Dreamed about directing last night. Then I couldn't get back to sleep, which I guess is why it's 7:45, I've already read a play, had breakfast, made lunch, and read yesterday's RedEye. Weird play, as well---it was in the Hill, but it was a massively huge version of the theatre, with an enormous set- which, if I'm remembering correctly, had an expanding and contracting model of the Colosseum. Also, there were 12 ft versions of the 'droids with the beaks from the newest Star Wars movies doing synchronized dances. We were doing a first run through, though for some reason there was a full audience, and I had never seen the second act---so it was all a suprise to me. People were being very critical of it, though I kept trying to remind them that this was the first time the actors had put the show on its feet, and that they were very talented, etc.
I get my first real paycheck from GreenPeace today, will be interesting---I get to see how well I've been budgeting, see if I need to cut back. I feel like I've been living above my means, though maybe that's just because I'm still at the point of needing to buy somewhat expensive things (couches, bookcases) for the apartment. I think I need to keep a little better track of what I'm spending and what I'm making. We'll look at the first couple of weeks in November, see how that goes.
Weighing in on "The Golden Compass"---I havn't done enough research, seen all the trailers---although I do remember getting a little tingly when seeing the first preview in theatres. What I'm most disappointed by so far (visually) are the panzerbjorn. From their brief appearances, they just don't seem...impressive enough. I mean, there's such a visceral quality to their description---these clanking, heaving, utterly massive, completely terrifying and bestial creatures. I imagine this brutal grinding sound when they walk, and a presence that should overwhelm to say the least. I feel like they ended up looking a little skinny in the preview---although we'll have to see.
Friends, the preview that enthuses me a whole lot less right now? "Beowulf". You figure with Gaiman, and a couple of decent actors, it would be cooler...but something about it rings false. More so though, the pictures of Grendel that they showed were completely un-inspiring. Slavering, bulky, pustulant--these are words I think should describe the greatest of all "creature-monsters". This conception looks downright spindly. Also, does most of the preview need to be Angelina Jolie looking sexy? It may just be that I've never really found her that attractive (I know, I know--I'm soulless, I have no taste, whatever), but was that really what Beowulf was about? I mean, is the next project an uber-racy "Watership Down" where she plays an over-pouty Fiver?
(Also staring Daniel Craig as Bigwig, Jude Law as El-hama...whoever the Rabbit Messiah was...wait, I actually think Jude Law would be amazing in Watership Down. Maybe even Mr. Craig as well. Ryan, call their people, see if we can set something up.)
Hope everyone is well. More philosophical rantings later.
OH! HAPPY HALLOWEEN! I almost forgot.
Woooooooooo......
Wednesday, October 31, 2007
Monday, October 29, 2007
Steak
I'm adding steak to the list of things my uncle Dale has taught me about. They are, in order, M&M's (when I was very small---my first introduction to candy), Good Wine (when before I thought I didn't like wine because it was ussually either inexpensive or came out of a box) and now...Steak.
Mmmmmm...I won't need to eat for a week.
Here's a resolution you may not have seen coming from me (or maybe you have...I may be utterly transparent). I need to take more risks. In life, love, leisure, what have you. Dale made the very good point: what do I have to lose? Not a whole lot, my friends. So, lets see how this goes. I know there is a large divide between deciding to take more risks and actually taking them...but, its a first step, right?
I'm reading an early 70's (I think) adaptation of the Mahabharata...and I'm kinda stunned. It's kind of really, really good. I'm not quite ready to put it up against the Iliad yet...but still. Its pretty damn good.
Mmmmmm...I won't need to eat for a week.
Here's a resolution you may not have seen coming from me (or maybe you have...I may be utterly transparent). I need to take more risks. In life, love, leisure, what have you. Dale made the very good point: what do I have to lose? Not a whole lot, my friends. So, lets see how this goes. I know there is a large divide between deciding to take more risks and actually taking them...but, its a first step, right?
I'm reading an early 70's (I think) adaptation of the Mahabharata...and I'm kinda stunned. It's kind of really, really good. I'm not quite ready to put it up against the Iliad yet...but still. Its pretty damn good.
Sunday, October 28, 2007
Hey Griffin...
...you were right. Nanci Griffith explains everything about life. I've been sitting here with "Other Voices, Other Rooms" playing (plus the extra songs from Lil) and I can't rip myself away to get my shower. Which I should do, so I can start the day.
Heart to you all.
-J
Heart to you all.
-J
Day off!
Hooray! I got up without an alarm, made a leisurely breakfast, put stuff in the breadmaker--a nice, relaxing morning!
Now, off to TJ's for a few tasty treats, a hunt for a bookcase, and whatever else I feel like doing. Feels niiiiiiiice.
Maybe make some falafel for tonight? Anyone want falafel?
Read the Kenyon Alumni mag last night---full of old ghost stories, was a little creepy. We were so haunted we didn't know what to do with ourselves.
First big paycheck from GreenPeace comes on wednesday. I need to get my act together and open a local bank account---I'm not running out of money yet, but the fee is getting a little old, and I'll need to start paying rent, etc, soon with paycheck money. The good news is I'm making what I can only describe as an easy-living wage---so that's pretty dandy.
What else? I dreamt about KCDC, and about having to hide under a k-mart knock off invisibility cloak to hide from something...until Noam talked me down and I realized it was a big paranoid delusion and I didn't actually have to. Then he picked me up in a sweet ride and we drove off somewhere. So. Noam, if I ever go totally bonkers again, I'm counting on you to talk me out of it.
Now, off to TJ's for a few tasty treats, a hunt for a bookcase, and whatever else I feel like doing. Feels niiiiiiiice.
Maybe make some falafel for tonight? Anyone want falafel?
Read the Kenyon Alumni mag last night---full of old ghost stories, was a little creepy. We were so haunted we didn't know what to do with ourselves.
First big paycheck from GreenPeace comes on wednesday. I need to get my act together and open a local bank account---I'm not running out of money yet, but the fee is getting a little old, and I'll need to start paying rent, etc, soon with paycheck money. The good news is I'm making what I can only describe as an easy-living wage---so that's pretty dandy.
What else? I dreamt about KCDC, and about having to hide under a k-mart knock off invisibility cloak to hide from something...until Noam talked me down and I realized it was a big paranoid delusion and I didn't actually have to. Then he picked me up in a sweet ride and we drove off somewhere. So. Noam, if I ever go totally bonkers again, I'm counting on you to talk me out of it.
Thursday, October 25, 2007
Burn this Place down
...right where it stands/and I'll wash my hands/of all consequence.
Does anyone remember that song? I think it was on an "Edge of the X" compilation or something. Then again, remembering that there might not be as many people from Pittsburgh reading this (or are there? I don't really know), it's probably unlikely.
Moving on. Early morning post to make up for getting up a bit to early. I absolutly adore not having to be at work until 11:30 right now---I sleep more than enough again, and it feels wonderful.
Speaking of which, had one of the most emotionaly ravaging dreams I've ever had last night---not frightening per say, but just...intense. An old man who was so excited to tell me so many things that he couldn't remember anything he had to say. A girl who was just hanging around to use people. Love, lies, and really tasty brownies. Woke up at 5 am, totally confused and a little disturbed. It was one of those hyper-real dreams, where I accomplished some things through the course of the night, then realized none of it was actually real.
You know, though---I think bits of life make more sense after a dream like that---its hard not to take a few lessons away, right?
It's alright, though---went back to a fairly dreamless sleep, and now, I'm my usual chipper self. Feeling good about life, the universe, and everything.
New day and all that.
Time to go to work!
Does anyone remember that song? I think it was on an "Edge of the X" compilation or something. Then again, remembering that there might not be as many people from Pittsburgh reading this (or are there? I don't really know), it's probably unlikely.
Moving on. Early morning post to make up for getting up a bit to early. I absolutly adore not having to be at work until 11:30 right now---I sleep more than enough again, and it feels wonderful.
Speaking of which, had one of the most emotionaly ravaging dreams I've ever had last night---not frightening per say, but just...intense. An old man who was so excited to tell me so many things that he couldn't remember anything he had to say. A girl who was just hanging around to use people. Love, lies, and really tasty brownies. Woke up at 5 am, totally confused and a little disturbed. It was one of those hyper-real dreams, where I accomplished some things through the course of the night, then realized none of it was actually real.
You know, though---I think bits of life make more sense after a dream like that---its hard not to take a few lessons away, right?
It's alright, though---went back to a fairly dreamless sleep, and now, I'm my usual chipper self. Feeling good about life, the universe, and everything.
New day and all that.
Time to go to work!
Wednesday, October 24, 2007
Give up your extra love
"Zanna, Don't!" was thoroughly enjoyable. Anthony, you should come see it here, with me, in the next week or so. Just sayin'. Or, you know, see it when it comes to your area next. Anyway---the cast was solid, the energy was great, the sentiments alternatly warmed, broke, and then renewed my heart. Worth checking out.
I'm also really kind of getting to like this whole "being an adult" thing. Everything is a little more meaningful (not that school/college/youth was not meaningful---things are really just more in my control--so my choices are more purely mine, and thus have more personal meaning). I can see various paths in life openning up, meeting new people, exploring new options.
Truly, the wide world is a wonderful place to behold.
Full of Love (more of for oikos than eros--or even kleos),
J
I'm also really kind of getting to like this whole "being an adult" thing. Everything is a little more meaningful (not that school/college/youth was not meaningful---things are really just more in my control--so my choices are more purely mine, and thus have more personal meaning). I can see various paths in life openning up, meeting new people, exploring new options.
Truly, the wide world is a wonderful place to behold.
Full of Love (more of for oikos than eros--or even kleos),
J
Tuesday, October 23, 2007
I'll be waving my hand...
Man, I had forgotten how good the Our Lady Peace album "Clumsy" was.
Seriously. It was the most emo thing ever, long before Emo existed. Plus it had a great mix of totally rocking guitars, and crazy landscapes of sound.
A lot of great non-hit songs too.
But none of them are happy.
I think that's ok, some times.
"And Sara thinks she's died here once before
She's crazy
A pop-up book of flowers from grade 4
Are driving her insane
And no one knows why
She's sad tonight
No one can help her find
She's crying, crying, oh she couldn't afford the view
Crying, crying, oh these automatic flowers won't do"
That, my friends, is grade A teenager angst. Fall-Out Boy, eat your heart out. They were here first.
Plus, they're Canadian!
Seriously. It was the most emo thing ever, long before Emo existed. Plus it had a great mix of totally rocking guitars, and crazy landscapes of sound.
A lot of great non-hit songs too.
But none of them are happy.
I think that's ok, some times.
"And Sara thinks she's died here once before
She's crazy
A pop-up book of flowers from grade 4
Are driving her insane
And no one knows why
She's sad tonight
No one can help her find
She's crying, crying, oh she couldn't afford the view
Crying, crying, oh these automatic flowers won't do"
That, my friends, is grade A teenager angst. Fall-Out Boy, eat your heart out. They were here first.
Plus, they're Canadian!
Sunday, October 21, 2007
I'm looking forward to telling stories to my children
Thanks to a certain cohort of mine, I may or may not have just stumbled on something that suprised even me:
Alice in Wonderland FanFiction.
It wasn't the creepy, "slash"-y, nerd-rotic stuff that creeps around like a dangerous beast across the web, just a person who was clearly very enthused about a particular set of characters. It just...would never have occured to me.
Alright, then. So lets talk about fanfiction for a while. We'll start it off here: I have never written any of it. Well, unless you count my picture-book version of The Hobbit and Lord of the Rings which I did with construction paper, crayon, and twine when I was around 6. With co-writing and production credits going to my dear father, I can safely say it's my finest published work so far.
That being said, I've always been a little wary of it. I mean, there are a lot of weird stereotypes, creepy guys in basements, etc. For the good lord's sake--the genre arguably started with fantasies about Kirk and Spock (someone correct me if I'm wrong here). A lot of it deviates into often brazenly sexual pieces--which I guess is rather unsurprising, as it is on the internet. Most of the writing ranges from amateur to horrible, and the bits of writing that are good I would imagine tend to be conflated with the bad, and are thus probably hard to find.
Hold on, though. Lets step back for a second. In some ways, isn't this just a return to the collective storytelling of the good old days? By good old days, I'm not talking about my ancestors on their way to Zion/Utah---I mean the real good old days, when the Skald were singing up north, or the generations of storytellers who led up to Homer, or even just the six guys sitting around a little fire, munching on a bit of dinosaur. You know. Waaaaay back. 6011 years ago...when the earth began.
Right guys?
No, but seriously. Check it out. What is this but the process of acquiring/adopting/appropriating a set of characters created by someone else and telling your own story with them? Isn't that the idea behined Anasazi? Or Coyote? Or Ajax and Achilles? All of Greek Drama is based around that idea. How are the large collective of nerds sitting around the collective lights of their computer screens that much different from the old days when ten or twenty of us would get together at night around a fire and listen to someone tell stories about people whom he or she had heard stories about? Its a shame we don't do it that way anymore---and maybe the lack of face to face interaction is a real loss---but I think, at its core, the idea is still great. The collective craftingshapingmoldingrecreating of a character is a beautiful thing. Maybe we're too hung up on copywright---sure, if you created a peice of art, it should be yours if you want it to be...but maybe, every once in a while, it would be okay to give something you created to the rough hands of the masses, and see what they do with it. Isn't that how we've gotten a lot of our really great characters? Arthur, Robin Hood, Jack? It's not the "great works" that make us remember them---its the mass of stories (I was going to use the modifier "untold" to emphasize how many stories there were...but I guess that's the whole point-they were told).
So- maybe we need to learn something from the fan-fiction people. We may not like the stories they tell, may not agree with their use of copywrited material, may be uncomfortable with their racy-ness and such...but maybe something our culture needs is a few collective stories, or just a forum where we could tell them. I guess right now, the internet is the best place for that to happen.
Alright. Time to stop talking, get to bed. Take care all, hope we're all doing well!
A final side note: does anyone know the song "Living Next Door to Alice"? It's a 70's(maybe?) era song, jangly guitars, yadda yadda...anyway, I've found a copy of the song---but has anyone ever heard the amazing techno remix? I heard it once, when I was at my friend Tommy's place at least 4-5 years back....and it's actually still stuck in my head. Each day I get a little closer to finding an .mp3 of the song. If someone knows what I'm talking about, I'd be greatly appreciative of any information.
Alice in Wonderland FanFiction.
It wasn't the creepy, "slash"-y, nerd-rotic stuff that creeps around like a dangerous beast across the web, just a person who was clearly very enthused about a particular set of characters. It just...would never have occured to me.
Alright, then. So lets talk about fanfiction for a while. We'll start it off here: I have never written any of it. Well, unless you count my picture-book version of The Hobbit and Lord of the Rings which I did with construction paper, crayon, and twine when I was around 6. With co-writing and production credits going to my dear father, I can safely say it's my finest published work so far.
That being said, I've always been a little wary of it. I mean, there are a lot of weird stereotypes, creepy guys in basements, etc. For the good lord's sake--the genre arguably started with fantasies about Kirk and Spock (someone correct me if I'm wrong here). A lot of it deviates into often brazenly sexual pieces--which I guess is rather unsurprising, as it is on the internet. Most of the writing ranges from amateur to horrible, and the bits of writing that are good I would imagine tend to be conflated with the bad, and are thus probably hard to find.
Hold on, though. Lets step back for a second. In some ways, isn't this just a return to the collective storytelling of the good old days? By good old days, I'm not talking about my ancestors on their way to Zion/Utah---I mean the real good old days, when the Skald were singing up north, or the generations of storytellers who led up to Homer, or even just the six guys sitting around a little fire, munching on a bit of dinosaur. You know. Waaaaay back. 6011 years ago...when the earth began.
Right guys?
No, but seriously. Check it out. What is this but the process of acquiring/adopting/appropriating a set of characters created by someone else and telling your own story with them? Isn't that the idea behined Anasazi? Or Coyote? Or Ajax and Achilles? All of Greek Drama is based around that idea. How are the large collective of nerds sitting around the collective lights of their computer screens that much different from the old days when ten or twenty of us would get together at night around a fire and listen to someone tell stories about people whom he or she had heard stories about? Its a shame we don't do it that way anymore---and maybe the lack of face to face interaction is a real loss---but I think, at its core, the idea is still great. The collective craftingshapingmoldingrecreating of a character is a beautiful thing. Maybe we're too hung up on copywright---sure, if you created a peice of art, it should be yours if you want it to be...but maybe, every once in a while, it would be okay to give something you created to the rough hands of the masses, and see what they do with it. Isn't that how we've gotten a lot of our really great characters? Arthur, Robin Hood, Jack? It's not the "great works" that make us remember them---its the mass of stories (I was going to use the modifier "untold" to emphasize how many stories there were...but I guess that's the whole point-they were told).
So- maybe we need to learn something from the fan-fiction people. We may not like the stories they tell, may not agree with their use of copywrited material, may be uncomfortable with their racy-ness and such...but maybe something our culture needs is a few collective stories, or just a forum where we could tell them. I guess right now, the internet is the best place for that to happen.
Alright. Time to stop talking, get to bed. Take care all, hope we're all doing well!
A final side note: does anyone know the song "Living Next Door to Alice"? It's a 70's(maybe?) era song, jangly guitars, yadda yadda...anyway, I've found a copy of the song---but has anyone ever heard the amazing techno remix? I heard it once, when I was at my friend Tommy's place at least 4-5 years back....and it's actually still stuck in my head. Each day I get a little closer to finding an .mp3 of the song. If someone knows what I'm talking about, I'd be greatly appreciative of any information.
Re-vivification
A fine day today: I am now stretched out on a handsome, soft, and altogether comfy green couch that Erin and I found at Brown Elephant, a thrift store near where I was canvasing on saturday. Got it over here today, inbetween bouts of laundry, making bread, shopping, and doing tech stuff for the Bailiwick.
Had my first day off from both of my jobs in two weeks---was wonderful to just be home and relax! I ended up going in to the B-wick a bit to help with some tech stuff, but I consider that more play than work, so it was fine. Got some good reading done, relaxed, slept in, and did a bit of grocery shopping. Very chill. Three more weeks of Bud's cafe, and then I can basically have Saturday's also---especially when I re-work my schedule for the box office.
Dire warnings, urgent news, sanctimonious rantings? I don't think I have any for today. The Container Store was not quite the bonanza of discounts that I hoped it would be, and as such, I still require a bookshelf. Trying to figure out when I'll have a chance to seek one out---I do believe my best shot will be next sunday, or possibly on wednesday, depending. A few more things on the walls, a few more boxes gotten rid of, and it'll really look like we live here!
All according to plan, my friends.
Had my first day off from both of my jobs in two weeks---was wonderful to just be home and relax! I ended up going in to the B-wick a bit to help with some tech stuff, but I consider that more play than work, so it was fine. Got some good reading done, relaxed, slept in, and did a bit of grocery shopping. Very chill. Three more weeks of Bud's cafe, and then I can basically have Saturday's also---especially when I re-work my schedule for the box office.
Dire warnings, urgent news, sanctimonious rantings? I don't think I have any for today. The Container Store was not quite the bonanza of discounts that I hoped it would be, and as such, I still require a bookshelf. Trying to figure out when I'll have a chance to seek one out---I do believe my best shot will be next sunday, or possibly on wednesday, depending. A few more things on the walls, a few more boxes gotten rid of, and it'll really look like we live here!
All according to plan, my friends.
Saturday, October 20, 2007
Before I head out into the day
A quick thought:
I very much enjoy the creativity and breadth of mode used by our various circle of Blogs to label/denote/identify each other on our sidebars. From Griffin's $7 archaic terms, to Ryan's AliceinWonderland characters, to the slightly demented society of Gentlemen/Ladies of Esteem that seems to be accumulating on Anthony's blog, and finally, as the one who started it all---the simple yet highly effective name/location given by Nate---which I think really puts a positive spin on the recent scattering of our little posse. They all keep us feeling linked, yet allow us to flex those little creative muscles we all love so much.
Anyway--that's just about it. A nice night spent out with Dan, a new cool dive bar found, and the relativly pleasent realization today that I am done with training for GreenPeace, and as such not only get a raise, but also have to go in a few hours later to work, all add up to a good beginning to a saturday. Work all day today, hopefuly see Dan for a bit tonight again, then I have my first day off in a while tommorow. I'm pretty excited about that prospect---going to sleep in, do some laundry, finish putting together the apartment, and hopefuly spend some time kicking back in a park or something.
Well---just a short reflection- somewhat self indulgent, but then again, its my blog, and that's pretty much what its there for. Hope everyone out in internet-land is doing well!
I very much enjoy the creativity and breadth of mode used by our various circle of Blogs to label/denote/identify each other on our sidebars. From Griffin's $7 archaic terms, to Ryan's AliceinWonderland characters, to the slightly demented society of Gentlemen/Ladies of Esteem that seems to be accumulating on Anthony's blog, and finally, as the one who started it all---the simple yet highly effective name/location given by Nate---which I think really puts a positive spin on the recent scattering of our little posse. They all keep us feeling linked, yet allow us to flex those little creative muscles we all love so much.
Anyway--that's just about it. A nice night spent out with Dan, a new cool dive bar found, and the relativly pleasent realization today that I am done with training for GreenPeace, and as such not only get a raise, but also have to go in a few hours later to work, all add up to a good beginning to a saturday. Work all day today, hopefuly see Dan for a bit tonight again, then I have my first day off in a while tommorow. I'm pretty excited about that prospect---going to sleep in, do some laundry, finish putting together the apartment, and hopefuly spend some time kicking back in a park or something.
Well---just a short reflection- somewhat self indulgent, but then again, its my blog, and that's pretty much what its there for. Hope everyone out in internet-land is doing well!
Friday, October 19, 2007
Mysteries of Wicker Park
There are approx. 30 hipsters standing around in the alley between my apartment and the next one.
I'm very curious.
Now mounting an expedition to discover what's going on.
Secret art show?
Connor Oberst's hiding place?
Just a totally rad alley?
We'll see.
========
UPDATE:
It was a secret art show! Apparently, the third floor of the building next to us has been turned into an Art Space! Someone clearly lives there, but most of the apartment has been gutted into a large room, a nice wooden floor has been laid, and a small gallery has been opened!
How cool is this neighborhood?
I'm very curious.
Now mounting an expedition to discover what's going on.
Secret art show?
Connor Oberst's hiding place?
Just a totally rad alley?
We'll see.
========
UPDATE:
It was a secret art show! Apparently, the third floor of the building next to us has been turned into an Art Space! Someone clearly lives there, but most of the apartment has been gutted into a large room, a nice wooden floor has been laid, and a small gallery has been opened!
How cool is this neighborhood?
Relaxing at home
...is a nice way to start a friday night. Hooray for not working every hour of the day!
A Mackeson's triple stout, some tofu in my belly (cooked with a really good mango/lime salsa bought at a farmer's market...I am turning in to such a degenerate hippie), the pleasent prospect of a short bout of laundry followed by a night on the town with Erin/Dan/possibly others. All very good.
Tidbit from yesterday: ran into two different Kenyon people within an hour or so---Rubin from 2 Drink Min., and Andy Braddock. Hooray for the Kenyon Magnet that is Chicago!
From today: who wants to see "30 days of Night" with me?
Now: in response to Anthony's fine work: another top 10 list. Ten significant songs. In no particular order.
(Subnote- Applause to Messr. Merril for a thought-provoking list that made me miss BNL. I, however, have never been closeted about my enjoyment of the Barenaked Ladies.
Without further ado: significant Jeff songs:
1: "Broad Majestic Shannon": The Pogues
There's something too perfect about this song. It represents life in under six minutes. If you like irish music at all, or ballad-ish songs, or life in general, I recomend you listen to this.
2: "Where I want to be", from the musical "Chess"
I feel like this is a product of ambition? Or maybe one of the downsides of always being hungry. Not like hungry for food, but you know...hungry.
3: "What do I have to do?" by Stabbing Westwards
This is every time I've been in love. Trite? Maybe. Oh well.
4: "Gone, Gonna Rise Again": John Mcutcheon.
I wouldn't mind having a descendant of mine sing this at my funeral. Its not as creepy as it sounds, certainly not about zombies.
5: "Stray Bullet": KMFDM
For the more intense times in life. One of the ultimate pump-up songs, but not filled with huge guitars, thundering drums, or anything else out of the Highlander soundtrack. It's pure Cowboy/Diva/Anti-Christ/Techno Swagger. Check it out.
6: "Keasby Nights": Catch 22
If just for the line "When they come for me/I'll be sitting at my desk/With a gun in my hand/Wearing a bullet-proof vest/Singing 'My my my how the time does fly/ When you know you're gonna die by the end of the night'"
7: "Smash" by The Offspring
Perhaps an unusual choice from the album of the same name- but there's something nice about the sentiment.
8: "Pittsburgh's going to the Superbowl": Various artists
Dave, what is this song actually called? This belongs here for obvious reasons.
9: "Motorcycle Drive-By" by Third Eye Blind
If you've never heard this song, go listen to it now.
"I've never been so alone/And I've never been so alive"
It's those times out in the woods at night. Or when you leave the party to sit in the grass and watch the stars, or just to listen.
10: "What About Everything" by Carbon Leaf
Let's book end this list with another song that encompases life. Really. I really do think this song sums up at least one significant aspect of my life.
"I think about time for fun/I think about time for play/Then I think about being done/With no Resume/With no-one left to blame/What about fortune and fame?/What about your love to retain?/What about the ring?/What about...what about everything?"
Although I think its actually a balance that I've struck. Because my resume is full of things that were fun. So...take that, establishment! We can be happy and career-oriented all at the same time!
Honorable mention goes to "Summer of '69" (because of B2), "The Sea" by Carbon Leaf, "Boys of Summer" by the Ataris (summer love in a song), and "Leaving of Liverpool" by Gaelic Storm.
A Mackeson's triple stout, some tofu in my belly (cooked with a really good mango/lime salsa bought at a farmer's market...I am turning in to such a degenerate hippie), the pleasent prospect of a short bout of laundry followed by a night on the town with Erin/Dan/possibly others. All very good.
Tidbit from yesterday: ran into two different Kenyon people within an hour or so---Rubin from 2 Drink Min., and Andy Braddock. Hooray for the Kenyon Magnet that is Chicago!
From today: who wants to see "30 days of Night" with me?
Now: in response to Anthony's fine work: another top 10 list. Ten significant songs. In no particular order.
(Subnote- Applause to Messr. Merril for a thought-provoking list that made me miss BNL. I, however, have never been closeted about my enjoyment of the Barenaked Ladies.
Without further ado: significant Jeff songs:
1: "Broad Majestic Shannon": The Pogues
There's something too perfect about this song. It represents life in under six minutes. If you like irish music at all, or ballad-ish songs, or life in general, I recomend you listen to this.
2: "Where I want to be", from the musical "Chess"
I feel like this is a product of ambition? Or maybe one of the downsides of always being hungry. Not like hungry for food, but you know...hungry.
3: "What do I have to do?" by Stabbing Westwards
This is every time I've been in love. Trite? Maybe. Oh well.
4: "Gone, Gonna Rise Again": John Mcutcheon.
I wouldn't mind having a descendant of mine sing this at my funeral. Its not as creepy as it sounds, certainly not about zombies.
5: "Stray Bullet": KMFDM
For the more intense times in life. One of the ultimate pump-up songs, but not filled with huge guitars, thundering drums, or anything else out of the Highlander soundtrack. It's pure Cowboy/Diva/Anti-Christ/Techno Swagger. Check it out.
6: "Keasby Nights": Catch 22
If just for the line "When they come for me/I'll be sitting at my desk/With a gun in my hand/Wearing a bullet-proof vest/Singing 'My my my how the time does fly/ When you know you're gonna die by the end of the night'"
7: "Smash" by The Offspring
Perhaps an unusual choice from the album of the same name- but there's something nice about the sentiment.
8: "Pittsburgh's going to the Superbowl": Various artists
Dave, what is this song actually called? This belongs here for obvious reasons.
9: "Motorcycle Drive-By" by Third Eye Blind
If you've never heard this song, go listen to it now.
"I've never been so alone/And I've never been so alive"
It's those times out in the woods at night. Or when you leave the party to sit in the grass and watch the stars, or just to listen.
10: "What About Everything" by Carbon Leaf
Let's book end this list with another song that encompases life. Really. I really do think this song sums up at least one significant aspect of my life.
"I think about time for fun/I think about time for play/Then I think about being done/With no Resume/With no-one left to blame/What about fortune and fame?/What about your love to retain?/What about the ring?/What about...what about everything?"
Although I think its actually a balance that I've struck. Because my resume is full of things that were fun. So...take that, establishment! We can be happy and career-oriented all at the same time!
Honorable mention goes to "Summer of '69" (because of B2), "The Sea" by Carbon Leaf, "Boys of Summer" by the Ataris (summer love in a song), and "Leaving of Liverpool" by Gaelic Storm.
Thursday, October 18, 2007
Supernatural Occurrence of the Day
Today, while I was canvassing, I picked up my bag to walk and talk with a guy who was in a rush. I neglected to remember my waterbottle.
When I returned to the corner, the waterbottle was gone. Understandably dismayed (it was a Kenyon Nalgene), I crossed the street... and there it was. Sitting on the other side of the street, under a traffic-light post. It had apparently migrated over while I was gone (the wind was very intense, it might have blown into the street, where some concerned citizen picked it up and sat it on the side).
Or it might have gotten up and moved under its own free will.
There's magic everywhere.
Further updates as they come---I'll keep a record of all other inanimate objects that seem to slowly migrate away from me.
Also: Dan is here! Hooray!
When I returned to the corner, the waterbottle was gone. Understandably dismayed (it was a Kenyon Nalgene), I crossed the street... and there it was. Sitting on the other side of the street, under a traffic-light post. It had apparently migrated over while I was gone (the wind was very intense, it might have blown into the street, where some concerned citizen picked it up and sat it on the side).
Or it might have gotten up and moved under its own free will.
There's magic everywhere.
Further updates as they come---I'll keep a record of all other inanimate objects that seem to slowly migrate away from me.
Also: Dan is here! Hooray!
Wednesday, October 17, 2007
Water Flowing Under
I'm home early! Which means I get a good night's sleep tonight!
Which hopefuly means another good day tommorow!
Work was great today (especially GreenPeace). Got my first paycheck (which was fairly large for being only for two days). Was energetic, fresh, and alert all through work despite the fact that I had no caffine. Had fun--got to canvas with one of the even newer trainees, who was a very cool guy.
What else did I want to rush home and write about?
Ah! Dan is here! I get to see "Zanna, Don't!" tommorow, and I get to have a relativly unstressful day at work (as I signed up enough people today to make up for today and tommorow's quota). I got to do some small-scale lighting design today, even if it didn't get used, which was fun. So---I'm in a good mood. Also, I get to come home tommorow after GreenPeace for the first time in a long time. Maybe I'll even have a chance to do some laundry and put up a few more pictures, as well as actually cooking a meal.
Speaking of which, I vastly overestimated how much money I would need to spend on food. Lord bless Trader Joe's, hmmmm?
Alright. Time to catch some shuteye. Anthony---three things:
a) Thank you for playing my song game.
b) Next time I have time to post, we'll go a little more up your alley. I'm thinking it'll be "Top 10 Songs that are distinctly (or ideally) You". Fun times?
c) At long last, I decided to change your identification on the sidebar. You were the only one who I used a piecie of their actual journal name to title, which felt lame. So I changed it. Hope this is enjoyed!
Also, Ryan, welcome to the sidebar. Very excited to see that you have a blog.
Which hopefuly means another good day tommorow!
Work was great today (especially GreenPeace). Got my first paycheck (which was fairly large for being only for two days). Was energetic, fresh, and alert all through work despite the fact that I had no caffine. Had fun--got to canvas with one of the even newer trainees, who was a very cool guy.
What else did I want to rush home and write about?
Ah! Dan is here! I get to see "Zanna, Don't!" tommorow, and I get to have a relativly unstressful day at work (as I signed up enough people today to make up for today and tommorow's quota). I got to do some small-scale lighting design today, even if it didn't get used, which was fun. So---I'm in a good mood. Also, I get to come home tommorow after GreenPeace for the first time in a long time. Maybe I'll even have a chance to do some laundry and put up a few more pictures, as well as actually cooking a meal.
Speaking of which, I vastly overestimated how much money I would need to spend on food. Lord bless Trader Joe's, hmmmm?
Alright. Time to catch some shuteye. Anthony---three things:
a) Thank you for playing my song game.
b) Next time I have time to post, we'll go a little more up your alley. I'm thinking it'll be "Top 10 Songs that are distinctly (or ideally) You". Fun times?
c) At long last, I decided to change your identification on the sidebar. You were the only one who I used a piecie of their actual journal name to title, which felt lame. So I changed it. Hope this is enjoyed!
Also, Ryan, welcome to the sidebar. Very excited to see that you have a blog.
Monday, October 15, 2007
Touch this one off:
In no particular order, my personal ten albums. Not best of all time, but perhaps...most significant for me? Album as a whole, rather than due to particular songs (we'll do that one later). There are possibly others that are more important---but these are the ones I can think of now.
Would love to hear yours as well.
1: Nanci Griffith: "Other Voices, Other Rooms"
2: Dave Mathews Band: "Live at Red Rocks"
3: The Offspring: "Smash"
4: The Tossers: "Communication and Conviction- The Last Ten Years"
5: The Chieftans: "Long Black Veil"
6: The Treefrogs: "Demo" (later known as Nickeltown)
7: Mrs. Children: "Break My Back"
8: Fear Factory: "Obsolete"
9: Libana: "A Circle is Cast"
10: Depeche Mode: "Black Celebration"
Honorable Mention: Bush: "Sixteen Stone" and "Razorblade Suitcase", STP: "Tiny Music: Songs from the Vatican Gift Shop", Beck: "Odelay", The Wallflowers: "Bringing down the Horse", Gaelic Storm: "Self Titled", Era: "The Mass", and Dave Mathews Band: "Crash"
Would love to hear yours as well.
1: Nanci Griffith: "Other Voices, Other Rooms"
2: Dave Mathews Band: "Live at Red Rocks"
3: The Offspring: "Smash"
4: The Tossers: "Communication and Conviction- The Last Ten Years"
5: The Chieftans: "Long Black Veil"
6: The Treefrogs: "Demo" (later known as Nickeltown)
7: Mrs. Children: "Break My Back"
8: Fear Factory: "Obsolete"
9: Libana: "A Circle is Cast"
10: Depeche Mode: "Black Celebration"
Honorable Mention: Bush: "Sixteen Stone" and "Razorblade Suitcase", STP: "Tiny Music: Songs from the Vatican Gift Shop", Beck: "Odelay", The Wallflowers: "Bringing down the Horse", Gaelic Storm: "Self Titled", Era: "The Mass", and Dave Mathews Band: "Crash"
Fine and Dandy
So a few new tidbits about life:
I'm stage managing for Steven Fales' "Confessions of a Mormon Boy" at the Bailiwick this week. Its a touring show, been all over the country--so basically, I'll be calling the show and looking after the tech elements. He's an amazingly interesting/cool guy- we had a few shared moments over the Tabernacle choir, Mormon smiles, and other such stuff. I'm looking forward to the coming week. If you're in Chicago---come see the show!
It's also cool because it marks the first time I've been offered additional work in Chicago. I love being in a position where I can just say--what the hell, sure, I'll do this. Great to be able to seize opportunities.
Which brings me to the next point---the glory of, for the first time in my life, not having a deadline or time limit. I'm realizing that I can do things at my own pace for right now---work, live, practice, grow. I'm working a lot these days, and was getting stressed about it---until I realized that it wasn't like I had a short amount of time before I had to leave, or any other kind of commitment that I was missing by doing what I'm doing. Then I realized that I acctually really had fun at both of my jobs, and that I was doing important things (in different ways) at both of them: saving the world for one, and learning more about theatre/actually getting to work on shows at the other...plus, I'm earning money at both. So...why the pressure? Realizing that was very helpful---really let me relax about a lot of things that are going on right now.
Also! We made bread (in our breadmaker---which is why I'm not saying "baked bread") for the first time last night...and it was fairly good! I had the most hippy-ish of sandwhiches made with it (tofu w/ barbeque sauce and lots of spinnach on homemade wheat bread), and it tasted fine. Hooray!
Well folks, that's life as we know it right now. Hope everyone is doing well out there. Send word as it comes.
I'm stage managing for Steven Fales' "Confessions of a Mormon Boy" at the Bailiwick this week. Its a touring show, been all over the country--so basically, I'll be calling the show and looking after the tech elements. He's an amazingly interesting/cool guy- we had a few shared moments over the Tabernacle choir, Mormon smiles, and other such stuff. I'm looking forward to the coming week. If you're in Chicago---come see the show!
It's also cool because it marks the first time I've been offered additional work in Chicago. I love being in a position where I can just say--what the hell, sure, I'll do this. Great to be able to seize opportunities.
Which brings me to the next point---the glory of, for the first time in my life, not having a deadline or time limit. I'm realizing that I can do things at my own pace for right now---work, live, practice, grow. I'm working a lot these days, and was getting stressed about it---until I realized that it wasn't like I had a short amount of time before I had to leave, or any other kind of commitment that I was missing by doing what I'm doing. Then I realized that I acctually really had fun at both of my jobs, and that I was doing important things (in different ways) at both of them: saving the world for one, and learning more about theatre/actually getting to work on shows at the other...plus, I'm earning money at both. So...why the pressure? Realizing that was very helpful---really let me relax about a lot of things that are going on right now.
Also! We made bread (in our breadmaker---which is why I'm not saying "baked bread") for the first time last night...and it was fairly good! I had the most hippy-ish of sandwhiches made with it (tofu w/ barbeque sauce and lots of spinnach on homemade wheat bread), and it tasted fine. Hooray!
Well folks, that's life as we know it right now. Hope everyone is doing well out there. Send word as it comes.
Sunday, October 14, 2007
Up past my bedtime, waiting for bread to rise
This is one view of my room. Hopefully, as work settles down a bit, I'll be able to put the last things together, clean my room, and then take some more pictures.
Until then, to all of you out in internet-land, you have a good night.
Moderately Good Intentions
A few ruminations before I pass out:
-Canvasers can tell when you're not going to sign something for them. We can usually tell before we even approach you. Its almost frightening how quickly I'm seeing the patterns. I clearly have a very long way to go--- but even now, just a few days in, I can tell pretty well. Suprisingly enough, the easiest answer to hear is the insincere "I don't have time"---it lets us know that we shouldn't even try. That being said---as much as I know I annoy a few people every day, I think I leave about as many people laughing as they walk away---with me, rather than at me. The "at me's" are a little harder to deal with, though less so than the disgusted people. Or the really weird ones (see next).
-A man today muttered for a long chunk of time about shooting me, then asked me why trees where being killed. When I said "Paper", he said "Recycling. Next. Why're trees being killed?" So I said "Kleenex." And he said "Recycling. We already did this, man. Why you playing around with me? Why they killing trees?" So I said "I'm not sure what you're looking for." This prompted him to wonder why I was playing around, then said that he would "knock me out, except I'm the wrong color." Then he said, "Buildings man. Buildings are why they're killing trees." I started canvasing away from him after that.
-As the title of the post reflects, I'm feeling goodwill towards my fellow man, but in a...not selective, but perhaps flexible manner. This has nothing to do with work, and more to do with life. I'm going to be a good person, but maybe force a couple of issues as well. I'm not trying to be obtuse, I'm actually just really struggling with this concept at 3 am. We'll see.
-Saw "White Rabbit", had some interesting elements, pushed me to start going through "All Day Permanent Red" again---I'm starting to pick out passages, writing will hopefully begin soon. Once again, I'm enthraled by Logues' language, control, and ingenuity.
-I want to watch the "Battlestar" miniseries with someone. It's a chunk of film that is fun to share.
-I think life is getting fun again. That's exciting.
-Canvasers can tell when you're not going to sign something for them. We can usually tell before we even approach you. Its almost frightening how quickly I'm seeing the patterns. I clearly have a very long way to go--- but even now, just a few days in, I can tell pretty well. Suprisingly enough, the easiest answer to hear is the insincere "I don't have time"---it lets us know that we shouldn't even try. That being said---as much as I know I annoy a few people every day, I think I leave about as many people laughing as they walk away---with me, rather than at me. The "at me's" are a little harder to deal with, though less so than the disgusted people. Or the really weird ones (see next).
-A man today muttered for a long chunk of time about shooting me, then asked me why trees where being killed. When I said "Paper", he said "Recycling. Next. Why're trees being killed?" So I said "Kleenex." And he said "Recycling. We already did this, man. Why you playing around with me? Why they killing trees?" So I said "I'm not sure what you're looking for." This prompted him to wonder why I was playing around, then said that he would "knock me out, except I'm the wrong color." Then he said, "Buildings man. Buildings are why they're killing trees." I started canvasing away from him after that.
-As the title of the post reflects, I'm feeling goodwill towards my fellow man, but in a...not selective, but perhaps flexible manner. This has nothing to do with work, and more to do with life. I'm going to be a good person, but maybe force a couple of issues as well. I'm not trying to be obtuse, I'm actually just really struggling with this concept at 3 am. We'll see.
-Saw "White Rabbit", had some interesting elements, pushed me to start going through "All Day Permanent Red" again---I'm starting to pick out passages, writing will hopefully begin soon. Once again, I'm enthraled by Logues' language, control, and ingenuity.
-I want to watch the "Battlestar" miniseries with someone. It's a chunk of film that is fun to share.
-I think life is getting fun again. That's exciting.
Friday, October 12, 2007
The Pogues had it right
You know the statement "Sometimes you're the bug, sometimes you're the windshield"? It strikes me as a somewhat lacking expression---we need to find a better metaphor that captures those times when you're the bug, and you see the windshield coming towards you, notice it, wonder about it, finally identify it, and then get splattered anyway.
That rumination aside, things are going well! I made staff at GreenPeace (where I work now, by the way), so as long as I can maintain a fairly reasonable quota per week, I should be in the clear as far as rent and food are concerned. I think I need to re-work my schedule a bit so that I can have at least one day off per week (right now I work every day, between Bud's Cafe, GreenPeace, and the box office---different hours, but still- it's nice to have one day free a week). I figure that will be easier come the end of October.
Saw a good play tonight---"Thyestes", by Senneca, directed by JoAnne Akalitis, adapted by Caryl Churchill. Intense, a lot of really cool ideas, some very intense interpretation/staging, yet a production that I think stayed close not only to the play itself but also to the intentions. Saw it with Hannah, a friend from high school who I have not seen for far too long, and hopefully will get to see more of in the coming time.
Other than that---I don't work tomorrow until 11:30, so I'm curling up with Battlestar and a glass of wine. A nice end to a week, in many ways.
That rumination aside, things are going well! I made staff at GreenPeace (where I work now, by the way), so as long as I can maintain a fairly reasonable quota per week, I should be in the clear as far as rent and food are concerned. I think I need to re-work my schedule a bit so that I can have at least one day off per week (right now I work every day, between Bud's Cafe, GreenPeace, and the box office---different hours, but still- it's nice to have one day free a week). I figure that will be easier come the end of October.
Saw a good play tonight---"Thyestes", by Senneca, directed by JoAnne Akalitis, adapted by Caryl Churchill. Intense, a lot of really cool ideas, some very intense interpretation/staging, yet a production that I think stayed close not only to the play itself but also to the intentions. Saw it with Hannah, a friend from high school who I have not seen for far too long, and hopefully will get to see more of in the coming time.
Other than that---I don't work tomorrow until 11:30, so I'm curling up with Battlestar and a glass of wine. A nice end to a week, in many ways.
Wednesday, October 10, 2007
Obligatory Lyrics post
"She said, 'It looks like love, and it sounds like love,
and it seems like love, and it feels like love;
and it walks like love, and it talks like love,
and it runs like love, and it skips like love;
and it hurts like love, disappoints like love,
disappears like love, reappears like love.
And it shouts like love and it sings like love
So guess what, my friend, she said?
I think you got love."
I may or may not have finally seen a bit more of "Zanna, Don't" tonight. Still havn't seen all/most/barely some of it, but I'm shooting for one or two wednesdays from now---I think I've got off work. Anyway, that little bit of lyric has been running through my head ever since--at least what I've seen of the musical is fairly catchy. Although I kept waiting for this bit of the lyrics to be a take-off of the old "I can't believe it's not butter" comercials....
and it seems like love, and it feels like love;
and it walks like love, and it talks like love,
and it runs like love, and it skips like love;
and it hurts like love, disappoints like love,
disappears like love, reappears like love.
And it shouts like love and it sings like love
So guess what, my friend, she said?
I think you got love."
I may or may not have finally seen a bit more of "Zanna, Don't" tonight. Still havn't seen all/most/barely some of it, but I'm shooting for one or two wednesdays from now---I think I've got off work. Anyway, that little bit of lyric has been running through my head ever since--at least what I've seen of the musical is fairly catchy. Although I kept waiting for this bit of the lyrics to be a take-off of the old "I can't believe it's not butter" comercials....
Monday, October 8, 2007
Life lessons (slowly learned)
New reminder for self today: these are the good years. Enjoy them. I spend too much time worrying, stressing myself out needlessly. I need to chill out a bit about screwing up at my evening job especially: if I'm terrified I'm going to screw up constantly, I'll never have any fun.
That being said, I need to be careful about the ways I might screw up. For instance, I will no longer leave hammers in awkward places. However, allowing things to roll off my back more will be useful. We'll try it out on wednesday. I wonder if part of it is a lack of sleep? I just got up from a nap, and I feel absolutly wonderful---ready to start the day again, fresh, excited about life. All in all a nice feeling.
Second. Reminder for (the euphamistic) tommorow: these are also the good years. I don't think there are bad years. Just...these years especially, I don't want to waste.
Trader Joe's tommorow! I can start eating complex foods again! Not just peanut butter sandwiches and noodles with olives and oregano!
That being said, I need to be careful about the ways I might screw up. For instance, I will no longer leave hammers in awkward places. However, allowing things to roll off my back more will be useful. We'll try it out on wednesday. I wonder if part of it is a lack of sleep? I just got up from a nap, and I feel absolutly wonderful---ready to start the day again, fresh, excited about life. All in all a nice feeling.
Second. Reminder for (the euphamistic) tommorow: these are also the good years. I don't think there are bad years. Just...these years especially, I don't want to waste.
Trader Joe's tommorow! I can start eating complex foods again! Not just peanut butter sandwiches and noodles with olives and oregano!
Saturday, October 6, 2007
Smooth
I may or may not have spent this morning washing windows with a famous rock star. While hearing advice and stories about his life.
When people ask me why I work nights and weekends in a box office for min. wage...that's what I'll tell them. Well, that and I love the theatre.
Still need to see "Zanna, Don't!", "White Rabbit", and a host of other shows. I think I may get a chance to see "Thyestes" (Senneca, adapted by Caryl Churchill, directed by JoAnne Akalitias) this week...despite somewhat pricey tickets. Well, such is life, yes? It's supposed to be amazing.
Also! I finally landed a day job---GreenPeace, as a canvaser. I need to pass the first week requirements, but as long as that goes well, I should be much more financialy comfortable. Which is exciting.
Trader Joe's tommorow. Near to being done unpacking. Life is pretty good.
When people ask me why I work nights and weekends in a box office for min. wage...that's what I'll tell them. Well, that and I love the theatre.
Still need to see "Zanna, Don't!", "White Rabbit", and a host of other shows. I think I may get a chance to see "Thyestes" (Senneca, adapted by Caryl Churchill, directed by JoAnne Akalitias) this week...despite somewhat pricey tickets. Well, such is life, yes? It's supposed to be amazing.
Also! I finally landed a day job---GreenPeace, as a canvaser. I need to pass the first week requirements, but as long as that goes well, I should be much more financialy comfortable. Which is exciting.
Trader Joe's tommorow. Near to being done unpacking. Life is pretty good.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)