What Is Not, But Could Be If...

It isn't that I lack thoughts or ideas to share, simply, the motivation to sit here and type what those things are. After succeeding that hurdle there looms another... this is a massive stage to take via the world wide web. That goes to say - not that it is a privilege, but more of an opportunity to disclose the tiny moments I experience and document mentally every day... to anyone willing to spare the time, and humor me on the mundanity that I find rather entertaining.

Time is life's great mocker. It seems to pass so slowly, yet go by so quickly. You wait and wait and wait and then BAM! It's come and gone. Whatever you are waiting for to come and go, that is. The older I get, the faster the world is spinning and the quicker that time is passing. When I was young I only desired to be older. I'm certain the older I get, the younger I will long to be. We are never satisfied nor gratified, eh? I think for me it is finding contentment at whatever place I am, doing whatever it is I am doing, investing in whatever proves fruitful.

So much things to say, right Bob? I found that going into the 'holiday season' I am in a reflective state. My thoughts have honed in on future education, career, the serious side of life. This is not where my thoughts generally shape. It has felt a bit like my spirits have dimmed and meloncholly has set in... but I know better. My mind has found it's responsibility to discern and decide what I want for my future. I want to GO PLACES! Figuratively and literally. :)

I'm going to shut myself up. In parting, let me say - it didn't take long for me to see that life is what you make of it. And your life should speak volumes about who you are and what you do. Give yourself the ability to live out what you dream. Opportunities are to make, and take.

A Piece of Humble Pie ; What Lies Beneath the Crust

When confidence merges with arrogance, and teach-ability with ignorance... sit down, grab a plate, and dig on into a big ole piece of humble pie.

Find humility before it finds you.

Pinch 'Em Tight }{ Trail Kicked My Tail

I made my way to Red River Gorge yesterday. Fall is hands down my favorite season, thus, hiking and anything outdoors is stellar for me in the fall. Leaves around here are just changing and there's an awful lot of 'em still hanging around. Just a few steps into our trek I could tell that it was going to be especially scenic.
We opted for the Pinch 'Em Tight trail...new territory for me. I suppose I've hit or crossed it at certain points, but I was unfamiliar. Couple miles of rough trail, pretty good stuff. Headed toward Gray's Arch...the trail became a roller coaster around this time. I typically let my legs carry me at whatever speed the hill suggests, which made for some fast descending. Inclines would span over a hundred yards, and steep enough to ski a shoe or two for a few feet. Feeling a little sore from it already.
Of course rain, being the punctual and mobilized friend it is, provided showers for us. (Anyone sick of East coast rain yet? ME!) Those awesome downhill spans I referenced? Yeah, well if you don't do the entire loop, you gotta climb those suckers on the way back. I felt like a machine hiking back up...not necessarily because of sufficiency, but because my legs were robot-like, adapting back to a task they have completed often times before.
A ways into it, common conversation turned to foot patter. No talking. That's when it gets really good, ya know? That kind of hike motivates the kind of thoughts that will render you silent. I spent a lot of the time thinking. Decided during that I will be heading out to Colorado end of November for a great adventure with Rob III.
Forgot my water bottle, that was a big, DUMB bummer. Everything else was good times. Go for a hike! It's good for you. Trail running > Hiking < Mountain Biking ... that's right :)

The tobacco is all topped. The leaves are letting go. What's up, Fall?

I want this bicycle, and this bicycle definitely wants me...

A Gamble to Ramble [Disclaimer: Yeah, it's a buncha bs.]

Bear with me because I have a lot of thoughts, feelings, and ideas to share throughout and they may not coincide consistently.

What is happiness? By definition it is the state of well-being characterized by emotions ranging from contentment to intense joy. There is a scale there, between contentment and intense joy. I'd imagine that several things would fall in between. But, I'd say that after intense joy, one more follows... love. I don't believe to find happiness you must first find love, but to find love you must first find happiness.

To fight for love is of petty tasks... it is our nature, it is instinct. All of the woes to be endured throughout the state of love will be paid back in full in the end. No feeling in life holds even a glimmer of light next to love. My tongue delivers words all the more swiftly and heart all the more fonder when in love. There is nothing more intimate to be shared than the knowledge of love between two.

The one thing we cannot figure out, nor ever will, love. The foundation on which a lifetime can be built, love. Do I speak with stars in my eyes? So be it. It is not young to speak of love with candor. I have been struck. I am struck. Struck down to the core of my being to lavish my love before it has become dull and jaded.

See, I want to offer something. To take is to take, but to give is to have. I want to make a copy of my key to happiness for... love, love, love.

My Musical Escapade

For the past year I've been writing music. For the past few months, I've been taking it a little more serious than before. Been putting a lot of time into it. Me and my man David have put lots of stuff together... having multiple guitar parts and what not. A few of the songs are equipped with lyrics, others not. It has been a simple process though. Every song coming together like a PB & J sandwich. It has been a blast. I love music and I love sharing it with others. NOW I can write my own so it is really just spectacular. I know I am rambling, but it truly is remarkable to witness it all meld so smoothly. I could not be any happier.

Anyhow, we have recorded a few things super lo-fi on a 4 track tape recorder, (all without vocals). We are beginning to use the computer and other software, therefore, it sounds a head or 2 better. Pretty excited to actually get it all somewhere to listen back to it... it's a whole new experience listening back to your music.

We are Bearded Lady. We make music. We like music. Get it? Makes sense right?

I will write more about it later. For now... I recorded a couple of tracks yesterday on my own. Every track was the first take, which means imperfection, but I'm cool with that. This song is usually on electric. I did it acoustic a bit slower, for a different taste. Listen to it.

Are you Roman (acoustic).wav - Bearded Lady

It's A New Dawn, It's A New Day, And I'm Feeling Good

http://www.benfolds.com/acappella

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Give it a gander. Watch the video.
Make yourself useful.

New Stuff .... Good Stuff

I haven't paid much attention to this blog. Doesn't seem like many others have either, no matter, I shall continue. Maybe eventually I will be motivated to keep a regular account of things, but I won't make any promises.

Found some good music these past couple of weeks. I was lucky enough to have the day off last Saturday to make it to Louisville for Record Store Day... and retrieve the double vinyl of Celebración De La Ciudad Natal. It's good listening, so make a tiny investment. Don't rip 'em off by ripping the torrent from the internet.

So here are 3 albums to check out:




My Morning Jacket - Celebración De La Ciudad Natal

*5. Where To Begin
*7. Phone Went West
*8. Dondante (best live version to date)



Goldfrapp - Seventh Tree

*1. Clowns
*3. Happiness
*7. A&E



Dark Was The Night - Compilation Album

Too many great artists and awesome songs... make sure to listen to it in it's entirety.



(( ALSO, got the Wilco DVD Ashes of American Flags, get it! It is some of the best live Wilco material I've ever seen or heard. ))

Photo Op'n

Peanut Butter Pudding Surprise with a Little Peace & Glory.

So, the best band in all of the land is releasing an EP of the best show that ever was... The Louisville Waterfront '08. So what? So GET IT!

In honor of Record Store Day (April 18th), MMJ is releasing a live EP by the name of Celebración De La Ciudad Natal. The EP consists of cuts from the band's show at earX-tacy and the Waterfront show.

Yo! Check it out.






My Morning Jacket from Tugboat Productions on Vimeo.

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Around 3.42 you can see a stud and a stallion, none other
than Lujacha and D a v i r Jones.

CPR Reveals: Slow Claw

Late Sunday evening I ventured to Lexington to a mini-venue called Cultural Preservation Resources, or CPR. It is nestled behind Al's Bar on the corner of 6th and Limestone. I hadn't been there before, but I'm glad I went. Some friends were playing... The Blue Suckers... check 'em out.

That band right there ----> is Slow Claw.
I missed the first 2 or so songs, but when I arrived I knew I needed to get a little closer to what was going on. We rocked out, all 13ish of us. The setting, and space for that matter, was pretty intimate. These guys jammed out for a bit and then brought out a suitcase of instruments and started handing them out. Very cool. It was for sure the best $5 show I've ever been to, not to mention the best $5 cd. Be looking out for this band. They are touring around out of their van... so go to their Myspace and check out the show dates. I'm hoping to catch them in Newport, KY or Nashville in April.



Slow Claw - Grandfather Clocks

* 2. Colorado
* 3. Hotel Hamilton
* 4. Everybody

Albums of Possible Interest. Possibilities Are Endless.

Fleet Foxes - Self-titled

She & Him - Volume One




The White Stripes - B-Side Collection




Bon Iver - Blood Bank




Plants and Animals - Parc Avenue




Andrew Bird - Noble Beast




Neko Case - Middle Cyclone

2008 Spotlight

Ben Folds - Way to Normal

* 4. You Don't Know Me
* 8. Free Coffee
* 10. Brainwascht

Ben Folds gets back to his verbal warfare in this album. Revealing the personal and allegorical circumstances of his own life, Mr. Folds seems to have disclosed the typical. I was pleased with the reminiscent sound of Songs for Silverman throughout the album. Needless to say, Way to Normal shows Ben Folds' creative progress...it is something truly different for him.






















My Morning Jacket - Evil Urges

* 8. Librarian
* 12. Smokin' from Shootin'
* 13. Touch Me I'm Going to Scream Pt. 2

Simply put... a stunning follow up to Z. Jim James and the band don't let us down with this innovative stream of songs. Some reviews have called it "quirky" and "eye poppingly annoying", no matter, you will feel evil urges to dance in your car or sing in your shower.






















Bon Iver - For Emma, Forever Ago

* 1. Flume
* 3. Skinny Love
* 4. The Wolves (Act I & II)

The album was widely acclaimed, receiving spots on critics' end-of-the-year lists, as well as several awards. Bon Iver emerged after hiding away in a cabin in Wisconsin during 2007 with this brilliant compilation. It partners tales of heartache and remembrance, along with love and longing. With this album, Bon Iver has become one of my favorite musical artists. He's onto something.






















The Raconteurs - Consolers of the Lonely

* 1. Consoler of the Lonely
* 3. You Don't Understand Me
* 8. Many Shades of Black

Jack White and his buddies bring a big sound to this album. It has an Americana feel with what others are echoing as "chaos". Just listen to it.






















Coldplay - Viva la Vida

* 3. Lost!
* 4. 42
* 9. Strawberry Swing

Coldplay swept the nation and many other places around the world with this meticulously orchestrated, beautifully animated album. It contains elegant sound and climactic groove. A very well rounded LP indeed. To my surprise and enjoyment, the band's creative momentum is just starting to build.






















Vampire Weekend - Self titled

* 4. Cape Cod Kwassa Kwassa
* 9. I Stand Corrected
* 11. The Kids Don't Stand a Chance

The band is influenced by both African popular music and Western classical music, describing their genre of music as "Upper West Side Soweto". This album certainly has a different feel to it than anything I've ever heard. It might take a listen or two or maybe even three before you can dig it, but I know you can dig it.






















Kings of Leon - Only by the Night

* 3. Sex on Fire
* 6. Revelry
* 7. 17

The only thing that can be said of Kings of Leon is, infectious. Their musicianship and song writing is phenomenal. From the beginning of this album 'til the end, you will be drumming your thighs. I'm a fan of the band's older stuff, but Only by the Night isn't a let down.

When Something "Clicks"

Have you ever met someone, guy or girl, that you hit it off with right away? For whatever reason you and this person seem like parallel beings. I have a few of these people in my life. FEW. Those connections are the best ones. There is no decision or effort toward befriending each other. It just happens, because you were meant to meet... at least I think so.

I'm not talking about romantic connections, although it can spawn, I'm talking about a genuine person-to-person discovery of likeness. Sometimes it is only on a certain level you are similar. The real rare finds are the ones that you can identify with on just about every level.

Today this has consumed my thoughts. It is a truly amazing relationship to have with someone. You can't share your passions and hobbies and likes and dislikes with just anyone. Some people out there match up perfectly. I have some of my own people. Hah That sounds ridiculous, but that really is the truth. I cherish those people. Sometimes they don't always stick around, but that connection remains.

Music means a great deal to me and is one of my very favorite ways to connect with someone. I've been in a progressive state concerning music for the past couple of years and I'd say I've become quite selective. It makes it a little difficult to sync musical interests with others. Nothing thrills me more than enjoying good music with someone who is feelin' it too. There is something really magical about the way that music makes you feel and how it brings people together.

It is not necessarily "friends" I'm describing. I wouldn't have many friends if such things were required. That is what makes these connections so sweet. I want to hold onto my handful. What makes life better than the people you share it with?

Headin' to Magnolia Screet

TRI-ing with the Locals & Other Happenings

This past Saturday we had a graduation party at the school. Many people attended and I got to chat with a few. Among those was a man, whom I let slip away before catching his name. He was getting a cup of coffee and I happened to look down and see a nice, new pair of Mizuno's. Immediately I told him I liked 'em. He seemed surprised that I was commenting on them. He told me they were great shoes and I quickly agreed. He began telling me that he was a runner. Jen overheard the conversation and asked if he had done the 10k on the bridge and he responded with, "No, too short." He continued with informing that he does marathons and triathlons. I heard the later and wanted to know more. Apparently he had completed an Ironman... a couple actually. I wanted to know all about it and he was glad to share. He also told us about cycling to the top of El Yunque, to the antennas. That is a long and tedious trek, for those of you who are unaware of the steepness and altitude of the rainforest. There is a massive amount of cyclists here, which I didn't know. A lot of training triathletes too. Needless to say it was really neat meeting someone who shared an interest and joy in running and the like. (I am hoping to run in the next 10k.)

Today after venturing to the post office and Amigo- (the grocery store), I headed home. I pulled onto the highway and from a distance saw two figures moving noticeably slow and carrying several bags. As I got closer I could see it was an older couple, probably in their 60's, carrying the groceries home. I passed them, but then decided to stop, reverse, and ask if they wanted a lift. When I pulled up and rolled the window down the woman said in broken English, "You have ride?" I nodded and climbed to the side door and slid it open. They seemed relieved and I felt a hint of empathy. I cranked the AC and we sat in silence most of the way except for a couple of times when the man would give me a direction. Upon arriving at their home, they both voiced many thank you's. After carrying all of their bags in the man walked up to the window and said something in Spanish that I wasn't able to understand. I gestured that I didn't understand and he quickly began to move his thumb against his fingers... this was something I understood, money. I assumed he was asking me if I wanted payment for taxiing them. I told him it was no problem. I then realized after he kept motioning that he was requesting money. I told him no and he accepted that and walked into the house. I wonder if he was content with getting a ride or discontent with not getting any money?

Jim & The Jacket

In a world filled mostly with less than mediocre music and swamped with talentless compositions, Jim James, Two-Tone Tommy, Patrick Hallahan, Bo Koster, and Carl Broemel make up the ever epic band... MY MORNING JACKET.

I have become completely smitten with this band, as will you. My Morning Jacket was introduced to me a couple of years ago by a friend who obviously has a taste for good music. Upon hearing what would be my first experience of MMJ, my finger hit play and "One Big Holiday" began bellowing out of the speakers. I caught myself nodding my head and tapping my toes. This ballad had struck my senses. It had captivated my thoughts. Sound dramatic? Well, it was. I began to search out every song I could. Listening to them over and over. Memorizing every lyric, every skat. Mimicking each strum on the guitar, beat on the drum, and stroke of the keys.
Aside from each band member being a musical genius, lyrical brilliance is apart of the equation that makes them so terrific. Most of their songs require a good one or two over before quite understanding the underlying meaning or story being told. Jim James has a bewitching tone and voice that will swoon in an instant. If you're one to buy into vibes, as I am, then you will only detect positivity and elegant groove. The songs range from amazing jam sessions to low-key ballads of romance.

I must admit that their hail from Louisville contributes slightly to their appeal, at least to me, but that is just the icing on the cake. Hometown boys with a good sense of southern rock and soul. If you enjoy tantalizing rifts, hearty drumming, stunning vocals, and dexterous showmanship, then you simply must dive head first into the music of My Morning Jacket.

Right now the band is laying low in the midst of recording their new album. (If this new album is as good as "Z", their most recent album, then we are in for a treat). Unfortunately that doesn't leave them with much time to do shows... mainly unfortunate for me because I have yet to see them! I am hoping for maybe a surprise New Years show, but we will see what they have up their sleeve.

Check out My Morning Jacket. You will not be disappointed, I promise.

The Legend of Devil's Tower: Climbing Aspirations

So here is my first adventure oriented blog. Woohoo!

Recently there has been a spark of interest concerning my future career. I feel called to missions and that is certainly what I plan to do... but in addition, I really want to do some photography along the way. You have no idea how stoked I am about this. It's such a cool thing. I can travel around the world, share the Gospel, and take pictures for some happenin' awesome magazine. It's a great plan, right!?

Well, I'm sure the picture to your left caught your attention. It is a slightly silly depiction of Devil's Tower. Devil's Tower is located in Crook County Wyoming. This climbable national monument, the first one ever established by Teddy Roosevelt mind you, is a 5112 ft. summit. Crazy? I know. Click here to check out some more about it. I actually learned of Devil's Tower through my Native American Studies. There is some history behind Native ceremonies there, but now it is largely a climber's attraction. After reading about it and then looking it up, I got pumped. I have been wanting to start climbing. I am going to start training and what not relatively soon. It will be yet another awesome thing I am blessed to experience. All of that goes to say that one day, I'm not sure when, I will go to Crook County Wyoming and climb Devil's Tower. It's gonna happen.