Three more days until I'm glory bound, hitching a flight back to where you don't sweat at 7 in the morning. This is a time of transition I feel, as all the kiddies just got out of school and as the university students realize that the last time they wrote exams was two months ago and there's still two months until the first class.
I like Hamilton. It's a beautiful city if you know where to look. I find it soothing, deep in my loins. Ree and I went to a small music shop that was near Brian's house so I could pick up some strings for the old splapper-twang. This shop was pretty cool, mostly because the prices were great, and the guy had to write out my receipt by hand because his store is that small. So cool.
This past weekend I had the privilege of seeing Jordan unexpectedly. He was sleeping on my couch listening to Elvis when I came home, which initially freaked me out. After realizing it was Jordan by the Superman sticker on his iPod, I woke him up, and we had an enjoyable evening catching up. Glory.
Ryan got back from tree planting, and it seems like everyone is migrating back to Hamilton as a few more people started working at the school. It's nice to see familiar faces. I hope many faces will be seen in BC.
The job is also going well. After a very nice meeting at the local university of McMaster, my project seems well on its way. It's very exciting, and again, I quite enjoy wearing a lab coat. They fit quite well- snug against the hips and gently caressing the lats.
I am the Warchief.
Tuesday, June 26, 2007
Tuesday, June 19, 2007
Hello
After three weeks of living on my own, I've come to realize a few things.
First of all, it is a great feeling to get a deal on food at the store. Whether it be $0.99 chocolate milk, $1 off tasty cream cheese or the ever so sought after $1 off microwaveable lunches, getting a deal on the food you wouldn't normally eat spices up your week.
Secondly, I've realized that it is splendid to eat meals with people. Having had a few solo meals this past month, I would have to say that they don't even come close to the enjoyment of having tasty food with even tastier personalities. By far the highlight of each day would be dinners with Rob and Bri or with the Sikkemas.
Thirdly, I've realized that biking almost 20 km every day gives you more energy during the day, which means less sugary snacks consumed throughout the day to give you the jolt you need. Biking also gives you shapely legs which 70% of men desire for themselves.
Fourthly, I've come to grips with the face that "I'm not a girl, not yet a woman," which is to say, I am a man. The boy seems far behind, and despite what future comments might say, I feel like an adult.
Fifthly, I've realized that having sore glutes increases the difficulty of every day movements, including sitting and rising. But we all know that I would rather have sore glutes for an afternoon than have a live tiger pursue me everyday on my walk home from work. There is tall grass on my commute, very tall.
Another thought that struck me in the ear this past week is having to do with sin and salvation. Through Adam sin entered into the world. Through one man, the entire globes was tainted, off center from where it should be. But, just as sin came into the world through one man, so did salvation. Never really made the connection before, but I thought it kind of cool.
That is all.
First of all, it is a great feeling to get a deal on food at the store. Whether it be $0.99 chocolate milk, $1 off tasty cream cheese or the ever so sought after $1 off microwaveable lunches, getting a deal on the food you wouldn't normally eat spices up your week.
Secondly, I've realized that it is splendid to eat meals with people. Having had a few solo meals this past month, I would have to say that they don't even come close to the enjoyment of having tasty food with even tastier personalities. By far the highlight of each day would be dinners with Rob and Bri or with the Sikkemas.
Thirdly, I've realized that biking almost 20 km every day gives you more energy during the day, which means less sugary snacks consumed throughout the day to give you the jolt you need. Biking also gives you shapely legs which 70% of men desire for themselves.
Fourthly, I've come to grips with the face that "I'm not a girl, not yet a woman," which is to say, I am a man. The boy seems far behind, and despite what future comments might say, I feel like an adult.
Fifthly, I've realized that having sore glutes increases the difficulty of every day movements, including sitting and rising. But we all know that I would rather have sore glutes for an afternoon than have a live tiger pursue me everyday on my walk home from work. There is tall grass on my commute, very tall.
Another thought that struck me in the ear this past week is having to do with sin and salvation. Through Adam sin entered into the world. Through one man, the entire globes was tainted, off center from where it should be. But, just as sin came into the world through one man, so did salvation. Never really made the connection before, but I thought it kind of cool.
That is all.
Friday, June 15, 2007
Two Weeks Per, No Time Wasted
I've been saying it from day one, and you can quote me on this one, that for every two weeks per, the amount of time you waste is nil. Still preaching that in my old age.
Ask me about the time. I dare you.
Too scared eh? Well, no fear, because time doesn't scare me either. Actually, I scare time- that's why it's going so fast -it's trying to run away from me and my new shirt and tie. There was a time where I was scared of the time, and I could lay in bed just afraid that I wouldn't fall asleep. I was in tears if I was awake to see 10:00 PM. Just to let you know.
I've almost spent three weeks in Ontario. They've gone very quick and every time Friday comes around to show its misshapen body, I am amazed that he would come out so soon. I've spent all my weekends at the Sikkema's up to date, and I must say, it is fantastic. I work on their farm on Saturday mornings which gets me back into the physical labour I often crave while reading at my desk during the week. I also have successfully put together a prototype for an electrode, which made me feel very special.
I've started to read the Heidelberg Catechism, and boy, that stuff is good. It's really a pity that I didn't take more of an interest in it during my early CRC days. I think it could have helped with a lot. Very sound.
I suppose this is a start, so we'll end it here. Thank you.
Ask me about the time. I dare you.
Too scared eh? Well, no fear, because time doesn't scare me either. Actually, I scare time- that's why it's going so fast -it's trying to run away from me and my new shirt and tie. There was a time where I was scared of the time, and I could lay in bed just afraid that I wouldn't fall asleep. I was in tears if I was awake to see 10:00 PM. Just to let you know.
I've almost spent three weeks in Ontario. They've gone very quick and every time Friday comes around to show its misshapen body, I am amazed that he would come out so soon. I've spent all my weekends at the Sikkema's up to date, and I must say, it is fantastic. I work on their farm on Saturday mornings which gets me back into the physical labour I often crave while reading at my desk during the week. I also have successfully put together a prototype for an electrode, which made me feel very special.
I've started to read the Heidelberg Catechism, and boy, that stuff is good. It's really a pity that I didn't take more of an interest in it during my early CRC days. I think it could have helped with a lot. Very sound.
I suppose this is a start, so we'll end it here. Thank you.
Tuesday, June 12, 2007
Chemicals People, Chemicals
New car smell is the common term for the odor that comes from the combination of materials found in new automobiles. It is generally regarded as a pleasant and desirable smell, possibly because of its positive association with the feeling of owning a new vehicle. However, some of the chemicals that create it can pose a risk to human health. Scientists who have studied the chemicals released recommend keeping new cars well ventilated while driving, especially during the summer.
Don't believe me? Check it out here.
Don't believe me? Check it out here.
Thursday, June 07, 2007
Oh Yes
So, it's sunny here, and so is my view of the world, that is to say, Hamilton. Yeah, I suppose I realized that the last blog was a little depressing, but suck it up. You guys are tougher than that. Whatever the case, my disposition has changed, and my week has improved. After talking with my father on the phone, hanging out with Brian a bit, and seeing my sweetie, the week proved to be full of fun, so that I was not bored OR lonely. What a blessing.
To tag off this little drop of joy, I'll spit out the fact that a lot of people in Genesis had babies when they were 160. Gross beans, all.
To tag off this little drop of joy, I'll spit out the fact that a lot of people in Genesis had babies when they were 160. Gross beans, all.
Monday, June 04, 2007
I Sometimes Just Don't Know
Sometimes you feel like you need to scream. Sometimes you feel like you need to just sit and get into the fetal possition. And yet again, there are times when all you need is someone...anyone, who can be a comfort, a strong pillar to hold up the shotty roof you slapped together that is supposed to protect you from the elements. 'The LORD God said, "It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper suitable for him."' What a contrast of the "it was good" from the first chapter of Genesis.
Is God saying that He is not enough? Well, I suppose in a way He is. God created us male and female, and although there is that connection between and man and a woman, I think what I'm trying to get at is that God made more than one person. God made it possible for there to be more than two people. God made us for community. Whatever the heck that means when you're living on your own, I'm still trying to figure out. Things are more difficult out of the cozy walls of the Redeemer community, but I'm still trying to see that although the water is colder, it might be more refreshing. No, scratch that, more situationally refreshing. I have no idea where this thought is going, so I'll backtrack and take the metephorical damp tunnel that will lead me to what I really want to talk about...tomorrow I suppose.
Is God saying that He is not enough? Well, I suppose in a way He is. God created us male and female, and although there is that connection between and man and a woman, I think what I'm trying to get at is that God made more than one person. God made it possible for there to be more than two people. God made us for community. Whatever the heck that means when you're living on your own, I'm still trying to figure out. Things are more difficult out of the cozy walls of the Redeemer community, but I'm still trying to see that although the water is colder, it might be more refreshing. No, scratch that, more situationally refreshing. I have no idea where this thought is going, so I'll backtrack and take the metephorical damp tunnel that will lead me to what I really want to talk about...tomorrow I suppose.
Wednesday, May 30, 2007
Tuesday, May 29, 2007
How Would You Like Your Ionophore?
Greetings to you all.
So, as of right now, I'm in Ontario where it is quite sunny and where the animals frolic free. I saw a squirrel and a bunny on my way to work this morning. Just prime.
And as for work, it's turning out to be pretty stellar. The first week and a bit I expect to be so-so, just because it's training, which consists of reading and more reading. But after that I have the privilege of taking on a project. Dr. Berkelaar will be overseeing it, but I believe for the most part, it's my "chunk" that I get to contribute to the research. Pretty fantastic. Over the next couple of months I will be trying to make thallium and cadmium ion selective electrodes using such chemicals as N,N,N',N'-tetradodecyl-3, 6-dioxaoctanedithioamide. You might be rolling your eyes, but I got pretty excited about that. So, after a few hours of delicious reading and some taping popsicle sticks for identification reasons, I sit here talking about my first day. Oh, and I get my own work area...so cool.
It was an uneventful flight over and the 40 year old man who was sitting next to me needed to have a lesson on how to sit still for more than 5 seconds. But still, seeing Ree at the airport made me forget about the flight. Penguins.
As a side note, The Postal Service song "Brand New Colony" was performed live by Ben Gibbsies on one of his solo tours. Great song, it's just fantastic.
Not sure what else is left to write, I suppose I'll keep an animal count for you tomorrow.
Peace y'all.
So, as of right now, I'm in Ontario where it is quite sunny and where the animals frolic free. I saw a squirrel and a bunny on my way to work this morning. Just prime.
And as for work, it's turning out to be pretty stellar. The first week and a bit I expect to be so-so, just because it's training, which consists of reading and more reading. But after that I have the privilege of taking on a project. Dr. Berkelaar will be overseeing it, but I believe for the most part, it's my "chunk" that I get to contribute to the research. Pretty fantastic. Over the next couple of months I will be trying to make thallium and cadmium ion selective electrodes using such chemicals as N,N,N',N'-tetradodecyl-3, 6-dioxaoctanedithioamide. You might be rolling your eyes, but I got pretty excited about that. So, after a few hours of delicious reading and some taping popsicle sticks for identification reasons, I sit here talking about my first day. Oh, and I get my own work area...so cool.
It was an uneventful flight over and the 40 year old man who was sitting next to me needed to have a lesson on how to sit still for more than 5 seconds. But still, seeing Ree at the airport made me forget about the flight. Penguins.
As a side note, The Postal Service song "Brand New Colony" was performed live by Ben Gibbsies on one of his solo tours. Great song, it's just fantastic.
Not sure what else is left to write, I suppose I'll keep an animal count for you tomorrow.
Peace y'all.
Friday, May 25, 2007
Glory Land Fading
So, is The Stinky "O" not that stinky? It's been so fast out here in BC, but really, the whole time, it seems like I'm just waiting to get back to Ontario. I'm not sure how I'm supposed to feel about that. It's like I'm falling for BC's much less attractive sister because she has a good personality, although BC has the looks and the brain. Doesn't make much sense. But alas, I have three more days in the Glory Land until I start looking at microscopes and using analytical methods to detect trace metals in the roots of wheat.
So, just so I don't get "no" disrespect, don't make fun of me because I signed up for Facebook. Just to set the record straight, my friend signed me up and somehow got all my contact information and password correct. I had no part it in. 'Nuff said.
Keep Nate Dawg in your prayers these next couple of weeks as he's with AIA in Nicaragua. He flies out today. Crazy stuff.
I have about a half day left at work until I'm done, and it's bitter sweet. I enjoy working here, but I'm moving on. Bitter sweet.
So to tag off, here's a picture of my dead dog. He had skin problems and his nose was often infected. He sneezed when he was happy to see us, and during the infected times, blood would spray out. Once he sneezed blood onto Josh Ng's pants. Crazy dog.
So, just so I don't get "no" disrespect, don't make fun of me because I signed up for Facebook. Just to set the record straight, my friend signed me up and somehow got all my contact information and password correct. I had no part it in. 'Nuff said.
Keep Nate Dawg in your prayers these next couple of weeks as he's with AIA in Nicaragua. He flies out today. Crazy stuff.
I have about a half day left at work until I'm done, and it's bitter sweet. I enjoy working here, but I'm moving on. Bitter sweet.
So to tag off, here's a picture of my dead dog. He had skin problems and his nose was often infected. He sneezed when he was happy to see us, and during the infected times, blood would spray out. Once he sneezed blood onto Josh Ng's pants. Crazy dog.
Wednesday, May 16, 2007
Etiquette Of Pick-Up...Y'all
So it seems that no matter where you are, if there is pick-up basketball to be had, there are some that come that take it way to seriously. I'm going to first lay out what pick-up basketball is:
1) A good way of physical activity to stay in shape.
2) A social outing in where you may learn skills in teamwork and co-operation.
3) A setting in where you may come at any skill level to have a good time.
Pick-up basketball is not:
1) A place for you to dominate and show everyone your mad skillz.
2) A place where you can expect everyone to be at the same level of skill or intensity.
3) A place where you can be a jerk.
I was going to do this post months ago and after a nice session of pick-up on Monday night, I thought it would be proper to inform the public on how you can have fun at pick-up.
First off, people are there to have fun, not to watch you take three pointers all night because you had the ball and you thought the shot was open. People come not just to run up and down the court, but rather, to touch the ball once in a while and to make a play. It seems that players with former hoop dreams are often there to prove themselves, while players that have fulfilled their dreams in basketball (I once played with a current Division 1 player in the states) tend to take a secondary role, often passing the ball right away. My philosophy is to be like Steve Nash: a nice mixture of passing and scoring. Don't always look to score, don't always look to pass, enjoy yourself in all aspects of the game.
Second thing to note is fouls. In pick-up if you foul someone, the ball goes back to the top. This can be overly abused to the extent of frustration of the players. It all depends how you play, but sometimes the defence calls the foul, and sometimes the offence. My philosophy if the offence calls it is to only call the foul if it hinders your ability to put the ball in the next, not your lack of ability to make a play under pressure. Pick-up is usually sloppy ball, and there's going to be contact, but if you go to the hoop weak and someone bumps your arm and thus you miss a lay-up, then don't call the foul, toughen up. If you're on defence, move your feet, don't reach or swat, try not to foul. Also, offensive fouls shouldn't be called in pick-up. This past Monday there was a guy who took the ball and tried to score every time he touched it...not much of a team player. So what I did is I got in the way and took a charge to piss him off (mostly because I called it) and proceeded to move the other way. This should not be done, but it sure felt sweet. Use wisdom when trying to get under the hardcore people's skin.
So to finish this off, you know you're too intense in pick-up when:
1) You know how many shots, points, rebounds and assists you've had for the past 5 games.
2) You loose sleep over that one lay-up you missed which could have given you a triple double.
3) You yell out loud when you miss a 3 pointer because you're angry with yourself that you missed it.
Etc.
1) A good way of physical activity to stay in shape.
2) A social outing in where you may learn skills in teamwork and co-operation.
3) A setting in where you may come at any skill level to have a good time.
Pick-up basketball is not:
1) A place for you to dominate and show everyone your mad skillz.
2) A place where you can expect everyone to be at the same level of skill or intensity.
3) A place where you can be a jerk.
I was going to do this post months ago and after a nice session of pick-up on Monday night, I thought it would be proper to inform the public on how you can have fun at pick-up.
First off, people are there to have fun, not to watch you take three pointers all night because you had the ball and you thought the shot was open. People come not just to run up and down the court, but rather, to touch the ball once in a while and to make a play. It seems that players with former hoop dreams are often there to prove themselves, while players that have fulfilled their dreams in basketball (I once played with a current Division 1 player in the states) tend to take a secondary role, often passing the ball right away. My philosophy is to be like Steve Nash: a nice mixture of passing and scoring. Don't always look to score, don't always look to pass, enjoy yourself in all aspects of the game.
Second thing to note is fouls. In pick-up if you foul someone, the ball goes back to the top. This can be overly abused to the extent of frustration of the players. It all depends how you play, but sometimes the defence calls the foul, and sometimes the offence. My philosophy if the offence calls it is to only call the foul if it hinders your ability to put the ball in the next, not your lack of ability to make a play under pressure. Pick-up is usually sloppy ball, and there's going to be contact, but if you go to the hoop weak and someone bumps your arm and thus you miss a lay-up, then don't call the foul, toughen up. If you're on defence, move your feet, don't reach or swat, try not to foul. Also, offensive fouls shouldn't be called in pick-up. This past Monday there was a guy who took the ball and tried to score every time he touched it...not much of a team player. So what I did is I got in the way and took a charge to piss him off (mostly because I called it) and proceeded to move the other way. This should not be done, but it sure felt sweet. Use wisdom when trying to get under the hardcore people's skin.
So to finish this off, you know you're too intense in pick-up when:
1) You know how many shots, points, rebounds and assists you've had for the past 5 games.
2) You loose sleep over that one lay-up you missed which could have given you a triple double.
3) You yell out loud when you miss a 3 pointer because you're angry with yourself that you missed it.
Etc.
Monday, May 07, 2007
The Mushrooms of Zangamarsh
Big things are happening people, and larger plans to harbour these plans are in the making. If you wish to make donations to these plans, please email me your credit card number. Thank you.
Despite the fact that I got a new hair cut and look better than Brad Pitt before he dated Jennifer Aniston, I feel I havn't let my new appearance increase my ego. Ha.
Again, working at the garden center has renewed and enforced my love for biology. In my "Survey of the Plant Kingdom" with Mrs. Chiang this past semester we studied a number of different plants. Whenever I come across a certain plant that we've studied at the greenhouse, I get quite excited, and I often cause people to stare at me in odd ways. I use to think it was because I looked homeless, but I still have had a few looks post-hair cut. The two plants that I've seen thus far are Marchantia and Seliginella. Very exciting. Unfortunately our store hasn't grown or orded in the mystical and medicinal mushrooms of Zangamarsh yet, but I'm sure when we get them in I'll get a few looks again.
I suppose I havn't done a recap of the Canucks since their loss. A summary: Luongo's a stud, 'nuff said. The Cup is in reach next year fo' sho'.
Highlights of this past week has been flying disk with Dan, hottub with Mark, killing elite giants with Brian, and most of all talking with Rebecca joy.
There are things I miss as well. I miss everything and everyone at Redeemer. I miss my Bitch'n playlist and Counting Crows. I miss being able to go to the gym and picking up a ball for shooting purposes. But alas, BC, if personified, would be described like Luongo. That is to say, BC is a stud. And, although it might be blasphemy to BC folk, there are other nice places in the world too, even if it is Ontario.
Peacing it out freestyln'.
Despite the fact that I got a new hair cut and look better than Brad Pitt before he dated Jennifer Aniston, I feel I havn't let my new appearance increase my ego. Ha.
Again, working at the garden center has renewed and enforced my love for biology. In my "Survey of the Plant Kingdom" with Mrs. Chiang this past semester we studied a number of different plants. Whenever I come across a certain plant that we've studied at the greenhouse, I get quite excited, and I often cause people to stare at me in odd ways. I use to think it was because I looked homeless, but I still have had a few looks post-hair cut. The two plants that I've seen thus far are Marchantia and Seliginella. Very exciting. Unfortunately our store hasn't grown or orded in the mystical and medicinal mushrooms of Zangamarsh yet, but I'm sure when we get them in I'll get a few looks again.
I suppose I havn't done a recap of the Canucks since their loss. A summary: Luongo's a stud, 'nuff said. The Cup is in reach next year fo' sho'.
Highlights of this past week has been flying disk with Dan, hottub with Mark, killing elite giants with Brian, and most of all talking with Rebecca joy.
There are things I miss as well. I miss everything and everyone at Redeemer. I miss my Bitch'n playlist and Counting Crows. I miss being able to go to the gym and picking up a ball for shooting purposes. But alas, BC, if personified, would be described like Luongo. That is to say, BC is a stud. And, although it might be blasphemy to BC folk, there are other nice places in the world too, even if it is Ontario.
Peacing it out freestyln'.
Thursday, May 03, 2007
For Ryan
Due to the fact that Ryan has access to the internet once a week and the weekend is fast approaching, I thought I'd sneak a blog in to sustain his curious ways.
After a week (almost) of work I've realized how wonderful it is to be out of school and to not have to worry about assignments, labs or being attacked by the soup server. But alas, the school community is missed, so don't feel neglected or rejected, but possibly infected. Where I work is beautiful as the halls of my workplace are lined with blooming flowers and sweet scents. Just yesterday I helped an elderly woman pick out a hanging basket for her lawn bowling club. You can only do that in the garden industry people, and possibly the lawn bowling industry as well.
The Canucks are studs, so they'll pull it off. 'Nuff said.
The weather here has been decent and right now it is sunny and blue. Quite nice. Tell me if this next sentance works...I've been thinking about it:
"You are our "R" Hero," in where the "R" stands for radical. I think it has a ring to it.
Stewie P Styles takes off today and I won't see him till Christmas. I met his girlfriend and she makes a mean cake. The secret is to put holes in the cake with a toothpick and then drizzle caramel over it. I'm sure chocolate pudding would work as well.
Babies.
After a week (almost) of work I've realized how wonderful it is to be out of school and to not have to worry about assignments, labs or being attacked by the soup server. But alas, the school community is missed, so don't feel neglected or rejected, but possibly infected. Where I work is beautiful as the halls of my workplace are lined with blooming flowers and sweet scents. Just yesterday I helped an elderly woman pick out a hanging basket for her lawn bowling club. You can only do that in the garden industry people, and possibly the lawn bowling industry as well.
The Canucks are studs, so they'll pull it off. 'Nuff said.
The weather here has been decent and right now it is sunny and blue. Quite nice. Tell me if this next sentance works...I've been thinking about it:
"You are our "R" Hero," in where the "R" stands for radical. I think it has a ring to it.
Stewie P Styles takes off today and I won't see him till Christmas. I met his girlfriend and she makes a mean cake. The secret is to put holes in the cake with a toothpick and then drizzle caramel over it. I'm sure chocolate pudding would work as well.
Babies.
Saturday, April 28, 2007
Retrimentalism of Isomatrictical Eppigymes
Here we go, one more time, every body's feeling fine, here we go now (here here here we go! N'Sync has got the flow!).
I caught spring. Initially I though I would loose the season completely due to BC's early blooming and Stinky O's late blooming, but alas, it is spring here. Glory. I think the air just smells nicer.
Go Jeffry C-dub, you brabarian you. 'Nuff said.
I'm starting to read this book about a terrible school bus accident that kills about 20 kids in a small community. The start of the book describes the kids personalities, but more importantly, describes the parents as well and their relationships. So far, a lot of the community seems to be complacent. It makes me feel very yucky. Let me explain.
I have this life right now. I'm quite enjoying it and even though it has its bumps and potholes along the way, it's still very much worth living. Given the amount of people that are alive today, they also feel that is the truth. However, I would not love life if I became utterly disgusted by it. A bit of a redundant thought, I know, but work with me on this one. I don't want to be the guy with no ambitions, dreams and hopes come 20 years. I don't want to get into a routine that I follow in a mindless matter until Christmas and whenever I choose to take my two weeks vacation. I want to be on the move, always exploring, and never settling for sitting on a couch watching T.V. before I dread another day of work after my 6 or so hours of restless sleep. In summary, I don't want my life to suck. The people in this book have sucky lives (or so it seems thus far) and so help me, if my lives dives down into a rut like the described above, then hit me in the groin with a sledgehammer and send me on a plane somewhere. Just some thoughts.
Morgren. Last summer I blogged a total of 5 times from May-September... let's not let that happen again, shall we?
I caught spring. Initially I though I would loose the season completely due to BC's early blooming and Stinky O's late blooming, but alas, it is spring here. Glory. I think the air just smells nicer.
Go Jeffry C-dub, you brabarian you. 'Nuff said.
I'm starting to read this book about a terrible school bus accident that kills about 20 kids in a small community. The start of the book describes the kids personalities, but more importantly, describes the parents as well and their relationships. So far, a lot of the community seems to be complacent. It makes me feel very yucky. Let me explain.
I have this life right now. I'm quite enjoying it and even though it has its bumps and potholes along the way, it's still very much worth living. Given the amount of people that are alive today, they also feel that is the truth. However, I would not love life if I became utterly disgusted by it. A bit of a redundant thought, I know, but work with me on this one. I don't want to be the guy with no ambitions, dreams and hopes come 20 years. I don't want to get into a routine that I follow in a mindless matter until Christmas and whenever I choose to take my two weeks vacation. I want to be on the move, always exploring, and never settling for sitting on a couch watching T.V. before I dread another day of work after my 6 or so hours of restless sleep. In summary, I don't want my life to suck. The people in this book have sucky lives (or so it seems thus far) and so help me, if my lives dives down into a rut like the described above, then hit me in the groin with a sledgehammer and send me on a plane somewhere. Just some thoughts.
Morgren. Last summer I blogged a total of 5 times from May-September... let's not let that happen again, shall we?
Saturday, April 21, 2007
For Bron
A little something to commemorate more than a year since Joel Bron has last blogged. At least it was a good one though, eh guys?
"A year has passed and now we stand on the brink of returning to a world where we are surrounded by the paradox of everything, and yet nothing being the same. In one month we will reluctantly give our hugs and, fighting the tears, say goodbye to people who were once just names on a sheet of paper to return to people that we hugged and fought tears to say goodbye to before we ever left. We will leave our best friends to return to our best friends. We will go back to the places we came from and go back to the same things we did last summer and every summer before that. We will come into town on that same familiar road, and even though it has been months, it will seem like only yesterday. As you walk into your old bedroom, every emotion will pass through you as you reflect on the way your life has changed and the person you have become. You suddenly realize that the things that were most important to you a year ago don't seem to matter so much anymore, and the things you hold highest now, no one at home will completely understand. The memories and the stories from school won't mean anything to anyone at home and yet you resent them for that, that they can't share that happiness with you.Who will you call first? What will you do your first weekend home with your friends? How long before you actually start missing people barging in without calling or knocking? Who will get pizza at three in the morning with you now? How long until you adjust to sleeping alone in a room again? Then you start to realize how much things have changed, and you realize the hardest part of university is balancing the two completely different worlds you now live in, trying desperately to hold on to everything all the while trying to figure out what you have to leave behind.In the matter of one day's travelling time, we will leave our world of living next door to our friends, walking across campus to eat, instant messenger, 8:00am classes, and the perpetual procrastination to a world that will seem foreign to us despite the fact that we lived in it for eighteen years. But it is different now. We now know the meaning of true friendship. We know who we have kept in touch with over the past year and who we hold dearest in our hearts. We've left our high school world to deal with the real world. We've had our hearts broken, we've fallen in love, we've helped our friends overcome depression, stress and death, and we've stayed up all night on the phone just to talk to a friend in need. There have been times when we've felt so helpless being hours away from home when we know our families needed us, and there are times we know we have made a difference. One month from now we will leave. One month from now we take down our pictures, and pack up our clothes. No more going next door to do nothing for hours on end. We will leave our friends whose random email and phone calls will bring us to laughter and tears this summer. We will take our memories and dreams and put them away for now, saving them for our return to this world. One month from now we will arrive. We will unpack our bags and have dinner with our families. We will drive over to our best friend's house and do nothing for hours on end. We will return to the same friends whose random emails and phone calls have brought us to laughter and tears over the year. We will unpack old dreams and memories that have been put away for the past year. In one month we will dig deep inside to find the strength and conviction to adjust to change and still keep each other close. And somehow, in some way, we will find our place between these two completely different worlds. Are you ready?"
"A year has passed and now we stand on the brink of returning to a world where we are surrounded by the paradox of everything, and yet nothing being the same. In one month we will reluctantly give our hugs and, fighting the tears, say goodbye to people who were once just names on a sheet of paper to return to people that we hugged and fought tears to say goodbye to before we ever left. We will leave our best friends to return to our best friends. We will go back to the places we came from and go back to the same things we did last summer and every summer before that. We will come into town on that same familiar road, and even though it has been months, it will seem like only yesterday. As you walk into your old bedroom, every emotion will pass through you as you reflect on the way your life has changed and the person you have become. You suddenly realize that the things that were most important to you a year ago don't seem to matter so much anymore, and the things you hold highest now, no one at home will completely understand. The memories and the stories from school won't mean anything to anyone at home and yet you resent them for that, that they can't share that happiness with you.Who will you call first? What will you do your first weekend home with your friends? How long before you actually start missing people barging in without calling or knocking? Who will get pizza at three in the morning with you now? How long until you adjust to sleeping alone in a room again? Then you start to realize how much things have changed, and you realize the hardest part of university is balancing the two completely different worlds you now live in, trying desperately to hold on to everything all the while trying to figure out what you have to leave behind.In the matter of one day's travelling time, we will leave our world of living next door to our friends, walking across campus to eat, instant messenger, 8:00am classes, and the perpetual procrastination to a world that will seem foreign to us despite the fact that we lived in it for eighteen years. But it is different now. We now know the meaning of true friendship. We know who we have kept in touch with over the past year and who we hold dearest in our hearts. We've left our high school world to deal with the real world. We've had our hearts broken, we've fallen in love, we've helped our friends overcome depression, stress and death, and we've stayed up all night on the phone just to talk to a friend in need. There have been times when we've felt so helpless being hours away from home when we know our families needed us, and there are times we know we have made a difference. One month from now we will leave. One month from now we take down our pictures, and pack up our clothes. No more going next door to do nothing for hours on end. We will leave our friends whose random email and phone calls will bring us to laughter and tears this summer. We will take our memories and dreams and put them away for now, saving them for our return to this world. One month from now we will arrive. We will unpack our bags and have dinner with our families. We will drive over to our best friend's house and do nothing for hours on end. We will return to the same friends whose random emails and phone calls have brought us to laughter and tears over the year. We will unpack old dreams and memories that have been put away for the past year. In one month we will dig deep inside to find the strength and conviction to adjust to change and still keep each other close. And somehow, in some way, we will find our place between these two completely different worlds. Are you ready?"
Monday, April 16, 2007
Silicon Carbide Rods Always Emit in the Infra Red
Welcome.
Canucks: Almost lost hope and thought the series was lost after a lackluster two periods in game two. However, I underestimated my boys, and now we're up 2-1. Judging by this series thus far, I think it is safe to conclude that the Canucks only need to play decent for 20% of the game for them to have a chance to win it. When I say "Canucks", I mean, of course, all forwards and defencemen, not Luongo. Luongo is what makes us only have to play for 20% of the time. What a treat that 6 million brought us. I have also updated that I wouldn't mind "Hansen" on a jersey if I get one. Stellar.
It's exam time and I have my studying schedule down to the hour. There's no messing around here folks, even if it means missing a Ben Folds concert to study on a Monday night. Wow, that's such a lame choice. It's been hard to get motivated, but alas, I am well on my way to being finished semester two and conclude my second year at Redeemer. Sometimes I feel like I'm in a Harry Potter novel because my years, like Harry's at Hogwarts, seem to go so quick. Great connection, I know.
Again, in reflection of the year I see God's faithfulness. I was never hungry, hospitalized, lonely or homeless. I've been surrounded by friends, given the opportunity to have an education and have a brother downtown as family so I don't get too homesick. God's also given me His word, at times which I embrace or ignore, unfortunately. And, to throw in something relevant to James, God also gave me science, and silicon carbide rods.
That's all for now, more studying to be done.
Canucks: Almost lost hope and thought the series was lost after a lackluster two periods in game two. However, I underestimated my boys, and now we're up 2-1. Judging by this series thus far, I think it is safe to conclude that the Canucks only need to play decent for 20% of the game for them to have a chance to win it. When I say "Canucks", I mean, of course, all forwards and defencemen, not Luongo. Luongo is what makes us only have to play for 20% of the time. What a treat that 6 million brought us. I have also updated that I wouldn't mind "Hansen" on a jersey if I get one. Stellar.
It's exam time and I have my studying schedule down to the hour. There's no messing around here folks, even if it means missing a Ben Folds concert to study on a Monday night. Wow, that's such a lame choice. It's been hard to get motivated, but alas, I am well on my way to being finished semester two and conclude my second year at Redeemer. Sometimes I feel like I'm in a Harry Potter novel because my years, like Harry's at Hogwarts, seem to go so quick. Great connection, I know.
Again, in reflection of the year I see God's faithfulness. I was never hungry, hospitalized, lonely or homeless. I've been surrounded by friends, given the opportunity to have an education and have a brother downtown as family so I don't get too homesick. God's also given me His word, at times which I embrace or ignore, unfortunately. And, to throw in something relevant to James, God also gave me science, and silicon carbide rods.
That's all for now, more studying to be done.
Saturday, April 14, 2007
Brian Wilson
I love it when you forget about things that you once enjoyed. They might be rather small or large things, but once in a while, after an extended period of time separated from this thing, you encounter it again. A rush of old memories collides with the gremlins in your kidneys and you get a tingling feeling. I just had that with the BNL song "Brian Wilson" while listening too my iPod. This song brings me back to doing newspapers as a young high school chap after school on Wednesdays. It was on a marvelous CD in which I had made. This CD was the best of Crash Test Dummies and BNL and it might still be one of my favorite "mixes." Sweet glory.
Yeah, Game 2 was lacking in intensity, and every time Sopel touched the puck I yelled at the TV for him to get rid of it, but I'm still in good spirits. Despite his dirty dirty hair, I have no idea why we picked up that guy again. Game 3 will be ours; we're gold on the road. One thing that's a highlight is that Naslund is playing the best I've seen of him all season. He's hitting guys, doing spinnoramas and finally shooting the puck with confidence. He'll be our hero, with, of course, T. Lid. Timot and I were discussing what name we would get on our jersey if we were ever to purchase one. I think I would get a Linden (who wouldn't?) or a Cooke jersey. I still remember when Neil busted out his hockey helmet and ran hipchekcing people into the lockers while yelling "Matt Cooke!" in high school. Man, I love the playoffs.
Due to the fact that I just handed it my last three assignments, all I have to worry about now is 5 tests. Some people hate exam time, but I love it. There's no labs, no 8 AM classes, no assignments, just whole days given to you in which you can study at your leisure. It's glory, pure glory.
This past Friday I was given the opportunity to judge at a elementary school science fair for grade 7 and 8 kids. I hated being called a kid when I was in grade 7, but that's what they are. Science is the future people. Science rules.
Flying home on the 27th, looking forward to the Gloryland.
Peace.
Yeah, Game 2 was lacking in intensity, and every time Sopel touched the puck I yelled at the TV for him to get rid of it, but I'm still in good spirits. Despite his dirty dirty hair, I have no idea why we picked up that guy again. Game 3 will be ours; we're gold on the road. One thing that's a highlight is that Naslund is playing the best I've seen of him all season. He's hitting guys, doing spinnoramas and finally shooting the puck with confidence. He'll be our hero, with, of course, T. Lid. Timot and I were discussing what name we would get on our jersey if we were ever to purchase one. I think I would get a Linden (who wouldn't?) or a Cooke jersey. I still remember when Neil busted out his hockey helmet and ran hipchekcing people into the lockers while yelling "Matt Cooke!" in high school. Man, I love the playoffs.
Due to the fact that I just handed it my last three assignments, all I have to worry about now is 5 tests. Some people hate exam time, but I love it. There's no labs, no 8 AM classes, no assignments, just whole days given to you in which you can study at your leisure. It's glory, pure glory.
This past Friday I was given the opportunity to judge at a elementary school science fair for grade 7 and 8 kids. I hated being called a kid when I was in grade 7, but that's what they are. Science is the future people. Science rules.
Flying home on the 27th, looking forward to the Gloryland.
Peace.
Thursday, April 12, 2007
Loooooooouuuuu
72 saves. 72. Incredible. This series is going to be scary. I'm just thankful all the games are on CBC. As much as I like the streamed radio of Shorty describing the action, seeing it is much better. As a side note, a fair amount of Canuck fans came to the Rec Center to watch the game last night. I think about 12. Two of them were 40+ year old men. Not too sure where they came from, but they were into it. Go 'Nucks.
Monday, April 09, 2007
Too Long
"Look at that cosine graph, I learned about it in Grade 12 Math. I've had a couple of kids since then, I named my smallest child Gwen."
- Nickleback's original first line for "Photograph"
There was a streak a month ago that one could detect my existence purely by monitoring the interweb site that I maintain. If one was to come to a conclusion about the status of my being based on recent interweb activity, the thought would be grim.
Hello.
The past two weeks have been going, but whether or not they have been going good or bad is another question. I believe I'll keep it as just "going" for the time being, because it's been a blur of unimportant events mixed by a metaphorical beater of assignments, then scraped out by the metaphorical spatula of due dates into a Christmas tree shaped pan. We use to have a Christmas tree mold used for jello when I was a child. I loved that thing, maybe more than the sweet gelatin that inhibited it. I was sick for the past two weeks, which probably made everything a bit hazy as well. I'm feeling better now, so I guess that's a plus.
This past Easter weekend was spent at Ryan's place. It was relaxing and fantastic. Pretty much what I needed, so that's good.
Lots of thoughts going around, especially some things that were briefly talked about with the guys over the weekend. We touched on things like worship, the Holy Spirit, infant baptism, terrible Nickleback songs, TMNT, Moulin Rouge soundtracks and hockey. Very interesting thoughts going on there.
Right now I feel like writing some of my thoughts, but I feel that I'm mentally unable to at the moment. It's frustrating. It's like a neural lethargy that spreads from my brain to my fingers, unable to write about what I really want to. Unfortunately my eyes still work, so the frustration of reading what I've written makes me want to hit a golf ball through a window. Scratch that, I want to throw a pie at someone who's really stuck-up and proper and then proceed to do a dance that will frustrate them because the fact that I am silly makes them angry. Yeah, the second option is far superior.
I'm going to end it here: dust is just old skin that hangs on everything you own. Oh, snap.
- Nickleback's original first line for "Photograph"
There was a streak a month ago that one could detect my existence purely by monitoring the interweb site that I maintain. If one was to come to a conclusion about the status of my being based on recent interweb activity, the thought would be grim.
Hello.
The past two weeks have been going, but whether or not they have been going good or bad is another question. I believe I'll keep it as just "going" for the time being, because it's been a blur of unimportant events mixed by a metaphorical beater of assignments, then scraped out by the metaphorical spatula of due dates into a Christmas tree shaped pan. We use to have a Christmas tree mold used for jello when I was a child. I loved that thing, maybe more than the sweet gelatin that inhibited it. I was sick for the past two weeks, which probably made everything a bit hazy as well. I'm feeling better now, so I guess that's a plus.
This past Easter weekend was spent at Ryan's place. It was relaxing and fantastic. Pretty much what I needed, so that's good.
Lots of thoughts going around, especially some things that were briefly talked about with the guys over the weekend. We touched on things like worship, the Holy Spirit, infant baptism, terrible Nickleback songs, TMNT, Moulin Rouge soundtracks and hockey. Very interesting thoughts going on there.
Right now I feel like writing some of my thoughts, but I feel that I'm mentally unable to at the moment. It's frustrating. It's like a neural lethargy that spreads from my brain to my fingers, unable to write about what I really want to. Unfortunately my eyes still work, so the frustration of reading what I've written makes me want to hit a golf ball through a window. Scratch that, I want to throw a pie at someone who's really stuck-up and proper and then proceed to do a dance that will frustrate them because the fact that I am silly makes them angry. Yeah, the second option is far superior.
I'm going to end it here: dust is just old skin that hangs on everything you own. Oh, snap.
Saturday, March 31, 2007
Wednesday, March 21, 2007
Chordle
Greetings.
I am well mentally, although physically I feel a bit off. I suppose the grogginess started sometime on Friday night, and since then it has not escalated, but instead persisted. Kind of dumb. I've had a headache since Saturday. That, my friends, is lame.
Enough about my infirmaries, however. I'm going to think a bit about mental wellness.
University is the students and the professors responsibility. Let me explain.
I am well mentally, although physically I feel a bit off. I suppose the grogginess started sometime on Friday night, and since then it has not escalated, but instead persisted. Kind of dumb. I've had a headache since Saturday. That, my friends, is lame.
Enough about my infirmaries, however. I'm going to think a bit about mental wellness.
University is the students and the professors responsibility. Let me explain.
Class. It is the professors job and obligation to teach in the most stimulating way that the content of the class allows. It is the students responsibility to go to class, not only because you are paying for your education, but also because you are at school primarily to learn. Failure to have an enjoyable class can be disrupted if the above two things are not in balance.
Bad Prof <---------------------------------------------> Good Prof
No Desire to Learn<---------------------------------------------> Desire to Learn
The way to determine if a student will skip class is by the "Magic Four's" theory. On a scale of 1-4, you grade how good your prof is, along with your desire to learn that subject. If the total of those two values hovers around a total of 4, then there is a good chance you're skipping that class fairly often. An easy solution to not skipping class is to take subjects that you're interested in. If your prof sucks, you're still most likely going to attend the class. It's a magical system, we know.
Now for a side note. Profs that can't teach their subject in an interesting and stimulating manner should rethink being a prof. Last year there was a geography prof that was so excited to teach geography, a boring topic (for me at least.) He still had good attendance, even though the subject he taught isn't as amazing as microbiology. He left, and let's just say that geography doesn't have as great attendance anymore.
Profs, be excited about what you teach, please.
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