ReVamp

Kids Today

2011-10-30T21:24:00.005-05:00

I'm not sure when it happened, but somewhere in time, people got lazy. I don't mean that people are sitting at home not doing anything, it just seems that the a lot of workers have decided that they don't need to do anything but the minimum. From where does this mentality stem?

While I'm no model associate or some beacon of light that companies can use to guide their employees, I just believe in hard work. I have seen the decline of attitude, workmanship, quality and overall efficiency in the last few years. Maybe it's due to the fact that I have grown up and decided that my life and future are up me, as opposed to sitting around, waiting on a handout. I believe attitude has more to due with it than anything else.

You are entitled to nothing. I'm sorry that I had to be the one to tell you.

I understand some readers may be taken aback by this post, but the truth is sometimes painful to those that have been numb to it. I do not wish to offend anyone, however, I am tired of picking up messes, listening to excuses and doing the jobs of said employees. If you can not focus on your job and do it to the best of your ability... quit. The unemployment rate is 9% in the United States. I'll find someone who wants to make money and wants to keep making it.

I'm relatively young so I'm not certain that generational stereotypes are a good source of blame. I believe there are many factors. People are tired of economic struggles, promises of change with no execution, lies, jobs being taken overseas, etc. I get that. I am as well. I just can't let that be an excuse. No matter what a politician says (or most people for that matter), I'll believe it when I see it. It's hard living in this Free World where everyday people are losing houses, losing jobs and losing a way of life, but don't let your poor quality of work be the reason.

I'm blessed to live in a good state with a strong economy, low unemployment rate (5.6%) and strong companies that are in need of employees. I'm also blessed to realize that my employment is up to me.
Do I like the fact that I HAVE to work? No.
Do I show that by being lackadaisical in performance? No.
I've had many jobs in my life. I've been promoted at most of them (too be honest, I didn't want to be promoted at the amusement park. I liked playing in the bumper boats with the kids. It was fun).

The point is this, I've done my job. I've done my job well. I do not want to do yours also...

New Thresholds

2011-08-19T13:59:00.010-05:00

Patients Log
Aug. 19, 2011
Day 5

It's impossible for one to know their tolerance level without testing it. Whether it be for pain, patience or some other form of torture, limits would have to be pushed in order to know the true strength of oneself.

I have truly tested my self on both of the examples above: pain and patience. Sitting in a room for 5 days will truly test patience. While I have not yet met my limit, I have found myself keeping the door open just for the opportunity to wave at a passerby. Nurse's have become my link to the outside world and my wife actually looked forward to doing laundry this week! She was happy to do it because she got to go home for a couple of hours. I've been seen around the halls at night, carrying a machine attached to my chest via a tube, just to get a bag of ice and a glass of water. Honestly, I have water but the walks are the best part of the night. I have a few minutes, with Becky, to get out of the room and actually walk (I've been in this bed so long, my tailbone hurts).

As for pain, I experienced the most painful thing I have ever even imagined Thursday morning. To make it worse, they basically woke me up to do it! I can handle a lot of things, but I do not like to be woke up to go places or do something right off the bat. I digress; back to the pain.

Pleurodesis

In short, this procedure is a chemical way to keep your lung from leaking. To start, the doctor puts about 50 ML (estimated) of a (liquid) chemical into your chest tube. From the moment the doctor starts pushing that liquid, you can feel pressure in your chest and it burns for the first 3 minutes or so. After all of the chemical has been pushed through and you are so full that you can't breathe, the nurse will clamp the tube for 30 minutes so that the chemical can not drain out. At this time, the doctor will leave and leave the aftermath to the nurse. (Just another example of why nurse's are the heartbeat of the hospital. I feel, especially after this week, doctors are too busy to deal with patients and their questions.I say the 'too busy' part sarcastically, but I'm not a doctor so I don't know what they are doing the other 23 hours and 52 minutes out of the day.)

I can barely describe the intense pain that I felt during this time. It's close to what I believe drowning feels like. I had so pressure built up in my chest, and more importantly against my lung, that it was impossible to inhale fully. It was hard to inhale at all. I was gasping for every breath. I was trying to tell the nurse that I couldn't breath, but she knew that and only had one piece of advise for me, "Relax. Relax your muscles and breathe as deep as you can."

I will admit that I was as tense as the atmosphere of a first date after the telling of a poor humored joke that the other found offensive... seconds before the check came, but I was drowning on dry land! I had no intention of relaxing! I fought my basic instinct of Fight or Flight and chose to remain as calm as possible and believe I would be alright (and by calm, I mean stay tense, TRY to relax for about 30 seconds, then, have back spasms because my muscles were tired of being locked tight). At one point, Becky turned the iPod on and attempted to use it as a Focal Point to help me breathe and relax. It worked too... for about 4/5 of a song. Only 15 minutes to go.

At the 30 minute mark, the nurse, Sarah, unclamped the tube and allowed the liquid to drain. It did not drain. Well, it may have drained, but it WAS NOT fast enough! I actually told Sarah she lied and asked, "What was the point of counting down?" I did apologize later for that and she said, "Don't worry. You took that really well and it did not hurt my feelings one bit."

I laid in bed for the next 2 hours as this poison leaked out of me at "The Speed of Smell." The pain in my chest slowly eased. However, the muscle in my lower back intensified, causing the right shoulder, right pectoral and abdomen to follow suit. Luckily, Sarah was able to reach my doctor and ask about a more potent shot to ease the pain. While morphine has been a very dear friend to me this past week, the liquid muscle relaxer that I was introduced to quickly won me over. Sarah also granted my request for a heating pad. I knew I liked Sarah!

I sit here today well rested and nearly pain free. The nurses come in from time to time to check vitals and ask, "On a scale of 1 to 10, how is your pain level right now?" Never again will I answer that question with a 10... at least I hope not.

My Lazy Lung

2011-08-16T19:06:00.008-05:00

"Breath is Spirit. The act of breathing is Living. ~Author Unknown"

The complexity of something so simple is astounding to me. One second, you're lying on the couch enjoying the mindless shenanigan's of a syndicated sitcom, the next, you are flat on your stomach, on the floor, trying to talk yourself into ignoring the pain caused by inhaling long enough to take one more breath. It's a funny thing, this moment... Alright, not so funny IN the moment, but later, you will laugh. I promise.

I think you now know what led to me being in this hospital bed. Starting with the pain of what appeared to be a pinched nerve in my right shoulder blade (Aug. 9th), I tried to stretch it out by laying down. That was a mistake. I remember chuckling at my wife when she was sprawled out on the bed, a couple years ago, with a pinched nerve, thinking she was being a weenie... She was happy to return the favor... With interest.

After learning to laugh at myself while having a diaphragm on fire, I picked myself up off the floor and iced my shoulder for the remainder of the night. The next morning (Aug 10th), I made my way to the Chiropractor to be radiated (X-Rays), poked (acupuncture) and twisted (adjustment). I went back the next day, as well, before going to my job to hand in my doctor's note. They sent me to the clinic they use, in case the injury occurred on the job. It was there I was told the true source of my pain.

Spontaneous Pneumothoraux
**If you've never heard of this condition, you're not alone. I had never heard of it before Thursday (Aug. 11th). I put a link in the name of the condition (above) so that you could become familiar with the types of Pneumotharaux that exist. This is a painful and, apparently, common thing. If you or a loved one are 20-30 years old, then read about it and know what the symptoms are.**

Thursday afternoon, after walking around with my lung laying atop my stomach, I was admitted to the E.R. with a collapsed lung. I was treated as a First Priority Patient. I was the least nervous person in the room. I was swarmed by upwards of 18 people at times, signed more pages of consent than I've ever seen, set up with an I.V., and had a tube in my chest faster than the Micro-Machine Man could read a disclaimer about choking on his product. It all went pretty smoothly, aside from having to readjust the tube twice after the initial insertion.

After an overnighter, a few more doses of radiation, and a sippie cup that probably cost ME more than the wheelchair that I rode out on, I was off to live my life... for Three Days.

On Monday (Aug. 15), I went to the doctor's office because I didn't feel as well as I believed I should have. I was right to worry. My lung had decided to take another vacation to Tropic of Stomach: South Resort. Great news... if you like bad food, needles in your arms and tubes in your chest. Good thing the morphine is plentiful! I had scar tissue that was still rather fresh. I didn't want a tube sucking on my insides for 3-4 days, trapped in the off-white walls and yellow rustic of that bed. As if I had a choice, right?

I could write a novel about my experience at this facility, but I'll keep this post short. Today (Aug 17th), I have been in this room for over 48 hours and have at least 24 remaining. Possibly, 48. I keep sane by posting on FaceBook, Twitter, and reading about the relationship of The Pioneer Woman and Marlboro Man. Even more than all the technology, Becky has been here. She has kept me laughing, played cards with me and played a whole lot of "Go-For!" When I was stuck in this bed so long that my tailbone feels bruised, she was the one running down the hall for ice, holding my hand whileni try to get up and go to the restroom, or pick everything up because bending over makes my lung hurt. She has really put her fear of this situation on the back burner and made sure I was comfortable. What else is new, that's how she operates. Enjoy laughing at my pain as I hope to post anecdotes and quips on Revamp the longer I stay.

I would like to say that I love my readers and am happy to be able to post this story. It could have been a more tragic story, brought to you from another view point. Life IS that fragile.

Does Dreamer's Disease Need a Cure?

2011-08-07T18:27:00.006-05:00

I feel I do have Dreamer's Disease. I'm always thinking of ways to improve technology or inventing the "Next Big Thing." I've had countless ideas that were actually feasible and within reason of putting the effort and time into developing. I use this energy to make music, write Stand-Up material, write and perform in skits, and mostly, annoy my wife with constant ramblings and insane ideals of book writing (I have written the first chapter and have the setting, plot, and most characters completed, but I've really lost interest). While Dreamers Disease is probably one of the best "illnesses" you can acquire, it's no Goal Setter's Syndrome. I'll explain.

Dreamer's Disease is an infatuation of realistic ideals that one conjures in daily life (examples are above). While dreaming about ways to improve your life or the lives of those around you is good (and healthy), all in all, you're still only dreaming. Goal Setter's Syndrome differs in one significate aspect... By setting goals, and achieving them, accomplishments follow. In other words, dreams are important to development, but goals are essential to dreamers.

I've spent a good amount of my "illness" making excuses for my worst attribute: procrastination. I think overcoming procrastination is the key to moving past DD and inheriting GSS. Excuses are just another form of my attribute.

"If I had a keyboard/midi controller, I could make better beats. I NEED one."

My procrastination shall no longer stand. It will crumble to goals I set and cower as I come closer to achieving them. I've decided that dreaming is now just a step in my goal making process. Dream to believe in the possibility; set a goal to achieve my dreams.

Taking Over Your Dreams

2011-08-05T23:06:00.003-05:00

If you've never seen the show "Futurama," allow me to explain a small detail of the show. The show takes place in the year 3001. Companies have the ability to "beam" commercials into your head while you sleep. Commercials that involve you and make you have a connection with the product in the "commercial." Pretty crazy idea, yet brilliant. I'm sure that corporations today would LOVE to develop this technology. Anyway, my point...

Last night, I had a dream that really made me think. I dreamt that I purchased a new phone. I believe it was a Samsung Galaxy S or a Droid X. Doesn't really matter, it was a dream after all. I played with this phone quite a while in this dream. I remember feeling frustrated trying to use the touch screen. Getting mad at the phone for not being as easy to use as my old phone. I was furious at this phone for dropping a call, being hard to text on, and the overall performance and User Interfacing. I even went as far as wanting to go back to AT&T and taking advantage of the 30 day return policy and buying a new version of my old phone.

I understand that at this point of my story you are wondering, "What is he rambling about? What is the point?" Good question. Here's it is.

Does Apple have a machine that can interfere with my dreams!? I was really upset with that phone. I woke up literally appreciative of my iPhone 4! That got me thinking... And now I'm asking you, have you ever had something like this happen? Have you ever woke up and been happy to have a PC over a Mac or have a Ford over a Chevy? Just wondering.

Troubled Times for All

2011-03-08T18:05:00.006-06:00

Today is the day. I have already released the album for listening, but today is the day you can download it!

The process is simple:

Go Bandcamp.com;

Click Buy Now;

Either put zero dollars to download it for free,
or put how ever much you would like to pay for the album.

You're done!

I would also like to point out my Favorites:

Discrimination Scrutinizer (Change)
Haunted (Never Stop Me)
I Had To (Outta the Streets)

Of course, I love them all.

O Christmas Tree, O Christmas Tree

2011-01-25T13:56:00.003-06:00

Are you getting sick of standing there looking pretty? Do you want to hide away in your box until December comes around? I want you gone too. Quit staring at me. It's not like I broke your favorite ornament. Why can't you pack yourself up?

B: You really need to take down the Christmas tree.

J: I don't want to take down the Christmas tree.

B: I don't want to take it down either.

J: I put it up, you take it down.

B: I don't want to take it down.

J: You're off all day Saturday.

B: You're off all day today.

J: Maybe we don't have to take it down. It's not bothering me.

B: It is pretty.

J: Maybe it will fit in the closet like that...

B: Maybe.

Sorry little fella. Looks like you're going to stand still and look pretty for an undetermined amount of time. Maybe we'll change your ornaments and call you a Valentine's Day tree. Eh, doubtful. We'll probably leave the same ornaments on and call you a Valentine's Day tree. Yeah, that's more realistic.

I Saw the Signs...

2011-01-19T12:41:00.002-06:00

Last week, I bought a new hair remover cream at Sally's. I didn't really need one, but it wasn't Nair, and I hate the way Nair smells, so I thought what the hell, I'll give it a whirl. All the signs told me DO NOT put this stuff on your upper lip, but did I listen? Noooo!

1st sign: It was 4.99, but it rang up 9.99, and I didn't realize it until I had already paid, so I had to get a refund.

2nd sign: I was reading the directions where it CLEARLY said, "No Odor" I could smell it already and the cap wasn't even off, so obviously my definition of no odor is vastly different from theirs.

3rd sign: I take off the cap, and what appeared to be water started running down the bottle and my hand. I thought that's weird. I hadn't used it in the shower, so where did the water come from? I smell my hand, and OMG it smelled like nasty, nasty skunk chemical.

4th sign: I get it all cleaned up and screw the cap back on, and the part attached to the bottle (think toothpaste: the part that the toothpaste comes out of) breaks off...it breaks the F off. So here I am standing with this crap I will probably end up throwing in the garbage.

Despite all the signs, I put it on my upper lip. About 15 seconds go by, and it starts to burn, and the smell is miserable. I think to myself, I can do this. 15 more seconds go by, and by this time my lip is on FIRE. I start trying to wash it off, and it is like gum on the bottom of your shoe it just won't come off. By this time my head is under the faucet, and maybe just maybe a tear rolls down my cheek.

I finally get the fire off my upper lip, and I get out the hand mirror to see what kind of damage I had done. It worked! I was supposed to leave that crap on my lip for 4-6 minutes, and in a mere 30 seconds it did its job.

Moral of the story? Don't use Clean + Easy Hair Remover from Sally's. Unless you're into that kind of thing, and by kind of thing I mean torture... My lip burned for hours.

Self Aware

2011-01-13T18:03:00.004-06:00

Today, I was creating a short resume to apply for a promotion at my job. Creating a list of skills was part of this process. I know a resume is a way to make yourself look good in a short amount of space and highlighting your best attributes is key. However, it got me thinking about the traits and habits that most people hide or flat out ignore.

Self awareness is defined as: aware of oneself, including one's traits, feelings, and behaviors. That goes for good or bad. I'm aware that I bite my nails, have a tendency to ramble on about unimportant matters and can ignore everything around me when focused on something. Those are a few of my bad.

I believe that Self Awareness is probably the most important attribute that one can possess. It has to be True Awareness though. One can not dwell on minute details that makes one have false belief. For example, I'm aware that my nose is big. I don't believe that I am ugly because of this though. I feel that other features I have balance out that "honker" and give it character.

I'm sure the purpose of this post. I guess I just wanted to put this out there for people to see and give everyone a little glimpse into my thoughts for the day.

Building self-esteem and confidence come from self awareness. Making life-altering decisions come from it, as well. You have to know yourself before you can move in the right direction from whatever obstacle you may be facing. Whether that obstacle is: deciding your major in college; finding a job that is right for you; potentially ending a marriage/relationship; etc., self awareness is the first step.

Being self aware is knowing:

what you want in your life

your strengths and weaknesses

what motivates you and makes you happy

what you want to change about yourself or about your life

your achievements so far

how you relate to others

you need to improve as a person

your most important beliefs and values

how you see yourself as a person

WHatever you are doing in life, I hope you are happy. If not, dig deeper and find happiness.

I Want to Hold Your Hand Mitten....

2011-01-13T17:14:00.005-06:00

A little bit about our oh so glamorous life (Every time I say the word glamorous I want to burst out in song thanks to Fergie; she taught people across the world how to spell glamorous).

Anyway....

We have a bedtime routine. John always kisses me goodnight and we will hold hands or touch in some fashion until we drift off. Last night was extra special because it is winter time people, and we all know that winter makes your skin dry. I crawled into bed wearing my mittens (sexy, right?) because my hands were saturated with lotion, and believe it or not wearing mittens/socks/gloves really does help. John held my mitten. Ain't love grand?

I probably just confirmed several marriage stereotypes, but I wouldn't have it any other way. ♥ It doesn't get any better than this people.

G-L-A-M-O-R-O-U-S.

My Favorite Things - 2010 Edition

2011-01-11T12:35:00.013-06:00

I stole this idea from someone else, then I took over my husband's blog to put it out there for the world to read. I guess that makes me....not very original. Now that we've cleared that up, here are a few of my favorite things from 2010.

1. iPhone 4. I fought the smartphone thing for the longest time. I made up all kinds of excuses why I didn't want/need one. Basically, what it boiled down to is I'm cheap. Plain and simple. The iPhone 4 changed my life. I'll have an iPhone for as long as they make them.

2. Pumpkin Roll Scentsy Bar. It's divine. It makes my house smell like Fall. I've also heard it is an aphrodisiac, but I can't confirm or deny that.

3. Big Bang Theory. The funniest show on television. Period. We discovered it this year and watched all the past seasons. This show has made me laugh so much this year. "Soft kitty, warm kitty, little ball of fur..."

4. Dark Kiss by Bath and Body Works. Everyone needs to start praying RIGHT NOW that this scent doesn't get discontinued. That always happens to me. I LOVE it, and usually when I fall in love with a scent they discontinue it.

5. Sony Vaio Netbook. This little guy has made traveling and going to class so much lighter. It's fun. My niece loves it. She's three and she thinks it is just her size.

6. Tide Febreze Sport. Smells phenomenal. Since I don't actually do the laundry around my house, the only requirement I have of laundry detergent is that it smell good. This one fits the bill.

7. Adidas Kanadia. I have always loved Adidas. This shoe takes comfort to the next level. I like that it isn't boring. It's a fun, lightweight, super comfy sneaker. I wear them a lot more than I thought I would.

8. Gardetto's Deli Style Mustard Pretzels. Need I say more? Yum.

That's all I've got for now. I hope everyone has a fabulous 2011. Maybe I'll blog a little this year, or maybe I won't. We'll see.

Becky

New Album Listening

2010-11-15T16:34:00.003-06:00

Hello, All.

I have decided to allow you, the readers of this blog, access to my New Album Early. You can't download it yet, but you may listen as much as you want. I hope you like the music and feel the passion that I have put into it.

Enjoy it HERE

*Editor's Note:
Some of the songs are older and sound that way. After the purchase of new equipment, I re-recorded a couple of them, but not all (Don't hold that against me). I would also like to point out my Favorites:

Discrimination Scrutinizer (Change)
Haunted (Never Stop Me)
I Had To (Outta the Streets)

Of course, I love all of the songs. Those are just the ones I'm feeling more right now.

God Speaks!

2010-05-28T19:29:00.003-05:00

It's amazing how the Lord decides to connect with you. He has the ability to do anything He so desires, and He chooses to speak to me today! I have friends that are Christians. Some that are fully devout and others whom are studied but choose to move through life in their own way. I read the Bible and know the word, yet choose to stay away from Organized Religion (Remember: Religion is interpretation), a topic for another time. Yet Jesus and/or God chose to send a stranger to me to remind me that He is there and waiting.

Now, Dale is not a "perfect" stranger. He cleans the floors at the Super Center I start my day at. We've had the morning "Hello. How are you today." Today was different. I don't remember how it started but today Dale stopped and talked for a minute... and it was right on time. We started talking about how the world has changed over the last decade or so, and how it all seems a bit surreal. Then, he asked me a question that I haven't heard in many years,

"Have you accepted Jesus Christ as your personal Savior?"

"Of course I have," I replied. As we continued to talk, we discussed Revelations, it's author and moved back towards the topic of a changing world.

I'm amazed by the feeling I had walking away from Dale today. Even though I believe that Jesus is my Savior and the one that I will follow through the fire if need be, it stands as a reminder that He is there and that He wants you to know that. God is good... God is good.

Thank you, Dale. You'll be on my mind as I take another look at this Earth. Maybe one day I can come back to you and bring you a perspective that gives you a little of the feeling that you passed to me today. God Bless, my friend.

Discography for Life

2010-05-26T20:54:00.002-05:00

This is something I have thought about many times. It's almost an "If you were stranded on an island" question, but slightly different. I have given this much thought and have narrowed it down. I probably won't have an answer until the end of this post. Here goes...

"If you could only listen to one artist/band/group, past and future recordings, for the rest of your life, who would it be?" (I'd really like to know WHY as well. Add that to your comment please)

At first look, this question seems easy, but consider the overall scenario. One artist/band/group FOREVER! No other music. No other artist/band/group. What does one base their decision on? Most current albums vs. new artist with tons of potential? Past Star with a catalogue of hits vs. (once again) newer artist with only one album that really touched you? So many choices.

I eventually came to the decision that Eminem would not be the winner. While I love his music, his last album only had about half the power of his first 3. Jay-Z? Another great rapper, but not the one.
The Top 3:
Maroon 5
Kid Rock
John Mayer

Looking up all three, you'll see multiple parameters of thinking.

Maroon 5: While they've been around since 2002, they only have 2 (and a B-Sides so 1/2) albums

Kid Rock: Started as a rapper in the early 90's and moved into a Country/Rock genre all his own. Old-School Hip/Hop and Rock mixed with Country and some Soul.

John Mayer: With 4 Major Studio Albums, The John Mayer Trio Album, and some here and there side projects, he has the past work and the potential for more.

Whew! This is tough! LOL
All things considered, I believe my Musical Life now belongs to... John Mayer! Sorry M5 and all others. John Mayer speaks to me on levels that most other artist only TRY to on one or two songs. Meanwhile, EVERY JM song is an experience for you soul and brain.

No Offense but...

2010-05-24T14:03:00.006-05:00

I go to a Barber Shop where multiple people are there waiting to serve. Usually when I walk in, one person is anxiously waiting for the next customer to walk in. That would be me. Having been to this establishment before (over the last 6 years, it's been my only place I go to get a trim), I have found one person that I like and another I will use in this persons absence. I assume that most people have a specific person they trust to not mangle their mane. My stylist name is Laura.

Today when I arrived, there were 2 stylist waiting and Laura was with someone. They took my name as usual and asked me to come back. Here comes the namesake for this post. When I told them that I would like to wait for Laura, they look at me as if I just told them that they had the Bubonic Plague and to stay away from me! Maybe it's just me, but after giving a few other people in that shop an opportunity, and they chopped at my hair like they were trimming a bush with a sling blade, I believe I reserve the right to wait for a stylist I trust. I have stated too many times that customer service is about the customer (imagine that), and that the consumer should take a stand to ensure they are treated (and, well, serviced) to their expectations. I would like to go on record and state this,

"No offense, but I will not be another tip. Another in and out customer that you can herd through like cattle to make another dollar. I will point out your bad attitude and overall displeasing professionalism. If you wrong me, make it right on your own accord. Apologize for your lack of passion and send me another Customer Service Representative so that my experience at your establishment may be one that will make me return."

Later, a riveting story about Texas Roadhouse and a lying waitress...

Real Men of Genius (Mr. Multiple Hat Wearer Guy)

2010-05-23T20:09:00.004-05:00

I made my own Real Men of Genius Commercial about my friend Doug. Hilarity ensues. ( Set-Up - Doug works at a company where he does many, many things and is called upon to do a variety of jobs. For that, I say he wears Multiple Hats.)

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eSnips Social DNA

Welcome Back

2010-05-23T20:00:00.002-05:00

I've decided it's time to get back to blogging and leave FaceBook a little less overcrowded with my nonsense and ramblings. So, I'll ramble on here instead! LOL That said, here we go...

Closer to Technology, Further from You

2009-11-30T20:54:00.004-06:00

Hi, Everyone! It's been a LONG time since I last posted... Almost 5 months!! It's hard to believe it's been so long concidering all the capabilities allowed to me these days. I have an iPhone with internet access, a Wi-Fi network at home for my desk and laptop (so theoretically, I could blog from the couch), and email blogging availible to Revamp as well (iPhone has 3 email accounts... just sayin). Yet, here we are 5 months later and I'm finally back on.

So while I have been FaceBooking (I think i just made that a verb) like a mad man, I don't seem to have time to blog. Hmmmm. Whatever! I'm on now and that's the important part. What's been going on with my followers? How's life? Any exciting news out there? I have some!

I start with "real" work (the money making work). I earned a Trainer position at my job and have been working on "improving the craft." I get to show the Probies the RIGHT way to do things and honestly... I don't work as hard. I have to the first week or so but on week 2-4 of training, I have to let the trainee pick up the speed.

On to "fun" work! I should have a New Album out January!! I'm waiting on a "Special Guest" and myself for one more song and mixing. This album shows to be more uplifting, less "basement" sounding, and more seasoned (Shameless to self-hype, but I'm the only one who's heard it all).

Well, I'm waiting to find out what's going on in your life. Until later!

Old Taxi

2009-07-20T19:58:00.004-05:00

As an added bonus to our Monday mini-trip, we got to see an old school taxi in the parking lot! Pop's was VERY crowded today, but this was definitely the parking highlight...

Pop's

2009-07-20T19:49:00.008-05:00

We went to "Pop's" today. I love that place! You get to choose between so many different pops and most of them are in old school glass bottles. Pop taste WAY better out of glass! Pop's is located on Historic Route 66 just East of Lake Arcadia. I think thats Arcadia, OK... if you're not familiar, it's just east of Edmond, OK.

(BTW, the contents of the 6 pack: IBC Rootbeer, Pepsi, Triple X Rootbeer, Sprite, Dr. Pepper, RC Cola [all glass, of course])

Had to protect that "Precious Cargo!" LOL The beauty of Pop's is that you can build your own 6 pack of flavors. They offer an expansive selection and all the bottles are in old style glass (most look like 50's or 60's). We were disappointed that they were out of SunKist. We have salt and pepper shakers made out of Corona bottles and are wanting to upgrade to SunKist bottles. Pop's is the only place I know of to get the glass bottles around here...

Times are changing!?!

2009-07-15T20:34:00.002-05:00

Welcome to the New Millennium! Seriously, is this not 2009!? I think we (as a civilization) have come a little too attached to old customs. Example? Thought you'd never ask...

I just happen to run into my wife on Sunday while running a route near the house. I snuck up next to her and then led her to Wendy's to grab lunch and get to spend a few minutes with her (By the way, Sunday is the ONLY day we have off together). We go in and proceed to order, when time comes to pay I say (my most famous line these days), "You got it? I left my wallet in the car."

Now, it goes without saying that all our money comes from the same place... The bank, but the guy behind the counter looked at me as if to say, "Yeah! Make the girl pay!" ... ...

Today, I had my wallet, but Becky had hers in her hand so I asked her to give me the money. I wasn't sure if she had cash and I know she hates having to write things down in the ledger... Any-woo, she (again) told me she hates when I do that but this time asked if I felt like a Pud for having her "pay" all the time and having to ask in front of people. All I could do was laugh and say, "uhh, hello!?!" as I flashed her my wedding ring! I mean, come on!

Is this even an issue? Are we not in a place in society where it is more than acceptable for a woman to pay for dinner every once in a while?Guys have been footing the bill since Fred Flintstone first met Wilma and forked over 30 Clams at the Chez Rock-A-Fella! I think we have come a long way since BedRock! Yet, from the aggrivation of my wife to the look of that cashier at frickin' Wendy's (it's frickin' Wendy's!), maybe I'm just too progressive...

So, my question is this; any married men get this from their significant other? Any single men think that, in the case that the woman ask you to go out, it's ok for her to pay? Just take a look at it for what it is... Now, ask yourself, do I need to Revamp!?!

Where's that restaurant!?

2009-07-14T18:40:00.003-05:00

(Click to enlarge)

LOL One of my favorite pics of the week! Now, where can I get some DAM Bait!?

Break the Cycle

2009-07-14T18:02:00.007-05:00

While yet another shameless plug for Staind, the title rings true... I need to break the cycle of not posting on here. So here is my first in a while...

Becky's right (Yes, I DID just say that LOL), it was an amazing week! Jim, Becky's father, and I woke up every morning to go trout fishing. Jim would drive to the lower Ill. River, just south of the dam, and we would wade out into the (freeeeezzzzzing) water in nothing more than a bathing suit. There's nothing better than watching the sun rise over the trees as you offer a trout it's last meal! With the limit being 6, we only brought home 9 to 12 a day. Need less to say, we had 2 fish fries that week! Sorry you had to clean all them fish, Jim... that's just not something I feel like I want to do. Any-Woo, after a quick lunch, it was time to hit the lake.

Ahh, the wind in your hair, the smell of summer as you pass all the campgrounds with burgers and steaks on the grill, the ice cold... drinks, and of course, TONS of SunScreen!! LOL Us Irish-decent need to protect our fair skin! Heading to a nice secluded cove to get that first swim of the day is always nice, but lets give it up for the real star of the week, Tubing!

I could go on and on and on about this, after all we did spend a week out there, but I think I'll cut it short and just say that we had a blast! Shout out to the 2009 Skip-Bo Tournament Champion: Becky!! No tie this year!

I would also like to say thanks to the visitors we had during our week off. My Mom and Doug came out for a day and went out with us! I've never seen my mom on a tube... or a boat for that matter, but...

...here's the proof! Also, I got to spend a day with my step-brother Michael, with intermitten appearances by my other step-brother Jermey. They too went out with us and I'm was very happy to see them. We didn't have the best of times growing up, but I'm very glad, that after 7 years, we got to hang out. I felt like we had a really good connection... Thanks for coming out guys! (here's some pics of them)

It's Been Awhile...

2009-07-12T18:05:00.009-05:00

In case you don't recognize it, the title is a shamless Staind plug.

Becky here. I don't have enough to say to have my own blog. Maybe if I start one off for John he'll finish it on his days off...

We just got back from the best week of the summer. Summer vacation 2009. Ahhh. We spent a week on Lake Tenkiller with the family. There is nothing that compares to lazy days at the lake, except maybe lazy days at the beach... We (I use that term loosely) packed up the Jimmy and headed to Lake Tenkiller on our anniversary.

We'll see what happens...

Hiding in Plain Sight

2009-05-20T20:21:00.002-05:00

Shine a flashlight in broad day and I'm still not visible! This has been an over-stimulating month... So, far there has been a Graduation, 2 Miranda Lambert concerts, 2 visits by Sister-in-Law #1 (one with Brother-in-Law-in-Law and niece Ry), my Grandmother had surgery,and Katie just flew in from Pheniox. We still have a Graduation to go and my Grandmother still has to under go visits for chemo. Sigh.

As you can see (read), I have had very little time to be posting on Revamp! I forgot to mention that the last 2 weeks have been 65-75 hours at work and Becky has been finishing her last 3 weeks of School. Yes, Graduation was before school ended! I know, Why? I don't know, I just follow the pattern right now.

I am happy to be in the down hill coast of May though. I can't wait to get to the Fort and see my family... might be a little while yet, but I'm excited to think about it! I haven't been home since Christmas and I have only a few weeks to make it happen due to 4th of July and the crazy Summer sales that control the flow of life. I will be back in blog-mode soon. Hang in there! :)

Overdue Congratulations!

2009-05-13T13:52:00.003-05:00

I'm soooo behind on this post! I am very happy to inform you that my wife has recieved her Assosiates Degree! She made the walk on Friday night. I think it's awesome that she has never lost the desire to go back and finish. Now that she has that, there's still no stopping her! She will continue on by starting at UCO this semester and chasing a Bacholer's. I'm very proud of her and can't wait to give her her graduation gift... we will (hopefully) be going backpacking through Europe after it's all said and done with one (maybe 2) of my best friends and his wife (and the others)! That is going to be the best way I can think of to say, "Honey, I love you and am extremely happy for you!"

MIKESTANDS...

2009-04-28T18:55:00.003-05:00

So, Mike Manasseh has just re-released his album MIKESTANDS! You should go and get it. I have the original release and trust, it is HOTT! I haven't got to listen to the 5 Bonus Tracks yet (just snippets), but if it's from My Boi! It's HOTT!

You can extract yourself a copy here or you can go to SoulMana.com... your choice.

*Editors Note - Finding Local Talent of this magnitude is an awesome experience. I say to all who have dreamed to do great things with their life, whether you are a fan of Hip-Hop or not, go and download this album! To help one achieve their dream, is a push for you to achieve yours. Hard work, perspiration, and (Amazing) talent has made this re-issue a possibility...

Weather Confliction

2009-04-26T21:12:00.003-05:00

I wish I had a front porch! Some of my most relaxing times were spent on the front porch watching the rain. While the sun is up, it brings a change of temperature and the rhythm of the day. I love before it rains too! That smell is so peaceful... They can try, but it can't be bottled. No matter what my day had in store, a good shower could put most plans on hold.

Night time is an amazing porch-sitting experience as well. The heat slowly dies as that fireball in the sky slips over the horizon. The front brings in a blast of wind that makes you have to grab a fleece pull-over or a long sleeve shirt. Ahhh! Watching the mircle of a light show as the whole world flashes clearly in front of you. Though brief, you can see your whole neighborhood through a haze; sometimes a down pour as heavy as a waterfall on a country creek. The smell is the same, yet somehow different. There is no need for a radio playing some classic rock or light jazz, I think the rain sounds better at night too. It could be that less people are moving about, the night is more still or maybe it's just in my head... Either way, nothing beats a good rain! They say anhour on a motorcycle is as good as 4 hours of therapy. I say sitting outside, with some iced-tea or lemonaide (summer)/ coffee or hot chocolate (winter), watching the sky rejuvenate the Earth is better than any therapy!

That brings me to the conflict I have. The thing I hate about storms is when they have the word Severe in front. I feel guilty loving the rain while others lose so much because of the things those same clouds and wind brought with them. Floods that literally engulp entire towns and counties, tornadoes that demolish everything in their paths for miles, and even that beautiful lighting can strike down horrific consequences. I guess bueaty IS in the eye of the beholder...

I leave you with this. If you have a porch, covered patio or balcony, take advantage! Tune out the entire world (except your loved ones) and enjoy the best theraputic moments that nature and God give you. If you don't have any of those, I'm sorry about that... But, I like to take walks when it's misting... You could do that.

Horoscopes

2009-04-23T20:37:00.005-05:00

"You still have a hard time accepting your childhood, dear Cancer. As a Cancer, you are such a perfectionist about your life that you often forget the learning period you went through as a child. But did you know that the people close to you love the child they see in you, the one you just can't seem to get rid of? If you can learn to accept that child, you will be on the road to feeling fulfilled as an adult."

Hmmm... Not that I believe in them, but I read mine almost daily. I like to see if it matched up to my day or the tone of my thoughts at the moment. Do you read your horoscope? Is it acurate? Where do you get yours? I read it in the news paper and it's different than the one on MSN. How can that be if it's all about my astrological sign, the alignment of the planets, and whatever else? I'm not sure if they are true (I'm pretty sure they're not), but I think it's a fun way to reflect on your day. If that's all I get out of it... I'm ok with that. It's better than when you're lieing in bed, trying to go to sleep, and can't stop obsessing about parts of the day. What you would have said, done, or how you should of reacted.

All that said, I post todays (MSN) 'scope because I think it's pretty accurate. I AM just a big kid... I'm fine with that too! I like to think with all the bad stuff in this world (Ex: war; famine; murder; the Guilt Trip[LOL]), it's best to live like you have not a care! I like being up-beat and happy (99%). Making jokes and laughing at stupidity is just my way of saying, "Hey! I can take whatever you got!!"

Thank you, Lord. Thank you for giving me the courage to laugh at the mudane, the right to be myself, and the sense of knowing when to be serious. I thank you for giving me a sense of humor that I vow to utilze on a daily basis! For all that I see wrong in the world, I thank you for allowing me to try to set things right... in my own way, with your guisance. In your son's name, Jesus Christ.

God Bless Mother, God Bless Father, and God Bless the purpose of Demolay. Amen.

P.S. To Albert Pike Chapter (FS), Yes! I still say that after I pray... I'm sure I always will ;)

An Observation...

2009-04-19T22:33:00.001-05:00

Here's a question... Has anyone tried to research (or just read the archives) of a newspaper? I was searching for articles about empathy during therapy, when I stubbled upon an article from '07. Chicago Tribune has the nerve to charge people to read old articles! Not just $0.50 or whatever the paper cost, but like $4.00 for a one article pass!! What!? Then, I noticed that the "Lifetime Pass" was $350.00! Seriously!? Maybe I should start collecting The Daily Oklahoman now and get a web site going, that way when ever someone is looking for an old article on Google, my site will pop up and I can rip people off! Yeah! That's my new business plan.

P. S. (Tribune) I Google the article name and found it free on your own website... Just Sayin'

Great Plates!

2009-04-17T18:49:00.000-05:00

I was commenting to a friend today...

2009-04-16T18:50:00.002-05:00

and I had a relatively smart moment (I think). Simply put: If you are at a point in your life where you are not sure how things are going to work out and you seem to need more than you are being provided, it's time to Reexamine... Revamp, if you will! I hit this person with 4 questions... I think that I know someone else that needs to answer these questions, but instead of calling this person out, I will post them here so that they too can "Revamp."

1. What do I (we) have?
2. What do I (we) need/want?
3. What do I have to do to aquire those needs/wants?
4. Am I going to be able to achieve those goals by keeping things the same?

I think if you look at these questions with all honesty and an open mind, you will be more empowered in your life and your decisions that affect the outcome. I have never claimed to be motivational or an advisor, but I think I'm on to something here... Maybe I can make a few $$'s by writing a book on bettering your life... I think I'll call it "Revamp Your Life: The blog that changed mine!" LOL

Rock Star Status!? Part 2

2009-04-10T08:34:00.003-05:00

When did this occur!? Was it sometime during the election of a former movie star(Ol' Ronnie)? After Clinton went on Arsenio Hall and place his Saxophone (wearing his hipster-shades)? Maybe it's the combo that lead to the kind of President we could "drink a beer with..." I'm not too sure when the whole thing started... But I know when it went too far!! Check out chiaobama.com. I'm all for respecting your leaders and giving praise to those who deserve it, but at what point does it become just another plot to make money and send a message of idiocracy? I bet it's at the fore-mentioned website!

John L.

Rock Star Status!?

2009-04-09T22:45:00.000-05:00

My Favorites!

2009-04-05T16:56:00.009-05:00

This is a list of some of my Favorite 80's T.V. Shows!!! Some of them started at the end of the 80's, but out of love I put them on anyway :)

Alf
Doogie Howser, MD
Punky Brewster
Cheers
Coach
Cosby Show
Different World
Family Ties
Growing Pains
Empty Nest
My 2 Dads
MacGyver
Mama's Family
Married... with Children
Miami Vice
Mr. Belvedere
Perfect Strangers
Rosanne
The Wonder Years
Who's the Boss?

Last night got me thinking...

2009-04-05T16:51:00.005-05:00

About a lot of things; Fashion, T.V. Shows, Music, Cars... I wanted to take a little time and have a couple of post about the thoughts and memories!

So, Fashion!!

The 80's

2009-04-05T15:59:00.004-05:00

That 3rd picture is The Ghostbuster's, btw. Also, you have to excuse the quality... I took these on my iPhone in a pretty poorly-lit ballroom.

The 80's was Stellar!

2009-04-04T19:42:00.003-05:00

Tonight I am at a prom themed... The 80's! I've seen my fair share of "Miami Vice" suits, Madonna look-a-likes, and more neon to last a life time. I will try to take some photos and post them later. I'm having a blast just playing "Name that Tune!" VH1 was right... I Love the 80's!!

If you didn't know...

2009-04-03T19:08:00.001-05:00

We distribute various merchandise. Vitamin Water is among the top... and Poweraid!

Learned a new trick...

2009-04-03T14:59:00.003-05:00

This photo comes to you straight from the iPhone! I just learned how to email a post to my blog. In case some of you don't know, this is my life these days... Slangin' Coke! Throwin' Cases! Whatever you want to call it, it's a hard gig. I love my job though... John L.

April's Revenge

2009-04-02T16:23:00.001-05:00

5:30 a.m. Phone rings
"Hello?"
"Hey. What's going on?"
"Well, I just woke up... Guess I should go to work, huh!?"
"That might be helpful!"
.....

I arrived at my second account only an hour late! By the time I left, I was right on time. Finished Target in record speed! When I pulled up at Homeland, I noticed it was rather dark... Great! The electricity is out!! After waiting an hour, I finally got to go inside and throw my load. When fished, I had to take a lunch (I hate taking lunch) and go pick Becky up to take her to get the Jimmy from the shop. After all the Universe's trouble, I still made it to my meeting early! Nice try, Cosmic Forces :)

P.S. I made it with enough time to post this... Just sayin'

The Universe's April Fool's Joke!

2009-04-01T15:28:00.000-05:00

I had to take the Jimmy to the shop today. I arrived about noon-thirty and got a quote and everything by 1:15. After some text exchange with Becky, we had a deal.. Only I forgot that I put my check book in the Milan and Becky was driving it today. Had to go home to get one. Well, that's not that bad, so I trech home and grab a check (while I'm here I'll grab my iPod and headphones). I get back to shop and start to check around... iPod, headphones, candy... I'll leave the keys in it. They're going to pull it in shortly, no biggie! After sitting in the waiting area for 45 minutes, the manager comes out and ask, "Do you have keyless entry?"
"Why yes, but not on me," I replied.
"Well," he states, "Your keys are locked in!"

Great!! I spent about 20 minutes with my antenna jammed in the door frame to no avail. I eventually called my wife to see if she could push the unlock button over the phone (read somewhere it works... It doesn't)! Sigh. Time to call AT&T to use my Roadside Assistance (life saver). They show up, pop the lock, and away goes the hero into the sunset!

After all that, I still have to leave the Jimmy over night because it was too late to get the job done! Happy April Fool's Day! At least your pranks didn't waste a whole day...

A Little Mood Music

2009-03-31T17:44:00.001-05:00

Just a few of my favorite songs.

First Line for the First Post... (Don't be a Google-Cheater!)

2009-03-30T00:34:00.000-05:00

You tell me the name of the song based on the first line. You guess it correctly and I'll strike through it and reveal the answer. I tried this same list on Facebook and... well, let's just say that it was too hard! LOL (No offense)

Step 1: Put your music player on shuffle.
Step 2: Post the first line from the first 30 songs that play, no matter how embarrassing.
Step 3: Strike through the songs when someone guesses both band and title.

1. We don't even talk anymore...
2. No matter I cry it just don't seem loud enough...
3. My man said life aint easy, when n****s gotta eat thats when s*** get greasy...
4. It's just the cutest thing when you get to fussin'...
5. Can't you see, I'm easily, bothered by persistence...
6. To what do I owe this gift, my friend?...
7. Hoppin' over barb-wire fence, I had this one broad right, she was so damn sprung...
8. If I say I don't need anyone, I can say these things to you...
9. I don't need no doctor...
10. If you're having girl problems, I feel bad for you son...
11. I set out on a narrow way...
12. Hey boo! Yeah did you remember the tip of tender fender bender from last September you let me enter the center so we went through the Winter?...
13. Psychic spies from China try to steal your mind's elation... (LOVE this song!)
14. Well, I guess it would be nice... (NOT the original...)
15. We got the afternoon...
16. Things just ain't the same for gangsta's...
17. I wonder how you're feeling, there's ringing in my ears...
18. There's an intruder, in my house/ He cut my phone line, can't dial out...
19. If there's any b****es in this room, then there's something I gotta say/ for all the fools that fell for the first girl that comes their way...
20. Close the door, let me give you what you've been waiting for... (wink)
21. Ewww, Ewww, Owww, Sigh, Stop telling me what you want me to hear...
22. So many years have gone by, always strong, tried not to cry...
23. Uncle Sam taught him to shoot just a little too well...
24. ohhhh, you seem preoccupied, I see it in your eyes...
25. How long before I get in? before it starts before I begin?...
26. Hmmmmm, you're gonna want me back, (the last words she said to me...)
27. You're all I've ever wanted, but I'm terrified of you, see my castle may be haunted, but I'm terrified of you...
28. If ever you had said to me before, that I would lead this life that I am living... (LOVE this band)
29. Ohhh, She may be weary,and them young girls they sure get weary...
30. Go on and close that curtain, cause all we need is candle light...

Welcome Back!

2009-03-29T23:58:00.000-05:00

It's time to re-launch Blogging! I am back in full effect (for real). I have strayed from it due to the... well, There's plenty of time tell you what I have been up to. Let's get started shall we...