Day 27

For those that don't know me very well, there's one thing you must know. I love coffee. It's an addiction of mine. Has been. For a long, long time. I thoroughly enjoy wasting away time by sipping some good coffee. In college once, I made and drank an entire pot of coffee within a 3 hour period. Crazy. I know.
I don't know how I feel about this new contraption. One cup at a time coffee. You mean I need to make more every time I need a warm-up? How does that work?
I do like the hot chocolate one-cup though. Well, let me re-phrase that. I like the convenience of the one-cup hot chocolate, as I usually make the homemade kind. On the stove. Much faster, although not as tasty.

Movies Watched: 0 (YTD 14)
Records Bought: 0 (YTD 6)
Shows Attended: 0 (YTD 1)

Day 26

Today was another day at my "office". AKA the cafe at the local Barnes & Noble. This was my view for the late morning/early afternoon. I don't what I like more, the coffee, the inevitable (though (somewhat) unintentional) eavesdropping on strangers conversations or actually getting stuff done. What's not to love?



Movies Watched: 1 (YTD 14)
Black Hawk Down Dir. Ridley Scott 2001
Records Bought: 0 (YTD 6)
Shows Attended: 0 (YTD 1)

Day 25

I've got 8 words for you: "Rain, rain, go away. Come again another day". It has been raining all day. So much so that our backyard is nearly flooded. It looks like we have a lake, or that there should be swans swimming around with a big fancy fountain in the center. But, no. Lots of rain. Lots and lots and lots of rain. Anyone want to go for a swim?

Movies Watched: 1 (YTD 13)
Pearl Harbor Dir. Michael Bay 2001
Records Bought: 0 (YTD 6)
Shows Attended: 0 (YTD 1)

Day 24

So, today was a big day in the exercise realm. I bought a rowing machine several years ago (I used to row when I was in college. Division I. Intense). I missed it when I was in Korea and haven't touched it since I got back. Today was the day. And let me just say, ergs (short for the technical term of the rower- ergometer) are evil little machines. Evil in the nicest way possible.
You discover muscles you didn't know you had while rowing. And they are sore. For days.
If you've never tried it, I urge you to give it a shot. It's fun, in a challenging sort of way.

Movies Watched: 0 (YTD 12)
Records Bought: 0 (YTD 6)
Shows Attended: 0 (YTD 1)

Day 23

A while back I was in the market for a new bag. Not a purse, or a fancy messenger bag. But a bag for cameras, extra lenses and a laptop. For the longest time, I'd been saying that I need to buy one. However, the ones I had been finding were always a tad more than what I wanted to spend.
The other day I was scouring Amazon.com determined to find a bag that would work for me, AND fit within my budget.
Can I say that I love Amazon? 'Cause I do. I not only finally found the perfect bag, I got it for 40% off the MSRP. Fab-u-lous.

Movies Watched: 4 (YTD 12)
I Am Sam Dir. Jessie Nelson 2001
Alpha Dog Dir. Nick Cassavetes 2006
A Perfect Getaway Dir. David Twohy 2009
Paranormal Activity Dir. Oren Peli 2007
Records Bought: 0 (YTD 6)
Shows Attended: 0 (YTD 1)

Day 22

Did some shopping this evening for some gifts. Well, prizes, technically. We (my mom and sister) are hosting a baby shower for my other sister in a couple of weeks. I was put in charge of the games and other fun things. Got a few fun prizes and wrapped them up all cute. I always hate going to someone else's shower and getting some ugly little trinket to sell on eBay. The guests at this shower are in for a treat. There will be need to re-gifting.
My mother is in charge of decorations. And, lets just say she went a tad over budget. It's going to be a fairly small shower, and I think she bought waaaay too many things...but we shall see.

Movies Watched: 0 (YTD 8)
Records Bought: 0 (YTD 6)
Shows Attended: 0 (YTD 1)

Day 21

Last night I had the fabulous opportunity to attend my first live show of 2010. If you haven't heard of Grace Potter & the Nocturnals, you need to do some serious mp3 scrounging. I own every record they've created and am anxiously awaiting their next release. They seamlessly blend a pleasant mix of good old fashioned rock 'n roll with soul and folk influences.
I ended up going to this show by myself, for a few reasons. A) None of my friends are familiar with the band. B) It was on a weeknight and an hour away. 3) Sometimes it's just fun to go and enjoy spending time with yourself and not having to worry if others are enjoying themselves.
I've also took the liberty of posting a couple of live videos from the show, you can check those out on my youtube page here.

Movies Watched: 0 (YTD 8)
Records Bought: 0 (YTD 6)
Shows Attended: 1 (YTD 1)
Grace Potter & the Nocturnals (Westcott Theater. Syracuse, NY)

Day 20

A lesson in damage control. Yesterday there was a minor incident in my mothers kitchen. Someone, who shall remain nameless, was going to take the left over spaghetti sauce out the refrigerator to eat for dinner. After a quick fumble there was red sauce everywhere. And I mean everywhere. I found some today on the INSIDE of a cabinet. Seriously. Everywhere.
So we had a slight problem, we had lots of cooked spaghetti to go with the homemade sauce. Now, there's no sauce.
The problem arises. What to do with all the cooked pasta? My family is italian, so using jarred sauce will likely result in criminal charges. I was forced to think outside of the box and create a new dish using the pasta.
I found some shrimp in the freezer and attempted to make a cross over dish. I call it "Italy meets the Far East". Using sesame oil and toasted sesame seeds to "Asian-it-up" as well as some fresh garlic and cilantro to balance out the Italian. Finishing touches included onion, red and green pepper, and mushrooms, as well as cayenne pepper to give it a little Korean kick. The result? A pretty darn tasty little dish.

Movies Watched: 0 (YTD 8)
Records Bought: 0 (YTD 6)
Shows Attended: 0 (YTD 0)

Day 19

I've been in a mood lately. Not a good mood or bad mood, but an incense mood. It just smells so pretty. I recently found a stash of it, and have been enjoying the different scents for few days now.
I went through an "incense is awesome" phase while in High School, buying all kinds of crazy scents from those sketchy little hippie stores. I'd buy them in even numbers where they'd come clearly labeled as to which scent was which.
But, this time, like I said, I just found a bunch of incense sticks. I have no idea what scent they are supposed to be, and I'm sure, being stored together has caused some serious merging of the scents. But, alas, incense is incense.

Movies Watched: 1 (YTD 8)
Somersault Dir. Cate Shortland 2004
Records Bought: 0 (YTD 6)
Shows Attended: 0 (YTD 0)

Day 18

After getting wind that the film Avatar had won the Golden Globe for best picture (drama), as well as Mr. James Cameron for directing it, it was finally time that I see it. In 3D of course.
Now, unless you counts the Muppets 3D show at Disney World I saw when I was 12, this was my first 3D experience.
As far as the film is concerned, I'm admittedly not much of a sci-fan fan, but I will say, the film was quite visually stunning. Groundbreaking even.
However, not being a fan of the genre, I found myself a bit weary toward the end, just waiting for it be over. But overall, pretty cool.

Movies Watched: 3 (YTD 7)
Avatar Dir. James Cameron 2009
Dan In Real Life Dir. Peter Hedges 2007
8 1/2 Dir. Federico Fellini 1963
Records Bought: 0 (YTD 6)
Shows Attended: 0 (YTD 0)

Day 17

For the last few years I've been a fan of Don Miller, a Portland based writer (check out his blog here). I thoroughly enjoyed his previous books, including the soon-to-be classic Blue Like Jazz. This book, A Million Miles In A Thousand Years was a little different. In a good way. A great way, in fact. Don wrote this book while in the process of, as he says, "editing [his] life". Approached to co-write a film based on his life, he needs to have a good story. While writing this fictional story, he realizes the importance of a story in real life. The essential elements to a story also apply to real life. The characters involved, the memorable scenes. The progression, or change, of those involved characters will make or break the story.
An overall great read. Not to sound overly clique, but, not going to lie either, it made me laugh, it made me cry. Great read and recommended for those looking for a great read!

Movies Watched: 0 (YTD 4)
Records Bought: 0 (YTD 6)
Shows Attended: 0 (YTD 0)

Day 16

Today was a celebration of sorts. A duel birthday. My sister and her daughter (my niece) have their birthdays two days apart, so we have one party and give lots of fun presents and eat plenty of cake and ice cream. It's a good time.
For my niece, it was her second 2-digit birthday, aka 11. As she gets older it makes me feel older, and it's not even my birthday! As of lately (and by lately I mean since age 7) she's been on a horse kick. Anything with horses on it, in it, or involving them in one way, shape or form is a MUST have.
When my sister saw this cake, it was definitely a must-have!

Movies Watched: 0 (YTD 4)
Records Bought: 0 (YTD 6)
Shows Attended: 0 (YTD 0)

Day 15

One of my favorite things to do in the wintertime, when it's simply too cold to do just about anything, is make hot chocolate. However, I generally don't buy the packets of mix and/or the Swiss Miss canisters. I make it from scratch. On the stove.
Turns out fabulous every time. The perfect blend of cocoa, sugar, brown sugar, a splash of vanilla and milk.
Sometimes, if I'm feeling frisky I may even garnish it with whipped cream and fresh ground cinnamon.
The bigger the mug, the more you have to enjoy.
I meant to take a photo when it looked pretty, you know, with the cinnamon and all, but it was too enticing and I drank it. But here are the remains. The perfect ending to a cold winter day.

Movies Watched: 0 (YTD 4)
Records Bought: 0 (YTD 6)
Shows Attended: 0 (YTD 0)

Day 14

I'm taking a few classes these days. Not real ones. I haven't decided to launch myself into more educational debt. There are just some things I would like to learn about. So I am teaching myself.
I've been doing a lot of reading and researching, comparing and evaluating. Most of the reading is not very fun, but necessary nonetheless. Bleh.
Too bad they don't make Cliff Notes for these kind of books...

Movies Watched: 0 (YTD 4)
Records Bought: 1 (YTD 6)
Gary Go by Gary Go
Shows Attended: 0 (YTD 0)

Day 13

This was my view for three hours of my morning. I had to go the dealership where I bought my car and have them check some things. My car was making some pretty strange noises. I sat, and I sat, and I sat some more. Finally, after three hours and not to mention a sore thumb form playing with my iphone, the VW man emerged with my financial fate. Would I have to pay a ridiculous amount? Would I get lucky?
He walks over and begins to tell me what they did my little car, but, I don't speak car. I have no clue what he's telling me about, but he ends the conversation with "you're all set!", I reluctantly say "how much?" He says "everything is covered under warranty, no charge". Well, I must say, that was music to my ears! Now, my car is fixed AND I didn't have to pay anything. Score.

Movies Watched: 0 (YTD 4)
Records Bought: 0 (YTD 5)
Shows Attended: 0 (YTD 0)

Day 12

One of my resolutions for the new year was to cook more. And not only to cook more, but to discover more recipes. Over the New Year Holiday I was at a friends house and at this "salsa" and it was fabulous. So, needless to say, I HAD to have the recipe. And today, I made it. Fabulous. The ingredients make it very colorful as well as full of flavor. It's good with tortilla chips, crackers, on hamburgers or even salad. All it is, is some chopped veggies (green pepper, red pepper, onion), black beans, chick peas, black eyed peas, and corn. The sauce consists of olive oil, vinegar, sugar and cayenne pepper. De-lish. If anyone wants the recipe just let me know :)

Movies Watched: 0 (YTD 4)
Records Bought: 1 (YTD 5)
Songs For You, Truths For Me by James Morrison
Shows Attended: 0 (YTD 0)

Day 11

Today I got a wonderful thing in the mail. A few days ago, I stumbled upon one of the best shots in rock photography. And, to make it even better I know the guy in it. Those of you not following along, I technically DID NOT take this photo, only the photo of the photo. Original photo credit goes to the amazing Mr. Max Roper (head over to his website if you would like to witness more awesomeness). Anyway, needless to say, I'm super psyched to have this print in my collection. I ordered just the print (it's 8x12 in size) and framed it myself. It's fabulous.
For the curious ones, the guy in the picture is none other than Mute Math drummer Darren King. If you haven't heard of Mute Math, consider this your cue to do so...immediately!

Movies Watched: 0 (YTD 4)
Records Bought: 0 (YTD 4)
Shows Attended: 0 (YTD 0)

Day 10

After being at home all day, on a typical lazy Sunday, I decided to take a drive and go see some friends. I would like to thank modern technology for allowing me to have a camera by my side at any given time. During my drive, there was a beautiful sunset. I am such a huge sunset fan, it's not even funny. Seriously I love them. I may start a project where that's all I do. I love them that much. Anyway, back to the photo. It is going to become my life's mission-- to take a photo of a sunset and have it actually do justice to the real thing. Do you think it's possible?

Movies Watched: 0 (YTD 4)
Records Bought: 0 (YTD 4)
Shows Attended:0 (YTD 0)

Day 9

Today was a big day. Well, not really. It was like any other Saturday, but this time I went with my mother to get a pedicure. I believe it's the second (or possibly third) one I've had. For my mother's birthday last November I gave her a coupon saying I would pay for a pedicure for HER, seeing as how, they are not really my thing. BUT, since we were already there, she basically forced me (is that sarcastic enough?) to get one too.
I think the guy giving me the pedicure was getting a little carried away. Is yelling out "Yes, baby! I love you!", inappropriate? ...'Cause he did. Multiple times. Yikes.

Movies Watched: 0
Records Bought: 0
Shows Attended: 0

Day 8

When it's as cold as it has been outside, there's only one cure. And no, it's not more cowbell. It's fire! I just love sitting curled up by the fireplace, drinking hot chocolate and reading. It's perfect.
I vow, at this moment, to have a fireplace in every home I will ever live in for the rest of my life (nursing homes included). Period. On a side note, you'll notice (see below) that it was indeed a take-advantage-of-netflix kind of day. :)

Movies Watched: 3
Management Dir. Stephen Belber, 2008
Rachel Getting Married Dir. Jonathan Demme, 2008
Let The Right One In Dir. Tomas Alfredson, 2008
Records Bought: 0
Shows Attended: 0

Day 7

For some reason I can't focus when I try to do work at home. It's weird. I've always been that way, even when I was in college I couldn't study in my dorm room. My original reasoning was that there may be too many distractions. But, wait. Most of the time, my roommate was never there. So, scratch that.
My brain still thinks the same way, I can't concentrate or do important things when I'm alone at home. It just doesn't work. So, needless to say, I needed to find an office to do my work in. But wait, you say, "that costs too much money, Farron!". My answer, "who needs an office when there are Starbucks with free wi-fi.
Yeah, I'm that kid sitting in the corner on my laptop with headphones on working on mysterious things. Welcome to the corner.

Movies Watched: 0
Records Bought: 1
These 'Ol Keys EP by Nathan Angelo
Shows Attended: 0

Day 6

I love many things in life. One of those things are chicken wings. They are fabulously tasty and come in so many varieties. You've got your hot, medium, mild, barbeque, honey barbeque, butter & garlic, honey mustard, and the list goes on. Oh and did I mention pizza? 'Cause you almost *have* to have pizza with chicken wings. It's the American way.
There's a local dive in my neck of the woods that has "wing night wednesday". There's only one thing I like better than chicken wings. And that is, 15¢ chicken wings. What a deal. Anyone want any pizza?


Movies Watched: 0
Records Bought: 0
Shows Attended: 0

Day 5

From the time I was a kid, I always remember winter days of fun in the snow. My sisters and I would always be playing in it, making forts with it, snowmen, even jumping off the porch roof into it. But, now being old enough to shovel it, has made me hate it!
I mean, it's pretty. But, it turns to slush and makes driving a pain in the rear. Every time it snows, I wish I was six again (thank you John Mayer). I want to just wake up, not have to do work and just get to play. So, the burning question remains. Who's down for a snowball war??

Movies Watched: 0
Records Bought: 1
Live by Ernie Halter
Shows Attended: 0

Day 4

Today is the first Monday of 2010. That being said, I wanted to start off the year being productive. Easier said than done. I get distracted. Easily. My day started out at a Barnes & Noble Cafe (aka Starbucks) typing away on my laptop, doing some writing for other projects, and sipping a white chocolate mocha. I then proceeded to buy a new journal (to aid in my daily productivity) as well as a few photography magazines (it's a addiction really). I then ate some lunch at a local sub shop, then hit up the local thrift store.
I love thrift stores. Can I just say that? 'Cause I do. Anyway, during my meanderings my eyes spotted a few rarities. Some old school cameras. I am a collector of sorts when it comes to vintage cameras. I bought a Kodamatic 980L instant camera (Kodak's version of the "Polaroid" circa 1982) and a Yashica Super 8 25 movie camera (Japan made, circa 1967). Both cameras were only five dollars each! And the movie camera came in a Bell & Howell Bag (a different camera company popular in the 1950s). Crazy.

Movies Watched: 1
Joyeux Noel Dir. Christian Carion. 2005
Records Bought: 0
Shows Attended: 0

Day 3

Today officially marks the end of the holiday season for me. All of the Christmas decor is being packed away and stored until next year. That means many trips to and fro the basement getting and storing all the boxes.
It's always sad to take down the decorations, especially the tree. One of these years, I'm just going to leave it up year-round. Is that really such a bad idea? I don't think so. I guess that's partially the curse of having an artificial tree, there's no real pressure to take it down, as it requires no actual maintenance. I mean sometimes I want to listen to Christmas music in mid July, so is it really all that crazy to want to leave the tree up all year? Who's with me? ;)

Movies Watched: 0
Records Bought: 1
"The Red Rhythm" by Winston Audio
Shows Attended: 0

Day 2

In case you're wondering, Bambi is still alive. A few days ago my brother and I noticed a little baby deer roaming around our backyard. Upon further investigation we think it may have had a broken leg :( It was hobbling around through the snow. We watched it for a while, he then retreated into the woods again. Today, we discovered he not only came out of the woods, but was in fact hiding (injured=vulnerable) in the bushes of our neighbors house. We then had to call animal control :( Poor little guy.

Movies Watched (MW): 0
Records Bought (RB): 1
"Lungs" - Florence + The Machine
Shows Attended (SA): 0

Day 1

Today marks the first day of not only a new year, but a new decade. A year to be filled with new beginnings and (hopefully) new experiences. 2010 also will be the year I will be tracking many things. Starting with this photo blog, and also including (for my own curiosity's sake) the movies I've watched, records I've purchased, as well as live shows I've attended. Consider this the one stop shop entertainment blog! To start things off simply, this photo taken only minutes after midnight and ringing in the new year with friends. Happy New Year. Cheers!

Movies Watched (MW): 0
Records Bought (RB): 0
Shows Attended (SA): 0