THE WHITE ELEPHANT

Ok, first things first. I’M OK PEOPLE! I don’t know if I’ve been coming across as some dude who sits and sulks about things that didn’t work out or what, but trust me I’m fine. I got divorced! I don’t want a pity party. I am no one’s charity case. Things in my marriage didn’t work out the way I would’ve liked, but that’s OK.  Does this mean that certain things, places, or songs won’t remind me of my failed marriage? No; but that’s ok too! I’m sure all of you have experienced moments where you remember and grieve a loved one. When  someone was a major part of your life I think it’s natural and healthy to do that. I have a tremendous faith in God and believe he has a plan for all of us. I’m excited to find out what each day brings me. I am now COMPLETE with this chapter of my life. Let’s move on….

ARIZONA

While it was nice to see the family and friends in Milwaukee over the holidays, it is even better to be back in Phoenix. For the first time in my 3.5+ years here, Arizona feels like home. Which is a bit ironic because I have less family and friends here then I did, say a year ago. LOL The sub zero temperatures and the cold runs I “enjoyed” while visiting Wisconsin quickly reminded me of why I was open to moving southwest to begin with. I really enjoy living here.

It’s funny when you go to bars in Wisconsin VS going to bars in Arizona. Here you have to “define” what type of bar you’re going to: It’s a country bar, a dance club, a sports bar, a wine bar, a dive bar, etc (even a midget bar!). In Milwaukee, it’s pretty much a dive bar or a club. Scratch that, they’re all dives. LOL But that’s what I love about it! 75 cent tappers!? #cmonman In Phoenix, you pay to “be seen” instead of to drink, and that can get expensive! Don’t get me wrong, I still enjoy it, but like I’ve said numerous times before: It’s not where you go, it’s who you’re with. Enjoyable company and people make places fun. 

GAMES

Candy Crush has got to add a “skip” button or something. As the levels get harder, sometimes you just know after 5 or so moves that the current life you’re using is lost. Why make me make 35 other moves to prove it? I mean, it’s not like I don’t spend enough time on this life waster anyway. C’mon Candy Crush, save me an extra 4 minutes of my life. That could really add up, ya dig?

I’ve got a puzzle on the table at home. Yes, I am a dork who does puzzles. Actually I’m a dork in SOOO many more ways than that, but let’s just concentrate on the puzzle for now. Building or figuring out a puzzle is a lot like life. You have to be patient, try different pieces, and find what works best. Some people give up, or don’t have the patience to finish (their relationships or life). Some people avoid them all together, choosing to observe rather than contribute. In the end lies a beautiful picture and a sense of accomplishment. All the pieces you need to succeed are right there in front of you, so don’t get frustrated. Take your time and it will all come together. (I realize that was a bit “deep” for some of you who usually see me more of a humor guy, and to these people I say, “Dingleberries.”)

WISCONSIN SPORTS

I was a bit surprised that the #3 Badgers fell on the road to Indiana. They really froze up and were tentative in the later part of the second half which has not been there identity this season. They have multiple players who can create offense in my opinion, and it was disappointing not to see any of them do it. Also, they gave up WAY to many lay-ups, which has not been their identity EVER.

The Packers season is over and there is a lot of disappointment in Green Bay. I too am disappointed, mostly because we lost to the Niners and that punk Colin Kapernick. Ugh! I just don’t like that guy. Anyway, the Pack need a few leaders on the defensive side of the ball, similar to when Charles Woodson was back there showing people where they needed to be. I would really like them to sign Sam Shields on talent alone, but when you pay 9 million to a guy, he HAS to be a leader too. I’m not sure Shields can be that leader that the defense so badly needs.

CLOSING

I have recently told a couple of you “out of towners” that I will be visiting soon. Traveling has always been something I like to do, and I am looking forward to these visits.

I will also be trying to post on here more than one a month.

I’ve noticed lately that I’m a lot like my Dad in many ways. I won’t go into everyone of them, but I’ve always wanted to be like my Dad and am proud to be becoming just that. I miss you very much Dad, and look forward to playing catch again with you someday in heaven.

(I’m a lot like my Mom too. Love you MOM!)

If your sports team isn’t as good as mine, don’t talk shit. (“How did the Packers do this weekend? LOL”) Seriously, if your team didn’t even make the playoffs, you look like a complete idiot.