AYJ is in a secret Santa type thingy this year. However, the big secret is that I switched his usual coffee with Folger's crystals. Let's see if he can tell the difference.
December 18, 2006
November 03, 2006
My Nov06 AYJ Entry
AYJ got a purple tie fr a wedding this saturday. Or at least he should have. It's part of his role as senior co-head usher.
October 05, 2006
AYJ is leaving the country
Since it's a new month, I'll update for AYJ. He's going to Peru (I think). That's all I got; and I don't even know if that's right. Oh well.
September 01, 2006
July 24, 2006
AYJ
was really wasted last nite and it was funny. His political views about the conflicts in the Middle East should be shared with cabbies more often.
June 01, 2006
A warning to Germany, Ecuador, & Costa Rica
Don't underestimate Poland at the World Cup. My Long Lost Cousin will be there thanks to the coach not being "boring and predictable."
He scored a goal in the latest match against Columbia. He also got a yellow card.
Yep, he's related alright. Talent coupled with overall dirty play.
He scored a goal in the latest match against Columbia. He also got a yellow card.
Yep, he's related alright. Talent coupled with overall dirty play.
May 29, 2006
Don't Play on Ice
This is for Teo's birthday, who earned that G.I. Joe Birthday Badge with an impressive display Friday night.
May 28, 2006
May 25, 2006
Free Dunsing!
Worst. Night. Ever.
After getting about 3 hours of sleep and going into work, I don't really feel like talking right now. Just know that Sox security officials are now on the list. The list I say!
After getting about 3 hours of sleep and going into work, I don't really feel like talking right now. Just know that Sox security officials are now on the list. The list I say!
May 17, 2006
Bear vs. Monkey, Round 1 (And Done)
Keeping with the animal themed week so far, here's a great article about the relationship between a bear and a monkey. Too bad they couldn't settle their differences.
May 16, 2006
AYJ vs. Reginald, Round 1
So Sunday night we did the usual dinner/Sopranos/Big Love at Mo's. Besides Lucky turning into Cujo, the night was a good time. Anyways, everyone seemed ready to celebrate Mother's Day with some heavy beer & scotch consumption. Due to several factors, mostly that I had a meeting at 8:30 I needed to be coherent for, I decided to head home.
Upon arrival a mi casa, I head up the back steps as usual (I never use the side door/front stairs mostly out of habit). As the 2nd floor neighbors tend to leave garbage outside, I usually keep an eye out for critters at night. Lazy fucks, walk down a flight and throw it away. What the hell is wrong with you?!?!
Just as I'm a couple steps away from the my 3rd floor apt I see a neighborhood raccoon (let's name him Reginald) chilling on my porch. He starts heading towards me with a slight hissing sound. My instincts take me down a flight of stairs to either think up an attack plan or consider sleeping in my car. As I'm taking off my belt to use as a weapon/offer as a distraction while I run to my car, Reginald looks a little scared and decides to head towards the other end of the porch. He gets up on the railing and contemplates jumping. Don't do it Reginald! Life is too precious! I don't care if you have rabies, we can work this out!
Well, Reginald didn't jump. In fact, he climbed straight down one of the beams. I didn't know raccoons could climb at 90 degree angles. Clever Reginald, clever. Obviously I now run to my door. If he can climb like that, he could be anywhere. I get inside and lock the door. Clearly locking the door was in order, Reginald is clever as noted above.
What a night. Both of us remained unscathed and got to return to our homes. I consider that a draw. Until round 2...
Upon arrival a mi casa, I head up the back steps as usual (I never use the side door/front stairs mostly out of habit). As the 2nd floor neighbors tend to leave garbage outside, I usually keep an eye out for critters at night. Lazy fucks, walk down a flight and throw it away. What the hell is wrong with you?!?!
Just as I'm a couple steps away from the my 3rd floor apt I see a neighborhood raccoon (let's name him Reginald) chilling on my porch. He starts heading towards me with a slight hissing sound. My instincts take me down a flight of stairs to either think up an attack plan or consider sleeping in my car. As I'm taking off my belt to use as a weapon/offer as a distraction while I run to my car, Reginald looks a little scared and decides to head towards the other end of the porch. He gets up on the railing and contemplates jumping. Don't do it Reginald! Life is too precious! I don't care if you have rabies, we can work this out!
Well, Reginald didn't jump. In fact, he climbed straight down one of the beams. I didn't know raccoons could climb at 90 degree angles. Clever Reginald, clever. Obviously I now run to my door. If he can climb like that, he could be anywhere. I get inside and lock the door. Clearly locking the door was in order, Reginald is clever as noted above.
What a night. Both of us remained unscathed and got to return to our homes. I consider that a draw. Until round 2...
May 14, 2006
May 11, 2006
AYJ Exclusive
Time for an update on the 2 week trip my brother Jon and I are planning for this fall. For the past month or so, we've done nothing but add countries to the list of potential places to visit:
"How about Kazakhstan? I hear Astana is beautiful in the fall when the seasons are changing."
"Add it to the list. I like wine!"
With an AYJ exclusive, I'm happy to announce that the list has been narrowed down to the following 7 countries. Unfortunately, a trip to Borat's homeland will have to wait another year. Yemen & Nicaragua also just missed the final cut.
Heavenly 7
Belize
Costa Rica
Czech Republic
Greece
Argentina
Chile
Peru
As you can see, its quite a diverse list. I will be taking recommendations from my readers to help in the decision. I am especially interested in ISH's knowledge of Argentina.
Many factors will come into play for the final decision. Attractions, ladies, expenses, climate, & ladies. Unfortunately, the $ isn't doing so well against the Euro right now. On the flip side, the $ has remained consistently strong against the Peruvian Nuevo Sol. What a great currency name, Peru might win just for that.
"How about Kazakhstan? I hear Astana is beautiful in the fall when the seasons are changing."
"Add it to the list. I like wine!"
With an AYJ exclusive, I'm happy to announce that the list has been narrowed down to the following 7 countries. Unfortunately, a trip to Borat's homeland will have to wait another year. Yemen & Nicaragua also just missed the final cut.
Heavenly 7
Belize
Costa Rica
Czech Republic
Greece
Argentina
Chile
Peru
As you can see, its quite a diverse list. I will be taking recommendations from my readers to help in the decision. I am especially interested in ISH's knowledge of Argentina.
Many factors will come into play for the final decision. Attractions, ladies, expenses, climate, & ladies. Unfortunately, the $ isn't doing so well against the Euro right now. On the flip side, the $ has remained consistently strong against the Peruvian Nuevo Sol. What a great currency name, Peru might win just for that.
May 10, 2006
The Miles Interview
This is an amazing interview. Darius Miles provides non-stop unintentional humor. Here's one of my favorite quotes from it:
"But like I explained to coach Nate at the beginning of the season, there was never nothing to talk about. There was never nothing to talk about. Like the thing now, everything is just turned into everything, everything be turned in a total 360."
"But like I explained to coach Nate at the beginning of the season, there was never nothing to talk about. There was never nothing to talk about. Like the thing now, everything is just turned into everything, everything be turned in a total 360."
Booze Crew Adventures
Whoa. Where am I? Sorry for the long absence. It feels like I just woke up from several weeks of binge drinking. ISH has the details, but here's a glimpse into whats been going on lately. We really should start recording our weekends. A network would pay good money for the Booze Crew Adventures.
- A trip was made up to Milwaukee, also known as the good land. And good it was. We entertained ourselves at a Cuban bar and a trip to the now infamous Potawatomi. Classier than I expected. And I won dinero. Awesomo.
- A trip was made to a female firestation. Nuff said.
- A trip was made to a country-western bar. The bouncer didn't realize that IL is and always was part of the Union. ISH has some great stories about this place.
- A trip was made to White Castle. Orders were placed for 12 white castles. The staff saw our 12 and raised us 10, free of charge. We accepted their proposal with huge smiles and laughter. A meal for the ages.
- A trip was made to Greektown. Saganaki was enjoyed by all. Vergina was good stuff on top of having the best beer name ever.
- A trip was made to the burbs for some quality lunch with our married friends with child. Although this didn't qualify as a Booze Crew Adventure in the traditional sense, we did spend most of the time trying to recruit their 10-month old child to join us. He's already a ladies man and we promised to buy him beer when he's in junior high.
That about catches us up. This weekend is Mother's Day. I'll make my Mom proud by trying to show up on Sunday without a hangover. Outlook doesn't look good...
- A trip was made up to Milwaukee, also known as the good land. And good it was. We entertained ourselves at a Cuban bar and a trip to the now infamous Potawatomi. Classier than I expected. And I won dinero. Awesomo.
- A trip was made to a female firestation. Nuff said.
- A trip was made to a country-western bar. The bouncer didn't realize that IL is and always was part of the Union. ISH has some great stories about this place.
- A trip was made to White Castle. Orders were placed for 12 white castles. The staff saw our 12 and raised us 10, free of charge. We accepted their proposal with huge smiles and laughter. A meal for the ages.
- A trip was made to Greektown. Saganaki was enjoyed by all. Vergina was good stuff on top of having the best beer name ever.
- A trip was made to the burbs for some quality lunch with our married friends with child. Although this didn't qualify as a Booze Crew Adventure in the traditional sense, we did spend most of the time trying to recruit their 10-month old child to join us. He's already a ladies man and we promised to buy him beer when he's in junior high.
That about catches us up. This weekend is Mother's Day. I'll make my Mom proud by trying to show up on Sunday without a hangover. Outlook doesn't look good...
April 22, 2006
Put That On My Review!
Free advertising for one of my least favorite beers. Good commercials though.
Grinds My Gears - R.F.
First, he tormented the Cubs when he was on the Braves. And I don't like the Braves. Then, he spurred the Cubs' contract offer to sign with a team that was even worse last year. He would have been a perfect fit at shortstop and at the top of the lineup. And if that wasn't enough, he now is the man responsible for putting Derrek Lee on the DL for at least 2 months. And the season is young enough and the Cubs are playing well enough to create some hope on the North Side. Until now. God, I hate you Rafael Furcal.
Well, there's always next year...
Well, there's always next year...
April 18, 2006
Happy Easter!
Sorry its a day late, but Happy Easter to all. Hope you were good this year.
Gracias to Chandler for the video entertainment.
Gracias to Chandler for the video entertainment.
April 15, 2006
April 14, 2006
Loud Speakers Rule
I'm sitting at my desk this morning Peter Gibbons style. All of a sudden, a voice comes over the loud speaker. I didn't even know we had a loud speaker. I feel like we're back in grade school. Anyways, the voice informs us that the office is closing at 2pm to give us all a head start on this beautiful spring weekend. Sweet deal. I get to do some Good Friday boozin earlier than expected. Thanks mysterious voice on the loud speaker.
"Lisa S., please report to the principal's office. Wait, that's too obvious. Will L. Simpson please report to the principal's office."
"Lisa S., please report to the principal's office. Wait, that's too obvious. Will L. Simpson please report to the principal's office."
Doesn't Grind My Gears - Office
A few months ago I learned I would be part of the work team going to our London office for a project in mid May. As I love travel and I've never been to the United Kingdom I was quite pleased. Plus the trip would be practically free to me and I'd get to see Benny Boom Boom, who will take me sight seeing to all his favorite pubs and passout places.
On Tuesday, after weeks of planning this trip with my team members and the folks in London, the trip was postponed. The London office all of a sudden said that wasn't a good week to visit. On the surface this wasn't a big deal. However, this almost became a Grinds My Gears segment for 2 reasons:
1. Pearl Jam is coming to Chicago in May and Teo got tickets. Unfortunately, the concert was the week I was supposed to be in London. I've never seen them live before so that sucked. Now, the tickets have been purchased and there are no extras for me. Dammit. Why couldn't the trip have been postponed a few weeks ago?
2. The talks on Tuesday resulted in the London trip being rescheduled for June. As I have another project already in place for June, I was booted from the trip. Nice. No Pearl Jam and now no London. And my manager has been out sick this week so I had no one to help me sort this out.
Then I got a call from my manager saying she was in the office today. I immediately set up a meeting to try and get my June project moved so I could go to London. Being the awesome manager she is, she immediately made some phone calls and my wish was granted this afternoon. She gets a gold star for the day. No, the week.
London trip is now penciled in for the week of June 12 and I'm happy. No Pearl Jam but oh well. I'll have plenty of time on the flight to listen to some Whale Song.
On Tuesday, after weeks of planning this trip with my team members and the folks in London, the trip was postponed. The London office all of a sudden said that wasn't a good week to visit. On the surface this wasn't a big deal. However, this almost became a Grinds My Gears segment for 2 reasons:
1. Pearl Jam is coming to Chicago in May and Teo got tickets. Unfortunately, the concert was the week I was supposed to be in London. I've never seen them live before so that sucked. Now, the tickets have been purchased and there are no extras for me. Dammit. Why couldn't the trip have been postponed a few weeks ago?
2. The talks on Tuesday resulted in the London trip being rescheduled for June. As I have another project already in place for June, I was booted from the trip. Nice. No Pearl Jam and now no London. And my manager has been out sick this week so I had no one to help me sort this out.
Then I got a call from my manager saying she was in the office today. I immediately set up a meeting to try and get my June project moved so I could go to London. Being the awesome manager she is, she immediately made some phone calls and my wish was granted this afternoon. She gets a gold star for the day. No, the week.
London trip is now penciled in for the week of June 12 and I'm happy. No Pearl Jam but oh well. I'll have plenty of time on the flight to listen to some Whale Song.
April 11, 2006
The Following Takes Place...
As cool as Jack Bauer is, Kiefer Sutherland may have trumped his own character. You'd be skipping too.
"I remember the first girl I slept with. She was seventeen, I was thirteen. I remember leaving her house after we'd done it, like, seven times, and I remember skipping to the bus stop, going, 'I've done it seven times.' And I was literally skipping."
"I remember the first girl I slept with. She was seventeen, I was thirteen. I remember leaving her house after we'd done it, like, seven times, and I remember skipping to the bus stop, going, 'I've done it seven times.' And I was literally skipping."
April 02, 2006
April 01, 2006
Grinds My Gears - Coldplay
First, let me start off by saying I like Coldplay. I'll admit that. I have several of their albums and enjoy many of their songs. Sure the lyrics sometimes aren't the deepest, as Dunsing put it, but the music is still good.
With that said, I know several people who went to the Coldplay concert last night here in Chicago (Mo & Dunsing, JB & Dana). I would have liked to go but this is definitely a band you bring a date to. You don't show up to a Coldplay concert with 4 dudes. Not cool.
I'm awaiting reviews of the concert from my friends tonight. As I love music and am not that busy at work today (typical Friday), I used the internet to look for the setlist and other people's reviews. I could not find the Chicago show but found other shows from the current tour.
Now here's what grinds my gears. I looked at the setlist and reviews for the show before Chicago. Good setlist. Great reviews. All seems good. Then I check out the previous show. Setlist looks similar. Wait, no the setlist is the same. Maybe the website is f'ed up. I proceed to check several more shows and realize the same thing - every setlist for every show is exactly the same. Wtf? Who are they Britney Spears?
Every review I read is great, except for the people who attended multiple shows. They have the same reaction. What's the point of touring if you're not going to change the songs? How do you intend to keep the "great live band" label if you have no surprises? Just do one show, put it on a cd, and sell it if this is your approach.
I would have been pissed if I went to the show and had seen a setlist beforehand and figured out halfway through that I knew every song coming up. Part of the fun of live shows is not knowing what's coming next, a sporadic change in a song, or playing cover songs.
I still intend to see Coldplay live someday as they really are supposed to put on a good show. But let's just keep it at one.
With that said, I know several people who went to the Coldplay concert last night here in Chicago (Mo & Dunsing, JB & Dana). I would have liked to go but this is definitely a band you bring a date to. You don't show up to a Coldplay concert with 4 dudes. Not cool.
I'm awaiting reviews of the concert from my friends tonight. As I love music and am not that busy at work today (typical Friday), I used the internet to look for the setlist and other people's reviews. I could not find the Chicago show but found other shows from the current tour.
Now here's what grinds my gears. I looked at the setlist and reviews for the show before Chicago. Good setlist. Great reviews. All seems good. Then I check out the previous show. Setlist looks similar. Wait, no the setlist is the same. Maybe the website is f'ed up. I proceed to check several more shows and realize the same thing - every setlist for every show is exactly the same. Wtf? Who are they Britney Spears?
Every review I read is great, except for the people who attended multiple shows. They have the same reaction. What's the point of touring if you're not going to change the songs? How do you intend to keep the "great live band" label if you have no surprises? Just do one show, put it on a cd, and sell it if this is your approach.
I would have been pissed if I went to the show and had seen a setlist beforehand and figured out halfway through that I knew every song coming up. Part of the fun of live shows is not knowing what's coming next, a sporadic change in a song, or playing cover songs.
I still intend to see Coldplay live someday as they really are supposed to put on a good show. But let's just keep it at one.
March 31, 2006
Jelen Adventures
Time to talk about one of my favorite things - travel. I've already made it to Vail for a weekend, Vegas is planned for Labor Day, and Portland is a possibility for Christmas. Work travel hasn't been too shabby either as I've gone to Orlando and London is coming up in May.
But I still haven't planned the big trip for the year. Last year was Spain & Portugal. Two years ago was Italy & Vatican City. Gotta try to at least match the awesomeness of those trips.
Well, it wasn't looking so good at first. Conversations with my friends led to a lot of no gos and maybes. I don't blame any of them. They all have perfectly good reasons for denying me: money, time-off, school, bar exams, other trips already planned, and the very direct and simple "Shut up and stop asking me. I don't like you Jelen!"
So then I started thinking about taking the trip solo. Ian & Xtina have done it and had many good things to say. But I don't know. I don't like living alone so I'm not sure how solo travel would go over.
And now the good news. Its no longer an issue. I am currently planning a trip with my brother Jonathan. Sweet! We get along great but I don't see him often as he lives in Oregon so this will be fun.
As for a destination, I'm glad he was on board for an international trip. My bro has pretty much been to all 49 states (I'll be deep in the cold, cold ground before I recognize Missourah) and never been outside the US and Canada (Cancun doesn't count). So, after a few conversations with him, we're thinking of a 2 week trip in October. We nixed Australia & Africa already as we both agreed that 2 weeks wouldn't be enough time in either. And my bro is saving Asian travel for his girlfriend who grew up there. So, we came up with the following Latin American & European destinations:
Central America
Costa Rica
South America
Argentina
Brazil
Chile
Peru
Europe
Czech Republic (probably include Austria, Hungary, and/or Poland as well)
Denmark & Sweden
Iceland
Ireland
and pretty much anywhere else in Western Europe I haven't been
As you can see, we've really narrowed it down. Obviously once we do some research into things to do, costs, government stability and so forth, some will get knocked off the list. And I will surely be asking my friends for advice as many of them are well traveled and have been to several of these countries. In the meantime, feel free to reply with suggestions.
But I still haven't planned the big trip for the year. Last year was Spain & Portugal. Two years ago was Italy & Vatican City. Gotta try to at least match the awesomeness of those trips.
Well, it wasn't looking so good at first. Conversations with my friends led to a lot of no gos and maybes. I don't blame any of them. They all have perfectly good reasons for denying me: money, time-off, school, bar exams, other trips already planned, and the very direct and simple "Shut up and stop asking me. I don't like you Jelen!"
So then I started thinking about taking the trip solo. Ian & Xtina have done it and had many good things to say. But I don't know. I don't like living alone so I'm not sure how solo travel would go over.
And now the good news. Its no longer an issue. I am currently planning a trip with my brother Jonathan. Sweet! We get along great but I don't see him often as he lives in Oregon so this will be fun.
As for a destination, I'm glad he was on board for an international trip. My bro has pretty much been to all 49 states (I'll be deep in the cold, cold ground before I recognize Missourah) and never been outside the US and Canada (Cancun doesn't count). So, after a few conversations with him, we're thinking of a 2 week trip in October. We nixed Australia & Africa already as we both agreed that 2 weeks wouldn't be enough time in either. And my bro is saving Asian travel for his girlfriend who grew up there. So, we came up with the following Latin American & European destinations:
Central America
Costa Rica
South America
Argentina
Brazil
Chile
Peru
Europe
Czech Republic (probably include Austria, Hungary, and/or Poland as well)
Denmark & Sweden
Iceland
Ireland
and pretty much anywhere else in Western Europe I haven't been
As you can see, we've really narrowed it down. Obviously once we do some research into things to do, costs, government stability and so forth, some will get knocked off the list. And I will surely be asking my friends for advice as many of them are well traveled and have been to several of these countries. In the meantime, feel free to reply with suggestions.
March 30, 2006
Wheel In The Sky
Possibly an early b-day present for Ian. If Whitesnake makes a surprise appearance, this will be the best concert ever.
Side note: When did it become the First Midwest Bank Amphitheatre? That name doesn't exactly roll off the tongue. Can we please go back to calling it the New World?
Side note: When did it become the First Midwest Bank Amphitheatre? That name doesn't exactly roll off the tongue. Can we please go back to calling it the New World?
March 29, 2006
Grinds My Gears - Hotwire
The bachelor/bachelorette party for Mo & Dunsing is all set for Labor Day Weekend. Everyone seems real excited about it because its gonna be in Vegas. I wonder if we'll meet up with those ladies from New York, New York that said Vaughan looked like Ashton Kutcher. They seemed nice. And they said they were working girls so you know they won't be hounding you for money.
So its time to look into travel arrangements. Teo got us a room at the MGM so we're halfway there. I've been using the travel websites on the information superhighway to find the best flights. (Side note: Teo informed me that Southwest's website won't let you book a flight past August right now, thus deeping his hatred of their company).
Now I don't find much difference in the travel sites. I default to Expedia out of habit and have always found this site useful. We used Travelocity for our Spain trip and it was a success. And I've always enjoyed the games that Orbitz provides. No ill feelings there. But this morning I heard a radio commercial for Hotwire claiming they were the best (as they all say) so I decided to check them out this morning. Bad idea. I feel like booking a flight to corporate hq and smacking someone in the face. Here's how it went:
I search for a flight from Chicago-Las Vegas. Right off the bat it wants me to choose ORD or MDW. The other sites let me search using both of our great airports but Hotwire wants to limit my results. Minor setback so I select ORD. The results populate showing a flight for $254. This I like as its cheaper than the other sites. Sure its only $10 but I'm happy their radio ad didn't lie. So I select one of the flights and a screen pops up saying "Sorry that flight changed from $254 to $294." Awesome. So, I select another flight. Same deal. So apparrently they advertise the flight at one price and once you're ready to commit they change it. Fine, I will continue to see what else this fine establishment is going to throw at me.
Here's the best part. The departure time just says "Morning" and return is "Evening." Thinking this is strange I click on the departure and the flight time is listed as "this flight departs btw 6am and 11am. You'll know the exact time after you book." Huh??? What is this grab ass all about? Now I'm just disgusted. And the airline is listed as "Hotwire Airline Supplier." I'm really not sure how them not telling me the flight times or carriers saves money. It must be a business objective to keep everything a secret. Another one must be to annoy the hell out of a potential customer so they never consider doing business with them again. Well done Hotwire, that's 2 for 2.
Maybe its just me, but an 11am flight on United or American is a helluva lot different than a 6am flight on Southwest. Complete amateur hour over there.
I need to cool out after this. I'm going over to Orbitz to play some mini golf.
So its time to look into travel arrangements. Teo got us a room at the MGM so we're halfway there. I've been using the travel websites on the information superhighway to find the best flights. (Side note: Teo informed me that Southwest's website won't let you book a flight past August right now, thus deeping his hatred of their company).
Now I don't find much difference in the travel sites. I default to Expedia out of habit and have always found this site useful. We used Travelocity for our Spain trip and it was a success. And I've always enjoyed the games that Orbitz provides. No ill feelings there. But this morning I heard a radio commercial for Hotwire claiming they were the best (as they all say) so I decided to check them out this morning. Bad idea. I feel like booking a flight to corporate hq and smacking someone in the face. Here's how it went:
I search for a flight from Chicago-Las Vegas. Right off the bat it wants me to choose ORD or MDW. The other sites let me search using both of our great airports but Hotwire wants to limit my results. Minor setback so I select ORD. The results populate showing a flight for $254. This I like as its cheaper than the other sites. Sure its only $10 but I'm happy their radio ad didn't lie. So I select one of the flights and a screen pops up saying "Sorry that flight changed from $254 to $294." Awesome. So, I select another flight. Same deal. So apparrently they advertise the flight at one price and once you're ready to commit they change it. Fine, I will continue to see what else this fine establishment is going to throw at me.
Here's the best part. The departure time just says "Morning" and return is "Evening." Thinking this is strange I click on the departure and the flight time is listed as "this flight departs btw 6am and 11am. You'll know the exact time after you book." Huh??? What is this grab ass all about? Now I'm just disgusted. And the airline is listed as "Hotwire Airline Supplier." I'm really not sure how them not telling me the flight times or carriers saves money. It must be a business objective to keep everything a secret. Another one must be to annoy the hell out of a potential customer so they never consider doing business with them again. Well done Hotwire, that's 2 for 2.
Maybe its just me, but an 11am flight on United or American is a helluva lot different than a 6am flight on Southwest. Complete amateur hour over there.
I need to cool out after this. I'm going over to Orbitz to play some mini golf.
March 28, 2006
Simply Madness
So, you may recall my tourney picks a little while back. I had 5 of my Elite Eight correct with all 4 of my Final Four teams still alive. I'm leading both my office and bro's pool and sitting pretty.
Then, the Madness sets in. First, Texas loses in OT. That hurts, but they're my runner-up. Still good. UCLA wins. Alright, still in the lead. UConn loses in OT. Another Final Four gone, but that's as far as they go. And finally, Villanova loses. Ouch. That hurts. Forget the 21 year anniversary celebration. Sorry Vaughan. I poured one out for you.
The possibly good news is I need UCLA to beat LSU to win my bro's pool. If LSU beats UCLA, I get second. Championship game doesn't matter.
The good news is since Memphis and UConn lost I've already won my office pool. Crazy that picking 1 of 4 Final Four teams correctly clinched it for me.
The best news is that George Mason is in the Final Four. Can't believe it. A bubble team seeded 11 has beaten MSU, UNC, The Shockers, and UConn to get here. Wow, that's amazing. Especially since I had no idea where this school is located until this week.
I'm jumping on the bandwagon as I see no reason why not to.
GO PATRIOTS!
Then, the Madness sets in. First, Texas loses in OT. That hurts, but they're my runner-up. Still good. UCLA wins. Alright, still in the lead. UConn loses in OT. Another Final Four gone, but that's as far as they go. And finally, Villanova loses. Ouch. That hurts. Forget the 21 year anniversary celebration. Sorry Vaughan. I poured one out for you.
The possibly good news is I need UCLA to beat LSU to win my bro's pool. If LSU beats UCLA, I get second. Championship game doesn't matter.
The good news is since Memphis and UConn lost I've already won my office pool. Crazy that picking 1 of 4 Final Four teams correctly clinched it for me.
The best news is that George Mason is in the Final Four. Can't believe it. A bubble team seeded 11 has beaten MSU, UNC, The Shockers, and UConn to get here. Wow, that's amazing. Especially since I had no idea where this school is located until this week.
I'm jumping on the bandwagon as I see no reason why not to.
GO PATRIOTS!
March 26, 2006
March 25, 2006
Theme of the Week
With the latest South Park episode, the shocking arrests made in Chicago, and all the Adam Morrison speculation, I thought I had enough of this topic for one week.
Then I read about Dwight Sanderson.
Then I read about Dwight Sanderson.
Waitress?
Tourney time has finally started up again. I thought these past 3 days would never end.
Anyways, I watched the game with Ian & Teo at Barleycorn. Ian already has a good blog about this and I agree with his assessment: Sweet sports watching hampered by the lack of service and large amount of douchebags.
I just have two things to add:
1. Watching Adam Morrison cry was one of the best sports moments of my life. Why does everyone love this guy? He's a goddamned child molester! Ian has proof on his blog.
"Did Chef ever do this to you?" "My Uncle Ron did that once." God I love South Park. I await an Adam Morrison parody in the near future from them.
2. I was right to worry about the fluorescent green jalapenos on the nachos. I feel less than today.
Anyways, I watched the game with Ian & Teo at Barleycorn. Ian already has a good blog about this and I agree with his assessment: Sweet sports watching hampered by the lack of service and large amount of douchebags.
I just have two things to add:
1. Watching Adam Morrison cry was one of the best sports moments of my life. Why does everyone love this guy? He's a goddamned child molester! Ian has proof on his blog.
"Did Chef ever do this to you?" "My Uncle Ron did that once." God I love South Park. I await an Adam Morrison parody in the near future from them.
2. I was right to worry about the fluorescent green jalapenos on the nachos. I feel less than today.
March 24, 2006
No I Can't Wait & Neither Can You!
You stole my thunder Ian! On my own blog no less. You're like a mind reader. Touche.
I do appreciate the video clip. You need to teach me how to do that.
Nonetheless, I've added an excellent blog link. Snakes? Good. Planes? Good. An angry Samuel L. trying to control a situation that includes both snakes and a plane? Awesome. What's not to love?
This movie is gonna be fantastic.
"I want these mother------ snakes off the mother------ plane!"
- Samuel L. Jackson as FBI Agent Nelville Flynn
I do appreciate the video clip. You need to teach me how to do that.
Nonetheless, I've added an excellent blog link. Snakes? Good. Planes? Good. An angry Samuel L. trying to control a situation that includes both snakes and a plane? Awesome. What's not to love?
This movie is gonna be fantastic.
"I want these mother------ snakes off the mother------ plane!"
- Samuel L. Jackson as FBI Agent Nelville Flynn
March 23, 2006
March 18, 2006
Motivation lacking
Today is an awesome day. Its Friday. Its St. Patty's Day. The tourney is going on. All that sums up to good motivation to not only be at work but to be doing work as well. That's why you see so many blogs today. Motivation to work is through the roof.
Tourney Time!
As you may recall, I made football playoff and Super Bowl predictions a while back. Let's see how I did:
AFC - 4 out of 6 correct (Indy, NE, Cincy, Pitt)
NFC - 3 out of 6 correct (Seattle, Chicago, Carolina)
Wow, I picked 7 of 12 playoff teams correctly. That's 58%. 58% of the time I'm right everytime. Man I'm good. Unfortunately, I also picked the Colts to beat the Falcons in the Super Bowl. The Colts choked and well, the Falcons just suck. But I still did well.
This has given me hope for my NCAA tourney picks. Now that the tourney has officially started, I can share my picks with you, starting with the Elite Eight:
Texas over Duke - Duke is too popular of a pick, and that JJ Redick is too smug for my liking. Plus Aldridge, hopefully a future Bull, is really good.
UCLA over Kansas - gotta show some love for Bill Self, but not too much. Bastard left us!
UConn over UNC - this is my popular pick. Who can beat them in this region? I wish the Illini could but they can't.
Villanova over Florida - Why would you pick against a team with 4 guards? Who can defend all of them?
Moving right along to the Final Four:
Texas over UCLA - again, Aldridge is really good and hearing "the man in the middle, from Texas, LaMarcus Aldridge" just gives me hope that the Bulls can be great again. Thanks again Isiah. Idiot.
Villanova over UConn - didn't see that one coming did you? that ones for you Vaughan.
And your 2006 Champions will be:
Villanova over Texas - they have 4 guards! They'll just run around Aldridge and make him dizzy. Besides, it would be 21 years after their first championship. It'd be a nice anniversary.
That's all. If you took my advice for football, you would have made money on 58% of your bets. I'm good. I'm upping the ante here and shooting for 5 out of 8 right. That's 63%. Try that on for size.
AFC - 4 out of 6 correct (Indy, NE, Cincy, Pitt)
NFC - 3 out of 6 correct (Seattle, Chicago, Carolina)
Wow, I picked 7 of 12 playoff teams correctly. That's 58%. 58% of the time I'm right everytime. Man I'm good. Unfortunately, I also picked the Colts to beat the Falcons in the Super Bowl. The Colts choked and well, the Falcons just suck. But I still did well.
This has given me hope for my NCAA tourney picks. Now that the tourney has officially started, I can share my picks with you, starting with the Elite Eight:
Texas over Duke - Duke is too popular of a pick, and that JJ Redick is too smug for my liking. Plus Aldridge, hopefully a future Bull, is really good.
UCLA over Kansas - gotta show some love for Bill Self, but not too much. Bastard left us!
UConn over UNC - this is my popular pick. Who can beat them in this region? I wish the Illini could but they can't.
Villanova over Florida - Why would you pick against a team with 4 guards? Who can defend all of them?
Moving right along to the Final Four:
Texas over UCLA - again, Aldridge is really good and hearing "the man in the middle, from Texas, LaMarcus Aldridge" just gives me hope that the Bulls can be great again. Thanks again Isiah. Idiot.
Villanova over UConn - didn't see that one coming did you? that ones for you Vaughan.
And your 2006 Champions will be:
Villanova over Texas - they have 4 guards! They'll just run around Aldridge and make him dizzy. Besides, it would be 21 years after their first championship. It'd be a nice anniversary.
That's all. If you took my advice for football, you would have made money on 58% of your bets. I'm good. I'm upping the ante here and shooting for 5 out of 8 right. That's 63%. Try that on for size.
Shut Your Mouth, that's Tom Skilling!
So our dear friend Tom predicted 4-8 inches of snow yesterday. I was not looking forward to it. Its mid March and I'm ready for spring weather. Can't we put winter behind us already?
So you can imagine how happy I was that the downtown area received less than an inch of snow. But with this inaccurate forecast I've heard several people rip Mr. Skilling. First, you shut your mouth. Tom is a Chief Meteorologist. Do you even know what that means? I don't, but I know you don't mess with those kind of credentials. And second, when Tom makes a mistake he does it on purpose. He really picked up my day when I realized it wouldn't be as bad as his forecast indicated. I knew I had to venture outside for a birthday dinner for Kenna. I was delighted to find that I wouldn't be doing it in the snow.
So you can imagine how happy I was that the downtown area received less than an inch of snow. But with this inaccurate forecast I've heard several people rip Mr. Skilling. First, you shut your mouth. Tom is a Chief Meteorologist. Do you even know what that means? I don't, but I know you don't mess with those kind of credentials. And second, when Tom makes a mistake he does it on purpose. He really picked up my day when I realized it wouldn't be as bad as his forecast indicated. I knew I had to venture outside for a birthday dinner for Kenna. I was delighted to find that I wouldn't be doing it in the snow.
Happy St. Patty's Day!
From all of us here at Are You Jelen?, we hope your St. Patty's Weekend 2 of 2 will be as great as the first. Wait, I'm the only one here? Where did everybody go? I'm scared...
Gotta Love the El
I take the Brown Line every day to work. I enjoy my fellow Brown Liners' company as (1) its usually quiet and peaceful, (2) its doesn't smell like the Red and Blue lines, and (3) its full of hot chicks. On occassion though, we have some Red Line-ish activity.
The other day while taking the El home, a ragged looking man reeking of booze entered my train in the loop. My first thought was he'll soon realize this isn't the Red Line once he sees we're above ground. Anyways, he's talking rather loud about who knows what and I just zoned him out with my music. However, once we reach Merchandise Mart, I hear him yelling to the whole train that "Chicago is my stop! Chicago is my stop! Who wants to bet me Chicago is next! I'll bet you all $10 that Chicago is the next stop!!" I thought about taking his offer until it hit me - he's right, Chicago is next. Its always next. I could have played against the odds that we would skip Chicago and go straight to Sedgwick but I thought better of it and layed off his interesting wager. Plus, I didn't have $10. His next question was who won the World Series last here. Before I could speak up he answered it himself. "It was the White Sox! The White Sox won the World Series last year! They won it last year and the Cubs are gonna win it this year! Who's with me? White Sox last year, Cubs this year!" He then exited the train.
I then had several stops to ponder what he had said. Man, it would be awesome if the Cubs won the World Series this year. We've got some questions on the team but still think the team is solid. We've got some good young players and we added Juan Pierre who adds speed to the lineup. If the White Sox can win it, why can't the Cubs? Besides, the guy was right about Chicago being the next stop. So far, I have no reason to believe he's a liar.
The other day while taking the El home, a ragged looking man reeking of booze entered my train in the loop. My first thought was he'll soon realize this isn't the Red Line once he sees we're above ground. Anyways, he's talking rather loud about who knows what and I just zoned him out with my music. However, once we reach Merchandise Mart, I hear him yelling to the whole train that "Chicago is my stop! Chicago is my stop! Who wants to bet me Chicago is next! I'll bet you all $10 that Chicago is the next stop!!" I thought about taking his offer until it hit me - he's right, Chicago is next. Its always next. I could have played against the odds that we would skip Chicago and go straight to Sedgwick but I thought better of it and layed off his interesting wager. Plus, I didn't have $10. His next question was who won the World Series last here. Before I could speak up he answered it himself. "It was the White Sox! The White Sox won the World Series last year! They won it last year and the Cubs are gonna win it this year! Who's with me? White Sox last year, Cubs this year!" He then exited the train.
I then had several stops to ponder what he had said. Man, it would be awesome if the Cubs won the World Series this year. We've got some questions on the team but still think the team is solid. We've got some good young players and we added Juan Pierre who adds speed to the lineup. If the White Sox can win it, why can't the Cubs? Besides, the guy was right about Chicago being the next stop. So far, I have no reason to believe he's a liar.
South Side Irish Roots Revisited
First of all, I want to send a shout out to my boy Ian. You know I can't get enough of that PopoZao. Besides, he's the rookie of the year. Its science.
Now, on to St. Patty's Weekend 1 of 2 in Chicago. Now, unlike some loser cities (I'm looking at you Chattanooga), Chicago's celebration of St. Patty's is usually a week long celebration. Especially this year since the actual day falls on a Friday. So what do my friends and I do? We plan three straight dinners of sushi, Lebanese food, and Italian food. Makes sense to me.
Friday was good times as Ian, Teo, & I hit up tourist bars in Blue Agave and Mother's (not 2, the original sucka). The lack of cougars was a little alarming, but we had fun regardless. We saw one of the coolest kids around dancing to some 50 Cent. He looked like he should be on Beauty and the Geek. After several hours of hitting the sauce, I head home. With visions of donut burgers in my head (thanks to The Vaughan), I stop at 7-11 and pick up half of the recipe. Alas, McD's was closed and I was left with simple donuts. Still good though.
Saturday was best summed up by us getting ditched. Xtina and Mo were to blame, but they made up for it with some great drunken antics later. But the day was not lost as it was 60 degrees and we just chilled on my porch drinking some beverages, JB and I with beers, Ian with a Shamrock Shake. Yeah I capitalized that, respect the Shamrock! Obviously, our next stop took us to the Signature Room for more beverages (Ian switched to alcohol at this point as enough time had passed. The last thing you want to do is have a shake and chase it with a beer.) I proceeded to order the manliest drink I could find - The Fish Tank which consisted of blue rasberry vodka and had gummy fish floating inside. It took me 20 minutes to get the fish out and then I dropped Nemo on the floor. How you mock me! The evening led us to Kan Zaman, where we entered soaking wet when the t-storm began. All I can say is - One Man Hookah. Try it, I dare you. Its intense.
Finally, its Sunday at 9am and all I can think about is chugging some beer on the south side. I meet up with Ian at McD's to get a base in my stomach. Fantastic sausage mcmuffin folks, fantastic. The day was just a blast. Drinking on the bus, drinking in the bars, drinking on the sidewalk. All good stuff - Ian tells the rest so check it out. I want to fast forward to our return to McGee's. I remember getting there and taking Jameson shots with JB, who sally-ed out of the parade but came to the bar out of no where. The next thing I know I'm at home and HBO's new show Big Love is halfway over. Dammit! Why didn't I go to Mo's for lasagna and Sopranos! After several conversations with friends in the next few days, I learned that I was actually at Mo's. Apparently, I went to the bathroom and never returned. I have no idea why I left, how I got home, or what happened. Maybe I should cut back on the alcohol? Maybe you should shut the hell up.
Side story from Xtina and Eva's adventures at the parade, who we never met up with. They flagged down a woman with a van for a ride after the parade. The woman went on about how her kids were at the parade and probably drunk. Then she told the ladies that unlike her kids she was not drunk. She had only had 7 beers. Shocked by this remark, Xtina and Eva watched in amazement as the woman cracked open numero ocho while cruising the south side. Now I'm officially against drunk driving, but this short story just seemed too funny to leave out.
All in all, a great weekend with plenty of booze. Can't wait for St. Patty's Weekend 2 of 2...
Now, on to St. Patty's Weekend 1 of 2 in Chicago. Now, unlike some loser cities (I'm looking at you Chattanooga), Chicago's celebration of St. Patty's is usually a week long celebration. Especially this year since the actual day falls on a Friday. So what do my friends and I do? We plan three straight dinners of sushi, Lebanese food, and Italian food. Makes sense to me.
Friday was good times as Ian, Teo, & I hit up tourist bars in Blue Agave and Mother's (not 2, the original sucka). The lack of cougars was a little alarming, but we had fun regardless. We saw one of the coolest kids around dancing to some 50 Cent. He looked like he should be on Beauty and the Geek. After several hours of hitting the sauce, I head home. With visions of donut burgers in my head (thanks to The Vaughan), I stop at 7-11 and pick up half of the recipe. Alas, McD's was closed and I was left with simple donuts. Still good though.
Saturday was best summed up by us getting ditched. Xtina and Mo were to blame, but they made up for it with some great drunken antics later. But the day was not lost as it was 60 degrees and we just chilled on my porch drinking some beverages, JB and I with beers, Ian with a Shamrock Shake. Yeah I capitalized that, respect the Shamrock! Obviously, our next stop took us to the Signature Room for more beverages (Ian switched to alcohol at this point as enough time had passed. The last thing you want to do is have a shake and chase it with a beer.) I proceeded to order the manliest drink I could find - The Fish Tank which consisted of blue rasberry vodka and had gummy fish floating inside. It took me 20 minutes to get the fish out and then I dropped Nemo on the floor. How you mock me! The evening led us to Kan Zaman, where we entered soaking wet when the t-storm began. All I can say is - One Man Hookah. Try it, I dare you. Its intense.
Finally, its Sunday at 9am and all I can think about is chugging some beer on the south side. I meet up with Ian at McD's to get a base in my stomach. Fantastic sausage mcmuffin folks, fantastic. The day was just a blast. Drinking on the bus, drinking in the bars, drinking on the sidewalk. All good stuff - Ian tells the rest so check it out. I want to fast forward to our return to McGee's. I remember getting there and taking Jameson shots with JB, who sally-ed out of the parade but came to the bar out of no where. The next thing I know I'm at home and HBO's new show Big Love is halfway over. Dammit! Why didn't I go to Mo's for lasagna and Sopranos! After several conversations with friends in the next few days, I learned that I was actually at Mo's. Apparently, I went to the bathroom and never returned. I have no idea why I left, how I got home, or what happened. Maybe I should cut back on the alcohol? Maybe you should shut the hell up.
Side story from Xtina and Eva's adventures at the parade, who we never met up with. They flagged down a woman with a van for a ride after the parade. The woman went on about how her kids were at the parade and probably drunk. Then she told the ladies that unlike her kids she was not drunk. She had only had 7 beers. Shocked by this remark, Xtina and Eva watched in amazement as the woman cracked open numero ocho while cruising the south side. Now I'm officially against drunk driving, but this short story just seemed too funny to leave out.
All in all, a great weekend with plenty of booze. Can't wait for St. Patty's Weekend 2 of 2...
March 09, 2006
March 05, 2006
Hey You...
...out there beyond the wall, breaking bottles in the hall, can you help me?
Word to the world. I have broken my silence. There's so much to tell. Skiing in Vail, a new job, and adventures at Neo. However, its the weekend and I don't feel like bloggin anymore. Look forward to exciting and intriguing posts in the near future. No promises though.
Jelen
Word to the world. I have broken my silence. There's so much to tell. Skiing in Vail, a new job, and adventures at Neo. However, its the weekend and I don't feel like bloggin anymore. Look forward to exciting and intriguing posts in the near future. No promises though.
Jelen
February 23, 2006
January 02, 2006
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