Update on a Rainy Thursday

I WON my pool game last night! My recent practice has paid off. I think this makes it a four or five game winning streak now. Oh course, now that I've let the world know, I'm sure to lose the next six.

I took my derby skates out for a spin on the Fish Lake Trail the other day. I did end up eating it pretty bad on a piece of gravel, but I managed to skate four miles and get my ankles a little run for their money. I hope to do it often this summer.

Check out this fantastic song. You might think it's depressing... but I actually find it wonderfully cheerful - in a 'Bruce Springsteen - I'm going to sing about sad things in an upbeat way to choke out the sadness until only laughter is left' sort of way.
Ya... I know. I'm weird.

Back By Popular Demand!

So... since I only have about three people who check this blog, and ONE of them mentioned how nice it would be if I returned to posting personal updates, I feel like that's grounds for revising my blog's mission - "by popular demand." I can say that, right? :)

Well, first of all, I need to inform EVERYONE that I've crossed off one of my 'things to do before I die' items. I rode a motorcycle yesterday. Technically, I also rode it the day before, but it was only for six back-road blocks each way. Yesterday was a nice, long, healthy ride past Mini Ha-Ha along the Spokane River. Will took me to see the mountain biking area up there. Quite a hike, actually, but AMAZING! I hope to try it out some time this summer... the easy bits, that is. Some of the jumps/drops there are SCARY! But yes, back to the motorcycle... also scary and yet amazing. :)

As for pool, I've won about 3 or 4 games in a row, which is fantastic, but the most recent one was by the skin of my teeth (can we come up a phrase less gross? I mean really - there's got to be something better). I practiced a couple days ago and we'll see if it pays off tomorrow.

And, in keeping with my music-blog theme, please check out April Smith and the Great Picture Show. They're a fantastic band from Brooklyn. They "sound like The Beatles fronted by The Andrews Sisters." You'll love 'em!

Mumford & Sons

Kudos to my friend, Kara, for suggesting I looking into Mumford & Sons. They are a British band who formed in 2007. By 'formed' I mean a couple of friends got together and started playing in front of anyone who would listen. Since then, they've become a well-polished, FANTASTIC, FANTASTIC, FANTASTIC group of musicians. The video below illustrates their unique choice of instruments, in addition a sincere passion for their words. I've checked out a few of their other songs, and found most of them are not as upbeat as the one posted below. Still, an all-around great band. If you like this song, check out their website. I think you'll enjoy the commentary on 'Ben's Food on the Road,' Marcus' Book Club,' and the like.

Angels & Airwaves

This FANTASTIC band just released a new album. And the most amazing part of the deal is (well... besides the fact that the music absolutely rocks) that it is available on their website for free download. They accept donations, if you want to give them something for their talent/generosity, but at the very least - please spread the word! This music may not be for everyone, but it is definitely worth the few minutes it takes to download just to see if it's up your alley. I haven't been able to catch a ton of the lyrics yet, but their sound is incredible.

Revisiting Tattoos

So... I have been thinking about getting another tattoo. I don't plan on getting it any time soon, but I want to figure out what I want so I have some time to sit on it, consider it and change it as I see fit. The only problem is... well, the biggest one there could be: I can't decide on the content. I know I want it on my foot (I am TOTALLY stealing this idea, and I give full credit to my friend - I'm REALLY sorry for being a copy cat!). I also know I want it to be full of color. I like the concept of a phoenix, because I like things that signify strength. I also like the dragon concept, just because they are badass. But I'm not finding exactly what I want so far. I want it to be very feminine in style. Sara brought up a good idea that this new tattoo should be in honor of Havillah. I certainly like the concept, but I don't know how to work that into a tattoo. Can you guys look these pictures over and give me some feedback? Thanks!







Hmmm... but part of me likes the concept of using water. Check out the tattoo below. I'm not sure how exactly this would work on the top of my foot, but it allows me to use a lot of color and the waves are also a bit symbolic to me. I really like to colors in the second one...

Florence & The Machine (Take Two)

After all the positive feedback I got from my last post, I thought it pertinent to let you know Florence & The Machine are coming to Vancouver, CA on April 14th (Wednesday) and The Showbox in Seattle on April 15th (Thursday). Although I won't be able to make it, I hope you all royally consider it. Tickets don't sound that bad, either.

By the way, check out their tour. I AM VERY JEALOUS! I might want to plan a trip around the world just based off this list of destinations! :)

Florence & The Machine

I must give credit and thanks to my friend Matt for introducing me to the gloriousness of Florence & The Machine. I've been listening to it every day for two weeks straight now. And I still can't get enough! I've posted my two favorite songs below, but if you like it at all, PLEASE check them out on your own time. EVERY song is incredible. EVERY song is not to be missed.

I love the use of drums (of course), but her voice, the lyrics, the fantastic build up and delivery of tempo... sigh. It is everything I want and more.



This one is a live performance (in a park), with a prelude about her influences and inspirations. Good stuff!



Okay, here's one more. (I couldn't help myself.)

Drumming Song.