NeoBadger

Icefishing is over...

2009-03-29T23:16:00.010-05:00

Went icefishing for the last time for the year yesterday. All together around 3-4 lbs. of perch meat. What a blast it was the last three weekends in a row. Thanks to Nate for showing me the spot.

During the day, eagles paid a visit. They even ate our perch off the ice!

Anybody still read this? Updates...

2008-10-28T22:29:00.003-05:00

Fall is here! Did some hunting, bought a truck, winterized everything. Tama was married this last weekend, and I was flattered to be an usher for her and Jake's wedding.

Things are going great right now. Will have some sweet updates this week. I just need to remind myself to post.

Other tech. updates:
dashwire.com
everythingq.com
Google Reader
Google Chrome
Yodm3D
I ditched MySpace
I haven't posted any new pics to my photography blog.
Stock is DOWN.
iGoogle is pretty cool (replaced MyYahoo)
Scobleizer.com vs. 1938media.com
I love BlackJack
All of my music is now digitized.

What a summer it has been...

2008-08-15T10:57:00.001-05:00

This summer has been different from all the rest. Different in that the activities I found myself involved in were new. Motorcycling, for one, and 'boating' (not fishing).

The family reunion was a real pleasure. Good to see all the folks I care about and rarely get to see.

This weekend is a weekend reserved for the corn festival and a bachelor party in Plymoth. Looking forward to some golf and jib-jab with some new pals.

Mobile Posting

2008-07-23T11:02:00.000-05:00

So, it's been a while since I've posted. I'll attempt to post via my mobile phone for a while to see how things go.

I'll need a way to generate code for pictures.

What's new? The bike runs great! Haven't won a softball game yet. The houswarming party was a blast.

Oh, and the new boat runs great too. I'll get some pictures up soon. Some sad news in that department... I had to get rid of the old green boat of grandpa's. It had some holes in it and it was time to scrap her. The money from that boat went toward the new boat, so, that's nice. Nothing could be done to save the green fish bomber. But all good things... you know the saying.

Some good news...

2008-06-16T13:39:00.002-05:00

So, I was nervous. But I did it over my lunch break!!!
I can legally operate a motorcycle. Mom and dad would be pissed!!!! :D

Softball: Making it happen for McGoverns

2008-06-11T16:38:00.003-05:00

I've been invited to join a softball team for McGoverns. My first game is tonight... and it looks like a great night to play. Game starts at 7!

Didn't I just move?

2008-06-06T16:01:00.005-05:00

Since I'm such a nice DUDE, I'm helping a friend move tonight. I am also helping another friend on the 15th.

Also, gonna try to canoe this weekend. But from what I understand the weather might not be 'prime' for the trip.

Oh well. A little lightning never hurt ANYONE. Well, maybe a handful.

I'm the new handyman, yes I am...

2008-05-23T08:41:00.004-05:00

Many of you know that I moved into my first house. Many of you ALSO knew what I didn't know, which is house-living can be a lot of work. Especially when you choose a home built in 1905.

I've wired telephone lines, with Dave's help, fixed motion lights, a leaky washer, cable hook ups, done yard work, fixed windows, cleaned, polished, replaced, and gutted all sorts of things. But, to be honest... it's a lot of fun!

The Tiny URL

2008-05-23T08:32:00.003-05:00

Not sure if anyone's heard of this service yet. It's been out for quite sometime. You can shorten those crazy long URL's into tiny URLs with the click of a button.

Visit http://tinyurl.com/

Lessons in Canoeing with Cabrios

2008-05-23T08:16:00.006-05:00

I came up with a BRILLIANT idea. I was going to canoe a portion of the Wisconsin River this weekend, from Spring Green to Boscobel. The scenery is terrific, the current is strong and the islands are public and free to camp on (not to mention full of all sorts of wildlife to take pictures of).

One tiny problem. Literally.

We have a Jeep and a Cabrio to make the trip. How do you canoe down river and get the canoe back up river, you might ask? You do a hell of a lot of useless driving and waste gas.

Had the last night in the apartment, tonight's the first night in the new home!!!! WOOT!

2008-05-09T08:48:00.004-05:00

So psyched!!! I think I was born to own a home (right now we are just renting) but I HAVE SO MUCH TO DO! I mowed the lawn, which you already know, made a door and lock in the back of the dilapidated garage, did some garden work, repaired a banister, organized a work bench in the basement! Feels like I have a purpose yo!

Mick, Pinky, Aaron, John, Brenda, Dave, and Molly are all coming to give us a hand after the movers move the REAL heavy stuff, like the oak armour etc. Also the satellite person is installing today. Should be interesting.

Then, we'll all celebrate over my first bonfire at our new pad!

Erin's already on me about getting a dog. I think we need a month or two, then we should be ready.

Tonight...

2008-05-06T16:34:00.004-05:00

Tonight I get to do something I haven't done in a LONG time. Mow lawn. Looking forward to it. A LITTLE bit. Not a lot, a LITTLE bit.

And WE, my life partner and I, will be moving more objects to the crib.

TIP

Roofing SUCKS! But the people were fun to be with.

2008-05-05T16:34:00.002-05:00

I've never been so sore in my life. 25 hours of tearing, peeling, lifting, hauling, climbing, roofing, and cleaning up. Sca-rew getting a job as a roofer. No offense to ANYONE.

More moving, lawn mowing, and repairing to do this week. Who needs a treadmill?

p.s. my neck, face, and arms look like a cherry Popsicle.

Roof Smarts!

2008-04-29T10:05:00.004-05:00

"When it comes to roofs, even the best safety equipment is no substitute for common sense and good judgment. Here are some tips for working safely on a roof:
Leave steep and/or high roof work to the pros.
Pick a clear, calm, cool time of day to work on roofs.
Wear shoes with a soft rubber sole for extra traction.
Keep the bottom of your shoes free of mud and dirt, and the roof swept clear of dirt and debris.
Always look and call out before tossing anything down.
Carefully position ropes and extension cords so they’re not underfoot; they’re very slippery.

We all made it!

2008-04-28T11:28:00.002-05:00

After a long weekend I am happy to report that I made it out of the Peshtigo alive. Although I was underwater for a long period of time, and gasping for air that I didn't have in the 40 degree water, I made it out. I don't have any pictures yet, but this picture sums it up. Looking forward to the summer trip!OOOO AHHH!

p.s.

2008-04-24T14:25:00.004-05:00

I NEED HELP MOVING!I am moving into the new house in Sun Prairie from now until May 19th if ANYONE knows ANYONE that can lift heavy objects, please contact me asap! It would be GREATLY appreciated.

This weekend: Whitewater Rafting on the Peshtigo River

2008-04-24T14:12:00.004-05:00

The Peshtigo River is currently 32" above normal. What the hell does that mean? Well, that means I am in for one ROCKIN' TIME! That's what! It will be 44 degrees in Silver Cliff, WI all weekend which has to be close to that of the water temperature. Staying on the back porch of the cabin on a futon isn't going to be that much fun though. I will just have to have a lot of 'sleeping juice' before I hit the hay.Sionara!

Shot dead: Cougar in Northern Chicago

2008-04-16T15:28:00.003-05:00

Most of you, if you haven't heard already, will be pretty amazed to hear this news. I just thought I'd post on my opinion that an animal like this shouldn't be shot dead. I'm wondering why it wasn't tranquilized. At least then someone could have done some behavioural/psychological testing on the animal. Well, now we won't know anything about the animals demeanor.

In additoin to Trivia Idol

2008-04-07T16:43:00.004-05:00

I've gained 26.7 pounds since I quit smoking. I have officially beat my old record of 185 pounds. I am turning into a fatty fatty boom-ba-latty!

Why I'm putting that on my blog, I do not know. But there you go.

My Cousin the Celebrity:) - Trivia Town

2008-04-07T16:05:00.004-05:00

I am not sure if you know anything about the documentary created in 2006 which covers the annual Stevens Point trivia contest. It's entitled "Trivia Town" and has won numerous awards and is gaining national attention as a GREAT high quality documentary.

Well, I was YouTubing some clips today and found part of the movie. This particular part highlights the team "Late Night with Bob Keeshan" which some of you might recognize as Matt and Amy Fox's team, which I did not know until about 1 minute into the video. Matt, I wish I had your email address cause I wonder if you already knew this.

EXCITING NEWS!!!! Keep reading cause the excitement doesn't stop with one post.

2008-04-03T12:34:00.007-05:00

My significant other and I have decided to move to Sun Prairie, Midget Car Racing capital of the United States.

Anyway, the HOUSE is super awesome and if you would like to know more about it, VISIT ME! We're awefully lonely down here!In other news, drum roll please, (Beck and Sara get ready for this... I signed up for a Motorcycle Safety course here in Madison.
Don't panic kids, and think about the decision I've made. Would you rather I take a written test and then get handed a temporary license for 6 months? Or would you rather I take a 4 day course that teaches me things from the ground up and gets me a license good for life?

I won't have a bike for some time to come (unless I go gambling with Schnitz) so, no need to panic. I can't injure myself at MATC. SO EXCITED!!!

Vern and Mitz are in recovery!

2008-03-27T14:50:00.004-05:00

Three cheers, or two, for Mitzi and Vernon who had to have some dental work done this morning. They have emerged from anesthesia and are somewhat confused.

"I knew something was up when they put me in the cage," said Vernon, a six year old male cat. "My sister was screaming the whole way there!"

In response, Mitzi, a six year old female is quoted: "Well, yeah, I'm six! And I'm the one that needed a root canal, ass!"

Vern added, "Right now I'm just worried about my sister. She's acting like she's out of it, and I just want to get her home. Where the hell are my parents?"

Apartment for rent!!!

2008-03-26T10:59:00.004-05:00

If you are interested in renting an awesome apartment please check this out!Three bedroom, two bath, with over 1400 square feet, and one car detached garage! Available May 1, 2008.

The Forgotten Graduation Photos...

2008-03-21T16:07:00.006-05:00

Received news today that there are still graduation photos out there of the party we had last June. I think we can thank spring cleaning for this one...
Here are a couple of samples... Stay tuned for more...Pretty sure this is the night before/after... oh well, looks fun anyway...Beck, you remember this one, don't you?

'Public Enemies' Mania Hits Small Town Near Madison!

2008-03-20T16:51:00.003-05:00

In case you haven't heard, Johnny Depp has been staying in Madison while he plays his part in 'Public Enemies', a movie being shot partly in Columbus, WI. Click on the movie title to be taken to a page that shows fan photos and video.

Erin and I spent a Sunday evening looking for the crew in Baraboo. BUT, they STARTED shooting on Monday in Columbus. A day late and a dollar short. Again.

UNDER CONSTRUCTION! I've launched a photography blog...

2008-03-18T14:47:00.008-05:00

What time is it? Photography time!!!
Today I've smashed together a blog (Neobadger Picture Show) which now has some of the few pictures of mine that turned out ok. Anyway, please visit the site from time to time. I hope you enjoy the pictures. Looking forward to some feedback from other photographers. I will also be setting up an account on Flikr within the coming weeks. Look for Neobadger if you're there!

How can you divorce an icon?

2008-03-18T12:07:00.003-05:00

Let's pretend you're divorcing an icon. Fighting against the highest paid lawyers in history, you attempt to score 10% of what your iconic spouse is worth. You are denied that, publicly, and given 10% of the 10% you were asking for. Then, your entire ruling is posted on every internet site from CNN.com to perezhilton.com. On top of all that... you will, for the rest of your life, keep yourself from listening to the radio and watching t.v. in fear of seeing or hearing your ex-icon-spouse. Man... that is going to suck.

Here's to Paul!!! The rest of the Beatles would be happy:)

You can reach me ANYWHERE! (anytime)

2008-03-18T11:50:00.005-05:00

I finally bought a phone that doesn't drop every third call. It's a PDA with email, internet, and unlimited text/picture/video message capability. So, I have no excuses when I told you I was away from my computer for a while.p.s. I still have the same cellular telephone number:)

Seriously... a NASA Photo? Really?!?!?!

2008-03-10T16:42:00.005-05:00

I just found this photo on a NASA Web site. It's the photo of the day, or week, or whatever. If you look at my post from 2-21-2008 you will see a photo taken with the camera I bought from Best Buy. Maybe NASA should hire me?
Here is my picture...And HERE is a link to the NASA picture to prove my point. Um, this does NOT show the beauty and wonder of the universe. This looks like a glare on a window, dummies.

Rapids man interviewed by S.I. writer while in Afghanistan!

2008-03-10T16:33:00.003-05:00

I was reading a pretty neat article about a Sport Illustrated writer touring Afghanistan with some players. One of his stories includes meeting a man, Ben Peterson, from Wisconsin Rapids.

Click here to read the full story!

Just said he was from Rapids and was a huge Favre fan! How cool!

I reported it to the Stevens Point Journal. Maybe they will publish the article!!!

I did too... a little.

2008-03-06T16:26:00.005-06:00

Did you shed a tear today when you were watching Brett? I did, a little. Man was that tough. I can't imagine how that felt.Anyway, icefishing this weekend with Wilson. Should be a good time. I'm going to get pictures and video of Erin's largemouth she pulled through the ice on Crystal Lake up here very soon. 15 inch bass through the ice. Never happened to ME before.

Coincidence? I think not...

2008-03-04T14:36:00.006-06:00

A premature article posted on packers.com was pretty much on the money. From what I understand this has happened twice before Favre had announced his retirement.

A good way for news to get through? Sure. But did it ruin the surprise for millions of fans and disrespect Favre's outstanding career? I think so.

Sad day. I suppose that's all a lot of us are saying. I'll miss you a whole hell of a lot, Brett. As will the rest of the world. We'll show our continued support for Mr. Rodgers.

Also, I'm another blogger in support of National Brett Favre Day!

Hear it from the man himself:

Favre not retiring. "It was a computer glitch."

2008-02-28T13:27:00.002-06:00

Sportscasters in Madison have contacted a spokesperson from Packers.com who has confirmed that "it was a computer glitch," and Brett Favre is not retiring.

If you will excuse me I am going to thank God for a second.

Brett Favre to Retire ??? Say it ain't so!!!

2008-02-28T11:50:00.006-06:00

Heard some disturbing news just now...
Let's all hope it's a hacker that got into this site and not a journalist!More information available here... Thanks for the update, JayDub

Beck, now's your chance! No offense, Ken:)

2008-02-26T16:37:00.003-06:00

So, I happen to remember that my sister has a celebrity-crush on Johnny Depp. Well, she did years ago anyway. Well, Beck, here's your chance to make a first impression!I had to post this. I am a Johnny Depp fan as well, and this is pretty cool. Baraboo is pretty close to Madison.

Link to article: http://www.channel3000.com/news/15416302/detail.html

Showing Some Anti-Cubs Pride...

2008-02-26T13:04:00.006-06:00

I saw something like this t-shirt on a Milwaukee news program. I had to order one. So I settled on this. Should be great for Brewer games:) No going into the Final Score with this though, unless I want to get beat up.
Erin also got this because she is a little confused on who to vote for in this next election...And, I liked this sticker so much, I just saved the image on my computer. Awesome, huh? I'm so mean. But I really do not like Illinois fans... By the way, it's WISconsin, not WESconsin!

EARNING today! Friend makes News in the Journal!

2008-02-22T16:25:00.003-06:00

Um, I worked my ass off today. That about sums it up. Looking forward to 4:59 when I stand up and walk out.

Recently a friend of mine made the news in the Stevens Point Journal. We used to play 'guns' together and I guess he never grew out of the obsession. He's served tours in two countries and has spent the last seven years of his life 'playing guns!' I was always happy to have him on my team. Congrats, Dan!

Full Lunar Eclipse

2008-02-21T21:41:00.004-06:00

Last night Erin and I watched a Full Lunar Eclipse. You might have too! It was pretty cool to see. I thought it was going to take a couple of minutes but it ended up taking over an hour and a half. My neck was sore by the time I was done taking pictures:)I've read that the next eclipse should happen in 2010.

In other news, we got out and voted Tuesday. So, I feel like I accomplished SOMETHING. This particular voting station in Madison couldn't have been more confusing. No pictures of that, but if you imagine five voting booths spread out around a small classroom, one vote-collecting machine in a corner, and 35 confused and frustrated people wondering what in the HELL was going on, you have a picture of what is was like. I think some of the kindergartners set the room up before they were let out at noon.

Back in the Saddle Again!

2008-02-19T12:43:00.003-06:00

It's back to work. But, after I snagged this super photo of the Grand Tetons. Trust me, they're even bigger in person.Anyway, no broken bones in the whole group of 8. No one permanently lost. All is well. Man is it GORGEOUS out there It was hard to come back. Saw some moose everyday that camped under the chair-lifts. Elk everywhere too. I have a couple hundred photos to share next time I come up north.

Anyway, see you soon!

OH! GET OUT AND VOTE TODAY!!!

Last blog until I get back...healthy!

2008-02-08T16:34:00.001-06:00

Leaving Sunday morning, so this is my last blog until I get back. And WHEN I get back all 206 bones in my body will be intact!

I will take lots of pictures and will fill you all in on the details when I get back.In other news, had an intense day at the office. Can't wait to get out of here! Going to Wilson's tonight to tune my board, and Saturday's packing day. Also need to go to Dick's Sporting Goods for goggles and extra gloves tonight.

OH! Erin's flight from Madison to Milwaukee was cancelled this morning, and Midwest paid for a cab all the way to Milwaukee. Great luck I gave her. Hey, she wanted to date me:)

Anyway, peace out!

SNOW!!!!!

2008-02-07T15:20:00.000-06:00

They were pretty close on the 12-14 inches. We got 13.5 inches last night, over 72 so far in total! Four inches short of an all-time Madison record!

In other news, Erin is headed to Atlanta this weekend to visit a good friend, and I am going to Jackson Hole, Wyoming to snowboard, come Sunday. Wish us safe travels.

The Plan...

2008-02-06T11:11:00.000-06:00

So, it's doing this outside...

And I'm going home to do this...

12-14 inches of the white stuff by the end of today. Wow! We've broken a snowfall record this year in Madison. What a coincidence that I should move here and we get record crappy driving conditions. Of course. Madison has been Ziajanized!

"The Namesake" - an independent film

2008-02-05T10:38:00.000-06:00

Erin rented a movie last night that I found very interesting. I thought I'd take the oppurtunity to suggest it to all those that read this blog. Give it a shot. I've been thinking about it all day.

Redneck Wins Super Bowl - Celebrates by Cow-tipping with Friends!

2008-02-04T15:53:00.000-06:00

Yay, the Giants win. Love Strahan, but I can't stand Eli Manning. Put the OTHER Manning brother in!

After the game Eli is quoted as saying: "We got 'er done today! Can't as' fer more'en nat! YEE HAW!"

Way to go Giants. You made my week!

TICKETS TO THE SUPER BOWL!!!

2008-02-01T11:18:00.000-06:00

No, I'm not going to the Super Bowl. But I will be eating a bunch of these:

And drinking some of these:

While this guy sacks Brady 6 times:

And this guy catches 35 passes for touchdowns:

GO:

all the way!

Ironically, I would like this guy to tear his rotator cuff while winning if at all possible:

Ten days to go...

2008-01-31T10:37:00.001-06:00

Thought I'd mention the trip coming up again. I am getting pretty pumped, and I can't believe I'm finally headed to Wyoming. A friend of mine, who's an experienced snowboarder, warned me last night that some parts of the mountain look trechorous. I told him I would take it easy as I am not exactely an expert myself. I think the only thing I'm really worried about is elevation sickness.

The only way to ensure I don't GET elevation sickness, like I did in Montana where I vomited for about 5 hours straight, is to drink lots of water. I think I'm going to have to invest in a camel back water pack. I can carry it on me for whenever I need it.

Again, I'm so pumped, and I can't wait to take 2,000 pictures while I'm out there!

Headed to Cascade Mountain tonight for some more practice.

Soreness...

2008-01-30T11:50:00.000-06:00

So, like Arnold Schwarzenegger I am sore after hitting the gym up last night. I walked in to our tiny weight room and there were four women working out on every peice of machinery I needed except dumbells. Talk about being uncomfortable.

So, I did dumbells for a bit, then hit up equiptment as the ladies got off of them. Finally I hit the treadmill for a little over half a mile.

I think I'm taking a day off. Woof!

Going to Cascade Mountain tomorrow night for some boarding. Need to use up that gift certificate.

T- 10 days to Jackson, WY. Johnny Cash once when to Jackson. Said he wasn't coming back.

No, it's not the P-90, it's the Z-90 !

2008-01-29T13:06:00.000-06:00

So, if you know me, you know I'm a pretty thin guy. Well, since I quit smoking tar-sticks (29 days ago), I've gained 12 pounds. At 29 days, thats almost 2 pounds a day. Can you say Guiness record?

To make sure I am gaining more muscle mass than fat mass, which I'm pretty sure is happening, I've decided to begin 'working-out.'

Last night I got on a treadmill and actually ran on one for excercise for the first time in my LIFE. After 1.6 miles, I was done and moved on to other equipment. I thought this would get my legs ready for the big trip to Wyoming.

So, I thought I'd let some people know that I've taken my health and excercise to the next level. Hopefully this will help me with my trip on February 10th and will keep me from getting exhausted on the mountain. It's the NEW Z-90 plan.

We'll see how far I can run in two weeks, and if it's a respectable distance (like 4-5 miles) perhaps I will have to challenge my sister to some marathon competition this spring. I hope you'd be up for that Beck!

More ice fishing!!!

2008-01-25T16:22:00.000-06:00

What's better than fishing with a buddy on a nice warm 30 degree day? Competetive fishing that offers a chance to win a new truck... that's what!

Better yet, it's sponsered by my favorite brewer!

See you at the fisheree!

It's day 24 and no smokes

2008-01-24T12:31:00.000-06:00

Although, I STILL want one. I guess it's psychological. I'll probably want one for some time to come.

Had to get the Jeep fixed yesterday. Battery, O-2 sensor, belts, and stuff like that. Now it runs like a CHAMP!

Taxes are getting filed tonight, and I need to start getting ready for Jackson Hole Feb. 10-15.

I might try to tour the area out there, or walk along the Snake River or something and take some pictures. Thing is there are moose, cougar, and grizzly out there, so I'm not too sure how far I would like to travel off of the beaten path.

Also, I've been informed of another icefishing tournament in Mosinee this weekend. Might have a chance to win a truck or something cool. Wish me luck!

Miffed that they Muffed!

2008-01-23T16:43:00.000-06:00

Saw the Giants miss two field goals, only to make the third one, which ended the Packers' post-game season. BUMMER. I still can't believe it.

In other news, more icefishing this weekend, laying low. No Packer game... :(

Championship Packer Game!!!

2008-01-18T10:39:00.000-06:00

So, almost set for the big game! Going to be super cold so we're packing our warmest stuff. How do you keep beer and water from freezing? Wondering what we're going to do for beverages. Anyway, below is a diagram of where we'll be sitting. Look for me! I'm trying to think of a sign to take. If you have ideas, I'd like to hear them.

GO PACK!!!

Packers vs. Giants... it's a given!

2008-01-16T14:06:00.000-06:00

It's official, I WILL be attending the Packers/Giants game Sunday. 2 degrees fahrenheit is the projection at the time of kickoff. Who cares? You're 2 inches from your neighbor, all you have to do is cuddle a little. Look for me and my crew near the endzone!!! It's awesome having a girlfriend that has connections! (Thanks, Jeff)

In other news, went snowboarding for the first time in a year last night. It's like riding a bike. Only, you get better at riding your bike.

Icefishing tomorrow on Monona Bay with Mickster which should be fun. Stay tuned for more stories! GO PACK!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Helen's a bust... the usual

2008-01-14T14:27:00.000-06:00

Pulled in 5 or 6 small Pikes Saturday, 3 or 4 bluegill, but nothing else. I don't know what the deal is, but I try all different kinds of lures, depths, holes, and I always walk away with nothing.

I'm gonna try to find some lakes in Madison where I can just go after work. Wish I was fishing now:( Or should I call it, sitting on the ice NOT fishing?

Still no smokes, day 14. I tell you this cause it makes me feel better for quitting. Mickey,my buddy, is still going strong too, along with his girlfriend.

Day 11 goin' good

2008-01-11T16:43:00.000-06:00

Heading to Point for an ice fishing tourney Saturday. Gonna rock the Crappies heads off! I have everything packed, gas, and rigged. I will try to post some pics up Sunday. (don't worry, I won't drive on the ice)

GO PACKERS!

Day 9 - no smokes - Does anyone read this damn blog?

2008-01-09T15:16:00.000-06:00

Yeah, day 9, no Vitamin N. YAY for me! Sometimes you just got to pat yo'own self on 'na back.

Getting pumped for some ice fishing this weekend. (I need some pictures up here) Bought a couple new jig poles, rigged up the old tip-ups, even picked up some new crappie bait. I am in it to win it this year at my 3rd Annual Lake Helen Fisheree Tournament. BOOYA!

Wish me luck. And pat me on the back about the smoking... god.

Day 7

2008-01-07T14:42:00.000-06:00

Still no smokes, for those of you wondering. Mickey and his girlfriend quit too. Yay!

Bait and tackle store, or something out of a Stephen King novel???

2008-01-07T13:33:00.001-06:00

So I went to a small tackle shop at lunch today. I feel fortunate to have left with my life. After a half hour of looking for this dinky bait shop, I finally located it in the dense fog. Eerie, I thought. This tiny bait shop in the middle of a run-down neighborhood. I can't even see 10 feet in front of my face. The sign read, "Bob's."

I walked into the shop, which seems to come straight out of a Stephen King novel, no bigger than two of my walk in closets. It wreaked of urine and something dead. I thought for sure at any moment a gigantic drooling animal would come from the back room and jump me. One light lit the dim shop which was being monitored by a man, 6'5", with a neanderthal looking forehead. He was also wearing white and red Zubas.

I say, "Howdy."

"Hello," he replies in a deep almost caveman-like response.

"So, I'm doing some ice fishing this weekend and I need some stuff for crappies," I said.

"Oh," is his reply.

"So, I'm looking for slip bobbers, jigs, line, leaders... anything you can help me with," I say as I look on a wall of about five lures, some hooks, and other not so pertinent equipment for winter fishing.

"Well, I'm not in the fish-off this year, so I'm going to be doing some reordering. You know, they say gas is going to hit $200 a barrel in 2008, and that's $6 a gallon in 2008." he says.

"Mmm hmm, well, I see you have a bunch of slip bobbers here..." (gagging from the smell), "but do you have the beads and knots that are supposed to go with 'em?" I said, for without ties and beads a slip bobber only slips, there would be no bobbing.

"No, I have these red hooks, they work well for crappies, they just can't get enough of..."

"I already have some of those," I interrupt. "Do you have ice fishing supplies here? Jigs?"

"Yeah, over here," is his answer, as we walk two steps to the other side of the shop. "I got a guy that comes in once a year, and he buys one of these $0.40 jigs and that's it," he says. "It don't matter what you use."

He showed me small tackle box containing three kinds of jigs, black, pink, and green, as he raved and ranted about oil prices.

"Cool. Well, thanks for the help. Good luck." I said as I flew out the door.

I had to get out, he didn't have anything, and I was a bit weirded out with the shop. It was so freaky and dark, and I gagged from the smell the entire time.

Leaving the store, I took one more look as I peeled out. "Bob's? Good luck, man. See you in the summer," I said.

Day 4 - no smokes

2008-01-04T15:45:00.001-06:00

Still want one though. Keeping busy seems to help. But, right now, I'm not busy.

Spending the day looking out a 10 story window, wishing I was icefishing with the rest of the maniacs. So, that's my plan for tomorrow.

Day 3, I'm home free... cold turkey:)

2008-01-03T11:21:00.000-06:00

Day three of a nicotineless existence. Feels fine. I'm online looking at all of the self help articles, and kind of laughing.

For me it seems I have an easier time with quitting than the millions of others that spend $200 on products that help you quit. When searching google for 'how to quit' articles, so many people tell you to set a date, trick yourself by nicotine supplements, lie to yourself and to your body, and tell it it's still smoking and everything is ok. I just forgot to buy the patch.

For the second time I've quit COLD turkey. That's, at midnight on New Year's Day. How did I do it?

Denial and isolation
Anger
Bargaining
Depression
Acceptance
Follow through

Day 2... no cigarettes... no patch!

2008-01-02T11:12:00.000-06:00

So, I forgot to buy myself a large supply of nicotine patches, but I'm still going strong. No cigarettes in 2008. So far, not so bad. Not even crabby. By tomorrow, most of the nicotine should be out of my system, and I shouldn't need nicotine patches anyway. I may buy SOME for a just in case thing. Wish me luck!

Old news... and todays news!

2007-12-03T14:32:00.001-06:00

So, the Packers lost last week. Bummer. Oh well.

Snow came to the state this weekend. I'm seeing smashed mopeds all over town as a result of underpaid people that operate plows. Remind me NOT to have a moped in the winter. Seriously, Madison is the poorest plowed city I have ever seen. As of this afternoon there are streets DOWNTOWN that haven't been plowed. It's really terrible. But, having 4-wheel really rocks here. Totally never having a vehicle without it.

Also, on the way to work today, Erin and I watched as a new Ford Ranger ran into a snowbank, was sucked inward only to come to rest upon a sofa that was iced into a gigantic snowbank. The man, still in his truck lying at a 70 degree angle, seemed content.

Seriously, I have never seen a more bizarre accident.

Going to see 'Into the Wild' by myself tonight. :( But it's a lonely kind of movie anyway:)

Cheers!

Go Packers! Beat those 'Boys!

2007-11-29T11:32:00.000-06:00

I, or course, pick the Pack to win by 10 tonight. So what if Favre lost his last 8 games in the Cowboy's stadium? Most of those losses come from a Cowboys organization that was paying top dollar for the best players in the league. Much like the cherry-picking Patriots! Sorry for all those that don't get the NFL Network. That's what you get for having Charter.

In other news, thinking of coming up for some bowhunting this weekend. BUT, it will be between 15 and 22 degrees, so, that's a LITTLE cold. Gonna have to dress like the little boy from The Christmas Story. Might be kind of hard to pull back a bow wearing 13 layers. Might want to test that first. Also, deer can probably see a guy in a tree when he is shaking uncontrollably in order to prevent hypothermia. Think they can hear a propane heater up in a tree?

Later Whistler, We're Hitting the Hole!

2007-11-13T14:00:00.000-06:00

Bye-bye Whistler, for now. We're going to Jackson Hole February 10 - 15. Where is that? Google it!

The Cadillac of boards, my Sims 163", is gonna see some more of the DEEP stuff! Yeeeeeee Haaaaaaaaw!

Packers Beat Vikes 34 - 0!!!

2007-11-13T13:52:00.000-06:00

Woo HOO! What a game to have gone to. Got some killer pics of Favre and Driver. But how about that score, 34 to NOTHING!!! Man did I feel sorry for those Vikings fans getting half empty cups of beer chucked at them. Guess those front-runners should think twice about sporting Peterson jerseys. Get over him. He's a rookie.

Anyway, gonna get some packer pics up here real soon. 8-1. Here we come Division Championship!

I'm here B:)

2007-11-02T15:11:00.000-05:00

Nothing going on lately. Boredom. Two months here, and still no new buddies. Oh well. I have plenty up north anyway.

Packer game Nov. 11th vs. the Vikes! REAL excited for that. We have to leave on the bus at 8 a.m. Sunday morning. WAY to early to drink. I will bring coffee instead.

Hunting with Uncle Joe and Jake for deer/gun season this year. THAT should be exciting. I've never been hunting with Joe, but from the notorious story of him shooting six running deer in one go, I suppose he is a pretty good shot:)

My sister's a marathon runner!

2007-10-04T16:17:00.000-05:00

My eldest sister is in Portland today, getting ready for a marathon. GOOD LUCK SIS! She is going to love Portland. It's also her 10th wedding anniversary.

Going to a wedding tomorrow in Milwaukee. Who has a wedding on a Friday you ask? Well, the Schneiders, that's who. I can't wait to get home already.

Other than this news, nothing is new. My friend invited himself down to my apartment Tuesday, and then he invited himself to stay and eat pizza as well. Oh well, whatever mayne.

Another vacation already???

2007-09-21T12:15:00.003-05:00

No, not this year. But, top secret plans are in the making for a trip to Whistler, British Columbia. That's in Canada for all you people without geographicalogicalinary skills. WHISLA!!! WHISLA, HERE I COME! I can hear the mountains whispering my name.

I'm a Newby...

2007-09-20T16:43:00.002-05:00

So, the new job is nothing like anything I've ever done...for money.
Today, I've finally learned that my job involves much of what you learn in economics. Profitability, earnings, losses, trends, etc. But, it's Internet Marketing, not Marketing Marketing. It CAN be fun. Essentially, it feels like I help put spam ads on Web sites, but, I'm getting the hang of it, mostly self-taught, thank you very much! Things are going well.

Still trying to get somes homies down here for a weekend. So far, one taker. My loyal friend Micksterino. Thanks MICK!

Oh, and I'm 2-0, going on 3-0 in fantasy football. Yay.