The following will be a very choppy and stream-of consciousness type post. Sorry.
So last week we got the twins dedicated at church. The babies did well at the ceremony, nobody cried, everyone stayed awake, it was all good. Pastor Mike dedicated Melody, and Pastor Keith dedicated Patterson. We had Tessa on stage with us, and she was pretty good too. Melody went first, and Tessa was okay with that, but when Keith started with Patterson she got a little upset. "Give him back. Give him back." Very protective, that girl. Fortunately she didn't say it loud enough for anyone to hear her and once she realized that Keith wasn't going to keep Patterson she was fine. In fact, after a while I had to hold her back from getting back up on stage with other families. Wonder where she gets that stage thing from? Hmmm....
Anyway, it was a good ceremony and I'm glad we did it. This is the first step in getting the kids on the right track as far as their spiritual journey goes. So far we've done pretty well with Tessa, she loves going to her Sunday school class, she sings the songs, she prays at dinner and, though I'm sure she doesn't quite understand yet, she knows the terminology and that Jesus is her friend and God loves her. Pretty good for two years old. We may not be perfect in the religion department, but we try to point our kids the right way, and try to get a little better ourselves one day, week, sermon at a time.
Speaking of Pastor Keith Scarborough, he is leaving our church to start a new church plant in the Shaw neighborhood downtown. Keith is a good, genuine guy and has enriched our lives through his sermons and presence at Morning Star church. His attitude and sense of humor are some of the reasons I was drawn to this church to begin with. He will be missed, but I'm sure he will find success in his new church. I'm going to try to attend and possibly volunteer once they open in January, but we'll see what form that may take. Anyway, like I said, Keith's a stand-up guy, so give him a prayer if you're so inclined.
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This coming weekend is Labor Day, and all that entails. More on that later, but I'll mention now that I actually have all three days off this year. Doesn't happen much so I'm excited. Among the plans I'm making for the weekend is getting a hair cut. The plan now is to get on the twice-a-year plan. So I'll be getting a cut on Labor Day and St. Patrick's Day each year. Partially because it's easy to remember, but also because it might make for some funny cuts in March after celebrating all day. But, once again, that's the plan now. We'll see what happens when I get in the chair, I may wuss out and not go that short. It also may not work depending on how short I go and how quick the hair grows, but I'm going to try it. So if I look like a total freak for a while, you know why.
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I've been watching Man V. Food all night. I kinda feel full, and really want a steak. Weird.
-----
Funny thing from work.
I work with a guy named Norm (and I only use his real name because a.)this is funny and b.) I'm pretty sure he would want credit for the line. Anyway, the thing about Norm is that he's not afraid to tell you when he doesn't like doing something, even if you're the customer. So the other day a customer walks in with a book of stamps, and Norm is, reluctantly, the stamp guy.
Norm: Welcome, may I help you?
Customer: I have a book of stamps with me that have been sitting in my parent's house and haven't seen the light of day for fifty years.
Norm: Jesus, I wish you'd have said "seventy", 'cause that would be twenty years from now.
-----
So that's about it lately. Been playing with my new iTouch a bit, that's fun. Listening to a lot of Rush and the new Iron Maiden CD, "The Final Frontier". About 4 out of 5 Daves for those who care-the first half is very good, and three of the others are top notch as well, and the whole thing is leaps and bounds ahead of the last record, so I like it. There's your quick review. Probably my quickest ever. Neat. Also still working with my brother on getting the next version of our band together. More on that story as it develops.
Alright, see you all soon. And remember kids, if you don't eat your meat you can't have any pudding. (How can you have any pudding if you don't eat your meat?)
Sunday, August 29, 2010
Monday, August 23, 2010
Rush in STL
"So this is where that pigeon thing happened, right? Well I just want to let you know...No matter how many pigeons shit on him (gestures towards Alex) we're not gonna stop.-Geddy Lee 8/22/10 St. Louis MO.
Last night I went to the Rush concert here in St. Louis with my brother Derek and good friend Tim. Also found out another old friend Jim was there too, he called me tonight to see if I'd gone and we caught up a bit which was nice. Anyway, this was my 11th rush show and, though not my favorite, certainly among the best.
In an unusual move, the band is touring without a new CD, although they did play two new songs to whet the appetite of the loyal fan base for next year's new release. So with little new material to focus on, Rush freed themselves up to play whatever they wanted from their 30+years in the business. The tour's name and concept is "The Time Machine", a clever way to mix songs of the present past and future into an entertaining package.
As always, the band were firing on all cylinders last night, proving themselves to be consummate musicians, and making it all look easy. Geddy Lee (bassist, keyboards and vocalist) was in top form. Though his voice is beginning to show its age (can't quite hit all those high notes anymore), it is still quite strong, and his skills as a player are still phenomenal. A very energetic performance from Geddy as well. And then, of course, there is the man widely believed to be the greatest drummer in the world, Neil Peart. Even on a night when Neil's not 100% he's still better than just about anybody else out there. This is arguably the best rhythm section in all of rock (only Baker/Bruce and Entwhistle/Moon come anywhere close).
This leaves the other member of the band, Alex Lifeson is often overshadowed by his band mates, making him one of the most underrated guitarists ever. Alex isn't your standard shredder, but he plays with a lot of heart, and is more about feel and texture than multiple rapid notes. However, when he does let loose it's absolutely fantastic, as anyone who witnessed his solo on show ender "Working Man" last night will confirm.
As for the show, the focus was on Rush's most popular album "Moving Pictures" which they performed front to back. Every song on that record can be considered a classic (even the ones I'm not crazy about). Though for me, the real treats were in the first set when the band played little heard and overlooked gems "Presto", one of my personal faves, and "Marathon". It was also nice to see some songs return to the set that had been given a rest for the past few tours like "Time Stand Siill", "Closer To The Heart" and "Stick It Out". I did think the first set could have flowed a little better, but the songs were all good ones, so no real complaint there.
Visually, this tour is stunning as always. They may have gotten rid of the lasers but the lights, pyro, fire and video all added their own special magic to the evening. Speaking of video, these pieces are getting more and more involved and elaborate each tour. Rush have used video projections for years, but now with two sets a night, they are taking full advantage of the medium. They are even going so far as to make goofy little movies starring the band as different characters, giving the boys a chance to ham it up a little. Sure, it;s kinda silly and they could probably do away with them and play another song or two. But these silly movies make the evening a little more special, and tend to make the audience feel more connected to the band-and that connection is what this whole music thing's about right?
Other than a few sound problems first set (overly tinny, a few slight drop outs) this show was about as close to perfect as you can get. Rush is still one of the best bands going. Can't wait for the new CD and the 2011 tour.
P.S.- To those expecting a dedication post, I'll cover it next time.
-Dave
Last night I went to the Rush concert here in St. Louis with my brother Derek and good friend Tim. Also found out another old friend Jim was there too, he called me tonight to see if I'd gone and we caught up a bit which was nice. Anyway, this was my 11th rush show and, though not my favorite, certainly among the best.
In an unusual move, the band is touring without a new CD, although they did play two new songs to whet the appetite of the loyal fan base for next year's new release. So with little new material to focus on, Rush freed themselves up to play whatever they wanted from their 30+years in the business. The tour's name and concept is "The Time Machine", a clever way to mix songs of the present past and future into an entertaining package.
As always, the band were firing on all cylinders last night, proving themselves to be consummate musicians, and making it all look easy. Geddy Lee (bassist, keyboards and vocalist) was in top form. Though his voice is beginning to show its age (can't quite hit all those high notes anymore), it is still quite strong, and his skills as a player are still phenomenal. A very energetic performance from Geddy as well. And then, of course, there is the man widely believed to be the greatest drummer in the world, Neil Peart. Even on a night when Neil's not 100% he's still better than just about anybody else out there. This is arguably the best rhythm section in all of rock (only Baker/Bruce and Entwhistle/Moon come anywhere close).
This leaves the other member of the band, Alex Lifeson is often overshadowed by his band mates, making him one of the most underrated guitarists ever. Alex isn't your standard shredder, but he plays with a lot of heart, and is more about feel and texture than multiple rapid notes. However, when he does let loose it's absolutely fantastic, as anyone who witnessed his solo on show ender "Working Man" last night will confirm.
As for the show, the focus was on Rush's most popular album "Moving Pictures" which they performed front to back. Every song on that record can be considered a classic (even the ones I'm not crazy about). Though for me, the real treats were in the first set when the band played little heard and overlooked gems "Presto", one of my personal faves, and "Marathon". It was also nice to see some songs return to the set that had been given a rest for the past few tours like "Time Stand Siill", "Closer To The Heart" and "Stick It Out". I did think the first set could have flowed a little better, but the songs were all good ones, so no real complaint there.
Visually, this tour is stunning as always. They may have gotten rid of the lasers but the lights, pyro, fire and video all added their own special magic to the evening. Speaking of video, these pieces are getting more and more involved and elaborate each tour. Rush have used video projections for years, but now with two sets a night, they are taking full advantage of the medium. They are even going so far as to make goofy little movies starring the band as different characters, giving the boys a chance to ham it up a little. Sure, it;s kinda silly and they could probably do away with them and play another song or two. But these silly movies make the evening a little more special, and tend to make the audience feel more connected to the band-and that connection is what this whole music thing's about right?
Other than a few sound problems first set (overly tinny, a few slight drop outs) this show was about as close to perfect as you can get. Rush is still one of the best bands going. Can't wait for the new CD and the 2011 tour.
P.S.- To those expecting a dedication post, I'll cover it next time.
-Dave
Sunday, August 15, 2010
My All Time Favorite
I have done three different drafts of a new post this week and haven't been happy with any of them. Stink city, man. So I've decided to scrap it entirely and share with you my all time favorite commercial instead. Enjoy!
Wednesday, August 4, 2010
An Open Letter To Missouri Voters
Dear Missouri voters,
I have always been a proud Missourian. I have defended this state to those who want to write it off as being second rate in regards to its culture and its citizens. I have long sung praises of the beauty of our state. The wildlife, rivers and scenic areas are among the best in the country. It is clear to even the most casual of observers that Missouri is a great sports state. We have top notch Universities and hospitals, and our contributions to the arts are many and varied. I have always felt it an honor and my privilege to call myself a citizen of the state of Missouri.
But no more.
While I can't pretend I am surprised, I am deeply saddened and angered by the approval of Proposition C. The fact that it passed by such an overwhelmingly large number is just alarming. Embarrassing, actually. I am dismayed to know that there are that many selfish, backward, uneducated people in our midst.
As mentioned in my last post, the approval of Prop. C sends the message that we Missourians wouldn't know progress if it came up and bit us. But beyond that, it's just hard for me to believe that there are so many calloused, insensitive and heartless people out there who would deny helping their fellow man. For a party who claims to be the choice of Christianity, the Republicans have really dropped the ball here. I have no problem seeing my money go towards helping other people, but that seems to be what it boils down to for the other side. It just goes to prove the stereotype that all Republicans care about is money. Their own money, not yours or mine. And to see Roy Blunt on television claiming this victory to be the first step in securing freedom for future generations...well, it just made me sick. I actually yelled at the television and suggested he dine on something very rude indeed.
Now, you may be wondering why this upsets me so. Believe it or not, it has nothing to do with party loyalty. In fact, the Democrats have passed an incredibly stupid tax law which we'll explore at a later date. My reasoning for supporting national health care is simple. I believe it makes sense, and I am directly affected. I have a lump in my lung that, thank God, has not tested to be cancerous. But it needs to be monitored just in case. Which means it could turn cancerous at some point. It's unlikely but it could happen. The problem is that due to my job, my insurance has changed three times in five years. "Lumpy" is now a pre-existing condition and not covered by any insurance. Therefore, if I am to continue with the tests that my doctor ordered I have to pay for them myself. I don't know about you, but I don't have $3000.00 every third month to get the tests done. Nationalized health care is my only hope. So this is not just another issue to argue about for me. It's personal.
So, yeah, I'm angry with my fellow Missourians, but this is just the last straw. I've put up with the personal property tax, exclusive to this state. I have lived with the concealed carry law though it makes me uncomfortable. Most of the gun owners I know are fairly responsible, but I'm still a little nervous, even around them. And now people are trying to deny me cancer tests. It's just about as much idiocy as I can take.
The only upside I see is that federal law trumps state law, and there's barely a snowball's chance for this cockamamie idea to succeed. If it does...well, in a few years my family and I are going to need to move to a bigger house in a less expensive neighborhood, and Illinois may well be in the running.
Regretfully yours,
Dave
P.S. I have altered some settings on my blog, and it should be easier to comment now. Bring it.
P.P.S. I promise to return to all the family stuff and general goofiness next time.
I have always been a proud Missourian. I have defended this state to those who want to write it off as being second rate in regards to its culture and its citizens. I have long sung praises of the beauty of our state. The wildlife, rivers and scenic areas are among the best in the country. It is clear to even the most casual of observers that Missouri is a great sports state. We have top notch Universities and hospitals, and our contributions to the arts are many and varied. I have always felt it an honor and my privilege to call myself a citizen of the state of Missouri.
But no more.
While I can't pretend I am surprised, I am deeply saddened and angered by the approval of Proposition C. The fact that it passed by such an overwhelmingly large number is just alarming. Embarrassing, actually. I am dismayed to know that there are that many selfish, backward, uneducated people in our midst.
As mentioned in my last post, the approval of Prop. C sends the message that we Missourians wouldn't know progress if it came up and bit us. But beyond that, it's just hard for me to believe that there are so many calloused, insensitive and heartless people out there who would deny helping their fellow man. For a party who claims to be the choice of Christianity, the Republicans have really dropped the ball here. I have no problem seeing my money go towards helping other people, but that seems to be what it boils down to for the other side. It just goes to prove the stereotype that all Republicans care about is money. Their own money, not yours or mine. And to see Roy Blunt on television claiming this victory to be the first step in securing freedom for future generations...well, it just made me sick. I actually yelled at the television and suggested he dine on something very rude indeed.
Now, you may be wondering why this upsets me so. Believe it or not, it has nothing to do with party loyalty. In fact, the Democrats have passed an incredibly stupid tax law which we'll explore at a later date. My reasoning for supporting national health care is simple. I believe it makes sense, and I am directly affected. I have a lump in my lung that, thank God, has not tested to be cancerous. But it needs to be monitored just in case. Which means it could turn cancerous at some point. It's unlikely but it could happen. The problem is that due to my job, my insurance has changed three times in five years. "Lumpy" is now a pre-existing condition and not covered by any insurance. Therefore, if I am to continue with the tests that my doctor ordered I have to pay for them myself. I don't know about you, but I don't have $3000.00 every third month to get the tests done. Nationalized health care is my only hope. So this is not just another issue to argue about for me. It's personal.
So, yeah, I'm angry with my fellow Missourians, but this is just the last straw. I've put up with the personal property tax, exclusive to this state. I have lived with the concealed carry law though it makes me uncomfortable. Most of the gun owners I know are fairly responsible, but I'm still a little nervous, even around them. And now people are trying to deny me cancer tests. It's just about as much idiocy as I can take.
The only upside I see is that federal law trumps state law, and there's barely a snowball's chance for this cockamamie idea to succeed. If it does...well, in a few years my family and I are going to need to move to a bigger house in a less expensive neighborhood, and Illinois may well be in the running.
Regretfully yours,
Dave
P.S. I have altered some settings on my blog, and it should be easier to comment now. Bring it.
P.P.S. I promise to return to all the family stuff and general goofiness next time.
Monday, August 2, 2010
Late Post/Pre Primary
I meant to put this up yesterday, but didn't finish in time. Better late than never though, right?
So tomorrow (or today, whenever you read this) is the Primary election. Apart from the local races, the main issue on the ballot here in Missouri is Proposition C. For those who may still be unfamiliar, if this thing passes (which, sadly, I believe it will) Missourians will be allowed to opt out of National health care. Sounds vaguely harmless on the surface, but let's take a closer look.
First of all, anyone who thinks they're voting against the National health care bill ( I refuse to call it "Obamacare"-how insulting. This idea dated back to Teddy Roosevelt, you know.). If you think that's what's happening here, you're barking up the wrong tree.
As it stands now, the proposition would allow individuals not to participate in the National health care program, which is only a step away from the entire state not participating. I really think that's the real goal here. The supporters of Prop. C want to be able to say after the elections that their victory proves that the state doesn't want to be included in the health care program. They will then begin the process of opting out entirely. And that's where it gets dangerous.
You see, the real issue these people are putting forth is state rights vs. national rights. Now, we all know that Federal law trumps State law, but with enough appeals there can be exceptions. That, my friends, is what we call bad news. It's also embarrassing as it makes our state look like backwards hicks who wouldn't know progress if it came up and bit us.
But here's the really scary thing...it's not just Missouri. There are I believe ten other states trying to get around National health care as well. You know, the last time a bunch of states got a bug up their butts and decided that they weren't going to follow Federal laws a little thing called the "War Between the States" broke out. That's right folks, the good ol' Civil War (a true oxymoron if there ever was one).
Okay, it sounds a bit absurd, but don't be so quick to laugh. The divides in this country are growing deeper. The line between the haves and have-nots is getting wider. Politics are tearing apart our society. Tensions have not been so high since the Sixties (Kent State, anyone?), it's getting to the point where it's almost impossible to have a discussion with someone from the other side without it degenerating into a shouting match strewn with insults. Most people can't form a political opinion on their own, they need the yakkin' heads from Fox News or CNN or wherever to do it for them. Racism is just as prevalent as ever, and in my eyes seems to be getting worse (Hi Arizona!). And all this without even taking the Teabaggers into consideration. It's getting bleak out there, folks.
You know, I've actually been hearing talk from overseas for years now about the civil war they believe is brewing in this country. Well, I watch BBC World News a lot, whaddya want? Anyway, I'm beginning to think they might be right. I mean, there's been a lot of civil wars throughout history, we're just such a baby country we've only had one and don't see the signs. I always thought that if we had another civil war it'd be based on race, or maybe class, but maybe it'll be purely political. I don't know.
All right, I realise that this got a little nuts and far-fetched, but it's something to think about.
Okay, bottom line time. Apart from the whole State/Fed thing, voting for Proposition C is just plain irresponsible. National health care is law, it will happen. Choosing to opt out is cowardly and shameful...either we're all in or we're all out. And keep in mind, Proposition C has been brought to you by the Conservatives. You know, the "America...Love It Or Leave It" crowd. Apparently they're not loving it right now, so by their own logic...well, I'm just sayin'.
Keep all this in mind, but remember it's just my opinion. Vote your heart, vote your conscience. Just vote. It's the right thing to do no matter which side you're on.
God bless America.
So tomorrow (or today, whenever you read this) is the Primary election. Apart from the local races, the main issue on the ballot here in Missouri is Proposition C. For those who may still be unfamiliar, if this thing passes (which, sadly, I believe it will) Missourians will be allowed to opt out of National health care. Sounds vaguely harmless on the surface, but let's take a closer look.
First of all, anyone who thinks they're voting against the National health care bill ( I refuse to call it "Obamacare"-how insulting. This idea dated back to Teddy Roosevelt, you know.). If you think that's what's happening here, you're barking up the wrong tree.
As it stands now, the proposition would allow individuals not to participate in the National health care program, which is only a step away from the entire state not participating. I really think that's the real goal here. The supporters of Prop. C want to be able to say after the elections that their victory proves that the state doesn't want to be included in the health care program. They will then begin the process of opting out entirely. And that's where it gets dangerous.
You see, the real issue these people are putting forth is state rights vs. national rights. Now, we all know that Federal law trumps State law, but with enough appeals there can be exceptions. That, my friends, is what we call bad news. It's also embarrassing as it makes our state look like backwards hicks who wouldn't know progress if it came up and bit us.
But here's the really scary thing...it's not just Missouri. There are I believe ten other states trying to get around National health care as well. You know, the last time a bunch of states got a bug up their butts and decided that they weren't going to follow Federal laws a little thing called the "War Between the States" broke out. That's right folks, the good ol' Civil War (a true oxymoron if there ever was one).
Okay, it sounds a bit absurd, but don't be so quick to laugh. The divides in this country are growing deeper. The line between the haves and have-nots is getting wider. Politics are tearing apart our society. Tensions have not been so high since the Sixties (Kent State, anyone?), it's getting to the point where it's almost impossible to have a discussion with someone from the other side without it degenerating into a shouting match strewn with insults. Most people can't form a political opinion on their own, they need the yakkin' heads from Fox News or CNN or wherever to do it for them. Racism is just as prevalent as ever, and in my eyes seems to be getting worse (Hi Arizona!). And all this without even taking the Teabaggers into consideration. It's getting bleak out there, folks.
You know, I've actually been hearing talk from overseas for years now about the civil war they believe is brewing in this country. Well, I watch BBC World News a lot, whaddya want? Anyway, I'm beginning to think they might be right. I mean, there's been a lot of civil wars throughout history, we're just such a baby country we've only had one and don't see the signs. I always thought that if we had another civil war it'd be based on race, or maybe class, but maybe it'll be purely political. I don't know.
All right, I realise that this got a little nuts and far-fetched, but it's something to think about.
Okay, bottom line time. Apart from the whole State/Fed thing, voting for Proposition C is just plain irresponsible. National health care is law, it will happen. Choosing to opt out is cowardly and shameful...either we're all in or we're all out. And keep in mind, Proposition C has been brought to you by the Conservatives. You know, the "America...Love It Or Leave It" crowd. Apparently they're not loving it right now, so by their own logic...well, I'm just sayin'.
Keep all this in mind, but remember it's just my opinion. Vote your heart, vote your conscience. Just vote. It's the right thing to do no matter which side you're on.
God bless America.
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