Sharing Some Pictures

A couple of weeks ago, I posted a short writing sample/essay that I was particularly proud of. You can read it here.  I originally wrote the piece in one of my notebooks, and I thought I would share what they looked like written down in the notebook. I really like how the piece looks on paper.

This page is some observations I had after writing the first draft. 

This is the actual first draft. You'll notice some re-writes on the bottom. 

I decided to re-write the piece so that it would look neater. 

The second draft. I love how neat it looks. 

Out of a Routine

I have fallen so out of a routine of posting on here, it isn't even funny. I'm actually pretty disappointed in myself. I've gone back over previous years of posting on here, and I've always been able to have four postings a month. It's almost like I'm struggling here.

Have I run out of ideas? Have I reached the end of my creativity. I sure hope not.

A Little Something I Wrote

I have fallen in love with writing.
Not writing on a computer, no.
Physically writing. Pen to paper.

It's a time capsule.
Each time you write,
You are leaving your mark.
Proof of your existence.

I also see it as something else.
When we write,
We leave a piece of ourselves forever on paper.
As photography captures our physical presences,
Writing is a window into our very souls.

Even simple writings such as:
A grocery list, homework, or letters.
They all contain our DNA.
Big or small, it's all there.
What will you leave of yourselves today,
For others to discover tomorrow?

Writing in a Notebook

Over the past six months, I've purchased three moleskin notebooks. I'm really enjoying writing in them everyday It almost feels like I'm leaving a little piece of myself in them after I've written in them. If I'm lucky enough to become a father, I think these notebooks could be a really cool heirloom for my children to have. They can see dad's handwriting, thoughts, and ideas evolve over time.

I recommend you try writing in one. They really are a lot of fun.

The Man in the Yellow Jacket

I've tried something new with my podcast series. Instead of my traditional "interview format", this latest episode is me recounting a possible paranormal event I experienced over ten years ago. I tried incorporating sound effects and music into it.

It's okay for a first time, but there is definite room for improvement.

Favorite Albums of 2018 Thus Far

It's difficult to believe, but we've reached the halfway point of 2018. With that in mind, I think now would be an appropriate time to reflect on some of the new music that has been released this year that I've really digging thus far.

1. Ry Cooder: The Prodigal Son

As of right now, Ry Cooder's The Prodigal Son is my favorite album of 2018. The sound, the lyrics, they are so full of hope and soul. Absolutely incredible.

2. Lord Huron: Vide Noir

Another excellent album from Lord Huron. Not as "folkies" as Lonesome Dreams, but just as good.

3. We Are Scientists: Megaplex

An absolutely perfect indie-pop album. My favorite We Are Scientists album since 2008's "Brain Thrust Mastery". 

4. Moby: Everything Was Beautiful and Nothing Hurt

Moby is a machine. Three albums in three years. This one really reminds me of his 1996 album "Animal Rights". 

5. I'm With Her: See You Around

I'm with Her really reminds me of the Punch Brothers, which is a good thing. A really good alt-country/folk album.

6. Andrew W.K.: You're Not Alone

It's an Andrew W.K. album. Enough said.

7. Middle Western: When Your Demons are Underground, and You've Got to Dig Them Up

No YouTube videos are available. The best way I can explain them is, William Elliott Whitmore with a band. (Because that's what it is...)

8. Mastersystem: Dance Music

Sadly, this is Scott Hutchinson's final album released in his lifetime. It's totally different from Frightened Rabbit, but still features Hutchinson's powerful lyrics. 

The Return

I am in the final week of my online class to become a certified online instructor, and I cannot be more excited. Once this course is completed, I'll have more time to read, work on my podcast, and write on this very blog.

Sometime this month, I need to write about my favorite albums of 2018...thus far.