downtown

I like working downtown.

The weather is nice today.

I have a couple of projects that are downtown. We I need to visit the buildings that I am working on, I walk to their location. It is cool to think that I am taking a nice walk through the city, because that is part of my job.

Today, I had to take some measurements of the existing conditions for the 4th floor of this old skyscraper. So, I got to take a walk outside.

We visited the building last week and got the full tour. The first four floors will be used as office and the remaining 30 stories are in the process of being converted into residential units. The lady who is in charge of selling these units to potential buyers gave us a tour. She took us to the 17th floor and showed us the model unit. It was fully furnished and quite nice. It was a two bedroom with spectacular views. She showed us a few more units and then took us down to the 5th floor. These two bedroom units have these huge roof decks that would be excellent for entertaining. I would be tempted, if we were childless. Can you imagine walking to work. That would be great.

las' night

BB is a good friend.

He is my concert buddy.

Last night we went to see The Violet Burning with John Davis at The Hurricane in Wesport.

I used to work in Wesport and I miss it. Wesport is active – day or night.

I love the sound of Wesport. You can here loud chatter pouring out of the buildings where people congregate. And music. There is always music.

Wesport is always good for a few weird people.

The show was a bar show versus a venue show which means the music usually doesn’t start until after 10pm, that way more people will show and stay late and buy lots of drinks.

The Violet Burning played first and when left after a few songs from John Davis.

My friend [M] was also there, so I got to catch up with him a bit.

I wanted some late night pizza. BB and I were talking pizza as we walked out of the Hurricane and it didn’t help that I parked right in front of Joe’s Pizza – pizza by the slice.

I always have a good time with BB when we see our bands. The conversation is always fun and it always turns to music. We could keep each other busy for hours talking music.

the cast is off

Last Friday, March the 24th, we all went with Goose down to Children's Mercy Hospital to get his cast off. It has been 3 weeks already. He didn't want to take his cast off. He quite liked it. I think he equated having the cast on to his arm not hurting anymore and was afraid by taking it off his arm would still hurt.

He was brave. I thought the cutting of the cast was going to be a problem with the blade and the loud noise, but he didn't mind.

He babied his arm for the rest of the day - holding it close to his body and in the same position that the cast was in. The arm was stiff and I guess a little sore if he tried to strech it out.

We promised him either a slushie or milkshake after he got his cast off. But it was only 8:30 in the morning, so I told him I'd take him out after I got home from my half day of work.

So later in the day, we stop by Winstead's for a butterscotch malt and he is now drinking it in the back of the car, he tells me "daddy, the malt is making my arm feel all better now." He was right, because from that moment on he started using that arm and now has full range in motion. The doctor said it could take up to a month.

The Little Skyscraper

My oldest son, who is three, knows that I work downtown in an office. He knows that I am an Architect and in simple terms that I draw buildings so that construction workers can build them.

Last night, I was reading him a new book from the library called the Little Skyscraper. Part of the book featured a boy named Jack who loves to visit the Little Skyscraper and declares that he wants to be an Architect when he grows up. I paused and said to my son “you know that your daddy is an Architect.”

Laying there together in his bed, he looked at me and said “when I grow up, I am going to be an Architect too! Just like you.”

I have been thinking about his statement. It is very sweet and humbling. I am now starting to realize that I am a parent and dad. Technically you become one when your child is born, but being a dad is a role that I grew into instead of switch that I flipped on. I don’t know when it happened – when I became a dad – I just am. And I’ve got two boys and they are growing so fast.

It is very flattering that he wants to be an Architect like me. I won’t hold him to it. He is too young to be making career choices, but he wants to be like me and do the things that I do.

Does anybody have this problem?

I sometimes will write my weblog in an email through Microsoft Outlook.

I then will copy and paste into my blogger post.

Then submit post.

Oops! I found a mistake and I need to edit my post.

After resubmitting, the text size is all messed up and is either too big or too small.

No big deal, but it is sometimes annoying.

Goodnight, and Good Luck.

I don’t have cable TV, so the only news I see if from the 3 broadcasting networks and their local affiliates. To be honest, I never watch the national new due to not turning on the TV until the kids are in bed. I rarely watch the local news, because I would rather be entertained by reruns of the King of Queens and the fact the local news is a joke.

I have to admit it is fun to watch the local news occasionally to make fun of it – in the way where I am talking back to the TV and making fun of their lame attempts of humor. (By the way, I think Anchorman is a funny movie in that aspect.) A lot of times I am yelling at the TV “why do I need to know that.” And I hate the fact that they spend so much time telling you what is coming up in the broadcast. They will show you these little teaser clips and when you finally watch that segment, you gain no new information or clips than what was in the teaser. The local news is a complete waste of time.

This weekend I watched a movie that was really refreshing in its statement about television and the News shows. The movie was Goodnight, and Good Luck. It is a historical piece about at time in our history that I do not know much about: the birth of television (and its news shows) and McCarthy’s quest to find all communist subversives in America. It is a historical view of CBS’s Ed Murrow and his taking on of McCarthy.

The movie itself has so much style – filmed in black and white with cigarette smoke everywhere. There are a lot of great shots with rich shadows. The movie also features a lot of great quotes from Ed Murrow, which seem prophetic put into today’s context. I see this film as one that will be shown in schools.

To those who say people wouldn't look; they wouldn't be interested; they're too complacent, indifferent and insulated, I can only reply: There is, in one reporter's opinion, considerable evidence against that contention. But even if they are right, what have they got to lose? Because if they are right, and this instrument is good for nothing but to entertain, amuse and insulate, then the tube is flickering now and we will soon see that the whole struggle is lost.

This instrument can teach, it can illuminate; yes, and it can even inspire. But it can do so only to the extent that humans are determined to use it to those ends. Otherwise it is merely wires and lights in a box. There is a great and perhaps decisive battle to be fought against ignorance, intolerance and indifference. This weapon of television could be useful.

Stonewall Jackson, who knew something about the use of weapons, is reported to have said, "When war comes, you must draw the sword and throw away the scabbard." The trouble with television is that it is rusting in the scabbard during a battle for survival.

-Ed Murrow

last days of winter 2006

I finally have a new mix of music to give to my friends. I have been compiling these songs the last couple of weeks. It is always the last couple of song to pick out that take the longest to give it the right mood. Those songs are not necessarily the the last in chronological order. They are the ones to make the whole thing flow together.

With only a few days left in this winter season this project got name the "last days of winter 2006." (Now I don't have to explain to Dust why this is so late in the season.)

Darwin, I promise you that one of these days I'll be mailing a few of these mixes over to you in Spain. Now that I have your permenant address, I really need to get on that.

The theme of this record is Late night vibe with different moods.

1.1. the violet burning…more

a good opener with a strong repetitive beat and a slow layering of instruments.

2.2. mogwai…acid food

3. 3. trespassers william…i don’t mind

4.4. delirious…all this time

these next three go from mellow vibey to noisey vibes and the back to mellow and grand.

5.5. laura veirs…galaxies

this song acts as a change in direction with an indie cool electric folk vibe with some spacey synth's.

6. 6. joy electric…the romantic balloons

7. 7. broadcast…america’s boy

8.8. depeche mode…a pain that i’m used to

these next three showcase electronic bands which contrast the previous song.

9. 9. U2…the first time

10.10. sigur ros…hoppipolla

these two songs start the healing process from the pain of depeche mode.

11. 11. faultline (featuring chris martin)…where is my boy

12.12. portishead…pedestal

13.13. viva voce…high highs

14. 14. the beta band…squares

these next four songs enter into a trip-hop vibe.

15.15. starflyer 59…a good living

16. 16. embrace…ashes

17.17. stars…calendar girl

the next three go from sad to anthemic to sing the months of the year and hopeful.

18.18. my bloody valentine…all i need

19.19. clap your hands say yeah…in this home on ice

here are a couple of good noisy songs

20. 20. norway (featuring ronnie martin)…a future

topped off with an all out electronic dance number.

Bono sighting

I was driving home from work the other night and I look in my review mirror and I see the Fly. Bono is following me on his motorcycle. I thought he was vacationing with his family in Australia or meeting with world leaders. But it looks like he is riding around in Kansas City. He probably just ate a Oklahoma Joe's BBQ.

I had my camera so I decided to take a shot. As you can see the light is turning green and I need to turn and take the picture inconspicuously. Look in the review mirror.

The picture below is a blow up of the mirror.

Snake Saturday

This last weekend, Vernal and I and the boys went over to Northtown for the annual Snake Saturday Parade. She used to go to this parade when she was a kid with her family. The location is just north of down town (see picture above) across the river in a comunity that is one part Main Street USA, one part industrial, and one part residential. The path of the parade covers quite a few scenes, from families who get their early and tailgate to the college students and 20-somethings waiting to get in line at the bars that are open mid Saturday morning to the carnival with rides and petting zoo's aligned by amauter race cars. Parades are the perfect slice of Americana.

This is my Turkey who just chilled out the whole time in his stroller until we got him out to feed the goats.

This is my Goose who totally understands the festive meaning of an Irish Parade and the concept of Carnival, there by sporting his Brazillian jersey.

What is a parade without one of many high school bands marching in awkward costumes and funny hats.

Here is a picture of Goose getting a girls telephone number. Nah, he scored quite a collection of candy. Next year we need to bring a bag.

Here is a picture of Eric Looney's long lost-seperated at birth-twin brother. It is amazing how people can take different paths in life.

a dentist visit

My teeth are all jangle-ly right now. They are all a little loose and gritty. This happens after every visit, but they’ll be back to normal tomorrow.

I went to the Dentist this morning.

I used to be worried about going to the dentist. I would be nervous the night before and nervous in the waiting room and nervous in the chair. But since I have been going faithfully every 6 months for 10 plus years, the routine is old hat. I am even okay when the dentist occasionally finds a cavity and needs to do a filling.

Experience does wonders for your confidence.

I know the routine. I sit on the chair and wait for my cup of mouthwash to swish for 30 seconds. Put on the heavy bib for x-rays (once a year.) The dental hygienist will then measure my gums and then give me a small lecture about the importance of flossing. She then uses a tool with a sharp point to scrap off plaque pausing for moments to spray water and suck it out of my mouth. I then get a fancy tooth brushing and polishing by a device that I have never gotten a good look at. Today’s flavor was cinnamon. She then flosses my teeth and calls in the dentist.

The Dentist comes in and calls me by my name and adds in a “howya doin’ buddy.” He is a real nice guy and has restored my faith in people with needles and drills in my mouth. He knows my family. My sister was in the same class as his daughter. We do the typical small talk – KU Jayhawks are looking good and my Dad and his latest Russian adventure.

Your teeth are looking great – my dentist says after poking for cavities (and I guess looking at my x-rays, which he did behind me) all of which took about 20 seconds.

I collect my new toothbrush and mini pack of dental floss, say my thank you’s and leave. All of which took about 30 minutes. See you in 6 months!

27th and Paseo

On Tuesday, several of us in the office toured a project near completion that is located near 27^th and Paseo. A few guys had been working on an old hospital that had been abandoned for nearly 30 years. They were converting it into Residences for low-income seniors over 55 years of age. The building was originally a Christian Hospital built by the local church (back in 1880’s?) to give medical services to those who could not afford healthcare. The units are a modest two bedroom with high ceilings. I believe there are 16 floors – I can’t recall.

We went up to the roof deck and the view of downtown was spectacular. We stayed on the roof deck for about 20 minutes. The weather was nice and I was taking in the sites of our city. I wish I had my camera. Life is good.

Here are few pictures that I did not take, but were taken by a coworker last fall.

my buddy

My cube buddy, office neighbor, just got back from lunch and plopped a bag of black licorice between our desks to share. Yes!!!

He is from Egypt and most foreigners that I know love black licorice.

I also love black licorice, but I an not eating sweets.

I'll only eat two, maybe three.

Recent Movies

I have watched a few movies lately (on dvd):

CRASH – the world is broken.

WALK THE LINE – great performances by Joaquin Phoenix and Reece Witherspoon. I want to read the Johnny Cash autobiography.

ZATHURA – a fun movie, a boy’s dream adventure. I wish I was 8 again.

ELIZABETHTOWN – a smart quirky romance that tackles some deep human issues…a fun movie.

PRIDE AND PREDJUDICE – the original romance.

THE MAN – wasn’t sure at first, but has some funny moments.

WHY SHOULD THE DEVIL HAVE ALL THE GOOD MUSIC - a documentary that looks at the Christian music scene. Filmed and Cornerstone festival in 2001

CORPSE BRIDE – not quite what I hoped for.

That is all I can think.

eating healthy

Vernal and I are trying to eat healthy. We both want to loose some weight and overall become healthier in diet and fitness.

The hardest part is getting started, to cross that threshold that says from this point “no more.” Picking a time to start was difficult. After this weekend or the next and then there is a bit of a binge before you start.

I struggle with moderation when it comes to things that taste good. I hope to learn to control my portions and will power. I can’t eat just one Hershey’s Kiss, I must have 10.

We have been doing this for a couple of weeks now. At first it was really difficult after dinner, when I wanted something sweet to munch on – like chocolate. Those after dinner cravings are now starting to go away.

My saving grace for a sweet dessert has been diet soda pop. I am not a big fan of diet; I would rather have the real thing, but it does satisfy that sweet that I desire. Since diet doesn’t taste as good, I seem to drink a 12oz. slower than I would if it was a regular. I am a little concerned about drinking too much diet soda, so I am trying to limit myself to one can a day.

I do like diet Dr. Pepper, Pibb Zero, Fresca, diet A&W, and diet Cokes. When it comes to Coke there are so many to choose from. At home, I have diet Coke with Splenda and it’s not that good. Coke Zero is the best when it comes to flavor.

So for lunch today, I will have chicken with a cucumber salad and a sort of coleslaw salad and an apple.

music denominations

I got this black t-shirt for my birthday.

Here is the story…
My sister-n-law got it for me from a friend of her’s. He designed it. He said “Forrest, will love it.”

Flash back one and half years:

I met him at a party. As I was introduced to him, I was told he was really into music. Great! I love to talk music. But there is a lot of music out there in the world, and the kind of music he was really into was not really my favorite style to get excited about. His music denomination was that of hard rock, grunge rock, nu metal, etc. I am very eclectic in my taste and I can find common ground with just about anybody when it comes to music. We had a good conversation and talked most of the night. I like a person who likes music. I found where our musical denomination paths crossed and focused on the common ground that we believed in without having to tell him that I didn’t care to much for some of his other bands.

Although I met him only once, I am glad he thought of me when he designed this shirt.

Another story at my wife’s friend’s wedding:

You know how weddings are. I didn’t know many people, but this was the big fat Greek wedding – so it was very entertaining. At the reception, the room was getting quite hot, so I walked out to the balcony for some fresh air – just like in the movies. I was introduced to another guy from Portland and was told that he was really into music. Great! I can talk music. (So what denomination are you) what band do you like? He was a fan of the jam bands. Again, it’s not a style that I care a lot for. Jam bands are known for the live shows – where they literally jam-out for 20 minutes on every song and for their rabid fan base who will follow the band around. I respect that most of the bands are good musicians, but I am just not into that. It’s a hippie crowd. We had a good time talking though, and we through a lot of bands back and forth to check out hoping to win him over to my denomination.

Before this conversation, I was talking college football with a group of guys. It’s nice to know a little about everything.

So, who can name the bands on this t-shirt? And bonus points for the person who can identify the band that doesn’t belong with the others.

little things

It is amazing how one little thing can change your day.

February 28^th was my one year anniversary at my current job. The year has flown by and I still feel new. I came in to work that day with every intention of working on project B.

But I had an email from the city waiting for me at 7:45 about project A. Project A is being reviewed by the city for Permit to build. The city needed a detail to clarify a portion of the code. I spent most of that day drawing up that detail and getting the drawings to the city for project A. Not a big deal, but I hadn’t planned on it….6-1/2 hours because of one email.

It is amazing how one little thing can change your day.

March 1^st was going normal until I got a phone call just before noon. Goose had fallen off of a makeshift balance beam in our back yard and hurt his arm. He was crying badly on the phone. Vernal said he wanted to see Daddy. I went home during lunch and found him asleep in his bed. He doesn’t nap – this was a cry yourself to sleep.

I slowly woke him up. He was in pain. I looked at his arm and touched it. It hurt. He had a long sleeve shirt on and I couldn’t pull it up. The pain seemed to be around the elbow. I hadn’t seen him hurt like this before. Vernal called the doctor. He was laying so still with his arm flat. His face was quivering and he couldn’t fight back the tears.

What did I wake him up for? He needed to see me. We prayed.

I had to go back to work. He told me to stay. I felt a heavy load on my soul all afternoon waiting to find out the result and waiting for my son to be his usual self. The doctor sent them to get x-rays and found that he had a buckle fracture above his elbow. I guess this happens a lot to kids and heals easy. He is in a splint and won’t get a cast until Friday morning.

To my relief, he was back to his normal self when I came home. We went in the backyard to lower the angle of the balance beam and he wanted to help as usual. He grabbed the beam with his one arm and moved it with me. He then wanted to play on it. He was walking the balance beam and climbing up the swing set with one arm. I am a nervous wreck. The arm is not casted yet. I could barely get him to come inside. He was also very disappointed that we were not going to his Sunbeams group at church.

Later that night, I went to read books with him in bed. I asked him how his day was.

“It was a great day, dad.”

“…but you hurt your arm today.”

“Oh, I’m okay, Dad. I’m fine.”

“…but you fell and you broke your arm.”

“My arm is not broken. I’m okay.”

I am proud of that boy!

February Music

Here are a few albums that I picked up in the month of February.
Luckily, I also received a gift certificate to help compensate.

Jack Johnson - The Curious George soundtrack

I got this for the kids, but I will secretly enjoy this too.

The Violet Burning - Drop Dead

I picked the up at their show earlier in the month.

Amina - Animamina E.P.

I also picked the up at the show with Sigur Ros.

Trespasser William - Having

I love the name! I am a fan of the original Winnie the Pooh cartoon. It is so innocent and carefree and very lulling. So is this music.

And a dvd too! I must admit I love this story and the movie is very enjoyable.