After last time's blog, I left you with a couple of links to the new Sherlock Holmes movie which contains three of my favorite things in a movie: Guy Ritchie (without Madonna), Sherlock Holmes, and Robert Downey, Jr. This movie is sure to be explosive, and it has reminded me that I have yet to finish the entire Holmes works of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle which is what I have again picked up to continue (hopefully by December when the movie comes out). It looks to be an exciting movie and show a closer representation of Doyle's Holmes and Watson than films have done in the past.
Additionally, going into the events of life here in Fayetteville, yesterday the wife, our friend, E, and I went to the local game shop, Castlehouse Games, to participate in a small gaming event where about a dozen people showed up to "dungeon delve" into Dungeons and Dragons 4th Edition. It was pretty fun, but that many geeks/nerds in one place can cause havoc and it did, at least in my mind. I was about to be driven up the wall when we arrived because that many people disturbs me in such close confines. J and C, coworkers from the park, know I get a bit nervous with people a bit too close and when there's nearly 20 of them, wow, I wanted to scream. Instead, though, I simply counted to 23 in my head to calm myself because I really know that it's my lack of social-ness that does that. Hopefully these events will bring me out of my shell a bit so that I can resemble something of a normal human being. Yeah, right! :)
So anyway, that was fun and the wife feels that it was good overall because it is boost the self-esteem of E to get out with some friends and just goof off and laugh. I hope so, but either way it was fun, so not a waste.
In other news, here is a great web comic I came across on Reddit either today or yesterday, don't remember. I always wondered if Vader went through that little monologue...
Lastly, I think I'll just mention a bit about the people of Fayetteville in general. It was really a crazy thing to move up here with very little money, few friends, and only the three cats to keep us cheered up (you know how that goes). We were both worried about settling down up here and worried about the whole transition, but I have to say, two weeks in, and we are enjoying the heck out of the area. We've been to see the lake and the Farmer's Market and various other places, and one thing that has stood out to both the wife and me is the caliber of people up here. For the most part, they are kind, considerate, and well spoken. Now that isn't to say that Arkadelphia was different or worse, but we were simply worried about "fitting in." The people here have enabled us to feel at home a lot faster than we would have otherwise. We joined a couple of forums and those folks have just brought us under their wings and accepted us even knowing how strange we are. So, to the people of the Fayetteville/Springdale area and specifically the NWARPG, Castlehouse, and CWNWA forums, Thank You All!
Cheesy? Maybe. But we wouldn't be enjoying this place without them!
Oh, and I almost forgot! Apparently, this guy is still trying to get somewhere in MMA fighting. Perhaps he and this joke should be locked in a cage together, hmmm?
Wednesday, June 3, 2009
Wednesday...a Day of Random Posting
Monday, June 1, 2009
Today: Like Any Other Day
"Write about an encounter you had with nature that left you awed, inspired, or overwhelmed."
The goal is to write for one minute about said topic, so here goes (perhaps for more than just a minute): Nature, hmmm, I'm not usually the go-out-and-frolick type person, but I have my moments from time to time and the wife enjoys being outdoors any time she can be. As far as awed, inspired, or overwhelmed, I am reminded of the time, just recently, I was driving up to Fayetteville moving the second load of our belongings along I-40 and then up I-540, and since it had just rained recently for almost two weeks straight, I was overcome by a feeling of just the sheer size and power of the water. It overflowed the banks of many a lake and river and there were several fields which should have been planted but could not because they had been flooded and were now small ponds. The crops would have to wait, and it is likely that some will not yield much of a harvest. It was a moment when you just look around and think, "wow, the forces of nature do not follow any rhyme or reason." There is certainly a thankful heart in my chest because I would rather have the rain than not, but it is humbling to see the destructive power of something so seemingly gentle as water.
So, that's the prompt, and in other news, it has been two weeks now in Fayetteville. My sister and her friend, N, visited us this weekend and following their visit, a friend, E, came over for the afternoon Sunday. We also received a short visit from members of our church here in Fayetteville as it has worldwide congregations. They seemed kind and offered any assistance they were able should we need it. I haven't yet decided whether I wish to return attending church, but that is neither here nor there for this arena. Religion, and spirituality, is best left to be pondered and discussed in the home and in the place of worship. Anywhere else, and it's often simply a point of vanity or egotism.
Well, that's that. As for today's happenings, the wife had her first day of stats: six students, female, and one professor. She enjoyed it but worries too much that she won't understand it. I know she will because she is very alert and receptive. She's great. As far as my day went, I had a bit of a lazy day at home with reading and movies. This evening, we both enjoyed a rousing session of the Call of Cthulhu RPG. Yes, I like to roleplay, and it has been, in my experience, an aid to improving social skills of which I had a fairly limited selection. It has helped in understanding how to speak with people without acting like an arrogant arse and has led to a decrease in foot-in-mouth disease outbreaks. It can be fun with the right group. Try it sometime.
And this should conclude the day's entry. It's late, I'm tired, and I would like to read a bit more
of Virginia Satir
Friday, May 29, 2009
The Final Lesson: A One Page Dungeon
So, a few weeks ago, I entered a simple, one page dungeon design to Chatty DM's contest, and since he already has so much on his plate, here it is on this blog for those interested to view. For you who don't know, I'm a fairly avid gamer who likes to GM quit a bit, but I know there are many others out there much more skilled than me. So, here it is, for better or worse: The Final Lesson.
And good luck to all the other 111 entries! I'm sure there was a lot of hard work, creativity, and heart put into every entry, so whichever entry wins, they surely deserve it!
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
After a long hiatus...
So, the wife and I have graduated from Henderson State University: she with a Master's in Counseling and myself with a Bachelor's in Psychology. Right on, right? Okay, so we were glad to get that completed and happy to have the degrees. The wife had already been accepted to the University of Arkansas for a PhD program, and we planned to move up May 18: just a week after graduation. So, we had a predicament of how to move everything up, and thanks to the kindness of her parents, they offered their truck, trailer, and assistance to help us move to Fayetteville. Two trips later, a few sore bodies, and some sushi (again, thanks to the parents), we enjoyed a few days in the city exploring with her parents.
They have since left and the wife and I have been scouring the web, newspapers, and businesses for a job source. It has been stressful and we have, at times, been a bit short on the nerves, but we are alive, healthy, and celebratory. Why? As of yesterday, May 26, we have been married for four years, but we have been friends for almost nine years. That is a good chunk of time to know someone, and I am sincerely still happy and still celebrate moments of what Thumper (don't sue me Disney, please) might have called "happenings of twitterpated-ness." We are goofy, annoying, and we have a great time together.
Anyway, I just wanted to get on here and post that bit of happiness in an otherwise unsure and stressful time. This is just a small stress and a job shall be had soon enough. Already got a call from the State Troopers' office for an interview for a dispatcher position. Let's hope it goes well, and thanks to my references: you all must have said something decent about me to get a callback interview!
Sunday, January 18, 2009
So, Long Time No Blog
So, Circuit City is closing down the remainder of its U.S. stores, and they recently started their liquidation, trying to get rid of a lot before closing shop for good. Now, when I first heard about this, I thought, ooh, they aren't going to get rid of much because of the shape the economy is in. Well, my fellow Americans have surprised me and astounded me. One might think that because the economy is cinching the belt on spending and loans and even causing the loss of jobs, citizens wouldn't go crazy like this but there has been just a lack of intelligent decisions at Circuit City stores around the nation. One man might have 5 LCD displays, another might have 2 or 3 DVD players, etc. Really guys?! May we all have a bit more common sense this coming year, especially President Obama.
But, some may say I'm being too harsh. Let's give this some thought then. Perhaps this may actually do the economy some good. I know Obama is wanting another stimulus plan, so perhaps consumers spending more will boost the economy. Perhaps all of this mishap from Circuit City will be the start of a good turn around, but what I think will actually happen is that these people will buy these electronics and have little money to "consume" other products. This will just lead to even more cinching of consumers' belts. Let's hope this economy will turn around. It's been done before.
Saturday, November 29, 2008
Battle of the Boot.
Okay, Arkansas hasn't been the greatest team this year and aren't going to a bowl this year, but the Battle of the Boot is always important to Arkansas and LSU, even if it solely a matter of pride. As I was listening to the game last night with Casey Dick's wild 4th down pass play turn to a touchdown pass to London Crawford, I was elated that the "Boot" would stay with Arkansas for another year. The play call was definitely questionable with only 4th and inches, but Dick showed that he knew his teammate's capability. After that touchdown, the announcers began talking about MVPs of the game, and I would have to give the game ball to the Arkansas defense. They really stepped it up in the second half and were able to give the offense a chance to get back in the game and ultimately win. Good job, guys! Congrats on the win!
Terrorists and the Like.
So, this guy posted this picture as a funny, ironic illustration denoting the overgeneralization of terrorist fashion and profiling of Arabs based on headwear and a beard.
Now, in response to this picture was this comment:
"What in the f--- do you expect? I mean come on…you look like a f---ing terrorist."
Really?! I guess I can see the resemblance to these other terrorists.
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
Curbside Take Away.
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
Veterans Day
To all the named and unnamed men and women who have ever stood to defend this nation of ours:
Ackward Moment between Two Men.
Friday, November 7, 2008
Les Stroud. Is. Survivorman!
Leia Mais…
Scary, scary Virus.
Thursday, November 6, 2008
Getting Over the Past.
Many people use the adage "an image is worth 1000 words," but rarely is that truer than this:
Sincerely,
A Grateful and Believing Citizen
And to first my wife and secondly my friends:
Thank you for staying with me long enough to get my own head out of those backwoods.
Tuesday, November 4, 2008
History in the Making Folks!
So, I'm sitting here, 11:28 p.m. Central Standard Time, wringing my hands, fighting back tears, and wondering what to write. Then I found this. It speaks volumes. More than I could ever write. A must read. Truly.
http://www.talkingpointsmemo.com/talk/blogs/eastside93/2008/11/i-didnt-vote-for-obama-today.php
Today is a great day for America.
November Fourth
Voting.
Writing Prompt for Today:
What would you tell an 18-year-old American to encourage them to vote today?
Vote. Vote from your heart. Don't listen to anyone else around you. Don't mind the nay-sayers or discriminators. Do it for yourself. After all, the next four years are in your hands today. Make sense of the mud slinging and name calling and catch phrases, and then go and cast your ballot.
Conspiracies are for those with little hope and lots of time. I have no real need for them whether they exist or not. The best part about voting is that you feel like you personally are making a difference in the world. Regardless of the outcome, by voting you showed you believed in the system. A system which is not perfect but can be fixed. It needs help, and citizens everywhere are starting today.
So, pick your clothes, wash up, and get yourself to yonder voting station. You'll be glad you did. And relax, the older people there really aren't that frightening.
Thursday, October 30, 2008
A Few Strangeties All Tied Together
Too much man lovin' for me. Just kidding. Seriously, I personally do not watch a lot of baseball, and like many people did not catch a second of live World Series television. I feel a bit less American, sure, but neither the Phillies nor the Rays inspire me to watch baseball. Sorry guys, but congrats to the Phillies for a big win.
3. And since we're on the topic of nightmares: tomorrow is Halloween. Yay! Costumes, candy, and crazies! I enjoy Halloween, but it isn't my favorite holiday much to the dismay of the wife who absolutely goes fanatic over this Hallow's Eve business. I enjoy it with her, but not as outgoing and fun. But, to celebrate, here are 13 really frightening horror movie scenes (NSFW or kids): Enjoy!
Leia Mais…
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
Creepy.
And to even things out a bit here at Dementos Anonymous:
Monday, October 27, 2008
Standing Your Ground
A week from tomorrow the wife and I will be traveling to a small community building roughly two miles out of town here in south-central Arkansas to place our hopes and wishes on a single man. We will vote for President of the United States of America, and while we have both made our decision (and have for a bit), certain family members have made constant jabs and small comments in reference to our decision. Last night this all culminated the wife's parents open up a can and the wife soundly shutting it once and for all with a successful argument based on fact with a dash of talk points thrown in for flavor. Either way you looked at it though, she won the argument and ended up quieting her mother who is quite the debater (and an Irish Scorpio to boot!). It got a little bloody on both sides of the discussion, but I was quite proud of wifey. She stood her ground, listened with intensity, and above all, she patiently plodded along getting through a thick "No Spin Zone."
Now, some have asked me in the retelling of this tale what I did in the mix. To that end, I ask: have you ever seen a tornado form? It begins with a jet of air that begins spinning inside of a cloud. As the spinning air continues to grow inside, it begins drawing in warm air from near the ground, and if it continues this inflow, the funnel eventually takes shape and will grow so long as that inflow of air continues to feed the cloud. In short, tornadoes are dangerous because they essentially fuel their own fire. Last night was such an event as the energy between mother and daughter grew and began forming that funnel, and when you see the funnel, emergency services always warn you to seek the nearest shelter. So, I sat back and watched out for debris. Surprisingly, because the wife was able to present an actual, intelligent argument in contrast to her mom who resulted to Fox News catch phrases, there was little in the way of actual debris. Both ended the debate worked up, but they were at least able to continue in a friendly manner. I think this speaks volumes to the strength and maturity of wifey. Had she not been able to keep a cool head and think quickly, her mother would have simply pulled the "you don't have enough life experience to understand" card.
So, what does all this mean: it means my wife is great, I love her, and I'm proud to have married such an intelligent mate. Yay, Nerds!!
Saturday, October 25, 2008
Musings on a Day
Life is Fine
by Langston Hughes
I went down to the river,
I set down on the bank.
I tried to think but couldn't,
So I jumped in and sank.
I came up once and hollered!
I came up twice and cried!
If that water hadn't a-been so cold
I might've sunk and died.
But it was Cold in that water! It was cold!
I took the elevator
Sixteen floors above the ground.
I thought about my baby
And thought I would jump down.
I stood there and I hollered!
I stood there and I cried!
If it hadn't a-been so high
I might've jumped and died.
But it was High up there! It was high!
So since I'm still here livin',
I guess I will live on.
I could've died for love--
But for livin' I was born
Though you may hear me holler,
And you may see me cry--
I'll be dogged, sweet baby,
If you gonna see me die.
Life is fine! Fine as wine! Life is fine!
Yesterday was one of those days...
You know the day. The one where nothing can go right and the gods seemed to have picked you as the target of the day for ridicule and merriment. Yep, I know that my life probably isn't nearly as horrible as the worst day of the guy who has it worst, but all things are relative, right? Yesterday was not my personal worst, but it was a day where I just wanted to go home and not see another living soul. I know, I'm evil. I shouldn't want to be like that, right? You know what I think though? Well, if you're reading this, I assume you at least wonder what's inside my deranged thought box, so what I'm thinking about this is that all people everywhere have, at the very least, small glimpses of insanity. Most of us on this planet quickly recover from these, but a select few of us tend to fall prey to the small glimpses and those spurts prolong themselves to minutes and hours and longer if we are not careful to inoculate ourselves to them or if they are simply allowed to grow. And as Stephen King has noted, some of us are just able to hide that insanity better than others.
So, that was a fine example of one of those bits of insanity, or tangents if you should so label them. Anyway, I know that my world will go on, and yesterday will pass as all other bad days have. Besides, today is a great day, and no day will be so bad that I can't keep on living. Life is good, the sun is shining, it's cool outside, the leaves are changing colors, and I'm going camping. Everything will be alright. Even the co-worker throwing toilet paper at my back repeatedly...no, not even he can deter my enjoyment of the day. May the gods and saints preserve us, and for the wonderful wife:
May you all enjoy your "chubby cuppy cakes!"
