Random Radicals

The Dinner

2012-02-03T16:23:00.001-05:00

Was hearing recently about great meals had by friends, and wanted to share in the experience. Now... I was looking to spend a reasonable amount of money and support my efforts to actually have groceries in the house. On the drive home I am thinking, ok do I want to take the easy way out and grab a pre-made chicken from Loblaws? (They are very tasty by the way) Grab a nice piece of fish, or... Find a nice thick and tasty chunk of tenderloin somewhere and die a happy man?

I decided on dying happy, so I did a quick search on my iPhone for a butcher. The Loblaws near me never has decent cuts of Tenderloin if they have any at all. Which is not often. Then I am stuck with a crappy cut that will dry out too easily and I will have wished I ate out, or ordered in. So I find, Brian's Butchery & Deli... Ok. Could be great. Could be a whole in the wall and provide another means to passing into the afterlife. As it turns out it is a small place, but the service is excellent. Brian, even prepares a completely new full tenderloin and proceeds to cut it to my preferred with. Um... FECK ya! At this point I am actually excited to get home and cook it up. That and they are, I think, a very nice Scottish couple. The man who left right before me had the most awesome Scottish accent. Was a blast hearing him talk.

As it happens, partially by design I will admit, the butcher is not too far from my place. I make the quick jaunt home and hop over the freshly plowed snow at the end of my driveway to rush into the house and get ready. Did I mention I stopped in briefly at the brand new local LCBO and picked up a vintage wine? Oh yes I did... $19.95 later I am on my way with $40 dollars worth of tenderloin and a quality wine.

So, back to it... I hop over the hill of snow becauseI want to chow down as soon as possible. Have a long rejuvinating shower and I am ready to tackle the kitchen. Separate the meat and all that boring stuff, but oh boy, what meat!? Looks delicious. Season it with the ol' faithful... Montreal steak Spice and prepare the veggies.

Now for the tricky part... My BBQ has run out of gas, and all I have is a Foreman Grill. Hmm. Ok... I find it blanches the meat and basically boils out the juicy goodness, so I cooked with it open faced. Basically used the bottom of the grill. That worked perfectly. Potato was pre-preapared in the microwave, then left to brown a bit and get crunchier in the oven at 400 degrees. The veggies, my favourites... Asparagus and portobello mushrooms the size of my flat hand... almost. Yum. Once the meat is just shy of being cooked. Rae by the way... I take it off the grill and lightly rub olive oil onto the mushroom cap and the asparagus and put in onto the grill still smelling and tasting like the steak I just prepared.

Let me tell you... This meal was orgasmically good. Everything took on a bit of the taste of everything else and then the wine just made it perfect. Within an hour of eating I had passed out on the couch in a deep satisfied coma and woke up a good hour and a half later dazed and ready to get ready for bed. (Been trying to go to bed earlier lately) Something about getting 4 hours of sleep every night being unhealthy..?

Who knew?

Now I am awaiting a recipe for portobello mushroom sauce/gravy... can this meal idea get any better? YES. Garlic mashed potatoes...

Think I need to go... getting hungry again.

Happy International Meat week... or something. On and, Happy Friday!

Psst. I cooked this on Wednesday btw. Just call me the lazy blogger. ;)

Ciao

Bustin' out!

2012-01-26T16:34:00.002-05:00

Ever have one of those days when you are busting busting out of yourself? Had this feeling this afternoon where I felt I needed to tear open my chest and with a great roar, leap out of myself and throw myself into something. Of course I am visualizing volleyball right now and smokin' a few hits, making awesome digs and just kinda of freaking out!

Now... if trying to find a photo to fit 'busting out', what do y'all think came up in my search..? Well, needless to say I had to shut my browser down rather quickly as I was faced with a bushel of busts, a field of figures and whole whack of.. ah, never mind. ;) Now I am at a loss as to what to use, and just a little distracted... So I chose one for my female readers this time, and it kind of looks like he is getting ready to hit a volleyball...

Fitting in with my less than focused self, I followed a few links off Facebook and ventured into the wild of the Internet. Une ami, posted a link to a great version of Somebody I Used to Know by WalkOffTheEarth, which I must add kicks the [woohoo] out of the original in my estimation. Which led me to another song and then somewhat full circle before I busted out again and well, got back to work. Rather anti-climactic huh? Oh well, we can't all have wonderfully interesting lives that climax in ever wondrous new ways now can we? Or if we did, the end result could be either akin to bliss or disastrous.With that I leave you with a brief montage of music.

Enjoy

Then...

Then I thought... wait a minute, I remember a version I liked a lot more than this one... Unfortunately it was sung by a friend on Facebook and I can't share it publicly here. Was a little worried she might take exception, but it is sung very well, and was willing to risk a swift kick, or a punch in the shoulder over the "" exposure.

Since that is now moot, That kinda ruins the finale.

Damn you Facebook!

At least now I am not awaiting the email, saying, um do you think you could remove that from your blog? ;)

Big weekend. Starting at 9:10 tonight I have 4 straight days of volleyball. By the time 5:30 Sunday night rolls around I will be cursing the sport I suspect. 24 games guaranteed sah. Better stock up on Advil.

Jeeves, my walker please.

Exit stage left...

M

This Is One Wicked Watch.

2012-01-24T10:03:00.001-05:00

Tooooo funky. ;)

If It's Hip, It's Here: This Is One Wicked Watch. The Tourbillon RM 052 Titanium Skull From Richard Mille.

Ah Mondays...

2012-01-23T12:17:00.001-05:00

Ever have those Monday mornings where you are in a flat introspective mood and the effort it would take to smile is too much. What you hear is... Being happy is a choice. Or, Oh I don't know, one of those sayings people say when they are in a happy mood or need you to be in a different mood than you are in and therefore you have to find a way to suck it up? This ranks high among my reasons for becoming a hermit. Spent so many years worrying about how to make others happy and how to support them, that I am not sure what I want and where I am going.

"Enemy and Ally connect.
A union complicated,
Only in its implications."

Random thought, filed under: Things I dread, and WTF? Perhaps, Matt's private nightmare...

Evil lurks.

Will it find me?

Or will I slip past its sharpened talons and come out the other side unscathed and bathed in light?

Vaguely and mysteriously yours,

Matt

A Night in Ottawa

2012-01-15T20:39:00.001-05:00

Just another night in Ottawa.

Interesting day perhaps. Many spares for my volleyball team, all very good players, and we lose. Shock and dismay comes to mind. No-one to stay for drinks. No socializing? What is the point I wonder? Why bother? I most certainly have no answers.
Heard recently that time moves on, and perhaps in this case, I not with it. What do I do with that knowledge? I move on? I drink a glass of wine, a matching red, and toast to the things I cannot control and the people it involves. Sure, why not? What am I doing and why? Good questions. Is there an answer here, I cannot find it? I wrote it down somewhere... But I cannot find it.
Was an interesting Christmas. Got out of town and was able to relax some. Hoping to come back to work with renewed vim an vigour. That did not really happen. Forgot about my training coming up this week. I lose a week, damn... Should have seen that coming. May have to do unofficial overtime to cover the that which I did not account for. Crap.
Looks like I am going in early tomorrow. Double crap.
Sorry, nothing rosey to report this week/time. Just needed to dump a little. Shrouded in vagueries and little of substance for anyone to tie it to. Sounds like more of the same perhaps? Do my posts begin to get somewhat stale? If so, I apologize, but I guarantee there is lots of intrigue hidding behind the never-ending drivel. Every person in my life has a small glimpse of the whole picture.
Someday maybe I will be able to focus on one picture, one scenario, one life? Look forward to that.
M
P.S.: After re-reading my post from Sunday, I can't not post it. Posted worse. So why not?

If It's Hip, It's Here: Books Carved Into Intricate Japonesque Landscapes by Artist Guy Laramee.

2012-01-12T10:28:00.000-05:00

If It's Hip, It's Here: Books Carved Into Intricate Japonesque Landscapes by Artist Guy Laramee.

FuNk-ee!

Guess What? I am back. For Real...

2012-01-11T00:42:00.001-05:00

Well, it is time to invest in something new. New, in many different ways perhaps. One way, the one I am willing to admit, is in a new iPad app for mobile blogging.

I know that I have not been very active of late, but I think it is time to get back on that horse and re-invest in blogging.

Why? Why not? It is only the cost of a beer but perhaps it is more of an investment in something more... permanent? Who can believe that I started this as a work exercise to activate my mind and invest in social media to a greater extent then I may have been willing at the time. That and Twitter which I do believe is somewhat evil...

Really. The only reason I use Twitter is that I can update my blog and my facebook at the same time. Cool. Now... this means I have to consider that which I am writing on my twitter, blog and facebook all at the same time. This seems like a lot of effort, really, but I guess I invite responsibility of this sort in all aspects of my life. Why? Who the F knows man.. really, give me a break.

So, why am I posting tonight...? Well I figure I need to now that I have spent $5 on an iPad app I have barely seen except it does seems very promising. So... let's test this shit. Going to add a picture and my normal formattig and see if it stays true to the editor/writer.

Ok, let's see what we see... Cringing a little bit.

How did it work out?

Cool Stuff From the Web - Visual Arts

2012-01-08T23:04:00.000-05:00

Gooday internet folk, and those who haven't bailed on me during my great disapearing act of 2011. Kinda had to go silent for awhile for numerous reasons. Seemingly somewhat back on track in 2012. Hope it stays that way.

Ran accross something that I took a liking to, and thought I would share. Pretty cool what some people can do with just about anything. All you need is a little imagination. What you see below I found on a blog authored by Pinar.

I hope you enjoy it. Them.

Artist: Max Zorn
Web Site URL: www.maxzorn.com

New Years Eve Tableau's

2012-01-05T14:13:00.001-05:00

Happy New Year(!) folks. Here I am writing sideways in Blogger app as it doesn't support landscape operation. Sigh, Technology... Ah well. So, it is a new year! What will it bring? More complex interactions, bumbling, bungling, and fun and frolic I suspect.

As I am locked out of my work email and therefore my ability to work effectively has been severely handicapped I join you, my loyal followers (?), for a quick recount of my New Years. This by NO MEANS reflects the true experience which if I were were to recount it in its entirety you would possibly not believe it. I still don't. Life never fails to surprise.

On to the tableau's!

Hope you enjoyed my little show. Now on with the New Year!

Matt from his iPad

(Briefly edited on PC)

Bits of Truth... all quotes: .02067

2012-01-05T12:00:00.000-05:00

Best quote of all time!

Bits of Truth... all quotes: .02067

MattPostingFromHisDelliciousiPadYum

If It's Hip, It's Here: Swimming Pools To Di(v)e For. Amazing Pool & Landscape Designs by OFTB.

2012-01-05T11:53:00.000-05:00

This one's for Miz.N :)

Enjoy.

If It's Hip, It's Here: Swimming Pools To Di(v)e For. Amazing Pool & Landscape Designs by OFTB.

ThatMattGuy

Christmas

2011-12-27T13:24:00.001-05:00

So we spent this Christmas in Northern Ontario with my Uncle. Somehow we ended up with less snow than in Ottawa. How does that happen? Was supposed to be a scaled down Christmas... Not sure how I am. Going to get my gifts home n ow. *Sigh #FirstWorldProblems ;)

We are running around so I d on't have a lot of time to write, but it is more attention than I have given this blog in a long time... Here are some pics.

I hope you all had a great Christmas!

Matt

Happy Birthday!

2011-12-14T16:23:00.001-05:00

Happy Birthday to me, Happy Birthday to me... Happy Birthday dear meeeee, Happy Birthday to me!

End

P.S: Hold old are you, how old are y.... [Not to be discussed]

If It's Hip, It's Here: Mouth Watering Gift Wrap. Conceptual Wrapping Paper from Gift Couture.

2011-12-08T16:31:00.000-05:00

Happy Friday! A fun idea to keep the mood light and festive.

If It's Hip, It's Here: Mouth Watering Gift Wrap. Conceptual Wrapping Paper from Gift Couture.

If It's Hip, It's Here: Ties That Talk. Introducing The Blake Bradford Line of Silk Panel Ties.

2011-12-07T12:49:00.000-05:00

If It's Hip, It's Here: Ties That Talk. Introducing The Blake Bradford Line of Silk Panel Ties.

Have a good weekend!

2011-12-02T16:37:00.001-05:00

Stolen!

Lots of Volleyball and a couple parties this weekend! Should be fun!! Maybe I should take next week off too. :)

Matt

If It's Hip, It's Here: The $13,500 Orgasm. Lelo Introduces 24 Karat Gold Plated Pleasures for Both Sexes.

2011-11-29T10:25:00.000-05:00

If It's Hip, It's Here: The $13,500 Orgasm. Lelo Introduces 24 Karat Gold Plated Pleasures for Both Sexes.

Ha ha! Awesome...

But I digress.

Matt

I bid thee goodnight

2011-11-27T03:03:00.001-05:00

I curl up with your memory
It haunts me. Sustains me.
Transforms me?
What will I be when I wake?

Matt

Another Saturday Night

2011-11-27T02:27:00.001-05:00

I am not in an awful way but my brain thought of this song while sitting here alone watching The American. Now don't get me wrong, I had company of another description, but not the sweet loving company I am looking for. Sweet, yes. Loving, yes. Something I do care about, yes. Something I can hold onto, sadly, no. There are limitations set upon all our interactions in this world, whether it be love, data, speed limits, fiscal, physical, intellectual, you name it, there are limits. In any event my brain sometimes thinks in quotes and song lyrics, when it works at all, so without further ado... The song.

Another Saturday Night - Cat Stevens

Another Saturday night and I ain't got nobody
I've got some money 'cause I just got paid
Now, how I wish I had someone to talk to
I'm in an awful way

I got in town a month ago
I seen a lot of girls since then
If I could meet 'em I could get 'em
But as yet I haven't met 'em
That's how I'm in the state I'm in

Oh,
Another Saturday night and I ain't got nobody
I've got some money 'cause I just got paid
Now, how I wish I had someone to talk to
I'm in an awful way

Another fella told me
He had a sister who looked just fine
Instead of bein' my deliv'rance
She had a strange resemblance
To a cat named Frankenstein

Ooh, la,
Another Saturday night and I ain't got nobody
I've got some money 'cause I just got paid
Now, how I wish I had someone to talk to
I'm in an awful way

It's hard on a fella
When he don't know his way around
If I don't find me a honey
To help me spend my money
I'm gonna have to blow this town

Oh, no
Another Saturday night and I ain't got nobody
I've got some money 'cause I just got paid
Now, how I wish I had someone to talk to
I'm in an awful way

Not all of it applies. I just thought I would share.

Matt

Sweet Monologues/Speeches

2011-11-24T09:26:00.001-05:00

Rocky, perhaps one of the most loyal, sometimes misdirected, characters in recent movie history has always been one of those guys. Kind of like a role model of sorts. Although I will never be a ripped or as tough as a guy like this at the core I would like to think I have a bit of his heart. Some people may not have liked this movie, but I... perhaps because I am getting older, like it and some of what is says to me.

Remember in those moments when you have been knocked down, to fight to get back up and show the world whose boss, or at very least who is willing to get back up. Over and over again.

A quote from the movie I like, which reminds of one of the best life/sports quotes I can remember. I have included both here. They are both worth a read.

For your listening pleasure while you read:

Eye of the Tiger by Journey on Grooveshark

Sylvester Stallone (Rocky Balboa - 2006)

"Then the time come for you to be your own man and take on the world, and you did. But somewhere along the line, you changed. You stopped being you. You let people stick a finger in your face and tell you you're no good. And when things got hard, you started looking for something to blame, like a big shadow. Let me tell you something you already know. The world ain't all sunshine and rainbows. It's a very mean and nasty place and I don't care how tough you are it will beat you to your knees and keep you there permanently if you let it. You, me, or nobody is gonna hit as hard as life. But it ain't about how hard ya hit. It's about how hard you can get it and keep moving forward. How much you can take and keep moving forward. That's how winning is done! Now if you know what you're worth then go out and get what you're worth. But ya gotta be willing to take the hits, and not pointing fingers saying you ain't where you wanna be because of him, or her, or anybody! Cowards do that and that ain't you! You're better than that!"

Then this one I think of often when I feel the need to dig deep.

Al Pacino (Any Given Sunday - 1999)

"I don't know what to say really.
Three minutes
to the biggest battle of our professional lives
all comes down to today.
Either
we heal
as a team
or we are going to crumble.
Inch by inch
play by play
till we're finished.
We are in hell right now, gentlemen
believe me
and
we can stay here
and get the shit kicked out of us
or
we can fight our way
back into the light.
We can climb out of hell.
One inch, at a time.

Now I can't do it for you.
I'm too old.
I look around and I see these young faces
and I think
I mean
I made every wrong choice a middle age man could make.
I uh....
I pissed away all my money
believe it or not.
I chased off
anyone who has ever loved me.
And lately,
I can't even stand the face I see in the mirror.

You know when you get old in life
things get taken from you.
That's, that's part of life.
But,
you only learn that when you start losing stuff.
You find out that life is just a game of inches.
So is football.
Because in either game
life or football
the margin for error is so small.
I mean
one half step too late or to early
you don't quite make it.
One half second too slow or too fast
and you don't quite catch it.
The inches we need are everywhere around us.
They are in ever break of the game
every minute, every second.

On this team, we fight for that inch
On this team, we tear ourselves, and everyone around us
to pieces for that inch.
We CLAW with our finger nails for that inch.
Cause we know
when we add up all those inches
that's going to make the fucking difference
between WINNING and LOSING
between LIVING and DYING.

I'll tell you this
in any fight
it is the guy who is willing to die
who is going to win that inch.
And I know
if I am going to have any life anymore
it is because, I am still willing to fight, and die for that inch
because that is what LIVING is.
The six inches in front of your face.

Now I can't make you do it.
You gotta look at the guy next to you.
Look into his eyes.
Now I think you are going to see a guy who will go that inch with you.
You are going to see a guy
who will sacrifice himself for this team
because he knows when it comes down to it,
you are gonna do the same thing for him.

That's a team, gentlemen
and either we heal now, as a team,
or we will die as individuals.
That's football guys.
That's all it is.
Now, whattaya gonna do?"

Something a little different. Kinda.

Matt

Comfortably Numb

2011-11-21T10:50:00.001-05:00

Hello?
Is there anybody in out there?
Just nod if you can hear me.
Is there anyone at home?
Come on, now,
I hear you're feeling down.
Well I ~~can~~ can't ease your pain
And get you on your feet again.
Relax.
I need some information first.
Just the basic facts
Can you show me where it hurts?

Another brief apology for my absence. Hasn't been a whole lot of good things to say so I just kind of kept it mostly to myself. Currently in a state of non/not feeling. All the melodrama and the up and downs have settled into a flatline of sorts. In a way I hope it continues for awhile. Not sure what will happen when the levy breaks.

On a much cheerier note, we had our 2nd annual showing at the Rockstars funspiel event put on by a local sport and social club. I would love to say the whole crew came back out again, but life it seems has a knack for getting in the way. In the end only myself and one other returned from my 2 teams and we brought into two rather excited rookies into the mix and had a great day, although I think my liver would beg to differ. Now of course we had to make a bit of a show of it... So enter, The Rockstarz!

See evidence that I was a little... fuzzy all day. ;)

Little broom guitar!

Whole lotta shakin' goin' on!

Some friends...


More friends... Rockin' it!

Time for my broom solo!

All in all, a good day... and it doesn't end there folks. Given I had no other plans... party with Fred and Wilma ensues and here endeth the liver. Amen.

Happy Friday!!

2011-11-18T16:40:00.001-05:00

Happy Friday everybody!

So, it is about time?! Right?

2011-11-14T16:43:00.001-05:00

So how many readers do I have left now? Six? Eight? Sorry guys, have been busy. Running around. Sittin' down. Whirlin' around. You know... keeping busy.

Had a little Halloween going on:

Think he got beat up during the party...

Not sure why they look so happy...?

Somebody almost always nearly dies...

Jack Sparrow is finally caught... I think it was on purpose.

...and although there are many more pictures. Lets have just a couple of lame ones of me.

I think I almost lost something precious in this shot...

Found something precious here...

Ended up with about 40 people and the place was packed, which never seems to show in the pictures... it like they are all camera shy and run away. ;)

Had some things to think about, and as I have discovered my blog is now not always the best place to ruminate. In line with that... You've seen it before. Just happens to be appropriate.

"Don't worry about the future; or worry, but know that
worrying is as
effective as trying to solve an algebra equation by
chewing bubblegum. The
real troubles in life are apt to be things that never
crossed your worried
mind; the kind that blindside you at 4pm on some idle
Tuesday

Do one thing everyday that scares you.

Sing.

Don't be reckless with other people's hearts. Don't
put up with people who
are reckless with yours.

Floss.

Don't waste your time on jealousy; sometimes you're
ahead, sometimes you're
behind. The race is long, and in the end, it's only with
yourself.

Remember compliments you receive. Forget the
insults. If you succeed in doing
this, tell me how.

Keep your old love letters. Throw away your old bank
statements.

Stretch.

Don't feel guilty if you don't know what you want to do
with your life.
The most interesting people I know didn't know at 22
what they wanted to do
with their lives; some of the most interesting 40 year
olds I know still
don't.

Get plenty of calcium.

Be kind to your knees, you'll miss them when they're
gone.

Maybe you'll marry, maybe you won't. Maybe you'll
have children, maybe you
won't. Maybe you'll divorce at 40. Maybe you'll dance
the funky chicken on
your 75th wedding anniversary. Whatever you do,
don't congratulate
yourself too much or berate yourself either - your
choices are half chance,
so are everybody else's.

Enjoy your body, use it every way you can... don't be
afraid of it, or what
other people think of it... it's the greatest instrument
you'll ever own.

Dance... even if you have nowhere to do it but in
your own living room.

Read the directions, even if you don't follow them.

Do NOT read beauty magazines they will only make
you feel UGLY."

Nuff said?

Now back to your regularly scheduled programming.

Nothing to see here.

Maybe I will do a little situational blog tonight. No promises. Just a thought.

M

P.S.: I love Ikea Hackers...

All of my life

2011-11-07T12:51:00.000-05:00

This song perhaps epitomizes the way I feel sometimes about the opportunities I have missed and the people I have either overlooked or allowed to slip away. There always seems to be a new lesson to learn or a lesson learned that one forgot rises up and says.. "See this is what I was talking about. You should have paid attention." No I am not hearing voices, only perhaps my own slapping me upside the head and saying pay attention you idiot. ;) That doesn't sounds much better does it, nor can voices do that but heywhatareyagonnadohuh?

Been listening to this song since I was a teen and the only thing that changes is I continue to amass new reasons to feel even more connected to it and affected by it. I hope my latest chapter works out better than the last few. I think there is hope, (I mean of course there is) but it takes two to tango and I have to find the right dance partner. Or have I and let them get away? For now, I have decided to just say the way I feel without wrapping pretty little words around them. Be as direct as possible without being insensitive and let the chips fall where they may. Lets see how that works shall we?

And so without further gilding the lily and with no more ado, I give to you, the song:

All of My Life - Phil Collins

All of my life, I've been searching
For the words to say how I feel.
I'd spend my time thinking too much
And leave too little to say what I mean
I've tried to understand the best I can
All of my life.

All of my life, I've been saying sorry
For the things I know I should have done
All the things I could have said come back to me
Sometimes I wish that it had just begun
Seems I'm always that little too late
All of my life

Set 'em up, I'll take a drink with you
Pull up a chair, I think I'll stay
Set 'em up, cos I'm going nowhere
There's too much I need to remember, too much I need to say

All of my life, I've been looking
But it's hard to find the way
Reaching past the goal in front of me
While what's important just slips away
It doesn't come back but I'll be looking
All of my life

Set 'em up...

All of my life, there have been regrets
That I didn't do all I could
Making records upstairs, while he watched TV
I didn't spend the time I should
It's a memory I will live with
All of my life.

Signed

Me

I am so F%#@$ angry with myself right now....

2011-10-30T20:04:00.001-04:00

Alaska here I come.

Ok, ok, ok...

2011-10-24T13:30:00.001-04:00

I have been resisting the new blogger template/interface for some time now... Time to give it a try. I am a bit resistant to change at times. Probably helps to explain why I am still single. (?) Ah well, they are supposed to love me for me right? Yeah, that's the ticket. ;)

So ya, the new blogger look. Something about it is far too free flowing and I dunno zen like. I like the constraints of the previous version. (Shudder, what does that say about me?) Focus Matt, focus... Even this editing screen is like there are no boundaries, a wash of white flowing into off white. It seems strange. Curious to see if it has better features for layout etc. Adding images seems to be the same. Now here is a question?

"Does anyone reading this understand the whole location thing, when it comes to social media and the like?"

I find it a bit intrusive really. I have probably shared my location a handful of times and each time I was thinking, do I really want to be doing this? Why do people want, need, care about where I am? Sometimes I quite simply doin't want people to know where I am.

"Ya, oh by the way, I AM NOT HOME NOW..." Seems like a real smart thing to broadcast. Maybe I am paranoid, but sharing too much online could be dangerous. Not to me.. I mean who would want to harm me? Ok, in case it wasn't clear, that was rhetorical... DON'T answer that. ;)

So anybody else transition to the new layout. Have any issues, found some cool features, let me know.

That's it. Yup, pretty boring.

I know..

Matt out

One of those dayz...

2011-10-21T13:34:00.000-04:00

Having one of those days, you know the ones where you just kind of feel blah? Ya... That is just not supposed to happen on a Friday. Is it? Well hopefully seeing my friends and playing volleyball will improve my mood this evening.

Some quotes to pass the time:

“I would much rather have regrets about not doing what people said, than regretting not doing what my heart led me to and wondering what life had been like if I'd just been myself.”
- Brittany Renée

“When one door closes, another opens; but we often look so long and so regretfully upon the closed door that we do not see the one which has opened for us.”
- Alexander Graham Bell

“Many of us crucify ourselves between two thieves - regret for the past and fear of the future.”
- Fulton Oursler

“One's real life is often the life that one does not lead”
- Oscar Wilde

“Never regret. If it's good, it's wonderful. If it's bad, it's experience.”
- Victoria Holt

“A man is not old until his regrets take the place of his dreams”
- Proverb

"Remember that there is nothing stable in human affairs; therefore avoid undue elation in prosperity, or undue depression in adversity."
- Socrates (469 BC - 399 BC)

"Happiness is like a kiss. You must share it to enjoy it."
- Bernard Meltzer

"Lots of people want to ride with you in the limo, but what you want is someone who will take the bus with you when the limo breaks down."

MWN

Crappy Haikus - Only cuz I said I would

2011-10-19T14:04:00.001-04:00

The opinions of the author are not necessarily reflected in current programing. This exercise in futility brought to you by a random mind.

Hearts first blush
Could be forever
The wind says no

Time spent alone
In time will it find
Harmony

- Based on Haiku and 12 syllable approach

Suns brilliant rays
My soul it soaks in the heat
Blessed piece of mind

Reflection upon us
Leads to questions I want answers
With no reply

- 17 syllables.

Now if those aren't random radicals, I don't know what are?! ;)

Now for a not so random random video:

Always puts me in a good mood.

Random fact:

I now have to, or have been asked to, sing an Elvis tune. Huh.

Simply random:
Colin James - Satellite.

Please do not adjust your set, less random crap will continue shortly...

MwN

Let it go

2011-10-18T12:28:00.001-04:00

So I have the little ball of stress burrowing around inside me this am. Lots of little projects on the go, deadlines looming, personals bits floating around in my mind and all things that go along with house and finances.

Stepping away from my computer and posting a la mobile to reduce the immediate stress for a few minutes. Deep breathes and focus on the smaller individual tasks... Let the little stress ball go and focus on the manageable pieces.

Feel like I am falling behind on all fronts. Just by a bit. Add all the bits up and you can be facing allot of real challenges...

Feel I need a new system for tracking finances, work and personal engagements. Have been avoiding dealing with it. Perhaps it is time. O motivation, where art thou?

First thing is first. Let it go. Let go of the little ball of stress and focus on some accomplishable tasks. (That even a word? Spellcheck, are you there?)

Oh feck it.

Post

If I were a Zombie....

2011-10-14T11:48:00.000-04:00

Sitting here testing our tools which have been re-tooled (oddly enough) to conform to accesibility guidllines here at work and naturally started thinking... "If I were a Zombie... who would I be? What would I be like?" Then it hit me.

LMFAO

Ok, seriously folks... it was like the first thing that came up when I did my search. Actually second, but who's counting? This just put me in a great mood. Well that and a Sumatran x-bold.

Ok folks, you know I had to right?

No, no, really. I had to.

Oh and just because I thought it worth an honourable mention:

Happy Friday

Hope this at least made you smile. 8)

Matt

Random Questionable Content

2011-10-13T10:00:00.000-04:00

Ha ha... Really?!

An appropriate reaction.

mwn

Untitled

2011-10-12T16:30:00.000-04:00

A calm spreads across the stage
Upon which we stand and enact our plays.
Resignation for things we cannot control
Yet a growing peace within our role.

A small pool of sadness lies to one side
One we at times will imbibe.
Its shimmering surface draws one near
Perhaps it is not to be feared?

A tiny sip which allowed to travel
Past the heart and the navel.
Settles in a deep and dark place
From where it will be erased.

The play onstage continues to move
In its rhythmic modulating hues,
A story of life is played out there
Even if you are not aware.

I may pass by you and yours,
An actor traveling through many doors.
If I should perhaps stay awhile,
I hope at least it made you smile.

Without direction I plot my course,
Not with a ship or car or horse,
But on a vessel of a different sort.
Upon the vessel that is my heart.

The Forrest

2011-10-07T13:19:00.001-04:00

I walk through a veiled forest,
Hiding it's true intent,
It's expectations.
A forest of people,
Feelings,
Great joy,
And horrendous sorrows.
It reaches out with thorns,
Sweet scents, and hidden mysteries.
A veritable cornucopia of wondrous things to discover,
To uncover.
Every turn hides something new,
Good or ill my path changes in response to the forest.
In hopes of finding
That small glade
That binds me.

Infernal Thoughts of a Random Mind

To purge or not to purge

2011-10-04T13:36:00.000-04:00

...that really isn't the question. Simply reality. And boy, when I purge, I purge. This is a warning to all those having a great day or don't want to have their happy bubble popped. STOP reading here.

The last few years have been so full of highs and lows, perhaps a few more lows... I just think to myself that it has to turn around. I had until recently given up on trying to find someone because it felt too hard or perhaps because when deceived and lied to one develops some trust issues. You ask yourself, is it worth it? Can I muster up the energy and the drive? The answer is yes, but sometimes you need a kick in the ass. Just something to realize that which you already knew but was struggling to find.

What I found recently, or at least this Winter/Spring/Summer, was the interest if filling that hole that currently resides in my life. (A quote/saying about not tying one's happiness to people and things occurs to me here...) Hey, I just want to share my life with someone who appreciates it and I appreciate them. Doesn't sound too hard does it? Well, I think I am on strike 3. Lets call my 3 ghosts of Winter/Spring/Summer past: Disinterest, Disorganized, and Damn I didn't show up. There is more drama let me assure you but 3 is a nice number so I am going to stick with it. If I was to write about the rest I would make some money and write a romance novel or a season of Melrose Place.

The first two are simply being out there and seeing what's what. I won't give details about that or the other dramas as I don't want my blog to serve as a center for revealing details about people's lives. Too many readers who know too much, too little, or I would rather leave them with their delusions. Were they disappointing, sure, but normal. The last well to be quite honest, my biggest disappointment, I just didn't show up. Now I feel trapped in limbo. This is not the Matt I know/knew/was. Not going to get into the details here either as all the things I would have to say, have said and will say I will say to her. That I think is a strength of our relationship as people and friends which I plan to cherish. To one of the nicest people I know, I just want to say, don't take this post too much to heart. Ok? This is a place I can express things. God knows why you all read it, but there you have it... plus it usually makes me feel better.

...all of this was to say that this morning while feeling at my worst what happens except 2 songs come on back to back that bring it to another level of purge, more like purgatory. That's what I get for not customizing my playlist... So for your listening pleasure, one almost light east coast styled song, and one that directly equates to one of the most significant breakups in my life from years past. Combined to create the perfect storm of melodrama.

Your Welcome :)

You left in the morning
You left without a word
Did you get what you came for
Is this what I deserve
Oh I know the silence was the loudest thing I ever heard

[Chorus]
Where do we stand, what am I supposed to do
Give me the clearest indication,
that I am not alone with you
Reach out your hand, in a world I thought I knew
I need the clearest indication,
the clearest indication from you

Did we have all we wanted
And let it slip away in time
Like a country divided
Fifty-one to forty-nine, years ago
We just can't seem to make up our mind

[Chorus]

[Bridge]
Times like these its hard to see
With any kind of clarity
What's the point of wondering anymore
So much I just can't figure out
I'd love to know without a doubt for sure, for sure
[Chorus]

How the hell did we wind up like this
Why weren't we able
To see the signs that we missed
Try to turn the tables

I wished you'd unclench your fists, and unpack your suitcase
Lately there's been too much of this
But don't think it's too late

(Chorus)
Nothing's wrong
Just as long as you know that someday I will
Someday, somehow
I'm gonna make it alright
But not right now
I know you're wondering when
You're the only one who knows that
Someday, somehow
I'm gonna make it alright
But not right now
I know you're wondering when

Well I'd hope that since we're here anyway
That we could end up saying
Things we've always needed to say
So we could end up staying
Now the story's played out like this
Just like a paperback novel
Let's rewrite an ending that fits
Instead of a Hollywood horror

(Chorus)
Nothing's wrong
Just as long as you know that someday I will
Someday, somehow
I'm gonna make it alright
But not right now
I know you're wondering when
You're the only one who knows that
Someday, somehow
I'm gonna make it alright
But not right now
I know you're wondering when
You're the only one who knows that

(Intermission)

How the hell'd we wind up like this,
And why weren’t we able
To see the signs that we missed
Try to turn the tables
Now the story's played out like this
Just like a paperback novel
Let's rewrite an ending that fits
Instead of a Hollywood horror

(Chorus)
Nothing's wrong
Just as long as you know that someday I will
Someday, somehow
I'm gonna make it alright
But not right now
I know you're wondering when
You're the only one who knows that
Someday somehow
I'm gonna make it alright
But not right now
I know you're wondering when
You're the only one who knows that
I know you're wondering when
You're the only one who knows that
I know you're wondering when

It simply amazes me that random happenings such 2 songs can spring up like Deja Vu and smack you in the face when you are not expecting it. Buggers. Then of course followed by Lady Gaga to throw a little surrealism into the mix. L *Shakes head

Now I hope this doesn't spur a flurry of worry in certain circles for me. I am ok. Just currently extremely disappointed. Need to find that reset button. Get out of my own head and back on track.

...now what are you still doing here?

Go on.

Git!

Back to whatever it is you were doing before you decided to read my drivel.

Can't believe you read all this...

...sad really.

Now make like a tree and get outa here.

Am I going to have to take steps?

Ok, that's better. :)

Talk later.

M

To the Morrow

2011-10-03T13:38:00.000-04:00

To-morrow, and to-morrow, and to-morrow,
Creeps in this petty pace from day to day,
To the last syllable of recorded time;
And all our yesterdays have lighted fools
The way to dusty death. Out, out, brief candle!
Life's but a walking shadow, a poor player,
That struts and frets his hour upon the stage,
And then is heard no more. It is a tale
Told by an idiot, full of sound and fury,
Signifying... ~~nothing~~ everything.

Life is full of ups and downs, successes and failures, but ultimately it is in each and every one of these moments that we can find something good and pure to hold onto. Even in my latest failure (please excuse my melodrama), shared as it may be, the pureness of a link between two people remains. And for that I can't help but be thankful.

You know who you are.

Thank you.

Matt

The door to..?

2011-09-28T15:49:00.000-04:00

I in my darkened threshold
am pawing through my pockets
the receipts, the bus schedules
the matchbook phone numbers
the urgent napkin poems
all of which laundering has rendered
pulpy and strange
loose change and a key
ask me
go ahead, ask me if I care
I got the answer here
I wrote it down somewhere
I just gotta find it
I just gotta find it

Ani D

Found it:

"If we could sum up all the causes of our hurt, pain & hatred in one word, it would be "expectations"

Sincerely,

Matt

Where Ya Noms At?!

2011-09-27T12:55:00.000-04:00

Given my own lack of creative zeal over the last little while I introduce to you from New York, NY, none other that DJ Jazzy Flippy Hair and the Fresh Princess...

Show Me Where Ya Noms At

We will leave my own internal workings to another post wherein I will likely reveal my general stupidity and lack of clear intelligent thought fueled by the general haze of life as I tend to lead it.

Enjoy!

M

Karma... It's a Bitch Slap - Bits of Truth... all quotes style

2011-09-21T13:42:00.000-04:00

Ok, some people need to smarten the F-up. This is the, uncountable number of times, that someone... not naming names... makes disparaging remarks about me or my interest in another person

What makes you and your 65 IQ think that you know jack ___ about me, relationships in general, or anything about life. Sorry how much do you make a year again? Sorry what? Less than when I did retail? When I was 19?! Why is that again? Oh right your an idiot with no drive for life. Right... forgot about that. So I am really interested in your opinions... especially the ones you say behind my back to all my close friends. Did you really think I wouldn't hear about it? Jackass. There is a reason people used to call you short bus mon ami, and it isn't your short bus ride downtown we are talking about here.

Have I ever opened my big mouth. Uh, yeah. Did I learn not to. Yup. Hope you do as well. You live, you learn - AM. (Of course when I did it I was answering a direct question from a friend then they spewed it to the focus of said question. Brilliant.)

Sorry folks, but when a dumbass opens his mouth and spews about my personal life and I hear about it, it pisses me off. This group I hang out with, or part of it, needs to have karma slap them in the testes. And no... I am not going to tell you who or repeat what the person said, or when it happened, because... I don't wanna. I will leave it to Karma.

Bits of Truth... all quotes: .01960

...and yes I am picturing every single one of you I know have made comments. In case you were wondering.

So initially I had nothing to write about. The Jargarita party was fun. No pics yet. My Beergaritas, as promised, won first place.Yay. *happy dance Guess I found something that sparked some passion. Ire perhaps.

Be interesting to see who reads this blog and what happens with this information.

Smarten Up.

You know who you are.

Sincerly,

Matt

Stay Tuned...

2011-09-15T14:48:00.001-04:00

Stay tuned folks, I will be back.

Jargarita party tomorrow night! Picking up a blender tonight, my ingredients and I think I may post details to my soon to be award winning Jargarita recipe!

Matt

P.S.: If you want to waste 13 minutes you will never get back watch this...

Bored yet? Think I can see the beard growing... ;) So itchy.

Weekend

2011-09-12T12:49:00.001-04:00

The Weekend.

Was good. Could have been better I suppose.

Watched, wait was glued to the TV, during the #USOpen the whole weekend. I think I am revolted with myself for not having had the drive to leave the house. Ok, well other than to pick up my new 1 TB external hard drive, iPhone stand for the car and still awaiting my handsfree kit. Other than for that errand and to grab coffee I did little or nothing. Slightly disappointing although int he most part I really enjoyed watching the US Open. ESPECIALLY because my favourite female tennis kicked the whiny little Williams sister's ASS! God damn that was fun to watch. I have never seen a supremely talented player with the amount of feelings of entitlement that this spoiled brat has. Damn, just when I was starting to like Serena for her talent and her seemingly improved demeanor on the court she goes and throws yet another hissy fit while blaming everybody else for her issues. I officially am not a fan anymore.

Serena deserves an ass-kicking and guess what?! Sam Stosur gave it to her! Take that you self-important little... hehem... but I digress. First noticed Ms Stosur about two years ago and wondered... why is this woman not more highly ranked. Supremely fit, great serve, powerful forehand... ?! WTH? Then I think she won a tourney last year. Made it to the Finals in 2 tourneys this year, and all of a sudden I am liking womens tennis again.

In other news... Federer lost again. Dude WTF?! He won the first 2 sets and then barfed up the next 3 to Djokovic. Huh? I don't get it. Now thank god he is still in the top 5 but common man you still have lots left in you. Get back on that horse. Now don't get me wrong, I like Djokovic as well, but I wanted to see a Nadal Federer final again. Djokovic-Nadal should be awesome too mind you. On tonight. Think I need a steak and some vino to celebrate the final. GO NADAL!

In other news. I am disappointing a friend of mine. Not happy about this. Maybe it is time to admit I am not in the happiest of places right now. Not really sure why. Just not. Well I know bits and pieces but the whole picture is a little foggy. Am trying though. Just not very hard I guess. Dammit.

Well, back to work...

The cure for Angry Birds addiction...

2011-09-12T11:28:00.000-04:00

Addicted to Angry Birds? Here's Help

I don't dream of Jeannie anymore, all I see are angry birds... Hitchcock save me.

M

W00t!

2011-09-08T13:19:00.001-04:00

What's up my wee band of followers?!

Speaking of which, I now have a 20th 'official' follower. Now, that being said, I am not altogether sure of who it might be.. as oddly enough, I don't really pay attention to my readership as there are more people that read it or used to read it anonymously than publicly. I have my suspicions though as I don't believe I recognize one of your names.

Either way... welcome yonder blogosphere traveler. Rest thy weary feet on my doorstep for awhile and soak in the ridiculous meanderings of this untidy mind. Not dirty, mind you, although I don't rule it out. ;)

So, it is a sad day. One of the original bloggers I followed for the last year or so is hanging up their hat. In fact Probably 3 out of... many that I first started following when I started blogging have closed down shop. I have perhaps a small core of ones I still follow from the beginning but I may have to pick up some new ones. Early morning reading over coffee you understand... lunch on occasion. Speaking of which I have to catch up on my Bits o' Truth...

Realization: CRAP Halloween is only a little over a month and a half away?! Need to get off my ass and organize my yearly pahty! What the @#% am I going to be this year? (Anyone else when you see @#% and th elike think of Asterix and Obelix? Just me? Figures)

Oh, we have a JARGARITA party coming up. Can't wait! Who knows what mischief will ensue. (Ref. MDK - Episode 7 - Tacos!) What's that? Will there be puns? Can't guarantee it. Bad jokes? Certainly.

I am assuming there will be beer pong, (Jargarita pong?) some form of washer game, euchre? Ridiculous people singing or dancing.

..oh and hangovers.

Squirrel!

M

Hmmm

2011-09-01T15:47:00.001-04:00

Mmm Mmm Mmm Mmm
Once there was this kid who...

...had nothing to say in his blog.

Started the day looking up who sang A Case of You before Diana as I wanted to share the 2 versions with a friend. Lets call her, Musically Inclined, ala A Pre-Life Crisis type approach. Apparently my latest DVD will not play past Do it Again. Grr. In case you all didn't know, I consider Diana Krall's Live in Paris the gold standard for modern day Jazz. I can just sit there and watch it with a glass of wine and be all but perfectly content.

Now in speaking of the Jazz I like, particularly that song, the subject of who sang it originally came up. Now, if I am not mistaken, Joni Mitchell originally sang it and is a VERY different song. I like it in a folksy kinda crazy ass high as a kite type version. What that woman does with her voice is just well kind of indescribable. Probably completely tainting her name here as well so please remember the views and bla bla bla of this blog do not necessarily reflect reality, the views of the subjects of my rants and half-assed comments 'Nuff said?

Ok, moving on.

So last night I couldn't remember for the life of me who sang this. Glad I remembered this am. Now in thinking of different artists and the subject of singing and open mic etc came up and I was trying to remember some of the top songs that I feel I can sing. One of which is/was A Nightingale Sang in Berkeley Square by Harry Connick Jr. Just a cool title as far as I cam concerned. Now I can prob sing the lion's share of the songs on this album (notice I am not mentioning which one :P) but this is one of my favourites so I have more drive to want to sing it.

Now I don't think I have mentioned how much I hate public speaking on here, but let me tell you HOW MUCH I HATE public speaking. Now, taking that into consideration... Ms Musically Inclined mentions a particular bar that has a live pianist that comes in and people can request songs from him and sing with him etc... To which I start envisioning my own worst nightmare. Singing in front of people. In the comfort of my own car, home, shower, I am a vocal artiste extraordinaire! But put me within 20 feet of someone I think is listening and my vocal cords shrivel up like.. hmm, best be careful here.

To be Continued...

Work.

Pfft.

BACK!

Work sucks. So I figured I would continue to blather on on here and give myself a break. Do I deserve one... no. Well at least I am honest. Since the end of my acting assignment this week I have had little drive and less get up and go. Oddly enough it has been busier too... Hmm.

F___K this is a good song. [click] In this case I am listening to the original by ZZ Top mind you. Some wicked guitar... Speaking of which I am wearing mine today. Shit ya. Everyday is a jeans day for me. Kinda can't complain really. But I will.. ;) :P

So... ya. Pretty exciting huh? Can I go home now?

Sorry, that's it. Apparently I am feeling somewhat less verbose this am. Not suffering from verbosity. Lacking prolixity? Quite prolixious however.

K I'm done.

M

Intermission

2011-08-29T13:19:00.000-04:00

A brief intermission from headier (Ok, it is not quite the right word, but I like it so it stays. Also I haven't really posted and heavy, exciting or impetuous stuff of late really so... Oh what the hell.) things to the more mundane, although that is certainly not what this 2007 BBC series brings to the viewer.

Series... well it was supposed to be. Six episodes in I think it got canceled. Oh well... Seen 3 and I plan to enjoy the next 3. Could tell by the plot development that they would run out of material.

Love the tension between the two faces/personalities of the main character in this. Fun fun fun. Complete bullocks (Bernard Hill (Edward Colt - Father) - Wimbledon (2004)) mind you, but fun.

Hey I ran out of Special Victims Unit re-runs, The Mentalist, and the latest Burn Notice. Gimme a break huh? Have all of season 4 of True Blood ~~taped~~ PVRed, but I have to see season 3 first. Rough life huh?

Want to see a messed up movie? Check out Harsh Times (2005) starring none other than Christain Bale. This is one screwed up movie somewhat akin to Training Day, on acid. One just has to wonder how these friends grew up and WTF they were/are thinking half the time. These dudes are messed up, and in more way than one.

I am, again, impressed by the choice or roles chosen by Mr. Bale. Someone is helping him make all the right decisions.

Peace out

Sexy A$$ IKEA Hack

2011-08-26T15:15:00.000-04:00

I'm so excited, I just can't hide it... I know, I know, I know I want this, I want this...

Found on IKEA Hackers

Daaaaaamn fine work son!

M

Random Thoughts by Yours Truly

2011-08-26T13:01:00.001-04:00

Ok, so I am minding my own business and perusing the bloggersphere... did I mention minding my own business? Before I can take 2 sips of my coffee I am inundated with people. Think I talked to like 8 people before I could ingest that which will keep me from killing them. Completely unaware of their plight they continue on... tread lightly young misses and sirs.

Can someone tell me why people who don't get the web and technology... don't get the web and technology? I bet you they are the same people who can't start their BBQ or burn food repeatedly because they cannot focus for more than two seconds on a task... but I digress.

The glass is half-full, the glass is half-full.

See this is what happens when you break through the coffee barrier and strike at my nerves before a sufficient amount of addictive substance has been ingested. Matt is on edge today. Officially.

Digressing further...

So, surfing the bloggersphere... (Yes I know - no need to comment)

I come accross:
If It's Hip, It's Here: If Walls Could Talk. Timothy Goodman's Mural for the Ace Hotel, New York.

Cool man. I have many projects in mind for my home but I rarely put aside the time to do them. Or perhaps organize the chaos which is my life so I can focus on them. I acquired a large mural sized canvas a number of years ago and have had numerous ideas about how I could use it. One was to give it to my GF at the time so she could do one of her paintings, but as that never materialized and our relationship de--materialized that was in short order not the plan anymore. So... I then thought I could use it in my living room and needed to decide what design I could use and perhaps put it on this wall. I could use some personality.

Decided that wouldn't work... although I still need to remove my drawings from 1991-92... they are getting dated. ;) They were supposed to be temporary. :S

Then, I thought... hey... I can use it as a funky headboard and do something cool with it. Now remember (not that I told you or anything) that it is about 8-9 feet tall and 5 feet wide or something. Rather massive. Couln't really decide what I wanted to do there either, then... I saw this video:

Not sure about the colours yet.... but I so want to do something with the paint splatter technique and the series of windows/mirrors and then put it on this wall in my hallway. Jazz it up a bit. Thinking... not pink. wouldn't really work. I have reds, beige's and black to go with so maybe something along those lines. Likely as monochramatic as possible but well I guess we will see. BTW, the mirrors are a PAIN IN THE ASS to find online. Found them a couple of places but none of them ship here. Dammit, I may actually have to go shopping for real. Eww, like real people and stuff. Ugh.

I have like 4-5 other ideas that I have had and partially prepared for but I simply lacking the drive to really make them happen. AN IKEA hack coffee table. A new DVD rack built by yours truly out of 2x6s and some cool brackets I found to try and make them floating yet sturdy enough for all my DVDs. And more. So what is keeping me from it? Fear of failure? Maybe. But who would know unless I blog about it? L, prob no-one so WTF.

Man I could use that random werk of art from the other day...

I wonder now if my level of irritation and generally unsettled spirit today is evident in my writing?

Sitting here in the edge of lighting into someone.

Taking deep breaths and listening to some aggressive music to let the bad stuff escape. Just one person has emailed me 6 times OVER LUNCH about something they are now deciding is a priority. Um, its Friday. CHILL man. Oh did I mention I am acting manager this week and part of the next? Ha ha, poor bastards.

Ok, what else... Ah hell with it. I need a beer.

Null

2011-08-23T15:22:00.001-04:00

Fun with Words.

Here is something I want you to try... Look up a random perhaps innocuous word on dictionary.com (one of my favourite sites by the way) and discover a brand new world of learning. Feeling kinda flat and blah I saw my Twitter icon on my iPhone and thought... Null #Null. So I typed it into my status and off it went into cyberspace filling the status(es) of numerous social media sites spreading my words onto MILLIONS! Ok... slight reality check dummy. You ain't that popular. 100s!

So of course I pop over to my trusty online dictionary... and yes, there is an app for that. ;) Type in "Null" and a whole world of learning opened up. First off the obvious:

Huh. Still kinda interesting...

Then what do I notice. Let me tell you because I would really get tired of waiting for you to guess... Neophytes. *Sigh (Ok, kidding... You got that right? Not going to get all offended and write me with 100s of hate mail I hope. Your a sensitive bunch aren't ya?) And no, that wasn't the word I noticed... but, GOOD word.

I notice: nul'liparous

So I says to myself, "self, what in God's green earth is that?!" Because I talk like that all the time you know. .. Kind like these annoying ...(s) Just weird stuff that I do, or don't. You decide. So back to it.. Of course I HAVE to look it up.

Would anyone have got that?! Really. I want to see a show of hands. I had no idea..

Huh.

Now I am not going to go into depth of the history of the word and different uses and blah blah blah. You want to know why? Do ya? Do you feel lucky punk?! Do ya?! Oh sorry... Little tangent there.

Because it is SO MUCH more fun to just click through it on your own. Check it: (!) http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/null

Ok so the history of the word Null is not that interesting, but the history of many words are. In fact nul'iparous had little history. Surprised by that.

Next time on the Reading Rainbow, I mean... Next time you are sitting there wondering about a word, do a search on it and see what you learn.

MattTheWeird or is it just VERY random

House Cleaning

2011-08-22T15:51:00.000-04:00

House·clean·ing [hous-klee-ning]

noun

the act of cleaning a house, room, etc., and its furnishings, especially the act of cleaning thoroughly and completely.
the act of improving or reforming by weeding out excess or corrupt personnel or of revising methods of operation.

Origin:
1860–65; house + cleaning

House cleaning = Crap.

There is little or nothing else I hate more than house cleaning. Not really that much of a surprise given I am male, but I am just saying... I truly despise it. Not sure you are quite getting it though... I REALLY DESPISE IT!

There is absolutely nothing worse that cleaning the bathroom mind you, well... Other than those HazMat wearing occasions where you find that long lost item in your fridge your forgot about from weeks before. *Shudder. Other than that though the bathroom is the worst.

Been running around my whole vacation and since coming back I have spent maybe one day a week at home, which on those occasions, I chose to relax. Do you REALLY think on my one night to myself I am going to skip happily around my house dusting and cleaning miscellaneous surfaces?! #HELLNO! Couch meet butt, and then bring on the take-out food! That was what the doctor ordered.

Now that the doctor has witnessed the burgeoning cesspool which is my house he/she/it (AKA the fictitious character to which I referring, ultimately me) is urgently directing my attention to the household cleaners, rags and my distressingly small number of cleaning tools at my disposal so that I might rid myself of the growing evils which invade my home

Dust, rivaling the sand of the Sahara licks at my ankles.

My windows, like the silt covered remnants of the abandoned towns from old spaghetti westerns.

My bathroom, shocked by the onslaught of a summer full of beach volleyball, and a drain which requires the appropriate application of C4 to let flow the pure clean waters of Ottawa Hydro. (Um, yeah.. ok)

I think you get the picture.

So for tonight's house owners enjoyment we get to... you guessed it. Cleaning the f-ing place. Ugh

Pray for me?

I'm going in...

M

P.S.: "If I am not back in 5 minutes... [?]"

And you have won...

2011-08-18T13:34:00.000-04:00

A brand new car!

Apparently I was the next contestant on the price was right enough to buy it. After my accident that is... Oh and there ws no Bob Barker. Phooey.

So after an exhaustive search... ok 2 full days of looking, I found this beauty. Fully loaded 2008 with sunroof (yay!) and a warranty until 2014. SCORE! I would have settled for less, but who bother when you find pretty much exactly what you wanted. Grass in NOT always greener people... except for the damn crabgrass that has infested my driveway and cobbled extension. Dammit. Sprayed that stuff once and the suckers are still growing like... um, weeds. Bah... little off topic.

All I can see if that damn grass *sigh

The car. Right back to the car. Well it drives great. Power everything. Seems like slightly tinted windows which is nice as the interior is dark and could get very warm otherwise. Last but not least it is a standard. TG, I was getting so sick of driving my family's/enterprise's automatics while I waited for insurance.

Now... I just have to watch my speed as little beast has a lot more power than old Yaris POS had.

Hmm, yup. that's it. Nada much else to report folks.

Pretty much it.

Ya, that's a wrap.

Done.

Gonzo.

Sayanora.

Matt Norquay

L, ok I have to... for the guys. Guess what else came up in the first few images related to the search for "vroom vroom" on Google: (Sorry ladies this is just for all the male closet readers. I laughed out loud when I saw these pop up. Maybe I should change my search settings for work :\ Just a thought.)

Hell ya!

2011-08-17T13:46:00.000-04:00

Sexy Ass Hammock!

Are you thinking what I am thinking? Maybe not... Probably a good thing. ;) Is it wrong to want one for my TV room? Well a smaller one. Kinda more like these:

Dyning, from IKEA

Whole new meaning to "the comfort of your own home".

Mattywantsasexyasshammock

Vacation - Thunder Bay Installment

2011-08-16T12:38:00.002-04:00

On the road again... but I am back now. Been away for two weeks and at least one of you missed me. ;) Little under 5%... that's pretty good right? Well that's what I will keep telling myself.

So I mightily screwed up in my planning of this vacation I must say. After last years complete debacle I was determined not to make the same mistakes again, so... I made ALL NEW ones. Brilliant. Ah well. Live and learn.

So I had the two weeks off see, and figured that of ten days, 5 days in Thunder Bay hangin' at the cottage and with fam-damily was just about the perfect amount. Then I went and scheduled it around my sisters plans like a good brother. Oh brother... So, I went ahead and stuck my travel plans right smack in the middle of the 2 weeks off. Doesn't sound so bad does it? Well let me tell you, it didn't quite work out as I hoped.

See this face above... that is how I feel and have felt since this whole vacation started. Let me explain...

Ok, now before I get started you need to understand the basic tragic flaw in my plan... not only did I set the 5 days in TBay right smack dab in the middle of my time off, I ALSO bookended my plans with two trips which in their very nature require a fairly rigorous level of partying. Just go with me on this one. Trust me, epic planning fail.

So first weekend we have our yearly rafting trip. Now I say we but I have boycotted it for the last 4-5 years for reason that shall remain semi-private. We can set that aside however and focus on the matter at hand... Notice the nefarious object I hold in my hands in the picture on the left. (Ignoring the fact I haven't shaved in a few days...) It's name is Stacey and will forever be the bane of my existence. This evil instrument of drunken torture must be used upon the use of the word 'mine'. Now.. that doesn't sound too hard does it? Well perhaps it is and perhaps it isn't but lets just say I didn't survive the weekend entirely intact. By that I mean I was TOO DAMN SICK to actually go rafting. Just sitting here shaking my head... Oh well, c'est la vie.

Last weekend of my vacation is the Tremblant volleyball tournament. A great tournament for two reasons. We know just about everyone, or most, of 120 players for one. Second, the partying can be quite vigorous. ;) This year wasn't too bad in terms of the partying, but it is a grueling day of volleyball in high heat, humidity and burning sand. You are exhausted by the end. This year we made it into the semi-finals, which is pretty good, but we ran out of steam and a very talented team took us out as we just could not quite compete. Here are some stills.

Just me

Da Boyz -1

Da Girlz - And ya... She's 6' 3"! ;)

I assume post-pass or prep on a blocked hit..? Not sure.

The "almost" block *sigh

Après Smash?

For the ladies...

Damn he got up there...

Where was I going...?

Oh there I am... kinda. Ok, that's enough

I don't have many pics from the party... but I do have video. Not sure I will post it but perhaps in another post just to like have additional schtuff to post. Ever heard of Bean Boozled? Well someone was certainly boozled and ate the beans let me tell you.. Still waiting for people to post their photos. Perhaps there will be an update. Perhaps.

So, ok, ok, ok... that was just the pre-cursor to the rest of the photo essay. Enter stage left... Thunder Bay. So like ya...and um, well where was I? (2 days later) Thunder Bay, right. So in between these two lovely trips I had YET ANOTHER trip. SMRT. Traveled to my mother's home town where we still have a cottage (just outside of town) owned by our whole family, pretty much. A quaint cobbled together, segmented, piece of heaven in the forests of Northern Ontario. Vague... isn't it? :)

The original part of the cottage was built some 100 years ago or so by my family. This would be closest to the water. The rest was added on in pieces over the last 50+ years. To your my right is the side view of the cottage, the main part being the tallest portion built from a aircraft crate and has never been significantly modified. The back however has been built and then modified to accommodate a growing family.

A cute, yes I said cute and you will see why in a sec, part of this story is what used to be my bedroom. It is now the main entrance. See the closet? That was my bed. Those were the days...

Now in addition to this a fourth larger bedroom was added with 2 double beds. Now we can sleep approximately 11 people as long as the couples work out. Or bring a tent. ;)

I sleep out in what we call the "sleeping cabin". Funny how that name works so perfectly huh? I has been my "" home for some time now and has two single beds one of which of course accommodates me and the other my clothes. ;) The interior is kind of a work in progress so I will simply show you the exterior. But hey I do have my own deck... Even better however is the fact that the tool shed/beer fridge area type place is attached to my sleeping cabin. Yes! Can you say score? I know you can... The wine mind you is in my Uncle bedroom, NOT so convenient... Oh well. Awkward.

I think he is just jealous about my proximity to the beer...

Moving on... we have a wicked screened in deck that is a point of jealousy for many of the surrounding camps. Awesome place to read when it is buggy. As you can see from the photo my Uncle, Father and Mother have an interesting take on upkeep and matching individual projects to the overall look of the place. Think out of sight is out of mind... Hey, see the eighth stone brick from the base of the tree and 3 from the right? That damn thing tore off one of my toenails when I was 14. @#%$.

Off to the water... Our L-shaped dock which is shared by at least 3 camps from our bay just because it is the biggest and well, we don't mind sharing. Too much. As long as they don't mind seeing my lily white ass gettin' into the water on hot humid days. Now the top of our dock was built with railroad ties from 100 hundred years ago, but we have recently had to replace those as they finally started to break down from weather and a massive ice shift that tore part of it up.

Man this formatting for Blogger get funky at times... really don't feel like coding the pages... I mean look how long this is getting already. Ok this is kinda filler as I need to get enough txt written here before my next picture so they don't overlap and cause huge gaps and weird spaces? Enough... let see? ;)

So from here I will show you the wonderful views from the dock and the less than well maintained beach which we used to have bonfires on when I was young before the fire rules got so strict...

The Diving Tower

Looking North East

South West

The Beach

The Kayak on the Beach. Oooh the excitement. ;)

Now to attempt to wrap this monster of a post up and potentially keep your interest if you have indeed gone this far... Ok, maybe bore you to death, as I did very little while here. I read books. Listened to music. Swam and dried off in the sun. Cleaned the roof off the cottage. Hung out with my old friends JP and Evan. Slept, ate and drank too much wine. Seriously... can it get any better?

Even though this part sounds restful, please be mindful of the epic planning fail and understand that at the end of this vacation I was the most tired I have been after any other. 3 weeks off next year... 3 weeks.

Stay tuned for my next post... my new car! Yay! Or... BeanBoozled. Hmm.

For now I leave you with a random photo essay without the essay for your visual pleasure, enjoyment, (?). Viewing pleasure? Viewing enjoyment? Oh just frickin' take a look will ya. .Don't think you will be disappointed.

Riding off into the sunset I leave you with this thought, which has been hanging in the bathroom in my cottage pretty much since I was born. Who knows why.

Les affaires sont certainment les affaires....

Ciao fer now. This long enough for ya Jen?! ;) Freakin' demanding I tell ya....

M

He he

2011-08-16T09:16:00.000-04:00

Momento - QC Style

Grrr!

2011-08-15T16:23:00.001-04:00

Just lost half my damn post about my trip etc. Sorry folks, your gunna have to wait now... Dammit.

M

Ok I'm Back

2011-08-09T13:43:00.000-04:00

Hey, um wassup?! Where have you all been? How am I supposed to keep a blog going if you never pop by to read? ;) Ahem, sorry. Ok, it has been me that wasn't here... and I do really have a good excuse. Really.

Oh... sorry, what is it?

Well I've been on vacation!

Very little Facebook, VERY few status updates and NO blogging.

Huh.

Kinda missed it. Kinda didn't. What does that mean?!

Guess it means I owe you a blog post.

Well here it is. Exciting huh?

Stay tuned and I will post a cottage/camp picture p.... post? Parade? Party? Damn I hate when alliteration eludes me. Oh well... next time.

Dead Sexy

2011-07-22T10:46:00.000-04:00

Ok this song is dead sexy. Reminds me of the nights spent at La Isla with my "" instructor. Shame we got distracted and only got half way through my Salsa lessons. ;) Managed to make it through merengue mind you. Think at the time it was just an excuse for both of us anyway, but one of those memories I wouldn't ever trade.

In line with that was her addiction to movies about dancing. Now I have to admit most were good to acceptable. Only a couple were stab my eyes with a straw to keep from watching the crap on the screen bad, so I came out basically unscathed.

One of the memorable ones would be Strictly Ballroom. Not everyone's taste I am sure, but my eyes survived the viewing. Was actually a pretty good movie. There was another I cannot remember by I think it had Vanessa Williams in it. A Love story of course. Good to share with the one you love(d), especially if you can take it to the dance floor after.

All this brought on by a song. As per usual. Now who can forget one of the great movies of the 80s, Dirty Dancing (1987). Now that had some great scenes in it that reflect my current... mood? Mental picture. Something or other... Anyhoo, here's a good clip. Oops can only link to THIS one. (http://youtu.be/tRVMTX-PDyw) And this one. (http://youtu.be/yQUmA-F0rkg) Enjoy. :)

Well I am off on vacation for two weeks. It is highly unlikely I will post much of anything except for maybe a thought here or there via mobile blogging. Hope you have a great two weeks and I will catch most of you upon my return.

Matt

H-H-Hot!

2011-07-21T16:55:00.000-04:00

Holy Hannah! (That was much more polite that I had originally considered posting) It is crazy hot outside today and mon ami and myself are playing beach volleyball tonight. I just may not make it...

Cross you fingers and if I tweet later tonight or upon recovery in the am then you know I am still alive. If not... worry. I don't deal with heat well. They are forecasting it to be 47 degrees C or for you yanks 116.6 degrees F with humidity out there. Oh crap.

I think perhaps the coronary I have been forecasting since I was 30 is on its way. It's been a good life. Sayonara suckers!

Matt the Melted

I am burnt...

2011-07-20T14:39:00.002-04:00

I am burnt... Had a 2 hour meeting become a 3 hours meeting (by my request), which turned into a 3 hour and forty minute meeting.

Although I have mentioned before I hate meetings this is a working level meeting with value. What I haven't mentioned is that meetings kill me. Other than a single beer, or Christmas Turkey there is nothing that will tire me out more than a long meeting or series of meetings. This meeting(s) is/are for a project for which I am personally responsible so 3+ hours goes by like nothin' but leaves me more than weary.

In other news, I am whitewater rafting this weekend... Ya babey! Thank god I have vacation time coming up as I will need it to recover from the trip. Likely to be quite the party! Part of me wants to cancel and just take it easy but it has years since I have been and I have wanted to make my big comeback sooner rather than later. Too much potential fun to pass up.Now I have to find some semblance of a cops uniform or a robber I guess. I dunno. Not ready in the least for this...

Almost time to Hit the Road Jack.

Actually had a young tyke of 17 years complain/put down a James Brown song... bite your tongue young whipper snapper! Offend me at thy peril. L, I must be tired....

Last but not least... there is nothing like the feeling of helping out a friend. It has been too long since I have had real open, honest, earnest conversations like those I have with a very small number of my friends. With some I have lost that opportunity, gone with the years and the tears. Others develop with potential of infinite growth while others the camaraderie of a good/best friend to soften the ups and downs of life's obstacles and pitfalls.

Lets raise a glass to good friends. For where would we be without them?!

For one of my friends:

TBD for the other:

Be patient. Has to be right you know...

A Boring Post

2011-07-18T16:59:00.000-04:00

Not much to say today my friends. Not that life is boring but in terms of that which is on the tip of my tongue and am willing to post well... It's all kinda common place.

So lets start with the good news. I won $240 at poker over the weekend! Yay. All proceeds going to getting my car back on it feet mind you so this although is pretty cool... the excitement of it is tempered by the fact I can't really enjoy it much past the winning it part. *shrug Oh well.

Have my vacation all planned and organized. CHECK

Paid off my Property Taxes. CHECK

Am pretty much busy until Mid August. CHECK

Oh, interesting happening. Big storm yesterday evening. Blew down the main stage apparently (or part of it) at Bluesfest. Damn. Guess what else it blew down about 3-4 houses down from me.

Damn... that was close.

Oh and here is a funky haircut of some random dude from bluesfest.

Your welcome.

Matt

Love this song!

2011-07-15T13:59:00.005-04:00

The words/lyrics. The Tone. Stan, you are missed.

The Witch Of The Westmoreland

Pale was the wounded knight, that bore the rowan shield,
Loud and cruel were the ravens' cries that feasted on the field,
Saying "Backwater cold and clear will never clean your wound,
There's none but the Witch of the Westmoreland can make thee hale and
sound."

So turn, turn your stallion's head 'til his red mane flies in the wind,
And the Rider of the Moon goes by and the Bright Star falls behind,
And clear was the paling moon when his shadow passed him by
Below the hill were the brightest stars when he heard the owl let cry,

Saying "Why do you ride this way, and wherefore came you here?"
"I seek the Witch of the Westmoreland that dwells by the winding mere."
And it's weary by the Ullswater and the misty Breakford way,
'Til through the cleft in the Cruxton Pass the winding water lay.

He said "Lie down me brindled hound, and rest ye me good grey hawk,
And thee, my steed, may graze thy fill, for I must dismount and walk.
But come when you hear my horn, and answer swift the call!
For I fear ere the sun will rise this morn ye will serve me best of all."

And it's down to the water's brim he's borne the rowan shield,
And the golden rod he has cast in to see what the lake might yield.
And wet rose she from the lake, and fast and fleet went she.
One half the form of a maiden fair with a jet black mare's body.

And loud, long and shrill he blew, 'til his steed was by his side,
High overhead the grey hawk flew, and swiftly he did ride,
Saying "Course well, me brindled hound, and fetch me the jet black mare!
Stoop and strike, me good grey hawk, and bring me the maiden fair!"

She said "Pray sheathe thy silvery sword. Lay down thy rowan shield,
For I see by the briny blood that flows you've been wounded in the field."
And she stood in a gown of the velvet blue, bound 'round with a silver
chain.
And she's kissed his pale lips once and twice, and three times 'round
again.

And she's bound his wounds with the goldenrod, full fast in her arms he
lay,
And he has risen hale and sound with the sun high in the day.
She said "Ride with your brindled hounds at heel, and your good grey hawk
in hand,
There's none can harm the knight who's lain with the Witch of the
Westmoreland."

Where's my witch?! ;)

PTSS - It's not just for war anymore...

2011-07-15T13:02:00.000-04:00

Of course I am kidding, but after just recently being in an accident on Thursday I have been sleeping like a baby. Huh. Maybe it is because I feel my car deserves it. Take that you little...

I felt oddly calm, knowing there was nothing I could do about it. My insurance payments will be screwed, my car either a write-off or it will cost 6-8 grand to fix. Basically WTF. *Shrug I F-ed up... The Piper will continue to bend me over a barrel until I fake my own death and come back as Mr. Black. Might as well just hold on tight and go along for the ride. Or maybe I should invest in teleportation technology and F this 4 wheel crap.

So I am waiting for some reaction... some nervousness or fear in terms of driving or whatnot. Nothing. Have a nice new Mazda 3 that I am renting until my car is fixed or sent to the chop shop. Nice care btw. Other than it is an automatic is is really nice to drive.

In an odd twist, in perhaps our toughest draw to date in 2s mixed beach volleyball we won. Is this the ying and yang people are always talking about. Now that ___ has payed me back for a good chunk of the shit I have caused or been a part of for the past couple of years some good can finally happen? Is that what you are telling me you sadistic @#$$#%?! (Sorry was that my outside voice?)

So much over the last 2 years has proven the old addage:

“Life is what happens to you while you're busy making other plans” John Lennon

Hell that's not that old... It's John Lennon f... L Now, is it even an adage? Don't wanna pull an Alanis Morrissette here...

Matt, signing out.

If It's Hip, It's Here: The i'm Watch. An Android-Based Smart Phone For Your Wrist.

2011-07-13T13:36:00.002-04:00

The i'm Watch. An Android-Based Smart Phone For Your Wrist

There are some days I love technology... More new toys I can't afford however but it is fun to see what they are doing.

M

Top Ten Movies a Guy Shouldn't Like but I Do

2011-07-12T00:42:00.000-04:00

Ok, let's start the list... I am sitting here watching one so I will put it as number 1. Until then let's treat this as a partial list:

1. What women want (Love the Jazz outside of the sentiment)
2. Wimbledon
3. He's Just Not That Into You
4. Coyote Ugly?
5. High Fidelity
6. Contact
7. Avatar?
8. The Comitments
9. The Day of the Jackal (So very old)
10. The perfect Storm

I love movies however, and I could probably actually list 20 that most guys would think are bunk. I would just rather watch movies that mean something than one that just fills time and space. Probably list 30 that I really like outside of this as well. All of which have attributes that I really like.

Enjoy a chuckle if you must. It is ok. I don't mind...

Matt

"Like"

2011-07-08T15:49:00.000-04:00

Ok... the LIKE guys sits next to me. 20+ minute phone conversation... Absolute torture! Like I am going to go like @#$@ insane?!

Can anyone like free me from this verbal bondage?!

Friendly earphones. I love thee.

In other news.... Bluesfest this week here in Ottawa. Gonna hit The Hip tomorrow night then a birthday party downtown. Cab home much?! Likely I will have to. My friend and I plant to be at the fest for a good part of the day to soak up the rays and enjoy some blues and random acts/shows here and there. I think Sunday morning is going to be especially painful. Especially since I have been cutting back on my consumption, minus Canada Day... This could be fun. Or a complete wreck. Apparently cameras are banned this year.... WTF?! So don't expect any hilarious drunken pictures, although... you never know.

Personal update. Skies are clearing and the fog is lifting. A tentative peace has been attained through visualization, logic and a realization of what is really important to me. I am out of the woods, might there be a thundershower or two in my near future. Probably... but I am better equipped to deal with it now. Was just missing an important piece. The piece of the puzzle that helped clear the air and make the big picture more finite, more manageable, more real.

Thank you.

Bring on the weekend. For that matter bring on the Summer I thinks maybe it starts now.

Maybe

Either way, crack me a Keith's and lets get it started already.

Happy Friday all! Have a great weekend.

M

Random Thought(s)

2011-07-07T11:39:00.001-04:00

Escargots, not just a delicacy anymore...

Stolen Intro: "Snail, also called abalone, escargot, caracoles, queen conch, periwinkle snail, tsalingaria, ass’s ear shell," (Wha?) "sea-ear, ormer, paua, and marine snail, are mollusks found in sea coasts, fresh water, and land. For thousands of years snails have been used for human food consumption and their shell for jewelry. Snails belong to about 100 species and depending on location different species are used as source of food. Commonly eaten snails include: Helix pomatia and Helix aspersa. In the western world snail meals are generally known as Escargot—a French word for snail." - ref

They are used in skin cream for repairing damaged skin as apparently a secretion (eww) they um secrete is like totally beneficial in this regard. Like ya. (Sorry, just hung out in a meeting with the 'like' guy. Set a record... 6 likes in one sentence. Awesome. *sigh)

"Helix Aspersa Müller is a escargot that has survived extreme environmental conditions for more than 600 million years. This land gastropod or mollusk has an original defensive mechanism in the form of a complex glycol-conjugate secretion which helps the animal rapidly repair any damage to its skin." - ref

Bioescargot? Really?! Why don't you just go find some garden snails and rub them all over your face? *shudder.

Now my question is... (Not that anyone has succeeded in reading this far..) Does it put anyone else into a coma after a a few glasses of wine and escargot? It never fails for me. You can thank me for all the wonderful information above later, but for now the important thing is... if you want to take advantage of me just feed me snails and white wine. Got it? Great, awesome... moving on.

WTF - Think Matt is in a weird mood today... Maybe I should be looking up the hallucinogenic properties of escargots? [Google Search] Hmm, apparently not.

...AND they are good for you. Snails are very high in protein and low fat when they are cooked and served without the butter sauce. According to the nutrient databank of France, for each 100 grams of edible snail meat there are 79 grams of water, 16 grams of protein, 2 grams of carbohydrates, 1 gram of fat, 250 milligrams of magnesium, 170 milligrams of calcium, and 3.5 milligrams of iron.

So what does this mean?

That Hannah "Harto" Hart needs to do a cooking escargots episode. THAT's what it means.

Lunch is over... everybody, out of the pool!

Matt

It is that time again...

2011-07-05T16:14:00.000-04:00

...you guessed it!!! To derive inspiration from Jen's quotes! Aren't you happy?! Filled with excitement and glee?! (A picture essay for your viewing enjoyment.)

...

Well. I will take that as a yes.

BTW - I was finally able to download and update the video from Canada Day. Check it here!

Now I have to admit I love the picture, but the song it references if a fav of mine. Helps me refocus off bad stuff that I have a tendency to focus on. Bad Matt.

Hell I'd, um oh never mind...

The song:

I find while I am heading towards 40 like a freight train with no brakes it means more and more.

Heard this on many occasion, but is sometimes hard to remember.

Damn straight.

He he, had to add this one.

Uhboy... next.

Um, ya... it is. Think that is usually pretty obvious though... the hurt part. Usually.

Give up?! What's that?

It most certainly is.

I find however that personally the hardest thing to do is get past a disappointment.. A real let down that just for whatever reason rocks your soul. Sometimes the reason doesn't even make logical sense, but that is why it is called breaking your heart. Cuz it ain't about the brain. Not about reason or logic. It just is.

I don't want to end this on a negative note though. So here is what I propose.

Smile, because happy looks good on you and it's time to live.

Hope you all have a great week!

M

Canada Day Redux

2011-07-04T14:02:00.011-04:00

Ok, ok so here's the update. I managed to only take a couple of photos, but my friend, who shall remain nameless, took 100s. He is currently go through them with a fine toothed comb, as he is known to do, and will likely have 40 by the time he is done. What this means for you the viewer. Well... it means you will likely have to come back and see updated versions of this post. That being said I can share a couple of photos right off the top and it will give you a flavor of the days festivities.

First off we met over the bridge from downtown Ottawa in Gatineau at a friends and pre-drank a touch before heading to the main event. Keith's for everyone!!! Resistance was proven to be futile. Almost all are converts now... Then came the trek:

Da Boyz

More boyz

When we finally got to the patio around 12:30, it was PACKED. All the tables were taken and we were at somewhat of a loss as to where to acquire seating... in comes super smoozer. NICE job J.

...and a jug ta boot!

Now as I suspected... wearing Team Tequila shirts was to be the downfall of at least a few of us. As if on cue within 30 minutes of sitting down these guys started ordering Tequila shots and threw down the gauntlet. So of course... we picked it up and ran with it. And no... I don't mean ran away like sissies, we went toe to toe with the imposters and I would like to think we throttled them but alass two brethren fell to the onslaught. Be damned if I was going to though. ;) Now.. along the way the battle ebbed, the liquor and beer flowed and all became fast friends. Okay, drunken friends. Stop interrupting.

The Instigator

Now our other friends were even more welcoming although I do believe just needed a place to sit, but lets not split hairs...

Warning, photobomber lurking... What's up readers!?

Now... here comes a lesson in what NOT to do to your buddies when on a patio, drinking on Canada Day, two lovely ladies sit down and start chatting and one start chatting to yours truly. (I know, pretty specific but I mean really...) Um.... DON'T C@$K BLOCK ME. Damn you. You have a GF dude, give a guy a break... Oh well she lived out of town anyway, but still. Damn man.

GUITLY!

He he, guess what... he got what was coming to him. Apparently he stole my buddy's cigars when he went to the fireworks and got pelted with, what must have been a full, bottle of water from 10 feet. Through the rungs of his balcony. Quite the shot really...

Sucka!

Then there is the band... now last year we were more involved in the main attraction as we managed a table right in front of the band. This year we were relegated to the back row. Oh well. These guys are great though. 5 years running. I guess they have their fans. :) "I introduce to you officially, I officially introduce to you... the band." - Ani DiFranco (Living in Clip - Disk 1):

The Intoxacoustics

Video I shot last year... Awesome show!

So like I was telling you earlier we had two brothers fall by the wayside. I won't point them out or ridicule them even though they deserve it... ;) Ultimately we ended up back at my friends place in Gatineau and had a BBQ and a few more tasty libations, while some took up the fetal position on the bathroom floor, and others with their head down on the living room table wishing they were on the bathroom floor. *sigh Amateurs.

Ah well another good year. Less complicated than others. Not quite a raucous as other years. A number of invited ladies didn't show up but hey... no one died, reputations weren't ruined and all behaved as well as expected. Here are some more random shots for your viewing pleasure. More to come... including a TEAM photo. That was taken by the girl in the fifth photo from the top so we'll have to wait for the email.

3 cuties in one shot. Prob young enough to be my daughter... but, well you know.

Canada Day

2011-06-30T16:30:00.001-04:00

Happy Canada Day!

Canada Day tomorrow. Heading downtown!!!

Really need a brain break. I hope this year is better than last year. Praying for sun and no drama. It's almost like one has to give... The last 2 years have had more drama then I can handle. Life needs to stop conspiring against me. Soon.

<= Now just so all my American friends don't feel left out

Hope to get some great pictures and that it doesn't turn out like The Hangover.

Think we are to be sporting our Team Tequila shirts. This could be dangerous... Team Tequila, on a patio. What's the worst that can happen..?

Uh-boy...

Wish us luck...

Oh baby! Ok at times I am a geek...

2011-06-28T16:25:00.000-04:00

He he, now that I have you looking... Maybe. Check it. I was actually #2 and 3 in the world? North America? ...as of last night before I went to sleep.

#2! ;)

Now I was too impatient to let the score total up on the top right but I was actually 2nd. Today... more like 3400th, but ~~beggars~~ addicts can't be choosers right?

Wow, lame.

M

In Memory of a Friend

2011-06-28T10:53:00.000-04:00

One of my favourite poems, or at least the one that occurs to me the most often in random moments on any given day. On this day I use it as a reminder to live my life and be happy as all too soon it could be cut short.

Do not go gentle into that good night

Do not go gentle into that good night,
Old age should burn and rave at close of day;
Rage, rage against the dying of the light.

Though wise men at their end know dark is right,
Because their words had forked no lightning they
Do not go gentle into that good night.

Good men, the last wave by, crying how bright
Their frail deeds might have danced in a green bay,
Rage, rage against the dying of the light.

Wild men who caught and sang the sun in flight,
And learn, too late, they grieved it on its way,
Do not go gentle into that good night.

Grave men, near death, who see with blinding sight
Blind eyes could blaze like meteors and be gay,
Rage, rage against the dying of the light.

And you, my father, there on the sad height,
Curse, bless me now with your fierce tears, I pray.
Do not go gentle into that good night.
Rage, rage against the dying of the light.

Dylan Thomas [1951]

Music - A Much Needed Distraction

2011-06-27T12:46:00.000-04:00

As evidenced by recent writings I am currently experiencing a fair amount of self-imposed stress and mental anguish. My own fault really, no excuses. I am a dumbass. That being said it has made me realize that I need to make some more fundamental changes than those I have alluded to in the past. First I have to alleviate my stress level.

Helping me focus on other things... enter seeing a partial documentary of the Foo Fighters, or at least part of one.

Discover new music. Focus on discovery.

Finished season 1 of Without a Trace. Had seen a number of them but it was never a series I followed week to week. More a sporadic fascination.

Borrowed True Blood Season 2 from a Friend. SCORE! First episode... FUNKY. Sookie ain't hard on the eyes either... and I don't go for blonds.. Well, typically. Wonder if she knew she was signing up for soft porn
? ;)

Need to follow up on Dexter as well.

All good things to do while doing laundry. organizing paperwork and munching on a home made meal. (Another thing I need to remedy. Buy some damn groceries you lazy bachelor like guy person)

Had a great meal the other night. BBQ-ed Arctic Char on a bed of Rice. VERY simple to make, yet extremely tasty. No veggies, sorry folks but I lucked in on the Char and had the rice but have nothing other than eggs, condiments, water and margarine left in the fridge. Sad, I know.

Other than my distractions , and I know I have said this before, but I need to make a better effort to focus on this...my life, my home, and my happiness. One gets so wrapped up in the cultures and different environments and I need to make sure I salvage me from the the one that is currently disintegrating around me. That being volleyball and all the associated dramas and crap that has built up over the last 8-9 years. It was a large part of my happiness but now has over time become a source of stress from many many different sides. I won't stop playing but things have to change.

My home. Christ, half the time I forget I have one... What happened to all my plans for my home? Design projects, Art projects, and overall maintenance and TLC. Focus motherf-cker, focus...So much crap I have to deal with it's not funny. Really, it is not funny. When I get comments from my friends about piles of clothes I haven't put away and boxes of papers I have taken out that I haven't dealt with yet, you know my life focus mirrors that of my brain.

So what to do... as my friend put it, and I to other friends... What don't I listen to myself? Start small. Get a few smaller things done and reap the rewards of the satisfaction of these minor achievements then branch out into larger ventures.

But for now, back to work, back to the discography of the Foo Fighters on Grooveshark and then who knows, maybe I will start on one of those small projects tonight.

See ya!

M

Bits of Truth... all quotes: .01520

2011-06-24T01:03:00.000-04:00

Bits of Truth... all quotes: .01520

This IS the reason why I keep getting in trouble. I open myself up to it.

M

Random Chuckle(s)

2011-06-22T12:02:00.002-04:00

Don't you just love those guys/girls/people who press the up or down elevator buttons repeatedly thinking it will actually help the elevator get there faster. I always laugh when I see this. In fact I wait, perhaps not eagerly, but with a certain amount of anticipation for which of the people standing around is gong to feel compelled to do this. This could be a fun betting game to have with a co-worker and we take bets each time we take the elevator. Now... minor snag. I work on the ground floor. Hmm. And I avoid meeting like the plague cuz... who wants a plague? Right?

And just because this is brilliant...

Oh, and for all you that follow IKEA Hackers... Anyone else getting sick of new and wonderful adaptations to house/hide/contain kitty litter?! I mean Jesus people, go find religion and pray or something. Oh and for all those that put their cat or their dog as their profile pictures on any number of social media websites... get a life. (Sorry this one I know will offend people, but it is one of my biggest pet peeves. Social media wise.) I know you spend hundreds of thousands of dollars on them and love them to bits but, know what? THEY ARE NOT YOU!

Ok, I am done now. Someone may have indeed pissed in my cornflakes this afternoon.

Think I need jargarita!

M

For you Angry Bird Lovers.

2011-06-21T12:52:00.000-04:00

The Otmeal brings you "The likability of Angry Birds"

No Angry Birds were hurt in the making of this free advertising for The Oatmeal.

Matt

Something Positive

2011-06-20T16:56:00.000-04:00

Ok, need to write about something positive... something positive... um, positive? Helllllllo? Where are you?

Oh there you are...

Other than MDK, there is always PATIO TIME! Really just can't.... well ok, yes you can beat patio time but for the sake of keeping this ____ positive I am going to run with it. Now what usually accompanies patio time?!

BEER!

Yes, beer. One of my favourite things. You just can't go wrong with beer.... well, um let me rephrase. Oh hell I will just take it back. LOTS can go wrong with beer, that being said, beer in itself is the golden elixir of life. Now mix beer and tequila and you got a REAL MESS. Or a whole night of red wine... *shudder ...TROUBLE.

Back to our positive note... Now for a second let me take you down the path of true love, and by that I mean the first taste of a good quality beer on a hot sunny day after either, a hard day at work, hours of volleyball, or just a day out in the warm weather. I don't even think I could describe it. It is like the beer and your tongue having sex in your mouth... Now remember this is the first sip.... Ok, lets take it down a notch and relate it to that first kiss on a date with a gorgeous woman (ladies please insert gorgeous man). Oh hell I give up. See it is just indescribable or would become too graphic. You decide. Either way I ain't goin' there, or did I already?

Back to the subject at hand...

Now THAT's a patio! And even better... I am almost giddy here... (That doesn't happen often, FYI) IT IS REALLY CLOSE BY. Praise be to... [insert chosen deity here]. I will refrain. Guess what.... they make their own beer too!

I have finally found the fountain of.... the ever expanding waistline. Where is my chalice!? Bring it forth so that I may imbibe!

Is this any better? I mean I don't want all y'all getting like worried and stuff about me. I am a big boy after all. And NO fat jokes! Damn you. Just had ____ on my mind of late and well this blog thing helped release the pressure valve a touch. Never know what you are going to see in here. So enjoy the fun and frivolity while you can.

Anyone for a....


Beer?!

Matt

Monday - What else can I say?

2011-06-20T09:57:00.000-04:00

Had a weird weekend. Most time I have spent at home is quite some time. Dreamed some weird stuff. How do you wake up after breaking your iPhone (in your dream) to having the them song for Fraggle Rock emblazoned on your brain? Then last night I don't know what the hell I was dreaming about but my left hand feels like I was holding onto something for dear life or like someone was peeling my four fingers back for 3 hours... which is about how much sleep I got, so I am just assuming that would be fairly accurate.

I am not sure if this is supposed to be a sad song, or just reflective. It is however just about exactly what I am thinking in terms of being with someone right now. This peaceful moment is what I am striving for. Sorry for the TMI, but hey I tend to do that here.

Snow Patrol - Chasing Cars

I can't find the other one that identifies with my more negative side... Was a Shazam FAIL. Damn free software.

Did I mention I don't like Mondays? Meetings all day... of joy.

Catch you all later.

M

MDK - Ice Cream - I Can't Help it, I Just Have to Watch it Again!

2011-06-17T15:30:00.001-04:00

...and again. But not at work... because, I can't stop laughing. People are looking at me funny. No, and not because of that.... play nice will ya?!

Make the funny lady stop... *breathes in heavily. Can't breathe....

M

A moment, an Idea... something to Look Forward to.

2011-06-17T13:02:00.000-04:00

Anyone want to go for a picnic?

Innsbruck, Austria

This is where I would like to go for a nice romantic picnic with that special someone. Beach nearby, and private lake shore on a deep cool crisp lake. The sun shining in a deep blue sky with the water like glass due to the protection of the surrounding trees and hills/mountains. Silky smooth Cabernet and...

Better stop now before I start describing more of the scene... ;)

Food, for thought.

M

Something New

2011-06-16T14:24:00.003-04:00

Something new... I haven't tried for some time. A friend's poetry taunted me into trying to write again. Something other than mindless drivel that I am sure some of you tire of. I say taunt, lending this a negative air, as I do not feel I am a very good writer. (I seem to have this rather annoying habit or compulsion to make my poetry rhyme... you see) Plus my punctuation sucks. ;) (BTW I wrote this in like10-15 minutes so be nice. All the time I had.)

So here is an effort in creative writing to express in perhaps... more elegant fashion, about why my blog has been so tiresome. Maudlin. Almost morose. I am pretty sure things are working out for the best mind you. All falling into the proper places in my jigsaw puzzle of life.

Untitled - Please feel free to propose one

Unsettled, I feel,
From day to day
That joyful feeling
Has slipped away.

Unhappy is not
The feeling I possess,
But certainly feel
elements of stress.

My mind and heart
Are split in two.
One for another and
My heart for you.

My mind has accepted
That which I must,
Replaced by an
Unbelievable trust.

A friendship born
From honesty and faith,
A friendship unlike
Any other I face.

On the other
I do ponder,
Are there options or
Should I not bother?

My mind picks up
On cues that you,
May in fact,
Have left in lieu.

This other you is
Strange and true
A happier version
Another hue.

I hesitate
To reach out,
Lest in err
In what I scout.

A joyful laugh.
A cunning tongue.
Employed by thee,
I could sucumb.

I sense in thee
A restless spirit,
A active mind?
At last, reveal it.

What is your true
Xanadu?
And could it include
Me and you?

In my mind
These thoughts do race,
Entwined within and
Behind my face.

For the face I wear
It does mask
all the questions that I
Would love to ask.

Now in the end
I do yearn
For peace and perhaps
A good turn,

Of events and life's
Luck be loaned.
And just perhaps
Less bemoaned.

Some new hope
Reveals itself
And within my heart
There is still left

A bit of love
For some to turn
And with it perhaps
An endless burn.

Sometimes...

2011-06-13T23:51:00.000-04:00

Sometimes you go looking for more, and you wind up with less.

It's a beautiful world. We ought to be satisfied. The truth is we all want more.

Some take a chance for the rush of winning. Some, for love. But you can't have your dream without laying something on the line. The key is to not risk what you can't afford to lose.

The question is... What are you willing to lay on the line?

My answer, is everything. (Did you really doubt that?)

Well if you did, doubt that, you are in most cases wrong.

M

Known Issues for Blogger - Login/Comment Issues + More

2011-06-10T12:20:00.001-04:00

I mean don't they know that we all thrive on posting and commenting and sharing ideas?! Bring back, bring back, bring back my Blogger to me...

On another note:

Mutual admiration can be fun! Except when it almost gets you kicked out of your favourite watering hole. Apparently cute friend + tequila = Good idea to drag Matt into the ladies washroom. Oops. Sorry guys, no laws were broken, nothing to see here. Immediately walking out and running into a waitress... priceless. *hangs head

"Jesus Christ! You're not safe to be with." - Paul Bettany

"Wait till you see me drive." - Kirsten Dunst

Thought I would add this as it occurred to me after my post:

Should be fun to play volleyball tonight. The tourney tomorrow may be another story...

90% chance of rain?! REALLY?!

Feck

M

P.S.: No cute friends were hurt in the making of this post.

Posting/Comments Issues?

2011-06-07T16:30:00.000-04:00

Anyone who wanted to post but couldn't please try again.

Testing, testing...

M

You ready for this!?

2011-06-06T12:22:00.000-04:00

A staccato of thoughts and saying to delight and depress, or perhaps simply deliberate.

First off, a perfect one to describe the last week and a half.

I mean thank god we cannot read minds but over time we all seem learn to cover up quite well what we are thinking or feeling. Which, in addition to second guessing and misreading others intentions can make for a real crapshoot when it comes to dating in one's 30s.

Jesus, Mary and Joseph ain't this the truth! (Blame my mother and probably my mother's mother for my cursing patters) ...I mean who the hell says THAT anymore?

Bane of my existence... I can't equate love into my life currently or perhaps for the last 2 years. Ugh, two years... but I can in terms of perhaps regret and missed opportunity. None of which I can't logicafi away but the absence and the ache that accompanies it still remains. The quote itself would equate most directly to the Matt of maybe 4+ years ago.

Not quite a perfect statement, but a damn good question to ask regardless for those who focus too much on missed opportunity. Such as myself. The answer is/should pretty much always be... "I don't". Followed by "Get over and on with it dummy".

Oh hell ya! Little more boring... but no/little/less drama (other than what I impose on myself) = fucking fantastic! Please excuse my language.

Amen Sista!

Working on it?

I am SOOOOOO bad at letting go of anger (with those who have wronged me) and disappointment. I regret too much and therefore ruin what should or could be good memories. Think I need... something, I don't know what, to allow me to do this. The only "" thing I have ever found is time, and LOTS of it.

Well that's really all I got. My bumpy ride hit a hay bale and forthwith ended. A short trip, an awkward fall, and I may limp for awhile, but meh whatev. On the bumpy road to love, it's only a flesh wound! Acting, thank you! Let's hope it doesn't fester.

...and before I forget. Thanks Jen!

M

P.S.: Perhaps something more meaningful with a story attached for next time eh? Maybe not. We shall see.

You want me to be honest?

2011-06-03T10:55:00.000-04:00

...started this last night, good thing I passed out from exhaustion. Needless to say I deleted the original message but like the title SOO much that I figured I would use it for another post.

Sorry to disappoint... but the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth shall only be know by a chosen few. I dare say if you knew it you would wonder at my sanity. Not that I lie on here... quite the opposite. I reveal too much.

What a crazy week. Too many lows and highs for this guy. Revealed a secret to a friend of mine last night and was pleasantly surprised at the support I found there. This speaks volumes for friendship, which I have always held as one of the most important things in life.

I fear this to be a disappointing Summer however, which of course will likely mean the best on record but I hold little hope for that.

Stay tuned this is going to be a bumpy ride. ;)

M

...and no I don't mean Bumpy Ride by Mohombi

Stupidest things I have ever said...

2011-06-02T14:56:00.000-04:00

I am sure I have said allot of them, but in this case I even heard what I was saying and thought to myself... Self, shut the F up man.

Sitting around a table of friends and I think the dating topic came up and somebody said something, and then someone else said something, then I said something... you know, a conversation. Hehem, ok Sorry. Right... So ya, I at one point said the following:

"Ya, you always have to have a back-up plan"

Ok, lemme hear it... I am waiting... WTF right?

Here is how it went in my head:

Ya you always... [wtf am I saying] ...have to have... [am I really going to say this?] ...a [Please someone shut me up] back-up plan. [Crap. I said it]

Afterward I looked over at a female friend of mine, blinked a couple times, she chewed on her lip, then I looked away. A dipshit is born.

Moron.

[Ok it is not a list of stupid things I have said but I thought it a better title than 'Dumbass']

Ok, I was feeling a little bitter at the time. Just kind of out of sorts, but I forgot the golden rule. If you have nothing good to say JUST KEEP YOUR F-IN MOUTH SHUT. I am pretty sure that is the way it goes anyway.

So... as you can tell I am a little out of sorts. Something just snuck up on me and bit me. So much for being a logical well adjusted grown up type person. Enter bonehead with a dash of verbal diarrhea and a star is born! *sigh

On other fronts I had the BEST steak last night accompanied by a very tasty red wine, saw a classic old movie called "Vanishing Point" which was odd to say the least and slept a solid 4 and 1/2 hours. Not bad. Now Death Proof has one of the sexiest blond women I have ever seen, 'Zoe'... (It must be the accent) and in this movie she wants to find the car from Vanishing Point and do a particular stunt with it. C-L-A-S-S-I-C. So I had to see it.

Other than that stuff is the way stuff is when you have stuff going on. Meh.

Oh ya, sprained my ankle. Brilliant. Just take me out to pasture with the rest of the old bulls and put me down.

Ok, so...I don't want people to think I am this despondent really. Just waiting for something good to happen. You know?

Let it snow!

M

P.S.: Bored? Check it!

Thisbe Vos - Wicked Voice

Waiting

2011-06-01T10:57:00.000-04:00

...for something good to happen. It has been too long.

Since I have been ignoring my fellow bloggers I leave this for now. (I was a sentimental youth, a romantic, a pushover. In many ways I still am. Not young I mean, but sentimental. My mask wears itself as I wear it like a shield to protect me. When I lift it a knife always finds a way inside and cuts away another small part. There are days I wonder how much is left. I guess there is only one way to find out.)

To no-one in particular I leave this song. One of the songs I listened to when young(er).

Find A Way To My Heart

Find a way to my heart, and I will always be with you
From wherever you are, I'll be waiting
I'll keep a place in my heart, you will see it shining through
So find a way to my heart, and I will, I will follow you

This journey's not easy for you, I know (Any of us really)
If your footsteps get too faint to hear, I'll go
Cos you know, questions are never that easy
And never the same
You have the answer believe me
If you have the faith to

Find a way to my heart...

Time may come, and time may go, I know
If you should call out for me, I'll go
But you know, there is a code to be broken
I wrap it around
Without a word being spoken
Without a sound

There's a reason I hide my heart
Out of sight out of mind
And when I find out just who you are
The door will be open for you to..

Find a way to my heart...

I am quite often...

2011-05-28T06:20:00.000-04:00

...confused by life. It is not that I don't understand what is going on. It is more the motivations. That is the key. I spent a day with a group of people who kinda drink, then with a group who REALLY do. I appreciate all people but tonight was interesting. I spent the day with a girl I was/am interested in and yet from all the potential positives there were no difinitives. When it counted within a group she deferred to a much more neutral position. This to my mind elevates a flag of caution. Given the specifics, she is not quite done with the last. Is that a bad thing? I always wait, but maybe it is the perfect time? Maybe when they are open to something it is the perfect time to say hey here I am? My style does not really allow for this but maybe I have to consider it?

I had a LOT of fun looking around a local bar with no intentions yet that of a voyeur. Watching those around him. Enjoying the feast, enjoying the banter. With no particular goal in mind. It was quite an experience. I laughed my ass off. Really.

I still sit here wanting to reply to an email from a very important person in my life yet I know I am too inebriated to repond appropriately. Therefore I don't. Did I mention this life is complicated? Well it is. It always will be. The only thing which makes it wirth while is he connections we make as we go along. Sleep well mes Amis, for I must sleep for awhile before I drive myself home to rest for real.

Matt

I am in love...

2011-05-24T14:22:00.000-04:00

...with this house! OMFG I could die happy if I lived there. Well, more happy. ;)

Excuse me whilst I pass out due to its overwhelming beauty! And no I am NOT being sarcastic...

On another note, sorry I have been absent and not just of the minded variety. I have been BUSY. Acting for my manager. Organizing my vball teams, and other assorted teams and trips. Now I don't blog from home usually, but I haven't even been there enough to do that. (Minus the one that appeared and mysteriously disappeared to never be seen again. ;))

I DO plan to catch up on your blogs and comments and that kinda fun stuff but I am woefully behind.

Catch ya soon'ish'likewhenIgetachance

M

Holy Crapballs Batman!!!

2011-05-20T12:07:00.000-04:00

Just got the 2nd installment/bill for my property taxes yesterday. WTF!? Holy Crapballs... how much money do they think I make?! Think I will go curl up in the fetal position with a bottle of NyQuil and slip off into oblivion.

Now I don't swear on here oftne, but FUCK YOU City of Ottawa!

SIDEWAYS

I should get a tax credit for all the BS I am paying for that has NOTHING TO DO WITH ME WHATSOEVER! Whenever I plug in my numbers into my tax forms I get a big FAT F'IN '0' as a credit.

Someone needs to die, I swear.

Sorry folks, had to be said... *grumble And I had a fun post ready. Ain't gunna happen.

M

Abscesses, I mean absence makes the heart grow fonder

2011-05-17T16:27:00.002-04:00

Sorry folks. Busy these days. Promise an update tomorrow. Had something in mind, just no time to execute.

Certainly not what the Queen of Hearts would have said... OFF WITH THEIR HEADS!

M

Until We Forget

2011-05-13T16:50:00.000-04:00

The song I feel asleep to last night. Under the right circumstances (aka a bottle of wine) it soothes the edges of an active brain. Enjoy the sentiment if you can. Figured I would post something of a more positive nature now that blogger is finally back online.

Enjoy

Matt

Wrap Your Arms Around Me

I concede that you were right about this place
I can make a perfect likeness of your body if I trace
I can hold you until you turn out the light
and I can't see

Do you believe that we are all innately good
Do you think that you would love me until tomorrow if you could
Would you please turn down the radio
so we can speak

I put my hands around your neck and you wrap your arms around me

I regret every time I raised my voice
And it wouldn't be that bright of me to say I had no choice.
I can kiss your eyes your hair your neck
until we forget

I concede that you were right about this place
I can make a perfect likeness of your body if I trace
I can hold you until we turn out the light
and I can't see
I can't see.

Need a Little Inspiration

2011-05-11T15:42:00.000-04:00

Need a little inspiration. Entirely lacking any. Or much. Didn't sleep again last night. Organizing stuff I don't wanna organize but know I will want to do when the time comes so I better do it. Argh.

Currently life is a bit of a drag.

I've allowed a bit of a crush to develop that I should have quashed. Stupid male brain. (Such as it is) Debating a different direction in life and in love. Lacking the energy to clearly develop the picture of what I want. Debating one last kick at the can in terms of the my earlier modus operendi but fear on one hand the ramifications and on the other, hmm, the ramifications.

Maybe I should just "change it".

Think I need to create some(new)thing(s)...

Matt

Damn Straight!

2011-05-09T13:00:00.000-04:00

Been there, done that, thrown the t-shirt out.

This seems so obvious. I wonder if those that do, cheat I mean, have any respect for others or even for themselves. I will admit to thoughts of others near the end of relationships, but I have almost always been in the finishing stages of the it's not working/talking about ending it stage that I don't think it counts. Some would disagree and in most cases I would have been too emotionally drained to even think about another anyway and more likely thinking about a long vacation from emotional trauma. That being said, if you are not acting on your impulses/thoughts (and I don't mean physically) then you are not cheating. IMHO

All THAT being said you owe it to your partner to tell them. You can't string them along for months on end always waiting for the best time while you begin the early stages of seeing someone else. Just imagine the emotional trauma you put/would put on the person you most recently cared about and then THINK TWICE. Think about how it would feel to you if you found out you rpartner was cheating. It is/can be devastating.

Just a quick thought for the day as I am busy, but since I caught this on Jen's site so I had to post a quick comment.

mwn

And you have won...

2011-05-05T10:46:00.002-04:00

...a brand new car!

My friend just got a new car, so of course he had to pop by and show it off. Although I am not a beetle man this car is gorgeous. Interior is phenomenal and the car seems to handle really well, for an automatic... *shakeshisheadindisbelief So of course I figure, rather than bitch and whine today I would post about this most positive experience.

Now, to celebrate we had to go to my, once our, local pub and celebrate. Apparently we disappointed the long time bartender as we only had 2 beer each to go along with our wings... Oh well It is a school night after all. ;) ya right.

Man they really need to update those colours...

Our two fav waitresses. We lost one to the day shift, oh well...

Ended the night with a little "He's Not That Into You". I know, I know... But I love the truth behind so many good lines in this movie. Other than the smuck dude from The Hangover and cheating on his gorgeous wife this is a great movie. Please feel free to disagree, I don't care. ;)

Ok, so let's see how well this mobile blogger works. BlogSpace - Apparently made for Blogger.

Ciao for now!

Matt

Mobile Blogging with Moleskin

2011-05-04T14:11:00.001-04:00

Man... There really isn't a good blogging tool out there.

Trying to test this software but it looks like it will be substandard.

Oh well, sending anyway...

Matt

Random Quest for Werks of Art - Part 2

2011-05-03T15:26:00.000-04:00

Remember this...?

Artist: Audrey Bazinet

Apparently in my random quest, there are re-occurring themes. Or it is just following me mumbling "buy me... buy me...". Apparently the artist found another location for their work. I still want to buy it... and I still can't afford it. *sigh

Ah well.

I should have taken pictures of the work they had up in this restaurant before. But it has been awhile since I frequented the establishment so I hadn't thought of it.

Et voila... more random stuff. Love it.

M

Random Radicals

2011-05-03T12:43:00.000-04:00

You know when you are sitting there and deep within you have a nagging doubt. A burrowing worry that is hard to let go. Sometimes I just have to let them out. You're welcome.

Of course in this case my thoughts are somewhat fragmented. So I give you... a few random thoughts all related to a theme, and although about no-one in particular, other than whom it is for. A melange of mediocrity. A mess of meanderings. Perhaps a good example of why I can't sleep.

A true series of... Random Radicals.

Disclaimer: No writers were hurt in the making of these inane... ramblings.

The Path

The decision you make as you walk out that door
The path you take when you cross the floor
The things you choose, win or lose
They all equate, to ~~who~~ ~~where~~ what you are.

The Path?

The path you chose
The type of clothes
The things you said
Lingering regret?

The Path?

Many things you could have done
Would you have, ~~ever won~~ been the one?
Childhood hope
The words one wrote
Things never said
All misread?

Beneath the Stars

Lingering doubt
I got out
Beneath the stars
I wonder where you are

Ah Monday How I Hate Thee

2011-05-02T12:06:00.000-04:00

Another week. Another Monday. Another sleepless night. I think the fairly well accepted adage of "We are our own worst enemy" is so damn true. I swear I was seconds away from falling asleep when my brain kicked in... then I had to run the gamut of issues that currently reside in the recesses of my mind. I am talking The things I need to deal with, the things I can't deal with, the things I can't afford to deal with and every ranging emotion from here to eternity. WTF? I am pretty sure I know why, but c'mon give a guy a break here.

When the birds start a chirpin' and I haven't had a minute of shut-eye. Well... bring on the coffee 'cuz it's gunna be a humdinger of a day!

Feck.

You know that scene where Neo is learning via computer, all his new skills, and the images and info is flying through his mind. That is what it felt like last night.

Now for your listening enjoyment:

The Beastie Boys - No Sleep Till Brooklyn

SASS JORDAN - You Don't Have To Remind Me

2011-04-30T07:54:00.001-04:00

Et voila ! My first weekend blogpost. Enjoy.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XN3IvXpZiYE&feature=youtube_gdata_player

~ 'Tis nobler to have read and discarded my email than to have never read it at all.

Matt

Folk would say

2011-04-29T16:33:00.000-04:00

Folk would say... These guys have a have a little something. Anyone up for a road trip!? Stan has a party brewing! (StanFest) I hear the East coast calling me. Maybe I'll bump into The Great Big Sea whilst I listen to a merry tune and drink a brew!

My favourite:

Some Videos:

Have a great weekend all.

M

Stuff I found in my absence...

2011-04-28T15:48:00.001-04:00

Really? THAT'S IT?!

You know it.

Promise? ;)

What complete crap!

Perspective is lacking in this one. But ultimately you know who you were getting involved with. If you didn't... what the hell were you doing while you were getting to know them? They lied? Kick them to the curb. B-bye. Pretty simple really.


One HUNNED percent!

Truest thing I ever read

The conflicting emotions of the recently departed. Well... you know what I mean.

Last BUT NOT least the second truest thing I ever read.

;)

Now I don't hate my job, I just thought this was awesome. :)

Not as awesome as this though... you know what's coming don't you?

OK, how many of you knew what was coming? ;)

Hope you enjoyed my attempt at story-boarding some essential nuggets from the 5-6 days I missed on Jen's well of inspiration. Bits o' Truth.