate, farewell to the tribe"
Deviate from the Form - Scar Symmetry
And now two months into what should be my final year here, I find myself reaping some of the benefits of all the trials, all the heartaches, all the doubts. A renewed vigor burns deep within and we all know who it comes from (hint: we can't see Him). I've found my niche being on stage with my axe and rockin' hard. I have my friends, I have my niche, I have everything one could really want or ask for (minus 500 points for lack of a girlfriend, lol).I have a Blind Guardian concert to look forward to, and graduation even further on after that. I should on all accounts be some kind of awesome.
"Look around and see
The world is turning fast
Faster day by day
Somewhere far beyond
I'll try to change it If I can
Somewhere far beyond
There's only one chance
And it lies
Somewhere far beyond
Somewhere far beyond
The march of time it has begun..."
Somewhere Far Beyond - Blind Guardian
"Back when I was just seventeen
I thought that I knew everything
I could make it in this scene
To be a rising star that only gleamed
But all the answers disagreed
With the questions held for me"
Of Mice and Men - Megadeth
There's not much to tell about 1st year. My first love and relationship began. I turned 18 a few months before that, and the world was still large and fresh. Still a some crap went down, feelings were hurt, things were said. Shirts were taken off and a giant green 'D' was painted upon my chest in -30 degree weather. I took my first language in a long time, I took voice lessons. And I grew slowly toward the person who stands before you today.
"Outside on a winter's night as the rain begins to fall
There's a chill in the air and the howl of a wolf while the rain beats at the door
Seven kings will ride on the wind up towards the mountains high
And the only sound that will break the air is the warrior's bitter cry
Burning starfire shine in the sky
For the lives of great men who stand by your side
When the night fall on we will ride
For no lost souls will live on forever"
Starfire - Dragonforce
Second year was much more hectic and taxing on me. Dealing with mentors, and trying to breaking out from under their wing, and still trying to learn from them. Learning how to balance a job, Stats, Hebrew and a relationship taught me time management. I found a community of faith that I could belong to, and participate in.
I went to my first ever Megadeth concert and that was awesome beyond all reason. The relationship taught me things about myself both good and bad, and further galvanized my personality. And the break-up taught me even more. Babysitting my cousins was fun that summer though. As was watching anime with Joel and Nick. And making new friends in Regina (Hey Heather *waves*) was coolio to the max.
"Brace up, defend,
never ever be outdone in bravery
This is the way we want it to be
This is The Way Of The Warrior
This is the way we want it to be
Walking the way, the honest will see
Walking The Way Of The Warrior
Walking the way, The Way Of The Warrior"
The Way of the Warrior - Hammerfall
Third year was interesting to say the least. It started off with a bang though as Gowan, Joel, his friend Laura and I embarked to the first-annual Gigantour show headlined by Megadeth, oh it was sooo good and a kick ass way to start a year off. On the rebound and seeking to recover, well let's just say things didn't go so well. The old guard of friends I had at CUCA had moved on, and in a sense I was able to move out from underneath their shadow, and take some of the limelight.
New friendships and bonds were formed, and they still stand to this day. I learned even more about myself and life in general. I found what I would and would not stand for, and how I would approach and deal with people. a new knighthood was formed (Vince, where's our Constitution?, lol). My heart took a beating but it was worth it. Then the summer came, a guitar was bought, a tour guide I became. A new confidence was found and carried into the coming year.
"Some words will trigger certain acts
Belief in limitations we have learnt
Some acts will trigger certain states
I'm taking back what I gave away
Deviate from the form of nothing
Deviate from the norm to something
Deviate from the form of nothing
I deviate, farewell to the tribe"
Deviate from the Form - Scar Symmetry
And now two months into what should be my final year here, I find myself reaping some of the benefits of all the trials, all the heartaches, all the doubts. A renewed vigor burns deep within and we all know who it comes from (hint: we can't see Him). I've found my niche being on stage with my axe and rockin' hard. I have my friends, I have my niche, I have everything one could really want or ask for (minus 500 points for lack of a girlfriend, lol).I have a Blind Guardian concert to look forward to, and graduation even further on after that. I should on all accounts be some kind of awesome.
"Look around and see
The world is turning fast
Faster day by day
Somewhere far beyond
I'll try to change it If I can
Somewhere far beyond
There's only one chance
And it lies
Somewhere far beyond
Somewhere far beyond
The march of time it has begun..."
Somewhere Far Beyond - Blind Guardian
Saturday, September 30, 2006
Early in the Fourth Quarter...
Randorf: Let's turn back over to our boys at Mosaic Stadium, Glen Suitor and and Chris Cuthbert...
Cuthbert: Thanks Dave. It looks like the Riders offence is finally starting to get some production out of an offence that a terrribly stagnant third quarter.
Suitor: Yea, they are, it's been a bit of a struggle at moments but this has been a much better quarter thus far.
Cuthbert: It looked though like the quarterback was having an awful time holding onto the ball there, I'm thinking specifically of the two back-to-back fumbles that really put the entire offence in the hole.
Suitor: Oh yea, those should have killed that drive, but on 3rd and 15 the QB went over and basically begged the Head Coach and Offensive co-ordinator to let him have a 3rd crack at it. And by all apperances that gamble has paid off.
Cuthbert: As well the QB seems to be making use of everyone that's on his team to move the ball, gain yardage, and he's looking put up some points before the end of the game here.
Suitor: It's true we haven't seen the long play and the touchdown strike since late in the first quarter, but this so far has been a much more composed, poised and well blaanced team so far this quarter. And you can see it in the QBs swagger everytime he comes under center to call the play.
Cuthbert: This is true, he's got a lot more confidence than from the 3rd quarter and he's turning it into on-field results. Playing pitch and catch with a receiver basically since that huge third down gamble, and it's been a nice steady march ever since.
Suitor: It's also sending a mesage to anyone on the defence who might try to get in his way, that he's reading the situations well enough to make adjustments and keep fiding holes and making the big plays. But so far this is looking to be a very productive 4th quarter.
Cuthbert: Thanks Dave. It looks like the Riders offence is finally starting to get some production out of an offence that a terrribly stagnant third quarter.
Suitor: Yea, they are, it's been a bit of a struggle at moments but this has been a much better quarter thus far.
Cuthbert: It looked though like the quarterback was having an awful time holding onto the ball there, I'm thinking specifically of the two back-to-back fumbles that really put the entire offence in the hole.
Suitor: Oh yea, those should have killed that drive, but on 3rd and 15 the QB went over and basically begged the Head Coach and Offensive co-ordinator to let him have a 3rd crack at it. And by all apperances that gamble has paid off.
Cuthbert: As well the QB seems to be making use of everyone that's on his team to move the ball, gain yardage, and he's looking put up some points before the end of the game here.
Suitor: It's true we haven't seen the long play and the touchdown strike since late in the first quarter, but this so far has been a much more composed, poised and well blaanced team so far this quarter. And you can see it in the QBs swagger everytime he comes under center to call the play.
Cuthbert: This is true, he's got a lot more confidence than from the 3rd quarter and he's turning it into on-field results. Playing pitch and catch with a receiver basically since that huge third down gamble, and it's been a nice steady march ever since.
Suitor: It's also sending a mesage to anyone on the defence who might try to get in his way, that he's reading the situations well enough to make adjustments and keep fiding holes and making the big plays. But so far this is looking to be a very productive 4th quarter.
Friday, September 22, 2006
Why Men Start Death Metal Bands
A list of reasons to start Death Metal Bands:
1. Women.
2. Rick from NAPA. All I wanted was some f***ing help, not a lecture on how I did it wrong. Clearly it was done wrong b/c I'm here again. I hope your flesh is flayed from your bones by rabid angry vampire wolverines crossed with scorpions and wasps. Tr00 Norsk Arysk Blak Metal!! RAHHHAHHAHAHAHAHAHHAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA!
3. Stupid Edmonton traffic. Why on earth is your stadium is the worst location ever? Who on earth decided on the road system aroudn there? Pagans!
4. The crazy religious puritanical right.
5. The cafeteria suppers! There are more meats than Chicken and Pork in the world. I have heard tell of a magical meat known as BEEF!
6. Stupid internet! Wait, nm it's working. Good work team!
7. RAREREARAEAAARRRGGGHHHHHHH!
8. Missed oppurtunities. Gutting out. Choking hard.
1. Women.
2. Rick from NAPA. All I wanted was some f***ing help, not a lecture on how I did it wrong. Clearly it was done wrong b/c I'm here again. I hope your flesh is flayed from your bones by rabid angry vampire wolverines crossed with scorpions and wasps. Tr00 Norsk Arysk Blak Metal!! RAHHHAHHAHAHAHAHAHHAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA!
3. Stupid Edmonton traffic. Why on earth is your stadium is the worst location ever? Who on earth decided on the road system aroudn there? Pagans!
4. The crazy religious puritanical right.
5. The cafeteria suppers! There are more meats than Chicken and Pork in the world. I have heard tell of a magical meat known as BEEF!
6. Stupid internet! Wait, nm it's working. Good work team!
7. RAREREARAEAAARRRGGGHHHHHHH!
8. Missed oppurtunities. Gutting out. Choking hard.
Tuesday, September 12, 2006
For My Heart
Simply put, why is it that the things that we place value on and the things that attempt to obtain are always beyond our grasp. I don't understand the lesson that's being taught to me, what am I supposed to be learning here? I try and I change and still I fail. This makes no sense to me. If I knew what I had to protect or what I was fighting for then maybe I could sense my purpose, and obtain some direction. I heard a saying that the only prayers that are answered are the ones that are driven from a soul-felt need to help someone else. Then what use have I for a desire for myself?
I wish that I was free to operate as I saw fit, without having to worry about my actions and intentions being judged and evaluated by others. Without knowing a persons heart then how can you possibly know what is driving their actions? Aren't actions to be judged by what need is driving them as opposed to what is simply seen, because what is simply seen is open to interepretation.
We all stand on the stage of history, and have our own roles to play. For some this act of the play is merely the beginning, yet for others such as myself we can see the curtains drawing close on this act so that the set and the actors can be re-arranged for the next act. However, even if the curtains are to close on this scene there is still much to happen before that time. The actors for this scene have all been assembled and cast, and the curtain has already been pulled back, andall that we are left with is each other and this temporary stage, and the lines that should be born of pure, and genuine heartfelt expression. For some this act will allow their souls to shine forth as a light to the world that is sorely lacking in compassion and kindness. Still others will discover their inner darkness, and show that to the world. Some will be crushed by the weight of what they feel from those around them.
Make no mistake, many things will change within this act as it unfolds. Discoveries about self will be made, debacles will occur, and yet love may flourish like a rose from amongst a world of ash. And where will I fit within this scene? Unfortunately, that has yet to be seen.
I wish that I was free to operate as I saw fit, without having to worry about my actions and intentions being judged and evaluated by others. Without knowing a persons heart then how can you possibly know what is driving their actions? Aren't actions to be judged by what need is driving them as opposed to what is simply seen, because what is simply seen is open to interepretation.
We all stand on the stage of history, and have our own roles to play. For some this act of the play is merely the beginning, yet for others such as myself we can see the curtains drawing close on this act so that the set and the actors can be re-arranged for the next act. However, even if the curtains are to close on this scene there is still much to happen before that time. The actors for this scene have all been assembled and cast, and the curtain has already been pulled back, andall that we are left with is each other and this temporary stage, and the lines that should be born of pure, and genuine heartfelt expression. For some this act will allow their souls to shine forth as a light to the world that is sorely lacking in compassion and kindness. Still others will discover their inner darkness, and show that to the world. Some will be crushed by the weight of what they feel from those around them.
Make no mistake, many things will change within this act as it unfolds. Discoveries about self will be made, debacles will occur, and yet love may flourish like a rose from amongst a world of ash. And where will I fit within this scene? Unfortunately, that has yet to be seen.
Thursday, August 24, 2006
Spark of The Forge II
1.
"If I wrote a song it would go
G CHORD, G CHORD, G CHORD, G CHORD, G CHORD, G CHORD, G CHORD, G CHORD, G CHORD, G CHORD, G CHORD, G CHORD, G CHORD, G CHORD,
"
"OMG! It's Blink 182!"
2. Lamb of God's video for Redneck is hilarious. I like the part where one of them punches the clown! Stupid clowns!
3. Can't sleep. Sharkticons will eat me.
4. Rodimus Prime was cool. He only had to take over an army after they had one leader for 4 million years! It's going to take the troops some time to adjust, don't ya think?
5. I am suddenly less pumped to go to school. But i don't want to stay here. Iceland would be nice, methinks.
6. Starscream got butchered for the new Transformers movie is the toy prototype is any indication. Rest in peace Screamer.
7. One more day of work! Wewt! One more day of spreading mass terror. Muhahaha!
"If I wrote a song it would go
G CHORD, G CHORD, G CHORD, G CHORD, G CHORD, G CHORD, G CHORD, G CHORD, G CHORD, G CHORD, G CHORD, G CHORD, G CHORD, G CHORD,
"
"OMG! It's Blink 182!"
2. Lamb of God's video for Redneck is hilarious. I like the part where one of them punches the clown! Stupid clowns!
3. Can't sleep. Sharkticons will eat me.
4. Rodimus Prime was cool. He only had to take over an army after they had one leader for 4 million years! It's going to take the troops some time to adjust, don't ya think?
5. I am suddenly less pumped to go to school. But i don't want to stay here. Iceland would be nice, methinks.
6. Starscream got butchered for the new Transformers movie is the toy prototype is any indication. Rest in peace Screamer.
7. One more day of work! Wewt! One more day of spreading mass terror. Muhahaha!
Friday, August 18, 2006
Random Quizzes of Doom!
| You Are A Rowan Tree |
 You are full of charm and cheer. You light up a room. And while you crave attention, you do it without ego. You are an interesting mix of contradictions - and very unpredictable. You are both dependent and independent, calm and restless. You are passionate, emotional, gregarious, and (at times) unforgiving. |
| You Should Drive a Saturn Sky |
 You're sleek and smooth, and you need a car to match your hot persona. Besides, sometimes you want your top up - and sometimes you want it down. |
| You Are 36% Shy |
 You are slightly shy, but overall, your reactions to social situations are normal. You dread difficult social situations, but you still handle them with grace. |
| You Are 60% Normal |
 Otherwise known as the normal amount of normal You're like most people most of the time But you've got those quirks that make you endearing You're unique, yes... but not frighteningly so! |
Friday, August 11, 2006
Spark of The Forge
Random Musings now has a new name!
1. It has been hot and humid here the last cpl days. I think the humidex was at 41 yesterday, which is clearly too hot.
2. Only a few more weeks before I head back west again. I'm pretty pumped. I have a good feeling about this year.
3. Weird dreams are disturbing. Eek!
4. Still rockin out on the guitar a month and a half after purchase. Still logging about 30-45 mins a day before or after work. I think I'm addicted to DV-200. And that's fine by me. It's cheaper than drugs.
5. There better be some good metal shows in Edmonton to make up for a lack of Gigantour, and for Joel and I to launch our ingenious plot...well not really a plot, more of a ploy than anything.
6. Blind Guardian. That is all.
7. Relationships are for people who don't own guitars.
8. Manowar is too metal for sex and clothing.
9. Roughriders! What is up? loss-win-loss etc. Lame! So lame! Lamer than Big & Rich! (and that's hard to accomplish)
10. Notice to the guitar player from Big & Rich. Country players aren't allowed to use Flying-Vs. That's Metals guitar shape. NOW GIVE IT BACK! You don't want to deepen the Blood Feud b/w Country and Metal any further do you? That's what I thought, now go play a Gibson Strat, those are *high quality* guitars as of late.
11. People in Saskatchewan are some of the biggest band-wagon jumpers in the world. I highly doubt that if the province was as deeply enamoured with the Rolling Stones as they suddenly claim to be, that they would have been passed over for, how many decades now? If you were truly the hardcore fans you claim to be, you would have found a way to go see them SOMEWHERE ELSE! What a novel concept. It's not like they haven't been around for a few decades now, I'm sure you could have had time to save money for a Rolling Stones concert at some point, and made a vacation out of it. Nice try though, with your complaining. And no, i don't feel bad for the people who didn't get tickets. You've probably been a Rolling Stones fan since the concert was announced and not a second more. [/rant]
1. It has been hot and humid here the last cpl days. I think the humidex was at 41 yesterday, which is clearly too hot.
2. Only a few more weeks before I head back west again. I'm pretty pumped. I have a good feeling about this year.
3. Weird dreams are disturbing. Eek!
4. Still rockin out on the guitar a month and a half after purchase. Still logging about 30-45 mins a day before or after work. I think I'm addicted to DV-200. And that's fine by me. It's cheaper than drugs.
5. There better be some good metal shows in Edmonton to make up for a lack of Gigantour, and for Joel and I to launch our ingenious plot...well not really a plot, more of a ploy than anything.
6. Blind Guardian. That is all.
7. Relationships are for people who don't own guitars.
8. Manowar is too metal for sex and clothing.
9. Roughriders! What is up? loss-win-loss etc. Lame! So lame! Lamer than Big & Rich! (and that's hard to accomplish)
10. Notice to the guitar player from Big & Rich. Country players aren't allowed to use Flying-Vs. That's Metals guitar shape. NOW GIVE IT BACK! You don't want to deepen the Blood Feud b/w Country and Metal any further do you? That's what I thought, now go play a Gibson Strat, those are *high quality* guitars as of late.
11. People in Saskatchewan are some of the biggest band-wagon jumpers in the world. I highly doubt that if the province was as deeply enamoured with the Rolling Stones as they suddenly claim to be, that they would have been passed over for, how many decades now? If you were truly the hardcore fans you claim to be, you would have found a way to go see them SOMEWHERE ELSE! What a novel concept. It's not like they haven't been around for a few decades now, I'm sure you could have had time to save money for a Rolling Stones concert at some point, and made a vacation out of it. Nice try though, with your complaining. And no, i don't feel bad for the people who didn't get tickets. You've probably been a Rolling Stones fan since the concert was announced and not a second more. [/rant]
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