Randumb Thoughts

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.

FANTASY FOOTBALL
Well another fantasy football season is coming to a close, and the two leagues I’m in are polar opposites. In one league I’m playing for the Super Bowl trophy. The other, I am playing in the Toilet Bowl, which is basically a collection of the worst teams in the league. Imagine the Jaguars, Buccaneers, Texans, and Falcons all playing for the first round draft pick next year. Actually, that’s not a half bad idea.

When it comes to making fantasy line-ups I always stick with my home town guys. I mean unless the difference between the choices is obvious. I’m not going to play James Jones over Brandon Marshall or anything! But I will play Jordy Nelson over Riley Cooper. I’d rather go down cheering for my guy from my team, ya dig?

THE HOLIDAYS
I am SOOOO looking forward to the holidays and visiting family and friends in Wisconsin. This video pretty much says it all: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VFfXqz1h5AY”> Not only is the chorus on point, but the tune is also corningly catchy. Pay special attention to Chris Kattan as he has the “Head to the right, then the head to the middle, then the head to the left….” dance that Nick and I thought we had made famous at one point. LOL

There are three newborns in the family that I have not seen and am sure to forget their names! Whoopsie, and I am sorry in advance. Though I know it will be fun, I know that it will also be a bit sad. This will be a new dynamic for me, one I haven’t experienced in 6 years. I will be trying to stay busy and keep my mind off that as well as I can. You can help me out by hitting me up for a visit. Thanks in advance!

FACEBOOK
It sometimes sucks balls. Don’t get me wrong, I appreciate being able to see what my family and friends are doing whenever I want to. I like having the opportunity to invite “The masses” to check out this website. But it can have it’s drawbacks and can play with your emotions at times. Don’t be surprised if I put a temporary freeze on my account until after the holidays. Don’t worry, I didn’t DEFRIEND you! I just know that sometimes it’s not “emotionally healthy” for me to be on it. I don’t want to go into details, so I’ll just leave it like that.

On a brighter note, I was recently informed what a ‘selfie” was. I was quite surprised when I found out it was a self portrait, usually posted on Facebook. Here I was thinking I’ve been giving myself ‘sellfies” since I hit puberty. WAY off apparently!

WISCONSIN SPORTS
Hey, how about that Badgers basketball team. Pretty exciting to see, and pretty versatile too! Not always a 40-38 win; they can score in upwards of 80+ if need be. The Pack play the Cowgirls today with playoffs still in sight, even if that sight is very Dumb and Dumber-ish: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KX5jNnDMfxA Let’s just “make the tournament,” right Mike? I want to add that I was really looking forward to catching a Bucks game this year. That is until they got dressed and stepped on the court. I can’t even imagine how bored I’d have to be to travel downtown to see them play now. I think I’d rather go over to my friend Shawn’s house, give him 5 bucks, and clean out his refrigerator. Honestly, it’d probably be just as entertaining.

That’s all for now. As a great great person in my life says on the regular, “Have a blessed day.” Have a blessed Christmas as well!
– See you cats later

My mind is VERY busy, and when I do certain activities there are usually two thoughts that pass through my mind. Here are a couple of examples:
(Feel free to comment with examples of your own.)

When I run:
Thought #1 – Man, running sucks!
Thought #2 – Man, this feels great!

When I clean:
Thought #1 – How did this place get so dirty?
Thought #2 – This place looks so much better when clean.

When I fart (and no one is around):
Thought #1 – Oh my goodness, I should be ashamed of myself!
Thought #2 – Hey, that was a pretty good one! Wish someone was around to hear it.

When I play sports:
Thought #1 – This is so much fun, why don’t I do this more often?
Thought #2 – I’m so old and out of shape.

When I eat:
Thought #1 – This tastes great, but I’ve had enough and should probably stop.
Thought #2 – This tastes great, and I’m almost done so let’s have some more.

When I’m at work:
Thought #1 – Is it time to leave yet? Is the clock moving backwards?!
Thought #2 – I really appreciate this job and what it provides for me.

When I’m driving:
Thought #1 – Why don’t these people get off their cell phones and learn to drive? Move it!
Thought #2 – What’s THAT guys hurry? I hope he gets pulled over.

When the Packers lose:
Thought #1 – WTF?! This guy sucks! That guy sucks! What are they doing?! That guy should be fired.
Thought #2 – It’s only a game. It’s only a game.

When drinking:
Thought #1 – Ok, this is my last one.
Thought #2 – Ok, THIS is my last one.

When thinking about my life:
Thought #1 – Wow, I did a lot!
Thought #2 – Seems like I haven’t done anything yet!

Cell phone use:
Thought #1 – Why are people on their cell phones all the time?
Thought #2 – Let’s check the cell phone and see what’s happening.

Candy Crush:
Thought #1 – This game is great, glad I got into it.
Thought #2 – One more try and I’m done. Geez, I wonder how may hours of my life are spent on this game so far?

Coulda Shoulda Wouldas:
Thought #1 – I really wish I had done things differently.
Thought #2 – I wouldn’t be where I am today without lessons learned from the past.

Alcohol Butt (diarrhea):
Thought #1 – Gross! I really need to eat more or drink less when going out.
Thought #2 – At least I’m not puking!

White shirts:
Thought #1 – Love ’em, so fresh and clean looking!
Thought #2 – Hate ’em, too hard to keep clean!

Golfing:
Thought #1 – This is fun, I need to do this more often.
Thought #2 – I suck at this, why do I even waste my money?

Boobies:
Thought #1 – Boobies are awesome!
Thought #2 – Yeah, boobies are awesome!

Just getting settled in my new apartment, and overall it’s looking good. Though there are still things that need to be done, like unpacking boxes and organizing them. The cable and internet get installed tomorrow, so I can further put off unpacking boxes and organizing them, Whoo-Hoo! I am so looking forward to vegging out on the recliner, but this two weeks with no “real” TV has been good. I was able to spend some quality time with my mom, walk, hike, go through some things that needed to be thrown away, and introduce this website. It has really opened my mind to how much time I probably waste in front of the idiot box, and though part of me is looking forward to doing that again, I will definitely make more time for the other passions in my life.

This apartment complex has a lot to offer. The location is great. There are plenty of things to do within walking distance, and you don’t ever feel like you’re gonna get mugged. Bonus! The people here are extremely friendly. I met Karl and Sophia, my neighbors, and have had numerous conversations with others in the complex. Some minor disappointments include some slightly warped cabinet doors and the bedroom ceiling fan makes noise. I love to sleep with the ceiling fan on, and still do, just would prefer not to have the noise along with it. I may switch to the ceiling fan’s more calm and soothing brother: the stationary fan. The grounds here are like a bird sanctuary, especially in the morning. I don’t mind that at all though. I’m an early riser and love to listen to and appreciate God’s creations. (Though on a morning where I may be hung over, I may not appreciate it as much LOL.) Also, they have been watering the shit out of the grass here lately. Maybe it’s because they’ve just planted winter grass, but man, those sprinklers must come on like 5 times a day! They’ve also got a “free” table in the laundry room where people “donate” unwanted items to other residents. Both my mom and I put stuff on the table that vanished the same day. It feels good to give to others.

Speaking of giving to others, lately I’ve been on this helping the homeless kick. There are SO many of them here in Arizona, and I feel my heart has softened on them quite a bit. I, like many, used to think that I didn’t have enough for myself, much less to give to any homeless guy/girl who may just use my hard-earned money on drugs or alcohol. My new perspective is to give what I can, when I can, and not to worry about the “toxic thinking” that may go through one’s mind. I asked a homeless man last week what he needed. “I don’t have a lot of money,” I said. He said, “Well, I suppose I could use a shirt.” So I literally gave him the one off my back and drove the rest of the way home half-naked. LOL Tomorrow I will be bringing shoes to another man I see everyday. I had previously gave him a sandwich, a Powerade, and a lottery ticket. LOL

I share these stories with you, not to boast, but to tell you the extreme joy I felt when seeing the smiles on their faces. “God Bless,” they’d say. God has blessed us INDEED. The aliveness I have been feeling with some of the actions I have taken in my life recently has been incredible! I want to leave you with this one piece of advice: Do NOT let your mind get in the way of your HEART! Take it from someone who has been living it the other way for a LONG time.

And THAT’S what I’m talkin aBOOT!