The Hero of Canton

Ho Ho Ho and a bottle of Nog!

2007-12-06T18:31:38Z

This entry is exclusive to those that have decided to participate in the Secret Santa I'm putting together this year. I have had several requests to start this "wish list" entry, as I did it last year and it seemed to help.

The Secret Santa names have been drawn and I have attempted to contact everyone who said they wanted to do it. If I haven't contacted you, I either didn't get a definate answer on it or something is wrong with yours or my email. Call me if you said you were in and haven't heard from me.

This entry is really going to be more of a public cork board for everyone participating in Secret Santa to comment with their "wish list". Each person participating should post here with a few things they would like for this season in an attempt to make gift shopping easier. We may all be very close but sometimes shopping for a gift for a friend can be difficult and this is designed to help. You don't have to post anything but I'm sure your Santa would appreciate it. Those with no LJ's can comment anonymously here and just leave their name at the bottom or in the subject field. This will be open to everyone to view so check back periodically to see if the person you got has added their "wishlist". Gifts listed should be within the $15-$20 range but Santas are more than welcome to exceed that should they choose to. If you know someone who is doing Secret Santa but doesn't have computer access or a LJ or rarely/never checks their email, ask them if they'd like you to add their list in order to make it easier for everyone. We have a good turnout this year, as usual.

I think that about does it. As a reminder, the Christmas Party will be at Colby and my house on Friday, December 14th. Time is around 7:30. Food is served at 8pm. If anyone has any questions or need directions, give me a call or something!

The finale of Karaoke

2007-07-13T18:52:45Z

Tonight may well be the last night that Karaoke will be hosted at the Southland Bowling Alley for a few months. For the last two weeks, many of my friends and I have frequented the bar within the Bowling Alley to bring additional business to the bar so that proof can be shown that having karaoke is what even keeps the need for the bar around.

Southland cut karaoke from the bar 3 weeks ago and the bar took a huge decrease in profit. So, they invited karaoke back for a 3 week trail period to see if business picked up enough to justify the cost for karaoke. So, I have been trying to help and I think, with the help of everyone who has come, we've done a pretty good job.

Tonight is the final night of the trail period. I'm hoping to make it a good one. So far, I know 4 people plus myself are going. If anyone else would like to come, please join us. You don't have to sing, just cheer (and maybe have a few brews to hep the business). Karaoke starts at 9pm. I will be there at that time. It ends at 1:30am so come at any time you like. I'll be around from start to finish. Hope to see others there!

Just a small town boy

2007-06-27T15:30:16Z

I have found yet another reason why I enjoy smaller cities, as opposed to larger ones. Smaller cities tend to have more "mom & pop" type stores, meaning an establishment that is owned and usually operated by the same few folks. Not that I am opposed to Capitalism. If towns allow Starbucks to come into town and run all smaller coffee shops out...we'll, that is the town's fault, not Starbucks.

Today, as I was walking to Kroger from work to get some lunch, I noticed a Chinese man driving through the lot. This man works everyday at the Jin Jin Chinese Restaurant. Because Jin Jin is in the same shopping center as my office building, I usually eat there once per week. Everytime, it is the same people working. I have even gone in the evening before and it was still the same people working. Today, the man driving the car waved at me with recognition as he passed me in the Kroger lot. It felt nice that someone recognized me from my patronage at their establishment and took the time to wave and greet me outside the restaurant. The Chinese folks that run the place don't speak a lick of English and I can't speak a lick of Chinese. But, they do have one guy there that can speak a little English (enough to take orders) and an evening delivery driver that is fluent in English and Chinese. Usually, I order beef or chicken Lo Mein, cooked in Saschuan (sp?) sauce, which is unusual for them. However, to simplify ordering, the delivery driver has wrote that order in Chinese on a slip of paper for me and I give it to them when I order my food. Now, I don't need to give the slip. I just say "tóng" which means "same" in Chinese and they laugh with me and get the food. It's nice, depsite the lanhuage barrier, that we can understand each other and even get a few laughs.

Although this situation would make just about anyone at any business, no matter how larger, recognize someone, it is still different. When I come into the restaurant, everyone that sees me waves at me and says hello to me. They all recognize me. I have read that most stores in times passed were like that in that the operators knew all the people who shopped there, because the stores were smaller, as were the towns. That, I think, is the type of place I need to find to settle down for the rest of my life.

Conformity rules!

2007-03-12T21:55:00Z

Let's see what kind of numbers I get.

Crush this person!
Get your own ThisCrush.com CrushTag!

Because if it's good enough for Colby, it's good enough for me.

2007-03-01T23:47:22Z

What’s your middle name?
Wayne, after my dad. He loved John Wayne. He was a cowboy.

How big is your bed?
Queen-sized but I'd go king if I had the space.

What are you listening to right now?
Nothing. The rain outside, I guess.

What are the last 4 digits in your cellphone number?
8346

What was the last thing you ate?
Schechuan Beef. If I spelled it wrong, I don't care.

Last person you hugged?
Colby's kitty. If person, it'd be Tavia.

How is the weather right now?
Windy and rainy. Feels like home.

Who was the last person you talked to on the phone?
Some stupid wench calling me at work to complain. I will kill these clients yet!

What is the first thing you notice in the opposite sex?
Smile. Sometimes the style of their hair. And what kind of a man would I be if I didn't admit to boobies and butts.

Favorite type of food.
Italian or steak.

Do you want children?
Pretty badly.

Do you drink?
It's one of my favourite things to do.

Ever get so drunk you don't remember the entire night?
Not the entire but I can think of twice where most was a blur.

Hair colour?
Dark brown. Blond highlights on occassion. Straight blond once and will be again.

Eye colour?
Blue.

Do you wear contacts/glasses?
Both. Usually glasses on a day to day, as I'm too lazy to put in contacts every morning. But, I go with contacts when going out or on a whim.

Favourite holiday?
Halloween, followed closely by Christmas.

Favourite Season?
Summer. I really love Autumn for camping but it's too short and it just lets me know the cold is coming and I hate the cold.

Have you ever cried over a girl/boy?
Never over a boy but several times over a girl. You know who you are, you vile, heartless...angels of the morning.

Last Movie you watched?
Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers.

What books are you reading?
I've started The Divinci Code, The Chronicles of Narnia, and Labrynth of Evil but haven't gone back. Not out of disinterest. Just lack of motivation.

Piercings?
Many but I rarely wear jewelry in any (except my eyebrow cause it closes too quickly)

Favourite Movie?
Both Kill Bills. Braveheart. The Count of Monte Cristo. The Godfather 1 & 2. And oh so many others that I'll take too long to list.

Favourite football Team?
Any not keeping from watching more important TV. I hate UK football but only because of the rediculous traffic it creates in Lexington.

What were you doing before filling this out?
Driving home from work.

Any pets?
No. I only want a Chihuahua or a Rottwieler. I'll not settle for anything else. My landlord won't let me have either.

Dogs or cats?
Dogs all the way. But I have no hate for cats.

Favourite Flower?
None. I'm too manly for flowers :)

Have you ever loved someone?
Once. Only once. Maybe twice but I never got a chance to prove it was real.

Who would you like to see right now?
Monica. Might as well be truthful.

Have you ever fired a gun?
As often as I can. I'm a crack shot.

Do you like to travel by plane?
I prefer to but I don't prefer to waste the money.

Right-handed or Left-handed?
Right. I'm not of the devil.

If you could go to any place right now where would you go?
Scotland. My poor gramps don't have much longer.

Are you missing someone?
Everyday.

Do you still watch cartoons on Saturday mornings?
Nope. I usually just game with the doods.

Are you hiding something from someone?
Always. I pride myself at being honest but that doesn't mean I have to be hurtful or rude.

Are you 18?
Plenty over and gald to be so.

What is the wallpaper on your cell phone?
Yoda looking at me longingly. He wishes he could be in this galaxy and be my friend.

Did you get enough sleep last night?
Nope. Rarely do and I go to sleep with well enough time to get enough. It just doesn't happen.

First thing you thought about this morning?
Necromancers are lame, I want a glazed donut, and who's John?

What do you have handy at your bedside?
Water, condoms, and my pistol. Oh yeah. I'm ready for it all.

Grilled or Fried?
I swing both ways baby! Sometimes, I'll go with both!

Are you afraid of the dark?
Nope. I prefer it, actually.

Favourite Hangout?
Mostly my house. I'm not anti-social, I just like my place. Other than that, I dig pubs. Any will do, just so long as they're mostly authentic.

Three things you can't live without?
Well, besides the standard "Food, water, and shelter", I'd say Colby, love, and beer.

Favourite Song?
Fuck you couch! FUCK YOUR COUCH! Hell, I dunno. I really like "Wherever I May Roam" by Metallica. I also enjoy "#41" by DMB and "Killing in the Name" by Rage.

What are you afraid of?
Failure. Being alone for the end.

Are you a giver or a taker?
Both. I like to think of myself as more of a giver but I don't mind taking cause I give plenty.

What are your nicknames?
Tay, Jodo, and stuff.

What is your dad's middle name?
Wayne. Pay attention!

What is your mother's middle name?
Marie.

Stuck on a desert island and could take one thing?
A fully loaded big gun that has a large magazine. The last bullet I'd save for me if things look hopeless.

Favourite TV commercial?
I agree with Colby on the sleeping pill commercials. I actually shut up to hear them.

Who's your Cell Phone provider?
Cingular.

First thing you'll save in a fire?
Colby. If he's not home, I'd go for my TV. If I couldn't carry it, I guess I'd go for one or both of my computers.

What’s your favourite colour?
Red. Sometimes blue. I like deep greens too.

What are the things you always take with you?
Keys, Wallet, Watch, Flash Drive, and Lip balm.

What did you want to be as a kid?
Rock Star until i realized that the reality of the corporate rock world...sucks. No, seriously, it was an archeologist but quickly became police officer and still kind of is.

What do you usually do when the clock turns 11:11?
In the AM, I am at work yelling at my stomach saying "Shut up, I'll feed you when it's time." In the PM, I am usually asleep during the week and socializing during the weekend.

What is the colour of your bedsheet?
Right now they're maroon cotton. As soon as I wash them, they'll be royal blue satin.

What do you think about before you go to bed?
How I need to stop floating by with what is acceptable and get off my ass and make my life everything I want it to be. Either that or blowjobs :)

I remember a better me

2007-02-06T04:23:32Z

Once upon a time, I considered myself a good person. A man of high moral standing and virtue. The type of guy you could rely on for good, solid advice. But, I don't quite feel that way anymore. I have discussed with my more geeky friends several times about personality alignment and how I was always the "Lawful Good" type and now I have changed to a much more Neutral type. For a while, it wasn't bothering me. It was benificial. Regard for the feelings of others were not top priority anymore and it made making my life a happier one much easier. But at what cost? I now feel a bit lost. Like I am unsure of who I am anymore and what I want. I want to be the good guy again. Not that I am a bad guy now, just not a good one. I had a dream last night that involved the characters in "Smallville". Everytime I watch Clark Kent and see his lawful goodness, it reminds me more of the way I used to feel. Not necessarily as me because I was never quite as super as Clark but I remeber what it felt like to be a good person. One of those people that was worth getting to know and displayed many attributes that was the envy of some. But, I'm not really him anymore.

I am not quite sure really what I should do about it. I have several goals and aspirations I want to strive to achieve but my ambitions and determination seems to have faded with my goodness. I almost feel slothful. I put off today what I can do next week and, when next week comes, I still don't do it. What do I put these more important things off for? Nothing really. I find myself pacing the house sometimes, just thinking. I guess it's better than just sitting in the dark and thinking but not much.

I wanted to write more. Perhaps even get a little deep but, I don't even feel like doing that. My birthday is coming up soon and I still have yet to decide what I'm going to do in celebration. Usually, it's all already figured and planned out. This year, I honestly want to run away. I don't know why. I just do. Instead, I'm having those close to me over because, well, that is what I do. They make me feel good. That is generally what one is suppose to do for their birthday: surround themselves with people who care that put them as the center of attention in order to make them feel good about being them. This could all be just because it's winter and the winter tends to have a depressing effect on some, especially on someone like me who really hates the cold. But, that's the thing. I don't really feel depressed. Just lost. I'll snap out of it. I'll figure something out and act on it. I just have to wait for it to come to me.

Yule time cheers again!

2006-12-04T03:33:35Z

This entry is exclusive to those that have decided to participate in the Secret Santa I'm putting together this year. I have had several requests to start this "wish list" entry, as I did it last year and it seemed to help.

The Secret Santa names have been drawn and I have attempted to contact everyone who said they wanted to do it. If I haven't contacted you, I either didn't get a definate answer on it, you are hard to contact, or just don't pay attention to email. Call me if you said you were in and haven't heard from me.

This entry is really going to be more of a public cork board for everyone participating in Secret Santa to comment with their "wish list". Each person participating should post here with a few things they would like for this season in an attempt to make gift shopping easier. We may all be very close but sometimes shopping for a gift for a friend can be difficult and this is designed to help. You don't have to post anything but I'm sure your Santa would appreciate it. Those with no LJ's can comment anonymously here and just leave their name at the bottom or in the subject field. This will be open to everyone to view so check back periodically to see if the person you got has added their "wishlist". Gifts listed should be within the $10-$20 range but Santas are more than welcome to exceed that should they choose to. If you know someone who is doing Secret Santa but doesn't have computer access or a LJ or rarely/never checks their email, ask them if they'd like you to add their list in order to make it easier for everyone. We have a good turnout this year, as usual.

I think that about does it. As a reminder, the Christmas Party will be at Colby and my house on Friday, December 15th. Time is around 7:30. If anyone has any questions or need directions, give me a call or something!

Relatively close

2006-11-24T18:01:46Z

The only thing off is that my characters aren't each "radically" different. They're different but usually share something in common with others (usually revolving around wealth)

You scored as Character Player. The Character Player enjoys creating in-depth characters with distinct and rich personalities. He identifies closely with his characters, feeling detached from the game if he doesnâ??t. He takes creative pride in exploring different characters, often making each new one radically different than others heâ??s played. The Character Player bases his decisions on his character's psychology first and foremost. He may view rules as a necessary evil at best, preferring sessions in which the dice never come out of their bags. For the Character Player, the greatest reward comes from experiencing the game from the emotional perspective of an interesting character.

</td>

Character Player

95%

Storyteller

65%

Casual Gamer

60%

Tactician

55%

Weekend Warrior

30%

Specialist

30%

Power Gamer

25%

What RPG Player (Not Character) Type Are You?
created with QuizFarm.com

The coming of Gambit?

2006-11-15T21:55:00Z

I have been wanting to create a Gambit (from X-Men) costume to use for conventions and Halloween (maybe even CosPlay) but I have been having a few problems with the costume. Actually, only one main one. I have a source to have a Unitard made that is black with the pink squares up the legs that would also include the cowl that covers a good portion of his head. The gloves are simple. The trench coat won't be a hard find. I already have the perfect cards made that are great for throwing. The stafff...I mean come on! It's a metal pole, how hard can it be?
So, that only leaves the boots, the red contacts, and the breastplate. Now, the contacts, they are just a problem with money. To get ones that look liek his eyes (and perscription, at that) will be quite expensive. but, I'm not detered. The boots are a bit of a hassle but I have a few outlets of folk that think they can aid me in getting a pretty decent pair crafted. So, that just leaves the breastplate. It has been my greatest obstacle.

With any luck, I might have found a solution, with help from suggestions from Rebel Legion folk and some random searches on Ebay. Here is a general photo of Gambit that I'm working my costume from:

Now, here are my ideas and I'd love some feedback. I have found a Roman gladiator brestplate as seen here. With this, I could paint it myself and the only real alteration I would have to make would be to figure out a way to add the tubing that goes around the collar. The same tubing lines the waist but I think I could paint the bottom of the armor and it would have a pretty close enough effect. The flaw: this piece wieghs 20 lbs and that would have to be toted around all day along with a heavy ass trench coat over it. Not to mention that I'm not sure of one of these could be made for a guy my size. But, believe it or not, it's the cheaper option.
The other option can be seen here. With this, I could wear it under the spandex and buy a seperate spandex shirt that I could have a seamstress alter to add spaces around the waist and collar that could be filled with plastic tubing. The flaw to this is that it is more expensive and I don't think it would look as authentic. The only other option I can think of is to buy a crappier muscle mold (this one is made of rubber latex, like for Batman) made from plastic or the like (maybe something from a Superman costume or soemthing) but it may not look near as good or may not last as long.

Any thoughts?

If I did it

2006-11-15T19:20:43Z

This is just odd:

http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20061115/ap_on_en_tv/simpson_interview

Now, I never really had an opinion on whether or not I felt OJ was guilty. I didn't follow it very closely and didn't care to. But, if in his place, I'm not sure I'd think it to be a good idea to write a book on how I would have "hypothetically" killed my wife and her friend. I know you can't be tried twice for the same crime so he could, in theory, admit now that he did do it, if he did. But still. It seems in poor taste, whether you are the killer or not.

Facebook gets a new face

2006-10-14T21:12:56Z

Colby twisted and broke my arm because I wouldn't join Facebook. So now, in fear of having my other arm broke, I have joined FaceBook. If you have too, send me a friend request because, if I haven't sent you one yet, I haven't found you on there.

The Powerball

2006-09-28T12:49:35Z

I played the Powerball Lottery last night.

I didn't win.

Go figure.

Dear Diary, today I was pompous and myself was crazy

2006-08-25T21:10:52Z

I went to Penn Station today for lunch. A few of the others here at work thought that sounded good so, I kindly offered to pick up their orders as well. A girl at work took down all that we each wanted and called the order in, specifying that we were each paying separately. She called the order in at 10:45am and said we’d be by to get it at 11:30am.

When I arrived at Penn Station, it was a mad house. The line to order was out the door. I had never seen this before but, I had already called in my order so I went in. I walked up to the pick up station, where I saw my sandwiches (they had my name on them) ready to be bagged. The only thing missing was 4 orders of fried. Although I had a short lunchtime today, due to us being short handed, I did not rush anyone and patiently waited. Finally, after waiting 10 minutes, I was addressed. I told him I had a pick up order under my name. He nodded and walked off. 5 minutes later, he returned and gave me the total for the entire order. I started to state that we were paying separate but he walked off. Not to get my fries, but to make other sandwiches. Now, I’m an understanding man. The place was super busy. Lunch rush and all. Totally cool by me. But, that was just rude. I played it off though. I’ve worked in the service industry so I know how rushed can be stressing.

So, without my fries, he came back to collect the money. I told him we were paying separate. He looked at me like I was an idiot. Here is how the encounter worked out:
“We’re too busy for that. You’ll have to pay for it all or wait until we slow down.” – Employee
“But I called ahead with my order and stated we were paying separate. I do not think it’s fair that I have to wait.” – Me
“Well, you’ll have to.” – Employee. He walks back to making Sandwiches for others.
“Um, sir, no, I won’t. I did the polite and courteous thing and called in my orders ahead of time and stated we’re paying separate. I don’t really have the time to wait.” – Me. He finally gets my fries.
“Fine, I’ll take the money…” I had him cash for my food but have credit cards in hand for the others, “You’re paying with card on some…this is just great.” – Employee
“You know, you don’t have to be an asshole about it. I’ve waited patiently and I did the right thing to make sure our lunch was ready in time with minimal problems for you.” – me
“Don’t call me an asshole.” –employee
“Then stop acting like one. I’ve done nothing wrong and you’ve been disrespectful to me.” – me
“You can leave the store.” – employee as he throws my money at me. Yes, throws.
I looked back in shock. I shrugged, grabbed the bag of food, and turned to walk out. He yelled back at me, “You can’t leave with the food!”
“You won’t take my money and I need to eat so, take the money.” – me as a State Trooper walks in. I point at the trooper “Do I need to get him involved?”
“No,” –employee “Give me the money.”

So, I finally get him to take the money. As he’s ringing me up, I ask to speak to the manager about what happened and he informed me that he was the manager. WTF?!?! is what I was thinking. So, I asked for his name and information to contact corporate because I was no going to be late back to work for his shenanigans and his attitude was not fitting for an employee, especially not a manager. He hesitated in giving to me and, instead, gave me my sandwich for free (which quieted me down just fine). I still got his name from his register, as I looked over his shoulder so, I’m debating reporting it anyway. He had a real serious attitude problem.

As I left, he apologized, which did help. I was still angry though so, I pulled out $2 bucks and placed in the tip jar, pointed at him, and said “That is all you buddy! You earned it!” and left.

Why do I journal about this? This made me feel something. Recently, I have been wanting to rekindle my inner self. I feel like I have lost sight of who I really am. My anger has become less and less suppressed, my finances I let slip out of pure laziness, I treat people less than they deserve, and I just feel like I’m becoming a bad person. I tell people that I view it like D&D alignments: Originally, I was, undoubtedly, Lawful Good. I obeyed and respected the law and I generally would put others above myself (in most occasions). Now, I feel much more Lawful Neutral, bordering on True Neutral, caring only for myself and willing to break any self-code and beliefs, even laws, to get what it is that I want. Sometimes, it makes me happy, even if only for a while. Other times, it makes things worse and I hate it.

Today, with the Penn Station incident, it made me feel good. The old me would have taken it in stride, been patient, and not told the guy off. I would have just done what needed to be done, waited the time needed to be waited, and taken the punishment for being late to work. But today, if it had not been for the Trooper that walked in, I was straight ready to beat this man’s ass. Ridiculous, I know. But, it made me feel good because I was up in the face of a man twice my size, not backing down, and I could see actual fear in his eyes. This little man dared confront him and was not about to leave without getting exactly the satisfaction he wanted. It’s horrible that such made me feel good but it did. But, the worse part is, now, I wondering if I really do want to go back to being “The Nice Guy”. Am I willing to sacrifice respect, honor, and loyalty: the things I believe made up who I was, just to be feared and get my way?

*edit*
I was thinking: Could the attitude the manager gave me be karma? As part of the negativity that is encompassing my personality, it's affected my work. I've always been a patient guy, even with people of lesser intelligence. I grew up in a family that was under-educated and they had friends who were worse off but I always had patience with them and their idiotic ways of life: the drugs, the violence, the stupid ways they had fun. So, I was a great pick for my job, as a lot of my clients are of under-educated people who are low income. But for the past year, I have no patience. I help where I can but my attitude towards clients is dry, harsh, and quite mean, at times. I speak exactly how the situation is and use little to no tact in doing so. Short of telling the mothers "Stop fucking random men and having more and more babies", I say pretty much what I feel. And since no one has been trained for my job, it is doubtful I'll be fired for it. Not to mention that, because of teh type of person I was/am, being honorable, kind, and respectful, my superiors tend to think, when I'm complained upon, that the clients are lying and I did nothing wrong. Sometimes, that really is the truth. But sadly, sometimes, it's not.

I am not sure how I feel on Karma. I've seen some pretty spectacular people, that I feel should have nothing but good things come to then, get a really crappy end of the stick. But if Karma is real, perhaps the incident today was my attitude being reflect back at me. Problem is, I'm not sure if it was enough for a wake up call. Enough to make me want to change. Deep down, I want my old self back. I want to be the type of guy my friends look up to and respect. I don't deserve that now and I know it. Perhaps, I need to do soem soul-searching. Get away from everything that causes stress in my life and figure out who I am and what would truly make me happy.

I have DMB!

2006-07-31T23:00:24Z

I have an extra Dave Matthews Band ticket for tomorrow night at 7pm in Cincy. Colby and I are going. We're leaving right after I get off work at 5pm. It's Colby's extra ticket and he said the price is negotiable. Anyone interested in the ticket? Get with me asap.

This weapon is your life

2006-07-29T02:55:42Z

So, I'm upgrading my lightsaber. Adding a working blade and sound. I'm having trouble picking a color so I'm polling my LJ peeps. I'm leaning on Adegan Silver, Fire Orange, or Sunrider's destiny. Yellow/Gold is what I've always envisioned my saber to be. What do you think?

View Poll: #780670

Almost Kings Island Day

2006-07-17T17:33:34Z

Hey!
Those planning on going or are wanting to go on the trip to Kings Island that Leslie and are planning...this concerns you. Here are our finalized plans. Please, if you're going, comment with any suggestions.

What day: This Wednesday, July 19th
Where to meet: Everyone meet at my house. If you don't know where that is, I'm not hard to reach.
What are we eating: Breakfast will be at Frisch's in Northern Kentucky on Turfway Road. This will be a sit down breakfast. Lunch is to be determined. People can eat at the park but we will also have a cooler for drinks. We could always put some packed lunches or some supplies for PB&J's or deli sandwiches. Feel free to add suggestions.
What time: Everyone should plan to be at my house by 6:45am. Leslie and I are leaving at 7am so, if you're riding up with us, that is the time. Why so early? Park opens at 10am and we want to be there at open. It will take 2 hours, roughly, to get there from Lexington. Add in time for a sit down breakfast and now, the departure time makes sense.
Who is going: Right now, the definate list is Leslie, Colby, Jason, Katrina, and myself. If you're not on this list, I never received confirmation that you are going. However, I planned to have some stragglers so, I have 5 extra tickets for $16 each (cheap!). If you still want to go, get in touch with me before Tuesday night, as I will be selling them at the park or offering some of my family or estranged friends to go.
What kind of weather is expected: Partly cloudy, with a high of 93 degrees. 20% chance of rain.
Driving: Not really clear on this. I do not mind driving, but no one likes my backseat. If you're ok with my backseat, my car is free. If anyone else would like to volunteer a car or driving, please say so.
What to bring: A swimsuit, if you want to join us in the waterpark. An extra set of clothes/socks would be good. Sweat happens and, sometimes, getting drenched unintentionally does. Money. A camera, if you like. Cell phone...we had problems with not enough of these last year. So, if you have one, bring it! Sunglasses. Sunscreen/block is advisable. A large cooler will be available so, feel free to bring things that need to stay cool.

I think that'll do it. Leslie and I have discussed ideas for the cooler and would like to know what others think. Should one person buy for all and everyone pitch in? Or should we have a "potluck" type where someone brings bread, someone brings PB, another brings jelly, another brings ice, another water, etc? Any ideas?If I have left anything else out, let me know. See everyone going Wednesday!

Heading up to Kings Island

2006-07-09T04:41:39Z

Hey all!
Leslie and I have been discussing taking a trip up to Kings Island this month. We have decided that Wednesday, July 19th is probably the best day for us, as we can both likely get off work on that date and, with it being the day after Double Ride day for season pass holders, it's likely to be the least busy day. I've bene looking about for ticket deals and here is what I've found. If anyone can find better, let me know.

I did not find any deals through Kroger, Meijer, or Blockbuster, which is strange. One of them usually offers discounts every year, especially Blockbuster since it's owned by the same company. Maybe I just couldn't find anything online. Anyway, from the Kings Island website (www.PKI.com), you can get 30% off if you buy 3 days in advance online. General admission is usually about $45. If you buy 3 days in advance, you can get your ticket for $35. If less than 3 days in advance, you can still get 25% off for a ticket price of $38. If we get more than 15 people together, which is unlikely, we could get group tickets for $31. Also, note that they have a deal running now where if you buy a ticket at $50, you can get your admission plus a voucher for another free day this season. This free ticket does not have to be used on a consecutive day.

So, if your interested, let me or Leslie know. Anyone is invited. We plan to leave pretty early and grab breakfast somewhere before we go. We'd like to get there before the park opens to ride as soon as they open. I plan to bring a cooler in my trunk to put drinks and/or packed lunches in, as well.

I don't see why you're so bored. You're a level 20 wizard, for crying out loud!

2006-05-23T20:58:54Z

Lately, I’ve been toying with the idea of running my own D&D campaign (Dungeons and Dragons for the non-geek or hole hiding people out there). I’ve never really gotten the opportunity to run a semi-long term one before and I’m interested in trying it out. The thing is, per my usual self, I want to mix it up a bit. This is what I’ve been thinking:

I would like to accommodate the desire for anyone and everyone I know to play…anyone that is interested in such anyway. I really am hoping to attract some people who have rarely or never played before but are interested in trying it out or seeing what it’s all about. The “seasoned” players that have a good grasp on the rules and the system I would like to, also, bring their experience (no pun intended) to the table and be patient with the new folk and offer to help them out in every aspect to understand all they can do. This could require a bit of patience and those that cannot handle that would not be allowed to participate.

I realize this could possibly (and hopefully) draw a good amount of people into playing or trying it out. Seeing as a good group to play in should not exceed 5-6 people (in my opinion), my solution to this is to have a co-DM (dungeon master) or “storyteller”, if you prefer (any volunteers?). This would allow for 2 groups of people to play, possibly even at different times. What makes this idea even more unique is that it opens the door for people to play with different people and not always play with the same group every time.

For example, there could be 5 people in group A playing one campaign and another 5 people in group B playing another and happen to run into each other in the same town. Two people from group A might be interested in joining group B on their quest since they are having so much trouble with a band of Orcs outside town and two people from group B might want to join group A because they are afraid of Orcs or are too weak to handle them. You never know. Ideally, both groups would meet at the same place at the same times so things like this could more often occur. It would be more difficult if the groups played at different times.

Having a larger group also allows for more people to miss and the game still go on. In the times I’ve played, if you have a group of 4 people playing and 1 can’t make it one night, the game could go on but it may not. If 2 can’t make it, you might as well cancel. But, if there were several people playing, especially if it were separated into 2 groups, it could be said that the person that could not make it, had to “scout ahead” or “run back for reinforcements” and the group could pick up a new player for that session in the nearest town or wherever they may run into someone. Of course, to make this work, I’d center the timeframe where everyone playing would be living or working out of the same town or everyone would be traveling to or near the same towns to make people swapping more accessible.

But the real beaut to all this is the opportunity for people, whom have never played, to get the chance to see if this is something they would be interested in and the “seasoned” players a chance to play with people they’ve never or rarely played with before.

So, my first task is just to see who is interested in such. Joe has expressed interest (if it’s played during daytime hours) and so has Billy (both are “seasoned” players). Tavia, who has never played before, has interest in trying it out too. I’m going to spread the word about, via LJ and verbally, and see who is interested. Girls are highly encouraged! Come see what your geek boyfriends find so appealing! If any readers out there have interest, comment, call, or email me. If there are certain people that you are not interested in playing with, but are still interested in playing, I’m sure we could work something out, if the group of interested folk gets large enough. You can comment, call, or email with question too, if you like.

After interest has been established, I’ll need to figure out time(s) to play and recruit a co-DM (if needed). Just because a time is not known just yet, don’t not comment, if interested. You can bail if the decided time doesn’t work for you. I just want to know who is interested before I figure a time to play. Playing in the past, in my experiences, has been once per week for 3-4 hours. We can change how often to once every other week or once a month, if really needed, but I’d like to avoid once a month. I want to keep sessions no shorter than 3 hours though.

After interest and time is determined, I’ll confirm those that are “in”. After I have a list of whom and how many (and find a co-DM, if needed), I’ll start planning out a campaign. I don’t know how long this will take me. It will greatly depend on the number of people wanting to play. I wouldn’t image any more than a month. The goal is to have this kicking before August this year.

So, if anyone is interested, has any questions, or already wants to join in (are you that brave?), get in touch with me. I’d like to have all interests and time options determined before mid-June.

And I promise, my next entry will be less of an announcement and more of an actual journal entry. Ok, I won’t promise. I can’t break those. But I will try very, very hard.

If I die before I wake, it will be because of this last shot I take.

2006-05-22T03:42:38Z

So, this Saturday (May 27), will be my final shift at the hotel. That's rigth! For those who haven't heard, I put in my notice. No more 2nd job for me. I was wanting to celebrate with a mini-party. Nothing fancy, nothing loud. Here is what I was originally thinging (I say originally because it's starting to sound like less and less people will not be able to make it):

The party would be somewhat tame...but not really. It has the image of being tame but has the possibities for a lot of people gettign wasted. The thought was for those that want to, to show up at the hotel around 10 or 10:30pm for some swimming and hot tub lounging. I get off work at 11pm. The party would then move to my house where we would play games (Dalmuti, Dragonstones, Betrayal, whatever). Drinking would be welcome, of course. But, here's the kicker: Shots only. Drinking will not be required but, if you want to drink, it's shots only. There would be no exceptions to this. The idea is either people are sober or wasted. Now, I'm hoping for diversity. As in, people either bring their own bottle of booze for many options for drinkage or bring stuff to make mixed shots. I know someone is bringing ingredients for Rattlesnakes. The idea was for people, sober or not, to play games and have some calm fun. Shots would be taken, as people decided to do so but, a timer would be set to go off every 30 minutes. At which time, I would be taking a shot and would be encourging everyone drinking to join me.

But, it would appear that I should have planned this ahead of time. Turns out, quite a few people, whose presence would be missed, would be unavailable. So, now I can't decide if I should go ahead with it anyway or postpone it to the following Saturday. So, is there any interest out there for this? And if so, which Saturday would be better: May 27th or June 3rd? If both is bad, it'll happen this weekend anyway, just without some. We'll see what happens. Either way, I'm getting wasted to celebrate!

***EDIT***I totally forgot the date for Leslie's bachlorette party on June 3rd so that is out. So, it's this Saturday or nothing. The plan stays as normal. I'll be at work until 11pm. Anyone who would like to swim, show up between 10pm and 11pm. Shots will start at the hotel and continue at my house. This will occur one way or another, even if it's just Colby and myself getting wasted.

I was talking shop, luv, but if you've got other ideas...You. Me. Cosy little tomb with a view.

2006-04-04T00:36:04Z

Here it is! Damn! I did look pretty good....

In the dark....

In the light....

So, no one has updated on Beaux Arts. Did everyone have a good time? I did. Dancing, food, drinking, a little neck suckage...it's all good. I was actually surprised at how well the place worked out. I was worried, with it being a horse barn/auction house and all, that it wouldn't be a very good place to have it but, I was impressed.

Anyone else have some pictures? Most of the ones I have were with a flash and the flash makes the prosthetics on my face look, well, prosthetic. These are the best one I have. I'd like to see all of the pictures taken, especially those of me.

"I don't want to be this good-looking and athletic. We all have crosses to bear."

That's right, Beaux Arts...tremble in fear. Cause the big bad is in town....

2006-03-31T00:30:15Z

Well, it's done. Some have seen, some have not. I'm officially blonde now. I've gathered all materials I need to dress as "Spike" on Saturday for the Beaux Arts ball. I have a black muscle shirt, black jeans, black boots, leather trench coat, red dress shirt, a "woochie" to "vamp out" my face, flesh tone paint, liquid latex, fake skin, and fangs. It's on! There will be no accent though. Sorry ladies but this Scot can't do an English accent to save my life. I just keep reverting to Scottish so I guess I'll be an accentless Spike.

So, I'm planning on going when it opens (6:30) for the food. I assume it's included in the door cost but, if I'm wrong, someone correct me and save me the trip. If it is included, anyone that is going, do you want to join me?

It seems like the anticipation this year is highly lacking. Figures. The one year I'm excited for it, very few others are. I haven't heard any definative costume decisons made yet except for myself, Billy, and Colby. I think Jason told me but I have forgotten. Anyone else decide on their costume yet?

Rover take over

2006-03-29T21:07:34Z

I've been needing to make a trip to Louisville to return the Hawaiian stuff I borrowed from my Grandmother for my birthday. I was wondering, since I have to go anyway, would anyone want to go as well and join me for dinner at the Irish Rover? I would like to go tomorrow (Thursday), otherwise, it'll have to be next Wed or Thurs instead. Anyone game for any of the days mentioned (preferably tomorrow)?

The Beaux!

2006-03-24T22:00:44Z

Who's going and whatcha dressing like? I want to hear it. I'm going as Spike from Buffy the Vampire Slayer. Dyed blonde/white hair, leather trench, and all. I don't plan on going "vamped out" but I could change my mind. What about the rest of you?

Oh, and in case you've lived in a hole and have no idea what I'm talking about...
http://www.beaux-arts-ball.org

And, we're off to a perfect start!

2006-02-10T15:29:02Z

Well, the "entertainment" for tonight cancelled as she has woke up ill. The company fantically has been searching for a replacement but, on short notice and being "Valentine's Day weekend", no one is available. I was having a Fantasy Party Rep coming to the party with all kinds of adult goodies and games. Sounded like a blast. Oh well. The company is offering a 25% discount on all goods on their website for party attendees tonight but I told her I was looking more for the presentation as an atmosphere aspect. But, if people want to look anyway, I'll have the website up on my computer at the party for people to browse.

I'm trying hard to not look at this as a bad sign for a bad birthday bash. Really hard.

P.S. This is not meant as an "Oh shit! My party is going to suck now" post. It's more of a "Don't expect this aspect of the party now" post. I'm sure we'll still find plenty of ways to have fun. I'll be calling some of you later for favors...no, not those kind. Oh, ok. For some of you, maybe! =)

Last Announcement

2006-02-09T15:43:41Z

Ok, here's the last Birthday announcement: Times.

Friday, February 10th - Lingerie Birthday Party at my house. Call or email if you need directions. This will start at 9pm. Poker, if still wanting to be played, needs to begin no later than 9:30pm as I have some...entertainment coming at 10pm and we should try to be in party apparrel by then. Bring some money for yourself (or your significant other). You'll be glad you did. Champaigne, Strawberries, and chocolates will be provided. Anything else you'll need to bring. Anyone who wants to bring candles, extra pillows, blankets, or anything else soft, please feel free to do so. They'll be used. Anyone who wishes to stay the night (and cuddle) may.

Saturday, February 11th - Luau Party at the Comfort Suites, Beaumont Centre. This is planned to start at 8pm. Pizza will be there so bring your appetite. Pizza, Pina Coladas, and fresh fruit will be provided. If you don't have any Hawaiian clothing or such, not to worry. I have a few extra shirts and grass skirts. I also have plenty of Leis but, for a Luau, you can never have enough of those. Be sure to remember your swimsuit as there is a pool and hottub at the hotel. I have 3 rooms currently with paid reservations for those who want to stay the night. I could probably get more if needed. I do not have a blender so, if you have one you could loan, I'd love you. Probably wouldn't be a bad idea to have multiple so, if you have one you'll volunteer up, bring it! If you plan on drinking anything other than Pina Coladas though, you'll need to bring that. I can't afford anything more but I'll make up any other drinks people bring ingredients or mixes for. Just as an additional warning, this will be a somewhat tame party. Limbo, board games, and smimming are the extent of planned activities. If you have any other ideas for activities, bring them and present them.

See everyone there! I'm super excited!