mindslushie

Two More...

2008-02-27T08:41:00.002-06:00

I Would Have Given Them Credit...

2008-02-26T15:10:00.002-06:00

FLO Bowl

2008-02-11T09:38:00.000-06:00

22 Random Facts about Myself

2008-01-13T12:25:00.001-06:00

1. I avoid leather couches or seats whenever possible.
2. Watching bloopers from movies or tv shows makes me want to be an actor.
3. About once a month I have a random passion to do some project that would take years to do and almost impossible to accomplish. Last month, for example, I wanted to do a production at Texas A&M.
4. I hate interrupting people because I hate being interrupted.
5. I love being alone.
6. I enjoy interviews...a lot.
7. Whenever I think back on an embarrassing moment in my life, I unconsciously make a noise in my throat.
8. I'm a gamer who doesn't play video games.
9. My biggest pet peeve is a "know-it-all".
10. I'm not a natural leader.
11. I haven't had a coke in 8 years.
12. I'd much rather talk in a coffee shop with one friend instead of go to the the movies with ten.
13. Whenever someone calls me with the wrong number, I ask them how their day was.
14. When asked what first pops in my mind when I hear the word "torture", I imagine myself at the dentist getting my permanent retainer cleaned.
15. My favorite smell is sauteed garlic and onions.
16. I'm a secret admirer of humanistic music.
17. I can't do small talk.
18. 90% of my friends are older than me. 10% of my friends are over 30.
19. I like to paint shoes.
20. I suck at lying, but I love to embellish.
21. I have a dream of one day meeting Martin Luther King Jr.
22. I'm an awkward nerd at heart.

Trigger Happy

2007-04-30T02:46:00.000-05:00

I used to watch this show with Kevin and David all the time during our high school days. I think I can safely say it is the funniest show I have ever known. Yes, it even tops The Family Guy in my opinion. Gotta love the British humor...

Awesome

2007-04-21T12:02:00.001-05:00

It's Love

2007-04-16T18:44:00.000-05:00

Yeah...it looks a bit odd. But hey, I love her and she loves me. Alright? You're just going to have to accept it.

(Yes, I was holding a treat in my mouth. Unfortunately that's what it takes to get a kiss from Reveille.)

The Potter Puppet Pals

2007-03-31T12:10:00.000-05:00

Good Bull

2007-03-06T09:34:00.000-06:00

A few nights ago I decided to go on a midnight run to the Bonfire Memorial - one of my favorite places on campus. As I was walking down the main path to the memorial, I noticed a random Ag sitting/praying directly in the middle where the where the center pole used to be.

So, thinking it was my Aggie duty, I walked up to him. Best decision of my life. When I reached him, the random Ag looked up, wiped a tear from his eye, and whispered to me, "Howdy, Ag".

I replied, patted him on the back, and walked on my way.

True story. Seriously. And very good bull.

Maroon-Out Memory #1

2007-02-10T14:49:00.000-06:00

Have a lil' story for ya ags...

One day, Ol’ Rock wanted to take a picture of some freshmen in their matching maroon-out t-shirts. So, he told the fish to huddle around and sit on a nearby table. As they were preparing for the picture, a freshmen named Travis felt his spider-sense tingling a wee bit. He nervously said, "You guys...I have a bad feeling about this." The others ignored him, put up their respective "gig'em", and smiled as Ol’ Rock counted down to capture the moment:

"ONE!........TWO!........"

BOOM!

Right before the picture was taken, the table snapped completely in half, causing all the fish to fall to the ground. The immense laughter seemed to overshadow most of the pain and embarrassment.

And that's exactly what we're gonna do to 'em ags!?!??!???

*shrugs*

:( :( :(

2007-01-30T18:03:00.000-06:00

Today I gave Reveille a toy monkey as a gift. She sniffed at it for a second, then turned her head away deeming it unworthy. It saddened me greatly. One day I will impress her...one day.

"those darn 'sips..."

2007-01-22T18:37:00.000-06:00

Yes, yes...the rumor's are true: tu is in fact suing Aggieland Outfitters, a popular clothing company in College Station, over the "saw 'em off" logo. tu's Board of Regents is suing because they claim "the similarities among the marks and the goods are so great to create a likelihood of confusion". You serious? I mean seriously. Seriously? Dear heavens. Board of Regents of tu, I just have two questions for you. First, why did you wait a full decade to do this? Couldn't you have consider suing a wee bit earlier? Second, don't you have other things to worry about? Are you really sitting around your conference table, twiddling your thumbs and so bored out of your minds that you decide to sue over a rivalry? Interestingly enough, you decided to file the suit just days after we BTHO you in football. Hmmm...

Honestly, I'm happy they are suing. The more poop they throw at A&M the better. Perhaps we can then sue tu for making their own "saw 'em off" shirts. Their shirts, however, had a picture of Reveille with her legs cutt off (which I have to admit made me chuckle a bit).

I heard about the lawsuit as I was working on accounting (my new hobby) in the class center. Claire shouted out in exclamation after reading the Batt, "Oh my gosh...are you serious? Are they really going to sue over the 'saw 'em off' logo?" Across the room we heard Mama reply, "Oh yes dear. Those darn 'sips did the same thing to me a few years ago also." Claire and I both looked at each other with perplexed faces. Does Mama have another story for us today? We stood up and walked over to her desk as she told her story.

Apparently back in the early nineties after a tu game in Austin, Mama had an idea - she was going to make the "saw 'em off" logo by taking a longhorn car decal and cutting off the horns. She succesfully cut the horns off and placed it on her car. After a few weeks, Mama got many compliments from friends about her new decal; everyone thought it was witty. She then took the idea even further by designing the logo, patenting it, and selling it through her athletic clothing company (a company I had no idea she owned...she's full of surprises I tell you). She made quite a profit - a commonality among the Wehner family. However, back in the ol' army days, the logo said in maroon "hook this!" instead of "saw 'em off".

At the end of her story Mama said, "I think I have those files somewhere around here. Give me a minute and I'll try to find them, dear." After digging around in her purse she pulled out a brown envelope holding two floppy disks laballed "Hook this! #1" and "Hook this! #2". No lie.

Unfortunately, I was never able to look at the files because there were no compatible floppy drives in the class center. Too bad, huh?

Whatever the case, if you ever wonder where the "saw 'em off" logo came from, be sure to think of Mama Wehner. I know I will now.

Oh mama...you make me laugh. I look forward to the day you say "dirty hippies" again when you talk about tu.

Makes me Laugh Everytime

2007-01-11T18:03:00.000-06:00

This picture from Flo Bowl cracks me up EVERY time I see it. On the left is my friend Stacey who owns at every sport known to man. On the right is some girl from another FLO...who looks like she's about to die.

So funny...

Getting to Know at Least One (or Two) Faculty Members

2006-12-11T18:24:00.001-06:00

At fish camp, one of the "freshmen tips" strongly emphasized was for me to know at least one faculty member well my first semester. So, I tried that. I met with three different advisors in hopes of finding at least one who was nice, and failed miserably. I met with each of my prof's outside of class, and failed miserably. It seemed like they were "too busy" to be concerned with a freshman like me...which is actually probably true. I kinda gave up at that point. I mean, who else do I try? Hey, maybe next semester. There's bound to be at least one cool prof around here somewhere. It's not that big of a deal anyway.

But, fortunately, my line caught something when I least expected it. I finally met not just one but two faculty members who genuinely care for me. Their names? Rusty Thompson and Patricia Wehner. Both Rusty and Mama (as we call her) work in the Class Center, and they are both incredible incredible incredible human beings.

First, let's begin with Rusty Thompson.

(bad picture I know...it's Rusty's camera. I blame him.)

Rusty is the Associate Director of Student Affairs along with being the yell leaders manager. Simply put, he's the man. Rusty is the reason why Class Councils even has a Class Center. Most organizations (95% probably), have a "cube' - formally known as a cubicle. Class councils has a freakin' office. And along with that, the Class Center is moving to take up the entire sub-level of the msc next year...thanks to Rusty. He spoils us, it's ridiculous. Anywho, I do not simply adore this guy because of his title (although it is respectable). I adore this guy because everytime i walk into the class center, I can without a doubt expect to hear, "What's goin on, Travis?" as he enters or exits his office. Simply put - he cares. Recently, I was at one of the computer's flipping out because I couldn't sign up for any classes I wanted for the following semester. Rusty came out of his office, walked up to me, and with a pat on the back he asked, "Alright, now what's up?" I'm most definitely glad I will know him for the next three-plus years.

(Mamma, Rev, and Big Jon - my partner for Elephant Walk)

Mama Wehner is Reveille's Manager, but we see her as Class Council's mama. She's this sweet little ol' lady with this sweet little' ol voice. You can expect to hear "dear" in any sentence she says, and if you ever ask her about Reveille she will have a smile on her face. It's certainly not a rare occurance to see Reveille sitting at her feet as a yell leader, director, or member tells her about their day. I know I've done it. So far, here is my favorite memory of Mamma in drama form.

(Fish Co' kids sit around a table in the class center as they talk about Mama)
Kid_01: I've heard that she's killed a man before.
Kid_02: I wouldn't be suprised. She knows everyone. I bet she was involved with the mafia at some point too.
Travis: That's a good point though. Who doesn't she know? Honestly.
(pondering pause)
Kid_03: Hmmm....I wonder if she knows President Bush.
Travis: Hey Mama!
Mama: Yes dear?
Travis: Do you happen to know President Bush?
Mama: Oh of course, dear. My nephew is one of his accountants.
Travis: Oh, well naturally. Thanks Mama!

Cruel and Unusual

2006-12-10T13:09:00.000-06:00

The fear of long words is called Hippopotomonstrosesquippedaliophobia.

How cruel. Honestly.

E-Walk and Big Animal of No Affixed Name...Walk

2006-12-07T16:21:00.000-06:00

Yup, that's my friend.

Mmm...tradition.

Now that's a senior wildcat

I could hear the juniors walkin around campus when I was in kyle field. They were very loud and very excited about e-walk. So loud...wow.

It's all mine! Mine mine mine.

Home of the 12th Man Indeed

Familiar Face - Jace Goodier

Seniors Stopping at the Bonfire Memorial

The Speaker - Dr. Mumata. Incredible guy.

Gig'em. Notice the juniors whooping up in the background.

Buck, Tyler, and Grant dying...kind of.

Emily pulling out with an elephant.

Elephant Walk Director - Mary Katherine.

The ridiculous cotton candy machine. Jeez. It would get on everything besides the cone.

The Alumni Center told us to make sure the elephants didn't get near the trees.
Woops.

Elephant Walk

The Quad

Some senior class council kids in fish pond.

Who knew dying could be so much fun?

Fightin' Texas Aggie Class of 2008

(pics from Rusty and John)

Rev-Rev

2006-12-03T11:47:00.000-06:00

My favorite Reveille memory thusfar:

Walking into the Class Center and being startled by the sight of Reveille laying alone on one of our couches.
"Oh...uh...hey Rev", I said, feeling somewhat awkward. Her response was a blank stare. Then, as if expecting a verbal reply I decided to ask, "Where's Andrew or Mamma, Rev? It's not like you to be alone." Her reply? A lick of the lips as she put her head back down and fell asleep.

Amazing.

There's a Spirit That Can Ne'er Be Told...

2006-10-26T22:06:00.000-05:00

And the polls say...

I knew the twelfth man was a great tradition, but it's that great?

Recent Videos

2006-10-16T10:53:00.000-05:00

A&M V-ball

Missouri Midnight Yell

This Whole "Tennis" Thing...

2006-10-11T20:28:00.000-05:00

I have discovered that I idolize the fightin' texas aggie tennis players. I met one of them recently and I found myself stumbling over my words. I felt like an idiot.

That's my story.

Administration Building

2006-10-04T15:16:00.000-05:00

See You at the Pole

2006-09-27T14:33:00.000-05:00

This morning was See you at the Pole. Because I'm a 'tard, I decided to go to the wrong flagpole on campus. I was originally supposed to go to the Academic Plaza (right in front of ol' Sul Ross), but I most definitely biked over to the University Building. In the end, I'm actually glad I made that mistake. It was a cool twist to pray by myself for once during See you at the Pole. The breathtaking sunrise help as well.

P.S. The University Building Plaza flagpole was donated by the Fightin' Texas Aggie Class of 1934. Pretty cool stuff imo.

After the Rain

2006-09-26T17:32:00.000-05:00

Took this picture from Kyle Field after the rain had fallen for a good hour and a half.

Fish Co!

2006-09-18T23:29:00.000-05:00

Megan, my official lunch buddy.

Purple People Eaters - We Eat People...seriously. Don't mess with us.

Sawin' 'Em Off

2006-09-10T20:03:00.000-05:00

Mmmm, 12th man spirit.

Awkward-Nerdy Prom Picture

2006-09-07T08:57:00.000-05:00

Kelly's B-day Surprise

2006-08-30T14:29:00.000-05:00

Kelly's B-day surprise

A&M Scenery

2006-08-26T17:30:00.000-05:00

My Dog

2006-08-24T21:52:00.000-05:00

Random Pictures

2006-08-09T12:26:00.000-05:00

The Slates

2006-08-05T12:15:00.000-05:00

What an incredible family.

www.slatehome.com

Hmmm....

2006-07-18T20:52:00.000-05:00

This is the most recent picture I have on my camera.

That is all.

Professor Brink

2006-07-06T12:29:00.000-05:00

For the past four to five weeks, I have been taking Finite Math (also dubbed Math 141 at A&M) taught by a wonderful teacher named Professor Brink. This man is the quintessence of the word "unique". Ask anyone who has had a class with him - Brett Jacobsen, Laura Schroeder, or Morgan Nix - and they will all tell you that they have never met another man like Professor Brink. Why is he so unique you say?

Besides the fact that he has 3-inch think glasses, he looks behind you as he is talking to you, and sometimes gets lost in his own math problems...he has the strangest analogies. For serious.

In fact, they were so strange that I actually wrote down his quotes during class in hopes of looking back on them one day. Therefore, I now dedicate this post to Professor Brink, to look back on the man with a million off-the-wall analogies about anything off-the-wall. Hopefully you can be just as much entertained as I was...and still am.

Professor Brink Quotes

"Math is a lot like picnic games...or hardcore parties."

"You know, math's challenging attributes are a lot like shooting an elephant with one bullet...do you know how to Travis? You have to be precise and accurate. You have to shoot him right through the eye. (dramatic pause). Have a steady hand and it can be possible."

"How many of yall consider yourself animal lovers?"

"Statistics is a lot like vehicles. You can take a bike, roller stakes, a dirt bike, car, etc...or you can just take a yellow lamborghini and get the heck out of there!"

"And when mother superior tells you to go in the corner and stand on your head, you dog-gone do it! And that's the end of it."

"If you learn how to use the calculator, you have just about everything but the kitchen sink."

"Folks, in today's world, saying you don't need annuity formulas is a lot like saying a tribesman in a jungle doesn't need to hunt bananas."

"Hmmm, yeah, they slow boat to China on some of these problems don't they."

"Math is a lot like sauerkraut."

"You know folks, Finite Math is kind of like going to a high-life party. You have all the great food, drinks, and scenery you want a party, but then the host wants you to play some weird and peculiar game. Then, the only thing you want to do is run and hide by the dog-gone pool!"

"How many of yall consider yourselves professional and highly technological video gamers?"

"Union means that...you know, you're relatives from Utah come in for your wedding and you have to give them something to eat."

"You know folks, I run my classroom and exams like the minor canaries in Hong-Kong...or Tokyo or whatever you want. Whenever the air gets too polluted, the canaries begin to heel over and die. That's a little bit like my top students."

"So, to use one of my analogies, it's kind of like driving to Maui in a stretch limo. The only problem you will have is learning how to drive the stupid thing."

Aggieland Please

2006-06-23T23:17:00.000-05:00

For the past few weeks, I have been stuck in the typical "anxious freshman" mode. I'm finding myself walking around whisting the Aggie War Hymn, saying "howdy" unintentionally to strangers on the street, and constantly wearing A&M t-shirts. Heck, ever since graduation in May, I have been waking up every morning thinking, "Dang, I wish we were in school." To be honest, I don't know if I could be any more stoked about Aggieland.

However, is being this excited about college strange? Hmmm...maybe, but I'd venture to say "no". However, even if it was strange, it only proves that there are thousands of other fresmen just as strange and anxious as me.

I've made a list of things to look forward to for the first semester. I'm wiling to bet that I will be adding more in the soon future.

1. Fish Camp
2. Impact
3. Gig'em Week
4. Freshmen Convocation
5. Open House
6. Midnight Yell Practice
7. Beating Citadel at our first football game
8. Maroon Out

Why can't it be August yet?

Knake and His Key Dilemma

2006-06-17T13:49:00.000-05:00

Knake locked his keys in his truck last night at Taylor's house; he was quite perturbed. After a few minutes of jumping around like a monkey and yelling, "Dang it dang it dang it!", Andrew came to his senses and decided it might be wise to try unlocking the door through other means. Our first bright idea was to slide a wire-hanger down the window sill and pull the unlock latch, which we soon realized was an impossible task.

Taylor then decided to go search for a policeman to assist us. He unfortunately came back alone, saying that the police could not help us because of "liability" issues. I'd say it's more like, "we're lazy and on our break" issues.

It was only after picking up an extra key from Knake's house that we were able to unlock the door.

Golf - Man's Bane to Happiness

2006-06-09T17:01:00.000-05:00

Took this picture on my way home from JP's. After passing a golf course, I spontaneously decided to do a U-turn, whip out my camera, and take a picture.

Fact of the Day: Golf lawns are considerably more wet than initally perceived.

Do not lay down on the ground expecting to get up dry. It is a unfortunate assumption.

Bailey

2006-06-08T13:31:00.000-05:00

Dogs amuse me.

Isaiah 35:2

2006-06-03T00:07:00.000-05:00

it will burst into bloom;
it will rejoice greatly and shout for joy.
The glory of Lebanon will be given to it,
the splendor of Carmel and Sharon;
they will see the glory of the LORD,
the splendor of our God.

Zoo Fun

2006-05-30T00:25:00.000-05:00

So, two days before graduation, Vanessa and I decided that it would be very memorable to go the zoo. So...that's what we did.

"Put some clothes on!"

Brett and Mal

Police Horse

Rawr

Jason says, "Always wear sunscreen."

Graduation

2006-05-28T20:55:00.000-05:00

Bye FBBA
Wow, that's me.

I know her, it's true.

Slice'em Bears!

Pre-walk(what is Micah so disgusted about?)

Gig'em...somewhat.

Logan's stoked.

Prom

2006-05-21T19:27:00.000-05:00

End of the Year Videos

2006-05-19T16:54:00.000-05:00

We like to call this the Stairs of...Fame

Senior Run 1

Senior Run 2

Last Day of School

2006-05-18T21:44:00.000-05:00

Eatin' Lunch Outside

B-Ball

Last French Class (Bon Weekend!)

Vanessa Cleaning out Her Locker

Wow, what a bittersweet day. It was our last day of school for the seniors who are exempt from finals. It was very odd to walk into each class for the last time. After a good 12 years of this school, I sometimes think we are ready to move on...sometimes I don't.

On a brighter note:
Tomorrow is Prom.
This weekend is beachhouse.
Next Friday is graduation.
Next four years is A&M.

Let's get this started.

2006-05-15T23:19:00.000-05:00

Sunset

2006-05-14T12:27:00.000-05:00

I quickly took these pictures as I was heading over to Lee's to work on our eco project.

Interestingly enough, I did not edit these shots with photoshop whatsoever. These are literally straight from the camera.

Strange eh?

Consequences of the Eco Project

2006-05-02T16:58:00.000-05:00

Fox's New Podium

2006-04-29T20:07:00.000-05:00

I swear, Brett is an absolute creative genius. I wish I could count all of the artistic masterpieces she has done this year, but there are too many to count.

According to some freshmen, Brett was seen two weeks ago carrying Fox's podium out of the English room, getting many stares as she walked past other classroom doors. During those two weeks of podium voidness, Brett, Shannon, Courtney, and Sarah worked their magic in their art class.

Naturally, Fox is quite happy.

Bev and Mal

2006-04-25T20:48:00.000-05:00

Music Man

2006-04-23T22:28:00.000-05:00

Thanks for all the fun yall.

Bailey

2006-04-22T15:14:00.000-05:00

me.

2006-04-16T17:57:00.000-05:00

3 Signs Someone Likes a Present

2006-04-13T09:08:00.000-05:00

State Band Trip

2006-04-10T20:43:00.000-05:00

A few months ago, we were working our butt's off in band practice to prepare for district in hopes of actually making it state this year. Our nerves were on edge during the competition, but we were fortunate enough to make a 2-1-1-1 which qualified us to go to Abiline.

So, last friday, we left at 9 am for our 8 hour bus-ride to Abiline to compete in the state competition. For the whole trip, we kept mentioning how pointless it was for us to be going to state. One, we knew we wouldn't get close to winning. Two, it's incredibly far way. Three, even if we did win, there was no hope of going to nationals since there is no nationals.

So, absolutely none of us were worried or nervous during our performance. Afterall, what was there to worry about?

Welp...turns out we definitly got all 1's. Not only that, we won every other category including sax quartet, flute trio, sight-reading, and jazz band, and lastly winning the "sweepstakes"...whatever that means.

How 'bout that.

Pictures

Curtis meeting with a judge before performing in the jazz band competition. And yes, he did indeed wear pajama's during the performance.

Us being our disfunctional selves.

Bonfire Memorial - Courtney T.

2006-04-06T22:48:00.000-05:00

Courtney took this picture on her recent trip to Aggieland. I'm quite impressed.

FBBA Gala

2006-04-04T22:08:00.000-05:00

Ashley and Alyson get into character before going on stage

How did Andrew pull that off

Congratulations Courtney

2006-04-02T20:59:00.000-05:00

Courtney is officially Aggieland bound. Certainly something to smile about I suppose.

Yeah...We're Cool

2006-03-26T16:31:00.000-06:00

Exquisite Poem

2006-03-16T18:24:00.000-06:00

It's so true, ya know? Very powerful poem. I love how it connects with the deepest part of human nature and emotion. We held an hour-long lecture at Oxford on this poem simply because it is so astounding.

This Is Just to Say
by William Carlos Williams
I have eaten
the plums
that were in
the icebox

and which
you were probably
saving
for breakfast

Forgive me
they were delicious
so sweet
and so cold

Senior Trip - Winter Park

2006-03-12T16:56:00.000-06:00

Wow, what a fun week. I am now fully convinced that Colorodo was the perfect choice for our senior trip. It was great to escape to a place completely opposite of Houston. With only 9 weeks left of school, this was unfortunately one of our last times for us seniors to enjoy each other's company. However, we definitly made the most of every minute and we will continue to do so in the future.

Highlights:

Fulfilling my goal of going down a "double" black diamond with Jenni and naturally falling 8 times down the slope.
Logan purposefully tripping over himself in the airport while getting on and off escalators, walkways, and stairs. People's reactions were classic. (pictures below)
Seeing Wade eat it...repeatedly.
Being entranced by Lindsey and Becca's beautiful duet in the old-school roller-blade competition.
Correctly predicting that Richard would be the first one to be hurt on the trip.
Having a "cheap" $15 dollar lunch.
Becoming a member of the "sick club".
Hearing Becca repeatedly call out for Paul on the airplane when there is most definitely not a kid named Paul in our grade.
In the middle of the night, hearing Denton mutter "Dear Lord...." in the midst of Spencer's loud snoring.
Witnessing Gerhards slip on ice and fall on his butt, then five seconds later witnessing Austin do the exact same thing.
Walking from the skii rental store to the lodge with plastic bags as shoes.

Sadie Hawkins '06

2006-03-05T22:07:00.000-06:00

Welp, last dance Student Council '05-'06 will ever have to take care of. Not sure if I'm happy or sad. Thanks to all of yall who helped with the preperation. Yall rock.

Future Aggies

My Beautiful Date, Lauren

Dancin' to "All the Things I've Done" (fun)

Now for Prom...

Yes, it's a Real Pen

2006-03-05T21:55:00.000-06:00

And yes, that IS indeed Alex in the background. No joke.

Rawr

2006-03-05T21:50:00.000-06:00

Last Friday, March 3rd, was Bailey's B-day. For the school's announcements, Bev and Jenni decided to be funny and make one for Bailey:

"Happy B-day Bailey Rutledge. Thanks for all the great times. You truly are a man's best friend. Love Travis."

Sweet Sword Action

2006-02-22T20:42:00.000-06:00

Well done...well done...

Trip to UTMB

2006-02-19T16:16:00.000-06:00

Our Senior Bio and Anatomy classes went on a field trip recently to UTMB. I don't think I'll ever encounter more dead bodies again in my life. Saw plenty of brains, eyes, hands, backs, heads, and aborted infants floating in fermaldyhide, oh...and also the infamous cadaver. Very interesting stuff. Most of it didn't even seem real. At one point I saw an old man's head in a jar staring at me. It was strange to think that the person gazing at me held years of history, yet I'll never even know his name. Life truly is as fleeting as mist.

This pic is of Courtney and Mal after we ate. We decided that a train track would be a great place to take "album covers".

More of Oxford

2006-02-14T21:43:00.000-06:00

All courtesy of Lauren's photobucket. Pictures are a compilation of Kim, Kristin, and Lauren's pics.

Dubbed "Like, oh my Gosh!". This is when we ran into Allyson and Mrs. Glass at Stonehenge unexpectedly. Small world indeed...

Called "The Unhappy Couple". Lauren is too witty.

Ashley doin her thang'.

Alison, my great friend from California. Cool girl.

Sarah...'nuff said.

Eating with Evan and Ashley in London.

Ashley pointing at a butt?

Travis, Will, Rob, Tucker, and Chris. Diverse group of kids, that's for sure. Cool guys though.

No comment.

Adriano and Ivor (rather "Ivah"). Great teachers. Ivor was the guy who would COMPLETELY own during ultimate frisbee. Being English has its props I suppose.

Sarah...'nuff said...again.

Beautiful picture taken by Lauren. Well done. I think this is the backyard of Blenheim Palace. Heh, the 3,000 acre backyard.

Ashley and Kristin.

Evan and I lookin' drunk. We were good at that.

Our "Justice League" shot.

Fun stuff.

Arc Valentine's Day Dance

2006-02-14T16:37:00.000-06:00

Last sunday, YIP hosted a valentine's day dance to further connect our school with the mentally handicapped community. Above is a picture of Lauren, who happened to be quite a adored by a kid named Brandon. By the end of the day he was sending her valentines day cards saying "Brandon loves Lauren". Also...

Rebecca and Vanessa throwing an "invisible raving ball"

Classic Memories

2006-02-07T23:26:00.000-06:00

Today, our 6th period economics class was unfortunately interrupted by the blaring fire alarm. Of course, just like every other fire alarm, people stand up and slowly saunter down the hallway like zombies. Students can be seen yawning or mildly attempting to hold conversation over the excrutating loud...ummm..."breeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee!" of the fire alarm...I think that's an accurate onomatopoeia. At one point during this process, I look over to my left and spot Ashley reading a book.

Isn't the point of a fire drill to encourage alertness?

Anywho, time for something fun:
If you read this, if your eyes are passing over these words right now, even if we don't speak often, please post a comment with a memory of you and me. It can be anything you want - good or bad..

My Memory - Fob

Oneway

2006-02-04T17:20:00.000-06:00

Jumpin' for Joy

2006-01-31T22:17:00.000-06:00

because we can.

Dodgeball!

2006-01-28T19:18:00.000-06:00

Dodgeball tournament went really smooth. Seniors won and I'm happy. I woulda been heck mad if the juniors won...dear heavens. When we got the trophy, it was pretty much as anti-climactic as you could get. We were all huddled toegether - the quintessential moment of glory after winning a championship game -....and there was no audience. It looked like we had just won the superbowl in an empty high school gym. Oh well, we'll take what we can get I suppose.

Oh, and just to let yall know, Vanessa caught a ball and saved the championship during the finals. Yeah...that's right. You heard me. Vanessa saved the day during the dodgeball tournament.

Now for Sadie Hawkins...

Pineywoods Camp

2006-01-23T17:12:00.000-06:00

Bailey

2006-01-12T18:33:00.000-06:00

Submitting this picture into a TAPPS digital art competition. Supposedly this will be a good entry. Heh, we'll let the judges decide...

Booboo

2006-01-10T21:04:00.000-06:00

Freeway + stray 18-wheeler tire + Bosworth = accident.

Bosworth got a booboo:(

Oh, and Kevin decided to take a bit of the scraps.

Fun Camera Game

2005-12-28T23:38:00.000-06:00

Take a dark room.
Take pictures of people posing in a dark room.
Laugh at the pictures of the people posing in the dark room.

Christmas Tree Giving

2005-12-18T21:02:00.000-06:00

So...

Alex, Mal, and I spontaneously decided to help Mrs. Scarborough deliver christmas trees to the poverty-stricken last friday. It was pretty amusing, especially when we had numerous awkward moments with the strangers we encountered.

Alrighty, before I start the scene, I must inform you that our freshman friend, Ruth, carried around a metal stick in case some stray dogs decided to attack us. Mind you, we were in the bad part of Sugar Land (if that possible), and we most definitly did not want rabies. So, our faithful metal stick was our ward against those dasterdly beasts.

(Scene: Walking into one lady's shack and giving her a lovely christmas tree)
Ruth: Merry Christmas!
Stranger: Oh how lovely! Now I have two christmas trees!
Travis: (while looking at another huge christmas tree in her room) *hmm...how 'bout that.*
Mal: Oh well great! They can be tree friends.
Stranger: (laughs)

(awkward pause)

Stranger: So...are yall going to raise it?

(another awkward pause)

Travis: (looks at Mal, befuddled)
Mal: Umm...raise it?
Stranger: (pointing at the metal stick in Ruth's hand) Yeah, raise the christmas tree.
Mal: Oh no. We're not gonna raise it.
Mal: (smiles)
Stranger: Then...what's the stick for?
Ruth: Oh....um...well, you know. Just in case.

(awkard pause)

(more awkward pause)

Travis: Well, anywho, the tree looks great! Merry Christmas!
(kids walk out)

Heh, "just in case"...

KoolKids

2005-12-15T17:37:00.000-06:00

It's strange. We've all known each other for some good 12 years, and now we're all splitting.

Exciting but unsettling at the same time.

Crusader Tolson

2005-12-07T23:27:00.000-06:00

It's official. Courtney is now a knight. You can respect herthusly.

Fear Courtney and her sweet skillz.

His Blood

2005-12-03T14:30:00.000-06:00

...spilled for us all.

Boom

2005-11-28T21:22:00.000-06:00

Cop

2005-11-17T21:55:00.000-06:00

(Setting: 11:30pm, parking-lot of AMC theatres)
Travis: Escuse me sir. This might sound ridiculous, but could I maybe take a picture of you?
Cop: (stares)
Travis: (stares back)
Cop: (stares)
Travis: (stares back, starting to feel awkward)
Cop: (stares)
Travis: (ponders is the cop is dead)
Cop: (stares)
Travis: Hmmm?
Cop: You want...to take...a picture of me.
Travis: Well yeah. If you're willing.
Cop: I guss it won't hurt. Hold on.
(Cop proceeds to talk on the radio for 5 minutes while Travis waits patiently, moving his foot up and down on the curb to occupy his time)
Cop: Alright, I'm read now.
Travis: Awesome. Thanks for doing this by the way, I promise you'll be famous.
Cop: (laughs) Great. You want the lights on?
Travis: Yeah! That'd be sweet.
Cop: (starts the engine and turns the four ridiculously luminous lights on)
Travis: (While squinting) Alright. !...2...3!

Impalpable

2005-11-13T14:01:00.000-06:00

Yeah, not sure what this piece means. I simply took a picture and tried to make it feel like something. It's interesting how things turn out in the end.

I'm beginning to understand why modern artists are so freakin' rich these days - they can make anything out of nothing and make that anything seem like something.

Oxford quote: "Oh my gosh, this represents my life so well."

Bailey

2005-11-07T22:14:00.000-06:00

Care Bear!

2005-10-30T23:11:00.000-06:00

"I get to act goofy and no one will know it's me?! Sign me up!"

Yup, I signed and I was goofy to my heart's content. I was a care beart this friday for a NICU kid's convention. It's a annual get together for kid's from Southwest Memorial Hospital. I had to walk around, wave, bow, hug, smile, waltz, clap, dance, take pictures with, etc. At one point I was really scared because I had to hold some fragile babies as parents wanted to take pictures with me. I could barely see or feel anything so it was quite a challenge to not only appear natural but keep the darn babies from dropping to the ground...which would mean heading back to the ICU (not good).

At one point I was standing by the door when some announcements were made. I heard, "And volunteer of the year goes to Kharen Turner!". It was Kharen, wife of my youth pastor. Then I saw Kempton along with his baby, Christian. It was totally unexpected. I bet the some kids were scared as they heard the care bear say to himself, "Oh....my...God."

I pondered if I wanted to say hi and tell them that the person behind the mask was me, but I figured since I wasn't allowed to talk anyway I'd have a little fun. I waltzed up to Kempton and started clapping and playing pick-a-boo with Christian. We took pictures and had a grand ol' time for a few minutes. It was not until this morning during church did they find out. Boy was that suprise...

Chris Tomlin/ Matt Redman

2005-10-30T22:49:00.000-06:00

This concert tour was dubbed "Indescribable", and rightfully so.

Louis Giglio spoke and I was extremely impressed. He talked about how insignificant and inconsequential we are compared to God, something that most big-time preachers are afraid to admit. He accomplished this simply by using photograph's from space and facts about how vast the universe was. For the whole time a Bible was in his hand and it was never opened, yet, it was one (if not the one) of the most powerful sermons I have ever heard. The right photograph is the picture he used at the very end of his speech. It's called the "x" galaxy...yeah, my butt scientists. My vote is God felt like showing his glory.

After Louis spoke, Chris did worship and he called for people to come down front. Megan and I got pretty darn close to the stage and the energy was incredible. The holy spirit was clearly just spilling forth from everyone. At one point I saw a lady just dancing around ecstatically - I can't even describe it. She was singing and glorifying God through her dance...it was just, wow.

Oh, and fyi, Chris Tomlin is funny.

Go Jeff!

2005-10-25T18:40:00.000-05:00

While taking Gracie and Amanda home from the David Crowder concert, we read the clements sign and freaked out. After several u-turns, we parked the car and made a midnight outting in the frigid cold to take a picture. My oh my was that thrilling. Our lil' buddy is making it up the the big leagues.

Good job Jeff! Keep up the good work!

David Crowder Concert

2005-10-25T15:59:00.000-05:00

Incredible.

Dramatic

2005-10-23T20:54:00.000-05:00

Another Attempt

2005-10-23T00:19:00.000-05:00

What started out as a simple snapshot turned into something crazy with a few clicks of a mouse and some software called Photoshop. After trying to decide if I wanted to make an abstract post about this picture, I determined that I wouldn't. Afterall, why be abstract when you can be NOT abstract?

Poo, that question was just abstract. Hmmm....

Homecomming 2005

2005-10-16T23:07:00.000-05:00

Vanessa and I had fun. Can you tell?

Nerd Day!

2005-10-12T16:53:00.000-05:00

Climbing the Model Ladder

2005-10-06T18:27:00.000-05:00

The rumors are true. Becca and I quit school and have become models. Our first shoot was today at Silverado and it went pretty darn well. In a few months we'll be on all the major U.S. magazines. Get our signatures now while you can because they will be valuable soon.

Desperate Caterwaul

2005-10-04T20:50:00.000-05:00

This is my piece of abstract art. I figured if a lobster on a telephone or an empty ketchup jar can be considered art, then why can't my pictures?

Thinkin' I deserve my own gallery in the Tate Modern with this "piece"...

Red Pencil

2005-09-29T22:14:00.000-05:00

2005-09-22T13:58:00.000-05:00

Because of that Big Birtha named Rita, 1 million people have been evacuating Houston in search of other places to stay. Alex and I were 2 of those 1 million evacuees.

The ride to College Station took us about five and a half hours. It was bumber-to-bumper all across 359. We left at around 8:00pm and got there at 1:30am. It was quite a long trip, but also quite a fun trip. Loud music, a couple of sunglasses, and some cookies can make five hours seem like one.

Thanks to the Adamitis' for letting me go along with them. They were so incredibly nice and I did not once feel out of place, which is quite a challenge for me. Thanks for letting me feel like part of yall's family for the ride.

Stay safe everyone. Rita's commin'.

Senior Retreat

2005-09-22T13:44:00.000-05:00

This picture is a little bit late I suppose. But, as the saying goes, "Better late than never." While eating s'mores at the campfire, Alex and Brett had the splendid idea of tickling people right before taking a snapshot. Naturallly, people tend to make un-natural facial expressions after an intense round of tickling.

Taking photo's = fun.
Tickling people = funny.
Tickling poeple while taking a photo = fun + funny.

Fun + funny = amusing.

Annoyances

2005-09-19T19:50:00.000-05:00

This book summarizes my experience as secretary of NHS thus-far. Stupid...spreadsheets.

Don't Laugh

2005-09-15T21:01:00.000-05:00

I Have a Secret

2005-09-08T17:30:00.000-05:00

George Bush hates black people.

It's true. Kanye West just told me. Oh, and he also wants me to tell yall that "they’ve given them permission to go down and shoot us." So, keep your eyes open for the National Gaurd everyone. They are out there...

LegoManiac

2005-09-04T17:45:00.000-05:00

If you think about it, in 140 years (at the most), every single human being alive at this time - all 7-8 billion - will be dead.

Depressing? Hmmm, maybe. Eye-opening? Sure.

Just shows us what we are up against as christians.

Amusing

2005-08-09T15:30:00.000-05:00

Congratulations Laura. You're picture is just so amazing that I've decided to post it. Everytime I see this picture I just chuckle. Too funny, too funny.

I came across an epiphany today: noses are really weird. Gaze at it 1 inch away from a mirror and you'll begin to see what I'm talking about. All of that cartilage feels odd as well.