Monday, February 09, 2009
Sunday, February 01, 2009
Tweedy at Foellinger
Some friends and I went to see Jeff Tweedy last night at our campus's beautiful Foellinger auditorium. He was nothing short of Amazing. I've never seen anyone handle a crowd with such finesse and humor. I guess it is tradition for fans to yell out requests and the banter that starts up could be really uncomfortable and distracting--but Tweedy handles it masterfully by both making fun of his requesters and actually playing many of the requests that are given.
I knew around 60% of the songs he did--the other material either being new or really old (from the legendary Uncle Tupelo days). The Wilco songs he played were perfect deconstructions and I don't know what it is about Radiohead covers, but they make for amazing show closers. Tweedy played their Fake Plastic Trees in his first encore.
It was SUCH a good show. Just what I needed after a miserable, no-sleep, night snow camping with the scouts.
On a semi-related note, I'm seriously considering doing this during the month of February. I'll keep you updated.
Here's one more song (Spiders [Kidsmoke])from last night's show. It actually occurs before Fake Plastic Trees was played and gives you an idea of his interaction with the crowd (we were so in the palm of his hand) as well as shows the moment when FPT was requested.
\
Oh, I can't resist. Here's one more. Did I mention Tweedy can play that guitar?
I knew around 60% of the songs he did--the other material either being new or really old (from the legendary Uncle Tupelo days). The Wilco songs he played were perfect deconstructions and I don't know what it is about Radiohead covers, but they make for amazing show closers. Tweedy played their Fake Plastic Trees in his first encore.
It was SUCH a good show. Just what I needed after a miserable, no-sleep, night snow camping with the scouts.
On a semi-related note, I'm seriously considering doing this during the month of February. I'll keep you updated.
Here's one more song (Spiders [Kidsmoke])from last night's show. It actually occurs before Fake Plastic Trees was played and gives you an idea of his interaction with the crowd (we were so in the palm of his hand) as well as shows the moment when FPT was requested.
\
Oh, I can't resist. Here's one more. Did I mention Tweedy can play that guitar?
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
Monday, January 19, 2009
what got used, 2008
I have been meaning to write a follow up to my best music post of a few weeks ago. Basically, I just wanted to mention and link to a few places that have been useful this year.
First, Facebook totally exploded this year. I have had an account for a few years, but this year it seems like EVERYBODY signed up. I've actually really enjoyed "facebooking" as it has helped me get in touch with old friends, reconnect on a more regular basis with other friends, and keep up to date with my facebooking colleagues. As a social networking tool, facebook deserves mega-props for its ability to handle photographs, video, and even (as of about 8 months ago) chat. I think that this year's explosion has secured for Facebook the status of more than just a passing fad.
Twitter is like a super boiled down version of Facebook--but I use it too (and actually integrate it with my Facebook. Twitter lets me update my facebook status via text message--I can't afford web connectivity on my cell phone yet). More and more people are "twittering"--it provides a fun way to read and broadcast short pieces of information. I get feeds from CNN, our local newspaper, a few bands, Amazon's daily mp3 deal--even George Lucas twitters. Only two of my friends "tweet" regularly--thanks for keeping it real Mat and Aaron.
"I wish the internet could..." is a common phrase knocking around in my head. Ususally, I don't have to wait too long before my wish is its command. For example, I was really wanting to do some photoblogging directly from my camera phone. In other words, I wanted to be able to take a photo with my phone, text it to myself and have it automatically update to a blog. I found such a service in Twitpic. I started doing it here on our trip, but moved it permanently to this address. If you use a rss reader, you can subscribe to the feed by clicking the orange button in the right-hand corner of the page.
First, Facebook totally exploded this year. I have had an account for a few years, but this year it seems like EVERYBODY signed up. I've actually really enjoyed "facebooking" as it has helped me get in touch with old friends, reconnect on a more regular basis with other friends, and keep up to date with my facebooking colleagues. As a social networking tool, facebook deserves mega-props for its ability to handle photographs, video, and even (as of about 8 months ago) chat. I think that this year's explosion has secured for Facebook the status of more than just a passing fad.
Twitter is like a super boiled down version of Facebook--but I use it too (and actually integrate it with my Facebook. Twitter lets me update my facebook status via text message--I can't afford web connectivity on my cell phone yet). More and more people are "twittering"--it provides a fun way to read and broadcast short pieces of information. I get feeds from CNN, our local newspaper, a few bands, Amazon's daily mp3 deal--even George Lucas twitters. Only two of my friends "tweet" regularly--thanks for keeping it real Mat and Aaron.
"I wish the internet could..." is a common phrase knocking around in my head. Ususally, I don't have to wait too long before my wish is its command. For example, I was really wanting to do some photoblogging directly from my camera phone. In other words, I wanted to be able to take a photo with my phone, text it to myself and have it automatically update to a blog. I found such a service in Twitpic. I started doing it here on our trip, but moved it permanently to this address. If you use a rss reader, you can subscribe to the feed by clicking the orange button in the right-hand corner of the page.
Thursday, January 15, 2009
WALL-E credits
We really like Pixar's WALL-E around here. The credits are one of my favorite parts. Love the Peter Gabriel, love the animation (especially when contrasted with the wonderful Pixar animation), love the message of hope "take a sad song and make it better."
Viva la Vida, Seth!
Whatever your opinions of Coldplay, last year's Viva La Vida was big hit in our house. Seth has always been a big Coldplay fan. He loved X&Y--especially "Fix You". I can still remember his sweet, two-year-old voice singing that song. Here he is doing his favorite on the new album (the title track). This was recorded over Thanksgiving when we had all of our gear out. He's quite the little performer, wouldn't you agree?
Seth singing Viva La Vida from starmaster on Vimeo.
Seth singing Viva La Vida from starmaster on Vimeo.
Tuesday, January 13, 2009
cool apps
I've run into a storage problem on my MacBook. I need to get a larger hard drive, but there is this little thing called money that I don't have a lot of. So, I have been doing what I usually do--looking for ways to do what I want without spending more money. One thing that really helped out this morning was this cool, free (open source--Mac only) application called Grand Perspective, which, basically scans your hard drive and tells you what files are using the most space. I like this app especially, though, because it gives you a clickable visual representation of that space. I was able to move 50 gigabytes--nearly a fourth of my hard drives total capacity(!)--to an external drive and thereby free up much needed space for other pressing projects.
Awesome!
Awesome!
Thursday, January 08, 2009
Guide to 2008 (music)
Welcome to the third annual end-of-the-year guide to my favorite things of the year. Last year, I think I stuck to music only. This year, I will do the same and will write another post to mention a few other things that have been of influence this year. Stay tuned for that.
It really has been a big year, media-wise. After consulting my trusty iTunes play counter, it would appear that my two most listened-to bands of the year were Bon Iver and the Fleet Foxes. Big surprise there. I've posted several times about both groups--but for fun, here are two more videos for your listening enjoyment.
This performance of "re: Stacks" (my favorite song on the album) is actually from their show that I saw here in Champaign. So sweet. I just love the quite honesty of Justin Vernon's tunes. He's an inspiration.
(The song actually starts 2 minutes in on this clip if you want to skip ahead)
The Fleet Foxes have a similar vibe. I love their harmonies, percussion, and that sweet mandolin lead. Here's a link to my favorite tune "Blue Ridge Mountains" since this video won't let me embed.
The Punch Brothers, or more specifically Chris Thile--formerly of Nickel Creek and currently of the Punch Brothers--would get the third slot. My interest in bluegrass is currently in blossom mode. I recently purchased some hardware to mod my guitar into a dobro and with artists like Jerry Douglas and Chris Thile to emulate, I'm on my way!
Thile is a master musician--a respected expert on the mandolin (the guy was recording with legends before he was 20)--and a really great singer/songwriter to boot. This hasn't just been a year of solo-Thile for me, but rather one where I consumed the whole Nickel Creek catalog as well.
Here's a great quiet tune from the first Punch Brothers album (some of you may recognize the program Woodsongs that it is taken from. Our local PBS station carries it):
And if you can stand it, here's them doing an 8 minute cover of Radiohead's "Morning Bell"--the song they also ended with at the show I saw in Champaign:
So rad! That clip really shows off the band in true, pass-the-solo, bluegrass style. It will also give you a really great look at Thile's virtuosity.
It's also been a year of much Wilco, Radiohead, and other newer voices like Ray LaMontagne:
Radiohead - Weird Fishes - by Tobias Stretch
I should also mention that old favorites, Weezer and the Cure also came out with new albums this year. I was largely underwhelmed by both, though. Especially the Cure album. Both albums had some stand-outs for me though.
Underneath the Stars by the Cure might be their best song (even if not on the best album) in 10 years:
And I really love this tune, Troublemaker, from the new Weezer album. Actually, I would have to say that the "Red" album is probably the best release from my old favorite band since Pinkerton. But it just doesn't hold up against the other groups in terms of times listened last year.
Finally, a very honorable mention goes to Mates of State. They are the band that I got to meet at Lollapalooza in August and they're really great. Here's the wacky video for my favorite song on their new album Re-Arrange Us. It's called "Get Better"
Have fun jamming (and if you only chose one video to watch here, you really should check out that Morning Bell cover!).
It really has been a big year, media-wise. After consulting my trusty iTunes play counter, it would appear that my two most listened-to bands of the year were Bon Iver and the Fleet Foxes. Big surprise there. I've posted several times about both groups--but for fun, here are two more videos for your listening enjoyment.
This performance of "re: Stacks" (my favorite song on the album) is actually from their show that I saw here in Champaign. So sweet. I just love the quite honesty of Justin Vernon's tunes. He's an inspiration.
(The song actually starts 2 minutes in on this clip if you want to skip ahead)
The Fleet Foxes have a similar vibe. I love their harmonies, percussion, and that sweet mandolin lead. Here's a link to my favorite tune "Blue Ridge Mountains" since this video won't let me embed.
The Punch Brothers, or more specifically Chris Thile--formerly of Nickel Creek and currently of the Punch Brothers--would get the third slot. My interest in bluegrass is currently in blossom mode. I recently purchased some hardware to mod my guitar into a dobro and with artists like Jerry Douglas and Chris Thile to emulate, I'm on my way!
Thile is a master musician--a respected expert on the mandolin (the guy was recording with legends before he was 20)--and a really great singer/songwriter to boot. This hasn't just been a year of solo-Thile for me, but rather one where I consumed the whole Nickel Creek catalog as well.
Here's a great quiet tune from the first Punch Brothers album (some of you may recognize the program Woodsongs that it is taken from. Our local PBS station carries it):
And if you can stand it, here's them doing an 8 minute cover of Radiohead's "Morning Bell"--the song they also ended with at the show I saw in Champaign:
So rad! That clip really shows off the band in true, pass-the-solo, bluegrass style. It will also give you a really great look at Thile's virtuosity.
It's also been a year of much Wilco, Radiohead, and other newer voices like Ray LaMontagne:
Radiohead - Weird Fishes - by Tobias Stretch
I should also mention that old favorites, Weezer and the Cure also came out with new albums this year. I was largely underwhelmed by both, though. Especially the Cure album. Both albums had some stand-outs for me though.
Underneath the Stars by the Cure might be their best song (even if not on the best album) in 10 years:
And I really love this tune, Troublemaker, from the new Weezer album. Actually, I would have to say that the "Red" album is probably the best release from my old favorite band since Pinkerton. But it just doesn't hold up against the other groups in terms of times listened last year.
Finally, a very honorable mention goes to Mates of State. They are the band that I got to meet at Lollapalooza in August and they're really great. Here's the wacky video for my favorite song on their new album Re-Arrange Us. It's called "Get Better"
Have fun jamming (and if you only chose one video to watch here, you really should check out that Morning Bell cover!).
Wednesday, January 07, 2009
many happy returns
We just got back today from the longest vacation we have ever been on--19 days. And, as I allude to in my last post, it really was wonderful. The drive was long, but we did it in short(er) legs, and I found that I actually enjoy it. I loved watching the landscape slowly change from prairie to high plains to rocky mountains to desert and back again. I started snapping pictures of the sights with my phone as we drove some of which I am collecting here.
Anyway, I was reminded, as I always am, of the sweet kindness of my family. We see them so rarely--usually only once or twice a year (for the last 8 years!)--that being around them really is a rare and precious treat.
My mother is, I think, one of those few rare gems who loves and serves others without restraint and without expectation of recognition or return. While we were there, I met a severely autistic boy with whom she has worked closely as a part of her work with disabled students. He and his mother came by to drop off a Christmas gift for my mom and I was touched by how emotional his mom was in the few moments that they stood in the doorway. "I always cry when I'm around you, Jean" was her comment. Clearly, my mom has been a godsend for their family. This is my children's grandmother I'm talking about! Talk about blessed. She showered us all with that love for 10 days straight.
My dad flatters me by asking for my advice and ideas about a vexing administrative/ discipline issue he has been having with some of his students (and their parents). He's the expert, I'm the novice. His humility is the hallmark of his expertise and skill. We shoveled several inches (feet, even) of snow, went on several "drinkie" runs, he made an incredible shoe find at our local favorite thrift store (brown Diesels--brand new, $8), and he encouraged several uplifting books as a break from my typical critical slog. Who knows how long he sat in on his bed as life guard while my youngest did his favorite thing: bounce, bounce, bounce, nearly fall off, bounce.
And my sister Emily! I discovered, living in my parents house, a smart, tremendously funny friend who also happens to be my sister. What a bonus! Indeed, she is awesome. (And I've never been struck by lightning--not even once!) :)
And while our Tucson visit was short, we had a lovely time there as well--pretending that it was still September. Seriously, it was 80 degrees on January 2nd. Tina's parents--after nearly 12 years of association--have become close friends. How many people can say that about their in-laws? We got to attend Tina's brother Scott's wedding. He found a great girl--yay for Sarah!--it was a sweet ceremony.
So, we made it home without incident and I'm feeling really pleased and happy (and heavy--gained a little weight). Thank you SO much, family. We love you so.
I have a list of things to do before school starts in a week-and-a-half. This was the first, I'll do my "best of 2008" post tomorrow or the next day. Also on the plate: rework my Writing Across Media syllabus, work up a new syllabus for my 102 class (I'm using a new textbook that focuses on community action), read the five books that I didn't even look at while in UT/AZ, and play a bit more with the new recordings and archival footage over at OA online.
Anyway, I was reminded, as I always am, of the sweet kindness of my family. We see them so rarely--usually only once or twice a year (for the last 8 years!)--that being around them really is a rare and precious treat.
My mother is, I think, one of those few rare gems who loves and serves others without restraint and without expectation of recognition or return. While we were there, I met a severely autistic boy with whom she has worked closely as a part of her work with disabled students. He and his mother came by to drop off a Christmas gift for my mom and I was touched by how emotional his mom was in the few moments that they stood in the doorway. "I always cry when I'm around you, Jean" was her comment. Clearly, my mom has been a godsend for their family. This is my children's grandmother I'm talking about! Talk about blessed. She showered us all with that love for 10 days straight.
My dad flatters me by asking for my advice and ideas about a vexing administrative/ discipline issue he has been having with some of his students (and their parents). He's the expert, I'm the novice. His humility is the hallmark of his expertise and skill. We shoveled several inches (feet, even) of snow, went on several "drinkie" runs, he made an incredible shoe find at our local favorite thrift store (brown Diesels--brand new, $8), and he encouraged several uplifting books as a break from my typical critical slog. Who knows how long he sat in on his bed as life guard while my youngest did his favorite thing: bounce, bounce, bounce, nearly fall off, bounce.
And my sister Emily! I discovered, living in my parents house, a smart, tremendously funny friend who also happens to be my sister. What a bonus! Indeed, she is awesome. (And I've never been struck by lightning--not even once!) :)
And while our Tucson visit was short, we had a lovely time there as well--pretending that it was still September. Seriously, it was 80 degrees on January 2nd. Tina's parents--after nearly 12 years of association--have become close friends. How many people can say that about their in-laws? We got to attend Tina's brother Scott's wedding. He found a great girl--yay for Sarah!--it was a sweet ceremony.
So, we made it home without incident and I'm feeling really pleased and happy (and heavy--gained a little weight). Thank you SO much, family. We love you so.
I have a list of things to do before school starts in a week-and-a-half. This was the first, I'll do my "best of 2008" post tomorrow or the next day. Also on the plate: rework my Writing Across Media syllabus, work up a new syllabus for my 102 class (I'm using a new textbook that focuses on community action), read the five books that I didn't even look at while in UT/AZ, and play a bit more with the new recordings and archival footage over at OA online.
Wednesday, December 24, 2008
Christmas in Utah
As mentioned in my previous post, we are here in the beautiful state of Utah to celebrate Christmas with my family. How sweet it is to be with them. My mom and dad are so accommodating and sweet--being with them makes me a little bit sad (in spite of the joy) since these visits are so few and far between. Northern Utah is so beautiful--we are glad to be here and will savor every moment of it.
The drive across the country couldn't have been better. It was as if the skies opened and clouds departed to give us safe passage across the plains. We didn't get a single flake of precipitation on the freeway. And then the day we got here and it snowed 12 inches in 6 hours. Perfect timing. We were left feeling blessed--the recipients of a real Christmas miracle. (Especially considering that Champaign literally is frozen over.)
We listened to the Christmas Carol through Nebraska on the second day. I'd never actually read the *real* story before, so it was fun to hear it from the author himself. Good ol' Darls Chickens. We also got to visit my best friends in northern Colorado and stay a night with them at their house. We had nine kids running around going crazy--it was fun to catch up with Steve and Autumn and see April and her kids (BFF Andy is still in Japan where he has been deployed for the last months--he comes home in three weeks).
We got here Sunday night, got up Monday and enjoyed the snow, built a snow mountain, sledded, made merry, etc. Then, yesterday, the kids started barfing everywhere. First Seth started in the morning, then Jonas in the afternoon, then at about 11:30 last night, Maryn started. We brought her in to our room and she kept it up every hour on the hour for the rest of the night. Everybody is feeling a little better today--but everybody is very tired.
A few memorable moments from the last few days:
Last night, when Jonas had his shirt off from one of his throw-ups he started sucking in his tummy and pushing it out again--over and over. He'd do it, look up and laugh at it, and look down and do it again all while pressing on his belly button.
Also last night, before Maryn started up, she said "I want to get my thnow thoes on and go outside and shovel the thnow." (we shoveled all day the day before--apparently she was into it.)
All it all, and despite the flu-bug, it's been a great visit so far. Tomorrow is Christmas and it is sure to be lovely. I'll leave you with a great little clip that a friend of mine posted a few weeks ago. I think it sums up nicely my feelings about the season.
Merry Christmas!
The drive across the country couldn't have been better. It was as if the skies opened and clouds departed to give us safe passage across the plains. We didn't get a single flake of precipitation on the freeway. And then the day we got here and it snowed 12 inches in 6 hours. Perfect timing. We were left feeling blessed--the recipients of a real Christmas miracle. (Especially considering that Champaign literally is frozen over.)
We listened to the Christmas Carol through Nebraska on the second day. I'd never actually read the *real* story before, so it was fun to hear it from the author himself. Good ol' Darls Chickens. We also got to visit my best friends in northern Colorado and stay a night with them at their house. We had nine kids running around going crazy--it was fun to catch up with Steve and Autumn and see April and her kids (BFF Andy is still in Japan where he has been deployed for the last months--he comes home in three weeks).
We got here Sunday night, got up Monday and enjoyed the snow, built a snow mountain, sledded, made merry, etc. Then, yesterday, the kids started barfing everywhere. First Seth started in the morning, then Jonas in the afternoon, then at about 11:30 last night, Maryn started. We brought her in to our room and she kept it up every hour on the hour for the rest of the night. Everybody is feeling a little better today--but everybody is very tired.
A few memorable moments from the last few days:
Last night, when Jonas had his shirt off from one of his throw-ups he started sucking in his tummy and pushing it out again--over and over. He'd do it, look up and laugh at it, and look down and do it again all while pressing on his belly button.
Also last night, before Maryn started up, she said "I want to get my thnow thoes on and go outside and shovel the thnow." (we shoveled all day the day before--apparently she was into it.)
All it all, and despite the flu-bug, it's been a great visit so far. Tomorrow is Christmas and it is sure to be lovely. I'll leave you with a great little clip that a friend of mine posted a few weeks ago. I think it sums up nicely my feelings about the season.
Merry Christmas!
Monday, December 22, 2008
a little holiday treat for you
it's not really a holiday song--but i think it's pretty rad.
This is the Rivers Cuomo that I love:
We're in Utah with my family and loving it. It snowed a TON this morning and we are so glad to be playing in it and not driving in it. More soon, promise!
This is the Rivers Cuomo that I love:
We're in Utah with my family and loving it. It snowed a TON this morning and we are so glad to be playing in it and not driving in it. More soon, promise!
Wednesday, December 03, 2008
My Brightest Diamond @ Solar Culture
At the end of our jam fest, Jon T. and I went to an rad show at the eclectic Tucson venue Solar Culture. I have written here about My Brightest Diamond before--but this show really sealed the deal for me: Shara Warden is amazing.
This was more of a vocal performance than a rock & roll show--she also had an amazing cellist and even more amazing violinist/multi-instrumentalist. Check him playing the singing saw at the beginning of the video.
Anyway, Tina always complains that Shara's a screamer. This song is the closest she came to screaming, which--as you will see--isn't very. Enjoy my first attempt at video bootlegging!
My Brightest Diamond @ Solar Culture 11/29/08, Tucson, AZ from starmaster on Vimeo.
This was more of a vocal performance than a rock & roll show--she also had an amazing cellist and even more amazing violinist/multi-instrumentalist. Check him playing the singing saw at the beginning of the video.
Anyway, Tina always complains that Shara's a screamer. This song is the closest she came to screaming, which--as you will see--isn't very. Enjoy my first attempt at video bootlegging!
My Brightest Diamond @ Solar Culture 11/29/08, Tucson, AZ from starmaster on Vimeo.
Monday, December 01, 2008
crunch time
Lots to do in the next few weeks to wrap up this, the third semester of my graduate experience. It's been a good semester--not a lot of blogging has been going down here, I realize...still haven't figured out how to be a regular blogger, I guess. For now, I've got me some papers to write and some papers to grade--and then we're skipping town again!
I'll post a more comprehensive update here soon, but for now, please keep your eye on the Only Anything blog. Lots of new content should be posted there over the next month or so which you'll not want to miss! I just posted a video of me and Jon playing his new song Rose Reflection. I think you'll agree that it is really great. Check it!
I'll post a more comprehensive update here soon, but for now, please keep your eye on the Only Anything blog. Lots of new content should be posted there over the next month or so which you'll not want to miss! I just posted a video of me and Jon playing his new song Rose Reflection. I think you'll agree that it is really great. Check it!
Friday, October 03, 2008
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
mediating histories
I've been thinking and writing a lot about epideictic rhetoric over the last few days which is, in very few words, the rhetoric of display. I read this cool article that basically claims that the most successful occasions of epideictic kind of stick around in a community's and even society's memory. We use those pieces of discourse as proverbial dots--culturally defining moments--and connect those dots to create for ourselves workable histories. These histories are never complete and maybe even do more to obfuscate the actual realities of what occurred. Nevertheless, they help us imagine our pasts, and therefore also help us imagine ourselves.
Anyway, I saw this cool ad today and it made me start thinking about this all over again. Media is one way that we do the work of history reconstruction:
www.onlyanything.com is a project with basically these same ends. Reconstruct the past using the pieces of discourse that have persisted (in both artifact and memory).
Anyway, I saw this cool ad today and it made me start thinking about this all over again. Media is one way that we do the work of history reconstruction:
www.onlyanything.com is a project with basically these same ends. Reconstruct the past using the pieces of discourse that have persisted (in both artifact and memory).
Monday, September 15, 2008
Punch Brothers
I haven't said much here about my burgeoning love of bluegrass (or maybe I have)--so I'll say it: I'm starting to really dig bluegrass--especially from more contemporary artists.
One of the most amazing musicians in the genre is Chris Thile. Formerly of Nickel Creek, Chris (who plays mandolin) currently heads the amazing, progressive, pseudo-classical "Punch Brothers." I got to see them play last week and was completely blown away. This is not your typical pop group. These dudes are consummate musicians.
Here is just a little taste of the show:
"The Eleventh Hour"
One of the most amazing musicians in the genre is Chris Thile. Formerly of Nickel Creek, Chris (who plays mandolin) currently heads the amazing, progressive, pseudo-classical "Punch Brothers." I got to see them play last week and was completely blown away. This is not your typical pop group. These dudes are consummate musicians.
Here is just a little taste of the show:
"The Eleventh Hour"
Sunday, September 07, 2008
Las Vegas days
What two posts in one day! Believe it.
I lived in Las Vegas for 4 years between my 8th and 12th year and before moving to Tucson in 1990. I had some close friends there, all of whom I have lost contact with... until this weekend!
Over the course of 48 hours, I reconnected (thanks to the magic of Facebook and blogging) with my two best Vegas friends (keep in mind that I haven't spoken with these guys in 20 years!).
One friend, Mark L., went from the little league field where I saw him last... ...to just finishing up med school. He has a lovely wife and beautiful daughter. We used to collect baseball cards and swim in his backyard pool. I had a crush on his older sister. Older sisters have a special kind of mystique, don't they? Especially when you are 10 and they are 12. Woo-woo!
Another friend, Charles M., who was my best best friend in 5th and 6th grade, and I connected because I did a seach on Google for his name (Chuck) and found his wife's blog. We exchanged emails and then he called and we spoke for a half an hour about what we have been doing for the past 20 years. The funny story here is that on vacation the year after we moved, we went to his old house and found it empty. And that was it! I never saw him again. Turns out, that he and his family had gone to California for the summer and moved back into a different house very nearby. I just never knew it. Chuck is now a police officer and business owner in Vegas, and has kids nearly the same age as mine. So cool.
It was fun to chat with Mark via Facebook, but really fun to actually talk to my old friend Chuck. It just goes to show you that childhood friendships are the stuff of gold. There is nothing more pure and enduring. I feel like Chuck and I could get together and literally pick up where we left off 20 years ago... we might need a package of Black Cat fire crackers, but it would be easy easy.
I lived in Las Vegas for 4 years between my 8th and 12th year and before moving to Tucson in 1990. I had some close friends there, all of whom I have lost contact with... until this weekend!
Over the course of 48 hours, I reconnected (thanks to the magic of Facebook and blogging) with my two best Vegas friends (keep in mind that I haven't spoken with these guys in 20 years!).
One friend, Mark L., went from the little league field where I saw him last... ...to just finishing up med school. He has a lovely wife and beautiful daughter. We used to collect baseball cards and swim in his backyard pool. I had a crush on his older sister. Older sisters have a special kind of mystique, don't they? Especially when you are 10 and they are 12. Woo-woo!
Another friend, Charles M., who was my best best friend in 5th and 6th grade, and I connected because I did a seach on Google for his name (Chuck) and found his wife's blog. We exchanged emails and then he called and we spoke for a half an hour about what we have been doing for the past 20 years. The funny story here is that on vacation the year after we moved, we went to his old house and found it empty. And that was it! I never saw him again. Turns out, that he and his family had gone to California for the summer and moved back into a different house very nearby. I just never knew it. Chuck is now a police officer and business owner in Vegas, and has kids nearly the same age as mine. So cool.
It was fun to chat with Mark via Facebook, but really fun to actually talk to my old friend Chuck. It just goes to show you that childhood friendships are the stuff of gold. There is nothing more pure and enduring. I feel like Chuck and I could get together and literally pick up where we left off 20 years ago... we might need a package of Black Cat fire crackers, but it would be easy easy.
my schedule (and that crazy confusing Communication community)
I had a pretty intense week. I felt tricked by Labor day, because even though it meant I didn't have to teach, my other responsibilities were unchanged. So, after playing for most of Monday, I clicked into panic mode and didn't really click out of it until after my Thursday afternoon seminar.
My classes this semester are going to be pretty good, I think. One, from afore mentioned favorite person on campus, on Aristotle promises to be challenging, but fundamental. It is my largest seminar to date, with something like 16 people in it from several disciplines. Should be good.
The other class I am taking is called "Communication in Context" and should also be good. We started by discussing genre theory--which was kind of fun, because I have studied it before and felt less lost than I typically do at first.
It's funny: my community college experience was in Speech Comunication, but neither rhetoric or Aristotle were ever mentioned. (Ha!) Then, for my first degree in "Communication"--which I chose because of "communication" in speech communication--was only tangentially related to the communication I was introduced to in CC--and I ended up studying the social science instead of the discourses of communication (i.e. rhetoric) that I may have found more interesting. But, I was clueless. I just wanted a degree. Only now, finally, and after two more degrees in English, are the treads that originally interested me in Communication crossing back over (and by now, I mean in the last several years).
I mean, the English field has some disciplinary issues, but holy cow: Communication? I mean, Speech Comm here at the U of I just dropped the Speech and folded itself back into the conglomeration that is Communication studies... how do they keep their action straight? (All that was to say that I think that my Comm class is going to be great--and right in line with my interests over in Writing Studies.)
My classes this semester are going to be pretty good, I think. One, from afore mentioned favorite person on campus, on Aristotle promises to be challenging, but fundamental. It is my largest seminar to date, with something like 16 people in it from several disciplines. Should be good.
The other class I am taking is called "Communication in Context" and should also be good. We started by discussing genre theory--which was kind of fun, because I have studied it before and felt less lost than I typically do at first.
It's funny: my community college experience was in Speech Comunication, but neither rhetoric or Aristotle were ever mentioned. (Ha!) Then, for my first degree in "Communication"--which I chose because of "communication" in speech communication--was only tangentially related to the communication I was introduced to in CC--and I ended up studying the social science instead of the discourses of communication (i.e. rhetoric) that I may have found more interesting. But, I was clueless. I just wanted a degree. Only now, finally, and after two more degrees in English, are the treads that originally interested me in Communication crossing back over (and by now, I mean in the last several years).
I mean, the English field has some disciplinary issues, but holy cow: Communication? I mean, Speech Comm here at the U of I just dropped the Speech and folded itself back into the conglomeration that is Communication studies... how do they keep their action straight? (All that was to say that I think that my Comm class is going to be great--and right in line with my interests over in Writing Studies.)
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
on finishing short novels whilst sitting under a tree
Today marked the official end of summer for me.
I know, I know. The semester offically began on Monday, and I have been working at least full-time hours for the last three or four weeks, but I didn't actually have a seminar until today. Granted, that seminar is with one of my favorite people here, but you know--it means that I have to officially set aside my own reading--most of which has been fun, some of which has been challenging.
I was able to take a brief moment today, before said seminar, and finish one of those books under a tree in the middle of our busy quad. Frisbees were being tossed, shirtless dudes were tightrope walking across their little tree-tied strap, sun shined, ants crawled (on my arm) and it was a moment. What a pretty place and what a pretty time to be in this place. Oh, and the book was Steinbeck's Tortilla Flat which is simply hilarious (and a bit tragic).
Without really realizing it, to conclude my first full summer in Champaign, along with reading a book about Monterey, CA (one of my favorite locals), I also happened to listen to the Beach Boys's Sounds of Summer: thirty songs of unadulterated, reverby, 3-part-harmonied, beachiness. (Which was followed, incidentally, with the Beatles White album, which is quite the lovely opposite.)
Despite the busyness, it has been a good summer. It had some amazing moments--but I hope to actually make it out of Illinois next summer.
I know, I know. The semester offically began on Monday, and I have been working at least full-time hours for the last three or four weeks, but I didn't actually have a seminar until today. Granted, that seminar is with one of my favorite people here, but you know--it means that I have to officially set aside my own reading--most of which has been fun, some of which has been challenging.
I was able to take a brief moment today, before said seminar, and finish one of those books under a tree in the middle of our busy quad. Frisbees were being tossed, shirtless dudes were tightrope walking across their little tree-tied strap, sun shined, ants crawled (on my arm) and it was a moment. What a pretty place and what a pretty time to be in this place. Oh, and the book was Steinbeck's Tortilla Flat which is simply hilarious (and a bit tragic).
Without really realizing it, to conclude my first full summer in Champaign, along with reading a book about Monterey, CA (one of my favorite locals), I also happened to listen to the Beach Boys's Sounds of Summer: thirty songs of unadulterated, reverby, 3-part-harmonied, beachiness. (Which was followed, incidentally, with the Beatles White album, which is quite the lovely opposite.)
Despite the busyness, it has been a good summer. It had some amazing moments--but I hope to actually make it out of Illinois next summer.
Sunday, August 24, 2008
Imaginary Band
For those who might have some interest in an exercise in my reliving the glory days (you know, Uncle Rico style: "Ohhhh, man I wish I could go back in time. I'd take state."), check out this new blog collective I have started and will be collaborating on with old band mates.
I'm excited about it. We will be telling stories of the illustrious Only Anything, posting old photos, providing links for you to download old songs. The premise is: What if the band you used to be in in 1995 got famous in 2008? Sound silly? Then you underestimate my silliness.
Never one to pass up the chance to be academic and nerdy, I think that this project has some fun things to say about private discourse (sometimes known as bro-speak), composition (both individual and shared), and collective identity construction and maintenance. The band Only Anything was a group way before we played any instruments... We sat around creating what we intended to become--as any teenage band might--between visits to Circle K for 64 ouncers and hot dogs and visits to the record store to pick up another Cure tape.
For this reason, I call our little team of archivists the Imaginary Band collective. It started off imaginary, and now that it's gone, it continues to live on. In my mind, that image is one of a near-perfect late teenage life.
I'm excited about it. We will be telling stories of the illustrious Only Anything, posting old photos, providing links for you to download old songs. The premise is: What if the band you used to be in in 1995 got famous in 2008? Sound silly? Then you underestimate my silliness.
Never one to pass up the chance to be academic and nerdy, I think that this project has some fun things to say about private discourse (sometimes known as bro-speak), composition (both individual and shared), and collective identity construction and maintenance. The band Only Anything was a group way before we played any instruments... We sat around creating what we intended to become--as any teenage band might--between visits to Circle K for 64 ouncers and hot dogs and visits to the record store to pick up another Cure tape.
For this reason, I call our little team of archivists the Imaginary Band collective. It started off imaginary, and now that it's gone, it continues to live on. In my mind, that image is one of a near-perfect late teenage life.
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