I AM NOT A CLONE

Spain in 20 days!!!

2009-05-05T10:15:00.000-07:00

Less than 3 weeks and I haven't done enough research or prepared myself for my train to Spain. I'm slowly starting to freak out!

Going on a diet

2009-04-28T23:13:00.000-07:00

I've been doing research the past few days on the most effective, yet healthy way to trim some fat and lose a few pounds. I'm tired and about to sleep but it will consist of:

-4-5 meals but smaller portions with less emphasis on lunch
-increased consumption of whole grain and non-refined foods
-1 day a week of red meat, 3 days of fish
-jogging at least 3 days a week for 30 mins
-drinking 1 nalgene water bottle a day
-eating oatmeal in the morning

I'm still researching but that's my small list for now, easily doable. If you have any additional tips or suggestions, it would be appreciated!

2009-04-21T10:55:00.000-07:00

I've been saving my money and penny pinching the past few months but it's always nice to browse around and find stuff I want to treat myself with:

Cold World 'Rap Flier' shirt. Love this band, I totally slept on getting this on eBay. Also want the 'Soccer Riot' shirt from This is Hardcore 2006

Ben Sherman 'Leftfield' Polo

Nike Air Max 90 Current Hybrid

Workin For the Weekend

2009-04-17T13:15:00.000-07:00

Goals for the weekend:

-tonight i will be home doing extensive research on the NBA playoffs in order to continue my degenerate gambling vice and fooling myself into thinking that this can be a second income for me.

-wash and waxing my porsche to take pictures in order to sell on craigslist. at this point, i just want to get rid of it and use the money towards my savings and house purchase.

-continue house hunting. i hope i can find something in my price range. my goal is still to find a place before july 1st.

-catch up on some dvds. i currently have in my possession waiting to be watch:

Seven Pounds

Click

Dan in Real Life

-enjoy the weekend! early projections have the weekend to be in the mid to upper 80's. time to bust out tank tops and shorts again.

Be safe guys!!!

Betting on Sports Rule!!!!

2009-04-16T06:51:00.000-07:00

On Wednesday, just after 1 week I narrowly lost $1200 in basketball betting by 1 point, I redeemed myself by getting 5 of 5 correct in my basketball bet and winning $1250.00!!! I put $50 down and have to pick 5 matchups and have to hit all 5 correctly, the probability is ridiculous. The payout was 25-1 so it was well worth it. I immediately withdraw $1200 via check and kept $50 for the NBA playoffs. I feel like celebrating with my new found money but I think the smartest thing was to put it in my savings and build up from it.

Last 4th of July up in Tahoe, I had $200 and played blackjack in a span of less than 5 hours and parlayed that to $2700. Winning the NBA bets seemed more rewarding to me. Although the payout in Tahoe was greater than my NBA bets, because the odds were totally against me yesterday I overcame it.

House Hunting

2009-04-13T21:21:00.000-07:00

Fyi: That is not me :P

After thinking for a long time and careful deliberation, I am officially house hunting. My price range isn't all too great but I think there's a few places out there in which I can call 'home'. I'm mostly excited about having my own place for the purpose of building equity to make money but also to decorate it myself. After seeing my friends Jon and Holly with their new place, I know it would be a lot of work but will be very rewarding. Any tips for a first time home buyer?

RIP Nick Adenhart

2009-04-09T22:40:00.001-07:00

Angels pitcher Nick Adenhart was killed in a felony hit-and-run car accident early this morning. Two others (one affiliated with the Angels organization) were killed in the crash, and the offender was caught and hospitalized. The 22 year-old had just tossed six scoreless innings the night before, the best performance of his young career.

Although I didn't know him personally and things like this happen all the time, it still hit me really hard to hear about this. Maybe it's because he was only 22 years old but I think it's because since I'm so involved following baseball and spend a lot of time learning about players in a way I kind of knew him. He was considered a promising superstar in the making making his MLB debut last year late in the season.

They eventually caught the person fleeing from the scene and I really hope he gets the justice he deserves. My thoughts goes out to his family for this terrible tragedy.

I made a wonderful meal tonight

2009-04-09T22:25:00.000-07:00

My two wonderful, great friends Jon and Holly were my guests of honor as I made chicken stuffed with spinach and ricotta cheese wrapped in prosciutto. I got the idea a couple of weeks ago while watching Rachel Ray. It was my first trying something daring and it turned out amazing. I also made a nice baby spinach salad and orzo in pesto. We capped the dinner with Klondike Bars that Holly and Jon brought over. All in all it was a very nice dinner and once I have my own house, I want to have more dinner parties.

What's new with me?

2009-04-07T17:49:00.000-07:00

In the past week here is what has happened to me:

-Got an unexpected raise. I am very thankful especially in these rough economic times
-Won several big bets in basketball. I took the money and transferred it into my bank account to pay next months rent
-Got the word that Ani will be up in San Francisco next week, words cannot describe how excited I am to see her!
-Baseball season started on Monday, I will be preoccupied with sports for the next 7 months

I wish I lived the good life like my friend here

Second Installment of Salty Stephen

2009-04-01T12:40:00.000-07:00

Here's what I'm griping about:

April Fools Day

Words cannot describe how much I hate April 1st. Pranks around the office are not funny and neither is tricking friends and family. People who do these are the same knobs who like to dress up for Halloween. Dressing up is cool if you were 10, not when you're an adult and especially if you are a working professional.

Now people will say, "C'mon Stephen, where's your sense of humor? It's fun!" To them I say, grow up and get a sense of reality. Kids should embrace this day to be silly and say corny jokes to their friends and family.

What if I started emailing and calling everyone that my beloved Pepper died? Everyone would be sympathetic towards me and my family but when I go APRIL FOOLS people get all bitter and pissed at me because I hooked people to make them look stupid.

If you spend all your time trying to find a way to make somebody look bad or scary the hell out of them for your own amusement, you're a tool! Question is, how does anyone fall for anything on April first? And anyone who falls for an April Fools’ prank is even less impressive.

A serious commentary about myself

2009-03-26T20:48:00.000-07:00

2000-2009

After 9 years of ups and downs, I broke edge. If you don't know what that means, essentially the life of no drinking and drugs lifestyle has ended. Tonite for reasons in which I still do not know, I had a few beers while watching college basketball. Needless to say I had the Asian glow again, something that I remember happening to me when I was in high school.

As I write this, I wonder what thoughts in my head made me change my decision of living a drug free lifestyle for 9 years and suddenly losing it all within 1 evening. To honestly answer this, I do not know. People also will ask me, "Do I regret what you did?" and to that I would say no I do not regret a thing. This obviously happened for a reason but I still do not know why. Hopefully I can figure it out but I have a feeling I will not know.

I want to give a special thanks to Lauren. I randomly receive notice from her asking if I was ok. It means a lot to me that she cares about our friendship and just wanted to make sure that I was alright. I did get a chance to talk to her tonite and briefly catch up, I can definitely say she's one of the few people that understand how I operate. Plus she also got me into the tv show House.

Kate Nash

2009-03-25T12:43:00.000-07:00

Gave her a chance the past few days, totally digging her music.

What else do you guys suggest?

Congrats to Japan for winning the World Baseball Classic

2009-03-23T23:04:00.000-07:00

Not only was it one of the most energetic and exciting baseball games I can recall in quite some time, it was also the most profitable. A few weeks before the World Baseball Classic starting it's first round, I'd put $100 on Japan winning the whole tournament as their odds were +450. To the nongamblers out there, it's essentially 4.5:1 odds. After a wonderful extra inning match up with Japan winning 5-3, my payout was $550.

As I mentioned in my previous post, I booked my Barcelona flight last Friday so this will no doubt pay for my plane ticket as well as taking care of my cell phone bill and an extra tank of gas. Things are looking up right now!

RIP Mustache 12/20/08-3/22/09

2009-03-22T20:40:00.000-07:00

If people didn't know, I grew a mustache as a bet with my friend to see who can grow it the longest. Whoever shaved it off first has to take the winner to a really nice steak dinner.

Dave shaved it off last week so I won, yet I was hesitant to shaving it off even though I won. I was bored tonight and figured that I reached the plateau of creepiness so WHAMMO, it's gone!!! Hi ladies!!!!

I'm going to Spain!!!

2009-03-21T09:04:00.000-07:00

Barcelona to be specific with an anticipated stop to Madrid for a couple of days. I've never been to another country except for Canada and Mexico so this will be a trip that I'll never forget. On a whim, I purchased tickets yesterday for the periods of May 24th-June 2nd. The best part is that the round trip was $432!!! I'm going alone, hopefully meeting some new people and having the time of my life as the old cliche goes. I'll elaborate more in the coming days. If anyone has any tips, advice, suggestions on international travel or Spain please feel free to let me know.

Oh by the way, I love the NCAA Tournament. It makes me proud to be a gambling degenerate.

Sound and Fury '09

2009-03-18T11:53:00.000-07:00

It's that time of year when Sound and Fury announcements have arrived. Wasn't considering attending this year but after hearing that Floorpunch and Mind Eraser are playing, I'll be going. Thoughts?

First Installment of Salty Stephen

2009-03-18T06:44:00.000-07:00

Aside from writing about food, fashion and other nonsense, I'll be doing a weekly or bi-weekly rant on something that's been crawling under my skin lately....

Here's my beef right now:

Twitter- Kudos to the geniuses behind this internet phenomenon but do we really need another social network, let alone a useless one that doesn't benefit anyone in anyway? Why people want to let others know what kind of coffee you got at Starbucks at 9am or that they are listening to (insert obscure band here) doesn't make any sense to me . Look I get it, you want people to think you're important and that you're living an active/interesting life but guess what, you really aren't. Instead of updating your Twitter on your iPhone or Blackberry, how about going out in public and making new friends and talk to them about yourself. The continuing rise of social awkwardness continue...

*Please note I understand that I'm writing in a social network forum but at least I try to write something that has substance and value to it and not a 2 sentence tweet on "I think Rush Limbaugh needs to shut his mouth, Go Obama!"

Back From Florida with a crazy encounter!!

2009-03-16T13:38:00.000-07:00

I fly into Jacksonville, Florida around 10am Friday morning and drove 25 miles out of my way to Jacksonville Beach and had lunch at the world famous Angie's Subs. Upon arriving I saw that there was a special event with 5 of the original munchkins from the wizard of oz!!!

After having a hearty sando and having the honor of meeting legends from a classic movie, I drove the 90 minutes to Gainesville to visit the University of Florida campus. Even though it was spring break, my main reasoning for stopping here was to visit the swamp and take pictures of a legendary football field.

I'm Off to Florida Tomorrow!!!!

2009-03-11T17:10:00.000-07:00

I'm making the journey to attend a friend's wedding in Ocala, Florida. I'll be heading to SFO and boarding a plane at 10pm to Jacksonville, Florida. I have the following goals:

- Visit the Florida campus and fight Tim Tebow
- Eat BBQ Food
- Find a swamp and possibly an alligator
- See a lot of old people
- Find at least 7 confederate flags still looming

I'll be gone until Monday Morning. I wish everyone a great next few days. So until then....

My obsessions with Fatty Foods Lives On

2009-03-07T09:15:00.000-08:00

This is why you're fat is my new guilty pleasure as people submit odd disgusting food to eat.
Tonite I'm going to Giordanos to celebrate two birthdays so I'm going to throw away my dignity and go all out on sammiches.

I've been slacking on updating this blog on an almost daily basis as I've been busy with work and my other project, International Pastime. Please check it out. See ya soon!

Writing for a baseball blog!!!!!

2009-03-04T13:30:00.000-08:00

International Pastime is finally up and running. I am one of several writers for this baseball blog that is devoted to the World Baseball Classic. Please check it out and let me know what you think. I may not be the best writer but I always want to improve and focus on my strengths which is stats.

A small step towards one of my life goals...

2009-02-28T22:36:00.000-08:00

On Friday I received a call from my friend Lonnie who works for a nationally syndicated sports radio talk show in Los Angeles. He will be having his own segment on the World Baseball Classic as well as starting a website devoted to the International Tournament. He asked me if I would like to be one of the writers covering the tournament as he was searching for 4 people to help write columns and blogs. Despite having zero journalism skills nor did I take any classes in college, I enthuasistically accepted the role. He knew that I had no skills in the media or writing but stated that my baseball knowledge was so deep, it would have been foolish to not include me in the website.

The reason why I wrote that is one a dream is because I wanted to get into baseball in any shape or form. Even though I'm covering this brief tournament, it will provide me with the ability to share my thoughts opinions along with the objective findings such as stats so other people can see how I feel when I watch the game of baseball. Details to come soon in terms of the website and info, I have my assignment already which is due on Tuesday.

First Day of Spring Training Games!!!

2009-02-25T12:49:00.000-08:00

Today marks one of the highlights of the year for me as the Giants and Indians start their first spring training games and coincidentally against each other. Despite the cheating that has been rampant for the past decade or so, I have learned to accept that steroids/HGH/PED's were a part of the game.

Oh, I'm definitely taking April 7th off which is a holiday for me because that is the first day of the regular season.

Back from LA, What a Dump!!!

2009-02-23T09:29:00.000-08:00

Being in Southern California and THE OC for the weekend made me realize how much I love San Fran and the Bay AREA. Internal Affairs show itself was pretty fun. It was really cool to see Terror only play Lowest of the Lows from start to finish. Alpha and Omega really impressed me, stoked to check out more things from them.

The highlight of the trip was going to Roscoe's Chicken and Waffles and gorging myself with what they are famous for. Sorry for the poor quality.

Road Trip to LA, food mission!!!

2009-02-20T19:00:00.000-08:00

Heading out to LA tomorrow morning with Ania, Brent, and Jessica for Internal Affairs' final show. Going to see some old friends, say goodbye to a great straight edge band and get devulge in Roscoe's Chicken and Waffles!!! Tons of pictures to come :)

Donate Blood

2009-02-16T13:18:00.000-08:00

Now that Valentines Day is one and done, let's continue to carry on our love for people by donating blood. It doesn't hurt, it's selfish, and most of all it provides the opportunity to saves lives. The minimum days between donating is 60 days and I been donating for the past 2 years. Aside from the free juice and cookies, it puts things into prospective that life is so fragile and if we have the change to better someone else, why not do it?

Donate to the American Red Cross

San Francisco Pillow Fight!!!

2009-02-13T10:42:00.000-08:00

If you are in the Bay Area, there's no reason to miss this fun event!!

Love a Person not an Organ

2009-02-13T09:53:00.000-08:00

That's what being in a relationship should be about. Love someone for who they are. Never take it for granted and never ever listen people who may sway you and convince you otherwise. In rough times like these, true love will be tested and can make or break relationships. Since Valentines is tomorrow, I see more and more people stressing and being excited about what their love ones have planned for them tomorrow. How about treating everyday like Valentines Day with your loved one? Maybe it's the morose side of me who doesn't have a Valentine this year (I couldnt care less at this point), but it really angers me to see people take advantage of others while in a relationship.

That being said, I'm going to San Francisco tomorrow evening with my good buddy Dave and we are getting Giordano sandwiches and hanging out at the bar having a good time.

I <3 Bowling

2009-02-11T22:37:00.000-08:00

Went bowling tonite with Danny. Bowling is fun in small doses. I played 2 games and my wrist and fingers are completely messed up as a result. Also is there a more disgusting thing than bowling alleys? So many bowling balls and putting your fingers in them and your hands getting all greasy and gross.

Valentines Day is this Saturday, I will most likely be watching the NBA All Star events. Anyone wanna be my valentine???

Giants Fan Fest 2009

2009-02-08T21:47:00.001-08:00

Went to the Giants Fan Fest 2009 with my Dad. Took some pictures in places people can't regularly visit but it was open to the Public.

Gambling and Life

2009-02-03T21:17:00.000-08:00

Putting money down on the Superbowl was a terrible decision. After winning my MVP bet, I took the money and started betting on NBA games. Ironically, the NBA playoffs last year was the start of my heavy gambling as I won a lot of money in May and June. Here's to me focusing the next several months reading up on the NBA in order to make the best guesses on my bets.

I've been in a thinking mood the past couple of weeks reflecting on my life, where my current state of being is and my future. The only music which helped me out was

Rilo Kiley - Under the Blacklight. I recommend if you haven't listened to it, please give it a chance. Under the Blacklight is the one song for me that literally calms me down and makes me not think about any problems or issues that I have going right now.

Thank You Santonio Holmes

2009-02-01T20:04:00.000-08:00

As the awesome WR from THE OHIO STATE UNIVERSITY, he made me a rich man as I picked him to become the Superbowl MVP. Now I can buy some Burberry jawn.

I wish I was in Atlanta at the end of of February

2009-01-27T16:25:00.001-08:00

Probably the best lineup for a fest ever and it's free!!!!! If Scion Rock Fest was 2 weeks into March I could definitely go because I'll be in Florida for a wedding. UGH......

From the Best Simpsons Episode

2009-01-27T16:25:00.000-08:00

Compliments of Eye on Springfield

Sloppy Joes!

2009-01-22T22:17:00.000-08:00

Sitting at work, I decided to make some sloppy joes. Went to Safeway to buy some supplies and make 2 ginormous burgers, double stacked with cheese and a dollop of sour cream. A+++!

1 month since I started growing a mustache

2009-01-21T23:34:00.000-08:00

I feel disgusting but it's all for a steak dinner. I have a little less than 2 months to win this bet or else I might have to resort to drastic measures.

It's pretty furry, the picture doesn't do it any justice

A tribute to Dr. Martin Luther King

2009-01-19T10:39:00.000-08:00

2 years ago I took a trip to the Birmingham, AL and Atlanta, GA. I visited the Civil Rights Museum and Dr. King's childhood home and eternal resting place.

If he was still alive today, I think he would be somewhat proud that we have made tremendous strides by electing an African American President but we still have a lot of ways to go.

Thank you for all your selfish acts and visions of a better world. You have truly inspired a lot of great people and great change.

Peace Love Equality '09

Weekend in Review

2009-01-18T20:39:00.000-08:00

Had a bad week so how do I cope? I went to San Francisco, got a "Say Hey" sammy comprised of hot pastrami, bacon, and swiss

Today decided to get some new clothes and cologne to cheer me up and it has!

Burberry Brit
Ben Sherman polo
Levis 514 Slim Straight

Also I started talking to this one gal who definitely made me feel better. Thanks, it means a lot!

The Weekend

2009-01-17T11:57:00.000-08:00

There isn't a better feeling than being with a girl grabbing you gently and singing along to Rilo Kiley, especially With Arms Outstretched. I miss those days.

I've been lacking on posting the past week because I've had a really rough week. Hopefully I'll be motivated on Monday. I'm heading to the doctor to get checked up as I'm having some pain in my left side of the chest *knock on wood that it isn't heart related*.

Enjoy this 3 day weekend, never forgot what Martin Luther King stood for and hopefully you can
provide some positive change in the coming future.

These 4 things I KNOW are true... (an ode to Max Kellerman)

2009-01-14T21:54:00.000-08:00

I've been running 3-4 miles a day for the past week, realized I'm so out of shape
Kobe is still the best player in the NBA but Lebron James will be MVP this season
The NFL MVP is clearly Kurt Warner, not Peyton Manning
I still have yet to watch a single episode of American Idol or Survivor and I will continue to not watch

My good buddy Phil sent me a link to Ike's Place. It's a sandwich shop located at the Castro in San Francisco that has a huge menu of over 70 custom sandwiches with amusing names such as the "Al Bundy" (Salami, Ham, French Dressing, Avocado, Smoked Gouda) and the "Paul Reubens" (Sliced Corned Beef, Home Made Poppy Seed Coleslaw, French Dressing, Swiss). Ike's Place also has an excellent selection of Vegan sandwiches , the "Vegan Peg Bundy" (Breaded Eggplant, Sesame Dressing, Avocado, Soy Cheese) sounds amazing. Interested Ania??? :)

Busy February and March for me!

2009-01-13T23:11:00.001-08:00

February 21st weekend Ania and I are driving to LA for the final Internal Affairs show. Just purchased the tickets tonite. I am missing H2O in San Francisco though :(

March 13th-15th mini cross country trip to Florida for Alena's wedding. I'm flying to Jacksonville (Got a round trip ticket for $210!!!) and renting a car to drive the 2 hours to Ocala. From what people tell me, Ocala is a dump and the only reason I should go there is for the wedding. I hope I get a chance to hang out with Nicola in South Carolina, she's only 2 hours away from Jacksonville.

Seeing old friends appreciation

2009-01-12T22:39:00.000-08:00

Last Friday I went out to San Francisco to see my old co-workers and had dinner. I haven't seen them in over a year so there was many moments of catching up and also reminiscing about old times. Being out there with my friends made me realize how much I miss living in San Francisco. Maybe I can make it happen again....

A new found revelation while visiting my parents...

2009-01-12T15:45:00.000-08:00

Just like Bart was in Bart Starr, I am starting to get chunky and need to exercise. Unlike Bart, I'm not joining a Pee Wee Football League.

After stopping by my parents to see their new high tech scale, I stepped on it and realized that I gained 25lbs since I moved out a year ago. Granted I'm still skinny, it's still scary and unhealthy to gain that much weight that is not muscle. I will attempt to continue my gym excursions at least 3 times a week, 4 if I can go on a weekend and run at least 3 miles and focus on cardio. It's a good thing I have 2 podcasts (Jim Rome Show and Bill Simmon B.S. Report) to entertain me and make me laugh.

My tattoo made it to College Humor, please help!!

2009-01-11T20:51:00.001-08:00

A friend submitted my Milhouse tattoo on College Humor and told me to get more people to comment and praise it in hopes of being the best Simpsons tattoo to date and possibly showcased on the front page. Thanks everyone!

Dinner with Jon and Holly

2009-01-08T22:24:00.000-08:00

I invite Jon and Holly over for dinner as I made Chicken with Potato Hash. They brought over dessert which was vanilla ice cream and root beer aka ROOT BEER FLOATS!!!!! I love these two so much, I'm glad the dinner went well.

Rzl Dzl video is so much fun

2009-01-08T10:20:00.001-08:00

An oldie but goodie: Rzl Dzl - Ignorance is Bliss

The best blog I've ever seen...

2009-01-07T22:48:00.001-08:00

"Next, on “McGarnagle”, McGarnagle is framed for a crime he didn’t commit. And only one person can clear his name: a little sissy boy who’s too scared to come forward.”

"Stickin’ together is what good waffles do."

Thanks to Brad, he told me about this gem of a website! Eye on Springfield shows still shots and quotes of The Simpsons Seasons 1-9 also known as the best season of the Simpsons.

A better alternative to Craigslist

2009-01-06T22:58:00.000-08:00

One of the main ideals to living a green lifestyle is the idea of reusing items to it's fullest. Freecycle is a nation wide network that searches your city and lets you post items in a local freecycle messageboard. The messageboard will allow you to post items you want or offer to other members of that board. It's a great way to get rid of stuff around your house without throwing it away and prevents you from spending money on items that others might have for you!

Taco Pie Dinner!!!

2009-01-06T20:41:00.000-08:00

Idea for this fun and festive dish from The Crepes of Wrath. So yummy and easy to make. Took less than 30 mins. Beat that Rachel Ray!

Fun dinner to make tonite!!!

2009-01-05T21:36:00.000-08:00

There's a blog I love called The Crepes of Wrath that provides fun exotic dishes but super simple recipes. Tonite I took one of their recipes: Beans, Chorizo, and Brown Rice, and tried to make it. I must admit it turned out great. My roommate seemed to thoroughly enjoy it. What's great about this dish is that I can easily make it vegan but using soy chorizo and vegan sour cream/cheese

Another reason why San Francisco is the best city in America

2009-01-04T12:51:00.000-08:00

View Larger Map
Ranked #1 by Walk Score as the most walkable city in the country surpassing New York and Boston! Coincidentally I was out in the city yesterday to grab some Giordano's sammiches and walk around North Beach.

Saturday morning breakfast!!!

2009-01-03T13:36:00.000-08:00

Saturday morning we hopped in Holly's Prius and drove the 27 miles to Pleasanton, CA to eat these world renowned omelets at Dean's Cafe. Below are some pictures of our morning excursion.

Poladroid!

2009-01-02T15:43:00.000-08:00

Thanks for Holly for showing Poladroid, this awesome site to convert your jpg pics into Polaroid style film! Here's a couple I did to test it out.

Got a new digital camera today, hopefully will be taking pictures with it tonite pending me being almost 100% from my 24 hour flu.

Not a good way to kick off the new year...

2009-01-01T23:05:00.000-08:00

My trip to LA was canceled driving an hour into it due to a family issue. All is okay though. I woke up to feel sick and have a really sore throat, yet I didnt drink or go outside to celebrate. I spent the day cooped in my room trying to rest but made a trip to Panera to get lots of yummy soup.

To cheer myself up, here's an appreciation post about corgis!

New Years Eve Road Trip!!!

2008-12-31T08:50:00.000-08:00

I had no real plans for New Years seeing that I planned on staying in and watching movies. I got a message from my friend to come down to Reseda (Southern California) and party with them so I decided to take her up on that offer. I'm leaving right after work and making my 6 hour trip. While I'm down there, I'll be trying to plan accordingly the food establishments that were kindly recommended to me. Pictures to come soon!!!

View Larger Map

Recap of Blackjack Tonite

2008-12-31T00:26:00.001-08:00

Played for 1 hour and left $200 up. All that money is going towards paying off Credit Card debt.

I celebrated by watching some Everyday Italian to get even more stoked. I love how Giada is so expressive when eating her food!

I get to sleep in tomorrow because everyone has to come in to work at 8am. Goodnight y'all!

$200 in my hands

2008-12-30T19:54:00.000-08:00

off to play blackjack. Wish me luck!

What I've been loving lately

2008-12-29T21:29:00.000-08:00

House series

I started Season 1 and currently working my way up to Season 5. This show is so addictive and each character brings their own unique presence to the show

Bill Simmons Podcast

Referred to as "The Sports Guy" Bill Simmons combines sports with pop culture references and no apologetic stance of being a passionate Boston sports fan, his podcast is an underground hit with people of all backgrounds and sports knowledge. Best of all, it's free on iTunes!

Blackberry Bold for the Verizon Wireless Carrier.... (TBA)

Verizon Wireless has made a tentative announcement that the Bold, which is currently available for AT&T will be released 1st quarter of 2009. I've been drooling over this phone for over a year as I can't wait to pony up the money and buy one as soon it gets released through Verizon.

Bye Bye Hair

2008-12-26T15:40:00.000-08:00

Shaved my head. Used a #2. Got a few compliments already and I was flattered to hear them. :)

Never Look Back, Different Directions

2008-12-23T23:50:00.000-08:00

9 days away until 2009. What lies ahead for me? It's tough to say but here are 4 big goals that I'm looking forward to in 2009 that could be life changing for me...

Continue Becoming A Minimalist
I'm making good progress going through my belongings and either donating them to freecycle or posting them on craigslist. Part of becoming a better person is to not be so attached to material possessions, especially items that I have no use for anymore.

Save Money/Build A Surplus
As part of becoming a minimalist, I sold my Wii, Wii Fit, and Rock Band 2 band kit. All that money I got, I put in my savings account. My goal is to be completely debt free by the end of January sans my car payments and to continue putting excess monies that isn't tied to rent and utilities to my savings and Roth IRA.

Focus More On Cooking
I've been following the blog The Crepes of Wrath since it's inception as it provides great recipes for simple dishes from main courses to desserts. I had have always a knack for cooking, especially serving to my friends. I want to step my game up and try more challenging dishes. I am looking into taking a cooking class at DVC as a way to learn and also meet new people.

Drive Cross Country in June
Take 14 days off work and start in Walnut Creek, CA and drive East on 80 until I hit Chicago and loop back on the infamous Route 66. I want to visit the America I've never seen, eat at truck stop diners, see national parks, and other interesting parts of America.

Peace to my Nintendo Wii and Wii Fit

2008-12-22T22:56:00.000-08:00

No Joke, I think I May Be Developing An Addiction.....

2008-12-21T14:07:00.000-08:00

I think I'm slowing becoming a gambling degenerate. The past 3 weeks I've been obsessed with gambling whether it's blackjack, roulette, or sports betting. After seeing this picture from 4th of July where I won the biggest amount of money ever, I have these urges to go back. Considering I sold a lot of my useless junk around my room, I have a surplus of money that I can use at my own leisure.

That's me pointing at my stack of green chips, $25/chip so roughly $300 for one hand. Keep in mind that this isn't a big casino in Tahoe so this brought the attention of the pit boss along with other dealers that I was playing so reckless, yet winning so much at the same time

Apologies to Vegans and Vegetarians

2008-12-16T22:42:00.000-08:00

Thanks to the fine people at Holy Taco it is my goal for to make this cheesy bacon delight as part of my New Years Resolution.

New bed spread!!!

2008-12-16T20:36:00.001-08:00

I've always wanted flannel bedding growing up so I finally made the decision and paid $19.99 to get this christmas theme bed set

Burberry Appreciation

2008-12-15T20:35:00.000-08:00

Might splurge with my Christmas money that my relatives usually give me each year for these awesome, yet expensive jawns

2008-12-14T09:44:00.000-08:00

My new thing is going to thrift stores and estate sales to find and sell items on Ebay as a way to make some extra money. Upon my arrival a few days ago I found this gem

The best part was that I bought it for $4.00 and sold it on ebay for $38

Big Dreams

2008-12-08T23:07:00.000-08:00

I decided I want to pursue graduate school but....

-I dont know where to apply to
-I dont know if I want to be in debt and commit to another 4 years of school

But I do know....

-I want to do research involving sports and perhaps the aspect of fantasy sports
-I want to continue working full time and might entertain transferring to a new office

Any ideas or suggestions?

Happy Birthday Lauren

2008-12-08T00:07:00.000-08:00

26 years young!!! :)

-Made you baked mac n cheese w/ bacon bits
-Watched Kung Fu Panda and House
-Mini chocolate birthday cake with HAPPY BIRTHDAY LAUREN

Hope you enjoyed your special day!!!

Smooth As Butter

2008-12-05T11:29:00.000-08:00

Smooth As Butter

Menu is so ridiculous I gotta try it out!!!

Wishful Thinking

2008-12-04T23:12:00.000-08:00

I have repeatedly told my family and friends I dont want any presents or gifts this season. I have everything I need. But I still can think what would be awesome to have if I had extra disposable income.

Levis 514's- Such a solid style. Why pay extra $$$ on designer and/or "boutique" denim when Levis stands the tests of time

Lacoste Essential- Went to Macys tonite to try out Lacoste per friends recommendation. Ended up testing 4 different Lacoste colognes and Essential was by far the best one. $49.00 is too steep at the moment.

Alphanumeric Simpson Plaid long sleeve- Simpsons inspired, looks really sharp and goes well with Nike Air Max 95's

Calvin and Hobbes collection set: Contains all the Calvin and Hobbes comic books and strips in leather bound casing!!! Still pretty pricey, hope to have this in my collection since I do have a tattoo of Calvin and Hobbes

Sorry for the poor pictures, I had to take them myself :|

Female Vocalists

2008-12-03T22:23:00.000-08:00

Feel free to get the albums here:

Eisley- Room Noises
http://www.megaupload.com/?d=SK0RJIIJ

For fans of: Teagan and Sara, The Hush Sound, Rilo Kiley, The Cardigans

Fiona Apple - Tidal
http://www.megaupload.com/?d=7NZ0QUIV

For fans of: Tori Amos, Regina Spektor, Cat Power

(Thanks to Ani for recommending me this album. I'm hooked!)

Rearrange

2008-12-01T23:45:00.001-08:00

Got a new futon from Miguel along with speakers and ended up spending most of Sunday rearranging my room. Slowly but surely getting rid of smaller stuff and trash lying around my room.

Transitions

2008-12-01T23:40:00.000-08:00

Keeping it brief because I was suppose to be in bed over 2 hours ago but I'm making the transition to becoming a minimalist in my current living situation. So far I've donated a lot of clothing that I don't need and sold my hardcore shirts on eBay. I've been searching my room for stuff to give away on freecycle as well. I've been cleaning out my pantry and donating food to my food drive at work and trying to finish off all my food in the house before I need to buy more. This is all in attempt to achieve my 3 short goals that I have in order to make myself a better person. Details to come soon...

Where I'll be in 2009

2008-11-29T01:49:00.000-08:00

First week of March: Cornell University

View Larger Map

Middle of March: Ocala, Florida

View Larger Map

Fall 2009: Western Europe

View Larger Map

Riding my bike again

2008-11-25T23:51:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow I'll be riding my bike to work again pending the weather. Looking to start riding around town more consistently as I'm trying to overcome my fears of getting hit by a car again. I need to buy a new headlight and blinking backlight. Hello santa????

Netflix on xbox 360

2008-11-25T22:05:00.001-08:00

I can watch Netflix on my xbox. I'm never leaving my room ever again!

Tonite

2008-11-23T21:34:00.000-08:00

I saw a girl and she drove me wild
She looked at me and I looked and smiled
The cutest girl you'd ever see
I never dreamed she'd go out with me

We met at school so I asked her out
The only girl I ever thought about
She's 16 and she's so devine
I never thought I could make her mine

I'm in love, I just can't wait Tonight I have a date
I have a date with the cutest girl in town
I have a date and I'm the happiest boy around
I'm in love. I just can't wait 'cause tonight I have a date

Went to the movies in my parents car
I never dreamed I'd get that far
I picked her up at a quarter to eight
I got there early I didn't want to be late

I never thought it would come to this
I drove her home and she gave me a kiss
I'm in love and it's here to stay
She said she really wants to see me again

I'm in love, I just can't wait Tonight I have a date
I have a date with the cutest girl in town
I have a date and I'm the happiest boy around
I'm in love. I just can't wait 'cause tonight
I have a date

"Blind" Double Date and Sports!

2008-11-17T21:53:00.000-08:00

Went on a double date with Danny and his girlfriend. It was more of a blind date for me seeing that Danny set it up the night before. We started at La Scala as the three of us sans my mystery date were chatting about life and other silly nonsense. Eventually Alejandra met up with us and I immediately started conversing with her. She is a really nice gal but I can tell she is fairly shy to people she doesn't know. Luckily, I like to joke around a lot so I was trying to be affable and get her to laugh. Shortly thereafter, we went to have a late lunch at Pomegranate and continued talking. We ended our late afternoon/early evening day by getting gelato, I got the soy pumpkin!!! I told her it was really great to hang out with her and that we need to do it again. I think I'll ask her out on a real date to see how it goes without having my buddy Danny and her girlfriend to accompany us.

Fast forward to today...

Sharks took care of business beating Nashville 4-1 as they continue to be the hottest team in the NHL. Shortly there after I switch channels to Monday Night Football to see my Browns play the Bills. As a typical Browns fan, I expected the worst since it's a wonderful traditional yet always have the worst luck. It was an exciting game which led to a game winning field goal and a 29-27 victory!!!

Watch this and tell me this isn't the best thing ever!

Blind Date Tomorrow

2008-11-15T23:04:00.000-08:00

Actually it's my first blind date and I'm nervous. My friend Danny O' Toole is setting it up for the afternoon. Details to come later....

Ice Skating

2008-11-15T12:21:00.000-08:00

-Went to Civic Park last night with some friends.
-I have no coordination and suck at ice skating
-Took a picture with the 14 year old guest services kid who was skating around the rink and said that I was from Hong Kong and this was my first time seeing ice.
-Left wrist is jacked up after getting leveled by Miguel

I'm in Love I just cant wait, Tonite I have a date!

2008-11-12T18:35:00.000-08:00

I wish but I am in love with Aida Mollenkamp

Host of Ask Aida on Food Network, a gorgeous gal that knows how to cook and have fun!

What a fox! <3 <3

Keith Olberman on Prop 8 Passing

2008-11-10T22:01:00.000-08:00

I wish more people had this much conviction like Keith

Day off tomorrow

2008-11-09T22:23:00.000-08:00

Things I will be doing to take advantage of a free day:

- Fix single speed bike since I haven't ridden it in over 2 months due to my hit and run accident with Joe

- Apple picking in Brentwood. It sounds lame and especially since I'm going by myself but it's alone time and I think it would be fun. Plus I want to try any homemade cider

- Calling in the Contra Costa Foodbank to set up a food drive for work

- Find a nice girl to talk to :)

No need for words...

2008-11-06T20:23:00.000-08:00

Attn: California

2008-11-05T16:59:00.000-08:00

I cannot articulate my thoughts in words as well as Jon or Holly so I apologize if this seems really confusing to some. I am really distraught and hurt about what happened last night with Prop 8. To many people, this might seem as something that doesn’t affect them and they will get over it because they have other things to look forward to such as the holidays coming up to distract them. That being said, it generally hurts me to see people let alone a government discriminate people and their desire to love others based on religion which should have no place in government. California was suppose to be the groundbreaking state for radical ideas/views/change yet over 5 million voters decided to rip out the rights from them. It didn’t help either that people were so confused that they thought Yes on 8 meant keeping gay marriage along with exposing children in tv ads scaring parents to thinking gay marriage was to be taught in classrooms.

To sum it up I’ll quote a song by Chokehold, a vegan straight edge band from Canada, says in their song Instilled:

Not natural?
Now you're playing God
A hard role to play when you can't prove it exists
Law of nature?
Nothing is written in stone
It's not hard to see love has no sexual preference
Your view of deviance is my view of love and i can only say you're the one that's sick
I'll never live by your bullshit values
I wish you'd see the pain that you inflict

Any excitement I had over Obama being elected has been nullified. Maybe I should break edge and start drinking because I don’t think I can believe anything good coming out of this country, let alone state.

No on Prop 8!!!

2008-11-03T22:04:00.000-08:00

This evening Holly and I went to the corner of Treat and Oak Grove to participate in a No for Prop 8 rally. For the most part it was very peaceful as we took all 4 corners of the intersections and we received a lot of support and honks with also a few thumbs down who opposed our views. It wasn't until the end of our protest when the Yes for Prop 8 people decided to walk down to our area to take over (probably because they didnt get their cheers and honks and wanted to get it from our end) and things started to get a bit crazy. There was this psycho old man who was like an evangelical prophet and saying a lot of negative things to which some of the Yes for 8 people said that he didnt belong to them. He had this bullhorn and kept yelling out really obscene things to which the police came and help seperate the two crowds.

All in all it was a wonderful experience. I have never been so passionate about such a topic as I feel this is our generations Civil Rights issue.

A simple yet creative design

2008-10-31T06:57:00.000-07:00

Saw this shirt this morning on Woot and wanted to get it but it sold out late last night

It's very simple but to the point and it can require some thinking but it's a Roe vs. Wade shirt. How cool is that? It would have been really awesome to get that right before elections on Tuesday.

Simpsons Tattoo

2008-10-30T23:21:00.000-07:00

BOOOOOOOOO YAAAAAAAAAAA!!!!

My favorite gal Heather at Final Sin did this for me. I love it and she wouldnt stop telling everyone that she was doing this tattoo

Birthday!!!

2008-10-29T23:34:00.000-07:00

Thanks to everyone for making my 26th birthday really special. On Tuesday I went out with my friends to Roccos for pizza and beer.

Below were some of the gifts I received from my friends:

Mini Birthday Cake and lotto scratchers from Jon and Holly

Cake Pedestal from Joe and Hannah

Rachel Ray $40 a day travel book from Miguel and Brigitte!!!!!

I finally got a frame for my Mario print. I think it looks awesome

Tomorrow I have a tattoo appointment that is long overdue with my favorite gal Heather!!!
Pics will be up tomorrow depending if I go to the No on Prop 8 rally :)

What I want for my Birthday

2008-10-23T22:28:00.001-07:00

6 more days

72 hour vacation

2008-10-19T21:04:00.000-07:00

Went to St. Louis Friday morning and came back Sunday afternoon. Pictures to come including the infamous Elvis Sammich along with the Monte Cristo Double Dog and various pictures of my trip

Oh and congrats to the Rays for beating the stupid Red Sox tonite!!! Hip Hip Hooray!!!!

Chicks dig us

2008-10-15T17:09:00.000-07:00

Here's proof

I love Weiner Dogs!!

2008-10-11T19:59:00.000-07:00

Cutest dogs ever!!! Need proof, then check outHalloweiner Party

Freecycle rules

2008-10-10T22:03:00.000-07:00

I got a free Polaroid camera with 2 packs of free film. Thanks freecycle!!! Time to be a hipster and take fun/ironic photos and post them on the internet

Great memory of the day

2008-10-03T16:50:00.000-07:00

AFI - He Who Laughs Last circa 1996

I was in 8th grade, album was awesome. What happened?

Religulous

2008-10-02T23:30:00.000-07:00

Seeing this right after work at the matinee price. It will be funny, controversial, thought provoking, and risque. Plus I love Bill Maher because he's a straight shooter. What I'm really hoping is that this documentary is more tasteful than any Michael Moore film

New batch of muffins

2008-09-29T18:55:00.001-07:00

I just made of new muffins that are cranberry/lemon peel hybrid . They taste a lot better because I cut down on the unbleached flour and put in more flax seed meal and rolled oats. I need to figure out how to ship my vegan baked goods via Post Office to Ani because I really want to try some of her vegan chocolate chip cookies

Attn: Oregon St. Kicker

2008-09-25T22:04:00.001-07:00

Thanks for costing me $400 dollars. I appreciate you shaving points and screwing everyone over!

At least Nicola comforted me and kept saying that USC lost and that's more important <3

Wonderful Home Decor!!!

2008-09-25T18:38:00.000-07:00

There's an awesome Mario print that is limited that I want to buy. Thanks to Holly for showing me this awesome find!!!

Vegan Treats

2008-09-22T10:32:00.000-07:00

After work I'm going to the market to buy supplies to make vegan cupcakes. I'm so excited!!

Fast forward to 5 hours later...

I made Vegan cranberry orange muffins tonite and it turned out great. The ingredients were all organic as well consisting of unbleached flour, non-aluminum baking powder, baking soda, sea salt, organic brown sugar, nutmeg, cinnamon, EnerG egg replacer, rice milk, coconut oil, peel of an orange, and 2 cups of cranberries.

My roommate tried one and loved it. I can't wait for my coworkers and family to try it out. I won't say what the ingredients are until they eat it and I get their opinions on them. ;)