or something

How to Make My Heart Ache

2010-03-03T17:19:00.001-08:00

My friends are neat.

More proof.

If any of you haven't been into Amy's store (yellow bird fabrics), you should go check it out. Quaint and perfect. Particularly if you sew. And she always has treats.

Warning: Ew.

2010-01-21T14:05:00.000-08:00

Three weeks ago I had a run in with the hot water tower at work. In an attempt to take an order while blindly filling an Americano, I covered my hand in scalding hot water. Dumb. We were busy and my shift was 2 hours from being over so I had to suck it up and work through it as if nothing had happened. My voice was quivering, I was in so much pain.

As the burn progressed I decided to photograph the process because I found it so fascinating.

About 4 hours after:

About 5 hours after:
About 6 hours after:

Luckily the pain was mostly gone after about 8-9 hours of constant icing. Dr. Drew popped the giant blister so I could drain it. The next morning I was able to go backpacking without any trouble. I just went through tons and tons of Bandaids as new blisters developed and popped.

2 days after:

Monday I'm back at work in the kitchen. Being passionately opposed to the bagel cutter, and being down one finger, I slip while cutting a bagel with a dull, serrated knife and instead cut the shit out of my index finger. Eff me. I'm pretty sure that anyone who has worked in a kitchen has this same v-shaped wound/scar. I've done this same thing to my fingers on several different occasions, but this is by far the deepest I've gone.

4 days after:
(The blue and black is from ink and sharpies at the other jobs.)

6 days, after a night without bandaids:
My flesh felt like melted plastic. Kind of cool, totally gross.

Its all healed up now. I have officially gone 25 days without a work-related injury.

Its Cold Out

2010-01-14T12:57:00.000-08:00

Its cold in.

There is no heat at big bear. We rely on the sun, the grill, the ice machine and other humans to heat the place up. It works pretty well, unless the cafe is empty. Then you dance.

I think Jo-Elle and I might have the same voice?

(Since most of you don't know Jo-Elle, think Frances McDormand in Fargo, less 20 years. And magical.)

Blind Hollow

2010-01-10T08:26:00.000-08:00

Since I'm probably last to post about the annual yurt adventure I wont go on about how fantastic the hike in was this year, how amazing it was to have a new yurt (with a real door!!) or how uber awesome the crew was. It was still cold and the snow wasn't deep, but it was still fresh and delicious. And Erica was there. More complete posts by Jessica and Neil.

I think next year I'm going to just ski. Skiing out on a split board sucks, like whoa.

I apologize for only having phone pictures and videos. And I apologize to Jessica who asked that I not let anyone see this video. But I think you'll agree that it needed to be shared. Turn down the sound and turn on your favorite sultry tune, then hit play.

Removing skins after a couple great runs. Hot damn, I love Anna K!

I think I might take Jessica and Anna for my two wives. And Erica will be my mistress. Andrew, you're invited too.

Note to self: Never talk on videos again. Ever. Ew.

My Prediction for 2010

2009-12-30T17:16:00.000-08:00

More specifically New Year's Eve.

I will spend the holiday at an airport. I'm guessing Minneapolis. How did I not realize I booked a flight with TWO layovers!? And who knew someone was going to try and blow up a plane on Christmas? Rad.

Happy New Year everybody.

At least I have snow to make everything okay.

UPDATE: I landed exactly when my itinerary said I would. To the minute. Its probably a good thing because I forgot to pack tights in my carry on and my outfit wouldn't have worked without them.

Mustaches Required

2009-12-08T13:12:00.000-08:00

Some people take coffee very seriously. I just take the pictures. Seriously. Here are some from TNT (Thursday Night Throwdown) at Chinatown Coffee last October.

Collin and I rode down in his new van. Its just like the yellow one my dad drove when I was a kid. Smelled the same too. Parking was a joke, but driving was worth it for the sound of the horn alone. We made mustaches with sharpies and post-its.

Grant and I, mustached.

High tech score board.

Lana got creative with her mustache placement.

Julie made fancy cupcakes.

Mara. This is just for you, Juliet. (Actually this whole post is for you. Move back.)

Someone brought nerds to share. Yes, please!

I really love nerds.

I really love Andrew. I really love Andrew with this mustache.

The ladies from Peregrine.

Where were we? Oh yeah, there was a competition going on. I'm sure Jeremy won. The top 10 competed against New York baristas via live web cams the following month. DC won.

And because I love you, I leave you with Andrew.

Rear Window

2009-12-06T18:03:00.000-08:00

The day has finally come. The leaves are gone and I can see the Capitol from my bedroom window.

The view one evening in September.

For whatever reason I feel inclined to photograph the view out my window from my bed when I wake up at dawn. I've done this several times in the last few months. I always fall right back asleep and forget I even did it until I'm browsing photos later. Sleep-shooting.

Ruff Rice

2009-11-26T15:23:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving Day walk in the Congressional Cemetery.

Pre-gaming at Anacostia Park.

Holly brought gum.

The cemetery is also a dog park.

Andrew pointed out that some of these
headstones are older than Utah.

Some are art.

Mine.

Ahhh.

Can't. Stop. Listening.

2009-11-09T14:38:00.000-08:00

Maybe its the weather. Maybe its the moment. Or maybe it really is just perfect.

Then this. Oh my.

Sometimes the stars align. Sometimes its so good it hurts.

2009-09-22T09:09:00.001-07:00

I am desperately missing the mountains today.

Dirty Diana

2009-09-11T18:18:00.000-07:00

[Stan, Great Salt Lake Exploration Society, Spring 2008]

When it comes to shooting Holga, I'm lazy. I don't shoot with the format frames in and I usually don't worry about exposure, overlap or light leaks. This combined with only processing about once a year makes it feel like Christmas. A really expensive Christmas. I think I'm ready to change it up and take more control. Here are a few, in baughchronny-logical order.

[Ghost Jack/Chris, Great Salt Lake Exploration Society, Spring 2008]

[Rock n' Roll Hotel, First week in DC]

[The other "white house", Late Summer 2008]

[Seattle, Late October 2008]

[Danny, Seattle, Late October 2008]

[Cayle, Seattle, Late October 2008]

[Jason-bocce, Seattle, Late October 2008]

[Jason-Cayle-bocce, Seattle, Late October 2008]

[Me-Jason-extreme walking, Seattle, Late October 2008]

[Election Night, the magic here is in the memories. DC, November 4, 2008]

[Pica riding shotgun, DC, Election night]

[Alpha-adventure with Massoud. It didn't really work. Spring 2009]

[Alpha-adventure, "C", Spring 2009]

[David-Ryan-speedos, Bonneville Salt Flats, July 2009]

There should be more, but sadly a mistake was made and I don't have all the digital copies. But I do have someone else's lovely black & white landscapes. Thanks "Ansel".

Jacket Weather

2009-09-11T06:45:00.000-07:00

Please stay. I love you.
Sincerely, Christy (and Pica and Naho)

Turns out it was the "Redskins" room.

2009-09-10T19:34:00.000-07:00

Now its mine and I have to ignore that realization to enjoy it and make it my own. At least I have this Utah map from Ken Sanders to make things a little better.

Team Tuesday

2009-08-20T14:05:00.000-07:00

Big Brother's Fashion

Stein Fountaineer

Giant Background Music

Durrr in Urban Lights

Bethany Reads Books

That Guy

Red Pants Off Pony Clock

[eye-es-oh-one-six-oh-oh]

...and then it was 5am

What's wrong with this picture?

2009-08-20T12:57:00.000-07:00

Nothing, as far as I'm concerned. What's wrong with this scenario? Um, lots. We are just starting our descent down the Wasatch Cre st trail. Notice where the sun is...

Below is what it looked like when we finally hit pavement. I would guess we spent at least 45 minutes in complete darkness. In lots of trees. With no moon. In retrospect, it was a totally fun adventure! In the moment, I was really really scared. Of losing my teeth, moose and dying. We are dumb. And fun.

Our attempt to capture the darkness with a video.

Still, I love mountain biking lots, especially with Ana. My pro hoe.

Yes, please.

2009-08-13T07:38:00.000-07:00

In case we're not "friends" on popular social network websites, please join me for a Wednesday evening of magical fun. Meet at my old house at 6:30 or be behind Salt Air by 7:30. It wont be the same without you Dusty, but we will get naked in your honor.

Tonight at Urban is going to be fantastic. Ryan and Ted Dancin'. I think I will wear a moustache. And not an ironic one. A feminine one.

Take Me To The River

2009-07-15T22:20:00.000-07:00

The river was amazing this year, as usual. But without the plane crash. Instead we sent 4 of our own group down a dangerous rocky rapid, sans raft. Turns out putting 6 people in one ducky isn't the smartest idea. Sometimes. Oh, and Jason and Anna were almost death-trapped by a black widow. Supposedly...

Desolation was extra special for two reasons: Jason and Sanchez. Both new to the magic that is Deso.

Sanchez liked to party as much as anyone else. Yes, he's wearing a lovely puff paint decorated crown. We don't mess around.

Papa Knudsen was generous enough to let us take the cataraft which was probably the most fun I've had in a raft. Riding the pontoons through the new rapid, Joe Hutch, was undoubtedly the best ride I've had to date. And Anna is the goddess of the river. She killed it on the oars. Of course. (that is not Joe Hutch below, this is Joe Hutch)
Deso Burgers... yummm...

The site of last year's plane crash. We ran all up and down the burned banks, but never found the actual "crash" site. Eerie all the same.

Fresh water stroll up Rock Creek. So dreamy.

Festivities also included non-stop glow stick fun, frisbee, topless hiking, discovering a fresh spring fall, tons of bocce ball, late night skinny-dipping, uh... lots lots more. See you next year?

My deso posts always suck. If I can find more photographs, I will make it up to you. Probably.

Neat

2009-06-14T18:23:00.000-07:00

Sunday Best

2009-06-13T01:03:00.000-07:00

Everything Is Going To Be Okay

2009-05-26T16:32:00.000-07:00

Its no secret that I was torn about accepting a job offer in Utah for the summer. But here I am, and two and a half weeks in, so far so good.
A few reasons I wont regret moving here:

"girls who are boys, who like boys..."

Jason visits more often then baby birds hatch. And sometimes they happen at the same time.

Gallery strolls, where one 5-yr-old drew me this picture for $1.
It says "I'm gold, help, I'm little." Rossum (like "awesome" his dad informed me) 05-15-09

Bike enthusiasts. (though to this I say ew)

This cozy place to retire to for a few more days.

Iced tea!

The only pair of glasses I brought from DC.
Here's your lesson in cool for the week. (side note: car! yay!)

Dinner at Will's.

Drawing night (or whatever night) at Gheybin's.

With Jessica! (JESSICA!! - Eat your heart out, Andrew.)

Park time/Ryan time.

Ana!Ana!
(and Jack, preferably shirtless)

Ana!

Being Ana's #1 Fan at her downhill races. And braiding her hair.

And aspiring to be Ana, probably.

We biked bobsled yesterday together. My first time back on whitey left me with some nice battle wounds. My hip should look real pretty when the bruise finally surfaces. Special thank you to the helmet that saved my head as I smacked it on the ground real good.

I never doubted Salt Lake would be amazing. I just wanted a DC summer. Well I took the bait and now I have to make the most of it. And I will. So keep on sending those "DC is so fun right now" texts Josh. I can take it.

A Good Last Day

2009-05-17T16:31:00.000-07:00

I miss you guys already.

2009-05-11T02:15:00.001-07:00

I just got the gmail calendar reminder that I'm supposed to be at the metro in ten minutes to catch the yellow line to the airport at 5:25am. Its not actually happening anymore, Andrew is driving me. Regardless of how I get there, I'm gone from this room in ten minutes. And I hate that. I love this place. This neighborhood, this house, this bedroom.

See you soon.

The Ones You Wont Forget

2009-03-29T23:08:00.000-07:00

So Gheybin is doing some amazing work these days. From my perspective, this last year she's added so much dimension to her style and aesthetic. I can't wait to see these all in person, and have them as my own. Lucky for us she is getting an etsy shop going.

I could go on and on about how Gheybin feeds my soul, but I'll spare you the ramblings. Pure magic, this one.

Hip Dogs, Neat Piles

2009-03-23T09:17:00.001-07:00

Not only do they ride bikes, they sport scarves.

And have sexy moves. Pica... such a glamour girl, who knew?

These hipsters can also do an impressive number on the house with their hair. This is after less than a week. Astounding.
I give you Neat Pile 1: Dog Hair

Now Neat Pile 2: Pigeon Poop is where the real magic is. Juliet's room has a little balcony that overlooks the lovely alley and is always going on about the amazing bird poop outside her window. At first glance, this is what I saw. Not bad, I thought.

Now shift gaze 30 degrees. Wow.

And wow and wow. Now look down. I know, right?

Sheer amazement.

My Insomnia, Visualized

2009-03-22T21:44:00.000-07:00

There has been a great debate going on in my head for the past couple of weeks, and needless to say it has kept me up at night and woken me anxious in the morning. Be it good or bad, a decision had to be made. I will be spending the Summer of 2009 in Salt Lake City.

I miss Utah so much that this would seem like an easy decision, but it wasn't. And I'm still not settled about it, but I'm doing it. Despite working ridiculous amounts of time for minimal wages, I've really fallen for DC and am really bummed about not spending summer here.

Sure there will be things that I wont miss, like humidity and mosquitoes and other things associated with living on a swamp, but that stuff is easy to forget. Night bike rides, bus rides, rooftops, falafel and jumbo slice, my neighborhood coffee shop and the noisy street below my bedroom (my wonderful, fantastic bedroom!), these are the things I will miss. Not to mention my loving family consisting of Papa Cazier, Mama Ju, Naho (kid sister, kid sister), Josh (the creepy uncle with a car) and of course Pica & Buckley.

But what's 12 weeks? Get over it, right?

I don't know how to not get all sentimental about everything.

On a optomistic note, I AM SO READY TO DANCE! Nobody dances here! Okay, parties and club big bear are exceptions, but concerts? Dream again. I'm not getting my weekly dosage and I think I'm going through withdrawals. I hope you're ready, you know who you are.

An(n)a Bums

2009-03-21T16:33:00.001-07:00

The new look for Spring.

S Street

2009-03-20T22:29:00.000-07:00

Cameras are fixed. I walked home on S St instead of R St. Amazing the things to discover just one street over. A light rain made everything perfect. Or was it the pink fanny pack?

I have a feeling this would be my impulse tag as well. Cheers.

The rest are here.

Don't Stop, Just Keep Going On

2009-03-20T16:35:00.000-07:00

That's what I'm doing to this. Chase put it on a little video from the recent "dude" hut trip and I've been overplaying it ever since. And isn't that image amazing?

And while we're on the topic of Photoshop (aren't we?) I'm planning a digital summer. Details to come.

Boring Blog Award

2009-03-13T10:08:00.000-07:00

To me, from me. High-5! Woot.

Panties and Phone Sex

2009-02-26T05:55:00.000-08:00

This is my ceiling. I wish I saw more of it.

Last night I worked the Tom Jones show. Wow. While that type of crowd can be an interesting one to accommodate, I loved the 50-something group of ladies that were first in line, all glammed out and drinking since 5. I hope in 20 years I'm just as excited about live music as I am today. And that I feel okay about wearing silver pants, a fur coat, bright red lipstick and heels. Or maybe we'll all be breaking out our deep V's, scarves, headbands and boots to scream at Karen O.

As most of you know I lost my phone a few weeks ago. I knew the exact moment that I dropped it, but never went looking for it, certain it was in Josh's back seat and not in the road right outside. If I didn't totally despise my phone I think the anxious person in me would've gone outside and looked just so I could hang out anxiety-free. Long story short, a young girl enjoyed it for a day and I will never see it again. My landlord offered me her old phone. Then I found a sim card on the floor of the club. So, happy ending. (Secretly I loved going without a phone for a week.) And I may need your number. Oh and the sex? Yeah, that's only if I call Peter Makowski who gave me strict instructions that it wasn't to be used for anything else. I love you, Peter.

Someday soon I'll post inauguration photos. Also, my cameras are getting repaired so I haven't taken pics in ages.

Also Hasen and Matt are in town. Yay!

I can't stop listening to this. Seriously.

Recent Discovery: Broccoli Stems

2009-02-04T20:34:00.000-08:00

Broccoli stems have become my new favorite snack. Raw of course. Bonus is its ridiculously good for you too. I'm also digging baked* kale a whole bunch. Yum. Hooray for greens!

*Cut into bite size pieces, toss in olive oil and salt & pepper, bake at 375 for 10-15 minutes.

Tonight. And today.

2009-02-02T09:29:00.000-08:00

Sure, I like seeing hot indie bands and new up and comers, but I think seeing great bands like the Pretenders in a small venue are what make working at 9:30 worth it.

Also, in 20 minutes I will be starting my first shift at big bear. Still uncertain if making my neighborhood coffee shop "work" is a good idea, but for now it seems like a nice change.

My First DC Snow

2009-01-27T04:36:00.000-08:00

Finally. I'm giddy about walking to work in this.

(The song playing from my computer is Shampoo Suicide from Broken Social Scene. I can't get enough of it lately. It complemented my mood perfectly this morning. I'm also rediscovering The Books, which is amazing.)

08 SLC • DC 09

2009-01-13T17:58:00.000-08:00

Its happening. All down Pennsylvania Ave, the mall and here in front of the White House.
This is the spot where Bush will do a hand off of sorts to Obama. I can't even imagine what the next couple of weeks are going to be like.

Me and Ho wandered around downtown in an attempt to see some exhibits on our day off. Our only success was the Strange Bodies at the Hirshhorn. It was pretty okay, but the highlighted piece in particular was incredibly fascinating. It was so lifelike that I kept waiting for him to move despite his large size and home in a museum.

A detail:

The other show we tried to see was at the Corcoran. Closed. I'll be taking an art class of sorts there in March. Hopefully I can meet some other kids going through an early life crisis that want to wander around and drink hot beverages. Or maybe eat hotdogs. I love hotdogs. And pickles.

Here is Naho making Utah shaped dog treats for Pica and Buckley. She had to stand on the chair to get enough leverage to roll out the dough. I'm pretty sure that Naho loves those dogs as much as Andrew. Well, maybe.

Utah pride is everywhere in our big, cold and crooked house. Home.

Andrew made this adorable little jacket for Pica. Okay, Andrew wins.

[Real quick I need to mention that I just listened to the new Tolchock Trio album and it really is really really good. I also can't stop playing the Vile Blue Shades record. Ah, SLC...]

While we're at it, Utah was great. Happy New Year. I rarely had my camera which unfortunately equates to not much to say. But it was good to be back and see everyone. The euphoria from getting picked up at the airport (thanks to A-rod) in a stretch hummer limo full of my friends at 3:30am was so great that the rest of the trip is all a blur. Highlights include yurt trip, the Beav! with Erik (on "Erik" day!!), a snowy snowy Christmas, nights at the 1840, two haircuts, breakfast with Peter!, making breakfast with Will, way too much time at Urban Lounge and nobrow and the rest of my time at Ryan and Juli's.

Meanwhile back in DC... I had the pleasure of attending my company party last night with my lovely 9:30 folk. I'm happy to say that I'm finally enjoying that job and my co-workers. Its taken a fair amount of time, but I'm glad I stuck it out. Don't worry, I still take out trash and clean up puke, and get home way too early in the morning, but its somehow become more tolerable. I can't decide if this is a good thing or not.

There was giant blow-up twister. Check. I almost won.

This is my "wife" Priscilla. We started the same day. She's incredibly more suited for the job than I am. Her NY accent is so thick that I like to think she says "baugh-tender" when referring to her other job. She's pretty much the greatest thing ever. And a total bad ass. For example: Her and a friend got jumped on their scooters. Two dudes pushed them over and attempted to steal the scooters. Her friend's got stolen, but Priscilla just punched the dude taking hers (in the face) and he ran off. She's like 5'3". Neat.

Our cheeks are still rosy from an intense game of Twister.

And what better to complement Twister than a belly dancer!? Check. She had me do a pose with her then fed me lines about what a natural I was. You bet I stuck a dollar in her waistband.

I hate that so many of my photos are out of focus, but this one is a gem. Proof that I'm not in Utah anymore. Look how diverse my pool of peeps has become! (Don't worry Ana, you're still my favorite brown lady.)

Lastly I leave you with gangsta. The rings say "true" and "love". They're Priscilla's. She also makes jewelry. I was instructed to look as gangsta as possible. Looks like the Utah in me isn't going anywhere.

Oh yeah, I cut my hair off. Its probably not obvious because its always tucked in a scarf, but for a real visual, think Ramona Quimby, Age 8. I still haven't decided how I feel about it.

Paper Negative

2009-01-11T21:23:00.000-08:00

I ache to be back in a color darkroom.

I Love The Cold

2008-12-22T18:33:00.000-08:00

I love winter, I love layers, I love seeing my breath. But its just wrong for it to be this cold without snow!

So glad its dumping in Utah. Seven more hours...

Since We Last Spoke

2008-12-19T14:34:00.000-08:00

Some things have happened. Here's an incomplete glimpse of the last couple of months, in no particular order:

First, I think I probably took my Best Portrait Ever. Thank you new glasses!

These are the glasses that the eye doctor's office tried to talk me out of. They thought the lenses were too thick and they really really wanted me to upgrade from plastic to glass lenses. No thank you! Look at those dreams! The best part is they don't come close to fitting my pin head so chums are absolutely necessary. Greatness inspires greatness, hence the roommate (sans Ju) glasses series that followed. It was a great Tuesday night in.

That Tuesday-night-in also involved a dance party, which is kind of inevitable when Naho and I combine forces. Here we are at Big Bear, Big Bear and our living room.

Big Bear tends to go from Cafe to Club when the stars align and the music is right. One such dance party led to another glasses series. This one involving the lens-less frames I bust out from time to time.

I love my neighborhood. I couldn't ask for a better place to live.

Moving on (and way back), I spent my birthday alone at Yelle, which I loved actually. I was supposed to be working the show, but they let me attend responsibility free, which was awesome. Although no one was around to dance with me (I'm pretty sure I was the only patron in VIP that night), I at least got to see them sound check and make small talk with them in the alley while I hauled trash cans past their fashion shoot.

In other news, Andrew was able to get the Peugeot back in action! Yay! Since I still ride Tweezer the best bike ever, Naho has been cruisin this beauty. And thanks to Dusty, it now has pegs! And rest assured we cruise around on those whenever we have the chance. I would upload a video of us pegging it over to Big Bear, but it takes too long. You'll just have to come for the inauguration* to see it.

We took the bikes out in early November to the arboretum. Probably my favorite new DC activity. Well, I want it to be anyway.

Trees everywhere! Even little trees and little people. This was my favorite bonsai.

This is my favorite little person.

*Speaking of, so far on the inauguroster we have: Jason C, Jack, Bryan and buddy, Jessica, Lance B, Lance S, and holy crap maybe Lance P, who am I missing? I'm told a block party is in the works and what will be the biggest slumber party ever! I can't wait.

Day Off, Day In

2008-12-19T09:42:00.000-08:00

Its rainy out and I'm in. I also have the whole day off. I walked JuJu Bean to work in the rain, sporting my gwar-loshes and "barackan" mint tea from big bear. I think the rain made me giddy because I was really loud and really rambly.

Muffins, soup, more tea, Christmas tree, and Morning Becomes Ecclectic. (What happened to Nic Harcourt? I better do some investigating.)

More bad pictures and chatter in the works.

I want to make a fort.

"Forts don't got carpet!"
Name that movie and my heart will swell for several seconds for you.

Dear Mike

2008-11-24T12:00:00.000-08:00

You danced.
You loved it.
You discovered this after I left.
Why why why!?

2008-11-21T05:08:00.000-08:00

Lance sent me this article in SLUG. These little sweeties are the reason the music scene in Salt Lake is what it is, if you ask me. I'm glad I was/am a part of it.

Yesterday I saw hints of snow in the air.

2008-11-19T07:53:00.000-08:00

I miss you.

(Don't remember where I found this image.)

Oh boy.

2008-11-10T08:39:00.000-08:00

This happened on Friday. I wasn't working. DC keeping it real. I was instructed not to talk to the media.

Moss.

2008-11-09T23:36:00.000-08:00

Masumi* came to town for the weekend. He was selling his work at a book/arts fair. I still worship him and am pretty sure he's the greatest human ever. No seriously. I don't have any pics, but he does and hopefully he will send them soon. Man, that guy rearry makes me happy.

*From Casey's blog.

According to my Google Calendar

2008-11-07T00:35:00.000-08:00

ITS NEIL'S BIRTHDAY!

Somehow this was the only picture I found of us together. [Red rocks, Arcade Fire, Sept 07] I added the "YAY!" in an attempt to make it less about me and in doing so discovered this creep behind us. It seriously creeped me out, like when you are looking out that window and suddenly you realize someone is standing there looking at you. Ugh, shivers. Funny since we were just talking about your inability to be creepy earlier.

In an attempt to salvage this birthday wish, I just want you to know that you are one of my favorite people and I can't wait to see you in three weeks. And this should make us all feel better.

And in case its another Neil's birthday, I'm removing this post in 24 hours.

Some things that are neat.

2008-11-05T01:03:00.000-08:00

{artwork by SLC's Leia Bell}

"YES WE DID"
This is what a lot of people were chanting last night around DC. It was incredible. We had a small gathering at our house (as you probably saw on Andrew's blog) then headed out on bikes to celebrate with the rest of the city. I've already said this a million times, but it really was magic. Magical tangible magicness. I have never high-fived so many people from my bike.

I heard one black guy say to another "Hey, make sure you hug a white person tonight." I loved it.

I think you all should come out for the inauguration.

The night ended with Naho's chain breaking and me towing her home. So so so fun. Now rewind to more things that are neat.

I voted.
It took just over two hours. The lines were long then my name wasn't on the list. This meant I was able to vote using a "special" ballot. It was a small hassle, but hey at least I got my sticker. That's what its about, right? Oh, and the free Starbucks coffee.

My camera never focuses.
Totally Rad. Anyway this was my view for a little less than half of my time spent at the polls.

The line.
It extended almost as far behind me as in front of me. This was the point where I texted my boss and informed her I would be late. It went about half a block behind me and around the corner.

I'm special.
See, its even on my ballot.

This guy.
I was almost out the door when I realized I never got my "I voted!" sticker. I was directed to this guy. I saw him hand a sticker to a young lady and by the time I got to him he was out. I kind of laughed and asked for a sticker. Nothing. I gently nudged his foot. Nothing. I took his picture to share with you. Nothing. I tapped his hand. Yep, nothing. Finally I went for the sticker myself. He awoke and muttered something, handed me my sticker and was out again. Hey man, I've been this guy several times during this post, so its cool.

Juliet's inaugural bike ride.
She hasn't been on one for like 16 years or something so this was big. Looks like she's still got it, and her bike is so sexy. Andrew, you're a fine, fine (and fine... mmm...) bikesmith.

Our bathroom.
The sagging ceiling just couldn't hang on anymore. Andrew pointed it out to me before we went to bed. About 2 hours later it came crashing down. And boy did it smell awesome. Don't worry DC08-ers, its back to normal and smells of fresh white paint. That's right, smells like white.

I spent the weekend in Seattle.
Some highlights include: Inspiration at Methodologie, Cayle!, falling asleep at dinner, sleeping in the car, broken glasses, dancing, Sanjin!, more dancing, delicious French brunch, thrift store, thrift store, okay coffee, thrift store, Danny!, dinner, taking Jason to the airport, karaoke, stolen cupcakes, music, yummy coffee and quiche, perfect fall walk, back to the airport.

This is one of two pictures I have of Jason. I swear we hung out.

Karaoke at Bush Gardens. This place was amazing. The karaoke videos blew my mind as did the talent (mostly older Asian men). The guy singing in this pic (right of Frankenstein) changed the words "Nobody cares for me now" to "Obama cares for me now." It was brilliant and adorable.

This is the aforementioned perfect fall walk. The best way to end a great 46 hours in Seattle.

Cayle and Danny.

Amen

2008-10-20T08:38:00.000-07:00

Just listen.

The Process of Discontent

2008-10-09T00:34:00.000-07:00

My over-anxious, over-emotional, under-productive day took a 180 when I dropped everything and went for a bike ride equipped with three cameras; holga, mini-digi and polaroid. I made a lot of videos like this one. They're just okay, but I want to put them together and do something interesting. Until then, two hippies will be praying for you, me and everyone else around the clock on the lawn of the Capitol. There's your soundtrack.

Escape to Philly

2008-10-06T13:49:00.000-07:00

or "Shooting Naho in Philly"

Yesterday the Asian Bike Gang took off to Philly. Sans-bikes, sans-Andrew.

I love Philly.

Juliet is roadtripping her car back to San Diego next week so we took it on one last adventure. Its only been broken into three times, who wouldn't want this stereo in their car:

The day was just right. We started off at Spruce St Coffee to visit Juliet's friend, Aaron, and drink some quality coffee. Or so I'm told.

Naho was fortunate to score the "booster" seat (2 phonebooks).

We met up with Laura and headed to [insert French crepe restaurant name here] for some tasty tasty crepes. So good they made my belly explode.

Walking there was an adventure in itself; saturated with thrift stores, vintage boutiques and stealth dance stalking.

Naho managed to "push it real good" until this gentleman made it to his front door. Success.

I wanted Juliet to buy this. She didn't, and neither did I. What was I thinking?

Thrift find of the day:

I got this so I could think about you, Neil, until you get here:

Not thrifted:
Thrifted earrings, fadester scarf:

Philly AIDS thrift was the sweetest store we came across. Not necessarily for the goods, but for the signs. Sadly this is the only one I photographed, but they had some clever signage about.

Later in the afternoon we met up with Aaron and his wife at [insert name of best ice cream in Philly, according to Laura] for some dessert.

Lucky for me they had some soy flavors so I got chocolate with the sweet, yet savory peanut butter sauce. Yum.

Juliet, where did your ice cream go? Oh em gee, cute new scarf!

Aaron took us to a couple of record stores and we parted ways at The Book Trader. Um, what is the world trying to tell us? [warning, hilarious children's sex ed illustrations coming]

Naho's laugh was resonating throughout the store, I found her and Laura reading this:

Neil, is that you?
I found a great color photography book, but this was the only page worth remembering.

I did find a beat up copy of Lauren Greenfield's Girl Culture, which sadly no longer has this sweet cover, but I still bought it.

We finished off the night walking/shopping South St which felt like Chinatown scattered with some nicer shops. I was into it.

That is all. I could live there, but I'll probably just keep visiting.

PS That book wasn't really for kids, but for young dummies like you and me.

You look pretty.

2008-09-29T12:36:00.000-07:00

I've been working an effing lot lately and haven't really been good at maintaining this poor little lamb I call baughsome. (Want some gee whiz? I originally intended on changing that name every month or so to a new baugh super word or "sword", but it just never happened.) Anyway, here's a quickie for my slutties.

Mr Cox came down for the weekend. He stayed with Josh, but I still got two great nights with him and one whole day to myself. We took a private tour (from the lovely Whit - Andrew's old roommate) of the Capitol and visited Sen Craig's bathroom. Well, Ryan did. We even got to see the House in session. They start with a prayer. I didn't know.

Our final hours together were spent in Chinatown eating Chinese and strolling through the Portrait Gallery. R. Cox, what a dream. It was a good day.

Meet Naho:

She is my baby sister and partner in crime. We're both working two of the same jobs whilst searching for "real" jobs. Last night we cooked up a mean market fresh feast, managing to please 5 hungry dudes. We rule. As soon as I finish this post we're going to go price out places that will weave something into our hair. There are at least two in our neighborhood.

Posting this because its cracks me up every time. Buckley licking my face and Andrew's creepy eye undressing you.

And this is just funny.

I'm trying to post a great video of me pumping Naho (which happens quite frequently these days) and Andrew pumping a girl from the neighborhood, but its taking too long. I'll show you if you come out for Thanksgiving.

UPDATE: Here you go. Hope the buildup wasn't too much. And seriously, that bus almost hit us.

Hey West Coasters

2008-09-16T12:28:00.000-07:00

I'll be in Seattle from Oct 24 - 26th (a weekend). You* should come too. Look how fun it is! My Asian sisters may come as well. Jason doesn't know about this, but who cares, he wont be there.

*Especially if your name is Anna or Natalie and you want to relive this.

This Is One Month In

2008-08-29T09:51:00.000-07:00

This is my bedroom. This is me in my bedroom. In 3 days this bedroom will go back to belonging to a 4-yr-old and I will be in my real room. The one I have to pay rent for. A lot of rent. Almost 4 times what I paid in Salt Lake, but still less than what A-rod is paying in Park City. A good deal, I'm told.

That book on the floor is a 50lb* yoga book that my grandma gave me before she left on her third LDS mission. That was at least 10 years ago** and I'm using it for the first time ever. I actually read it and am on week 2 of the 20 week program. If all goes well I'll be able to touch my toes by Christmas**.

*exaggerration
**not an exaggerration

This is Big Bear. It is the neighborhood coffee shop where I spend my afternoons. I'm supposed to be working on my portfolio, but I usually just end up chatting about how lazy I've been these past few weeks. Almost guilt-free laziness, I might add. Being more or less unemployed has been nothing short of awesome. Even my mom is excited about me not working. Unfortunately I had to make the first big transfer of funds from my savings account today so I can start paying rent. I guess this means its time to start applying for jobs.

This is Josh outside Big Bear. He's not my neighbor, but I let him hang out here because he is saving the world, or at least becoming a doctor of world saving. He has a great little garden which has fed me on several occasions.

This is the house where I've been living for the past month. Its really nice , but I'm so happy to be leaving it. Notice the sliver of the house on the left side of the photo. I stretched on their front porch the other morning for about 10 minutes and didn't realize it wasn't my own until I went to unlock the front door. Okay so I've done it twice.

These are some shots from around the 'hood. I can call it that because there are projects across the street. The same place the next door neighbor got shot in the back. He likes to walk around shirtless with his bandage showing. Its a hard knock life for us.

This is a Pie Party I went to the other night without Andrew. Proof that I don't have to be with him all the time, like you may think. Okay, I totally wished he were there. These are his friends. At least I had Juliet to tell me everything was going to be okay and a camera to hide behind.

Speaking of pie, this is Alex, the little girl I nanny in the mornings. She hates when I take her picture, but she totally loves me because I swim with her almost every day and treat her to the best dance parties ever. She's really good at pretend and makes all the food and decorations for our dance parties. Her specialty is "blueberry tea". She also thinks she is a cat.

Today was my last day with Alex and I thought it might bum me out a little when I finished with her earlier. Then right as I was saying goodbye she tripped and threw hot cocoa all over her parents' bed, wall, dresser, pillows and lamp. And this wasn't the powdered cocoa, it was made at the coffee shop with rich, thick chocolate syrup, which was more or less what was left in her cup at that point. So now instead of being at said coffee shop, I'm home waiting for the linens to dry. Its a hard knock life for me, still.

This is what my breakfast usually looks like.

This is what my lunch has sometimes looked like. And will again soon. Every Sunday there is a small farmer's market right in front of my house. Awesome. That combined with Josh's generosity make for delicious salads.

This is a self-portrait I took with my toe. They don't teach that in college. Tomatoes, corn, tons of cilantro and cucumbers. Yum.

So, concerning jobs, here is a little update:

For the past few weekends I have been working at a kitchen store on Cap Hill called Hill's Kitchen, clever I know. Its got a good vibe and sells nice things, like $400 copper pots and really nice knives, which I will own someday. Next week I will start working Wednesdays at the Foggy Bottom FreshFarm Market. I'm told this will be a sweet gig. For 8 hours of work I get a decent amount of cash and all the produce I can carry. Bam!

And finally, last night I had my first night working door at the famed 9:30 club. Its about the size of SLC's In The Venue, but the work that I do is way shittier. I was told it would be this way so it was no surprise, but it lacked the magic vibe I was hoping for. I'm working a late night dj dance party tonight and possibly Chuck Brown tomorrow night. I'm going to stick it out and see if it grows on me, but if not I might look into working something more low key. If there is anything that could keep me there it would be the next few months' lineup including Yelle, Mogwai, Girl Talk, Chromeo, Dandy Warhols, Built to Spill, The Notwist, Hot Chip and on and on. I haven't seen a schedule for November, but maybe there will be a sweet show that I can get all you T-day goers into. Oh, I also get free coffee and soda. Bitching.

It should be noted that I was hooked up with all these jobs, in some way or another, by Juliet. She's a dream.

This is Juliet. This is also the only picture I have of her. She does occasionally smile, but usually she just cuts you with her eyes. Fortunately she's a good cook and if you come for Thanksgiving you'll experience that firsthand.

I bring this post to a close with one last "I miss you" to Salt Lake. I bought this 337 Project documentary at nobrow before I left town and finally watched it the other night. It was late and I was feeling sentimental so I threw in on. I may possibly be the only person that cried throughout this thing. It destroyed me, in a good way. I wish I could've taken part in the project and was glad I got to walk through it. It was a good motivator to get me working on finding an art class or project or some sort of community out here.

I just realized that I have no pictures of Andrew, which is strange. I really do spend a fair amount of time with him and he's done a fantastic job of making this transition extremely easy. Guess if you want to see him you'll just have to come out for Thanksgiving. Or just come out.

Mildly Amusing

2008-08-22T10:32:00.000-07:00

Girl Crush One: The Other Kiki

2008-08-19T16:33:00.000-07:00

I've been meaning for awhile now to do a series on my girl crushes, as there are many. Well I give you the first in what I intend to be an ongoing thing. And since I'm so good at following through . . .Where do I even begin? Kayleyn is pure magic. If you know her, you know this. I think living with her was one of the best things that could've happened to my Salt Lake Life at the 1840.

Part of the magic that is K-lyn is that she is kind of crazy and totally brilliant. Completely non-judging and always loving. And holy crap, so much fun. Not to mention she's always up for dancing, a trait I'm particularly fond of. And need I say BANGIN' HOT!?

I give you some of my favorite K-lyn moments and memories.

On the way to dancing.

Dancing (or me molesting).

Oh here we are with our brown sister, Ana. All of us in black hoodies on the black couch. OMG hella cute 4 real.

There was one great night spent with Hayley, K-lyn and some boys, involving banisters and a rooftop. Allow me to divulge.

It began with us showing up to a birthday party at some dive bar that had since been disbanded. On the way back to the car I guess we were walking too loud and the owner came out and yelled at us to leave . . . as we were getting into our cars. We didn't get it either. Perhaps he didn't like K-lyn doing this in his parking lot:

Too bad. Her bag is one of my favorite things about her. If he only knew.

Our group was too big to agree on something to do so a car of us headed to some dance party in the Aves. Outside the large old home there was a super long scary railing that K-lyn quickly became the champ of. Once inside we danced a for a second and mingled a little on the balcony. We didn't really know anyone so we climbed up on the roof and the real party began, including a camel toe contest. In the shot below I told K-lyn to make love to the roof. She did.

Her greatest moment of the night came during our departure when she slid down one of the inside banisters straight into a closed door. It was dark and none of us saw it coming, but I'm pretty sure I cried and peed a little when the door flew open and we realized what happened.

Another noteworthy (ha) night took place, again, at someone's house we didn't really know. Some friends of Tim's invited us over for some pre-gay night dancing action. My memory is mostly of uncomfortably eating some popcorn until one of the boys insisted I sign some document. They had the top half folded and refused to let me read it before I signed. He went on about how he was a legit public notary and that I needed to sign this legal stationary so he could stamp it with his "notarized" stamp. After arguing way too long I caved and signed the paper. And then I laughed really hard. And then I laughed even harder when K-lyn decided to stamp and sign the public notary's butt. All photographic evidence below (notice the popcorn bowl, we had it for the duration):

One of the things I will miss the most will be the walks we took around SugarHouse. We were usually equipped with some sort of bread for the ducks, a bouncy ball and if we were really lucky, Josh. [Now there's a dream. You want proof? Look for the lion.]

sugarhouse

sugarhood

bouncy ball

josh

A video from one of my favorite walks:

The duo that is Josh and K-lyn, well there's not too many other things that make my heart want to explode. Except maybe this duo. Now that is a recipe for disastrous fun. And also a preview of a future crush.

[They don't even read this blog]

I don't really feel right about ending this without mentioning Scrabble. Or Boggle, or Text Twist or serial killers or dogs. But I only have pictures of some Scrabble boards we were particularly fond of.
Lastly I'm flattered so say that we consider ourselves each other's doppelgänger. Its not like we tried to make this happen, or that we even think we look alike, it just happened. Growing up we both got the Asian joke a lot (and still do - no offense my Honorary Asian Sisters) and while living together happened to have similar hair cuts. But once we started going out dancing together people got us confused everywhere. A guy that I dated walked up to her dancing one night and took her by the arm, thinking she was me. Another girl that we both kind of knew ran up to me a few weeks ago and began chatting with me. When someone called me Christy she got embarrassed and said "Oh sorry, I thought you were my friend Kayelyn." We got the sisters question on several occasions also. We tell people we suspect we came from the same sperm donor. I might entertain that idea if I weren't exactly like my dad. We even somehow ended up having the same nickname: Kiki. And then I found a million dollars*.

*That's how you end a bad story, I was once told.

And post-lastly I give you a post-er I made inspired by a photo I took of her. Which inspired the post. Which kept me from my portfolio building. Oh, the irony.

Post Script Warning: Complaints about not being a Girl Crush will be cause for instant Girl Crush blacklisting, bitches.

Beautiful Stench

2008-08-10T13:35:00.000-07:00

Once again, another magical float on the Great Salt Lake at sunset. I can't think of a better way to say "goodbye". . . I mean "see you later" to Utah.

We had a record number of attendees (final count: 27!) which meant a bit of a late start. It was totally worth having so many friends out on the lake.

Extra special smooches, side-boob and thanks to Dusty for sharing this tradition with us 4 summers ago. Here are a few of my favorite pics. A lot of the photo credit goes to Miles, who probably had my camera more than me.

Sun setting behind Antelope Island at Saltair.

Stan, Chris, Miles, Isa and I were the last car to get out there in time for sunset. Half of the people that went aren't even in my pictures. Kind of weird. A group photo would've been a good idea. Next year.

Isabelle getting ready to hit the water.

Isa and Chris braving the brine.

Stan and Isa

Chris being a baby. Its practically bath water.

Finally meeting the rest of the crew.

Dusty with his eye protection (and eye candy . . . rrrrr).

Me and my bestie molesties.

So, like any good water activity, the suits came off. Its dark, you're already getting groped and everybody's doing it, so why not, right? (My mom would be so happy to hear me say that last line.) I'm willing to bet Hasen was the first to desuit.

Dusty was kind enough to collect the suits and keep them in the cooler. That blue one on top is mine, and sadly, that is the last I will see of it. It never made it home.

What is that mysterious white plastic thing behind me you ask? Oh, its just Ana's cast. It doesn't stop her from riding a bike, do you think it would keep her from the greatest summer adventure ever? No way.

Andrew, this should've been you.
On a separate note, let's all take moment and admire that jaw that is Miles'. Wow.

Me and Vanessa.

Meanwhile in other random ramblings:

Seriously, since I've been sitting here watching Olympics I have heard Santogold on 3 different commercials, Sea Wolf, Band of Horses, Silversun Pickups, Lupe Fiasco, Feist and I believe Sigur Ros (but I can't be certain). I don't know why I let this get to me, but I do. It's been pointed out to me that its because "we" are the ones making the commercials, our demographic are the ones working for these places. If the music were bad I would probably respond with something like "get some decent music, let me pick it" or something. When the music is good I'm like "who do they think they are! pearls before swine! blah blah blah." Big deal Christy, get over it.

Saw Pineapple Express last night. Better than I expected, but I still say hugs not drugs. Actually I've never said that. And I'm not a big hugger either, unless you are. Speaking of hugs, 1) the Leviathan article on types of hugs was great and 2) if you're in Salt Lake find Chaz and hug him because he gives the best hugs in the city, or maybe the state, or maybe ever.

If Jack ever gets sad about girls not liking him, please offer no sympathy. He has kissed more of my girl friends than I have. And I kiss all my girl friends in a mostly non-sexual way. So ladies, take warning. Or get some. In the last two days I've given him three girl's numbers which he assures me are for "evil intentions". Oh Jack, I sure do really really miss my not-gay boyfriend.

Oh, you can see the rest of the pics on my flickr. Warning: possible nudity. If you want even more naked lake pictures you'll have to come to DC and I'll give you the full slideshow. I'll even buy you a coffee or make you a salad. And I'll totally rub your feet and brush your hair just because we're friends and that's what friends do.

Side Step

2008-08-07T13:04:00.000-07:00

Someday when we take that bike trip up to Philly (hint hint Andrew and Jess), I will be coming home with these handmade-in-Philly items (I hope).

These beauties come from two ladies at Fabric Horse. They are neat:

"Each piece is made for you from scratch by a single pair of hands. As an environmentally and socially conscious company, all products are constructed from scavenged, reused, recycled, or environmentally friendly fabrics."

See?

All my salty babies can get them at the heart of cool and cool (3rd and 3rd) at Disorderly House.

Before I Was Here

2008-08-04T07:48:00.000-07:00

So I'm in DC now. Its still surreal. Like I'm visiting an Aunt or something. I need to get out and explore (which I will do after this post), but I keep finding distractions made possible by this damn laptop, its disorganized-ness and its ability to connect me to the screen world. (Ryan's Screen Theory? Legit.)

Below are some pics from my final weeks in SLC (with exception of the Great Salt Lake Sunset Float, which will earn its own post).

Okay, blah bah blah.
Hasen and I did this super fun shoot one Sunday. We had no plans, we both just wanted to shoot. He showed up all in red so I put on all blue. We drove over to the West Side and stopped when we saw this blue Napa Auto Parts building. We stayed until we lost sunlight and got called home for sushi.

I'm pretty bummed that this was the first and last shoot I did with Has. He is a brilliant subject and total sex, right? Especially with those pants up so high... mmm...

Post shoot we piled in the back of Carlo's van to get sushi. It was Kayelynn and Jack's first night serving at Koyo. Look how gay we are in the back seat.

We wanted Kayelynn to know how much we loved and appreciated her service.

Moving on to another night of food... a farewell dinner at Rachel's with Anna Burks (not seen anywhere!), Hasen and Beaux. Since my music skills were always pretend, I just danced. And photographed. Or more appropriately, pointed and shot.

Following dinner at Rachel's I headed down to the FICE party for one last chance to see one of my favorite local bands, Laserfang! Okay, so I've only seen them twice, but have they even played more than that? Probably not. Totally.

Miles was there promoting his dj set that would follow at the W. I think about 12 people showed up, but it was all worth it thanks to a slow dance set that was pure magic.

Previously in my Great Salt Lake Life there was a band that played Kilby called Taughtme. Apparently Aubs is now in the band doing percussion-type-sound-making biz. She was great.

And lastly, I give you Ana in her element at the gallery stroll. Will someone please smell her cast so I don't have to? Oh wait, I don't have to anymore. But who wouldn't want to smell something described as "rotten roses with wet dog on a smelly loaf of bread." Go to her. Go.

I would like to share pics from My New DC Life, but alas my camera is funked from the salt and these peeps wont fix my shit until I find the store number of the original store in Chicago that sold me the biz. Lame. Its in a box somewhere that will be here on the 8th. Should I decide to venture out with my big mama camera (I wont) you may get something. Until then I will be shooting Holga, and you know how long it could take me to get film developed (longer than days, weeks and months).

Desolation 2008: A terrible recounting of a really awesome event.

2008-07-12T12:25:00.000-07:00

Some time ago (one month) marked my fifth annual river trip. My fourth trip on the Green River through Desolation Canyon. By far, the most eventful. I mean, if you think plane crashes and bears are eventful.
The trip wouldn't be complete without a "tramp stamp" for all the ladies, and whoever else desired one. Mine (not seen above) was a black panther in flames. I put it on my neck, because that is where all my temp tattoos go.

For the most part things were pretty normal; a later than usual put-in, an early start on boozin', not enough straps, too much food, etc.

The first night we were met with more mosquitoes than I have ever encountered in my life. Ever. This canyon is known for its gnarly mosquitoes, but in my 4 times running it they have never been an issue. In fact we have always slept out under the stars. Not this time. Ever tried eating with a net around your face? It doesn't work too well.

Anna K ate breakfast out on the boat to avoid the mass gathering of mossies (Australian for mosquito).

Amy and Buck making "Deso Burgers", a bagel sandwich with anything you can imagine on it. Notice the citronella candle in the middle and the long sleeves and pants. It wasn't cold.

Anna K got an early start with her tat. Surprisingly, they don't stick to greezy sunblocked skin too well.

Sunday started out lazy and wonderful like every other day until someone spotted smoke around the corner. The speculation began; lazy a-hole campers, lightening (there hadn't been any storms), tamarisk control?

As we got closer we seemed to be getting angrier, sure that it was more than likely some jerk lazy campers that didn't carry their ashes and coals out (fires are only allowed in fire pans- leave no trace stuff).

Kim cruised over to the bank in the ducky for a closer look and tried to save some bunnies from running back into the flames.

Around the bend we saw two small rafts on the opposite bank of the fire. It was suggested that we take their picture and try and get names to possibly report them. As we got closer they began waving their arms and flagging us over.

"There was a plane crash, two guys on board, they're alive, we have them on our boats!"

Holy shit.

To sum it up quickly, brothers Jon and Duncan were on a 14 day trip up to Alaska. They had just come from Arizona and were headed for Wyoming. Apparently due to the lowered temperature in the canyon and the weight of the plane, they began losing altitude and decided to make a controlled crash landing. They had everything they needed to survive including an emergency beacon and a GPS. What they thought was sage brush turned out to be boulders. Bang, boom, burn.

The two boats before us saw the fire and the plane and pulled over. Jon and Duncan managed to get themselves out of the plane and onto a boulder while a fire began to burn around them. The rafters ran up with towels and water and leap-frogged the two through the fire and to the shore then moved over to the opposite bank. They did everything they could to keep the brothers hydrated and comfortable. About an hour later, we came along.

Kim, our hero EMT, jumped right in and took over the care of these two men. Myke helped out too, but the rest of us kind of had to sit around until we figured out what to do next. I'll be honest, watching the fire move down the other side of the river was really really awesome.

Since neither group had a satellite phone and the chances of anyone else passing by that day were really slim we decided to float down to the closet campsite. It happened to be on the illegal-to-camp-Indian-Reservation side. Do you think we were going to go on the legal burning side and wait for the fire to get us? Dream again. We need to set up a comfortable place to keep these guys overnight until someone came looking for them or another party with a satellite phone passed. Anna K being the selfish one in the group decided to trip on a dry box so she could get a little medical attention herself. Typical.

We found a spot really quickly and as luck would have it a small storm (I think they're called microbursts) hit just long enough to make setting up camp hell. Then it went away and then we made a giant SOS on the beach. This was legit emergency biz, yo.

Everyone made sure to keep Jon and Duncan company and Kim attended to them through the night. Considering they just crashed a plane, had busted ankles, broken ribs, smashed faces and missing teeth they were in really good spirits. They were also in my tent. Other than my sweet spirit, that was my only contribution.

The following day, whilst burning my cheeks atop a large boulder in the river, another company approached. They had a sat phone. After about 5 fruitless phone calls (911 didn't work) we got through to someone that understood what was going on and they said they would have 2 helicopters there in 45 minutes. They weren't kidding.

They landed about .25 mile from our campsite so it was quite the trek getting them to the helicopters, but with me as the guide yelling "cacti! rock! hill!" it was a breeze, I'm sure.

We wished them well, then packed up camp to pick up where we left off. River slothfulness and debauchery. And a light show made possible with glow sticks.

News stories here and here (I hope they're still there). Even the Herald Journal called me to get a CV local's take on it. I tried to explain I don't live there anymore, but they still wanted to claim this hero for themselves. Fine.

RING TOSS!

The river is always my favorite trip of the year. This one was just as magic with some added adventures. Ones that will be talked about forever, I'm sure. I forgot to mention that Anna K got almost face to face with a very large, healthy black bear that resulted in her running back to camp so fast that she collapsed when she got there. Lucky for her the bear didn't see her (although he probably sensed her) and it didn't chase her. We all watched as it kept on making its trek across the ridge line. I saw a young cub at an earlier quick stop, but no one else did so no one believes me. What bull shit. Yes, I'm sure it wasn't a deer. Duh.

The Deso 2008 Crew:

Tim, Ann, Kim, Izzy, Michelle, Buck, Amy, Lance, Trav, Marc, Myke, Patrick, Anna K, Princess Christy, Dalal and Carlo.

The captain of my heart:

My bag is half full.

2008-07-01T21:20:00.000-07:00

Not.
Its overflowing. After searching a good two minutes for a pack of gum, to no avail, I decided to dump it all out and document the contents.

Gross, I know. Here's the breakdown, because I know you care, you creeps.

Checkbook and coin purse with no coins, but enough cards to prevent closure.

A necklace I bought as a gift, but can't part with, some band pins, loner earrings (I was wearing the other leaf one), baby pin!, gold wrist-ware.

Sustenance. (Yeah, that's colloidal silver.)

Lips, teeth, vitamin I and vanity - opened for the first time for this photo. Probably.

Essentials. And an i-pod and cable.

Keys, Kiki!!, $1.74 and spring from broken pen, phone that wont ever die.

Sweet Fleet Foxes poster from Lance, film, and sticker from the vending machine at nobrow.

Three CDs and a stack of free postcards.

Life list, note from the madre, kilby sticker, 17 polaroids. Probably.

Broken pen, dead pens 1 & 2, purple Sharpie(!), my first love- black tape, and notebook with polaroid of Chaz, my other love.

The key to Heaven and her missionaries.

To the river!

A Good Night

2008-06-19T22:52:00.000-07:00

broadwaynobrow

slowtrain

a living room

Twins, kind of.

2008-06-10T16:07:00.000-07:00

Sunday I went to Logan to eat birthday dinner with my sisters. They've reached the ripe age of 26, prime for the picking. At least that's what my mom is hoping for. I didn't take too many pics, but I do have these from previous birthdays. Apparently we celebrate sitting on the table.

First birthday, 1983

There is a really really good chance that Amy's diaper is soaked. For the 15th time that day. Those cheeks were fattened up from endless bottles of apple juice.

Second birthday, 1984

Pure bliss, clearly.

Third birthday, 1985

Fourth birthday, 1986

Katie was pretty nervous/excited for her half of the candles. She used to be so sweet...

Unfortunately I can't find any more recent pics so these will have to do. But I have this token naked shot:

Woohoo!

Winner

2008-05-30T09:25:00.000-07:00

Best sign at the rally.

"Mainstream white boy for peace"

Also noteworthy, FRESH WHITER WIDER bike lane lines on 17th!

Thith ith juth tho exthiting.

Memorial-able Day

2008-05-26T20:55:00.000-07:00

Since Ana took on Coachella, I'll do Memorial Day. Both events were a month apart from one another and had some noteworthy similarities. But before I get to that, let's start with Friday.

Left work late to discover that flats aren't just for bikes.

Being my first flat in this dream machine, I didn't know where the spare, jack or lug wrench were or if I even had these things. All were eventually found, but alas no lug wrench. I searched every space possible. That is when I discovered these mystery items:

Mystery newspaper from 2003 with bolt and nuts, mysterious white substance.

And these 4 shades
(Ryan Cox, you got some explaining to do.)

Lucky for me, another co-worker staying late had a compatible wrench.
All was well.

Jack and I decided to make Sun Tea. Due to the lack of sun, it became Rain Tea. It was delicious (and mostly unrelated to the weekend. Mostly.)

And then it was Saturday. My final moments (5 hours) with Ryan before he left for Europe were spent driving to St George with A-rod. Look how she keeps her eyes on the road...

We made it to his brother's around 2am. They offered us their floor, but since Ryan and his brother would be leaving for Vegas at 4am we thought the waking up might be a little awkward. So off we went to find a place to sleep for the night. Before we could come across any am/pm s we found a middle school. Under construction. With Creepy bleachers. Dark. Perfect. We locked up our bikes, made our beds, had girl talk then slipped away into sweet dreaming bliss.

Sweet dreaming bliss changed to rude awakening nightmare when I was rudely awakened by Ana gasping and jumping up. I opened my eyes to see a flashlight and a face peering in on us. I screamed. "Open the door, open the door!!" demanded P5 cop. Extreme interrogation went down. He wanted our ID's (well just Ana's, but he failed to mention that). As I'm rummaging through every bag I can find, still only half awake, P5 is trying so hard to catch Ana in a lie. Wondering what sort of events happen in the off-season at Deer Valley, what sorts of things we would be doing in LA (don't really know why she lied about our destination, but it sounded legit), etc. Finally Ana gets tired of chatting it up with P5 and asks if she can just show her ID. "That's the only one I wanted to see." Oh. Anyway, he finally told us he wasn't going to make us leave, but maybe we should find a better place than a middle school to sleep next time.

Our lovely slumber pad in the morning.

Our lovely Ana in the morning.

Slumber Pad even came equipped with clean porta-potties. And by clean I mean sanitary. The nice sketches on the walls, another story. Boy do we know how to pick 'em.

After our morning calisthenics we put on our summer outfits and cruised the 'Vard for breakfast and dudes. We found both, but we only stopped for one. Of course Ana spotted the Bean Scene for breakfast. The coffee was terrible, but the french toast wasn't bad for $3. Unfortunately they lost all credit when they couldn't tell us how to get to Zion Nat'l Park. It was one exit out of town.

We never actually saw the dudes that own these bikes, but this alone was enough reassurance that we were in the right place.

The post breakfast Cruising of the 'Vard was quite possibly the highlight of the trip. Please cruise with us for 2 minutes.

We got to Zion and got on our bikes. We took pictures while we waited for the bus with the elderly.

Including engagements.

Then we got on the bus.

Then we got off the bus.

We hiked a fair portion of Angel's Landing. We got this high (no, not that high, Jason).

We had to turn around when our non-hiking shoes started bothering us. And we're kind of lazy. And why would you hike when you could ride bikes? Does it matter when you're with your soulmate? I wouldn't know because I was with Ana. We do have friendship bracelets and that's something. Ryan took his to Europe. Hopefully he hasn't had to sell it for food yet.

The End.

PS I think KP is modeling for American Apparel. This was in the dressing room at Trolley.

Eh? And other random things.

2008-05-21T22:20:00.000-07:00

I liked these zipper marks on my hand.

Shouldn't this be on a some stupid people website somewhere? I checked to make sure the cable wasn't fed through a hole. It wasn't.

I thoroughly enjoy working the door at Urban and seeing this all night.

I miss Lance.

I have a crush on baby Chaz (and K-lyn). We went on a bike date to Betos.

A couple of couples. I treasure my walks with K-lyn.

Jax Christmas Miracle Baugh is the only cat I like. I didn't grasp cats having personalities until Jax came around.

A-rod pays a little more rent now for this.

And this.

This was free.

I finally stopped to take a shot of this women's restroom sign on my bike path. I love this sign.

I worked the Atmosphere show last week. My final post was by the tour buses. I stood by this guy (Slug?) for at least a half hour and had no idea he was Atmosphere.

Jack reads over my shoulder and it makes me uncomfortable. I wish it didn't.

Sidewalk chalk at Liberty Park.

Disposable grill. Sundays at the park have been good for my soul.

In retrospect it appears this Sunday was one of death. Dead duck, dead Stan, Dead me.

Dead tired. Going to bed.

24 hours of party

2008-05-08T21:44:00.000-07:00

It started Friday night. Three Friday nights ago. Jason flew in from Seattle and after paying homage to his family showed up at The 1840 around 10pm. Let the party begin.

I have no photographic evidence of you being here, Jason. According to Ryan this means I stopped liking you. Apparently I only take pictures of people I like. If this theory can be proven by my iPhoto, I'm currently into Kayelyn and myself and my bike rides. Sorry everybody.

Wait, back up to Friday afternoon. Spent time with Nicole, ran errands, tricked the girl at Kinko's into falling in love with me, ran into Anna downtown, watched some gallery stroll related improvisational interaction with the landscape and some other stuff.

Everyone was around later that night, like usual, plus Mike, Nicole (all the way from Nashville) and Jason. Nicole did a decent job putting the polaroid I gave her to good use. This is one of my favorites, probably because right before it was taken Kayelyn exclaimed "everyone accentuate the vagina". Priceless, and you wonder why she's filling up my iPhoto...

Then it was time to dance. At the gay bar gay bar gay bar.

The ugly face contest pic. Winner: Kayelyn.

There was a really boring drag show so we went and danced on the roof.

Going out wasn't the smartest decision I made that night, but for the most part everyone had a good time. Notice A-rod is not in the dancing pics. That's because last minute she decided sleeping the car was better than dancing. Can't blame her. We had a big morning ahead of us.

We got home around 2am at which point I resumed slideshow/video editing until about 4am. Due to some intense snoring coming from Ana (who was in my bed), no actual sleep actually happened. So I came back down to the couch and cried to Ryan because I was so tired and had to wake up at 5am for the race.

At about 5:30am I decided that signing up for the bike race was proof that I hate myself, but I didn't want to P5 out. So at 6am, when the race was supposed to be starting, the An(n)a's and I headed up to the Legacy bride. The race had begun so we had to sneak onto the course.

Ana forgot her helmet and had to borrow one of Anna's who happens to have a significantly smaller head.

We found Natty around Mile 24.

Turns out it was really really fun and I'm glad I did it. And as far as I'm concerned, I totally won my category. Someone correct me if I'm wrong, but I'm pretty sure I was the only one to do the race on a single speed bike. And a basket.

The finish line actually had no "finish line" or cheering, but what it did have was 7/11 taquitos and hotdogs. And this guy.

Post race I finished getting stuff ready for Gail's Sexy Sixty Birthday Bash surprise party. I'm pretty sure I was real fun to be around. Everything came together just fine. Ryan was able to save the ugly, delicious Costco cakes. Everyone showed up (except you, Mike) and Mama Baugh was definitely surprised. I didn't take any pics, but when I get some I'll post some. As smooth as everything went, I still don't ever want to plan a wedding. I think I've met my event qouta for the next 10 years.

With all the relatives in town for the party, brunch went down at Market Street. Party of 15 only meant an hour and a half wait. No problem when you got kids around. I taught little Grace how to do self portraits for her myspace.

She was way into me.

Grandma still stands on her head every night, does yoga every day, eats an amazingly fresh diet free of anything processed, makes crazy demands at restaurants (and gets away with it because she's cute and old) and has a soft spot for fresh whipped cream. You bet I busted her in the kitchen on Thanksgiving eating it off the pies while everyone was in the other room eating.

We might be related.

I'm totally bored right now so I'm guessing you are too. So please enjoy this lovely video of Hercules. If the quality is too low to tell what's happening, at least enjoy the laughing and camera shaking.

Commissioned Art

2008-04-29T19:36:00.000-07:00

Just for you, Neil:

– Ana Rodriguez, from a phone conversation earlier today.

I believe.

2008-04-29T15:04:00.000-07:00

Do yourself a favor and buy this album, dammit.

She was the highlight of Coachella for me.

Speaking of...

Since most the pics from the trip are on Ana's camera I have summed it up for you in a sketch. You're welcome.

Some things to note:
My eyes are open.
Ana is brown, I'm orange.
That is cleavage.
Jack is present.

This will all make sense in due time.

A quickie

2008-04-22T14:31:00.000-07:00

All in a week.

This:

To this:

It would seem as though the sun really enhances my asian-ness.

Then it happened all over again. Finally rode again today. And at the moment it looks like the blue morning has turned to a gray windy afternoon. Spring is so exciting.

Leaving work after 5 usually means I wait for the train. Stops average 5-25 minutes. The other day this appeared in the gutter where I (and numerous other bikers) usually wait out the train.

A closer look:

Glad someone pays attention. Too bad its not the person that waits the whole 25 minutes with their engine running. No wonder my chest gnar didn't go away until I took a break from biking.

And man, I know my bike talk probably gets real old, but I really really love my bike. A lot. Like a lot. Ask Anna K how magical it is. We swapped so she could take advantage of the basket and now she can't get enough.

So Andrew...

namujecry, amen.

Been busy...

2008-04-17T11:10:00.001-07:00

Doing this guy.
You got me Neil. Who needs an architect when you have this?

Kitty got played, then Kitty got play.

2008-04-06T21:37:00.000-07:00

Note: Normally Kitty would tell his own story of growth, consumption and demise, but certain events have prevented him from doing so. And someone will pay...

Things were going well by Day 2 and even 3 (photos mysteriously vanished). Then Day 4 came and Kitty got a new home because he wasn't fitting.

Day 2

Hours passed.

Then Satan came along and made someone give Kitty a shot of vodka. At least that's my theory. How do you explain this!?

Squishy Kitty, shriveled Kitty.

I kissed him farewell and sent him to his grave with the salad and the Smiles. Ttyl, my pet.

Stumbled Upon

2008-04-06T21:28:00.000-07:00

I'm incredibly disappointed that I wasn't around when this photo was taken, but thanks to myspace I can enjoy it over and over again. Oh man, I seriously can't help but laugh at this every time I see it. Peter, you creep.

Gravel Forage

2008-04-03T12:59:00.000-07:00

Came across this while walking the 2 flats home last week.

Hey Easter, leave me alone already.

Social Profile

2008-04-01T13:38:00.000-07:00

According to facebook "Christy (that's me) is more desirable than less than 20% of people". Cool. Apparently they have never seen how "desirable" I was looking in '87.
And please, take note of the first bike I remember owning. Given to me by someone with boys. It was definitely a dude bike, complete with checker board foam pads. Boys were always telling me how rad it was. Duh. I could do some mean skids on that thing. So I guess not much has changed, besides my bangs and my skidding ability. I'll get them both back eventually. Hopefully before Summer's end.

Here's your Utah

2008-04-01T08:06:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday Nicole (and baby Miles).

Sorry about the crappy snap shots from the driver's seat. I was just stoked on the fresh blanket of snow on everything yesterday morning. Yes, I'm a P5 and drove. Biking is scheduled to resume tomorrow.

Update

2008-03-27T08:03:00.000-07:00

Make that 7 flats in 3 weeks. Three in one day is my new personal record. And now its snowing. Is the Universe trying to tell me something?

EASTER 1985

Rest assured I'm still just as excited about bikes (and Easter baskets) as I was back in '85. (And Katie is still just as excited about purses.)

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Now playing: Headlights - Get Your Head Around It
via FoxyTunes

"Meow"

2008-03-25T12:26:00.000-07:00

"Meyawwwn."

"MeowHoo!"

"Meragldubrgleow."

ONE HOUR IN

"Meurky."

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Now playing: Prince - Pussy Control
via FoxyTunes

Monday's Grind

2008-03-25T07:09:00.000-07:00

(That Easter picture was really creeping me out too.)

I've been trying to document my bike commute to work, photographing things that I haven't noticed before, things that are always changing, creepy people, etc. There are some real artists that hang out on the river's edge. These stop signs I found particularly nice.

Monday morning's ride was complete with some fresh new grafitti under the passes. The first one made me lol. Then when I saw the other two I had to go back and photograph them all.

Oh you need a close up? Done.

TWAT tagger really made my day. Or maybe it was an entire TWAT Team? ha.

• • •

The flat back tire on the way home really not-made my day, but it was a good reminder that I am not a self-sufficient rider yet and need to get on that.

Weird that I would get a flat when this is my terrain?

The walk afforded me some time to see things at a slower pace and really appreciate what this fine commute has to offer.

And then a hero comes along with the strength to carry on. And you cast your fears aside because you know you can survive.

Don't know why I didn't make a picture of it, but my entire bike (basket and all) can fit in the back seat of Ryan's Buick. Amazing.

To top things off when I got home I discovered a thorn in my front tire. Why fix one when you can fix two!? That makes 4 flats in 3 weeks. We're right on par. (I think Brad can vouch.)

Don't think 2 flats in one day can slow bike* down. He snuck out at 2am last night for a hot date and a little grinding with this sexy shopping cart. You little...

*I feel like my bike should have a name. Should it? We hang out enough, I think he deserves it. Is he even a "he"? And how does he feel about carrying a basket all day (removed for his date)? Maybe he's gay! Or at least one hot tranny. Suggestions?

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Now playing: Culture Queer - Baby
via FoxyTunes

Let's hear it for moms!

2008-03-23T22:45:00.001-07:00

That's right. I'm 28 and still get an Easter basket. And I better forever or she's gonna get it. As you can see it came in good taste complete with almonds, cocoa mix, glow in the dark bracelets, a cat that will grow twice its size when in water! (why are people always gifting me these?), and of course, farting putty. Thanks, mom.

That white blob is a sheep, you know like "baaaah", cause we're Baugh's, get it? That's what my mom told me. Then she did the embarrassed laugh and said "I'm sorry, of course you get it."

Feast or Famine

2008-03-19T09:27:00.000-07:00

Sunday Jack stopped by to hang for a bit in between his shifts. We rode bikes around Fairmont Park to make sure we were still straight. We are. We didn't even get a whistle or an eye brow raise from anyone. Lame. But Jack got an eyebrow raise from me when he did this hard core biz:

Then we found this intense obstacle course. The coreness continues...

Post-obstacle course we did a cooldown and recovered with gatorade (not) and headed home to make some delicious hot beverages (true). Jack is drawn to sidewalks and riding against traffic. I think these are signs of Andrew-neglect.

This was 4 of 5 random-Jack-drop-by days in a row. I guess this means the famine has begun. I already miss you, Jack.

White

2008-03-19T07:26:00.000-07:00

February 1982

In preparation for my mom's big 6-0 I've been scanning in images from our old albums. Just more proof (as if any is needed) that I'm my dad's favorite. Okay, so at the time of this picture Amy & Katie weren't born yet, but still- do I look replaceable? Unpossible. Expect more shameless self-indulgence in coming days.

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Now playing: Chicago Public Radio - #352: The Ghost of Bobby Dunbar
via FoxyTunes

Doing my part to stimulate the local economy.

2008-03-15T16:49:00.000-07:00

Stimulus package: Tea & "coco" from the Tea Grotto, Blokus from Game Night, and bike tubes from Fisher Cyclery. You too can push along the nascent economic recovery, buy me some Postum.

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Now playing: KCRW Simulcast
via FoxyTunes

The Morning After

2008-03-15T10:38:00.000-07:00

This is the handkerchief I got from the show last night. Best souvenir ever. Mostly because it was handmade and screenprinted by one of the Ly's and her mom. Fantastic.

The show was amazing, as expected. Her clever brilliance blew my mind all over again. I convinced Gheybin to come. I'm pretty sure she's in love now too. Naturally.

They Ly's had on the most amazing purple and silver spandex outfits I've ever seen. I mean, because I'm always coming across okay purple and silver spandex outfits.

Kayelyn managed to get Josh out for the show and I think I'm safe in saying that he did not regret it. For some reason I have a hard time convincing people that they need to be at this show. Someday you'll figure it out too. Or not. Or I don't care, I want her to myself anyway.

The first time I saw Leslie Hall and the Ly's there was maybe 30 people there at the Old Pickle Factory. This time there were 200. Disappointing only because it was difficult to see what was going on, and this is a show where you need to see what's going on. At least I got to wear these sparkly spat thongs again.

Post show was just another quality night at The 1840 complete with Ana, Jack and arm wrestling. The perfect ending.

What's that? My mouth looks blue? Oh, that's just my amazing teeth whiteners that make me look like a middle schooler with retainers. Here's the close up you're tacitly desiring. Have a great Saturday.

Second Chance!

2008-03-14T09:53:00.000-07:00

She will be here again, tonight, at Kilby Court. Doors at 7.
Don't forget your sweater!

(Looks like it could be a bluebird day after all.)

Bored at work?

2008-03-13T22:05:00.000-07:00

I can help.

Bathroom Adventures!
My personal favorite.

1) Leave the stall door open as long as possible.
My word of advice would be to avoid the handicap stall as the lunge for the door tends to be a little further and may result in pee outside the toilet. I've been playing this "game" for about 2 years now. I only used the handi stall once.

2) Don't flush.
Gross, sure, but it guarantees you your own toilet all day. Prove me wrong, I dare you.

3) Finesse your dance moves.
I'm fortunate to have a giant wall sized mirror in my office bathroom. Really, do I have a choice?

Exclusive video available for a select few only. I'll post some stills for a teaser.

BONUS: Secluded staircase?

For going up: Sprint up them. Skip a step. Skip 2 steps. (Much more exciting in a skirt.)

For going down: Go as fast as you can without skipping steps. Not for everybody: If you have pants that require a little extra attention to hide butt crack, run down as many flights as you can without holding onto them. I did this a lot at my old office because I worked on the 3rd floor. They only made it to my ankles once. I win.

I realize these don't seem exciting. But I assure you, they can be. All you need is a semi-stale office environment and someone to come around the corner.

(Neil, I kind of went on vaca with you, only I didn't leave Salt Lake and I still went to work. I suck.)

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Now playing: Billy Idol - Dancing With Myself
via FoxyTunes

(And I shit you not, this song was playing when I uploaded the dance potty collage.)

For the children, 8pm

2008-03-05T07:39:00.001-08:00

(Summer skin, Sept 07)

I've been calling these posts "for the children" because my Saturday revolved around them. Don't think that changed when I left Fionn's party. I came home to Ana.

(Winter skin, Saturday night.)

Oh Ana, my beloved.

Somehow Ana, Stinky* and Stinky's friend convinced me to go to the rodeo. I think it was because I was already wearing boots. Yes, the same boots with the missing heel and the tape. Not a bad idea, but I was ready to sit on the couch for awhile.

Ana's innocent tactics:
"Just come, its only like $3 and I'll pay for you."

Fine. I can sit there too and it will probably be fun, right? I let them pluck me off the couch.

Turns out "like $3" has a wider range than one might imagine. It was $23. Ana felt bad and gave me the $7 she had I covered the rest (honestly debating if a cab home would be cheaper). I felt bad for actually taking her money so I bought her a rootbeer float and some popcorn. I'd say she got a pretty good return on her investment.

It wasn't so bad, but I'll be honest, watching it on TV is way more exciting. But you don't get the sweet fashion of the crowd from home. A streaker would've been nice, but I settled for the terrible banter between the announcers and the rodeo clown. Oh and while we're on it, what the hell is up with his dumb basketball shorts? When did their outfits change from this:

To this?

Notice the lack of bull in this image. That's because he never went near any bull. He just danced around on a box in the middle of the arena. Weak.

*No scent detected this night, surprisingly. A first. But all scents aside, I think he's pretty fabulous.

For the children, 5pm

2008-03-04T13:34:00.000-08:00

Post baptism I went shopping for Saydi's little guy, Fionn. He just turned 2. I haven't seen Fionn for awhile so I had a hard time knowing exactly what toys a 2-year-old would dig. I know all the packages have ages listed, but I couldn't help thinking that all the toys looked so stupid. I ended up with playdough. Because I like playdough. I called Jessica (from work, not NY) to see how I would fare since she has a daughter that's almost three. "Yep, that's too old for him," she said without hesitation. Shit. He got it anyway. He's not getting any younger, huh huh huh. I made up for it by buying him a kickin' pair of shoes (get it?) from 10. One day he'll appreciate them, and me, his soon to be favorite friend of his mom. Totally for sure high five!
His birthday party was surprisingly fun. Complete with 3 flavors of homemade mac & cheese. Regular (meaning extra cheesy), buffalo chicken with blue cheese and Mexican. I didn't make it to the Mexican because I stopped breathing after the buffalo. Dairy wipeout. Cake, piñata, candy, all the good party stuff. Can't wait until he's three.

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Now playing: Beach House - Apple Orchard
via FoxyTunes

For the children, 11am

2008-03-02T16:24:00.000-08:00

Saturday I was invited to my cousin's son's baptism. I wore some bright blue tights under my skirt which I didn't think twice about until Ryan mentioned that everyone would think I considered baptisms an Olympic event. He was right. I guess I hadn't realized how much more conservative family wards were than a bunch of college kids trying to outdo each other. Well, I was competition free in a pool of mauve, beige and denim on Saturday. My cousin's little family (and by little I mean young, there are 6 kids if you include the one in the womb) doesn't really know who I am so I think they were puzzled by my presence altogether.

We ate at the Training Table for lunch. I had an Orange Fanta, my first in years. It did not disappoint, but I think I'll be okay if my next one is another 15 years from now. On the way out I got some of those delicious chocolate mints from the 25 cent machine. I offered one to Eric (the baptisee) as we walked to the car. With his hands in his pockets he just calmly said "Well... I don't need one." [@$%!?] So I repeat the question "but do you WANT one?" complete with a little eyebrow raising, trying to reaffirm that I am cool and this can be our secret, just in case that's an issue. "Well, if you would like to give me one, that's your decision." I did. I had also planned on giving him $20, but suddenly felt like it was a bad idea. I just stood there and watched him get into the van, speechless, and thought, "Like wow."

I like to flatter myself and pretend that I will be the apotheosis of his baptism memories, that he wont remember that day without the image of my tights in his mind*, and he will sit around with his sibs in 20 years and I will be the topic that inevitably comes up. "...and what was with the tape on her boots and her feathery mullet?" You know, like the crazy aunt or the creepy uncle?

I will be peculiar cousin with blue tights that forced him to take a mint from my hand at the Training Table.

*So let's be honest. All this kid probably saw was the dark gray abyss surrounding me, which would be my soul.

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Now playing: Kinky - Una Linea de Luz
via FoxyTunes

Rock Show

2008-03-01T22:23:00.000-08:00

This is all you really need to know:
Great line-up, fantastic performances and rad merchandise.
I like music.
Thanks for stopping by.

There are a few things that I learn about myself over and over again. Like that I am incredibly naive, my epiphanies are usually things everyone already considers common knowledge (same thing?... wait did it just happen in real time? yuck.), I should never tell stories and I'm exactly like my dad when it comes to making a point--my tangents make it almost impossible to get there.

Last Wednesday was K records night at Kilby Court. Line-up included Mahjongg, Calvin Johnson (Beat Happening, Halo Benders, Dub Narcotic Sound System), Mount Eerie aka Phil Elvrum (The Microphones), These Are Powers and locals Vile Blue Shades.

VBS started the night and were super fun, as usual. Then These Are Powers followed and blew my mind. Mostly because they were the only band I knew nothing about so I had no expectations. Dusty was geeking out over their pedals and stuff, they had a lot. I don't think listening to their music gives you any idea of what you're in for when you see them live. I guess what I was most stoked on was the crowd interaction. Anna, pictured below, was out dancing and singing in the crowd for a lot of the show. I was into it her moves. And everything else. They killed it.

Maybe I should just have a blog for girls I have crushes on.

I snapped a few photos and she asked me if they were for my blog. Ha. I felt so typical and exposed. Should I misspell their names? Even rock stars google their names. Yep, they're rock stars.

So you don't get bored, I'll keep this short-ish. Mount Eerie played next, everyone sat. He had a little song book there for reference and was playing new stuff, but everyone kept calling out and he tried to oblige, when he could remember the words. His improvising was incredibly endearing.

Calvin Johson did more story telling than singing, but it was entertaining. Plus, its Calvin Johnson so there's an element of intrigue there no matter what he does, for me anyway. And he seems so volatile which is kind of unnerving, but exciting.

(Btw Dusty, I mentioned that I had friends who were hoping he would make a surprise cameo at the Built to Spill show and his response was "Your friends should've come here." And then I was all "they were, but..." and then it got all awkward and then we just did it right there on the merch table while the 16 yr olds browsed around. And all that "doing it" stuff is a lie, but only people with really good vision or knowledge of the zoom feature will know it!)

In between all these sets I kept finding myself in the merch room checking stuff out and listening to a bunch of kids interact with the artists. The tables were covered with so much exciting stuff, it felt like my first time stepping foot into an Urban Outfitters or Anthropologie (surely you can remember when this was a magical experience). The more I looked, the more I discovered. It was incredible. I don't even remember the last time I bought merchandise at a show.

Calvin Johnson & Phil Elvrum in the merch room.
How could I resist those colors?

Phil Elvrum had this really great photography book which also housed the vinyl. I totally wanted it, and still do, but who has $60 cash at a show?

I spent way too long trying to decide which These Are Powers shirt I wanted. I ended up going with the one that was too small because it was the better design. I'll make it work, or more likely relive my potentially poor decision every time I dig through my t-shirt drawer.

Finally after feeling I'd over stayed my welcome, I said farewell... and then I noticed these:

Mix tapes. That's right. Mix tapes on cassette made by Calvin himself. This guys been around music long enough for me to trust in his ability to put together some fantastic compilations. Kid hung with Cobain, yo. He had everything from female soul singers of the 40's, 50's and 60's to Pop from 2000-2004. I didn't recognize one artist on any of the tapes. Not one. As you can see, I ended up with some potential dance tunes and some girl punk stuff. He assured me I made good decisions. I haven't listened yet, but can't wait to hear these. I wanted them all.

I almost forgot Mahjongg. By the time they played the venue was pretty much empty, it was so late. They played a comparatively short, but great dancey set and finished at midnight (late for Kilby). Five hours at Kilby Court. I think that's a personal record. It felt good to have that rush again. The rush of talking to the artist, of buying new stuff, of everything.

If I can bring this full circle... I learned, once again, that live music is my drug of choice, my ricin, my number one.

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