The Obvious Child

Paul Simon

2011-11-14T19:12:00.001-06:00

Saw Paul Simon at the Midland last Tuesday. Still crazy after all these years.

Introducing Emma Marie Jones

2010-02-25T19:15:00.003-06:00

Emma Marie Jones was born on 24 February 2010, weighing in a 7 lbs. 10 oz. and 19 inches long. She came out crying after a smooth labor and only nine minutes of Debbie pushing! Her favorite pass-times are quantum physics and reading Harry Potter.

Four Wheels Bad, Two Wheels Good

2010-02-10T19:25:00.003-06:00

Fela Kuti inspires movement. Most regard his ability to insight political movement, but I'm thinking about literal inertia here. Listening to Fela Kuti's classic album Zombie has me thinking about biking.

February might be the wrong time to consider two wheels, but the relatively short Kansas City winters instill hope that commuting weather is not far off. I figure a streak of high upper forties are enough to get me back on the bike for that brisk morning commute to work.

The True Cost of a Dollar Menu

2010-01-11T21:38:00.001-06:00

"The ninety-nine-cent price of a fast-food hamburger simply doesn't take account of that meal's true cost - to soil, oil, public health, the public purse, etc., costs which are never charged directly to the consumer but, indirectly and invisibly, to the taxpayer (in the form of subsidies), the health care system (in the form of food-bourne illness and obesity), and the enviornment (in the form of pollution), not to mention the welfare of the workers in the feedlot and the slaughterhouse and the welfare of the animals themselves." -Michael Pollan, The Omnivore's Dilemma.

My Sinus Saga

2010-01-06T16:57:00.004-06:00

Just before Thanksgiving, I had a mostly standard sinus surgery. Since February, I had been plagued with chronic infections, including regular infections prior to that time as well. My surgery included a septoplasty (deviated septum), partial turbinectomy, and a good ol' fashioned roto-rooter style cleaning of my sinuses. The outpatient surgery lasted a little over an hour before journeying home with a bloody nose and a prescription for hydrocodone.

The few days that followed were foggy at best, but the face recovered steadily. The recovery culminated with a return to the doctor two weeks post surgery. He proceeded to jab a thin metal tube into places in my face I didn't know existed. Feeling a metal object inside my face between the eyes is one of the more least pleasant experiences in life, but probably on a few steps worse than watching Two and a Half Men marathon.

A little less than a week later, I came down with all the symptoms of yet another sinus infection. After nearly a year of feeling tired and achey with a sore throat, I resolved to do anything to get well. Losing faith in my doctor who raked in ten grand from one surgery, I turned to a more holistic approach. For several days, I consumed information about how diet can affect the body, particularly information about candida. Thanks to several friends who offered advice, particularly Martin and Katie Downs, I made the choice to cut out sugar, dairy, and gluten from my diet. This also seemed like a good time to kick the coffee habit too.

After two weeks of eating bushels of fruits and veggies, I felt like this guy. I had more sustained energy, didn't feel the highs and lows of coffee and sugar, didn't feel as hungry, and quickly lost a few pounds. Christmas brought some relapses, but I expected them. I have made up my mind to eat the best I can without being a complete Nazi about the whole thing. Both sugar and dairy immediately led to increased nasal congestion and even a few sore throats. You, dairy and sugar, have not been good to me.

Since Christmas, I have continued to have minimal sinus congestion and no symptoms of infection. I continue to feel empowered by the fact that my health and well-being rest in my hands.

Bike Commuting in Kansas City

2009-10-05T19:10:00.008-05:00

Bike commuting in Kansas City is like wearing a cut-off t-shirt to the Sprint Cup. Let's just say dudes will be apprehensive. After work today, I decided to ride my bike to the coffee shop to do some grading before heading home for the evening. Latte Land is only about fourteen blocks straight north on State Line Road. Granted, it's a busy street, but side streets just aren't accessible from my building. At least State Line carries four lanes, plenty of room for everybody.

As I headed toward 89th Street, I heard the familiar honking from behind. It's not the "Hey, I'm behind you" honk. It's three labored blasts to say, "Are you riding a bike on my street?" honk. As she passed, she yelled something unintelligible even though her windows were down. I imagine was something like "dur-da-dee!" I couldn't tell what she said, but I heard laughter from her and the elementary school-aged girl riding shotgun. Surely this was a valuable life lesson about intolerance.

Certainly, this is not the most humiliating experience of my life. Lets face it, I'm a thirty year old dude on purple bike. Who am I to take myself so seriously. But honestly, "let's laugh at the dressed up guy on the bike?" An overweight woman lazily hurls insults from a car window. There's not even a slight sense of irony? Slow down for at least a moment to give me a chance to respond because, believe me, I could think of a few words.

But wait, what an asshole I must be for using my own legs to get myself to work and back everyday when I could be sitting on my ass consuming more imported oil refined by those impoverished oil tycoons. I don't preach bike commuting. But how foolish must I be, a lucrative high school teacher, for saving my hard-earned gas money and getting some exercise at the same time. How selfish of me to hoard two feet of space out of two lanes of traffic because the city refuses to paint a bike lane. I applaud you Kansas City drivers. Your adherence to the car culture is nothing short of vehement.

Tim Alexander

2009-09-11T08:29:00.003-05:00

Here's an observation:

Tim Alexander can make my head bob with nothing but quarter notes on the bass drum.

My resolve:

To play nothing but my bass drum until I can make it swing like Tim Alexander.

Musings on Contemporary Jazz

2009-05-11T19:07:00.004-05:00

Most of you already know that I am an admitted bebop fan. Swing is essential to my own playing, and I find quite a bit of inspiration from the expressive nature of bebop drumming. While I usually look back to the great bebop drummers of the fifties - Art Blakey, Max Roach, Philly Joe Jones, and Roy Haynes - lately I have been submerging myself in bebop's contemporaries.

My favorite contemporary jazz drummers have been Brian Blade and Joey Baron. So far, I am most familiar with Blade through the work of saxophonist Joshua Redman. My favorite work has been his more bebop oriented material of the mid-nineties and even some of his more structured, syncopated stuff, my favorite album of this flavor being Momentum. On this record, the band covers Led Zeppelin's "The Crunge" and features Flea on a track, though these aren't the album's best tunes.

Joey Baron has performed on a number of projects, but some of my favorite so far have been with pianist Uri Caine. Baron, in particular, uses every expressive element of the kit to play to the song while always keeping the rhythm interesting and swinging. My favorite records have been Secrets and Uri Caine's jazz renditions of Gustav Mahler tunes on Urlicht/Primal Light. These records establish a unique blend of bebop-style jazz with eastern European influence. These have been my absolute favorite records lately.

A Couple Deals

2009-01-21T20:07:00.004-06:00

I should be grading papers but a post sounded like a good enough excuse not to. I made a trip to Half-Priced Books today. The intent was to sell some neglected books from my collection to make room for the pile looming above my desk. While the initial result was a clean desk, better looking bookshelves, and an extra fifteen bucks, I quickly lavished that cash on two comic books.The first is Nate Powell's Sounds of Your Name. I would be shocked to find this at any bookstore in Kansas City, let alone Half-Priced Books. Nate stayed at our loft a few times when his band The Soophie Nun Squad toured through KC. During that time he gave me a couple editions of Walkie Talkie. My apologies to Nate for buying Sounds of Your Name used instead of new, in which he would have incurred at least some profit. Regardless, I look forward to indulging in this "short story" collection of graphic works.

The second book is Scott McCloud's well known Understanding Comics: The Invisible Art. McCloud's book is credited with furthering the validation of comic books as artistic and intellectual works. This should prove helpful if I end up being able to teach a graphic novel with my sophomores later this semester.

While this trip was somewhat counterproductive, these are excellent additions. This is shaping up to be a good four-day week. On Friday, Debbie and I plan to attend the Khrusty Brothers at the Record Bar with Grant and Paige - or Peige (beige with a P) as my daughter refers to her.

Whatever Drops

2009-01-09T19:19:00.005-06:00

Hello sorely neglected blog. Rather than guiltily thinking about how I should post, I am actually making sort of weak appearance. Prepare yourself for mediocrity and boredom.

I have a $25 iTunes gift card to burn. Any suggestions? I already picked up the first two seasons of It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia on DVD the other day. Now I need some tunes.

This is my most recent tunage:

Bon Iver - Blood Bank
Johnny Cash - Johnny Cash with his Hot and Blue Guitar
Department of Eagles - In Ear Park
Tom Waits - Alice
Handsome Furs - Plague Park
Paul Simon - Paul Simon

I'm itching for a good rock show and a jam session with my buddies. For tonight, I will watch the final episodes of HBO's The Wire and have a glass of whiskey. It's only proper that the two be done simultaneously.

Heed the words of Tracy Morgan by living every week like it's Shark Week.

She drew an exact replica of a figment of my imagination.

2008-10-28T22:00:00.004-05:00

Those were the words uttered by Terry Gross when I turned on the radio in the car the other day. I had to write it down. I am assuming "figment of my imagination" is some sort of work of art, but I like the phrase much more when out of context.

In other odd word groupings, my friend was in a wedding this weekend. The father of the groom goes by the name Dick. In taking pictures of the men in the wedding, the photographer indicated she wanted the father to be omitted from the next photo by saying "Dick's out on this one guys!" I'm still laughing.

Drum Speak

2008-10-10T19:43:00.005-05:00

I've been obsessed lately with the new Department of Eagles record "In Ear Park." The band on this record is mostly comprised of members from Grizzly Bear, of which the sound and song-writing indicate pretty clearly. I'm convinced that my love for all things related to these bands has some sort of ancestral shape to it. Grizzly Bear has been associated with Paul Simon, whom I adore, on more than one occasion, and Paul's influence on these groups is certainly not hidden. I have even been diving back into some older Paul Simon records. I can't seem to get enough.

Chris Bear's drumming with both Grizzly Bear and Department of Eagles has me thinking about the drum kit with new ears. Unlike so many indie drummers, he has a strong feel for the swing. At the same time, he doesn't approach writing a drum part like a typical swing drummer. Instead of writing drum parts, Bear is apt to compose with the kit. In live performances, he is likely to have more bells, tambourines, and shakers than cymbals or toms.

The bouncy bass drum made me realize why I bought a small kit, so I've spent a few hours over the past two days tuning my kick drum with a black Evans EQ1 resonant head paired with my usual favorite REMO Powerstroke 3 batter head. I am getting closer to that bounce, but I may have to get an unmuffled batter head. I rolled up a towel and taped it to resonant head and placed a couple strips of felt across the batter head horizontally near the top. Without a hole in the resonant head, the kick pedal really jumps off the batter head. It will take some time to adjust to the faster play, but it's an adjustment I am happy to comply with.

About a month ago I bought a pair of LP Upshot shakers. With Wilco's Glenn Kotche as my inspiration, I attached them to a hi-hat clutch. The shakers only make noise when moved in one direction; therefore, they add a nice "chick" when closing the hi-hats. I'm having fun throwing tambourines and whatever noisemakers I find on the hi-hat for some added interest. I will probably use a few of these tricks at Jacob's Well this weekend.

Ibsen and Dawson

2008-09-02T18:35:00.003-05:00

Things are rolling on the Jones home front. Two weeks ago, the water heater finally croaked. I knew it was coming, and thanks to the summer teaching gig, we were prepared financially. This weekend, however, was a kick in the pants. The refrigerator died. Thank the corporate guru's at Nebraska Furniture Mart of thirty month no-interest deals and next day delivery. We are in business again!

In other news, the school year is off and running and beating its chest like Usain Bolt in the 100 meter dash. Being back at Rockhurst is a delight. I've realized that I actually love teaching when I am allowed to do it. Imagine that. I'm not embittered by my experience in public education at all.

My grad courses are making a Henrik Ibsen fan out of me. Here is another naturalist writer to add to my favorites, and who could argue with chops like that? For years, I tried to deny that Realism and Naturalism are my favorite literary movements to no avail. In the world of English professors, Naturalism and Realism are saturated markets, but I can't deny it any longer. When several of my favorite writers are Theodore Drieser, Kate Chopin, Mark Twain, Henry James, and now Henrik Ibsen, it is time to accept the truth. At the same time, mid-twentieth century writers like Flannery O'Connor, Bernard Malamud, and Saul Bellow can easily top the list as well.

Musically, I am really enjoying Kimya Dawson's children's record called Alphabutt. I'm not sure who likes the album more, me or Cora. The most endearing song is "Happy Home (Keep on Writing)." There are times when simplicity seems to cut through all of life's obligations, responsibilities, and insecurities. This is one of those moments.

If you're breathing,
you are living,
and if you're living,
you are learning.
So write and write
and keep on writing.
Just make sure your life's exciting.

Don't believe the anti-hype...

2008-08-05T20:10:00.001-05:00

...Step Brothers is hilarious.

Tune 'em Up

2008-08-05T19:43:00.003-05:00

Since finishing my summer teaching program last Friday, I have been attempting to resurrect some semblance of a musical life. It has been lingering near disrepair for sometime now. If you saw Grizzly Bear's most recent performance on Letterman's Late Show, you know exactly why I need to get back behind the kit.

On Saturday, I sauntered over to Explorer's Percussion to buy all new heads for my kit and ended up grabbing a pair of LP One Shot Shakers. Of course, I couldn't leave without buying Cora her first drum. She likes to dance while she plays. So I spent all day Saturday seating the heads and tuning them up. It was nice to cast off my obligations for a few hours and get absorbed a hands-on project.

Community Supported Agriculture

2008-07-18T22:19:00.000-05:00

We teamed up with our good friends Grant and Paige to find community supported agriculture in the Kansas City area. Our hopes were to find a local organic farm from which we could buy a share and pick up here in the Waldo neighborhood. I knew about one farm that had a pick-up site downtown, but driving twenty-five minutes each way once a week seemed a little self-defeating. Grant did some searching and found a farm that has a pick-up site nearly halfway between each of our homes. It was perfect.

The farm is called The Organic Way out of Milo, Missouri. The season lasts from mid-May until mid-October, which we Iowa kids considered to be a substantial growing season. Since we are two small families, we decided to buy one share and divide the produce each week between us, thus cutting our costs.

The growing season had a slow start because of the heavy rains which occurred throughout the midwest, but July is turning out well. Each box this month has included an ample amount and variety of sweet corn, bell peppers, cucumbers, green beans, tomatoes, onions, and basil. This week we also received blackberries. Each week is slightly different and the produce is said to change with the seasons.

This week the Organic Way farm will be supplying heirloom tomato for Lidia Bastianich's annual Tomato Celebration. Lidia is a well-known Italian chef whose restaurant in Kansas City's Crossroad's district has long been one of Debbie and I's favorite restaurants.

Be advised that since joining a CSA, Debbie nor I have begun donning tie-dye clothing or any other such hippy behavior. It is possible to join a CSA without assimilating into some sort of conspiracy-loving counter culture. However, we do plan on getting our Volkswagen bus off its cinder blocks and opening a traveling bead shop out of the back soon.

Slap!...Hello Summer.

2008-06-04T22:06:00.000-05:00

The summer is off to a mind-blurring start. Life seems even more rushed and filled with appointments than the school year. This is mostly due to the fact that I am now enrolled in two graduate courses. They are in a condensed format and the intensity of the Graphic Novel course is nearly double that of any other courses in the program. At least the regular school year is finished.

Regardless of the amount of time consumed, I am enjoying both classes. Right now I am reading Amusing Ourselves to Death by Neil Postman and Watchmen by Alan Moore and Dave Gibbons. I hope to dig into some Michel Foucault and Jacques Derrida to do a postmodern reading of Watchmen for a paper. Yeah, it trumps laying in the sun or spending the day at Worlds of fun.

My other June obsessions are formulating, most notably Max Roach and Sonny Rollins. For those who are less familiar with one of America's truly original art forms, the first being jazz and another being comic books, of which the two are deeply connected, Roach and Rollins are bop's legendary drummer and saxophonist, respectively. May favorite Max Roach albums so far have been Roach's "Deeds, Not Words" and "Clifford Brown and Max Roach." He is one of the most melodic drummers ever to play. For Sonny Rollins, I've always drooled over "Tenor Madness" but lately I've been more into the aggressive playing on "Plus 4" and "Saxophone Collussus."

Farewell Public Education

2008-05-14T17:53:00.000-05:00

The school year is drawing to a close and anyone who reads this blog probably already knows that I am changing schools next year. Yes, it is back to Rockhurst. For many reasons, namely family health insurance and at least the sign of a life outside of teaching, I was fortunate enough to move back to the school I was formerly teaching in. Right now I am battling a sinus infection so while the summer offers many prospects for free time, what interests me most right now is rest. This school year has offered many positive challenges: a boisterous and energetic student body, graduate studies, and the ever-demanding No Child Left Behind legislation which is clearly everyone's least favorite. I am excited to return to the rigor and tradition of Jesuit education. I hope that wisdom and creativity finds the legislators who dream up laws for the millions of kids in public education in this country. It is a rough road right now, particularly for those who teach math and English.

A Summation of Brain Consumption

2008-03-03T20:51:00.000-06:00

For the past six weeks I've been kneed deep in novels. In addition to teaching Elie Wiesel's Night and Hawthorne's The Scarlet Letter, I've been averaging one to two novels a week for my grad class "Banned and Burned Books." The highlights have been Vonnegut's Slaughterhouse-five, which I've read before, and Margaret Atwood's "The Handmaid's Tale," another dystopian picture of the future. Coincidentally, it was penned in 1984.

Outside of my dried out eyeballs, I've been catching a few episodes of "The Wire" and at the prodding of my wife, finally started the first season of "Lost." Since I am now a huge geek, I will probably freak out when the third season of "Battlestar Gallactica" comes out. In the end, I don't even know why I am talking about television shows. At this point, watching television is a distant hope. Normally I would rejoice this fact, but there are some good shows I want to catch up on.

This Thursday I'm on my way to a Holocaust seminar put on by the Midwest Holocaust Museum. World War II continues to fascinate me, so I couldn't be more enthusiastic about soaking up some powerful information and grabbing some great material.

I'm currently listening to The Clash, finally watched "The Darjeeling Limited," ordered my favorite author Sherman Alexie's new book, and am re-reading one of my favorite books, Tim O'Brien's "The Things They Carried." I am fighting to make all these these things second to my family, but lately this is what I have been digesting when not with them.

Bundle Sticks and FAFSA Forms

2008-01-19T21:48:00.000-06:00

Well, Christmas break came and went like a "Third Eye Blind" single. I ended up crashing and getting sick. Henry James was a hope and a prayer. I ended up plowing through Frank McCourt's Teacher Man, clasping for hope with my fingernails to find a reason to keep teaching. I at least found a companion in that book.

In a moment of despair, while staring at my checking account balance, I decided to enroll for the spring term at Baker University. In the education profession, more school means more money. I applied a little over a year ago but never followed through in hopes of getting a Masters in English at a more legitimate school. In case you are wondering, teachers are still deeply underpaid and over-burdened. So, I am going to plow through the Masters of Liberal Arts program at Baker because it is cheap and fast, in fact it is less than two years. Afterwards, I can still make that five year commitment to the Masters in English. Being a teacher actually means you are lifelong student. This is an aspect of the job I happen to like so I am going to take courses I enjoy.

In other news you probably don't care about, I am playing drums at Jacob's Well tomorrow. It has been a almost two years since I last played there so I am looking forward to it. The only playing I've been doing lately is a paid gig at a Catholic church every Sunday night. As you can imagine, it is a brushes only situation so I am eager to get real sticks out. As usual, my goal is not overplay my parts and to keep some rock solid time. In the meantime I will be wishing I had a bunch of trinkets to make noise with so I could be cool like "Grizzly Bear." Please tell me you love that band.

Beginning to Itch

2007-12-12T19:07:00.000-06:00

Teaching at a new school this year has been a bit like living in a cave. At times daylight seems to no longer exist, and my only friends are the little critters who scale the walls. But there is a gap in the rocks. Christmas break is fast approaching. For nearly two weeks I may assume to have a life.

In my mind this break has infinite possibilities when, in reality, it will be brief and probably hard to look at without getting dizzy. So far my grand plans include seeing family in Iowa, reading some classic literature, catching up with friends, playing some music, and, of course, spending an ample amount of time with my immediate family. One can only imagine where this time will come from.

I'm compelled to post, but all that I can really say is that I am emotionally exhausted and Christmas is near enough to touch. I look forward to large quantities of Broadway coffee, the band Grizzly Bear, the book The Turn of the Screw by Henry James, and the television show It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia. Until then...

Bon Iver/Paste/The Golden Compass

2007-10-29T20:28:00.000-05:00

I managed to pick up the Bon Iver record, "For Emma, Forever Ago." It is perhaps my favorite record of the year so far. The sound is low-fi, the likes of Grizzly Bear more so than Iron & Wine. The tracks are airy with brilliant Crosby, Stills, Nash, and Young harmonies. The lyrics are simple but moving, like something that would end up on a Zach Braff movie soundtrack. This album was self-released, but look for Jag-Jaguar to put it out soon.

I also picked up a subscription to the great Paste magazine. They currently running a Radiohead-esque promotion in which the buyer chooses the price they wish to pay for the subscription. It certainly is one of the more sophisticated music magazines, but me being the cheap guy I am, I never purchased a full subscription until now. Paste hopes I will be hooked and perhaps I will.

As the cold air finally filters into northern Missouri, my interests, too, look towards a more interior life. Debbie and I will be reading Philip Pullman's The Golden Compass. It is the first novel of a fantasy trilogy that will be released on film this December. I normally don't bite on the fantasy books, but while teaching at a new school, I find that the plot driven literature satisfies. What the text lacks in metaphor it picks up in sensory imagery.

Wilco/Andrew Bird Review

2007-10-22T21:27:00.000-05:00

A little over a week ago I attended the Wilco/Andrew Bird show with Debbie. The following are some belated comments on the show:

There is no doubt Wilco and Andrew Bird brought their A game to Kansas City this weekend, but what the hell was the crowd doing? You decide to fork over thirty of your hard earned dollars to go drink over-priced beer and catch up with old friends? Half the crowd was not even facing the stage through Andrew Bird’s set.

Andrew Bird, however, was not to be put off. There was absolutely no meandering in this full hour set. Through most songs, Bird had to pluck, loop, whistle, strum, and sing his way to creating compositions both beautiful and complex. Often times he began by overlapping melodies created on the violin before switching to the guitar for rhythmic accompaniment and vocals. Behind him stood two large phonograph-looking speakers, which spun when activated to create a type of vibrato sound, like a faster Leslie speaker, with the looping material. The set included a complete mix of old and new tracks of which many were rearranged to create something new but oddly familiar. By the way, enough cannot be said of this man’s whistling skills. During Wilco’s set, Tweedy could not help but to make fun of his own half-assed whistling claiming, “I taught Andrew Bird everything he knows.”

Wilco humbly took the stage around at 9:30 to a well-lit stage and nearly unprepared crowd. As a result, I was able to endure the pleasantries of several drunkards rushing to the front with two fistfuls of beer through the first few tracks. A heated debate could be undertaken about who hated drunk people more, me or the owner of The Record Bar who stood in front of me. We exchanged a few knowing and spiteful glances as a few dulled heads smashed between us.

To some surprise Wilco played a full two and a half hours of mostly older tracks. This became painfully aware to me as the guy behind me yelled at an inappropriate volume, “Now I need to go get all their old albums!” It was a carefully crafted set for the long-standing Wilco fan, celebrating its many phases.

Jeff Tweedy donned the cowboy hat with appropriateness. Nels Kline rocked his traditional military boots and straight-legged high-water pants. If ever there was an electrifying member of this band it is Kline. The guy actually looks like he is being electrocuted through most of his guitar solos. Glenn Kotche mounted a transparent Vista-lite drum kit with long hair that was oddly appropriate considering the sheer seventies-make-up of their latest album. Debbie confessed that Kotche was perhaps the most attractive, and I told her that no one had a bigger crush on him that me.

Needless to say, Tweedy had a few jokes for the Elton John show going on at the newly opened Sprint Center Arena. He seemed to warm up with the crowd’s urgent cheering. During the winding down of “Spiders” a small fireworks display emerged from the building behind the stage. Tweedy concluded with a “take that Elton John” as the band erupted into the final push of the refrain. Perhaps my only complaint lies in the frivolity of not one but two full encores. I’ve never been a fan of the encore. What kind of sick pleasure does the band get from having the fans beg for more? If you got more songs to play, save us the sting of clapping our hands for five minutes and play the songs already. The current Wilco lineup does not disappoint. And if you don’t know who Andrew Bird is, do yourself a favor by finding out.

Andrew Bird Set Included: A Nervous Tic Motion of the Head; Fake Palindromes; Opposite Day; Skin Is, My; I; Scythian Empire; Dark Matter.*

Wilco Set Included: Via Chicago (opener); Casino Queen; Too Far Apart; I Got You (At the End of the Century); Hummingbird; Spiders (Kidsmoke); You Are My Face: Side with the Seeds; Hate it Here; A Shot in the Arm; I Am Trying to Break Your Heart; Jesus Etc.; Heavy Metal Drummer; I’m the Man Who Love You; Pot Kettle Black. *

* Set lists are not comprehensive and in no particular order.

The Wire, Going After Cacciato, The Khrusty Brothers

2007-09-19T19:40:00.001-05:00

I've been taking these three in heavy doses this week. For whatever reason The Khrusty Brothers really seems to resonate in me right now. It has these grooves that move underneath the endless soundscapes, really well orchestrated and produced. Don Chaffer's lyrics have always moved something in me.

I'm reading Going After Cacciato for a book club I've joined. This is one of Tim O'Brien's earlier novels about the Vietnam War. I first read The Things They Carried a few years ago. While the writing style is absolutely O'Brien's, the novel structure is quite a departure from The Things They Carried. It is spacious and abstract with multiple narratives running with the same characters. I find that The Things They Carried has more concrete imagery. I am really enjoying the book though. There is no doubt that Tim O'Brien's work will some day be cannonized.

The Wire is an HBO show that I believe is now in its third season. I've just begun with the first season since returning to my beloved Netflix account after Blockbuster dangled a good thing in my face and then promptly pulled it away after I reached for it. I'd like to give a public "up yours" to the Blockbuster Corporation. You've screwed me again with your bullshit business ethics.

But I digress. The Wire is a well written detective show with multiple characters which the writers are not afraid to shy away from. This includes characters on both sides of the supposed criminal/detective line. I like this show because it doesn't seem to be in a hurry to take the viewer on some thrill ride. Instead it quietly and subtely explores the lives and careers of these Baltimore detectives and drug dealers. This show is a great find.

sound becomes a song

2007-08-29T23:40:00.000-05:00

Whenever I get ridiculously busy, I begin to feel the urge to create. I don't know what equation of circumstances brings this about, but I am feeling the need to create. Perhaps it is that teaching is inherently creative so that its process ignites that aspect of me. Nevertheless, I've been in contact with the lead singer of one of my favorite local bands who says he knows some folks looking for a drummer. For now I will nible at the prospects. I hate it that I am always talking of these things and there never seems to be much follow through.

Lately I've been doing a weekly gig that pays a little extra cash. At first I only saw it as that, but playing drums in this quiet setting is really turning out to be a learning opportunity. I've been playing soley with brushes which turns out to be complex and dynamic. I'm having a great time playing a three-piece kit with only a hi-hat and ride. It always comes back to the three-piece kit for me.

Meanwhile, I've been listening to the songs from Jeff Tweedy's solo DVD "Sunken Treasure," Grizzly Bear, John Vanderslice, and via Nartan's Top Fiver post I've been getting back into Randy Newman.

Summer Favs Keep Rolling In

2007-08-14T19:55:00.000-05:00

Patton Oswalt: My admiration grows a bit stronger every time I read or hear something from this guy. Perhaps I'm longing for some unnapproachable kinship with another English major, but it is nice to see someone in the public eye who is openly articulating his love all things literary. Of course, the term literary extends beyond books into movies, television shows, radio, and even relationships. Check out his new album "Werewolves and Lollipops" on Sub Pop.

Next up is a little band out of Oxford, Mississippi called Colour Revolt. I saw them a couple weeks ago at the Jackpot Saloon in Lawrence. They have only released an EP so far so most of their material was new and left nothing to be desired accept more! These are some humble young lads who have a lot to boast about. Like a comedian expert in timing, Color Revolt is a rock band who is perfect in restraint. The new songs are crafted in a way that make you giddy to see how they unfold. Perhaps my favorite attribute about this band their sense of rhythm. Surely the delta blues is not lacking in their blood or music collections. The band has a sense of swing that leans so far back on the beat that the listener nearly falls off. This is where they really have something to offer today's listener. I've asked you before and implore you now, go listen to this band, whether at your local venue (they tour like mad) or with your stereo turned to eleven.

Summer Favorites

2007-07-05T14:58:00.000-05:00

Drummer: Steven Drozd of the Flaming Lips. Putting aside his musical genius as the mastermind of the Lips, here is a drummer worth continually returning to. Drozd has a sound and swing unparalleled since Bonham. The drums sound so huge throughout Transmissions from the Satellite Heart, Clouds Taste Metallic, and The Soft Bulletin it makes me salivate. My favorite things about Drozd's drumming is his ability to employ both technique and creativity to his playing. He writes parts I would never think to create while never shying away from a great shuffle such as in "The Gash." Perhaps what is most impressive in these beats is the way his foot swings on the bass drum. It sounds as if the drum is bouncing across the groove. Here is a guy who can hit the pocket through a double-stroked march or modified shuffle without ever sacrificing power and confidence. Drozd is heavily overlooked by the goofballs of drum shops and magazines around the country who think solos are the only thing that involve skill and precision.

Book: Confederacy of Dunces. There is no doubt this novel has shaped the comedic stylings of many actors who are building their careers on playing the over confident. Ignatius J. Reilly is just that except his "worldview" is more eskew than most. The setting and characters alone are enough to create a great story, and it is a good thing they are so compelling because that is where the plot lacks. John Toole does a great job of creating the voice and personality of his characters, particularly Ignatius and "mother." Ignatius' eccentricities are portrayed in the extreme but at the same the reader realizes we are guilty of such fantasies. A very smart comedy.

TV Show: Comedians of Comedy. Originally a documentary, Comedy Central enlisted the four comedians (Patton Oswald, Brian Posehn, Maria Bamford, and my personal favorite, Zach Galifianakis) to once again film their tour to convert to a six episode television show to be shown at two in the morning in Guam, according to Patton. While all four comedians have a great routine, the improvised goofings of the group hanging out are just as hilarious. I obviously have no life or personal sense of humor since I've watched this twice already this summer.

After road tripping to Iowa this weekend I'm hoping to add my dad's homemade salsa, Iowa sweet corn, and Kafka's Metamorphosis to my list. Knowing I've displayed enough of my nerdom in this post, I have omitted my fascination with the show Good Eats. Alton Brown is a champion.

2007-03-09T21:26:00.000-06:00

Hey blogger land. I'm still alive. Been grading a shit-ton of essays lately and listening to good music like the new Arcade Fire album, Andrew Bird, Glenn Kotche, and mewithoutYou. My soul is starving for spring break, and I've been staring at this cute mug quite a bit:

Drop me a line if anyone is still out there. Maybe then I will find reason to revisit.

In the immortal words of Tracey Morgan: Nothing is impossible, except for dinosaurs.

my baby baby

2007-01-01T23:35:00.000-06:00

Many of you already know that our first baby, Cora Louise, was born on Thursday, December 28 at 12:08 p.m. She was 8 lbs. 1 oz., 19 1/2 inches long and according to us, very cute, but you can determine that for yourself in the attached photos. The labor and delivery went surprisingly quick and smooth. Debbie is recovering well at home. Thank you to all who have a been a great well of advice and support.
3 Days Old
At the Hospital
4 Days Old

Cruising the Bastard Boat

2006-12-26T01:07:00.000-06:00

Although music is a grand event in life, few bands survive the days of adolescent mischief and mayhem. However, for this small town Midwestern lad, the band to circumvent this insurmountable rite of passage has to be none other than Primus. Why, year after year, do I return to these ridiculous records, bobbing my head and smiling the entire way? At this point I can expect no one to understand this fascination enough to keep reading other than one Michael McCann, but I digress.

Each year I return, unexpectedly, to a record that more selects me. Last year’s record was “The Brown Album.” I’ve always been an adoring fan of Tim Alexander’s drumming which caused me to first overlook this record which turns to Brain, the man who’s rhythmic energy never ceases to wane from that of a sixteen year who finally bought his first kit with grocery bagging money. Perhaps it is this quality that qualifies him for all those Tom Waits tracks. Nevertheless, I was floored by Les Claypool’s ridiculous but somehow altogether believable stories, low-fi sound production, and shake-your-ass country/funk beats.

This year has been a chronological retreat to the post-Pork Soda “Tales from the Punchbowl.” While it might not have the lyrical prowess of songs like “Nature Boy” or “Shake Hands with Beef,” this is entirely made up in technical wit and cohesiveness. Of course, this is not to say that I’ve giggled a time or two at the allegory of “Wynona’s Big Brown Beaver” or even the cat meow’s and pig squeals in “Space Farm.” For me, Les Claypool has that Tom Waits quality of telling ridiculous stories that are entirely believable. This rule must also apply to “De Anza Jig” and “On the Tweek Again.” Honestly, how can you grow up in the Midwest and not love an ominous track about methamphetamines?

For a drummer, however, we must get back to the meat and potatoes of a great record, its musicianship. It really begins with “Southbound Pachyderm.” This track contains that signature swing that Tim Alexander brings to rock music. While swing is a term traditionally applied to jazz, it is entirely appropriate here. Swing refers to the way the rhythm moves, such as when a person on a swing set might hit the high point at the same interval every time, but still feels a lull in motion at the top. That moment is the space between bass drum hits on “Southbound Pachyderm.” Like John Bonham of Led Zeppelin, Alexander is a genius of swing in rock music.

From there the musicianship moves to “Year of the Parrot.” I imagine the drum part was written first, but if not, what the deuce were these guys smokin’ to put these three parts together? The bass melody is like a drunk guy stumbling down a sidewalk, Just listen, you’ll see what I’m talking about. The guitar part is a loyal friend, walking beside to help catch him from swaying into traffic. The drum part, the truly stable piece, is one of the most tasteful uses of the double bass drum I’ve ever heard. Most drummers of the double bass playing type, typically those in metal bands, use it to show the world just how fast their feet can sputter. Whoopty-dee. But to hear Alexander use it so tastefully to set up this groove is a work of art. While most bands busy themselves only in counting when writing a 7/8 time signature, Primus actually sets up a groove worth nodding my head to.

While I implore the genius of “Glass Sandwich” and “Del Davis Tree Farm,” let’s skip to “Over the Grapevine” so you’re not baffled that I could write this much about one record that less than one percent of the population may give two shits about. First of all, what is going on with the drums? Okay, an off-beat hi-hat I can understand, but when it is so flawlessly placed within the barrage of tom mamajamma, my jaw simply drops to allow the drool to seep onto my shirt. Add the bass and guitar parts and the madness ensues. But it is all appropriately so when then the lyrics are taken into consideration. Take away the San Francisco reference and it sounds like a drug-induced night of lunacy between small towns in Iowa.

Every time I begin to wonder if this fascination is waning, I’m only to put the record on again to realize I’m still a bouncing, giggling fool for these songs. When I feel like a fool for making a Primus reference to my high school students who have no idea what I’m talking about, I’ve only to look towards the credits of a Tom Waits records where I find the names of Les Claypool, Larry LaLonde, and Brain happily listed in the credits. Their bastard genius is not overlooked. Primus sucks.

Currenly listening to: Tom Waits "Orphans"

Mustering Life

2006-12-13T21:14:00.000-06:00

Hello blogger. I wish to return to you after semester's end. I believe it's time for a Primus review or perhaps one for the new Tom Waits record should I recieve it for Christmas as opposed to a lump of coal or bag full of flaming poo on my doorstep. For now I'm out like the Chiefs playoff chances.

2006-11-06T16:17:00.000-06:00

I've tried to stick it out with blogger, but I find the following to phrases come to mind all too often:
"Nobody reads this crap."
"This is boring."

As a result, I've finally succombed to the ways of myspace. So look me up, be my friend, and make a comment because you may not find me on here much. I will keep the blog around for moments of occasional inspiration or as a means of posting photos for family and friends.

Be sure to vote tomorrow.

Peace.

"Except when I get my pants on, I make gold records."

2006-10-18T16:26:00.000-05:00

Man, it's colder than Don Rumsfeld heart today, but it has been a glorious afternoon because today was a half day! All I have done is clean, grade essays, and peruse the myspace world of my friends. Perhaps one of these days I'll join, but I just can't bring myself to it. The cold weather makes the Taterman very happy.

A few days ago one of my students had the most outstanding freshman comment in class. He, of course, was dead serious and had no idea why I was doubled over in laughter, and that is why it was such an instant classic. We were working on using phrases with a grammar sentence that had to do with February 29th only existing every four years. One of the guys stopped me to ask if people with birthdays on that day only had their birthday once every for years to which I replied yes. It was at this point that the kid next to him turned and with all seriousness said, "Yeah, but they still age as fast as we do." I completely lost it once I realized he was not joking at all.

I bought a sweet new wine book the other day when Borders was having its Educator Savings Sale. Once I'm done reading it, I'm going to assume a British accent and start wearing more turtlenecks. Actually it is just a lot of fun. I don't even buy wine very often because I can't afford it, but there is something really fun about pouring a glass of some kind I've never tried and trying to "figure it out." This is sure do get me an indie cred reduction.

When Suchan was down a few weekends ago, we developed an elaborate scoring system for scene points in the indie music world. Doing things like lending the lead singer of a hip indie band your keyboard gets you points, especially if that lead singer is a "muff bagger." Dave employed this term outside of The Brick, and it was quickly determined that the appropriate definition must be "one who plays in a band in order to bag the muff." Needless to say this has prompted hours of hilarious banter. The best reason for an indie cred reduction has be the loss of one point per every door over two on a one's truck. It is also speculated that in the future indie kids will enjoy the use of the word "wanker" when talking about someone who is not indie enough.

Currently listening to: David Bazan "Fewer Moving Parts," Colour Revolt "EP," The Decemberists "The Crane Wife," Bob Dylan "Blonde on Blonde," Nedo Case "Fox Confessor Brings the Flood," and M. Ward "Post-War."

peace.

Pilgrimage

2006-09-26T22:45:00.000-05:00

Been plugging away at the four person (Thomas Merton, Flannery O'Connor, Dorothy Day, Walker Percy) biography. It's a bit of a bear to get through with the school year in full swing, but I'm enjoying it with what energy I have. It traces their lives as a pilgrimage into Catholic faith and intellectualism. It's an incredible insight to look in on great thinkers formulating their faith and writing talent.

I haven't been listening to much new music lately because of the lack of time. I even have some eMusic downloads sitting around so if you have any suggestions, I'm open. Mostly I've been listening to Thelonius Monk, Sonny Rollins, Miles Davis, M. Ward, and Neko Case when the opportunity arises.

In the meantime Debbie and I have been working a lot, and getting ready for baby time. So much has changed in the past two years that I am still trying to catch up with all the adultness. Right now I'm narrowly avoiding ordering satellite TV.

2006-09-10T21:48:00.000-05:00

I'm happy if I can get the Rockhurst Drum Line to create something that resembles a groove. Check this guy out.

Uhuh...football. Did anyone watch the U.S. Open this weekend? If someone hit a tennis ball at me at 137 mph, I would scream and run away. Federer was unstoppable.

merging aesthic and skill

2006-08-22T21:07:00.000-05:00

I picked up the new M. Ward record, Post-War, from eMusic today. Nartan turned me on to this guy a little over a year ago, and this album is the best I've heard from him. I appreciated his song writing before, but on this album the fantastic instrumentation causes his songs to reach so much further. Sometimes I feel like skill and aesthetic get separted in music, but on rare occasions they come together, such as with this album. M. Ward has surrounded himself with skilled musicians, but the recording has its own unigue appeal. I am looking forward to many more listenings.

Everything About it is a Love Song

2006-08-03T21:20:00.000-05:00

I'm listening to Paul Simon's latest album Surprise tonight. He continues to be one of my favorite lyricists because of his incredible sense of the expanse of human experience, regrets and joys, generation to generation. When I get too consumed with the cares of this world, his songs seem to ground me. And he uses all my favorite words like earth, frost, river, and dust.

But if I ever get back to the twentieth century, guess I'll have to pay off some debts. Open the book of my vanishing memory, with its catalogue of regrets. Stand up for the deeds I did, and those I didn't do. Sit down, shut up, think about God, and wait for the hour of my rescue.

It's nice to be reminded that sometimes I'm only human and that's damn fine.

Finished reading Theodore Dreiser's Jennie Gerhardt. Dreiser's an American naturalist who, like those in his genre, writes about the difficulties of poverty in a society with an unwritten moral and social code. Dreiser is becoming a favorite author of mine, and this book only lifted his status for me. I liked it better than Sister Carrie, although it is great too, and next will be to get An American Tragedy. I like that this one does not have the typical naturlist ending.

Other than that, I've been waste deep in reading music. I haven't done much serious sight reading in about ten years, but with my new position in helping with the drum line and pep band I've been thrusted into learning percussion notation very quickly. But it has been a positive experience. Learning the the marching stuff is actually amazing. If you don't believe me go here and check out some of these video clips of the pros. I've also been directing the pep band some which is an interesting experience to say the least. Listening to the Paul Simon record has reminded me that it's good to be stretched. My goal is to learn a bunch and hopefully take over the drum line instruction altogether. Tomorrow is the last day of camp.

eMusic, Down and Out in Paris and London, Blue Like Jazz, The Colour Revolt

2006-07-17T21:29:00.000-05:00

eMusic:
I finally made the plunge into eMusic. For my 25 free trial downloads I picked up the new Mr. Lif record and My Morning Jacket's At Dawn. This ten bucks a month will be a nice way to continue exploring music. My hope is to do this by picking up at least one new and one older record out of the two to three records I can get each month. It should be fun.

Down and Out:
Is Orwell's detailed description of a life of poverty in the mentioned cities. It is beautiful in the way it breaks down prejudices about folks in poverty and homelessness. It also spurred me on to simplify some things about my own life as it made me greatful at least for the privelage of being able to tickle my spiritual and intellectual fancies.

Blue Like Jazz:
Is a book I at first sneered at. For that reason I decided to borrow Brian's copy. I'm now almost finished with it and mostly pleased with its content. It is a memoir/treatise of the author Donald Miller's journey of a Christian faith that is void of superficiality and puppeteering into authenticity and relevance without succombing to trends.

The Colour Revolt:
Is playing tomorrow night at The Granada in Lawrence. My good friend Nathan introduced me to these guys a couple months ago with the EP and I can't wait for a full length release. They rock in a way that is destined be good live.

Where I will be tonight

2006-07-09T17:56:00.000-05:00

Cheyenne, Kelpie and The Billions @ The Record Bar

Sunday Jul 09, 2006
9:00 PM
@ The Record Bar
Westport Rd
Kansas City

Olympic Size, Pearl Snare, and a Ford

2006-06-21T13:42:00.000-05:00

Nartan and I saw Olympic Size at the Record Bar Sunday night. They've added a bass player since the last time I saw them. The guy did a great job to help fill out the sound and add freedom for the other memebers. Now they have lost the drum machine and the sound is really coming together. I met the drummer, Pete, afterwords to talk drums. He was playing a red sparkle Ludwig kit like my old one except it was about six years older. He is a swell guy and an absoulutely solid player. Often times that can be missed in the local scene. Olympic size played several new songs that are a great progession in the band's weightless soundscape. The parts are simple but come together beautifully. I can't wait for their LP release.

We ran into a poor spell the past few weeks, and so I thought I would pawn off the old Ludwig red sparkle kit and Remo djembe for some cash at Explorers Percussion. It turns out they only trade. The owner's son, who is a Rockhurst student, was there, and I ended up getting a great deal on a trade. The best thing to come out of it was this 14"X5" Pearl Free Floating snare drum. None of the hardware is bolted to the wood shell, giving it tons of tone. Also, the current maple shell can be switched out with another material such as birch or brass for some affordable sound choices. They also gave me a couple soft drum cases and three pairs of sticks, one of which is a high end pair of brushes. With only a few dollars in my checking account I walked out of the store with nearly five hundred dollars worth of merchandise. Gotta love that store.

Believe it or not, we finally got a new car. With a baby on the way, we figured it was time to ditch the 2-door '93 Nissan Sentra for something that is less like driving a go-cart. I drove the Nissan for nine years. That's crazier than Gnarls Barkley. We bought a dark red Ford Focus wagon. I never thought I would buy a Ford, but the car is rated well and had a great promotion going. We are really happy with it so far. I think we were blessed with a car that will be very suitable for us. This is the first time in our five years of marriage to have a car payment so it will be an adjustment, hopefully a worth while one.

Beginning Summer

2006-06-08T10:18:00.001-05:00

In the process of adding some links to this blog I stumbled upon the idea that it was just better to change the template again. This one seems more conducive to the few changes I've made, so that is the reason for the change. I added a few music websites that I enjoy and, of course, a couple of my favorite blogs. Look for this list to grow in the future.

Now that summer is in full swing I am enjoying the fruits of a teaching career. I am teaching eighth graders in a summer program, but I am finished by ten o'clock each morning. I have no complaints from that end. With the free time I've taken up a few wish list items.

The first has been a more rigorous practice schedule for drumming. I'm doing a minimum of an hour a day to build up hand technique and dexterity through rudiments, as well as independence and my swing feel through jazz. Although I may never play in a jazz setting, I think it will improve the ability to play shuffles and concetrate on setting solid grooves. I've listening to Miles, Elvin Jones, John Prine and Johnny Cash. The reason for listening to both jazz and country is because they have a lot of swing in the grooves. Country has a shuffle feel influenced by jazz players. I'm also hoping to get copies of the drum line music for the high school pep band to learn it for the season which starts in August.

I began reading Orwell's Down and Out in Paris and London which is about poverty and the stories people find themselves living in. I'll write more on this later when I finish it. About a month ago I brought the old Oswald Chambers My Upmost for His Highest , and I'm really liking it. It often seems as though I see a honest reflection of the state of my life when I read that book. Much of time I do a great job of convincing myelf all these shortcomings don't exist.

Update

2006-05-22T21:10:00.000-05:00

I'm still alive. My head is beginning to emerge from the pile of essays.

I played drums at this fancy church in Prairie Village yesterday. They had ultra-nice sound equipment, and the drums were in this little sound-proof room. It was weird, but I could hear everything pretty well through the headphones. I even got paid for it. Not bad. I'm thinking about playing a few dates at New Day this summer, but I'd like to wait until they move to the new building. If I'm going to play drums in a trailer-contraption like they have now, it needs to be dirty garage-rock, not worship music. It's just not right.

Other than that, I'm just livin', breathin', and reading lots of music blogs. Peace.

Saturday Projects

2006-04-29T21:10:00.000-05:00

Debbie's work is what you will see directly upon entering our front door.

The patterns on these pieces are really quite intricate. I hope you all get to come over soon to see them. It is nice to add some flavor to this residential existence. Our domestic bliss continues for now.

I have been working on the basement, trying to make it a better practice/recording space. The hope is that I sell my old kit and a few other items so I can pick up a new snare drum and some microphones. I have gotten to know the son of the owners of Explorer's Percussion because he goes to Rockhurst. Hopefully, the connection with have at least a minor payoff. Here is the progress so far:

Here is the kit in my current minimalist, sound sourcing phase:

My perspective:

The only thing missing is a picture of the ungraded essays sitting on my desk.

A Solution to the High Cost of Gas:

2006-04-27T18:51:00.000-05:00

GET A BIKE!

That is the one I am working on.

a sample of just how nerdy i really am

2006-04-23T21:39:00.000-05:00

The past two weekends are making me thirsty for the summer's festivities. I've been doing some very home owner type things like mowing the lawn, working on the basement, and organizing various rooms. For right now I'm enjoying my domestic bliss, but surely the novelty will wear off.

Since the weekend recording session fell through, Paul and I took Saturday afternoon to modify the acoustics of the basement. We hung carpet padding on the walls, foam stuff on the ceiling, egg cartons in the corners, and carpet on the floor. I can tell a difference simply from playing the drum kit alone.

I've spent way too much time today reading music related information. My bro-in-law, Jonny B, hooked me up with the last three months of Modern Drummer mags, and Paul let me borrow a home recording book which is entertaining to read. Those essays can wait another day (i'm going to lose my job). I'm hoping to sell my old kit, trumpet, and a few other items soon so I can purchase a new snare drum and perhaps a couple drum mics.

If you are bored from reading this post watch this Laser Cats skit from SNL.

Recording and Reordering

2006-04-18T21:05:00.000-05:00

This coming Saturday Butterfly Knives will be doing a small recording with Jordan Geiger from Minus Story. I'm pretty excited to get some experience with recording, and especially to do it with a musician whose music I enjoy so thoroughly. We're hoping to crank out two or three songs of at least moderate quality. Look for it to replace our previous low-budget stuff on the myspace site sometime after Saturday.

Debbie and I headed to Iowa for Easter last weekend. My friend Nathan gave me some great tunes to ease the hours in the car. The list includes:

Built to Spill - You in Reverse
Band of Horses - Everything All the Time
Tapes 'n Tapes - The Loon
Colour Revolt - Colour Revolt EP
Kelpie - Hey Friends, It's Kelpie

I like it all a good deal, but the Built to Spill and Band of Horses records are my favorite.

Outside of those things (perhaps I should inside) I've been compelled by the idea of proactivity. The long story short is that I'm feeling the sense to become more prayerful, reflective, and even ecological. I'm glad to have friends with similar concerns because I need them.

Currently Listening to: Bright Eyes - Fevers & Mirrors.

media mayhem, etc.

2006-04-03T20:19:00.000-05:00

DVD's Watched: Capote, The Squid and the Whale, Sopranos Season 1 Disc 1, Walk the Line, Junebug, Billy Bragg and Wilco: Man in the Sand, and The Constant Gardener.

Music Listened to: Sigur Ros, Takk; Bob Dylan, Blonde on Blonde; Modest Mouse, Building Something Out of Nothing; Wilco, you name it I listened to it; David Bowie, Ziggy Stardust and Hunky Dory; Miles Davis, Milestones; Orangecore; My Morning Jacket, Z and It Still Moves.

Books Read: Here Bullet by Brian Turner (poetry), Chronicles: Volume One by Bob Dylan (autobiography), Cannery Row by John Steinbeck (fiction), The Count of Monte Cristo by Alexandre Dumas (fiction), Romeo and Juliet (drama, pun intended).

That's the stuff I've been into for the past two months. This is a summary to make up for my insufficient blogging.

I got a summer job teaching reading to middle school kids, I applied and was accepted to a po-dunk Master's program, and have been grading lots of essays.

my love is blind

2006-03-22T20:04:00.000-06:00

I had never before thought of how awful the relationship must be between the musician and his instrument. He has to fill it, this instrument, with the breath of life, his own. -James Baldwin, "Sonny's Blues."

If Wilco started covering Toby Keith tunes I would probably shrug my shoulders and say, "Man, they never cease to amaze me." That's how blind my love is becoming.

Debbie and I made our way into The Uptown Theatre last night to watch Wilco do their thing. And they did it so very well. The current Wilco lineup has an abundance of musical talent. It was great to see them display this live. They were dynamic, precise, fun, and surprisingly un-rockstar-ish. If there is anything to love from a Midwest band like Wilco it is how down-to-earth they seem. If I'm speaking in cliches it's because red hearts are still circling round my head.

Jeff Tweedy was bearded, danced goofy, and ripped squealing solos on a Gibson SG. Nels Cline at times looked as though he would vibrate right off the stage, and it was as if I was struck by Cupid's big gay arrow when Glenn Kotche played the kit and cotales at the same time. I was mesmerized by the quality and quantity of percussive ambiance he is able to add to a rock band. As a drummer, he has made rock seem more expressive than I ever thought it could be. Mikael Jorgensen, Pat Sansone and Nels Cline should also be credited with much of this. And what would the band be without the classy bass and backing vocal stylings of John Stirratt?

"You know how I know you're gay?" Because you obsess about Wilco.

They played for a little over two hours while I gawked about how they were together at every change and indelibly dynamic from the crushing wall of sound to the fragile moments of Tweedy's voice alone with an acoustic guitar. They played mostly from A Ghost is Born and Yankee Hotel Foxtrot with a few b-sides and new songs.

And the thing I love the most is that after all this was over I felt as though I could sit down to have a normal conversation with these guys. Accept that I'm a bumbling turd, so that probably wouldn't work. It was a good night.

fan-freaking-tastic

2006-03-05T21:56:00.000-06:00

First, the nephews and I turn up the heat just a few days before their baby brother makes his appearance in this world:

Next, went to see Dave Chapelle's Bloc Party on Friday. I had no idea there would be so much music in it. It was quickly realized that Questlove of The Roots is a genius of flavor. He played drums for nearly every performing group at the party except the Fugees. The list includes Kanye West, Talib Kweli, Dead Prez, Erykah Badu, Jill Scot, Common, Mos Def, and, of course, The Roots. He not only performed all their songs, but directed the band. Needless to say, the guy can play.

Finally, amidst grading a pile of essays I managed to pick up a great poetry book at my brother-in-law's recommendation. It is called Here, Bullet by Brian Turner. It is a collection of wonderfully unpolitical, human, non-pretentious poems mostly about Iraq, of which he spent seven years serving in the army. If you tire of the dry and lifeless poetry of academia, but still want something that utilizes form and quality of language and imagery, I implore you to give this a try.

Other than that I've been listening to a great deal of Deerhoof and My Morning Jacket and wishing I was creating more music.

my digital agenda

2006-02-15T20:42:00.000-06:00

This is one of Debbie's weavings hanging at one of the administrative buildings at the art institute. I don't know how it is I get to be with this lady.

Pie man.

Tater man.

So I've been inspired by other bloggers of late (ahem...travis, baka...ahem) to get technologically in the now. Besides, I recently discovered that I like our digital camera.

I fixed the butterfly knives link in the previous post so if you didn't find the address, check it out.

Currently listening to: anything sad and whining, ie Minus Story, Iron & Wine, Wilco, Vashti Bunyan.

interstellar connection

2006-02-07T22:47:00.000-06:00

I took some time today and yesterday to peruse the myspace world. I found some friends from Iowa that I didn't know had sites and added them to our band site. If you haven't checked it out you can listen to a few cheap recordings on our myspace website. The band is Butterfly Knives and the address is butterfly knives. The four songs are from a recording we did last summer. It's been a lot of fun playing with John and Paul, and hopefully we will get a gig with the much-talked-about Minus Story.

In other news, according to the Wilco website they may be playing a show at The Uptown here in Kansas City in March. Give me a ring if you are interested because I will most definitely be there.

Good night for now.

Listening to: Nick Drake.

a message from "Thumbsucker"

2006-01-27T23:20:00.000-06:00

The answer is not always found in a single absolute or an idea of normality but the simple realization that we are all flawed, and it is okay.

this ain't no cuttin' coral

2006-01-22T21:40:00.000-06:00

I've managed to pull myself away from my Srubs binge long enough make yet another weak post. I'm not sure I've ever enjoyed a TV show so much. John C. McGinley is a laugh-riot, but it is hard to say that one character stands out as my favorite.

I saw Minus Story play again in Lawrence last night. They were in top form and continue to rise on my favorite bands list. I talked to Jordan and Nick (the lead singer and drummer) about our band playing a show with them in March. Our lead singer has known Jordan for a while so he seemed interested. They are not huge rock stars (as if being a rock star means anything), but it would mean a lot to me to play a show with those guys. My ideas about drumming have changed a lot since first beginning to listen to Nick.

A shouty-shout to Dave for a bitchin' weekend, another superb haircut, and plenty of hilarious moments involving the f-word. The same goes to Nartan for the clever burns, the broken iPod (the closest I may get to owning one for a long time), and the borderline inappropriate fondling. Tater also says thanks you for rubbing his fury chin and letting bounce on your balls.

Currently listening to: lots of Ryan Adams, Minus Story, My Morning Jacket, Bob Dylan, and David Bowie. I'm all over the place. Later.

my wooden crown

2006-01-03T22:20:00.000-06:00

After being crowned nerdiest blogger of 2005 by Amandla I figured I better my make my first post of the new year in hopes of continueing my reign.

We made it into the new house and we are finally getting settled in. So far we love it.

The break was nice. I got a chance to start a new book. I'm reading Bob Dylan's Chronicles. The beginning is more or less a picture of the New York City folk music scene and some influences on him as a songwriter. Dylan maintains some of his private nature in talking more about other people than himself, but looses small doses of insight as he goes. Regardless, I find his depiction of the music scene and literary influences compelling. I doubt much of today's hit artist ever read Thucydides or Faulkner. Nor do many of today's pop artists study the craft of songwriting as Dylan or other artists of his time have done. Over the past three or four years I've come to see country and folk songwriting in a completely different light. Of course, I'm not refering to contemporary country like Toby Keith, but guys like John Prine, Dylan, Cash, Woody Guthrie, etc. There was a real craft and purpose to their work that transcends so many of the oversimplified themes in most pop music.

Well I hope that talking about Bob Dylan hasn't made me any less nerdy. I do have this thing for biographies and autobiographies, for that matter. Until next time.

Snow Day

2005-12-08T21:19:00.000-06:00

A definate perk to the teaching profession would have to be snow days. Yesterday we recieved nearly a foot of fresh powder, a snowboarder's dream. I went to take Tater outside this morning and he was up to his belly in snow. At first he pranced slowly, then tried to sprint through the back yard. As I shoveled the driveway he bit and barked at the thrown piles of snow. I should have taken pictures.

I took the opportunity to catch up on some grading. My sophomore essays prove to be an exceptionally time-consuming task. But the semester is nearly over and before I know it Debbie and I will be packing up and moving to our new home. It's crazy to think about now, but it is less than two weeks away. I'm ready to get settled in to the new place. Since Thanksgiving it is as if my inner life is in limbo while I teach prepare to move. Half of me is incredibly thankful and the other stressed-out. I've been battling my sinuses as well, which doesn't help.

Since the cold has come for the winter I've been thinking more and more about recording music. I've been wanting to get a set of drum mics for a while, but the list of things to buy always grows longer doesn't it? For a while now my question has been, at what point do I give up the sort of "household" items (furniture, etc.) and go for what I'm really passionate about? Because it seems like those passionate things often get put on the backburner of our lives. Maybe it's the whole keepin-up-with-the-Joneses thing, or maybe it's the pressure to be a consumer, or perhaps its just the innate need to provide for your family, but it seems there is some sort of pressure to have "nicer things."

I don't mean to get all "Fight Club" on you, but there must be some sort of point in which to draw the line. Then again, I guess I have to remember that Debbie and I have been living far below the poverty line for over four years now. One thing that is difficult for me about teaching at Rockhurst is how many "breaks" a lot of these kids get that I never did and may or may not ever get. Most of them drive much nicer cars than me and will probably have their college paid for. A few of my colleagues who are Rockhurst alumni even got brand new cars as college graduation gifts. Most don't realize it but that really does so much to put them ahead of the game. I'm still trying to pay off debt from moving from Iowa to Kansas City, let alone college loans, dental work, broken down cars, and the everyday expenses of living. When it comes time to buy houses or start families, those things mean a lot.

But this ain't no pitty party, I have an immense amount to be grateful for. It takes some work to focus on those good things, because it's hard not to compare yourself to other people. I know a kid who already wrecked and ruined close to eighty-thousand dollars worth of cars within the first couple months of getting his license. While he is laughing about his lawyer-mom's money, I'm thinking what that kind of money could do for Debbie and I. I'm thinking of how to afford rent and how when you open the trunk of my car, the concrete is visible through the rusted wholes of the metal. But I also have to think of how my mother and father taught me the value of hard work and the money earned from it. I think of the things taught to me that money does not buy and that any amount of debt will not take away from me.

Okay, enough of my rambling tonight. Check out Wilco's new double disk live album, "Kicking Television," if you get a chance. I don't think I've liked a band so much since the days of the Smashing Pumpkins. Good night and good on ya.

Iowa 67, Kentucky 63

2005-11-21T23:10:00.000-06:00

On a whim, I decided to go to the Hawkeye game in downtown Kansas City tonight. I am too poor to go but went anyway and it was totally worth it! Look out because Texas is next. I'm tempted to go to that game as well but that may be stretching it too far. I'll have to hit the local pub so I can watch it on TV though. Hawkeye basketball is looking up for the moment and Greg Brunner leads the way. The guy is a horse.

Urban Hiking

2005-11-10T22:59:00.000-06:00

I've been thinking lately about the idea of efficiency. I don't mean this in the sense of managing business or industry but within the context of a personal life. To no surprise, these thoughts come as I try to balance my career with personal life. There is a misperception that a quiet life cannot be lived in the city. Again, by quiet life I mean one which includes solitude, silence, and reflection. However, I am finding that it requires a different approach.

For a time I thought I was doing all these things that were wearing me down, and that rest meant aimlessly perusing the internet or watching TV, with the understanding that nearly all of it is garbage, peticularly on the major networks. Instead, I have been doing more around the house and even spending more time with teaching materials at night. By accomplishing more of these things I feel as though I have had a lesser weight in the back of mind in which to fill up with other more interesting things. I am realizing that after those things are accomplished I am truly able to rest in such things as reading for recreation, journaling, walking, and even solitude. Prior to this week I inadvertently had the perspective that these things contributed to the stress and business of life.

I am finding that being more efficient and pushing through the things I don't want to do make periods for rest all the more enjoyable. I am particularly enjoying a few nice Fall walks with the dog. Putting on extra layers and trudging through the cool air is such a rejuvenating experience for me. It's much nicer than any steamy summer day, no matter how bright the sun is.

So those are a few thoughts running through my head. Perhaps in a few days I will look back and think that I'm a big cheese-wad, but that should be no surprise. Or perhaps I have found wisdom. That is certainly what I'm hungry for.

In the music department I've been listening to lots of Sufjan Stevens again. The spirit and depth of musical voices on the "Illinois" album can be so inspiring. I'm also reading James Joyce's Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man. The title says it all and the book is fascinating as only Joyce can be. I'm liking it so much because I want to explore ways of thinking and growing.

"And our children will form a family band."

2005-10-28T22:57:00.000-05:00

Good news all. I decided to try a new mortgage broker to get a second opinion and it turns out we've been approved for a sweet loan in which the interest is fixed for 30 years and the down payment is covered. A sweet deal indeed. I think the first bank I went to was extremely affluent (it was in a fancy building next to Town Center) and either did not want to take the risk with us or figured they wouldn't make any money.

Nevertheless, we are going to look at a few houses tomorrow with a much cooler agent. Of course, we have committed to nothing because we are simply exploring our options. This feels like crazy adult stuff, but it is as exciting as scary. We are looking at houses in a few slightly more racially diverse neighborhoods. They are old houses, but they are built with solid stone and have tons of character. Also, they are quite near the Westport/Plaza area and affordable (considering it is in the City).

This has been one of the best Friday nights in a long while, because I've done nothing but sit at home. Things have been so busy that I'm having a blast at home. I made a hot batch of chili, watched "Kingdom of Heaven" (it isn't that good but hey, I got to sit around), and I've been practicing drums like crazy! I've been working on all this rudiment stuff, really trying to get some quick, solid chops. It can seem tedious, but I know it is contributing so much to my bag of tricks and sense of time.

I've been listening to a batch of cd's sent to my by Dave. It's all good but my favorites have been Ryan Adams' "Cold Roses," Fionna Apple's latest "Extraordinary Machine," and The Innocence Mission's "Befriended." I read today that Ryan Adams is coming out with yet another album in December. The guy is an album machine. That makes three in this year alone of which "Cold Roses" is a double album!

What I think would top off this night is playing some XBOX in bed. I'll have to dust it off but a little Tony Hawk's Pro Skate is calling my name. Muy bueno pinche gringos. In the immortal words (or at least fleetingly popular) of Ben Stiller in Anchorman, "como estan bitches!"

Still, and always, a kid.

2005-10-23T22:30:00.000-05:00

Hey yall. The Debs and I struggling a bit right now. Despite all the gradiose benefits from having a full time job, we have little money and need to find a new place to live before winter strikes if we are ever going to save any money. Before I do anymore whining though I must admit that this bit of adversity (as if we are really poor comparatively) is sort of re-centering me on my value for simplicity.

So this house is way too expensive to heat. I would have liked our next move to be into a house which I owned, but alas, my booming teacher's salary doesn't qualify me for any type of loan in which I don't get reemed by the interest rate, fees, etc. In addition, we need a new car and Debbie has to get $5700 worth of dental work done which our insurance doesn't cover.

On one hand I feel uncomfortable sharing this, but on the other I am attempting to humble myself to the fact that we need help. So we're praying for help and ideas. Should you have any (ideas, not money) or know anyone who does let us know. Like I said before I feel as though this situation is helping me to focus on the things that really matter: relationships, thinking, spirituality, etc. It is so easy to get wrapped up in wanting material things like cars, homes, furniture, and electronics. I like those things but what I really want to is live a life of giving, which can't be done with mounting debts. Oh the realities of adulthood. I was under the illusion that since I work 60+ hours a week I deserve a house or nice car. Well, it doesn't work that way for everybody. I guess these are just thoughts as I try to process this experience and make some sort of sense of it. Peace to you all.

Getting Sleepy

2005-10-16T22:48:00.000-05:00

I can't believe it's been a month since I last posted. Where is time going? Lately I've been painfully aware of how days seem to slip by without my noticing. Life moves so quickly that it takes a concious effort to slow it down by making time to stop and reflect. It is that reflection which makes life worth living. It seems simple but the concerns of the day have more power over us than we think. At least that is my experience anyway. So this week I hope to make more time for stillness, prayer, and solitude. Perhaps if successful, I will even make a more frequent appearance in the blog world, let alone my own personal journal.

Yesterday I purchased the second season DVD of Arrested Devopment. Debbie and I watched the episode titled "Afternoon Delight" and I nearly wet myself I laughed so hard. The writing for that show is completly genius.

I don't have much to say in the way of the latest music I'm into. I've been bored with my own collection so if you have any interesting prospects make mention of them. I'm kind of bored with (dare I say it) indie music right now. I listened to Joshua Redman and the Elastic Band (jazz/fusion) today and was somewhat appeased. I bought Ryan Adam's new album "Jacksonville City Nights" and at first I loved it, but I'm already bored of it too. Has anyone heard any good new electronica stuff lately? That sounds tasty but I'm tired of what I have (i.e. Squarepusher, Aphex Twin, Bjork).

I'm Mike Jones!

2005-09-16T17:08:00.000-05:00

Oh blogland how I have neglected you so! ..."who cares." What! Wait, who said that?

So teacher mode has apparently kicked in. Just yesterday I officially traded in my fohawk for a pocket-protector. And to top it all off I have been made "assistant director" of the pep band. I shit you not my friends. *pushes up glasses.

But can I still find solace in blogland? If not, I've always got Tater. "What's taters, precious?" Wow.

I'm a bit loopy today. It's been a gruesome two weeks in the work-world and I'm ready to let the looney loose. Today was a stellar half-day en las escuela and I'm getting a few moments of rest before the big evening at the football game. Actually tonight I will be part of "crowd control." Apparently those Rockhurst boys get pretty pumped up about their football squad and feel the need to toss each other around, and shun the presence of any young tail in lieu of taking their shirts of and screaming. Finally, after all these years of hopeless attempts to find myself, I'm right at home.

After a few shorts weeks I've already been given a nickname by my students. I am now refered to at Rockhurst as the infamous "Mike Jones!" He is a hip hop artist known doing little except for shouting his name. A loving student gave me a burned copy of the disc today. Kids who aren't even my students will yell "Mike Jones!" in the hallway. I act cool about it, but secretly I exalt over the fact that my adolescent dreams of fame and popularity have come true.

I'm listening to the cd now and I can't stop cracking up. He really does do nothing but say his own name. The album is even called "Who is Mike Jones?" Amazing. "Like a football team my girl got a tight end." -an actual lyric.

Alright, keep it real son.

Grow Up Will Ya.

2005-08-21T23:13:00.000-05:00

Wheewww. I successfully made it through my first week of teaching only to be bombarded by the next. I had grand plans of doing all this grading and planning this weekend and I managed to get almost none of it done. I suppose I am at least mostly prepared for tomorrow, but that doesn't cut it in the teaching world.

I've always been a last minute kind of guy and now I'm facing the fact that it's not going to work like that anymore. Now that I've entered some form of professional career it is time I got organized when it comes to managing time and resources. It's a good lesson, but it's freaking tough to get. However, I feel as though I'm finally actually taking on some of the responsibilities of life now rather than pawning them off (perhaps a credit card type of reference), acting as if they won't catch up to me.

I may as well say good-bye to my friends for the next couple months though. Teaching is going to have me pretty well swamped until I build up a decent amount of resources and tricks. But I did manage to go see "40 Year-old Virgin," practice with the band, and change the oil and air filters in both the cars.

I'm sure this post has bored the tears from your eyes so I apologize for all the whining. Although I'm faced with working harder (or at least differently) than I ever have before, I love my job and I'm incredibly excited about all the growing that my students and I have ahead. Believe it or not, I like the planning.

I picked up Spoon's latest album "Gimme Fiction" this weekend. I highly recommend it to any Wilco fan or if you like Modest Mouse-type funkiness.

Currently Listening to: Beck - "Sea Change"

"it's hard to be a human being, and it's harder as anything else"

2005-08-12T12:18:00.000-05:00

This evening feels melancholy and a tinge nostalgic. That is probably from noticing my own inadequacies and talking to a friend from Chicago that I haven't seen in a couple years but still admire greatly. He's wonderfully creative guy and I'm sorry if he is reading these sappy banterings.

I've been through three days of faculty meetings now. I'm exhausted and overloaded with information but with each day I'm looking forward to teaching with more excitment. I'm realizing now how much value I have put on doing a job in which people grow, myself included. There are so many things that interest me but more often than not, this one rises to the top.

Also as I read a friend's Xanga site tonightI was reminded of my desire to live simply but creatively. When beginning a career it is so easy to get wrapped up in benifits, retirement plans, new wardrobes, cars, etc. All of that stuff makes me boring (probably like write now). I guess what I'm saying is that I'm feeling vulnerable. I feel inexperienced, boring, lazy, undedicated, afraid of challenges, and uncreative. To me, the opposite of some of those things is life.

This is in some ways ironic because, in other news, the band I am in has a myspace website now in which you can listen to a demo of four songs we recorded. The web page is www.myspace.com/butterflyknives (for some reason the link won't work).

Keep in mind this is a demo and was recorded live with two condenser mics in the middle of the room. Hopefully soon we will be recording a few songs with the lead singer/songwriter for one of my favorite bands right now, Minus Story. http://countrycore.com/minusstory/main.html. Check them out.

Things are busy right now but hopefully soon I'll get some time for contemplation. And I hope you do to. I never take enough time to assess my life. I mean that in a way in which I contemplate where my life is and where I am going. With that I say peace.

Currently Listening to: Modest Mouse, "Baby Blue Sedan" from the album Building Something out of Nothing (the title of this post is from this song).

meanderings of my weekend

2005-08-08T14:40:00.000-05:00

So this great weekend has come to an end. It was highly eventful so I'm glad to have a day to get some rest for my soul and get focused. I've been hanging out with friends almost continuously since Friday. We started out with an evening on our front porch which ended with two in the morning trip to Ponchos for the best burritos on the face of the planet. But no matter how tasty or cheap a burrito is, two a.m. is not the best time to eat one.

Saturday, I watched several episodes from the first season of Arrested Development. That show is completely genius and I can't wait till season two comes out. It's hard to describe what kind of humor it is because it seems to cover so many things. The casting for the show is brilliant.

Later that night we headed off to Lawrence to see my favorite local band, Minus Story. The show took a rediculously long time to get started because the opening act loved his attention. But Minus Story was completely worth the wait. I even bought a Minus Story t-shirt, which is rare for me. I can't wait for the new album.

We finished the first season of Arrested Development on Sunday afternoon before our usual Sunday trip to Arby's for classy fast-food dining. 5 for $5.95 baby! We also watched to new documentary film on the Flaming Lips called Fearless Freaks that evening. Anyone who is even remotely a fan could probably enjoy this film. Their hunger for creativity is beautiful.

It was all fun, but I was so glad to have a little time to myself this morning. Tomorrow I begin my teacher orientation stuff. It will probably be boring but I'm excited anyway because it's my first teaching job! It will be cool to see how a career like this changes me. Everyone says the first year is tough and I believe that. I just hope that I grow as a person and a teacher from this experience because of all the opportunities to do so. Now I'm off to read assorted handbooks and information on Jesuits and Ignatian pedagogy. Weeee!

What did the five fingers say to the face?

2005-08-03T20:31:00.000-05:00

SLAP! That's my ode to The Chappelle Show which I heard today will be no longer. It will be dearly missed.

Not too much worth blogging about but I'll update nonetheless. I am currently peeling my eyes from all the reading and writing I've been doing in preparation for my first year as an English teacher. It's actually been quite fun and I'm excited about the literature on schedule for this year. I meet with the head of the department tomorrow and I can only hope he doesn't rip my head off. He's not that mean it's just that I really have no idea how much I should have to show him.

There is a Minus Story show this weekend which Dave and I are ecstatic over. The new album comes out in October! And they have t-shirts out!

Currently Listening to: Aphex Twin

A Questionaire on Books

2005-07-18T03:25:00.000-05:00

I picked this up from Baka's blog and having been meaning to post my own response to it.

NUMBER OF BOOKS OWNED: I'm guessing somewhere between 250 and 300 but I've never counted. What can I say? I've read a moderate amount of stuff at best and, of course, I now teach English so I better have a decent collection. Shopping for and buying a new book is so much fun. Thank goodness for Half Price Books.

LAST BOOK BOUGHT: Shane by Jack Schaefer. My incoming freshmen are required to read it over the summer. I've never read it but what I've ingested so far is okay.

LAST BOOK READ: Cannery Row by John Steinbeck. I am going to teach this one as well. I enjoyed it a great deal. It is not nearly as dark and critical as his other more well known works. It has some hilarious moments and an interesting perspective on American individual and social identity.

FIVE BOOKS THAT MEAN A LOT TO ME:
(this is certainly not in order)

1. Brennan Manning's Ragamuffin Gospel continues to be a powerfully inspiring book to me. Manning's work is some of the most soulful and, at the same time, literary stuff I've read. The guy can write and I love his brutal(crushingly tender?) honesty.

2. Reservation Blues by Sherman Alexie. It was tough to choose a single work by him because I am such a fan of his fiction. I'm sure I've ranted enough about him in other posts.

3. The Bible. Wait don't stop reading! I know it is cliche but I can't deny this book's impact on my values and spirituality. I have read it all the way through (and don't remember much) but to be honest I wish I loved this book more. It is still hard for me to read sometimes but every now and then something will really grab me. It usually goes right to my core and is a beautiful experience.

4. The Legend of Light by Bob Hicok. This is poetry by my favorite poet. To me he is a master of imagery and the way he writes about tangible real-life experiences, challenges, and joys comes together in a way that is aesthetically wonderful and accessible. What I love about this guy is that he doesn't pretend that you have to have a Masters in creative writing to enjoy poetry and yet his work is highly structured and intentional.

5. Wonderlust: A History of Walking by Rebecca Solnit. I've talked about this book before. What I love about it is the way it ties together the experience of our thoughts/soul/spirituality with the tangible, material world we live in.

There is so much great writing out there that it is nearly impossible to say these are or will always be my top five. Writers like Derrick Jensen, Annie Dillard, Flannery O'Connor, and Theodore Dreiser all come to mind. Mmmm...reading sounds good. I think I'll have that. Peace.

Dis, dat, and de udder ding.

2005-07-13T03:26:00.000-05:00

I just got home from work and I guess I'm in the mood to post. This will probably be random and trivial but oh well.

So in less than two weeks I will be done working at Corporate Express! The degree to which I look forward to that date is unfathomable. It has been by far the most socially awkward job I have ever worked. Keep in mind I now work with kids who are going through puberty and used to work retail where I would have to communicate with someone who doesn't even speak my language or an old guy who would break wind as I told him about how great CFW deck stain was. Needless to say, that last day will be a celebration. I am entirely ready to focus soley on teaching.

Have any of you got Sufjan Steven's new record "Illinois?" If not I highly recommend. I was skeptical of a guy who has set out with the overly-ambitious endeavor to write an album for each of the fifty states, but this guy is exceptionally talented. I can't stop listening to it. It is suprisingly personal and beautiful. Even the song about John Wayne Gacy.

That's all for now. Take care bloggerland.

And a Good Evening to You.

2005-06-18T03:38:00.000-05:00

No particular incident has incited this infrequent post, but here I stand.

Today has been bizarre and wonderful. I slept in, called in sick to work (eh hem...well I'm faking it), went to a Royals baseball game, and hung out on my porch enjoying the night air. I must admit that at the Royals game I secretly wished for some sort of Ferris Bueller moment in which I caught a foul ball and had my face plastered on the jumbo-tron but, sadly, no such incident occurred. I am usually not the type to play hooky, but Corporate Express seems to pull it out of me. It was a tough week, what can I say? I feel like I'm taking crazy pills when I'm there.

I'm listening to some Iron & Wine now. It goes great after an evening of drinks and conversation with me beloved brother-in-law. I love our little front-porch-get-togethers. Talking of life, etc. is so inspiring and helpful. Which brings me to a tiresome question: "What the hell happened to this blogger community?" Rahx, you're my only hope. (By the way, you should come down to Iowa for my folks usual Fourth of July extravaganza. Just a thought.)

Tomorrow I'm going to do some plannning for the school year, play music with Dave, and hang out again with my bro-in-law and long-time friend Adam. I'm really looking forward to it. I've been so busy with this summer job that I haven't had time to do enough planning for teaching and I really do think it is fun making plans for what I will teach.

I bid you all a continued restful sleep. Soon I'll make my way to bed, but I'm growing weary of hearing the birds sing their morning songs as I lay down. Breckenridge, Colorado is calling my name to its restful summer mountains.

Currently listening to: Iron & Wine - "Weary Memory"

Rocks with Graves

2005-05-26T03:03:00.000-05:00

It's been a music and literature filled week for me so far. On Saturday the group of guys I've been playing with recorded a few songs as some sort of demo. We did it all live with two condenser mics and a four track tape recorder. And as simple as it was it sounded better than any recording I've ever been a part of. Hopefully this will lead to playing a show or two this summer at the Brick or somewhere else here in K.C.

Some other exciting news (to me at least) is that we are going to record again with the lead singer/songwriter for a band I've been really into lately called Minus Story. If you have the means I highly recommend checking out some of ther stuff. Most likely we'll rent a rehearsal space for a few hours and rock out with a digital 24 track. I can't wait. We'll be doing some of Dave's songs too!

In other music news, I am officially going to be taking drum lessons from a one Brandon Graves, formerly of Waterdeep. Don Chaffer told me on Sunday (*breathes on finger nails and rubs on shirt) that he was teaching again in Olathe. It just so happens that I was about to call my old drum teacher so I gave Brandon a ring instead and I will start this next Tuesday. I'm really excited about working on my weaknesses, learning technigue, and new stuff from such a well-rounded and amazing musician. His influence on my playing extends several years prior to this lesson. Needless to say, I'm pretty excited about all these music prospects.

On Monday, I met with the head of the English department at Rockhurst and a few other teachers to get books and discuss the courses I will be teaching. They use great books and I get to teach a lot of writing and great fiction next year. I have a lot of planning to do over the summer but I think it is all rather fun and exciting. Since this is a college prep school I get to really push the kids. Seeing their development will be wonderful.

What is everyone doing for Memorial Day weekend? I'm not quite sure myself. Thinking of going home to see the folks in Iowa, but we'll see. A three-day weekend sounds scrumpchulecent.

Currently listening to: The Rolling Stones: Sticky Fingers album.

"Why'm I so soft in the middle when my life is so hard"

2005-05-14T03:39:00.000-05:00

Ah, it's Friday and I made it through yet another week at Corporate Express. What a cheese-wad name for a company. At least I got a free dinner tonight. The big execs get tickets to Royals and Chiefs games and I get Pizza Hut. Oh well, I put on my Bruce Springsteen "Nebraska" album and get back to my roots.

I'm blogging because it's about the extent of my social interaction on a Friday night since I have to work till about two in the morning on these nights. Working Fridays was always the hardest thing for me about working nights. It makes it all the more isolating and lonely when all your friends are hanging out. It still seems so strange to me to being working my ass off for this huge company that doesn't give two shits about me, as long as I do my job and show up, in order to barely pay the bills. So many other more important things are lost in the process. Working nights doesn't really make marriage all that easy and my friendships certainly get compromised. But what are we to do? This is the world we live in. As strange and backwards as that seems. And what of the people I work with that have families? Okay, so I've gotten on another Corporate Express rant. I'll never forget this place. I'm so thankful I've got a great teaching job lined up and that eventhough teaching is not necessarily lucrative, it is sufficient and satisfying on a much deeper level.

Sometimes when I'm at work, I think of all we go through when people don't show up, the manager is gone, and all hell seems to break loose...and it's all so that white-collar folks sitting in there cubicals can immediately have there pens and paper clips. It reminds me of what Derrick Jensen says when he says that cheap products never come without a price to someone. What do people making Gap clothes and Dell computers in China and India go through? I'm afraid to find out the answer.

So I was listening to R.E.M.'s album Up. It has this great song about working nights called Daysleeper which hits the nail on the head. But I've moved on to more Friday-appropriate music with Mr. Lif and the I Phantom album. These are great hip hop songs about being poor and oppressed, with a great sense of humor.

Oh my gosh! I read the most hilarious thing I've ever read last night in a Sherman Alexie short story called "Can I get a Witness." I have to share it with you because I know most of my friends will like this as much as I did. I was in tears with laughter last night at four in the morning after reading this. I've been laughing ever since everytime I think of it. So here is the excerpt:

He was a short forty-something Caucasion in a black leather coat. Handsome, with kind eyes and stupid mustache, he was maybe twenty pounds overweight and would certainly carry thirty extra pounds in ten more years and forty in tweinty and so on and son on. The inevitable obesity of the American male! [here comes the hilarious part] But for now, he looked like the sexy bass player for a bad garage band. Maybe his belly was soft, but his art was rock-hard!

That was when I nearly pissed myself. It's even better in the context of the story. Alexie has this incredible way of injecting humor into sadness and despair. What a gift. The title of this blog comes from a Paul Simon song with a similar idea.

Okay, so I've bored you enough. Martin and Katie are in K.C. and we'll be hanging out tomorrow so I better try to get some sleep. Congrats to Chad and Kari on their newborn baby girl. Chad, you're a total softy. Sorry man, the picture of you holding your daughter for the first time says it all. I'm so happy for you! I'm sure I'll be a puddle when it happens to me. Alright, go rent "The Life Aquatic" everyone!

Gentle Sway

2005-05-05T04:04:00.000-05:00

I'm posting because it's three in the morning and there isn't much else to do in a sleeping house. I'm feeling nostalgic tonight as late nights often times do. But I'm not sure what I'm nostalgic about, just reflective I suppose.

As I drove home from work the air was nearly warm enough to leave the window down. There is something about being the lone car on the highway at night. Sometimes driving, like walking, gets the mind to travel. That reminds me of one of my favorite books calledWonderlust: A History of Walking by Rebecca Solnit. Here are some of my favorite quotes:

"thinking is generally thought of as doing nothing in a production-oriented culture"

"The rhythm of walking generates a kind of rhythm of thinking, and the passage through a landscape echoes or stimulates the passage through a series of thoughts."

"Many people nowadays live in a series of interiors-home, car, gym, office, shops-disconnected from each other."

"It's the unpredictable incidents between offical events that add up to a life, the incalcuable that gives it value."

"Exploring the world is one of the best wways of exploring the mind, and walking travels both terrains."

I could go on and on. Those are only from the first chapter. I don't nearly walk enough. Like the first quote it often seems as though a waste of time, like I should be "getting something done." This makes me salivate for Colorado summers. That fresh cool pine scented air is like water to the soul.

This has turned out to be something of a small journey itself. I haven't been listening to much music lately except the song "Reservations" by Wilco. Here's the great Jeff Tweedy kicker:

I've got reservations
about so many things
but not about you.

Other than that it has been a lot of silence, reading, and thinking for me when I have the chance. It feeds the soul. Oh yes, tomorrow I'm playing music with Dave and a great guy I know named Michael, who is a roomate to my brother-in-law Paul. Good times.

"We'll be like torches!"

2005-04-27T04:32:00.000-05:00

I didn't realize it had been so long since I posted, so I figured now is the time. It is now four in the morning and I've just finished my second night at Corporate Express, my old night-shift job. So if this post is random and full of mistakes and missing thoughts just remember that I wrote this at four in the morning. I'm writing now cause I figured it is supremely late and since my mind is worthless to do about anything else, I'll post a blog. I send my apologies as a disclaimer.

So school is done (except for an independent study course) and I've managed to find a job for both the summer and next school year. Woohoo. I was so nervous last week I could hardly focus on anything and then in the same day I was offered both jobs. When it rains, it pours. I'm glad for it. I had felt so powerless and it really humbled me. That is important since the last time I worked at Corporate Express I was pretty much your average young and arrogant prick. Perhaps this time around is for redemption.

It just wouldn't be an Obvious Child post if I didn't talk about books and music so here goes. I just finished Chaim Potok's The Chosen. I burned my way through it actually, and it was fantastic. The main characters are two male Jewish Orthodox adolescents in New York. I was so fascinated by the Jewish Orthodox culture and how important it is to be intellectual. The book has so much soul too. I loved it.

For music I've been listening to a lot of mewithoutYou, Neil Young, and Minus Story. I never cared much for mewithoutYou until I was prodded to go to their show last week by Dave. He said I would love it and I did. The lead singer and drummer are perhaps the most physical performers I've ever seen. Their energy was great and they seemed to really know how to take the audience somewhere. Dave told me he thought the lead singer had a B.A. in English which would explain why the songs are so wordy. I quite enjoy that actually. It is rare that a rock band has imagery in their lyrics (especially that is not cliche). That is another reason I love Paul Simon so much. I still have trouble calling it poetry per se but, they at least invoke some images, and Paul Simon is a great story teller.

For the sake of some degree of brevity I'll try to wrap it up here. When you work nights you tend to ramble (cues in R.E.M. track "Daysleeper"). I think it can be especially isolating for me because my schedule is not only opposite of all my friends, but I work at a place where my co-workers think it is weird that I read on my breaks instead of smoking cigarettes. But that is another post all together which I will write sometime soon; corporate America and its blue collar laborers. Peace all.

Currently Listening to: Cheyenne, from their album I am Haunted, I am Alive.

Another Day at the Office

2005-04-08T22:31:00.000-05:00

This was to be posted yesterday but apparently the server was experiencing updates or difficulty.

So I discovered that through my SBC Yahoo Messenger I can create my own radio station. As a result I've spent the last few days obsessing about rating artists, albums, genres, etc. I've always hated radio, with the exception of NPR, because it seemed like one out of every 20 songs would be someting I sort of liked. It's not that I have a limited selection of music I like, but now everything I like is right here, Indie, jazz, underground rap, you name it. Needless to say I'm liking it. Right now it's on one of my favorite songs from Medeski, Martin, and Wood's Notes From the Underground album called United.

This weekend is the Steve Gadd drum clinic sponsored by Explorer's Percussion. Steve Gadd is a legendary studio drummer who has played with Eric Clapton, Chick Corea, and my personal favorite, Paul Simon. I've nearly wetted myself in anticipation of this event. It is this Saturday. I know Zildian cymbal company and possibly Yamaha drum company with be there so I hope I win some goods. That would make my day.

Now Tom Waits is on. This is beautiful.

I'm hot on the job hunt these days. I had an interview yesterday with a private school that I'm really interested. It is actually a Jesuit school and I would love to work in a school that promotes values similar to my own. Plus their writing program is highly rigorous and demanding which I like even though it is more work for me too. I would rather work hard on helpling students become better writers than better standardized test takers. As much as I support public education, I feel it is watered down.

Now I'm on to The Flaming Lips Yoshimi Battles the Pink Robots. In the immortal words of James Lipton, "resplendent!"

Jobs, Indie Rock, Vietnam, and Basketball

2005-03-24T16:04:00.000-06:00

So it's been a while since I've posted and I don't feel as though I have anything too profound to say, but rather that my blog is getting pretty boring.

I'm on spring break this week and it's been real nice to have a break from teaching everyday. I've been trying to use this time to get all the other stuff I need to complete before the end of the semester for the university. I've also been working on job applications. I know this is ridiculous but I'm already getting worried about finding a job for next year. The school district I am student-teaching in has posted English openings at all three of their high schools and I've not heard a peep from them. I have to remind myself that most school districts wait and wait to do their hiring.

Other than that I've been into about three things over this break, Wilco, Tim O'Brien's The Things They Carried, and college basketball. I'm hoping they show the Texas Tech game on TV here tonight. Looks like it might be a good one cause both teams have beaten top teams to get where they are.

I recently watched a DVD on Wilco called I am Trying to Break Your Heart. It has served to fuel my fascination with the band. The drummer, Glenn Kotche, is becoming a favorite of mine. And since I am always touting the benefits of education I might as well say he's got a masters degree in percussion.

Tim O'Brien's The Things They Carried is turning out to be quite the book as well. I bought it really cheap a few years ago when Hastings was going out of business in Marshalltown (a sad event for a town that is already quite intellectually/culturally deprived). So far I'm really impressed with O'Brien's witty, elaborate, and brutally honest writing style. It's a book about American soldiers in Vietnam and the tangible and intangible weights they carry while marching the hills of Vietnam.

Well, that's about all I got today. Good on ya and happy basketball watching for those of you who are fans (come to think of it, probably not many of my friends are).

A Sense of "Place"

2005-03-10T21:06:00.000-06:00

My dog is laying on the couch next to me staring at me as if to say "Why do we have to always sit inside?" "It's a valid question Tater," I say. Spring fever has set in. I'm ready for a break; a nice vacation where I can take long outdoor adventures through elaborate aweful landscapes. I'd like to visit some National Parks out west with a backpack of some clothes, my journal, and a favorite book of mine called, Wonderlust: A History of Walking. The real issue, as always, is coming up with some funding when married and college students.

I think this also comes from feeling a bit spiritually dry. My student-teaching semester is going great and I've learned a lot but I'm ready to move on. Working a more than full-time job for free seems ludicrous from time to time but I must not thing of it. Teaching can be hard in the sense that you give so much of yourself and it's to find any energy at the end of the day to put it back.

I've been reading this great biography about Flannery O'Connor, Dorothy Day, Walker Percy, and Thomas Merton. Reading about the way Thomas Merton was drawn to spirituality makes me nostalgic for some sort of monastic sabbatical. I love the way physical journey's become spiritual ones as well, and in the end they become a form of pilgrimage. I can't count the number of conversations I've had on the sides of cliffs, in caves, in the middle of a frozen river, or on a creek side. There were probably just as many long silences in those spots as well.

Needless to say, I'm glad that soon I'll be taking a brief break from the city. Sometimes in a city you can feel completely isolated and yet at other times there is no place to hide.

Currently Listening to: Iron & Wine - Our Endless Numbered Days

A Little Game.

2005-03-06T22:19:00.000-06:00

A friend of mine once made up his own lyrics to a famous classic rock song. They go like this:

"I am taco man.
I eat tacos all I can."

Of course, it goes on and on but that is the beginning. Can anyone tell me what classic rock song those lyrics would go to? (This is probably either really easy or really hard, I don't know.)

A Sweet Saturday

2005-03-05T18:40:00.000-06:00

A friend gave me an EP from a band called 'Minus Story' today. They are a band from Lawrence whom I saw play at a bar last week and immediately enjoyed. They are a interesting sort of Neil Young, Flaming Lips, imo indie band. I'm digging this EP like a madman right now. Just thought I'd let you know. Gosh, lately I guess everyday I am becoming more and more of an indie music listener. That's not so bad. I even find myself freqenting pitchforkmedia.com on a daily basis. They reviewed the Minus Story EP and gave it a mixed review in comparison to their love of the last full length LP. Lighten up man, its just an EP.

Thinking I could trust my longtime friend and recent roomate, David, I gave him money to buy me some stamps and mail some bills approaching deadline while I was at school. Much to my dismay I came home to a sheet of huge stamps color-printed with Ronald Reagan's face on them. Needless to say, Ronald Reagan, however accomplished, is not on my list of people of which I look up to. Apparently David thought this was humorous but I'm the one who has to mail letters bearing my name with enormous Ronald Reagan photos on them. It's official folks, I'm a tool.

Well, I better grab some food before I head over to my brother-in-laws place for an evening of assorted games, movie watching, and the occasional beverage.

Becoming a better teacher with my head cut off?

2005-03-01T20:05:00.001-06:00

Well, I'm slacking in the post department, but I think we'll all live without my fledging thoughts for a few days. Teaching is keeping me insanely busy. Actually I should be preparing for tomorrow right now. My cooperating teacher's house caught on fire on Monday. She is safe but the house is pretty damaged. It must be awful to have to go through that. I'm doing all I can to help her not have to worry about school but it is getting insane because she is already so unorganized. The classroom is becoming an explosion of books and papers which I tend to get uptight about. Clutter drives me nuts, and when you add 25 teenagers to the mix it can be a bit overwhelming. Needless to say, I'm exhausted.

I had a great and busy weekend. I saw some good local music, went on a nice date with the wife Saturday night, and rocked the house at Jacob's Well on Sunday. Debbie and I went to this bar called Bentons at the top of a hotel Saturday night to see some jazz. It is a beautiful view, but it was weird to see jazz so far removed from the social context in which it was created. Jazz was born in high poverty areas, mostly by African Americans. This setting was a high-dollar bar overlooking the city with all white middle-aged musicians. The view was nice but it just felt wrong to me. The word "exploitation" comes to mind.

Currently listening to: The Stooges: Fun House.

I'm the lucky duck.

2005-02-21T21:54:00.000-06:00

I was fortunate tonight in that my drum teacher gave me an hour lesson instead of the usual half-hour. Normally its like ten dollars more, but this time I just gave him a pat on the ass. I wish I had enough time and money to do hour lessons every week because we get to cover so much material. I took a few weeks off since I started teaching, but it is so good to be back because each lesson is so inspiring. If I have time I'm going to buy some new drum heads next week. I came away with some great ideas to make my kit sound great.

Oh, I should mention that I recieved an email the other day titled "You're the Lucky Duck." It was a from a friend who works for the financial aid department at the college and she had an extra lump of money in a grant with nobody to give it too and so she thought rather than let good money go to waste she would give it to Debbie and I. I just about pooped my pants. The timing was impecable too. I feel so taken care of. It was more than luck.

In the music department I'm becoming increasingly obsessed with Wilco, Sonic Youth and all the collaborations in between. Glenn Kotche of Wilco is quickly rising up my favorite drummers list. He is really the type of drummer that adds melody as well as rhythm with his playing, and he's so damn tasteful.

Well, I think that's it for now bloggerland. Speaking of bloggerland, what happened to it?! I get the feeling anymore that the only person I am really posting for is myself and Austin. Oh well, we're worth it, right Stin?

Currently Listening to: Thelonius Monk - "Monk's Dream"

Got rims on my rider lawn mower.

2005-02-16T22:29:00.000-06:00

How is it in the blogger world? Apparently most of my friends who began the blogger extravaganza last fall are quickly falling off. That's alright cause I suppose everyone has busy lives. I do to and so I haven't been blogging quite as often. I tried to do some updating to my blog tonight in order to breathe some life in this thing, but it back-fired on me. I changed my picture, but for some reason it's not showing up on the published page. If you look at my profile the new picture says it all when it comes to my failed endeavors this evening. I also updated some of the questions and I almost changed the template but I didn't want to half to redo all the links at the top. So after all that time, not much is different. booooo!

I had yet another interview for a teaching job today. It looks as though the job prospect is looking positive for me. It feels good to finally being doing something that I feel fits who I am and so teaching just is what I am supposed to be doing. My cooperating teacher was gone today and for legal reasons the school hired a sub eventhough I taught all the classes. Needless to say, the sub was a pecular fellow and it made me feel like "Hey, I am doing the right thing. I belong here." I think that in order to become a substitute teacher you have a pass a test that proves you are bizarrely opinionated and have rare hobbies like performing magic or loving the Roman period so much you own an actual fitted toga. Who was the strangest substitute teacher you ever had?

Currently listening to: Prince Paul - Politics of the Business.

"sick of all these pictures of me"

2005-02-08T21:04:00.000-06:00

Despite being in Iowa right now, David is having his impact on me. For the past several days I've listened to nothing but Elliot Smith and Morrisey. As the Modest Mouse album title goes, I'm a "Sad Sappy Sucker" for music that is melancholy. I love the raw sound of Elliot Smith's recordings, and Morrisey's voice is almost hypnotic, yet laid over sweet steady rock. I recently learned that Elliot Smith did his own recordings and played all the parts himself. I've always loved the simplicity of his drumming.

I went to a career fair day in which I interviewed with eight different school districts. I'm exhausted from talking about myself in confident glee, but at least I found out about some potential job openings in quality schools. I was suprisingly comfortable with the whole situation. I think it's becuase I have found what I'm supposed to do; at least for the time being it seems right so I'll go with it.

Well I'm off to bed. Who would of thought I would ever be going to bed a nine?

Currently listening to: Elliot Smith "Either/Or"

News from the Deb-dog

2005-02-04T23:33:00.000-06:00

As many of you may or may not know, my wife, Debbie, is attending the Kansas City Art Institute as a sophmore in the fiber department. Last semester she began learning how to weave and hasn't looked back since. Needless to say, she has found her niche and I couldn't be more proud and happy for her.

Recently Debbie submitted an idea for a proposal amongst other junior level weavers. It turns out that she won and has been commissioned $1500 to weave two banners for a church here in Kansas City that was designed by the one and only Frank Lloyd Wright. She dyed all the colors and wove the entire project herself and has been working extremely hard over winter break.

Now as she is finishing the church has decided they are going to do an opening for her at the end of this month. To have your first art opening at a place like this is a pretty big deal, let alone the fact that this is her first opening and she is only a sophmore. The Kansas City Star has called and wants to do an article on her with a photo of her work displayed, and there is a slight possibility that it will even make local television news.

On top of that, the chair of the fiber department (who is also the president of the surface design association for the country) has asked her to work under him for work-study and praised her explaining how rare it is to be this good at weaving with the little amount of experience she has. To say the least, things are going well for her. Thank you to everyone who has encouraged her in this, her dream, the past few years. It is a big deal for someone to want to do this, and a whole nother to actually do it. I certainly don't deserve such an awesome woman.

I just thought I'd take a post and brag about my wife for a little bit. It's fun.

A rare two day streak.

2005-01-31T21:28:00.000-06:00

Yes, a new post two days in a row. I guess I needed a sabbatical from the blogging extravaganza. I've had a really good couple of days. I feel like I've actually been productive; been practicing a lot on drums, cleaning up, and having some quality time to my own self for journaling etc. This is on top of teaching full days too. I don't know what the deal is but being busy has been good for me. I tend to have this melancholy/phlegmatic personality that doesn't do all that well without a schedule.

I'm back on a braindance kick in the music department. Squarepusher and Push Button Objects are the artists of choice lately while everything else has seemed kind of boring. I'm pretty into Squarepusher's "Go Plastic" album right now, eventhough "Hard Normal Daddy" will probably always be my favorite.

Tomorrow evening we're having a friend over for dinner and I'm making my traditional pasta, a Jones family recipe. The secret ingredients are assorted uppers and hallucinogenics but so far no one seems to understand why they feel so elated after the meal. No wonder Debbie likes colors so much.

Well, I'm off to read some Shakespeare and Hemmingway so I can at least act like I know what I'm talking about tomorrow. How classic is it that I'm teaching those two writers at the same time; your standard white literary heroes, but I love them.

"Miscellaneous Debris"

2005-01-30T13:30:00.000-06:00

Greetings friends and bloggers! So it's been a while since I produced a decent post. My apologies please. I've been student-teaching at a high school here in Kansas City for the past two weeks. It's been a great experience so far and I'm learning so much, not only about teaching, but about people and myself as well. My mentor-teacher is amazing and it's good soak up some of her experience and wisdom from teaching so long.

Dave moved in a few weeks ago. We've been playing music and watching movies quite a bit. I'm really into the "Band of Brothers" series right now. It is the story in ten episodes of a group of guys in WWII and their journey, amazing stuff and very well made. This also spurred me to buy the Medal of Honor games for XBox. Am I becoming a WWII junkie?

Anywho, I better get a move on cause I have to do some application crap today for teaching jobs. Oh, and a friend of mine wins tasteless joke of the week. We were heading into Wal-mart in which no one seemed capable of doing a normal parking job. Upon seeing a huge Suburban parked diagnolly in a handicap spot he proclaimed, "Just because your physically handicapped doesn't mean you have to act mentally handicapped." I nearly pissed myself. I'm still laughing about it in fact. And with that I bid you farewell.

A temporary farewell?

2005-01-16T18:42:00.000-06:00

Hey all, sorry it's been so long since my last post. I guess I simply haven't been in the blogging mood lately. Life is swell, but lots of things are changing right now as I enter my student-teaching semester on Tuesday. I'm both nervous and excited.

I'm here only to say that I probably won't be blogging much for a while, unless of course I get a wild hair or something. Hopefully, I will continue to read and comment on all your wonderful pontifications, but for now I am going to focus the more immediate questions and challenges in my life.

Good evening and good on ya.

Literature, "equipment for living."

2005-01-06T22:50:00.000-06:00

Hello all you bomb-ass bloggers. I've had virtually nothing to say lately so I'll try to muster something up here. I've been spending most of my time reading and watching movies this week, particularly with the wintery storms of late.

My wife and I had a great conversation tonight. Awesome conversations have a way of making me feel clean afterwards. It is so easy anymore to let each day go by without stopping to reflect, or evenmoreso, reflect with someone else. One thing I appreciate most about my wife is her desire for honesty. Bob Hicok wrote a great poem about his love/hate relationship with Confessional Poetry. In the end he talks about how honesty makes him feel clean because he no longer has anything to hide. But of course I don't have that particular book of poems so I can't quote it here for you. I think it's in the Animal Soul book.

I'm reading a great book called "The Life You Save May be Your Own." It traces the importance of reading and writing in the lives of Dorothy Day, Flannery O'Connor, Walker Percy, and Thomas Merton, all of whom were Catholics and literature fanatics. The book reflects upon their lives, and their lives as readers and writers, as though a pilgrimage. The author, Paul Elie, refers to a pilgrimage as:

"A journey undertaken in the light of a story. A great event has happened; the pilgrim hears the reports and goes in search of the evidence, aspiring to be an eyewitness. The pilgrim seeks not only to confirm the experience of others firsthand but to be changed by the experience. Pilgrims often make the journey in company, but each must be changed individually" (x).

It is interesting, for me at least, to think about reading and writing as a pilgrimage. In both we travel to a place, however figurative or literal, and often times we are changed by that experience. In what sense are we on a pilgrimage - either journeying together or seeking each others' or another's story - as bloggers? Anywho, that's what I've been reading lately (that, Shakespeare, and Modern Drummer magazine) what about you?

Currently listening to: Interpol - Turn on the Bright Lights.

Random Acts of Posting

2005-01-02T01:06:00.000-06:00

Man, today has just felt so surreal. It's been one of those days where the whole thing seems out of wack and my brain was not functioning up to par (you could say it's been a bogey - hahaha *fake businessman laugh* - no seriously folks...tap, tap, tap...uh, is this thing on?).

But I'm starting to feel a little more normal at the moment. Hopefully I can bring myself to do something productive tomorrow like reading or journaling. I'm chalking up today to Iowa Hawkeye football (woohoo!) and Tony Hawk's Underground (dude!). Check.

I did at least manage to get some drumming in. I've been working a lot on getting the jazz ride cymbal to swing and groove with consistency. It takes a suprising amount of work to get that jazz feel to simultaneously swing and yet have each quarter note right in time. It's been great for me to take the time to work on that cause it will benefit so many aspects of playing. Simply being conscious of my hands has helped to clean up my playing.

It is strange how good it feels to work on something like my drumming in this way, even the tedious stuff. I think a lot of good artists and musicians don't do much with developing their passions cause they don't think it's worth it. It's easier to let each day of work and house cleaning to carry our lives away. But it just feels human and natural to be following those interests even if you have to make extra time for it, even if it is only for yourself or close friends and family. What is life if it's not creative? And it is at this point that I'll step down from the soapbox I'm beginning to set up.

Happy new year friends.

Currently listening to: Modest Mouse - The Devil's Work Day.

"Anything is hard to find when you will not open your eyes."

2004-12-31T16:56:00.000-06:00

Greetings to you all on this official day of drunken celebration. Put all your excuses away cause all you have to say is "I was completely bombed man," and all your debauchery will be forgiven.

Today I was walking around the Plaza with Debbie and her siblings, Jon and Kristine. We had a few laughs. In the Better Cheddar store, appropriately named, we noticed that in addition to cheese balls, they provide 'meat logs' for your purchasing pleasure. I decided that I someday I wouldn't mind going to a gay bar and upon entering exclaim at the top of my lungs, "I love meat logs!" Then perhaps I would be the first straight guy to get beaten up by a group of gay men (or women?). Oh the irony.

Also, there always happens to be some extreme fundamentalist Christian preaching in front of Barnes & Noble. I don't know if its because they think any book besides the Bible is evil or if they just think people that read will be more likely to also listen, but it seems no one does. Today a well-dressed black man preached as loudly as his failing vocal chords would allow with a thick leather-bound Bible in his hand. Somehow I don't think people engaged in America's favorite past time, the exchange of price-inflated goods produced in third world countries for your precious time and labor, really have any concern for the importance of Israel to the fate of the world. Heck, I read the Bible and even I don't have any idea what he was talking about. So like the rest of the faithful shoppers we passed on by. Upon entering the infamous B&N Jon commented on how funny it would be to buy a Harry Potter novel and stand right next to the preacher reading quietly (because, as you may or may not know, a lot of Christians hate Harry Potter). But of course no one did. To each his/her own I suppose.

Currently listening to: The Smiths - Accept Yourself.

My friends are a light.

2004-12-27T23:35:00.000-06:00

I realized today how isolated my life has been over the course of this last semester. Essentially the only time I just hung and had fun was with mr. Jonny "Dovebar" Barrett. Today, I hung out at Barnes and Noble with the wife, wrote some long emails to my buddy Travis (thanks for probing and listening), and hung out with some punk folks from church. It was fitting that I busted out the Fifteen "Family Values" album before I found out I was going to hang out with them. It felt really good to be out and just having fun. It is easy to lie to yourself when no one else is around to show you the truth.

I also saw Dan Talmage and we are going to hook up later this week to play some music. And Dave Suchan is coming tomorrow to bring the first installment of his possessions to our house. I'm so glad he's moving in and I hope we can really push each other to be creative and live full lives. Well, I hear the Tony Hawk Underground calling my name before I go to bed, so night all and go rent Gardenstate tomorrow.

Currently Listening to: Crimpshrine - Duct Tape Soup.

Reflection, the sustenance of the mind.

2004-12-26T12:14:00.000-06:00

It has been a while but I'm back. I've been in Iowa since Wed. and as much as I profess my nostalgia for that state, I am sure glad to have left it. Debbie and I had a pretty good Christmas despite a few hard family issues. We have been rediculously spoiled with gifts. My parents bought us a superb Kodak digital camera, so perhaps I can come up with some photos for the blog soon.

I also got some great books so I hope to spend a lot of time reading in the next few weeks. Hopefully that will produce a more interesting post than this one. But I must say, returning to K.C. feels like returning to my life. Things can seem more hurried and caotic in Marshalltown than here a lot of times. It is amazing what a little solitude and reflection will do for the mind, and how difficult and forced life seems without it. I can't wait to sink myself into my journal, drums, and a few good books. Peace to ya all.

Currenly listening to: Beck, Sea Change: 'Golden Age.'

Sweet, Sweet Break

2004-12-20T02:36:00.000-06:00

So it seems as though this blog is essentially a conversation between Austin and I, but I will keep on writing because what the hey, it's fun. I just watched Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind again tonight. It is perhaps one of the best movies I've ever seen. Its got a great cast, writer, and director. What more do you need?

So I'm on Christmas vacation finally. It's long awaited and I can't wait to take some time to focus on drumming and reading stuff that I like. Quite obviously I'm really into Weezer right now but also Wilco. I guess I'm into bands starting with 'W.' teehee, I'm an idiot.

Well, I've been talking to Marty on the phone for a while and it's late so better crash. Later yall.

A few more than two words.

2004-12-19T00:55:00.000-06:00

So Pinkerton is the follow-up album to the blue one with all the hits like Buddy Holly etc. It is the most over-looked album in the Weezer catalogue, yet, in my opinion, it is their absolute best. The way it was recorded where the drums sound like they were recorded in a bathroom is genius. He has so much groove and such a full sound. The song writing, to say the least, is stellar. The songs range from sober and real to pure fun-rock with well placed "wooos!" and hilarious lyrics. The songs groove, have great melody, and simply rock. Give it a shot so you can tell me if you agree. Although Weezer is not a favorite band of mine this album certainly is. Later yall.

Two Words...

2004-12-17T14:12:00.000-06:00

Weezer. Pinkerton.

Your thoughts please. I can't get enough. More on this later when my life's fate does not hang by a 5 o'clock deadline.

Why do I waste time?

2004-12-13T01:18:00.000-06:00

I don't have a lot to say tonight other than that I've been listening to a lot of Iron & Wine lately. It is a band consisting of one guy playing southern folk on his guitar. I first heard him on the Garden State soundtrack, and Brian Dale mentioned he has been listening to him as well. His songs are simple and beautiful, and I would recommend him to any Nick Drake or early Bob Dylan fan. It is music like this that revitalizes my belief in music and its power.

Iron & Wine only has two albums so far on the Subpop label: 'The Creek (or Crik as we say in Iowa) Drank the Cradle' and 'Our Endless Numbered Days.' I like them both, but I like 'The Creek Drank the Cradle' more because it is more raw and simple. It was recorded quite simply on a four track with guitar, banjo, and vocals. Music like Iron & Wine's makes me wonder why I continue to procrastinate making my own music. Somebody please crack that whip.

The Dangerouslly Handsome Chuck Norris

2004-12-10T22:37:00.000-06:00

So it's after ten on a Friday night and what am I doing? Blogging. You could say I'm pretty fly. I'm listening to the hip hop sounds of Mr. Lif. This guy is awesome. Check out the I Phantom album. It's funny, profound, and head bobbing.

I don't how many of you watch Conan O'Brien, but I hope you saw the re-run two nights ago. I know Ben probably saw it. It was one of those episodes where Conan was showing the bizarre clips from the Walker Texas Ranger show with chief red beard himself, Chuck Norris. Conan has a huge lever to his left in which every time he pulls it a charming clip of the show plays. I laugh my ass off every time. The best one was were a clean cut father is trying to pursuade is chubby young son to jumb off the ladder of their library den into his arms. After the child musters all his courage to jump the father purposely backs away and lets the kid plummet to the floor. I thought I was going to piss my pants. Even Conan got up in shock and laid down on the couch next to desk in laughter/shock.

The show is so bad it is brilliant. Man, I hope they release that show on DVD cause I will buy it in a heartbeat. My dad and I used to watch that show all the time together and just laugh. There was another show that was equally bad called "The Bounty Hunter" or something stupid like that. It was equally classic despite not having Chuck Norris as its star.

But seriously folks, get ahold of some Mr. Lif. I'm going back to sweet, sweet Halo 2.

Thank you Jimmy V

2004-12-07T23:57:00.000-06:00

I'm feeling a little low tonight. When it comes down to it I realized I'm bored more than anything. I've been working like crazy trying to finish this semester and I've never felt so uninterested in school since the ol' community college days. It's not that I haven't learned great things here, and it's not that I don't want to be a teacher. If anything it's that I want to be a teacher more than ever. I'm just tired of talking about all the empty theories and wonderful idealistic things I'm going to do as a teacher. It's one thing to say you believe in kids. It's entirely another to really do it with your actions. And it will be tough. It will be tough to ignore the negative voices that don't believe in themselves or their own children.

I'm listening to Bruce Springsteen again. He always brings me back to my roots, cause at heart I'm just a blue collar boy from Iowa. He reminds me of how I want more from my job than to teach English and literature when he sings songs about falling bean prices and hard times. I know that sounds weird, but it so easy to be critical about people when we have no idea what they or their family has been through. In many ways I have no idea what teaching will be like, but I know I'm going to have to hold tight to my own beliefs and love. I commend you Travis for really holding on by working at the Meskwaki reservation. It is easy for many people to simply stereotype Indians by taling about their "laziness" or whatever, but we know the issue is so much more complex. I'm not sure to what degree you feel like you've had to defend the importance of your job, but I think it might be similar to defend kids that other people have given up on.

Anyway, I was watching the Jimmy Valeno classic tonight. It was OSU versus Syracuse (I too gave up my fake rock start attitude), but before the game they showed Jimmy V's (UNC State's former basketball coach) last speech before he died of cancer and it was intense. He talked about the importance of time and holding to your values just before shouting his famous line "Don't give up! Don't ever give up."

It is one thing to develop noble values. It is a whole other thing to live by those values each day. It requires tenacity and tears, thought and time, laughter and love. I'm going to leave you once again with the Springsteen quote I cherish so much:

"Still at the end of every hard earned day, people find a reason to believe."

-From Reason to Believe on the Nebraska album.

Gimme Gimme

2004-12-06T00:17:00.000-06:00

So, a minute ago I wrote the most glorious piece of prose you would have ever feasted your hungry eyes on, but upon Paige's arrival home a fuse was blown and my 17" monitor went black. So uh, I guess now you will never witness my brilliant grip on the English language.

What I was getting at however was this Sara McLachlan music video I saw tonight. At my church here in KC, Jacob's Well, our pastor talked about money in relation to this Advent season. He talked about a different economy than the one we love and cherish as Americans. It wasn't one of those cheesy "He's the reason for the season" sermons. He made a good point about how we hoard our money for this holiday, or maybe we just open a new credit card.

Nevertheless, he got around to showing this Sarah McLachlan video for "World on Fire." I won't try to explain it all again. Just got watch it at www.sarahmclachlan.com. It's really powerful. She had a $150,000 budget for this video and she spent $15. Night all.

How can you have any pudding if you don't eat your meat!

2004-12-05T23:28:00.000-06:00

So one of my hard drives is dying on me. It sucks cause it's the one with all my music on it too. So here I am silently blogging, but that's okay cause silence too is a wonderful thing.

Thank you Austin for pointing out my inevitable future of being a bitter old teacher yelling a children. I will try my best not to become that. Instead I will be one of those eccentric Robin Williams types like in Dead Poet's Society and I'll get fired because I'm not teaching to the standards so gracefully enforced by congress. There are thousands of people across this country alone studying the art and science of teaching but who makes our rules? Wealthy politicians who went to re-damn-diculously expensive private schools, pushing up there noses and looking down at those unruly upper-middle class heathens. And now their children are in those same private schools catching that "gay" bug that is plagueing our wholesome family values.

Alright, before anyone pinches one off in their pants, I'm only messing around. I suppose there is some truth to that but I've only spiced it with a few goofy adjectives. If anyone here doesn't know this by know, I've grown quite the fancy for putting curse words in between other words. It's freakin comic brilliance. Fan-fucking-tastic if I do say so myself.

A Word to the Wise

2004-12-01T20:26:00.000-06:00

*Don't skip meals and try to make up for it with espresso. It will get you nothing but a headache and a terribly sick feeling.

That's been my experience so far today. I've been trying to get my laptop to work with my new wireless router but eventhough I have a connection I can't access the internet. In the process I realized one of my neighbors has wireless and my computer seems to like their router just fine. So here I am sitting in my living room mooching off someone else's wireless internet access.

I've been at a loss for words lately, which when it comes to writing is rare. I guess my brain is resistant to leaving Thanksgiving vacation. I sat in front of the computer screen for about a half hour last night trying to muster up something to write my paper on. I've been eating nothing but junk food lately and I'm feeling the effects. Sugar highs have turned into sugar downs and I have a general sick feeling in my stomach. Not to mention the headaches that feel like my brain is going to explode out of my temples. My diet has got to change cause my body is not liking it.

I've been listening to the Garden State soundtrack a lot. It has been about the only inspiring thing to me lately. It's a great movie as well, and I've become quite the Zach Braff fan thanks to Ben for introducing me to Braff's blog on the Garden State website. He certainly is different from any Hollywood type you hear about; he's really down to earth and funny. He seems really familiar like I already know him.

I also watched Goodwill Hunting for the first time since it came out. I like the movie, but the ending made me feel sad and hollow. I'm not exactly sure why, except that when Matt Damon's character leaves his friends to pursue some sort of "better life" it seemed really sad to me. Why is it that he had to leave them in order to be "successful" or whatever? I know he leaves to find his girl, but even Ben Affleck's character wants Will to leave. I guess I feel like the movie sends the message that you have to be extraordinary to really matter, and I like movies in which ordinary characters have unique or extraordinary characteristics, like American Splendor. So take that for whatever it is or isn't worth.

Anywho, I better get some homework done. Peace all.

May I present you with the "Outstanding Award for Achievement in the Field of Excellance"

2004-11-27T22:46:00.000-06:00

I started responding to Brian Dale's question about Sherman Alexie and decided, because it started to sound like the back of a book cover, that I would just post it on my blog. So:

Professional student Brandon Jones writes:
Sherman Alexie is a Native American writer from Washington state. He does a little of everything: poetry, novel, short stories, screen plays, and he recently wrote and directed an independent film called "The Business of Fancy Dancing." He is a witty, humorous, sad, and racially/politically poignant. Give his first collection of short stories, "The Lone Ranger and Tonto Fistfight in Heaven," a try. He wrote it at the ripe age of 22.

But I digress. Has anyone been listening to a band called Interpol lately? Dave Suchan introduced me and since then the more I listen to "Turn on the Bright Lights" the more I love this band. Good call Dave. Well, I just got off work and am really tired. Good night to you all.