Personal Carmeli pieces

These are two pieces I own from Carmeli, both are originals and fly as f@%# !!! That's my word so take heed.  This picture was taken on my wall, and I'll be taking these back to Texas with me.  The one on the left is titled "Fell Asleep Beneath the Tree" and on the right is "Melody," which I renamed (sorry Meli).  Being a musician, I named the piece on the right "Melody" because a friend of mine who passed away who was also a musician, once said, "A pretty girl is like a sweet melody," and this piece reminds me of a pretty girl I know.  So in a way, by naming this piece "Melody," I am paying respects to a friend/musician who has since passed and also a past love.  Feel free to zoom in.

Carmeli *Live*

Enjoying my Winter Break so far, if I say so myself.  One of the sure highlights (among others, more to come on that later...) was my chance to see artist Carmeli and others' work on display this past Friday December 26 at 111 Minna Gallery.  This was a cool idea, combining a nightclub atmosphere with an art gallery/showing, instead of having it in a traditional gallery or a Starbucks!  In the other room was a *Live performance from Hot Tub, all-femme man-hating group from Oakland.  Yeah..they are something else!  Anyway, here are some shots from the festive night.  Something to behold, for sure.  Oh, and I didn't get a shot with DJ Touchy Feely and Krown Prince, who were both in the building.  This is my shout-out to the two of you.

Merry Christmas from The Dreamer

 Photo credits to Ashleigh

Merry Christmas to you and your family! This is a shot of me at the Paris Las Vegas, right before the bear fell on me. Kidding, kidding...just trying to get attention =) 

How do say...um, what's the word I'm looking for? BULLSHEEEAZZYYY

The date is Sunday July 6, 2008.  This picture was taken at a gas station on the Loop directly off Old Tyler Rd.  I had just stepped off the Greyhound (yes, Greyhound) bus, and wanted to document this.  I didn't know the price of gas would come down, epsecially so drastically and quickly.   I thought it would at least be high for years.  But that's when the economy went under, although some claimed the "fundamentals of our economy are strong," and with a creepy grin-smile-laugh, the prices plummetted!  Nothing fun about that except for cheaper reasons to drive your guzzler!

This is a picture taken on December 13 while driving south on H 59.  We passed this Chevron (not the same station in above picture) and the gas here was $1.42 and that wasn't the lowest in town!  I believe the lowest we saw en route to Bush Intercontinental Airport Houston was $1.35, and I have a picture of that, but can't seem to find it. Mysteriously disappeared.  Anyhoo, that is a $2.62 drop on unleaded fuel in East Texas, in just over 5 months.  And news was recently released that OPEC will drive the market price of oil to $70/barrel in the New year.  It currently stands at $42/barrel.  That's a slash of roughly 2.2 million barrels/day to drive up the cost again.  Your thoughts

-The Dreamer

Happy Born Day, to me

Thanks to Yvette for the cupcakes :) They were delicious! And thanks to everyone who showed love in my virtual world, FreakStylaz, Imeem, Facebook, etc., and in my reality world, the hugs, kisses, texts, calls, etc. I feel like a micro-celebrity or something haha

Rotation 7 - Cross Country/Track and Field

Warning: Rant enclosed

To say I didn't learn anything would be inaccurate. To say I didn't want to be there, most of the time, would not be.  Relax.  Whatever it was that caused me to be lax was surely justifiable.  At this point, I have had enough of everybody's rights and priviledges and feelings and urges and matters -- what am I gonna do? 

So I recieved 2's and 3's on my evaluation.  Hmmm that taste good haha!  Sorry I can't help but to laugh at that; I couldn't resist!  Really? Who cares about a 2 or a 3 -- I sure don't, especially when it is absolutely silly to think that was all my time was worth!  I'm glad I have the capacity to think through this and look right past the numbers.  All one has to do is look at my previous evaluations; the numbers speak for themselves! I know I am a helluva student!  But what you don't know is I also know, and recognize a challenge when it spits on my shoes, and I will not back down.  Rational folk like myself have a tendency to call out bullshit when I see it, hear it, or even begin to sense it.  For example, if someone says some outlandish statement like "Obama will take away all of our guns," that is some bullshit that needs to be called out.  However, there isn't much you can do for a person who believes this, except for give them a hug and tell them to back away from Fox News.  Put down the remote, and back away...from....the...Fox......News....!!!!

So what I mean is...a 2 is BS and 3 as well.  Yes, there are two sides to every story, but all you need is mine because I have no reason to lie.  As proof, the directors say the more feedback, the better; and I believe they take our criticisms into consideration in order to improve the program.  Good, because I believe in feedback, too! I feel I was evaluated on one-day, and one-day only.  You mean to tell me, for 9 days, I only did 2 & 3's worth of work?  Really?  Not even you can believe that!  On day one, I was 30 minutes late (1:30p), okay.  

But then, how can one be criticized for something they didn't know they were supposed to be doing?  If you are never given a formal/informal introduction to your job duties, orientation to protocol, introduced to the population you will be serving, etc., how can you be fairly criticized for not knowing?  I don't think you can.  Should I have already known those procedures? That's debatable.  I say no because I, for one, will not allow others to influence my judgement on someone I have never worked with, or had the opportunity to get to know and experience on my own, or at least, enough to formulate my own opinion on.  Ironically however, this is exactly what I feel happened to me.  Based on previous students, I was unfairly labeled and pre-judged to be a bad student.  Nothing would overcome that.  I am tired of writing now.  If only you can hear what the athletes really think.  That's why I don't have to explain anything.  Are you listening? 

Rotation 5 - Lufkin High School

Lufink HS was a cool rotation. I first have to give a big ups to Josh for providing the transportation to and from Lufkin, which is about a 30 minute drive south along Hwy 59.  And now that I think of it, this rotation could not have worked out any better. Me, being the only one in the  program who doesn't drive, had to get a ride every time we went there, whereas others would spilt the driving duties.  But luckily, the price of gas went down so dramatically, it didn't have as big of an effect as it would have, say had this rotation been scheduled in September. Mike W. and Sylvia H. are the Athletic Trainers here, and they staff about 10 athletic training students. Fun fun fun, as Jai would say. I liked this rotation, though! Mike, or as everyone knows him as Doc, is a very knowledgeable person, and he seems to genuinely take interest in what you [AT student] have to say. It is very refreshing to have someone like that.  Congratulations to Lufkin High Panthers winning District and making the Playoffs!  Good Luck 'Pack, even though Panthers do not roam in packs ;-)

Happy 45th Birthday Mom!

She loves me, and I love her.

Chocolate Affair - Poetry Night

It happened again!  I went on early in the show, and the room was half-filled.  As most people know, I can't stand performing to empty rooms.  Even though the room wasn't technically empty, I was just a little upset at the organization because the absence of others forced me to go on sooner than expected.  Important to note, those scheduled performers who were late, did infact go on - when the room was much fuller, I'd like to add.  Sounds a little selfish, doesn't it?  Whatever!  I'm not apologizing if I know I have something to say, and I want it to be heard.  I think a lot of these folks need to hear it.  Sounds arrogant, but not really, because there's just so much BS going on (especially in mainstream music), that I needed to get this out.  I specifically wrote this piece just for that, and it upsets me that it didn't get heard by more folks.  Hahaha I sound upset, don't I??  Please, if you are scheduled to perform, then show up!  So people like me can go on at their regularly scheduled time (conviently, in the middle) when most scragglers are walking in, and just before folks become bored and leave early.  Other than that, it was a good night :0)

I guess the best part of the night came when the crowds' response to a certain profane line in my poem confirmed my initial thoughts of the culture down here [Texas].  Was I surprised? Not at all, I knew I was entering into the beginning of the famed Bible Belt of America, where teenagers are open their religion, faith, and beliefs, so when I openly spewed a string of curse-words, I wasn't sure how it would be recieved.  The line went..."

"...spoken words WORDS....SPOKEN...evoking a pain being strummed by fingers// Lauryn Hill calls it "Killin' em Softly"// I call it FUCKING a muthafuckin' John McCAIN muthafucka up BADLY....but in a nice way!........"

And after that part, oh baby, you should've been in this room hahahaha. I don't think they've ever heard anything this simply.  I thought we were at a Spoken Word event, right?  Well, like I said, I went up 2nd or 3rd, and everyone after me, as I realized, had poems that were about the standard-default love situation, or something representing Jesus.  No problem there, I was just broadening their horizons to some Bay Area flava.  I could do those Jesus poems and talk about how much I love God and all, but why not offer up some alternatives, because judging from their responses, they need some alternatives. Nobody shoot me 8-)

Hired!

This has been one helluva week! First, my guy wins the most important, most historical, election ever!  That wasn't just good for America, that was great for the world!  The entire human race will benefit from having this genuine, smart, giving, loving, man in office!  Thank you to the Obama women for sharing your father and husband with us.  

Second, I recieved notice of my selection to be a Community Assistant, also known as Resident Assistants at other institutions.  This was huge for me.  As a Graduate student living in dorms right now, I have been looking for a way out of this place for a long time.  No joke.  I'm emancipating myself.  And what's best about all of this is, I'm practically moving from the worst building on-campus, to the most luxurious suites on campus.  No joke.  All I wanted was a place of my own, and I got the Presidential Palace!!!! This may not seem like much, but being 23yrs. and rooming with a 19yrs old is not the most conducive environment to my learning. And he's pledging right now, and have been all semester.  He's a cool guy, it's just me! I need to be OUT!  So my days are numbered here...I can't wait until next semester to move on up.

And the only perfect thing to end this week would be a Oakland Raiders win over the Carolina Panthers! Just win, baby!

Nice...

-The Dreamer

If professors don't care about grades, why should I?

After getting my most recent test scores back, this title couldn't be more appropriate. It isn't my place to think how bad I did, or what answers I should have gotten right. My place is to continue to learn from what mistakes I may have made, and not repeat more of the same. Man, it hurts inside, but thankfully...not for long. That initial stinging feeling is the worst part, but like the title says, "why should I care about grades?" I think the unique thing about Athletic Training is that your performance isn't measured by how great you did on a test, but moreso, your performance and reaction to what happens on the field, and in the clinical setting. It is, however, valid to argue that a test, in some ways, mimics the real-thing-- just with a little more time to think it over. Everything I thought about Athletic Training still holds true, but now, it's hard to believe that because I find myself with more questions. No more wasting time...

This is not some cheap attempt at trying to reverse-psyche myself out of thinking about the importance of grade marks. Being a Sagittarius, I never think it's too late to turn things around. I spent so much thinking, and I think, it's time for me start doing. I'll drive myself crazy haha, but I'm too creative to ever be considered that. I'm here now, and the check already cleared, so...I can't let go now. Haha getting too metaphorical

4 of 5 Athletic Trainers agreee..

I gotta have some fun. This all-work and no-play is hard work! I am having fun learning, though, and we just finished a unit on the knee (which is my favorite anatomical structure), and now we're on to the hip/thigh region. I think this the proximity to Thanksgiving has me with a 'low' feeling inside, because this will be the first Thanksgiving without any familiar faces around. And, by familiar faces, I mean family. Even when I was at USF, I wasn't too far to go home for the weekend, and head back afterwards. Now, I am 2,049 miles away -- not so easy. Needless to say, I am looking forward to Christmas break. But even before that, I am looking forward to Friday Nov. 7th because that is when announcements will be made regarding Community Assistant positions (CA), and I'll know whether or not I got the job (I need this job, y'all). Cheer up...election day is almost here, and shouts to J. McBoogie for letting my crash at his pad for the break. I appreciate that.

In order to chill out, I sometimes sneak off to the Music Building late-nights and practice some piano. Man, that shit is too soothing haha. And I'm not surprised there are still folks in there at those late times of 11p and 12am sometimes. As a musician, I know, you have to perfect your craft as much as possible. Absolutely no mistakes. I'm trying to re-learn a lot of the songs I knew prior to moving out here. Now, I'm working on "Save Room" by John Legend, and "Love Lockdown" by Kanye West, in addition to adding some of my own parts to "On Bended Knee" by Boyz II Men. Other things I've been doing are, of course, the Spoken Word. I love performing that stuff, man. Here's a shot of me during the last event.

Blurry photo credits to Eazy-E Velazquez. And although you can't tell, I was pissed that Ihad to go last. I'm sorry, I know that might sound selfish, I really wanted to go on BEFORE everybody was ready to go and BEFORE half of the room emptied out. The main reason I wanted to go ahead of others is because, 98% of people were doing the same thing, which was guitar covers of popular songs (a cover is replaying a song, for those who didn't know). I mean, I respect that and all, but where's the originalty. Now, not everyone did covers, but 100% of everybody did multiple songs -- which stretched out the event to the very last minute. After one person does 4 songs, you think you won't be tired of them -- regardless of how good they are? That is insane, I think. I was thee only poet that went up (and I know this because I went last, like I mentioned), and there were two other girls who did accapella joints, and everyone else did some form of guitar covers. And I have a feeling a lot of people there probably have never heard of Spoken Word, or at least, never heard it LIVE! So, that's another reason I was pissed for going last. Anyway, now I know to show-up very early. Regardless, though, I am impressing myself with how good I am getting. I wish I was this good while at USF. I think I had it in me back then, but after my Junior year, the "Expressions" went away, so there was no incentive for me to write. Spoken Word poets not only write for themselves, as do all poets, but Spoken Word is meant to be performed. If you can't perform, I personally don't see the reason to write, other than for yourself. At SFA these events are bi-monthly so I have to stay on my toes and keep writing. I like that, and people remember that, too. I want people to expect me to bring some fire on-stage everytime I go up. I certainly expect that of myself. It's inspiring...


-The Dreamer

We Interrupt this....

It's official -- I am a grown man! Not that I didn't know this already, but it has just been confirmed (literally minutes ago) by an unknown college student and her friend, both appearing to be about the same age. This is me. While on my way to a study session, because apparently that is what grown men do on Monday nights, I walked past the Surfin' Stephen statue and off in the distant, I saw the remains of a car wreckage. So, as I walked, I continued to inspect what appeared to be a car fire, or at least somethign serious, because there was yellow caution tape all over the place.

While taking in this scene, apparently I did not notice two females walking in front of me. But, I did notice them, which explains why I methodically veered left and attempted to walk by them. As a result of my soft steps, I startled one of the two girls (I didn't really startle her, or suprise here; she really just wanted to make a scene, trust me I can tell). So I said, jokingly, "Sorry, next time I'll announce myself." At this point, I am walking stride-for-stride with the pair. The scary one then replied, "oh that's cool, I wasn't scared." And at this point, I was in front of the two. I then look back, and say something but before I can get it out, she interjects and says apologetically

"Oh you're grown, you are a grown man. I'm sorry..."

Her friend then gives her a light slap on the arm, as to gesture.."Look what you did." I was stunned. I couldn't help but to laugh.

This brings me back to a time when a comedian named Jor Rogan (Fear Factor) made a joke about being young, and the next day, you're in the grocery line, and the bag-boy calls you "Sir," and you Freak the Hell OUT!!!! Hahaha, I found out what this feeling is...on this night

Rotation 4 - Women's Soccer

Soccer has been a very interesting rotation. The past two weeks have, indeed, been one of the best rotations. Now, let's not get carried away, because it was not always the best. But in comparison to the other rotations, soccer did have its moments of shine. I think what I liked best about it was how quickly the time went by. Typically, I'd show up at 2pm and was out before 6pm. Although I ended up having more than the 40 hours/2wks requirement, that mostly came from game-hours, and weekend practices. The soccer players are all fun girls. They can be even more fun when you really get to know them. They are all their own special characters, and somehow they all blend nicely with eachother. At least, that is how it appears to an outsider like myself. For all I know, there could be some personal grudges and dislikes among some, but I doubt it. You just can't mask that kind of stuff. These girls all seem genuine.

Throughout last week, they did have a road game, which I am not required to attend, so that meant I got the weekend off. I enjoyed my time off, knowing, next weekend (these past three days), they would have two games in three days. The 2nd week of the rotation are usually my best weeks. I am no longer shy and reserved, and I have a better feel for the athletes and procedures of the respective rotation. This particular mentality I carry goes back to the notion that we (Level I's or first-year Graduates), are the TRUE 'freshmen' in the program, and we really do not have an idea of how things go, and have no familiarity of the particular protocols or routine of all the sports. There are undergraduates in the program who have been here for 3-4 yrs., and there are also 2nd-year Graduates (Level II's) and obviously, they've beeen here for 1 year already. But since Level I's are so new, it does take some time to not only get to know the athletes, but to get used to the routines of each sport, because there is an Athletic Trainer for every sport and they all have different styles. So therefore, by the second week, I have gotten used to the folks I am around, and used to the routines, and that makes the experience a lot more enjoyable, because I am not standing around as much, and feeling dumb asking questions.

From a fans perspective, the soccer team did not do well these past two weeks. They went 1-2, with an impressive, dominant performance (9-2 win) one week, and two lossed (1-3, 0-1) the second week. A shutout? C'mon ladies, what is the deal with the bi-polar play? But from an Athletic Trainers' perspective, these past two weeks have been a dream (sorta like my name). During week 1, I personally got a lot of insight to the sport of soccer, which I admittingly know very, very little about. And in terms of injuries, I got to see/care for three ankle sprains, bacterial infection, unknown nerve condition, and the mommy of all knee injuries, the ever-so-popular ACL. Well, we don't know for sure until she goes and sees the Doc, but we think it could be. But the best injury to date, is one that must have fell from the Heavens. In fact, I am doing my Eval of Lower Extremities case study on this; a fracture of the calcaneal beak. WHOA!!!!! I am sorry, but this kind of stuff excites me!!!! But wait, it gets better!!!! Not only did I get to go to the players' doctor visit and personally speak with the doc, but the player actually has photos of the ACTUAL INJURY when it occured. Supposedly, her familiy was in the stands and they caught it exactly when it happened. Talking about hitting the JACKPOT, baby! In addition, I was granted permission for personal interviews, x-rays, and any other tests involved. I smell an A+

Overall, excellent rotation. In fact, I'd give it the highest marks to-date. However, there is one important flaw about the on-field protocol I'd like to point out. Not that the current system is ineffective, but I simply have some suggestions to make it better. Currently, as described to me by the Level II, in the event of an emergency (by emergency, I mean a player goes down on the field), the procedure is.....I quote, "whoever it is turn to go out and do an on-field evaluation, they go with [Head Athletic Trainer], and that's it." I thought to myself, "okay..." Then I followed up with another question, because I'm not sure she understood what I was getting at. I asked, "So if a player goes down, and one of you (undergrad or Level II) goes out there with the Head AT, what then, becomes my responsibilty? Am I to wait for a signal in case I need to call an ambulance, 911, retrieve the splint bag, crutches, etc.?" And her response was, "Oh, we have an ambulance here, usually, and we'll just get them." And that was it. Not very productive, and either she wasn't aware of the plan in place, or there just wasn't one. So I am proposing a plan, because afterall, like I mentioned there was a 'suspected' ACL tear, this emergency happened...

The plan: In the event there is an injury, and an on-field evaluation is taking place, the two remaining AT students then treat it as a time-out of sorts, get players water, but one shall also become responsible for paying attention to see if the AT's on the field needs anything. That AT student must remain visually attentive, and if neccessary, react to the needs of the AT's that are on the field, whether that means flagging the ambulance, or retrieving certain items like band-aiids, medkit, splint bag, ice, etc.

And if the head AT returns to the sideline and needs to do further evaluation, as in the case with the ACL, now it becomes that second team of 2 AT students to watch the game and respond to any on-the-field injuries, while the head AT continues to treat the previously injured athlete. The roles are just switched until the hea AT can return. Without a proper protocol like this, what you will get is exactly what happened this Friday; 5 people standing around watching a Lachman's being performed while the game continued without being monitored.

Selection Saturday

Let me tell you something, I need a J-O-B! That is the word of the day. Actually, I don't necesarrily need a job, it's just that I could really use one, so I am applying to be a Community Assistant, or Resident Assistant, however you want to label it. I really need this position, because it would allow me a private room (I am too old to be living with these young guys), and that dough I'd get back for housing would really come in handy. Out-of-State tuition is a beyootch! Are you listening? So hopefully I do well today in the group interviews, and one-on-one interview.

Computer virus, okay, I am at your mercy...you have me by the balls, are you happy?

Oh, the irony. I got a virus from the FreakStylaz, a site that I moderate! How bogus is that? And what makes me even more angry is being the second time this has happened (which reminds me, Net54 you betta check your Inbox). I mean, I was pissed. I got the virus Sunday morning, right before the Raiders game because I was trying to load the game to listen online. And at first, I thought it was the connection that being slow, then I tried closing the window, and it really started acting up. Then I couldn't shut down the computer, and that is when my firewall started going OFF! I knew at that point, I had been infected. Sucks...

At the beginning, I wasn't really upset. Well, at that point, I did not know the severity of the damage done, but the more I realized that this wasn't going to be some simple quick fix, the more tense I became. I managed to get the game on and listen to the Raiders recieve a lashing at the hands on the Saints, but it was after the game went off when I really began to get mad Luckily, Ben called...and was ready to go get food. So we went to Papa John's.

Deep in the back of my head, I knew I had escaped my issues for now, but not for long, because at some point I had to return to this fiasco. For a while, I fled reality with pizza and news of Mondays' class cancellation and managed to enjoy myself. The perfect way to come back down from that high is to walk into your room, and realize that your laptop has a virus, and it probably loaded with spyware, adware, malware, etc.

Which brings me to my next point...who in the hell creates these things? And please, answer me...WHY??!? Is it because you love to frustrate folks like me? You like to disgust the likes of innocent women and men for some sick and twisted pleasure fantasy of yours that involves fixin' computers? It is sooo bugged out! I have one statement for you, Mr./Mrs. Computer-virus-creator-man or woman-of the universe-asshole-who like to fuck with folks like me...you are NOT cool, and probably wear leather in the Summer. Also I want to say to you, Ha! motherfucker, I got my computer fixed and it's now faster than it was last time (Okay, maybe it's not faster, but I'm convinced this is dial-up in this building), but I got my shit back.

I was soooo pissed at you, I even wrote a rant (similar to this) on Craigslist.com. I would provide the link, but it was flagged and removed from the site. Which is puzzling for me because, it appears someone was offended by my rant. I didn't think that was possible, to be offended by a rant - in the RANT section. Afterall...ahh, why bother. Anyway, it felt good while it lasted...

As a part of the healing process, the next day on Monday, I dropped my laptop at the SHACK, or the computer services guys on campus. I love Josh, the kid who worked there, he was helpful and courteous, and respectful. In didn't belittle me for not being able to remove the virus, nor did he ask about cool porn sites. It was very productive. When you go into the Shack, thank Josh ahead of time.

Rotation 3 - Wellness Center/Nac ER & Ambulance

This is the Wellness Center; home of my third clinical rotation. It is conveniently located across Ag Pond, where many athletes used to reside, and in front or behind (depending on where you're standing) of Homer Bryce Stadium (in the distant). My days here started bright and early at 6:00am and I was usually out before 8:00am. Then I would go back in the afternoon for two hours from 3:00pm to 5:00pm. The Clinical Instructor (CI) here was Brittany, who is the Asst. Strength & Conditioning Coach, but she didn't like being called "coach" so Brittany was just fine.

This wasn't the most fun rotation. In fact, students in the past have called this the most boring. On day one, this nickname became very clear to me. There is no involvement as far as doing anything athletic training-related, but we do however, get to watch each team workout. In the beginning, the rules, or should I say limitations, were strict and straightforward. No talking to athletes. No spotting. Ask questions, but not during instruction. I was determined to make the best of this rotation.

By day three, there were some changes to the set of rules. I was asking questions and interacting with Britney, but only after the workouts. I would ask questions about compliance, coach relations, player relations, instruction style, etc. I am very happy Britney gave very good and thoughtful answers to all my questions. By the end of the week, I was helping with workouts for the softball team and getting more comfortable everyday.

Pics from the Field

Me in the back of the ambulance having too much fun. We were on our way to see about a young woman who was unresponsive, and had a history of seizures. Just don't vomit on my new shirt.

Story of Glory

Dizzam...I don't f*cking know what's up! Maybe it's because the Raiders lost yesterday lol, or....something! Or it could be all this 'waking up at 5am' business. I've never felt burnout before, only heard of it, but if I've ever experienced it...it's now! I'm old school, though. I am a strong believer in 'mind over matter' which in this case, all I need to do is think my way out of it. F*ck making excuses, that's just not me. Never have been. It just feels like there is not enough time to do anything. I know I need to read, but I'm still thinking about the test, and the proficiency that I didn't turn in. I need to remind myself to send an email, but I can't remember for what. The Open Mic is tomorrow and I will not miss that. I wish I could write more, but fuck, that chapter is not going to read itself haha.

Welcome to reality, and sometimes it's hard....

I'm not pissed off. I guarantee if I had my own place, this would be all better. Or, all worse. Who knows? And it's wild because it's just little shit. I can't help but to laugh. Thanks to Rosalyn though. I love her for that; the Obama fliers and the Sole workout appareal. Congratulations on that certification, too! I wish the Shop was still operating under you guys, so I can have a job when I return for break haha, but it's all good!

This current rotation is killing me, but it's really not that bad. The Wellness Center is fun, but that ER assignment is just not looking enjoyable at the moment. It would probably help if I actually go, but I still need to read. Looking forward to the weekend because my back is killing me.

Mirror mirror, on the wall...

This can't be love...

Don't take it that way, the feeling is incomparable because I knew they couldn't stand me. But it started off good, and ended better! It's a feeling I'll remember because words are realities, and I'm still a young man...this time, has indeed, been interesting!

I've been talking about AT a lot (which is my main focus anyway) but I don't think it would hurt to write about other things, too! I've been looking forward to getting involved at SFA, so I went to a TAASA (The African-American Student Assoc.) meeting recently, and was ecstatic when I found out there will be open-mic sessions! Oh, yes, that's my sh*t! The first open-mic was advertised as just that - Open Mic. Now, where I'm from, whenever you hear "Open Mic," you can expect to get some poets and a full dosage of spoken-word, maybe some lyricist. In addition, like at USF "Expressions," you'd get the intimate lounge setting with the candles as the rooms' only lighting, and a DJ spinning some Badu or Slum Village. There was no MC, just go up whenever you were ready. In between sets, the DJ would spin. It was a thing of beauty. I didn't know how much I'd miss that. Here, the Starbucks setting was aiight, but the seating arrangement was wack because not everyone could see. And occasionally you'd get the Barista yelling out..."okay, we got a venti double-machiatto triple-frap with no creme," and that just kinda killed the mood! But back to the performances, well, there weren't any -- poets, that is. There was one, and he was ok...he did something about love, your standard love poem. Ehh...but I'm glad there was a poet because the room was filled with guitarist. I kid you not! Of the 2 hours of performances, they were all guitarist/vocalist!!!! Um...I thought I was at Battle of the Bands.

I went with the intention to scout the competition. And I brought my rhyme-book if I felt the vibe, and decided to go up. Well, after the 7th or so guitar solo (and not even original music), I decided to sign up. But time ran out before I could go up, and that is only because people were doing 3-4 songs!!! Incredible! There needs to be some kinda limit, more like 1 song limit, or 7 minute session, because that is just uncalled-for. Good thing there were having another Open Mic the following week,, because I now, had priority for that one.

When the next week came around, I was ready to hit this crowd with something new. I really wanted to make a statement so I wrote something especially for this occasion. And with all the BS in politics going on right now, I wrote a anti-Bush piece, and I didn't know how it would be taken. But, I spoke to Sparxx before I went up, and he said "Don't get shot out there, man." Whatever, if they hate, then so what! One thing I will admit though, the crowds definitely come out in support. This event was an outdoor event, so there were more people than the Starbucks event. I did the poem "If You don't know, no ya know," which has some anti-Bush comments/lines metaphorically spoken as the "Dick and the Bush," and the crowd just LOVED it! I was getting all kinds of laughs in the right places on parts that were intended to be funny, and afterwards, several folks (including some cute freshmen girls -- too young, though) came up to me and showed their appreciation! It was great. And also, another group of guys who are musicians really liked it, and invited me to a jam session in the music building where they were rehearsing for next week's Battle of Bands competition. They didn't know I played piano for the last 11 years, so I was down. A great week indeed. A special one. I'm looking forward to more events.

Something I Want

On a Friday...

Yesterday was jam packed! Since football is out of town, I was looking forward to sleeping in the whole day, meaning no 6:45a practice, and no 1p-5p treatment times. But no...that's when Hurricane Ike hit and changed everything. So, Sean and I were supposed to go to Corrigan, but that game was postponed from last Friday, then moved up Thursday to try and beat the Hurricane but then the roads were closed for evacutations, so the game was finally rescheduled to yesterday. Not to mention...no one wanted to cover tennis, so Loree was this close to "activating the draft" and signing trainers up to cover the tennis tournament. I decided to just sign up for Fridays morning shift. So that brings my day to......

Intro to Athletic Training 9a-9:50a
Tennis Tournament 11a-3p
Corrigan v. Hemp Hill Friday Night Football 4:45p-11p (including travel time)

Whew - so much for sleeping in...! The tennis tournament wasn't bad at all, though. In fact, I really enjoyed it, even though I didn't get to see much action. I did wrap a broken toe nail for one of our athletes. And Josh happened to stop by, so he did a blister, again, for one of our players. I got to drive the Gator and nearly flipped the muthaf*cker haha! So, Meaghan was headed to cover a track meet or something, and needed the dolley to transport equipment. And Loree and I were running low on Powerade anyway, so she sent me to get more Powerade and take the dolley back to the ATR for Meaghan. So, I've never driven the 6-wheel gator, and didn't realize how powerful is was! As I was driving from the tennis courts, I was thinking in my head what was the shortest and fastest way to the ATR. Anyway, I remember Dustin saying that some of the trainers got in trouble for driving over the grass (shortcuts), so the only way I knew was along Wilson Drive next to the intramural courts and through Lumberjack alley. So I wasn't driving in the street, and decided to take the sidewalk. So, I'm flooring it - doing at least 25mph in this thing. And, keep in mind, it hadn't been a few days since a hurricane Ike just finished coming through. There is leaves and branches and debris all over the place, and it's flying in my eyes, and the dolley in the back is rumbling all over the place. Not to mention the brakes aren't that good on this thing. I approach a ramp for wheelchairs to get onto the sidewalk, kinda like near entrance/exit ways for cards, and I didn't really see it until the last second...so I hit this ramp-thing going FULL SPEED and my heart nearly jumped out of my shirt, as I grabbed on the wheel with both hands to keep this thing leveled as I went airborne and nearly flipped the Gator on it's side. I managed to keep it up, and juat BARELY escaped scratching the sh*t out of this new Accord parked along Wilson Drive. Whew! I'm not doing that again...okay, maybe once more on the way back...

Rotation 2

Current 2-week rotation is football. In fact, it is no longer current because yesterday was technically the last day - even though they did not practice (walk through's on Fridays), but they are traveling this weekend to Western Illinois to play. So, with the Hurricane last week, and the away game this week, I didn't get a chance to cover football. Haha, I bet they would let me cover games if I volunteered though, they always need more people. Ehh..maybe! Not that I don't want to, it's just I like watching the games too.

The football rotation was good, my second favorite behind Nacogdoches HS, and I have Wellness Center/Nac Memorial Hospital for my next rotation. In the beginning, I thought the football rotation would not be enjoyable mainly because it seems like I do not know any of the undergraduate trainers. By the second week, it had gotten better, and it turned out to be a case of just getting used to eachother. It feels like most of the undergrads are involved with football. And just being in the ATR with them forced me to get to know them. From what I understad, their experience is going to be based on a "internship-like" curriculum, where they learn everything on-the-go. So that would explain why they constantly have to be around. I like that method, which is kind of what I did at Chabot, but the biggest difference was I was the ONLY one, so I got the chance to be involved in everything! There wasn't 18 other students around to take up my chances to do treatments, cover games/practices, evalutations, rehab programs, etc. Thanks Dan! I attribute that style of learning to how I know what I know today, or prior to entering this Grad program.

The morning practices were okay. I taped some ankles, and most of the time stood around and waited for practice to begin. In fact I completely botched he very first ankle I did. Haha I can't remember who it was, most likely a WR, but on the right foot, I didn't do any horseshoe strips!!! The left foot, which is the one I tend to do second, was fine. Afterward, I watched him sort of rip a cut into the tape near the achilles. Hahah, needless to say, he never came back to me! On the bigger guys (linemen), I always used 2" athletic tape. And for my first time using 2" tape, I did pretty good. In the beginning, I'm glad I stood back and watched the undergrads style of taping, and Dustin's style, too! It helped because I got to see what the players were used to. For example, some of the players need moleskin for stirrups, and others need combination arch-jobs with ankles, or turf-toe strappings/ankle. So by day 2, I kind of just jumped right in. When an athlete would walk in, I'd say, "What do we got? Ankles? Hop on up..." and that was all. There were only two times when an athlete deferred and said they were waiting for another trainer. That's normal. I just took Dustin's advice, and didn't take it personal. It's their preference. But you never know...you might like my tape job better ;0)

Football and Hurricanes

I've traded earthquakes for hurricanes. Ike. According to the local and national news, this is going to be a BIG hurricane, and even looking at the size of it from satelite view, it looks to be the size of the entire Gulf - wow! I turn on CNN, and every other news channel for that matter, and they all are reporting on the conditions of the Texas coast. From the projected path, this thing looks like it will rip directly over Nac, or at least the eye will. A lot of people are evacuating from the coast and heading North. There are students from Lamar Univsersity on campus; it seems like the schools' entire Indian population came. It's all good though, I remember when Katrina hit, and USF housed a bunch of students from our New Orleans sister schools. There were kids from Xavier, some from Jackson State University, and a few others. This is no different.

There was supposed to be a football game today. We were going to host Kentucky Wesleyan at Homer Bryce Stadium. It would have been my first time covering a SFA Football game. Looks like there will be a change of plans. When I got up yesterday at 6:45a to head to practice, the sky looked eerily dark. It reminded me of Autumn afternoons in San Francisco. It was windy and the sun barely peeked through. I thought to myself, "Self, is this what the beginning of a hurricane looks like," because is so, doesn't look so bad. Of course, right now, the wind is blowing rediculously hard and I can hear branches from breaking from all the trees surrounding this area. When I look out the window, there is debris all over the streets of Wilson ave. I keep thinking the windows are going to blow out any moment. When driving back from Julie's house, I saw all the windows of businesses either boarded up, or duct taped in 'X' patterns. Supposedly, so if they break, it doesn't shatter. On Thursday, Sean and I were supposed to go to Corrigan to cover a game between Hemp Hill and Corrigan HS. Cancelled.

Back to college football on ESPN. I'm getting messages from the trainers that they are losing power. According to Sandy, the University will not lose power so I'm thankful for that. I couldn't imagine being in this place without A/C. Even though it is still cold outside, it still tends to get stuffy in this place. Tonight is supposed to be a "Hurricane Party," which is the kids do when school gets cancelled and there is nothing else to do. Yah, you got me, too! But last night, 4 of us went to the Shack and it was pretty dead, but we still had a good time. And there was a huge sign that read, "Open during Hurricane Ike" hahaha...people still need to get their drank on!

Rotation 1

And like that, my first clinical rotation is complete. My rotation took place at Nacogdoches High School where Christy W. is the Head Athletic Trainer. Based on what I'm hearing from others in my cohort, I seem to be doing the most AT related things during my rotation. The others are either shagging balls, getting water, observing treatments, getting assigned papers, or any combination of those. In fairness, I'm doing those same things too but I'm also taping, and seem to have a little more freedom. I love being at Nac high for that reason. Christy was really trusting, and allowed me to be on my own.

The typical day consisted of us (myself, Jorge, and Bart) showing up around 3pm. Practice began at 4:30p. We'd setup water caddy's for the players, and transport any equipment or tables to their necessary destinations. That wouldn't take too long, and it may not seem like much but I think it is important to get an idea how different people do their setup. For example, Dan M. does his setup completely different. The biggest difference being the fact we are in such a humid climate that their absolutely must be water out there. In California, we didn't use water caddy's. What a difference a state can make, huh? Then the players would come in and get taping and bracing. At first, I was a little hesitant to tape the players, despite that being one of the best experiences outside of the controlled environment of our classroom. But knowing the critiques I recieved from Dan, I jumped right in by day 2. I was a lot more comfortable, and most importantly, the athletes were a lot more comfortable with me. Trust is important. Had I screwed up someone's ankle job, then there would be very little chance of them ever coming back to me. Luckily I didn't. I felt very confident in my tape jobs. Afterall, we only did wrist/hand/thumb combos, and ankles. Those are the most commonly taped body parts, anyway.

Gameday was definitely exciting. It was my first chance to witness what Texas football is all about. Like, the show "Friday Night Lights" -- I really wanted to see if it was really like that. In some ways it was, but not really -- and I think the reason is because if I were to go to Odessa area, which is the school that FNL is based off, then I'd really see it there. But even at the bigger school, or dare I say better teams, then I'd see it something that more closely resembles the "idea" I had of FNL. In a few weeks, I'll be a Lufkin High which is a better team, supposedly. Nac High held their own, though. They are 2-0! With wins over Mt. Pleasant high and Center High. Besides a cheerleader falling from the pyramid, there were no injuries to report.

Thank you to Jorge and Bart for providing the transportation. Good lookin' out fellas because I would have been SOL. All in all, it was a good experience. Now, I move on to SFA Football, which is my next rotation. Hopefully I'll be able to do some taping. Most likely not, but I am looking forward to being on the sidelines. However, I am NOT looking forward to 6:30a treatments.

First Fail

Okay, just breathe...

I didn't exactly 'fail' rather it was a....well, I did fail. You see, we have these things called "proficiencies" that are simply a method of measuring our skills in the clinical setting. This particular proficiency was about therapeutic modalities. Every week, we get a new proficiency that we must learn, and then we have two weeks to practice it, before finally being tested on it. Although there are plenty of modalities used, we were primarily going to be tested on using ultrasound or electrical muscle stimulation (e-stim). But here's the kicker - we were ONLY supposed to be tested on the initial setup of the treatment, for example, an AT provides us the parameters and we confidently place the patient in the correct position, and press some buttons to get the treatment going.

Now, when I say "I didn't exactly fail," this is what I mean. The Approved Clinical Instructor (ACI) was unaware of this style of testing. He was under the impression that we were supposed to be familiar with the settings, the methodology, and science behind the modality use. Needless to say, we haven't learned all of that...yet. But thankfully, all those volunteer hours clocked at Chabot, got me through the test, but I needed to get at least a 27/33 and I got a 24. Not bad for someone never formally trained in therapeutic modalities, eh?

The bottomline is I still failed. It ended up not being such a big deal because the instructor of the course informed the ACI of the correct way to grade, and everything was fixed. In fact, I re-took the test before everything was fixed, and in turn, learned a lot about modalities - so I'm ahead of the curve! That's why I didn't fail, ya heard?

Failure is not an option

Giving it Up

Below in the post titled "Floating around the Earth," I wonder to myself what it will be like to live in Texas. Well, I been here for a little over 1 month so I think I can now answer that question.

I was certainly right about one thing - it's HOT! Although it isn't a type of HOT that I've never felt before, it is a constant HOT that just doesn't seem to go away. For instance, in the Bay Area we can get a streak of warm weather in the 90's. But once nighttime rolls around, it usually cools down enough to where you can wear a light jacket or long sleeves and be comfortable. Here, it is just constantly warm, and there will be NO jackets worn by me! I did however wear a button-up long sleeve shirt to the Shack. And my shirt was damp when I left haha. Fortunately I am getting used to the weather. I will never be comfortable with it, I just expect it nowadays, so it's not much of a surprise. To get an idea of just how it is, pay attention to this..

On Fridays when we had days off, I would spend about 3 hours in the Library completing some work for my Medical Terminology course. It typically went like this; go eat around 12:30p since the cafeteria closes at 1pm, and head directly to the library. So by the time I left the library, the time was usually around 3pm. Keep in mind, EVERY buildiing has A/C. If not individual units, there is central cooling. On this particular Friday, I walked out of the library and was just swarmed by warm, moist, humid air! Like, have you ever taken out the garbage in the middle of the night when it's cold, and walk pass the front of a car that was recently parked - and the reason you can tell it was just on, is because you can sort of feel the warmth from the engine as you pass by? But immediately as you pass, you no longer feel the warmth from the engine, obviously, because you're no longer standing in front of it. Imagine that warmth that you felt for that split second as you walked by the front of that car, and imagine not just feeling it for a split second, but rather, ALWAYS!!! That is how it gets here in East Texas. Like a blowdryer is constantly in your face. And at night, it's no better.

Enough about the weather. I knew it was hot before I came here, so I can't complain about it too much. I don't really complain about it because everyone else here knows it's hot, too! What are they gonna say? "Oh, it's not that hot?" WHatever -- I try to tell myself that I wouldn't have expectations of this place before moving here. I did. I think it is a little better than what I expected. The town of Nacogdoches is okay. I mean, I can't fairly compare it to Oakland, or San Francisco, or any place in the Bay Area. Not saying that California is waaaaayy better than Texas, it's just that I am so familiar with home, and I've only been here 1.5 month. One thing I can compare, though, is the people. I'm not one to judge, but I thought I would down here with quite a few Bush supporters and closed-minded people. Not even. Just my personal opinion, only "stupid" people support Bush, and I am not surrounded by "stupid" people. Afterall, I am in a University environment, which doesn't automatically meann everyone is smart, but it does weed out the "lower" end of intelligence. I suppose. Anyway, I don't want to get too political because people's feelings get hurt too easily. Blah.

The people are really nice. One girl described it as "Southern Charm," and I think she's right. I don't think there is much difference between assholes and bullshit, wherever region you visit, because BS is BS. Here in Nac, though, people can be bitch-asses the same way they can be bitch-asses in California. Fortunately I haven't met any of those, although I have come close - once! I think being from the Bay Area plays a HUGE role in my easiness. For example, I will never hear the music I like in the nightspots here. Never! I'd have to go to some of the bigger places like Houston or Dallas to get some Dwele. Thank goodness for Imeem.

Overall, I am content with the type of lifestyle most people live here. I almost feel like if everybody thinks this is fun, wait until you see what it's like in the Bay Area!!! Haha, yeah right...most folks from this area would probably not have fun in the Yay haha...it's okay because that's how life is. I'm looking forward to more observations of the folks here. I've gotten some slack about being from Cali haha, but it's just innocent stuff. Everyone always ask, "How did I end up here?"

Month 1

I know this is all supposed to be about Athletic Training, but since I am not currently doing anything AT-related, why not just write - right?

Anyway, I'm still on a mission. I feel like everything is going well. It could be better, but I can't be upset with how things are right now. My three classes; Medical Terminology (online), Protective Applications in Taping & Bracing, and Athletic Training Clinical, were all successes. I am ecstatic in the fact that I got straight A's - which I think is the first time I EVER got a 4.0!!!!! Hard to believe, huh Grandma? She thinks I am the smartest person in the world lol, which always makes me smile, when she calls me her "Genius." But this 4.0 was kind of a "soft" 4.0 because I don't think the professors here will let us fail. So the grades were kind of "given" to us, but that certainly doesn't mean I didn't work hard for them, and I didn't learn A LOT! Because, I did

I have yet to develop a routine, but that's okay because the real school hasn't started yet. In just this month, I've mainly been attending class during the day, eating, exercising, and on Saturdays knocking out errands and going to the Shack (town nightclub).

I am excited about the upcoming Fall semester. I have money in the bank (because I'd hate to not be able to get some of the books), I'm real cool with the rest of the cohort, and I will hopefully get hired to be a Community Assistant (CA), or as I know them as, Resident Assistants. If I can get this job, then I can get my own room, which as a 23yr old Graduate Student, is very important. I was originally going to room with Clutch, but this is a much better idea, I feel. Besides, we'll probably both get placed in the residence hall we were going to be assigned to in the Fall anyway.

Two-a-days began last week and First-Year Graduate students are actually not allowed to participate. Hmm. Not that I am angry or anything, but that is a little surprising. In fact, being a student who is living on-campus, it is a huge factor in terms of housing. In the letter the program sent in mid-June, it states that they will "provide housing for two-a-days," but nowhere does it say Level I graduate students are not expected to participate. So, I figured I had housing covered for the two week gap between the end of Summer school, and the beginning of Fall. Turns out, I don't. Without getting into all that, I have to give props to Justin for letting us crash. Good looks, man! I got some orange juice for ya :0)

The Athletic Training Room

Some pics

This is the Nacogdoches water tower, observable from North St. which is the main road to access SFA. I took this picture from the parking lot of Peking Chinese Food, a favorite of mine already, because not only do they serve a mean egg roll, they kept my Digi cam safe when I accidentally left it there. Thanks

One of my favorite shots, the NM sunrise, a perfect greeting

Thoughts from the field (or bus)

While on my voyage from California to Texas, these are just a few of the things I observed and took note of, while en route to wherever it is that I am going. These things took place in the Bus Station, on the motorcoach, at a rest stop, etc. They ALL, however, did happen! I kid you, not! I comprised this list during the last leg of the trip, that is, from Shreveport to Nacogdoches, which is about 1.5 hour drive.

# of Miles Traveled: 2073
Pairs of socks given to runaway girls: 1
# of Leg Cramps: None, surprisingly
Items in overhead storage compartment to fall and smack someone in the head: 1 haha, I saw it in slo-mo
Bigfoot Sightings: 0
Bottles of Vitamin Water: 6, of course there were other beverages but this seemed to be a reoccuring one
Times I brushed teeth: 7
"Whites Only" signs observed: 0
Babies Crying: 2
Bums wanting to get slapped by me: 1
Photos taken: 11
Photos deleted: 27
Toothless security guards: 2
Kids elbowed in the neck by their mother: 1
Threats to call CPS: 1 wow
People just missed getting left behind: 2
Complaints about A/C: 0
Rainbow weaves: 1 -- c'mon, this can't ONLY be a Bay Area thing
#of times Crossed TX state lines: 3
# of states traveled: 5
Hours on road: 49
#1's: 4
#2's: 1
Movies watched: 1
Sets of nice breast to stare at: 2
Really cute babies to stare at and make funny faces at: 2
Calories consumed: 4,219
Highest temperature: 101 in New Mexico
Lowest Temperature: 85 in California
Sleep-Awake ratio: 3:1

On my way

This morning, I am officially off to Nacogdoches, TX. It is Friday July 4 and I am expecting to arrive Sunday July 6 -- yes, that is two whole days on the road. In that time, I will travel 5 states; California, Arizona, New Mexico, Texas, and Louisiana -- yeah the only reason we're going through LA is because that is the bus' route. I stayed at Jarrod's house because he lives 5 mins away from the station. My mom will meet us there in the morning. She was originally supposed to travel with me. That's because we were going to go to Minden, LA to meet her cousins but those plans faltered. It's okay because I'd rather just head directly to SFA campus. No side trips.

Yesterday was the first time I actually had butterflies. While I was at work, we had just finished lunch (Thanks, Beth) and my final hour was approaching. I knew it would be the last time I'd be working there and it just felt a little gloomy. Even though I had only been working there for almost 5 months, I still had grown to love that place. And leaving them (especially the pay) was tough. But I realize that this is something I've wanted to do for a while, and this was my shot. So, like a true champion, I had to take it.

Will try to blog from the road

Books

Music: Little Brother-Slow It Down

Literature
Essentials of Athletic Injury Managment 7th Edition: I can't remember who told me about this book, but I just found a note with this information scribbled on it, so I had to take it down
Age Defying Fitness This is a book one of the patients recommended

Meanwhile somewhere in California...

Music: Les Nubians

Today being June 1st, that means it will in-or-around 4 weeks until departure. HOT....
Housing assignments are announced today. In fact, this step is so important, that if I don't get housing, then essentially, I do not go. Simply put, I can not afford to rent an off-campus apartment right now, so it's back to "dorm life" for me. That's okay...for the first year. By the second (and final) year, I'll figure a way to work the system so I can live in a less "dorm" like environment. I have no problem with dorms, it's just the people who live in them. And by "people," I mean rowdy ass Freshmen. SFA doesn't designate specific housing for Grads, everyone is integrated. So the population of a building can, in fact, include Freshmen to Grads. Wild, huh?

I'm up early today, thinking the assignments would be posted by 9AM, but I have to come back at 1PM (Texas time) I guess.

Floating Around Earth

Just over 1 month until I leave for Stephen F. Austin State University, from henceforth known as SFA, that name is just too long to type.

I haven't wrote in the blog in a while, and I've been feeling guilty because I know when I look back on this, I'm going to wish I had been writing so I know what I was thinking at that time. But, it's all good.

I'm not exactly counting down the days until departure. I was just sitting here listening to King Britt and Havana's "Life" (this is good music) and thought to myself, "Self, what is living in Texas going to be like?" I really do not have a clue. I've been to Texas once before during Spring Break of 1999 or 2000, I think it was '00 because I remember picking up Krayzie Bone's Thug Mentality '99 in San Antonio haha at Sam Goody (I was an employee from 2000-02). I'm looking at the SFA website, trying to get an idea of what it will be like, and the only thing that seems to stick out to me is the damn weather!!! It is 12:30am and it is 79 degrees, but feels like 83 degrees. That's bananas. In the Bay Area, the forecast called for 20% chance of showers. And I also noticed the humidity is up to 94%!!!!!! That's gotta be a misprint haha. Wild thing is, I deep down know it is not a typo.

It is gonna be downright HOT!

I think I'll live though. Afterall, it's only two years. **now listening to Jody Watley**
I've been trying to enjoy my last days in the Bay Area. Mostly I've been successful at that, with going out with Sparxx and Jai on the weekend, and was supposed to be at J. Mitch's party but the trains were bugging. They've been bugging ever since some employee caused $1 million in damage. But I was talking to a cabbie, and he was right, $1 million to BART shouldn't be anything. That should be fixed the next day. Whatever, no one's listening.

I am in

Mood: On top of the world
Stephen F. Austin state university will be my next home. Just got the email from Dr. Bobo. All I read was "Congratulations from SFA" and I literally fell and thanked God.
Whew!
Coincidentally I'm about to go out with Tommy, Jai, and Alexis, so this is gonna be exxtra special