Day 42

Friday morning means no school, but it does mean I work meeting. No worries, I planned this one myself.

Went into work and discussed work related issues. I'm excited to find out that the club is getting a huge make over, complete with tanning beds, new floors, and equipment. I've been waiting for this for awhile.
After the meeting I began a workout for a bit, trying to stay healthy (I put this here because, as you'll see, I will fail at eating healthy in the next paragraph or two.)

After work I ran to Meijer and bought a protein shake (still eating healthy), complete with vitamins and other replenishment elites that I could put into my body. I then went home and played some COD, cleaned my room, and sold some clothes at Plato's closet today before heading into work. Then the unhealthy storm came.

I stopped at Mcdonalds again tonight to play that infernal Monopoly game they have going. I ordered a Big Mac, large fry, medium coke. This was at 6:00PM. After a successful night at work and signing another 5 members, I met up with Melissa and we got Mcdonalds again. They accidentally gave me someones meal, so the simple fry I ordered turned into ANOTHER big mac, large fry, and Melissa's drink....

As I type this, I have a giant container of pure tangerine juice, hoping to clear out my soggy veins.

- Melissa's picture she took of my sin -

Day 41

Early morning for a Com 101 class today.

Found out that I need to have a speech ready to present by next Tuesday. I have no idea what I'm going to talk on yet, though my friend Google will probably help me. Informative speeches aren't the hardest thing, but I would prefer a persuasive speech any day.

Left school and ran around town looking for materials I needed to put together a very special gift for someone. After I had found what I needed, I met Mike at Costco and we got lunch and talked. I then went home and stayed at my house while Shelby moved more belongings back in and the dogs fought.

Tonight at work was great. I've never worked a more busy shift. I ended up signing 5 people, touring a family, jumping a man's car due to a dead battery, and performed other avid tasks.

I'm sure the biggest highlight today, if not of my more recent months, was after work I took that "special gift" over to Melissa's house and asked if she'd be my girlfriend. A brief history on that: We've known each other for over 4 years. Her dad was my teacher, and through the grapevine of friends of friends of friends, we became myspace friends and began hanging out. Cornerstone University, Fall of 2007, a much interested me became drafted out of her mind, and she began a relationship with someone else. A year later I moved to California. I never thought I would see her again, and many many other people. God had different plans. Three years later, I got blessed. I'm excited for the future, I have my best friend now at my side to help me get through it. The gift I gave her was a home-made replica of the Beauty and the Beast glass rose. There was a tie in to all this from past memories, so the glass dome and flower were the streaks and smears into the painted canvas we have now of a relationship.

I am blessed

- Peppino's: blurry picture, clear individuals -

Day 40

For some odd reason, I can't remember if I did anything before lunch yesterday....

I guess not. Peculiar.

In the afternoon, it came time for school, so I headed out to Allendale but when I got there, I parked my car and realized I wanted a different parking spot. I went to start my car , only to find a forbaded finish. My battery was dead. I gave a glance at my "learn self control" card and calmly made some calls, still went to class, but missed my spanish class at night so I could fix my car. My uncle Jim came and we jumped the battery, and realized that my car battery was dead. I drove to his house, and then took their vehicle to Auto Zone where I bough a new battery.

Some dirty hands and cold breaths later, the battery was in, and my car starts like it's a brand new Motor City baby.  Detroit would be proud. (I have a Saturn.... GM). I took my car home and then went to Noah's for a small get together. Mike, Alana, and Melissa were with us, and we drove out to the New Salem Corn Maze, which was 1.) not open to the public and 2.) after hours. We decided it would fun and scary to walk the corn maze, which Noah insisted he knew like the back of his hand...
...apparently Noah is an amputee.

A little over an hour and soggy, soaking wet shoes later, we found our way out. We then ventured into the haunted citadel and woods, where we walked through incredibly well decorated houses, insane asylums, and general stores, all with some of the most realistically looking props and dead people that even Guillermo Del Toro would be impressed. The asylum has crazy people locked in these rooms that you can look through and they're chained to the bed, or some are missing legs. It's very well done. No, this won't make it to art prize, but the amount of work and money spent on making this spectacle look legit and scary is grade A.

- Me in the Funeral Home with a dummy (not that scare) -

Day 39

Class was canceled this morning!

I'm in a good mood because of this. No trip out to Allendale. No breaking bills and using meters. I woke up and played COD for a little bit and then went over to Mike's to hang out with him before we both met up with our good friend Ethan at Ming Ten.

Ethan has been one of my friends for 4-5 years now. We did several outings in my high school youth group, as well as retreats and even shared the same leader. He's a funny guy, never has to try to make me laugh, he's just funny, which I like. Ethan moved to Chicago a few years back where he has been living ever since. Every time I'm out there I'll usually stop by this place. He lived 5 minutes off of the Magnificent Mile, so when I say he lived in Chicago, he was truly in Chicago.

We ate sushi, seaweed salads, soups, honey chicken, mushrooms, coconut egg-whites, and so much more, and then left and went over to Meijer. Melissa had gotten out of class so she met us there. We bought juices and then made off to Robinette's. At Robinette's, I tried all of their donuts. We just hung out and talked and then Ethan drove us to his house, a huge nest egg of a home tucked away in the forests of Ada's lower pant leg. We then explored this old house that had to have been at least 100 years old and was falling apart as we spoke. It looked like an old colony home. It made me think of what poor slave family or farmer family lived there. I love old architecture like that. The house was so small, with an upstairs that would have served as one bedroom. Wish I could go back and time and see it lived in, of course, I would love to go back in time for anything. I'd want to travel back in time to 20 B.C. and stand where my house is right now and just see what the landscape looked like, and just walk around.... walk to where the mall is, Costco... it would all just be grass... or rock. I don't know. Dangit I need a Delorean.

Came back from my Holland class which I really like, after tapping into more of my creative side in my brain I met my sister and Jeff, Melissa, Mike, Tanya, Chad, and Sam at Buffalo Wild Wings where I spent time with my friends. I love when I get to do this. Everyone is so busy all the time, so when we get together it's a treat. Went over to Shelby's apartment after and hung out for awhile, played with her animal farm, and then went home to find my own animal farm... farm mess actually. Carmen peed in my room on a pile of clothes.

I hate spanking my dog.

- Robinette's -

Day 38

This morning I was bound to make a new week. To evoke change and a new attitude in my life. God and people helped me with that.

I went over to Melissa's house where we briefly got to catch up, and unfog the windows that were locked inside our heads. After the clean air was able to oxidize in, we both left, her for school, and I for a workout, to really help clean out my head. I worked out for about 45 minutes, and felt great. Downed two protein shakes and went home and had some chicken and pasta.

Afternoon comes school, so I went to my debate class, watched the O.J. Simpson closing arguments, and later on took a Spanish test, that I'm confident I finished with a B+ or an A-.

I came home after work where a hot kettle of soup and bagels were waiting for me, as well as my aunt Colleen. This is a lady I really look up to. I trust her with a lot, and she's one of the wisest ladies I know. Even when the truth hurts and it's not what I want to hear, I know she's lived it, she believes it, & she knows it. I'm glad I have her in my life. Aunt Colleen, if you ever see this, don't be mad, but I have this picture from Mexico and you look fine. You look like a boss.... and that's what you are. Like a boss! seriously, your hot.

- My Aunt -

Day 37

Sunday morning, a trip to church, a well needed trip this Sunday. Coming out of a stressful week and a character building one at that, church was much appreciated. I sat with Mike and Chad.

After the sermon, the three of us boys went out to Jimmy John's were Chad got us discounted food on his brother's behalf (who's probably going to get the chopping block when he goes back to work there), and we just talked.

After lunch, Chad went his ways, and Mike and I went to Rivertown Mall, where we shopped around, and I finally got a pair of khaki jeans. I've been looking for a tan pair of chinos/khakis/ tan jeans forever. Preferably wanted Levi, but I'll take Arizona. The look is identical. Then we went and saw the movie "Moneyball", which was a good movie. I'm not being lazy, I just mean a good movie. Felt good, and its good. I wouldn't say its the best movie of the year, but it's good.

Movie ends, I go home, but realize I still wanted to be with my friends. So I went over to Chad's where we played some Mario Kart on the Wii and had some beers. I love my friends. It's great when I get to be with them.

On a funny note, I always leave my keys in the most random of places, and this post's picture is where my keys ended up today.

 - Rivertown Box Office, Inside the window -

Day 36

Today, as usual, I woke up, with is essential to live life.... waking up.

I had donuts and sushi with my grandparents and parents this morning, which is a normal Saturday morning routine. It's expected. We talked for a bit, and then I left for Mike's house where we talked, and I played "Braid", a Tim Burton esque game that depresses you while you play it, yet makes you think like a physics scholar. We snagged Melissa so she could get her car which was at Mike's.

I went into work, where a good portion of the day I worked on photoshop renderings for my boss on new club looks. A lot of them look sweet. Some are meh. I also signed a person today, so I was happy.

After work, I went over to Mike's where we grabbed Wendy's and then did something fun. We did what Richard Dreyfuss and Emilio Estevez did in their film. Of course our version sucked horribly. We were no where near the target, My frosty was melting all over the place, so I had to pour it outside my window, and the blazers we were wearing just made us look like lost Gap salesman. And considering we were almost caught not once, but twice (one victim was inches away from us), we had our hearts pumping.

The end of the night I went home, but was thinking just about evil. Not evil I have, but evil in the world. It's funny, when you don't care about your life's course, and do whatever you want, sometimes, you practice or do evil things. You do bad stuff. You sin. Then, like me and Mike, after months of re-focusing on becoming better men, and cleaning up our lives, and going to God for answers, evil realizes it has lost some of it's players. We aren't on evil's side anymore. And when you turn sides, the side you left comes after you. This last week has been no exception. Mike and I have endured some of the most difficult choices, emotions, and witnessed what a fallen human race looks like, and this is just in our tiny county of Kent. Overseas, I can't even begin to think of all the people that do bad things.

There's good people, and there's bad people. We're the good guys. I've always liked a fight. Bring on the bad.

- Rendering of a room I did today -

Day 35

Another Friday. Friday's are good.

Woke up to a another transparently beautiful fall morning, with the leaves slowly blending into the winter's poison. It's sunny, the grass is wet, and the sky is solid blue.

I had a work meeting with my boss, which went awesome. I'm working on renderings and images of what the club would look like with new paint, walls, and cosmetics. I also expressed concerns for various things around the place, and we took care of them. After the meeting, I did a great 45 minute work out, mainly working on my sides and ribs.

After the workout, I drove to Mike's house and then Mike drove us to Woodland Mall, where we had some lunch, (I did Sensational Salad, and it was a protein-vitamin goldmine). We walked around the mall, looked in some stores, even checked out a Halloween City, trying to determine what costumes we would don this year, but returned to his house empty-handed.

I headed home and hung out at my house for a couple hours, before Mike and Tanya came over and we made popcorn and watched a movie. Noah and Alana stopped by, and then Mike and Tanya left. I didn't want to be home on such a night as this, so I went with Alana and Noah to the Hookah Lounge with a scout of other people. Some smoke rings and yesterdogs later, we moved the bandwagon back to Noah's house, where myself, Mike, Noah, Alana, and Melissa hung out until four something A.M.
I'm sorry for another stock photo, but I used this one because it was taken outside the hookah Lounge, and the guy standing there not only is wearing exactly what I was wearing last night, but was also on his phone like I was..... this is the closest representation of what I did. (I get to name it, yay for art)

- The Lonely Hookah Man -

Day 34

"Do or do not. There is no try" - Jedi Master Yoda

Today was a disappointing day, not because of evil attacking me, or a worthless lottery ticket, or stressful homework, but a day where in life we have to make decisions that hurt people.

The boss firing an employee, the son signing a draft form, heck, our own President makes a decision and half the nation hates the man. It's no easy cake to eat. Nonetheless, life must be lived, and that's that.

After school, I met with my best friend Melissa for coffee. We discussed a slew of things, but the thing that stands out was that, as predicted, she didn't finish her coffee cake. It's my fault, I know better. I should have gotten her coffee pie. She hates cake. Next time....
Shortly after I drove straight from there to meet my dad at Akita buffet, a Chinese buffet that has taken over a Chinese palace in Grandville. I'm pretty sure this is there 4th "new management" ploy, but its good mushroom chicken. After catching up with my dad, who I respect greatly, I went home where I played with my dog and my sisters dog, and secretly enjoyed watching them fight and bark at each other. (My dog is a queen). Shelby, my sister cut my hair about an inch and a half shorter, and I look my age again.

Met with my friend mike for dinner at Panera Bread before heading into work. Panera raised their prices, and I felt like a doofus for stating that when I was ordering (That places hates me, I know it).
Went into work, did my thing, took care of business, then ended the night at Peppino's with my work friend April. We splashed some drinks back and talked about life, the future, and the cracks in between.

And the planet keeps spinning...

- This clip from "Trainspotting" has been in my head today -

Day 33

Today was an average day, with work in the morning, school in the afternoon, and relaxing at night. Rather than going through all of the accounts in the day, I wanted to pay homage to one of my friends who gave me the idea to start this blog, after all..... it's been over a month now and I haven't gotten bored yet.

Ty Jansma. Ty and I knew each other in the 3rd grade. I had just moved the year before, and me and my sister attended Grandville Elementary School (South Elementary to be exact). Me and Ty had class together that year, but a few years after, we casually hung out every now and again, back in the day when pokemon cards were equal to cash, the sega genesis was a relic to be played, and transportation involved roller blades or the classic bicycle. Time went on and years later (2005), we ended up applying, interviewing and both getting the same job at Atlanta Bread Company. We spent countless hours slaving for piss-poor wages but any first job is like that.

To this day we still keep in contact, and a month and a half ago, I met him him and he gave me the idea for the blog. He currently updates his facebook with a "My Life in Pictures Album", which he does similar, only through facebook. He's a great guy, and we've had several consistencies with our faith, girls we've dated, and outlook on life. He's got a solid head on his shoulders; I wish him the best in the sunny state of Florida.

Thanks for the ideas man!
.......... No, I'm not gay.

- Ty's picture from his facebook, FL -

Day 32

After watching a research presentation in the library about using references, books, and Google, I had to check out. No pun intended.

Today was a mini-holiday. My time away to clear my head, laugh, etc. I checked out out G.R. Needed to leave. At about noon, me and my friend Mike hopped in my dad's car  (traded vehicles so my dad could inspect mine), and we drove for Lansing. Our first stop came to the Tanger outlets, where we hit a couple stores, but my tightly conservative wallet didn't buy anything there. Retail therapy works, but it will bring out another disease.... lack-of-funds virus. Shortly after we left and went into Lansing, where we stopped at a Plato's Closet, center of college town. First off, I was blown away at how many college aged people like myself live here. I didn't see a single elderly, older, or toddler shaped body anywhere. College kids run this town. It was like "Lord of the Flies" except they actually turned out good and created a society, and the fat kid named Piggy never got crushed by a rock here. Drove by the Capitol buildings, got lost a few times, and grabbed lunch at Q'doba, which of course was also college run. If anyone wants to escape to a place where parents are only a photograph, go to W. Lansing.

We drove all the way back on W. River Drive due to some spotty GPS tracking, but realized you can take W. River Drive all the way from Ada straight to Lansing. I dropped Mike off and then went home to pop my pill and rest. After laying on my bed for only thirty minutes, I wanted more. My holiday wasn't ready to come to an end. I called my dad and we went and saw "Drive", an arthouse action film that blends a gentle heart of man into ultra-dark violence and a hauntingly beautiful soundtrack. Wasn't bad, new style of cinema for sure.

- Lansing -

Day 31

Today's good news came in a phone call. Mononucleosis was negative. No traces found anywhere. I celebrated this with a measly cluster of eggs breakfast and a pure blend of several juices.

For the earlier part of the day I sat around and killed time before school started. At about 2:00, I left and stopped at Target and a couple other stores before school, mainly looking for a few items I've been needing. Nothing came of it, and I couldn't find anything good.

Once at school, I was given the assignment of making a fake mugshot or picture and giving it a caption, very similar to what politicians do, particularly Nixon in the era of the Kennedy wars with the picture of his opponent and the slogan, "Would you buy a car from this man?". I feel I may have crossed a line, when my partner and I, printed a picture of a Catholic priest and labeled it "Would you let this man lead your cub scouts?". That got audible groans of shock from the class.

Today was a warfare. Spiritual and emotional. People and ideas from my past and possibly future came full force at me. The "drama" that is so easily exploited lingered on the edge. Messages, conversations, and even a devotional were all part in what really shook me up. Thankfully, I feel I claimed this one. No blood of mine on the battlefield today. The past was stomped, the future was stored, and my enemies deemed worthless.

All this weight meant a good night out with Mike at Graydon's Crossing. I told him what was going on with me today and all the "Attackers", and he shared about his life. We got some Dragon's Milk, Summer Shandy, and Frog Legs, and played three games of darts. I only won one game..... Nonetheless, good Monday.

- Graydon's Dart Boards -

Day 30

The anti-biotics have been doing wonders, and even waking up after clocking in a mere six hour sleep session, I still felt fine. Not good, but not bad. Say goodbye to my grandmother, have a bantam breakfast, and then scurry out the door to open at work.

I stayed at work for a good portion of the day. I was the only one there, so I was responsible for opening and closing. It was good. No complaints today. Changing out feminine hygiene product containers was an experience, but it was all good. I also ate macaroni & cheese at work, which all I have to say is, they put way, way, way too much cheese powder in those packets.Yes, I'm paying homage to Kraft Mac & Cheese. The one and only. The legend. The cheese my sister sabotaged a fellow camper's suitcase with on my senior retreat. That kind of cheese.

Went home and rested, looked briefly at the advertisements in the paper, and started watching Spider-Man. I also sat in the shower for another twenty minutes and just sweat. It feels so good to do that when I'm sick. Sweat out all the micro-toxins in the blood through my pores, cleansing the veins and body. Need to find a steam room.

Ended the night with a guys night, courtesy of Mike Wensel. Mike, Noah, & I all went over to Chad's and got some drinks and food, and just hung out, watched Hey Arnold, Kung Pow, Robot Chicken, and avoided waking up Dee, Chad's tenant that lives below him. I'm surprised she didn't wake up, considering the laughing, yelling, computer speakers, and singing, that were aimed directly towards her master air vent. I'm sure our faces being inches away from it didn't help. When Mike lept out of the chair and slammed his shoe-clad feet against the floor and the entire house shook, I'm quite confident she slept through that too.

Ahh... came home to a puddle of pee, courtesy of my dumb dog.

- The boys -

Day 29

With an entire Saturday off, most Americans would fancy a day on the town, excursions in a forest, bargain shopping at an outlet mall, cleaning out a garage, or spending time with an old friend. Sickness has different plans, and usually results in the following.

Woke up and got my blood tested. I won't get results back until Monday morning, but at least I'll know if I have mono. I left the hospital and went to Melissa's because her mother made some amazing chili. After I warmed my stomach with the spicy healer (it really is, look that up), I went home and sat around the house. Melissa came over and we did an array of activities, including Mario Kart Wii, a lightsaber fight with my brother, punishing the dog for peeing inside, making my own Xing Tea knockoff, eating Goolash (spelling?), and arguing about what movie to watch. Mike came over later on in the evening and we went to Jordan's for a going away party. I got to see my friend Maris who I haven't seen since January, and who I use to work with. We all had some drinks, chatted, and went to Mcdonalds, where I consumed just under 2,000 calories. I was hungry, and the anti-biotics made me feel like a new man the whole day.

Going to bed was great. It was great. Thanks for caring for me. you know who you are.

- My sissy drink -

Day 28

This morning was a urban reminder that there are doctors, lawyers, and policeman in are cities, although this morning I'm focusing on the doctor....

After a visit to the doctor, I find out the lumps in my throat are swollen lymph nodes are a result of group A beta-hemolytic streptococcus. This is more often referred to as strep throat, though I'm a nerd and big medical words are cool. Luckily for me, because it was such an early stage, I haven't had a sore throat, runny nose, or had to alter my day plans. I was given powerful anti-biotics that I can truly vouch for when I say, they have really made the disease recessive, if not almost vanquished. I'm going in tomorrow for blood work to test for mononucleosis.

I worked during the afternoon, and then darted out with Melissa to join the birthday party for my mom. It was her 50th, and we threw her a surprise party. It was great to see so much of my family there, all enjoying themselves, with perfect fall weather. My Aunt Marsha catered several dishes and deserts, and with added brewed drinks and wines, it was a good night. Me and my dad got her an ipad (I'm a poor college student, so my dad paid most of that one...).

Went to bed at midnight sharp, knowing little that I would get 10 hours of sleep....

- Mom's 50th Birthday -

Day 27

Ho hum

I was incredibly late today for school, since I' quite certain my alarm did go off, but alas, I remained to stay slumbered in my bed, until I did what I do best. Slept in.

Regardless, I made it to school and enjoyed class, my spanish lab, and then had lunch with Melissa at The Connection on campus. Fresh, organic, and Michigan salads. Yes, it was good.

Went to work, did the usual, took some names, busted some heads, nothing too fancy.

Went home and got to see my grandma Judy from Monroe, here for my mother's birthday. I hung out at home until Mike came over later in the evening. Before he arrived, I spent about thirty minutes in the shower, just sweating, sitting, feeling tired and kind of sick. I felt better by the end of the night, but I'm keeping an eye on this "sickness". Me and Mike watched youtube videos and Robin Williams on Boradway. Then I slept. Yep, thats my day. Are you happy you know?!!!! Huh?!! Happy?!!!! STALKER!

I'm kidding, I love you all. Derek, shut up. Yes Derek....seriously, when you read this in the future, you will be embarrased, and you'll sound lame. Oh well.

-A picture that has nothing to do with this day-

Day 26

Why yes, I did just wake up, go all the way to work, only to find out I wasn't scheduled. Thanks for asking.....

Nonetheless, I had a swift meeting with my boss and then did some tasks and projects around the gym for about 2 hours, just to make up loss gas money, and some extra dough. I had stayed the night at Mike's the previous night, so after work, I set homeward bound and showered.

I finished working on my first paper for class, and then departed for GVSU, where I critiqued my paper, read other student's papers, and did more class de espanol. I ended up getting a B- on my first Spanish test, which is what I sort of predicted. Not bad, not bad.

After class, I snapped another exotically beautiful picture of the sunset. GVSU has, I think, the best view of sunsets, being it's quite elevated, and there are no trees or lights around it. It's in a rural realm where everything above you is vibrantly displayed. I met up with my good friend Jordan at Fazolli's which is the equivalent of McDonalds via Italian fast food form. We caught up with life, friends, and filled in the in-betweens. I've known Jordan for a year and a half. She was one of my managers when I worked at Plato's Closet. She moved to Texas in January and has since then helped start up a church, taken an assistant manager job, and other forward-oriented things one does with their life when they move away.

Went home and watched Batman and the Dark Knight, more or less skimmed through the cool scenes. And we know the cool scenes are the one's with Joker.

- The sunset -

Day 25

Woke up early this morning for my Com 101 class. It's such a drive back out to Allendale, for such a short class (70 minute class). Luckily I go by Meijer everytime so the availability to stop for a juice is adequte.

After class I came home and goofed around the house (I'm really getting sick of all the down time at my house, it's really urging me to move out), and watched some old movies I grew up with in my high school days. Then around 6:00, I left for my bi-weekly night class in Holland. Came to find out the class starts at 7:00, not 6:00, so I nested at a Mcdonalds (my once a week guilt dine) and did some homework until class started.

Because of my late class, plans for the casino fell through, where I was supposed to meet Mike. Nonetheless, I drove to his house where I would later stay the night. Melissa and Jordan came over. Jordan has been one of my good friends for two years. She was trying to surprise Mike but my lying abilities are bad (which I guess is a good thing.... who wants to be good at lying?) The four of us went to B-Dubs and partook in wings. Mmmmmhhhmmmm.

- Us at B-Dubs -

Day 24

I hate Mondays. Today was another bad Monday. I don't want to go into it; if I return to this post and give it a read a year from now, I don't want to resurrect scabs and give power to anything negative. Nonetheless, I made a productive day of it.

Cleaned my room for starters, which it was in dire need of. Dusted,vacuumed, organized, and cleaned over. Smells and looks new. I also shipped some eBay sales out, used goo-gone on a pile of things that have been needing the solution, and updated stuff on my computer. This morning was also the first morning I blended my breakfast, and this wasn't just any breakfast, but fruit. Oranges, apples, apricot, a concoction of vitamins and calcium that would be slurped down my throat from the foamy fruit frappe that was remaining. I also blended a protein shake, after a vigorous workout, from a vigorous day.

Went to school, did excellente on my first Spanish quiz, and pretty sure I succeeded in doing the same on my first test (might be a B+...we'll see). I sit here down on campus in a benched, shaded area outside the Fresh Food Company, a $9.00 buffet restaurant that boasts to be the finest dining on campus. I believe it. One look in this place brought up images of a cruise ship. Golden Corral has nothing on this eatery. Stay as long as you want, eat as much as you want. Any food you can think of. Chinese, salads, pastas, sandwiches, pizzas, soups, drinks, and plenty of ethnicity to go around. Yum is well deserved.

Ending the night with a late night dinner date with Mike. A good friend, with good food, and good talks. Here's to healthy eating

- What a good fruit blend should look like -

Day 23

10 years ago, my hands put down their drumsticks as my band teacher informed me and the rest of my middle school band class that two planes had just been flown into the World Trade Towers. The first day I saw a face of evil. A decade later, we remember and honor.

Woke up to a new sermon series at my church. I sat in a higher section of the balcony, which was dimly lit and unkempt, but I was still able to perceive the message. After the sermon me and Chad met up with Melissa and Samantha and has a Costco lunch.

After that I went back to Melissa's house where I hung out briefly, before leaving to see the film The Green Lantern with my friend Mike. The film was ok, a definitive  for a little boy's imagination. As stated on the previous blog, I avoided all sugars and sodas today, at the theater and at Costco. My body thanks me.

After the film, I met up with Melissa at Cornerstone University to check out Evensong. Evensong is a Sunday night event that brings a college university band (a la worship team)  together and unites a campus with Christ's love. It's been four years since I've been to this, to it was a time warp for my brain. After the show I went back to my old stomping grounds in Van Osdel, the dormitory I lived in. I walked through every floor, lobby, and lounge, taking in sights, smells, and memories. I became overwhelmed, and sat in a lounge and had a one-on-one with God. My basket of amnesics began to overflow a surging tangent of fervor in my mind. The emoticon capacity is brimming. I was so selfish those years growing up, yet I was so innocent. A child of the culture. I japed myself the entire time. I was blessed, and I never knew it. Until now. I miss that school.


Rob and Alex, two great guys from Cornerstone met me and Melissa at Applebee's tonight, where we were able to catch up, and I was again connoted again that I was blessed. I never had to wander that far off.


- Birthday party, December 2007, Cornerstone pals -

Day 22

This morning was a refresher. Someone hit F5 on my life. The little amount of sleep I had was enough to cover me with the curtain; the last magic trick of some sick magician, featuring me as a parlor trick in his game of life.

Read another chapter of that devotion. I could devote an entire blog to how this book is mimicking my thoughts and actions, but I'll spare myself and others that trip.

Went into work and cleaned house. Both around the job site and with my body. I started with a basic, eating only healthy foods + working out + in-taking serious protein (over 100g that day to be exact). I stopped at Meijer and loaded up on many organic juices before going into work.

After work, I stayed true to a newer, healthier lifestyle, minus hooka. Yes, I met up with Melissa, Kelsey, and her boyfriend Cody, and we hung out at the EGR Hooka Lounge, filling our lungs with the white sheep of tobacco families. Good Saturday, still feeling healthy and alive while typing this!

- My juices I drank today -

Day 21

Woke up in a much better bed, one of those beds thats not a floor.

Worked for a brief three hours, before escaping into the weekend. Stopped off at the bank to install some resources in my favor, and then met Melissa at Costco for lunch. I enjoy Costco lunch, it's affordable, it's good, and I love the smell of the place. We stayed for probably a solid thirty minutes and just talked, it was nice.

Went back to my house where Mike was waiting there, talking with my parents. We hung out with him, talked, watched some youtube videos, and then shed time off the clock before going to Noah's house for a party.

Had some drinks, ordered some pizza, watched Noah's yard get set on fire.....again....

It was a good night... I'd be faking if I didn't remind myself, in the goal and mission of the blog, to say that tonight was the night I woke up, and I took off my mask. Going against the style of my blog, instead of a picture to represent the day, I've attached opening lyrics from a song, and it's video. In retrospect to youtube today. It's by the band IAMX. here's my prelude to my present. It feels felicitous for my Friday. Music Video is very artistically done.

"I saw bright
Open common sense
I do evil things
And evil things return
And I'm praying now
I'm praying for me

You can't hide
I remove from you
Every tiny strength
In everything you do
And I'll kick you down
I'll break you with a tender touch

And then the tears cried
In the tear garden
Will be for life"

Day 20

Following the previous blog, today was like waking up ten minutes behind everything. If life was a movie, or a timecode on a film strip, and it is always moving, since there are no pauses or playbacks in the set of life, I was behind ten minutes. My life had already started moving without me. This happened because my alarm was set for the wrong day, but luckily I woke up when an intense amount of sunlight began leaking into the living room. Oh yes, the living room, where I slept. Chad's living room. On the floor, with one blanket and a fan. It felt like I slept on rocks that night. Waking up was no joy.

Sprinting out the door with mouthwash in my mouth, hands buttoning my shirt, and my hair looking like.... well me, I made it into the car, and was in my classroom seat just two minutes before class started.
Whew.

Today was an extra exciting day though because one of my best friends came back to Grand Rapids today. Mike Wensel has been out of the state since the beginning of May, working on a paid internship at a resort in Lake Tahoe. I was happy to see him go out there, but even more happy to have him back. Mike and I have been good friends since my senior year of high school. Knowing his face and the basic factoids about him in high school, senior year is when we really bonded. We've shared jobs, dorm rooms (unofficially), and friends and girlfriends (no, not in the way you're thinking of). I feel like California was great for him; as humans, we grow as people much better when we are isolated from our normal biospheres. I feel he's grown a lot, and I'm eager to see what trouble I can get into and he can get me out of. I picked him up from the airport today and it was great to dive right back into the continuum of our lives. I met up with him and Chad, Gideon, Erica, and Dana at Rockwells, where we ordered very delicious but way to much sangria, and all hung out again. Good feeling to know I have a partner in crime...again.

Ended the night at work, which is work. Nothing more, nothing less.

Stopped at Melissa's after work, another one of my best friends....

 Dang, just missing Patwick out of the circle.

- Gideon & Mike @ Rockwells -

Day 19

This morning started with a work day. I tend to like morning shifts, they free up my day, plus I can awaken earlier, eat a healthy breakfast, and catch up on the morning milieu.

After work I went home and spent some brief time there before heading off to school. Debate class was spent discussing W. Bush in a more casual attire at ground zero supporting troops, and whether it displayed a professional or correct image. From an argument and communication standpoint, it would be incorrect for me to blast some students in my class, and call them close minded liberals. I will say, that there is a handful of students in my class that need to learn the difference between pot-shots and political agendas. God bless America (sarcasm).

My Spanish class is really blooming into another garden of literacy and vocabulary. I aced my first quiz so that's a plus (an A+ actually). After class I headed off to my aunt's house to hang out with her, drink some Teavana tea, which I still think is the best tea in the world and have yet to experience a more prominent tea. Melissa joined, and we spent time watching Toddlers & Tiaras, a shallow show that exploits innocent girls being dolled up to look like fake beauties with boobs while overzealous parents spend time and money on making sure this happens. These girls grow up feeling the need and dependency for make up, nice clothes, and attention, and if they don't get it, they feel let down, worthless. This is how a slut is created. Forgive the harshness, but if I grew up with the constant shows, pageants, nice clothes, and access to funding, I would view myself, and other girls differently. I would pursue the beautiful girls on the outside, while the inside remained vile. Its funny, after I watched this show on girls wanting to be pretty and accepted, I watched the South Park episode "Stupid Spoiled Whore Playset", which utterly demolishes any respect Paris Hilton had left standing for her, and the other "spoiled whore" role models little girls are supposed to look up to.

On the topic of beauty, leaving GVSU last night, I saw what was probably the most gorgeous spectacle of a sunset I've ever seen. We're talking complete awe, in all angles, cascading over every inch above my head. The sun had transmuted into a grapefruit colored explosion of smoke that invaded the very air I was breathing. This is what beauty should be. Not some little girl or a female model who have a perfectly curved convex jaw and smooth skin. Not posing for Calvin Klein or Victoria's Secret. It's a beauty that is inside. It's untouched. Thank God for the sky, because if the world turned ugly, if everything on this planet became void and venomous, the sky, the clouds, and the sun would remain with beauty.

- The Sky Last night, GVSU campus. *this picture does not do justice for the real experience, of having this abyss on all directions*.-

Day 18

The 1st part of today was a dark one. It's something I won't go into detail about, but my day did not see the lighter side of day until the afternoon.

I met up with Chad and we did a full scale gym day. Worked out to the extreme. Did weights, swimming pool, and the rock climbing wall. It felt great, to just sweat, vent, get out all the untapped emotion that lies around the muscles in your body. I'm a tad upset I don't feel sore right now, but maybe that will come in a little bit.

After a great workout, we went out to Bar Louie for $1.00 burger night with Kaitlin, Melissa and April. I work with April and Kaitlin, both very sweet and nice girls, with a positive attitude. April I respect a lot, and she's a Florida native. Kaitlin has a mind that will take on anything, she's learning Japanese, travels all over the planet, yes, I work with extraordinary people. After burger night we went our ways, and Chad and I went over to Melissa's for a brief time to talk with her parents, just hang out.

I need to work on actually taking pictures at the right time. I thought about capturing an image of the rockwall, but that failed. I wanted to get a picture of all of us at Bar Louie, but that failed. I managed to get a picture for today of a stray cat that approached my car last night. It was an image I could relate to. I feel like that cat lately. I have a home, so in the general sense I'm not pertaining directly to this, but I feel so stray. Like a cat. Disconnected from the world, wandering. I'm a wanderer. I feel like a drifter lately. I have that home I can go back to, and I'll always have a home, but when I'm on my own, I feel unplugged. And just like that cat, tapping back into society or the world is easy, that's how cats do it. They rub up on your leg or meow. Simple attention and you're noticed; how similar I am to this. If I feel I'm going to be noticed, or if I want to jump back into... "life", I can put on a face,  act like I want attention, whatever, and I'll get it. A connection back into something. But connections are only temporary. Ask AT&T, or look at power lines. They end. At a party it's "Hey, I like this too... let's talk and I'll fit in tonight and then after tonight I'll never talk to you again, in fact, I'll wake up tomorrow and despise you as a person... I'm just faking this to "tap in"." I feel like the cat, just looking for something, I don't know what though. Maybe some smoked salmon.....

Mmmmmmhhmmmmmmm.....

Thanks Cat.

- The Stray Cat -

Day 17

Labor day. An event that has been celebrated since 1882. It's the end of the summer, the bell that rings for a new school year, the aid to relieve postal workers from a day at the mill. For me, it's a day off, and I'm a man who enjoys his days off.

Woke up to a great breakfast, courtesy of my grandmothers... we're talking donuts, juice, and sushi. Yes, I eat sushi for breakfast, the health benefits are a quantum. I drove to the Verizon store because my phone decided to shut down this weekend and not send text messages. After thinking everyone hated me, it was just a elementary matter of repairing a phone. Looks like I'm getting a 4G phone at the end of this month, so I scoff at you phone.

Finished watching Se7en, which is a great movie, but the ending was way over-hyped by my film nut friends. I mean it's a good ending, but that's not a twist at all. It was just, an ending. I went over to Melissa's later where we took a walk in the woods. I've always admired the woods. Our concrete cakes keep rising all around, and the woods become a more rare gem tucked away in the veers of nature. The forests house many creatures, birds, and insects, it's their home.

Ended the night by seeing a movie, and then going back to my house to see the animal circus. I say that because there were so many animals in my house, much to my mother's avail.

Our home is not a forest.

- The Woods -

Day 16

On the 7th day, God rested.

I followed suite.

Rest. Relax. Leisure.

After leaving the last summer service at Calvary Church, me and my mom, sister and grandma got Sunday lunch at Arnie's which is some of the best lunch in Grand Rapids. I had a something something warm bacon salad and a cuban panini, and it was so filling. In the world of unfair ratios of cost to quantity of food, this made it fair. This made it a steal.

Went home and relaxed. Stayed in my house for hours, yes hours. Read news, played games, caught up with my friend Corbin on the phone,  just remained dormant. This stayed idle until I left for an hour at 10:00 to meet my friend Chad at Steak n Shake for a late night talk/meal. I can't convey how much I loved the weather last night. I pulled out my jacket for the first time in a long time. Reunited and it feels so good.

Ended the night and started watching the thriller Se7en. I'm half way through it. I can tell it's good. Excited to finish this.

Now I sleep. Open the window, cold breeze invades my space. Breathe. Doze. Repoze. Siesta.

ZZZZZZZZZZZZZZzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz.........................................

- Me sleeping -

Day 15

Saturday morning was the conclusion of a mind-shifting revelation I've been having thanks to my new, or old devotional book that's been sitting in my closet for close to six years. I should be finished with it by the 3rd week in September, I'll need to get others. Just like this one.

Worked for six hours, caught up with Larry David, and did the riff-raff on my job. When I came home my grandma Judy was here. She is my mom's mom, and lives over on the east side of the state, in Monroe. She brought with her Monroe originals, which are these award winning hot dogs that they sell at a drive in restaurant similar to Dog N Suds. On top of that, she brought us over their homemade root-beer, which is the best root-beer ever. No, I'm not just saying that. I've yet to taste root-beer that has topped Monroe Original's recipe. Star Wars was on the tely so it was a perfect late night dinner drink and movie pairing.

Ended the night by meeting up with my buddy Dana and meeting my old managers Vanessa and Kelsey downtown. We barhopped at a couple bars, Gardella's, MyBar, and EVE at the B.O.B. It was great to catch up with my old friends, and just hang out and enjoy the nightlife that thrives in Grand Rapids. I haven't had a high energetic night out downtown in a while, so it was a good night to do so. Thank God the humidity dropped.

- Me, Kelsey, Vanessa, Dana @ Gardella's -

Day 14

T.G.I.F.

Not the tacky restaurant, but the expression of relief. No school, cooler weather approaching, extended weekend, yes. I do believe in a good T.G.I.F.

Woke up to replenished groceries around the house. Peaches, apples, melons, bacon, all new expansions to the quotidian kitchen equipping. Thanks mother. Life cereal, muskmelon, and juice were my breakfast this morning. Refreshing, it reminded me of Mexico. (I guess any fruit with breakfast remind me of that.)

My devotional this morning was written for me. I was in awe. I can't wait to finish typing this so I can finish reading the piece. Everything that I battle with, that I hide, and that I live with is being dangled in front of me on a stick with this book; it knows me. God's timing is sublime. His adept way of knowing that this book would sit in my closet for five years, and after finally resurrecting it from a dusty shelf, I would need it today. No pressure, just the God of the world focusing on me, reminding me "this is your moment." Add a workout after this and it was sunken in. The cold, heavy metal weighing me down, it was in sync with my new understanding, God was weighing this on me. It is. It's my time. I know what need's to be done.

Cavorting over my four-hour work day, I went out to eat, followed by a Target traipse, and then heading over to see the new Shepard dog, (who hasn't been named yet). He's a puppy. It's guaranteed I have to like him because of that reason, no matter the dog. Chad met up with us and another long merriment of Mario Party was played. Morgan joined in too. I came in 3rd.

- The new Shepard puppy -

Day 13

Last morning of a brisk school day on a morning that would soon develop into a humid, hot, entrance to September, the transitional month.

GVSU is becoming more and more genial, and I'm thankful. The campus keeps burgeoning into grounds that I can look at and confidently leave footprints. Getting involved and exertion are guaranteed to follow. Whether on the radio, broadcasting, theater, arts, speeches, or the simple task of engaging new people, I'm there. I'll give it by Thanksgiving, and I'll be sporting some new friends to defray time with.

Went to work today and did a cosmetic amend to the place. I'll be finished with it by tomorrow, and speaking of finished, I'll be done watching "The Green Mile" tomorrow. Two contrivances I can check off my charge catalog. (that's alot of C's, I'm feeling English mode coming out tonight.)

Split out of work in a swift manner to head to my first GVSU football game with Chad and Melissa. It's amazing to see how large this school is. I know not even half of the students were at this game, and it floods the mind with a realization that I am immersed in a place where I will meet and form new relationships with people that may last for the rest of my life. The opportunity inexhaustibly repleting around me. Sadly, we departed after the first hour, mainly due to the hot humid weather that was hiding for this first day of the month. I'll return one of these nights with a hoodie and hot chocolate, a perfect fall romp night. College. Took me three years to become a "college student".

I thought about all the students there while riding back to Chad's. We all are on a self-destructive path, some more dangerous and messy than others. I looked around at the game and saw faces, each one with a story. Stories to share and tell, yet, nowadays it seems like the only pages that need to be filled are tainted with sex, lies, and amusement. I trust the fact there's someone domiciled for me, but I feel I'm forced to accept a dark past and forgive no matter how disheveled their darkness or past was. I'm sorry God.... I can't trust anyone yet. My mask stays on. My heart stays numb. My emotional survival depends on this....

Ended the night by going to B-Dubs, got the new Captain Morgan wings (not bad, considering they gave me five free wings), but I wouldn't get that flavor again. The manager was gracious enough to let me sample two new flavors that won't be unveiled until next week. Chad, Melissa and I spent time talking about "anatomy". This led to returning to Chad's house to pursue additional knowledge of anatomy. It was a wide discussion.

- GVSU Lubbers Stadium, Game Night! -