I've been waking up lately smelling some of the best things ever for breakfast. Lately I've been imagining what would life be like without the sense of smell. I tell you what it would definitely stink. Hahaha, no pun intended. There are just somethings I love smelling, and this list will show you what I love most. It's my top 10 of the best smelling things ever! So lets let that list begin.
10. COFFEE
Ahhh...it's so comforting, this smell that is so intoxicating. This is all an opinion people, however the simple fact is, waking up to this is amazing. The aroma is so so so delicious. However, I never said that the taste was awesome. By frankly, sometimes too much coffee makes me sick, but the aroma is so lovely. It just had to be on this list for me. Feels like home, nothing like the smell of fresh brewed coffee.
9. FRESH BAKED CHOCOLATE CHIP COOKIES
Choco-chip cookies...my mouth is watering just thinking about it. It's so comforting, what else would remind you of a warm cozy home like fresh baked chocolate chip cookies. Just thinking about it reminds me of my childhood. Getting a large glass of milk, taking a bite of that cookie, then having that long chocolate strand, ripping away with the cookie and from your mouth, then finally landing on your cheek. It screams best scent ever. Oooohhhh soooo good.
8. WISTERIA FLOWERS/VINE/TREE
What is it about this so sweet smelling trees. You know what it is? It reminds me so much of the warmer season ahead, the sweet fragrance, just makes me so happy, and it makes me realize that spring is right around the corner. Quite pleasant indeed. You will smell them when driving down the street during the spring, you can't miss the sweet sweet smell. Awesome.
7. ROASTED TURKEY
I just love the smell of turkey roasting in the oven. This reminds me of the holidays. Such a happy time, and such a great place. It's puts a smile on my face, the mix of rosemary, thyme, and sage, then the butter gliding off of the roasted turkey. Oh my god, I want turkey now. Thank goodness I still have more from Thanksgiving. Woo too turkey.
6. HAM
See the above, they go hand in hand really. Ahh...more stuff leftover from Turkey Day.
5. MANGOS
Ugghhh...one of the sexiest fruits out there. The aroma is crazy, and it just makes me want it more and more. It's so good. I love, love, love the smell of mangos. You can just taste the tartiness that is going to happen. Hmm...so good.
4. FRESH BAKED OUT OF THE OVEN BREAD
Bread, real, fresh baked, artisan bread. Coming out of a brick fire oven. It is amazing, if you have never smelled fresh baked bread before. Go to your local bakery at 5 in the morning, and just take a waft of that as it comes out of the oven, and being placed into the bins for the day. It's so good, I just want one now thinking about it. Nothing beats fresh baked bread...well except for the next number.
3. PHO
Maybe it's because I have been craving this lately, but man the smell of pho and the aroma of the thai basil, chili, and all the other ingredients make this a want. It's very high on the list, because by frankly, it's what I want most right now. God, I can go for a bowl of pho, right about now, with all that mmm...mmm...goodness. *Sigh*
2. GRILLED STEAK
What is it about the smell of grilled beef on so enticing? Is it the waft of the drippings onto the charcoal? Is it the thought of that succulent melt in your mouth beef? That smell is amazing really. I walked passed a steakhouse tonight, and all I can sense is the way it would've tasted. It smelled divine, and all I wanted was a bite...that's it. Hmm...steak.
And the number 1 greatest smell on the face of the earth to me is....
1. BACON
Everything about bacon is amazing. It makes ever dish so much better. I know, I know, some people hate this stuff. I won't hate on them. I just think you're missing out on one of god's tastiest creations. ^___^ Bacon has a special place in my heart, it literally has a place in my heart seriously. It's...I don't know, I can't describe it in words, but if I had to try...mind blowing. Thank you to whoever created the briny smoked goodness. MMM...bacon...
It's that time again. Monday, and the things that grind my gears the most, and why you should know about it. Tonights topic. Lazy sports athletes that think they are owed something, but in actuality they are owed nothing. The birth of this topic all began with the Eagles game Sunday. Pass after pass...Desean Jackson shortarming almost 65% of the passes. What can I say it was a wreck out there. However, all was okay, Dave came to the rescue and pointed out what I wanted to say, and thank goodness he did. It felt like a weight had been lifted off, and some semblance of the fact that I can hate on him was upon us; but like a knight in shining armor, George came to #10's rescue and said, wait a minute, he needs to be healthy to be paid for what he is worth.
Now the debate and argument was on. George, I'm sorry buddy. However I gotta side with Dave. What really grinds my gears. Lazy sports athlete that think the world should give them everything on a silver platter. You want that multi-million dollar contract Desean, earn it my friend. You're a bum and a lame duck sitting out there. Really?! You're a professional football player, if you're as good as you believe you are then make the catches, stop playing so soft, and when the time comes, you'll earn the big money. What is it with all these players out there thinking that they don't have to earn their keeps? Yes it has been 4 years, and Jackson should have earned it by now, and he should be playing with a big contract by now; but guess what? He doesn't have a big contract yet, so in my eyes, you haven't earned squat yet.
First you're going to ask me, what right do I have to say any of this. And you know what you're right I have no right to say anything. However, if I had the athletic prowess of one Desean Jackson, and I was getting paid to run a catch a football. I will be trying my hardest to catch each and every single one of those balls. Shouldn't you be grateful that you're doing something you actually love, and not crunching number, doing manual labor, working with the public, or even for the government? Shouldn't you be happy that you make others happy and that men, women, and children adore you because you are a sports superstar? Shouldn't you be happy that we love you or rather did love you, and you would have been Philly royalty in the heart of the city? You could've had it all De-seen. You could've had it all. In a city that loves and honors the hard working man, the go getter/blue collar attitude, you don't embody any of that. Instead you embody, the ugly, self-centered, me me me-ism, that we all hate. Wasn't T-O like that? No, he was just a douche. Seriously, you want to get paid big money, earn it. I haven't seen any of that this season at all. You are a whiny bitch, you can't catch, and in two seconds, I'm going to start calling you Todd Pinkston. *Sigh* Earn your keep you bum.
Things that grind my gears: Overpaid wannabe superstar athletes, that shouldn't even be considered top 10 WRs.
I may have missed a few bla(h)g posts. My fault really, just how it was for a busy holiday week. So this is where I'm going with this. Today I'm going to add a blog I should've done Saturday, and that is obscure music Saturday. To give that everyday artist that no one really knows about a name really. Good times.
Last weeks obscure music Saturday would have been The Kooks. Ahh...Indie rock at it's finest. The Kooks actually just came out with a new Album: Junk of the Heart. However, it's their older stuff that has made me happiest. The band formed in Brighton, England in 2001 and has been rocking the indie scene since then. Give them credit, they are pretty good, and at least we still have rock music. The fact is I hate to see rock music die out. So it's great to hear that they are still here. So give them a listen. It's good times. Take a listen to the chosen song below. You won't be disappointed. ^___^
Alright everybody, I know I know, we haven't seen or heard from me in for every. I know everyone has missed my wonderful writing and antics. And of course my awesome sarcasm. So where should we begin? It has literally been an entire week since I've last wrote something. What can I say, it has been busy. The holidays have been epic, seriously a lot has been taken care of and I got to cook the Thanksgiving meals.
Lets begin with Thanksgiving Eve. Ahhh...the drinkiest drinking night of the year in the U.S. Stupid, yes. Needed? Abso-fucking-lutely. You don't know how great it was to go out drinking with old friends. Especially old friends that are very near and dear to my heart. What can I say, I'm an alcoholic. So the evening starts at Stone Grill...and well yeah it basically ends there as well since technically I don't remember much else. Haha
Thanksgiving day, ahh...different this year, dad had a wedding and it was a pretty quiet one. All in all very nice though. Started with a High School football game. It's nice to see the old Alma Mater kicking butt and taking names for once. Beating up on Triton was nice, it felt good. However, we're getting way too old for all of this. Still, fun to watch and good times. Ahh...after all of that the preparation for Black Friday. I brought Blu-Rays, "Simpsons," and "Spartacus," series...epic.
Friday: Ahh...a little old DBHing. And no, DBH does not stand for Do Bong Hits, it stands for Dive Bar Hopping. And it was a blasty blast. Probably some of the greatest DBHing I have ever done...and well...I've only done it twice. Once in Florida, and once in Jersey now. It's a blast. Gay bars, and bowling alley bars. Pretty epic if you think about it. And the only way to end a night of that caliber? A little "Party in the U.S.A." singing and people pointing and laughing in the next car over...definitely worth the trip there. Another fantastic evening.
Saturday: My Thanksgiving Day. Cooking began with the turkey being patted down from the brine and thrown into the oven at 9:00 a.m. This was all not fun with a massive hangover by the way. So yes, turkey, after that was finished cooking, the ham and duck went into the oven next, and then the lasagna and sides. It was a fantastic Thanksgiving dinner this year. Way too much food, but all worth it. So good, I don't really know what to do with myself really, there is still too much food in my fridge, but I'm going nuts. Its so good.
Sunday: Well the day was awesome, watching the games with my friends and being highly disappointed in the Eagles...nothing more can be said really. Ended the evening with a nice relaxing time with Mr. TV.
Monday: Woke up, and head straight to the P&S Campout for Hunger. I think I did a good thing. I donated my box full of food, about 50 pounds worth I think, after that I stayed and listened to P&S for a little, and began volunteering. After the show was over, I went over to Philabundance HQ and volunteered my time there as well. It was a great day all in all. Wonderful even, felt like I have accomplished what I needed to do today, and I volunteered as much time as possible. It's what this season/holiday should be about. To be able to give back to others without thinking about anything else. Ahh...good times.
You know what grinds my gears? The Christmas season. Now I'm not an everyday Scrooge, and I'm definitely not hating on the holiday. I think I'm hating what the season has officially become. It has become this commercialized, and overbearing thought that we must give give give. Now, I'm not one to gripe on buying gifts for family and friends, however I don't like it when big corporate America is forcing and shoving it down our throat. Kinda makes me sick sometimes. Welcome to the holiday known as "Stressmas." Yup, this is it.
Let's begin with this holiday and how it begins. Stressmas takes away from one of the greatest holiday that America celebrates. Thanksgiving. As soon as the Halloween decorations are being taken down, and you're getting ready to put up your autumn/Thanksgiving decorations, Christmas lights and decorations go up right away. What does Christmas have over Thanksgiving. Really a holiday that is here to spread the word of thanks and spending time with family, and giving thanks to be with said family. Thanksgiving is the holiday we should really be celebrating and not skipping over. I don't get the audacity of the people giving special treatment to a holiday that doesn't deserve that much hype, however what do I know. It's not my religion. Oh, that's right we really don't get a say do we now. Jerks.
The presents, oh how we must buy buy buy. And it all begins on that Black Friday rush. Yes it's great, boost the economy, get stuff, make money, get America to be big and strong. Yay!!! Ugh...more like a pain in the ass. See, instead of hearing complaints about people not getting things they want, shouldn't people be complaining about why aren't we spending more time with each other. That's what people should truly be complaining about. It should be a time of reflection and making resolutions for a new year. That's what Christmas should be really about.
Well folks, this is the reason why Christmas grinds my gears at times. Instead of spending it thinking what we should be getting it. We should be thinking how can we be more giving and more caring. How can we spread joy and spread the wealth to people that cannot even obtain any of it. This is what Christmas should be about. A time where we spend a great deal of time with our families and friends, and to reflect on the past year. To look forward to the new year ahead, and to enjoy the time we have on this planet. Also, seriously, there really is no need to skip over Thanksgiving, remember that people.
Ahhh...the second blog for today. Wanted to write something with a little more meat. So as we all may or may not know, the Occupy group has gotten bigger. I don't know all the ins and outs of the whole protest group, or even the idea where it is all heading. However I do know, all of this will not end pretty. I'm getting the notion that all of this will lead towards some sort of bloodshed. Is it just me, or doesn't all protest at this caliber and that has last for this long, hasn't it always end in some sort of bloodshed? Honestly, I'm not asking for it to happen, it's just that I worry that this is the direction that it is heading towards. Couldn't this have been completed in a more...I don't even know.
The idea of these Occupiers seem to have skewed no? Now, I'm going to say this now. I have no idea where all of this is coming from, I don't know what these Occupy people do or are fighting for. However my friends that are following and have any sort of notion behind this, tell me that the original game plan for these protesters have skewed. From fighting against the 1% to having full blown orgies and rape in the hub areas. I didn't know that's what this has turned out to be. Hipsters are dumb, even idiotic. So this is how you show cause huh? Don't take showers for weeks on end, poop and pee wherever you like. Is this really for the cause of the fight? I said it in one of my earlier blogs, go get a job you hippie.
This isn't what I wanted to write this blog about. Not again about how I disagree with this group. However, what I really want to write this on, is that, you idiots better stay focused on what you are all doing, and not just some random thrashing and trashing. If you are going to fight for something, you stick with it till the very end, don't justify what you're doing by saying it's going to a cause. I'm pretty positive, that girl that has gotten raped, pretty positive she wasn't there for that cause. *Sigh* hippies are terrible. Anyway, back to what's really important with this blog. Has this, "OWS," have any effect on the whole Wall Street/Corporate Greed in general?
Listen free speech is great, however I think I'm getting tired by the fact that OWS people are being assaulted not only by their own people, but they are also being attacked and pushed around by the authorities as well. Wasn't this suppose to be peaceful? Ugh...this all makes my brain hurts. Seriously, if you know anything about this kind of stuff about this Occupy groups, tell me about it. I feel like I should know more about their cause. Until then, all you people stay safe. The police and the occupiers. Please don't do anything stupid, and please don't let this all end in bloodshed, it would be quite depressing to see and hear about that. Life could be worse, remember that people. It could be worse.
This little piece is a dedication for all those obscure artists out there that hasn't really gotten their shot at the lime light yet. Or either they have and I just didn't know that yet. Cause technically I'm not really up to date on who is big or not. So, you know, that's how that works. Anyway, my obscure artist of the week is, "Ingrid Michaelson." Who is Ingrid? Well you may know her hit "The Way I am." It is a sweet melodic song with all the right hits. It's a happy little tune, and well she's an indie-pop singer. Kinda like the Kina Grannis of the East. You know what, if you honestly want to compare the two, you can consider Kina, Tupac; and then you can consider Ingrid, Biggie Smalls. A New York native, Ingrid started young as a musician. I guess It kinda runs in the the family. It's pretty neat. I wish my family were artistically gifted like that. Anyway, back to the music. Ingrid's melody of upbeat, pop type licks from her guitar makes her one of the happier indie pop artists. Her songs have been featured on Scrubs, Bone, and even Grey's Anatomy. If you're looking for someone new and interesting, give Ingrid Michaelson a shot. I'll definitely be hitting a concert when she is back in town.
Last night I had assisted with a project with my friend Rachel and her boyfriend Chris. We discuss all the stereotypes that a minority goes through in a retail setting. Being of Asian descent, I gave her my point of view, and assisted the best I could in this social experiment that she was running. It was quite an interesting evening. After getting through the first portion of the night with a wide arrange of discussions, and which race I discriminated against the most. For those who are interested, I discriminate the Asian race the most. Yeah yeah, I know I'm Asian, just the way the cookie crumbles here folks. If you don't know now you know.
So the debating portion of the night came through near the end. Rachel question was, can money buy you happiness. This is where cold hearted Wei will always shine. I believe money can buy you happiness. Terrible, awful, believer of it. However, my brain didn't wander from this thought, as a child growing up, nothing was handed to anyone in our family. It is believed that you must grow up to be successful and wealthy. Maybe it's a cultural thing, I think money is the root of all happiness. Am I wrong to believe that? And by the way, I know I had a similar conversation before. It's different now, Rach said she wouldn't trade anything for money. I like to say the question was later on re-worded to say, would you choose money over family. The obvious answer is that I will always choose my family and friends over money. Silly Rach. However I see her point. I was explaining that money would lead to the happiness we are all looking for. Am I wrong to believe this? It would right? First you get the power, then you get the money, and then you get the women. Well if life was like a "Scarface," movie then yes that's how that would work. But life isn't like that at all. Instead life is more ruthless, instead of making it, having a decent job, you can literally be a drug dealer and earn quadruple of what you make in a year working a decent job. Sad right? Think about it. Obviously there is a moral obligation that one should even consider when trying to become a drug dealer. You are selling your soul to the devil. So don't do it people. It's not smart, you'll die sooner or later, and basically all around bad idea. However you got to wonder, who's worse the crooks on the street or the crooks in politics? Yup, just how that works out.
So back to the debate, it's funny how a night like that can lead to a situation that we got ourselves into. So is money the root of all evil? People that say money isn't everything don't have any. I saw Ben Affleck say that once in "Boiler Room." I always thought it was smart of him to say. If you think about it, it really is. Actually one of the most intelligent things Affleck has ever said really. Hahaha...just kidding Ben. Honestly, it's true. Sad but true. Am I to believe that the man with the Porsche GT 4 is sad? Fuck no. He's living in wealth. However can the love a good woman and children really change his entire outlook on life? Possibly, most likely, but at the same time if it did, would he not have both? Isn't it the American dream to work your ass off and strive to be a good person, make a difference, and be a family man? Why yes it is Wei? Does it make it any different for me that I am Chinese, trying to succeed in making this dream come true? I hope not. I hope I have every ability to do it just as well as the girl/guy next to me. Now as I finish my Cafe Americano, I look up and smile to myself. Yeah, that's the American dream. Doing it bigger than any other.
Another Imogen video for the night, "Headlock." Enjoy.
So tonight, my blog is going to be a grind my gears editorial. If you have watched, "Family Guy" before, then let me first say this. Welcome to the the real world. I apologize for the rock that you have been living under all these years. Isn't fresh air nice? Okay okay, enough with the sarcasm. Seriously, if you type in "Family Guy" and "What Grinds my Gears" you know what bit I'm biting off of. However it's okay. We all bite off of somebody every now and then. Hell Family Guy does it all the time. Deal with it.
Okay seriously back to the blog. Since this is my first "You know what Grinds my Gear," section, lets make it a good one shall we? You know what grinds my gears? The youth of today. Now granted I'm only 27, and that technically doesn't put me in old man territory..."Ow, my knees!!" However, kids today, no respect for their elders, and no respect for the classics. When did we grow up to teach our kids to be such pussies and douches? Honestly, I got these kids riding around my neighborhood thinking they're tough shit, cause they look like wannabe thugs with sagging jeans. Screaming, I'm gangsta this and I'm gangsta that. Punk you aren't shit. You know who's a fucking gangster? Charlie "Lucky" Luciano, Frank Costello, Al Capone, heck I'll even throw in the Teflon Don, "John Gotti." Yeah these guys were gangsters. They also had loyalty. Even after the attempt on his life, and knowing who was trying to kill him, Frank Costello still didn't give up the name. Yeah, the old guys were tougher...stupid punk kids think they're all cool holding their guns sideways. *SIGH*
And the respect nowadays? Jebus, what happened there? All I see are kids back talking to parents, screaming stupid shit at people walking by. Being loud and obnoxious for no reason. That's not acting out, that's called being a fucking dick. Geez...you know what these kids need? A swift punch to the face. My fist your face. Stupid jerk kids. If assault was legal, some kids would seriously be punched already. *SIGH*
And another thing, oh don't get me started. If you're looking for a death wish, then yes please continue to stand out in the middle of the road and walk like you own the god damn street. I swear to god if I see a kid walking down the middle of the road, I'm literally going to stop my car, get out next to them, move next to the dumb kid, drop kick his ass, pick up his sorry behind, and then yell at him, and when all that is finished, I'm going to say, "Now go home and tell your parents that I just saved your life from a car that would have probably clipped you and then left you here on the side of the road for dead." There are fucking sidewalks for a reason...jebus, gosh darn jebus. *SIGH*
So this ends my "Grind my Gears," section. Honestly, parents, straighten your kids up. I know I have no right to tell you what to do with your children. Honestly, I was one once as well, however I was a stand up kid along with a lot of other of my friends. We did dumb things, but we also knew the words respect and loyalty. It all starts with the parents, if you were born an asshole, your kids will be one too. However, it's never too late to change the person you are. Life is all about change. Do it now, not only for yourself, but also do it for the kids. "Will someone please think of the children." - Helen Lovejoy
This service announcement has been brought to you by Wei Kwok, and by the great mind of George H. Thanks George for the idea.
A little something something that goes with the theme...enjoy!
I wanted to do something fun, something different. So today, I'm naming my top 10 rappers alive today. Yeah, it's not super important, or even relevant in life. It's just a slice of fun that I feel like doing. What can I say, writing about how life is difficult, and things need to change is all fun and good, but sometimes I just like shooting the shit, and writing stuff that's on the lighter side. So I'm giving a fair warning, this is my list, not your list or anybody else's list. If you want to disagree with the list, or even hate who I have chosen, it's not that I don't give a shit...well, technically I don't. However, if you want to add your own 2 cents by all means do so. I love to hear your opinion. And just like this blog, this is all my own opinion. So deal with it.
10. Eminem
If anybody knows me, this is a big deal to put Mr. Slim Shady himself on this list. However, the man is a lyricist and he can rap. I'll give him the credit he deserves. Back when Eminem first hit the scene, it was thought that the man was just going to be another white rapper trying to make it, now Eminem is full fledged, and is greatly respected artist. Give credit where credit is due. With "Love the Way you Lie," and "Lighters," being played regularly, and him making hits with greats such as Kanye and T.I., it's good to see that Em has made it for himself. Not my favorite, but he deserves the respect.
Favorite Song: Lose Yourself
"You better lose yourself in the musicThe moment you own it you better never let it go, ohYou only get one shot, do not miss your chance to blowCuz opportunity comes once in a lifetime"
9. Drake
Drake would have totally been up higher on the list, however he seems like all he sings is slow raps and love songs. What the fuck happened to you Drake? Anyway, I've heard Drake rap live before, it didn't sound that great, so this also deducts points for good old Drake. As a lyricist I like it. He has a nice flow to his stuff, and he sounds great recorded. So I'll give him that. However like I said, Drake could have done so much better for himself. I respected him more with his older stuff.
Favorite Song: Best I Ever Had
"Sweat pants, hair tied, chillin' with no make-up onThat's when you're the prettiest, I hope that you don't take it wrongYou don't even trip when friends say you ain't bringin' Drake alongYou know that I'm working, I'll be there soon as I make it home"
8. 50 Cent
Another rapper that fell from grace. 50 your first album was a classic. It was awesome. Wanksta - 21 Questions. Then your albums became worse and worse, I couldn't stomach your newer stuff, maybe that was just my evolution into the whole hip-hop/rap genre. You just made me more and more mad. I didn't get it, it was unenjoyable. More and more, I became and saw you as a, "Meh," rapper. Soon you were out of the limelight, and the only way you could stay in the game was to try and have a beef with ever rapper alive. Yes Fiddy we know, you were shot nine times, but that will not get you anywhere if you're whining like a bitch because Chelsea Handler dumps you. Geez...come on doode, you're from the streets. However, 50 is a guilty pleasure of mine, and if one of his older songs come on, I'm listening.
Favorite Song: Many Men
"I'm the diamond in the dirt, that ain't been foundI'm the underground king and I ain't been crownedWhen I rhyme, something special happen every timeI'm the greatest, something like Ali in his prime"
7. Lupe Fiasco
Yeah, I'm a Lupe fan. It is what it is. A skateboarding rapper. Puts a smile on my face. So many great songs from this guy, and he rhymes so intelligently, Makes me happy. I get a lot of shit for putting him on my list...especially from Dave, but I understand, he really hasn't proved himself and he really could be better. However I don't complain. I throw on my headphones, lean back and listen to the beat and lyrics. They are quite catchy, and the tune just gets to me.
Favorite Song: Kick Push
"First time he got on it he slippedLanded on his hip and bust his lipFor a week he had to talk with a lispLike thisNow we can end the story right hereBut shorty didn't quit it was something in the airYeaHe said it was somethin' so appealingHe couldn't fight the feelin'Somethin' about itHe knew he couldn't doubt itCouldn't understand itBrand it, since his first kickflip he land it"
6. T.I.
Some call him King, some call him something else. I just think he's a rapper who is talented enough to throw out a bunch of lyrics. Whether you want to believe he is the King or not, I don't see anybody "Watching his Throne," eh eh eh? Seriously, he is good. He has the chops to back it up, and the beats are good. Take him for what he is, T.I. does it, and yeah I enjoy the music.
Favorite Song: Whatever you Like
"Shawty you da hottest, love the way you drop itBrain so good (good) coulda swore you went to collegeHundred K deposits, vacations in the tropicserrbody know it ain't trickin if ya got it"
5. Lil Wayne
Wayne, Wayne, Wayne, you've came out with so many mix tapes it has lost all meanings, and no matter how hard I try to keep up with them, I've finally given up on that. However the ones that I have listened to I enjoyed immensely. Good times, Carter III one of the most enjoyable CDs ever. Lil Wayne, lots of good times my friend, lots of good times.
Favorite Song: Dr. Carter
"Okay.Respect is in the heart.So that's where I'm gonna start.And a lot of heart patients don't make it.Now hey kidsPlural I graduatedCause you could get through anything if Magic made it.And that was called recyclingOr recitingSomething cause you just like itSo you say it just like it.Some say its bitingBut i say its enlighteningBesides Dr. Kanye West is one of the brightest."
4. Common
Ahh...Common. Intelligence is a key. There are rappers out there who rap about non-sense, and then there are rappers who rap about intelligent shit that needs to be rapped about. It's smart on there end. Common is on the latter end. He is a man with a lyrical rap sheet that is just smart. I love it. Nothing else more can be said.
Favorite Song: I use to Love Her
"I met this girl, when I was ten years oldAnd what I loved most she had so much soulShe was old school, when I was just a shortyNever knew throughout my life she would be there for meont he regular, not a church girl she was secularNot about the money, no studs was mic checkin herBut I respected her, she hit me in the heart"
3. Nas
Does this even have to be asked about? Why is Nas on here? Because he may be one of the best rappers ever. If you don't believe it, get his discography. Nas had that beef with Jay-Z, however lately things have cleared up between the two. And they actually both on the same label now. Good for you Nas, your shit is good, don't let anyone tell you otherwise.
Favorite Song: NY State of Mind
"Rappers I monkey flip 'em with the funky rhythm I be kickinMusician, inflictin compositionof pain I'm like Scarface sniffin cocaineHoldin a M-16, see with the pen I'm extreme, nowBulletholes left in my peepholesI'm suited up in street clothesHand me a nine and I'll defeat foes"
2. Jay-Z
Jigga, Hova, President of the R-O-C, whatever you want to call him, Jay-Z is the man. Building an empire out of nothing, starting from a person on the street to being one of the richest CEOs makes him great. And lets not deny Jay-Z's talent at rhyming and choosing the right people to have follow him. From Beanie to Kanye. Jay had his hand in a lot of it. Jay will forever be a hip hop legend. He made hip hop what it is today.
Favorite Song: Public Service Announcement (Interlude)
"Allow me to re-introduce myself, My name is Hov', OH, H-to-the-O-VI used to move snowflakes by the O-Z, I guess even back then you can call me CEO of the R-O-C, Hov!"
AND THE NUMBER ONE IS...
1. Kanye West
Okay okay, I know what you're thinking, why? Well, seriously think about it. Kanye has changed the game in the hip-hop community. Both as an entertainer and as a rapper. He changed things to be different, and he changed the game. It's great to see an artist pushing the boundaries pushing to be different. From "College Dropout," to "808s and Heartbreaks." It has been an amazing ride watching Kanye making beats for Jay, and finally coming through with his albums. Nothing but greatness...Kanye is the man everyone needs beats from, and Kanye may not be a lyrical genius he may think he may be, however he is good to survive, win Grammys and win awards. Yeah, he's a jerk, but I don't know...maybe I strive to be a jerk like him. Hahaha...no.
Favorite Song: Too many to mention...
Yeah, this is one of my favorites, enjoy guys and gals. HIP HOP!!!
Well, the holidays are among us, it's once again that time of year again. We prepare for the giant feast of turkey and ham, and all the other sides. We look forward to a holiday that celebrates another year of thanks. And what are we to be thankful for? There are plenty to be thankful for, an older and dear friend of mine once said. "If you can open your eyes, raise your arms up and to the side, then today is going to be a good day." Thanks Tony, those were some of the best advice ever.
My family is another thing to be thankful for, I'm thankful for them for putting up with my bullshit. God I love them. I've realized this. I do a lot of dumb shit. I am an idiot sometimes. But hey that's why they love me.
My friends, I love them more than they will ever imagine. Sometimes I do the dumbest things, I know they give me banter sometimes, but I know it is all for motivational reasons. Sometimes shit shouldn't come out of my mouth, and sometimes I should just tell my friends the way I think sometimes. I don't know though, I've been raised to be a strong silent type. Talking about our problems or reaching out to people is not something that was usually done in my family. Maybe that's why I've been writing so much these last few years. This has been my outlet, however, I know that I really should talk to people about my problems or even my thoughts really. New Years resolution...that's what I'm going to start doing more of. Got to stop bottling things up so often.
Thankful to be employed during these rough times. When jobs are scarce, money is tight, and things are low, I'm grateful to say well at least I'm making enough to still go on vacation, and purchase things that I need. Thank goodness for that.
I'm thankful that I lead the life I live. May it be good or bad, there are always a good tide and a bad tide. Things will always work out for the best though. And that's what I have to look forward too. It could always be better, however it could also always be 10x worse.
Enjoy the song tonight everybody. I forgot how much I loved it.
So what is the meaning of happiness? Is it money, fame, cars, women? I don't know know, I don't have the answers to it all. However, I wanna believe it is the goals that we set out and achieve for ourselves in life. Isn't it the purpose of our lives to have some sort of purpose? Or am I looking at a too big of a goal that I'm just going to disappoint myself in life? Is what Dave and Jay say is true? Am I suppose to be a 99%? Am I suppose to not try to become the 1% and make it for me and my family and friends? I don't get it, one week I have a conversation and I want to make a difference, and the next I'm thinking maybe I can't even make a difference. Seriously, my brain hurts.
I've always wanted more in life, I've seen what others had received, and complained that I've worked my ass off, and still have not received any sort of rewards for it. I know I know...you shouldn't expect handouts. And I'm not. However it be nice to just receive some sort of sign that I'm going to be okay. That I'll make it. Maybe I'm just bitching, and I know I am, but it's what's on my mind, so that's what I'm doing for right now.
The conclusion of this, is that I'm very happy at the moment, I'm trying not to think too much of the future, and by frankly, I'm quite happy with the way things are now. Life is good, I'm looking forward to my next European vacation, I'm looking forward for possibly a new job. Looking forward to the unknown. That's what I'm looking forward to. I don't want to be bogged down by the thought of this unknown picture that I don't see as of yet. This unknown purpose in life. I guess, when the time comes and the purpose will be in front of me, I will know what to do for my decisions. However until then...I'll keep searching for something that isn't there as of yet. Something is bound to come, and I'm going to find it. I don't know what "it" is. However you know how things work, they just do.
So yesterday was guys weekend, and it was a blast yesterday. Hanging with the boys, playing games, going to lunch and dinner, and gambling a little bit. What made it even better, was finally learning how to play roulette a bit, and finally winning in AC again. Life was good...very good. The more I hangout with the boys, the more I feel like everything is okay. I'm glad my friends are like family. They treat you with the most respect, they crack jokes, and they love you. I'm blessed. I'm blessed to have family and friends that love me. AAAHHHhhh...jazzy.
Celebrities, what is is about them we are so gosh darn attracted to? Beauty, grace, talent, kindness, and oh so much more. I don't know, we all have our celebrity crushes. So as a fun little idea that George gave me, I would like to do a top ten of my celebrity crushes...(I know this is dumb, but it's my blog, so shove off.)
So let the games begin...
10. Jessica Biel
Ahhh...with an everlasting beauty and talent, Ms. 7th bursted onto the scene as a girl next door, however as an adult, she filled out nicely, and is known to be one of the nicest and funniest people in Hollywood, she keeps to herself, and never reveals too much about her love life. Ms. Biel seems to be a sweetheart. Go you...and for some odd reason, I quote Homer Simpson, "You got a butt that won't quit." ^___^
9. Emma Stone
I got chills, they're multiplying...ughh, sorry. Seriously, the new rising star. We all know she does comedy well, from Superbad, to Easy A. However with her new upcoming role as Gwen Stacy in the Amazing Spider-Man, will miss Bubbly pull it off. Yup, she definitely has the chops for it. In her own right, she's pretty amazing and talented. Let's see her pull off some drama. Go Emma Go!
8 - 6. Eisley Sisters
Kinda going to cheat here, but the next three are quasi-celebs. The Eisley sisters, singers in an awesome band. I don't know...I'm a sucker for girls that play instruments and sing. You think girls get hot and bothered watching guys play a guitar...yeah, well it's the same way for me when a girl does it, I also get extremely jealous, and want to pick up my guitar more often.
5. Mya
Yup, that Mya, she sings so beautifully, I just love it. I don't know, didn't I already say up top, I like singers/songwriters, and any sort of musicians. Mya, just seems awesome, and being nice factors into a lot of things. Listen to her songs, they're amazing, and she does have a voice on her.
4. Stacy Dash
I don't know about you, but I fell in love with Ms. Dash when the movie Clueless came out. And like fine wine, she just got better with age. At the age of 45, Stacy is still stunning to this day, acting and still being awesome, she did great in Kanye's video in "All Falls Down," she is just plain old awesome.
3. Zooey Deschanel
Ahhh...I don't know, she's awesome. Everything about her is chic, and she looks like the sweetest girl on earth. I (heart) Ms. Zooey. Adorable and offbeat, she's bubbly sweet, and soooo super talented, 500 Days of Summer, to her band She and Him. She's just a groovy girl...I said groovy. Nothing more I can say really, I'm gushing over here. :D
2. Scarlett Johansson
An old school beauty, from the days of old Hollywood, she is timeless and and classic girl. Stunning all around, and extremely talented. My all time favorite will always be her in, "Lost in Translation." However she does have an eclectic movie list. She is just gorgeous and a humanitarian. ScarJo is awesome...live with it.
And my number one is......
1. KINA GRANNIS
Seriously?!! Did you not see this coming? She's young, talented, beautiful, stunning, and amazingly nice. She takes the time out to greet all her fans, no matter how tired or busy she is. She puts up with a lot of us and not only that she knows it. She's all around fantastic and great. Kina is the best, and no matter what, she's not leaving this position for me anytime soon. Great Great Great. I heart Kina...end of story. I guess I can't really praise her anymore, however, I'm just saying. She's pretty awesome. Even after winning and MTV O Award, who does she thank for her win, us her fans. And she claims it isn't her win but our win. Go figure, Kina is the best.
Jay is chillin, Ye is Chillin, what more can I say, they're killin it. Okay okay enough of that. So last night I went to the Watch the Throne tour, and all I can say is this. It was amazing. I mean absolutely mind blowing awesome. The lights, the theatrics, the mystic behind the entertainment. It was all done so superbly. And not only that, have you ever heard other rappers live? They aren't very good, but man, Kanye and Jay-Z were fantastic. I loved every minute of the concert. Even though the opening act bailed, it was all worth it in the end. Just a great concert all around.
So the concert was set to begin at 7:30, me and Ant get there, and we get to our seats...now at this point I'm about a drink and a half in, and I'm getting ready to hear an opening act. However we learn that the opening act has bailed and that there will be none. From what I hear from the people around me, this is what Jay and Kanye did in Atlanta...as everyone around kept bitching and complaining, I only had one thing on my mind. I can't wait...my two all time favorite rappers alive, and I get to see them both. They are the throne. And as I'm thinking this...all of a sudden...
H.A.M. drops...this is it this is what I have been waiting for since Kanye ripped T. Swizzle on the MTV video awards, after he canceled his tour with Lady Gaga, I'm finally going to see one of the greatest rappers alive do his thing, and we were off. H.A.M. was one of the first songs I have heard off the album, and it is amazing. I loved it from day one, and knew I would be getting the album immediately after it came out. Yeah, this was the song that did it.
The song after H.A.M. was Otis, another good song, however it wasn't until after Otis, till the show really began. Soon we would have a light show, fire, and lasers all over the place. It was amazing. Hit after hit, song after song. It just put a huge grin on my face, I couldn't believe what I was experiencing. Now I don't know if it was the mj that was wafting from the people next to us, or if I was just in pure nostalgic mode, however every time I heard a song I loved, I got the chills and goosebumps. Not only did they performed songs off of the "Watch the Throne," album. But they also performed their own hits as well...Jesus Walks, Hard Knock Life, Heartless, Hova, Good Life, H to the Izzo, and then some. I can't even name them all. It was awesome. Kanye and Jay know how to put on a show, it was amazing all night I was waiting for this one song, and they played it three times. "N*ggas in Paris." Oh so good...loved it.
Of course the night had to come to an end however, it wouldn't close without Hova doing "Encore." It felt great throwing a Roc sign in the air and screaming HOVA HOVA HOVA...and of course, Jay being the man that he is..."Everybody scream out, Kan-ye, Kan-ye, Kan-ye..." KAN-YE KAN-YE KAN-YE, oooh so good.
