Welcome to My World

Christmas Phone Call

2011-09-28T19:09:00.000-07:00

I was driving home from a performance in downtown LA. It was Christmas Eve and traffic was brutal. Instead of letting the situation get me down I tuned into a radio station that was playing Christmas music. As I sang my heart out the red brake lights became Christmas lights and I revelled in the holiday spirit. I had my Bluetooth in my ear, anticipating a phone call from my then girlfriend. As the current song came to an end I realized my Bluetooth was connected to a call. I embarrassedly asked, "Hello?" On the other end was Mom. She said, "I'm just calling to wish you Merry Christmas."
"How long have you been listening?" I asked.
"I heard most of the last song."
"Why didn't you say anything?"
"I was just enjoying listening."

I Feel Fine Enough, I Guess...

2011-09-20T16:23:00.000-07:00

Me with Ed Robertson, lead singer of Barenaked Ladies

Last weekend was both extremely fun and extremely emotional. I got to see two of my favorite bands, Rascal Flatts and Barenaked Ladies, in concert. Sunday was also what would have been Mom's 83rd birthday. All things considered, I couldn't have asked for a more appropriate series of events to occur Saturday and Sunday.
A ~~little~~ lot of back story for everyone: My mom passed away last April 1st. I was at a show choir competition, minutes from going on stage with Esperanza High School's show choir, when I got the news. Thankfully I was playing that set with two of my best friends in the show choir musician's circle, Danny and Stephen. A few weeks before, Danny and I had discussed how one of our favorite moments in the show was playing the verses of "Life Is A Highway", a song made popular by Rascal Flatts. After I told Danny and Stephen what happened, they gave their condolences then Danny said something along the lines of, "Let's go rock this!" We hit the stage and, fighting back tears, tore into the set. As soon as we hit the first verse of "Life Is A Highway" Danny shot me a huge grin which put a smile on my face. We were in the groove. It was then that I realized the first line of that verse is, "Life's like a road that you travel on, it's one day here and the next day gone." At that moment I chose "Life Is A Highway" to be the song I will forever associate with Mom. She'd rather have that than some sappy song, I'm sure. After the performance Stephen hung out with me for at least an hour and we just talked. I will always be thankful to Danny and Stephen for that day.
The next day I had another performance with Esperanza's group at another show choir festival. Again Danny and I had our musical moment during "Life Is A Highway." After the set the groups director, Michael Fenton, came up to me, explained that he told the students about Mom, and that the performance was dedicated to her. If there had been any question about "Life Is A Highway" being Mom's song, that answered it.
One day, while listening to "Pinch Me" by the Barenaked Ladies, I was struck by the line, "I feel fine enough I guess, considering everything's a mess." That summed up perfectly how I had been feeling since April 1. This past summer I had the pleasure of seeing Barenaked Ladies in San Diego with two of my good friends, Ken and Lisa. Lisa's father had passed away less than a year before Mom did so she and I had spent a lot of time talking and crying about our losses. When that line came up in "Pinch Me", we looked at each other with a knowing look while singing the line. Another memory I will carry with me forever.
Fast forward to last weekend. My friends Ken, Christina, Heather, and I secured our tickets for the Barenaked Ladies show the week before. At the time I didn't realize the concert fell on Mom's birthday. Our original plan for Saturday was to go check out Route 66 in San Bernardino. A Beatles tribute band was playing and it sounded like fun. Saturday morning I got a text message from Heather that said, "Rascal Flatts is playing tonight. Call me!" After a few phone calls our plans were upgraded from tribute band to Rascal Flatts. I don't know if any of them realized it at the time, but, getting the see Rascal Flatts sing "Life Is A Highway" with my friends was an incredible moment for me. Sunday was the Barenaked Ladies concert with the same group of friends. Again they performed "Pinch Me" and again I realized I am "...fine enough I guess, considering everything's a mess." After the concert Heather and I hung out backstage and got a chance to meet the band. While posing for a picture with lead singer Ed Robertson I told him about how I associated a line from "Pinch Me" with Mom and that it was her birthday. He gave me a slight squeeze on my shoulder and a smile.
Good friends, Rascal Flatts, Barenaked Ladies, and Mom's birthday: What an incredible weekend!

A New Project

2010-04-28T21:27:00.000-07:00

As you may know, one of my hobbies is photography. I was doing a photo a day blog for a while but life got busy. I recently realized I don't have any of my pictures on display at my house. I would like your thoughts on what pictures I should print and display. I know they aren't all winners and feel I'm too close to them to decide. Please check out my photo blog and tell me which ones are your favorites. Either comment on this blog or leave a comment on the photo entry. Facebookers can comment on this post. All help would be greatly appreciated. Here's a link to my web album that has all the pics in one spot: Bill's Pics The pic in this blog happens to be one of my favorites.

Quick Thoughts on Nashville

2010-03-28T07:55:00.001-07:00

I can't think of anything that would have made this trip better. Some highlights:
1. Getting to play at the Grand Old Opry three times, and getting to stand on the original piece of stage from the Ryman Auditorium (the original Opry).
2. The groups I played for winning in both their divisions. The Los Alamitos group, Soundtrax, came in first in the women's division. SoundFX came in first in the prelims and also came in first in the finals. The kids were awfully excited.
3. Getting to experience the Nashville honkytonk scene. Walking down Broadway and hearing great live music coming from every bar on the street was an amazing experience. One I'd like to do again.
4. Going to Tootsie's, where Johnny Cash and Willie Nelson used to sneak to between sets at the Opry for a quick drink. It's said that many a great song was written on a bar napkin in this place.
More on Nashville later. Now it's time to get some breakfast in preparation for the long day of travel back to California ahead.
Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry

A Small Revelation Today

2010-03-26T20:16:00.001-07:00

Today, after playing at the Grand Old Opry for the second straight day, the guitarist in the group I'm playing with and I were discussing what an amazing opportunity we have been granted over the last few days. Many people only ever dream of playing at the Grand Old Opry. We have had that honor the last two days. He continued by pointing out that the Opry is one of very few concert halls in "that" category in the world. We named a few other, perhaps the other top hall being Carnegie Hall. In my life I have been blessed with the privilege of performing in both of these historic buildings. I have shared the same stage as many of the world's greatest and most famous musicians ever. For that I am humbled and grateful.
Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry

The Blog I Can't Seem to Write

2010-03-09T10:58:00.000-08:00

For months I've been wanting to write a blog about my break up with Sarah. Every time I start to collect my thoughts and put them down, I am bombarded with thoughts that stop me from doing so. I've gotten over the first one which was: I don't want people knowing how I really feel. I've talked to many friends about the break up and am comfortable in my feelings toward it. Other times my brain just shuts done as if to say, "Don't do this." I'm not sure exactly why it keeps doing that to me. Perhaps the biggest reason I haven't written anything yet is because I'm afraid that she might read the blog and think I'm trying to manipulate her emotions. That is one thing I definitely want to avoid doing, again. So until the day comes when I'm ready to put my emotions about this into words, continue reading my other stuff.

Not So Helpful Cue

2010-03-03T19:33:00.001-08:00

The past few days I've had the pleasure of playing the show, Rent, at Fullerton College. The bass book is one of the best written, and difficult, parts I've ever played. One of the thoughtful things added to the parts were vocal cues after long periods of rests. It makes it a lot easier than actually counting 100+ measures. There was only one problem: one of the vocal cues came during a section where two of the cast are singing, "I should tell you," repeatedly to each other. Of course that's what the vocal cue was. Not so helpful on that one. I guess I actually have to count rests.

Friday Night

2010-02-27T01:16:00.001-08:00

It's Friday night, actually Saturday morning. 1:12am. I can't sleep. I'm at the Courtyard by Marriott in Buena Park and have a 7:45am call time in Los Alamitos to play bass for a junior high show choir. The kids will be bright eyed and full of energy. I won't. Why can't I sleep? It's not the bed. Maybe the room is too hot. Or too cold. I need to pee.
Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry

Scared Shitless

2009-11-13T02:20:00.000-08:00

I learned two new terms today: Deep Vein Thrombosis and Pulmonary Embolism. Both of these terms are currently related to Mom and I've never been more scared in my life.

Southland: My Review of the Pilot

2009-04-15T12:10:00.000-07:00

It sure has been a while since I've posted to this blog. Hopefully I'll get back to blogging.

On Sunday, I watched the new NBC television show, "Southland" and thought I would share my opinion. Let me start by saying I don't think television needs another show that takes place in an intense work environment, but instead of focusing on the work, focuses on the personal lives of the characters. I'll cite the CSI's as examples of the former and NYPD Blue, Grey's Anatomy, and E.R. as examples of the latter. (Did I use former and latter properly?)

I really enjoyed the pilot. It seemed to show the day to day activities of Los Angeles police officers and detectives. We see the young rookie teamed with the veteran and hear the obligatory "If you do what they taught you in the academy, you will die" line. The show is cruising along wonderfully until the two officers pull over an exotic sports car and find drugs in the door pocket. The driver then asks rookie guy to cut him a break and we hear the first mention of rookie's dad. Uh oh! Foreshadowing of personal details to be revealed at a later date. More references to rookie's upbringing follow. "Where did you learn to shoot, the Beverly Hills Gun Club?"

The next sign of future "soap opera" came when the female detective said she had to go home to check on her mom. Why does a middle-aged detective live with her mom? Why does she need to go check on her all of a sudden? Don't tell me, I don't care.

I will continue watching "Southland" for a few more weeks, but if the edginess of the police work get mired in the "soap opera" lives of the characters, I'm done. What do you think of the show?

Jury Duty Fun

2008-12-16T09:04:00.001-08:00

Today I arrived at the downtown courthouse for jury duty. Before I could get my computer started, I was called to go to the "Hawthorne School" court on the other side of town. As we were waiting in the jury room (former kindergarten classroom), the power went out. A man came in and told us the power was out throughout the neighborhood. I am now sitting in a dark room waiting to find out what happens next. The fun never ends!
Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry

Tough Job Requirements

2008-12-14T20:50:00.001-08:00

Seen at the Taco Bell in Mission Grove.

It must take amazing origami skills to turn your application "into" a manager. Who knew the expectations for rolling burritos is so high. We won't even get into the numerous uses of "Engrish" found.
Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry

Crack berry

2008-11-02T13:50:00.001-08:00

I joined Face book Friday night and learned how to use their mobile application on my Blackberry yesterday. I now understand where the nickname "crack berry" came from. I can't put the thing down. I'm changing my status the way some people use Twitter. In fact, as soon as I'm done logging on my crack berry, I need to change my status to reflect that I am done with lunch.
Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry

Hockey Day

2008-10-18T15:32:00.000-07:00

On Wednesday Ken and I went to the Ducks /Oilers game for his birthday. Ken had wanted to go to this game since he first saw the schedule and saw that a game fell on his birthday. Unfortunately, I didn't have money at the time. On Tuesday, I got a call from Brad Vaughn, a drummer I know, saying he had two club level tickets to the game. He GAVE me two $89.00 tickets for free. Here are some pics from the game.

Ken before the game

Me before the game

Us in our seats

Watching the radio post-game show. That's rookie Nathan McIver on the left.

The coolest part of the Club Level: Gold Toilet Plumbing!!!

Here's a video I took in the parking lot. I think we were a bit early.

Dean Koontz Day

2008-09-20T19:24:00.000-07:00

Today Sarah and I went to Oceanside to see Dean Koontz speak. He also signed a few books for us. The entire deal was a fundraiser for an incredible group called Canine Companions for Independence. All proceeds from his new book, Bliss to You, go toward this wonderful organization that trains and provides service dogs for handicapped people. Not just seeing eye dogs:
I dropped my keys, can't open the door, can't reach the phone, etc. dogs!

The Big Holiday

2008-09-18T22:14:00.000-07:00

Since tomorrow is Talk Like A Pirate Day I went to the Talk Like A Pirate page and got a new name and an image of me as a pirate.

BUTCH THE WICKED!

5 Hours 'Till Showtime

2008-09-13T15:08:00.000-07:00

Not that I'm Counting!

The Funniest Thing Since the Last Funniest Thing

2008-09-01T18:01:00.001-07:00

This one is for the musicians out there, though everyone will enjoy it. It proves the theory that there is an finite combination of chords that we combine into songs.

All About the Wordplay

2008-09-01T11:00:00.000-07:00

Sarah and I are going to see Mr. A-Z (Jason Mraz) at Casino Morongo in less than two weeks, Sept. 13. Tickets are still available if anyone is interested.

I Haven't Laughed This Hard In A Long Time

2008-08-29T22:22:00.000-07:00

I love the parts about radio stations and wolverines!

What Do I Do?

2008-08-29T16:36:00.000-07:00

I'm not normally one to write about things too personal, but I figure I'd try it and see how it goes.

Today I walked into Sarah's backyard and was greeted by Otis when he firmly planted his paw in my groin. As I walked, doubled-over, back inside I realized I was covered in mud. I told Sarah she should tell the boys not to play with the hose. She said the hose is not near the corner.

Turns out one of the boys or their friend dug a hole in the backyard without permission and broke the sprinkler line. It's unclear if this happened before or after they asked Sarah if they could dig a moat, to which she answered no. Either they disobeyed and dug anyway or didn't ask for permission to radically alter her backyard. Either way, I feel that shows a lack of respect for Sarah.

I'm also dumbfounded by the fact neither Robbie or Cameron thought to tell Mom the backyard was slowly flooding. I'm sure they were afraid of getting in trouble. Again this translates to me as a lack of respect for Sarah. They were more concerned about having the Playstation taken away than causing lots of damage to Sarah's yard.

The lack of respect theme isn't just from these incidents. There was the time Cameron knocked my computer on the floor, the way they treat their toys, their inability to clean up after themselves, one saying he doesn't listen when he is told to do something because he doesn't think he'll get in trouble, etc.

I don't buy the "boys will be boys" story. If we lived by that rule, we would never learn that society has some basic expectations from its members. What do you think? Is it a lack of respect thing? Am I expecting to much from a 9 year old? A 6 year old?

The Olympic Bet Results

2008-08-25T20:21:00.000-07:00

I think Ken was starting to get overconfident in his choices. The night before the men's water polo game, I got a text from Ken where he said this was turning out to be a lot closer than he thought. It ended up that it came down to that final water polo game. If the men got gold, I won by 2.5 points. If they got silver, Ken won by 2.5 points. That's pretty darn close. Turns out the men lost to uber-favorite Hungary. Oh, well. I think this might be the first "Dollar and a Bag of Doritos Bet" I've lost. It was fun following sports that normally don't get any coverage here. Go Team USA! If they had National Pride Doritos, that's what Ken would get but, sadly, they don't. What flavor would you like, Ken?

Man Shopping

2008-08-25T20:03:00.000-07:00

Today I went to Best Buy and purchased a new all-in-one printer. But I didn't just walk in and buy one. I spent the last several days:

Researching websites

Reading reviews

Comparison pricing

Talking to Ken

Talking to Sarah

Checking ink prices

I finally decided on the Canon MX700. What a cool printer! I love that it auto feeds documents for copying and scanning. If you've ever had to scan multiple pages, you know this is a good thing. I've already printed off some pictures and they look pretty good. I'm eventually going to buy a dedicated photo printer so picture quality wasn't super important, but these are pretty good for an all-in-one. And it has a fax machine. I send maybe one fax a year so that will be a lifesaver!(?) The best part:

On sale at Best Buy for $129!

The second best part: I had $45 in Reward Zone certificates!

If you think I put this much effort into all shopping, I don't. I probably spent less than 5 minutes on the last gift I bought for you.

Mobile Blog

2008-08-25T09:31:00.001-07:00

I'm laying in bed playing with my new BlackBerry and thought I'd give mobile blogging a try. If this works, I'll be able to join the ranks of people that blog from places like: bed, driving, dinner with friends, and my favorite, the bathroom. Here's hoping this goes well.
Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry

The Olympic Bet

2008-08-13T15:08:00.000-07:00

Ken and I have made the standard bet, a dollar and a bag of Doritos, on the Olympics. We both chose four of the less-popular sports. No swimming, track and field, gymnastics, basketball, etc. We earn points for each medal won by the Americans. 10 for gold, 5 for silver, 2 1/2 for bronze. Ken chose: shooting, fencing, judo, and canoe/kayak. I chose: beach volleyball, tennis, cycling, and water polo. Ken is currently leading because more medals have been given out in his sports. I'm banking on the US winning my events. Ken is, in his own words, trying to "bronze me to death." Ken got a huge boost when the US swept the medals in a fencing event. Today I got my first gold when Kristin Armstrong won the women's cycling time trial. Coincidence that her last name is Armstrong? I think not. Come on Williams sisters, May/Walsh, and BMX riders! I like Doritos!

I Have No Idea...

2008-08-12T18:15:00.000-07:00

...what is going on here. Geeks around the world are probably cheering and cringing at the same time.

I Have To Say It Was A Good Day

2008-08-09T18:48:00.000-07:00

Today started out tough. I had to be in Baldwin Park by 8:30 this morning for notes and then a full run-through of a show we performed this afternoon. The only thing keeping me going at times was the thought of the amazing pound of salmon fillets I had in the fridge. Sarah and the boys are NOT fish eaters so I rarely get to indulge. Tonight was the night. Salmon and rice pilaf. Delicious!! I'm now watching the Dodger game as the wonderful aroma of salmon floats through the air. I wish Sarah was here to enjoy this wonderful moment. Although she could probably, strike that, definitely do without the salmon part. I miss her and the boys dearly but for now I'm enjoying being able to cook fish without offending anyone. They come home tomorrow. I can't wait! Sorry salmon, they win.

The Heat Is On

2008-08-07T20:25:00.000-07:00

Yesterday when I woke up, I noticed Sarah's air conditioner wasn't working. After trying everything I could think of (namely flipping the thermostat switch on and off), I went to my dad's and got the phone number of his air conditioning guy. This morning I called and the lady said they would be here between 11-1 today. It only took them a few minutes to determine the problem: A short in a wire outside most likely caused by a dog chewing on it. OTIS! While we were talking, he noticed one of the sprinkler valves wasn't fully closed. He happened to have a new one in the van. Done and done. He also cleaned and serviced the a/c unit. $250 later, Sarah's house is cool, the sidewalk is dry, and her water bill should be slightly lower in future months. Who would have thought it would cost me so much for her to go on vacation?

2008-08-03T20:49:00.000-07:00

Sarah and her family left this afternoon for the Disney Cruise. I'm house sitting for the week. I've been home alone for less than 5 hours and I've already cleaned the heck out of her fridge. Out of respect for Sarah, I won't show you the before pictures but doesn't it look nice now?

Show Me the Money!

2008-07-31T17:17:00.000-07:00

Brett Favre gets offered $20 million to not play football?! I have not played football for over 30 years. Hey Green Bay, how about kicking me down with some cash? I'll stay retired.

Pie Chart Love

2008-07-23T20:28:00.000-07:00

I have noticed a lot of traffic recently on my blog, specifically to the entry titled "Funny Pie Charts." I googled the term "funny pie charts" and my blog was the second page on the list! That's pretty cool. To honor this milestone, I have taken a few pie charts from the first page on the list to share with you here.

This last one can apply to people who comment on most websites: You Tube, MSN News, any sports story site, etc.

Shed a Tear With The Rock

2008-07-23T20:19:00.000-07:00

Right now Robbie is in the shower singing, "Hardcore wrestlers, hardcore wrestlers, hardcore wrestlers with inner feelings." Is this who he's talking about?

Tonight's Oz Rehearsal

2008-07-23T01:12:00.000-07:00

They predicted 6,000 people showed up to watch the final dress rehearsal of "Wizard of Oz." This picture was taken about 45 minutes before show time. If this is any indication of things to come, it should be a great run. The more, the merrier. If you plan on coming, show up early.

Shameless Plug

2008-07-22T16:31:00.000-07:00

This Thursday through Saturday I am playing bass for the Redlands Bowl summer music series production of "Wizard of Oz." The bowl is a great outdoor venue where people can picnic and enjoy a show. The show looks like it will be a winner. We have a great cast including a ton of 9-13 year olds playing munchkins, Oz-ites, and monkeys. If you're free, come check it out. The show starts at 8:15 with a community sing starting at 7:15. The best part is it's free!

P.S. I recommend going to the Redlands Marie Callendar's for dinner before the show!

The Leader of the Plaque

2008-07-18T21:10:00.000-07:00

Today I had some dental work done. It's been a while since I've been and was a little apprehensive. Once I got there, things were mostly o.k.
The mirror: fun
The gauze: unoffensive
The water: cool (literally)
The sucker tube: my favorite
The dental pick: The thing I fear and hate most in this world!

Funny Website

2008-07-10T21:17:00.000-07:00

Don't click here if you are easily offended by tongue-in-cheek satire. I found this site today and laughed hysterically. The testimonials are my favorite part.

The Wheels On the Bus Go Round and Round

2008-07-09T20:16:00.000-07:00

Today I embraced my inner "redneckedness" and watched this on t.v.

Dog Days of Summer

2008-06-19T20:47:00.001-07:00

Unusual Breeze

2008-06-17T21:17:00.000-07:00

That wind that just blew through Southern California was caused by thousands of Lakers fans simultaneously taking down their window flags. Better luck next year.

Fertilizer Monster

2008-06-16T15:42:00.000-07:00

Beware of the black beast with glowing blue eyes that poops in yards at night!

A Quick Funny

2008-06-14T17:32:00.000-07:00

For my compu-nerd friends.

Where's the Beef?

2008-06-11T18:36:00.001-07:00

It's on the way to my house! I just ordered the American Collection from Omaha Steaks.

It consists of the following:
4 (5 oz.) Top Sirloins
4 (4 oz.) Boneless Pork Chops
2 (4.5 oz.) Stuffed Sole with Scallops and Crab
8 (3 oz.) Gourmet Franks
10 Potatoes au Gratin
4 (4 oz.) Omaha Steaks Burgers
4 (4 oz. approx.) Boneless Chicken Breasts
Plus I got an additional 12 hamburger patties free. Total cost: $59.99!!!!!
Barbecue anyone?

Proof

2008-06-09T20:10:00.000-07:00

Photographic proof that Sarah has Shamar's mom beat.

Grammar Police

2008-06-07T12:15:00.000-07:00

Original Joe's, I find you guilty of the crime of Extraneous Apostrophe Usage.
Not Once:

Not Twice:

But Three times on one page:

The server took our menus before I could get a picture of the violation on the next page. It said something like, "Enjoy one of our hand-tossed pizza's." I hereby sentence you to return to remedial English and relearn Apostrophe usage. (And a free pizza would be nice!)

Tae Kwon Do Testing

2008-05-28T14:57:00.000-07:00

Yesterday Robbie and Cameron tested to move up in rank. Robbie is now "Recommended Brown Belt." Unfortunately Cameron didn't finish his test. Something about not following directions, not paying attention, etc. (If you know him, this doesn't surprise you.) Here are some pics:

Cameron Sparring

Robbie Sporting His New Belt

Memorial Day 2008

2008-05-26T22:51:00.000-07:00

Sarah and I took the boys down to watch the West Coast Thunder motorcycle parade. Every year thousands (this year they estimate 7,000) of motorcycles parade from the Harley Davidson dealership to the Riverside National Cemetary. Here are some pics:

Robbie rolling down the hill and me trying out my new camera's burst mode:

For the second year we have seen the sweetest couple. He is obviously a military veteran. They bring out their blankets and lawn chairs and wave American Flags as the motorcycles pass. This year she stood at the curb for a while waving at the riders.

Finally, the coolest bike of the day:

My New Bass

2008-05-25T21:05:00.000-07:00

Here she is. Sue wants to name her "Juliette" because she is green and blue, Girls Scouts are green and blue, Juliette founded the Girl Scouts. Any other suggestions? (Not that I don't like Juliette, but I like to shop around before making decisions.)

I'll post better pics soon. These were taken quickly between rehearsal and service at church today.

New Picture Blog

2008-05-25T20:54:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I took the dive and purchased a Nikon D40 digital SLR camera. I have started a new blog to share my pictures and hopefully get some feedback about them. Feel free to check it out: Bill's Picture A Day Blog

Here's a pic just because:

Great Business Card

2008-05-06T18:27:00.000-07:00

For a second-hand store:

Funny Pie Charts

2008-04-17T23:29:00.000-07:00

Click this last image to enlarge it.

Human Tetris

2008-04-17T23:05:00.000-07:00

I just "stumbled" upon this video. I love the soundtrack!

Rehearsal Boredom

2008-04-11T03:31:00.000-07:00

Bill+slow part of "Chicago"+camera phone=

Reading by Robbie

2008-04-11T03:18:00.000-07:00

Yesterday Sarah and I took the boys to Disneyland. On the way Robbie wanted to read to us. Here's how it went:

Robbie: Holes, by Louis Sachar. Winner of the Newberry Award for Literature. (Great Start) Chapter 22. "As I returned to my hole..."

Whoa! Chapter 22? What happened to 1-21? I'm confused. Who's Stanley? Armpit? X-Ray? Zero? Why are they digging holes? What seeds?

Later Robbie explains that he has already read the first 21 chapters. Now it all makes sense. (His reading, not the story. Seriously, who is Armpit?)

Early Morning Realizations

2008-04-11T03:04:00.000-07:00

It's 3 a.m. (not going to quote Matchbox 20) and I have come to two different realizations: 1. I should be asleep. 2. My sister is a saint.
Obviously #2 is the true realization. My mom went to Urgent Care today because she again got a nose bleed that wouldn't quit. For most people this isn't a big deal but Mom is taking the blood thinner, Coumadin. Her nose will not clot. The hospital did their thing and Mom has what looks like a wad of cotton gauze sticking out of her nostril. Eve (my sister) has been awake all night making sure Mom doesn't do the one thing she really wants to do... Remove the gauze. She's talking to Mom about everything and anything and any time Mom reaches for the gauze, Eve stops her. It is going to be a long night for both of them. I'll be able to eventually sleep knowing that St. Eveline of Clotting is vigilantly keeping watch over Mom.

Update:3:36 a.m.
Eve and Mom just headed back to the hospital. I guess the cotton came out. So much for good sleep tonight.

Play Ball

2008-03-31T15:15:00.000-07:00

Just a video in honor of the opening of baseball season:

Being a Dodger fan I say, "GO BLUE!" Here's to a great season.

Sea World

2008-03-05T10:12:00.000-08:00

Here are pics from my Sea World trip with Sarah, Krista, and Ryan.

Creepy

Ryan, Krista, and Sarah at the Sea Lion Show

The Coolest job in the Whole World

My new favorite animal, the Commerson's Dolphin

Just like puppies, except these guys can kill you!

Doing his best shark impression. (Cue Jaws Theme)

LOOK OUT BEHIND YOU! IT'S A SHARK (minus the shark)!!!

O.K. piranhas, look over here and don't move. Perfect!

Shopping, Musician Style

2008-02-18T15:15:00.000-08:00

Today I went down to the Carvin Guitar factory in Poway and custom-ordered a new bass. I love Carvin because, not only do their instruments sound and feel great, they are custom made to your specifications right here in America at their factory. I ordered the B-5 which is a five string bass with a bolt-on neck. Below is a picture of the B-5. I ordered a different finish and wood face.

Like the above image, mine will have black hardware. That is about where the similarities end. Mine will have a black headstock with white carvin logo. I chose to not have inlays on the fingerboard. My bridge pickup will be a "Stingray"-style humbucker. The option I'm most excited about is the Dragonburst finish over flamed maple. Here is a sample:

It should take about 8 weeks to finish. I'll post pics then!

HA HA HA HA HA HA HA HA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! (part deuce)

2008-02-17T20:16:00.000-08:00

Disneyland

2008-02-13T23:14:00.000-08:00

Went with Sarah, Robbie, and Cam today. Had a great time. More pictures and stories tomorrow. Here's one pic for now.
Robbie and I saved the world from the evil Zurg!

Tools of the Trade

2008-02-11T16:10:00.000-08:00

Inspired by Adam, here are the instruments I own that are of the electric bass variety. Starting from the left:

1. Kydd 5-string electric upright bass. I bought this one at the International Association of Jazz Educators (IAJE) conference after it was used as a demo bass. Since I've worked with the bridge, I really like it.

2. Clevinger Bassic electric upright bass. I bought this one at the now defunct The Bass Centre. They had four different ones and this was by far the best feeling and sounding. The bright yellow color was icing on the cake. A few years after I bought it, I met Martin Clevinger at the NAMM show and he told me they only made two Bassics in this color. Instant collectible.

3. Grass Roots 4 string. I bought this one in Japan when I was working at Universal Studios and playing the Clevinger everyday. I needed a bass guitar so I could get my bass fix in my apartment. Paid the equivalent of $80 for it. I installed EMG pickups when I got home. I will soon upgrade the bridge and nut and should have a pretty decent instrument.

4. Carvin LB75. My workhorse. I bought this one in 1997 or 1998 and have used it regularly since. I added the block of wood between the pickups and under the strings because I have a tendency to "dig in" too hard when I play. This forces me to play with a lighter touch.

5. Bassline Worp 5 fretless. The crown jewel of my collection. Handmade in Germany. Also bought this in Japan. I was immediately drawn to its unusual style. After I played it, I knew I had to have it. This baby just sings. The headless design makes it the most comfortable instrument I have ever held. The Bartolini pickups sound amazing. I paid about $1300 for it. After I got home I found it online for $4999. It now sells in the $3000 range. I'd say I got a pretty good deal on it.

My Dirty Little Geekret 2

2008-02-11T15:06:00.000-08:00

In an effort to get into better shape, Sarah and I have embarked on a new hobby called "Geocaching." It involves using a GPS receiver to find the coordinates for previously hidden containers. Each container contains at least a log book for the finders to sign. The caches are hidden in both urban and rural locations. My favorite hunting place so far has been Sycamore Canyon Park. Sarah and I went searching off Central Ave. last month and found 6 different caches. In the process, we hiked about 2 miles over hilly terrain. On Friday we took the boys to the south end of the park and found 4 caches. That day we hiked 1.5 miles. Here are some pics from our two trips:

Box Spring from Sycamore Canyon

Sarah with Canyon Crest Country Club behind her

One of the gullys we crossed

Crossing the stream

Sycamore Canyon Park is a gorgeous area that I had never explored until Sarah and I discovered geocaching. We are looking to introduce others to it if you are interested.

HA HA HA HA HA HA HA HA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2008-01-10T22:31:00.000-08:00

Another Photo

2008-01-10T20:06:00.001-08:00

I love this picture. I took it last weekend during the rains. FYI all my recent pics were taken with an Olympus FE-280 8 megapixel point and shoot.

Bird's Eye View

2008-01-10T19:52:00.001-08:00

Here are some pictures I took today while my Dad and I were flying around the Inland Empire. Click on each image to see a larger image.

Cool purple iceplant

Mt. Rubidoux cross from Rubidoux side

Marie Callender's Redlands (for the Johnsons)

Mt. Baldy

The plane, a Cessna 180

Photo Bug

2008-01-03T21:56:00.000-08:00

I bought a tripod to take pictures of Sarah's Christmas lights and it has increased my interest in photography. I love taking pictures of sunsets with the tripod and a slow shutter speed. Here are a few. Notice the ghost image of Robbie in the first pic.

Loved It

2008-01-01T21:31:00.000-08:00

Been there, done that, bought the shirt. Alright, I didn't buy a shirt, but if they sold them I would have. Great film. Nick was great. Ed Harris was great. Do I smell Oscar? Yeah, probably not, but what a fun movie.

Happy New Year!

2008-01-01T21:12:00.000-08:00

We celebrated New York New Year at 9:00p.m. Martinelli's and Go Fish! That's how to ring in 2008.

Right Here in Riverside

2008-01-01T21:03:00.000-08:00

Yesterday Sarah and I took the boys ice skating at the outdoor ice skating rink on the downtown pedestrian mall in Riverside. The ice was rough, there were puddles on the rink... and it was the best time ice skating ever! The boys are hooked. I'm hooked. Sarah's hooked. We are going again very soon.

The Next Great American Band?

2007-12-21T21:55:00.000-08:00

Really? I think Denver and the Mile High Orchestra and Sixwire are both more talented. I guess this, like American Idol, eventually becomes a popularity contest. Hopefully, like Idol, the runner-ups will have great careers.

Everybody Was Kung-Fu Fighting

2007-12-20T22:03:00.000-08:00

Actually it's TaeKwonDo and Robbie's kicks are becoming extremely powerful and well-executed. It wasn't long ago that he was losing his balance every time he tried to kick even half this high. Chuck Norris, watch your back!

Scanner Funnies

2007-12-17T14:14:00.000-08:00

Here is a conversation I heard on my scanner last night. I got a good laugh from it.

Dispatch: Adam 239, report of 415 verbal (disturbing the peace) at Orange Terrace Park. RP (reporting party) says her boyfriend's eyes are rolling into the back of his head and he's growling. RP thinks boyfriend sold his soul to the devil. Possible 5150 (crazy).

(Slight Pause)

Officer: Which one is possibly 5150?

Dispatch: Take your pick!

The Collision

2007-12-08T18:21:00.000-08:00

After Sarah commented on my blog that Doritos Collisions sound disgusting, I took an impersonal poll of friends and the employee at CVS who sold me my first bag today. Without fail, all the males that I asked said a combination of Buffalo Wing and Bleu Cheese sound great. Every female said it seemed like the worst idea ever. I thought the ones I bought today were wonderful. Let me know what you think. Doritos Collisions Buffalo Wing and Bleu Cheese: Out of Sight or Just Not Right? (Notice they spell "bleu" wrong on the packaging.)

The Standard Bet

2007-12-06T18:31:00.000-08:00

Ken and I have a standard bet that we frequently make in order to keep things interesting. The bet is $1.00 and a bag of Doritos. It has been employed on football games, hockey games, length of time it takes to get service at a restaurant, and just about anything else. When USC played Michigan last year, we added the stipulation that if Michigan won, I'd have to buy Ken Cool Ranch. If USC won, Ken had to buy Nacho Cheese. That way they matched our respective team's colors. Needless to say the Nacho Cheese were delicious. Our most recent bet is: When will Scott Niedermayer return to the Ducks? I say December. Ken says January. What kind of Doritos should I get this time?

19 Days Until...

2007-12-02T21:07:00.001-08:00

The Suit

2007-11-29T00:40:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow I'm making my debut with Big Papa & the TCB wearing this suit.

Sarah sent this picture to her mom. Mama Sue replied, "Is he in your front yard? Get him in before the neighbors see!"

Bass (and Life) Lessons

2007-11-27T11:21:00.000-08:00

Today, like most Tuesdays, I have a lesson with Rick Shaw. He is an amazing bass player who graduated from Eastman. His playing credits include: Gordon Goodwin's Big Phat Band, Johnny Mathis, Buddy Rich, Julio Iglesias, Aaron Neville, etc. It means a lot to me that he takes time out of his busy schedule every week to come to Riverside to teach lessons at R.C.C. He has helped me break out of the box that I've built around myself over several years and changed the way I approach the instrument.

Perhaps my favorite part of our lessons is when we just talk about life. He frequently reminds me of the role I play in the lives of two wonderful boys and to not take those relationships for granted. We talk about how you can get away with doing certain things simply beacause children are present. When was the last time those of you without children ran through the sprinklers in the front yard or made chin people? I made chin people about two weeks ago and ran through the sprinklers several time when it was warmer. Robbie and Cameron allow my inner child to show his face without fear of scrutiny. Talking with Rick every week helps reinforce the importance of the role I play in Robbie and Cameron's lives and the role they play in mine. Thank you, Rick, musically and personally.

The Winter Cold

2007-11-23T10:27:00.000-08:00

Like clockwork my annual sore throat and congestion showed up just in time for Thanksgiving. Having just one symptom wouldn't be good enough. Without congestion, I'd be able to actually taste the turkey. Without the sore throat, every swallow wouldn't be painful. Force swallowing food you can't really taste is not the best way to spend a holiday. At least this cold hasn't gone into serious "kick my butt" mode. Maybe it will spare me this year. At least the orange juice is delicious.

Another Reason For Me To Not Like the Kings

2007-11-17T15:34:00.001-08:00

They hired Adolph Hitler as an assistant coach!!

Silly Charter

2007-11-01T10:25:00.000-07:00

As soon as I learned that ESPN was on 6, ESPN2 on 76, FSW on 15, FSW on 16, not to mention the channels for newer faves like the Food Network (I love Ace of Cakes), they change everything on me. I can't find anything. Some of my faves moved into the 100's. Who watches the 100's? Some channels I'm pretty sure have an audience of 8 are now wedged between the big networks (2,4,5,7,9,11,13). Way to go Charter. I know I will eventually learn where the channels are.... just in time for you to move them again. {Exasperated sigh}

Urinetown

2007-10-24T11:54:00.000-07:00

This weekend I'm playing bass for a production of Urinetown right here in Riverside. That's right, it's called Urinetown. A brief synopsis from the ad: "In a Gotham-like city a terrible water shortage, caused by a 20-year drought, has led to a government-enforced ban on private toilets." Blah, blah, blah. Really it's Les Miserables but instead of fighting a miltary revolution, they are fighting for the right to pee in private. It's a very campy show with songs like "It's a Privilege to Pee," "Snuff That Girl" (yes, about murder), and the very tongue in cheek title of "I See a River." The performers a quite good. They are R.C.C. drama students and pull it off quite nicely. Tickets are $15.00 and the show is Oct. 25, 26, and 27 at 8:00 p.m. and Oct. 27 and 28 at 2:00p.m. For more info: http://landispac.com/

Let's Jazz Trio (sometimes Quartet)

2007-10-21T14:08:00.000-07:00

A little shameless self-promotion. Let's Jazz, a group that I play bass for, performs every 1st and 3rd Saturday of the month at Napa 29 in Corona. It's a semi-swanky joint where dinner could easily run $50 per person. Thankfully we play on the bar side which features a full bar and a good, if seafood heavy bar menu with most items in the $10 - $15 dollar range. For you near-beer drinkers (Adam) they have O'Douls and can make most cocktails "virgin." There is no cover. We play from 7:30-10:30. The group consists of Nichole Preuss on vocals, Al Meyers on guitar, sometimes Brent Levine on saxophone, and me on bass and last night I made my debut on vocals. Come check it on and enjoy some jazz standards performed in a fairly intimate setting. Here is a video of us with Frank Wilson on drums:

Another Good Day

2007-10-19T20:55:00.000-07:00

Today was another good day. I went shopping at Best Buy and bought a new Palm Pilot (my last one got left on the roof of my van and was last seen mid-air near the corner of Alessandro and Trautwein) and a case for my camera. This evening while Sarah was at church with her mom, I went to 3 Day Suit Broker and bought a suit. I got a jacket, pants, tailoring, 2 ties, and a shirt for $160. Finally, I picked up some heavy cream so I could drink the iced coffee I made earlier (iced coffee straight is pretty foul). To quote Ice Cube: "I have to say it was a good day."

The View From Up There

2007-10-19T00:45:00.000-07:00

Have you have ever been to a sporting event and thought, "I wonder what the view is like from way up there?" Well, here is a picture from my seats at the Honda Center for Anaheim Ducks games (The optical zoom is maxed.) There is only one row higher than mine. I think they are some of the best seats in the house. I sat eight rows from the glass. Guess what? There's a bunch of plexiglass in front of you distorting the view. In Anaheim when you sit in the expensive seats, you are surrounded by the people who are sitting close because that's the place to be, not because they love hockey. Real fans sit in the nosebleeds. Long Live Section 423 Row T!

My Dirty Little Geekret 1

2007-10-19T00:29:00.000-07:00

(Concept inspired {stolen} by {from} Sue Johnson)
I frequently listen to Riverside Police Dept., Riverside Fire, Riv. Co. Sherrif, SB Co. Sherrif, and SB Police Dept. I just got frequencies for AMR/CDF (thanks Jason). Yesterday before the hockey game, I listened to the various conversations taking place in the Honda Center and tonight found out I get the Honda Center channels all the way in Riverside. Currently the stage crew is setting up for the Marc Anthony/Jennifer Lopez concert.
(Picture taken with new camera. Megapixel setting lowered to speed upload.)

Cameron and Quick Before Sinking

2007-10-18T22:42:00.000-07:00

He sure had a good time!

The best part is when he runs around and says, "Can I see?" That's Cam for ya!

Hockey Day

2007-10-17T14:51:00.000-07:00

It's Hockey Day! Tonight I'm going to my first of 10 regular season games of the Stanley Cup Champion Anaheim Ducks. My best friend, Ken, and I are celebrating his birthday by doing all his favorite things: Fry's Electronics, dinner, and hockey. Hopefully the Ducks can continue their winning ways tonight against the Nashville Predators and build off the success of Monday's 6-3 victory over the Detroit Red Wings. GO DUCKS!!!!!!!

The Search Is Over

2007-10-16T17:02:00.000-07:00

After looking at exactly 6 different stores, I found a camera to replace my last one. It is the Olympus FE-280. For you tech-heads, it is an 8.0 mp point and shoot with 3x optical zoom, 4x digital zoom (which is not that important) and uses a 2gb XD memory card which allows me to do panoramic photographs. For the normal people, it is a pocket-sized camera that takes really great pictures. I ended up buying it from OfficeMax because they had the best price. If you need customer service, go somewhere else.

Anyone Selling a Camera?

2007-10-11T10:20:00.000-07:00

Yesterday as I was getting ready to see Victor, I got out my camera to see if it needed new batteries. I turned it on and noticed the LCD screen was shot. It wasn't cracked or otherwise broken but had been ruined internally. I'm now in the market for a new point and shoot digital camera. Nothing fancy. Anyone have one they want to get rid of?

Carry-over from MySpace

2007-10-11T00:55:00.000-07:00

I wrote this a while ago and just re-read it and still enjoy it. It's a bit of a rant but makes a good point.

The other day I was watching one of those t.v. shows like Maximum Exposure where people send in video clips of people doing stupid things. This particular episode had a man standing in a tree wearing a skateboard helmet. He announced to the camera that he planned to jump from the tree he was in, about 40 feet off the ground, into an adjacent tree that was about 35 feet tall, falling about 10 feet until he reached some branches that would support his weight. At this point the announcer interrupted with the warning, "Please, do not try this at home!" My only thought was, "No one in their right mind would try this at home." They return to the action and they are now showing the view from his helmet camera. The idiot in the tree is now demonstrating how weak the branches are that he's standing on and explaining how this means he will get a very strong jump. Once again the announcer said, "Please, do not try this at home." "What moron would try this at home?!!!!!!!!!!" The loser in the tree now jumps and comes about two feet short of his target tree. What a shocker there! As they show him in a pile on the ground the announcer says (say it with me), "Please, do not try this at home." You know what? I say,"Please try this at home!" If you are that stupid to think trying to jump from one tree to another while 40 feet off the ground is a good idea, JUST DO IT! The gene pool needs some chlorine. And to you t.v. producers, I realize you need to give the warning or else the tree-hopping moron would sue you. But wouldn't it be nice to not have to say that? Survival of the smartest. And I'm using the term smartest VERY loosely. Your I.Q. barely has to be greater than you shoe size to not try most of this stuff. If you see something on Maximum Exposure, Jackass, or any of these other shows that cater to the least common denominator, that seems like fun, by all means, do it. Just don't cry when your shattered pelvis means you are going to be in a body cast for 6 months.Instead, try it again until it is guaranteed you will never be able to reproduce. Do all of us a favor. Thank You!

Victor Wooten

2007-10-10T23:59:00.000-07:00

Today I had the amazing opportunity to see my favorite bass player, Victor Wooten, give a clinic right here in Riverside. After playing and taking questions for about an hour he asked, "Who wants to come up here and play my bass?" No one took him up on the offer. Playing bass in front of arguably the greatest electric bass player in the world can be a bit intimidating to say the least. Victor warned us that we would all kick ourselves in the butt later tonight if we didn't take him up on the offer. Finally a brave soul got on stage and started playing. Victor then gave him a private lesson for a few minutes right on stage in front of us. After a few other players, I got up there and got to play my idol's instrument and get a private lesson from him. What an amazing experience. The few minutes on stage with Victor reignited that passion for music that sometimes gets lessened by the rigors of being a working musician (nasty load-ins, bad charts, questionable meals, etc.). Search Youtube for "Victor Wooten Norwegian Wood" to get a taste of how amazing this man is.