Ramon's Rants

Healthy Eating

2011-04-28T11:44:00.001-06:00

Ok, I have taken a fair amount of time off, things have been really busy, but now it is time for me to break my silence. For those of you who don't know, I have quite the cookbook collection. In fact, I'm quite sure that in the next few months I'll pass 200 cookbooks in my collection. Yes, not 20, I do mean 200. I keep watching Jamie Oliver's Food Revolution....link above if you would like to watch it, and now it is time for me to start sharing the recipes that I use the most, and those that are most healthy. But before I start posting those recipes and meals online, I need people who are willing to come by the house, go through the cooking process with me, and let me know if it is too much work. I try to keep things simple, fresh, and fast, but I need input from more people. So for those who know me, send me an email and we will set up a time for you to come for dinner....my treat.

For those who don't know me, email me anyway, I'm happy to have you over and show you my tricks, and give you a free dinner. So for those in the Utah County area, shoot me an email and lets start perfecting my food and recipes, and teach you healthy, simple, and inexpensive meal options.

Why I love my iPhone

2010-09-21T21:22:00.002-06:00

Now before you think I'm a trend follower, I didn't get the iPhone with the advent of the iPhone 4. I've had the 3G and recently upgraded. One of my most favorite apps has been Shazam and others like it, SoundHound, which I used today. Have you ever heard a song in a movie or TV show, like it, but had no idea where it came from? Well I pull out my phone, hit a button, and it will tell me not only the name of the song, but who sings it, what album it is on, and gives me a link to purchase it through iTunes....talk about instant gratification! So what have I heard that I've enjoyed lately? Below are two songs one from a movie and the other from a TV show I've watched recently. Want to know what I'm watching....drop me a line and I'll let you know.

Isn't technology great? If it wasn't for my phone, I never would have identified these songs and enjoyed them enough to purchase them.

Words of advice from an American icon.

2010-08-17T14:05:00.000-06:00

Smile, though your heart is aching,
Smile, even though it's breaking.
When there are clouds in the sky-
You'll get by.

If you smile through your fear and sorrow,
Smile and maybe tomorrow
You'll see the sun come shining through
For you.

Light up your face with gladness,
Hide every trace of sadness.
Although a tear may be ever so near,
That's the time you must keep on trying,
Smile, what's the use of crying?
You'll find that life is still worthwhile,
If you just smile.

Project: Rant - RANT 069: To The Guy Who Farted In Queen Soopers

2010-06-08T22:24:00.000-06:00

Some people get caught up on the details.

2010-05-17T15:15:00.000-06:00

Anyone like to proof read?

2010-05-16T17:12:00.002-06:00

I'm putting the final touches on the cohort cookbook. Does anyone want to look at these recipes and let me know if I mistyped anything? I'll even give you a finshed copy when I get them printed....I know, not that great of a prize, but it is better than a kick in the pants. Email me if you have time.

Is it bad I'm glad it isn't guys from BYU?

2010-05-09T18:37:00.002-06:00

I am always horrified when someone from Utah or claiming to be Mormon gets attention from the national media. Mainly because they do stupid things and it is easily generalized to the rest within the group. I figured this would have been BYU until I read the details. Do you think anyone in BYU's acapella group even listens to Lady Gaga?

Richard Dawkins: If Science Worked Like Religion

2010-05-07T21:54:00.000-06:00

Life is crazy

2010-04-01T22:53:00.002-06:00

Life is crazy, I'm sitting at work running reports, and yes it is 11pm. Hope you like this video.

Ok, like might not be the right word....but you get the idea.

For those who like to read The Onion

2010-02-18T22:27:00.001-07:00

I know, two posts in two minutes, not bad right? Just liked this and thought everyone who likes reading articles on The Onion would get a kick out of it.

Valley 3 News: BYU Brings Caffeine to Campus from Jimmy Newell on Vimeo.

What came to my mind...

2010-02-18T22:22:00.002-07:00

Alright, sorry life has been absolutely crazy, so here is what I was thinking when I heard this song.

I saw this song as two friends, or most likely lovers, were expressing confidence and understanding for the other person. In a sign of true of friendship one reminds the other that "you are loved" and "don't give up." But ultimately the idea was for two best friends talking...possibly a husband and wife combo, it would be perfect for the lovers idea.

So I found another youtube video that acted like it was based on a religious text and that it was God who was speaking to the individual. I will admit I found myself rolling my eyes....but that is just because religious overtones get on my nerves.

So am I crazy, do you disagree with my assessment? (It's okay, you can, I have no issue with people telling my I'm crazy.)

Sometimes we see things differently than others

2010-01-27T23:01:00.002-07:00

So I was sitting in stratification today when we were discussing the reading and Durkheim's view of stratification. I had the things that I had understood from the reading and ideas that I was ready to take into the class discussion. When the class began to discuss the readings, well, none of them had seen the reading even remotely similar to my view. Do you know how dumb it makes you feel when you have nothing to add when the teacher asks, lol. But no worries. So I was listening to songs and I came across this one.

Now I had an idea of what this is about, but when looking at youtube videos, I came across completely different ideas behind the words. So let me know what you think this means. Who is singing and to whom are they singing? I'll post my answer in one week, but we will see if I'm similar to everyone else or if I'm completely off base.....again.

So I'm finishing up the first cookbook

2010-01-23T20:31:00.002-07:00

Ok, really I didn't create any of these recipes. In fact, I got them from a myriad of books. My current goal is to cook my way out of grad school. Yep, I'm going to fail all my classes because I'm making lunch and snacks for ever time we get together. At least that is what I've been accused of. In fact they pointed out this scene from the movie Stranger than Fiction.

So do you think I should post those recipes I compile here also? Let me know what you think....and don't forget to answer the poll.

Why do some people like to make everything difficult?

2010-01-17T12:51:00.007-07:00

I must admit I'm confused why some people want to make cooking and baking into the impossible sport. Have you ever heard that baking is an exact science? Uhh, well, not really. I would argue that candy making is more exact than baking. Note the three pictures, if I can make it, anyone can. Though the caramel apple french toast is the most difficult, it is still easily possible for anyone to make. The book where I got the recipe used the most difficult way of caramelizing sugar, which made the first few attempts a dismal failure. Once I came up with my own way of doing it, it worked like a charm! This week I made Minestrone Soup, Cabbage Soup, Breadsticks, Cinnamon Rolls, Orange Rolls, and Caramel Apple Croissant French Toast. Now granted, I hate doing dishes, so the dishwasher has been running non-stop, but it has really been worth it.

By the way, with a few modifications, I can make everyone of these with no power and 100% from my food storage....not bad if you ask me.

Things I'm Working On

2010-01-10T10:40:00.002-07:00

Just to give an update of what is going on here. With the new semester having started, I'm supposed to be reading right now, but the to do list is getting quite long. One of the things you are going to start seeing are recipes that I'm going to post. My goal is to post 50 new recipes this year that can be part of your emergency preparedness. In other words, these recipes will have ways to cook them with no electricity. This will require specialty equipment like a camp stove, outdoor grill, or dutch oven. I'm trying to keep the cost of how to do this to a minimum because that is one reason most people don't develop a food storage.

So for the few people who read this, is there anything specific you want to see as far as recipes? I'm planning on splitting it up into breakfast, lunches, dinner, desserts, and a few fun things, but let me know what you think of this idea. I even have a way to cook pizza using things from my food storage. Yep, I even have cheese that has been freeze dried. This will be an interesting year, so watch as I start posting in the next week or so.

What if I had these door approaches on my mission.....

2009-12-29T00:28:00.000-07:00

It is Christmas....time to smile!!!

2009-12-19T17:08:00.001-07:00

Just something to make you laugh!

2009-12-19T16:58:00.001-07:00

Is it a compliment to be in this list?

2009-12-07T18:10:00.001-07:00

Billboard named the #1 - One-hit-wonder for the decade...who is having the bad day now?

Can I get an AMEN?!?!?!

2009-12-05T23:10:00.003-07:00

I was reading another blog, and this was my idea!!!! Oh well, he is more eloquent than I am.

Does God find the phrase Happy Holidays offensive?

If you haven’t started receiving them yet, prepare for your inbox to be inundated with emails about the “war” on Christmas. Thanks to Glenn Beck, Bill O’Reilly, Fox News, and my super religious aunts, I have to delete all those emails about boycotting Wal-mart, since they have told their associates to say Happy Holidays instead of Merry Christmas. Do we have to do this every year? People have tried to argue that we should remember the “reason for the season” and not try to acknowledge other holidays that are during the same time period. Let’s look at why Christmas should be the focus of the holiday season.

First of all, Thanksgiving, which kicks off the holiday season, is about acknowledging Providence in generating that year’s harvest. It is also a time of family and community as we share a meal together and thank God for our blessings. So we shouldn’t say happy holidays because this doesn’t contribute to the message of Christmas.

Next we will be celebrating the Jewish holiday of Hanukkah, the festival of lights, as it is also known, is to celebrate the Maccabean revolt. Most people haven’t heard the word Maccabeas, but it could have been a book in the Bible, it was left out and is now part of the Apocrypha. Enough of the history lesson, we wouldn’t want to recognize a holiday that celebrates lighting the way for other people and overcoming oppression from others.

Another holiday that I’m quite positive we wouldn’t want to include would be Kwanzaa, to celebrate one’s history, recognize where they have come from (Don’t we get a pedigree of Christ in the first book of the Bible?), to celebrate with lighting candles (Hanukkah) and giving gifts (Christmas & Hanukkah) that just might be too much for God, who Christians see as the ultimate gift giver. So obviously God doesn’t want to have us acknowledging and celebrating a holiday like this.

As the end of the holidays comes around we will be celebrating a new year and a time for personal reflection, we obviously don’t want to include this holiday in our happy holiday greetings. This is a time to look at rebirth (similar to baptism) and setting goals for the upcoming year (enduring to the end); this would be quite offensive to God, because really the only thing we should think about is the holiday that we call Christmas.

So let’s look at the gift giving holiday that we all know and love, Three Kings Day. What? You mean there is a day special for celebrating the wise men that came to Christ and brought gifts of gold, frankincense, and muir? That’s right, it may be part of every nativity scene, but we don’t want to recognize their contribution on any day but December 25th?

Then on to December 25th, Happy Yule Day, oops I mean Happy Horus Day, oh no I got it, Merry Christmas. I know we don’t celebrate Yule Day, because if we did we would have to cut down evergreens and take them into our homes. Horus Day, what was I thinking? Horus was seen as an enlightened Savior God, whose symbol is the all-seeing eye. Obviously that has nothing to do with Christmas. So yes, Happy Holidays is quite offensive to God, because the holidays that share the same season with Christmas do not share similar values as Christmas.

Update - I already have received an email noticing how similar this blog is to my writing style, and I must admit I did help with the editing. So I've dropped the link so my friend can maintain anonymity. If you are interested in more of his writings, drop me a line and I'll send you a link.

You can't help but smile

2009-12-04T19:51:00.001-07:00

Another clip from Glee, you can't help but smile when you start watching this.

I clicked on the bloggernacle.

2009-11-27T21:49:00.003-07:00

So I have been reading and commenting on the bloggernacle lately. If you don't know what that is let me know, but I found this video and couldn't help but smile from ear to ear.

WOW!!!

2009-11-26T01:49:00.001-07:00

I wish I could find a better clip on Youtube, but it is either this or one that is really fuzzy. Go to hulu.com and check out this show, it is AWESOME!!!

Are you kidding me?

2009-11-19T17:31:00.001-07:00

So I noticed the other day as I was checking out the newspaper on campus at BYU that they have special ads for Macey's. The sales according to this newspaper only include the caffeine free versions of soda. I thought that I had just read it incorrectly, but when I checked that paper and last week's, I found they change the labels on the soda and they insert the words caffeine free in the title.

Who do they think they are kidding? Do they really think I'm looking for caffeine free coke or pepsi? NO!!! Give me the stuff with a jump start. Anyway I just thought that was something that just made me say.....are you kidding me?

Just Haven't Meet......

2009-11-04T08:00:00.002-07:00

For those who saw the dialogue on facebook, I thought of this song. So here you go.....

Am I going to hell?

2009-11-01T13:23:00.000-07:00

Is this placing undue gender bias on the world?

2009-10-26T21:36:00.002-06:00

I know, not the best video, but you have to laugh at the creativity and stereotypes being played on in this video. Yep, it is from Chad Hardy, and I think it is great.

A little humor, if you have a sense of humor.

2009-10-17T01:31:00.003-06:00

I'm sorry, but these comments make me laugh, I'm not sure why though. Is it because it is true or is it because the religious and conservative right are fighting even though they are wrong?

Hypocrisy or a case of one hand not knowing what the other is doing?

2009-10-11T20:10:00.002-06:00

Elder Clayton of the Presidency of the Seventy said as quoted in the Deseret News, the church "does not oppose civil unions or domestic partnerships," the article then continues on to specify so that health insurance and other benefits can be shared with same-sex couples. Pretty straight forward correct? Now watch the video I have linked below.

Video Link

The picture of Adam and Eve is copyrighted by Intellectual Reserve which is a branch of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Now the senate bill in question isn't about marriage, but about domestic partnerships and expanding rights in that area.

So this senate bill isn't about redefining marriage, but about expanding rights involved with domestic partnerships, which the church is on record for not opposing. Why do you think they would have given permission for the use of a picture they own the rights to, or is this a matter of this group not having permission? What do you think?

All the links will put you to the information that I found regarding official statements, copyright owndership, and the details of the bill.

Why everyone else has problems.

2009-10-08T19:55:00.002-06:00

This idea isn't new, in fact it is something I realized while I was on my mission. I find, especially in my own family, we are quick to blame others for our problems. Did you know my first three companions on my mission were a bunch of jerks? In fact, I would say they were all a bunch of assholes. (By the way if that bothered you, I don't think you should watch this video) Anyway, just remember that you can't blame everyone else for your problems, in fact you shouldn't even try, because the problem isn't everyone else. Now watch at learn.

What do you think? And yes I'm writing blogs too, anyone want to start proofreading my rantings? I am trying not to scare so many people too quickly.

What is he really trying to say?

2009-09-24T23:06:00.002-06:00

With all the bruhaha going on surrounding Bruce Hafen's comments at Evergreen International last week, I decided to read the comments myself. It was after I read it that I found he didn't make all the statements that people said, but this one was overlooked.

"Some may wonder how the Church’s leaders can empathize with you when they haven’t been in your shoes themselves. Some may even wonder how the Savior Himself can really understand you when He hasn’t been where you are. But remember: Christ not only descended TO our conditions, he has descended BELOW our conditions, whatever they are, because “The Son of Man hath descended below [all things].” [iii] The Atonement was possible only because of that descent, which Elder Neal A. Maxwell called Christ’s “earned empathy.” He knows that every day may feel like a major battle for you."

I included the whole paragraph so I can't be accused of taking it out of context. Now I realize some idiot will say I took it out of context, so go to lds.org, go to the newsroom, find his comments, this is in the first few paragraphs, and tell me what I missed. With that said...

What is he implying, was this a comment that he didn't think all the way through, so only gave half his idea, and then you are left hanging? Or is he really making the comment that the General Authorities have "descended below it all" (just like Christ) to understand what is going on in the world? I'm thinking one of two things needs to happen, either Hafen needs to better clarify what he means by this statement, and then fire his secretary for missing the egregious error, or Hafen needs to be committed in an insane asylum because he has developed some type of God complex and is revealing more than any other general authority has revealed on the subject. He is a seventy for crying out loud!!! I don't think he is privy to the experiences that the twelve and first presidency have had, so I don't think he knows what he is talking about.

That is what I think, what do you think? Leave a comment.

The Mom's Song

2009-08-27T22:57:00.001-06:00

I have been putting together another post about love and the power of love within Bauman's theory of gift and exchange. Though it isn't quite finished, so here is something else to check out.

It Sucks To Be Me

2009-08-14T00:07:00.003-06:00

As I have just finished another semester, I ponder about my life goals, projects, and aspirations for the years to come. I guess I can complain that I haven't done anything in my life, but who wants to hear that? This song encapsulates what I'm thinking.

What do you think? Is everything going well in your life or would you like to change some things? Drop me a line and let me know, maybe we can give each other some encouragement.

Why are some people so nice?

2009-08-02T14:47:00.002-06:00

I am working on another post because of some things I have noticed, and how religion can help and hurt different causes. I'm hoping to have my thoughts put together in the next few weeks, but until then, watch this video clip.

Ontological Debates

2009-07-19T17:47:00.001-06:00

I have been giving this more thought than usual lately, and so now it is time to blog. As I was sitting in church today, yes even I’m surprised I went, I found myself white knuckled, scowling, and waiting for a line of “special” words to come spewing forth. Luckily I held my cool and now I’m going to rant here. The question was asked, “What causes persecution?” and though I kept my answer to myself, this is what I think. As I have began to get ready for the fall semester I have been exploring different ideas about human behavior and knowledge that we base our behavior on. Ontology can be easily summed up as the study of the state of being. You could also say, what “is” is. Are humans naturally brutish, carnal, and self-interested, or are they inherently good and looking to help others? Many scriptures could point you both ways, but ultimately this brings about the debate:
If you can’t agree on human nature, how can you agree on what humans do?

Lily Allen, whose video will follow this, has a song ripping a certain sector of society because of their views about human nature. She calls their lives hateful, small-minded, and certain people have “a hole where their soul should be”. Many would see this as persecution to those who have a conservative background. Is her argument towards religion, Republicans, or possibly something else? I would suggest that she is ready to say that their ontology is wrong. Her experience with human nature allows for open-mindedness towards homosexuality. Then the debate rages on the other side as many religious groups use their own ontology about each person’s connection to many different types of deity.

If I see you as a child of God whose destiny is to help to multiply and replenish the Earth, that is your reason for being (ontology), how can I justify your commitment in a same-sex relationship? At the same time, you may take another view of the Bible, and say the right of the individual and teachings of the Sermon on the Mount supersede the commandment of multiply and replenish the earth, so the beatitudes are your basic reason for being (ontology), how can you condemn a person for acting on what they see is their basic natural feelings? Now that I have pointed out an ontological debate, how can either side ever win? If we are unable to agree on basic human nature, how can you come to any consensus about how humans act? Back to the question that was asked, what causes persecution? I have come to the conclusion that persecution is a reaction, (it doesn’t just act, but reacts to something in its environment), to an opposing ontology. As one begins to challenge the other for the acceptance within the community the other will react, restating their beliefs.

My goal is not to push my own ontology, but to enlighten all who read about this reaction caused by different views. It seems that many believe they are being persecuted for standing up for their own beliefs, (their own personal ontology), but at the same time they are persecuting others who are standing up for their own beliefs. Let us now recognize that this debate and many others are based on ontology, and middle ground might never be reached and that is why some will feel persecuted as they persecute others.

You can tell what she is singing, but it isn’t quite as offensive for some, lol.

So what do you think? Leave me a comment.

Home Schooling is EVIL!!!

2009-07-09T00:45:00.002-06:00

I realize I'm not exactly being nice, but for the love of Pete, this kid has been ruined by his mother who has him in home schooling. Social interaction is very important, and now you will see why!!!

I made it to 100, What do you think?

2009-07-01T00:27:00.003-06:00

Alright, first I know that I don't really post anything worth reading. I am even working on a new idea surrounding the idea of the difference between receiving, taking, and stealing, and how it incorporates into our everyday lives. Plus how we don't always use the words correctly because we actually mean another. Anyway that will be a long post, and I don't want to bore you yet!

Great news, I think it is official, I now have 100 cookbooks, instructional DVDs, pamphlets, whatever it is, but all in all I have 100 resources to find recipies about almost anything. I know I'm not getting away from the consuming society, but when it is 80% off, who can say no? So I am planning on starting another blog that will include my cooking adventures. Yep, we are talking pictures, recipies that I enjoy, and most importantly, I am going to start posting my ideas for using food storage and how to actually make it manageable. But I need a clever name. Something like, actuallyusefulrecipies.blogspot.com, or something on that idea. What is your idea?

Place it in the comments so that I can read it, and if I choose your idea, I'll invite you over for Crawfish Etouffe (not sure how to spell it) or something on the grill. By the way Katie and Sarah, when are you coming over for dinner for guessing my weight right? And by the way I don't weigh that anymore, this six days a week at the gym is starting to pay off.

Three Ways To Live Your Life

2009-06-21T23:14:00.003-06:00

As I have been sitting around waiting for the semester to end, thinking this time will be different, I'll change and be better, I find myself so enveloped in the past and the future that I don't live in the now. This is of course something that I have been aware that I do but still have yet to overcome. So ultimately what is the best way to live your life? I have come up with three answers to ways people do live their lives. First there are those who choose to live the past, to remember the good old days, to remember past mistakes, and to wish you had to do it all over again. There are those who live in the present, fun and energetic, but with a sense of irresponsibility that makes the future more difficult. Finally there are those who look to the future, saving for this, hoping for that, always putting off living because now isn't a convenient time.

This semester I have been bombarded with the social theories of Plato, Durkheim, Marx, Weber, Kant, and countless other people who predicted how people are going to act. Truthfully whether it was a positivist or post-positivist, Platonic or Marxist none of the theories describe every aspect of life. I believe, which is probably why I did so bad on my midterms, that you will only find true human nature if you are willing to mesh all these ideas together take a sample and through in a dash of passion, because that is how we all act. How is this accomplished, I have no idea!!!

I will think of the good things in my past, but not strive to relive them. I will look forward to my future and realize great things are yet to come. I will find a passion in today, because this is my life. So now here is the question, where will life take me next? Leave me a comment, let me know what I should do, I'm asking you for help, and remember that even if all the world seems dark, I still love you.

Hey Check This Out!!!

2009-04-21T01:08:00.000-06:00

I should post my recent weight gains, I'm doing well, but more important, check out the music to the right. Well more importantly check out Gracie's Theme. It is a moving piano solo that if you knew why it was written would bring you to tears. If you want to know why it was written, check out Paul Cardall's blog that is listed on my blog list. Best of luck and stay upbeat!

Better Late Than Never

2009-03-31T23:47:00.002-06:00

It has been three weeks since my last post about the gym. But at least I have good things to report. I have yet to miss a day at the gym, I do enjoy going each and every day. I have gained five pounds in the past three weeks. Not bad if you ask me, especially since I'm not following my diet 100%. So there we go some good news. Other things going on, I have been accepted to the BYU Masters program. Yep, even I was suprised they said yes. So that means I'll have to start school at the end of April. Not excited about doing school again, but excited about the field of study. I also just started a volunteer job for the distribution center. So I'm busier now than I've ever been. I have no idea how I'm going to actually get it all done while working full time. Now here is where I want some feedback.

I flipped open the scriptures the other day, yea even I'm suprised I opened them, and it was Moroni chapter 1. Moroni mentions that he hadn't planned on writing more, but that he was going to since he was still around. Now we all know the things he mentions in the following nine chapters. Here is my question to each of you, if you got a chance to write a letter to your family before your death. What would you write about? Who would you write to? And what are the most important words of advice and counsel you would impart? Just looking to learn from all you who are smarter than I am. Let me know.

Doing Something Good

2009-03-15T23:18:00.001-06:00

Video Courtesy of KSL.com

Go to the benefit, do what you can to help. Even if it is just to add this a post like this on your own blog, lets get the word out!!!

Two More Weeks Has Gone By

2009-03-09T13:09:00.003-06:00

Alright, after two additional weeks, I have 12 additional visits to the gym. Though with the attempt to gain weight, I must say I fell off the diet. I took a few days of respite to work on some other things. Though it isn't too bad, I lost one pound the first week and nothing the second week. That brings my total weight gain to 2.5 pounds. So that isn't bad, what is great is that I have been able to increase the weight I am lifting across the board. So I think for the most part things are looking up. Also, I have been working on a few new projects, one of them being food storage. I'm headed to Macey's tomorrow to spend a little bit of money, ok it will probably not be anywhere near a little bit. But it is fun to come home with a car full of food, lol. Finally, anyone want to go shooting? I bought a Glock 19, it is a 9mm, and it is a blast to shoot. Though I need to get more used to it, anyone want to join me at the shooting range? (Yep, watch out for those gun crazy rednecks, I think I'm one of them now. Just wait until I get the Glock 21SF, it is really nice too.)

Two weeks down

2009-02-21T23:29:00.002-07:00

Alright, just to keep track. I haven't posted a calander at work, but should I post one here? With this calendar we will all post what day I'm most likely to stop going to the gym. Since I go six days a week, plenty of days to choose from. What do you think? I did hit the gym four times two weeks ago, as I was learning what I was supposed to be doing. And then this week I went six times, following the plan I was given. And it looks like I've gained some weight, though I'm not sure how much yet. I can't weigh myself until Monday, so then we will see how it went.

Now that I've covered the basics of my blog, what is there to do in UT? I'm bored out of my mind in Provo, quick someone give me an idea, and getting really drunk isn't a good one. I need something that doesn't involve throwing up at the end of the night, lol. I'd post about my adventures, but I have NONE, so HELP ME OUT!!!

New Effort

2009-02-09T22:46:00.000-07:00

Alright, for those wondering about my ability to gain some weight, in two weeks I gained six pounds. Yep count them, one, two, blah blah blah, six. Then some things happened, I got stressed, had an upset stomach, didn't eat for two days, and then went to eating very little, and lost five pounds. Oops, so I'm down to 131 pounds at the moment. No comments about the weight, and for those of you who want to share your weight with me, I'll accept fat shipments for 19.99 per pound plus S&H. Actually I'm going to start blogging more often in an effort to build some accountability for what I'm working on. I've got a very strict diet of 4000 calories that I have prepared. A personal trainer, of sorts, who claims he is going to make me hurt and want to die. Or something to that effect, bring it on!!! Plus I have developed four other goals that I'm working on. Do you want to know what my goals are? Do I ask to look in your underwear drawer? The first goal, which I'll actually admit here is I want to get to 180 pounds. Yep, that means I need to gain fifty pounds, so now is where you come in, write me, remind me, call me, or text (because that is what I do most) me to make me accountable. I'll help you with something, even if it is to make you dinner of roasted veggies and grilled chicken. YUMMY!!! And don't worry I'm not going to post a picture of me without a shirt on to track my progress. Even I don't want to see that!!!

Also, I'm trying to read more often, so I'm going to post a few quotes of things I like as I read. Yep, most of it will be religious, but then if you really think about it, if it is true, it is probably important to do some reading. So I'll post some of my favorite quotes and where I got it.

Finally I'm working on food storage. I don't know why I want to work on it, maybe because I actually have interest and the means to start to prepare it, either way I'll post pictures, (if I figure out how that is done) recipes, and things I learn. Plus if you really want to help me, come over for dinner so I can try a modified recipe on you!!! I'm thinking balsamic roasted chicken and wild mushroom pea risotto on Wednesday after the gym. Any takers? (Yep I joined a gym too, should we put bets on the last day I show up? lol)

This is good news, I think.

2009-01-09T22:47:00.000-07:00

Alright Kyle, Katie, and Sarah, you actually all nailed my weight. When I posted I was 137 and within the last month I've gone down to 131. So let me know what you want for dinner and I'll get cooking. Though Kyle when are you coming for a visit? I'm going to post about Christmas in the next week or so, or maybe never I don't know, but just so you know about food I've been cooking. I'm making Gumbo this week, I had Crawfish Etouffee last week, among a myriad of other things. If you are looking for a casserole and fresh bread, I can hook you up, but if you want something more exciting, I'll hook you up even better. Anyone up for gyoza and rice or maybe some Yaki Soba?

Over a month and no change.

2008-11-30T20:51:00.000-07:00

Well it has been over a month since my last post, and I must admit defeat. I started eating meat again, which was difficult at first, but after a month of eating everything I see, including animals, I haven't gained an ounce! Yep, seems that weight is lost for good, or so I thought. So now is your chance to help, "fatten" me up. I want any suggestions, recipes, and anything else you can think of. I'm not trying to get fat mind you, though I do like Chunky Monkey by Ben and Jerry's, I'm looking for balanced complete ideas, so lets get cracking! I'll do the work, I just need the suggestions, this is just one aspect of my life I need to improve. And the person who can guess closest to my current weight, I'll invite you over to dinner, lol.

The Vegetarian Diet is Out!!!

2008-10-22T13:29:00.000-06:00

Okay, it really isn't out 100%, I actually prefer this way of eating, but circumstances are changing. It was pointed out that i haven't mentioned anything lately, so here is just a quick note. If you want to lose weight, a vegetarian diet is the way to go. But fair warning, after just over two months, though I don't want to eat meat, it was difficult. I had some meat the other day, which had to be followed by a bunch of Tums. And for those who like to tease me that I'm already too skinny, I've lost about 7 pounds in the last three weeks. Oops, guess I'm not that good at making sure I eat enough calories, lol. So I guess the vege thing is over, though I did have my exception Polish hotdog at the football game, mmmm. Any suggestions about what I should eat now?

My Decision

2008-08-28T11:02:00.000-06:00

Alright for those of you wondering what I’ve been up to and what I’m going to be doing, this is it. When I sent out my question a month ago I realized that I’d get lots of responses. I just didn’t really think that 90+ responses and ideas were going to accompany most of them. But I’m glad I got the responses, as this has been a learning experience for me. So what did I learn? I know nothing, and am probably a bigger idiot than I thought. The last few weeks have been interesting and transforming at the same time, so if this gets really long, well it is just another long-winded, no holds rant. So here goes.

With a few changes in definitions this is the order I have my list.
1. Religion/Spirituality
2. Be who you are
3. Social Networks
4. Intellectual Activities
5. Financial Stability
6. Enjoy Your Job
7. Physical Abilities
8. Family Networks

Now I’ll explain why and what each thing is:

Religion/Spirituality - I know this seems cliché, but this is important to me. I think more as an aspect of Spirituality than adherence to an organized religion. I’ve began trying to fit my beliefs into its own mold, rather than trying to pick and choose my frustrations with Mormonism. Don’t get me wrong, I think much happiness and truth can be found in “the church” but I’m not going to limit myself to such a narrow minded view towards other religious ideologies.

Be who you are - Though this wasn’t on the list originally, I realized that being true to our true selves was more important than I ever realized. The words, descriptions, and actions we use to describe and enhance our own self image need to be in line with our spiritual views. Just because someone has an alcohol addiction doesn’t make them first and foremost an alcoholic. Before I take on any negative or limiting self images, I’ll describe my self as a grandson, son, brother, and probably most important, friend to anyone I meet. This is who I am, now I need to act like I really am, not the perceptions I use to bolster my own ego.

Social Networks - This was redefined as I learned from many of you. This includes my own friends along with parents, siblings, grandparents, and my extended family. Because my relationship with them is more of friendship than my being dependent on their physical/financial support; I realized that they are more friends. I also found the importance of finding friends with whom I feel comfortable. Although I don’t have anything against drinking, I am not a fan of going to the bar and stinking when I get home. Though I still want to go on occasion, this isn’t going to be my main form of social interaction.

Intellectual Activities - This was mainly meant as increasing one’s education, whether it be in a formal setting like college, or reading a good book. Because of the many interests and questions I have I always find myself wanting to read. This desire to broaden my horizons helped shape and define my goals for the next 5 years.

Financial Stability - Not rich, but it sure it nice to order pizza on a lazy evening. Though this is starting to near the bottom of the list, it is still important to me. I don’t need a six figure salary, but I don’t want be starving either.

Enjoy Your Job - Recently I’ve realized that attitude is the biggest factor in whether or not you enjoy something. I think that I can enjoy any job if I have the above factors in their proper balance. What I’m finding is that if I put Financial Stability too high, my attitude becomes negative, and an unharmonious balance seems to take hold.

Physical Stature - We all know that I’m skinny, and I know you don’t want to see my without a shirt on! Though I think it is important that I make sure I am able to do those things I want so that I don’t find myself resenting those who can go do things I can’t because I’m not physically able to. My current diet is an example of trying to purify myself, more on that later.

Family Networks - Yes this is last, but this is my reason, I found that the type of family referred to by the church includes your spouse and children, then other family next. Because I’ve moved my parents, grandparents, and siblings to social networks, I can confront the fact that I don’t want to get married. This preference to not get married can change, but as for now, getting married and having children are not high on my priority list. Thus the idea of creating my own Family Network is considerably lower than all the others.

With that explanation of each area and its definition, this is what I’ve decided for myself and my goals in the next five years. I would like to spend more time exploring other religions and philosophies to create a medley of beliefs that I can hold to. This can be done both in Indiana and Utah, but my free time in Indiana is leading to too much internet chatting, lol. I believe that in an area I have a strong social network I’ll be able to better divide my time between friends and spiritual exploration. At current I am lacking a social network in Indiana that causes me to waste time reading blogs and spending entirely too much time online. I was not meant to be an internet buddy, but one in person, thus I wouldn’t be true to who I really am. I also want to continue my education, though that is possible in Indiana, certain areas of interest are not available as readily in this area. I could continue on how great Indiana is when it comes to financial stability, enjoying my job, and time to work out, but those things are secondary to my bigger concerns. With that being said, I’m going to be applying to graduate school in January and will be returning to UVSC to get some sociology classes this spring. In anticipation of grad school next fall.

Some of the resources that I used to come to this conclusion involved the book, Way of the Peaceful Warrior, The Life You Were Born to Live, and many discussions in person, over the phone, and via email. I realized that something you are good at, without much effort, isn’t necessarily what you are meant to do. My passion is involved with serving other people to fix social ills. I want to spread the word on how to find happiness and where it can be found, as many avenues to true happiness do exist. I want to explore the past and make sure humanity doesn’t commit the same mistakes again. So much can be learned from the 20th century and our current social dilemmas, if we just take the time to explore. The following mathematical equation I believe is quite profound: Happiness=Satisfaction/Desires. My desires have changed from having a six figure income and being revered for the perceived difficulty of my job, to exploring humanity to bring peace, understanding, and respect for others. I know this seems like an altruistic ideology, but my purpose in life is to use my creative energies to develop understanding and acceptance, not bolster my own ego. Though I don’t think money is bad, in the reflection of the last few months I realized that I had misplaced my trust in the perceived happiness of a large income, and the fruits have been bitter.

Now I’m going to finish, in my attempts to become more in-tune with my true self rather than my bolstered ego I have began a vegetarian diet, more time in meditation and reflection, and more time spent writing down my questions, ideologies, and hopes for the future. Though these changes aren’t permanent, I am trying to purge myself of my most carnal desires, (satisfying my hunger/stomach being #1), to become more in-line with my hopes and aspirations. Though I have reservations about leaving the job I have here in Indiana, I find that no matter what I choose to do I will be successful. Success is not the key, trying to regain some humility is. I’m not the same person who left Utah in November of last year, but after recent reflection, I’m not sure I’m proud of who I have become. With that being said, the place is here, the time is now, I’m going to concentrate on the here and now rather than what I can do in twenty years if I retire early.

The Duality of Man

2008-08-20T00:20:00.000-06:00

Do you even recognize where that phrase comes from? If the answer is no, it comes from the movie Full Metal Jacket. If you haven’t seen that movie, don’t worry you haven’t missed that much. If you have, you’ll agree, they haven’t missed that much. First I will admit that I’m actually writing on a subject that I saw on TV. Well actually that is all I ever write about, it is something that I see, but I think there is a context that wasn’t explored by the writers, or Hollywood is too shallow to cover the deeper meanings. Thus, I am exploring some of my views when it comes the duality of man. So with enough background and me just getting to the point, my thoughts on the duality of man.

Okay that is just a fancy title, good don’t you think? I believe and am convinced there are two people who live in each of us, the first is the person who wants to help others, be a contributing citizen who would give you the shirt of his back, and is at every community activity doing the dishes. The other person that lives inside of us is concerned about how they look, what they are doing, what they have, and how they are being compensated for their time. Which person is deciding what to do with your time? I must admit that the second person has been more a focus lately, and though it isn’t bad, my constant focus on the material things in life has caused a bit of an imbalance in my life.

I probably should be begging John’s fogiveness at work more than I do, but it seems that my normally selfish behavior has had consequences towards those people I am around the most. Poor John has had to deal with my snide comments of late, though he seems to shrug it off quite well. But now in front of everyone I’m committing to do better. I’m not letting the prideful, self-centered, egotistical, arrogant part of me dominate my actions at work or anywhere else for that matter. What part of me is left if I’m no longer going to savor those characteristics you may ask. Well I’m actually asking myself the same question, because to be quite honest without being around my friends who are bold enough to point it out, I have left the rest of my personality either back in Oklahoma or Utah.

If anyone has suggestions as to what I can do to better kick this second personality out of my life on a more consistant basis, I would appreciate any and all the help you can give. These are a few things that I’m going to try, to start my fight with the self-centered aspect of my humanity. First I’m going to separate myself from the things that give me the most unrighteous pride, I am going to try and stop thinking I’m better than other people because I’m smarter, better looking (ok I just wanted to say that even though it is impossible) funnier or any other characteristics. I want to start using my intelligence to help others around me, rather than using my wit to tear them down. I’m going to stop competing with other people to be the fastest, strongest, or smartest, I will let others do well, and I won’t point out that I let them do better. (Okay that one is going to be really hard.) And I’m going to put for much effort to stop hating people for any reason. It seems that I want to be justified in my dislikes, but there is at least one quality in everyone that is admirable. Well except for……just kidding!

So as I strive to understand the duality in my own humanity and become a better person, I’ll attempt to realize that through internal changes and service I might be able to lift those around me, rather than tear them down. This is just a start, any suggestions as to how I might do better? The dark side of my humanity seems to be in control right now, but with time and patience and study, I believe that I can become better. And if I can do it with much effort and study, everyone else should be able to do it quick as a whistle.

The Results

2008-08-09T19:20:00.001-06:00

If you are looking for the results to my survey that I sent via email, your still going to have to wait a bit. This much I can easily deduct from what I've learned.
1. I have really smart friends that are willing to state their opinions.
2. There really isn't a right answer, though I knew that before, the different life views just reemphasized that point.
3. Balance in life is much more complicated than saying #1 is more important than #2, because all aspects of our lives are intertwined.
4. Happiness=Satisfaction
Desires
Imagine that as satisfactions over desires. No way to underline it, stupid computer, lol.

Okay, I have actually learned many more things in the last few weeks, some from my survey, some from the books I have been learning, most of which I'd like to share in the future, but time is short tonight. On the bright side, I am finished with classroom work at my job for the next six months, I actually start working on the floor tomorrow morning!!
Finally, I actually get to do what I was hired to do, with someone watching over my shoulder constantly, lol.

I need help!!!

2008-07-12T21:33:00.000-06:00

Well we all know I need help, probably the type of help that requires millions of dollars, lol. But I want everyone's opinion. Either post your responses here or email me, either way I'm cool. So here goes. I want to know of the following things, what are their level of importance in order.

1. Weight/Physical Proportions
2. Ability to do what you want physically, (running, hiking, whatever)
3. Financial Stability
4. Healthy Savings
5. Intellectual Development
6. Graduate School and Continuing Education
7. Social Networks (Just having friends)
8. Religious/Spiritual Networks (Not necessarily organized religion)
9. Family Bonds
10. Any other thing that you thing is very important, that should be listed here.

Let me know what you think.

Be Someone Else's Superman

2008-06-30T18:13:00.000-06:00

If any person reads this and is offended by what I say, and you feel that I am attacking you personally in my rantings, this is my response, stop flattering yourself. For those who know me, they know I don't hold back, so if this hits on a personal note, I am glad. These are the qualities that I am going to strive for. (Because we all know I am an opinionated, self-righteous, screwball, that needs to practice more of what he reads.) Finally before I start, this is just a draft, I want ideas and insights, I want to really internalize these things that I am thinking, and feedback is greatly appreciated.

As I was reading the Ensign at work during June (yes I was slacking, but it was during my lunch) I was reading about the Mormon Helping Hands program. I was reading the comments made by Bishop Burton about service that the church has rendered all across the world and all the people who have been helped with the extending of service to those in need. With the recent flooding in Indiana, the branch I am in, cancelled services on Sunday so that we could go and offer relief and assistance to those that need some help. Now I will admit they weren't very well organized, but with time we found those people who needed our help.

Now to say that I was excited, that church was cancelled, is probably an understatement. Three hours is a long time for a simple minded person like me. I would rather church be an hour so I can slack off the rest of the day. Either way, I was excited to go both Saturday and Sunday and leave my worries of work, education, money, and all those things in Indianapolis. For two days I along with others from the branch had a blast wading around in "brown" water and carrying water soaked carpets among other things out to curbs for garbage pickup. Do you know how much crap a person can have in their home? I'm a pack rat, so if I was hit by a flood, I would be SCREWED!!! But enough about me and my bad habits, and more about being other people's Superman.

How long do you think it would take for Superman to empty a house full of items that have been ravaged by a flood? How long would it take for Superman to empty a basement full of Elvis memorabilia that still had at least a foot of water in it? (No electricity either, obviously) When I think of Superman he flies in and saves the day so that the tragedy never happens, but unfortunately he can't stop every one's tragedies, and bad things happen to good people. That is where you and I come in to play. I can tell you that a group of people, that I would contend is as powerful as Superman, was able to empty a home of everything including carpets, mop boards, appliances, and even cupboards, could do it in a matter of four hours. And more importantly than the Man of Steel, they were able to help the family hold it together as they watched their entire life's possessions hauled out to the trash. Despite a desire to save everything it wasn't possible, but compassion was shown as these people were built up to prepare for each day as they made their new lives after the flood. Superman can stop a tragedy, but the true superheroes are the ones who show compassion and love to a complete stranger following that tragedy.

Another group of superheroes that I saw went into a basement with a foot of water in it, and with just one flashlight started to empty a lifetime of collecting Elvis memorabilia. After seeing all that this lady had collected in her life, I must say, the King is dead. And so was one of the biggest collections of anything I have ever seen. Those modern real life superheroes that I saw, worked in a dark humid basement to haul out everything the older couple had collected. From CDs, tapes, LPs, magazines, Elvis memorabilia, washer, dryer, bottled foods, clothing, and even a chest style deep freeze full of food, and without power for a week, and did I mention full of "brown" water? This isn't something we see superheroes do very often, Superman's cape would have been ruined, (and some people's clothing was). I saw a group of people work as fast as they could to help this family; I would venture that nothing was salvageable, but if even a few things were, though not the food storage, it was worth it. In a world that is constantly in turmoil, constantly having famines, plagues, and natural disasters, it is nice to now that there is a group of people around the world willing to jump in to help those in need.

With that being said, here is where I might offend someone. When was the last time each of us offered service? When was the last time you stopped and helped someone on the side of the road, by letting them use your cell phone, or helped change their tire? When was the last time you remember church being cancelled for an opportunity to serve? Most importantly, of a YSA branch that has about 100 active members, why were there barely 30 people who showed up to help? I realize that there are things keeping us busy, work, school, dating, but I would contend we should have at least doubled the number who showed up. If you were going to church that Sunday, and the meeting was cancelled, why didn't you go and help? Please we all know that we don't do anything before church, and I was home by the time church would normally get out! I'm not trying to say that I am great for showing up to do service, but at least I'm attempting to practice what I read. Can each of us now practice what we preach?

Whether you be LDS, Catholic, or Non-denominational Christian, or profess any belief in a higher power, or just believe in the decency of humanity, if you read this blog or any others like it, GO OUT AND SERVE. Get off your butt and do something! I realize that there are those with children, but that is why there are two parents in family. One to tend the children and one to serve. Sometimes both need to tend the family, but they can make it possible for others to go and serve. Superman can't do everything, if he doesn't prevent the tragedy from happening to begin with, it is the job of each individual superhero in the world to go out and help others. Let us all go out with a better conviction to offer help to those around us. Whether it is helping flood victims, mowing a lawn, or offering a shoulder to cry on, or an ear to listen, it is each of our duties to serve our fellowmen, for if we don't, we are not superheroes, we are nothing more than an example of what is wrong with our society today.

Be smart, be safe, but most of all be who you really are. (Which is what I'm going to blog about again soon, the two people who live in each of us, lol.)

Just the Beginning

2008-06-19T17:36:00.000-06:00

To any person who is unfortunate enough to read this, I must apologize now. Although I do not care if anyone reads this, this is going to be the playground for my ideas, as I prepare to write books 1-5. Yep, I am planning on writing five or more books in my life, but I need to begin somewhere, and more important, I need to bounce my ideas off some unexpecting souls.

With that being said, if you take offense to anything I write, let me know why what I wrote is offensive, though remember before you right, the guilty take the truth to be hard. Alright, that is a bad mock of a quote, but you get the general idea. Just wait for my first blog, that I am currently putting together, and you will understand. So buckle down, this is going to be interesting.