The Daily Farmer

Futher Evolution

2011-06-19T18:05:00.000-07:00

The ten year old version of myself would kick me in the shins.

Lately, I have found myself doing some rather odd things that I have never done before. I am watching far less television by choice. Either I don't want the noise or the mindless lack of interaction, or I want to do something different... like reading... or listening to classical impressionist music... or songwriting... All three examples are tagged in ellipsis for the sake of incredulous emphasis. I have the distinct feeling that this feeling is not shared by those who know me well.

I am not ignorant of the fact that my tastes are widely varying. One moment, it could be Less Than Jake at full volume while driving Highway 17 with the windows down, the next it could be sitting for an hour in luxurious silence on our porch whilst sipping twelve year old Jameson. The thing is that I have noticed a shift further into the latter from the former as of late.

Just this afternoon, I sat and read over 100 pages of Never Have Your Dog Stuffed by Alan Alda. I have a dozen perfectly good episodes of Cheers on our DVR that I have never seen, having just now discovered the show's brilliance. But even this new pleasure has been slid to the side by (admittedly) less stereotypical endeavors than your average 28 year old indulges in.

Part of me wondered if I was feeling low. No, I really am not. I am damn happy. I am just surprised by my own evolution. I wonder what a younger version of me would say. I don't feel like I have "become better" or that the old self was boorish or immature. I was the way someone should be at whatever age I was. This time, I notice the shift much more as I edge closer to thirty than I noticed the changes I made as I got closer to twenty.

I feel that I want to do more with the time I have. There are certainly frivolous moments where I pass the time idly. But now, I really hate when those moments pile up. I clean more, write more, read more, work more, learn more and absorb more. I want every day to have a profound discovery, moment of enlightenment, or feeling of accomplishment. I haven't thought of myself as "lazy" since early in my college years, but now my inner drive has gotten even stronger for some reason. I want every day to be a day where I can say "That was worth it", and I tend to get angry at myself when I don't.

My ten year old self may kick me in the shins, but the me of today will walk away to the calming sounds of Claire De Lune. Peace...

2011-03-13T20:03:00.000-07:00

Release Valve

Sometimes, all it really takes to get your mind back where it needs to be is a few nights out with some great people. Why am I surprised that this worked?

Middle of this past week, I had hit a wall fairly hard. It was the first time since living in Chicago that I had felt worn in all departments. Mentally drained, physically just not up on my game, and low on karma for some reason. I needed a prescription for some feel good medicine, and this weekend delivered.

Enter some former students and a current colleague and their wonderful performance Friday night, attended to by yours truly with my babe-alicious wife at my side. A fantastic show with energy to spare, saw some wonderful old colleagues/acquaintances, then capped off the night with pints of the darkest ales at a place in Santa Cruz. But as the old saying goes, take two and call me in the morning...

Saturday night. Mexican food, high-class cocktails and other downtown nuttiness with my oldest friend. I stayed out past midnight two nights in a row. Curative powers? Who knows. Whatever juju was at play, it worked. I feel right again. Peace...

2011-01-29T16:37:00.000-08:00

Taking My Baby Soul For A Ride

Lately, I have been engrossed in a book for the first time in a long time. I can honestly say that aside from reading plays, this is the first time since reading Wonder Boys while on a ski trip with friends in late 2003 that I have found myself planning time to sit and read.

The book, Ghost Rider by Neil Peart, chronicles the aftermath of a ten month period in which he lost his daughter in a car accident and his wife to cancer. He drove, from Quebec to Alaska, down the west coast of Canada and the U.S.A., through Mexico all the way to Belize. I am about 60% through the book, so I don't know how much further he goes. But what kept striking me is his discussion of therapy. He frequently refers to his "little baby soul", likening it to an infant who when upset could benefit from the simple therapy of motion.

There is a lot going on in my life right now between the light at the end of the tunnel that is the final year of my masters, the show I am directing, my teaching responsibilities, and the usual family stuff. Thankfully, it isn't anything I can't handle. Things are quite manageable. But it still feels good to type it all out and voice it, even it just for myself. Maybe that is why I talk to myself so often. I just like to sound things out, even if they aren't "bad things".

So this is me, taking my little baby soul for a ride, figuratively speaking. In the end, that is what I think blogs are really about. So many people (especially in the real heyday of blogging back around 2002 or so) were all about how many readers they had. Hell, even I was on that train. But I think the reason I never deleted this thing in the name of anonymity or lack of use is that it still exists as a sounding board for myself.

Even if things are great, perspective is still a great thing to have. Sometimes, your brain can only get so full of whatever life may give you before you pour some of it out somehow. Peace...

2010-07-03T18:44:00.001-07:00

Mickey's Hands Are Blurry

Wow, its July already. I know it is cliche to say "time flies", but in this case I can't help but feel that it really does. One year ago, I was working 65 hour weeks between PYT and BevMo. Now, only the former remains and my life is far more calm and serene. Strange to think that a year has passed already. Goes to show that being back in California and being happy with life in general makes quick work of the calendar.

Other than our living arrangements (which aren't "bad", just not ideal in my opinion), life is right where I want it. Can't expect much more. My work is rewarding and steady as is Nicole's, we are in good health, we love our friends and family and the time we have been able to spend with them, and life is good.

So for this 4th of July, my toast is to our new-found freedom of our lives. I am thankful for what we have, and it feels great to have it. Not the best post ever, I know. But it sure feels good to be able to say it. Peace...

2010-05-16T20:33:00.000-07:00

Halfway

As of tomorrow when I turn in my final paper, I will be chronologically half-way done with my Masters. Credits wise, I am way ahead of the curve, 21/30 units complete with 15 finished last semester. This has been a real challenge, but I have been enjoying the research I have been doing and hope that my professor likes my paper. I feel good about it!

At last, it will be time to get into summer mode. Teaching with a company I have been with for four years (minus Chicago), taking a trip with Nicole at some point, and hopefully getting a little time to just do nothing at all. Last summer was so intense with teaching all day and working a night job. 60-70 hour weeks were just too much. I am happy that I kept my cool with the students through all that. It helps to think that now I should be able to handle it with even less stress now that I am just working with them and nothing else.

Not too much to say this time other than a little status report. Happy Birthday to my mom, belated to my sis-in-law, and of course my wife. Can't wait for warmer weather. What is up with this rain and 64 degree crap. Come on Cali. Get with it. Peace...

2010-05-02T12:58:00.000-07:00

Mental Megaphone

The past few weeks have been very busy with working on the sound design for Yellow Face, teaching my actors, picking up some guest lectures, and my PR work for the department. This really is the first day I have had in awhile where I do not have some sort of extended agenda for the day. It feels great. But with the lack of goal-oriented thought comes a flood of neglected emotional and mental stuff that can now come to the forefront.

- I miss Greendale. Not homesick, I have learned that now. The mighty midwest will always be my roots. The summer memories of my youth will always be tied to running though sprinklers in our old house, Twi-Nite baseball, sundaes at Ferch's, and fireworks at the high school. I latched onto that energy again when we were in Chicago, but it wasn't enough to carry me. I can now see that I will always look at that part of my life fondly, and still love the little reminders of those days. My Brewers, secret stadium sauce on a brat, Kopps Custard, Sprecher Root Beer, and of course visits back there to see my sister, brother-in-law, and my nieces. My grown up life fits better here in California, but I will never forget where I am from.

- I don't miss performing as much as I thought I would. I have had pangs lately to get back on stage, but working on YF reminded me of that fine line that I now walk between artist and family man. It isn't out of obligation, it is my choice. I made it long ago and I hold to it now. I like coming home at night, seeing my wife and just being with her. Yes, I will be back on stage again someday soon. And yes, I will direct again of course. It is my career, and I will not let that go. But I just can't be one of those people that is always in another show, always pulling late hours week after week. I applaud those who can, but I am really enjoying the role of "husband" right now.

- I can't wait for a vacation. Nicole and I need to get away. Somewhere, sometime soon. Hopefully it won't be too far down the road.

- I love teaching. I already knew that, but my beginning acting students have made it even more obvious. They get the material, and even more than that they are really using it and becoming more honest in their work each and every day. I love it. I recently spoke of teaching as "my drug of choice" to some students, and it really is true. I get a high from it. I can't wait for another dose tomorrow. Getting the shakes here...

Those are the biggies. Not much else to say. My brain feels better for just getting those thoughts out like that. I guess that is why I have been writing this thing for seven years now. Hard to believe.

Man, I want some custard. Peace...

2010-04-02T20:03:00.001-07:00

To Catch A Bully

Phoebe Prince, only fifteen years old and one of the latest victims of the oldest terror of the schoolyard... the bully. "Chased to her grave by a gang-like clique of her peers", her spirit finally broke on January 14 of this year when she hung herself. This story may be several months old, but it still is as potent in shock-value as the day it broke.

Why was this allowed to happen? Why did this girl feel there was no other alternative? How isolated and alone must this girl have felt for her to choose this path? So many questions, and very few answers. The motives for the bullying are not important. The important part is that at some point, this girl had two terrible things happen simultaneously that caused this outcome. If one or the other had been prevented, Phoebe would still be with us today.

The bullying should have been stopped. In this new digital age, "cyberbullying" is a difficult thing to catch. This is unfortunate since in this case, most of the abuse came through text messages in a "three-month campaign of harassment". Again, this kind of thing is hard to catch, but it is not impossible. Where were the parents from either side? The bullies' parents never saw anything? Not a single clue on their students' phones or online?

I also find it hard to believe that Phoebe's parents never noticed anything. Who knows. Maybe she never mentioned it, or hid her pain so well that they weren't the least bit wise. If so, then we mourn for her death even more.

That is the crux of any situation like this. Either the offense is discovered, or the damage is noticed. For Phoebe, it went to a horrible and tragic extreme that could have been prevented. Intervention can work. Bullies aren't going to kiss and make up. They need reprimand and assessment. And the victim's wounds won't just heal after the assailant has been dealt with or moves on to another target. The "powers that be" (parents, administrators, counselors, teachers, and other students to an extent) need to know that silence, ignorance, weak-handed actions, or anything short of swift and decisive action will not do. Victims need to know that they can speak out that that they will be heard.

This cannot be a shocking revelation for this many people. Who can say they weren't bullied at least once? We all have been picked on.

They tease. We run. We cry. We hide.

Sometimes, the abuse was in the dark. Behind the teacher's back. After school in the play ground. A note in a locker.

They chase. They beat. They taunt. They hurt.

Sometimes it was ignored. "Problem child, but the year is almost over anyways." "That is just the way little boys are."

Don't believe the lies. Don't ignore the truth. Don't dumb it down or count it for anything less than what it is. The worst finally happened, and who knows if others didn't take the same actions for the same reasons, or who has come close to being the next tragedy in the morning paper.

2010-04-01T19:09:00.000-07:00

Life Goals

Ever write them down? I know I have thought about them a lot through the years. Some have come true, but not all. Some maybe never will because of the path I have taken. I just hope I can achieve enough of them to make it all worth it.

In no particular order, with no explanation, and by no means a complete or fully-disclosed list...

[ ] Be the next star catcher for the Milwaukee Brewers
[X] See Brett Favre play at Lambeau as a Packer
[ ] Perform in a show at AMTSJ
[X] Play a romantic lead
[X] Get my B.A.
[ ] Get my M.A.
[ ] Get my Ph.D.
[X] Get married
[X] Be a good husband
[ ] Be a father
[ ] Be a good father
[ ] Own a home
[ ] Be regarded as a successful/influential educator
[ ] Publish my book
[ ] Be a grandfather
[ ] Go to Ireland
[ ] Take Nicole to Paris
[ ] Brew my own beer at least once
[X] Learn to cook
[X] Get a teaching job at a university
[ ] Get a permanent faculty position at a university
[ ] Direct at an Equity house
[ ] Complete a precise family tree
[ ] Grow old and cranky, drinking beer with shriveled up versions of my best friends

Here's to dreaming. Peace...

2010-03-29T09:30:00.000-07:00

Metoprolol Dreams

I used to get migraines. The kind that would start with a flickering light in the corner of my peripheral vision, then spread across my view until I couldn't see anything. Suddenly, the "auras" would go away, but be quickly followed by that crushing, debilitating, all-encompassing pain that my fellow migraine sufferers know all too well. I could lose up to three whole days because of them, and had them as often as every ten days.

Thanks to my doctor, I am now on beta-blockers as a preventative measure against these gnarly headaches. It has worked wonders, since (knock on wood) I haven't had a full-blown one since I started the treatment. It has also helped my slightly high blood pressure, which is a lovely side-effect. But, one other effect of the medicine is listed on WebMD simply as "unusual dreams". Unusual. The makeup of my dreamscape since starting this medicine could be described far more vividly than just "unusual"... for everynight, my mind switches gears, and takes an acid-like trip into Metoprolol Dreams.

There, you will not find the classic nightmarish fodder of falling, running in slow motion or being naked in your high-school chemistry classroom. In this warped, parasomnial world, dreams are so well defined in their structure and visuals that you would swear they were truly real. I once was able to wake, boot-up my computer in the next room, and transcribe an entire dream (verbatim) into a short-story about a boy whose dream-self is a spectre who decimates a small town in his dreams every night. That was over ten months ago, and rereading it now, it still holds up as a solid story with dramatic promise.

In these dreams, I rarely find the nonsensical worlds of elephants eating donuts as they fly spaceships to New Jersey during rush-hour. These dreams have such a powerful reality to them, that I sometimes have real problems snapping out of them when I awake. As annoying as this is, it's very rare. But it sure gives me pause to think about the subconscious mind's hold on our reality.

No matter what Burtonesque world I visit at night, I still wake each morning happy that I am healthier for the treatment I am now on. So until they can develop a new drug, I guess my mind will take the nightly journey into an unknown world where the borders between fantasy and reality are blurred to the point that you almost can tell the difference between the two. Peace...

2010-02-20T11:44:00.000-08:00

Not Lenny!

Just found some REALLY OLD mp3's from my ska band. 7 years ago. David Leventhal produced these way back when we first met. Hopped up on coffee, recording until the wee hours of the morning after working opening shifts at Starbucks. I posted them up. I was guitar and backing vox. Loud, fast, fun, not always perfect, but it was our noise!

Not Lenny, The Lost Mp3's

Enjoy! Peace...

2010-02-01T08:24:00.000-08:00

One Year

Wow, have we been back in California for a year already? Time flies. It has been great to be home. I do miss Ellen and all the Lynch/Hayes folks and the few friends from various jobs I had there. But in the end, we are much happier here.

Thanks to everyone for a awesome year back home. Many more to come. Peace...

2010-01-31T09:27:00.000-08:00

A Life Domestic

As I sit here, watching Good Eats in a freshly cleaned apartment, I realize that I have found a real liking for an inviting home. I guess it isn't all that maverick of me to be a young married male who is shirking the status-quo and enjoying the rewards of a clean and organized apartment. But, it is very telling that I spent most of the day yesterday scrubbing, cleaning, picking-up and otherwise refreshing our home.

The day before, I woke up with the sun to move all of our furniture out of our living room and kitchen so that we could get the carpets cleaned. And let me tell you, it made a world of difference. It really makes you realize how dirty something was once you clean it. One year of foot traffic, dust, food dribbles and what-not took their toll. Nicole and I agreed that it wasn't that the apartment smelled "bad" before as much as it smells really fresh and good now.

With all the cleaning, I also turn back to the aforementioned culinary entertainment. It is coming up on two years of marriage, and I really have loved becoming a better cook. I was never really all that bad, just unlearned and unexperienced. I love getting ideas and making things from scratch without a recipe. I am actually dreaming of a pouch cooked salmon dish from the episode I linked above. Amazing stuff.

So, with our new midnight jasmine scented candles, the fluffy cleaned carpet, and stacks of laundered clothes laying about, I can say that life is pretty darn comfortable. Peace...

2010-01-20T17:21:00.000-08:00

Stop Ginger Hate

I see how it is NBC, you just hate him because of the color of his hair. How petty. Forget the talent, forget the fact that he is one of the smartest comedians on TV and that you should be thankful for the fact that he had raised the bar for late night TV.

If Friday is indeed his last show, then it is official. NBC, you suck.

2010-01-09T19:14:00.000-08:00

Nothing Wrong With This

A productive day at work, an evening watching football, and some incredible smoked chicken thanks to my grill outside. Top it all off with a beer and maybe a Sprecher Root Beer float later and you have a great night.

I am sitting watching Dallas beat the brains out of Philly, and really enjoying the feel of what I have going. Life isn't perfect by a long shot, but you can't complain about having the bills paid and having a comfy chair to chill in while you relax after work.

School is kicking back into gear in about two weeks. But until then, it will be nice to bask in the glow of the good thing I have going here. Peace...

2010-01-05T17:57:00.000-08:00

A New Year, New Challenges

Another year goes by, and I look back very briefly to see what had happened. For those of you who haven't been on Mars, Nicole and I are happily back in San Jose after our excursion in Chicago. It was an amazing experience, but we just missed home.

Being back here has been incredible. Times with old friends, meeting new ones, happy hours at the new place, and being back with the family. I have loved every minute of it. It has been hard, working long hours to make ends meet. But I love the work I do at SJSU and at other companies, and Nicole has thrived in her new position at Nordstrom. (So proud of her). And that little excursion to China which was a blast. (Never travelling abroad without the wife again.)

All in all, 2009 was a great year. It had its moments of stress with my gramma hurting herself and other family things here and there I don't want to get too deep into. But, I have a roof over my head, money in the bank, a wife who I adore, and friends that simply rock.

So, now onto a new decade. Wait, thats a big chunk to look at. Ten whole years. Jeez. Ten years ago I was a senior in high school and was planning on going to San Diego State. Hadn't even discovered theatre yet. Wow. So, just looking at this year. New teaching opportunity at State, travel plans, the masters continues, and I get do it all with my lady by my side. Can't wait. Peace...

2009-11-19T06:50:00.001-08:00

Excited but really nervous about China. Nicole just left for work, and I am all alone getting ready to go. I will miss her a lot, but this is an incredible journey for me, and I really need this. It will be good for me.

It will be nice to come home. Ten days on the other side of the world will be difficult. Miss you all. Peace...

2009-11-16T13:40:00.001-08:00

Kick In The Ass

There are just those certain people you encounter in your everyday life that you feel deserve something beyond a smack upside the head, but a step short of a punch in the gut. They just need a good swift kick in the ass.

-People in the library on the "silent floor" who are on their phones full volume.
-People eating and drinking, crumping bags and disturbing others with obnoxious smelling food in those same study areas. (Can you tell where I am today?)
-People who cut in line. Simple as that.
-People who won't let you merge.
-People who bitch about free things. It was FREE, take it and leave.

Insert yours here. Back to work. Peace...

2009-11-16T12:56:00.001-08:00

Three days until China! Excited, nervous, a little over loaded, but more the first than anything. Going to be a real adventure!

2009-11-10T13:39:00.001-08:00

All New Digs

Decided to get out of the inside of my head, and make this place a little more loungy. You likes? Lots of the same stuff as before. Links, photos, quotes... but new stuff like my YouTube Channel and a playlist thingy that is pretty cool. Its like TDF is evolving.

So... also this happens to be my 300th post. Wow. Lots of writing through the years. Been a real renaissance this past Fall with me actually using this thing again after not touching it for two years. Damn MySpace craze. I won't go chronicling the highlights of the past six years and 300 rants of mine, but it has been fun. I have actualy had a sizeable amount of people checking this place out. Blogging is not dead, and neither am I. Suprising on both fronts though considering what has been going on the past three months. Hell, the last nine months.

This semester hasn't been easy. Lots of papers and other creative projects that have been taking up my time. Add work, married life, and the upcoming trip to China, and this Fall has become an unnamable horror from beyond, with mango chutney. Yes, I made an Elzar reference. Woot. It has been fun though, moving up the ranks towards being a teacher in a real university. I am looking forward more and more to the day when I get to be called Professor... Maybe even Doctor.

For now, its home to clean and work on papers and relax in my new armchair. My chair. Sounds so good. Peace...

2009-11-04T10:52:00.000-08:00

http://www.u-starvin.com/micromaniac/index.html?item=christmasLights

Oh my god....

2009-10-29T13:33:00.003-07:00

China trip coming soon! Three weeks until takeoff! Wow, this is going to be an incredible experience. Great wall, jade temple, the food... Lousy 12 hour flight.

2009-10-29T13:33:00.001-07:00

China trip coming soon! Three weeks until takeoff! Wow, this is going to be an incredible experience. Great wall, jade temple, the food... Lousy 12 hour flight.

2009-10-27T11:06:00.000-07:00

Mind Full

In my office at SJSU, just looking through my old posts and old friends on MySpace. I don't use it much anymore, but it is interesting to see those people that have sort of fallen by the wayside over the years. Some are gone because of a falling out of some kind, some just faded away. Still sad no matter what.

I love my friends. I am the sort of guy who doesn't waste time on needless acquaintences just for the sake of popularity. So, its disheartening to look back on certain friendships that were once part of my life if not a core part. In some cases, there is the whole "growing apart" thing. I know I have changed in many ways in the past five years. Marriage and new paths my career have been a big part of that. Along the way, I have shed some old friends beccause I felt that I was moving on into maturity and they were lingering behind in late adolescence. That may sound really conceited, but that is important to me.

Then there are those that just aren't around anymore. We didn't grow apart, we just moved apart. I have maintained some of those friendships to this day. I love that Liesl is still a big part of my life eleven years later. And Cap'n Rainbow (Mel) is still there too. I guess the gist of all of this is a look at how the landscape of my life has changed when it comes to the people in it.

I like the way things are now, and I know it won't always stay this way. The cast of characters in my show (so to speak) will change with time. But for now, I am thankful for who is around right now. Peace...

2009-10-26T21:20:00.000-07:00

Catching Breath, Mapping A Course

It has been a typically busy semester for me. Not like that is any big surprise as far as the status quo is concerned. My six years on this blog are riddled with stories of frenetic nights of writing papers and tending to rehearsals. What makes this semester different that the others is the impetus on scholarship.

Before, I was only a cursory writer when the classes demanded it. I wrote well, but only to the extent that an undergrad was expected to. Now, I face much tougher scrutiny of my work. Everything is picked through with a fine-tooth comb and my every word is criticized by teachers who long ago earned their doctorates. This puts me in an awkward situation.

When I was working towards my BA, my writing was well honed but not what you would call expertly scholarly. I am proud of the work I did, but looking back on it is embarrassing by my current standards.

Now I sit in seminars where the very construction of my work is picked apart and held up to the harsh light of literary criticism. The most interesting part of it is that I don't mind it nearly as much as I thought I would. I mean, I care of course. I am very protective of my creations, whatever medium they may be. But now, I really am taking the evaluations and using them to my advantage.

I have two 15 page papers due in the next month before I leave for China. In my younger years I would have dreaded this challenge. But now, it is barely a bead of sweat upon my brow. I guess I am growing into this collegiate life I have set in front of me. Feels good. Peace...

2009-10-26T12:01:00.000-07:00

Juggling

Lots to do, not enough time to do it in. Papers, outlines, China stuff, cleaning, work.

Thankfully, getting close to being finished. Nicole got a great promotion and I couldn't possibly be prouder. Things are getting good in a hurry.

Hope all is well folks! Peace...

2009-10-21T09:52:00.001-07:00

Not sure why all my hosted photos are not working. Gonna go postal on Ripway if they don't fix this soon. On a lighter note... Liesl is engaged! Stoked!

2009-10-19T23:26:00.001-07:00

Very happy to be in my Masters right now. Can't wait to be teaching full time, doing what I love. Sick of working for a paycheck and not using my talents. Soon.

2009-10-16T14:19:00.001-07:00

Been too long since i have been in musical rehearsals. All this dancing is kicking my ass. Octoberfest Sunday!

2009-10-15T16:00:00.001-07:00

Sugar low in class. I need a candy bar..

2009-10-13T09:22:00.000-07:00

Rain Makes Me Feel Introspective

It is pouring outside, and there aren't any signs of it letting up any time soon. First big storm of the year and it is royally messing up life in San Jose for lot of people. An inconvenience? Yes. But after Chicago, this isn't as hard to deal with. Coping with snow makes you realize how easy it is to just have rain. Made me start thinking of Chicago and how much has changed and where I was just one year ago.

I was working for Hub Group and hating it already. My apologies to those of you who work in that field, but I couldn't derive one bit of satisfaction from that job other than the paycheck and teaching others how to do the job once I had established myself. Cublicles are just not for me.

Getting to work sucked. Nothing more eloquent than that. 20+ miles, traffic, and the aforementioned weather made it impossible to start or end the day on a good note. Got to work pissed off, came home pissed off. Nicole has even mentioned the marked difference in my demeanor now that my commute is simpler here in San Jose.

I won't get into things much further. I have said it all before. I have tried not to call Chicago a "failed experiment", but I just can't help it. It didn't work. But lately, rather than dwell on what didn't click, I have been loving what has.

I am happy. Our apartment is cozy (if not a bit dirty at the moment), I am extremely happy with Nicole and married life in general, my Masters is going very well, my sound design for the last show I did came out great, I am getting more hours at work and I am heading to China in about a month. Best part of all of this is that I am not lonely anymore. That was the worst part of Chicago. No friends. Didn't really have time to make any with having to work so much. I did have some family there, but it was hard to see them on any kind of regular basis. But last night, had dinner with my parents on a last minute whim. Gotta love it.

Sigh... It is just good to be back. Time for office hours. Peace...

2009-10-06T13:54:00.001-07:00

Full Schedule

Hectic. Overused on this blog, but true all the same. Papers due for Masters classes, preparations for my trip to China, finishing sound design for The Colored Museum, and having a social life. You see... this is why I came back.

Missing my friends since I have no time to see them, and missing my family for the same reason. I feel really out of the loop in many arenas. Not much I can do though since I signed on for this myself.

Back to work. Peace...

2009-09-15T18:32:00.000-07:00

Groovin, On A Tuesday Afternoon

All is peace and tranquility around our apartment. Aine is looking out the window at the courtyard, I am taking care of a little business over a glass of wine, and life seems pretty good. Light work week from the night job, but much to do with opening night fast approaching for The Colored Museum, for which I am the sound designer.

I just went to grab the mail, and I must say that I do like our living arrangement here in San Jose. We loved our apartment in Chicago, but we always said that it was only inside our walls that we felt comfortable. That is hard to take after awhile. Getting the mail, shopping, even walking from our car was discomforting endeavor. We had to be so on top of our toes constantly. Not just crime, even though that was a factor too. We hated our noisy neighbors (with the exception of a couple that lived on the top floor who cat-sat for us once), we hated the neighborhood, and we hated the weather.

Here, we have neighbors we hang with or at least can coexist with quite well. Nominal petty crime is around, but it is hardly a problem. Rent is higher, but we have so much more room. Don't get me wrong, much love to CB... our old landlord. Guy rocked. But we are just more... "ahhhh" here.

It isn't just our new digs, but being home with family... friends... and purpose. I am teaching. Grading papers. Cultivating young minds again. I love it. Life is good. I can't complain. I love my home, my wife, my mom and dad, my siblings, our close friends both old and new, my school and the vibe I have going. Not much more to say than that. Peace...

2009-09-08T21:34:00.000-07:00

Happy Hour

There is something altogether civilized about having a true happy hour with the sound of a cocktail shaker punctuating the end of a hard days work for husband and wife. People may disregard this as a ritual of those with a fixation on imbibing spirits as a point of habit. I look at it as an ode to an age gone by when the sound of ice against glass or the stainless steel of a shaker was a indicator of the end of the hours of obligation, and beginning to hours of jubilation and relaxation as the night came on and a man and woman could relax knowing they had earned their nightcap.

So drink up everyone. You have earned a trip to the bar. I am pouring. Peace...

2009-09-03T09:13:00.000-07:00

Surrounded By Art

Being back at SJSU has been like jumping back into the pool after sitting it out in the jacuzzi for an hour. It's shocking, invigorating, and all encompassing. I missed being involved in the arts more than I can express. I had my pinky toe in the deep end so-to-speak when I was in Chicago, but I never really got the chance to dive in with how much was demanded of me when I was there. Sure I did some workshops, auditioned a bit, and saw a play or two. But I couldn't get "in" like I am here. Big reason Nicole and I came back.

So here I am, back in the department that granted me my B.A., and will grant me my M.A. in short turn. It is 9am, and here is the day I have in front of me.

Emailing and working on sound design for "The Colored Museum", followed by my office hours, then Grad Assistant for Theatre Appreciation, grading papers and staff meetings, Graduate Seminar, then off to see Dave perform downtown. Literally, I am surrounded by art. I had myself a very satisfying jam session the other night with the guys. Also ran into an old friend/artist at the jam. Mara McWilliams is a local artist with major world scope. I won't detract from her by slating her work too much. Just go take a looksie. Good stuff.

Well, I have much to do and less time to do it in. Hope all of you are getting your dose of art where you can. If not, you know where you can find me. Peace...

2009-09-01T09:26:00.000-07:00

My Love Hate Relationship With Caffeine

In recent years, my life has taken some dramatic twists and turns that have not only affected what my daily routine entails, but how I approach it completely. I used to be the quintessential morning person. Up by 7am, ready and raring to go soon after. I never needed coffee, even when I worked 4am shifts at Starbucks after long nights out carousing till the wee hours of the morning.Now, wether it is age or necessity, nature has forced an evolutionary change in me...

Here I sit in the green room, lappy in hand, answering emails and handling logistics for the day. I have been up since 7:30, but still feel like I am in that walking dream state. I need a boost badly. I need me a cup'o'joe.

Late nights of theatre and work, plus the rigors of married life have made it plum necessary for me to get a daily jolt of something resembling coffee. Monster Irish Blend has been my fave as of late.

Tastes like an Irish Car Bomb. Yum. Might go get me some now. I just hope I don't get the Strong Sad CaffOverdrive effect.

Caffyjibblies suck. Peace...

2009-08-27T14:24:00.000-07:00

Becoming A Master

This whole Master's thing is proving quite compicated for sure. I will say that the beginning of this whole process had me very excited, but the whole bureaucratic side of things in the university is frustrating.

Class enrollment quotas, add codes, crashing, funding, furloughs.... ugh. I really hope that this stuff has subsided a little by the time I am a professor.

No long post, just venting a bit. Busy day ahead. Peace...

2009-08-17T12:24:00.000-07:00

Back In Old Territory

Wow. Dusting off the old TDF to make a post that people will actually read. Well, maybe some family will read. Whatever...

Kinda got down on MySpace for eons, but seems like that is all a bunch of rats abandoning a sinking ship. So here I am!

Gonna be cleaning up space a bit as we go, but here is a little update for friends and fam. Starting my Masters next week, working my butt off, and enjoying a light week of cleaning and getting down on the old to do list. Still on a Santa Barbara hangover from a wonderful trip. Thank you to the Terpenings for all the hospitality!

Well, off to start my day... rather late I must add. Peace...

2006-04-10T11:04:00.000-07:00

Return

Just closed Little Shop. Have several backlogged blogs on myspace to upload in the next day or two. Its just easier to do on the blog interface on there rather than publish with HTML on here. But, TDF isn't going away.

Yippie for our five readers.

If you read this, leave a comment NOW. Let me know you exist and aren't just some hornball srilankan looking for porn.

Peace...

2006-01-04T09:04:00.000-08:00

New Gig!

I am a very happy man this morning...

As of last night, I am officially the Vocal/Music Director for Cupertino High School's production of Little Shop of Horrors!

I am seriously stoked! I can't remember if I had mentioned before, but I have parted ways with CMT so getting this gig is great both monetarily and artistically. We are having auditions in a few weeks, so I get to fly through the music for Monroe and then focus on Cupertino.

Great start to 2006!

Butt dance, butt dance... like the rhythms down your pants now... Peace...

2005-12-30T08:56:00.000-08:00

2005 Go Bye-Bye

Quite an interesting year I must say. Away we go...

Seeing Chicago with Niamh, going to Bear Valley to do very little skiiing and a lot of partying, doing Smokey Joe's Cafe with WVLO, performing with Company One, vocal directing Flapper in Gilroy, getting my first professional show with Cabrillo Stage and working with my professor on stage, throwing a great surprise birthday bash for Niamh (gotcha baby), one-year anniversary in Capitola, having my own surprise thrown on me backstage at Cabrillo for my birthday (got me baby), Niamh moving to SF, teaching with CMT (not anymore!), getting engaged to the most wonderful woman on Earth, Company One again, playing Gaston in Beauty And The Beast, a road trip to Oregon and a wonderful Christmas.

Those are just the highlights. Amongst all that are countless nights of shooting pool and eating killer nachos with Dave at South First, rocking with RoShamBo, nights on the town having a drink or two with Chenoah, cozy evenings in with Niamh, getting a new kitten, getting a new car and many other little moments that made this a great year.

As for next year, vocal directing with Monroe Middle School and possibly vocal/music directing for Cupertino High School, auditions galore, planning the wedding and hopefully taking a trip to Milwaukee to show Nicole around a bit. Should be a great year. Hope your 2005 was memorable. If not, you still have 36 hours or so to go out there and make it so! Have a fun, save New Year's Eve folks. See you in 2006. Peace...

2005-12-27T09:25:00.000-08:00

'Tis The Season

Well, Christmas 2005 has come and gone. Another year of egg nog, mistletoe, crowded malls, irate FedEx workers, credit card abuse, and other tidings of the season. But amidst all this cliche comedic fodder, there are also many great things that happen. Heres the tally...

1181.3 miles driven.
A great trip to Oregon to see Nicole's parents and grandmother.

Nine different highways in two different states.
See above... Did I ever mention that I-5 is the most boring highway on Earth? I loved the Lake Shasta area, but when there is even a little cloud cover, you can't see crap anyways.

Five gas stops.
Did you know that it is illegal to pump your own gas in the state of Oregon? Well, I sure as hell didn't. Three gallons into a stop in Medford, the attendant comes running out in a panic telling me he is gonna get fired if his manager saw. He was really cool about it though. (Thanks "V".) Nicole and I went in to get some coffee and a Sobe. While we were paying, some homeless guy was buying scratcher tickets and he won five bucks...

Homeless dude: I won FIVE BUCKS! (coughs raspily)
V: Yay!!! Go take a shower...

Oregon is a weird place man. Really pretty in certain places, but the gene pool there is definately a bit more narrow than one would expect. Moving on...

Three new books for my collection.
Thanks to Nicole and her family, I have a little more eye candy for my shelves. A leather-bound edition of The Selected Works of Mark Twain, a 1931 print of The Adventues of Tom Sawyer (both from Nicole's parents), and a hardcover, embossed collector's edition of The Lord Of The Rings Trillogy thanks to my wonderful fiance Nicole. She also got me an original vinyl print of Bon Jovi from 1987 which has Wanted Dead Or Alive and a few other classics on it. I love you Niamh.

Two slabs of killer prime rib.
The typical fare at our house on Christmas. My dad's pride and joy. Good times.

And finally,
ONE NEW COMPY!
Yesserie. Yours truly finally got a new PC. It has been a need as of the past three years or so since the old compy had been freezing up a lot. Trying to run 2004 programs on a 2000 computer will do that. So now, I have all the cool bells and whistles that new PC's have, but I find myself loving the smaller features more...

-Won't lock up while I type a blog.
-Doesn't take ten minutes to boot up.
-Can run more than one program at once.
-Doesn't tout a BetaMax drive as a feature.

Thanks Mom and Dad.

With the new compy, I can do more pics and stuff that I actually promised before. Loading them up on the old one was such a chore. Ahh, I love new technology. Wow, long one today! That is all though. Maybe something more for NYE, so wait and see. Peace...

2005-11-29T10:43:00.000-08:00

Turkey, Guacamole, Chocolate Soy Milk...

It is one of the things that my friends and my fiance love about me...

...the joy I find in the simple things in life.

People who let you merge, people who wave "thank you" when you let them merge, people who hold doors, belgian chocolate chip cookies, old NES games, an old song on the radio you miss hearing, your favorite movie coming on TV at the precise moment you are settling down to relax for the night, cartoons (and I mean GOOD ONES), purring cats (bite me guys, its cute)...

There are many more, but thats just what came off the top of my head. Hope all is well in your worlds, folks. Come check out Beauty & The Beast if you can. We open on Thursday and run through Sunday. Only one weekend... Call (408) 866-2700 for tix.

Great times this Thanksgiving with the family, friends, and Nicole. Partied it up at the Brit afterwards, great times. Pics of that later this week. The RoShamBo shots are going bye-bye for now.

Have a good one folks. Peace...

2005-11-08T10:22:00.000-08:00

One With The Company...

2005-11-02T20:05:00.000-08:00

Rockin' The Fall

I have been meaning to post a blog about this for a long time, but stuff kept coming up that just added more to it that I held back to now.

This fall has truly been a revival of my passion for rock. I have had a blast doing theatre and I still do, but my love of rock and playing guitar has been rekindled.

In the past several months, I have had a lot of really cool moments where I felt this incredible surge in me to play again. A couple times hanging around Dave and the guys from 5606, chilling with them while they rehearsed for their gig at the Roxy a few weeks ago...

...Getting into talks with local band The Cyn Project, which didn't pan out due to scheduling but thanks to them for inviting me to jam!

...Seeing a bitchin' Less Than Jake concert!

...and most of all, sitting in for a few gigs with RoShamBo on lead vocals, which has now earned me a spot in the band as their keyboard/rythym guitar/backup vocalist as well as filling in on lead vocals every now and then!

Continuing the trend, I am singing lead again this Saturday at 5th Quarter in Almaden. Come check it out! See RoShamBo's site for details, and let me know if you are coming by! Return of rock? Indeed. Peace...

2005-10-31T14:24:00.000-08:00

RoShamBo Halloween Party!

Took out the picture marquee... Too much bandwidth... See the Thanksgiving post above for more shots! Literally and figuratively. Peace...

2005-10-13T09:44:00.000-07:00

Caffinated Ramblings

Ahh... 9am, MLK Library, Rockstar in hand and away we go.

The motorized blinds on the window slowly lower in their timely fashion, bringing a dull glow to the computer niche on the third floor. The view outside is gorgeous with the ivy colored Tower Hall and the main lawn and palm trees on the horizon against the eastern foothills. Ok, enough poetics.

Today is one of those days where you just look at humanity around you and shake your head. Every computer has someone on it, and I must say that today more than any other day that I have been in there in the past several years... there are more inconsiderate idiots than ever.

People talking full-out on cell phones, eating and leaving their half munched pop-tarts and crumbs all over the stations, watching anime on laptops at insane volumes... Just wanna give the whole room a collective smack up-side the head for good measure. Gah...

And this plague isn't just hitting SJSU. Up at SFSU, there are recon reports of bad punk-drumming in a residential zone... an offense punishable by vaseline on a front-door knob at the very least. Stinky gutter punks should be seen and not heard, especially when they can only manage to garner the musical talent of a one-armed chimp with a wooden spoon and a saucepan. Double gah...

One "gah" too many. Thats all for today. Peace...

2005-10-11T09:52:00.000-07:00

A SPECIAL NOTE

The next three posts (Flashback, Lucky Man, and Frontman...) are postdated. I was just lazy on uploading them to TDF from MySpace. They are dated at the time they were published, so those three are new to you if you only read TDF here! Peace...

2005-10-11T09:30:00.000-07:00

Flashback

Howdeee... Just dropping a little quick one before I jet to Company One rehearsal.

I was just in Tully's in the MLK grabbin my caffeine fix, when I noticed on the radio they were playing "Jump, Jive and Wail" by the Brian Setzer Orchestra. I think "Wow, this takes me back to high school..."

Right after that, on comes Semisonic with "Closing Time". A double shot of Late '90s nostalgia. Makes you think about how much has changed since that song was cool. Wow.

Oh, and adding to reoccuring theme of weirdoes in the library, there is a very odd looking fella across from me at a computer who wreaks of Pinaud Talcum Powder, and insists on rustling about a single sheet of paper as he types one click at a time, somewhat desperately trying to figure something out on his terminal.

This is definately an interesting place to people-watch. Between homeless vagrants, stressed out masters students, and caffinated co-eds, you get a great cross section of SJSU in here on the third floor. (post publish add on: A guy sat down kitty-cornered to me at a terminal and is muttering at the computer as he picks his ears... gah!)

That about does it for me today. Have a good one folks... Peace...

2005-10-03T21:51:00.000-07:00

Lucky Man

I just wanted to say to you all that I am truly a lucky man. I have a great woman in my life who really cares for me and treats me so well. For many of you, this may come off as cheezy or schmaltzy... but for me this really is a big deal.

I have been abused by the women in my life in the past. No long stories here... just needs to be said that I have gone through a lot. More than just high-school drama or drunken college "relationships". Real pain in the past. But now I have a woman who is, in such a simple way, good. As a person to herself and to me, she is innately good. I treasure this. And I treasure her.

The word "good" has gained a level of mediocrity in today's language. But, I think that "great" seems to make the level of intensity the measure of a words worth. Nicole is a good person, and I am blessed that I get to call her every morning and hear her tell me that she loves me. Nothing flowery here. I am just greatful to finally be happy.

Go find someone "good" for you. Because it just might end up being "great".

2005-10-01T16:37:00.000-07:00

Frontman For A Night

What a night...

If any of you didn't hear already, I had quite the evening last night. I got called up at the last minute to sing lead for my friends cover-band, Roshambo for their gig at Boswell's in Campbell. I was admittedly a touch nervous considering I had zero time to rehearse with them and the fact that I screamed my voice hoarse at a concert Wednesday night. (Thank you LTJ for yet another kick-ass show!)

So, I saunter on into the bar about an hour and a half before the gig to meet Dan, the drummer to get the set list and work things out. I knew about 80% of their songs already, so I was in pretty good shape. The rest of the band covered for me on the ones I didn't know too well, so it went great. Fantastic crowd too... Three birthday parties and a bachelorette party along with a slew of regulars made for a pretty packed house. They were singing and dancing along with us, which (anyone who has ever been in a band will know this) is SUCH a great feeling. My voice held up for the most part minus the fact that I was missing about half of my upper octave. But it was still a TON of fun, and I just might be joining up with them full-time. I'll keep you all posted.

Thanks to everyone who came out, or even sent me some encouragement via MySpace. Love you all! Thanks Jerry, Amanda, Laura and Niamh. You guys rock. Well, time to go relax with the afforementioned lady in my life, seeing as I am typing this on her laptop in SF. Have a great weekend folks! Peace...

p.s. Check out Roshambo's Website if you get a sec. They fuckin' rock!

2005-09-15T07:41:00.000-07:00

Do You Know Farmer?

Take my Quiz on QuizYourFriends.com!

Lets see how well you really know me... This oughta be interesting... Peace...

2005-09-12T10:14:00.000-07:00

Then, There Are Those...

Add on

Ironically, about one minute after I recorded that post, I was literally almost killed my some idiot in an Acura who ran the red light at 4th and San Carlos. So much for "good karma". Peace...

2005-09-08T08:27:00.000-07:00

You've Gotta Be Kiddin'

2005-09-07T16:45:00.000-07:00

Meow...

I never really considered myself much of a "cat person" growing up. But I tell ya, I have definately turned into one. Some of you may have seen the pics of Aine, the kitten Nicole and I got this week. Also, there is my own cat, Charlie. For those of you who haven't seen them, here they are...

Aine relaxing on our bed...

Posing for the camera...

Charlie being as cute as possible...

Just like his owner, napping midday...

Charlie has been my little buddy for over two years since we got him from my sister. Poor little guy was being ganged up on by her two dogs and her (then two) kids. So now, he is living out the rest of his years with us. Little Aine is a new addition to Nicole's apartment in SF. We got her this past Sunday, and she is settling into life in Niamh's room. More pics of her to come.

It's just cool to have this 18lb ball of fluff around to keep my company. I do like dogs, but its nice to have a more "chill" pet around the house... Well, gotta go, Charlie is looking at me and wondering why I'm not petting him. Peace...

2005-09-01T09:42:00.000-07:00

Old Seat

Back in the library with the updates again. Been awhile since I did this. I can tell ya, the sensation of homeless people around you using the computers with their rather "aromatic" fragrance and wonderful nervous twitches... priceless. (Cuz who would want to pay to experience THAT?)

Life goes on, classes all set, Company is gonna be awesome with its darker theme for the year. If you come and see it, be prepared for a shock. Definately a different character than I have ever played!

But for now, its time to check the ol' MySpace and head down to HGH before Company starts. Hope all is well in your worlds folks. Leave me a comment (either on the blog or on my main page on MySpace, or on TDF too...) and I will love ya for it! Peace...

2005-08-28T20:02:00.000-07:00

Happiness Is...

-Pizza and mudslides
-Less Than Jake tickets
-A nice fitting suit
-Pillow-top mattress pads
-Pizza for breakfast
-The number "6"
-Chocolate soymilk
-Less Than Jake CD's
-Fedora hats
-Chocolate-chip cookies
-SOBE Power
-LTJ + Fedora + windows down on 280 + warm summer breeze
-A girlfriend who is wonderful in every way

Go get yourself some happiness. Peace...

2005-08-28T17:43:00.000-07:00

SF Rocks

2005-08-25T18:38:00.000-07:00

Busy, Tired, Blah Blah Blah...

Sorry folks, I sorta fell of the face of the earth there. Finished Annie Get Your Gun, and am just getting back into the swing of things at school. It has been a few weeks of sleeping in a lot, spending a lot of time with Nicole up in the city, and just trying to let my body recharge after a very long summer of shows.

I'll tell you, doing a show with Cabrillo was a lot of fun and a GREAT experience. But it really does take up most of your summer! This summer went by so fast. Working all day at COPA, then rehearsing or performing all night. But it was a great summer aside from familial issues.

Anyways, life is back to abnormal for a little while. Back to working on school stuff, auditions and taking a little break from being on stage. I pulled out of Oklahoma with SDG cuz my knee wasn't quite up to it. But hey, I needed a little time off considering that I haven't really given myself a break in about two freakin' years... I had an audition today for a big equity show in SF, which actually went really well! I sang well, and they seemed impressed. Now, I just sit and wait, and we shall see if I get a callback.

For now, its back to school and seeing my Niamh as often as I can. I will be heading up there this weekend to spend some time with her. Miss her mucho. Well I am outta here. I have lotsa pics to put up here from Smokey Joe's Cafe and other stuff, but that will proabably be next week. As for updates, expect them more weekly than daily. I know its forsaking the name, but TDF is TDF, and that isn't changin... Peace...

2005-07-31T10:28:00.000-07:00

Just A Little One

Just wanted to let you all know that an update is coming in the next few days. Life is going to be fairly insane for 48 hours or so with the show today, rehearsals, and trying to see Niamh as much as I can before she moves.

Lots of stuff to come, including Smokey Joe's pics, birthday news, and other cool stuff. Look for it in the next week. Peace...

2005-07-17T09:02:00.000-07:00

Updatenessosity

Look whos back. Well, sort of...

I am so freakin' drained right now from performances of Annie Get Your Gun and from teaching at CMTSJ. It has been a really long and hard haul from rehearsals and now into the run. But it has been a blast! And add to that... our show is officially a BONA FIDE HIT!!!

Cabrillo Stage whips up an evening of delectably light-hearted entertainment. The pace is fast, the orchestra splendid, the vocalists are impressive, and the overall effect is one of dazzling, colorful spectacle.
— Ann Bennett, Sentinel 7/14/05

The song is right—there’s no business like show business—and by the looks of it, there’s no show like Cabrillo Stage’s “Annie Get Your Gun” this summer. To say the production team and the actors behind “Annie” do justice to Irving Berlin’s revered Broadway baby is an understatement. The acting is on the mark, the singing is of the highest caliber and the entire stage sizzles with some of the best creative talent around. Bottom line: This “Annie” hits the bullseye.
—Greg Archer, Good Times 7/14/05

And that is just the tip of the iceberg. Those are just excerpts from two reviews. There are about seven out right now, and each one is giving us five stars across the board! Feels really good to be in a professional show that is such a big hit! So come on down and see me, (yes, performing at Paul Sawyer) in Cabrillo Stage's Annie Get Your Gun!

Past all that... a lot else has been happenin... Lets see. I haven't really updated in a long time. Well, lets make this quick. Had a great one year anniversary with Niamh. (see her blog for pics, AstroPoet's Corner) Continued working my butt off at CMT, opened the show and had Niamh and Chenoah in the crowd as well as some family. Great opening night!

As you may have read before, I was sending good vibes to my dad. He has been in the hospital for almost a week now. Long story which I will spare you all. Just send him some good vibes. Thank you to Chenoah, Katie B. and my loving Niamh for all of their support. You guys seriously saved me.

Well folks, I am off to get ready for my matinee. Drop me a line some time if I know ya. Peace...

2005-07-12T12:46:00.000-07:00

Updateness

Sorry folks, as I stated in my previous audio post, I have been really bogged down. Lots of stuff in the mix. Work, show, family stuff, life stuff. Just be content with the explanation that I am overwhelmed and I will update when I can. Good vibes to my papa... Peace...

2005-07-08T17:39:00.000-07:00

2005-06-25T08:24:00.000-07:00

2005-06-09T14:49:00.000-07:00

Idiots On Four Wheels

To the jerk off on Saratoga Avenue who cut me off not once, not twice, but THREE TIMES...

Fuck you. FUCK you. FUCK YOU.

To all those who have stumbled upon my site and are now considering me to be nothing but a heathenistic vulgarian...

Sorry, I'm Irish. Peace...

2005-06-07T10:42:00.000-07:00

Having Way Too Much Fun

So, I have been having a blast at rehearsals for Annie Get Your Gun! The people are awesome, and we are getting a lot done. (whoa that metered and rhymed...) Its been such a great experience all around. Yesterday, I carpooled with Keri, (aka K.P.) to rehearsals. We stopped in at an Aptos ice cream place for a sugar fix before rehearsal and just talked. I never really had too much of a chance to talk to her in Company One, so its really cool that I am getting to know her better.

Rehearsal was a snap. Lots of waltz. Done fast, done easily. Then its was off to The Brit with Keri to meet up with Chenoah, Heidi, Zac and Calico (sp?). Great times, and a great night. Kinda sad that Niamh couldn't join us... :(

Ohh about her. She rocks. :) She and I are coming up on our one year anniversary. Can you believe it? Man time flies when you are having fun, and man are we having fun! I am a very happy man with her. Well, I am off to start my day. Peace...

2005-06-05T15:18:00.000-07:00

Rest At Last

Finally, a day off. I have been plugging away really hard at rehearsals for Annie Get Your Gun at Cabrillo Stage and writing my curriculum for CMTSJ. Now, after a week of really hard work, I get a day off.

Feels good to just lay around and catch up on email and such. I will admit though, would be nice to have a certain girlfriend here with me. But alas, she is off in Davis with family and won't be back till tonight. Ohh well. It still feels good to have a day to let my body catch up.

Rehearsals for this show are really intense. I like the discipline of the work they are doing though. We get a lot done, and still have a lot of fun. I have met a lot of great new folks, and work with some old ones too. So, life is busy but good!

As for now, its back to relaxing and enjoying my day! Peace...

2005-05-22T09:40:00.000-07:00

Ready, Set, Summer...

Yeah, I know. I am overdue for a post. But hey, with finals over, Los Arboles over, and all the festivities of Nicoles 21st and Daves 21st, I actually have time. Add to that, it is officially SUMMER BREAK 2005!

Well, as you may or may not have read on Nicole's blog, AstroPoet's Corner, I planned a little birthday treat for Nicole last weekend. Go look at her site to see all the pics and the stories from the birthday girl herself.

And, as promised, here are some shots from a couple of STEP outings...

Jeanine, Me and Lani having lunch after the gig in the UCSC Student Union.

Tanzin (thanks for some of the pics!) and Lana (who I will be working at COPA with too!).

The view near Stevenson College at UCSC.

After the gig, its was off to the beach and boardwalk! Lani on some psycho ride I wouldn't do...

Can you believe it? A real, authentic, Pong Machine! Old school. Go see it at the SC Boardwalk Arcade.

That was about three weeks ago. This past Wednesday, STEP went and performed a staged reading of The Witch Of Blackbird Pond at come conference. Tanzin took some more shots and sent 'em to me.

Me messin' around with Jeanine before we left for the gig.

The Spring 2005 STEP Company, before our final gig.

Will Turner? Sort of... We did the reading in costume, and my character (Nat Eaton) is a sailor.

The gang in costume.

Good times. I won't be doing STEP next year since I will be so busy with Company One. But hey, I'll miss the people. Well, I have callbacks for AIDA at Bus Barn today, and an audition for OKLAHOMA with SDG later. So, I better dash. Welcome to Summer folks! Peace...

2005-05-16T13:44:00.000-07:00

Moving Along

2005-05-10T20:45:00.000-07:00

The Ride Continues

Wow, two years. It's kinda crazy to think that I actually kept this thing going this long. Every other attempt at a journal of my life only lasted about two days, tops. So, I am pretty happy with how this has gone.

I mean, its not like I still do daily posts, but I think I keep it interesting enough around here (when I am not being so lazy and actually post once every 5 days or so...) And on that note, let us look back at the Year Two of The Daily Farmer...

~Did Seven Brides... and reunited with an old friend, who is now the love of my life.
~Had a great summer break (all of one day), before I got into rehearsals for JC Superstar.
~Speaking of shows; Eight shows in one year. Deaaaamn.
~Got an award for Seven Brides... Sweet.
~School... Crap.
~Did Smokey Joes, the most fun show and the biggest I have ever done. Damn I miss that cast.
~Got cast in my first professional show, Annie Get Your Gun at Cabrillo.

And the rest is recent history. Not much to say but, its been fun, and I will keep trying to be witty (but probably fail miserably). As for now...

Had some big auditions recently. AMTSJ is doing Wizard Of Oz, and I must say that they make it hard as hell to get into their shows. The dance combo was lethal and I didn't even get a chance to sing... Grr. Ohh well, if they don't want a powerful lyric baritone/tenor in their cast, so be it.

Riding a wave of frustration from AMT, I went out for Aida at Bus Barn and got called back. More on that soon. I also have SDG and BBB auditions coming up, so we will see what comes out of all of this eventually. For now, I am off to bed. Not too jazzy for a 2 year edition, but with recent events in my life and the news (click here, more about this later), I am sorta spent. I'll probably do some pics on here tomorrow to complete the update, but for now it is time for some well deserved rest. Peace...

2005-05-10T09:24:00.000-07:00

Two Years Already?

2005-05-08T12:04:00.000-07:00

Phone-a-Farmer

Hope you like this. May be doing it this way every so often when I can't get to a computer. I promise I will try to be less lame and say "um..." less in the future! Also, the audio posts will not have titles on them until I get to a computer and title them. So if you see an audio post without a title, its a new one! Also, I may start archiving them on the left in a new section. We shall see. Peace...

2005-04-27T21:35:00.000-07:00

Who Are You People?

Just wondering... I have been getting some random hits from places lately on my site meter. If you happen to be coming from any of the following, leave me a comment by clicking "comment" at the bottom of this post telling me who you are! Thanks for coming by!

"Univ. of CA, Office President, Oakland, United States" (comes up a lot, usually once a day, sometimes more.)

Anyone from Sri Lanka. I know you are here for porn since I see it on the search results on the site meter...

"Hewlett-Packard" Probably my pop, or one of his poker buddies at work.

But yeah, to any of you other than that, leave a comment and let me know you dropped by. Specifically that University of California person, whoever you are. You come by a lot and I am just wonderin' who ya are! Thanks for stoppin' by! Peace...

2005-04-21T10:15:00.000-07:00

Meet Shellie

My new 2005 Mitsubishi Lancer ES! Very stoked to have some wheels which I can really trust to get me from A to B safely, and maybe not blow up...

You may be asking, "What about Gracie?", (my 1984 Camry).

Well, she had already been broken into once back in September, which resulted in having my new Alpine CD player stolen and significant damage to my dash. It happened again. She was broken into while parked downtown at 3rd and San Carlos. Nothing stolen, but my dash was damaged by the assholes trying to break into the glove compartment. They also ripped off my rear view mirror for good measure. F**kers... Add to all this that she was in an accident about 3 months ago and just hasn't really been the same since.

With all that, and the need for a safe car to get me to Aptos for rehearsal on time, a new car was definately needed. While my mother and I were shopping, we went to four dealerships and dealt with quite a rouges gallery of salesmen.

Saturn: Chill guy, who showed us an ION which wasn't all that bad. Warranty was rather short though. Didn't seemed pleased when my mom called yesterday to tell him we got something else.

Kia: New salesman who was nice, but dressed rather shabby. Manager was a dick; yelled prices and numbers at us from an office 25 feet away and obstructed by a showroom car.

Honda: Salesman was young and a little sneaky. "Lemme get my buisness card and I will be right back". His buisness card looked an awful lot like a short Indian guy who was a manager. He was a total douche who didn't get that we weren't going to budge. Also almost made me late for work, even after I told him that I had to go.

Mitsubishi: Salesman was pretty cool. Looked alot like Dave, but bathed in Aqua Velva. There was this slightly uneasy mob mentality about the staff though. There were these three (Greek?) salesmen/mechanics who I caught once mocking my mom behind her back when they didn't think I saw them. Got the deal we wanted though.

I hated the process, but it came out in my favor. Got new wheels which I love, thanks Mom'n'Dad! Well, I am off to run a ton of errands in her, including taking my beloved for a ride!

2005-04-20T10:46:00.000-07:00

Marathon Man

After a very long week and weekend last week, I am about to roll into another weekend of performances for Company One. I am rather exhausted, and have a ton to do today. But I just wanted to let all of yaal know I am alive, but barely.

Big news coming on several fronts. New wheels? New projects? Summer news? Just wait and see! Peace...

2005-04-08T10:09:00.000-07:00

Tick Tock

With a few minutes to kill before I head into Company One rehearsal, I thought I would just write a quick one for ya...

Life has been obviously busy for me, as you all know. But every now and then, I find that I do have time to "stop and smell the roses". With as busy as I have been, many people in my life have gone above and beyond the call of duty in helping me stay sane and supporting me in all my various endeavors.

To Roya, Susan, Zoi, Dave, Alex, Kim, Matt, Megan, Jen, Amber, Stina, Zac and all the various theatre folk who have come out and supported me by seeing Smokey Joe's Cafe; Thank you.

To my parents for coming at least six times so far, and for always being there; Thank you.

To the TRFT folks of SJSU, thanks for the laughs. Ive needed them as of late.

And finally, to my Niamh; Thank you for always being my rock, my love, my voice of reason, my support, my biggest fan, and the woman I look forward to many wonderful years with. I love you.

Thats all for today. Come see the show, and rock out with us as we sing our hearts out together for the last time. Peace...

2005-04-07T20:04:00.000-07:00

Reluctant

Another show about to come to a close... But this one is different...

I have enjoyed doing this show more than any other show I have done. Simply put. Nothing horribly sappy. I just love these people, this music, this show. Being up there every night, singing my heart out, hearing that crowd roar... :::Sigh:::

I know, there is always another show for me. Annie Get Your Gun, the Company One show... But, this one will always be special to me. I really had fun on that stage. I'll miss it. Peace...

2005-03-29T08:51:00.000-08:00

Only two weekends left! Some of you have yet to come... All the info is at WWW.WVLO.ORG, or just call (408) 268-3777 for tix!

Full update tomorrow. Peace...

2005-03-24T17:00:00.000-08:00

Intermission From Life

Ahh, the beginning of Spring Break. Well, I do have Company One rehearsal tomorrow and a meeting. But that is a drop in the barrel compared to the work and stress I have been dealing with as of late.

I told you before about the possible stirrings with Flapper. Well, the shtuff has hit fan. Some disagreement has happened with the directors, and now the show is "posponed indefinately". Phruck. Now, I bet you all are wondering how I feel...

No comment.

More news about this to come later.

But for now, I am enjoying my break. Niamh spent the night last night after watching The Incredibles and having a very nice dinner. I have really missed being able to spend time with her. Yeah, I see her at our show. But a 4 minute chat while I am changing tuxedos and wiping sweat off my face during intermission is not all that romantic. But now... (ha ha!), its break! Time to do crazy things... Things you never thought The Farmer would do...

Going out to dinner! THE NERVE!
Relaxing on the beach! IMMORAL!
Sleeping in! A TRAVESTY!

Off to be sinful. Have a great break folks. Peace...

2005-03-21T10:05:00.000-08:00

Another Quickie

After a long weekend of shows, and my finally battling off the remnants of a rather nasty cold, it is back to school for another week before Spring Break! Thankfully, the gods of scheduling at SJSU and De Anza have conspired together to make my break and Niamh's coincide. Amen...

It will be nice to be able to sleep in, to rest and get back a little pep in my step... But for now, it is one more week of classes, rehearsals for Flapper, and various other tasks that need doing. Ohh, possible major news about Flapper tomorrow. Stay tuned.

Well, I am off. But not before I get to say a big thank you to Emily, Daschele, Jen, Amber, Roya, Amy, Angelina, Spencer, and many former cast-mates from past shows for coming out to see me in Smokey Joe's Cafe! The show is the hot ticket right now! So to those off you who haven't come to see it yet, you better not wait! Tickets are going FAST! Call (408) 268-3777 to reserve tickets. Ok, pimping over. Have a good one, folks. Peace...

2005-03-17T19:36:00.001-08:00

Another Show

As of 40 mins ago, I am officially an ensemble cast member of Cabrillo Stage's Summer 2005 production of Annie Get Your Gun! A really hard audition, but man it paid off! My first professional gig! Non-equity, but professional! They do such great shows too... Check out this shot from The Music Man last summer.

Damn, they do good stuff! Well, time to get back to resting. Showtime tomorrow night! Peace...

2005-03-15T19:16:00.000-08:00

Farmer Dictionary

Ok, I have gotten several emails and IMs about several terms I have used in TDF. So here, a little clarification....

bastard (Bostonian accenture, BAH-stehd): n, a person who falls short of expectations. i.e. I can't believe that bastard stood me up. ALSO - Why is that bastard taking so long to make my drink?

carnie or carny (CAHR-nee): n, a musical theatre performer who is somewhat segregated from "straight play" actors.

douche (doosh): n, 1. a term for a person, usually male, who derives unnecessary pleasure from exuding power from a position of authority or superiority. i.e. That meter maid was a total douche. 2. Any person who act superior in a condescending way.

I hope that helps folks. Time for me to crash. Peace...

2005-03-14T18:12:00.001-08:00

Back To Life

Opening night was INCREDIBLE! We had a full house of really responsive fans who just ate us up! Standing ovation! The whole show went very well and the audience was very vocal afterwards...

"Amazing!"
"The best show I have ever seen!"
"Incredible! So much energy!"
"HOT!"
"Perfect, perfect, perfect!"
"Better than (locAl professional Musical company name omiTted)!"

I smell some rave reviews coming out this week... Also, the press has already taken hold of the buzz of the show.

Artsopolis - Events: Smokey Joe's Cafe

Also, there was a similar pic in the Campbell Express, and a review should be in there later this week. Feels nice to be called the "hot ticket"! Nicole was wonderful arm candy after the show as well. Looking smokin' hot in her red dress...

But now, its back to having my weeknights free. For the first time in about two months... Man. I miss the cast already! But hey. I will do a full update tomorrow with new cam-shot, quote and post. Time to relax. Peace...

2005-03-04T09:38:00.000-08:00

Killin' Time

Just a quick little note while I am in the library.

Ever have that feeling that you finally are on the right path with things? That for once, there is a greater amount of good in your life than ever before. That is how I feel today.

I woke up tired, sore, but happy. Hard work at rehearsals is paying off with a great show. Hard work at school is paying off with my graduation soon, and getting me good jobs. And at last, my life has been completed by a wonderful woman who I am at a loss for words to describe. Life is finally getting good for yours truly.

Possible update again later today. Stay tuned. Peace...

2005-03-02T22:02:00.000-08:00

The Douche

A great night, shot to hell.

I spent a wonderful evening in the company of my loving Niamh, only to return her to her apartment and walk back to my car and find that I was being ticketed by a rent-a-narc who had to be AT LEAST 80 years old...

Here is the approximate dialogue:

Me: (noticing security truck blocking my car) Umm, sir. Can I help you?
Douche: What?
Me: This is my car.
Douche: Yes, and I am ticketing it.
Me: Why?
Douche: Because you are parked in a reserved space.
Me: Where does it say that?
Douche: It is a numbered spot. Some person paid more to have this spot.
Me: There is no sign posted saying that the numbered spots are reserved and I may be ticketed for parking in it.
Douche: (realizing I may be right) So what, you can't park there.
Me: (becoming irritated) There is no sign posted.
Douche: (getting into truck, becoming angry) It doesn't matter... I have to ticket you and steal your soul so that I may live forever. (revealing his true form of a dark demon of unimaginable terror)
Me: You have no power over me for I am the chosen one...
Douche: My dark powers are omnipotent. There is no saving you now, foolish mortal! (evil laugh)

So then we did battle on the death fields in the frozen seventh level of Hell, until I smote his ruined carcass at the shores of the Black Ocean.

And so, the Douche was defeated, and the peasants rejoiced. The land was safe again, thanks to my brave efforts.

But hey, at least I didn't get a ticket. Peace...

2005-02-23T16:31:00.000-08:00

Karmic Redemption

Today was one of those days that you finally get a reason to feel that people are innately "good".

I was out and about today, passing out flyers for my show to local stores around all the shopping malls. And to my shock, most of the store owners were very nice and were more than happy to post a flyer for me, or even keep a stack of them around their reception area. I even got free coffee from Almaden Roasting Company!! Big up to them!

A few shops couldn't post them for me due to store policies, and one was actually rather rude with me... But, playing averages, I did really well! I handed out about 50 flyers. Not bad at all. Lets hope it works.

Well, thats all for now. Hope all is well in your worlds folks. Peace...

2005-02-16T20:21:00.000-08:00

Rewards

Being a teacher has its ups and downs. The pay isn't fantastic, the hours can be rather long and the amount of work you put in sometimes doesn't pay off in anything that you can tangibly see to affirm that you are making a difference. But today, that all changed.

One of my students in a show I am vocal directing was having a little trouble hitting a high note in a song. I worked with her and helped her clean up her technique along with her male counterpart in a duet they sing, and today she hit the note. I don't know who was more excited; her or me...

I love my job. Peace...

2005-02-13T08:51:00.000-08:00

Shoveled

Hey. Check it out. I finally cleaned. Sorta...

Take a look.

Before

After

Before

After

Yup, decided to just rearrange the whole room, clean the hell out of it, and even got a new corner unit. You can see it in the back of that last pic. All in all, here is the tally.

$1.85 in change found.
9 times I emptied the filter in the vaccuum.
33.5 lbs. of garbage removed from the room.
8 hours to complete.
1 beer consumed.

Looks pretty good huh? Well. It has been a really busy weekend. The night before last, I was in Berkley for Amy's Crepe Party! Here are some shots...

Super Amy!

Sabrina and her pretty spiral-cut pineapple.

Niamh being a brat.

A massage line as Erez cooks.

Amy and her choir friends.

Great time, awesome chocolate/strawberry/banana crepes, and very cool people. Well, while I am posting a thousand pics, three more can't hurt. Here are the shots from that ski trip I took about a month ago.

The gang, Jason, Karin, Niamh, Me, Melissa, Matt... and beer.

Insert blasphemus comment here.

Me and my snow-bunny!

There goes my bandwidth. Enjoy. Peace...

2005-02-11T12:38:00.000-08:00

Berkley Bound

Heading to a crepe party tonight. Lotsa pics coming at ya... Sorry SOUTH PACIFIC cast! See ya tomorrow night! Peace...

2005-02-10T19:35:00.000-08:00

All Work No Play...

Yeah, I'm back. For real this time. I know. I sorta began this year with a whimper. I barely post and the page is rather stale. Time to fix that...

As usual, busy. I am working my tail off at school and at my new job. I am vocal directing a show in Gilroy called Flapper. Its with three middle schools working together, and a couple of the kids are STAR kids from last summer. They are working really hard, and are making TONS of progress. I love my work.

I am also going to be working with COPA at CMTSJ soon. That should take me through the summer. Add to that I may be working with Hillbarn's conservatory and my being a candidate for a directing job up on the peninsula. Busy man...

Other than work and school, life goes on as it always has. Spending as much time with my Niamh as I can. We will be going out tomorrow night to see South Pacific and support a bunch of old friends in the show. But for now, I have the night off. I am off to enjoy Futurama and ATHF. I will try and be a little more dilligent about posting. Yeah. Peace...

2005-02-07T17:00:00.000-08:00

Insanely huge headache. Can't even stand looking at the screen. Going to bed. Update sometime soon. Might stop phrasing like a telegram too. Peace...

2005-02-06T19:41:00.000-08:00

Sunset... Sunrise...

Yeah, I know... I have seriously sucked at keeping this damn thing updated. But hey, gimme a break. I have been a little busy.

But after a great weekend with my Niamh watching LOTR extended editions, I feel recharged! I am going to do full update tomorrow, I PROMISE! Peace...

2005-02-05T23:01:00.000-08:00

Wi-Farmer

Coming at you from Diane's bed via Wi-Fi and a laptop... No I am not cheating on Niamh... Diane is the woman with the black lab I dog-sat back in December. I have been here for a night, and will be here till 4 or so tomorrow. Always glad to apartment/animal sit for her.

Well, just wanted to let you all know that I am still alive. Got a new job... well actually... jobs. Yeah, tell you all about that one when I get back home. But for now it is time to curl up and get some well deserved sleep. Worn out Farmer. Peace...

2005-01-29T15:52:00.000-08:00

Vacation

TDF is on a short break. Lots to do now with school and rehearsals and an upcoming job or two. I will be back next week with pics of the Ski Trip, rehearsals, and other stuff. Big news coming too. Should be back by the weekend. Peace...

2005-01-20T11:20:00.000-08:00

Hiatus

After a little break, I am back folks.

It has been really busy for me lately since rehearsals for Smokey Joe's Cafe has begun with WVLO. The music is unbelievable! I have been singing to myself constantly since I heard the stuff. I have some really AWESOME songs to myself like Ruby Baby, Poison Ivy, and an old favorite... Spanish Harlem. I have a bunch of others, but you will just have to come see the show to find out!!

As for life outside the theatre, I really haven't had much of one. Well that is, aside from last weekend when Niamh and I went out to see Chicago at AMTSJ and have a wonderful dinner at Scott's downtown. A wonderful evening indeed! Here is a shot of us just about to head out... Guys, please no drooling over my girlfriend...

Man she looked incredible! Well folks, I have a million-and-one things to do today, so I am outta here! I will be in Bear Valley for the weekend with Matt, Niamh and crew... So till then: Peace...

2005-01-13T17:00:00.000-08:00

Escape From Farmer's Tomb

I have been spending way too much freakin' time in my house as of late. Between working on songs for the album, songs for auditions, memorizing scripts, and just being lazy, I have barely left the house. Sorta odd for me. But yesterday, I got out of here, big time...

On a stroke of randomness, I ran into a really old friend at the eye doctor a week or two ago. I used to hang with her back in early high school when I was a youth leader with Holy Spirit's youth group. But since we didn't go to the same school ever, we never saw each other often enough to keep in touch over the years. Ladies and gentlemen... AMY.

Umm. Well, I don't have a shot of her yet. Still waiting on that from her. I'll put it up when I get it. For now, here is a shot of yours truly in front of the Campanile...

Truly awesome campus. Amy is a kick-booty tour guide. I thoroughly enjoyed the perfect acoustics in the stairwell of one of the art buildings as Amy and I sang in there. Also, the spinach, egg and cheese crepe's I had for lunch on Telegraph rocked. Add to that chillin' and watching Eternal Sunshine..., and you have a great day. Gracias chica!

That about does it for now. Enjoy all the new pics! More coming soon after Niamh and I see Chicago tomorrow night. Take care folks. Peace...

2005-01-13T16:36:00.000-08:00

Meet Daisy

Pat got a new pup...

Cute dawg. Everyone... 1.. 2.. 3..

Awwww... Peace...

2005-01-10T09:32:00.000-08:00

Just "Dang"

Well, it's official. Smokey Joe's Cafe is gonna be a busy show for yours truly. A TON of fun, but busy! I just got the list of songs I am going to be singing in the show. Nineteen. Yep. Nine-friggin-teen. Thats a lot of songs...

Honestly: CAN'T WAIT. Also, out of those songs, I have a bunch of solos, some awesome quartet work, and a few songs I have always dreamed of singing. So eager to get started.

But for today, its time to hit the gym. Shoot some good vibes to my lady, she is a bit undah dah weather... Peace...

2005-01-09T14:03:00.000-08:00

Steroids Are Bad

Peace...

2005-01-07T11:21:00.000-08:00

Wasted Time

Man, you all know that I can at time be pretty harsh about the arts. Shows I see, music artists, movies... If I don't like it, I say so. Well ladies and gentlemen, here we go again.

I saw the movie version of The Phantom Of The Opera last night, and was more than thoroughly disappointed. The staging was weak, which is really sad considering the sets were wonderful. The costumes were great, and there were some good moments in the film. I won't spoil it for you folks, but if you haven't seen it on stage, go ahead and see the movie. I just wish it was cast differently, and that the vocal director for the film was a little more on the ball. Ohh well...

Today, its off for me to get some new contact lenses, and maybe meet up with an old friend from WAY back in the day. Tell you more about that later! For now, it's time to get dressed and get outta here. BIG THANKS to Katie and Friends for having me out last night on the movie excursion! Lotsa fun. Take care folks. Peace...

2005-01-04T15:39:00.000-08:00

Rockin' Hard

Another dose of happiness came in the mail today...

U2- All That You Can't Leave Behind
C.C.R.- Chronicle
Led Zeppelin- II
Less Than Jake- Anthem (For Nicole)

Very happy Farmer. Gotta fold laundry. Peace...