Wednesday, June 29, 2005

classic 1


classic 1
Originally uploaded by mrbrianjapan.
Okay, so this has a pretty cool story about it. MOst of you are thinking, wtf does he have a picture of a beat up VW bug from texas on his blog for. And no, I am not trying to illicit a series of unsolicited punches or anything worldwide. It all began in the Kroger parking lot (grocery store) ...

I was walking towards the entrance when this REALLY cute little girl, walking hand in hand with her grandfather, passes me. She's a lovely bouquet of yellow roses in her other hand. They walk, or amble, between the cars and stuff. She suddenly stops and says, "Grampa look at that Classic Car!"

I nearly died. I tried so hard to supress a laugh, and i eventually made my way back to my car. After my spell I went back and took pictures. I still smile when I see this picture. I'm sure you had to be there to get it, but I thought it was funny.

~B

classic 2


classic 2
Originally uploaded by mrbrianjapan.
A second look at the 'classic' car :)

~B

Diet Big Red


Diet Big Red
Originally uploaded by mrbrianjapan.
some things are only available in the US. Among these things I desire are Diet Big Red and Diet Cherry Vanilla Dr. Pepper. Notice that splenda is FINALLY replacing nutrasweet

~B

Tuesday, June 28, 2005

KEys?

This was pretty telling ... I actually think it was dead on for my personality and interests ... scary!












The Keys to Your Heart



You are attracted to those who have a split personality - cold as ice on the outside but hot as fire in the heart.

In love, you feel the most alive when things are straight-forward, and you're told that you're loved.

You'd like to your lover to think you are stylish and alluring.

You would be forced to break up with someone who was insecure and in constant need of reassurance.

Your ideal relationship is lasting. You want a relationship that looks to the future... one you can grow with.

Your risk of cheating is zero. You care about society and morality. You would never break a commitment.

You think of marriage something you've always wanted... though you haven't really thought about it.

In this moment, you think of love as something you thirst for. You'll do anything for love, but you won't fall for it easily.


Thursday, June 23, 2005

Tying Up Loose Ends

And by tying up, I don't mean placing in a restrictive posture by the use of a binding agent. This is a phrase often associated with hired guns, assassins, hitmen etc. Usually the phrase connotes mending the connections to the victim. In a sense, it is the mending or pruning of an incident, leaving it neat. Well, that, and untraceable. In any event, I am leaving tomorrow, which means my escapades in stockholm, this round, come to a close. In particular, my connections with the Aussie and the Finn. In the end, the Finn won out, as most of you will be happy to hear :)

The Aussie. Did not call today, or text. This was a bit disappointing, but not at all surprising given out fleeting meet-and-greet on the street yesterday and our overall interaction since we met. It's seem just like bad timing. Partly because we are both so busy, and, due to lack of interaction other than random meetings, we lack anything beyond casual acquaintance thus far, regardless of what either of us fantasizes otherwise. So, we've ended with an exchange of texts, apologies for not getting time together, and me sending my email over SMS. I doubt I will get one, but I feel better having sent it. He did not reciprocate.

The Finn. The Finn texted me 3 times today, and twice yesterday, saying he was excited to meet or clarifying about meeting times etc. This is a keeper, other than the fact that he smokes. He's smart (training for EMT for ambulance), had a few relationships, seems sensibly grounded, is quiet in a cute way, and seems like an overall good person. Talking was easier today b/c I filled less silence. We talked books and movies :) He seems well rounded and sincere in his experiences, very literal and matter of fact. We met around lunch time, got movie tickets and went to lunch. After lunch, which was filled with us talking about books, in particular Alice's Adventures in Wonderland, we went to see Kingdom of Heaven. Ridely Scott, WTF were you thinking? Gladiator and then this ... crapola. Even the soundtrack was marginal. However, there was more than the movie going on, as the Finn and I were in almost constanct contact: arms, thighs, knee, calves. Especially the gratuituous leaning over for comments during the film: "Is that Jeremy Irons?" We parted ways in Östermalm, with several hugs and promises of email. He has my email in his phone, and promised to write. I imagine he will. Right before we left I also mentioned that I will be gone barely a month, and that he will still be around for 2 weeks when I get back. AND that I look forward to it. We will see :) If he emails I imagine coming back to stockholm will be quite nice, indeed.

Hope you all had a great week. I probably won't post till late tomorrow if at all.

As always my thoughts are with you, and I'm sending

My very best,

Brian

Wednesday, June 22, 2005

Caught 'Ya, kinda

So, as the Aussie saga continues, it gets interesting. I've received lots of positive feedback from you guys. Thank you :) I have a date with the Finn tomorrow. Now, the Aussie is a little more interesting.

I called today, to speak with the Aussie, after not speaking with him last night. I left a voicemail: Hi sorry I missed you last night. I was hoping to catch up before I left, maybe exchange emails so we can be in touch over the summer and meet up in August when I'm in London for my friend's wedding. Call when you get a chance.

So I'm going about my day, seeing friends from school who I haven't seen in a while. I also bought some shirts at H&M(got to love H&M) because they were half off. One had a hole, so I had to return it after fika with a friend. On the walk back we are around Sergelstorg, and who should I run into ... the Aussie with his friend M'el. They were off to the gym.

We did introductions. They were a bit odd, but passe. I did remember his friend's name at least. HE said, immediate, "Oh, I got your message." I caught him up quickly and said, "I was just hoping to catch up before I leave, but it sounded like you were busy this week. .." A:"Well, I may have some time tomorrow before work..." Little does he know I have a date with the finn tomorrow, so he better move on this pretty quick. Otherwise the Aussie and I will just hopefully exchange emails and be in touch. We will see :)

~B

Tuesday, June 21, 2005

A Date and Not

So, I went on a lunch date with the Finn today. He is soooo nice, but we definitely have trouble finding things to talk. I have a hard time gauging why exactly that is. I tend to be a listener, and a sharer (meaning if you talk I talk, and if you talk I listen). Which is usually good for getting to know someone ... who talks. It was most comfortable when I was bringing stuff up to talk about, but it never got TOO uncomfortable. We had a really nice lunch outside, then walked a bit to check on movie times for a date Thurs afternoon. Ended up in a park, sitting on a bench in the shade talking about our lives and friends back home, family, and our pasts (school etc.).

Now, on the Aussie situation. I've decided to let that chill for a bit. I texted this morning that I hope Aussie had a good weekend, that I would not be able to drop by his work tonight, but that I hoped we could catch up soon. NOT that I think that was a deal breaker, since I will call this evening and leave a vm or catch him on break (I have an idea of when his break is). We will see. I get the feeling that the distance is somehwat deliberate, but who knows. Maybe I can get an email and we can keep in touch over the summer and meet up in London in August.

So, that's that :)

~B

Monday, June 20, 2005

Breaking "the Rules": Texts and Phone Calls the Day After

As I sit here typing away, organizing my thoughts in to a semblance of pixelized structure and coalation, my iTunes shifts to one of the few country songs I have. Now, not to say I'm a HUGE fan, but country music speaks to me sometimes :) This particular song reminds me of my best friend Mi. I miss her terribly, especially at time like now with the Aussie Saga's unfolding at blinding, and confusing speeds. So, I'm listening to "Wide Open Spaces" by the Dixie Chicks. I'm feeling kinda mellow, and may actually listen to where the Sidewalk Ends next ... I miss Mi. Jesus H Christ, "I Cross My Heart" George Strait. God damn the morass that is country music. You've Sucked me in for the last time Country MUSIC. I SHALL SMITE THEE AND LAY THEE LOW. Ha. Fuck it, some random electron discharging shifted itunes to country, I'll run with it ... for now >:(

So you are probably not here to hear me mull over the Fates controlling my iTunes to spite me, I guess I should get on with it then. Many people believe in the distance and objectification of an initial interest to keep from 'scaring' people away and playing by certain rules. This is what drives Sex in the City and the gay community generally. I suspect it also keeps half the shrinks in the US in business. I don't play by many of these rules, so :) There have been several texts and even a phone call today. Yes, a day after the intial intense meeting that slightly resembled a date. Well, except for the fact that I was soaked with sweat from running 3 miles, that we never formally called it a date, and that we met, randomly, at the gym with no intentions of going on a date date. Perhaps it was not a date, even if it's not though, it so closely resembles a date as to be constructively date-like :) How's that for some fancy legalese. DAMN, I knew that law school would pay off eventually. I can even convince myself I went on a date when I didn't. SWEET. w00t!

The exchange of the Text or SMS. So I'd actually not heard anything from the Aussie yesterday after we went our separate ways. I'd texted him, saying I'd try to come by, and that hopefully I'd get to see him. No response, probably a caution considering I'd given interest in dropping by. I still checked my phone at least twice an hour. This morning I got a text though, which I still have:
"Morning! Your welcome. I went to lino, but could not be bothered to line up. Happy you had a nice time" Clarification on this subject matter to follow. I then texted back, 45 minutes later. I left my phone home, so at least it looked like I didn't just jump on it and respond. I DO hate to look like I'm at the whim of someone else, whether it's the truth or not. I am diligent though, and often project that on others. Any potential dates out there, keep that in mind! My response was: "NO! I waited for you for hours I saw some old friends so it balanced out ;) have fun sitting today can I call later?" Meh, a little odd, but it was forward and gives an easy out for the phone call. The reply was: "Sure. I'm baby sitting my niece till tomorrow. Enjoy the Sun!" I didn't reply to this text.

The phone call. I called at or about 22:49. "Hello mate ..." I laughed despite myself. It's been a while since I knew an aussie enough to get the less formal greetings. Was a nice change. We had a nice conversation about last night, what we'd both done today, and what was on for the week. Apparently Aussie had changed after work and headed over to Lino, but had to wait in line. WTF. He left because it was 2:30, and 100 SEK ($15) to get in. Understandable. I told him about getting to catch up with M, see post below. We talked about his music video for a bit, and I admitted that I was surprised it was his at first, confessing that the beginning I thought it was a really thin Heath Ledger. I got a chuckle for that. Apparently it's good that I had trouble recognizing him (Aussie) outright. Though, confusingly, Aussie and Heath are from Australia and of similar age ... hmm. He apparently had a blast sitting his niece and is psyched to do it tomorrow. I got another invite to see him at work -- different place this time. I'm not sure how I feel about this: 1) he's trying to get face time in, because he's uber busy and not going to have much time to see me otherwise or 2) he's not realy interested and is placating me because we've such a short time remaining for anything to happen. Either is plausible, especially given the obviousness of my interest. Oh well :) HE works on Tues at this place on the water, so who knows. I'll think on it, see what you all say of course.

So, he invited me to keep in touch this week to see what's going on, but made it fairly clear that he is busy. Who knows. I have a gut feeling that he is being polite and is trying not to create any vested interest on his or my part. nice of him, but I like it straight up and obvious sometimes. It's just nice, and appropriate :)

Well, that's it for now. Hopefully he will text me tomorrow some time. We will see. This is when the 'Rules' have more bearing, I think, and he may hold off on contacting me until Tues. Thoughts?

The Finn texted me twice :) both of which I responded to. He's terribly hungover today and had to work all day. he's just now getting off work I think and it's 00:30. That's hardcore.


Hope everyone had an amazing weekend!

~B-dawg

pissed haiku

We talked. You said X.
Now You tell me you can't X.
Do what you say, dick.

clockwork orange come to life?

I thought this article was interesting. It's about gangs of teenagers in England going around beating the crap out of people, taking pictrues with their famera phones, running off, and posting the pictures on the web. I've had trouble finding pictures. Most recently, a small girl was raped and a man, defending his car, was beaten so severely he fell into coma for two weeks.

Apparently this is not new for England. It was a fad in the 60's and 70's, glorified by Stanley Kubrik's Clockwork Orange and novel by Anthony Burgess. Until recently, the slap-happy incident's remained minor, inflicting only minor injuries among early teens preyed upon by gangs of teenagers. This sounds remarkably like mob-like bullying to me. It's even affected the blogsphere. See e.g. : http://inklings.blogs.com/inklings/2005/04/slap_happy.html, see also http://theladyjustitia.blogspot.com/2005/04/as-technology-advances.html; compare http://baldilocks.typepad.com/baldilocks/2005/04/slap_happy.html.

~B

Sunday, June 19, 2005

Random Sign


Random Sign
Originally uploaded by mrbrianjapan.
We were strolling along Kungsgatan today and passed a Carlings (Jean and T type store) and saw this sign. YEs, you read it right, it's in English. The little text below the exclamation is "En trappa ned" or "One floor down" since the store is in the basement of the building.

My mom nearly fell over when she saw this, and, being the only one with a phone, freaked out and didn't know what to do. She really wanted a picture, but thought it was so cheesy to just stop and take one. Of course Dad and I were like, "Take the fuzzy picture!"

We stood by it to make sure NO ONE questions the authenticity. The scary part of this whole thing is that people really do notice this stuff. I wonder if they had to get special approval to put this sign out ... Hmm. Now all we need is GAP to start putting out signs like, "No sweat shop created materials sold here" Wait, they can't do that ... my bad.

Hope everyone had a good weekend. New post updating the Aussie saga coming shortly.

~B

Hilarious Cat Joke :)

Four men were bragging about how smart their cats are.

The first man was an Engineer, the second man was an Accountant, the third man was a Chemist, the fourth was a Government Employee.

To show off, the Engineer called to his cat, "Tsquare, do your stuff."
T-square pranced over to a desk, took out some paper and a pen and promptly drew a circle, a square, and a triangle. Everyone agreed that was pretty smart.

But the Accountant said his cat could do better. He called his cat and said, "Spreadsheet, do your stuff."

Spreadsheet went out into the kitchen and returned with a dozen cookies. He divided them into 4 equal piles of 3 cookies each. Everyone agreed that was good.

But the Chemist said his cat could do better. He called his cat and said, "Measure, do your stuff."

Measure got up, walked over to the fridge, took out a quart of milk, got a 10 ounce glass from the cupboard and poured exactly 8 ounces without spilling a drop. Everyone agreed that was good.

Then the three men turned to the Government Employee and said, "What can your cat do?"

The Government Worker called to his cat and said, "Coffee Break, do your stuff." Coffee Break jumped to his feet, ate the cookies, drank the milk, crapped on the paper, screwed the other three cats, claimed he injured his back while doing so, filed a grievance report for unsafe working conditions, put in for Workers Compensation and went home for the rest of the day on sick leave.

Bring New, Meet Old?

So, I DID, in fact, go to *BAR* last night. It was quite a boring time at first. Then, however, the Aussie introduced me to a small group of people who took care of me for the night. It was really nice. OMG and I go to see the Aussie's new music video ... WOW. He looks kinda like Heath Ledger , except with lighter eyes, and not as large a build. It took me a few minutes to realize that the video was the Aussie's, they were playing it with the DJ music, so I figured it was just random. Then he came up and was like,"What did you think?" shrugging I said,"Um, about?" "THE VIDEO,it's me!" I almost fell over, I was like, "Dude, no it's not, is it?" They replayed, with his soundtrack this time ... it was pretty cool :)

So, I met a TON of new people last night, and suddenly the Stockholm gay scene livened, significantly. I still have to admit that I am disappointed in the scene here, a bit, mostly because people usually just want a lay, and you have to be VERY careful about people buying you drinks. Usually there are 'expectations' or 'favors' attached. I'm not like that, so I make it very clear, or offer a reciprocal drink purchase. I met some nice people, but no one asked for my number. Strange, because I got felt up at least 27 times(ass, chest, and the obligatory small of the back). I did meet a Finn, I know people are going WTF, who was really nice. He keeped forcing conversation, so I figured he was really really drunk or trying to get an opening for something. When I offered a movie or something this week I thought he was going to cry. His whole body smiled, and he had phone in hand before I could blink. He texted me before I even got home. And he gave a decent hug goodnight. So, hopefully we will hang out sometime this week. I did not get to see the aussie much last night, which was a little disappointing, but he was working. I think I may try and call him sometime this afternoon.

After *BAR* closed we headed over to LENO (a schalger bar on Riddarholmen, close to downtown). It was not really what I expected, but we ended up outside watching the sky lighten up around 2 am. It was the cool. While out there though I saw M. You guys probably do not recall the saga of M, so I will post it below for those interested. M was, unfortunately or fortunately, in town to do his ex who is moving back to Brazil. That tears at me to no end, but M had nothing but amazing things to say about me to other people. He quipped at me that I dont' call enough, and renewed an invitation to come see him in amsterdam. I should go. It's just tough, because, at the end of the day ONE of us will do something stupid. M and I used to lift and hang out all the time before he broke up with ex. Here is the saga, as much as I can find:

I actually can't seem to find much about M. Which is strange, because it's bugged me for a really long time and C and D and I used to talk about it. I SWEAR I had a post laying it all out, but I've gone through my entire backlog and there is nothing. Basically, M was here dating Ex. M was serious, Ex wanted sex and not a relationship. M and I hit it off. We went to the gym, hung out, talked every day etc. Me had issues and gave nice hugs. I was smitten, for good reason. M is the hawt, AND the nice, AND the worldy. I toyed with the idea of talking to M about 'us' once he moved back to Amsterdam, but it just didn't feel right. It definitely one of those 'in the wrong place at the wrong time.' Like me going out last night, and for the first time, meeting people who weren't out for a lay. Hmm, why couldn't that have happened last fall? Here are two posts I found. Nothing spectacular, but they are there:
  • A comment on Showing Interest

  • M Leaves :(


  • So it was really nice to go out. I saw new faces, I met old friends. I even went by McDonalds on my way home! I stood in line and ordered ALL in swedish. b/c I'm hardcore!

    I hope everyone else had a stellar weekend. I'll update about the Aussie, but he's not contacted me yet :( I'll do the obligatory phone call this afternoon and then I'm done forcing it.

    ~bsan

    Saturday, June 18, 2005

    Sunbathing ... with the Aussie?

    Whatsit? Did I really say SUNBATHING with the AUSSIE? That's right, I said it. And, it in fact, happened. I've the sun on my face to prove it, and the digits in my phone to back it up! Ha! This is actually one of the first 'meet at random place and both show interest' that I've had in a while. It's been especially hard here since everyone just seems to want to do it, and skip the dating part. Just not my thing. So I guess you guys probably want to hear about how this whole thing went down. Those who don't, I'm sure you can find other stuff to read on here!

    Well, as some of you have read, I've used strategery to no avail this week, in coordinating my gym schedule with what I was hoping was the Aussie's. I didn't know his actual schedule, since I'd not seen him before, and he worked out on that one friday from 10 am - 11:30am. So, going on this, I figured 30 min. before, or after, should be appropriate, and it didn't REALLY mess with my gym schedule that much. I've even gone a few times in the afternoon to bike/run/cardio whatever, to see if I'd catch up with him. Surprisingly, after not seeing him yesterday, I wrote it off as a wash, and decided that he was probably straight, and not interested anyways.

    Anyways, back to the story. So, I'm at the gym, and just finishing up a 25 minute run, according to Johan's guidelines. I'm still trying to find my peak levels. I finish and turn around, and who should be walking down the stairs? The Aussie, who waves and looks all nice. I wave and stagger off the machine. He disappears down stairs and I, yes I'm on a mission, follow. I was totally done lifting, so I casually go into the lockerroom. Luckily I'd not taken a locker in the side corner like I normally do, so we were 'comfortably' close to one another in terms of lockers. I strike up a conversation, seeing what he's doing for the weekend. Turns out he's working, and been working, but he plans on getting out and getting some sun. What am I doing, he asks, "oh, nothing, getting out in the sun could be nice, maybe I'll go out and read later." He get's naked, and just as he's undressing my calves start twitching from my run. I go to stretch. I come back and he's semidressed. Cool. I was ready to go a few minutes ago, but I hung out 'just in case'.

    The stumper for me was that he kept calling his ex his ex partner. Now, as an aside, I've met several aussies and canadians who use 'partner' to mean male or female (very pc). So this information gave me very little insight into possibilities. So, I played along with it for a bit, tried to get a feel for where he'd worked in the city and it turns out he'd worked A chokladkoppen. I was like ahhh ... and do you know H (who I went on a few dates with)? Wow, that's awesome.

    We walk out together and I ask him if he wants to catch lunch or something. He's got to work at 3pm, and it's 12:30, but he's totally focused on the sunning. "What are you doing now? Would you like to come with?" Me? Wait, let me think about it. Give another awkward smile, you know, like I'm really giving it consideration. "Sure, where would you like to go?" We settled on the University, there's a really nice rocky cliff near there for sunning, and it's close to the water. I went home to grab some stuff, and met him at Uni 20 minutes later, he biked.

    So we hiked a bit, and picked a good spot. Laid out towels and stripped. He was in bathers(square lycra things *censored*) I just kept my shorts on and rolled the cuffs and waist. I didn't even think about the fact that he was about to see me in a state of semi undress. Now I'm all, whatever. We talked a bit. He's really really nice. I really enjoyed talking to him. He's actually older, and been in show biz since he was 9. The thing that sucks is he's moving to the UK and I leave in a week. After the sunning though, we walked back and I asked if he'd have any time to hang out this week -- I was deliberately loose with the language.

    We exchanged numbers, and he said he wasn't sure how much free time he'd have this week, but that I should definitely give him a call. I know he's babysitting his niece the next two days, and working tonight and next week. He did say, at the end, "If you are near *BAR* tonight, you should drop by." His bike was between us, and the afternoon of sunning had been somewhat nondate-like, so he politely extended his hand. I didn't miss a beat and shook, then gave him a smile and told him I'd try and come by tonight. I think I'll go, if for nothing else but just a drink, and so he can see me clean for once. Maybe I'm less attractive clean?

    So what do ya'll think? I told him all I had to do all week was go to the gym, adding that I usually go to the gym in the morning. Should I push for meeting again or ...?

    hope everyone's having a great weekend

    ~B

    Friday, June 17, 2005

    Arms

    I will post about the insanity that was the gym today in a second post. Below is my arm work out. It changes, of course, but this is what I did today.

    Dips. I did traditional dips with no extra weight. Because this was my first I also did 10 x 7kg (15.4lb) over head tricep extensions (Right arm, then left arm) after each set of dips.

    x 12
    tricep extensions
    x 12
    tricep extensions
    x 12
    tricep extensions
    x12
    tricep extensions

    Arm curls. I SO hate arm curls, probably why I wussy, girly looking arms. Bite me. There are so many more fun things to do than curls. I use a neutral inclined curling bench for these so you get nice full extension. The bar is 10kg (22lb).

    12 x 15kg (33lb)(with bar it's 25kg, 55lb)
    12 x 20kg (44lb)(30kg, 66lb, which was my max for 4x or 5x about 3 weeks ago)
    9 x 22.5kg (49.5lb)(32.5kg, 71.5lb)
    6 x 25kg (55lb)(35kg, 77lb)
    10 x 10kg (22lb)(20kg, 44lb)(power set 6x 25 to 10 x 10)

    Rope Pulls and Overhead Extensions. These are fun, but I was stuck on the single cable with can make it awkward since it adds resistance. I alternated pulls (pushdowns with a rope, where the arms go from prayer to extended) to overhead (same deal, elbows in) for each set.

    15 x 17.5kg (38.5lb + resistance)
    15 x 17.5kg

    12 x 22.5kg (49.5lb + resistance)
    12 x 20kg

    10 x 25kg (55lb + resistance)
    10 x 22.5

    With pure weight cables I can usually get up to 10 x 35 or 10 x 37.5.

    Standing Curls, cable 'head-crackers' and dumbell curls. Yes, all in a row.
    I use the same weight for the curling bar (27.5kg) and dumbells (7kg), but change up the cables. Again, these cables are resisting cables, which I actually prefer for head-crackers. Head crackers beign with the arms straight out from the bod, palms up. Handles in hand, step in front a bit for parallel, behind for upper. Parallel tends to target the middle of the arm a bit better. Curl, keeping your upper arm parallel to the floor, by only moving your forearms. Your hands come to your head, so you look like you are hitting yourself, like when you were a kid and your uncle did that to you ...

    For each set I did 10 standing curls. Then I did cables. Then dumbells, singles forst at 8 a piece, then together at 8 total. Cable variance as follows.

    StandingCurl
    12 x 7.5kg (16.5lb + resistance)
    Dumbells

    StandingCurl
    10 x 10kg (22lb + resistance)
    Dumbells

    Standing Curl
    8 x 12.5kg (27.5lb + resistance)
    10 x 7.5kg (16.5lb + resistance)
    Dumbells

    StandingCurl
    7 x 12.5kg
    12 x 5kg (11lb + resistance)
    Dumbells

    I still hadn't hit an hour, so I figured I could do another blended exercise.
    Overhand bicep curls and double tricep extensions, followed by single bicep extensions. Overhand bicep curls are odd, but then help my forearms, and hit the bicep a little differently. Take a large bar (I used a 20kg bar bare) and grip decently close with hands on top of bar and parallel with hips. Let bar rest on thighs. Curl to chest, repeat.

    10 x overhand
    10 x 7kg double tricep
    10 x 7 single

    10 x overhand
    10 x 8kg double
    10 x 8 sinlge

    10 x overhand
    10 x 9kg double
    8 x 9 single

    10 x overhand
    9 x 9kg double
    9 x 9 single

    W00t!

    ~B

    Thursday, June 16, 2005

    clocktower 10:05


    clocktower
    Originally uploaded by mrbrianjapan.
    Just so you don't think I'm cheating, this is a clocktower on the otherside of my building. See the time!

    sun setting 10:22


    sun setting 10:22
    Originally uploaded by mrbrianjapan.
    the exposure isn't as good because I'm shooting into the light.

    sun setting 10:31


    sun setting 10:31
    Originally uploaded by mrbrianjapan.
    this is what it looks like from my windows at 10:31 AT NIGHT

    a leg work out

    This is a typical leg work out for me:

    Squats. Usually use the smith, with a bench to spot.

    10 x 90kg (198lb)
    8 x 95kg (209lb)
    8 x 100kg (220lb)
    6 x 102.5kg (225.5lb)

    Abridged squat. Go deep and stay there, just below the seated position to just above. I use a real low box as a guage. It's harder than it looks, especially right after the squats.

    10 x 30kg (66lb)
    10 x 40kg (88lb)
    8 x 50kg (110lb)
    8 x 55kg (121lb)

    Step ups (if I don't do abridged squats). Dumbells in each hand. Usually step up on a mounting box or bench. Do one set with one leg, the immediately into the next leg.

    10 x 24kg (52.8lb)
    10 x 24kg
    8 x 24kg
    8 x 24kg

    Barbell Calf Raises. Usually use the smith machine, and a calf raise block. I do a deep raise to neutral (heel goes down), then a set of upper raises (heel goes up) to neutral, then full raises (heel starts down, goes all the way up).

    15 x 15 x 15 - 90kg (198lb)
    15 x 15 x 15 - 90kg
    15 x 15 x 15 - 90kg (then another set of deep raises for 15)
    15 x 15 x 15 - 90kg (then another set of deep raises for 15)

    If I start with squats I usually only do light curls and extensions.

    Curls (hamstring). Machine, so I don't precise weights, but all are power sets. I do single legs, then both, so if I say 6, it is 6 Rx 6 Lx 6Both.

    8 x lvl5
    8 x lvl6
    6 x lvl7
    4-5 x lvl8

    Extensions (quads). Machine, again, single legs, then both.

    10 x 6
    8 x 7
    6 x 8
    5 x 9

    I usually try to get in some free-ham lifts. I like to use a barbell, and, on one leg, bend down, allowing the other leg to kick out behind you with your back straight. Bring the weight up, with your swinging leg moving as a counter so you can stand if you have to when you get back up. Looks kind of like an ice skater. Change legs when you've done one.
    8 x 30kg (66lb)
    7 x 30kg
    7 x 30kg
    6 x 30kg

    Think that covers most of it.

    ~B

    Light Back Workout

    I figured I'd try to cardio thing Jonah talked about yesterday, but I felt bad going to the gym for 20 minutes. SO, I did a light back workout first. Usually when I go 'light' I do lat pulls.

    Close grip Lat Pull. Traditional, close grip handles, pulled to the chest in an even motion. Release until arms are beginning to unbend, repeat. Back is usually locked. Hold body at a slight angle away from the machine.

    12 x 60kg (132lb)
    10 x 65kg (143lb)
    8 x 70kg (154lb)
    6 x 75kg (165lb)
    12 x 45kg (99lb)(power set 6 x 75 to 12 x 45)

    Inclined dumbell row. I like this excercise more than the traditional dumbell row. Place your weight on the bench near the end. Place your knee on the edge of the bench, so your calf is now at an angle. Place the coordinating hand beside the weight. Let your other leg go straight behind you, and a little to the side, so you are almost in a 'sprinting' position. Set your back (you should have a nice, flat back lining up with your outstretched leg). Roll the weight off with your lifting arm. If you are in position the weight will pull your arm straight. Keeping your back locked and not moving your leg, pull the weight up to your chest. It is MUCH easier that it sounds once you do it once. I went pretty light on this.

    8 x 30kg (66lb)(you move the weight to other side after 8, so 8 each side)
    8 x 32kg (74lb)
    8 x 34kg (82lb)

    Wide grip lat pulls. These are cool behind-the-head-lat-pulls, with the fun huge wide grip, bell bar. The biggest mistake people make on this is letting the weight go too far above their heads or pulling the bar too far down. IT's REALLY hard on your shoulders, but if you do it right, even I can do it pain free. I usually move from a gloser grip to a wider grip and drop the weight after a set.

    12 x 60kg
    10 x 40kg

    10 x 65kg
    10 x 45kg

    8 x 70kg
    10 x 40kg

    6 x 75kg
    10 x 45kg

    After that took 27 minutes, I just didn't think it was enough. I did lower back extensions.
    20 free
    20 x 10kg (22lb)
    15 x 15kg + 5 free
    25 x 15kg + 5 free
    I did situps in between.

    The cardio run. I did a pre-planned setup with incline changes on level 6.5 (speed varied from 7 - 8) Did this for 20 minutes. Broke a mad sweat. But still had my wind, so moved to a bike for 20, same deal.

    ~B

    Chronic Insomnia: An American Problem?

    I really do not enjoy reading about things and having them labeled an American problem, but there are definitely things that fall into this particular category. I thought I'd outline some of the exacerbating elements below. Here is the Article that spurred this post: Chronic Insomnia Baffles Sleeping Experts.

    Hmm. Where to begin. WELL, let's start with the article. The article lists several causes including, but not limited to, fast-paced-life, menopause, prescription drugs, coffee, smoking alcohol, and major life-ending diseases. Well, that probably covers the gambit, but let's really consider the american population in general.

    (Gluttony)We over eat. Have you seen the size of the portions they serve in the US? Can we say,"One plate would feed a small african village?" And it's not like ording a'la carte does any good, the food is already there and not going to Africa, that's for sure. And it's not just the portions served, but the fact that everyone EATS it all. It is ingrained in us, even in school, that you must clean your plate, that it is atrocious to not eat everything. Classic, "there are starving people in china/africa." Yeah, there are starving people in the US to, but me cleaning my plate does not get them food. *Focus* Okay, so we eat too much, and get in the habit of eating too much, so we engorge. It's not healthy.

    Sugar. In particular, Americans eat outrageous portions of sugar and refined flour all the time. It is ridiculous, and killing us. The new kick for low carbs and whole grains is all well and good but these things are EXPENSIVE b/c the Sugar conglomerates and Lobbies are SO strong in the US. What I love to see is an obese person enjoying a diet coke with a slice of devil's food cake with chocolate frosting, or a double chocolate machiato with two Krispy Kreme's in the morning. I mean, seriously, on occasion you can do that stuff, but regularly you are just begging for a coronary. Sugar directly impacts your blood and usually acts as a stimulant, and can therefore mess with your sleep.

    Caffein. A vicious accompanyist to sugar is our friend caffein. Caffein actually induces cravings for sugar. Not to mention that caffein is a direct and sustaining stimulant that can cause dependency and insomnia. If you really want to cut sugars from your diet, you should also quit the caffein.

    (Sloth)We are stagnant. So not only do we drink the coffee to give us 'energy' and eat sugar for a 'pick-me-up' we don't do anything. Our bodies, as sick as it sounds, LIKE to be abused. It thrives when you do some consistent working out or cardio, walking or swimming, biking or lifting weights. If your body is almost always at a state of rest, how will it realy know when to calm down and go to sleep. Being active helps use, remove and replenish hormones vital to healthy sleep cycle. Believe me, I know, ever since I started lifting I've slept SO Much better. Even through law school. The only catch being that activity TOO close to bedtime may cause exhaustion, which robs the body of actual rem sleep, and may also cause insomina through release of endorphins and other exercise-induced hormones (including testosterone and phospodiasterase which, re viagra article, will definitely keep men awake).

    Alcohol. Is never the way to cure insomnia. Alcohol likes to react with water in the body essentially evaporating what is there. This is a double whammy since we rarely take-in water as we consume alcohol. So we deplete the water and leave a HUGE need behind. This causes the hang-over when excessive. The interesting thing is that alcohol does act as a depressant but can be hard on your heart. Some alcohols, when reasonably consumed, help the heart like red wine (grape seed extract is GREAT for the heart). Some alcohol actually helps the system, similar to working out, but we are talking maybe a glass does the job (probably less). When you fall alseep drunk it is similar to passing out. Your body usually skips a rem cycle to focus on the rest of your body, and your body temp goes up. One of the major bodily defects humans have is the inability to regulate body heat when we sleep. When we drink, in particular, we sweat and usually have a higher body temp for 5 - 6 hours. This will cause you to sweat and be hot, then cool significantly. Huge change, not good for sleeping, it can shock the body and keep you from rem. Not good. No drinky before the bed !

    Allergies. These cause major insomnia, especially noted in the spring. This is usually seasonal, and not considered part of chronic insomnia. If you KNOW you have seasonal allergies get treated, even if you think they are minor. Small allergies nag your body enough and put enough strain on it that they can cause insomnia and actually keep your body from REM sleep. Hence, you can wake up and not have actually 'rested' your mind, equating to no actual sleep.

    Interesting part of insomnia. I actually had terrible insomnia when I was in undergrad. I was going through a ton of crap and I was uber stressed. I ended up averaging, and by average I mean add'em up and divide by total, 3 hours of sleep my sophmore AND junior year, even with meds. When I was home I would sleep 10 - 12 hours at a time, which was just not like me. I used to get most of my sleep from naps, and then be up most of the night. The thing I learned from my doctor though was that when you don't sleep stuff happens to you. For one, your reaction-time can reduce to that of being inebriated, puting you at risk for driving and functioning generally. This among other things, but in particular your "ladder of life functions" falls.

    "Ladder of Life Functions." This was probably the most pedestrian, and functional, model of life functions I've ever heard. Basically you have a ladder of functions. At the top you usually have needs like food, clothes, water, shelter; then you have your maslowian needs, belonging, love, identity; then you have desires; then wants; and finally piddly stuff like do I want 5 pennies or a nickle. When you lose a significant amount of sleep over time your ladder essentially falls. Your mind no longer processes things in any 'order' as it should. I know this from experience, and the trouble is the most trivial things can seem life-important. This gets dangerous as everything becomes important and you can no longer delineate between tasks. Believe you me, it sucks. So in a sense insomnia is a vicious, collapsing, cycle that feeds on itself once it gets going too far.

    I'm not sure that insomnia ISN"t an american problem, because it definitely is, but I don't think the problem isolates to the US. Interestingly I think other cultures handle it better, mostly because they eat better, are more active, and discriminate against sugar-based snacks. Even where they don't, like here in sweden where everyone's always in the candy and icecream, they are probably 20 - 40% more active even in every day life.

    ~B

    Wednesday, June 15, 2005

    swedish sun: summer here at last?

    Wow, the difference between today and yesterday is remarkable. yesterday it was sunny. I went out in a T-shirt and jeans, and it was pretty comfortable. I was cool, especially walking between the shadows of buildings. Today, is completely different. Even the shade is warm, and the sun, on my face and arms, warmed me like a true summer sun. Oh, how I missed the summer sun, and I'm thrilled it's finally back. The weather will persist for the rest of the summer, I'm hoping.

    It was so nice, in fact, that my dad came home early from work. I was busy so around 5 I went to get stuff for dinner. We are having one of my favorites, hamburgers and gravy with mushrooms, greenbeans and tomat/cuccumber salad with ranch. If it's like this again and he comes home early, we are going to hit one of the cool beer gardens down on the waterway near Djursholmsbron. I'll take pictures.

    Hope everyone's having a wonderful day!

    ~B

    A Light Chest Workout

    So, in the spirit of Johan's posting, I decided to note my work out here. Chest workout is, surprisingly, one of the things I don't worry about too much. I have a tender shoulder that limits piling on the weight, but i can press more than my body weight for 6 - 8 reps, so I'm probably doing okay. It could be worse, Jason can't even work with free weights :( Anyways, there is plent of other stuff to read on here for those who aren't into the lifting stuff.

    Cables. I recently started changing up my chest work outs from bench stuff to cables at the beginning. My body seems to like it, since it's usually cranky two days later.

    Today I started with set-lunging cable press (lunging postion to add constant tension to the cables for stability and some isometrics), with the handles on the top (we dont' have middle cables). Put your arms in a 'hugging' position, and maintain, do not bend elbows. Pull smoothly from the side to front position, rotating your hands slightly, your hands should cross, one on top of the other. Alternate if you want. Release slowly and repeat without stopping your motion.
    15 x 25kg (55lb)(this is for each side, together it is 110lb etc)
    12 x 30kg (66lb)*
    9 x 35kg (77lb)
    8 x 35kg (77lb)
    10 x 15kg (33lb)(power set, directly from 8 x 35 to 10 x 15)
    - chest generally, inner-chest

    At the * you see above I started set-lunging underarm press in between sets(I don't know what they call it, but it's fun, makes your chest pull up so yer huge for like 2 seconds). The handles on the floor. Lunge forward, and set. Hold your hands near your sides/legs, keep them in tight. Palms should be forward. With the same locked hugging motion, pull smoothly up so your palms are upraised infront of your eyes. releasly slowly until just infront of your thigh, repeat. Try not to 'dip' when you repeat, it's hard on the shoulder :) I always find it easier to do these with my hands open, so it looks like I'm trying to push a box when I start, then I'm trying to put a box up on a shelf when I'm done.
    15 x 12.5kg (27.5lb)(again, each side, so 55 total)
    12 x 15kg (33lb)
    12 x 17.5kg (38.5lb)
    10 x 20kg (44lb)
    15 x 10kg (22lb)(power set 10 x 20 to 15 x 10)
    - upper and inner chest

    Bench. I am always unhappy with my inner and upper chest, so I focus there, since any chest exercise will use your lower chest. I rarely do flat bench, and I'm almost always on the Smith Machine (the one with locks so you can't decapitate yourself as easily). My Smith machine has 10kg (22lb) weight added (actually 10 taken from the bar, but whatever). If you are using a smith find out what your counter weights are.

    Inclined closegrip chest. These are great for your triceps and your inner/upper chest. Whenever you do a closegrip exercise you will want to keep your elbows as close to your body as possible. While moving them out helps some, it doesn't do anything worth while overall. If you need to know how 'inclined' to put your bench, there is usually a bench 'set' for inclined. Follow that. I usually just oggle it, and I've done it enough that it just feels right.
    12 x 10kg (22lb)(again, both sides + 22lb for smith = 66lb total)
    12 x 12.5kg (27.5lb)*
    10 x 15kg (33lb)
    10 x 17.5kg (38.5lb)
    - triceps, mid/upper chest

    Inclined neutral or open hand. Same idea, rack and move hands to the neutral position (usually a relatively wide position). Most 'bars' have smooth-stripes on the grips for recommended wide or neutral gripping. Again at * I racked and changed positions, like a power set.
    10 x 12.5 kg
    10 x 15 kg
    10 x 17.5 kg
    10 x 10 kg (power set)
    - mid/upper chest, triceps

    Double Hand Dumbell Raises. This a tricky one I picked up recently, just to change it up, I'm still not convinced it does much. Rest a dumbell in your lap, one end toward you, one away. Grab the handle with both hands together on the end nearest you. Lay back. Put your hands 'flat' against the end, handle between your thumbs and forefingers, weight resting on your hands. With the fun, hugging arm position take the weight over your head and behind you. Keep your arms from bending, raise until over your chest. Go back. Repeat. Do not let the weight go too far back.
    15 x 14kg (30.8lb) * (this exercise uses only one dumbell)
    12 x 16kg (35.2lb)
    12 x 18kg (39.6lb)
    - triceps and lower chest

    Inclined Cable Flies. Yes, that's right, more cables. Inclinded bench centered between cables and pulled forward. Handles on the floor. If the bench is far enough forward can be tricky to get handles. Again fun hugging arm position, side to front, back, repeat. Do not go too far back, can hurt shoudlers. I started cables in between Sets with Double Hand Raises.
    15 x 20kg (44lb) (each, so 88lb total)
    12 x 22.5kg (49.5lb)
    10 x 25kg (55lb)
    9 x 27.5 (60.5lb)
    12 x 15kg (33lb)(power set 9 x 27.5 to 12 x 15)
    - center chest.

    This was a light work out, and took me almost 52 minutes. I dunn how Johan gets it all in ... I didn't even rest much between sets.

    ~B

    Miracles of VIAGRA: Not what you Think

    Canadian researchers recently found that Viagra Treats Children's Lethal Hypertension. VIAGRA's original market was men with Erectial Dysfunction -- you may recall the slew of commercials with semi-famous people like Bob Dole and Raphael Palmiero, with the Pepsi knock-off commercials. Anywhoo, the reason why viagra works is that it helps increase arterial bloodflow by 'relaxing' the ionic pumps by reacting with nitric oxide in smooth muscle parts of the arteries and capillaries. This enlarges the vessels and allows superior blood flow. I think it also inhibits vitamin A receptors in the eyes from transforming A to L-A, causing some 'blue' vision. A is the vitamin required for seeing in the dark (i.e. what we need to see at night, EAT your carrots!).

    The reason why the drug works here is that the capillaries in the lungs, like the penis, are rich in phosphodietase which reacts with the nitric oxide. The lungs use potential gradients to transfer O2 to the blood and CO2 to the Lung(outside). When the blood vessels restrict, there is less CO2 to exchange, and the body takes in less O2. This makes it hard to breathe. This will cause the body to fatigue, and normally you will see spots or hurt in your chest. If you really want to see it do the balloon test under controlled conditions. When you have hypertension, or high blood pressure, your body will restrict your bloodvessels for protection -- so they don't bulge or get torn. There is where VIAGRA comes in. It releases tension in the blood vessels, particularly in the lungs (yes, and penis). This increases blood flow in the lungs, allowing for easier breathing. Normally children with Pulmonary Hypertension die within a year of diagnosis. Of the 15 children enrolled in this particular study, 4 died within a year, 9 continue to do well on the treatment.

    I love it when something this simple comes along and has a huge impact on people's lives. It began as a product of selfish middle aged men who couldn't get it up, and now it's saving children. Brilliant.

    ~B

    Tuesday, June 14, 2005

    It Teases me ...

    I am so upset about the coolness that's been the summer here so far. It's so frustrating. It is gloriously sunny by about 5:30. I know because it streams into my bedroom, to lie gently over my sheet-cover like a dog waiting for me to get up. The irony of the amount of sun is that it's almost no warmth. How is that possible, you might ask. You seriously have to be in the sun, shaded from the wind completely to really warm your body. About the closest I've come is wearing all black and laying on the grass at school. given my pasty complexion after the winter and my general avoidance of the sun, I looked like a goth freak gone sun bunny.

    I am super psyched to head back to Dallas for the summer. I am a little leary of going back without some sort of base tan. So, I'm debating tanning today (yuck) at the gym. I'm actually going to the gym a little later to see if I'll run into the Aussie. I'm doubting I will, but you never know. Actually, I've a fairly good idea it was just a fluke he was at my gym at all. BUT, I figure I am going to go bike, and possibly tan. Every time I say I'm going to go tan I chicken out. how bad can it be? I really will get fried if I go to dallas for the summer with skin this faire though.

    Sorry for the lame post, but I just can't keep the MJ story as my lead for today.

    ~B

    A BRIEF Comment on the MJ case

    And by brief I don't mean little boys' underwear ... So I've not followed this case at all, but I figured some of my readers did. The sequence of events is very similar to the OJ case: Criminal Trial then Civil Trial.

    Criminal Trial found Here

    This is where the STATE prosecutes Jackson for Crimes. The jury acquitted Jackson of all charges. A charge is like Molestation, or Murder 1 - for those who watch Law and Order and the like. There were 10 counts (different charges) including 4 counts of molestation back in 2003.

    As is normal in most states that protect children and elderly, the State may present some evidence of MJ's previous activities when they are identical to the elements of thsi crime. The Yahoo! article says this is unusual. It is not. I am pretty certain MD has a smiliar evidence law. The State was allowed to present evidence of other molestations and abuses by MJ. While this is evidence, it is not conclusive. You may not present past acts to prove a crime. There are certain exceptions to this, but I doubt your could argue that molesting boys is a trait. Usually past acts are used to impeach a witness (make him or her look bad so that she is not as believable to the jury). The states are definitely split on this one, but CA is not the only one. Plus CA is a pretty strong state for the promulgation of laws creating trends across the states, so I don't know where the Yahoo! article was going on this one. My evidence is rusty, but the Yahoo! article is wrong.

    The Article also says that MJ never took the stand but spoke to the court in Video Tapes. MJ never addressed the court. He was never sworn in. The Videos were evidence against him, and not MJ's use of the court system. For MJ to actually address the court he'd have to take the stand and be sworn in.

    They really need to get lawyers who can write to do these things, this is a really bad article. I've read around, and not found any that are much better.

    I would guess a Civil Trial will happen next. This is where the Victims(or families) from the Criminal Trial bring a case in court for Monetary recovery. You would probably see things like intentional infliction of emotional distress, tortious battery (unwanted touching), negligent and reckless endangerment, and depending on california law you may have softer laws for the family to recover under. This is where you will also see lots of settlement, because MJ doesn't want any more bad press.

    I'm not EVEN going to comment on my opinions of the case. I didn't follow much.

    Have a good one

    ~B

    Sunday, June 12, 2005

    Bush gets Bushwacked: A joke from my Dad

    Of all people, my dad sent me this joke...

    ---------
    George W. Bush is visiting an elementary school. In a fourth grade
    class, he asks the students if anyone can give him an example of a
    "tragedy".

    One boy stands up and offers "If my best friend who lives
    next door was playing in the street when a car came along and killed
    him, that would be a tragedy."

    "No," President Bush replies, "That would be an ACCIDENT."

    A girl raises her hand. "If a school bus carrying fifty children drove
    off a cliff, killing everyone involved... that would be a tragedy."

    "I m afraid not," explains Mr. Bush. "That is what we would call a GREAT LOSS."

    The room is silent; none of the other children volunteer. "What?" asks George W, "Isn`t there any one here who can give me an
    example of a tragedy?"

    Finally, a boy in the back raises his hand. In a timid voice, he
    speaks: "If an airplane carrying George and Laura Bush were blown up
    by a bomb, that would be a tragedy."

    "Wonderful!" George W beams. "Marvelous! And can you tell me WHY that
    would be a tragedy?"

    "Well, Mr. President" says the boy, "because it wouldn`t be an
    accident, and it certainly would be no great loss!"

    ---------------

    HA, okay maybe it's just me but I thought it was riotous.

    Hope everyone had a great weekend,

    ~Bsan

    Crazy French Waiter

    If you guys remember back, I took a trip with my dad to Normandy this spring. Um, you do remember right? Oh god, never mind, here's the link. It is the weekend afterall, I can't expect people to think :) right? Here are some others: French Radio, French Driving logic, Tour Eiffel, St. Michel, Sunset over St Michel (they are all in sequence). Anyways, while we were there we had LOTS of oysters. I mean every evening meal, with no exception. The thing I really love about oysters is the changes in texture and taste depending on where you harvest them. Anyways, so our last night in Paris we go foraging for oysters, and my dad seems to remember a place his boss took him where they were just particularly good. He's really animated about it, so I figure we should just do it. So we walk around for a good hour before we find this really nice looking place with a market right beside. It's not the same place, but whatever. The wait staff comes out in spurts collecting huge trays of some of the nicest looking oysters. So, we stop in.

    They weren't too busy, so we sat almost immediately. The host was very polite. He placed our table and sat us with minimal fuss. This was to be the calm before the storm that was our waiter for the evening. About ten minutes later, after more than half the restaurant filled, an average looking man in a nice suit and glass struts up to the table and starts filling water glasses, asking us about wine and what he can recommend. It is about 10C outside, and this guy is sweating, profusely. We make our order, everything seems to be fine, even if he is a little abrupt, but then again this is what I experienced overall in Paris -- given that I don't speak the french I was surprised I didn't get treated like crapola :)

    So we go through the ordering okay. Then I notice this same guy flies by our table at almost a dead run. Then he does it again. He's yelling at the guy who seated us, throws a pad and pencil at him, and continues running back and forth, with bottles and hands full of glasses. Suddenly, there IS no wait staff. Then, like a floodgate, the waiter bursts from around the corner with two enormous trays of oysters followed by an enterage of misc. waitstaff, most of which is terribly underdressed. Once done serving the first trays he comes over to us. "This is the most horrible night ever," he offers, practically seething, "I apologize for the delays, but we are down two wait staff." He then starts to gimp away, and by gimp I mean this man has done enough running in dress shoes that I bet his achille's tendon is exposed.

    Time passed. I am deep in conversation with my dad, and enjoying a subpar white wine, when the waiter appears and dunks his hands in our ice bucket. "I am so sorry," he defends himself, "That little asshole burned me." My father and I make appropriate apologies, though we've no idea what is going on. "Dont' worry, I will kick his ass AFTER work, hand me a plate so hot it takes the skin off. WHAT was he thinking!" I tried not to laugh, this guy was so surly he was comedic. He stumbles off again, and I half expected to see bloody footprints. For someone so lame though, he moved remarkablely fast. He came back a few minutes later with our meal, and apologised for his comments earlier. We both noted that he'd just had a rough night and not to worry about it, we were american afterall. HE actually smiled, I'm not sure if it was in appreciation of our exculpatory explanation of his actions or our poking fun at ourselves. We shall never know. He didn't revisit out table that evening. I did see him one more before we left though. With a clearing tray, he ran square into another guy with a serving tray. In the collision the poor waiter ripped his pants. This guy had been through it all and to top it off, it was just getting worse. We left around 11 pm, the place was packed, he was the only waiter, and there was a 15 - 20 person cue for seats. I think they were actually turning people away at this point. I just hope he got through the night without killing someone. The meal was supurb.

    ~B

    Saturday, June 11, 2005

    Antisocial?

    I am supposed to go to a birthday party for a friend tonight at Bern's, which is very near me in Östermalmstorg. I really like this person, and it is probably one of the last times I'll have to go out with classmates, but you know what, I'm just not feeling it. Is that so wrong of me? Perhaps I'm being antisocial?

    Firstly, Bern's almost always has a line on weekends, not to mention a steap cover (150 SEK if I remember right). That's like $20. Not to mention that drinks are pretty expensive there as well. I DID take a 2 hour nap this afternoon, but I just feel like crap. Second, I've never met a gay guy there, and let's be frank about it, as much as I want to go and get smashed, I'm feeling the effects of being single for the last 3 years. yes, I said 3(three, tre, tres, III). I'm particularly feeling the drive to just be with someone, which is dangerous. I'm hoping I'll meet someone nice this summer in Dallas. I met someone this winter, but we've not really been in touch, and he's been decidedly unresponsive to my attempts to reestablish communications.

    Interestingly, I met someone at the gym yesterday. The strangeness of it all. I was very attracted to this person. I'd never seen him, or his lifting partner before, and I only noticed them because I heard tid bits of english. Apparently he used to lift at my gym all the time, just before I joined, then he moved to Gamla Stan. He seemed really really nice. He's a pop singer who just finished a video. I'm not even sure he'd be interested, but he did introduce himself after I asked his partner for a spot and then him if he lived down town. He's an aussie, and my only true love, thus far, was also an aussie. I dunno. It was just awkward. We ran into each other after he'd showered and I was picking up my gameboy in the lockerroom to go bike. I had a moment while we were talking and had to sit down. It was a bit awkward b/c I had to drive the conversation for a few minutes while he dressed. I tried to bolt a few times and he asked me a new question. Then, I made to leave and they followed. He and his lifting partner said they'd hopefully see me again. Curiouser and Curiouser.

    Speaking of, I'm reading Alice's Adventures in Wonderland. I also bought Alice Through the Looking Glass - the sequel. It is incredibly easy reading, but it's always nice to go back and read the classics. There are definitely certain tonal nuances that I pick up on now that my mind's matured ... a bit at least. I also want to reread the Chronicals of Narnia before I go see them in the movies. HARRY POTTER comes out July 15, the day I travel from Montreal. I wonder if I can pick it up in the airport or something. I'm a huge fan of the HP series, as I noticed several other readers are as well. I'm tempted to go through as I'm reading and do some analysis/commentary, but I'll cross taht bridge when I get to it. I've never really done that before, so I'm not sure how into/good at it I'd be. Meh, we'll give it a spin.

    My parents are gone this evening. They've a social engagement for one of my dad's collegues. It should be quite nice, they are going on a boat tour of the archipelago. Sweden has the largest brackish archipelago in the world (I think) and it is truly breath taking. I've never actually done one of the dinner and boat rides, but it's supposed to be very nice. Lots of the swedes try to get summer stuga's out in the archipelago for vacationing etc. They have this commercial here for laundry detergent that shows the ideal swedish summer stuga: little red house on a very small island (enough for a garden and a little lawn) with a clothes line drying sheets. there's a small dock for a skiff or sunfish-type sail boat. The archipelago is relatively shallow so keel boats, like J's, aren't as common as I'd originally guessed. I've done 60 hours of sailing and observation on J's, and have my level 2 license. I should just suck it up and get my level 3 so I can commission a ship; I think level 3 is a skipper's license. In any case, that's the kind of place that just looks perfect. I'm sure if I got out there though I'd have a terrible craving for something and not have the means to get it :) But, such is life.

    I hope everyone's having a great weekend. I'm still not feeling this going out thing. I may go futz around later and see if I'm up to it, but I rather doubt I'll go, particularly if there is a terrible wait and a $378562738562783945623478 cover.

    My best

    ~bRiAn

    Friday, June 10, 2005

    What kinda Blogger ...





    You Are a Snarky Blogger!



    You've got a razor sharp wit that bloggers are secretly scared of.
    And that's why they read your posts as often as they can!



    Are we in anyway surprised? I thought not. Tack Sven

    ~B

    CE's Curséd Meme

    Not to point fingers and name names, but I've not done one of these yet, and I was really really hoping to not have to do them. HOwever, given said circumstances, I will overcome this challenge!


    • Total Number of Films Owned:Jesus H. Christ. Are you serious? My parents own 389 on DVD alone. I, personally, own 143 not including up to season 5 of southpark and several anime series(es?).

    • Last Film Bought: Shrek 2 (or Aladdin, I bought them simultaneously)

    • Last Film Watched: The Grass Harp. "When we die, it will tell our stories as well ... And I heard them, all the stories, but the only voice I heard was ..." Right, like I'd give it away.

    • Five MOvies that I Watch Frequently or Mean Something to Me:Princess Bride, Last Unicorn, NeverEnding Story, Space Balls, The Shining. I think just about covers the gambit.



    My tags are: Anne, Kyle - b/c he'll probably be into this and can tag Trevor and Blake, and Jonah - b/c he's a talker :).

    Done and Done.

    ~BRiAN

    Formal Procession: Honor Guard

    This is the Honor Guard (Royal Guard I think). I missed the Mounted Guard up the front, but you all get the general impression. We see this all the time. It's so wonderful living here.

    ~B

    Formal Procession: Band


    Formal Procession: Band
    Originally uploaded by mrbrianjapan.
    More street action today, near Normalmstorg, around 11:50 we had a formal color guard procession. I think they go to the Palace on Gamla Stan, Sven will correct me if I'm wrong.

    ~B

    Jokes for Anne

    My internet's been down a good portion of the day, so I will now proceed to entangle the entire area! More posts to come!

    Anne, the lovely french lady who recently refrained from slamming my English speaking abilities, is waiting for news. She's anxious enough to have started house cleaning for pete's sake. SO, I thought I'd post some jokes to pass her time. If you aren't into jokes then you've been warned and can skip this one. I post enough crap up here, daily now, that you can read something else. Sorry for being so short, but it's my naptime.
    ----------
    Black Balls?

    A caucasian man lays quietly in his hospital bed, propped up slightly, a oxygen mask over his face. He's resting up and, as always, a nurse walks in to take his vitals right as he's getting comfortable.

    He suddenly gets very animated and asks the Nurse, "Nurse are my testicles black?!"

    She gives the patient a hard, blank stare, "Sir, I'm not sure what you are asking."

    The patient continues in his state, "Nurse you have to tell me, you have to CHECK, ARE MY TESTICLES BLACK." HE's getting flustered at this point. "Can you tell me? Are they black?"

    The Nurse recovers from her initial shock and says,"I'm not sure I can tell you, I think you need the doctor to tell you."

    The man asks one more time, "You can check though right, to see if they are black?"

    The Nurse lifts the man's hospital gown and looks at his testicles. They are not black. The man removes the oxygen mask as the Nurse puts the man's gown back down. "That was nice Nurse, but will you just answer me, are my test results back?"

    -------------------

    A buddhist monk makes his first visit to New York City. The City, he understands, is famous for its hotdogs. He's really excited to try these hotdogs and searches through out the city for his firt experience. He finds the stand he wants, near Central Park, approaches the vendor and waits in line.

    When he gets to the front of the line the vendor asks him,"What do you want?"

    The monk looks at this surly seller of hotdogs and the perfect answer dawns on him,"Make me 'One', with everything."

    (this joke is MUCH better told live).

    Hope you enjoyed Anne!

    ~B

    China: Will it Happen?

    I got a somewhat disappointing message from my advisor today. It looks as though china will not happen, at least not through the university venue, so I'm looking for alternatives. I really want to continue studying and researching, get some teaching in, and go to asia to do something. I do know I could probably teach english if I went to Beijing, which I'd totally love. So, who knows it's still up in the air.

    At this point I'm pulling in favors right and left, trying to get things together and settle what I will do for next year. Unfortunately, these are not going as well as I'd hoped, but what can you expect, favors only travel so far. So, China has yet to 'happen' per se, but hopefully, please send good vibes my way, things will pan out in the end.

    ~B

    A Quickie ...

    And no, I'm not imparting any personal experience about favors. I just wanted to clear some things up:

    1. Yes, my English sucks, but I am NOT Swedish. I type too fast, I have horrible spelling and I suffer from ADHD to the point I couldn't even get through all the testing for diagnosis. There, I said it, it's out there.

    2. In the spirit of the above, I want to reiterate, I am NOT SWEDISH. It would be blasphemy for me to try and hold myself out as a swede. Though, if I stay here long enough, who knows.

    3. I am American. That should explain just about 99% of anything deviant or nonconforming on this page, whether to language or social standards.

    4. Sven: I have definitely noticed the bad-suit-wearing phenomenon, particularly since I live in Östermalmstorg. It works in concert with the haircuts though and together compose what I like to think of as the typical swede. As brash as that sounds ...

    5. I'll try and get a decent picture of the graduates today.

    6. I am off to the gym for 2 hours, so it will be a while before I post again.

    7. My next post will likely be a sad post about the China program falling through and my resulting dispare over what to do this coming year.

    8. Is my English really that bad?

    9. No, don't answer that

    10. Wait, yes, do answer that ... what's sick and twisted is I TEACH legal english to people, and I'm damn good at it. Maybe it's an example of me being a better teacher than doer?

    11. I've had more than 50 hits for the last four days running. I either need to post less to elicit more concentrated comments, or someone better stop stalking me ... I'm just putting it out there.



    Hope everyone had a great day!

    ~BrIaN

    Thursday, June 09, 2005

    street graduation celebration

    I know you can but barely make this out, but I only had my cell on me. As promised though on June 3, a picture of the graduates in a dumptruck driving around down town!

    ~B

    Challenging Stigmata: A NEW theory on the Death of Jesus attempts to equate flying to crucifixion

    WARNING - SACRILAGE FOUND HEREIN
    Challenging Stigmata? A NEW theory on the Death of Jesus.

    My title is much more interesting than what Yahoo! put up. Apparently a doctor in Haifa, Isreal, will circulate his theory that Jesus died of a pulmonary embolism, running against traditional asphyxiation and the wounds causing his death. Interestingly, this doctor promotes this theory to bring education to the public about pulmonary embolism and flying ... that's right, flying.

    Let's make this connection shall we?(yes, pun intended, sue me) According to the good doctor, "It is known that the common cause of death in the setting of multiple trauma, immobilization and dehydration is pulmonary embolism," wrote Brenner in Journal of Thrombosis and Haemostasis. "This fits well with Jesus' condition and actually was in all likelihood the major cause of death of crucified victims." The doctor went on to cite JAMA's 1986 paper on the probably cause of death according to scholars and the new testament. "That paper found that before his crucifixion, Jesus went 12 hours without food or water, was under emotional stress, was beaten and forced to walk to the crucifixion site carrying the heavy cross beam of the cross on which he was crucified. He also was scourged before being nailed to the cross, leading to some blood loss." If we break these down into components, let's see what the doctor was getting at:


    1. Trauma

    2. Trauma again, perhaps emotional

    3. Immobilization

    4. Dehydration

    5. Blood loss



    Now, the question is, how do these line up with flying? This is SO going to piss off the airlines if someone can actually equate flying to being crucified. The distinction probably lies in the whole death thing and collapsing lungs. I'm just saying. Let's look at flying for a second:


    1. Trauma: packing and lugging around baggage is probably a physical trauma of sorts for an average person, particularly if they are traveling for an extended period of time. Flyers are usually anxious and nervous, and loaded with snack foods high in salt, sugar and fat to try and recoop some of their nerves. Most people are not used to being on their feet, taking their shoes on and off a few times, moving this STUPID bag up and down, on and off conveyer belts etc. The seats, I swear, are getting smaller and more uncomfortable. I don't know if they just need to get a bunch of DIY teams in there or what, but sitting on a plane is becoming physical trauma in and of itself.

    2. Emotional Trauma: Wow, this one is pretty clear. Travelers may be leaving loved ones, returning from a funeral, going to a wedding where they secretly are imfatuated with one of the soon-to-be-spouses (see e.g. Love Actually), or travelling with children. Just generally, kids being in the vicinity when you are travelling is difficult. This is not to mention the difficulty with canceled, delayed or 'rearranged' flights, over booking, and having to answer all those questions about your luggage: "Is this your bag?" "Did you pack this bag?" "Has it been out of your control?" "And, whose bag was this again?". I used to have all the answers memorized and just said Yes, yes, no no no, yes, no. The ticketing people loved it. Wow, and not to mention the Security people. There is nothing more traumatic than security in the US. It is a federal offense to joke about bombs, and these people loom over you taunting you to just make ONE slip. Not to mention that the IQ of the security people dropped significantly after 9/11 when we had recruitment en masse. Do I have to worry about the cavity search when I ask if my computed should come out of my backpack? ala Tweek from South Park: "ACK, I can't take the pressure!"

    3. Ahh, immoblization. I'm definitely feeling this one. I always try and get an aisle seat, but then you still can't get up that often. I fly the transatlantic at least a few times a year, and what with all the food and drinks, that don't come often enough, it's just enough to keep me in my seat. Apparently, that's the worst thing that can happen.

    4. Dehydration. Que obvio. When you fly your body loses water at an outrageous rate. It's something like 2 - 3 times what it is on the ground. It's one of the reasons alcohol is more potent in the air. 1 in the air is 2 on the ground folks, and that means you are REALLY getting dehydrated. The dehydration keeps you from having a slash, which keeps you in your seat, thereby exacerbating point 3. DRINK MORE WATER PEOPLE!

    5. Blood loss. This one is not necessary for an embolism, but is probably the biggest difference between flying and crucifixion. That and blunt force trauma from rocks being thrown at you, and all the stab wounds on your body and punction wounds through your wrists and feet. About the only thing I could come up with for blood loss is that period when you take off and you can feel all your rbc's running to your feet and backside. Oh, and whenever you hit turbulance and you drop feet in the air, leaving your stomach and other things where they used to be. I am not sure that rearranging blood within the body is what they had in mind though, I think it actually has to LEAVE your body to effect blood loss.


    Anyways, I hope ya'll didn't find that TOO offensive. While there does seem to be a close connection between flying and crucifixion, I think the circumstances creating the embolism would differ greatly. While the idea was good, I think the good doctor missed the boat by claiming that embolism CAUSED the death and is related to flying. Great, so use crucifixion as one possible means of getting an embolism, I'm sure we can all avoid them. Good example of how an embolism may occur. However, beyond the descriptive elements of the complication itself there seem to be few actual connections between crucifixion and flying. Plus, we aren't even allowed sharp or blunt metal objects through security ...

    Thoughts?

    ~B

    Of News and Worldly Affairs

    Okay, so maybe not so worldy, but news anwyays. I saw this head lined on Yahoo! this morning: Army Headed to Recruiting Shortfall. While I am completely supportive of the PEOPLE, especially my friends, who are abroad and in harms way, I have to say my knee-jerk response to this article was,"w00t!"

    The Army recruits something ridiculous like more than 85,000 people a YEAR. If you've not seen michael moore's recent 'documentary' (slanted, totally yellowed, but shocking) there is a tid bit about recruiting in there. Mostly it occurs in underprivileged and indigent populations. It IS a good way for these people to provide and get life-sustaining training and experiences. However, in times of protracted engagement, even the ghetto doesn't seem to be enough to drive people into the Army recreuitment offices.

    The AP marked the story above mostly through percentages, nothing that, "The Army also missed its monthly targets in April, March and February — each month worse than the one before. In February it fell 27 percent short; in March the gap was 31 percent, and in April it was 42 percent." Before I read the article I expetced like 10 - 15% gaps, but 42% and GROWING? The quota for the year is 80,000 recruits. Maybe it's time to reconsider this whole extended 'war'? Just some rhetorical thoughts.

    ~Brian

    Wednesday, June 08, 2005

    Underwear Purposes: A Response To Jay

    Jay wrote this terribly funny article on men's underwear. She will be doing an 'expose' as it were on women's under garments tomorrow, so please give her some hits and check it out. Beware, there are pictures of half naked men, and not all of them are pretty ... seriously. I will try and hit the high points.

    Silk boxers: great for the guy who wants a perpetual hardon. I'm serious, there is nothing more erotic than loose silk next to your manbits. tight silk is okay, but who really wants to wear tight silk boxers? I mean, really!

    Boxer briefs: My biggest issue with this is the use just for the purpose of showing crotch. Well, this can totally backfire on your if you do not have decent legs or an above average ass. Gaping boxerbriefs are VERY unbecoming. Tight boxerbriefs (and I'm not talking lycra) can make this look really, well, disproportionate. The boxerbrief is definitely appropriate for the average person. To get the most out of them you should have nice legs, and an above average ass. Otherwise I recommend these for basket 'builders' so long as the rest of the trunk fits.

    boxers: for those who don't really want to think about baskets or just REALLY want to surprise someone cause boxers can hide some big stuff. Boxers are pretty comfortable so long as they are the right size. I do not recommend running in boxers.

    jocks and strap-type: only if you have a significant other into it, or you are REALLY REALLY trying to break your self back into underwear after going commando all your life. These can be very unflattering even on a person in great shape, and yes, I know this from experience. If you are going to pick out a pair I would recommend getting some with an extended drop pouch (so the seam is on the bottom of the front support). When you have a cross seam on the top of the pounch it maks things look a little, well, small, and if you are going to compromise yourself this far, just go for broke and make everything look bigger. Seam on the bottom ... end of story.

    briefs: you really should have nice legs, and they should FIT, none of this saggy I'm kinda fat so I can't buy the right size ... you either buy em to fit or don't bother. Briefs are usually not my underwear of choice whether for me or on another. They can be nice on the right person, but they are just so unflattering.

    Underarmour and Lycra: have to say I'm a BIG fan, but for reasons I won't go into here. They make your body retain heat, but they pull moisture out. They are good for working out, and REALLY REALLY accent features like ass, basket and legs. personally, I like to wear these on a first date and no ... not because I Think I'm getting any.

    Everyone should have a pair of first date boxers. I know this sounds insane, but you should really have a pair of boxers that you wear for first dates, maybe they are a little unique, or maybe they make you look better in jeans. Personally I switch between Grey Underarmour boxerbriefs and boxer briefs with tigger on them.

    Probably more than you wanted to know, but there it is!

    ~B

    State of the Readers 6.08


    State of the Readers 6.08
    Originally uploaded by mrbrianjapan.
    It was a sad day in Sweden, as Tonga dropped off the Chart today after sustaining the blog we call Bell Book and Kaselholmen through its rougher periods where no one would read for weeks.

    Given the sudden influx of people Canada also fell off the chart, though from commentary it is speculated that the canadian readers just do not make up a large enough percentage to appear on the chart. As a nonrepresented portion of the visitors, they are by FAR the most vocal. A trend in commentary the writer hopes others will follow with due diligence.

    It may be the first day India appeared in the charts.

    The strongest showing from a new country is Malaysia with three percent. Notably, Education also demonstrated a new presence, estabilishing itself with 4% among readers. American University and University of Chicago comprise a good portion of these hits.

    Japan by far had the biggest single country hit contributing 9% to the total readizens.

    I'm off to post a response to Jay's post on underwear!

    ~B

    State of the Readers 6.07


    State of the Readers 6.07
    Originally uploaded by mrbrianjapan.
    For some diversity, here's another busy day (yesterday) I had the most ever to my blog ... 61 people! I was psyched.

    ~B

    Working Out: A Response to Jonah

    So, in response to Jonah's comment I decided to take a few minutes and vent. I think I will also post again today, but whatever, it's been a few days since I posted anything about gym stuffs. Usually I hit etiquette. I did a weight tracker for a while, which was a total bomb since I've been dieting now for two weeks solid and I've lost antiweight. Anyways, let's get to the gripes:


    1. I went on a 40 /40 /20 to try and put on some mass. After about a year solid of being on a low carb diet, I decided it was probably a good time to take a break and see what adding some carbs did for me. I was also a little concerned that I was lifting 6 times a week at the gym and not really seeing the results I should. SO, I went off the diet for two solid months. I gained mad weight, and I think I put on about 10 - 15lbs of lean mass. The problem was my body fat (bf) spiked. I'd been relatively lean for a year, and I figured gaining mass will help keep the bf down. Well, it didn't.

    2. Body fat normally around 12-14%. The frustrating part is that when I was on the diet it was this low. NOW I'm in the 15% range, which is not so great for my age. I'm pretty athletic, so I figure go back on the diet, add some cardio and see what your body does. Well, my body fat does not seem to be changing much. It's just frustrating. Hopefully I'll see some results before I head back to the states. I've never had abs or anything, so I'm not pining over that, but I am a little worried that my stomach won't be flat again without taking some kind of drastic measure, aka cosmetic surgery.

    3. Weight changes. When I was on the diet I was keeping my weight down to about 165 - 170 range. Rockin, I know, at 5'9 165 is a great weight for someone who is active. The problem being, when I went off the diet I gained about 20 lbs. The heaviest I was in the two month period was 190, then I tapered to about 185. That is frustrating, since I'm not used to weighing that much. I actually think a good 12 - 15 of that is muscle. Having extra weight, muscle or fat, really makes a difference in terms of doing cardio and heat changes. I notice when I do cardio that it takes a bit to get into a steady pace, my body wants to keep short strides etc. I tend to sweat alot more, which is just not pleasant for anyone, even at teh gym. I want to get back down to 175, but after some serious deprivational dieting, I've not budged from 185. I hope that's not a bad sign. I'll stick to the sick notion that it's actually just a sign I'm packing on muscle while shedding de fat. Uh huh, in my dreams.

    4. What's gone right then? Actually, several things have gone right. I'm definitely bigger than I was overall. My friend D swears she can't even put her arms all the way around me, a huge difference from this fall she tells me. I started working legs a bit harder when I went for the see-food diet, since my legs are easily my biggest muscle mass from playing soccer. I've not been very happy with the progress of my leg workouts since I can only squat(legs), comfortably, about 120 kg (120 x 2.2 = 264 lbs). I want to get up to about 130kg (286 lbs). I am FINALLY pressing(chest) my body weight, maybe a little more, and I can definitely pull(back) more than my body weight. I've also started to curl more than 30kg (66lbs), which was my pique for the longest time. My shoudlers are finally filling in some after really doubling up on shoulder exercises (probably my least impressive body part :( ). all in all though I think, in terms of moving weights around, I'm doing pretty good.

    5. What's next? So, now I've added cardio to my work out in an attempt to shed pounds. It apparently is moving against me, probably because I'm only biking/running. The inherent problem herein is that I think my legs are gaining weight, which is great, a month from now when the testosterone helps me build the rest of the body to burn of some of the viceral fat on the stomach. The immediate frustration is the lack of results and the persistence of my weight at (84kg) 185 lbs. I am actually a TON of cardio, a good 45 minute bike at a heartrate over 150 4 - 6 tims a week ... My legs are definitely sore :) I kinda like that, reminds me of playing soccer, but something needs to change soon or I'm going to have to change it up again. When I'm in Dallas this summer I will probably join a gym for a month. It will be a nice body shock to go back to the english system -- I personally think the metric system in the gym forces you to go up in weight faster. Perhaps I'll get a couple session with a trainer to go over diet and a few set exercise routines.



    What do you guys do? I know Grace goes to a gym like all the time. I assume Jonah does as well. Tell us about it :)

    Have a good one people!

    ~Brian

    Tuesday, June 07, 2005

    State of the Readers 6.06


    bbk606
    Originally uploaded by mrbrianjapan.
    For some reason I had the busiest unique-traffic day yesterday on BBK!!! w00t!! I'm pretty psyched about it.

    Here is the breakdown of the readers yesterday. I'm FINALLY getting a steady read from asia, and Tonga is still with us - shouts out to Tonga, the tiny but stable!

    I figured you guys wouldn't want to see all the charts, so I am only posting this one. If you really want to see all the statistics and stuff click on the Sitemeter icon on the bottom of my page. I'm pretty sure I still have open access to most of it.

    Hope you all have a great week!

    ~BrIan

    New Blogs to Read?

    I'm trying to expand my blog-reading, now that I have a little more down time. Hopefuly I can keep up with it because I've found some pretty cool blogs. I hope you enjoy them as well. To protect the sheltered and faint-of-heart I've added descriptions to each link.

  • Trevor: This kid is pretty cool. He actually started blogging to create a faux rivalry. He's a very dry sense of humor, and he's from Canadia ... I highly recommend this is a daily read (plus his posts aren't as long as mine so they are easier to get through).

  • KNOTTY: KNotty lives up in Wyoming of all places. He likes to post video of himself in compromising positions. And by compromising I mean funny, and by funny I mean half asleep after the cattle woke him up or fashioning jewelry.

  • Jason: Lol, this guy is apparently easy to stalk (it's in his by-line I'm serious!), and is currently looking into renting a house from his Aunt S while he pursues a guy who came in and flirted with him outrageously at work.

  • Accidental Boyfriend: Is currently looking for job after quitting his life on cruiseships and entering a relationship. Apparently it's going well :) He's currently living in NYC which, as we all know, is the center for all kinds of fun stuff.


  • Hope you all enjoy

    ~B

    Listed on BlogShares