My decoder ring

[twicketface]

[1] My name is Brian. I was born in 1978 in Hartford, Wisconsin. My mom had a very difficult pregnancy with me. First, I tried to come out too (3 months) early. Then, when it was time for me to be born, I didn't want to come out. Memories of this time are hazy, at best.

[2] I have one older brother, Brad. He is three years older than me. We speak when we need to which isn't often. We're extremely different people and I'm envious of those who have close sibling relationships.

[3] I've been married since August 4th of 2001, to the lovely and talented Marie. We met while in college and dated for three years before tying the knot. Our relationship is the only serious one I've ever had. Married life is quite great and I think that it is entirely due to the fact that we built a friendship first.

[4] We have two cats, Mitten the Wonder Kitten and Snowball the IIIrd. They are both part adorable, part insane. It didn't take long for them to fit in.

[5] My political leanings are to the left of the Democratic party. I voted for Nader in 2000 and think anyone who blames me for Bush getting into the White House needs to get a grip. Socialism is the form of government that makes the most sense to me, which I guess makes me a terrorist. I begrudgingly voted for Kerry in 2004 to prevent the rest of the Apocylopse. From here on out, I'm only voting for porn stars.

[6] My degree is in Human Resource Management from the University of Wisconsin - Oshkosh. I have a minor in Sociology. I do believe I am the only person to have attended 4 ½ years of higher education in Wisconsin without taking a drink of alcohol. Please hold your applause until the end.

[7] On that note, I'm straight edge. As this is a personal decision, I don't advertise it often. None of my friends are, so don't think I'm one of those people who dislike you unless you're a carbon copy of themselves. Just don't ask me to hold your hair while you ralph.

[8] I'm currently working for a Fortune 300 company that mostly sells home and auto insurance. My role is one of a generalist, focusing on recruiting, employee relations and whatever the hell else gets thrown my way. It's a mostly great company to work for and my co-workers are mostly awesome.

[9] During college, Marie and I donated plasma for extra cash. It's a great place to people watch and also catch up on reading. My brother's ex-fiancee used to work there. If there was a place in Appleton nearby, I wouldn't hesitate to start donating again. It was good money and relatively painless.

[10] Despite playing violent video games and a childhood obsession with G.I Joe, I'm a pacifist. I think war should always be the absolute last resort. I've never been in a physical altercation. Except for wrestling with my dad. He signified the end of our wrestling matches by blowing ass.

[11] I don't remember my dreams often, but still remember one I had when I was 8 or 9. I was in a hospital, being wheeled away for a surgery I didn't need. I was terrified. My mom was there, waving and smiling at me as they took me to the operating room. I tried to scream, but no sound came out. It was terrible.

[12] I'm 6'6". Most of the time I like it, but there are times when I'd rather be 5' 10". Like when I'm buying clothes or sitting anywhere in public. I've come to grips with the fact that I'll likely need knee replacement surgery before I perish. It's mostly a bone-on-bone arrangement.

[13] Marie and I bought a house in June of 2003. It's in Appleton (where I grew up). It's a quad-level and is pretty great. We like it a lot better than our apartment, mostly for the attached garage and our own washer/dryer. Plus, it's more room to walk around naked.

[14] Marie and I are 98% vegetarian. My craving for Chinese food sometimes overwhelm my desire to not eat animals.

[15] I was raised Catholic, but am now a Unitarian Universalist (or UU for short). I find the Catholic church too rooted in (nonsensical) tradition and am anti-boy-on-priest action. I also tend to have Buddhist and agnostic leanings (i.e., a Pastafarian).

[16] I used to play piano when I was in grade school and trombone in junior high and high school. Playing the trombone led to meeting Jeremy (eventual college roommate and very polite man) and most of my close friends in high school, so I think it was meant to be.

[17] Nathan Daniel Murton was born on July 30th, 2006. He was born prematurely and spent three and a half weeks in the hospital before we could bring him home. He's a fantastically-awesome baby and fatherhood is amazing.

[18] I drive a 2003 Toyota Camry. I technically borrow from the bank that owns it, but whatever. My previous car, a 1989 Buick LeSabre had 180,000 miles on it and a lot of character (i.e., weird smells). I'll jump on the hybrid bandwagon once they make one with leg room (see also [#12])

[19] I used to play drums with my friend Brian, but he no longer uses that practice space. It was a lot of fun - we had two drum kits facing each other and we both played along to CDs with headphones on each. I'm terrible but it was neat. He was a good teacher. I'm sure I lost some hearing as a result.

[20] I'm good at saving money. Most of my discretionary income goes towards CDs and food. Other than our mortgage and my college loans, I'm debt free. Both are being paid off at more than the minimum payment to expedite financial freedom. I think people make finances out to be this big, impossibly complicated ordeal when it's really not. People just need to learn to live with less. I like Dave Ramsey's approach, minus the Jesus talk.

[21] I used to listen to the radio on a regular basis for music, but now I only listen to my iPod. Before getting one, I thought it was somewhat foolish. Oh, how wrong I was.

[22] I used to watch quite a bit of television as well, but have cut back a lot because I find most shows unwatchable.

[23] I had a beard for about four years. I liked it, but shaved it off in December of 2002. Then, I grew it back in August of 2004. There's no telling what I may do next.

[24] I consider myself a very open person, but only to those people who show an interest in me. If you repeatedly interupt me while talking, we'll have problems. Conversations should be two sided and you should be as interested in me as I am in you. If not, why are we talking in the first place?

[25] One of my biggest pet peeves is wasting things. I save scrap paper, pens that have three sentences of ink left, tattered folders - the list goes on and on.

[26] Tennis is my favorite sport to play. It's about the only one I'm somewhat good at. I do love watching professional football and despite never watching a game before my senior year of high school, I now follow it like a madman. I've won our fantasy football league for the past two years in a row. This goes to show that obsessive-compulsive disorders can be profitable.

[27] I'm very close to my grandparents (on my mom's side). Marie and I try to visit them at least once a month and always learn something from them. They've been married more than 65(!) years. My grandparents on my dad's side are deceased. Given the choice, I'd rather spend time with someone elderly than someone young.

[28] I'm also close to my parents. I couldn't have asked for a more loving and supportive upbringing. My mom worries all the time and is always putting other people ahead of herself (sometimes, to a fault). My dad had a terrible upbringing, but turned out to be an ideal father. He's extremely handy and taught me how to play cribbage. I talk to them on the phone weekly.

[29] I hate talking on cell phones. Marie and I parted ways with our landline in January of 2005 and use our cell phones exclusively. This means I'll just email you instead.

[30] My favorite band of all time is face to face. I've seen them in concert 4 times and almost was in a head-on collision on a highway (!) coming back from one of their concerts. Someone was driving on the wrong side of the highway towards us. It sucked. As of November 2003, they broke up without consulting me first. Side projects will live on, but I'm still bummed.

[31] If I couldn't listen to my choice of music at work, I would something something (don't mind if I do!)

[32] If you understood that last one, it means you realize that The Simpsons is the greatest show in the history of television. It's the only show that I *must* see on a regular basis. And I finally (sadly) admit that it's time to pull the plug on the show. It doesn't pack the punch it once did and I'd rather they stop now and have a finale with the movie. Also, bring back Futurama.

[33] I've never had surgery or broken a bone in my body. Come to think of it, I've never broken someone else's bone either. But Marie has.

[34] My internal clock doesn't work very well in the mornings. I'm always tired on workdays but can't prevent myself from getting up before 7:00am on weekends. I'm also very selfish with 'my' time.

[35] I can listen to multiple conversations at once.

[36] I'm usually too warm. In high school (in Wisconsin), March meant I could finally start wearing shorts again. I've matured slightly.

[37] The only Spring Break trip I ever took was after I graduated. My good friends Terry and Brian and I drove to Philadelphia, simply because. It's possible the most fun I've ever had in a car (without Marie). We almost got in a fight coming into Philly, got busted by the cops trying to 'sneak' to New Jersey (not really) and really bonded.

[38] I was the only one who masturbated on the trip. This is all the more incredible if you know Terry and Brian.

[39] I'm really good at games (card, board, video) and like to play them often. I think if I got on a game show, I could win a lot of money. Also, I hate Trivial Pursuit.

[40] I don't like the idea of file-swappers not buying CDs but I do like the thought of the record industry collapsing. If there was a source that I could download b-sides and rare tracks of bands I like, I'd gladly pay for them. However, spending $9 on a single containing an album track, the same album track edited for radio, and said b-side is greedy and insulting. I download music, purchase the stuff I like and trash the stuff I don't. If radio played anything besides Top 40 around here, I'd use that to evaluate new music.

[41] I have yet to find an anti-perspirant that works for more than two days. I don't smell, I just look like I got done wrestling with a crack-addicted wolverine most days by 10am.

[42] I used to think that 'Santa Claus' was rich people distributing gifts to everyone, since they had more than they needed. I remember my brother and mother laughing at my theory. I think I've been a socialist ever since. (see also [5]).

[43] I was a virgin until the age of 20 (thanks Marie!). I distinctly remember walking to the dorm bathroom with a pronounced strut.

[44] My favorite piece of clothing is a gray fleece I ordered from J. Crew in college. It was 60 dollars and is the warmest piece of clothing I've ever owned. As a result, it can usually be found on Marie.

[45] I've been out of the US twice - once on a family road trip to Boston (through Canada) and on our honeymoon to St. Lucia. I don't like flying because I can't get comfortable, physically or mentally. I can't read, can't write and usually get a headache and leg cramps.

[46] I drink way too much soda. I don't have much willpower when it comes to food.

[47] Despite brushing twice a day, I have terrible luck at the dentist.

[48] The combination of mint and chocolate makes me cringe.

[49] I wear glasses and am relatively blind without them. I didn't get them until I turned 20, which was about 4 years too late. I can now read street signs from the car and identify people from further than 5 feet away. It's done wonders for my social life.

[50] I thoroughly enjoy playing cards, especially cribbage. Getting together to play poker with the guys is my favorite non-Marie related activity.

[51] I never used to wash my hands after peeing. Now I do.

[52] I'm not necessarily 'glad' that Kurt Cobain killed himself, but if he hadn't, there would be no Foo Fighters. That said, I think Dave Grohl and J. Robbins are the two most important musicians of my lifetime.

[53] I'm much more of an idea person than a detail person. Perhaps that's why Marie and I work so well together.

[54] I maintain the dear_bigfoot community. It's an advice community and it needs your help.

[55] Apples are my favorite fruit, closely followed by oranges. For vegetables, it's potatoes and onions (if combined, all the better)

[56] My taste in music is directly a result of the influence of my friend Jeremy. He gave me (along with his then-girlfriend Thea) face to face's Big Choice CD for my 18th birthday. Despite it being their worst album, it led me to where I am now.

[57] My favorite magazine is also the results of a friend's influence. While visiting Carrie B in Chicago, I leafed through her copy of UTNE Reader. I decided to subscribe. Shortly after, I got on the mailing list for The Sun, my favorite magazine ever. This is the only time in the history of me that one company sharing my address with another company led to something positive.

[58] I get frustrated and angry when people stay in relationships that are harmful because the alternative is 'being alone'. As someone who's spent the majority of his life alone, I don't understand why so many people are afraid of it.

[59] George W. Bush is the worst president in the history of the United States.

[60] Sometimes I feel guilty for being happy. I think the world would be a better place if people realized how good they have it, even when some things aren't going well.

[61] I am horrendous at geography and directions. Utterly horrendous.

[62] I applied to be on the Real World: Boston. I'm sure it turned out for the best. I would've liked to make out with Kameelah though...

[63] I am slowly getting over my bad habit of cracking my knuckles/joints. Slowly.

[64] I often misplace my wedding ring at home. Marie likes to find it and wear it on her thumb. This drives me nuts.

[65] I have stitches in two places on my left arm (when I attempted to run outside without properly opening the glass door) and also on my upper lip (from being hit by an ice chunk in grade school).

[66] My favorite movies are anything that Kevin Smith has done and Planes, Trains and Automobiles.

[67] My favorite book is The Stand by Stephen King. I've dreamed of that scenario dozens of times when I was growing up.

[68] The first CD I ever purchased was Waking up the Neighbors by Bryan Adams. I've been apologizing ever since.

[69] I usually have a piece of food stuck between two teeth in particular. I'm the best flosser ever for about three days after a trip to the dentist. Marie recently got a flosser (looks like a toothbrush but with a flossing head instead) and I use it a lot more.

[70] My flawless driving record of 9 years came to a halt in July of 2003. Going 70 in a 55 led to being pulled over, but with only a warning. You can't win them all. I also got my first parking ticket on October 26th, 2004 at the library. It was $3 and I was totally at fault. To top it all off, I got my first speeding ticket (going 70 in a 55) in November of 2005 while coming home from a Henry Rollins performance. $160 is a pretty significant wake-up call.

[71] Jobs I've held since birth are as follows: lawn mower, paperboy, fast food worker, library assistant, computer lab consultant, commission adjuster, benefits intern, human resources intern, human resources assistant, plasma donor, co-chairman of Camp Scholler, human resources specialist, mystery shopper(!), human resources generalist. Also, Doctor Tongue.

[73] I wanted a crew-cut when I was younger, but my mom said it wouldn't look good on me. I think she was right. Still, I would like to shave my head someday. At the rate my hair grows, I could take a four day weekend and most people probably wouldn't notice.

[74] I have no piercings or tattoos. And I think I'm going to stay that way, thank you very much.

[75] I have more brand allegiance to products I avoid than to those I buy.

[76] I've never been stung by a bee/wasp/hornet.

[77] My celebrity crushes include Jane Adams, Maura Tierney and Tina Fey. Me-ow.

[78] My two least favorite foods are gravy and mushrooms. If you want to see me shrivel up and die, throw some mushroom gravy on me.

[79] I have many foibles. One of them is keeping the receipt for each CD I purchase and putting it under the plastic tray. I started doing this around the age of 16. I'm not sure why.

[80] I would enjoy working as a counselor in some capacity as a career. I like solving other people's problems.

[81] I find women who drink regular soda much more attractive than women who drink diet soda.

Comments

[leeann-marie.livejournal.com]

I think these lists are just incredibly fun to read, and yours was no exception. You're a pretty interesting guy! Plus reading this helped me put off homework for another few minutes, which I definitely appreciate!

[twicketface.livejournal.com]

Thanks for the inspiration!

[hexkitten.livejournal.com]

Marie and I are 98% vegetarian. My craving for Chinese food sometimes overwhelm my desire to not eat animals.

Is there a particular dish that entices you? I'm just curious. I've been lucky to have always found great restaurants with great fakey meats.

Just do good things and you shouldn't have to worry.

I disagree. If you do good things in the absence of religion, you risk being accosted by religious zealots that would rather spend their time telling you what a bad person you are for not worshipping God in a certain way. Good deeds? Who needs 'em, when you're telling other people that they're wrong for not worshipping like you do?

Given the choice, I'd rather spend time with someone elderly than someone young.

I totally hear this!

During our reception in Dave's hometown, we met some friends of the family. I remember Bill and Peggy's faces lighting up as they waved to us. I'd never met them before. I still remember, though, that there was such intense goodness and love in those faces. Remember being a kid and your conception of love? How it was all consuming, the ultimate good, and the one thing that could never crumble? That's what emanated from those two.

I remember Bill clasped my hands in his, gave his congratulations, and exclaimed, "We've been married for 65 happy years! I'm now charging you with the responsibility to pass that!" He laughed. I smiled and said I would.

Older people that have enjoyed life rock.

[Error: Irreparable invalid markup ('<i.>') in entry. Owner must fix manually. Raw contents below.]

<i>Marie and I are 98% vegetarian. My craving for Chinese food sometimes overwhelm my desire to not eat animals.</i>

Is there a particular dish that entices you? I'm just curious. I've been lucky to have always found great restaurants with great fakey meats.

<i>Just do good things and you shouldn't have to worry.</i>

I disagree. If you do good things in the absence of religion, you risk being accosted by religious zealots that would rather spend their time telling you what a bad person you are for not worshipping God in a certain way. Good deeds? Who needs 'em, when you're telling other people that they're wrong for not worshipping like you do?

<i>Given the choice, I'd rather spend time with someone elderly than someone young.</i>

I totally hear this!

During our reception in Dave's hometown, we met some friends of the family. I remember Bill and Peggy's faces lighting up as they waved to us. I'd never met them before. I still remember, though, that there was such intense goodness and love in those faces. Remember being a kid and your conception of love? How it was all consuming, the ultimate good, and the one thing that could never crumble? That's what emanated from those two.

I remember Bill clasped my hands in his, gave his congratulations, and exclaimed, "We've been married for 65 happy years! I'm now charging you with the responsibility to pass that!" He laughed. I smiled and said I would.

Older people that have enjoyed life rock.

<i. I hate talking on cell phones. I only have one because of the amount of travel with my job and a 14 year old car.</i>

I once read an article that said cell phone usage might not really interfere with a plane's navigational gear and whatnot. I prayed, deeply and fervently, that those findings would never reach the general public. I get annoyed enough at nearly colliding into people at the grocery store, "BLAHBLAHBLAHBLAH!" (shoots me a dirty look because they weren't paying attention, rounded a corner, and nearly knocked me over) "BLAHBLAHBLAHBLAH!" I'd hate to be stuck on a plane with some dumb yapper.

<i>the Simpsons is the greatest show in the history of television.</i>

There is a Special Educational facility by my dad's house. The last time I drove by, I got all excited - until I realized that Ralphie's last name is "Wiggum" and wasn't related to the "Wiggin" Elementary School.

<i>I don't like the idea of file-swappers not buying CDs but I do like the thought of the record industry collapsing. </i>

I have less of a problem with this, since the majority of the sale goes towards the execs and not the artists. I am, however, considering downloading tracks off a CD, and sending the artist themselves a check for the retail value.

<i>That said, I think Dave Grohl and J. Robbins are the two most important musicians of my lifetime.</i>

I love Dave Grohl. I once saw him on TRL. Carson asked him if he liked Brittney Spears. Grohl laughed and said, "Of course I do! What...30-year-old man doesn't?"

<i>As someone who's spent the majority of his life alone, I don't understand why so many people are afraid of it.</i>

I think I've mentioned this before: you seem like a happy, likeable sort of person. Not everybody feels this way about themselves. I think for those types, it's better to be absolutely miserable than have to deal with their flaws.

<i>George W. Bush is the worst president in the history of the United States.</i>

Watch yer back! Georgie-poo might think that's anti-patriotism.

If you suddenly stop posting, I'll try to put together a rescue force!

<i>Sometimes I feel guilty for being happy. </i>

Never feel guilty for being happy - unless your happiness is the direct result of making somebody feel absolutely horrible. Of course, I mean this in the sense that you ruined their life - not that they're sad that they didn't get the last scoop of dulce de leche ice cream.

Too many people won't let themselves be happy. I say, if you are or can be, enjoy it! :D

<i>My favorite movies are anything that Kevin Smith has done</i>

"That kid is on the escalator again!"

<i>and Planes, Trains and Automobiles. </i>

"That's not a pillow!"

[twicketface.livejournal.com]

Is there a particular dish that entices you? I'm just curious. I've been lucky to have always found great restaurants with great fakey meats.
Mainly it's the chicken that appeals to me. It shouldn't, but it does. I'm finding that I do like the veggie meals, but when General Tso is commanding me, I lose all control.

I disagree. If you do good things in the absence of religion, you risk being accosted by religious zealots that would rather spend their time telling you what a bad person you are for not worshipping God in a certain way. Good deeds? Who needs 'em, when you're telling other people that they're wrong for not worshipping like you do?
Reminds me of the saying - how come most people who want the freedom to tell you all about their religion don't offer that same freedom back to you. Or something. I'd say more, but Jesus is already balling his eyes out...

Older people that have enjoyed life rock.
I wonder why my grandparent's generation has been so much more 'successful' than we have at marriage, happiness, prosperity, and so forth. Granted, things like neglect and abuse were likely under-reported compared to now, but it seems that had much more incentive to, I don't know, have their shit together. Each time I visit my grandparents, I feel like I'm being taught a lesson (or reminded of one that I've forgotten).

I once read an article that said cell phone usage might not really interfere with a plane's navigational gear and whatnot.
There was recently an article funded by AAA that cell phones don't interfere with drivers. The study was based upon asking those that had been in an accident if they were talking when it happened instead of checking the actual phone usage records. Hello?!? Car Talk (on NPR) has something up on their website (http://www.cartalk.cars.com) about it. How come we let people get away with being misleading assholes?

There is a Special Educational facility by my dad's house.
My cat's breath smells like cat food.

I have less of a problem with this, since the majority of the sale goes towards the execs and not the artists. I am, however, considering downloading tracks off a CD, and sending the artist themselves a check for the retail value.
Exactly. I would rather buy directly from the artist (via a website or at a concert). There has to be a business venture in opening up recording studios and having bands record their own music instead of via a label...

I love Dave Grohl.
Get in line. I've been on a mission to find unreleased songs since getting the cable modem hook-up. I think I've got about 3 discs worth of covers and rare songs. Who needs drugs when you have good music?

I think for those types, it's better to be absolutely miserable than have to deal with their flaws.
I can see that. But I get frustrated when they can't see how staying miserable (in relationship after relationship) is good for them. Maybe my meathead-dar is stronger than most.

If you suddenly stop posting, I'll try to put together a rescue force!
He needs to answer for Iraq! And Halliburton!! And all of the decep
Nothing to see here!

"That kid is on the escalator again!"
"She said 'focus'."
"Whatever"

"That's not a pillow!"
"You could have killed me, slugging me in the guts like that! That's how Houdini died!"

[nikki42.livejournal.com]

Mitten is beautiful!
The Simpsons rule!
Agreed on Dubya. When oh when will we impeach?

If you want to know more about me, I did this one a while back.
http://www.livejournal.com/users/nikki42/2003/06/12/

[twicketface.livejournal.com]

Excellent - thanks for the link!

[harleyquinn.livejournal.com]

You're not Straight Edge. You totally have sex!

[twicketface.livejournal.com]

My understanding is that it's not "No sex", it's no promiscious sex.

[so-gracefully.livejournal.com]

what happens when you donate plasma, and what kind of money does it pay? (as a recent job-quitter-in-favor-of-happier-and-more-fulfilling-pursuits, i'm looking for ways to make money now, and there's only so much stuff a person can put on ebay.)

this was very neat to read.

[twicketface.livejournal.com]

First, kudos to your job freedom. Sounds like it's all for the best.

When you donate plasma, you are donating part of your blood. The very first time you go, they ask a complete medical history and have you fill out some forms. They also need to test your iron each time you donate (using a pin-prick to one of your fingertips). This doesn't hurt, but sometimes leaves your finger sore for a day afterwards. Nothing major.

Then, they take you to back to the donation area and have you sit in a recliner-like chair. You tell them which arm you want and they sterilize the area and then put in the needle. I've found that this doesn't hurt at all, but maybe I'm just used to it. Then, they give you a hand squeezy thing to squeeze (to help the plasma out. It generally takes about an hour and a half. When you are done, then saline is put back into your arm (through the same 'hose' - why does that sound like the wrong word?). It feels cold because it's at room temperature, but I find it oddly refreshing. For this, they give you $20. Sometimes they will have a special, like if you go twice in one week, they'll give you $50. I'm assuming you would get more where you live, but maybe that's across the board. You can only donate twice a week, but if you don't mind the procedure, that's $160 a month for time you spend squeezing your hand and reading a book or magazine or listening to music. Not too shabby.

[mylo-xyloto.livejournal.com]

Planes, Trains and Automobiles is just the most amazing film ever, isn't it! I love The Stand as well - even if it's given me an horrendous fear of tunnels! But what's wrong with Waking Up the Neighbours? I *love* that album!!

[twicketface.livejournal.com]

I think I just outgrew the sound. It had it's purpose at the time.

Now, let's never speak of it again ;)

[mylo-xyloto.livejournal.com]

Now, let's never speak of it again ;)

Never speak of what again? ;-)

[ilovecalifornia.livejournal.com]

I'm glad I took the time to read that. Very cool, very funny. Maybe I'll try it now...

[twicketface.livejournal.com]

Go for it, but be forewarned that it's a time-consumer.

[microbie.livejournal.com]

I totally identify with #25. I saved a box that my grandmother had carefully labeled "fuses that don't work," complete with the nonfunctioning fuses, just to remind me to keep my habit under control.

[twicketface.livejournal.com]

That, quite simply, rules.

Hullo.

[cornelius-mcfee.livejournal.com]

Hey.

I am the significant other of neosperanza. She is a nice lady and told me that you are the same. I believe her.

You are a gifted writer and seem like a warm and wonderful dude.

I will read your posts... and add you to my friends list if that's okay. (smile)

Re: Hullo.

[cornelius-mcfee.livejournal.com]

oh, and by the way... do NOT feel guilty for being happy.

Re: Hullo.

[twicketface.livejournal.com]

It's hard, sometimes. I see a lot of entries from my LJ friends and they just seem to be struggling to be happy for a moment or two. Maybe it's that when I'm down, I avoid writing about it and others use it as a way to deal with it.

But thanks, I needed the reminder.

Re: Hullo.

[cornelius-mcfee.livejournal.com]

I'm one of those LJ people who tends to write whilst feeling down rather than up... it's a very silly habit. I completely reject the notion that sad experiences are the best outlet for creativity... that's just too cynical of a viewpoint for me to stomach.

This is entirely unrelated, but I figure I'll share (might as well scare you off now rather than later), I feel like I've reached a point in my life where the ebbs and flows are so predictable that the low points are almost funny to me, you know what I mean? Sometimes I'll find myself saying, "god, I suck... I hate everything I do."... and I'll mean it! The thing is, ten seconds after it's out of my mouth/head, I'm laughing about it.

I simply refuse to believe that my so-called "painful" experiences are in any way relevant to realistic experiences of pain. I live in America. I am able to live under a roof and eat food without much difficulty... my problems are constructs and are not real... that is why I feel guilty for being happy when I am, but even more guilty when I feel down... does that make any sense at all?

...see how my point came full circle... I am sooooo brilliant.


Anyway... you just became my therapist for the hour. sorry about that.

adieu,

Cornelius.

ps- ever been to Waupaca???

Re: Hullo.

[twicketface.livejournal.com]

I think it comes from knowing yourself - I can predict my moods and how I'll react to things much better now than a few years ago. Perhaps it's Marie's (my wife) influence or just getting more introspective.

I totally agree - how can I complain when I've got it better than 80% of the world's population? We all have bad days, but 'bad' isn't even the word for it.

If there's one thing I learned, it's that LJ=therapy!

My parents have a cottage in Waupaca, so I've been there a few times. We're about an hour away in Appleton.

Re: Hullo.

[twicketface.livejournal.com]

Howdy.

I was just looking through her journal to see if I could find yours - you sound like a good guy.

Welcome to the madness.

[losinginterest.livejournal.com]

[6 & 7] I was straightedge myself until I was 25. Went through four years of Penn State having had one drink (a month after my 21st birthday, to prove a point to someone. In actuality, I'd like to think I'm more fun than that makes me sound.)

[43] 21 here.

[46] Are you sure you're married? Damn.

[twicketface.livejournal.com]

Thanks for commenting. I meant to put this at the top of my entries a LOOOOOONG time ago, but you know how it is.

I hope I'm more fun than I sound too!

Since I'm new...

[drainbead.livejournal.com]

[21] We got XM after Air America came out, and I have honestly never been happier with radio in my life. Not only can I listen to liberal talk radio, but the music channels kick much ass. Costs a bit much to start, but damn, was it worth it.

[41] Try unscented Secret. Seriously. It's better than any men's deodorant ever made. Patrick, my darling future husband who you'll hear about if you continue reading my journal, ran out of deodorant once a long time ago and started using mine...and has never gone back.

[52] Nirvana changed the face of music, but Foo Fighters writes infinitely better songs. I think Dave Grohl may be one of the most underrated musicians of all time.

Re: Since I'm new...

[twicketface.livejournal.com]

Do you know if you can get www.somafm.com via XM? I know nothing about radio, but listen to Soma when I think of it at home.

:jots down Secret: Thank you. I'd pay $50 per stick if it worked on an on-going basis for me.

What other types of music do you like? I heard a rumor that the next FF album will be a double album and I haven't stopped slobbering...

Re: Since I'm new...

[drainbead.livejournal.com]

I'm not sure if that's available via XM or not. We've only had it for a little over a week. ;-)

I'm a big fan of geek rock (think Cake and Eels), stuff like Modest Mouse and Bright Eyes, cheesy classic rock (beer commercial music, I like to call it), pop-punk like H2O, and when I'm in a mellow mood, Beth Orton, Spain, and Tori Amos. I'm always looking for new stuff (or old stuff) to listen to.

Re: Since I'm new...

[twicketface.livejournal.com]

Maybe we should do a mix CD exchange. You know, if you're into that sort of thing. I've got a disc full of rare/b-sides for the Foo that I can throw in to. No Probot though. I tried it and, meh.

Re: Since I'm new...

[drainbead.livejournal.com]

I'm usually quite bad at mailing out stuff, although remind me again after May 7th and I'll have two weeks off to get to it.

Re: Since I'm new...

[twicketface.livejournal.com]

As I'm the most efficient person ever, I *just* picked up a stick of Secret and I'm amazed that it works! I had to terminate someone at work on Wednesday and was dry as a bone throughout.

Thanks again for the suggestion!

Re: Since I'm new...

[drainbead.livejournal.com]

I'm glad it worked!

[htothem.livejournal.com]

[14] Marie and I are 98% vegetarian. My craving for Chinese food sometimes overwhelm my desire to not eat animals.

NPR says that's now called "flexitarian."

On a sappy note, I friend everyone who responds to QOD ever. I think yours one of the few that I actually enjoy reading. Unless you have objections, I'll friend you from my "real" journal (girlninja), which has a much more readable friends page.

[twicketface.livejournal.com]

I've heard it refered to as semi-vegetarian as well. I guess I should just get some willpower and convert entirely. Less cumbersome, verbally.

Appreciate the kind words, I look forward to keeping up with your real journal.

[twicketface.livejournal.com]

Were we ever so young?

[dudepower1982.livejournal.com]

Have you tried I-Tunes for downloading music?

And whose bones did Marie break?

[twicketface.livejournal.com]

Meh - iTunes doesn't have the rare stuff I'm looking for. I buy regular albums, it's the b-sides and live stuff I'm in the hunt for. Plus, such a small fraction of iTunes $ goes to the band anyway. I'm all for a band having a website where you can log-in and for a buck a song, download stuff directly from them. No more middle men and time wasted.

Marie kicked her brother really hard one time in the arm and it was either a sprain or a break. It's funny, because she really doesn't get mad these days.

[kittychilled.livejournal.com]

The first CD I ever bought was Paula Abdul's Spellbound. I've been apologizing ever since as well.

Oh...and from now on, my boyfriend has deemed the use of the words "best" and "buy" used together forbidden whilst in his presence. I think he's reached where you were shortly after your letter writing exchange with them.

[twicketface.livejournal.com]

I think everyone gets an 'oops' for their first music purchase.

I've given all my business to Circuit City and have been quite pleased.

[top-drawer.livejournal.com]

I can't believe how bright it is in Wisconsin at 5:00 a.m. in May. And I live in Minnesota about 10 miles from the border. Not anymore, actually... I'm moving in about 10 hours. I'm taking a break, wandered over here from Lyndsay Decker's LJ... only got through about half of this list but it was good reads.

A+ on the Simpsons fandom and the Bush-bashing. Sad to admit I gave up on the Simpsons sooner than others... late 90's or so. I think when Bart darted towards Homer's reclining toilet and declared "make way, gotta poop!", I decided the show was never going to have the luster that I see it VERY CLEARLY had in earlier seasons... it is just shocking how much I can keep watching the same episodes on these seasons 3-5 DVDs and still appreciate new things with each viewing. cliche thing to say, but SO true.

hey, I just read #79. that's really interesting.

[top-drawer.livejournal.com]

wow, I pay such terrible attention-- it's 5:00 a.m., I just looked through the blinds... and it turns out it's pretty damn bright in eastern Minnesota at this time too! of course it's late June now... it was mid-May when I observed the phenomenon in Wisconsin. but somehow I just always thought it was always near-pitch-black everywhere in the U.S. until at least 6:00 a.m. or so.

[twicketface.livejournal.com]

Glad you stopped over - I agree with about The Simpsons, it's too bad they haven't maintained their top shelf writing. It's still better than 85% of what's on the air.

[orangelichen.livejournal.com]

Brian -
[5] I’m pretty leftist too, but politics is so discouraging to me that I don’t really bother getting my hopes up. The fact that G.W. got voted in TWICE is a testament to the high caliber voters in this nation of ours.

[6] I enjoyed an online introductory Sociology course recently. It was a big motivation to want to get going on the internet and to start that Sun group – speaking of which, do you think that it’s confusing for people to see all the rambling on that community? Oh, well, fuck em’s what I say, if they don’t have to patience for something other than talk about exclusively The Sun. I’m intentionally not limiting the conversation. If someone wants to start a different site, they’re welcome! I liked the Sociology class a lot since I’m always thinking about the stuff we discussed and because everyone in the class was very honest about themselves. I finished my associates years ago, then went to a hyper-conservative college called Hillsdale in Michigan, where I studied English lit and teaching. Didn’t finish either, but dropped out of college after getting bad grades and also dropped out of the Christian church shortly after. I was raised evangelical, fundamentalist Baptist.

[7] I’ve heard of straight edge people since moving to California. Hadn’t heard of it until I moved here. I’m all in favor of folks keeping their bodies free of drugs & alcohol. I drink socially and have had mary jane a few times.

[15] A good friend of mine is a Unitarian minister in Ohio. I don’t know too much about it. I’m influenced by Buddhism, too. I basically consider myself agnostic / atheistic. Many of the questions I grew up thinking were so important I no longer care or find relevant. The whole bit about not knowing and not being able to know really resonates with me. Organized religion in general doesn’t get my vote. I think the whole thing about keeping priests celibate is a mistake. “Purity” from sex more than implies the sex is a dirty, sinful thing. I think there’s no way of avoiding corruption and politics when it comes to people in positions of such power. It’s sick when kids are abused, as you alluded to.

[16] I grew up with piano lessons and the keyboard is what I enjoy to this day. I played trombone in Junior high and high school as well, was fun, played in a few parades which was fun, played in our school concerts, and a few times in the pep band (never cared enough about sports to make too much of an effort there).

[17] Congratulations on your expected baby!

[26] I played tennis when I was junior high age, it was fun! I like swimming the best for exercise, I need to get back into it, I’m getting out of shape and cramping up like crazy.

[60] Commented on this at the sun group, but just ditto on what you said about feeling bad about being happy sometimes.

[73] Mom’s always want their kiddies to keep their hair. I cut mine off before going on a spring break trip in college. 5 of us were going to pile into a Buick and head west over the Rockies (from Michigan), and I didn’t feel like dealing with my hair, so on a whim shaved it off. Have been shaving it since. No regrets, people actually gave me shit in the Coast Guard for having such short hair, which is kind of funny since it’s sort of a military haircut. It’s the haircut that they gave us in boot camp, anyway. I guess it’s sort of a concentration camp / chemotherapy look, too, but oh, well, I like it. Low maintenance. My hair grows fast too.

[80] This is my current goal, to be a counselor / therapist. The current plan is to start studying psychology starting this coming fall here at San Francisco State U. Got accepted to the school recently. - Evan

[orangelichen.livejournal.com]

Just realized that your post was from a few years ago.

[twicketface.livejournal.com]

Evan,

Thanks for the comments! Always interesting to see those who have the patience to read the whole thing :)

Unitarian Universalism is the only faith/religion that I've found to be welcoming to all people and diverse enough to celebrate all the paths one can be on. I grew up Catholic, but feel very much at home with my Buddhist/Agnostic leanings in 'church'. I try hard not to push religion on anyone, but UUism might be worth checking out if you're interested in a faith community.

Congrats on your school acceptance! Will this require a move for you, or are you already in California?

[orangelichen.livejournal.com]

No problem reading the whole list - I think it's cool you shared so much about yourself! I don't have an interest in a faith community, but thanks for the recommendation - I'm glad you've found a home there. I'm glad and kind of nervous to be getting back into school again (I basically flunked out of college the first time around). I want to make sure I do it right this time. No, I won't have to move, moved here to San Francisco last September, so I'll have the year residency by the time I start this fall (so I don't have to pay insane out of state fees). So, your wife had the baby fine and he/she is 3 or 4 now?

[twicketface.livejournal.com]

Good like this time around with schooling!

Actually, our son was born on July 30th of last year (he's just over 5 months now). I should update the dates on that first entry. I'll add you to the filter if you want to go back and read about the details (he was born premature - scary at first, but all has turned out great).

[orangelichen.livejournal.com]

Thanks for the well wishes on school. Cool, I'll check out your other entries. Congratulations, I'm glad he's healthy!