Not So Daily Rambling

Celebrate

2007-12-05T12:30:00.001-06:00

It is 21st Amendment Day.

I told you so.......

2007-11-29T09:32:00.000-06:00

http://www.suntimes.com/news/sneed/673072,CST-NWS-SNEED29.article

"Sneed hears Stacy Peterson told a clergyman in August that her husband had claimed to have killed his former wife Kathleen Savio and made it look like an accident."

"On Sunday, Oct. 28, the day Stacy disappeared, she told Peterson she was leaving him and issued this ultimatum: She was going to begin divorce proceedings, and she wanted him out of the house by Wednesday, according to the source."

He also looks exactly like The Cowardly Loin from the Wizard Of Oz

Welcome Back Todd...

2007-11-26T10:26:00.000-06:00

Thanks Todd.

Love Chicago.

The Bears, don't count them out until you count them in.

2007-11-15T10:53:00.000-06:00

Theory: Stacey Peterson either knew too much about or actually helped kill Kathleen Savio with Drew Peterson and that is why she is 'missing'.

You heard it here first.

2007-11-14T15:11:00.001-06:00

So I've been sick for the last few days. Still not feeling great, but my stomach has calmed down.

Almost every morning I think "I should post that on the old blog", but I never get around to it.

Maybe tomorrow will be the day.

Hey

2007-09-26T16:30:00.000-05:00

betcha didn't think I would post again.

What?

2007-09-11T15:32:00.001-05:00

What in the hell is wrong with the people up in Milwaukee?

The Best

2007-09-10T17:20:00.000-05:00

Weekend Re-cap:

Friday - exercise.

Saturday - first base coach. I called the run scoring bunt in the third.

Sunday - laundry and sports. I have the best girlfriend in the world.

FU*K YOU COMCAST

2007-09-07T09:38:00.000-05:00

Sure, your internet is blazing fast. Sure your telephone service is crystal clear. But, COMCAST, please stop with the radio commercials saying you provide the best TV service. You don't. Your DVR is sub par at best. You offer 15 HDTV channels while your competitors offer 40 or more. You make me pay for the NFL Network, which is free with other providers.

If I wasn't shackled to you due to restrictions on putting a dish on my building, I would dump you in a New York Second (which is faster than a regular second, I think)

Total Lunar Eclispe

2007-08-27T14:37:00.000-05:00

get up early and watch.

you know I will.

http://sunearth.gsfc.nasa.gov/eclipse/LEmono/TLE2007Aug28/TLE2007Aug28.html

I'm in the wrong business

2007-08-24T11:10:00.000-05:00

So I just ordered my ticket to the upcoming Ween concert. A $25 face value ticket just cost me over $40 due to processing fees and what not.

I should have just waited and used Craigslist two days before the show to get a ticket.

The Commercials got me, again.

2007-08-21T13:52:00.000-05:00

The familiar radio commercial voice just told me that the Jack Pot in the Mega Millions Multi-State Lottery is up to $171 MILLION.

Hopefully my last $5 went to the winning combination and this last minute meeting with the Boss Man tomorrow afternoon is just a formality.

Now That's Thinking Ahead

2007-08-20T14:04:00.000-05:00

So I was going to accompany some friends to the White Sox game tonight(someone got 4 free tickets from work or something... a free MLB game is a good game), but when logistics were hard to figure out and potential heavy rain threatens to cancel the game anyway I decided to decline the invite, work an extra hour or so and head home.

Yesterday, when the NASCAR Race got postponed until this afternoon I set the DVR to record the race so I can watch it tonight.

And the Bears play the Colts in a pre-season re-match of the Super Bowl.

Who Cares?

2007-08-16T14:17:00.000-05:00

The panty-less daughter of The Joker and The Monkey President is engaged.

Mom does her best Jack Nicholson impression.

Feeling old and washed up

2007-08-09T09:45:00.000-05:00

I listen to the CNN podcast on the drive into work. I get the latest news bits while the commercials are being played on my favorite morning show. The last bit today was about some teenagers in the southwest somewhere that had let 3 numbered goats loose in some school buildings. They stayed and watched as the cops caught the 3 goats with painted numbers 1, 2 and 4 on them and continued to search for a goat numbered '3'.

Then of course, there's this one too.

I've pulled some good pranks in the past, but never have thought of anything like either of these.

mmmmmm, Donuts.

2007-08-01T12:22:00.000-05:00

Yep, I'll pretty much buy anything.

It is looking like I may be going to Lollapalooza since no one wants to buy my tickets.

I'm Back

2007-07-30T12:22:00.000-05:00

Vacation was a blast.

My teams are starting to really heat up, football training camp has started and college ball is right around the corner.

I love this part of the sporting year.

31 Years Ago

2007-07-20T09:42:00.000-05:00

On July 20, 1976, Hank Aaron hit his 755^th and final home run off the California Angels’ Dick Drago at Milwaukee County Stadium.

On July 20, 2007, Barry Bonds will be merely feet away from the original place where Aaron hit his final home run having to only hit 3 more to surpass the most legendary and sought after record in all of sports.

The Deuce

2007-07-19T14:36:00.001-05:00

http://www.toothpastefordinner.com/

This is what I do when I am not quite yet on vacation, but refuse to start anything new before I go away for a week.

The Big Fall

2007-07-13T12:49:00.000-05:00

So this morning I was taking the garbage out to the alley. I was headed down the back deck stairs when, about 1/2 way down, I think to myself I am going way too fast. Well, before I could change my pace I slipped and fell. Hard. Right on my lower back.

I laid there for a few moments writhing in pain, gathered myself and took the trash to the cans in the alley.

I have a huge scrape in my right elbow, and a big bruise on my back. I am in considerable pain today, I can't wait to see what happens tomorrow.

Emotional Television

2007-07-10T10:44:00.000-05:00

I never, in a million, years would have thought I'd get all emotional watching The Food Network (going HD in July on Comcast!!!). Sure, I love food and all and yes I have been 'touched' by a good recipe or dish plating. But I never took a moment to think about my family, my life, my goals and such after watching anything on The Food Network. No, usually I think about what's in the fridge and what can I make and eat.

Until Sunday night. I watched Paula Dean's European Vacation. The whole time I had thoughts and reactions, but the end.... The surprise ending was enough to almost bring me to tears.

Thanks Paula. Now pass me the butter.

I guess...

2007-07-06T14:50:00.001-05:00

So the Old Roommate got 2 good seats to the Police Reunion show tonight at Wrigley Field. I was semi interested in going when the tour was announced, but never was going to pay the ticket price. I was asked a few weeks ago if I was interested in going because his girlfriend has to drive her sister to Grad. School. I hemmed and hawed and finally told him that if he couldn't find anyone by the day of the show I'd go.

Well, here it is, day of show and he called at 9:45Am and asked if I was still available.

I'll go. It'll be a good time.

Happy Birthday America

2007-07-03T14:53:00.000-05:00

Sizzler

2007-07-02T15:45:00.000-05:00

Lesson #1, apply sunscreen before going into the sun, because after won't stop the burning.

Lesson #2, a shaved head needs a hat

so, yeah... I got a nice burn yesterday at my brother's Little League All-Star game. His team won 9-1. He had an RBI double and scored on a wild pitch. He also came in to close out the game, which he did in 4 batters. 2 ground outs and a strikeout.

Happy Birthday To Me

2007-06-27T11:47:00.000-05:00

Hey Hey

2007-06-26T14:11:00.000-05:00

How about those Cubs.

I only saw the 9th inning, the collapse, the fan (which I think Howry would have dropped if he had gotten two more steps closer with one swift punch to the face) the easy douple play to end their threat that didn;t happen, the error and of course Alphie's 2 RBI Single to win.

I love baseball.

As the great Yogi Berra said, it ain't over till it's over.

I miss this band.

2007-06-25T09:40:00.001-05:00

Here is some RANA clips from their 06/14/2002 'Here In The USA' record release.

and I never got to see this one live, but that looks like it will change next year.

Funny

2007-06-20T13:10:00.001-05:00

Even Hillary spoofed the Soprano's ending. Here is a good one from the Pittsburgh Pirates.

2007-06-19T15:06:00.000-05:00

1) The "new guy" at work seems to be working out well. He is a very good worker, I have to teach him how to slack off properly. He also needs to learn how to take down a message.. Date,Time, Name, Phone Number, Message.

2) The New Place is finally starting to be "Home". There is only one place that I feel more comfortable than my own.

3) Fishing; I have pulled in a few small bass, and a catfish so far this year, plus a few channel cat's and some other fish that came out of the Illinois River on Father's day. I plan to go at least once a week for the rest of the year.

That's about it. I caught Dinosaur Jr. a few weeks back and am planning on going to Michigan in a few weeks to vacation at a summer cabin on a lake. The Cubs seem to win just enough to keep me interested.

I'm Ready To Go

2007-06-11T09:04:00.000-05:00

So Saturday night TR and I strolled down to the annual "Rib Fest'' in Chicago's North Center neighborhood. After attending I have come to the realization that I am ready to go. I am ready to live not in the greater Chicagoland area, as I have for the last 32 years.

One other thing. What the hell kind of "ENDING" was that. That wasn't an ENDING as much as it was a cliff hanger for the next part. Can you say Soprano's The Movie. What a load of crap.

2007-06-06T11:57:00.000-05:00

Today, is my favorite Japanese co-worker's last day in the US. Tomorrow he will be returning to Japan to continue his work there.

I am very sad to see him go. I have learned a lot from him over the last 7 years. I am hopeful that someday he will return to the US. I also hope to someday go to Japan, and he has let me know that he would love to guide me around.

Sayonara Masateru! You will be missed.

I'm Hungry

2007-05-31T11:36:00.001-05:00

Where are all the damn cicada's?

See ya~

2007-05-23T16:49:00.000-05:00

Hey everyone (all 4 of you),

I just wanted to let you know I am officially going on hiatus. I don't know when I'll be back to regular posting, if ever. Thanks for taking the time to read about my misadventures.

Concert Josh

Vacation Photos

2007-05-16T10:23:00.000-05:00

stuff

2007-05-15T13:21:00.000-05:00

so there is a 'new guy' in the office. i'm gonna be taking a break from this for a little while.

maybe i'll try the whole posting from thing, but probably not.

2007-05-04T15:47:00.000-05:00

Growing Up

2007-05-03T16:48:00.000-05:00

When I was a kid my grandparents got cable. My sister and I would spend our summer days with Grandma while my mom worked. At least once a year there is a story about Hard Core Porn getting broadcast one some channel other than the Hard core Porn channel (which I would tune into and watch through the squiggley lines for a chance to see a boob for that brief moment that it wasn't scrambled completely).

Things like this would never happen for me though.

Tid bits

2007-05-02T10:05:00.000-05:00

When a recipe calls for Italian Parsley, regular bunch parsley should not be used as a good substitute.

With any photo you can star in your own Spider-Man Video.

My 55 gallon tank is finally moved to the new place. It is going to need a few upgrades, new plants and some new fish. Right now I'm not pleased with the way it looks.

I played my new MLB 2K7 last night for the first time. I optioned for a Cubs vs. Cards matchup. I pitched with Prior and Wood (out of the bullpen). Also, in the 7th inning Josh Hancock pitched and came to the plate in the bottom half of the inning. Eerie..

Posion, RATT and White Loin are touring this summer. Where did I leave my acid washed, holes in the knees tight jeans?

May Day, May Day...

2007-05-01T15:49:00.000-05:00

this ship is sinking fast.

Loyalty Day, 2007
A Proclamation by the President of the United States of America

America was founded by patriots who risked their lives to bring freedom to our Nation. Today, our citizens are grateful for our Founding Fathers and confident in the principles that lead us forward. On Loyalty Day, we celebrate the blessings of freedom and remember our responsibility to continue our legacy of liberty.

Our Nation has never been united simply by blood, birth, or soil, but instead has always been united by the ideals that move us beyond our background and teach us what it means to be Americans. We believe deeply in freedom and self-government, values embodied in our cherished documents and defended by our troops over the course of generations. Our citizens hold the truths of our founding close to their hearts and demonstrate their loyalty in countless ways. We are inspired by the patriotic service of the men and women who wear our Nation's uniform with honor and decency. The military spouses and families who stand by their loved ones represent the best of the American spirit, and we are profoundly grateful for their sacrifice. Our country is strengthened by the millions of volunteers who show deep compassion toward their neighbors in need. All citizens can express their loyalty to the United States by flying the flag, participating in our democracy, and learning more about our country's grand story of courage and simple dream of dignity.

The Congress, by Public Law 85-529, as amended, has designated May 1 of each year as "Loyalty Day." This Loyalty Day, and throughout the year, I ask all Americans to join me in reaffirming our allegiance to our Nation.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim May 1, 2007, as Loyalty Day. I call upon the people of the United States to participate in this national observance and to display the flag of the United States on Loyalty Day as a symbol of pride in our Nation.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this thirtieth day of April, in the year of our Lord two thousand seven, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-first.

GEORGE W. BUSH

Blast From the Past

2007-05-01T10:37:00.000-05:00

So I'm sitting here minding my own business when my phone alert sounds. its a text message, but not from anyone already stored in my phone. The number is familiar, but still unknown to me. I open the message and read it. its from The Big E. I haven't talked to or heard from TBE is quite some time, over a year I think. TBE stated that they are moving back to the area later this month and wants to 'do lunch' to catch up. I think TBE thinks we can still be friends. I'm not so sure.

What the...

2007-04-30T13:40:00.000-05:00

So I went over the Hot Dog joint by the office and got the 2 Dog Special and headed over to the park to eat out in the wonderful weather. Kids are still in school and no one else was around while I dined half in the shade listening to Dan Patrick comment on the Randy Moss trade to New England, and the possibility of Joe Torre getting fired from the Yankees.

After eating I decide I could use an afternoon drink and a candy bar. I have a major sweet tooth and have to have something sweet to silent the voices, so I head to the local Speedway planning on an iced tea and a Kit-Kat. Well, when it was apparent that they were out of the iced tea I like (unsweetened... go figure) everything changed. I grabbed a Vitamin Water and a Snickers paid for my junk and headed back to the office.

When I get back to my desk, I open a few tabs of news stories from Fark.com and peeled back the wrapper of the Snickers bar. I was able to chow down two bites while reading a story about Jeff Gordon passing Old #3 in total wins at a track Dale Earnhardt dominated. During his victory lap, Alabama's finest fans threw their beer cans onto the track in protest. I was unaware that NASCAR let you bring in your own beer into the grandstands. Anyway I finish the story and click the close button as i peek down to make sure I don't eat any wrapper with my next bite and I see green. Inside my candy bar. a gross, food isn't that color unless it is rotten enough to kill you green. I begin to mildly freak out, frantically reading the wrapper for an expiration date and instructions on what to do in case of poisoning when it all becomes clear.

It's a Shrek Snickers. Stupid movie promotions.

It Happens To Us All

2007-04-25T13:33:00.000-05:00

The lunch hour is fast approaching, you didn't pack last night's leftovers or make yourself a sandwich. A deadline is approaching and stepping out of your office won't work.

What to do, what to do..

Order yourself a Hot Dog from this guy.

Problem Solved.

Daylight Savings

2007-04-24T13:57:00.000-05:00

And the effect it has on the environment.

Two More Weeks

2007-04-24T09:16:00.000-05:00

That is all I am giving my beloved Cubs to get their act together and start winning. I can't invest my time like that anymore. I had a 'Family Emergency' last night and was happy to help out. After helping to take care of a situation, making sure everyone was home safe I cruzed back to my place to catch the end of a sure win game. Instead I watched my team blow it in the 12th inning at 11PM. Sure, everyone saw the horrible attempts of home plate umpire Paul Nauert (#96), who may in my opinion be a worse ump than Angel Hernandez (I was at the game when he ejected the Bears player mentioned. I was in the press box one section over from where he sang the 7th inning stretch), to call balls and strikes but I'm sorry because he was not making bad calls only against the Cubs. His strike zone was all over the place for both teams.

Ugh, I don't feel so well

2007-04-23T10:05:00.000-05:00

A full Saturday full of bars, Cubs game, more bars and a friends house steadily drinking the entire time will now give me a two day hangover.

Getting older is great.

Career Change?

2007-04-19T12:40:00.000-05:00

Some of these programs look interesting. I'm gonna talk to Chef Dusto and see what he thinks.

The Cooking and Hospitality Institute of Chicago

Washburn Culinary Institute

The How To Post

2007-04-18T10:01:00.000-05:00

How To:

Catch a Seagull

'The Curse' IS REAL!

2007-04-17T14:21:00.000-05:00

$136 million man Alfonso Soriano is out with a hamstring injury.

Fucking goat.

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In related news, Toni, from Toni's Hair Salon (2216 W Irving Park) is quite possibly my hero. She went out of her way to search me out and return my lost wallet, intact, to me. I apparently dropped it in the street out front of my place last Friday. When I tried to give her a $20 reward, she refused instead giving me her business card and stating in her thick Eastern European accent "I cut hair, you come and see me."

Shear Genius

2007-04-16T14:05:00.000-05:00

So Saturday I was watching baseball when the DVR recorder over at Tequila's place switched the channel to the Bravo network for a program named Shear Genius. Its a program about hair dressers that are competing against one another. As I was asking TR if I could switch the channel back to baseball I saw a familiar face on the screen. At that point I was all "Hey, that's Ben!"

I ended up watching my friend perform for the camera.

I asked my sister this morning if she remembered Ben Mollin to which she replied "Remember the time he tattooed Beavis and Butthead on Quent's calf..."

I remember back in the day he gave me a punk rock haircut. My parents didn't approve.

He is also in a band called River Oaks.

Racism, My hand and other happenings from around the world

2007-04-13T09:10:00.000-05:00

Don Imus has been fired. Good. He should have never said what he did, in jest or not, on the airwaves and I thought he should have been fired immediately. But for him to have to go on Al Sharpton's radio show and apologize to the Rev. about his racist statements is a joke. The good Rev. Sharpton has made way more inflammatory remarks about white and Jewish people. Diamond Merchants, Bloodsucking Jews, and White Implores are just a few that come to mind. Then there is the Tawana Brawley case where Sharpton was ordered by the court to pay restitution for defamation of character. The Good Rev. has never apologized to the people involved for those remarks.

And what about the three Duke Lacrosse Players, who earlier this week were not only cleared of all charges, but proclaimed completely innocent. Will Sharpton and Jesse Jackson publicly apologize to those boys? No, they won't. They won't even admit that their past statements were improper.

I went to the Hand Doctor yesterday and got the great news that although I did cut into the tendon and nerve line in my hand, everything should heal on its own in due time. I was told that I will have a small area the will forever be void of nerve action, I will regain the dexterity and strength that I had before the injury. This is great news, as my right hand ismy 'money hand'. I was freaking out that I was going to no longer be able to work with the small tools I use at my job thus forcing me to make a career change. I did get out of going to the big trade show in Las Vegas, something I really didn't want to do. Not going, and being on 'light duty' here is costing me several thousand dollars in pay I would have received though.

At least I'm not this guy. ***warning** the linked picture and story is GRAPHIC.

Food For thought

2007-04-10T09:58:00.000-05:00

This is the year of the Periodical Cicada's. There will be millions of the ugly, red-eyed bugs pretty much everywhere.

I found these recipes, so get yourself a bucket, gather up the bugs and eat them up.

Drums!

2007-04-06T13:21:00.000-05:00

Drive your office mates nuts with these drums.

It's fun.

It's annoying.

It'll drive 'em crazy in no time.

Stitches Out

2007-04-05T13:41:00.000-05:00

Just got back from the Dr. Here's a short review:

Doc: Sure we can take those out, how does it feel?
Me: Well, I can't really squeeze and my finger is numb
Doc: where? [grabbing my finger]
Me: Right there, up to here.
Doc: well, if it doesn't get feeling in another few days I'm going to want you to go see a hand specialist. Make a fist.. now with the other hand.
Me: [forming my hands into punching form]
Doc: With your right hand, make a fist...
Me: I am
Doc: You need to see the hand Doc right away....

Business trip canceled. Can't get into the hand Doc until 4/19. Can't really do much work, but have to be in the office until at least then.

Now I'm Freaking Out................

For Steve #2

2007-04-04T14:42:00.000-05:00

Last Day

2007-04-04T09:23:00.000-05:00

Today is my last day on the DL. My hand feels a lot better today. I can move it, and grasp with it. I still have some numbness in my finger, but seeing as the cut was narrow and deep most likely I cut some nerves and will now always have that.

Tomorrow I go back to work, then in the early afternoon I will go see my Doc and get the stitches removed. I'm looking forward to being able to shower without having to wear the rubber glove on my hand.

The 5 Day DL

2007-04-02T11:01:00.000-05:00

Being on the 'disabled list' for 5 days is not really what it is cracked up to be. Sure, I have been home with no real responsibilities, but I can't really do anything.

I called the Dr., going to see her on Thursday. I noticed spots on my pinky finger that are numb and now I'm afraid I may have done some permanent nerve damage.

The Landlord put in new laundry machines recently. One washer and one dryer for 8 units. Somehow they are always in use. I guess I'll just pack up my crap and head down to the laundromat. Not my most favorite place to be, but i need clean clothes.

Routine things like showering, cooking, eating are driving me crazy. I have to use a rubber glove to keep my hand dry. I can't squeeze or pull r really hold anything with my right hand.

The Tribune Co. announced this morning that my beloved Cubbies will be 'For Sale' after this year. Hopefully someone who knows how to and wants to run a successful baseball team buys them.

Play Ball

2007-04-01T13:48:00.000-05:00

"Take me out to the ball game,
Take me out with the crowd.
Buy me some peanuts and Cracker Jack,
I don't care if I never get back,
Let me root, root, root for the CUBBIES ,
If they don't win it's a shame.
For it's one, two, three strikes, you're out,
At the old ball game."

The Major League Baseball Season starts tonight at 7PM on ESPN2. The hated Mets take on the even more hated Cards.

I love this website. Find restaurants that deliver to your house on-line, some even take on-line orders!

NOTE: only available in the following cities:
New York
Chicago
Milwaukee
San Francisco

Ouch

2007-03-30T14:33:00.000-05:00

Last night I was washing some dishes. There was a wine glass. I grabbed it, slathered it with the soapy rag and shoved it under the stream of water. I moved the rag to the inner portion of the glass, it shattered. I felt the sharp pain of the edge dig deep into my skin. I instantly reacted, saying "I just cut myself..." as I turned the water to cold and forced my hand into the cold water. I rinsed my fingers, and pulled my hand out of the stream. Blood gushed to the surface covering my fingers in red. No in a slight panicked voice I asked "Can you get me a rag or paper towel or something? and ice?.. Om my god this hurts."

Trying to stay calm I continued to run the freezing cold water over the wound, knowing that this will shrink the blood vessels and slow the bleeding. In the meantime Tequila grabbed the ice, pulled out a few cubes, wrapped them in paper towel and handed them to me. I pressed the makeshift cold pack to my cut. The cold from the ice hurt more than the wound. I kept the pressure on for a few a quick minute. We decided to take another look, as soon as the cold pack was removed the blood rushed back.

"We need to take you to the hospital" Tequila ordered.

I shot back quickly, knowing that would mean needles, and stitches "No, no... This will be fine.."

I quickly changed my mind though and we were off.

Three hours, two shots, and four stitches later we were on our way home.

I now have the next 5 days off. I can't work. I can't really do much with my right hand.

I called my mom this morning. I asked her "How many stitches did The Little Bro get?"

Concert Mom said "6, why?"

I then told her the whole story, even the part about almost passing out while I was getting stitched up.

I won't post the pic, it's pretty gross. Unless you want to see it.

Current Situation

2007-03-29T13:28:00.000-05:00

Creed is rocking on the radio.

It's too cold without the heat on, but too warm with it on also.

Someone at the Cubs must have read my post because Mark Prior is starting the year at Iowa.

The $2000 hotel bill I was looking at will now be picked up by The Company.

I still have to go to Las Vegas in two weeks.

I need a new couch. And a new TV.

The new guy is starting soon. I had no idea until HR called today. I think I feel myself coming down with something that day. [cough, cough]

My little bro had his minor surgery yesterday. He's at home doing fine today.

Baseball season starts in 4 days.

Cable Shows

2007-03-26T10:52:00.000-05:00

So I started watching 'Weeds' yesterday. I am through the first two episodes and although it is no 'Rome' or 'Soprano's' it is quite entertaining and I can't wait to see more.

There is just something about the shows that HBO produces. Six Feet under, Band Of Brothers, Deadwood, and even Sex in The City were (are) great. Well, the first few seasons of them (except for B.O.B. which was a miniseries) were anyway. That being said, no other show has been as much of a 'must see' for me as the Soprano's has been. Last year, I "found" the episodes on the internet, and played them on my ipod. This year I have cable, and a DVR. I can't decide if I should pay for HBO to get the last season or just download and play via the ipod again.

Sports figures in Chicago

2007-03-23T09:53:00.000-05:00

Dear Chicago Cubs,

Please send mark Prior to Iowa to start the season. To pay this guy 3.whatever million for this season and have him start it off on the DL is ridiculous. His best chance of becoming someone that can help your team is to have him play baseball, not have an extended spring training. If he isn't on the Big League team he should be on the Iowa minor league team where he will face the best competition. Maybe he can join the MLB team by mid May, maybe not and he should be traded. But you won't know that unless he actually plays baseball.

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Dear Chicago Bears,

Lance Briggs has stated more than once that he wants to 'Be THE Man' and get out of Urlacher's shadow. He isn't happy with the Franchise Tag and the 7.whatever million he will get for playing on your team next season. I say trade him. trade him to the San Francisco 49ers, or the Texans or some other 'Bad' team that doesn't really have a chance of making the playoffs let alone having a winning season. He can then 'Be THE man' on some shitty team. Sure his individual stats will be through the roof, but his team will suck. All of his stats will be useless when he isn't playing in the post season.. you know...the time when it matters most to these players.

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Home Sweet Home

2007-03-21T12:16:00.000-05:00

Last night was the best night of alone sleep I have had in a looong time. The new place is starting to feel like 'Home' finally.

I still need to add some items to my new home, but it is really shaping up.

Flat. Pump. Cop.

2007-03-20T09:06:00.000-05:00

So last night I walked out of my office at 7:15PM. My car was the only car in the lot. My car had a flat tire. I was out at lunch driving around and didn't notice anything like a flat tire. So between 1:30 and 7:15 my tire went flat. I spent the next little while changing it. As I swapped my tire out for the mini spare I noticed a nail in the tread and thought to myself ''Ah-ha!''

Having super dirty hands and knowing I can't get back into my office building without triggering all sorts of alarms I decided to drive down the street to the nearest gas station where I could fill up, wash my hands and get something to drink for the ride home. I pulled in and did my normal 'Pay at the pump' routine and headed in to the washroom to freshen up. I grabbed an iced tea and paid for it, making small talk with the attendant. I am in this particular gas station all the time so pretty much everyone inside recognizes me. He hands me my change and I head out the door. As I stroll through the parking lot I notice a cop talking to a few people over to my right. I jump in my car, start the engine and slowly pull away. All the sudden I hear some crunching noise and the people talking to the cop (who are now to my left) are pointing at me and yelling. I think to myself, 'What the hell was that?" as the before mentioned cop is running tword me, one hand on his gun, yelling "SHUT OFF THE ENGINE AND EXIT THE VEHICLE. NOW!!!"

I did as he said seeing as I really wasn't into being shot by some rookie suburban cop. AS I got out of my car I noticed the nozzle of the gas pump hanging out of my gas tank just as the Rook Cop was drilling me about weather or not I paid for the gas. I replied, "Calm down, look the pump is asking me if I want a receipt... it wouldn't do that if I didn't pay. Would it?"

"Come with me inside, and give me your drivers license" he orders.

I muttered "Well, I can add to the short list of things I have never done before" as I shuffled through the lot noticing everyone else at the station starring at me.

The guys inside are all laughing at me as I enter their store. The Rook demands of them "Was pump 11 paid for?"

"Yes, hahaha, buddie.. pump.. hehehe 11 is taken care of"

" I just want to reaffirm, pump 11 is paid for?"

"pbbbbttt Yes, it is. Hahahahahahaa. Please bring the nozzle inside, we have a company that'll come take care of this. hahahahahaheheheheahaha."

"Here is your license, you're free to go" he states as he extends his arm holding my ID.

I snatch it up and reply "Gee thanks........" and turn with "Barney" muttered under my breath.

The best part is that my tire isn't flat due to the nail, but from the sidewall getting blown out from one of the gazillion potholes I encountered over the weekend.

Anyone know where to get a decent set of tires for cheap? Or how to claim pot hole damage to the city? that would be even better.

So far today I have.....

2007-03-19T15:46:00.000-05:00

... been blamed for losing a piece sales demo equipment I never had.
....been told by a customer that I am purposefully lagging on his repair. (The same guy gave the office secretary a hard time because she left early on Friday to attend to her live in boyfriend who was in the emergency room after a bad car accident, and he seems to think I am going to jump his work to the front of the line and get it back to him by Wednesday)
.... had a craptastic 25 minute lunch break. bite bite swallow, no time for chewing...
... have been asked 20 times "Are they going to fill the open position here?" like I have any say in that, or even know who 'they' are.

I love Monday's!

Gone, Gone, Gone

2007-03-16T14:08:00.000-05:00

He no longer works here, but his legacy lives on.

Poor quality work was his, but I am the one here that gets the blame and has to cover his tracks.

Happy Friday everyone!

Easy Money

2007-03-15T12:57:00.000-05:00

Do you have a Car or a Van? Start Making Money

Reply to: sale-294492233@craigslist.org
Date: 2007-03-15, 12:47PM CDT

Do you have a Car or a Van?

You can start making money, how? (Good Question)
We will give you a magnet sign 12” X 24” that say’s Stop this Car and Get 10% OFF Furniture.

Ok but how will I make Money? (Another good Questions)
Its simple the coupon we will give you has a code that will let us know who sent the customer. (Example your account number is CU101, that means the coupon saving code will also be CU101)

Ok, but how much will I make? (The best Question)
You will make 5% off the Sale that the customer purchases. (Example a customer stopped you and asked you for a coupon, and the customer did come in and ended up buying anything that we carry. Let’s say he bought a Sectional for $990 ~you will not get 5% of the TAX OR DELIVERY CHARGES COLLECTED ~ but you will get 5% of the Sectional price, so you made on this one sale $49.50)

When do I get my Commission?
We will mail all of the checks on the 5^th of each month; it will have the Customers Last name only with the invoice Number and the total they have bought.

How much do I have to spend on these magnets? (The answer is Simple)
You will pay nothing for them.

If you are interested please email me the Following.
Year of the car:
Make:
Model:
Color:
And your information.
Name:
Phone Number:

I will get back to you as soon as I can.

Email me at magnetprogram@homedream42.com and start making money.

This item has been posted by-dealer.
Location: Furniture Magnet Program
it's NOT ok to contact this poster with services or other commercial interests

Tip Toe

2007-03-14T10:21:00.000-05:00

After living below people who marched like elephants around their place I find myself tip toeing around in my new apartment. I pause suddenly when the floor creaks, I try to walk lightly, I keep the volume on the TV low. I find myself very conscience of the fact that someone, who I have yet to meet, lives right below me.

Hummmm.....

2007-03-12T11:30:00.000-05:00

So the office secretary just returned to the office after week in Florida.

She brought me some souvenirs:

#1 - a Geico 'So Easy A Cave Man Can Do It' Can Coolie

and

#2 - A Trojan

Um, thanks I guess.

Someday I hope to have a dog like this one.

Blahhh

2007-03-09T10:34:00.002-06:00

So not only is the Dan Ryan fucked again, but the South Side Irish Parade is this Sunday.

Heading to the far South Suburbs to visit the family is going to suck.

UPDATE!!

2007-03-08T10:30:00.000-06:00

Finally you saying.

Well, I moved. It was pretty painless, minus the part where it feels like someone smashed the heel of my left foot with a sledge hammer. Seriously, it hurts to walk.

I guess that's what happens when you are on your feet for the better part of six days.

Other than that I haven't been up to much.

Does anyone know the line-up for this years Lollapalooza? I just bought 2 tickets for $60 each and have no idea when it is or who is playing.

Krispy Kreme

2007-03-02T10:41:00.000-06:00

So Good You'll Suck a Dick

See the TV broadcast here.

Tonight my buddy Scott Metzger is coming back to town to play his guitar tonight. The show is sold out.

The last time I saw him play, in his band RANA, we ended up at Kingston Mines till 4 or 5AM. Ryan, the drummer, ended up on my couch. The next morning I drove him to Matt's brothers place down by the lake. A couple of us went up on the roof and puffed some weed. I helped them load some stuff into their van and was asked to accompany them to Indy for their next show. I had a date (our 2nd) with Tequila to go see The Hold Steady.

Needless to say, I didn't go to Indy.

Test

2007-03-01T11:30:00.001-06:00

Dear Readers,

Take this test and post your score in the comments.

Rules Of The Road

http://www.gmacinsurance.com/SafeDriving/2006/test.asp

Here is my score:

National Drivers Test - Results

Your score was: 100%

A score of 70% or better is considered passing on a state written drivers test. The correct answers are highlighted below.

Twenty Years Ago

2007-02-27T18:20:00.000-06:00

In the late 1980's Tipper Gore (Al Gore's wife, and the sole reason I voted against Al or would have if I voted back then) sparked a crusade against music. She apparently heard her daughter listening to Prince, the same Prince that played the Super Bowl Half-time show three years after Janet Jackson showed the world her boob as a 'safe' artist. The song was Darling Nikki.

At this point in my life I had heard of Frank Zappa, but was only familiar with "Don't Eat The Yellow Snow". After watching this show with my family, I decided that I would delve into Mr. Zappa's music a little bit further.

Thankfully Ms. Gore was thwarted by none other than folk singer Jonh Denver and his statement to the Senate Hearing that he was "strongly opposed to censorship of any kind in our society or anywhere else in the world", and that in his experience censors often misinterpret music, as was the case with his song "Rocky Mountain High".

Super Crazy Busy

2007-02-27T10:58:00.000-06:00

I am getting the keys to my new place tonight.

Yay.

Sweet Revenge

2007-02-26T16:26:00.000-06:00

So taking the advice of Buzz, I posted last Friday's post on the Chicago CL Rants and Raves forum. I didn't get too many responses. Here are some of the ones I did get.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Date: 2007-02-24, 1:02PM CST

Since he was driving an f350 truck give him a pass. He is full of hatred and envy because his life is not a dream anyone would want to live. Post his address and I'll send him 50,000 dollars so he can be happy like us educated and concerned people.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Date: 2007-02-24, 1:36PM CST

Wait a few weeks then throw a brick through his picture window. Attach a note saying "drive carefully".

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Date: 2007-02-24, 1:59PM CST

Anything you do, be sure to leave a note with a smiley face and "Can you finger out who I am?" or "Careful who you flip off and throw shit at next time".

I suggest sugar water in the tank, which takes a little time. Or, jamb a potato or two REALLY TIGHT in his exhaust pipes, or keying (but that just makes it seem like a jealous girlfriend), 1 1/2" roofing nails under his tires to back out over, let the air out of 4 tires (use a snipper and just cut the stems), dogshit on his door handles and gas cap, a nice shade of pink poured over the cab (a quart should do), Crazy Glue in the door locks (including gas cap key if there is one).
Jesus, this is fun to think about!

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Date: 2007-02-24, 1:43PM CST

I too get very frustrated but, it's best to let it go. You will not accomplish anything by having his address.

Always think of this when you are angry – we all go through many things in our life. How do you know his mind isn't consumed because his wife/mother/father/child

/children died or one of them is dying in a hospital, maybe he is going through a divorce, bankruptcy and or lost his job.

People don't do things on purpose unless it was with intention. This sounds like he was pre-occupied. Also, perhaps he was in a hurry to get home because of anyone of the items I mentioned above.

Let go – there will be a time you accidentally do something to someone and you'll know it wasn't intentional and you wouldn't want anyone to retaliate towards you and or family.

Throwing something wasn't cool - I do know if you press charges, he can lie and say you threw something at him then you just wasted time on some person you don't even know. You can never get your time back.
Spend it proactively.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

There are some really good ideas there. Personally I really like the 'dogshit under the door handle' one. My dad told me that some lady got jail time for a similar offense. That sounds fun, but who has the time for a lawsuit? Not me. No, I think I'll type up a short letter, letting the Jackass know what I could have done, if I were at his level. Then I'll print the linked story and drop it harmlessly in his mailbox.

With an M-80 attached to it.

What's the deal, maaannnn?

2007-02-23T11:08:00.000-06:00

So yesterday on my long commute home there was an incident.

There was a spot in the road where the right lane of a 2-lane-going-each-way-road merged into the left. I saw the HUGE blinking arrow sign and road horses and merged into the left lane long before the merge. I let a few people in front of me who also noticed the hazard. Then there was this one Jackass, driving a Blue Ford F-350 with the license plate 41 640E that drove around the last person to merge in front of me, apparently not aware of the HUGE BLINKING ARROW SIGN telling him to merge left. He quickly ran out of road and realized all this stuff was put in the middle of his lane he tried desperately to cut me off and squeeze his road hog of a truck in front of me. Having damage to my bumper already, I just didn't let him. Once we passed the hazard, the Jackass sped around me and threw something that hit my passenger window and flipped me the bird.

Well, I wrote down his info, and followed him at a distance to his house. So know I know where he lives.

Any suggestions as to what I do with this info, or do I just let this go?

Not So Fat Tuesday

2007-02-21T09:25:00.000-06:00

So yesterday I had planned a dinner consisting of Chicken, Shrimp, and Andouille Jambalaya with Cajun-Stuffed Pork Chops and cornbread muffins. I went to the local Jewel at lunch and bought some pork chops, raw shrimp and sausage. I shoved them into the fridge here and set an alarm on my phone so I wouldn't forget them here.

5 minutes before I am ready to leave, I run down to the cafeteria and grab my meat. I bring it back to my office and decide a quick trip to the boys room is necessary before I get into my car for the 50 minute commute home. After I handle my business in the rest room, I come back to my office shut down the computer, lock my cabinets, and turn off the equipment. Then I put on my coat, grab my bag and leave. Only I didn't grab the meat.

And I didn't realize it until I got home. We had plain old Chicken Jambalaya and corn muffins. Blah.

At least my office wasn't rank when I got here this morning.

Hotter than Hell

2007-02-20T16:20:00.000-06:00

Current Office Temp: 73.5 F

Current Outdoor Temp: 45 F

Current Office Worker Attitude: FUCK OFF

That's all, back to your regularly scheduled program.

Smoked

2007-02-20T10:30:00.000-06:00

The Daytona 500 race was this weekend. My guy' Tony "Smoke" Stewart' was heavily favored to win. For most of the race he ran in 2nd, then after going a little fast out of pit row and having to go all the way to the end he took first place. He was the wrecked by a Bush. (Well, a Busch but still). The end of tthe race was something to see. 2 cars battling head to head to the finish line while almost everyone behind them smashed into each other. Good Stuff.

I've been really digging this band lately Asobi Sesku.

They just released a live album, and last years Citrus is great.

Other events of the weekend were a quick, relaxing trip to Detroit. And that was it. I didn't do anything except get over this sinus infection. Of course I forgot the antiboitics I'm supposed to take twice daily this morning when I was late leaving for work.

I Still Don't Feel Better

2007-02-16T10:05:00.000-06:00

But I did download the new Modest Mouse CD today when I got to the office. I'm listening to it now. Nice.

Hopefully these drugs the Doc gave me will kick in.

I'm getting out of town for the weekend. Next week I start packing.

Ugh

2007-02-15T18:32:00.000-06:00

I got some med's from my Doc today. Hopefully this sinus thing finally goes away.

2007-02-13T07:45:00.000-06:00

Snow Day

I'm In!

2007-02-12T15:28:00.000-06:00

I just got a call from the New Landlord.

I'm approved. I can move in starting 3/1. Now I need to line up movers, come up with the security deposit, get cable, electric and cooking gas hook-up's, pack............

2007-02-12T09:50:00.000-06:00

So I filled out an application and should be all set to get the New Apartment. Now I am kind of getting a little stressed about the whole moving thing.

Today, my brother turns 12. Happy Birthday Little-Bro!

I just caught the office assistant checking out my 'package'

I just can't seem to shake this 'cold' and I'm beginning to wonder if it's a sinus infection.....

Shut Up.

2007-02-08T10:27:00.000-06:00

So today I turn on ESPN Radio and hear that Jeff Garcia is interested in coming to Chicago.

Ummmm, if that happens I will be a Packer Fan for the rest of my life. Do me a favor, look up stats for Brett Favre, Troy Aikman, Peyton Manning Joe Montana and Dan Marino. Compare those stats from their first full year as a starter to Rex Grossman and get back to me. Also, only one of them took their team to the Super Bowl in his first few seasons as a starter, and he went on to become one of the Greatest QB's ever.

Also, Rush.. JUST SHUT UP. Stop talking, really.

I'm now done with football talk. Go Cubs!!

It's fucking cold. I'm sick. I'm boring.

Shit, Fuck, Damn!

2007-02-06T09:49:00.000-06:00

I'm still angry.

Also, if you were disgusted by Mr. O'Reilly's comments on how that 11 yr old kid nap victim liked being kid-napped and RAPED you can email him here: oreilly@foxnews.com.

My Letter to Bill:

Mr. O'Reilly,

I just wanted to take a moment out of my busy day and commend you on your statements about Shawn Hornbeck enjoying being a kid-nap victim on your show. Like you said, otherwise he would have gone home at some point, I mean he was so close. Right?

I know that when I was 11years old I would have LOVED to be forcibly taken away from my family. I definitely would have chose being forcibly raped over going to school for 4 years. I mean forced sodomy, or 8th grade math.. not a hard decision for any kid I would guess.

Mr. Bill O'reilly, you sir are a jackass. I hope that you do the right thing here and go on your show and APOLOGIZE to Shawn Hornbeck and his family. You owe them that. To go on your show and proclaim the things you did about this poor child is disgraceful and disgusting.

Concert josh

Top Chef

2007-02-02T10:41:00.000-06:00

So after seeing the disappointing ending to this season's Top Chef I decided to look up where Marcel was working in Vegas.

According to his bio on the Bravo web site he works for Chef Joël Robuchon at the MGM in Vegas. A very good friend of mine also works for Chef Robuchon so I gave him a call to see if it would be possible for me to meet Marcel when I go out to Vegas later this spring.

Chef Dusto informed me that he too thought Marcel should have won, but his attitude in 'real life' was much like his attitude on the show. The smarmy, know it all, I'm better than you attitude he exhibited on the show. He was pretty much hated as much in 'real life' as he was on the show. Also, Chef Dusto informed me that Molecular Gastronomy was really looked down upon in the upper echelon of Chef's.

My opinion is that if Marcel could have worked better with Sam (who should have won) and Mikey in the kitchen for his final presentation he would have won.

The Major Leagues

2007-02-01T09:52:00.000-06:00

So I got an email from Monster telling me that they have partnered with Major League Baseball and have some positions open. For shits and giggles I checked the site and found a job opening that I would be GREAT at... so I uploaded my resume and applied.

My dream of being in the Big Leagues is about to come true!!

Ouch

2007-01-31T11:07:00.000-06:00

I feel like this guy today.

I have horrible posture and could stand to be a bit more fit I guess. All I really want is for the pain to go away. These are nice though.

Jump On

2007-01-29T14:12:00.000-06:00

For the low low price of $15, you too can jump on the Bears Bandwagon and look like a true fan.

I was out shopping with Tequila Red on Saturday afternoon. I was browsing the isles of Strange Cargo when I overheard some girl that was probably born in or after 1985 ask the person on the other end of her cell phone "Was 'The Refrigerator' know as 'The Sweetness'?"

I jammed the shirt I was looking at back on the rack, Found Tequila and proclaimed that we were leaving, right now.

I assume this girl also has a Konerko Jersey somewhere in her closet, probably right next to her Wrigley Field Bleachers T-Shirt.

Poor Thing.

Sports on TV

2007-01-26T10:25:00.000-06:00

So I watch a lot of sports on TV. If there is a ball and a way to score with it, I'll watch. Tennis, golf, baseball, basketball, football it doesn't matter. One of the things I see regularly when watching some sort of game is some jackass holding his cellphone to his ear and waving wildly in the stands.

Look at me, I'm on TV.

I despise these types. You're not on TV, you just happen to be part of the background in the shot of some professional player. No one is watching the game to see you in the stands, they are watching the people on the field, or court, or whatever.

Last night I had the opportunity to sit in some good seats at the Bulls vs. Mavericks game; 6 rows off the floor at center court. About half way through the 3rd quarter my phone rings. I pull it out of my pocket and see on the Caller ID that the call is from my parents house. It's my Dad. He's watching the game and wants to know where I am sitting. I give him my general location to which he replies:

"Stand up and wave so I can see you!"

feeling like a complete hypocrite I stick my arm up in the air and wave it. "Do you see me waving?"

Concert Dad: "No, stand up, what are you wearing?"
CJ: (I describe what I am wearing) "see me now?"
CD: "Are you waving right now?"
CJ: "Listen, this is stupid, I gotta go, this is a great game..."
CD: "Your brother (who just had surgery and is not really supposed to move much) wants to see you and your sister on TV, stand up and wave!!"

So I was that jackass in the stands with my phone jammed into my ear waving like an idiot so my little brother could see me on TV.

This happened to me once before. I had seats right behind home plate at Wrigley. Only it was Concert Mom who called, to tell me that I was on TV and that I needed to behave myself and not drink so much. I gave her the finger and chugged my beer.

Anniversary

2007-01-26T09:33:00.000-06:00

Today is the 21st Anniversary of the 1985 Bears Super Bowl Win.

Fox Not News Channel

2007-01-25T10:31:00.000-06:00

Last week a news story came out of the Fox Not News camp about Barrak Obama attending a radical Muslim school, and that Hillary Clinton's camp leaked that info to the press. Obama fights back here.

Well this story, like so many from Fox News, was proved to be quite wrong.

Now the Fox Not News poster child and sexual predator Bill O'Reilly is saying that kid nap victim and possible sex abuse victim Shawn Hornbeck enjoyed his stay with his captor. What an ass.

In other news, AirTran seems to be getting the public support for removing that screaming kid from one of their flights prior to take off.

Hit the throttle, throw the bottle!

2007-01-24T09:43:00.000-06:00

The half-time show during the Bulls game last night was a dog and trainer. The dog was doing various tricks and generally was entertaining. I had no idea how entertaining it was about to become. You see the Bulls have a mini blimp that flies around in the stadium during half time. Around the time the blimp was deployed, the dog was busy jumping through hoops, and rolling over when suddenly she spied the blimp. The dog stopped all tricks, looked at the blimp from center court and suddenly she bolted after the blimp barking and chasing it all around the court.

Also making an appearance to a thunderous applause was Staley Da Bear. The Chicago bears have taken over the city. Every news story on TV is some how related to the Bears;

"There is a 3 car pile up on the Kennedy, but Brian Urlacher and Robbie Gould have arrived on the scent and traffic is moving at its regular pace. In other news, Coach Lovie stopped 3 bank robberies, one short of the 4 Ditka stopped in his Super Bowl year."

The basketball game itself was pretty boring.

This morning, like pretty much every morning, I woke up and had the urge to pee. Like pretty much every morning, I laid in bed trying to ignore that urge. Then the radio alarm went off. I have my radio set to the Loop for the Johnny B. show. The topic being discussed was the Trucker Bomb.

Needless to say, I wasn't able to ignore my urge to pee for very long.

AirTran Airways flight attendants are my new hero's.

Movin' On Up, To The East Side

2007-01-22T12:04:00.000-06:00

Well, the North side anyway.

Over the weekend I informed my roommate/land lord that I am actively looking for a new apartment. We had discussed this before, but nothing was ever definitive or set. I told him I was planning on being out as early as March. He took the news kind of hard. We shared a few bottles of wine, I passed out on the couch.

The next few weeks I will be Apartment hunting. The nice thing about the hunt is I can shop around until I find the perfect place for me as I have no 'Move By' date set in stone.

Also, GO BEARS!

Super Bears, Super Bowl!

2007-01-22T09:05:00.000-06:00

I am still in awe.

Bear Down.

Monsters of the Midway.

Monkey Biz-ness

2007-01-17T10:49:00.000-06:00

Two Stories for Steve #2

Story #1

Story #2

and here's something for the rest of you.

Someone

2007-01-16T09:31:00.000-06:00

Someone out there is cyberspace should buy me this.

Puke

2007-01-12T15:57:00.000-06:00

So after feeling woozy last evening, and not sleeping well due to being hot and cold all night (not to mention some pretty freaky dreams) I woke up this morning and promptly went to the bathroom and puked. I then started the shower, puked again and then continued to get ready for work. I had some important stuff to do today and figured I'd get outta here by lunch.

Well, I'm still here.

Tomorrow I start looking at apartments in my new quest for a better neighborhood.

Yum

2007-01-11T14:54:00.000-06:00

food for thought