I've Become Unstuck In Time

It's been a minute since I've given any quips into my personal life. Since my last update, I've gotten married in the 80's, proposed secret passages through bookcases, obtained and trained a dragon, and left my job as a coffee slinger.

But don't worry. Tales of my travels will be brought forth at more appropriate times. I may start with Omnipotus Rex, the dragon who lives in my office.

A Proposal Of More Interesting Penalties

Let me start off by saying this; I only support the death penalty in extreme cases. Rape, murder, child molestation, etc. are all crimes that to me are considered most heinous and can never be punished enough. I believe that Hammurabi was onto something with his initial code. With that being said, it is important to understand that there is a major flaw in our current system of capital punishment. The end result is not nearly frightening enough. So, in an attempt to make the death penalty something to be feared, I have but a few options that I will be including in a letter to my state government.

Option 1: R.P.P.R.P.

Here in Florida, we have a space program that billions of dollars are poured into. I find it absurd that there hasn't been a "Rocket Propelled Prisoner Relocation Program" developed. So, here I offer the R.P.P.R.P. This program will give the prisoner two separate options; either be fired into the sun, or fired to the furthest reaches of our solar system. I find this to be the finest solution I have to offer.

Option 2: The Prank Chair

The timeless form of capital punishment might be the electric chair, but there is no romanticism about it. This option gives the prisoner more of a guessing game when it comes time. The switch would operate on an entirely random rotation that would have a faulty switch. This would be like a psych-out that everyone would have a good laugh about. Gotcha!

Option 3: Thunderdome

This could be called a number of things (I find that Thunderdome has more of an effect than Mortal Kombat, etc.). This is exactly how it sounds; pit the prisoner against someone with a much higher skill set, so that the prisoner is at a great disadvantage. Provide the prisoner with no weapons and let them have at it. If the prisoner survives, they get a plaque or trophy of some sort. Maybe a mug that says "World's Greatest Thunderdomer."

Option 4: Story Time

This might be the worst of the three options. In this option, the prisoner is forced to read novel after novel of rather terrible authors. Danielle Steele, Janet Evanovich, Tom Patterson, and an assortment of other mediocre at best authors will offer their titles personally to these prisoners, and ask for a book report upon completion. This would be a life sentence. An alternative option would be having to watch episodes of Sally Jesse Raphael and Oprah in succession.

In the end, I find that these options are far more interesting and give a much greater incentive to keep from committing violent crimes. I will begin taking signatures for the petition I will be sending to the state as an initial proposal that will hopefully move on to larger government bodies. Thank you in advance.

Failed Careers In Music: A Game Of You (2002 - 2006)

There is something to be said about Converge and Botch. These two bands have had such an insane influence on technical hardcore and heavy music in general that there are almost no other bands that can bear the name "Pioneer." Just like hundreds of other bands, A Game Of You felt that heavy influence, and it is apparent in the final recording we did.

The first time I saw A Game Of You, I had just joined Virginia Is For Lovers. Watching AGOY at the time was like watching a madman screaming at a ragtag bunch of musicians without any sort of compassion or remorse. I remember being afraid of Steve, but thinking the bass player then looked like a total bozo. So, AGOY played a few shows before I had heard they kicked out the drummer, guitar player, and bass player during that time (keep in mind that once I had joined the band, I had jammed with 2 separate drummers and 4 guitar players). So came my attempt at joining the band.

Since the band was based out of Orlando, I had to ride out to O-town with Steve, who I had met once, just to try out for the band. Imagine the most awkward drive ever. This was more awkward. I'm pretty sure Steve wanted me dead (though later he got me into some of the greatest music ever). So, this tryout took place in an empty bedroom and Steve and Andrew's moms house. I made the band. So, the lineup when I joined was Steve LaCour, Andrew LaCour, Taylor Nathe, and I believe a kid named Junior? (Andrew/Steve, correct me if I'm wrong).

Then came my first show with the band. By this time, Junior was out, and Eric was in. This first show, however, was a good 13 hour drive away in Richmond, VA. I didn't mind since we got to play with Cursed in a living room. The drive up, however, was like some twisted circle of hell. We didn't have a van, so we rented a minivan, which did not fit half of our equipment, not to mention the 7 people that had to get there. This meant there were no backseats. For 13 hours. The trip ended up being awesome, though.

Once we got back, the lineup changed not too long after. Taylor was out, and Josh was in. At some point, Eric was out, and Ken was in. We played Tallahassee with our good friends in youTragedy. We played the first This Is For You Fest (in which we covered Coalesce's You Can't Kill Us All). Sometime soon afterwards, Ken was out. At this point, we remained a 4 piece for quite awhile.

It wasn't for a few months that Brad joined the band. This is when we started writing the only good music we wrote. With the lineup being Steve, Andrew, Josh, Brad, and myself, we recorded Demo 2005. Here is the tracklisting;

1. The Flood Year

2. Glorious Weapon

3. Dorian Gray

4. These Days Get Colder

At some point, we played the second and third This Is For You Fests, did a short tour with Dead To Fall (everything I eat tastes like pizza), and played some random shows. It was after this point where we decided that it was about time to call it quits. We played our final show (which was ridiculous). There was sweat. There was blood. There were shirts ripped and ear drums blasted. And I couldn't have had a better time.

Today, Steve is playing bass and ripping off faces in the band Trap Them. Andrew and Josh are playing in a band called Khann, which is also ripping off faces. Brad is playing in a band (although I am not sure what they are called). I haven't spoken to Ken or Eric in a few years, so I'm sure they are doing well. And I see Taylor every now and again at good punk rock shows. Other than that, the end was rather quiet, and the few fans we had have long forgotten about us by now.

If anyone has a copy of Demo 2005, please get to me as soon as possible. I'd like to upload it if possible. There are other recordings, so maybe I'll post a discography if I can.

God Bless You, Mr. Vonnegut

There are very few authors deserving of the "Greatest Author In The World" title. I hold a select few close to my heart. Bret Easton Ellis, Tom Robbins, Charles Bukowski, and William S. Burroughs are but a few. And of course there are a few books that have completely destroyed my entire world view. Here is where I insert American Psycho, Fight Club, The Heart Is Deceitful Above All Things, Women, and House of Leaves. But there is not a being in the UNIVERSE that has fueled my endless quest for literature such as the one and only Kurt Vonnegut.

During a time where English teachers believed that books like The Poisonwood Bible and The Things They Carried were masterpieces that high schoolers would be interested in, my senior year English teacher Mr. Brown gave me a list of required readings (which I kept because of the amazing pieces included in it). Having to choose between 1984, Jitterbug Perfume, When I Was Five I Killed Myself, and Slaughterhouse Five, I took a chance and chose the latter.

It was this single, random choice that sprung me back into the world of literature. With his dark sense of humor, his complete understanding of science fiction, and his affinity for social satire, Mr. Vonnegut truly mastered a form that did not come off as pretentious, overly intelligent, or childish. It was perfect. And had it not been for this man, it would have taken me much longer to start reading again.

So, thank you, Mr. Vonnegut. You have shown the world that it is OK to laugh at yourself. And you have shown us that it doesn't take a lifetime of hard living to kill us. And you have shown me that amazing literature isn't about how well you use multi syllabic words, but how well you can connect with the person reading it. It is about telling a great story that a person will never forget. It is all about us.

"I urge you to please notice when you are happy, and exclaim or murmur or think at some point, 'If this isn't nice, I don't know what is.'"

So it goes.

Failed Careers In Music: Total Recall (2003-2003)

Of all my endeavours in music, I would say that this was the first band I had an inkling of pride to be in. Of course it all fell to shit, but what hasn't, really? Anyway, in the wake of Virginia Is For Lovers breaking up, I felt the need to play music once again. It was at this time I joined two bands, the first of which was called Total Recall. I believe the band was called Alliance first, then Allegiance, until we finally settled on one of the greatest movies of all time as a band name. Eat your heart out, Kuatto.

Anyway, after being in a band that sounded like a shitty Misfits ripoff and an underoath worship band, it was nice to be in a band that played fast melodic-hardcore stylings. We didn't do anything special. We didn't even have a proper release. But we had fun while it lasted, so I deemed it necessary to write about it.

When the band first started, it was Mikey Hawkins, Tyler Trular, Matt Fisher, Tom Fuquay, and myself. This ragtag bunch got a few songs together and eventually went to record a couple songs in Gainseville with Rob McGregor. These two songs, one of which eventually became a Years From Now song, were later added to a few others to fill out a demo. Here is the track listing;

1. The Tourist Agenda

2. Mend

3. A.D.D.

4. The Children's Crusade

5. Shut Your Mouth (And Sympathize)

6. Photocopy

7. Tractor Man

Tractor Man was written by our monstrous and terrifying friend Derrick (who is currently incarcerated for bank robbery and a handful of other criminal acts).

Eventually, Tyler was out of the band, to which we added Viking Lord Justin Lauer to bang on the skins of men he'd sacrificed for sonic pleasure. This is when we recorded the 5 songs not recorded in the first session.

We played some shows. There was a miniature tour that I did not partake in. We even played a benefit show for our friend Mr. Ladwig who had passed (who VIFL played a reunion at as well). This was the same show Matt "had something in the parking lot" for any outted rapists in the crowd.

Some point after this, I quit being in Total Recall because my friends are racists. Derrick took my place as bass player. Not too long after, Matt decided to move to Richmond, VA, which led to Tom becoming the vocalist, which led to Josh Herrin playing guitar. They played two shows (?) after this, one being a show with Scraps and Heart Attacks, Thieves and Assassins, and Crime In Stereo. This was the same show Tom introduced a new song called "God Lives In Virginia" which never got recorded, which is probably for the best.

Currently, Justin is beardless. Tom is a father. Matt is a soon to be father. Mikey still smells like pesto. Josh is in Korea serving in the military. Derrick is in Virginia, where he is serving time for one of the most ridiculous crime sprees I've ever heard of.

I do have recordings of this band, so once I eventually get around to figuring out the technology, I will upload it for your listening pleasure.

Dreams Are Said To Be The Pathway To Thy True Self; I Fight Cheetahs With Fruit Punch

I don't even think this entry needs an introduction.

So, for some reason, my family had relocated to some tiny country in Africa. Because we had lost all of the conveniences of the United States, we were put into a training class in order to learn how to farm. This included a seminar on irrigaiton. Unforunately, this seminar did not last long enough.

Right as we got into the good stuff, a team made up of a male lion and a cheetah came strolling into the camp, knowing full well that we had no way to arm ourselves against any sort of wild animal attack. So, of course, everyone is in a panic.

This is when I realize my dad is nowhere to be found in the seminar. I realize this because he pulls up in a golf cart and begins to take down the lion bare handed. At some point in our trip, it had escaped my mind that he became a big game wrangler. So, this leaves me to deal with the cheetah.

My only response is to throw something at it. The only thing I have in my hand is the Big Gulp of fruit punch I brought with me from the U.S., so I throw it promptly. This hits the cheetah, and (this is the most realistic part of the dream) this does not deter the ravenous predator from futher advancing. The cheetah pounces.

And once he lands on me, he pulls out, from behind his back, a huge ball of yarn. I try to get up, but the cheetah pins me down and hands me the ball of yarn. Apparently, I am not allowed up because I am forced to play a game of yarn-ball with it.

Then I wake up.

Failed Careers In Music: Virginia Is For Lovers (2003 - 2003)

Here is another attempt at music that was a horrible failure (as some would consider). I however, found this band to be a success for a number of reasons. Some people actually did like this music, as well as the fact that it does exist on my iPod. So, here is a brief history of a band that I used to be in (which was much better than the last).

After Dead End Dreams broke up, we tried to do another band, which resulted in one practice and no results. I wanted to play music, and had heard that a few mutual friends of Every Waking Moment need a bass player (Mikey wasn't cutting it, obviously, with his lack of talent and looks, and whatever else he lacks). It consisted of Tom Porter (guitars/vocals for Runner Up, a popular local pop-punk band at the time), Chad Smith with his flaming red mane, and a 15 year old Danny Skelly. I showed up at Tom's house at the time with my combo amp, ready to learn some songs, which I did and we played no more than 11 shows, but more on that later.

The sound of this band would be somewhat considered screamo (as far as the mainstream version of this went), with bands like Underoath, I Have Dreams, Boys Night Out, and Hot Cross as a few influences. Unfortunately, none of us had experience playing this music, so I guess you could say it was good for beginners. Anyway, we decided to record. Our three song EP was called XOXO, and was recorded by local ska-punk band leader Jim Nefferdorf of Brownie Points fame. Here's the tracklist;

1.Blood On The Moon

2.Close My Eyes

3.If I Had A Knife

So we started playing shows, 11 total, and crossed the state of Florida, which was cool since that was a first for most of us. We even played at The Social in Orlando, which was quite odd. We became friends with a band called If I Should Die in Jacksonville, and were close with Every Waking Moment, so they always had shows for us. We played in Lake Wales once, and Haines City (which is the South Daytona to Daytona Beach, essentially). Lake Wales had a creepy, abandoned hotel we went into, which I will never go into again. We met Andy, who was a super good dude, and actually had a great deal of fun in this band.

We eventually wrote a few more songs, which I wish we had recorded (The only title I can remember from any of them was "On Top Of The World, At The Foot Of This Hotel"). We even did a cover of Tatu's "All The Things She Said" (which was awesome). I'm not quite sure how we called it quits, but we did.

Today, Tom and Danny live together in Texas. Danny is an incredible artist, while Tom still writes damn good music. Chad just got a job working for the Gainesville Sun. And we all know where I stand. I miss these guys.

Failed Careers In Music: Dead End Dreams (2002 - 2002)

Of my many musical forays, I will always have a black mark on my record. Sure, we've all had our embarrassing first bands (for those of you who play instruments). But none so great as the abomination that hit Daytona in 2002. Just thank the heavens that this monstrosity stayed within city limits, and lasted less than a handful of months. Welcome to the story of Dead End Dreams.

First of all, there really isn't much to say about a band that's name came up while the drummer was taking a shit. The band started out as three kids banging on newly acquired instruments. I had just gotten my first bass, while Josh had just gotten his first guitar. The first time we ever played together consisted of playing shitty Linkin Park covers in his bedroom, while his creepy brother pulled all of his hair out from some disorder. At some point, Austin gets his first drumset, which he sets up and bangs on for a few weeks before we decide to start putting music together.

So we start getting some things loosely written and realize that we don't have a singer. At this point, we promptly recruit Calvin, a 19 year old Misfits fanatic who was a bit loud, but thought that it would be alright. He also had a car, which the three 15 year olds in the band didn't. So, we write.

With hit songs like "Necrobeastiality" and "Crash and Burn" we decided to try out a set of shitty covers and even shittier originals at some birthday party in Josh's front yard. Terrible. There was also the tiny show we played in my parents backyard. Horrific. After getting a taste of playing to other people, we thought it would be a good idea to see about playing a Daytona Hardcore show. Being newcomers, we had no idea what was going on. Our first show was basically every Daytona band we knew playing the Church. Runner-up, The Autumn Offering, Fortitude, Every Waking Moment, and Dead End Dreams played. And blew.

This was the notorious show where the cover of Minor Threats "Small Man, Big Mouth" was accompanied by Calvin reading the lyrics off a tiny pad of paper in his hand. Thus solidifying our place outside of Daytona Hardcore, and officially banning us from the Cool Club.

There was also the show at the abandoned-movie-theatre-turned-venue called Almost Music, with Of A Divergent Blood, Every Waking Moment, The Autumn Offering, Suffocate Faster, Affront, and A Life Once Lost (what?). This clusterfuck of a makeshift battle of the bands was also the night I lost my virginity, thus putting a nice cap on the end of our streak as Daytona's Second Worst Band.

So, there it is. The most embarrassing period of time in my life. Today, Josh is in Korea serving in the army. Calvin is a tattoo artist somewhere in the tiny state of Connecticut. Austin is a father of a boy named Asa and lives in Orlando. And you all know my story. I will say this; if anyone has tape recordings or video of this colossal auditory STD, then let me know. I'd love to make sure the world never sees it again.

Dreams Are Said To Be The Pathway To Thy True Self; I Am Not Afraid of Ground Beef Monsters

Here is the second dream that rocked my subconcious years ago, though I still remember every detail. Keep this tiny fact in mind; I've never done drugs. And here we go;

In this dream, I had a job on a cruise ship. Unfortunately, it was not the glamourous cruise ship job we all want one day. My job description entailed packing ground beef into 7 designated closets. Don't ask me why. But I did my job as well as I could. Until I finished the 6th closet. I turned around to retrieve the last back of ground beef to be packed, and when I turned back, all of the closets I had previously packed were empty. So, in a fit of rage, I threw down my apron and left.

When I walked up onto the deck of the ship, I noticed a crowd of people staring into the water. I decide to take a look, only to discover that there is a monster made of ground beef attacking the hull of the ship. My initial reaction is "well, there it went." Everyone disperses because they realize that it cannot get onto the deck.

Suddenly, the monster is on the deck. Everyone freaks out. The monster begins walking towards a group of people, the whole time transforming into a more human shape. It is then I realize that the monster has transformed into a naked Cuba Gooding, Jr. Then I wake up, confused. Again.

What?

My Parents; The Model of Being A Kid While Being Responsible

I have the greatest parents in the world. It's as simple as that. And there isn't a person who could argue that, because if you did, you'd be wrong.

Growing up, I was one of the few kids who had parents who were actually together. As I got older, I began to realize that what should have been a normal situation was not the case, and was actually the reverse of most people. My friends whose parents were still together also hated each other, so it was kind of weird to say "my life is normal" to them without feeling like a braggart.

Here is why my parents are the best, though. It is not every day you meet adults who are young at heart. Sure, they didn't have an easy life, but they had enough sense to understand that we are only here once. They knew what they liked and what they wanted, and they always got it because they worked for it. It might not have always been practical, but it made us all happy.

My mom is the mom who is the nicest person. Ever. She busts her ass working in food service just to save up for some wild Disney vacation. She's not a good dancer, but she dances anyway (which I think both my brother and I have acquired that trait). She is super ticklish, but you don't even have to tickle her to torture her (spider hands work just fine). Most importantly, she was always that mom who defined mother. She sacrificed everything to raise us. If she wasn't at a baseball practice, she always made it to the games. Half the time, I thought she worked at my school because she was so involved with PTA. When I moved out the first time, it broke my heart to see how disappointed and scared she was for me. And she was right. But when I had to move back in, she kept a room just in case. She saved my life.

My dad is a bit of a different story. Deep down, I know he cares, but he's quiet about it. My sex talk was him tossing me a box of condoms and saying "you know how to use these" (oh how wrong was he). He taught me how to throw a baseball (even though I still throw sidearm). I knew he always had hard jobs, so I always tried not to bother him as much. For as long as I can remember, he has driven a Chevy Camero. Some of my friends say he looks like a less crazy, better looking Gary Busey (and he kind of does) but he hates it so much that I have blocked that thought from my mind. I would say he reminds me of a less Scientology-y John Travolta (sans cleft chin). But despite the quirks, he always showed me that it was important to treat women right. He always showed my brother and I that my mother was just as important to him as we were. He was the example of a man that every child should have in their life (thanks dad).

I have always felt guilty growing up without some hardship. Yeah, we didn't have alot of money. Sure, we didn't always have the coolest new toys. But we had food. And clothes. And a decent house to live in. And a family that cared about everything you did. And I couldn't have asked for a better childhood.

So thank you, Mom and Dad. I never say that enough.

A Case Of Multiple Identities

Growing up, I lived in a normal neighborhood. We lived on the corner, and there were a number of kids down the road, although I was the only one born in 86. Everyone else was either 2-3 years older or younger than me, so I eventually resorted to bookworming. Between Goosebumps, Animorphs, and fighting with David Valderama, I didn't really have an interesting childhood.

It wasn't until I was almost out of high school that I noticed the anomaly that lived at the end of my road. I'm still not sure what his name is, or if he is even considered sane, but I do know this; he was never the same person twice in one week.

My first memory of this man was his house. It wasn't that he lived in a house that was covered with elven decor or painted with psychedelic vomit. It was a normal brown house in Coventry Forest. Most people would drive right by it and not think twice...if it weren't for the 20 or so vacuum cleaners posted in his driveway.

The man had a collection of cleaners that were continuously on sale. What was worse is that it always seemed that they were different. And it wasn't often that you would see him sitting outside trying to sell them, but every now and again, he'd be out there. In a robe. Or a dress. Or a state troopers uniform. Or a Muslim head dress.

There was also the story of my late night encounter with this gentleman. It had to be 4 in the morning, coming home from Orlando or a friends house (the event doesn't matter). As I go to turn into my neighborhood, I see a man directing traffic towards my road. It wasn't until I was 50 feet from the man that I noticed it was the vacuum salesman. In full trooper garb and caution vest. Alright then.

The next day, I pull up next to a white molester van only to notice that it was the vacuum salesman/traffic trooper. Only this time, he was wearing a sundress, full makeup, and diamond earrings. In a windowless van.

I hadn't seen him for months after that, mostly due to my busy schedule, or my aversion to seeing him, but the next time I did, it seemed that he found religion in Islam. His beard had come in nicely, terroristly, and his head dress was certainly traditional turban.

Since I moved from the neighborhood, I don't see him so much. The last time I did, though, his yard was still dressed with cleaners and a new addition; sewing machines. I mean, all I know is that if I ever really met this man, I'd be afraid to shake his hand, but afraid that if I didn't, he'd hurt me in some horrific, torturous way.

So, godspeed, Mr. Identity Crisis. May all your personalities thrive and be successful.

The Aught Years: A Momentous Decade In Review

Since the 2000's were such a pivotal time in my life, I deem it necessary to look back and relive a decade of rollercoaster ups and downs. You may not like it. I may not like it. Does that really matter? The decade gave every person a different adventure, and this just happens to be the one I went on. Not to mention I hit more than one milestone birthday in these years. Since so much happened to me, I will try to highlight two major points from each year. 2006 might be a bit longer. So, lets begin.

2000: In the year 2000, I was finishing up 8th grade, and starting high school. At the time, all the people surrounding me were already talking about dropping out, starting to do drugs, and other teenage mistakes. I began separating myself from many of my middle school friends when I heard that a kid we hung out with slept with his brother's 400 pound, bedridden wife. Not sure if this is true, but I will carry that story with me.

At the start of my freshman year of high school, one of my best friends from middle school died. He saved a little girl from drowning, and gave his life to do so. Rashaad Worship is still missed.

2001: This is the end of my freshman year. I have been going to shows for the entire year now, and no matter the bands, I was there. So spring music fest comes around, and I meet a girl. This is my first real girlfriend, and I get excited. We date for 8 short months, and my heart is broken. First love. Blegh. This same year, this ex takes my virginity behind an abandoned movie theatre turned music venue after a show my first band (Dead End Dreams) plays with countless other bands, in my good friends 84 mustang. It was a good night.

This year was the year that I got my first bass guitar. A dark blue Ibanez GSR200. I still have this bass. I learned too many Linkin Park songs on it.

I also met Mike Andrews and Mikey Hawkins this year. Mikey hated me because he thought I called his girlfriend fat. What he missed was that I actually said "Mikey has fat eyebrows. Tweeze that shit." In high school, things get misconstrued. Now we're good friends. I wish Mike Andrews still had teal hair.

2002: This year, I meet my second serious girlfriend. This is where I later find out that she cheats on me with my first girlfriend. And my bad luck with women truly begins.

At this point, Dead End Dreams has disbanded, ridding the world of shitty Misfits ripoffs and songs about fucking dead pets. The world rejoices in peace. I then join a band that sounded like what I imagined Underoath to sound like at it's first practice sessions, sans keyboards. Virginia is for Lovers is born, and spreads "I Close My Eyes" and the XOXO EP throughout Central Florida.

At the later end of the year, I join A Game Of You, which began with strange car rides with a man I barely knew to a town I'd never been in to practice. This band was fun and loud. This band broke up in 2006.

2003: This is the beginning of my senior year. I meet my third serious girlfriend (who I am still good friends with). A car is stolen. My friends skate in Planet Smoothie. I believe that Brand New's Deja Entendu came out this year as well. This summer is the first of endless shitty b-movies rented from blockbuster. With titles like Nail Gun Massacre, Texas Chainsaw Hookers, Demonwarp, and Unmasked 25, the summer was certainly well spent.

This was also the first year of This Is For You Fest in Daytona Beach. There was no better way to end a year with acts like Good Clean Fun (covering Bohemian Rhapsody in a room full of mongoloids), Darkest Hour, Black Cross, Sex Positions, and countless other bands. This became a yearly trend until the last few years, but no amount of fun could be compared to the ridiculousness those three days would always bring.

2004: I graduate and start college. Of course, my list of friends is cut in half as people move away, stop talking, communicate through myspace, etc. It's kind of a bummer? But I always looked at it as trimming the fat.

This is another summer of stealing, poolhopping, random vandalism, amazing horror films, and genuine fun with friends. Party pizzas were had. I believe Austin almost killed himself jumping off the highest point of the Capri into a pool. This may have also been the year that we laid waste to Daytona Beach, screaming "BLOW JOBS" at random people walking on the beach, all while running as if following Sir William Wallace into battle.

Whats most important for me this year is that my brother and I actually stop fighting about stupid shit and start hanging out. He ended up surpassing me in coolness, as I take myself too seriously.

2005: For a long time, I marked this year as the peak and decline of the decade. Here is the series of events that explain this. Tara and I break up. I seek rebound. I get rebound pregnant, and spend the next year and a half wanting to smash my skull with another, much more solid and heavier skull. I spent hours figuring out how much better it would be pouring acid into open wounds than it would be to continue on the path I was on. It got "better."

This same year, A Game of You breaks up. Bummer, because we actually started writing good music and shared a storage unit with A Flock of Seagulls. At the same time, Years From Now starts, and it is fair to say that I have not had that much fun in a band. At one point, my dad found our CD in a Virgin Mega Store in New York. Pretty awesome if you ask me.

2006: This year is easily defined as the best and worst year for me, as it involves an intricate series of events that put me in the position I am in today. Here it is; I turn 21. Riley is born. I get married against my better judgement. Fight fight fight. Smash apartment. Hate life. Don't sleep. Quit job. Find a new job. Riley's mom leaves. There is some spillover into 2007 which includes the Department of Children and Families, Divorce Court, and custody battle, which is to say that 2007 actually began looking up.

Most of this year was a blur, caused by intense rage and depression. The only thing I can really remember from that year is Riley. I remember the day I saw her. I remember waking up with her every night. I remember being Mom and Dad, and loving every minute of it. And hating everything else.

2007: Despite shitty circumstances, things started to turn around for me this year. I met a girl who was pretty cool (who eventually cheated on me. My luck with women kicked in). I actually got a promotion that October, which helped my life balance out significantly. There was still some baby mama drama, but I began to see that I had the power to let that go, which made my life that much better.

I have also started back to school. I decided that after all the drama that I was going to better myself and my life, and understand where all that nonsense comes from. So be prepared for Dr. Spiker.

Keypoints for 2007: I meet a nice girl who I eventually marry. I was told she was gay, so I stopped pursuing her until she proposed to me. She is the yin to my yang. The peas to my carrots. The black to my white. (Thank you, Callista Berrios).I also begin to reconnect with my friends, who I had lost during 2006 due to control freak issues. I also meet new friends (John Park, Jessica Workinginger, Milissa Taube). What is most important is that I am able to smile at life, not just at Riley.

2008: I spend this year in a new place, with a new life. There is less drama. There is less worry. I have everything I need but more money, but I can care less because I am happy. There are some frustrations, but that is all part of life, and I have stopped sweating the small stuff. And I got married to a spicy latina/AZN lady.

Riley has gotten to a point where her personality is really starting to show. She dances, enjoys music, and has an odd sense of humor, but it is really great to see someone you've been taking care of their whole life begin to develop into a completely different person.

This same year, Years From Now comes to a close. We had a good run, but for the most part, there wasn't much more we could do. We had a final show where everyone wore white t-shirts. It was one of those years where someone either tears up from being so happy or from knowing that things aren't always so bad. That is how I felt that year.

2009: This last year has been normal. I have now begun a number of musical projects (Futures, Hero City, Rumors, and Limiter), and have finally been able to start collecting comic books. I'm reading every day, and I am less than a year away from completing my Bachelors degree. I will begin my Master's program in (10 in) 2010. And our wedding is going to be spectacular. Prepare yourselves, because I have a feeling that this is just the beginning.

There you have it. Sorry it wasn't shorter, but it could have been much longer. I can't even think of anything else I could get into after all that, other than details details details. I will say this; this next decade is gonna be a doozy. I have a feeling the future is ours.

Here's to everything that lies ahead.

Star Wars Has Made Your Life Infinitely Boring

Ok, so I'm a bit of a nerd. But as far as I am concerned, so is a good three quarters of the population of the world. You find me a person who is not a Star Wars fan, and I will be glad to show you my Roy Orbison tattoo. Whether you are a casual fan, or a mega fan, the difference doesn't matter. And for those of you who say "I don't like Star Wars," or "I've never seen it," I've got some news for you; whether you like it or not, you cannot deny that the Star Wars saga is the greatest story ever told. So fuck you, James Cameron.

But with all great things, there are complications. For a large number of the population, Star Wars has all but ruined every life it has touched. Ruined. A New Hope? Forget real hopes. I can explain why in a little list I've compiled to explain why your life will NEVER be as awesome as Star Wars;

1. There is not a single person in your life as smooth, charming, or ruggedly cool as Han Solo.

2. There is not a person in the world who hasn't gotten off to Carrie Fisher in a golden bikini.

3. The force is some crazy psychic entity that can be manipulated by an entire group of people called knights. You do not have the force.

4. Luke Skywalker has set an unbeatable record for "Zero to Hero" speed, proving it can be done, but you can't do it until your 20th high school reunion.

5. Obi Wan Kinobi is an awesome name, but anyone who calls themselves that in real life ends up with an insane wedgie.

6. Light Sabers do not exist.

7. You will never hear the words "That's no moon," during a full moon and it be true.

8. Wookies will never rip your arms off if they lose.

9. A gay droid will never call you master.

10. Your car, motorcycle, or any other vehicle will never be able to navigate the Kessel run in less than 12 parsecs.

11. A tall, dark, and sinister man will not be chasing you in a large star destroyer in order to coerce you into joining him on the dark side, where the two of you can rule the galaxy as an empire of evil action and of such immense proportion that only the Hutts will be out of reach, although empire credits will be flowing into their pockets. Planets will not be destroyed. People will not be choked with invisible magic. And if you're kissing your sister, you live in Virginia, and are not on vacation on the forest moon of Endor.

So, I may apologize for destroying your life, but I'm pretty sure if you've ever seen a Star Wars movie, you've left with a dissappointed and empty feeling of unfulfillment and a lifetime of mediocre events that will never be as grandiose as Luke, Leia, or even C3P0, for that matter.

Slow Down, Honey (You're Killing Him)

"Be well-versed in everything,
and be free."
An old man said this to me once.
It followed a story of a woman he loved.
About how they'd met at a carnival.
And it ended with sin dripping from her claws.
I thought about that man later.
The detail in my memory became more exaggerated than I had remembered.
His wrinkles deeper.
His eyes more faded.
His heart heavy with years spent dying.
The bench we warmed tattered and rusted.
And I could see the hurt.
And I thought about the woman he pained for.
And I hated her.
I hated the way she made me feel for him.
And hated the way he thought about her after all these years.
And that more than anything, that man wanted to be free.
So he told anyone who would listen without giving away his story.
"Be well-versed in everything.
And be free."

Dreams Are Said To Be The Pathway To Thy True Self; I Am A Male Charlie's Angel

So, I've decided to start recording my dreams, because I have realized one thing. I am out of my mind. It is apparent in my dreams, and you will soon find out exactly why. There is a reason why I don't do drugs. There is a reason why I stay sober, because I'm pretty sure if there was ever a time I was high, I'd end up in some ward shaking in a corner, wondering how I got there and when I will be thrust into the world of outlandish dreams. So, here is the first dream I remember waking up to and going "what the fuck just happened?"

It starts off sitting in an office, much like Charlie's Angels, but instead of fine ladies, its me and two dudes. We're listening to some guy talk through a speakerbox (which, I am assuming is our boss). He hands down the assignment and we are out the door.

We then encounter the supervillian we are all trying to stop. I'm not sure what his plan is, but all I can tell is that he is Hans Gruber, and he has a devilish plan. It is then that he pulls his trap, which is a large cargo net like one would see in a cartoon, or Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles II: Secret of the Ooze. This is where he unveils his plan;

"HAHA! I have in my possession the corpse of Axl Rose. Using this machine behind me, I will turn his corpse into the world's largest shark! And he will terrorize the seas with his renditions of Paradise City!"

At this point, I wake up. This is pretty much a common occurrence, so expect to hear many more sordid tales from my subconscious.

The Bangpiece

The relationship is a fluid, unpredictable, and completely ambiguous entity that plagues the entirety of the human race. What's worse is that men and women are completely different animals. The man in the relationship is oblivious, either forgetting or completely missing the needs of the female. The woman in the relationship expects the man to think like the woman, and this is just simply not possible.

So, in a world where relationships are as complicated as the Osmond family tree, there is a shining light for those who haven't found a person that compliments them entirely. There is a dessert that some may skip the main course for. For those lacking in love, there is an outlet that is like a junkie's fix, or the quencher of thirst.

This would be The Bangpiece.

Now, everyone has had a bangpiece, and if you haven't, then you're lying. Or you're a prude, and that is ok. Either way, the bangpiece is an integral part of a person's life. This is much more than the one night stand or the friend-with-benefits. The bangpiece is a continued, no-strings-attached sexual relationship where it is understood by both parties that under no circumstances will a normal relationship ever spawn. At the point of emotion, the bangpiece becomes null and void, and the relationship is thus disbanded.

Are there any real benefits to the bangpiece? Probably not. Does it replace the affection and emotion of a real relationship? Definitely not. But is it a good way to have completely robotic and emotionless sex? You betcha. There is no real moral benefit. There is no real spiritual benefit. The Bangpiece merely represents the animal nature of the human. It is the bro in all of us. It is something of mystery that is fresh and exciting to everyone.

So, if you've found your bangpiece, great. If you're still looking, you're one of three things; ugly, moral, or you suffer from a horrbile, societal disorder that keeps you from spotting and approaching a bangpiece. But much like the lochness monster, bigfoot, and other creatures of legend, the bangpiece is an elusive being, and once one is discovered, it doesn't manage to stay around for long. That, or you're hideously deformed. Yuck.

Growing Older In A Place Where Everything Is Supposed To Stay The Same

Here's the thing; whether you like it or not, the older you get, the more dead punk rock gets. And it isn't the scene itself. It's all you. You're the jaded asshole standing on the side of the stage, telling your friends "they were better when we were 16." And they were. And even though you're not old, these things aren't supposed to change.

And it isn't the band, either.

Theres a certain amount of jadedness that comes along with age in punk rock. Stage dives aren't nearly as awesome if you aren't doing them with your friends (although they are still great). Sing alongs are forever a staple in my youth, and I feel that they will continue well into my future. But no matter what, nothing will amount to seeing shows 7-8 years ago, where everyone would sing along.

Shows in Daytona used to be better than any city you could imagine. Whether there were 15 or 150 kids at a show, it wouldn't matter. Bands would make it a point to stop in Daytona, just because they would leave with some sordid tale of Daytona kid antics. In a later piece, I'll discuss the ridiculousness that was Springbreakdown (any year), Gay Biker Dude Crew, and the Night of Terror in Ponce Inlet.

So, am I too old to enjoy a good punk rock show? I'll say this; just the other night, I went and saw some of my favorite bands, and was not as moved as I used to be. Every band was great, and I got to hear every song I wanted to, but it wasn't the same. A week later, I one of the same bands, and I got goosebumps watching them. The fire is still there, that is for certain. But I have a feeling that I'll be one of those old men who tells tales of fantastical shows where boogie boards were used to crowd surf, and everyone wore painted handlebar mustaches.

"Let me tell you this story about a man who got naked and scared a bunch of young kids while playing music..."

Comrade Profile Part 5; A Life Across The Hall From Mr. Spiker

There are few people who can say that they have decent relationships with their siblings. And for a long time I didn't. Spending three years as an only child, I never really grew out of that selfish phase, but I always had to deal with the fact that because I was older, I had to be a role model and be responsible. In other words, I had to be a big brother. So, then began the life of sharing and hanging out with someone who I had to be nice to. Weird concept, I know.

So, for the first few years, we shared a room. We had bunkbeds, which was always pretty cool. Our room was always trashed, and our parents always wanted us to clean up, but we didn't. I'm pretty sure we didn't see the carpet of that room for a good 6 years due to Ninja Turtle, Ghostbuster, and random McD's toys scattered in an uncomfortable version of broken glass. I'd say it was a pretty good setup.

But I got older, and that selfish older brother who suddenly became embarassed by everything kicked in. I wanted my own room. I opted to take the room across the hall, which was half the size of the shared room. But it was mine, and I stopped being roommates with the younger sibling who at the same time I started to quarrel with daily.

There were almost always fights about things kids fight about, which I realize now were entirely my fault. Jesse smashed my legos. That was because I had all the cool legos and left him with the pirates and cops, while the spacemen and underwater dudes ruled my army. I had the cool ninja turtles and their villains, while he got X-man who was missing one arm and Baxter Stockman, sans wings (although he almost always picked Mondo Gecko, who was a pretty sick character).

But even through these stupid fights about childish things, there was always a sense of pride I took in being a big brother. I believe if you asked a one David Valderama about his bloody nose, he can account for that. Whenever we would fight with the neighbor boys (who lived next door for a year, maybe), my brother was left out of the neighborhood fun. So, in standing up for him, I take a punch to the head, which leads to a one David Valderama getting his nose flattened, leaving the Spiker boys to rule the neighborhood.

Now we're adults, and in the last few years, through all the shit, Jesse has been a huge support. When I take myself too seriously, Jesse is there to knock me down a few pegs. And I would say that his newly discovered wit and charm would rival that of a Ryan Reynolds Van Wilder interpretation. I haven't been the best brother over the years, but no matter what, I'd say that Jesse has always been the kind of brother someone would want in their life.

So, I'm sorry for the shit, and I'm glad we're related, most of the time. I can be a dick, but you keep me in check. I'd tell you I'd love you, but after living a life across the hall from Mr. Spiker, I'd say that might be a bit "Mikeysexual."

Letters To My Daughter; Year 3

Dear Riley,

I'm sorry. I know your life is hectic, and there are too many people in your life telling you what to do. I just want you to know it isn't your fault. I know it doesn't make sense, but it will later, I promise. I wish I could explain better, but one day you'll be old enough to understand that your situation isn't exactly normal. But I think that will give you a bit of spice in your personality. Almost everyone has a mommy and daddy, but not everyone gets a Callista, you're right. I didn't get a Callista until I was 22. You're a very lucky girl.

I'm also sorry that I yell. It breaks my heart seeing you sad, and I'm not trying to be mean. I know you're a good kid, but it is something I have to do right now. I hate being the parent, but someone needs to be, and I think you'll appreciate it later. You're the best thing that has ever happened to me, and I don't ever want to waste a day putting you in time out. I want to spend everyday making you laugh and seeing you smile. And I'm sorry I can't be with you every day. It won't always be like this.

One day you're going to meet someone that is going to take your heart away from me. And I will hate them. And when they break it, I'll be that person that puts it back together. Boys like Wade are stupid. I don't care if he's three years old. There are always going to be people who love you, but I always want you to remember that I love you more than all of them. I will always love you more than all of them.

I don't want you to be like your mother. I don't want you to be like me, either. I want to see who you are. Just remember things like the Golden Rule, music is the constant that brings people together, and that you did it yourself (god didn't help you). You're already so headstrong and confident, and so intelligent. Stay that way. It's more important than being good looking.

And of everything I just told you, I just hope you live the life you want to live, whatever it may be. You're more important than you will ever know.

Love,

Dad

A Brief And Eye-Opening Lesson On The Art Of The Compliment Burn

There is no other burn like the compliment burn, plain and simple. I could spend days, months, and years coming up with ways to destroy an ego, or to minimize self esteem in any number of people. Negativity is almost always a give in. There is no real art to it, however. Normal "burns" tend to be instinctual, and almost automatic, rather than thoughtful and clever. Sure, telling someone they smell worse than John Candy's socks after filming Planes, Trains, and Automobiles isn't bad, but it took me longer to type that than to think of it, which is saying alot.

This is why the compliment burn is such an important and lost art in the happiness crushing daily conversation.

Of course, this cannot come as a constant tool in use. Compliment burns only work if they are sparse, much like the sprinkling of chocolate chips on the best negative-asshole cake you've ever had. The cake is so sweet, and it really hits the confidence crushing spot, but that little bit of cake is nothing compared to the bit of chocolate you find every now and then.

So, what is a compliment burn? Well, rather than the John Candy remark, one would follow through with "you smell better than a house full of roses." But, it isn't this simple. Following the path of the Boomarang burn, the Compliment burn has to be preceded by any sort of negative burn. So, if someone tells you "I hope you die," your follow up would be "I hope you life a long and prosperous life." This is just a simple example.

Then next time a negative nancy comes your way, and tells you to fuck off, a "have a nice day" will work much better, because it will not only confuse his primate brain, but will also trigger a great deal of anger that he will not understand. It will create a black hole of depression in the man's soul, and eventually will cripple him emotionally. And if you believe in Kharma and the Golden Rule, this will fit right into your arsenal of tools that will get you into that next life as a bird, or whatever.

So, I hope you all have a nice day. You all deserve it.