Friday, June 15, 2007
Thursday, May 31, 2007
Losing Iavaroni and the Memphis Grizzlies college team
Mark Iavaroni (which should really be pronounced yavaroni ;) ) was recently hired as the head coach of the Memphis Grizzlies. He's going to be a huge loss for Phoenix, but I think this is his big chance and he needs to, of course, fly with this opportunity. He's been an assistant coach for three big coaching names: Fratello, Riley, and D'Antoni...needless to say, he's been groomed by the best.
This, however, is not the point of my post. While reading a story on Yahoo! Sports (written by AP writer Woody Baird), I read this paragraph:
This, however, is not the point of my post. While reading a story on Yahoo! Sports (written by AP writer Woody Baird), I read this paragraph:
Tony Barone, the Grizzlies' former director of player personnel, was appointed interim coach last season when Memphis fired Mike Fratello with the team at 6-24. The Grizzlies finished at 22-60 following three straight trips to the NCAA playoffs.NCAA playoffs? Hellooooo... Good thing you changed it after who knows long... I know even the best journalists make mistakes, but had I done something like that under my newswriting professor he would have cut my finger off...under any of my previous editors and the appendages would definitely be larger.
Tuesday, May 29, 2007
back from The Magic Kingdom
Holli and I spent Memorial Day weekend with her parents, two of her sisters and brother-in-law at Disneyland. We had a blast (albeit at the price of some very sore feet and ankles). Seriously, I thought I was going to give out, but we all hung in there (and who knows, I might be the only one who suffered!)
Holli's family takes their Disney very seriously. I've never seen anything like it, but with them it makes it a lot more fun. We pretty much canvassed both parks and rode nearly every ride, though I have to say that Space Mountain and Big Thunder Mountain Railroad in Disneyland and California Screamin' and Tower of Terror in California Adventure were my favorites. A lot of my friends don't take me for the thrill ride type, but I love them.
The premiere for the latest Pirates of the Carribbean movie was at Disneyland the night we got there, and by the next day it was evident that a definite pirate theme was taking over the park...maybe a little too much for my taste, but hey...money talks, and Pirates has definitely been another Disney cash cow.
Holli and I were both a little sad because we don't know when we'll be able to do something like that with her family again. The fact that we're supposed to be moving in exactly eight weeks has startled both of us, and we've really got to bear down and get ready to get out of here. I know that the move is going to be hard on her because she's very close to her family (I'll miss them too, of course!) But, I guess I'm just wanting to get it over with and become temporary Georgians. We want to come back somewhere near our families when I'm done, but anyone in academia knows that it's not always that simple (though people have told me that a Georgia Ph.D. will give me a little more leverage -- which is a nice thought, but the skeptic in me is still out on that one.) One Georgia Ph.D. is leaving UNLV for UT Dallas, and another is coming to U of A, so hopefully there will be some prospects for us out west when I'm finished.
Anyway...I've totally derailed the topic, which is probably a good indicator that I should stop writing for now...
Until then...
Holli's family takes their Disney very seriously. I've never seen anything like it, but with them it makes it a lot more fun. We pretty much canvassed both parks and rode nearly every ride, though I have to say that Space Mountain and Big Thunder Mountain Railroad in Disneyland and California Screamin' and Tower of Terror in California Adventure were my favorites. A lot of my friends don't take me for the thrill ride type, but I love them.
The premiere for the latest Pirates of the Carribbean movie was at Disneyland the night we got there, and by the next day it was evident that a definite pirate theme was taking over the park...maybe a little too much for my taste, but hey...money talks, and Pirates has definitely been another Disney cash cow.
Holli and I were both a little sad because we don't know when we'll be able to do something like that with her family again. The fact that we're supposed to be moving in exactly eight weeks has startled both of us, and we've really got to bear down and get ready to get out of here. I know that the move is going to be hard on her because she's very close to her family (I'll miss them too, of course!) But, I guess I'm just wanting to get it over with and become temporary Georgians. We want to come back somewhere near our families when I'm done, but anyone in academia knows that it's not always that simple (though people have told me that a Georgia Ph.D. will give me a little more leverage -- which is a nice thought, but the skeptic in me is still out on that one.) One Georgia Ph.D. is leaving UNLV for UT Dallas, and another is coming to U of A, so hopefully there will be some prospects for us out west when I'm finished.
Anyway...I've totally derailed the topic, which is probably a good indicator that I should stop writing for now...
Until then...
Thursday, May 24, 2007
Two way monologue (a catchy little song by Sondre Lerche)
While Holli and I were scarfing down the unhealthy Mexican food from across the street last night, we were switching between American Idol and Lost on TV...we don't really watch American Idol, but since Jordin Sparks is the hometown girl, we wanted to pull for her in hopes she'd win. Anyway, the Pennistons were singing with Melinda Doolittle, and the following dialogue ensued...
Me: Did you know the Pennistons have a house in Arizona?
Holli: Who are the Pennistons?
Me: They're the ones singing on TV right now.
Holli: Oh, I didn't know.
Me: You know, I just might have you beat on music knowledge...
Holli: Maybe. You might. I have obscure, random music knowledge.
Me: I do too! Did you know that Edgar Winter is an albino?
Holli: That's not what I'm talking about...
It was funnier in person...
Me: Did you know the Pennistons have a house in Arizona?
Holli: Who are the Pennistons?
Me: They're the ones singing on TV right now.
Holli: Oh, I didn't know.
Me: You know, I just might have you beat on music knowledge...
Holli: Maybe. You might. I have obscure, random music knowledge.
Me: I do too! Did you know that Edgar Winter is an albino?
Holli: That's not what I'm talking about...
It was funnier in person...
Wednesday, May 23, 2007
Surprise, surprise...the NBA responded...
I just received an e-mail from suns-spurs@nba.com. Evidently there was enough outrage to establish an e-mail to specifically address the silliness of Stu Jackson and David Stern. The text of the e-mail follows, with my response below the asterisks... and notice the lack of mention of Bruce Bowen and NBA-Perfect-Poster-Child-of-the-Cetury Tim Duncan getting up from the bench during the Jones/Elson "scuffle."
---
Thank you for taking the time to contact us about the suspensions of Amare Stoudemire and Boris Diaw of the Phoenix Suns. Although we probably will not change your mind, we wanted to share with you the rationale for the rule and the facts requiring our decision.
The Rule
Rule 12, Section VII(c) of the NBA Official Playing Rules says: "During an altercation, all players not participating in the game must remain in the immediate vicinity of their bench. Violators will be suspended, without pay, for a minimum of one game and fined up to $50,000."
· The purpose of the rule is to prevent an on-court altercation from getting worse by making sure that players on the bench do not become involved -- whether or not they intend to. The fewer the number of players on the court, the less likely it is that an altercation will escalate and the more likely it is that the referees and coaches will be able to restore order without serious injury to players or to fans.
· The rule doesn't look to the intent of the players leaving the bench and it does not distinguish among the curious, the peacemakers or those seeking to become involved in the altercation. The reason for this is simple -- the players on the court have no idea what a player's intent is when he leaves the bench and in the heat of the moment they may well assume the player is approaching as an aggressor. Thus, the language of the rule is firm: "violators will be suspended."
· This is not a rule that can be enforced on a case-by-case basis -- if a player were able to leave the bench and later argue his case and avoid a suspension, there would be more players leaving the bench. And because the rule has been applied consistently over the years, bench-clearing incidents have been rare. Overall, the leaving-the-bench rule, together with others, has succeeded in dramatically reducing the amount of fighting in the league and all but eliminated serious injury during fights that do occur.
· Teams and players are reminded of the rule before every regular season and again before the playoffs. Teams try to ensure that their players comply with the rule by both reminding them of it and assigning assistant coaches the job of keeping players in the vicinity of the bench when incidents do occur.
The Facts Requiring the Stoudemire and Diaw Suspensions
· As soon as Steve Nash was fouled, both Amare and Boris ran toward the scene, each ending up over 20 feet away from the Suns' bench and near the altercation. Despite what many have said, they didn't "walk" a few feet from the bench and they didn't "wander" onto the court. In fact, they engaged in the very conduct the rule was meant to stop.
· No one knew what the players' intentions were when they left the bench and they could very easily have gotten involved in the altercation had it spilled over in their direction. And although you could say they were having a "natural" reaction to seeing their teammate go down, assistant coaches are supposed to stop bench players from acting on those kinds of reactions, which was the case with the 17 other players (active and inactive) who were on the benches at the time and did not leave.
As with all NBA rules, this one can be changed by a vote of the Board of Governors. Rules are typically changed following a recommendation from the Competition Committee, which will discuss the leaving-the-bench rule (along with several other items) at its next meeting. At this time, we don’t have a better rule to recommend.
One thing everyone can agree on: this was an extremely unfortunate circumstance. We never want to suspend players for any game, much less a playoff game, but for all the reasons described above, the facts dictated the application of the rule.
*****
My response:
You are correct. You didn't change my mind, but I do thank you for your response.
However, the statement "As soon as Steve Nash was fouled, both Amare and Boris ran toward the scene, each ending up over 20 feet away from the Suns' bench and near the altercation. Despite what many have said, they didn't "walk" a few feet from the bench and they didn't "wander" onto the court. In fact, they engaged in the very conduct the rule was meant to stop" I found quite interesting.
Once I read 20 feet, you caught my attention. Were we watching the same tape or is 20 feet a rounded up estimation?
I'm sure my decision to sell my season tickets won't harm the NBA in the least, and I doubt the NBA cares. I do hope, however, that you notice the apparent drop in interest in the Playoffs since this incident happened (after all, the Spurs couldn't even sell out their first game against Utah).
Maybe the NBA will become respectable in my eyes again, and after I move to the Atlanta metro area, who knows, maybe I'll become a Hawks fan and become interested again...
Thanks again for your response,
J
---
Thank you for taking the time to contact us about the suspensions of Amare Stoudemire and Boris Diaw of the Phoenix Suns. Although we probably will not change your mind, we wanted to share with you the rationale for the rule and the facts requiring our decision.
The Rule
Rule 12, Section VII(c) of the NBA Official Playing Rules says: "During an altercation, all players not participating in the game must remain in the immediate vicinity of their bench. Violators will be suspended, without pay, for a minimum of one game and fined up to $50,000."
· The purpose of the rule is to prevent an on-court altercation from getting worse by making sure that players on the bench do not become involved -- whether or not they intend to. The fewer the number of players on the court, the less likely it is that an altercation will escalate and the more likely it is that the referees and coaches will be able to restore order without serious injury to players or to fans.
· The rule doesn't look to the intent of the players leaving the bench and it does not distinguish among the curious, the peacemakers or those seeking to become involved in the altercation. The reason for this is simple -- the players on the court have no idea what a player's intent is when he leaves the bench and in the heat of the moment they may well assume the player is approaching as an aggressor. Thus, the language of the rule is firm: "violators will be suspended."
· This is not a rule that can be enforced on a case-by-case basis -- if a player were able to leave the bench and later argue his case and avoid a suspension, there would be more players leaving the bench. And because the rule has been applied consistently over the years, bench-clearing incidents have been rare. Overall, the leaving-the-bench rule, together with others, has succeeded in dramatically reducing the amount of fighting in the league and all but eliminated serious injury during fights that do occur.
· Teams and players are reminded of the rule before every regular season and again before the playoffs. Teams try to ensure that their players comply with the rule by both reminding them of it and assigning assistant coaches the job of keeping players in the vicinity of the bench when incidents do occur.
The Facts Requiring the Stoudemire and Diaw Suspensions
· As soon as Steve Nash was fouled, both Amare and Boris ran toward the scene, each ending up over 20 feet away from the Suns' bench and near the altercation. Despite what many have said, they didn't "walk" a few feet from the bench and they didn't "wander" onto the court. In fact, they engaged in the very conduct the rule was meant to stop.
· No one knew what the players' intentions were when they left the bench and they could very easily have gotten involved in the altercation had it spilled over in their direction. And although you could say they were having a "natural" reaction to seeing their teammate go down, assistant coaches are supposed to stop bench players from acting on those kinds of reactions, which was the case with the 17 other players (active and inactive) who were on the benches at the time and did not leave.
As with all NBA rules, this one can be changed by a vote of the Board of Governors. Rules are typically changed following a recommendation from the Competition Committee, which will discuss the leaving-the-bench rule (along with several other items) at its next meeting. At this time, we don’t have a better rule to recommend.
One thing everyone can agree on: this was an extremely unfortunate circumstance. We never want to suspend players for any game, much less a playoff game, but for all the reasons described above, the facts dictated the application of the rule.
*****
My response:
You are correct. You didn't change my mind, but I do thank you for your response.
However, the statement "As soon as Steve Nash was fouled, both Amare and Boris ran toward the scene, each ending up over 20 feet away from the Suns' bench and near the altercation. Despite what many have said, they didn't "walk" a few feet from the bench and they didn't "wander" onto the court. In fact, they engaged in the very conduct the rule was meant to stop" I found quite interesting.
Once I read 20 feet, you caught my attention. Were we watching the same tape or is 20 feet a rounded up estimation?
I'm sure my decision to sell my season tickets won't harm the NBA in the least, and I doubt the NBA cares. I do hope, however, that you notice the apparent drop in interest in the Playoffs since this incident happened (after all, the Spurs couldn't even sell out their first game against Utah).
Maybe the NBA will become respectable in my eyes again, and after I move to the Atlanta metro area, who knows, maybe I'll become a Hawks fan and become interested again...
Thanks again for your response,
J
Friday, May 18, 2007
Tagged by Eden
Ok, folks...I hope I get this meme right...
* I am an only child.
* I am a Sun Devil, Jerry!
* I am a sufferer of Adult AD...hey..look at that plane in the sky...
* I am no longer a Democrat, nor am I a Republican. I am enjoying my freedom as an Independent.
* I am married to the most amazing person I've ever met (how fortunate I am that she said yes).
* I am sporting some new braces on my teeth (albeit about 15 years too late...and my teeth were already straight, but one decided not to come up, so it's being pulled up, but in order to pull it up correctly, evidently I have to have braces on my teeth to keep them straight whilst the #22 canine forces it's way into my bottom row).
* I am losing my hair and am becoming comfortable with being bald (and by that, I mean I'm shaving my head rather than look like the old man I never want to become).
* I am replete with junk knowledge...just try me. Podgorica is the capital of Montenegro, yo.
* I am about to become a doctoral student and I'm kind of scared (if you know my history with past doctoral students, you'll completely understand why).
* I am a convert to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and am happy to tell you why any day.
* I am simple, yet oh-so-very complex (ask my wife...or friends).
* I am in the process of doing some geneology and have traced my heritage to Spain, Mexico, Scotland, Germany, Italy (on both sides), the Cherokee nation, and Chiricahua Apaches...
* I am ready to tag Steve, Amy, and some lucky number three with this meme...
* I am an only child.
* I am a Sun Devil, Jerry!
* I am a sufferer of Adult AD...hey..look at that plane in the sky...
* I am no longer a Democrat, nor am I a Republican. I am enjoying my freedom as an Independent.
* I am married to the most amazing person I've ever met (how fortunate I am that she said yes).
* I am sporting some new braces on my teeth (albeit about 15 years too late...and my teeth were already straight, but one decided not to come up, so it's being pulled up, but in order to pull it up correctly, evidently I have to have braces on my teeth to keep them straight whilst the #22 canine forces it's way into my bottom row).
* I am losing my hair and am becoming comfortable with being bald (and by that, I mean I'm shaving my head rather than look like the old man I never want to become).
* I am replete with junk knowledge...just try me. Podgorica is the capital of Montenegro, yo.
* I am about to become a doctoral student and I'm kind of scared (if you know my history with past doctoral students, you'll completely understand why).
* I am a convert to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and am happy to tell you why any day.
* I am simple, yet oh-so-very complex (ask my wife...or friends).
* I am in the process of doing some geneology and have traced my heritage to Spain, Mexico, Scotland, Germany, Italy (on both sides), the Cherokee nation, and Chiricahua Apaches...
* I am ready to tag Steve, Amy, and some lucky number three with this meme...
It will end only to begin again...
Well, the time will soon come when this blog will cease to exist. Yep. Big Ronk is going to end. It's not because I don't get readoers or can't manage to post frequently enough, it's just time for a change.
Holli and I have talked a lot about combining into one blog where both of us can post, and being that we'll soon be moving, starting over might not be the worst idea. We won't have any friends in Athens, so, I can only assume that we'll be turning to our friends and family for support until we meet some likeminded folks.
Until then, I'll see if I can't put this to use for a couple more months!
Holli and I have talked a lot about combining into one blog where both of us can post, and being that we'll soon be moving, starting over might not be the worst idea. We won't have any friends in Athens, so, I can only assume that we'll be turning to our friends and family for support until we meet some likeminded folks.
Until then, I'll see if I can't put this to use for a couple more months!
Wednesday, May 16, 2007
JOHNRON'S BEAN BURGERS
OK - I've received a fair amont of inquiries on my beanburger recipe, so I'm going to go ahead and post it... provided you give me a little credit. ;)
One thing...making the bean patties can get messy. Just prepare for it and accept it.
1 can Garbanzo beans
1 can black beans
1 egg
1 tablespoon Olive Oil (give or take...and extra virgin is my preference!)
1/2 cup dried oats (or dried substitute of your choice)
1/4 cup flour (I prefer wheat)
Salt
Pepper
Other spices of your choosing
Drain cans of beans and empty both into a mixing bowl. If you have an electronic mixer (such as a Kitchen-Aid) it is quite helpful. Otherwise, use a potato masher to mash the beans. As a last resort, use your hands.
Use some of the olive oil to help build a little consistency in the mixture. All beans don't have to be completely mixed, some can be whole or partially whole.
Mix some spices into the beans along with oats without letting the mixture get too dry and crack the egg into the mixture and mix well. If the mixture gets too dry, add a little oil, and if it doesn't set up very well and is still too wet, add some of the flour you have on hand. The egg is for consistency, but if you freak out over cholestorol, please don't feel constrained to use it.
Make your patties (no more than 1/2 inch thick) and season as desired.
If cooking on an open grill, be sure to turn burger more often than a regular hamburger, but otherwise cook as you would a normal hamburger. If cooking on a stovetop, make sure there's a decent amount of olive oil to cook them in.
This makes 3-5 burgers depending on how big you make them. Remember, the beans don't shrink like ground beef would. Double the cans of beans to make more...
And that's it...easy!
If any of you use the recipe, let me know how it turned out!!
One thing...making the bean patties can get messy. Just prepare for it and accept it.
1 can Garbanzo beans
1 can black beans
1 egg
1 tablespoon Olive Oil (give or take...and extra virgin is my preference!)
1/2 cup dried oats (or dried substitute of your choice)
1/4 cup flour (I prefer wheat)
Salt
Pepper
Other spices of your choosing
Drain cans of beans and empty both into a mixing bowl. If you have an electronic mixer (such as a Kitchen-Aid) it is quite helpful. Otherwise, use a potato masher to mash the beans. As a last resort, use your hands.
Use some of the olive oil to help build a little consistency in the mixture. All beans don't have to be completely mixed, some can be whole or partially whole.
Mix some spices into the beans along with oats without letting the mixture get too dry and crack the egg into the mixture and mix well. If the mixture gets too dry, add a little oil, and if it doesn't set up very well and is still too wet, add some of the flour you have on hand. The egg is for consistency, but if you freak out over cholestorol, please don't feel constrained to use it.
Make your patties (no more than 1/2 inch thick) and season as desired.
If cooking on an open grill, be sure to turn burger more often than a regular hamburger, but otherwise cook as you would a normal hamburger. If cooking on a stovetop, make sure there's a decent amount of olive oil to cook them in.
This makes 3-5 burgers depending on how big you make them. Remember, the beans don't shrink like ground beef would. Double the cans of beans to make more...
And that's it...easy!
If any of you use the recipe, let me know how it turned out!!
Tuesday, May 15, 2007
An open letter to NBA Commissioner David Stern and Vice President of Basketball Operations Stu Jackson
Dear Commissioner Stern and Mr. Jackson:
I believe you have set a very poor precendent in handing down suspensions to Amare Stoudamire and Boris Diaw of the Phoenix Suns today. I realize that there exists a rule specifically prohibiting the action these two players committed, but evidently it does not apply to Tim Duncan and Bruce Bowen of the San Antonio Spurs, who also left their home bench. If you are going to follow the letter of the law, you should follow it to the fullest extent.
What Robert Horry did was thuggish and, in my opinion, merited more than a two-game suspension. It was a calculated move, and Phoenix will ultimately pay the price for it, not San Antonio. When things like this - interventions from the league that are ultimately one-sided - happen in a sport where players should be allowed to play, I begin to lose interest in the game, but also in attending games, where part of my ticket money finds its way to your offices. There was no altercation involving Diaw or Stoudamire, regardless of what their intentions were when they arose. I simply think they did what many people would have done if their teammate was put in the same position.
Bruce Bowen was not punished for a kick to Stoudamire, nor a knee to Steve Nash's groin, and Baron Davis was not suspended for the incident with Derek Fisher, and now, Duncan and Bowen won't be punshed for leaving the bench during the Elson/Jones scuffle earlier in the game, but Stoudamire and Diaw will be punished for the ridiculous and uncalled for foul Robert Horry committed.
I regret to say that I consider this a baseless and almost spineless action on the league's part. Clearly Commissioner Stern already feels some shame since it has been announced that he will not be attending tomorrow's game. My advice to the commissioner would be to elongate that distance from US Airways Center for a long time until this shameful incident is in a much deeper recess of our mind.
I am a disgusted fan, who had season tickets, and I would be very much inclined to sell next year's package because I don't want my money touching any organization that floats such heinous double standards so freely.
Sincerely,
JCR
I believe you have set a very poor precendent in handing down suspensions to Amare Stoudamire and Boris Diaw of the Phoenix Suns today. I realize that there exists a rule specifically prohibiting the action these two players committed, but evidently it does not apply to Tim Duncan and Bruce Bowen of the San Antonio Spurs, who also left their home bench. If you are going to follow the letter of the law, you should follow it to the fullest extent.
What Robert Horry did was thuggish and, in my opinion, merited more than a two-game suspension. It was a calculated move, and Phoenix will ultimately pay the price for it, not San Antonio. When things like this - interventions from the league that are ultimately one-sided - happen in a sport where players should be allowed to play, I begin to lose interest in the game, but also in attending games, where part of my ticket money finds its way to your offices. There was no altercation involving Diaw or Stoudamire, regardless of what their intentions were when they arose. I simply think they did what many people would have done if their teammate was put in the same position.
Bruce Bowen was not punished for a kick to Stoudamire, nor a knee to Steve Nash's groin, and Baron Davis was not suspended for the incident with Derek Fisher, and now, Duncan and Bowen won't be punshed for leaving the bench during the Elson/Jones scuffle earlier in the game, but Stoudamire and Diaw will be punished for the ridiculous and uncalled for foul Robert Horry committed.
I regret to say that I consider this a baseless and almost spineless action on the league's part. Clearly Commissioner Stern already feels some shame since it has been announced that he will not be attending tomorrow's game. My advice to the commissioner would be to elongate that distance from US Airways Center for a long time until this shameful incident is in a much deeper recess of our mind.
I am a disgusted fan, who had season tickets, and I would be very much inclined to sell next year's package because I don't want my money touching any organization that floats such heinous double standards so freely.
Sincerely,
JCR
Monday, May 14, 2007
The Phoenix Suns just might break my heart...
...and I'm slowly, but surely, learning to HATE the San Antonio Spurs!!
Monday, May 07, 2007
Following Suit, pt. 2
This one comes from Holli, who made it very difficult because she used a ton of answers I would have used...but hey, I tried....
Three things that scare me:
• Britney Spears
• Large spiders
• Most of the drivers in the Phoenix Metro area
Three people who make me laugh:
• Holli
• Kristin Wiig
• myself (not because I think I'm funny, but mostly because of stupid things I do)
Three things I love:
• My wife
• Italy
• occasional solitude
Three things I hate:
• inconsiderate people
• blatant disrespect
• Paris Hilton
Three things I don’t understand:
• Chinese (Mandarin or Cantonese...or any others for that matter)
• People who say they're conservative but drink irresponsibly, dress like whores and the like, and engage in lascivious acts
• Math beyond college algebra
Three things on my desk:
• A picture of me and Holli
• An old ASU Vanity Plate
• A phone that was installed in 1986
Three things I’m doing right now:
• typing
• stressing
• trying to read more
Three things I want to do before I die:
• Go back to Italy
• Raise children
• Run a half marathon or do a triathlon
Three things I can do:
• Speak a foreign language
• Introduce myself to a complete stranger regardless of place and time
• Drive for hours on end without getting tired
Three things I can’t do:
• two pull-ups in a row
• concentrate on one thing for too long
• find a third point to put in this category
Three things (or people) I think you should listen to:
• Reason
• Your heart
• Your mother
Three things (or people) you should never listen to:
• Kevin Trudeau
• someone who doesn't really know you but still tries to convice you of something that's "in your best interest"
• Tom Leykis
Three things I’d like to learn:
• How to write better
• How to be patient
• How to play an instrument
Three favorite foods:
• Mediteranean
• Mexican
• Italian
Three shows I watched as a kid:
• Saved by the Bell
• Pee-Wee's Playhouse
• Thundercats
Three things I regret:
• Ever thinking junk food was ok to eat
• Tasting Vegemite (I don't care how much Vitamin B is in it!)
• Hurting anyone's feelings or making anyone cry
Three people I tag:
• Steve
• TK (because maybe she'll update her blog suring wedding planning)
• Anyone else who wants to kill some time!
Three things that scare me:
• Britney Spears
• Large spiders
• Most of the drivers in the Phoenix Metro area
Three people who make me laugh:
• Holli
• Kristin Wiig
• myself (not because I think I'm funny, but mostly because of stupid things I do)
Three things I love:
• My wife
• Italy
• occasional solitude
Three things I hate:
• inconsiderate people
• blatant disrespect
• Paris Hilton
Three things I don’t understand:
• Chinese (Mandarin or Cantonese...or any others for that matter)
• People who say they're conservative but drink irresponsibly, dress like whores and the like, and engage in lascivious acts
• Math beyond college algebra
Three things on my desk:
• A picture of me and Holli
• An old ASU Vanity Plate
• A phone that was installed in 1986
Three things I’m doing right now:
• typing
• stressing
• trying to read more
Three things I want to do before I die:
• Go back to Italy
• Raise children
• Run a half marathon or do a triathlon
Three things I can do:
• Speak a foreign language
• Introduce myself to a complete stranger regardless of place and time
• Drive for hours on end without getting tired
Three things I can’t do:
• two pull-ups in a row
• concentrate on one thing for too long
• find a third point to put in this category
Three things (or people) I think you should listen to:
• Reason
• Your heart
• Your mother
Three things (or people) you should never listen to:
• Kevin Trudeau
• someone who doesn't really know you but still tries to convice you of something that's "in your best interest"
• Tom Leykis
Three things I’d like to learn:
• How to write better
• How to be patient
• How to play an instrument
Three favorite foods:
• Mediteranean
• Mexican
• Italian
Three shows I watched as a kid:
• Saved by the Bell
• Pee-Wee's Playhouse
• Thundercats
Three things I regret:
• Ever thinking junk food was ok to eat
• Tasting Vegemite (I don't care how much Vitamin B is in it!)
• Hurting anyone's feelings or making anyone cry
Three people I tag:
• Steve
• TK (because maybe she'll update her blog suring wedding planning)
• Anyone else who wants to kill some time!
Thursday, May 03, 2007
ha ha...had to add this...
I just got a phone call from a telemarker from a 308 area code. He told me he was calling from "Sart Rake Sheety."
Last time I checked, Sart Rake Sheety isn't in Nebraska...
Last time I checked, Sart Rake Sheety isn't in Nebraska...
Following suit
I guess Steve and Amy both posted thes questions on their respective sites...I like these once in a while, so I'll do the same...
1.Your first name, what do you think about it?
John - I believe it means "God is gracious" in Hebrew, though some claim it derives from Latin meaning, "God is merciful." People think it's so common. But I don't. I like it. It's simple, and when I look in the mirror every morning...it's just me. If fits me.
2. Two feelings at the moment:
Tired and stressed. This is a constant for me - I'm always tired, and usually stressed.
3. What are you reading, listening to and watching currently?
I'm reading A Room with a View by E.M. Forster, listening (as of right, right now) to the NPR internet stream, and watching the floor session in the state Senate (online).
4. Done anything you regret so far this week?
No. I stopped believing in regret some time ago.
5. Describe where you are right now?
In my office, which is quite messy. My walls are painted a nice brown color that is mismatched with the grey carpet. My diploma is in a frame behind me, and my plant, a Kachina doll, a passionfruit candle from Fiji, and a small replica of the leaning tower of Pisa is on my shelf. A picture of me and Holli, a picture of my nephew Isaac, and a picture of me drawn by my niece Sareny are all displayed on my desk. Our building is small, cramped, across the railroad tracks on the other side of the State Capitol and in one of the most ghetto neighborhoods in Phoenix. In fact, our doors remain locked during business hours.
6. What do you want to do this week? Month?
I want to clean this week and get rid of junk. I want to go to Disneyland this month...and I am.
7. When was the last time you saw your immediate family?
Ummm...few weeks ago.
8. Who were the last people you went out to dinner with?
Holli and I went to Los Olivos with our friends Ted and Stephanie.
9. What would you like to buy this year?
I would like to buy a condo in Athens, Georgia.
10. Favorite type of dogs?
Well, I'll be going to UGA, so a bulldog, obviously! ;) I like Boston Terriers, too.
11. Last person you kissed?
Holli, of course.
12.Exercised in the last 24 hours?
Unfortunately, no...that's just what happens when you've been working on a budget for four days straight and your wifey is hurt.
13. Ever think of old crushes?
This is kind of a loaded question. I don't dream about them or miss them if that's what this question is getting at. I wonder what they're up to, and that's about it.
14. Do you wear socks?
Only when I have to.
15. Last thing you bought online?
Oh, gosh...some book, I think. That must have been a wise purchase if I can't even remember!
16. Have you changed much this year?
I think I have changed in certain ways. I think I've realized that I have grown up a little in certain areas and have also become even more headstrong and independent.
17. Say something about the person you think might read this:
You off da hizzy dizzy fo' shizzy, know what I'm sayin'?
18. If you became mentally handicapped would you want to live, or die?
Well, this really depends. If I was just a vegetable and couldn't at least enjoy life a bit, then no...kill me.
19. Who is your favorite superhero?
Is and always has been Super Grover. Coming in a strong second place is DangerMouse. And rounding out the top three...Batman!
20. Name a friend and an inside joke.
Ummm...I'm lost here. Maybe someone should refresh my memory?
21. How many homes have you lived in?
18 - which includes my mission and study abroad. Morenci, Phoenix, Glendale, St. Johns 1, St. Johns 2, St. Johns 3, Tempe, Chandler, MTC, Bassano del Grappa, Firenze, La Spezia, Siena, Pistoia, Mesa 1, Mesa 2, Tirana, Scottsdale...
22. What food did you eat last night?Tonight?
Last night I whipped up a quick zuppa with macaroni and tofu. Tonight...I don't know...
23. Who was your last text from?
Eh...hmmm...Holli and Steve simultaneously.
24. Where have you gone this year that you really didn't like?
INDIANA! That's definitely a question I could answer. I went to look at the school and did not like Indianapolis or Bloomington all that much.
25. Has anyone ever said you looked like a celebrity?
Yeah...Goldberg from The Mighty Ducks movies...jerks...
26. Do you speak any other language other than English?
Yes - in order of proficiency - Italian, Spanish, Albanian, Chinese Pig Latin, and French
27. Last thing you watched on TV?
LOST
28. Do you like your inlaws?
Sure do. I consider myself to be quite lucky in that area!
29. Name someone with the same b-day as you?
George Washington, Drew Barrymore and Rajon Rondo. I don't know anyone personally who has my same birthday.
30. Ever had a drunken night in Mexico?
Nope.
31. Who would win a fight - you or the other girl/boy?
Probably the other girl. :)
32. Favorite color(s)?
Black, Black, Charcoal, Blue, and Black.
33. What's your favorite cereal character?
Yeah...not really my thing, but I guess I'll say Tony the Tiger. He's grrrrrrrreat!!
34. Favorite Michael Jackson song?
Hmmm...I'd probably say Billie Jean and Smooth Criminal.
35. Who are you disliking right now?
Nobody. I'm trying to make it a point not to dislike anyone.
36. Drinking or drugs?
Nope.
37. Have you ever peed in the great outdoors?
Of course. Unfortunately, Holli has photograpic proof.
38. Any plans this week?
Cleaning and more cleaning. Possibly a hike, a jaunt over to my sister- and brother-in-law's house, and more...
39. What are your plans tonight?
Cleaning and sleep!
1.Your first name, what do you think about it?
John - I believe it means "God is gracious" in Hebrew, though some claim it derives from Latin meaning, "God is merciful." People think it's so common. But I don't. I like it. It's simple, and when I look in the mirror every morning...it's just me. If fits me.
2. Two feelings at the moment:
Tired and stressed. This is a constant for me - I'm always tired, and usually stressed.
3. What are you reading, listening to and watching currently?
I'm reading A Room with a View by E.M. Forster, listening (as of right, right now) to the NPR internet stream, and watching the floor session in the state Senate (online).
4. Done anything you regret so far this week?
No. I stopped believing in regret some time ago.
5. Describe where you are right now?
In my office, which is quite messy. My walls are painted a nice brown color that is mismatched with the grey carpet. My diploma is in a frame behind me, and my plant, a Kachina doll, a passionfruit candle from Fiji, and a small replica of the leaning tower of Pisa is on my shelf. A picture of me and Holli, a picture of my nephew Isaac, and a picture of me drawn by my niece Sareny are all displayed on my desk. Our building is small, cramped, across the railroad tracks on the other side of the State Capitol and in one of the most ghetto neighborhoods in Phoenix. In fact, our doors remain locked during business hours.
6. What do you want to do this week? Month?
I want to clean this week and get rid of junk. I want to go to Disneyland this month...and I am.
7. When was the last time you saw your immediate family?
Ummm...few weeks ago.
8. Who were the last people you went out to dinner with?
Holli and I went to Los Olivos with our friends Ted and Stephanie.
9. What would you like to buy this year?
I would like to buy a condo in Athens, Georgia.
10. Favorite type of dogs?
Well, I'll be going to UGA, so a bulldog, obviously! ;) I like Boston Terriers, too.
11. Last person you kissed?
Holli, of course.
12.Exercised in the last 24 hours?
Unfortunately, no...that's just what happens when you've been working on a budget for four days straight and your wifey is hurt.
13. Ever think of old crushes?
This is kind of a loaded question. I don't dream about them or miss them if that's what this question is getting at. I wonder what they're up to, and that's about it.
14. Do you wear socks?
Only when I have to.
15. Last thing you bought online?
Oh, gosh...some book, I think. That must have been a wise purchase if I can't even remember!
16. Have you changed much this year?
I think I have changed in certain ways. I think I've realized that I have grown up a little in certain areas and have also become even more headstrong and independent.
17. Say something about the person you think might read this:
You off da hizzy dizzy fo' shizzy, know what I'm sayin'?
18. If you became mentally handicapped would you want to live, or die?
Well, this really depends. If I was just a vegetable and couldn't at least enjoy life a bit, then no...kill me.
19. Who is your favorite superhero?
Is and always has been Super Grover. Coming in a strong second place is DangerMouse. And rounding out the top three...Batman!
20. Name a friend and an inside joke.
Ummm...I'm lost here. Maybe someone should refresh my memory?
21. How many homes have you lived in?
18 - which includes my mission and study abroad. Morenci, Phoenix, Glendale, St. Johns 1, St. Johns 2, St. Johns 3, Tempe, Chandler, MTC, Bassano del Grappa, Firenze, La Spezia, Siena, Pistoia, Mesa 1, Mesa 2, Tirana, Scottsdale...
22. What food did you eat last night?Tonight?
Last night I whipped up a quick zuppa with macaroni and tofu. Tonight...I don't know...
23. Who was your last text from?
Eh...hmmm...Holli and Steve simultaneously.
24. Where have you gone this year that you really didn't like?
INDIANA! That's definitely a question I could answer. I went to look at the school and did not like Indianapolis or Bloomington all that much.
25. Has anyone ever said you looked like a celebrity?
Yeah...Goldberg from The Mighty Ducks movies...jerks...
26. Do you speak any other language other than English?
Yes - in order of proficiency - Italian, Spanish, Albanian, Chinese Pig Latin, and French
27. Last thing you watched on TV?
LOST
28. Do you like your inlaws?
Sure do. I consider myself to be quite lucky in that area!
29. Name someone with the same b-day as you?
George Washington, Drew Barrymore and Rajon Rondo. I don't know anyone personally who has my same birthday.
30. Ever had a drunken night in Mexico?
Nope.
31. Who would win a fight - you or the other girl/boy?
Probably the other girl. :)
32. Favorite color(s)?
Black, Black, Charcoal, Blue, and Black.
33. What's your favorite cereal character?
Yeah...not really my thing, but I guess I'll say Tony the Tiger. He's grrrrrrrreat!!
34. Favorite Michael Jackson song?
Hmmm...I'd probably say Billie Jean and Smooth Criminal.
35. Who are you disliking right now?
Nobody. I'm trying to make it a point not to dislike anyone.
36. Drinking or drugs?
Nope.
37. Have you ever peed in the great outdoors?
Of course. Unfortunately, Holli has photograpic proof.
38. Any plans this week?
Cleaning and more cleaning. Possibly a hike, a jaunt over to my sister- and brother-in-law's house, and more...
39. What are your plans tonight?
Cleaning and sleep!
Monday, April 30, 2007
Dot, dot, dot
Well, I just wanted to say thanks to everyone who has commented lately. I appreciated all of you who commented on the Cheney post (especially my SIL Cass, who I didn’t expect to weigh in – very articulate and well-thought comments). In a way, I guess I’m also irked that it takes a post like that to get some activity on my blog. But, hey, I’ll be realistic…my life isn’t all that enthralling to the world, but I’m glad that it’s a good time-killer at work and school…and apparently my stay-at-home-mom base is growing. :)
Do you ever feel that life is so exhausting, and yet when people ask how things are, or what’s new in your life, you just sit back and say, “Oh, nothing?”
And finally a congratulations to Cass and James for their graduation from BYU. They actually graduated last year, but marched in the most recent commencement excercises…and who knows…perhaps they saw Mr. Cheney speak? :)
Do you ever feel that life is so exhausting, and yet when people ask how things are, or what’s new in your life, you just sit back and say, “Oh, nothing?”
And finally a congratulations to Cass and James for their graduation from BYU. They actually graduated last year, but marched in the most recent commencement excercises…and who knows…perhaps they saw Mr. Cheney speak? :)
Friday, April 20, 2007
I am not going to blog about Virginia Tech
I've refrained from doing so since the tragedy happened. It seems that we all have something to say about it...don't you think it's time we let the families grieve in peace? Eden has some poignant thoughts on her blog...and she said just enough (well done).
Thursday, April 19, 2007
The door swings both ways...doesn't it?
Thanks to those of you who've commented on my previous post. All very interesting things to read.
I've been reading a lot about how it's just the progressives/liberals/Dems who are opposed to Cheney's speech, and that if a Barack Obama, Al Gore, or Helen Thomas (thanks, Jay) were to come to campus they'd be just fine. Other than that being kind of obvious, wouldn't the conservatives/Republicans then be peeved?
I've been reading a lot about how it's just the progressives/liberals/Dems who are opposed to Cheney's speech, and that if a Barack Obama, Al Gore, or Helen Thomas (thanks, Jay) were to come to campus they'd be just fine. Other than that being kind of obvious, wouldn't the conservatives/Republicans then be peeved?
Wednesday, April 18, 2007
Dick Cheney @ BYU
So, this has been an interesting and ongoing conversation that I've been having with family and friends for the past couple of weeks or so. And of course, many of you know that I'm a recovering Democrat (which I became following my terrible bout with Republicanism). So, let me throw that out right away so you don't think I'm just another one of those liberal nutjob Mormons who "wandered from the flock."
In the event that you didn't know, Vice President Dick Cheney is scheduled to give the Commencement Address at BYU next week.
I know that he told Sen. Patrick Leahy to "GFY" on the Senate floor. I know about the Valerie Plame/Scooter Libby ordeal, and if anyone hasn't heard of Halliburton by now...where have you been? So let's also set this aside...the guy isn't the most representative of LDS standards (but then again, neither are a lot of LDS folks...we know we're not perfect).
And, the LDS Church typically advocates exercising our right and obligation to vote, but they remain politically neutral...
So, rather than spew a bunch about what I think...
I want to know ...what do you think?
In the event that you didn't know, Vice President Dick Cheney is scheduled to give the Commencement Address at BYU next week.
I know that he told Sen. Patrick Leahy to "GFY" on the Senate floor. I know about the Valerie Plame/Scooter Libby ordeal, and if anyone hasn't heard of Halliburton by now...where have you been? So let's also set this aside...the guy isn't the most representative of LDS standards (but then again, neither are a lot of LDS folks...we know we're not perfect).
And, the LDS Church typically advocates exercising our right and obligation to vote, but they remain politically neutral...
So, rather than spew a bunch about what I think...
I want to know ...what do you think?
This rocks!! I can type in Hindi now!!
नॉट ठाट मान्य ऑफ़ यू वुड वांट तो त्रय ऎंड रीड हिंदी (एक्ष्केप्त् मय इंडियन फ्रिएँड्स, माय्बे), बुत ई स्टील थौघ्त इत वास रेअल्ल्य कूल...
Not that many of you would want to try and read Hindi (except my Indian friends, maybe), but I still thought it was really cool...
Not that many of you would want to try and read Hindi (except my Indian friends, maybe), but I still thought it was really cool...
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