August 31

The end of August already. I say the same thing every month, but man, where did the time go? Regardless, it's been a good month. Today was honestly spent getting everything in order. I hadn't even had a chance to put much away after I returned from California. It's been non-stop GO! So today I cleaned up when I got out of work. Laundry was done, rooms were vacuumed, electronics were charged, etc. I'd say pretty productive. It's almost Meagen Spillane's birthday. She'll get an official shout out tomorrow.

I gots to get me some food,
B

August 30

After a wet and chilly evening yesterday, tonight it's just the plain chilly. 50 degrees. Wow, what a MILD summer it has been. This post isn't about the temperature, though. For me, today was the last day I'd get to see Rhett while he was still home (until Christmas). First on the agenda, though, was Meg's family/friends early-birthday celebration. We all convened at her parent's place where plenty of food was waiting. And yet, I couldn't eat any given an early lunch and late dinner that was planned. There was the classic catching up, some cake complete with candles, singing, and gift opening. That plus great friends = a good afternoon. As soon as I left I headed on home where Rhett and Whitney met me. From there we headed to Trillium in Grand Blanc for a 6:10 showing of (500) Days of Summer. Oh man, I love that flick. I may even see it one more time, given the other group of friends that were interested. What goes best with a great movie? An equally good dinner. So Redwood Lodge was the next destination where a large wrap and a couple filets were had. Oh man...sooooooo good. Seriously, I could go for another steak right about now. After a quick drop-off to their vehicle, it was time to follow the happy couple back to Owosso. I ended up staying there until a little passed midnight. Hey, it's all good. The original plan was to meet up with some peeps again, but apparently a show ran a bit late, hense, a late start and a late arrival time. Mix that with the fact everyone was falling asleep at Rhett's and you have me driving on home. Beds are awesome, aren't they.

I can't stop thinking about that movie. I honestly don't know why, but it just entertained the hell out of me. So that's twice. Like I said, there may be a third time coming soon. Hahaaaaa.

One if retired, two if un-retired,
B

August 29

Like I thought, another day in Owosso. But first I had some running around to do and a stop at a friend's BBQ. After, it was right to Rhett's house where some peeps were hanging out. A few in front of a couple computers in the living room and the rest on the other side watching some TV. Everyone was feeling a little hungry so we went out for a little lunch. Not too bad. The place we went was the second restaurant I've been to that had FULL wings to snack on. A little more hanging out and then it was off to another house for scheduled get together for Rhett while he was in the state. We ended up sitting around a bonfire all night until the rain started falling. By then I had to head home due to work early the next morning. But as you can see, I had to get the blog post in. So, regardless, I won't be getting much sleep. Haha. Nothing new there.

It is cold tonight,
B

August 28

Today was basically spent entirely in Owosso. It started off with a nice lunch at Fortune House with Rhett, his Mom, Whitney, Jesse, Jon, and Hannah. Of course I had to get the Bulgogi. Soooooo GOOD! Next was a few random stops at different shops and then out to Jon's to hang out for a bit. I little while later I headed out to Ryan VanLoon's parent's house to pick some stuff up and see how everybody was doing. The next stop was over to Shannon's to hang out and see how she was doing. Wisdom teeth are pesky little things. I remember those days. Well, once Rhett called it was back to Jon's again for a hilarious game of Things and some late night Taco Bell. Tomorrow is looking like it will be another Owosso day, too. Hey, I have to get in as much time as I can.

I love my point-and-shoot camera,
B

August 27

Why can't I sleep? Haha. No, it's my fault. The fun started after work today (as always). I headed out to Richie's to give him a lil' birthday gift and we headed out soon-there-after to the theater to see Inglorious Basterds. How could I not like it? A quick stop at BWW's and it was back home until 1:30, when I headed to Bishop to see Rhett as he flew in. Whitney and Jon were headed that way as well, I just didn't know where they'd be. Well, I parked the car and ran in the airport. I looked around didn't see anyone of interest at baggage claim. I walked up to the top and found (thanks to a security guard) that the last plane had just landed. So I went back down and walked around even more. Still nothing. As I was strolling outside I was on the phone and looked up. Jon was slowly driving on by, Rhett sitting in the front and Whitney in the back. We ended up meeting at the Mobil station right across from the airport. Chatted for a bit and set some plans for tomorrow. I was originally going to head to Lansing early to take my computer in...but this may turn into a later in the afternoon trip. I want some sleep.

Aim and ignite, baby,
B

August 26

Another day of work and trying to get back on a normal schedule. I went to visit the Grandparents earlier this evening. Of course, the animals had to be taken care of first. You know, letting the dog out door, refilling the water bowl, giving the cat food, etc. Later on I caught up with a few friends, got some pizza, and tried relaxing. The parents got home around 11:30 tonight. They'd been driving for a little over 3 days and are probably relieved to be finished. Tomorrow Rhett is coming into Bishop and going to be staying the weekend. It should be a good time. Also, Shannon is getting her wisdom teeth out. Not sure how long she'll be out, but it wasn't too bad for me. Hopefully it goes equally as well for her.

I decided that I'm going to wait until the concert to purchase fun.'s CD. To keep me occupied until then, I had to find other ways to get the album. Which I did. It's awesome.

My propeller won't spin and I can't get it started on my own,
B

August 25

Nothing happened today. Nothing of significant importance that is. I had a TON of work to get done and I stayed late to finish it all. I found out that NO BEST BUY IN MICHIGAN got in the fun. CD. None. Nada. Ziltch. So freaking lame. I will be headed to another record store tomorrow to try and find it. A little Buffalo Wild Wings and some Tigers make for a nine evening.

I bet that you look good on the dance floor,
B

August 24

I'm tired. That's about it. After a week of good posts now we come to today. Sorry folks. Today was busy from the very beginning. And the very beginning was very early. Since I got into it a little bit earlier on, let me skip ahead to after I flew into Flint. It was around 11am and Brandon picked me up from Bishop. We took a quick drive home where I made sure all was right with the animals. We went out for some lunch shortly after at Chili's and went our separate ways for the day afterward. I headed back home, put air in my tires, made sure everything was right at the house, and headed straight to work. I ended up getting there in the early afternoon and thus stayed after later to finish up some work. It was a struggle today. I was basically a zombie with a computer in front of me.

The night ended in some Quiznos and a Tigers' game. It's still going on right now, but we're up. You know...I could have been at this game. Hmmm.

Tomorrow should be a "fun." day,
B

August 23

Today was my final day in California. And what did I do to start it: sleepnon. Well, compared to when I was getting up, 10am is sleeping in. Anyway, first on the agenda today was lunch with Gina's family at her Aunt's restaurant. Some cousins, Grandfather's, and others were there. It was good to get a nice meal in and meet more people. Can't beat it.

After, we dropped back to the house and headed to Uptown Whittier where Gina showed me some of her favorite local shops and what-not. Some pretty nice places, including a little record shop. After some more walking and talking it was getting to be time to head back home. I still needed to get all of my things together and make sure I didn't leave anything in CA.

We ended up relaxing for a couple of hours and I was actually able to update Gina's iPod. When was the last time it was messed with? Well...we were still in FL at that time, so do the math. Haha. Next it was off to one last dinner at Cheesecake Factory. I think this place was decided upon because of all the times we went there in Winter Park. Regardless, it was fantastic and I left full. Pretty much the norm when it comes to Cheesecake. I honestly think that before tonight, the last tine I was there was in my Orlando days. Wooooooow.

For the finale, we headed back to Gina's house to grab my two bags. On the way we drove by the old Middle and Elementary schools (not mine) and I got to see what was left of Whittier. Skip ahead to the drive to L.A.X. I thanked G and her Mom for allowing me to stay with then basically all week. Hugs all around and into the airport.

I ended up getting through security pretty fast and was at my gate with a hour and a half to spare. As I type this via my phone, I'm sitting in Atlanta in front of gate A11. My flight to Flint leaves at 8:50. I'm sitting here and thinking about the great time I had from beginning to now. The road trip with Tori that included stops in Denver, Las Vegas, and Aliso Viejo. All the pictures taken. The wonderful hospitality shown by Gina and her family. Having the best tour guide anyone can ask for show me around Huntington Beach, Whittier, the Hollywood hills, downtown Hollywood and L.A. The movies, shops, restaurants, etc. Just an AMAZING trip thanks to AMAZING people. And then, of course, the reason we came out here, getting Tori all set up for grad school. The apartment is beautiful (minus the parking) and within a day she had it looking like she'd been there for years. Her roommate should be arriving sometime today and in a couple more weeks, she starts school all over again. It's crazy to think about.

So, to end this before I have to board, I want to say THANK YOU to Gina and her entire family for being so welcoming and letting me into their home. CONGRATS TORI for getting a great place at a great school. I'm extremely proud of you. Well, I need to get on a plane now to head home. If I forgot anything, I'll put it on today's blog post.

Running off no sleep,
B

August 22

Well, that's it folks. Tonight was the last time I'm going to see Tori until Christmas. The majority of the day was spent getting together with the family, visiting some relatives I hadn't seen in a LONG time, and putting the finishing touches on the apartment. Finishing touches, in this instance, mean hooking up a new TV and upconvert DVD player. Thanks, Best Buy. By the night's end, Del Taco was eaten, the TV was programmed, wireless internet plugged in, and all in all, I felt good. My parents had done a good job yesterday getting different items from Ikea to fill out the new living quarters. My sister's room was basically all done. Now, when her roommate arrives - sometime in the next couple days - it will really turn into her NEW home.

Tomorrow is my final day in California. I have a few meals planned and will be meeting some more members of this fantastic family who has taken me in the last few days. My time here has been great fun and a welcome break from the routine back in Michigan. Time flies.

I hope all is well for you, Tori. Win that game you plan on playing for the next couple years. Haha.

I'm yawning,
B

August 21

This has been a fun trip. Today started with a bowl of cereal and jumping into the car once again. Then it was off to downtown L.A. and our first stop - the Grammy museum. It was located right next to the Nokia Theater, Staples Center, ESPN, etc. A really nice area and a really nice set-up inside. You could definitely spend a lot of time if you stopped and listened to all of the exhibits, watched all of the videos, and play around with all of the interactive booths on the second level.

Next up was food because, well, we were starving. But first, a trip through the Hollywood Hills. Let me tell you something...the houses are amazing, but I'm not sure I'd want to live there, even if I could ever afford it. I mean, the roads are all very narrow and winding and fast. By fast, I mean downhill fast. The "put your foot on the breaks and don't even worry about the accelerator" kind of fast. And don't even mention the threat of fires or mudslides. Insurance = outrageous. Still, it was pretty impressive to ride around and look at the houses that were there. Gigantic.

Now it was food time. Swingers in L.A. was our destination and it was busy. We ended up getting a seat outside, which wasn't too bad. It was pretty overcast and a little windy. Anyway, the sandwich was good, the fries were great, and the chocolate shake was AMAZING! I mean...I haven't had a shake that good in a long while. It was even better to drink on the go, which is what ended up happening. Hey, we had a lot to do.

The Hollywood sign was a fun trip. Gina has a certain spot that she always goes to take pictures and what not. It's up in the hills and can give smaller cars a bit of a problem if they're waiting to park (which happened to a few we saw). Still, after a little hike up a nice dirt trail, some good shots were taken. It was cool to go toward the ledge, look down, and realize you're pretty high up. Pretty high up indeed. I'm not a fan of heights, but I kept looking down. Hmmm.

The last two items on our list were to hit up the Arclight Theater and Amoeba Music in downtown Hollywood. They were right next to one another, which made it quite convenient. We parked our car in a nice complex that overlooked the city. We'll get back to this near the end. Anyway, the Arclight was a very nice movie theater with a gift shop, cafe, and ushers to show you to your seat - which you reserve when you buy your tickets in the lobby. This particular night Gina and I checked out the rock documentary It Might Get Loud. It basically follows Jack White, The Edge, and Jimmy Page at individual locations and a central area where they meet and talk about their history, theory, and love of the guitar. It was very interesting and quite entertaining to boot. Of course Detroit was mentioned during many of the Jack White segments of the movie.

We walked out of the show around 7pm and headed around the corner to Amoeba. Oh...my...god. Amoeba was amazing. For someone like myself, it was heaven. I mean, the largest selection of music I could never find anywhere was right in front of me. Everything from CD's to vinyl to vintage posters to shirts to etc. filled this giant building. And that was just the first floor. The second level was all movies. I had a list coming in I made from Michigan of certain films and albums I was looking to purchase. I found the majority of them here. A lot of money was spent, but I didn't care. Who knows when I'm going to be back. Besides, a few gifts were found for some friends, Dear Zachary and TOKYO! were both bought after months of searching, and then there was the music. Oh, the music. I found a ton of stuff, but obviously couldn't get it all. I put down about 3 different things o' vinyl and a few posters. I'm having second thoughts on a few Dylan and Beatles show posters I didn't pick up. Hmmmm... Regardless, this store was fantastic and definitely involved me dropping a few bucks. Scratch that. It was amazing. I will be back. Oh, we ended up spending about 2+ hours inside. I could've spent a lot more. A LOT more.

As we walked up to the parking garage, shopping bag in hand, we both reflected on the day that was. Given it was so late, the building were the only thing lighting up the horizon. So, of course, it was primed from picture taking, which proceeded to happen. We finished up and that's when Gina stopped abruptly and called my name. I asked what was going on and she said to look. I turned my head and there it was. Plain as day. I honestly couldn't believe it...

A little backstory here. The other night we were talking about how Quentin Tarantino's new film was opening up via some midnight showings and what it may be like. One thing lead to another and the conversation turned to the car he drove. Gina said she had seen it on TV and asked if I ever had. I said no, so it was right to the computer and to Google images to see. I suggest you do that now. Go to Google images and type in "Quentin Tarantino car." What should pop up is an obnoxious, looking yellow Mustang with 2 black racing stripes down the back and multiple bumper stickers inspired by Death Proof. See it? Good. Now, back to reality.

I honestly couldn't believe it. An obnoxious, yellow Mustang with 2 black racing stripes down the back and multiple bumper stickers inspired by Death Proof. Given it was Hollywood, the opening night of Inglorious Bastards, and there were 2 amazing theaters below us, it was obvious he was there screening his movie with a live audience to gauge reaction. Probably snuck in after it had started, watching in the dark, and prepared to leave a little early so as not to be hassled. So...Tarantino, one of my directing idols, was a few hundred feet away in a theater we were in earlier...and we didn't know what to do. We thought about waiting for a bit to see if he showed up, but given he probably was in an 8pm show which wouldn't end until around 10:30, and it was only 9:30 now, that though left us fairly quick. I did take some pictures of my own of the car and we drove off. But...man. He was there. Right there. Oh, and by the way, I can't wait to see Inglorious Barstards when I get back. Haha.

The night ended with Del Taco and some Whale Wars. Tomorrow it looks like I'm meeting up with Tori and the parentals to visit some other family a ways away and helping finish up the apartment purchases. It's probably going to be the last time I see her until Christmas, too. Should be fun.

Quentin Tarantino was there,
B

August 20

Well, Tori's basically all moved in to her new apartment in Redlands. That's what was done most of the afternoon today. Just getting her all settled in. Well, moving her stuff in at least. The apartment and complex is pretty nice. The parking...not so much. It's basically in a small nook on the side of the buildings with no room to navigate if there are more than 2 cars parked in there already. Hopefully Tori won't have a problem with that.

Oh, and before I forget, let me go back to yesterday. What made the show Gina and I went to great, besides the fact we didn't have tickets, was the set list. Limbeck played about 3 songs I've never heard them play live before: "The State," "Friends," and "Coming From Tuscon." That was a treat. And seeing fun. play live was also AMAZING! Seriously, when you get musicians that made up The Format, Steel Train, Anathallo, and more it's going to equal a good time. Right off the bat you have 3 very talented musicians (ESPECIALLY Jack from Steel Train) and, man, the energy everyone was giving for that set was off the charts. I can't wait to see them in Michigan in September.

OK, now let's continue with today. After everything was moved in and some Panera Bread lunch was had, Gina and I headed back to Whittier. We hung out for a little bit and then headed out to the theater to catch (500) Days Of Summer. I loved this movie. Loved. This. Movie. Seriously, it was excellent. I mean the way it played out, jumping around from the past to present, couldn't have been any more perfect. This isn't even mentioning the obvious homage to other innovators of the modern romantic-comedy, musical sequences, creative split-screens, etc. Honestly, you leave the theater smiling. "This is NOT a love story." Did I mention Joseph Gordon-Levitt continues to impress? Because it's true. The guy can act, it's that simple. I will see this movie again.


Before the night was officially called a night, a little bit o' dinner was had. Well, for me at least. And this dinner consisted of my first In-N-Out Burger. Not too shabby. Now it's time for a little sleep and another amazing day.

Mm..Food?

Hollywood tomorrow (for sure this time),
B

August 19

I woke up this morning around 7:50am to find everyone that was laid out asleep when we got to my Aunt and Uncle's was gone. Apparently they all were gone by 5am. Wow. I couldn't do that. Everyone else started getting up and active around 9 - at which time a small breakfast was had. A little while later I got a hold of Gina to see how she wanted to get together. As it happened, she came and picked me up from Aliso Viejo around 12:30 and we started our sight-seeing around the Orange County area. Given she had grown up around here, it was great to see the area through local eyes. We ended up in Huntington Beach where we walked around to some shops and down the pier where we got some amazing shakes at Ruby's. More photos were shot and then I got a call from Tori. Apparently she and my cousin had drove down to Huntington Beach too, so we met them at a restaurant to catch up for a quick second. From there it was back to Gina's home in Whittier. I dropped off my stuff in the guest room and we sat down for a little bit.

Now, we had been talking for a little bit about heading to Anaheim to try to get tickets to the Limbeck and fun. show. It was at a venue called Chain Reaction and, unfortunately, was sold out. That didn't stop us, though. After standing outside with other people for about 7 minutes, a guy walked up and asked if we wanted tickets. We replied with a "YES!" and he asked how much we had. We looked in our wallets and total we had $24. Tickets to the show were $10 each. He walked around a vehicle, came back, and told us that was fine and to follow him. We went around the corner and he walked up to what ended up being one of the door men. One look and a "go on through" later and we were inside. Without knowing it we just bribed the workers to get inside, and for only $4 more than it would've cost us originally. Not too shabby. As for the show, it was awesome. It ended up being Hellogoodbye's headline tour, but we were there for Limbeck and fun. Both played a great set and left me wanting to buy the fun. album even more. Seriously...it was good. We stayed until the last couple songs of Hellogoodbye and headed on back to Gina's, where I am right now.

Dinner consisted of left over pizza and ended what turned out to be an amazing day. Seriously. I was introduced to California and went to a show featuring one of my favorite bands. Can't beat it.

Tomorrow = Hollywood (maybe...),
B

August 18

We made it. Finally. We're in California. Aliso Viejo to be specific. Staying the night with my Aunt and Uncle. Tomorrow will probably spent hanging out with old friends until my parents arrive (which might not happen too soon). Regardless, it's good to be done driving for the time being.

Today was great. We left the Crystal Inn in Cedar City, Utah around noon (Mountain time) and grabbed a bit o' Wendy's. From there it was off to Las Vegas to meet up with one of Tori's good friends. We got to her house and found out she had errands to run. So we ended up driving to the strip and hanging out at the MGM Grand for a while until Crystal finished up. Pictures were taken, money was won and lost, Lions were observed (not doing much), and people tried to stay cool. I knew Las Vegas was in the middle of a desert...but I never thought of how hot it could get. Even after the sun goes down. Anyway, back on track. Crystal met up with us at MGM and we walked out a couple blocks to the Harley Davidson Cafe for some food. HOOOOTTTTT!!! After the great meal we walked across the street to the Bellagio and checked out the water show. Then it was inside the hotel to check out the interior and shops. More pictures were taken and more buildings were walked. By the time we left Vegas it was 8:00pm and still around 102 degrees. Seriously...how do people live there!?

And now we're here. 4 hours of driving later. I was told by my sister to point out she drove into California. She also drove the during the night the other 2 nights as well. She's a trooper.

I'm excited for what the rest of the week is going to bring. Now...it's time for some sleep.

106 degrees is hot,
B

August 17

First and foremost...HAPPY BIRTHDAY RHETT BLANKENSHIP!!! Seriously man, I'm sorry I didn't get a chance to call you. It's been a busy day. I'll give you a ring tomorrow once I get a free minute. So...once again...HAPPY BIRTHDAY RHETT!!!

Before I hit the bed for the night, I have to type in the blog. Keeping the streak alive. First off, yes, we made it to Colorado last night. Sterling, CO to be specific. Stayed at a very nice Best Western, too. Anyway, we got up, checked out, and hit the road from Sterling to Denver. It was around 1:00PM MST when we pulled into the Denver Zoo. FIrst thing's first: food. It was what you'd expect food from the Denver Zoo to be. We then spent a few hours walking around, taking pictures, etc. It's been a long time since I've been to any zoo, so this was a stop well worth it.

Next was the long drive through Colorado. I take that back. Next was the BEAUTIFUL drive through Colorado. Seriously, if anyone wants to make a road trip to the West coast, I'm down. But only if I get to drive through this state. Driving around, through, down, etc. the mountains was amazing. The most scenic trip behind the wheel I've ever had. I tried taking pictures while driving because the sister was catching some shut eye through some truly breath taking stretches of the trip. Not a good idea. Especially when it involved the iPhone's camera. Dumb. But hey, I think I snapped some pretty good shots. Maybe?

We stopped to fill up the tank and get some food while still in Colorado. My sister took the wheel as we passed into Utah and kept driving until we hit Cedar City. Let me tell you something about Cedar City, Utah. Apparently it's a pretty happening place. We stopped at 4 different hotels including a Holiday Inn, Best Western, Comfort Inn, etc. All of them were booked. We ended up staying at the Crystal Inn - which is where I'm typing this now. The Crystal Inn. Ha-HAAAAA!!! Hey, it's got beds, cable, and wireless. Why not.

Tomorrow we'll be going through Vegas and arrive in California. Might stay with the Aunt and Uncle. Might stay with Gina. Regardless, it's been a fun trip, but I can't wait to stop the driving. Unless we're going back through Colorado.

One more thing. I received a text from Brandon earlier that said the Tigers traded a pitching prospect to the Orioles for Aubrey Huff! Wow. With the 72 RBI's he's acquired in Baltimore, he actually leading in that category now in Detroit. We needed a bat, and we got one. I'm excited.

Freakin' Cedar City,
B