The RambleJack

interim post

2012-01-24T12:16:00.000-08:00

I was intending to post sooner than this, but I was working on a post that became longer that I thought it would be. Then I got writers block and now I am stuck... So yeah, that is where I am. I know you are waiting in frantic anticipation upon my latest post and it must be killing you I'm sure. heh

Well, a new semester of school. Another round of homework avoidance and intense not-studying. I have a couple online classes which, as strange as this might be, require more work than going to an actual class! Honestly, I am appalled. This is extremely taxing upon my ability to get by on the seat of my pants.

I leave you with this encouraging thought. People around us often say nice things and we look at them and think... "If only they knew!" but really they will never know. The truth is that None of us knows another, like the way we know ourselves. We can get bound by insecurities and failures but the real test is to push past those. To not let them get you down. Smile anyways. So be strong. Be happy. Ignore all those flaws you see. Be the person you want to be, and not the person you think to be.

Art is my (insert word)

2011-12-29T23:35:00.001-08:00

Art has become a huge part of my life. It's what I do. It's how I express things that cannot be spoken or explained with words. It's my heart in the paper. It's in my blood spilled in ink poured out upon the canvas. Flights of fancy or hard reality. Joy or sorrow. This may seem slightly macabre to some, but please do not think of it that way. Reality is what it is and it cannot be denied. Art is apart of reality so much that reality begets art! It's funny how moments happen when I draw or write or create something that expresses my heart at that moment. Often quickly followed but lets put this away before no one else sees it! Ah, I am by no means a great artist. I do not have that force of skill that can call forth the images of the mind onto the canvas, but I must slowly peel away the many layers to find what wants to be and not what I would make. There's still a joy to it. A focus that I can reach within the drawing that I find nothing else matters. I have a horrible attention span. It is difficult for me to focus upon anything for long without wandering off to some corner of my mind. When I draw or paint... I can focus. It draws me in like a current. I've looked up to see hours have passed, and all I want to do is turn back to the page and keep working. Art is my hobby. My stress-relief. Art is many things, but most of all. Art is my passion.

Cool Story, Bro

2011-12-14T12:47:00.000-08:00

I was sitting in a coffee shop one day, when a friend of mine walks in. He has a big grin on his face like he just won the lottery. I had to laugh because I knew it probably had to do with some girl he had met or talked to or randomly smiled at him as he was walking to who knows where. "Bro!" he said, excited to see me, or rather, more likely anyone with whom he could share his story. "Dude! You'll never believe it man!" I started to reply but he rushed on. "Okay, so you know how it's finals week and everything? Yeah, and remember that one girl I told you about?" As if I paid much attention to it when he told me in the first place, but I decided to allow him his story. I was sitting in a coffee shop alone. Not exactly too-cool-for-you status. "Which girl was this again?" I asked him. "You know! the one that kept smiling at me all semester?"
"Ah. That one."
"Yeah! Well, anyways, I was leaving after the Final for that one class."
"Which?"
"The horrible one. Horrible teacher? I complained all semester about it."
"Oh yeah. That one. What about it?"
"That's the class the girl was in."
"The smiley one."
"Yeah, she's so gorgeous! Anyways, I was leaving class and she said to me."
"Are you going to order?"
"No, she didn't say that. Where would you-"
"I meant, are you going to order a drink?"
"Oh, right... Be right back!"
He ordered his drink and came back to wait for it, continuing his story exactly where he left off.
"So I was leaving class and we just happened to be walking in the same direction..."

****

"You ready to be done with this semester?" She asked him, that smile on her face lighting up as she spoke. "Oh, I've been ready!" He replied, "Especially that class!"
"Tell me about it! I was anxious every time I went to class!"
"You're anxious? She's so feminist I was wrong even when I agreed with her!" He said, and she laughed at this. "Everything you are is wrong!"
"For real! White. Middleclass. Male... I was born wrong!" He shook his head, admiring her smile again.
"Well at least it's over now. What grade did you get?"
"A minus on the last project, I'll probably end up with a B for the class. You?"
"Your orders ready."

****

"What?" My friend asked, intently telling his own story.
"Your coffee is ready. You going to get it?"
"Oh! Hold on!"
"Not going anywhere dude," I said to him wryly, wondering where exactly this story was heading. He got back to the table and went on.
"So I told her what I got and she said she got an A."

****

"An A. Wow, nice work," He complimented her.

"Thanks. So is this it for the day?" She replied, looking up at him.

"Yeah, I have another final tomorrow but that's it."

"What's your major?" She asked him, curiously.

"Liberal studies. Yeah, I'm getting my teaching credential."

"Oh that's good, and you-"

"Get summers off. Week for Thanksgiving. A month for Christmas..."

"That's smart!

"So I'm just going to walk in and be like 'Okay kids, I'm here for the summers, just like you. So you don't mess with me, and you all get 'A's. Even you, little Jimmy special in the back there."

"Oh my word!" She said as she was laughing. Her blonde hair tossed artfully over her shoulder.

"What's your major?"

"Communications major, like with special cases. I just decided."

"What since you've been talking to me?"

"No! That's not what I meant! You're funny!" She laughed and hit his arm.

****

"She hit your arm."

"Yeah man! She said 'You're funny' and hit my arm! Oh, and she was totally playing with her hair. Whole time."

"Oh wow, she is totally into you."

"Right?" He said as that sort of rhetorical question that ends up being an exclamation.

"Go on," I said, my curiosity amused.

"Man, I was on. I couldn't say anything without her laughing."

"So why didn't you ask her out?"

"Yeah, it wouldn't have worked out. Oh hey, gotta go," and with that he walked out.

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

This is simply a short story meant to entertain. Any details within the story are purely for the sake of entertainment.

Mind over Matter

2011-11-12T11:43:00.001-08:00

Challenge yourself.
Take a momentary thought
While it may just be second
Consider all you've wrought

Wonder about your wonderings
Talk of what you've sought
For in the end you'll find
It may be nothing that you've got

Take all that is important
Gather that which is naught
Let the chaff be blown away
Only necessity be caught

West Coast Conference is over...

2011-11-06T09:23:00.001-08:00

Well, WCC is over now. Leaving a sense of emptiness after a week of intense work and socialization! It was lovely to meet everyone and especially those who I just met this year! I did try to take pictures with people but actually ended up talking and forgetting but I did take some! So enjoy! (also included are some from the ordinar-ordinance-ordainment-... You know, that one service!)

West Coast Conference

2011-11-02T08:46:00.001-07:00

Who is ready for WCC?!!!

John's Tips for the Dating Inclined

2011-10-23T15:24:00.000-07:00

It's been a while since I've touched on this subject. Previous reviews heralded my last post as "incontrovertible truth!" "So Useful! I am a better person because of it!" "What is WRONG with you?" and "dear heavens who let this guy near the computer?!!" I will endeavor to explain further the intricacies and inevitable fallacies that arise from the precarious insanity called "Dating."

Well people, I must say that I have done extensive [read: none] research into the field of dating recently and let me tell you what techniques my quite exhaustive fieldwork has led me to discover! My number one tip on dating is so elegantly simple most people just wind up missing it! The truth is that if you are planning on dating, then you must keep this solidly in your mind, never let it go and it will keep you from making a huge mistake! This is can be summed up into a single word and that word is.... "Don't!" Tip #2 is "Ever!" These words will help prevent such erroneous tendencies such as courting and marriage and *shudder* children...
"oh, you're just being cynical!" you say! "It can't be that bad!" oh trust me my naive and unknowing friend, it is much, much worse!! One day you start talking to an individual, it's all innocent and friendly and then -Bam!!- you've been married for 20 years and have ten kids and a mortgage! Oh yeah, and that sweet ride you had your eye on since before you could drive... That orange with black racing stripes '69 soft top Camaro... Yeah, it's somehow been transmogrified into a Aerostar Minivan!! "How could this be?" you cry! well, you dated it. You dated your hopes and dreams into oblivion! "but what if I like minivans?" you ask. You, my friend, need Jesus.
Now, don't get me wrong. I've dated and found it fun! I had a lot of good experiences in the frontlines of this war. But it only lasts a season and then you have to share food and go shopping and actually spend money on someone other than yourself! One horror after another my friend... One endless horror. So the next time you decide to talk to that cutie patootie who aint all that snooty... DONT!

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those of this blogger and should be only construed as a miss-appropriated and highly inaccurate rant and should never be taken seriously. Any endeavor to react in a manor implying that this is a serious posting will be laughed at and mocked repeatedly by people way cooler than you will ever be.

Random Post

2011-10-17T19:34:00.001-07:00

Just thought I would post some pics for y'all! Some old stuff, some new stuff, some red stuff and blue stuff.

Enjoy!

2011-10-13T21:41:00.000-07:00

In all of us we find
a certain point of view
things we see are not as they seem
perspective thrown askew

Simply put
we have a thought
of what that thing should be
and if it doesn't add up to that
then it's certainly not for me!

It's often hard to diversify
To find a different worldview
or at least accept that they exist
as differently from you

I understand that absolutes
exist and cannot change
There is a God who made the world
and Jesus is His name

It's just at times we do not see
the Truth in the Light of Him
But our lens of life and circumstance
bend the rays askew

So take a breath
and then eschew
that carnal minded
warped and blinded Personal worldview

This poem is kind of thanks to my diversity teacher. She's very... difficult... to listen to or want to be around. It's talked around class that the only reason anyone stays in her class is so they don't have to take it again. She is always talking about how we need to shake our worldview and accept that there are others out there who have different experiences than we do. People today who deal with racism, hate crimes, and profiling. There is a lot of correctness in what she says. We need to realize just how privileged we are. There are freedoms that we are completely unaware of simply because we've never not had them. You may be sensing a "but" coming up and you're right. She is right, but she doesn't say things in the right way usually. She comes of so abrupt and strong and in-your-face that it is difficult to want to care. At least for me it is. When someone gets so irate and incensed about something and tries to shove it down my throat, my passive aggressive tendencies shut the caring centers of my brain down. I digress, the point of the poem is that we can get so caught up in our worldview and what we know, or even what we think we know, that we can fail our brethren. Our Neighbors. I'm not talking about State Farm either! We need to learn to truly care about the plight of others. If we cannot care enough to pay attention... Then how can we say we love everybody. I think one of the greatest thing about Jesus is that moment when he looked over the city and was moved. He was moved for each and every one. He cared about, and loved, each and every single person. He cared about the lawyers who tried to trick him. The priests who tried to trap him. The soldiers who hung him on a cross. Doubting Thomas. Betrayer Judas. All. We need His Worldview. There is a song by Brandon Heath, it gained some popularity for a while on the radio a while back, called Give Me Your Eyes. The song goes something like, "give me Your eyes so I can see, everything that I keep missing, give me Your love for humanity..."

Guess Who's Bug--Er... Back!

2011-09-26T17:24:00.001-07:00

Woot! Well, The Champ is running again! This guy is still weak in the knees so he has to take it slow, but he's getting better!

Ooh, also there's a new poll over there --->
Its for me to gauge readership. Since y'all are so anti-commenting :)

He Walks

2011-09-20T22:53:00.001-07:00

He walks.

“He walks alone.
Contemplating the various paths
he's taken.
Much like the road
he is on now,
he did not know where
they would take him.
As he walks
he begins to remember.
Failures and mistakes
that he has made,
agonizing over
each and every
one.
His feet continue
step after step.
His mind travels
forward again,
pushing into
all the problems
that have arisen.
Some he solved,
others he slowly realizes
may never be fixed.
He walks.
He places one foot
in front of the other,
as fear grips him
of the future.
every problem,
mistake,
failure
he wonders
if there is any reason
to go on.
He struggles
within himself
over every
minute
detail
of his past failures.
It weighs him
like a burden.
He considers
the paths before him
in his life,
much like the road
before him.
He only sees one.
He walks. ”

This story-poem is a reflection of how I feel sometimes. If I can be vulnerable for a moment, this is how I feel most of the time. I posted it because there is a truth within the lines. When everything that weighs you down is too much... You just keep walking. You're not perfect. None of us are. If we allow every failure to stop us or even hinder us for a moment, then we will never move from the place you are in. "pressing for the mark" we must also realize that if we are ever going to make it, we are going to have to rely on God. His love and guidance will keep us in our darkest hour.

It Is What You Do

2011-09-19T08:11:00.001-07:00

How is telling a boy he can't go, because he never listens or goes to class, discrimination? It's not racist because we picked up the rest of his siblings along with kids from different heritages. (I dislike the term race. Did you know that there is no DNA evidence of racial difference? At least none found at this stage of science) I suppose it is discrimination. Behavioral discrimination. It isn't that we don't want him to come. We really want everyone and anyone to come with us. The problem is his behavior. He is extremely difficult to deal with because he doesn't listen. He won't even look at you unless you practically force his attention. Then he won't go to his class. So finally we have to say he can't come. And we are accused of discrimination...

Is Behavioral Discrimination a thing? It should be.

Youth Zombied In Burbank Ca

2011-09-12T23:20:00.000-07:00

Well, It's September and that means the annual Youth Alive Conference thingie in Burbank. Its two parts youth conference and one part excuse to go to a theme park! (And of course, the size differential of the parts is quite disparate depending on the individual) Anyways, I could spend hours describing all the awesomeness that transpired, but instead I give you.....

PICTURES!
(isn't this wonderful?! You don't have to read ALL those words!)

On the road to Burbank. Trips like this indelibly etch in my mind why I do not like driving.

I didn't want to take a picture inside the area we used for having church so you will have to make do with the lobby painting.

We arrive at the Park... (get it? the PARK!... Oh nevermind.)

It was raining lightly when we first arrived but it quickly dried up.

A picture is worth... let's see... one... two... four... three... 5 words!

First ride we rode!

I really love this ride and I am really happy with how the picture turned out! Due to the rain the sky was overcast most of the day. I love overcast skies!

While most of the bellhops lend themselves to overacting and just kind of dampen the experience, this guy was awesome! Definitely had that unsettling vibe goin on. His name is "Benny" and if you see him, tell him he's famous!

The Mark Twain is an iconic part of Disneyland and makes me appreciate how Disneyland holds onto the past and yet still moves forward. The past is never something to be forgotten.

Another Disney classic. Billy Hill and the Hillbillies!!! from left to right are: Billy, Billy, and Billy! (Not shown: Billy)

What trip to the land of Disney would be complete without Star Tours and Space Mountain! Keep an eye out for REBEL SPIES! They could be anyone! They could be related to you!

Sometimes, I wish life was in 3D.

This is me on space mountain ride cam... #epicpose

Now, I blame my gun for my score! (I really do think my gun had problems cause I was shooting this one target point blank and it was not lighting up. oh well, it was fun!)

You know, Yesterday had such a grand view of Tomorrow. What happened to that Today?

Finally, we had to say goodbye. It's said that the real magic trick is when night falls and the lights come on all over the park. Whatever it is, it looks amazing.

We stopped at Porto's in the morning before we headed back home.

It's always good to finally come home. "There's no place like home" (picture was taken at the Hollywood Tower Hotel.)
I must say, I had a great time the entire trip! Getting to meet new people and old friends. Spending time hanging out and having fun. I must say, this is a stark difference then what happened LAST year... We won't go into that.

What Do You Say?

2011-09-12T22:34:00.000-07:00

There often comes a moment, for every one of us, where we find out self asking the question: "What do you say to that?" An event or issue has arisen that can leave even the most verbose of individuals speechless. Without voice. A split-second that lasts for a lifetime. Humbling, isn't it? Finding out that we do not have all the answers. How do you respond when a dear friend tells you a secret? When they open their heart to you, and you can hear that whisper of a silent plea begging for a reassuring voice. What do you say? What cliched platitudes will you speak that wont sound hollow and meaningless? Powerful moments. Truly the most powerful moments are those when we are the most helpless. We reach out hand to comfort the shoulder, at a loss for words. A great gob stuck in your throat preventing speech even if you had something to say more meaningful than, "It will get better." That is not to say that it won't get better. There is always hope. "Hope springs eternal," this quote is considered as a universal truth. It rings so hollow some times. Like it isn't enough, but sometimes...

It is enough.

Apologies and Excuses

2011-08-31T16:13:00.000-07:00

I apologize for the lack of posts. I just started the 2011 fall semester as Fresno State so I am trying to get into the groove of things. You know, figure out exactly how much homework I can get out of doing. (fingers crossed for ALL of it!) Well, thank you all for your comments and encouragement to restart my blog. I hope you aren't disappointed by my infrequency of posts but I have faith you will understand.

I do want to explain why my bro is awesome. He went to a few boring little countries in Europe this summer. You know, those terribly droll England, France and Italy! [read: sarcasm] Those places are way cool. Anywho, he stopped in Italy and picked me up something that I've been wanting for a while! It's a quill pen. Now, I don't think it technically qualifies as a quill pen because it has a nib on the tip. So that kinda cheats, but it does have a feather! Pictures will show what I mean. Anyhow, this is an amazing gift and I am extremely impressed. I was just stunned when I first saw it!

Being Who You AЯe

2011-08-21T00:25:00.000-07:00

It is a funny thing. Who you are. How amazing that everyone is so unique. The billions of variables of your life that make up you. The countless events, major and minor, that create the tapestry of your life. I say variables. In truth there are no such things. Your DNA can predetermine what you look like, and sometimes how you are treated. Observers will over and underestimate you based simply on the certain genetic markers that wove into a strand of You. It's beautiful how intricate and complex it all is. And scientists say it happens by chance? Evolution of mankind... How exceedingly arrogant. Take twins. Identical Twins. Siamese. The closest thing you have to being identical to someone else. Yet, did one break their leg trying that one trick on the skateboard? Did the other also make the game winning shot? Events and choices that we as an individual make, and none other can do that. Not at that moment in time. These are what define who we are. We cannot change that.

I cannot change who I am. Whenever I fail, and countless times that I have, I typically wish that I could. I believe it is inherent in our nature to feel less than able. We feel inferior, because we are. "All have sinned, and fallen short..." There is no way we can change that. I digress, and I must confess. I am not as great as I claim. I know I am not. Yet I ask, why should I wallow in self-pity and depression when I can just turn it around? "Mind over matter." Right? Am I a perfect person? Don't answer that! You might be more honest than I'd like. I just do what I can. That is all anyone can do. In fact, I probably don't do my best. It's a character flaw.

I am an artist. Simply put, I like to create art. I did not say that I am good, mind you. I only see the mistakes and the fact that it rarely if ever turns out the way I want it to. As with most artists I try to express myself through my art. I draw and I write and I make and I do. All to show Who I Я. Be... Am... Whatever. I don't even know why I feel the need. It is just this crazy retarded "DUR! I AM SHOW MEH AЯT TO PEOPUL" If any of you are offended by the use of the term. I mean that I feel like my brains growth has been retarded in the sense that it never fully developed. This is where you cock your head to the side and say "Ah... That explains it. Bless his heart." You can't change You. You can only change how you are perceived. Whether it is your self or others that are doing the perceiving. God helps too, of course.

That said, my bro is the most awesomest dude in the Dude's History of Radical Dudes! seriously, the man is... I'll explain in my next post.

Till next time
I JK, awesomeness guaranteed

Question of the Post: What is your favorite thing about yourself?

Contentment

2011-08-12T11:05:00.000-07:00

Whispered shards
of words to be
Echoes of a time unseen
laughter takes
the place of sorrow
life is only the day
before tomorrow
people ask
for moments longer
spending time
like credit stronger
stronger yet
we still fall in debt
and purple skies
are a comfort set
from day to day
and today we say
what said we all another day
voices like trees
call out from the seas
calling to you
Hallelujah
Hallelu-jah

Yet another random thought to cross my addled brain. Not quite happy with it but chances are highly likely that I won't edit it.
I JK, leave you with a question. What is Contentment?

It's Lovely Being Clever When You're Mental

2011-08-09T23:23:00.000-07:00

"It's lovely being clever when you're mental" - Alan Davies

photo courtesy of Sis Tracy

I've been thinking lately of a few things. No, no I was careful. I didn't hurt myself. Just a slight cranial sprain, so I'll let my brain rest for a bit before I stress it further.

Firstly, I was thinking about school. I am about to begin a new semester and I am quite impatient for it to arrive! I need the class time to work on my art. I wonder what will be the theme this time! A couple semesters ago it was robots. I wanted to practice drawing mechanical objects. Of course, I am also taking glassblowing again this semester, so woohoo! I will be creating beautiful Objets d′art ... The wonderful thing about art is that it is easy to create something that people will be amazed by. To someone who has actually done glassblowing, the amazement is not so easy to come by. The most difficult thing about glassblowing, aside from having to stand 2000 degree heat, is the frustration. One small mistake and even a seasoned glassblower could lose a piece. You can work for hours on a piece, perfecting each curve and flute, but lose it in a seconds distraction.
It's funny, I think, how there are so many metaphors (analogies?) for spiritual matters in glassblowing. Take the heat, for instance. In order to work the glass, the heat must be intense. The furnace and gloryhole (a smaller furnace used for reheating the glass while working) are kept at about 2000 degrees Fahrenheit. The temperature must be kept this hot or else the glass wont be viscous enough to be worked. God sends us through the fire and trials so He can work on us. Making our lives beautiful vessels to the glory of our Creator. Sometimes He must cut off pieces that aren't what He wants. He will keep working on us, trying to save us. There are so many pieces of failed projects that have been thrown away. Some didn't even make it long out of the furnace. Others have cracked when they were almost finished. Yet still more have made it to the annealer, to slowly cool and be placed in the Gallery of finished works.
Well, that is one of those random things I think up now and then. Now back to your regularly scheduled sarcastic witticisms.

I need Inspiration! I've never put much stock in the notion of a muse, but I think I might need one. I want to do art and make something but I just don't seem to have that spark. That little push to get the creative juices going. Now, I can do art on my own, without any inspiration. Yet, I have to get started! I don't know where to begin. Nothing appeals to me right now. Of course, I know you're all just rolling your eyes and huffing your breath as you say "Artists!" Oh the agony of being a tortured artists soul! Woe! Okay, Enough moaning, really. I do need an inspiration though, so I will be taking resumes and interviewing possible candidates. Also, I would appreciate a Patron to commission a piece. Any requests?

Well, I need to go anticipate a huge load of mail
I JK, out

That Awkward First Return Post

2011-08-03T12:21:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone, you know that part where I said I quit... Wellllllll, I didn't. Okay, I did, but now I am back. So I guess in reality it isn't much of a quit, and more of a brief pause in my posting schedule. If "brief" is relative to, oh say, a million years or some randomly chosen sequence of time. OOH LOOK! DISTRACTION!

That's a big red barn I made out of cardboard. My sister is there to show how big it is... notice how her toes aren't sticking up! She was very conscious about that.

Practicing for our summer skit. Yes, that is a burlap sack I am wearing as a vest, you may be jealous.

Are you back now? Good, as I was saying, I love acting! It's so fun playing different roles, yelling, laughing, and being mean to people in general who don't mind cause you are *cough* just playing a role. Heh... yeah, that's what I'm doing. "Playing, the role" ahem... Anywho, I have taken a couple acting classes at city college and let me tell you... It's not really worth it. I mean, sure you get taught on how to do stuff and practice, but what I learned is that you really have it or you don't. (If you're wondering... I don't have it) Well, truth be told there are some techniques you can learn. When pretending to sleep, let your mind drift away and when you need to wake up, pull it back in. If your mind is concentrating and actively thinking, then your eyes tend to move and you just appear to be pretending... It kind of ruins the illusion a bit. There is more to it, but that's the main idea. Certain things like that are helpful, but in the realm of Church/Easter Dramas... Not very useful. Given my extensive *cough* experience with acting... And by that, I mean the two classes of acting I took. I must compliment my church's drama program. The director does an amazing job, especially considering our cast runs about 50+ members. I would like to say names and give honor to whom honor is due, but without permission I would not want to do so. Most of you know who I am talking about anyways. In the Sunday School Skit class I am in, The World Traveling Puppeteers (We've been ALL the way to PINEDALE!), we have been working on a western style summer skit. It was going to be Wild West but we had to downsize. It is now just a Wild Farm. My role, as it has become tradition, is the bungling idiot helper. I thank my experiences running around with the Wreck Director for being able to make this role so realistic... *cough*

I would like to take this moment to request prayer for one of our members. He's been sick and we would very much like to get him back. He's an integral part of our team and it just isn't the same with him being gone on sick leave. He is doing better so please pray that God continues His healing touch.

Oh, and I would like to make a comment on planking. Those of you who read the Wakefields blog might have seen their post on Planking. This is the act of laying face down on something like... (wait for it) a plank! Now, this might be the most retarded thing ever, but with a group of friends ideas like this tend to happen and hilarity ensues. Here is our puppet crew's answer. Epic Puppet Plank. Still confused? Here is a link to their post. http://thewakefieldsinmexico.blogspot.com/2011/07/plankin.html

Well, I hope that was interesting enough for y'all. (is it y'all, or ya'll??)
Gentle Readers,
I JK, Signing off

Shall I Return?

2011-07-31T13:58:00.000-07:00

I have been considering reopening my blog. I feel like I need a creative writing outlet and this had been a fun place to post such curious little thoughts that have been on my brain. I am curious as to who would be interested in me returning to the blogosphere once more. After I quit it a while ago I had several people come up to me and comment in person, and more comments on that post than any other! (I should quit more often! Ha!) Now, I know I quit before and many of you will probably feel that I welshed on quitting by coming back. Perhaps that is so, but I did mention that I might return. I am curious as to who cares!

Well, rather than post a hugenormous block of text that no one will read... (at least, not Chloee... She's just around for the pictures!) I will end here.

Flashlight Head, signing off.
(oh and since I am, as Bro C calls me... an ar-teest, here is an art piece I did. It is a hand-blown glass perfume bottle.)

Quit First! Quit Hard!

2010-06-28T22:43:00.000-07:00

Well, this post is to let y'all know that I'm quitting my blog. This has been a long time coming and it's something I've pushed off for one justificating excuse or another. I would like to thank you all for your comments and compliments. It was a pleasant surprise when I heard that I actually did good at something. As much as I love writing and showing off, this blog is too much of a distraction for me. At least at this time. I don't know if I will pick up the pen again but I believe it will be a while. There are things that must be put in order and what not before I return.

My parting words of advice: live for God with all your heart. Trust in Him and lean not in your own understanding. Seek the Mind and Will of God. Smile often, laugh frequently, and Pray consistently.

Easy words. Hard actions. Always, always do your best.

Thank you Gentle Readers.
This is me, signing off

Congratulations 2010

2010-06-10T16:45:00.000-07:00

Well, congratulations 2010 graduates! Welcome to the real world. Which, strangely enough resembles school a lot. You know that annoying kid that used to pick on you? Meet your new supervisor! Teachers pet? Meet the boss' pet! Yes, I know you've been waiting the past 12-15 years for this moment? (maybe even longer for *cough* some of you!) guess what! Here you are! Mission accomlished! I don't want to seem so discouraging, so I'll leave you with this... College has WAY less homework! Also, if you pick the right teacher... You may not even have to show up! Well, it's hard, it's fun, and it's everything in between. Most of all, it's your wide open field of dreams. Go trample some tulips with Bobby or Suzy or whoever that little kid that you thought had cooties, you're probably gonna marry them. Come to think of it, I never believed in cooties... *sigh* welcome to the real world, it ain't heaven but it sure beats highschool!

Humor aside, congratulations graduating class of 2010! Live, love and learn in a whole new familiar world :)

Camp Champ: 6th grade camp with Cesar Chavez Elementary

2010-06-05T16:39:00.000-07:00

Last month I was approached by Bro. Hernandez to help with 6th grade camp... as pots and pans washer. Now most of you know that I wash pots and pans at Donkey Rock with our church camp. That was why he approached me... He knew I'm not too bright and proved it when I said I would go! Haha, humor aside, I did have a lot of fun and it was a good time. He also had me create a design for Camp Champ and I'm kind of proud of it. It was a flow of creative energy that brought it about and it wasn't as hard as I thought it might be. Starting from scratch on a design in which your only requirements are have it say "Camp Champ" and that's it isn't very easy. (Thank you Mr. Hernandez) It was disconcerting, since it was a public school everyone called him Mr. Hernandez and when I referred to him I kept accidentally calling him Bro. Hernandez. *facepalm*

Since you're just blurring through the words... here are some pictures!

Here is the design

The sketch I made when the idea hit me

Those of you wondering whats wrong with the picture... That's snow on the ground. It was gone by friday but it was there. Not something we're used to seeing, eh? The kids probably wouldn't have known what the frozen white stuff was unless we told them.

I made this picture large so you could really see it. The waterfall was just a crashing down, I could feel the mist from the distance I was at. It was beautiful!

Look! Rainbow! also, you can get an idea how far away I was. I was standing on a ledge that you can see in the bottom right corner. The mist was spraying that far.

Same picture, but its with a lomography filter. If you don't know what that is, lomography is a style of photography... Ill make a post some time about it.

The view from the Point... I know this is a common enough view for you Donkey Rock Veterans, but for those who haven't seen: here you go!

This is proof that Hernandez does actually sleep at camp...

View from the dock. I hope you enjoy the pics. CAMP IS COMING SOON!

the RambleJack

2010-05-07T17:29:00.000-07:00

Ramblejack: ram·ble·jack
1. A nonsense word, combined ramble and hijack to create a new word.
2. To interrupt someone else's ramble and take over
3. A blog in which I ramble about whatever I think
4. A word I made up.

As the definition pretty much sums it up, there is no need for me to go on a long and intense ramble about what it means to me and how awesome I am. That said, about less than a month ago I was on the phone with a friend. I was rambling on about something as I so often tend to do, and then all of the sudden its out of my hands and what should happen but my friend is careening out of control... With MY RAMBLE! So I told her, I says, "Don't ramblejack me!" and you know what happens... She laughs! Well, it was funny and good times and I hope that you enjoy my musings and ramblings, but please, PLEASE don't ramblejack me!

and By "Please don't", I do not mean "Please do!"... Jennifer!

I Want Ideas (Your Participation is Required)

2010-04-13T20:10:00.000-07:00

My birthday is coming up, and as I am sure most of you know (because I won't shut up) I am transferring to CSU Fresno this coming fall. I have received my acceptance letter and am just all anxious to GO! Anywho, that all said, I would like to do something for mysel*cough*-um... for all of those wonderful caring individuals who made my journey up to this point... Unforgettable! I am not sure what to do and would like ideas for some kind of get-together/celebration/whatever. Since I know you will do it anyways, you can go ahead and give me the most random ideas you want! Also, locations would be a help. Any suggestion would be appreciated.

Chapter 1: A Story of a Life

2010-04-10T15:27:00.000-07:00

This is a story of a guy. I hope you will read this and enjoy... Unless it gets depressing... I haven't written it yet so who knows?

Chapter 1:

"Hey there, handsome!"

She spoke cheerfully, her grin brightening up the day a million times brighter than the sun. She sat down across from me in the cafe we were in, picking up the drink I ordered her just moments before she arrived. "Hey there," I replied, "You look great! As always."

"Aw, thanks!" She said in that syrupy sweet voice. We sat there, just talking, enjoying each others company. It seemed like the day would never end, and it was almost too much. She was a beautiful girl with perfect hair, perfect eyes, perfect... Everything. I couldn't imagine life without her even though I've only known her for a short time. Her laughter rang out in the building, causing some people to stare and others to just grin nostalgically into their drinks.

"Hey sweetie, get up!"

"What?"

"I said... GET UP!"

I jerked awake, bending and the waist to sit straight up. My mother stood by my bed, looking down at me. "You have a test in an hour, and you better be there. Now get up!" She said as she turned away, speaking over her shoulder, "You better get something to eat!"

"I'm up mum... I'm up" Sigh... As I pushed my feet to the side and sat there for a minute. "Story of my life... It was only a dream." I slowly stepped into my clothes, pulling my shirt over my head with exaggerated motions. I always dream when I have to be somewhere, never when I can just lay back down and go back to sleep. What was her name? Fiona... Always a Fiona... Or Heidi, Mallory, Nadiya... What place was that though? Like a cafe almost but... in a theater? Looked cool. Look at the time. I'm gonna be late. Skipping breakfast again, looks like. Mum is gonna kill me! I put my jacket on and grabbed my book bag, pulling it over my head. I grabbed my hat before I left so I didn't have to comb my hair and walked out the front door. "Later mum!" I called over my shoulder as I crossed the driveway. "You need to eat something!" She called after me. "No time! Bye!"

I opened my car door, and sat inside. Time to go... Sigh... Story of my life.

End chapter 1

***

This is just a random story I made up just now. It is not meant to be taken for actual events... Well, my mum is always trying to get me to actually eat breakfast. I will be posting some pictures about the drama team soon. Will try to get those up as soon as possible.

I Paynten Mah Buggeh! (cause you hate it when I talk like that!)

2010-04-01T21:56:00.000-07:00

So I'm sittin here...
bloggin for you out there.
just got done paintin for the day
making my bug white
whiter you could say...
cause;
It's mah buggeh, an it's a white white buggeh
Aint no buggeh whiter than mah white buggeh
an I know you hate it when i tawlk like dat
but it's how i rollin up with my fedora hat
So;
As your sitten there...
readin my blog right here
just got done doin what you do
liking my blog right
im a writer you could say...
cause;
It's my blog and im writin right bloggin
Aint no blogger writen better 'en my white bloggin
An I know you hate to see me write like that
but its how Im rollin with my fedora hat

Sooo... anyways... sorry about that. I am super hyper right now and I am not sure why! Well, there are numerous reasons so it is hard to figure out exactly what the source of my hyperactivity. So anywho, I been painting my bug sporadically this week. On monday, I got about 33% done. Consisting of the hood and most of one of the front wheel wells. That was a trial run, and i was figuring out how much paint would be needed. Today I got my mum to take me to get some more paint. I worked on it for a bit today and got the hood done and both front wheel wells, and I started on the roof. That's where I am today. Tomorrow I will finish the rest of the paint off... Fingers crossed that it does the job! I dont want to go to get more paint! Lazy, I know. Well, plbbt! (you know what that means!(not you, you, the other you who knows the inside joke.) Anyways, the pics are from top to bottom. Mondays work, Todays work, my hand outlined on the front left wheel well, and an up close of the color difference. and lastly, I completed a screen for shirts on monday as well. I get in these creative modes! It's good times!

:)

2010-03-29T20:18:00.000-07:00

OnCourse - An Apostolic Conference for Apostolic Youth

2010-03-13T20:41:00.000-08:00

Wow, an amazing time at OnCourse this week. Due to school and all, I only attended the night services... Which were fantastic! The preaching was really great... and really hit home! The services all had something that spoke to me and even the ones that I didn't go to... Thanks Jen for informing me that I really needed to get that cd... something about "rebels praying through??" Gee, thanks! I don't have many pics because I don't have a camera. Even though my cell phone is decent at photos it still just aint the same... plus the whole data transfer is all wonky! Maybe next time I'll have a camera on hand. I do want to suggest you hit the link to jen-elise.blogspot.com for some awesome pics soon. (Not sure when those will be up though, but until then, Check it out! I had a great time meeting new people, and meeting people that I have met before! It's awesome! It's like you get the buzz of making a new friend and meeting an old friend at the same time! Those of you who met me, please comment! Just say "HI!" or something! If you didn't meet me, then go ahead and comment anyways! Some of you... I know you will anyways! *coughAnali!cough*

Well that's it for now! have a wonderful time and see yall next year! (If I catch any pics, I'll try to put them up!)

Drama Ministry

2010-02-07T22:06:00.000-08:00

It may come as a surprise to you all, but I am in the Ministry... Drama ministry that is! I don't really see it as a ministry because, well, is it a ministry if you have too much fun? It's such a blast every time we meet or perform a skit. It's also touching because I am a part of something that actually touches people spiritually. Yeah, people actually come to the altars after our skits! We are up there goofing around and, thanks to the writing of Kathy Garrett -- leader extraordinaire, we turn around at the end and there are people crying. I don't take any credit because, well... I know myself to well. I know it's God using our skits, OUR SKITS, to touch lives. If God used a Donkey, then chances are highly likely that he could use me too.
I am still getting used to the whole ministry terminology. I usually refer to it as drama class, merely because... well, I am sure most of you cant imagine me as any sort of minister. It was at the start of this year, just before actually, that Sis Garrett did a Year End Talk-Thingie... Our State of the Drama Team, as it were. It seems that we are to be more than just a skit/puppet team that goes around occasionally, but a dependable full fledged ministry! Filled with people like me!

Those poor bus kids won't know what hit them! I am mainly posting this to put up pictures. I'll bet that most people won't even read this post, but just look at the pics. They see all these words clumped up into paragraphs and it's all a bluuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuur. Anywho, that's what I do on Sunday mornings. The photos are from the skit Christi-An's Journey Through Life's Jungle... Working title is the Jungle Skit. It is a metaphor about our walk through life, very similar to pilgrims progress.

Next up we have pictures from the shepherd play we did for Christmas. Basically, the story of The Birth as seen by the shepherds... I hope they weren't as incompetent as I was! I was the rebellious "this is a waste of time" shepherd. They never did give me my moment of epiphany where I change my ways... but maybe that's in a different play? This one was more involved, mainly because it was for the Christmas program we do at the church and was in the main sanctuary. We had to be on our best behavior!

This last picture is me adding some finishing touches to the backdrop curtain. I didn't make the curtain, I just added the trees. They are cut out and pinned. I thought they were rather nice.

Well, I thought I would post these, now I am off to think about up coming Youth Retreat! God will move! Let's celebrate what He is going to do!

All photographs within this post were taken and graciously supplied by Debby Tracy.

Your Thoughts?

2010-02-04T21:40:00.000-08:00

Everyone has thoughts. Everyone thinks... most of the time anyways. What I am getting that is that while I am thinking, approximately 6 billion other people are probably thinking as well. Half of them might be sleeping and performing a subconscious form of thinking in which the eyes rapidly move while the mind rapidly develops an almost real environment in which hidden fears, hopes, and what was for dinner play a part in creating.

Perhaps
   If I step
   out of
   my mind,
then I might
   Step into yours.
We can, we may
Think together as one,
but only if we believe the same.
The same.
Our lives are different,
yet our thoughts can be similar.
I would that I could find someone.
Who would find the courage
To take the
   l
   e
   a
   p
   of faith,
   and step
   into me.
   Who I am,
   and think my thoughts.

Just me

2010-02-03T21:35:00.000-08:00

I am crazy
I have problems
I smell really funny
I look like a goblin

My art work is horrid
Like my few strands of hair
When I walk by
All the children run in fear

I have no talent
I have no money
My ears and teeth
Are like a bunny's

No one cares for me
And they never will
I have less friends
Than a window sill

As you can see
I cannot write well
I'm not very brilliant
I have few brain cells

The world would be
A better place
If I was flung
Into outer space

The End

P.S. Sympathy cards welcome. I need all the sympathy I can get.

Sincerely,

John Henry Jefferson Kimbley

TOP SECRET

2010-01-07T22:42:00.000-08:00

TOP SECRET: FOR AGENCY EYES ONLY
Agent Sparrow,

I find it amusing that you would request such a specific way of communication. The point of a blog is for an individual to express his opinions to the masses invading the interwebs. You would turn that idea on its head for the sole purpose of personal enjoyment? I find this weird. Very weird. Almost as weird as yourself, though not quite. It's not that weird. It may come as a surprise to you, and it certainly is strange for me to say it, but you are my Number 1 Agent. Of course, you are my only agent in the field so the competition is limited, as it were. I do, however, have a long list of agents in reserve duty available on call should you have issues... (like those nasty "raises"... I shudder to think that one would ask such of me. How greedy!) It has occured to me that your resemblance to a monkey has caused your cover to be blown in certain operations. I have since been looking into possible operations in which your appearance won't be too noticeable, and have considered a political positioning. On the issue of your transportation, I assume that the broom will be fine. It would seem to have the most advantages without having to rely on modern day travel conditions.

I trust that you will not mind if I resume sending my missives to you through Scratch. It is much safer and easier to control than methods such as this.

Agent Goober

Ring around the Rosies, Pocket full of Posies.

2009-12-30T22:33:00.000-08:00

Ring around the rosies... Pocket full of posies...

Look at all the people. Standing.

Walking.

Moving.

Staying.

Ignorant of everything

except themselves,

and apathetic to all

but what they know.

You would think that

a few would step outside

the boundaries placed for them.

That some would be able to see

things as they are.

They move,

yet they do not cross that invisible,

intangible line.

They look,

but they do not see.

What will it take?

What will make them

open their blind eyes

to the truth.

The truth around them.

What is that truth?

Can you not see it?

Are you blind as well?

The truth.

It is all around you.

Stand where I am.

Look at what I see.

Accept my perspective

for your reality.

Then you will see the truth.

My truth.

Watch the pretty people,

dancing

like a nursery rhyme.

Holding hands

and spinning

as the sickening haze

of the world slowly chokes

the life from them.

Did you know

we live longer now?

From years ago

the average life

span has increased!

Only to give us

more time to perpetuate

the expulsion of garbage.

Destroying the world as it is.

Such a sad thing.

Don't you agree?

And then.

When all is said

and done.

We,

who have played

our part

in pushing

away the truth,

will finally see it

for what it is.

Then it will be

too late...

Ashes, ashes... We... all... fall down...

This poem is a written response to the nursery rhyme Ring around the Rosies. It in no way reflects my thoughts or opinions and is merely a work of fiction. The idea is a man with... well, I will let you form your own opinion. Post your comment with what you think it is about.

It began in paragraph form but I gave it to a friend of mine who changed it to poem form. I don't know if he actually changed any words but I can't tell.

This poem is a collaboration between myself and one Mr. Jacob J. Hernandez.

The year, in summary.

2009-12-13T21:07:00.000-08:00

Gentle Reader,

As this year comes to a close, I am considering the next. The past year is a good test for the future, as what I have learned, and haven't, will be what I take to the next. I write this to let you know, those few that read this and have an interest in my life, that I have learned a few things. One is that when I started this year I was that I was on the computer way too much. If any of you noticed, It's been rare for me to post. I have since learned to step away and do other things. Because of this, my skill in art has grown. Not by much, but it has.

I have also learned to let go. This past summer I finally let go of to something that I should have two years ago. When it finally came down to it, I realized that I didn't want to let go because, in this situation, I didn't trust God. I didn't want to let Him take care of it, and though I kept praying about it to Him I just wasn't truly letting Him take control. It seems a paradox, that I can pray to God about something without letting Him truly fix it but that is what I was doing. I was doing the right thing (praying) for the wrong reason. Because I wanted to fix it, and not letting God take care of it in His own Time. That said, wow I feel so much better!

This blog is not for me. It may be about me, but it I don't want it to be for me. What I say and do is all for the readers. I would hope that the things I say and write about will help you. Put a smile on your face, make you laugh, or just make your day go a bit better by realizing that maybe your life isn't as bad as some people! (e.g. mine!) I truly mean this when I say it is not for my glory but for God's. That is a hard thing to say and truly, truly mean. People tell me that I am talented, in writing, drawing, charming *cough*. Those talents, if true, are not mine but God's! He made me! He placed me in a family that would encourage those Gifts of His. I am amazed that he would trust such a Gift in my hands. I love drawing, and being able to make images that people admire. Yes, I feel a bit of pride at a nice drawing or painting but I have to step back and thank God. I know that He gave me these Gifts so that I could Serve Him. That is another thing I learned this year. Now to compliment a friend of mine, Kristen. I was at the Youth Alive conference thingie, in Burbank. She sang and man did she nail that song! Well, it was after that I was in a group and I complimented her singing. The first words out of her mouth was not "thank you" but rather "It's to the glory of God." (Or something to that effect, if not the exact words the gist of what she said. It's been a while!) I was impressed! What had happened was that she wasn't feeling well and her voice was messed up. Right before she got up, the group she was singing with all prayed for her voice and God moved. He obviously healed her! Her response to my compliment is what I want. That instinctual reaction to say that it is not my glory, but for Him.

Okay, I think this is the last. If any of you, especially the youth, have a problem or something comes up. LISTEN TO YOUR PASTOR. I cannot stress this enough! I have been blessed with a pastor that is a strong powerful Man of God. I do not want to get above myself or say anything untoward but I would compare him to the prophets of old and the apostles. I would be blessed to be a quarter of the man that he is. That said, your pastor is in your life to guide and teach you. My pastor has told me something I did not want to hear, but I knew that he was right. I listened, as hard as it was, and my life is the better for it. I believe I would have been in the world by now, had I not.

Well, I hope that you can take something home with this. I am by no means wise, and definitely consult your Bible and pastor before following any of the advice. That said, May God richely bless you and best wishes this holiday Season.

Don't forget the Reason for the Season. Jesus.

Post Script
This year I lost a friend. I don't like losing friends but it seems I have no choice in the matter. It was not my choice but I am sure it was my actions that caused it. Honesty... That is a difficult thing to have sometimes. I thought that I was honest to a fault, well, I was the fault was that I wasn't that honest. Even after I told them I would. Fear that they wouldn't like what I had to say kept me from telling them the truth. That has worked out stellar, you can tell. [read: sarcasm] Huh, now they will barely look at me and only give quick short answers when directly spoken to. I hate it. In my insecurity I want people to like me. This may seem odd for me to post this, as this is personal. That doesn't matter. I want my friend back. I know we will never be great friends, as our personalities just never seem to mesh. I just want them to not avoid me. I am not writing this for other people, I am writing this for them. You know how to contact me. I am not the greatest person, neither am I the greatest friend. Forgive my extreme weirdness. I am not asking us to be BFFs, I am only asking you to stop looking like you smelled a skunk when you walk by.

ah, I would explain myself to the rest of you... But really, I am who I am. Weird, eccentric and possibly a bit insane. This is me. So deal.

Inspired by a Sermon

2009-11-25T09:04:00.000-08:00

Just a quick post, nothing special.

Don't look now... but someone just nuked my writers block!

2009-06-16T19:09:00.000-07:00

Gentle Reader, I RETURN! Well, Ephemerally return anyways. Your humble author is staying off the computer as much as possible lately. It has cause much creating! I have screen printed two shirts, which included completing a new screen. I also learned how to hand-make paper and cards. I am currently on the computer because I am writing a story. So the creative writing juices are flowing and I have been needing to let 'em flow! I thought I would channel some of that energy into a quick blog post. Then I can get back to my latest story without delay! so on to the updating portion of this blog!

Well, I finished a semester of college... With all "A"s no less! (Not exactly sure how it happened but it happened! I have proof unbelievers!) So yeah, I am stoked about that. I finished my final painting so here's a picture of it for you to look at and say "My little bro could do that!" Of course, if you are chad... It might be particularly true. All that aside, my most major accomplishment is clean my room! well, it wasn't too bad... okay, yes it was but I never seemed to have time for it. But spring cleaning being what it is I moved some furniture around and picked a few things up and whammo it was clean!...er... I still have my desk which is covered in papers and art supplies. How did I ever get that many supplies?? I bought some charcoal and black oil pastel to finish my wall but I haven't decided what I want to add on. My mum still wants me to do the Eiffel tower and I have yet to do it. It's amazing, take away the computer and you get so much done. I suggest everyone do it! I know, I know... What is a guy who says he is staying away from a computer doing blogging? Well, I didn't say I turned into a Luddite! I just felt like posting for the benefit of you, gentle reader. Letting you know what is going on with me... Please forgive the arrogance of assuming that you would wish to know, but I felt that if you would appreciate someone to laugh at it was only my duty to provide that. I provide you with some images of selected things I have done recently. First my final painting from my Painting class. Oil on canvas. The next image is my screen for my latest design. Then the shirts I used that screen on. Last two are sketches direct from the pad. the Woman is actually unfinished. I have worked on it since then.

I would like to say congratulations to all my friends that graduated! You guys have successfully struggled valiantly and have achieved... Aaa.... Goal? Congratulations, now back to the rat race! Well, God is on your side so trust in Him and He will take care of you.

Summer plans? Why yes, I do have them... oh you ask: "What are they?" OOOOOH!!! Heheh, I knew that!
Well, I am now considering going to Pacific coast camp next week.

In July I am staff at Donkey Rock Youth Camp. I will be a counselor for Teen week and then Pots and Pans Tech for Junior week. It should be fun! *evil laughter* *cough* um... you didn't hear that!

I do solemnly promise that I will be up to no good and will do such things that will be to cause my name to be written down in the annals of Youth Camp history as one of the most nefarious and wickedly awesomest thing done by anyone.

Welllll... that's it for now. It will be a while before I post again so please I hope the wait won't be too unbearable for you!

Until then,
Inspired Author, Signing out!

Poetry: please do not read...

2009-05-11T10:40:00.000-07:00

Roses are red
Violets are blue
I am so happy
I think Im on drugs too?

Just messing with you, that's terrible! You WERE warned... *sigh* okay, if you continue reading here are some new poems. I am writing these in right now on the blog, so I don't know what it will turn out. Probably some deep dark inner workings of my consciousness, no doubt!

A labble of a giggle
It aint me whimple
For a tribble, little
I say aint life simple?

Insane you say
I laugh and cry
for my crazy brain
without I die

I have nae fiddle
And I don't mettle
so please one timmle
I can't play a quibble

Music playing
and safe is now
for seconds of my life
I can't make a sound

Think of a jibble
A ripple of a streamel
my fibble grows a stipple
when I fuddle with my stubble

It keeps me happy
A cool little creek
With water flowing
My chin is sleak

The above poem is a fun little piece I wrote. It makes me think happy thoughts which is the purpose of it. If you read that and immediately worry about my mental state... That means A) you are too serious. B) oooh look, it's a cool smiley! [get it? B) ] C) You are correct in assuming I should be under constant supervision by trained professionals. D) I just felt like adding this letter... okay, moving on!

This next poem is just some musings I have on our purpose here on earth. What we are here for and is not intended to be taken literal but more of a philosophical... muse. It's musings, so I am Musing... Philosophically! With dashes of Theology, Kaspirology, Ephemerology, and Quasi-Pseudo-Scientology.

For sanity, implies
A certain lack of thought
Into our earthly lives
And priorities we sought

For if we examine closely
Our purpose on this earth
Careers and hopes would surely
be lessened in its worth

I find myself at crossroads
Decisions to make/have made
And Worldly priorities of old
The import has begun to fade

We are not made for this
Dear world that distracts
But our minds should think of future bliss
That it currently now lacks
__________________________________

This one is written thinking of relationships we have that come and go. Friendships that affect us and change us, but must, at least for a while, go away to let something else in to affect and change us. C'est la vie.

Of one who means the most to me
at this time I understand
that though we had our hopes and dreams
things never go as planned

I would hope that you would think
of all the things I said
that perhaps my constant presence
could be in a thought ere in your head

Remember all I have said
I mean every word
and remember never any sad
forgetting all untoward
______________________________________

Lastly I must go
For This too must Pass
And quickly I know
Like a boxer's jaw of glass.

If a moments fancy strikes you
Please be sure to leave a shout
If it doesn't seem so pathetic too
This is your Poetic Author, Signing out!

Bovine Timelords???

2009-05-07T16:45:00.000-07:00

saw this at http://e-merl.com/2009-04-21-cow-time

If you don't think it's funny then this isn't for you... You know who you are, laugh out loud!

click the image to see the whole thing... also I will take this time to point out the nifty little buttons at the bottom of each post... saying "Cool" "Funny" and "Retarded". please be sure to let me know what you think if you have no time to leave a comment! :D

this is your AD-oooh shiny! Author, signing out!

Random Inane Tangental Statements

2009-05-06T11:13:00.000-07:00

Welcome back, Gentle Reader! Welcome to yet another episode where I string together written sentences to form what I hope to be an interesting post. Lets move on, shall we?

Well, Today is an interesting day. It is Wednesday, the middle of the week, and I am currently passing the time till my painting class. I said it is interesting not because it interests me, per se, but rather that it is interesting in the sense that one is forced to make a statement about something that they really don't want to say how they really feel... **"What do you think?" "OH! um... It's... definitely... interesting!"** I don't mean to say that today is a "bad" day, or to imply that there is something wrong with today. It's just Wednesday... On the plus side, there is church tonight so that should be interesting... and by interesting I mean AWESOME! "Interesting" is a really interesting word. It doesn't hold the same context as it once did, and is merely a place holder often times to avoid saying anything bad. Me? I am all for telling the boy that maybe he really shouldn't plan on being an artist one day... "Well, that's just mean" You say? Well, I suppose it is! And I am sure I was a little hasty in that remark, what I should say is... "Practice makes perfect... So you better get started!" A delightfully vague compliment that gives him hope to continue on again. Really, I doubt I could bring myself to tell the boy that his drawing of a dog looks more like a mangled boar after the vultures were done. It was just for shock value. As it is, I try to avoid saying "That's interesting" merely because it sounds so fake and polite. I do use it, but if I say it I try to make sure it is at those times that I can promise on my ancestral home of SehumMaxo!acw that I really do mean that it is interesting!

But I digress. Today is an interesting day. I am currently undergoing painters indecision. I am not sure if I want to continue with the daytime look or turn my painting into a nighttime piece? Daytime paintings are considerably easier but the nighttime look would be awesome. I only have roughly 9 more hours of class time to work on this painting, so I have to decide quick. I suppose we shall see, no? I have included in this post a picture of the painting but do remind yourself as you gaze upon it that it is only half finished. I need to also upload the finished product of my still life, not too mention the last painting I did. I will rectify those failings as soon as I can take the extra time to do so. AVAST YE! PROCRASTINATION! You may have won this time! BUT I WILL BE BACK!!! uh... heheh... ignore that, gentle readers!

Well, another reason to cause an interest in today is that I did not have to give my friend a ride to school. It is a rather funny string of events because both of our cars were in and out of The Shop, (not an actual place, I am referencing the idea of taking it to a mechanic) so we took turns giving the other a ride to school and back. This was a tennis class that he had and I would go and play even though I was not in the class. A semester later, and I wonder if the teacher even noticed I was there. Of course, there is the wonder of if he actually cared whether or not someone who was not in his class was there. Either way, I got in some fun days and such.

Well, I believe that that will be all for today Gentle Reader. I hope that you in some way found something interesting in what I have had to say. I imagine you will not hear the word "interesting" without automatically analyzing it from now on, so I do hope that that does not cause you stress.

Until the next creative surge hits!
This is Me, Signing out!

To Please an Impulsive Nature

2009-04-30T11:29:00.000-07:00

Greetings Gentle Readers,
It is my esteemed pleasure to have you read this small note of purely unnecessary writings. Often at times I find that I would like to write something down, for the sheer joy of writing whatever it is that I want to write. Well, Gentle Reader, you may have already assumed that this is one of those times and rightly so! Now we all know that it is never a good idea to assume anything, but I am sure in this case it is not a problem. I digress. This is one of those times, dear friend, that I want to write down something, anything, everything that comes to mind. I hope that this does not bore you, but I must say, you are the one to click the link and come to me. It is not as if I put a dirk to your neck and forced you to sit down and read this. I am positive that if I did it would not matter whether you would like what is I wrote down or not, but that you would be entirely against whatever it is that I force you to read. In the end, it would defeat the purpose of writing some thing down for the enjoyment of the reader as well as writer. I feel rather content today, and I believe that it would not take much to make this an enjoyable day. Already I find myself singing a song or even whistling, which is a rarity. I hardly ever whistle a tune. Perhaps I should? It is not something that is in may natural routine to do. I wonder if I should start a habit of whistling songs. It may even have some beneficial attributes which could cause ones spirit to be uplifted. I rarely see someone whistling a song because they are sad or depressed. It is always someone cheerful, happy, or in love! This lovey dovey business is also confusing to me. If one is in love are they supposed to moon about, "oh Fiona, I miss her so...," write poetry and listen to sappy love songs by Josh Groban? Is there a letter one gets in the mail that describes how one should act when in love? Perhaps a mentor like person comes around and says, "Treat her like a princess, buy her nice things and then when she isn't around moon over about it in front of people that will tell her so she knows that you are thinking of her..." or something like that. Either way it is all a confuddling business and I would rather it be clear and simple.

Well, today is a nice day. We have the warm sun and a nice breeze. All in all, I am content. Life could be better, but always it could be entirely a thousand multiples of worseness. Hmmm, I feel like I would like to go on an overly romanticized adventure. (That does not have a thing to do with romance)

Gentle Readers, before I go I would like to offer a peace of advice that I picked up somewhere that has to do with love. This is for the guys.

"Treat a woman like a person, then a princess then a greek goddess, then a person again."

As for girls, my suggestion is don't make him figure everything out. Sometimes we need it spelled out in huge block letters. Preferably neon colors and flashing lights. also, a little knock on the head with a wiffle bat could help.

Gentle Readers,
This is your Impulsive Author, signing out

Spring break update

2009-04-09T15:09:00.000-07:00

well, its thursday of spring break week, been a couple weeks since my last post. I have been working on a few things, a shirt I am designing. I need more stretcher bars for the screen printing. Also I am working on a story, with about a chapter done so far. here is a snippet. (funny word: snippet. haha)

"Annd as I flewe into the sunset, I saw that it wass lyke unto a walle. Annd as I flewe on the worrld apyred to notte have changd atte alle. I kontinud mye jorney until I fownd myeselffe hoveryng abuve a smalle village-towne. The townespersons kayme owt and beganne kallyng out to me. I rekognizd it as Anglo-Saxonye of origen and allowwed my shippe to flotte downe into the markit-playse. The parishe cayme owt offe the church-temple wythe a crosse in front of hym. “Peace! Peace!” I kryed owt to the townespersons surrowndyng. They kalmed down enoffe for me to explayne myeselffe to themm."

I like it so far. I have almost a full chapter out of it. Though it desperately needs more work. I think I could actually take it pretty far. Most stories I have end up not going much further than this. I think it actually has promise.

Well, thats it for now. not really anything else new in my life. well, except for play practice tonight, that should be a blast. Thankfully I don't have to wear a beard tonight! alright then, ill post up another boring part of my life sometime soon.

words of encouragement

2009-03-11T22:35:00.000-07:00

Life is like a rollercoaster... As you start out you're gonna be cringing and hating every second as it climbs the rail. But one day its gonna hold you right over the edge, let you go and you're gonna go flyin and you wont want to wait to do it again. One day your gonna fly. You just have to climb to the top.

latest projects. part 2

2009-03-05T11:28:00.000-08:00

well, here they are. the pictures of my paintings. im not done yet so ill post the photos of the final project within a week or so. so... you like?

my latest projects

2009-03-05T11:26:00.000-08:00

Well as some of you may know, I am currently taking photography as well as painting. I thought I would post these up here for yall to look at. The first two are just rough sketches from my sketchbook. the third... bottom left, is my first photo project. bonus points if you figure out what it is! and the last is my still life for my painting. ill be posting pictures of the actual painting as well.

Our Government at Work

2009-02-18T17:44:00.000-08:00

a friend of mine showed me this clip of the House and Speaker Ruling: Stimulus Bill "Considered Read" More Time Denied.

The first Representative requesting more time is Republican Rep. Jerry Lewis for California. The Gentleman from Wisconsin is Democratic Rep David Obey. and lastly the third rep is Republican Rep. Tom Price of Georgia. Republican Jerry Lewis is requesting for an extension on the Debate for an extra hour, but the only person who can request is Democratic David Obey. And Tom Price is asking that though it is supposed to be available for 3 whole days before they can debate on it which has been waived. Thus making it so they must read a 1000 page document at 11 or 12 the night before.

An explanation

2009-02-10T21:55:00.000-08:00

Dis Astrum: Latin root disaster

1580, from M.Fr. desastre (1564), from It. disastro "ill-starred," from dis- "away, without" + astro "star, planet," from Latin astrum, from Greek astron. The sense is astrological, of a calamity blamed on an unfavorable position of a planet.

To suffer a disaster is to lose one's star (dis-astrum)

and this blogs title
"In My Mind Sigh"
It is a play on sounds, taken from In my minds eye (taken to mean as i see things) and a Sigh which means "to take a deep audible breath (as in weariness or relief)" or an exhalation of breath. This can be taken to mean that i am expelling out the way i see things.

this of course... is a disaster. wan-wahhhh

Caw the cravyn raven blacke

2009-02-05T11:29:00.000-08:00

Caw the cravyn raven blacke
As he tryed a neu hand at the oldest tacke
But forget and forgottyn
The crowe olde facte
Thou canst mayke a Dove
Wyth whyte over blacke
- myself

Encourage Yourself

2009-02-03T07:13:00.000-08:00

As we go through life we all reach a point, (or several points) where we find ourselves in a dim hour. It would seem that at this moment that you just don't have the strength or willpower to keep that smile on your face. We feel pressured by others to keep that wall up and prevent them from knowing just how badly you feel. You have to be happy because they don't want to see you sad and they might be going through something so you have to be strong. You are expected to be happy. And so this wall of facial expression hides from the rest of the world everything you don't want them to see. Everything that they need to see. We, everyone of us, has a facade. A front that we put up to show the world what we think they want to see of us. but there comes a time when that facade must come down, the mask must be removed because the Jesters Farce is over. Stop for a minute and ask yourself what you are doing? Why is it so difficult to keep the mask up? because it is a mask, a cover. It prevents people from seeing the real you, which is what we all really, really want. So take a moment to talk to yourself, set down the mask and really look at yourself. You are made by God. Crafted by His loving hands and heart. The beauty you have is yours alone and a mask only hides that beauty. Do not be afraid to show the real you, allow yourself to adapt to the ever fluctuating emotions that come with life. Forever remember, we all will reach a low point, but without the low there would be no high. Without the Valley there would be no Mountain. Let someone in to see the real emotions you are facing and allow them to encourage you, and when there seems like no one is around. Encourage yourself.

For life is at times
a worrysome place
we so often find
many trials to face

but God is our Fortress
and believe we must
that He will never leave us
In Him may we trust.

For angels on high
sent to guard us low
prove every nigh
He loves us so

personal diet

2009-01-30T13:21:00.000-08:00

well folks, it appears that my daily diet of soda has changed. no longer do i drink soda or even crave it so much as i once did. I now am drinking 100% all natural Green tea with Ginseng and Honey. But have you ever done something for so long and it becomes a habit as well as an addiction? Meh, i was addicted to the fizz from soda. not so much the sugar as the carbonation. and for the longest time that was all i drank. It was bad for my health and definitely bad for my kidneys. i could have ended in a real bad spot. while i do occasionally drink soda now and then i does not hold that same sway anymore. just thought i would let y'all know.

According to recent survey, the cause of the ever increasing number of effeminate men is due to the fact testosterone is our planets most rapidly depleting natural resource.

School is now in session... again...

2009-01-12T11:12:00.000-08:00

well, i started school today... at 6 am. yes, I woke up at 530 am this morning! I console myself by saying that it is noon o'clock somewhere. Why is it so hard to wake up so early. you can go to bed early and still if its before 9 you are like... "WHY ME??" did i mention it's a math class?

that aside, its painting class in an hour and then a couple hours till photography class. those should be fun. its linguistics and argumentation tomorrow. argumentation sounds fun too! heh, now i need to take persuasive speaking... (world take over and domination is coming to fruition! MUWAHAHAHAHAHA*cough*aaaaahahahha...heheh... oh man i need to practice my evil laugh.)

well, thats the agenda. i really hate this but i am going to miss prayer tonight and tomorrow. it sucks but i planned my schedule last year and all. I did talk to my youth pastor and he in turn spoke with the pastor and they both said it should be fine. i need to post some pictures from my art on here... will do so in my next post.

until then

sincerely
Johann Heinrich Jeffansen Kimboll, esq.

plans for twenty oh-nine

2008-12-12T12:31:00.000-08:00

well, i have a few plans for 2009. it looks to be a very, very busy year.

January I get to see an old friend... Which I havn't seen for 6 years. So you can say its been a while. Also I start my spring semester at city college. I will be taking Math 103 (algebra 2), Biology 3, Linguistics 11, painting (oil/acrylics), and speech 25(argumentation). looks to be a busy semester with 18 units. though I may change things around. my teus/thurs are shot.

February is pretty slim on things to do, mainly getting settled into the college groove and all. Youth Retreat will be going on that month and I deff plan on going.

March I am planning on going to Ireland! The old friend that I mentioned has decided to take over my life and signed me up for a trip. hope I get my passport in time. heh.

April... meh, boring!

May though, now the 2nd is my birthday. I turn 21 and now I legally not drink, or something. wow though, twenty-one. I remember as a kid thinking about being that old and it seemed so far away. its almost here!

June: out of school woo woo! did I mention that math class is going to be at 6 am... SLEEPING IN!!!!!

July is Youth Camp, both weeks. Apparently I am the best pots/pans guy they've ever had. How bad were those guys exactly??? but I am searching for a mega-SuperSoaker. If anyone has any idea on where to find one it would be appreciated. I havn't seen the good ones since I was a kid.

Also this summer there is supposedly going to be a couple months teaching english in Peru. I would love to do this but I don't know where I will find the time. I don't want to sacrifice going to camp, but this is more of a one time deal. we will see.

come fall I will attempt to return to school, and possibly transfer to State. *salivates at the idea* I really cannot wait to go! Gonna get my teaching credential and in two years start making some money. or at least start working. I just have to make sure my impatience does not get the best of me. The more patient I am I may be able to get my masters at the same time I get my credential. Which means more moolah! (yes, I said moolah!)

I would like to spend 2009 single, as I have spent 2008. This year I've questioned a lot of things and learned a lot about myself. plus if I get a girlfriend I have to spend money on her, keeping me from spending it on important things like Nerf guns and SuperSoakers!

Speaking of Nerf guns, I just bought two. In addition to the one I already have. lol! The yellow pistol I already had. bought that a little while ago.

PostThanksgiving Blog

2008-12-01T10:25:00.000-08:00

well, I had an awesome thanksgiving weekend. Went to my grandmothers on Thursday where I pigged out and had soooo much food. woooooah man was it good too. Friday I did a rare thing and actually slept until noon. usually I wake up before then whether I want to or not but this time I did. After I got up I went and played Hockey for two, maybe three, hours. Which was awesomeness. total awesomeness. after that I went home and enjoyed my evening. The next morning, which was saturday, I went to my Aunt and Uncle's house. And saw my favoritest cousin EVER! She is da bomb. Say anything bad to me and she'll kick you're behind to china.

In other news, I'm attempting to expand my artistic skills to comic book making. well, comic making. I and a friend are discussing the creation of a Webcomic. I'll attempt to post updates about it and let people know if it ever comes to fruition... funny word... fruition. lol.

ACTION NEWS REPORT

2008-10-21T12:01:00.000-07:00

Hello every and welcome back to ACTION NEWS REPORT! Where we bring you all the news that we think people should be forced to know!

It would appear that the invasion by aliens has been postponed for another thousand or so years. Apparently they are waiting for us to develop mass use of robots in daily life and are not a suitable "futuristic" world for them to conquer.

Today is an important day for science! The world's only Snorgalar has finally been captured. Scientists are currently at a bidding war for the right to examine it. At the lead is the famed Doctor Kevorkian with 3 trillion dollars.

In Hollywood, it is now illegal for reporters to record any celebrity that is on a drunken binge and has a blood alcohol count over the legal limit. When asked why in a press conference, the reply was "These scandalous people are responsible for ruining the images of our children's precious role models. I cannot believe it has actually come to this but it is necessary." It was not clarified on how exactly the reporters were responsible for the drunken rampages that have been recorded.

In fashion, the world's smartest man has apparently gotten the answer wrong. When his wife asked him if her dress made her look fat he answered her honestly. The police are currently looking for his body.

In politics, it would appear that mickey mouse would be a better choice!

In other news, life has not yet ended as we know it. We are currently waiting for the Large Haleron Collider to create wormholes in the center of the earth.

This ACTION NEWS REPORT was brought to you by our friends at the Phantasmoidal News Network.

who I am

2008-10-21T11:32:00.000-07:00

Who am I?
And what am I?
There are so many answers
In my mind Sigh

my first name is john
my last name is kimbley
which is all ado and fine
but that does not describe me

My mind is a constant jumble
thinking things impossible
my conversation a fumble
my words are quite nonsensical

If I at any time make sense
consider it a fluke
and if you find me quite a mess
please forgive and dont rebuke

I may not fit your status quo
I may not seem to fit
but i do not care for all that you know
what you see, my dear, is what you get

So if you would be a friend
and hang out for a while
then leave a random comment please
and make me crack a smile

My God

2008-10-10T14:55:00.000-07:00

A few questions I have asked at my low times.

Why am I Your child?
What purpose do you have for me?
A life impure by sin defiled,
Is there something that I can achieve?

Ive failed and failed and yet failed again
Ive begged for forgiveness
will you forgive me again?

Dear God, will You help me?
would you touch me one more time?
Though other souls are more deserving,
would you have mercy on mine?

Musings

2008-09-25T17:00:00.000-07:00

We breathe and fly and ne'er die
We live and soar o'er earthly floor
We laugh and see across the sea

and beauty is found with angels surround
and love is discovered with hearts uncovered
and we are together with souls fettered.

You are what I see
You are what sets me free
You are what touches that deepest part of me

Goodbye Cruel World

2008-09-17T10:45:00.000-07:00

well, goodbye cruel world. i am no longer going to think of you. your sad reality plagues me with depression. i really cant stand it anymore. so im done, i quit. no longer am i going to be sad and mopey. but im going to smile and laugh and not care about anything anymore. Really, what is wrong with this world. everywhere you turn there is another nightmare, everytime you wake up from a bad dream you wish for sleep again because its not really better. Turn the radio on and all you hear is bombs guns and lies. there really is no patriotism in America anymore, your democrat republican or worse. no one seems to care! where is the American Spirit? Where is Uncle Sam? Our culture has shifted from Country First to Me First. we feel bad we dont like what we hear? well then just plug in your ipod that you tailor made just to block out everything you dont want. including the things you need. like a sharp dose of life! look around! take that stupid hoodie off! its like a horses blinders, all you see is straight ahead. all you think is what song do i want to listen to next. all you feel is what you want. now thats a sad reality. and thats not me. Yeah i see the bad stuff, i hear the horrible stuff, and yet i will not block it out. i will accept it. because it is going to get worse. i will accept that its going to be there, i cant change that. but that doesnt mean im going to run away. no. God put me on this earth to live breath and be a witness for Him. I cant do that if all i worry about is me, and never a care about anyone else. I see the studied blank faces and i wonder. why? why cant you smile? it's sad when the only time someone smiles at you is when they like you. This is the best day, if you will only let it! the day in which you live in is the best day ever, because thats the time when you can make a difference. smile bigger, laugh harder, and live happier.

Thoughts today

2008-09-12T11:15:00.000-07:00

well, just thought i would put down some things that i think about today.

its friday, and as i was emailing a good friend of mine i invented this really cool line. its basically a rebuke for demonic spawn... ahem.

Return from whence you came thou iniquitous spawn of the eternal wretched nightmare that plagues children with growing pains and toothaches!

I thought the line was rather ingenious!

well, im at work today, i hope it doesnt turn out boring or anything. we will see. i have hockey tonight, directly following that will be a skit to practice and then i dont know what ill be doin. we will see... we will see.

First Post Sept 11, 2008

2008-09-11T22:39:00.000-07:00

This is my introduction, just thought i would explain. This is about me, my mind and imagination running its full course. I will say what i honestly feel without restraint. Do not think me egotistical or bragging, i am no great person and do not claim to be anything more than what i am. a normal human being. with faults and failures just like everyone else. just like you. so read my story, my stories, my mind.

life is full of surprises, so even though you know they're coming just let them jump out and yell to make them happy because really, no one wants a sad surprise.

I would like to take the time to mention that i am starting this on September 11. think for a minute on the lives lost and the courageous efforts of the rescue teams. Also, a genuine salute to the men and women who serve our country and have given their lives to protect it. thank you.