Below are my Top 9 favorite memories. This is 2009 in review.
1&2. David's wedding week / New Year's Eve
I've covered David's wedding week and the Jingle Bell in December's Top 5.
3. Nidan
I've covered my nidan test and promotion in rather small detail here and here.
Having had some time to look back, it really seemed to be my last big hurrah with Metamora Martial Arts for the time being. Aside from only a handful of appearances since the summer, my biggest presence with the program has been virtual.
I will be back in a limited capacity for the next two months teaching at Riverview, though I'd like to receive some training myself. Three months over the summer doesn't cut it for me.
I honestly believe if the cost of the Ireland trip wasn't in the way, I would've been more serious about taking up MMA this fall and advanced my martial arts knowledge. Maybe someday.
It's been disappointing knowing that I won't be receiving much further training myself for the time being. Teaching will be okay, but I still like to sit back and let somebody else take charge. I guess 2010 is up for new challenges in that direction.
Nidan has been a nice end of a chapter. I think it's time to turn the page to a new one. Sensei Adam? That's got a nice ring to it.
4. End of an Era
This year marked the end of an era in the local music scene, as I've already noted.
I've noticed that due to venue issues and whatnot, I've gone to far less shows than I used to. There were times in high school where there would be a show to go to every week. It seems to me I can only make a few badass shows a year now.
2009 also saw other new concert acts for me, which included George Thorogood & The Destroyers, Megadeth, The Gaslight Anthem and Murder By Death (twice).
5. Planting the Harvester
July marked the second year in a row that we put on a dumb little wrestling show in the backyard. This one didn't have quite the magic the first one did, so I'm not too stoked on a repeat. I think we had anticipated the second one so much it wouldn't live up to our expectations no matter what we did.
However, I still love the creativity of everybody involved. Sam's green man appearance topped everything, but the marijuana-themed match for the Bud Belt between Scott Stoner, J-Mysterio, Kevin Hash, and first-ever champion The Undertoker was genius too.
The Harvester of Sorrow and Stone Cold Steve Adam are currently tied at 1-1. If there's a rematch next year, it's going to be ridiculous.
6. My Birthday
I had honestly forgotten what I did for my birthday this year. I remembered last year's, but thought it was this year's.
Once I read about it to remember it, my birthday was, to steal a line from Bob, "some bomb-ass shit." I ate with my family at Aztekita, opened presents, played ultimate frisbee, and went to Buffalo Wild Wings (so it must've been a Tuesday). Almost every close friend I had in high school reunited for the game of frisbee, so that was sweet.
7. Sam's 21st
It was my first time going to Sam's club, as Beau called it, and lo and behold, I was on the house rules: "No Adam Bocklers." This was in addition to a rule I can't remember, and "Nobody is on a fucking boat."
I'll be prepared to fight the next time I go to his place. This particular day, Rego met with me with a katana. On New Year's, David proceeds to get me in a clinch and we grapple. Be warned, friends of mine, I'm coming with guns loaded at the next party he hosts.
8. Shift Mgr.
A lot of people hate their job. So do I, at times, but I've said it before and I'll say it again - it's a nice gig for me, it's relatively easy and I'm hoping it leads to something better.
This was my first full year as a manager. Lots of times I don't know what I'm doing still. But there are a lot of fun people I get to work with and a lot of characters that come in; don't get me wrong, there's some real douches I've had the misfortune of getting stuck with.
9. School
I'd be leaving out a lot if I left school off this list. I met a lot of cool people this year. I still think the majority of Bradley students are douchebags, but I've decided to let my guard down this year and have a more open mind to some of the people that attend the school.
Plus I completed a lot of papers and projects I'm pretty with.
Showing posts with label top. Show all posts
Showing posts with label top. Show all posts
Monday, January 4, 2010
Sunday, January 3, 2010
December Top 5
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1. David's wedding
2. Jingle Bell Run
3. Christmas
4. New Year's Eve
5. Finishing another semester
December was a busy month for me, with lots of surprises, lots of goals accomplished and lots of laughs.
1. David's wedding
I found out Monday night that the friend I've known the longest, Mr. David O'Shea, was getting married...Wednesday morning. I thought everybody was messing with me until I found out this was for real. I'd known David had been dating Ambrosia with a long stretch of Interstate 55 in between them, but was extremely surprised to hear this.
All of us were really supportive of David and Ambrosia's decision, albeit seemingly hastily made. But, to borrow a line from "the American Dream" Dusty Rhodes himself, when life gives you lemons, grab some apples and oranges and make fruit punch.
On Tuesday night, we got a group of about a dozen packed into a section at Buffalo Wild Wings. Sam crafted a ball and chain for David to happily wear around the facility. After a few of us spent some time at Billy's, I came home to find the bachelor party winding down in the garage. This was where Beau beat me in a game of Rock Paper Scissors to become the best man.
The wedding morning consisted of Beau and Sam getting hammered before 9 a.m. After purging his pre-wedding demons, Justin and I picked up Beau and Sam to head to Sarah's. All of us were dressed nicely in probably our best outing since graduation.
David was late to his own wedding at the Eureka Courthouse. We all joked that he would either no-show, or would call a "PSYCHE!" on everybody and punk us all. Thankfully he did neither, marching up the stairs in fatigues and combat boots, like he was going to go kick some ass after the vows.
After the families took 80 million pictures, we went to the Busy Corner. I'll take at least half of the credit for suggesting that. Beau and Sam, possibly still wasted, both spilled their waters in a matter of minutes. The kind lady who patiently waited on us said they were worse than her grandchildren.
That night, the families hosted a nice reception at the Flame. Apparently there was an after party at Justin's, but I was bushed and decided to call it a night.
The wedding pictures
2. Jingle Bell Run
Future art educator Sam Ingram is a mad scientist when it comes to making costumes. Decked out in a cutoff with a white skull, I played the role of the Punisher for our team - The Return of the Holiday Heroes: The Team Formerly Known as Team Slayer.
Other superheroes included Thor (Beau), Nightcrawler (Rego), The Flash (Billy), The Hulk (Joey), Doctor Octopus (Bob), Batman (Justin), Captain America (Caleb), Iron Man (Sam himself), Spider-Man (Cory), Wolverine (Jesse) and Professor X (Jon).
This was the first time I felt I could handle a run. And it was a high school reunion of sorts since it was the first time we'd been in that big of a group since the summer, probably.
Everybody getting ready in Sam's parents' basement was a sight to see - Joey mixing blue and yellow paint together, spandexed individuals, and Beau shouting to Sam to retrieve him things after hijacking Sam's bed.
I ran with Beau and Sam for about the last two miles, but had to sprint at the very end to punctuate my time over Beau's, who'd given me hell for being able to run about the same as a chainsmoker.
Some family were also there cheering me on at the end too, which was cool. My dad's cousin had a team, which had some of my cousins, aunts and uncles on it. They had done the walking portion and were supporting those who braved the cold. Personally, I had lost the feeling in my bare hands after the first mile.
3. Christmas
Christmas was another big surprise. All plans my mom and her brother had made were out the window when my grandparents ended up staying in town, delaying their leave for Florida until the 26th.
I got pretty everything I wanted - some karate books, a few wrestling DVDs, and some nice clothes. I mostly wanted cash, though, to spend on my upcoming trip to Ireland.
I purchased some gifts of my own though, including a nice new coat that's lighter and warmer than my big leather one, and the HTC Droid Eris. That thing is slick.
4. New Year's Eve
It could technically be included with David's wedding, but that would just be long and boring after awhile.
I went out to eat with the family, two aunts and an uncle, along with a new sort-of cousin. Then it was off to Normal with Billy and one Kyle Cunningham to Sam's.
The party wasn't all that rockin' when I showed up, but after a case of PBR, some monkey brew and cheap wine, we were ready to raise some hell at David and Ambrosia's second reception. We took the wheelchair Sam had rented over and invaded the party next door. These guys sucked. One guy asked me if I was a cop because I was taping the event, and a few feet down a guy kept asking, "who let all the fucking ugly people in here?" I was pleased to hear this guy got punched in the face some time after I left Sam's.
Incidentally, Kyle helped mend fences with what I believe was my last major beef with anybody in high school. We stopped at Suzanne Everett's for a bit. I honestly didn't want to go because I remembered our spat over prom from senior year. I don't know if it was the alcohol or she just didn't care anymore, but she welcomed all of us in with open arms.
I decided all of the people there were douchebags when they told us we were lame for not drinking. Thankfully we didn't stay long. But I was relieved to end the decade without any serious issues from the past.
At midnight, instead of the usual toast to Fat Dan like we've become accustomed to doing, we aired grievances against one individual. An individual who doesn't respect Bob, Beau, or anybody who eats pizza. An individual who clearly isn't in a position to pass judgment on anyone. An individual who, had he shown up, probably would've caused a riot based on the actions of Sam's guests.
It was shortly after the handlebar-mustachioed feller showed up that I decided to call it a night. I wish I hadn't now after I heard a brawl broke out between the neighboring parties.
5. Finishing another semester
This semester flew by. I still can't believe it came and went just like that. I got 4 As and a B. All things considered, I should be stoked for that B. But like an endangered animal, the 15-hour semester of all As is an elusive son of a bitch.
The lack of school work has allowed me to take up reading again. I've polished off four books since the start of break. When school's not in, that's when I try to read recreationally. Otherwise it's just textbooks. I don't know how people read for fun when school is in. I was going to start another book today, then decided I'd rather blog instead.
All in all, December has been filled with a lot of the unexpected. Sam hosts two kickass parties in the same month, I do my first run, Christmas plans change entirely, and one of my best friends got married.
Only in this guy's world does this kind of madness go down.
2. Jingle Bell Run
3. Christmas
4. New Year's Eve
5. Finishing another semester
December was a busy month for me, with lots of surprises, lots of goals accomplished and lots of laughs.
1. David's wedding
I found out Monday night that the friend I've known the longest, Mr. David O'Shea, was getting married...Wednesday morning. I thought everybody was messing with me until I found out this was for real. I'd known David had been dating Ambrosia with a long stretch of Interstate 55 in between them, but was extremely surprised to hear this.
All of us were really supportive of David and Ambrosia's decision, albeit seemingly hastily made. But, to borrow a line from "the American Dream" Dusty Rhodes himself, when life gives you lemons, grab some apples and oranges and make fruit punch.
On Tuesday night, we got a group of about a dozen packed into a section at Buffalo Wild Wings. Sam crafted a ball and chain for David to happily wear around the facility. After a few of us spent some time at Billy's, I came home to find the bachelor party winding down in the garage. This was where Beau beat me in a game of Rock Paper Scissors to become the best man.
The wedding morning consisted of Beau and Sam getting hammered before 9 a.m. After purging his pre-wedding demons, Justin and I picked up Beau and Sam to head to Sarah's. All of us were dressed nicely in probably our best outing since graduation. David was late to his own wedding at the Eureka Courthouse. We all joked that he would either no-show, or would call a "PSYCHE!" on everybody and punk us all. Thankfully he did neither, marching up the stairs in fatigues and combat boots, like he was going to go kick some ass after the vows.
After the families took 80 million pictures, we went to the Busy Corner. I'll take at least half of the credit for suggesting that. Beau and Sam, possibly still wasted, both spilled their waters in a matter of minutes. The kind lady who patiently waited on us said they were worse than her grandchildren.That night, the families hosted a nice reception at the Flame. Apparently there was an after party at Justin's, but I was bushed and decided to call it a night.
The wedding pictures
2. Jingle Bell Run
Future art educator Sam Ingram is a mad scientist when it comes to making costumes. Decked out in a cutoff with a white skull, I played the role of the Punisher for our team - The Return of the Holiday Heroes: The Team Formerly Known as Team Slayer.
Other superheroes included Thor (Beau), Nightcrawler (Rego), The Flash (Billy), The Hulk (Joey), Doctor Octopus (Bob), Batman (Justin), Captain America (Caleb), Iron Man (Sam himself), Spider-Man (Cory), Wolverine (Jesse) and Professor X (Jon). This was the first time I felt I could handle a run. And it was a high school reunion of sorts since it was the first time we'd been in that big of a group since the summer, probably.
Everybody getting ready in Sam's parents' basement was a sight to see - Joey mixing blue and yellow paint together, spandexed individuals, and Beau shouting to Sam to retrieve him things after hijacking Sam's bed.
I ran with Beau and Sam for about the last two miles, but had to sprint at the very end to punctuate my time over Beau's, who'd given me hell for being able to run about the same as a chainsmoker.
Some family were also there cheering me on at the end too, which was cool. My dad's cousin had a team, which had some of my cousins, aunts and uncles on it. They had done the walking portion and were supporting those who braved the cold. Personally, I had lost the feeling in my bare hands after the first mile.
3. Christmas
Christmas was another big surprise. All plans my mom and her brother had made were out the window when my grandparents ended up staying in town, delaying their leave for Florida until the 26th.
I got pretty everything I wanted - some karate books, a few wrestling DVDs, and some nice clothes. I mostly wanted cash, though, to spend on my upcoming trip to Ireland.
I purchased some gifts of my own though, including a nice new coat that's lighter and warmer than my big leather one, and the HTC Droid Eris. That thing is slick.
4. New Year's Eve
It could technically be included with David's wedding, but that would just be long and boring after awhile.
The party wasn't all that rockin' when I showed up, but after a case of PBR, some monkey brew and cheap wine, we were ready to raise some hell at David and Ambrosia's second reception. We took the wheelchair Sam had rented over and invaded the party next door. These guys sucked. One guy asked me if I was a cop because I was taping the event, and a few feet down a guy kept asking, "who let all the fucking ugly people in here?" I was pleased to hear this guy got punched in the face some time after I left Sam's.
Incidentally, Kyle helped mend fences with what I believe was my last major beef with anybody in high school. We stopped at Suzanne Everett's for a bit. I honestly didn't want to go because I remembered our spat over prom from senior year. I don't know if it was the alcohol or she just didn't care anymore, but she welcomed all of us in with open arms.
I decided all of the people there were douchebags when they told us we were lame for not drinking. Thankfully we didn't stay long. But I was relieved to end the decade without any serious issues from the past.
At midnight, instead of the usual toast to Fat Dan like we've become accustomed to doing, we aired grievances against one individual. An individual who doesn't respect Bob, Beau, or anybody who eats pizza. An individual who clearly isn't in a position to pass judgment on anyone. An individual who, had he shown up, probably would've caused a riot based on the actions of Sam's guests. It was shortly after the handlebar-mustachioed feller showed up that I decided to call it a night. I wish I hadn't now after I heard a brawl broke out between the neighboring parties.
5. Finishing another semester
This semester flew by. I still can't believe it came and went just like that. I got 4 As and a B. All things considered, I should be stoked for that B. But like an endangered animal, the 15-hour semester of all As is an elusive son of a bitch.
The lack of school work has allowed me to take up reading again. I've polished off four books since the start of break. When school's not in, that's when I try to read recreationally. Otherwise it's just textbooks. I don't know how people read for fun when school is in. I was going to start another book today, then decided I'd rather blog instead.
All in all, December has been filled with a lot of the unexpected. Sam hosts two kickass parties in the same month, I do my first run, Christmas plans change entirely, and one of my best friends got married.
Only in this guy's world does this kind of madness go down.
Saturday, November 28, 2009
November Top 5
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My top 5 returns! Mainly because the past couple months apparently haven't produced 5 sweet happenings...
Here's the quick preview, in no particular order - actually, yes, in order.
5. getting to karate (for one night only)
4. finishing some crucial homework
3. Megadeth
2. seeing old friends
1. Thanksgiving
5. Getting to karate (for one night only)
I decided to show up relatively unannounced since I wasn't entirely sure I'd be available. It was fun working with Mr. Hawkey and thinking about different interpretations for Naihanchi San, but at the same time, my passion and drive are still nowhere near the level they've been before. I wonder if I just still need more time out or if I've grown out of that stage of my life. I'm hoping the former is true, because thinking I'm done with karate is a scary thought.
Regardless, I need to find some energy for it before January when I substitute at Riverview for two months.
4. Homework
I'll be the first to admit this sounds lame. But I finished a web design that I'm actually pretty happy with (http://www.adambockler.com/web/blog/index.html), and got a paper done way ahead of time for my communication law class that I'm proud of. It's due Thursday, but I finished it awhile ago and have been proofing it for about a week now.
3. Megadeth
I've missed several opportunities to see Megadeth in Chicago in the past. I probably could've seen better opening bands, but I'm glad I didn't have to make the drive. Instead, they played the Exhibition Hall at the Peoria Civic Center. We caught the tail end of Machine Head who sounded pretty nu-metal. This is the first concert I'd been to in about 2 months, so I'm excited I got to see another sweet band.
2. Seeing old friends
Dog the Bounty Hunter was playing Wednesday night at 9 as I was half-comatose in front of the TV in my room when one mustachioed Joe Maubach sent a text saying he was at Old Chicago. My body was telling me no, but I hadn't seen Joe for a long time and was curious to see who was with him. Joe's party crew included former MMA alums Russel Boulton and the Ruder brothers, Aaron and Andy - none of whom I'd seen within the last year or so, I'd guess.
As they wound the Winter Tour, we got the chance to catch up. It's weird to know Rusty is out of college and has a job as a teacher. Man, are my friends getting old? I still felt like a youngin' when he was talking about his job.
But it was great seeing them. I hope we can all catch up over winter break, too, as that's a group that I don't see often enough and would love to chill with more in the future.
1. Thanksgiving
Can I just say I freakin' love this holiday?
My cousin got married in September so my family was in town, but I didn't really get to hang out with any of them, so I was really looking forward to Thanksgiving.
After work, I went over to my aunt's in Washington to down 3 solid plates of food, played some poker, got tagged in 100+ pics on Facebook taken on my uncle's Macbook Pro, played Wii with a few cousins, and briefly saw some friends. A+ day
Here's the quick preview, in no particular order - actually, yes, in order.
5. getting to karate (for one night only)
4. finishing some crucial homework
3. Megadeth
2. seeing old friends
1. Thanksgiving
5. Getting to karate (for one night only)
I decided to show up relatively unannounced since I wasn't entirely sure I'd be available. It was fun working with Mr. Hawkey and thinking about different interpretations for Naihanchi San, but at the same time, my passion and drive are still nowhere near the level they've been before. I wonder if I just still need more time out or if I've grown out of that stage of my life. I'm hoping the former is true, because thinking I'm done with karate is a scary thought.
Regardless, I need to find some energy for it before January when I substitute at Riverview for two months.
4. Homework
I'll be the first to admit this sounds lame. But I finished a web design that I'm actually pretty happy with (http://www.adambockler.com/web/blog/index.html), and got a paper done way ahead of time for my communication law class that I'm proud of. It's due Thursday, but I finished it awhile ago and have been proofing it for about a week now.
3. Megadeth
I've missed several opportunities to see Megadeth in Chicago in the past. I probably could've seen better opening bands, but I'm glad I didn't have to make the drive. Instead, they played the Exhibition Hall at the Peoria Civic Center. We caught the tail end of Machine Head who sounded pretty nu-metal. This is the first concert I'd been to in about 2 months, so I'm excited I got to see another sweet band.
2. Seeing old friends
Dog the Bounty Hunter was playing Wednesday night at 9 as I was half-comatose in front of the TV in my room when one mustachioed Joe Maubach sent a text saying he was at Old Chicago. My body was telling me no, but I hadn't seen Joe for a long time and was curious to see who was with him. Joe's party crew included former MMA alums Russel Boulton and the Ruder brothers, Aaron and Andy - none of whom I'd seen within the last year or so, I'd guess.
As they wound the Winter Tour, we got the chance to catch up. It's weird to know Rusty is out of college and has a job as a teacher. Man, are my friends getting old? I still felt like a youngin' when he was talking about his job.
But it was great seeing them. I hope we can all catch up over winter break, too, as that's a group that I don't see often enough and would love to chill with more in the future.
1. Thanksgiving
Can I just say I freakin' love this holiday?
My cousin got married in September so my family was in town, but I didn't really get to hang out with any of them, so I was really looking forward to Thanksgiving.
After work, I went over to my aunt's in Washington to down 3 solid plates of food, played some poker, got tagged in 100+ pics on Facebook taken on my uncle's Macbook Pro, played Wii with a few cousins, and briefly saw some friends. A+ day
Sunday, September 6, 2009
August Top...2? 3?
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August was pretty uneventful, so there's no Top 5.
Here's what happened...
I went to Chicago on the Amtrak early on with Gabby and Jackie. Jackie had family passes to Shedd Aquarium where I got to be her brother and Gabby was our little sister. We got those suckers good. Only stayed about an hour before walking up to and around Navy Pier before eventually strolling alllll the way back to Union Station.
The only other really cool event was Swingram's 21st Birthday as hosted by "Cigarettes" Jon Costello. I liked it because it's one of the few events of the year anymore where the whole gang gets together to chill. I was also honored to be a part of the house rules: "No Adam Bocklers."
School starting again was nice, as I found I've already watched a decent amount from my wrestling DVD library.
Here's what happened...
I went to Chicago on the Amtrak early on with Gabby and Jackie. Jackie had family passes to Shedd Aquarium where I got to be her brother and Gabby was our little sister. We got those suckers good. Only stayed about an hour before walking up to and around Navy Pier before eventually strolling alllll the way back to Union Station.
The only other really cool event was Swingram's 21st Birthday as hosted by "Cigarettes" Jon Costello. I liked it because it's one of the few events of the year anymore where the whole gang gets together to chill. I was also honored to be a part of the house rules: "No Adam Bocklers."
School starting again was nice, as I found I've already watched a decent amount from my wrestling DVD library.
Thursday, August 6, 2009
July - Top 5
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Another month, another top 5!
Finishing summer classes
I finished my second class early on in July, leaving me free to spend my summer doing whatever I want.
This class was fun for me - Foundations of Interactive Digital Entertainment. It was essentially 5 weeks to produce the biggest research project I've ever completely, and the book was intriguing.
Good class...would take again.
Defeating the Harvester of Sorrow
Last year's main event pitting Stone Cold Steve Adam against the Harvester of Sorrow was put together on a whim, somewhat, and 30 people showed up. We hyped it for a month this year and barely got anybody besides the people wrestling to show up.
It didn't turn out to be the real production I was shooting for, but we all ended up having lots of fun and that suits me just fine. The matches themselves were probably pretty awful, so I ended up just putting clips together.
Thanks, Jackie.
As it stands right now, this blogger doesn't anticipate a rematch for the Harvester to settle the score, and may just retire as the Champ.
Working in Pontiac
Most people aren't jonesing to sit under a tent next to a stable of pigs to work the Livingston County 4H Fair. Truth be told, I don't either. But 3 days working the infield of a remotely controlled racetrack gave me some extra cash to blow on DVDs and a case for my kamas.
Vacation in St. Louis
Despite the typical family bickering, I really liked St. Louis. Usually when people want to get out of this area, they want to go to Chicago. Well, you can all have the Windy City, because my new favorite city (that's close to Peoria, anyway) is the Gateway to the West.
We hit the Lincoln Museum on the way down in Springfield, then went to the Arch, zoo, Anheuser-Busch brewery, and historic St. Charles.
St. Louis pictures
The Welcome Home Party
Upon my return from St. Louis, I met the karate crew at Kartville and had fun cruising in go-karts, getting driven by (first) Deshi Adam for the first (and last?) time ever, and playing mini-golf. After a short snack at Emo's, Gabby and Jackie called to say they were throwing Adam Bockler a welcome home party.
Needless to say, I was thrilled. For some reason, my mind painted the picture that I would parade down Noel with my boss and another coworker cheering my return home and Gabby's house would be decorated to the max. This image was further solidified with the fact that the ladies were at Wal-mart, likely getting streamers, hats, cake, and other party necessities.
Hey, a guy can dream.
Reality hit pulling into a dark, dimly lit Noel, seeing their cars parked by the fire hydrant. I walked in and the dogs barked, and Jackie and Gabby were busy diving into watermelon. I joined in and regaled them of St. Louis, then we proceeded to chill until about 12:30.
What a random night and tiring day.
----
I'm really looking forward to an August Top 5, featuring a day trip to Chicago via Amtrak train, school starting up again, and some other potential things I'll be keeping hush on for the time being.
Finishing summer classes
I finished my second class early on in July, leaving me free to spend my summer doing whatever I want.
This class was fun for me - Foundations of Interactive Digital Entertainment. It was essentially 5 weeks to produce the biggest research project I've ever completely, and the book was intriguing.
Good class...would take again.
Defeating the Harvester of Sorrow
Last year's main event pitting Stone Cold Steve Adam against the Harvester of Sorrow was put together on a whim, somewhat, and 30 people showed up. We hyped it for a month this year and barely got anybody besides the people wrestling to show up.
It didn't turn out to be the real production I was shooting for, but we all ended up having lots of fun and that suits me just fine. The matches themselves were probably pretty awful, so I ended up just putting clips together.
Thanks, Jackie.
As it stands right now, this blogger doesn't anticipate a rematch for the Harvester to settle the score, and may just retire as the Champ.
Working in Pontiac
Most people aren't jonesing to sit under a tent next to a stable of pigs to work the Livingston County 4H Fair. Truth be told, I don't either. But 3 days working the infield of a remotely controlled racetrack gave me some extra cash to blow on DVDs and a case for my kamas.
Vacation in St. Louis
Despite the typical family bickering, I really liked St. Louis. Usually when people want to get out of this area, they want to go to Chicago. Well, you can all have the Windy City, because my new favorite city (that's close to Peoria, anyway) is the Gateway to the West.
We hit the Lincoln Museum on the way down in Springfield, then went to the Arch, zoo, Anheuser-Busch brewery, and historic St. Charles.
St. Louis pictures
The Welcome Home Party
Upon my return from St. Louis, I met the karate crew at Kartville and had fun cruising in go-karts, getting driven by (first) Deshi Adam for the first (and last?) time ever, and playing mini-golf. After a short snack at Emo's, Gabby and Jackie called to say they were throwing Adam Bockler a welcome home party.
Needless to say, I was thrilled. For some reason, my mind painted the picture that I would parade down Noel with my boss and another coworker cheering my return home and Gabby's house would be decorated to the max. This image was further solidified with the fact that the ladies were at Wal-mart, likely getting streamers, hats, cake, and other party necessities.
Hey, a guy can dream.
Reality hit pulling into a dark, dimly lit Noel, seeing their cars parked by the fire hydrant. I walked in and the dogs barked, and Jackie and Gabby were busy diving into watermelon. I joined in and regaled them of St. Louis, then we proceeded to chill until about 12:30.
What a random night and tiring day.
----
I'm really looking forward to an August Top 5, featuring a day trip to Chicago via Amtrak train, school starting up again, and some other potential things I'll be keeping hush on for the time being.
Wednesday, July 8, 2009
June - Top 5
Promotion
Relay For Life made it official. June 5, 2009, is the day I was officially promoted to 2nd degree black belt and received the title of "Deshi," though nobody calls me that.
In all actuality, the Relay was boring this year. I opted not to participate for so long this year, showing up around 1 and leaving around 5:30 or 6. It was mostly an afternoon of deciding I was officially burnt out with karate.
Be that as it may, I decided to suck it up and not get behind on my training. I was rewarded for my efforts.
This day (and week) was also sweet because David was home from the Army.
Learning New Stuff
June wasn't all together an extremely exciting month, though looking back I got excited about learning a new kata (Naihanchi San). This is the third and final installment of what is really O Naihanchi. Black belt classes at Mr. Hawkey's began again, and luckily he had Justin and I work the interpretation for it.
I feel I've gotten a better understanding of this new form than Naihanchi Ni, which I've known for almost 2 years. For some reason, some katas get taught to me real well, and others seem to fall by the wayside and I don't have a great understanding of them.
Plus we've learned two new ippons, and Mr. Hawkey has worked with us on advanced interpretation for different kata and applications that, at this point in time, would never have revealed themselves to me otherwise.
Learning a new weapon (kama) is fun, too.
Finishing a Class
I got an A in my May term. This is exciting. As I write this, we're in the final week of another class. Since the end of last August, I have gotten 2 weeks of break between terms at most. So finishing CIS 300 was a nice milestone - racking up gen ed points and an A.
In other news, Bradley finally switched us over to Interactive Media. Except I have no degree audit, currently, so I don't have anything to look at right now in regards to what classes I've knocked out.
Continuing this stream of consciousness, bollocks to IM 313 not being offered in the fall. Bollocks, I say!
Focusing on the Positive
It has never been my intention to use this blog as a LiveJournal or talk about emotions. I don't think it is right (or necessary) for people to air grievances on public spaces when the issue is personal.
Instead, all I'll say is that I have decided to cut off contact to negative people and negative situations. Initially I was worried this wouldn't work out, but I'm still having fun this summer.
Working Out
I'm working my way up to run some races. I'm not there yet, but close. I've also recently taken up riding my bike, in the hopes to ride to Germantown and back next week without completely feeling like crap afterwards.
Eventually one day, I think it would be sweet to run a marathon, but that is a loooong way away.
Other Notable June Moments
-Leading the Metamora Martial Arts crew in the Old Settler's parade for the fourth year in a row.
-Invision Power Board 3.0 coming out finally.
-Helping out at this arts conference deal at Bradley
-Splashdown with Sarah and her cousins
Relay For Life made it official. June 5, 2009, is the day I was officially promoted to 2nd degree black belt and received the title of "Deshi," though nobody calls me that.
In all actuality, the Relay was boring this year. I opted not to participate for so long this year, showing up around 1 and leaving around 5:30 or 6. It was mostly an afternoon of deciding I was officially burnt out with karate.
Be that as it may, I decided to suck it up and not get behind on my training. I was rewarded for my efforts.
This day (and week) was also sweet because David was home from the Army.
Learning New Stuff
June wasn't all together an extremely exciting month, though looking back I got excited about learning a new kata (Naihanchi San). This is the third and final installment of what is really O Naihanchi. Black belt classes at Mr. Hawkey's began again, and luckily he had Justin and I work the interpretation for it.
I feel I've gotten a better understanding of this new form than Naihanchi Ni, which I've known for almost 2 years. For some reason, some katas get taught to me real well, and others seem to fall by the wayside and I don't have a great understanding of them.
Plus we've learned two new ippons, and Mr. Hawkey has worked with us on advanced interpretation for different kata and applications that, at this point in time, would never have revealed themselves to me otherwise.
Learning a new weapon (kama) is fun, too.
Finishing a Class
I got an A in my May term. This is exciting. As I write this, we're in the final week of another class. Since the end of last August, I have gotten 2 weeks of break between terms at most. So finishing CIS 300 was a nice milestone - racking up gen ed points and an A.
In other news, Bradley finally switched us over to Interactive Media. Except I have no degree audit, currently, so I don't have anything to look at right now in regards to what classes I've knocked out.
Continuing this stream of consciousness, bollocks to IM 313 not being offered in the fall. Bollocks, I say!
Focusing on the Positive
It has never been my intention to use this blog as a LiveJournal or talk about emotions. I don't think it is right (or necessary) for people to air grievances on public spaces when the issue is personal.
Instead, all I'll say is that I have decided to cut off contact to negative people and negative situations. Initially I was worried this wouldn't work out, but I'm still having fun this summer.
Working Out
I'm working my way up to run some races. I'm not there yet, but close. I've also recently taken up riding my bike, in the hopes to ride to Germantown and back next week without completely feeling like crap afterwards.
Eventually one day, I think it would be sweet to run a marathon, but that is a loooong way away.
Other Notable June Moments
-Leading the Metamora Martial Arts crew in the Old Settler's parade for the fourth year in a row.
-Invision Power Board 3.0 coming out finally.
-Helping out at this arts conference deal at Bradley
-Splashdown with Sarah and her cousins
Saturday, May 30, 2009
A Thousand Open Ears and Still Not a Word To Say
The scene boards have posted a Top 5 of May, so I thought I'd take the concept and put some more detail into it.
1. Final Shows / End of an Era
Black the Sky and Devil's Pie's final Peoria shows. May 9 was an awesome headbangin' time at Johnny's Coffee House with them, Black Teeth, and the Serpent Son.
End of an Era in Chicago with DP and Dead to Fall's final shows...the other bands I'd heard of but never really listened to, so I wasn't as into them. DP and DTF played awesome sets, and my throat was super sore the next day from singing along.
Somewhat bittersweet though, because BTS and DP (+TSS) were the reasons I got into local music in the first place. Oh well, life goes on.
2. 20th birthday
Did nothing that day, went to karate, Aztekita, opened some presents and got a bunch of wrestling DVDs, played ultimate frisbee with tons of my best friends, then did our usual BWW run. So much fun.
3. Finishing sophomore year.
This year seemed super long, but I finished school nonetheless. Another successful year, bringing my GPA to 3.75. :)
4. 2nd degree test
I'd hoped to test way sooner than I did, but I still ended up passing my test with "precision" on May 16. Thanks to those who came out and took a beating.
5. WWE in Bloomington
The night I tested, I wanted to see WWE in Bloomington, so I went with Wes, Vince, and Ryan. Nothing super special, but still a fun show. Afterwards Vince and Ryan hit each other with posters of seductive college girls.
1. Final Shows / End of an Era
Black the Sky and Devil's Pie's final Peoria shows. May 9 was an awesome headbangin' time at Johnny's Coffee House with them, Black Teeth, and the Serpent Son.
End of an Era in Chicago with DP and Dead to Fall's final shows...the other bands I'd heard of but never really listened to, so I wasn't as into them. DP and DTF played awesome sets, and my throat was super sore the next day from singing along.
Somewhat bittersweet though, because BTS and DP (+TSS) were the reasons I got into local music in the first place. Oh well, life goes on.
2. 20th birthday
Did nothing that day, went to karate, Aztekita, opened some presents and got a bunch of wrestling DVDs, played ultimate frisbee with tons of my best friends, then did our usual BWW run. So much fun.
3. Finishing sophomore year.
This year seemed super long, but I finished school nonetheless. Another successful year, bringing my GPA to 3.75. :)
4. 2nd degree test
I'd hoped to test way sooner than I did, but I still ended up passing my test with "precision" on May 16. Thanks to those who came out and took a beating.
5. WWE in Bloomington
The night I tested, I wanted to see WWE in Bloomington, so I went with Wes, Vince, and Ryan. Nothing super special, but still a fun show. Afterwards Vince and Ryan hit each other with posters of seductive college girls.
Friday, January 2, 2009
2008: A Look Back (The Rest)
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-Jon's cookout at his grandparents' in May
-Seeing At the Gates, Municipal Waste, The Sword, Down, and Metallica
-Bob's and Jon's 4th of July parties, including leaving Jon's at 2:30 and subsequently getting pulled over as the only car on the road.
-seeing Lewis Black with Matt and two other dudes whose names I forget.
-working for Scot - always a blast.
Goodbye, 2008.
-Seeing At the Gates, Municipal Waste, The Sword, Down, and Metallica
-Bob's and Jon's 4th of July parties, including leaving Jon's at 2:30 and subsequently getting pulled over as the only car on the road.
-seeing Lewis Black with Matt and two other dudes whose names I forget.
-working for Scot - always a blast.
Goodbye, 2008.
Saturday, December 27, 2008
2008: A Look Back (MMA)
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2008 was a big year for Metamora Martial Arts.
For nearly a year we’d been planning on an open tournament, and on April 5, 2008, we did just that. Eight schools, 70+ divisions, 100+ competitors. Lucky for me, I was put in charge of a ring for the first time, and I think I did a good job. Not great, but for first-time, on-the-job training, I don’t think I did too bad. Here’s to another awesome tournament on April 4, 2009!
I got to train a few different ways this summer, courtesy of Mr. Hawkey. Black belts did some private training at his home in Sparland, in a secluded woodsy area. And, as if that wasn’t enough, he also taught whoever was interested the beginnings of the sai. It’s my goal to get certified in the sai, but my schedule last semester and apparently the forthcoming one are going to prevent that from happening because I’m not available to see him for certification.
It was also over the summer that we realized we’d won some awards from Black Belt Magazine. Metamora Martial Arts was named Best Children’s Program and Best Humanitarian Act (for our Relay For Life break-a-thon). For a program that’s only been around just shy of 7 years, I think that’s an awesome accomplishment. Go big or go home.
The Missouri trip was somewhat bittersweet. The trip was pretty fun – mostly chillin with Adam and a few others. The busride was especially fun, for me, because we were jammin tuneskis from the iPod, and I was leading the charge singing for the group. I think everybody seemed to enjoy it, and I was completely hoarse the next day and didn’t really want to talk. However, one little incident kind of blew up – winding up in my suspension from MTHS for three months and severely threatening my future as the chief instructor at MGS. The details are stupid, but suffice it to say that everybody needs to stick to their own business and not worry about bringing others down with them.
After that little incident, my spot as the chief instructor at MGS was secure. Mr. Chianakas has finally realized his dream of having three black belt instructors lead his grade schools. Plus, Justin and Adam are also in charge of their own schools, and I think the fact that us three are playing such a big part in this now nationally recognized program is awesome. Being an instructor at MGS since the very first night we opened there, this whole thing is pretty cool.
We also got to prove that we do serve the community through a blood drive we hosted in August. Since I couldn’t give blood because of the tat I got in January, I was still able to help out and Susan said we had a great turnout. From the sounds of things, it sound like we’ll still be able to do it next August.
So if we did all this in 2008, it looks like we have some damn big shoes to fill in 2009.
For nearly a year we’d been planning on an open tournament, and on April 5, 2008, we did just that. Eight schools, 70+ divisions, 100+ competitors. Lucky for me, I was put in charge of a ring for the first time, and I think I did a good job. Not great, but for first-time, on-the-job training, I don’t think I did too bad. Here’s to another awesome tournament on April 4, 2009!
I got to train a few different ways this summer, courtesy of Mr. Hawkey. Black belts did some private training at his home in Sparland, in a secluded woodsy area. And, as if that wasn’t enough, he also taught whoever was interested the beginnings of the sai. It’s my goal to get certified in the sai, but my schedule last semester and apparently the forthcoming one are going to prevent that from happening because I’m not available to see him for certification.
It was also over the summer that we realized we’d won some awards from Black Belt Magazine. Metamora Martial Arts was named Best Children’s Program and Best Humanitarian Act (for our Relay For Life break-a-thon). For a program that’s only been around just shy of 7 years, I think that’s an awesome accomplishment. Go big or go home.
The Missouri trip was somewhat bittersweet. The trip was pretty fun – mostly chillin with Adam and a few others. The busride was especially fun, for me, because we were jammin tuneskis from the iPod, and I was leading the charge singing for the group. I think everybody seemed to enjoy it, and I was completely hoarse the next day and didn’t really want to talk. However, one little incident kind of blew up – winding up in my suspension from MTHS for three months and severely threatening my future as the chief instructor at MGS. The details are stupid, but suffice it to say that everybody needs to stick to their own business and not worry about bringing others down with them.
After that little incident, my spot as the chief instructor at MGS was secure. Mr. Chianakas has finally realized his dream of having three black belt instructors lead his grade schools. Plus, Justin and Adam are also in charge of their own schools, and I think the fact that us three are playing such a big part in this now nationally recognized program is awesome. Being an instructor at MGS since the very first night we opened there, this whole thing is pretty cool.
We also got to prove that we do serve the community through a blood drive we hosted in August. Since I couldn’t give blood because of the tat I got in January, I was still able to help out and Susan said we had a great turnout. From the sounds of things, it sound like we’ll still be able to do it next August.
So if we did all this in 2008, it looks like we have some damn big shoes to fill in 2009.
Friday, December 12, 2008
2008: A Look Back (Bob vs. Adam)
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Harvester of Sorrow vs. Stone Cold Steve Adam (c) - Metamora Backyard Wrestling Championship
Bob “Hit and Run” Dixon and I have found throughout the course of our friendship that both of us were big wrestling fans during the industry’s boom periods of the late 90s. I can remember sitting with him and Ryan and Wes in graphic arts in high school and talking about all that stuff, with the only name I can vividly remember being Vader, of all people.
Anyway, sometime over the spring or summer, we were in the driveway and started hitting each other with different shots and wrestling holds and whatever. Not too long afterwards, we had a real garbage match in the dark in the backyard. But we decided that night that we wanted to put on a wrestling match.
We got together one night after a night of wingz at Webb’s in Washburn, but on the way back ended up canceling the show because of storms. So we waited and built the suspense for a few more weeks.
There was absolutely no rehearsal for this match. I’d made a Facebook event for it and thought 10 of our friends showed up. Well, the best advertising is by word of mouth. Right before our entrance music hit, there had to be at least 30 people crowded around in my backyard. Honestly I felt bad for everybody that showed up looking for something good. But it was really entertainment value and not a true scientific chain wrestling type of match, so whatever.
I had to watch the match after I got done writing that last paragraph. Honestly, in wrestling terms, it was pretty awful, but it was a damn entertaining match and I hope we can do at least one match this coming summer.
http://www.adambockler.com/see/video/wrestlingmatch61808.html
Bob “Hit and Run” Dixon and I have found throughout the course of our friendship that both of us were big wrestling fans during the industry’s boom periods of the late 90s. I can remember sitting with him and Ryan and Wes in graphic arts in high school and talking about all that stuff, with the only name I can vividly remember being Vader, of all people.
Anyway, sometime over the spring or summer, we were in the driveway and started hitting each other with different shots and wrestling holds and whatever. Not too long afterwards, we had a real garbage match in the dark in the backyard. But we decided that night that we wanted to put on a wrestling match.
We got together one night after a night of wingz at Webb’s in Washburn, but on the way back ended up canceling the show because of storms. So we waited and built the suspense for a few more weeks.
There was absolutely no rehearsal for this match. I’d made a Facebook event for it and thought 10 of our friends showed up. Well, the best advertising is by word of mouth. Right before our entrance music hit, there had to be at least 30 people crowded around in my backyard. Honestly I felt bad for everybody that showed up looking for something good. But it was really entertainment value and not a true scientific chain wrestling type of match, so whatever.
I had to watch the match after I got done writing that last paragraph. Honestly, in wrestling terms, it was pretty awful, but it was a damn entertaining match and I hope we can do at least one match this coming summer.
http://www.adambockler.com/see/video/wrestlingmatch61808.html
Thursday, December 11, 2008
2008: A Look Back (1st Quarter)
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I was going to do this in individual segments, but didn't want to waste space with separate blogs that didn't really need any division. So here is roughly a recap of the first quarter of the year.
Swingram’s NYE Bash
So I guess there is really no way to talk about the year 2008 unless we take a look back at the New Year’s Eve party that was…Swingram’s New Year’s Eve Bash 2K7.
Sam had informed us of his parents being gone for the weekend in Iowa, I believe. Naturally this meant he was going to host a party. A party full of anything but dead pigeons.
Those that were there could probably tell the stories better than I could, which means they’re lying or their inebriated points of view are just better.
Anyway, some highlights of that party for me…
• Sarah with some kind of cocktail or something (maybe just straight-up vodka) in her hands when I arrived. This was also the most sober I think I saw her that night.
• Seeing some friends that I don’t get to see much, like Matt Winkler, Ben Seckler, and Kyle Cunningham to name a few.
• Beau awkwardly benching all night on Sam’s weight bench. On a later trip to the mall we talked about this, and Beau asked something to the effect of, “So that’s what I was doing? I wondered why my body hurt the next day.”
• Chloe Daniels. Moving on…
• Searching for the Dirty Dave / Delayna makeout sesh I was sure was happening.
• Me and Jon riding Sam’s scooter down the road. It was so cold, and that thing was such a piece of crap, but I was laughing really hard the entire time while I was on it because of the experience.
• The weird kids from East Peoria that kept moving to different parts of the house in an effort to find whatever hogwash MTV was airing.
• Myself giving a toast to the late Fat Dan Nauman at midnight.
• Somebody (Swingram himself?) saying “First to find the champagne bottle gets the whole thing!!!” and Jon jumps off the top couple stairs, hits a wall, and literally tumbles down the stairs until he hit the floor. Assuming I’d need to drive him to the hospital, I rushed downstairs to see if he was okay. I don’t remember what exactly Jon said, but I’m guessing it was a burp followed by a few laughs.
• Carrying Sarah out in the snow on my shoulders to hand her over to her parents.
The party was hilarious and it was a great way to cap off a year in which we’d graduated from high school and most of us went to college. It also set the bar in terms of rage for the year ahead.
The Okinawan Blade
Let’s take a break from the ridiculousness of life. I had been thinking about getting a tattoo for close to a year. I’d wanted to get it soon after getting out of high school but timing didn’t work out. So I waited until January and got what I’ve used as the symbol of our program ever since I started the website.
I like it because it represents everything I’ve been involved with in the martial arts. From being a white belt to creating our website, earning a shodan, leading demos and seminars, and the lifelong relationships I’ve made in just over five years, I decided before getting inked that no matter how old I am, I’ll look at this blade with pride that I was able to do something special. I sat here for a bit thinking about putting it into words but, every time I look at that beast I’ve got a different story to tell.
I wear it with pride.
Adam Bockler – American Gladiator
It’s no secret I view myself as sitting on the top of the world, more often than not. I figured I was doing well in school, was in the best shape of my life (at that point), and wanted to try something different. So I heard American Gladiators was filming a new season and decided, “what the hell?” I filled out a giant application, and filmed some spots of me working out solo and throwing Tony and Mark around in the basement.
My favorite filming session came from doing an impression of one of my heroes, Hulk Hogan, host of the show. I dressed up in full Hogan garb and in front of about 20 people in Sarah’s basement, we filmed a pretty kickass promo. I felt bad for some of the dudes there, because they were some of Sarah’s friends most of the rest of us hadn’t ever met before. But the reaction they gave me was good, so that’s awesome.
Monster Jam
Another year of monster trucks, another year of hilarity. Thankfully I didn’t get a plug stuck in my ear this year, but Monster Jam was still awesome. I believe the gang was me, Pepper Water, Bob, Jon & Laura, and maybe Dirty Dave. Justin and Emily were supposed to come, but apparently couldn’t find their tickets, and ended up not coming back even after I spent forever at the box office trying to get them back into the show.
But whatever man, I still got to enjoy monster trucks, so all is good.
Swingram’s NYE Bash
So I guess there is really no way to talk about the year 2008 unless we take a look back at the New Year’s Eve party that was…Swingram’s New Year’s Eve Bash 2K7.
Sam had informed us of his parents being gone for the weekend in Iowa, I believe. Naturally this meant he was going to host a party. A party full of anything but dead pigeons.
Those that were there could probably tell the stories better than I could, which means they’re lying or their inebriated points of view are just better.
Anyway, some highlights of that party for me…
• Sarah with some kind of cocktail or something (maybe just straight-up vodka) in her hands when I arrived. This was also the most sober I think I saw her that night.
• Seeing some friends that I don’t get to see much, like Matt Winkler, Ben Seckler, and Kyle Cunningham to name a few.
• Beau awkwardly benching all night on Sam’s weight bench. On a later trip to the mall we talked about this, and Beau asked something to the effect of, “So that’s what I was doing? I wondered why my body hurt the next day.”
• Chloe Daniels. Moving on…
• Searching for the Dirty Dave / Delayna makeout sesh I was sure was happening.
• Me and Jon riding Sam’s scooter down the road. It was so cold, and that thing was such a piece of crap, but I was laughing really hard the entire time while I was on it because of the experience.
• The weird kids from East Peoria that kept moving to different parts of the house in an effort to find whatever hogwash MTV was airing.
• Myself giving a toast to the late Fat Dan Nauman at midnight.
• Somebody (Swingram himself?) saying “First to find the champagne bottle gets the whole thing!!!” and Jon jumps off the top couple stairs, hits a wall, and literally tumbles down the stairs until he hit the floor. Assuming I’d need to drive him to the hospital, I rushed downstairs to see if he was okay. I don’t remember what exactly Jon said, but I’m guessing it was a burp followed by a few laughs.
• Carrying Sarah out in the snow on my shoulders to hand her over to her parents.
The party was hilarious and it was a great way to cap off a year in which we’d graduated from high school and most of us went to college. It also set the bar in terms of rage for the year ahead.
The Okinawan Blade
Let’s take a break from the ridiculousness of life. I had been thinking about getting a tattoo for close to a year. I’d wanted to get it soon after getting out of high school but timing didn’t work out. So I waited until January and got what I’ve used as the symbol of our program ever since I started the website.
I like it because it represents everything I’ve been involved with in the martial arts. From being a white belt to creating our website, earning a shodan, leading demos and seminars, and the lifelong relationships I’ve made in just over five years, I decided before getting inked that no matter how old I am, I’ll look at this blade with pride that I was able to do something special. I sat here for a bit thinking about putting it into words but, every time I look at that beast I’ve got a different story to tell.
I wear it with pride.
Adam Bockler – American Gladiator
It’s no secret I view myself as sitting on the top of the world, more often than not. I figured I was doing well in school, was in the best shape of my life (at that point), and wanted to try something different. So I heard American Gladiators was filming a new season and decided, “what the hell?” I filled out a giant application, and filmed some spots of me working out solo and throwing Tony and Mark around in the basement.
My favorite filming session came from doing an impression of one of my heroes, Hulk Hogan, host of the show. I dressed up in full Hogan garb and in front of about 20 people in Sarah’s basement, we filmed a pretty kickass promo. I felt bad for some of the dudes there, because they were some of Sarah’s friends most of the rest of us hadn’t ever met before. But the reaction they gave me was good, so that’s awesome.
Monster Jam
Another year of monster trucks, another year of hilarity. Thankfully I didn’t get a plug stuck in my ear this year, but Monster Jam was still awesome. I believe the gang was me, Pepper Water, Bob, Jon & Laura, and maybe Dirty Dave. Justin and Emily were supposed to come, but apparently couldn’t find their tickets, and ended up not coming back even after I spent forever at the box office trying to get them back into the show.
But whatever man, I still got to enjoy monster trucks, so all is good.
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