5...

4...

3...

2...

1...

The Kitchens Relocation Project has begun (Better known as K.R.P. or "Krap").

See you guys on the other side.

Until next time kids.

Be safe.

*Current Music: Black Eyed Peas -- Pump It*

Pack Rat. That is what I am. Except for this time around. I have already decided that everything I just "had" to keep the last time around is going right in the trash this time. Two things I know will stay, however are the Red and Black issue the first Monday after we beat Tenn. in Athens as well as my brick that I snatched when they were doing the downtown beautification of the Classic City. Yes, I stole a brick. When you feel like you can't go home again, just steal a brick. It helps.

Currently I'm 1% deep in the packing process. Nope, that's not a typo. I've got the whole thing planned out in my mind of what goes where, the U-Haul has been rented, and I know what I'm going to keep and what I'm going to discard, but I just DO NOT have the motivation to pack all my shit up again. I'm sure everyone involved in the [NAME REDACTED] Relocation Project can agree with me when I say this shit is going to suck and it's going to suck big time.

*Current Music: Danke Shoen -- Wayne Newton*

I'm looking forward to getting up to Atlanta Saturday. I should be in town somwhere in the area of about 3 or 4 p.m. That night Jeb and others as well as myself will partake in some type of "Welcome to Atlanta" ritual but without rappers, bling, or bitches. I still think it will be a good time had by all. Anyone residing in the A-T-L is obviously invited. You guys are the main reason I wanted to move up there. I hope I get to see a lot of each of you.

*Current Music: System of a Down -- Aerials*

The job down here is going wonderfully. More on this in a sec but first, I'm debating whether or not to even blog about the new job for fear of being discovered. I keep hearing on Glenn Beck about people who have blogs, trash their employer, get discovered, and then begin looking for new jobs. I don't want that to happen to me, which is why I've never used names or trade secrets in my blogs. I don't think it's bad to shout from the mountain tops of 1's and 0's that you hate your job, as long as you keep it private to an extent. Besides if my bosses wanted to know how I felt, all they'd have to do is ask. I have no problem making my feelings known about that job and how they can shove it up their ass. Besides, they need something up their asses because I'm sure their heads are quite lonely up there. By the way, when I said the job down here is going wonderfully, I mean that. I have napped 2 out of 3 days this week and have effectively done nothing. Think "Office Space" but without embezzlement, fax machine homicide, and skinning fish.

*Current Music: Elton John -- Don't Let the Sun Go Down On Me*

So anyway, I'm going to the liquor store to see what kind of boxes I can take from those guys. I need as many as I can grab and if I can't get my fulfillment there, then it's over to Kroger and Publix. Wish me luck. This could be fun and crappy at the same time.

Also, before I go, thanks to Stacy who said her perfect man would have my wit and general appreciation of cuteness. Damn right the perfect man would have a bit of me in him. He'd also have my abs. They're fantastic.

Until next time kids.

Be safe.

*Finishing Music: Imogen Heap -- Hide and Seek* (worth a sample, especially for music freaks)

Look out everyone! I'm Hypocrite Man and I'm doing it for the people!

Yeah so in my "down time" today I did a little bit of thinking as I always do and figured out that even though I can't stand hypocrites, I can't stand them because I'm the biggest one of all. I can't think of very many instances where I will say "I believe this and only this and there are no exceptions."

I know this is a random topic but stick with me for just a sec. So I was thinking today about good looking women (no, not while my pants were down either...assholes) and why I love them so much. Most would blame it on my heterosexuality but I think it's more than that. I think I love the good looking ladies because honestly, I just don't like unattractive people. THIS makes me a hypocrite already because I am not, and I repeat NOT, a good looking man myself. However, I've always dated attractive women and I would break the cardinal rule of dating a co-worker, roomate, neighbor, or very close friend if she was hot enough. However, the good news is that it's not all about looks. To me, hotness is conveyed via personality BEFORE looks because I will not be having sex with you or even getting my beloved sugar if I hate your fucking guts. Sorry if you don't like it, not my problem. Don't be such a big bitch and my fat ugly ass wouldn't turn you down. Which, by the way, pisses off good looking women the most when the guy they'd sleep with last turns them down. Sometimes it's so fun being me.

But it goes deeper than my shallowness (nice sentence there). I'm a hypocrite in how I view stupid people as well. I tend to say the most unintelligent phrases only to REALLY get ill when the dumbass next to me says the same thing. The difference is in timing. Where as I might say "I don't like cheetos," I won't say it while someone is dying of starvation, unlike most dumbasses I know. That's a bad example, but I'm full of them today, just deal with it.

Lastly, the most blatant example of my hypocrisy comes in the form of my low tolerance for people that complain. I can hear all of you snickering already. Now, as all good hypocrites will tell you, the only way we keep our nose clean as hypocrites is by having excuses as to why we're not included in the groups we hate on. Well my excuse is because when I bitch about things, it's FUNNY. Most people just complain and whine and blah blah blah, but I do it with flare and the occassional gay joke (not that there's anything wrong with being gay), thus keeping me from being the biggest bitch on the planet.

Well thank you for letting me vent a little while I come to terms with me being a person that I tend to hate the most. I good you all a bid evening and any good looking friends of mine may report to my doorstep in Atlanta as soon as I get moved in.

Until next time kids.

Be safe.

Well, what a difference a day makes.

My apologies to anyone from this wonderful site who clicked earlier today only to find my conservative ramblings. I know you were directed here hoping to see Dawg-related facts, some possible rumors of how well offseason workouts are going, and maybe even a little bit of news on recruiting.

You will not get that here.

However, you are privvy (well, not really) to my little home away from home. My blog that has kept me sane for the better part of this past year. Before I get into my preseason predictions, which I figured would be the purpose of today's post given the over 250 hits I've had today so far, I will tell you a little about myself so you're not confused about my feelings on a particular team and/or subject.

First, I'm a 24 year old graduate of UGA with a degree in Journalism, emphasis in Public Relations. Basically, that means I'm poor and moving to Atlanta in the matter of a week. I'm a regular guy, I tend to listen to a lot of conservative talk radio, I support our troops, I think gas prices suck, I like to stir the pot, and I will occassionally (well, often) say things to make you think and/or become angry. I invite all responses to any post. Your comments are always welcome here.

Secondly, I'm one of the biggest Dawg fans alive. Want to know how I know that God is a UGA fan? The Bible is printed in Red and Black. That's what I believe. I breathe, sleep, eat and dream about Georgia football. I was a 5 year member of this historic organization and I miss my time there greatly. One day I'll retire in Athens and I hope my child(ren) will go to college there just like dad.

Now that you know me, feel free to begin the disagreeing.

Here are my preseason predictions and evaluations:

SEC East:

Florida -- Holy Sh*t I'm tired of hearing about Urban Meyer. Yes, he's a winner, yes he's like Steve "I love my visor" Spurrier, yes he makes Gator fans feel better about wearing jean shorts and sporting mullets. However, we are all forgetting one great thing ladies and gentleman, it's FLORIDA. They will not acheive the greatness this season that they used know years before. Urban Meyer is still playing with Ron Zook's recruits. Now, Zook, in all his dumbassittude, could recruit talent like it was his job, which it was. See Chris Leak. That kid is nothing short of amazing and should have a Heisman caliber year, EXCEPT for the fact that Florida's kids still don't trust Meyer yet and aren't used to his disciplined system. Zook let the inmates run the asylum and that is going to be tough to correct in one year. They will still be tough on defense with Charlie Strong as their DC still, but look for them to be hurting in the running D as Channing Crowder made his exit early.

Record: 8-3 (Losses to UGA, USC, and LSU)

Tennessee: Man oh man do the pundits have Tenn. being the biggest dog in the yard. Not going to happen my friends. Tennessee has talent but being plagued by offseason problems as well as a quarterback rehabbing throughout the offseason has them hurting. You may not agree, but trust me, Erik Ainge is the future and the future is not this year. They have a stable of good backs, they're always decent on their lines, and the wide receivers are hit or miss depending on whether or not the year ends with an even or odd number. Tenn. is what I like to call "black and white" when it comes to being the best in the East. Either they're unstoppable or they're just average. Fulmer has no control on his team and it's becoming evident. Mark my words, talent does not a team make.

Record: 9-2 (Losses to UGA and Florida)

Vanderbilt: Horse feathers, they suck again. However, they win more games this year out of pure spite. They always play the Dawgs tough (don't snicker, you know they do) and they always give Florida a run for their money (because everyone hates Florida). However, it sadly will not be enough again.

Record: 4-7 (WINS against MTSU, Richmond, Kentucky, and Ole Miss)

Kentucky: Rich Brooks loses his job shortly after the close of this season. He just can't recruit talent and it's not really his fault. Basketball is overshadowing the football program like a bigger brother slapping around the red-headed stepchild. I feel bad for Rich Brooks...kinda.

Record: 2-9 (WINS against Miss. State and Idaho State)

South Carolina: Is it just me or do you hate Spurrier less now that he's not wearing Blue and Orange? I mean I still think the guy sucks, but I respect his ability to coach football. However, we all know he didn't take the USC job to coach again. He took it to play Augusta National whenever he wanted. Look kids, Steve Spurrier knows he's got a couple of years before people REALLY expect something from him. He's taking his time, cleaning up Holtz's messes and then he'll bring some talent down there. However, until then it will just be mediocrity. Expect a couple of upsets, but not in the Dawg house.

Record: 7-4 (Losses to Georgia, Tenn., Auburn and Clemson)

GEORGIA: Let me go ahead and state for the record that I am biased. I know I am biased and I will admit that whole heartedly. However, I do see the Dawgs possibly running the board this year. We have NO QUESTIONS on offense. People are so quick to point at DJ and say "this kid needs work." No, that kid is untested. The team respects him and they want to protect him. This team is the dark horse only because no one expects them to win. Sounds like a dangerous formula to me. A tough road game at Tenn. will be the determining factor in our season. Expect close wins with Florida and South Carolina. However, our boys have something to prove and they will prove it. Don't worry about our receivers, don't worry about our secondary, don't worry about the D-line. We're good to go. Just have faith and support the team. If they believe they are a contender for the Nat'l Title (which they do) then we should believe with them. Anyone remember Peyton Manning and then Tee Martin? I do.

Record: 11-0 (I said it here first)



SEC West

Arkansas: Houston Nutt. Does anyone else think this guy is a good coach sometimes and a complete moron at others? He has a mediocre season. Suprisingly the only people that care are the ones in Arkansas.

Record: 5-6 (Losses to Georgia, USC, Auburn, Alabama, Ole Miss, and LSU)

Alabama: If Mike Shula can become the coach the tide want him to be for the offense, then everything else will fall into place and an SEC Championship appearance is in the future. However, if the Tide can't get it clicking, then they can't get it winning. The defense will be stellar again and if they are as suffocating as they were last year, then the DC will be coaching somewhere else at the end of the season. It could be an ugly year or a great one. I'm predicting great. A heartbreaker to Florida is what I see in their future, but not much else on the negative side.

Record: 10-1 (Loss to Florida)

Auburn: Well Mr. Tubberville, we'll see how good of a coach you are when your team graduates. My prediction here is we'll see how the Plain-tiger-eagles-men recruit for the future. I see a lot of inexperience due to seniors from the previous year taking all the time. The offensive coordinator is still there so it could be another tough year to defend against them, but since their talent has gone the way of the dinosaur, I don't see it.

Record: 8-3 (Losses to LSU, Alabama, and Georgia)

LSU: I truly believe Les Miles is a good coach for this team. Nick Saban is a great coach all the way around and LSU fans are hungry enough to keep being a good team. With all the talent there, it'd be hard to screw it up, but Miles, unlike the Meyer/Zook connection, favors Saban's style of discipline. I think the transition wasn't as harsh and we'll see a good, but not great, LSU team this year.

Record: 10-2 (Losses to Alabama and Tenn.)

Miss. State: Sylvester Croom is a good man and a soon to be great coach. Just not this year or maybe the next. If they are patient with him, he'll surprise a lot of people. Stay patient.

Record: 3-7 (WINS against Tulane, Murry State, and Houston)

Ole Miss: Who's the new coach there? Exactly. Not great, not good, not mediocre, but on the radar to potentially spoil someone's season. We'll see what happens.

Record: 6-5 (Losses to Tenn., Arkansas, LSU, Auburn, and Alabama)


Well, there you have it kids. Feel free to disagree with me all you want. I pick on emotion and what I see, not necessarily what the stat sheets tell me. All I know is that the SEC East is dominant over the West again and will keep the ESPN Pundits buzzing about who's going to the title game.

It's going to be a great year. Go Dawgs!

Until next time kids.

Be safe.

P.S. -- Be looking for a Sunday or Monday analysis of every game this fall!

Two times in one day. Usually blogging is like sex to me...one and done. No no no, not today my friends.

First of all, I do have to extend a hearty apology to my new Liberal friend who loves the Dawgs as much as me. Straight to you from me, A.J., I took your blog out of context and figured you to be a bomb throwing left-wing Liberal from the depths of hell. You disagree in a fashion that I disagree with but I was out of line with, well, most of my blog. I had you as arrogant and uninformed. I was wrong. We disagree but I was completely misguided by your words and that, again, is my fault. I appreciate your time and I definitely appreciate your comments, not only did it make me feel like a douche bag, but the kind of douche bag that I hate the most, the one that is ignorant and jumps to conclusions. I have placed a link from my blog to yours and I invite everyone to read a point of view from the other side of the line.

Also, A.J., DJ will be fine this year. Yes he gets a little unfocused at times with his passing but I think we'll be ok. An SEC title is pushing it but if he can stay calm and be the leader during the season that he's been in the offseason, we'll be 100% in the running. By the way, don't expect Urban Meyer to have the greatest year. I'm predicting 8 or 9 wins, but they will lose to us and they will lose to Tenn. You heard it here first folks. By the way, for all Dawg related information, please go visit this site and read the articles. Lots of vital Dawg info and hands-down the most complete Bulldog coverage without a subscription on the internet today.

Now it's time to respond to you, Mr. Snoop. By the way, I loved "Drop it like it's hot." Just thought I'd tell you that before I blast you.

Yes, I believe we're winning the war on terror. Or, when I'm not jumping to conclusions, The War Against Terror, or TWAT. Now, let's ask the people at Gitmo if we're winning. While we're depriving them of sleep, playing some music you yourself have recorded as well as some Metallica, and feeding them pork BBQ (hee hee), they're giving up secrets like it's nobody's business. We've caught more people by capturing terrorists (which we have done) and draining them for information. Also, we're not always capturing terrorists, we're killing them too, which is always a plus. Again, 1700 soldiers' lives are 1700 too many, but allowing terrorists to run free only hurts our chances at freedom. Terrorists hate us and want to kill us. They want us out of Iraq so they can rule with fear and not allow a country to grow and prosper. The human desire for power and greed rules terrorism, plain and simple.

Point two, MAXIM is not, I repeat NOT, a news source. Talk about me taking shit out of context, read the sentence again and notice how it was stated. When I say "Hell, even go so far as to READ MAXIM," then that means MAXIM even has an article on what our soldiers say with their own pens, not MAXIM is the news source of the century. I have personally walked into the airport and stopped two soldiers just home from the war and thanked them for what they have done. They know their job is important and even though it's not what they thought of when they joined the military, it still is a volunteer military and they're doing their job. They may disagree with the policies, but they all agree the media is not giving you the full story. By the way, I'd give you $5 if I actually believed you go to bookstore and pick up a Newsweek or Time. Just my opinion, I could be wrong, but I doubt it.

Point three, you referenced parts of my previous blog that again, I apologize for so I'll let you slide with them, but I will make note of two things you said. George Bush was elected back into office, the Repubs still have the House AND Senate. The country DOES NOT WANT Liberal leadership, plain and simple. Stop crying and let it go. Stop your bomb throwing and start the wheels of change. Shake your neighbor's hand and tell them that you may disagree, but he is your neighbor and you will stand proudly with him to protect the freedoms set forth in the Constitution many many years ago. The other thing I'd like to make reference to is how you say I'm wanting to deport people and yet not pick up a gun myself. It was my choice not to fight in the armed forces. Again, it is a volunteer military. But if I were drafted, I would go to war and I would be scared and I would be afraid to die, but I would go. I had a bright future ahead of me and did not need the government's money to go to college or to better my life. Military life was not for me and therefore I CHOOSE not to go. I do wish to deport a lot of people (especially terrorists, hate mongers, and illegal immigrants) and I have the right to do that because even though I don't even own a gun, I pay my taxes, I vote, I stay informed, and I help this economy. We are all interdependant. It'd pay you good mind to learn that. Also, if you want to see the love I have for this country, please read this particular blog. You might find you, I, and A.J. aren't so different after all.

Wow. Today has been fun. A.J., again, my apologies for taking things out of context and for throwing my own bombs. You caught me after a large caramel machiato and the caffeine was controlling me. But it was fun. Looking forward to more.

Until next time kids.

Be safe (even you Snoop).

Ok, this is going to be a highly politicized rant, so if you have any problems with that, then you know where the "X" is on your screen. Feel free to disagree with me all you want and even call me a douche bag in my Comments section. I won't delete what you say, but I may respond.

We all know that I support the war in Iraq. I don't want to harp endlessly on it anymore. However, now is the time where I harvest the seeds that I planted months ago when I first started ranting on political correctness, the ever-growing problem of politics, and how it's absolutely destroying America. Now I will specifically target Liberals here mainly because they're doing the most bomb throwing with the harshest of words and terms.

I stumbled across this dipshit's blog today via my friend Russ(ty). Now this person is the epitome of what I'm talking about when I say that some people just don't deserve to live here. Sure, he probably pays his taxes on time, works for a living, and has a good life with good friends. However, how arrogant can you be when you blast the people that have died for your freedom to be able to throw your bombs? You, my arrogant acquaintance, are an asshole.

You have no idea of anything outside of yourself and yes, my words are well thought-out and though I may lean more red than blue, how dare you say you feel "EMPATHY for comrades in arms." Your "empathy" is actually "empty" with an extra "a" and "h." I hate to let you know but words that are bombs eventually become real bombs at home. You don't agree with the war in Iraq or the War on Terror and so you, being of sound mind and body, KNOW that it is the absolute truth. Well open your mind a touch and let's expose you to a few facts:

1. The attacks on 9/11 were A LONG TIME COMING. This means that when it failed in the early 90s, it was on your liberal hero to take a stand then. However, he did not and we were attacked. It happened on Bush's watch only 7+ months into his presidency. So, what was going on for the 8 YEARS that your liberal hero was in office? Now I will agree that Clinton did well for our economy and I disagree with my conservative friends when they say he was a horrible president. I think he was a good one, but weak on defense, thus leading us to where we are now. Get off your Anti-Bush horse and get down here with the MAJORITY OF AMERICA.

2. Saddam Hussein was shopping for nuclear weapons, he killed hundreds of thousands of his people testing biological weapons, and he was harboring terrorists. End of story. We have not found WMD's but we know he had them and we know he was shopping for them. He wasn't Time's "Man of the Year." I wish we hadn't taken him out so sloppily, but this is NOT the next Vietnam and it isn't as bad as you think. Do me a favor and go to a military town. Ask a soldier that has been in Iraq what's really happening over there. Hell, even go so far as to READ MAXIM. They had an article from soldiers about what's happening over there. Take a read.

3. We will be attacked again. Want to know why? Because we're winning. However we aren’t doing as well as we should is because we're too busy fighting ourselves over here. Liberals are in our Senate comparing our administration to Nazi Germany. You think that speech doesn't travel overseas? You know what fosters Anti-American hatred? Liberals comparing Gitmo to a torture camp, move-on.org comparing Bush to Hitler, and even Newsweek saying we're flushing Korans down the toilet. THAT is adding fuel to the fire. People are throwing bombs on the Senate floor to encourage you, the weak minded, to vote for them for "change." Wake up; you're being played for your vote.

Stop listening to what Hollywood tells you and start opening your eyes a little. You'll claim to know it all and you'll even jump on that "No war for oil" bandwagon. Well if you want to do that, ride your ass over to Canada or Mexico. Wait, you don't want to live anywhere but America? Hmmm, interesting.

I hope you read this blog and I hope you do your best to blast me in your response. I'd love to go round by round with you and trust me, I'd win. You will probably stand up and reference that I'm questioning your patriotism for being Liberal, as you wrote in your blog. I'm not questioning your patriotism, I'm questioning your resolve. Everything comes at a price. It is not your RIGHT to live in America, it is your PRIVELEDGE. You are not entitled to anything and even if you were, then someone died for that sense of entitlement. I don't ask you agree with the war in Iraq or even the War on Terror. What I do ask is that when you feel the need to rant, do it in a responsible manner with thought instead of the same Liberal copy points that were "spoon-fed" to you by Kerry/Edwards and the entire DNC. Either you can appreciate what you do have and find the facts for yourself, or you can kiss my ass and live in the bubble you've constructed.

It's your choice; after all, that's what free will is right?

Until next time kids.

Be safe.

So, I hope you like what I've done with the place. I'm a little indifferent to it as of this writing (which by the way is being done on Clear Channel's dime...well, kinda), but we'll see if it grows on me or not. I like the look of it but it definitely doesn't have that "Hi, my name is Russ and welcome to my blog, now complete with Flash Animation." We do still have videos and a Terror Alert Level, which is handy in case you want to never look at Seasame Street the same way ever again.

Speaking of the video, the one to your immediate right is of Hoobastank's "Running Away." Years ago, I wrote a very interesting piece on the old ATA Message Board (Remember that thing ladies and gents? The link is still active by the way) and it was all about creativity. Creatively speaking, that video to the right is one of the best I've ever seen as far as capturing the idea of a song. When you break up with someone and you're the one of the shit end of the stick, then you have thousands of thoughts running through your head at the same time. Some of good times, some of sex, some of fights, some of everything else and they are all just flashing in and out like a relationship epileptic seizure. This video captures that and even puts the band in a video box to complete the idea of being inside someone's head. Call Hoobastank what you want and I'll most likely agree, but it's a damn good video and a good song as well. Props to the director of that one.

So back to all the changes around here. I'll be adding advertising to this page soon to try and make a couple of bucks extra a month. If you see ad links, just click on them and close it out. You won't get any pop ups or viruses from it. It will just help pay a couple of bills and I'll be greatly appreciative.

Thanks to everyone with kind words about my grandfather. He's doing better but they're saying either he won't leave the hospital or he'll go home with hospice care. Basically the end is near but no one knows when that will be. I'm not incredibly close with my grandfather so it's a real weird feeling. Mainly of guilt for not forcing us to have a relationship but since he and my dad never really got that close, I can understand how that would filter down. I just really hate it for my dad because I know if I'm feeling guilt, he's got to be overrun with it. But thanks for your prayers and good thoughts. They're definitely helping.

I'm looking forward to the move up to Atlanta. Actually I'm estatic about it. NOT happy about packing my shit up since I feel like I've just gotten everything settled in its own place, but I'm looking toward a fresh start and I really think this is going to be awesome. Besides, Ln says she has hot friends to introduce to me. I'm cool with that any day of the week. Also looking forward to Dawg season. It's right around the corner and I'm just not getting back on track with the diet so I should be looking decent around Gameday.

Other than that, I'm changing daily (in the good way). Here's to the next big thing...

Until next time kids.

Be safe.

P.S.--Let me know what you think of the changes and please pass along any ideas you might have on how I can make this thing completely reader friendly. I'm not out to ramble on about myself in every friggin' blog. There's a big difference in talking and saying something and I want to say something.

Damn I miss Kevin Nealon. He was the best at that to me, but the new team of Tina Fey (hot) and that blonde chick is pretty good. Jimmy Fallon didn't suck either.

Anyway, here's the brief, albeit, pointless weekend update:

Friday:

Two week notice handed in. One co-worker ended up being pretty pissed about it (this is the same one that knew I was considering leaving and just SWEARS it'll all get better soon), but the rest were quite the support structure. Apparently I'm already lost and forgotten on my bosses, though, and it's quite obvious when the one I actually like (not so much anymore) said "Well, I'll be honest, it doesn't surprise me." Bitch probably thought I was the one that gave up. Those dipshits quit on me first, if they even started at all. Fuck them, I'm stoked.

Later that evening, drinking ensued at my good friend Gina's house. Gina is just like my mom except I drink with her and she's only 37. She's got the funniest husband alive, Pat, and 2 kickass kids that are both cool in their own ways. Gina's been a good friend down here. I'll definitely miss her backing me up all the time.

Bedtime...drunk.

Saturday:

Wake up. Not as hungover as I should be. This is interesting. I think I'll hang out for a while and just see what's going on. Get a phone call from my mom that's sad (more on this later). Go to Movie Gallery to rent Hostage. It's not in, so I rent Star Wars: Episode III. Oubre would be proud. Go to Krystals and proceed to get more Krystals than I should be allowed. Eat "happiness in a box." Many hours of Playstation 2 ensue followed up by a KICKASS poker session on PartyPoker.com. I turn $30 into $100. Go to bed EXTREMELY late, but happy.

Sunday:

Wake up. Not hungover at all due to no alcohol consumption. Stomach's torn up thanks to Krystals. Too much information there. Oh well, shit happens (feel free to laugh at that pun). Begin playing poker again. Proceed to lose all money throughout the day. Wonder what I'm going to do when I get home from work now. "Pack up all your shit" comes to mind. Ignore it. Blog.



On a different note, going back to the sad phone call I got from my mom, my grandfather is in the hospital and as of Saturday night, was not expected to make it through the evening. Somehow he did, and is considered to be doing "better." Truth be known, I think everyone is wondering about "when" as opposed to "if" but this isn't uncharted territory for the family. He's pulled this rabbit out of his hat before and I wouldn't be surprised to see him do it again. Just do me a favor and pray for God's will to be done. My grandfather's been sick off and on for a while and in situations like this, you just want everything to work out according to plan. I hope that doesn't sound like I want my grandfather to die, because I truly don't of course. But I would like for him to not be sick anymore because I know with him being the man that he is, he wants his time to be his time and let that be that. We'll see, but like I said, good thoughts are always helpful and I appreciate it.

Everyone have a wonderful week and we'll be in touch through the power of "Blog."

Until next time kids.

Be safe.

Well I've been a loser long enough with all these photos that I haven't shared with everyone. I won't keep anybody in suspense, so without further adu, here ya go.

The Wedding of the Century:




Abby has the nicest closed eyes ever.



No one really knows what happened to Jeb here.



I call this one "Teacher of JD...Pupil of JD"



I was drunk here. Hell I was drunk in all of them.


And now what follows is a group of photos that I just took on a whim over the course of the past few days. I don't think it's any secret that I'm not a fan of Savannah life but there are aspects of it that have really made me feel "at home" sometimes and have even helped me through this entire process of "the real world." I took some photos of things I'll miss and they're basically just images that calm me down or send me into a state of relaxation after a rough day. These are the images I'll miss when I'm smelling in smog and trying to find the fastest lane home on I-85. So, tomorrow when I turn my two-week notice in, I'll be saying goodbye to images like the ones below and they'll be a few of the memories that I have really taken joy in over the past year.

The best way to view these fotos is by imagining the smell of salty-clean air with a light gust of wind at your back.

Savannah Life:



This view and the similar ones that follow are from a bridge on the way back to my apartment. Looking at it always seems to calm me down on the long trip back home.





Now view of my apartments at sunset:





Quiet and nice.

Well, that's my life down here. Quiet. Calm. It's like Perry but with salt air and marsh. Can't beat that at all.


In non-related news, I got a phone call today that makes me one of the first, if not the first, person to ever do this thing. On June 10 2006, Jeb and I will be Male Bridesmaids. Now I know what you douchebags are thinking and no, I won't be wearing a dress. However, Jeb and I will pioneer a new territory in which no man has ever been willing to go before, the left side of a wedding.

Now think of it this way, Dana (my friend who's getting married) is hot. I mean Dana is smokin' hot and that means hot bridesmaids (myself included). Even though I know these bridesmaids, we all know how I like to boom-boom the left side ladies at every wedding I participate in. Even though I struck out on the last trip, never fear. I'll be in Perry, I'll be a Male Bridesmaid, and I'll be drinking. The possibilities are endless my friends.

Until next time kids.

Be safe.

That's not really the topic of this blog, it's just the truth. I know most of you won't believe that though, since I tend to iron just about everything. Hey, I like to look pressed, fresh, and clean. If you don't like it, tough.

So, I was doing my daily cycle of blogs when I came across this one from my friend Tim (Gunner). It's quite a humorous story even though it's about a topic most people (men and women) cringe over. Hell, I have no room to talk, I'll probably do it when I'm done having kids. That is, assuming I actually will be able to have them (don't want to jinx it).

Anyway, as I was reading this particular blog, I asked myself, "Why in the hell am I reading this?" and thus began the creative flow of juices, no pun intended. You see, this blog phenomenon amazes me and my friend Courtney (notice I said "friend" so it's not that one) had this discussion on Friday just before I made an ass of myself. We were discussing another friend going through a particular issue and how crappy Courtney is at advice. I said to her that it's my belief that people rarely ask advice, they really just want an ear to bend so they can talk out their own problems. It's a lot easier to figure out the best plan of action when you're watching someone react to what you say. Most of the time, they need not say anything and you talk the problem out on your own.

So I move to another blog and find another situation. If you go here to Shit-Hot-Oob's Blog, you'll see that she is in the same type of situation that I have been in for so long. All I can say to her is stick with it and never be afraid to weigh the pros and cons. Everything is a risk, regardless of how "safe" one situation may feel. The good news is we're all still so young that we are allowed to make a mistake and not be stuck with it forever. I'm living proof of that. Sure, we might have to wait situations out, but it could be much worse. I know the world seems like it's crashing down and totally unfair. I know how you feel so selfish when every other aspect of your life seems anywhere from good to great except that job area and you bitch about it, but it's important to you and you feel it should be the one thing that goes perfectly. After all, everything you've done in an educational aspect, and I mean EVERYTHING, has led to you getting the job of your dreams, and when it doesn't happen, you feel cheated. I've been there. It sucks. Trust me, it will end.

Pardon my digression. Anyway, we blog because it's everything we can't say. We blog because it's tangible. We blog because we want people to ask these questions but we're too scared to wait in case it doesn't happen. We do it for our own sanity and we do it to share humor, pain, fear, and anxiety with other people we care about. Hell, not too long ago I spend a good hour writing about a girl. One that I still miss, but it's getting better. It got better as soon as I hit the "Publish" key. It was a weight off of my shoulder as soon as I did it. This whole thing is like a journal where we just figure shit out keystroke by keystroke. The best part is we figure it out with people we care about as well as complete strangers. Through this little blog I feel like I've gotten closer to friends I was already close with.

Who'd have known? The internet actually brings people together.

Anyway, thank you for your prayers, thoughts, good feelings, and rain dances for my opportunity to get to Atlanta. For the first time in a long time, I wake up excited about tomorrow and the opportunity I have. Honestly, the job aspect will come and I'll either be great or bad at it, but I get to see a Funkle Show in Altanta, I'll get to drink in Athens with less than a 2 hour drive and have money to spend, I'll hang out with Jeb on a Wednesday, and I'll just be happy where I'm at. Even on a bad day, it'll still be a good one.

My future's so bright, I gotta wear shades. Just kidding, but it was so corny, I had to do it. Take a rest kids and let me help you keep your chins up for a while, you've done enough keeping mine where it should be.

Until next time kids.

Be safe.

Loaded up (not yet really) and truckin...

So you've probably figured out by the title that I've officially accepted the job at C.H. Robinson Worldwide. My official job title is Transportation Sales Representative. It's a great opportunity and the benefits are ridiculously good. The best news is I'll have a fresh start in a place where I'll be surrounded by friends and family first and opportunity second.

There is, as always, good news and bad news. The good news is just about everything mentioned in the "pros" from the previous post and all that summed up above. The bad news is everything in the "cons" from the previous post and the fact that for the first time in nearly 8 years, I'll be living with a full-grown adult, and for the first time ever, another young-un.

I'm moving in with my Aunt Jane and her daughter Sarah for the time being. Now AJ and Sarah are both cool people and it should be a great experience, but I'm quite fond of my private time and space (you can take your porn jokes and go to hell), so naturally I'm a bit skeptical about just jumping right back into the fire. However, by doing this I can take my time looking for a good place to live, pay off my debt(s), and generally set up a plan of fiscal conservatism via my Microsoft Money 2004 program that I love and treasure so much. Thanks to Clark Howard, I want to set up a Roth IRA. I know it will be tough since I still am not really sure what it is, but I've heard it's really good.

So, I will say goodbye to my sometime ritual of coming home after a hard day, plunking down on my own couch and drinking a cold Jack and Coke. However, beginning August 8, I'll be coming home to a family, talking about my day with someone not over a wireless phone line and rejoice in knowing that my check will be this exact amount (nothing more, nothing less) on these specific days.

It should be really fun, and educational too. Thanks to everyone for their well-wishes, prayers, and support of "you'll find a job soon, I promise." You guys are the reason I was able to get motivated to ask for better. Thank you.

Now, before I leave, I'd like to say that the tragedy in London should not be taken lightly. Granted, as of this writing, London has only 52 dead and a little over 700 injured, which is a shadow of those lost and injured on 9/11. However, their tragedy is our tragedy as well. They have been our strongest ally throughout the entire war on terror and in Iraq, regardless of how it affected Tony Blair's popularity. Terrorist groups have already claimed responsibility for what took place and I think they're already regretting it.

You see, Mr. Terrorist Asshole, your actions do not scare or intimidate us. It fires us up. It gives us a black eye only to force adrenaline and hunger through our veins of freedom and democracy.
You woke up a sleeping giant with America. Congratulations, you just pissed off his older brother. Now it's a family affair and while you want to praise Allah, the only god you'll be worshipping soon with be that made of porcelain as your stomach curdles with fear and hopelessness.

Your time is coming. It's not here yet, so run while you can.

Great Britain will not be as politically correct as we are. They hate the French too, but they have the balls to say it. You see, when you fuck with someone that's dealt with the IRA for years, you've barked up the wrong tree.

You thought your "jihad" would do some good. It turns out, it only added fuel to a fire. You wanted to ruin London's Olympic Party and all you've really done is speed up the timeline for your departure. You think London's going to change it's mind about the games? That they're going to say "maybe this isn't a good idea"? You have got to be kidding me.

I hope you like your caves, hairy women, and dirty water. You'll be seeing that type of world for a long time coming.

Don't make us throw the gloves off.

Trust me and millions of others, you DON'T want that.


Until next time kids.

Be safe.

You just might get it right?

Well, to an extent, that's what just happened. I got a job offer from a very reputable company. It's C.H. Robinson Worldwide. They're big dogs in their industry, which sadly for me is not media.

Now, here are my pros:

1. Eliminate Debt. This is possible by living with my aunt for a few months to pay down my credit card.
2. Guaranteed Pay. Not only guaranteed but a higher guarantee than what I'm making unguaranteed right now.
3. BEING WITH FRIENDS. We all know how important this is to me. It's been the main reason for me looking for another job in the first place.
4. Everything else. Basically this entails having a roomate again, more people I have stuff in common with (which means more possible lady friends), and most importantly, the possibility of going back to school to get my Masters in Advertising.

Now, here are the cons:

1. I'm out of radio, an industry I really do love.
2. I'm joinging an industry that I may or may not enjoy, but definitely not where my career goals are pointed (as of this point in my life).

You would think this is a no-brainer but it's not that simple. It's tough to put so much into a job in hopes that it will work out only to be faced with a decision to move on, particularly in an industry that may or may not excite you.

I'd like to hear y'all's feelings on this. Any and all feedback is welcome, even if you have to post it annonymously. I have to make a decision by Friday at noon.

Until next time kids.

Be safe.

Happy Birthday America. You are old but still lively.

First of all, a quick thank you again for those in our military protecting our freedom. Many people abuse those freedoms on a daily basis and do it without respect or admiration for the blood and tears that have been spilled on the grounds of foreign countries or on old photographs of happier memories. God Bless you all and please come home safely.

Secondly, I'd like to extend a thank you to everyone else. It is because of its people that America is the greatest country to live in. People around the world feel the need to bash us with their right hands while extending their left to ask for help. Now before someone tears into my ass about Live 8, let me just go on the record to say that Live 8 was a great idea and I was personally touched by one particular moment during it's broadcast, BUT I will not deny or begin to forget that African corruption led to the billions of dollars from Live Aid being lost or stolen. You can put a band-aid on a bullet wound if you want, but someone has got to fix the source of the problem before our help will actually do anything.

Pardon my digression, moving on.

Thank you to everyone that works, doesn't work, raises a family, burns a flag (yes you too), screams obscenities at the police, screams obscenities at criminals, soldiers who fight and come home, those who do not, the welfare recipient, the welfare contributor, those on food stamps and those that ring those stamps up, the government, the governments workers, and lastly, those millions upon millions I didn't even talk about above. I have never been to a foreign country and even though I would like to one day, I know I'd be comparing everything I saw to my home, America. And I also know that we are a country that even in its darkest hours of war and political corruption, we are still light-years ahead of others who have tried to copy our system or make it better. We are still the beacon of democracy and freedom for a reason and that reason is us.

We make this country worth living in. Many people want to disregard 9/11 and any references to it. I agree it is a time to move on and not sulk on America's darkest hour, but please understand that we should never forget the feeling of that day. At once, every red-blooded American put aside his or her prejudices and stood as one nation under God. We cried, prayed, and thanked God for such a wonderful country. The beauty was, the day we did that was different for every American. For me, it was a week and a half later when Georgia played Arkansas and I saw then 86,000 Americans hold paper flags in the air proudly where men and women wept together and with PRIDE. We were now beginning to understand the pride that veterans had asked us to feel for the duration of 3 generations before 9/11. We needed a wake-up call and damn it, we got one.

Thankfully 229 years ago a group of gentlemen saw something that 80 year olds to 5 year olds in this day and age still can't fully grasp. Those Founding Fathers saw opportunity for greatness and destruction and proceeded to build a frame of rules and regulations that would ensure the former and protect against the latter. We, presently, have learned from our past mistakes but our Founding Fathers thought of those mistakes ahead of time and established a system in which we were free to make those mistakes and free to learn from them without fear of our government persecuting us.

So thank you to every beating heart within these borders and those whose heart beat 229 years ago. It is because of you that I'm allowed to do what I feel it takes to acheive my own American Dream. Words cannot ever describe how thankful I am to have been born free and how thankful I am to be free today.

With one hand over my heart and the other reaching out to shake my neighbor's I say:

Thank you.


Until next time kids.

Be safe.