Balls to the Wall

Seans advice for the day: If you are walking into a building at 6 in the morning to take a test keep your eyes open. Neglecting to open your eyes while walking could yield very painful results. Take me for example. I closed my eyes and ended up walked smack dab into a three foot high pole with an automatic handicap door opening button on it- smack dab meaning the pole impacted the area directly in between my legs where I keep my testicles. Needless to say I was a little embarrassed and in a lot of pain. Luckily, this did not inhibit my test taking abilities.

Currently listening to: a blend of Dashboard, Damien Rice, and James Blunt (amazing)

Babes In Toyland

This past weekend I had the opportunity to see a fine production of Victor Hubert's play Babes In Toyland". It has been far too long since I last viewed stage play, and this weekend served as a reminder. The creation of a stage, full of props, and characters clad in elaborate costumes and makeup are a couple of the reasons I respect this form of live art. Going to the Cinemark to see a movie is exciting, but plays are much deeper.

I especially enjoyed this one as it was filled with Christmas spirit and the joys of childhood innocence. Watching it jumpstarted a part of my brain that isn't used nearly enough: the ability to make believe. This form of theater is enjoyable and serves as a fun alternative to the movies. One drawback is price. Babes In Toyland cost $30 dollars per ticket for everyone in the audience. However, because I've sold my soul to Uncle Sam it was free.

The Neverending Story

Friday night usually signifies the onset of "the weekend". Unfortunately, I have a feeling these next two days will be no different than Monday thru Friday. I have to prepare for 5 finals, which will take place next weekend. This means sacrifice. Not only will I not venture out into the vast land of Colorado Springs, I will probably be confined to my desk, reading about covalent bonds, derivatives, and Sun Tzu. WTF? I guess this is college, minus the whole getting wasted part.

The Sands of Time

While studying for my chemistry test today I began to think about time. I realized that finals are less than two weeks away and that this time will go by in the blink of an eye. No matter how much study time I schedule, I'll still find myself cramming the night before each final. After finals I'll enjoy a well-deserved two week break. Though I'm looking forward to it, I have no doubt those two weeks will end too soon. The duality of time is complex, and never seems to work in favor of those it controls. There never seems to be enough time, which begs the question: where does the time go? I'm not sure if this entirely possible, but I need to learn to manipulate time. Here at the Academy I don't mind time moving quickly, but being able to slow down life's pace for these two weeks would do me a world of good. Is this just me, or does "time fly" for anyone else?

I'm a Warrior

Less than 48 hours and I'll be back in the 'Ville, sleeping in the comfort of my own bed. Unfortunately, those next two days will be filled with a bunch of tasks, to include "drill" (walking around with a fake gun) "wargaming" (playing video games) and "falcon feud" (military brain bowl). Apparently this combined with running around the woods for 5 hours today will make me a warrior. Sweet.

The Best Part of Waking Up...

...is not having a 1000mL nalgene drop squarely on your big toe. Unfortunately, this was my reality as I prepared myself for a calculus test at 06:15 this morning. On top of that walking to the test in weather than can only be described as freezing (-6 degrees) was less than pleasant. It is now 1 o'clock and I have a seven-page research paper due tomorrow. Nothing I'm can't handle. By this time tomorrow I will be done with any major schoolwork, and ready to fly home for Thanksgiving. Now that is something to look forward to.

Rotbart is Free

I briefly talked with my mom earlier and found out that Dustin is flying home tomorrow. Thank God.

Free Food and Wild Oats

Last Saturday night I managed to escape the boring confines of "The Hill", driving to Colorado Springs with a couple of other guys for dinner and a movie. Being greeted by an attractive hostess was just one reason that Chili's proved an excellent place to eat. After ordering, our waitress (also very attractive) informed our group that a lady who had been sitting next to us had paid for our meal. I guess this whole military deal might just pay off. The food was great and my night only got better from there.

We showed up an hour early to the cinema, giving us all some time to explore the different stores at this shopping center. I can only explain my mood as elated when I gazed upon what is possibly one of my favorite stores of all time: Wild Oats. Call me crazy for getting exited over it, but any store that is filled with food and products labeled "organic", "all natural", or "environmentally friendly" is alright by me. I would have indulged in a slice of pizza or dessert from the deli, but I had already had my fill. After wandering the aisles for probably twenty minutes, I met back up with Josh (fellow Oregonian), Ryan (Washington) and Dan (poor kid is from Nebraska) to view Jarhead at the Cinemark.

I was intrigued by Donnie's review of this movie, and would have to say he hit the nail on the head. What makes Jarhead so different from other war movies is its ability to focus on and explain the psychological effects war has on soldiers. The story is accurate and well told, but what sets Jarhead apart is the acting. Jamie Foxx portrayal as Staff Sergeant Sykes was erie, conjuring up memories of the TI's(training instructor's) from my Basic Training. Jake Gyllenhaal was also amazing, playing Anthony Swoffer a third generation Marine. This movie is tough. Being in the military only strengthens that feeling of being punched in the stomach that Donnie talked about. Regardless this movie is very good and you should go see it.
9.8/10

Check this out

This is a recently eliminated tune from the KAFA song contest here at USAFA. Interesting to note that it was actually disqualified for questionable content. It might not be as funny to those who have not experience life here at "The Hill", but should give you a laugh. We may attend one of the hardest schools in the nation, but somehow still find time for things like this: "Falcon Love".

Song Dictionary:

• BCG's- "Basic Cadet Glasses" or "Birth Control Goggles" these are issued for basic to those who wear glasses or contacts.
• O-Course: Obstacle Course, one of several grueling and physically demanding courses run during basic cadet training
• Pink Eye: "Conjunctivitis", a highly contagious inflammation of the eye which runs rampant during the lack of hygiene experienced in Basic.
• Falcon Goggle: similar to beer goggles, these develop when you come to USAFA, essentially making the girls here more attractive. Caused by a lack of communication with civilian ladies.
• Fairchild Hall: The main academic building, it is accessible late into the evening and on weekends, making it the ideal date for those on academic, conduct or physical probation.

Welcome to the O.C.

After what has seemed like an eternity its back. Thank God.

On a related note, does anyone else see a resemblance between Adam Machado and Seth Cohen (Adam Brody)?

Go Air Force beat Army

Come halftime of this Saturday's Air Force vs Army I should be running down the field with a 100 yard long American flag in my hands. It should look something like this:




I think this is pretty exciting. No, it is not the World Series or the Super Bowl, but Air Force vs. Army is a pretty big rivalry game and this is a once in a lifetime opportunity.

Finally

Tonight, I achieved Kraft Easy Mac perfection.

(In)famous

Fisher DeBerry, head football coach at the Air Force Academy, has made national news these past couple of days for comments he made about black athletes and recruiting. After we were crushed by # 20 TCU last weekend he made the observation that Texas Christian "had a lot more Afro-American players than we did and they ran a lot faster than we did." Making generalizations about an entire race is "bad joo joo", even if it is somewhat of a compliment.

Personally, I think the media is making a "mountain out of a mole hill" but I would agree his words were unnecessary. We live in a society that is very sensitive towards certain issues, race being one of them. Regardless, he should have reserved these ideas for a crowd somewhat smaller than the national media.

*Random fact of the day: Fisher DeBerry is considered a civilian contractor (he's not in the Air Force but works for it) and has the highest salary in the Department of Defense at close to $600,000 a year. That is more than the most senior General in the military or even the President of the United States. Pretty good considering his record this year...

They can't be serious

Pouring through the news this morning, this particular article caught my eye. It tells of two 13-year-old girls in a singing group known as Prussian Blue. Though they may appear to be the next Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen, their music is distinct. different. racist? That is right, Lamb and Lynx Gaede's songs have hate-filled lyrics that promote white nationalsim. Raised in Bakersfield by their mother, the two were forcefed white supremacy trash doctrine and sadly now consider these ideas their own. Because Bakersfield has been saturated by non-white races, the Gaede family is looking to move to the Pacific Northwest, to a town that is preferably greater than 90% white. Medford(89.99% white) anyone?

I'm Going to Pump (clap) You Up!

Lets get physical. Basic Cadet Training (BCT) was tough. Boxing class was painful. Tennis intramural has been a joke (I'm playing #1 singles for my squadron and haven't lost a match yet, 9-0 baby). All those things have contributed somewhat to my physical fitness over the past four months, but the start of the school year has seen the gradual decrease in the amount of physical activity I find myself involved in. Now is the time to change that, and that change is five minutes away. From my room, I have to walk five minutes to reach one of the finest athletic facilities of any college in the nation. Within the last week I've started to take advantage of this fact by lifting weights and running for close to two hours every other day.

The idea of "getting ripped" has passed my mind over the past month or so, but a letter from my brother served as my inspiration to really get started. We are both planning on being home in time for Thanksgiving, and he proposed a small competition to see who can get in better shape before that time. There is no real measure of who wins of loses this friendly competition, only the internal gratification felt by knowing something was accomplished. Dusty has the slight advantage, having a greater amount of free time than I do, but I'm going to work my hardest to level the playing field. I can't speak for my bro, but my goal is to decrease my body fat percentage and develop lean muscle mass. Picture Brad Pitt in Fight Club. That should be me right around Thanksgiving.

A Game for the Ages

Seven Seconds left, down three points and all USC needed to do was spike the ball, and kick a field goal to take things to overtime. Pete Carroll motioned to his Heisman winner, Matt Leinart to spike it and as the Trojans walked to the line of scrimmage that appeared to be just what was happening. Not quite though. USC would have no part in "playing it safe" today. After the hike, Leinart with the ball in his hands pushed and juked two yards into the end zone, giving the Trojans of USC the lead at 34-31, and giving the Fightin' Irish three seconds to do the impossible.

Sound exciting? That was just the last seven seconds. Notre Dame exercised excitement and flare as well. With five minutes left, down 28-24, the home field heroes struck quick and easy, giving themselves what seemed an incredible amount of momentum and what I thought would be the games last scoring drive. I was wrong.

This game had been talked about all week, and after watching I can now see why someone would pay over $400 dollars to see USC play. It may seem odd, sacrilegious even for me to cheer for the Trojans, considering I've been a UCLA fan my whole life (my dad graduated from there). However, my allegiances remain with the PAC-10 when it comes to non-conference match ups, even USC. If you didn't by chance tune in to this game because you had something better to do, which is essentially nothing, look for highlights on SportsCenter; they will amaze you.

Now reading: blink by Malcolm Gladwell. It comes highly recommended by Donnie, so it must be good.

Wednesday is Humpday...

It is the middle of the week, and after a chemistry graded review at 6:30am tomorrow I will have nothing in the way of my much deserved three-day weekend. I'm really looking forward to seeing just how little there is to do in Colorado Springs.

Together Forever

Three years we've been together. Traveling the world, from Mexico to Seattle, Central Point to Colorado Springs I've spent every night over the past three years with one thing. My retainer. That streak came to an end Saturday night, all thanks to some slippery fingers and a vanity sink with no drain filter. Getting ready for bed in the group bathroom, I watched in slow motion as my small, lower jaw retainer dropped into the sink and slid right into the drain. I stood stunned, not sure how to feel. Sure, to some it was just a retainer, but it was my retainer. Part of me wanted to rip the pipes apart and search, but there was no hope. I turned around and went to bed. Like the necklaces comprised of two parts of a heart, I will cherish the upper half I have left, knowing that in some pond or sewer the other part of my retainer exists. This may sound pathetic to some, but that's just me- my life, my things, my values.

Lost

my dearest,

i've missed you very very much since that last night we were together and will hold that night especially in my memories for years to come.

i've been turning it over and over in my mind lately. i've read you're letter through at least 4 times, and will probably read it more times before i'm through.

i've been sitting here, looking at you're picture and getting more homesick every minute. i've wanted that picture more than anything else i know of except of course you, you're self. i keep thinking of you darling, i keep wishing i could be home with you.

i want to leave in the worst possible way

so i could come home to see you but things don't look to good on that subject. this war has spoiled a lot of things for everyone i guess.

i've never been so lonesome in my life as i am right now.

i'm completely lost without you darling, i never realized i could miss anyone person so much. i just hope it won't be too much longer until i'm able to be with you again, and live a sane and normal life.

-mark hoppus' grandfather (as written to his grandmother)

It's about time....

"A 14-year-old student was expelled from a Christian school because her parents are lesbians, the school's superintendent said in a letter. "

If nothing else, this article exposes the mop bucket of filth and scum that our country is becoming. How could this happen? Why was this girl not expelled sooner? The child of a gay couple interacting with Christian children is frightening... perverting their minds, corrupting their values, altering their sexual preference. It's almost unbelievable. Thank God for the Superintendent and the other administrators at this school, and their swift action to toss out this posterchild of sin and cultural immorality. This story is sad, and I hope that the children at Ontario Christian School will recover and receive counseling if necessary to restore any damage caused by this girl and her lesbian parents.

Update?

"Its been a long time, I should'nt have left you, without a dope beat to step to..."
-Aaliyah

So I've decided that I do have enough time to rejoin the blogosphere while here at the Academy. I probably won't update as much as the legend(as termed by his brother), but I will as much as possible. To give you an idea of my whereabouts for the past three months, I completed Basic Cadet Training for the United States Air Force Academy (June 30th-August 9th) and am now more than a month in the the Academic year. It is tough, to say the least, but I enjoy it here.... definitely a new and interesting experience.

I've done my best to keep up with certain friends blogs, but now it's time to get back into the game. Neo-Anthology will consist mostly of stories about my life here at the Academy ranging from the sad to the hilarious to the downright ridiculous. I'll also be posting pictures (I don't have a camera, but I'll figure out a way), and commenting on world events. That's about all I have to say for now. More to come soon.

UPDATE: As promised, I've just posted some new pictures on my flickr account. Enjoy!

Retraction?

I can't say I like the guy either, but it appears that after last night Donnie and Felix Gillette may need to rethink their opinions on Robert Horry.

Movie Mania

With a recently hired Blockbuster employee in the house, I have found myself enjoying movie after movie this past week or so. Since it would take hours to review all of them, I will just list them: Friday Night Lights, Coach Carter, Final Cut, The Jacket, Be Cool, and National Treasure.

All except Be Cool proved worth my time and somewhat entertaining. Be Cool was pointless. Friday Night Lights and Coach Carter were in essence the same movie- high school sports team...hard work...tough coach....minor setbacks....and finally success. Despite the fact the fact that they follow the same format, they were fun. Coach Carter forced me to the edge of my seat and many times interacting with the movie, thus giving it the edge between the two.

Lastly, Final Cut was probably one of the better movies I have seen recently. Definitely not a great, but worth my time. Robin Williams does an amazing job as does the rest of the cast. The movie is though provoking and somewhat scary. Even with this, the movie does contain many letdowns. The story could be expanded, with certain ideas explored further in detail. Also, the ending disappointed me. With a few changes this movie would have been great, but regardless it kept my attention for 95 minutes...Not always the easiest thing to do. (8.3/10)

Today

Goals for today include(but are not limited to):

• go to lunch with my girlfriend on her birthday,
• practice speech and fiddle for grad ceremony,
• take a nap,
• and recover from what seems to be strep throat.

READ THIS- the whole thing

This is the first draft of my Valedictorian address. Tell me what you think, what do I need to change, a little bit or the whole thing? I don't have long to edit this, so the sooner you comment the more likely I will be able to make improvements.

Good evening everybody. Parents, Grandparents, Superintendent McCollum, faculty, and Class of 2005, welcome.

I am honored to be here this evening to represent our class - truly a humbling experience that has left me with more than a few sleepless nights and hours of sheer terror while staring at my blank computer screen with a serious case of writer’s block. I have received a steady stream of well intended advice from family and friends, all the while searching the internet as if to find my muse with the inspiration needed on how to string together the perfect pearls of wisdom for tonight’s ceremony. I have learned not to be trite or cliché, told to “never let them see you sweat” and above all else, be sure and smile – all great advice….I have no doubt….but I remain haunted by the pithy saying “It is better to remain silent and have people think you are a fool, then open one’s mouth and remove all doubt.”

That being said, this speech is about wishing South Medford High School a fond farewell…some might say good riddance…..but I choose to say fond farewell as each one of us, no matter how great or how little our success, if challenged to confess the truth, would acknowledge that the past 4 years did contain many memorable moments that have shaped us, influenced us and will inspire us to the future. What those moments are, comes from a very subjective and unique perspective for each of us but we will all leave here with our own “truths” based upon our experiences, some great, some not so great, some happy, some sad, enjoying laughter, sharing tears and all that the years did bring, knowing that we have soaked it all up like a sponge and go forth ready to pour out our lives into the greater world around us.

For me, there are many fond memories to recall. The last four years have been just the right blend of academics, athletics and social events. From singing “We didn’t live in the 80’s” for Mr. Clemenhagen’s Decades Project to barely finishing Mrs. Chadwell’s Poetry Project, from watching our Football team beat North in our Sophomore and Senior years, to cheering the guys soccer team to a State Championship last year. The assemblies, the dances and so much more have contributed to my wonderful high school experience. In that regard, I offer my heartfelt thanks to the faculty and staff along to my fellow students that have all done their part to make this a great place to call our home.
On a more somber note, the recent events resulting in the death of an Ashland High graduate leave me heartbroken with the sobering realization that such a senseless death could have been me, or you, or any one of us….and that this is a good time to take inventory of how fleeting life can be and to purpose to live each day to its fullest - being true to that inner voice within us and being compassionate and loving, practicing random acts of kindness and giving of ourselves to others, keeping short accounts, quick to forgive and living each day fully that we are blessed with, choosing an approach to life that exemplifies an attitude of deep appreciation for the gifts we are given and purposing to be prepared to “meet our Maker” if you will, with no regrets for what we have done, what we have said to others and what we have accomplished in our attempts to create a meaningful legacy.

Some of us will aspire to college, while others will heed the call of life’s adventures and travel this vast world to seek their path to deeper meaning…..some will take jobs and instantly become productive members of society, while others will take their time until they find that “next great thing” and achieve financial success…..some will marry and have kids at an early age, while others will wait on marriage and family till their 30’s and beyond as they establish their careers…..some will pursue their passions of music or theater or writing, while others will serve their country in the military, become members of the clergy or find expression in other forms of public service.

The point being, there is no right or wrong answer here, only an infinite series of possibilities in a world where opportunities still abound. Today we take one small step towards adulthood and with that there comes the personal responsibility for how we choose to shape the rest of our lives. We draw ever closer to the freedoms we have dreamed of and with that comes greater accountability. I quote President John F. Kennedy, from the undelivered speech due to his assassination on November 22, 1963. President Kennedy said, “If we are strong, our character will speak for itself. If we are weak, words will be of no help.”

So least we shy away from the terror of being kicked out of the comfortable, cushy South Medford High School nest, let’s drink a hearty non alcoholic toast for the friends we have made, the experiences we have shared and start planning now for our first class re-union and the stories we will tell.

Thank you and God Bless.

Insomnia

12:25 a.m.- It's late for me. I've layed in bed since 11:30, but I can't seem to fall asleep. Try as I might, it seems as if every thought I've had over the past year has raced through my mind in one form or another.

You see, today was the "senior assembly". High school is almost over, and even though it has been a great four years I'm starting to question everything I've done, said, or been. What ifs are racing through me head like the Indy 500, and this is really causing me a lack of sleep. Adding to this is my Valedictorian address. It really matters. I can't help but think about how these will be the first words that many of my classmates will hear me say, or the first words they've heard me say since elementary or middle school. Leaving school feels like I'm leaving the past 13 years of my life behind, which evokes an eerie feeling inside myself.

Nothing can be changed now, what's done is done. I have 3 days of high school left to be myself, and enjoy the presence of the most wonderful people on this earth. I don't know. This post may seem random, but I need to do something to put myself to sleep. I'm waking up at 6:30 today to go and invite the Superintendent to South's graduation, and I have my Senior Boards this afternoon.

Flickr Update.....New pictures

Canadian Adventures

Having returned from Vancouver, B.C. last night I find myself exhausted and quite overwhelmed by everything that lies in front of me. This said, I won't go into extreme detail about my trip except that it was amazing.

Some of the highlights of this trip included seeing the Pepe Romero perform with the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra, seeing the city landscape from Grouse Mountain, and eating a German chocolate candy called Ritter Sport. This chocolate is amazing and comes highly recommended by Jill, an exchange student from Germany and by Donnie's girlfriend.

It was an amazing five days that I will remember for the rest of my life. I know I didn't write that much, because I have to study for a test, but if you want to know more just ask me.

Nerd Alert, eh?

Yes, I'm a nerd. One of my nerdy hobbies includes playing the viola. I've played for four years at school and in the Youth Symphony of Southern Oregon. Tomorrow at 7am I will go with my school orchestra to Vancouver, Canada for an orchestra festival. While our school orchestra's skill level is severely lacking I'm excited as this should prove a very enjoyable weekend.

The only thing I'm going to miss is watching the Rogue Valley Cup, which is a giant soccer tournament held here in the rogue valley every Memorial Day weekend. I'm going to miss the chance to see many of my friends play soccer for the first or last time. This is somewhat of a downer, but I have a feeling it will be well worth it. Now I must be off, as I've yet to pack for this five day journey. Enjoy your weekend.

Superfluous Junk

In my opinion the Senior Project can be a very worth while experience. I have thoroughly enjoyed the process of doing the whole thing until now. Tonight, I spent almost two hours crafting a project poster board to decorate the hallway at school. It was nothing but frustration and anger as I tried to cut paper in a straight line, make it as aesthetically pleasing as possible, and format it. Nonetheless, it got done and should be displayed for all to see in the hallway. Less than two weeks later it will either end up with my teacher or in a garbage can. Either way, I am (and have been for quite some time) ready to be done with high school.

With Great Power Comes Great Responsibility

The news I've waited four years for finally came yesterday in the mail. A simple letter from South Medford High School explaining that I am the "first-in-class valedictorian". I knew it was coming, but still found myself surprised that after four years, seven semesters, countless tests and projects I'd achieved the goal I made so long ago.

It's quite an honor really. And how does South reward me for earning this position as first in class? They tell me I have to give the valedictory speech..... one more thing I'm not exactly looking forward to. That said, I realize that if I'm going to address my graduating class it better be the most kick ass speech ever. I've tried to think about what I want to say but it continues to escape me. So I ask you, my reader(s), what would you want to hear? What would interest you? How long? Funny or serious....a hybrid? Anything will help.

Saw

Finding myself tired from Prom last night, I skipped the usual Saturday night routine of going out with friends and opted to stay at home with my family and watch Saw. My sister and others have generated great hype for this movie but I must say I was sorely disappointed.

First off, I found the premise of this movie very disturbing yet interesting at the same time. Added to the fact that I was "on the edge of my seat" for part of the movie, you might think that I would've like it. I didn't. The acting was horrible. Dr. Lawrence Gordon's acting reminded me of a corny Will Ferrellesk look and sound off of SNL. It wasn't convincing at all. Don't get me wrong, Will Ferrell is a God. But not someone I'd want to watch in a horror film.

I realize that not many movies are not made to have happy endings. At the same time, after watching Saw I was left with a bad taste in my mouth. This movie was a little too much for me, and needless to say I wouldn't recommend it. 5.0/10

Prom

Last night was my Senior Prom. It was truely a wonderful night. I should have some of the many pictures that were taken up soon.

Life

I can't say I've much enjoyed the past week or so. Sick since last Friday, I'm not getting any better. Probably worse. Since Tuesday I have attended a total of two classes, one of which was just to turn my Senior Project. It hasn't helped that I've made time for tennis the entire week despite my sickness. I can't afford to miss practice, but at the same time I feel weak and worthless out on the court. Hopefully this will get better soon.

Match Challenged

Anxious, excited, nervous, disgustingly patient....all words to describe my demeanor over the past two weeks; all because I havent played a single tennis match. Since the last time I played, against North Medford, I've had my past three matches rained out (North Bend, Roseburg, and Grants Pass) This may sound like a weird reason this emotional, but right now tennis is something I can't stand going without.

Even worse than not playing, is the feeling that comes after nervously waiting a match all day only to hear the the school intercom come on announcing "the boys tennis match today has been cancelled". Almost like the "blue-balls" of the tennis world, this has been painful.

The pain gets worse, knowing that next Saturday is our next scheduled match. But who knows...if this weather continues the whole tennis season may just get rained out.

Disco Fever

Walking out of the disco assembly at my school today, I overheard this girl next to me using what I might consider typical girl logic.

typical South Medford Girl #1: It's going to be hot at the dance tonight, we need to dress REALLY slutty.

typical South Medford Girl #2: Totally!

Tim Rupp

I dropped my AP Statistics class today, a scary experience if you consider the teacher is one of the biggest douches on the planet....

-More on this later today-

Forecast Foe

I hate the weather right now in the Rogue Valley. One day it's rainy and cold, the next sunny and gorgeous. It is so incredibly frustrating...fearing that if I was my car one day, it will rain the next....and not knowing what to wear in the morning. This just bugs the hell out of me. Not to mention tennis. Extreme wind and rain are not conditions that make tennis players better. Who knows? I'm sure this too will pass, and that April showers will bring May flowers.

Ignorance

Today, as I sped home from tennis practice, I decided to switch my radio to AM, and see what talk radio had to offer. It sounded as if the two men were discussing illegal immigration, a topic I wrote my senior paper on, and feel strongly about. Obviously it is possible to have an intelligent conversation over the matter, but not with these two.

They came up with several solutions, each more disturbing and hateful as the next. First they decided that dams should line the Rio Grande creating extremely deep waters where an aggressive breed of pirahna could be introduced. They described this special species as "one that would love Mexican food". Next they detailed how a the deeper, more treacherous Rio Grande would just wash these Mexicans out into the Gulf of Mexico to drowned.

The way these two laughed as they discussed theses cruel tactics was appalling. I didn't listen long enough to catch the name of the program, but I can assure that if you turn on talk radio, and hear a big asshole talking, its probably the same guy. Normally, I can handle talk radio, and feel comfortable in calling myself a conservative republican. These two douche bags considered themselves "conservatives", but I guarantee you they're not....just members of the douche bag party of America.

My awkward moment of the day

Finding myself early for a tennis match at North Medford High School, I decided it would be a good idea to go to the bathroom before my match. Unfortunately, finding a bathroom at North is like the proverbial needle in a haystack.

Walking through the campus, I saw a teacher and asked him, figuring he could point me in the right direction. I asked "Do you know if there is a bathroom here in the economics building (the one I was closest to), or where the closest one is?" Here is the awkward part. He responds by telling me that he is a substitute, and only knows where one bathroom is.

The walk to that bathroom was weird.... to say the least. It was a very pre-bathroom break sort of a conversation, not really revolving around anything because of the realization that in a couple of minutes we would both enter the same bathroom and cease talking to each other. Either way, talking with someone you don't know, while walking towards a bathroom is pretty bad.

Decisions

I have some tough descisions to make......
p.s.- fuck you Stanford.

Pimp song of the day: "Lonely" by Akon

TV Appearance

Tonight I will get my 15 minutes of fame. Well not really. My team's match for the finals of the Southern Oregon Brain Bowl Tournament against Ashland will be live on PBS tonight at 7pm (that's channel 8 for those of you in Southern Oregon). I'm pretty stoked. You should check it out.

-UPDATE-

We won. After beating...crushing Ashland for the Large school title, our South Medford Brain Bowl Team beat Cascade Christian(small school champion) to become the SOU Regional Brain Bowl Tournament Champions.

What'ch you got in those bags?

For quite some time now I've noticed that the size of girls hand bags has steadily increased. At this point, it has gotten out of hand. Some are stylish, but most are just trashy. I can't say I pay much attention to these things, but yesterday, as I walked across the North Medford campus I noticed a girl carrying a bag that could have been mistaken for luggage. I couldn't help but wonder: What do you have in those bags?

Spring Break

I haven't been writing much lately. This week is Spring Break, and I'm having a tough time finding a chunk out of my day to sit in front of the computer and write. My brother is home, and we've spent almost every day together playing tennis, working out, paintballing and doing other great stuff.

Last night was the first time we actually parted ways. He actually went out shopping for a guitar, then went to visit some friends. I enjoyed the evening at home with my girlfriend. I had no idea how satisfying fruit smoothies, jeopardy and a girl I really like could be.

Hopefully the rest of the week will eventful. I'm hoping to get my hair cut, go skiing at Mt. A, and hike table rock. We'll see what ends up actually happening. I hope every one else's vacation is going as great as mine.

Tennis Team

Tennis Season is something I look forward to all year. This year is different. Going to practice, something usually highly regarded as something to fine-tune my game, is now a joke....a chore even. Now it's a time a dread. Don't get me wrong, I still love the game, but our team blows. We have until March 31 to prepare for our first match, but I doubt this will be sufficient time for anyone to improve. I can honestly say that I'm most looking forward to designing our team t-shirt. I'm drawing it up right now, and I must admit its quite fun. Hopefully I'll find a way to improve, and make a positive experience of this season. My goal is to make it to state.

Weather

The past week has been amazing. Clear skies, warm sun....Spring weather is the best. I actually got the chance to wear shorts this week, twice. (Un)fortunately, this glowing weather has persuaded me to ditch school in pursuit of some outdoor activities. Over the past week and a half, I'd estimate that I've skipped 8-10 classes. Pretty bad ass if you ask me. Alas, I can't help it when the weather is so wonderful. Hopefully my teachers will understand.

Dilemma

So I've been thinking about this summer, actually the month of summer I will have should I get accepted into the Air Force Academy. From June 11 until June 31 I am a free man, but after that comes Basic Cadet Training. Herein lies the dilemma. How do I spend those 20 days of freedom? This is an important decision for myriad or reasons. Right now there are two main options.

Option 1. I can go to Rosarito, Mexico on a mission trip with my church for about 10 days. I did this last year for the first time, and it was one of the most unforgettable experiences of my life. Not only did I get spend time with- and make new friends, I actually helped people. This is a fun time, but it is also very hard work

Option 2. My dad has offered to take Dustin and I on a vacation to Hawaii. Last year they did this trip together while I was in Mexico. I don't regret going to Mexico one bit, but spending quality time with two of my favorite people in Hawaii sounded awfully appealing. Hawaii is fun. I've longed for those beautiful beaches since I went there in the fifth grade.

That's the situation. Ten days in Mexico with my church, or ten days in Hawaii with my Dad and brother. Its a tough choice for me to make. Any ideas for this pressing dilemma?

George Washington: Still an A+

New ratings are out of the "Best U.S. Presidents" and George Washington has fallen out of the top 5 on this list. I find this outrageous. I admire Washington for his leadership in the creation and establishment of this great nation..and, well....ummm....his ability to get me a three day weekend every February. Whoever made these rankings is probably bitter as they worked today. Oh well. Screw them. Mr. Washington is still an A+ in my book, as long he gets me a day off from school that is.

Almost 18

In approximately two hours I will be 18 years old- not sure how I feel about this. It's as if I'm crossing the bridge into adulthood. It's not like 17 where I could go to rated-R movies. 18 is hard core. I can buy, but will not, lottery tickets (scratch that, I will buy these), cigarettes, porn. None of these things appeal to me. I can vote. That's exciting. I've come to the conclusion that 18 isn't that exciting. Would anyone like to confirm or argue against this conclusion?

I Did It Again

Two months ago, I did something for the first time. I did it again today.

Of course I'm talking about giving blood. Just like the first time, it was easy, comfortable, and somewhat exciting. It felt good to know that I could save up to three lives through what I did today. My shoulder hurts a little bit, but that will go away soon.

I guess giving blood in some ways is similar to voting. You have to be a certain age to do it. Very few people that are actually able do it. And everyone should do it, because it helps people. Sorry if this writing is lame. I'm about one pint short of blood right now, and I think it has stopped flowing to my brain; making it tough to compose free-flowing prose.

The ACT's

This morning I took the last college entrance test I had to take. After putting myself through the SAT's three times, the SAT II's once, and finally the ACT's. I'm finished. I feel really tired now, yet slightly relieved that I wont have to waste another Saturday morning driving to Ashland or Grants Pass to sit in an uncomfortable desk. At the same time I feel upset that I've had to take all these somewhat worthless tests to prove to these school that I'm possibly the smartest kid EVER.

You know you're on hiatus when:

For the first time today I felt like a senior in high school. That's right a senior. 3 1/2 years I have busted my butt going to school seven hours a day, doing unneeded homework, and just plain getting it done. Yesterday however, I experienced the gloriousness that is being a Senior.

Our 2nd period AP Literature class is on hiatus. This is a two-week period in which we don't have to go to class so we can "work" on our senior paper. English starts at 9 AM but since I'm on hiatus I don't have to be to school till 10:40. However, because 4th period Family Health was only a semester long and I have no class now to fill my 4th period gap my first official class starts at 1:10 P.M. That's right, I don't have to be to school until 1:10 in the afternoon for two weeks.

Simply Amazing.

Wow

If only this were me. It pains me to say I've neglected nearby Mt. Ashland this year. Partially because of a small knee injury, and also because I find myself with a lack of people to accompany me. Oh well. There are still months left in the season, and if all else fails I'll just go on up by myself for some of that sweet white powder.

Hi. my name is Sean, and I loofa

At the start of Christmas break I joined Superior Athletic Club. I've been very diligent in going there; almost 5 times a week since school started back up. In that time I've witnessed a wide variety of people who all seem to fall into several different categories. Despite this, everyone seems to follow the same routine when it comes time to hit the locker room.

After a good workout ones body is covered in sweat and oils. This would lead you to think that people would bust out their best to cleanse themselves afterwards. Wrong. I go into the locker room and I must say I'm incredibly disappointed with the lack of good cleansing products I see in there. Almost every person I've seen has been content using the cheap liquid soap to wash their hair, clean their face, and wash their body. I find this slightly outrageous and borderline gross.

I'm not here to bash on others though. I actually thought it better to suggest my own routine as an example. My toiletry bag carries several basic necessities that I feel should be in every man's gym bag. You start off with a good shampoo and conditioner. I prefer Burts Bees Shampoo. A good facial cleanser and toner are also a good idea. Lastly, a pleasantly scented body wash is a great way to prepare yourself to go back into the world. And whether it is soap or body wash, it's always easier to scrub while using a loofa. This may sound "sissy" or "feminine" to some, but I don't really care what others think. I'm acting on function not opinion. It's not that tough or painstakingly long of a process, but using good products after working out can be vital in maintaining a healthy appearance.

Hopefully I can lead by example.

Update Soon

School has been taking up most of my time lately, leaving no time for blogging. I do have a lot to write about, and will hopefully get some posts going on a regular basis now that the semester is over.

Youth Group

I'm renewed

Now

I came home today with the thoughts and feelings that I didn't belong. Everywhere I go, and in almost everything I do, I can't say I feel "part of the group". Sunday at Youth Symphony I felt different than most, a lack of motivation to be there playing my instrument, and not that much in common with my peers. Today at a small Brain Bowl match between North and South I again found myself out of place, caring to laugh at, rather than engage in the random and somewhat strange topics of conversation discussed by my teammates. Monday morning, I found myself walking by the cars of basketball players at practice, when I came to the realization that I would not again care to sacrifice much of my time to play a spotlighted and committed Varsity sport such as Soccer or Basketball. Even with some friends I feel as if they don't always care for me to be in their presence. I really don't know what to make of how I'm feeling, perhaps that I'm just ready to move on in life. That said, how does a person move on to something new, when they don't feel a strong base of belonging, support and friendship to fall back on?

Because I'm Curious

I was hoping to find out about the different people who are reading this blog by posting something that wouldn't require anonymous commenting. Here's five random questions for everyone:

1. Who's in your CD/MP3/whatever player right now?

2. Who do you pick to win the Super Bowl?

3. What was the last book you read?

4. What's your favorite brand of jeans(I said random)?

5. When was the last time you went to the gym?

Just a Question...

Have you ever been told a blatant lie right to your face? I don't mean like someone telling you that your new haircut makes you look like David Beckham, or your homemade brownies taste like heaven. I'm talking about the kind of lie where you know you're being lied to as the words are rolling off their tongue. This is a serious question. I want any readers of this relatively new blog to comment, I'm really interested in what you have to say and how you felt.

Mixed Emotions

I came home Friday evening knowing I would wake up the next morning, a white landscape awaiting me. Snow! It was predicted to hit where I live in Jacksonville, and even the valley floor. Sure enough almost seven inches blanketed the hills surrounding my home. At first, like any other kid, I was surprised, exited, even amazed.

The novelty soon wore off. After playing in the snow for an hour or so, I was ready to retreat back into my warm home for hot cocoa. Later on as I talked of going out for the night, I was quickly denied by my parents who claimed it was too dangerous to be driving. I started out happy to play in that abundant white stuff, but I ended up a prisoner in my own home.

Sean Rotbart M.D.?

"What do you want to do when you grow up"? This question seems to be asked all the time of little kids, adolescents, and young adults. I know I've thought about this question more than my fair share of times in my youth. Ironically enough, numerous visits recently to my pediatrician, physical therapist, and chiropractor have lead to me to think about a future career in the medical field. Starting this year off in Anatomy and Physiology I was unaware of how interesting the study of the human body could be. It is such an intricate creation that functions so smoothly. This class was rumored to be one of the most difficult in the school, but I have found it nothing but fun studying for the Practicum's (fancy word for a test), and find myself with an acceptable grade in the class. Not only that but it's fun. I'm certainly not ruling out other options at this point, but the medical field is one I find fascinating. Especially if I attend the Air Force Academy. Four years of undergraduate work-Free, then five-six years in medical school-Free, and I come out with zero debt from college, and a job that pays six figures. A pretty good deal as far as I'm concerned.

I'm Back

It has been too long since my last post. No worries. Break kept me busy with friends and family, and this last week of school has proved difficult, leaving little time for the more trivial aspects of life. Again, no worries. I plan on cleaning up the entropic existence I've found myself in lately. A mere week back from vacation and I already miss it. School has always come as a challenge, but I have always been up to it, ready to ace the tests, or write a paper. Now I could care less. I suppose "senioritis" has reared its ugly head in my life, as I find each day a new battle just to wake and dress for school. Classes seem long and pointless, cavalier teachers blow my mind, and homework is unwelcome dross. I can honestly say that lunch remains the best part of my day. No teachers, no class, just good food and great friends.

I'm somewhat scared by my last sentence as I have one semester till graduation, and I fear that lunch as my sole motivation will not carry me to the end. I need a renewed spirit in myriad ways. My religion, relationship with family, attitude towards school, and friends have all suffered recently. I find myself more than ready for change. More than anything, I need to find motivation. Where to find it is the problem. I can search for it inside myself, I know it is there; but there must be another way to achieve it. Perhaps it will appear as a result of some changes I'm making in my TMS (Time Management Skills for those who don't know Mr. Greg Jost). Organization seems to be one of the keys to success.

Hopefully, things will straighten out soon. (I don't know how else to end this post)