Splitting Tens - LVNV

"Facebook Timeline" - Your Information, Published!

2011-12-16T08:44:00.000-08:00

Recently, whilst looking through pics and following the sometimes never-ending trail of name clicking on Facebook... I came across someones page that had a bar across the top of the page that said "Mike Has A Timeline". I clicked it and it took me to the layout now featured as the "Facebook Timeline"

At the top of the page it said "Introducing Timeline: Tell Your Life Story With A New Kind Of Profile". There's a video that shows you the basics breakdown. A sort of 'online personal biography, updated regularly by you. Complete with pictures, dates, a geo-tag to show where you were and have been and checked into.. It's alot of information to put out there.

I know that we already have alot of information out on the net, and everything from personal emails to our social security number seems damn near public anyway. I just think that all seems easier to mentally digest than just putting all of your life into your facebook profile. The beginning of your timeline is marked for the day you were born. Haha.. it's just everything! I know that you don't have to put all of that information in there.. and alot of us won't, but you know that some people will. They will put it ALL in there.. lol. It seems clear now why the integration of the ticker style timeline was added prior to Facebook Timeline. Possibly it was meant to get us used to the idea if this style of information. A more dynamic approach to facebook, perhaps. Updates in near real time... and in columns of your posts. What you did, where you checked-in, and what music you have been listening to. All in separate squares in the page, side by side.. reading like a rap sheet. Everything.

For sure it will take some getting used to. I don't mean to figure out how it all works, but to get used to that level of your personality just being out for everyone to look up in a search box. I'm sure there will be privacy settings and whatnot though. With as prominent as social media has become in everyday life, this Facebook Timeline will most definitely be a game changer. Some people will hate it, someone will start a poll saying they want the old layout back. It happens every time something like this goes down. I'm willing to bet that more shows, and movies like Social Network will be released. It will be a reflection of society and our addiction to Facebook and the miniature endorphin rush we get every time someone posts on our wall or tags us! :] It will become a permanent story line in popular media!

According to the site - Facebook says you can sign up for a 7 day free trial of the timeline, and then it all goes live on December 23rd, 2011. So give it a whirl? Any reactions from the crowd? I think I like it. After all, I write on a blog, so it's kind of all out there already! :)

Currently Listening to "Tonight Is The Night"

Happy Eating! - LV food review - "Mr. Tofu"

2011-12-15T21:57:00.000-08:00

Given the choice, I am often found dining in Chinatown Las Vegas. Las Vegas has a Chinatown you say? I have been asked so many times! Indeed it does and within it you will find many of my favorite spots to drink, dine and play. One of my absolute favorites for a healthy, delicious and spicy meal is Mr. Tofu on Spring Mountain Road (3889 Spring Mountain Rd Las Vegas, NV 89102). If you like Korean-Style Food - OR - you are just in the mood for some quality spicyness: I highly recommend Mr. Tofu! Check out my Yelp! Review. Happy Eating!

I Have A Case Of The (cyber) Mondays

2011-11-28T17:00:00.000-08:00

It's that time of year again.. when attention spans start focusing on the Holidays and body weight starts shifting towards the middle. With T-Day just having passed.. it's time for a myriad of Holiday's and Traditions to keep our mind, body and wallets occupied. Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, St. Lucia's Day...

One of the more recent traditions to make the scene is Cyber Monday. Described by Wikipeida as "a marketing term for the Monday immediately following Black Friday, the Friday following Thanksgiving Day in the United States, created by companies to persuade people to shop online.."...And persuade it has. With reports of online sales surpassing even modest numbers in 2011, sites like Amazon.com are in big business. Even given the supposed current state of the economy, sales online are reaching record numbers. In a town like Las Vegas where the economy depends upon other people traveling here to have their fun - I can tell you that we have 'bounced-back' alot sooner than many people thought we would from the 2008 Global Economic Collapse. It seems that the online sales departments that handle travel, accommodation and just all around web-discounts .. are pumping out deals in high gear! Vegas is partying it up and living nicely these days.

Why buy online? I can tell you from personal experience, that it's the comfort of not having to deal with so many variables when shopping in a retail outlet. In fact, it may have become too easy to shop online with my phone, tablet, and laptop all connected to the same favorite pages to shop from. I can often times skip extra taxes, shipping costs and - headache, with shopping online. With so many integrated systems, I literally check in with facebook or google, or even amazon payments.. all my information is on file - including addresses and credit card info.. and BOOM.. signed sealed delivered.

On my first and most likely last 'Black Friday' sales trip with family, I asked out loud.. "who even shops retail anymore.. with the crowds, higher prices, and taxes". It's a wonder that more outlets haven't gone the way of Borders Bookstores. Retail stores are just so.. last century.. hahaha. I don't even go to a reatil shop for most of the items I buy in everyday life, including (but not limited to,) Vitamins, Supplements, Toiletries, and Dry goods like Oatmeal, Peanut Butter and canned soup. Yes Canned Soup! It's all delivered to my front door within 2 business days, no extra shipping and almost 100% for the lowest price around. What's not to love about all that?

How much of your shopping will you do online this year, and all year for that matter? However you get your shopping done this Holiday Season, make it count, save some money and just be happy you have the option to shop! :] See ya on the next post!

Happy Eating! - LV Food Review - India Palace

2011-11-08T11:45:00.000-08:00

A Self-Proclaimed Foodie, I enjoy going out with friends trying out new restaurants, cafes and local bars here in Las Vegas. Most recently the Crew and I checked out India Palace on the East Side of the Las Vegas Strip. It's a Quaint little spot with authentic-style Indian food. With a recent renovation, they have up'ed their style and created a much more comfortable dining experience. While I wasn't thrilled about the location, (see review) the food was worth another shot someday. Service was.. different.. but I hear they have a fantastic lunch buffet and that could rule out most service inconsistencies that I noticed. Check out my full India Palace Review On Yelp! Happy Eating!

The Magic of Total Surrender

2011-10-23T06:45:00.000-07:00

The Magic of Total Surrender

By Jafree Ozwald

www.EnlightenedBeings.com

“The greatness of a man's power is the measure of his surrender.” ~ William Booth

The word surrender is often greatly misunderstood. Surrender is not about "giving up", failing at life, or the loss of anything. Surrender is one of the most beautiful experiences life has to offer, and it is much more enlightening than you can imagine. Surrender is the gentle release of your ego's constant effort to get someone "better" than here now. It is bowing down to the Divine essence with yourself in this now moment. It is what liberates you from your ego and allows you to instantly manifest the radically joyful life that you deserve and desire. Surrender frees you from any suffering you are experiencing...instantly! The person who can fully surrender to this moment invites in such a profound clarity that they that start realizing that they are living in paradise on Earth.

Notice what happens anytime you deeply relax and let go of everything. How do you feel about your life, relationships and your future? The experience of letting go of the need to be in control of your life is such a huge relief. It's similar to the feeling of submerging your feet in a hot bubble bath after standing for 12 hours in uncomfortable shoes. An enormous release occurs the instant you stop pretending to be the general manager of the Universe, and open your mind to seeing and feeling the bigger plan which your soul is here for.

The sweet feeling of surrender creates the energy and space for the Universe to fill you up with what you were seeking. Through surrender, those feelings of emptiness caused by constant striving, pushing and trying to attain something better than "here now" become pleasantly filled with divine goodness. The deeper the let go, the more abundance, inner peace and joy will come rushing into your life. You will find that you are pure conscious intelligent energy at the core. Through surrender you discover what real love is, eternal peace, and deep fulfillment is. Only through surrendering can you discover the greatest experiences we can have.

When you consciously surrender to the Universe, you are essentially allowing the Universe to guide you and support every decision you make. If you persist in thinking that you are separate, alone and must strive harder to manifest what you want in life, you are fighting the Universe and swimming upstream. To be in control of your reality you must first surrender to it. Only through surrender can you release all energetic ego roadblocks which were hindering your path to enlightenment and the manifesting abilities that come with it. If you cannot surrender it is because the ego is protecting itself and afraid to evolve. The ego is easily threatened and can pretend to be a spiritual warrior by covering itself in armor. The true you is like sunlight, it needs no protection or defense. It is warm, loving, expansive light energy who's only requirement is to enjoy itself.

If you cannot surrender and feel your heart is covered in armor, you are blocking everything that is amazing from entering your life. How can love enter your body if the heart is guarded all throughout your day? The moment you choose the path of surrender, the armor falls away and all your subtle hidden shields around your heart become useless. Only in this space are you able to experience the profound state of peace that brings about your enlightenment. It is only through relinquishing the need to control, defend, manipulate and protect the heart that you can find true and total freedom on a deep soul level.

"That which is real cannot be threatened, and that which is unreal does not exist." ~The Course In Miracles

By giving yourself permission to trust in the perpetual progress and often hidden evolution of your soul's journey, you'll find the Universe simply takes your hand and guides you directly towards that amazing life you have been yearning for. The God Source never forsakes those who trust in its perfection. By surrendering to this moment, you are trusting the entire perfection of the Universe. This empowers you to attract the experience of seeing, feeling and knowing the perfection. Only through this understanding can the Divine Awakened Being you truly are become fully realized. It is only from this space of deep 100% trust in the Perfection, that anyone has the strength of awareness to awaken.

Perhaps the best reason to learn surrender is that the all expansive trusting feeling feels soooo good in your body! Your heart relaxes, your chest releases, your mind opens and you feel a warm sensation of peace throughout every cell inside. Trust liberates your mind from its normal goal orientated approach to life, so you can start seeing the unlimited possibilities that are available here! It allows you to tap into the greatest love available to humankind! Why would you want anything else? There is no more need to struggle. You have efforted enough.

Surrender leads to trust and trust leads you into surrender. Yet, they are always three sides to every coin. What is the path between these? This is the ultimate exploration, for you will go beyond both the experience of surrender and trust. You will find it only in that silent timeless space that is free from any effort at all. It is in this timeless gap between both trust and surrender that you become enlightened. There will come a day when you'll need to drop surrender, as there is also some effort required. Instead of trying to walk along and follow the path to freedom, you have become the Path itself. This is when you will have discovered the Divine is you.

"God is there only if you surrender. Surrender makes anything God. Surrender gives you the eyes,

and everything that is brought to these eyes becomes Divine." ~Osho

The best news of all is that practicing surrender instantly creates an incredible magic in your life. That magic is already here now and happening, yet surrender removes the blinders so that you can see and feel it again. By letting surrender take control of the steering wheel of your life, you can manifest anything you want with effortless joy and ease. Through true and total surrender to the Universe there is no goal you cannot reach and nothing you cannot accomplish. When you turn everything over to a higher power and trust that all is unfolding exactly as it should, all you can see is the perfection. This is where the real magic exists and makes you truly unstoppable in your spiritual journey towards the brightest life you can imagine.

Breast Cancer Run, Awarness and an Awesome Event

2011-05-13T14:44:00.000-07:00

My friend Melissa is a supporter of Breast Cancer and Breast Cancer Awareness. She is a Las Vegas Local that believes in Working Hard to attain the amazing things in her life. She has asked me to mention her event - 2011 Relay For Life of Las Vegas. Check out her words and the details below.

Hello friends, family and collegues,

I hope this email finds you all well!

It is that time again, The American Cancer Society Relay For Life........Team Name: Cancer Sucks...'That's What She Said' (pause for laughter)

Thanks to everyone for joining and/or donating to the Breast Cancer Walk a couple of years ago, I exceeded my financial and emotional goal by volumes!

This year, as always, I am running in honor of my mother Nellie Mendez, who is cruising toward her 8th year as a GANGSTER Breast Cancer Survivor, in addition I am running in memory of PattiAnn Gemellaro, in support of Bob Esch, a 6 year Lung Cancer Survivor and in support of Ed Augle who is fighting like and animal in his current cancer struggles.

I also run in honor of anyone in your life, including you, that has been affected by this terrible disease.

For anyone that has the means finacially to support this cause ANY donation would be appreciated....even the cost of the coffee you give up tomorrow would be put to good use!

I thank you all in advance and hope your lives are amazing!!

Melissa

(copy and paste the below link into your browser, for some reason it won't link)

http://main.acsevents.org/site/TR/RelayForLife/RFLFY11National?px=13020694&pg=personal&fr_id=34070

Spinning My Wheels

2011-03-25T03:57:00.000-07:00

"Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate.Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure.It is our light, not our darkness, that frightens us most.We ask ourselves, 'Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous,talented, and famous?'
Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God. Your playing small does not serve the world.

There is nothing enlightened about shrinking

so that people won't feel insecure around you.

We were born to make manifest the of God that is within us.
It's not just in some of us; it's in all of us. And when we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same.
As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others.”
~Marianne Williamson

Powerful Words. Religious, Spiritual or not, you have to admit that these words resonate deep. Seriously, who are you to NOT make every moment count and be the best you can be? I ask myself all the time, "can I do more, be better than I am, express the Me that is really in there that drives me everyday.." The answer is of course YES, but it is the fear of knowledge and the consistency of the unknown that holds me back.

In song the words state .."leap and the net will appear..." in other words, JUMP! Do it! Make it happen... and so on.. You've heard them all. As much as I live to do everything I can and be the best Me daily, I still fall short of every goal I can set for myself. Insecurities prevail and sometimes I hold back.. most of the time I don't, but there are many times where I said.. "I wish I would have.." Demonstrating the Being that is the Best You.. is sometimes perceived as "Stuck Up" or "Full of Yourself".. and that can sometimes make me pause and lose my rhythm... but what else is there if you are not living the best life you can live, within every moment.

Lately I have been so disillusioned with the people that surround me, and I have had to look within to see where the root of the feeling resides. I get up daily, determined to have an amazing day, provide for myself and my loved ones, and I am extremely happy about the life that I live. With that, I am also extremely thankful, and aware of the fantastic life I have. I am healthy, self-sufficient and not too bad to look at : ) I have a good job that pays me well and allows me a very happy and comfortable life-style. I am not wanting for much in the physical realm, and I do my best to give back when the Universe requests it of me. I do what I can to be a good Man.

I express the guy that I am with confidence and with alot of agression sometimes.. determined to make sure I am getting what it is exactly that I want. I say aggression, but not in the sense where I am a bully, only that I am sure that I get what I want if I have earned it. Sometimes I get shot down because someone els's insecurities wont allow them to be influenced by what I am trying to be positive about. That's the part that sucks. I live to be a strong, confident Human and have a great experience, but I get drained from a non-reciprocal society that cares only for themselves mostly, and I am left feeling as though I'm just spinning my wheels.

At times, it becomes rough, and I know I have to ask myself what am I comparing that to when I say that. The World is seeing so much pain right now, and my little bubble of who I am and where I live everyday is Eden compared to the struggles that people face on a regular basis. This life, I have asked for, is everything I want and I know can be so much more. So it's particularly up to me to Make It Mine.

It's just a rant, and a measly one at that. I have nothing to complain about really.. Life has a way of wearing on you at times. As I said I have to remember where I am and what makes Me.. Me.. and go forward living everyday like a champion. I will continue to listen to the day as it unfolds and pay attention to what is coming up and prepare myself to be ready... for whatever it is. I just ask out loud now, that I get a little help from my friends and fellow Humans in making this the best Life we can live. A small request in the grand scheme, if you think about it... huge in its response if everyone could get on board. Deep breath, stand up tall, and go forward with the patience to listen, and the understanding to hear what is happening around me.

Until next Time,

Thanks.

Workout Plan Feb 2011

2011-02-07T19:28:00.000-08:00

I have made great advances in my workout routine since i really started working on the whole process back in 2005. Along with some modifications, most of what I learned back then, is much of what I still use today. My friends are all in workout mode, like many since the start of the New Year. Given that its a month in now, an d people are starting to fade out and lose motivation due to improper health routines and improper rest habits, I thought i would drop a post about what works for me.

To begin , I would like to reference Tim Ferris who wrote the "4-Hour Workweek". It was a great resource back then for me, in many areas including workouts.. and now he has released "The 4-Hour Body" - and it is a great reference guide to workouts, and "life-hacks" in general. I post the links here so you may check them out if you wish. Remember that you can download the kindle application from your Android Marketplace or Apple App Store and download the Kindle version for a deeply discounted price. I recommended this especially for the "The 4-Hour Body".. as it is more of a manual for many life hacks and fitness ideas.. and can be referenced at any time if its on your mobile device.

So this is very similar workout program..as sent to a friend for him to use as a guide to starting out on a routine. It's not new information, but for me, I know that it is pretty close to exactly what works. Adjust it as you like.

Workout Plan Feb 2011

6 days a week - No White Grains = No Refined Sugar, No White Breads, No Liquor (they are pure Sugar) This is to be in effect for 6 days of the week. This is such an important part of the process. Sugar can really hinder your work to get fit and lose fat, and thus destroying your lean-muscle building efforts. All beverages with meals should be water. Diet soda is acceptable but not the best choice.

Water only, as often as possible, and I like to throw in a sugar-free electrolytic mix like Ultima Replenisher ...especially during or post-workout.

On Day 7 you can have whatever you want.. but be mindful not to undo all your hard work from the previous week. Have that chocolate or a few drinks, or a bigger 'comfort food style' meal. Satisfy your cravings so you don't want it again all week an can look forward to your cheat day again. Be good, but enjoy it. (this i learned from Tim Ferriss and I have been practicing it for over 5 years)

My work week begins on Wednesdays usually, so adapt this to yourself as you like.

The first 6 days - Pre Work-Out shake is at 10 a.m. - Protein Shake. I use this specific whey as it contains essential BCAAs within the mix, and this cuts down on ingesting many so supplements that I get confused! So my recipe is 1 Scoop Protein with 2-3 Tablespoons Bob's Red Mill Organic Ground Flax Meal and 1 teaspoon Cinnamon or Creatine Monohydrate.. (optional) and cold water.. shaken and taken 2 Green Tea Tablets. These tablets are for fat burning properties and added natural caffeine which aid in workouts for energy and fat burning. * I only use the Creatine Monohydrate on days that I and doing weight/resistance training. It is often said that using this as a supplement can be great for building mass. Some people like to add it to shakes pre-workout, and some post-workout.. I do both. 5 grams each time. Personalize it however you wish, if you decide to try implement it into your routine. This shake is meant to be a pre-ardio shake for myself.. so alter it as you wish.
Your daily, 1 hour of Cardio should include 2-3 liters of water during the session. My first bottle of water is usually mixed with Ultima Replenisher for hydration purposes while I workout. You will sweat a lot and need to keep it replenished. Vitamin C is recommended post-workout to help with healing and hydration. I prefer the flavor of Clif Shot Electrolyte Replenishment over "Ultima".. but these are the two I use the most.
Your Post-workout meal should be within 30 minutes if possible. It should include protein and slow burning carbs, like more whole grain foods. Example - 2 hard boiled eggs, Multigran Whole Wheat toast or Whole Grain Oatmeal (pre-Soak your oats overnight). This meal is where you can get a bit more portion if you like. After a workout, you need to replenish properly and your body will readily use what you ingest.
If I am going to do a bit of cardio, as a warm up, (1 mile on the elliptical for example,) and plan on doing weight training or heavy resistance training - then I will be sure to bring a pre mixed protein shake to sip while I work out. On days like this though, I usually stretch more, do less cardio in the beginning and finish up with a mile or so to help with fat burn after resistance.

I also preboil eggs and have bread available at home for sandwiches. Tuna fish sandwiches are easy, low in fat and calories, and give great amounts of protein. Things like Dr. McDougall's Instant Snacks are great as quick, healthy bites and additions to meals. They are not meant to be a meal replacement.
I also have protein bars handy. They are great to keep your muscle building abilities in check and will help satisfy cravings between meals. I personally use Met-Rx Protein Plus Bars . Highest rated for flavor and protein content. (thats what she said!) I know, I know... I apologize :)
Your next meal of the day should be between 2-3 hours later. Some fruit is good.. but more slow burning carbs, like a bagel sandwhich with turkey and mustard and tomato, or even a nice BLT. If you eat at a fast food place, just cut out the breads and go for the grilled! Skip the Freedom Fries and go for a small salad or even another small amount of protein instead. My second meal of the day (or 3rd if you count the first shake) is usually my largest meal. I often eat a double portion. Use your fist as the portion size for what is a healthy amount of food and double it for your largest meal.
Then again a snack at 2-3 hours later. This can be a protein bar, a half of sandwich or a Slim Fast. Alot of my friends have a full on sandwich broken up into two halves, and ingested 1 hour apart. This stokes your metabolism like a fire and keeps it burning the food off and using it for energy.
Remember that Dinner needs to be a healthy portion and again should include protein and a lot of water and slow burning carbs. Things like whole wheat pasta and red sauce are good for you as well as lean meats like chicken and pork.
I personally have one more scoop of protein with flax meal before bedtime. Its the last thing I ingest before sleeping. This is HUGE in keeping your body in a fat burning state while you sleep and will reduce the amount of insulin produced, and thus the amount of fat your stores while you sleep. You need to keep a large bottle of water next to your bed and drink it as you wake up. This is a great 'life-hack' in getting you to burn more fat faster. The result is leaner muscle, and noticeable results in a shorter amount of time.. provided that you continue to eat properly and follow up with breakfast when you wake.

These are just guild-lines.. adapt them as you like. We are still learning what works for each of us individually.

As for the workout.. this routine that follows is a basic outline as well, and used as a loose guide for my work-out week. I alter it as I see fit according to my sleep levels, and time management... I do live in Las Vegas afterall, and that can sometimes be a distraction in itself. I keep the routine loose, but try to do no less than 4 days of workouts.. however time for everyone to work out isn't always available, and many people get discouraged when they miss a "scheduled" workout and end up giving up after not going for days. So do it when you can, and don't feel bad if you 'miss a workout'.. the body needs time to heal, and if you are working out properly, a little time in between is always beneficial. So check it out.

Mon - Cardio 40 min - (2 sets of 20min alternate machines) @ 11 am - 1 hour resistance training in the evening after work (Chest and arms Resistance training)

Tues - optional workout (Specifically weights, or cardio.. one or the other)

Wed - Cardio 40 min - (2 sets of 20min alternate machines) @ 11 am - 1 hour resistance training in the evening after work (Back and Biceps Resistance Training)

Thurs - Cardio 40 min - (2 sets of 20min alternate machines) @ 11 am - 1 hour resistance training in the evening after work (Legs, Legs, and More Legs, Quads, Hammies, Calves)

Fri - optional workout (Specifically weights, or cardio.. one or the other)

Sat - optional workout (Specifically weights, or cardio.. one or the other)

Sun - NO WORKOUT!!! = REST.. Cheat Day on Favorite Foods.. Don't over Do it :)

Letting Go Of Ego

2011-02-02T04:38:00.000-08:00

In conversation tonight with a friend that I have not seen for nearly 10 years, I realize just how much I have changed over a decade.. and what exactly I have to be thankful for. This friend looks at me and sees a person that was previously known to not be as precise about anything and not really that focused when it came to life. As much as I complain and pontificate about what it is that I need to do to better myself, I have to remember to be thankful for all that I have actually accomplished and not only focus on all that needs to be done. Without a goal, the progress is pretty much unnecessary. My goals have been set, and while I have stated that I had only begun my journey into "growing up" a few years ago.. I feel like I have come a long way. Seeing myself through the eyes of another important individual in my life, that knew me when life was possibly at it's most chaotic.. and reflecting on the growth and change that has occurred since that 'starting point'.. I See a different person now. A grown Man, if not at least a much more informed grown guy.

Alot of that has been through the practice of learning to let go of my Ego and the energy that practice creates around me. It's an energy that invites positivity and manifestation, and a practice that involves expressing your gratitude for what you already have and who you already are...It's less about what you feel you are lacking, and more about where you have leveled up through progress. I haven't perfected this by any means, but it is something that I strive for on a much higher level of intention.

This very subject came up recently in reference to a shift in my monetary energy and my flow of green energy into my life in general. Previously, I had become quite aware and comfortable with what exactly it took to get what I needed, wanted and required from my life to exist in not only a happy place, but a content and positive place. I looked within myself, and took stock of what I had there to use as tools to help facilitate the changes I wanted to occur around me. I set my mind to it, sat in the space that I wished to be part of, and set forth to exist there. In return I received all that I asked for and all that I needed to create a life for myself and my family that was more on a level of happy and content.

Shortly after settling into this new space, a shift into my reality came through changes in my monetary income. I decided that I could either, get caught up in all that I could not do to affect the change, Or I could be grateful for what I could do and adapt to receive the necessary energy to thrive again. After stepping away from the source, I have chosen the latter.

It was a great exercise in not only a release of Ego, but an alteration of what I accept is deserved for the work I put into my daily routine. Acceptance is another lesson that is learned through practice. I will leave that to another post for now though.

Here in Las Vegas, the energy is high, and I have often reveled and remarked in the way that it flows all around us, but the distraction and the stimulation often keeps us from seeing through to the core of it all. It's a matter of learning to harness the positive, and flow around the negative. It all may begin with a lesson in letting go of Ego.

So while I am no expert.. I have had a couple of days away from my normal routine, and I have learned a little more about the practice of stepping outside, and away from my ego - to see where it often hinders me. I will make the motion to get back to asking the Universe for exactly what I deserve and can gain through hard work and acceptance of who I am personally.

Disconnecting to Reconnect

2011-01-06T03:00:00.000-08:00

Over at , I once wrote about Life Without Television. t was a social experiment of sorts, with myself as the subject - to see how I could increase my personal productivity without the distractions, and added distractions of television. That particular experiment went rather well, as I have not been a subscriber to cable television in many years.

More recently, I decided to give it a try with my cell phone. My tether to the information super-highway.. my cell phone. Like so many of you, I have that thing connecting me to so many things that I can easily do without for a few minutes of any day and not really suffer any consequences. like e-mail, twitter, facebook.. all fun, albeit procastinative, (is that a word?,) ways to pass time. I decided to leave my phone off.. completely off for about 5 days. I came home from my Winter Holiday and decided that I was ready to start fresh with a clearer head. SO off the phone went.. but not before I updated my facebook status to inform everyone :)

I have to say it was pretty great. I realized that I really missed nothing while the phone was off. I continued to check my email in the mornings and evenings.. popped onto facebook to read some nonsense now and then, and read through some Twitter feeds every so often for amusement. Other than purely entertainment purposes, I was not losing out on any very important information.

I did get an occasional line of questioning from friends and co-workers asking if 'everything was alright' or if there was 'anything that anyone could do'... lol. It was as if I was having a breakdown, or so people thought. The idea of not having a phone was just foreign. Which made it all the more reason to get re-acquainted with the feeling. I know it seems wreck-less on some level to not have a way for anyone to contact you.. but sometimes you just don't want to be found!

I spend 40+ hours a week at home, and about 6 hours a week at the gym.. alongside 45+ hours of sleep a week.. There is little time for just me to be me without the phone ringing or a text coming through every 30 seconds. Don't get me wrong, I am thankful that there are people that wish to care about me and know where I am and how I am doing... but the break away from my cell phone was a nice one.

When I turned my device back on, I saw that I had missed exactly nothing. I knew everything that had happened in my personal World, just the same as if my phone were on the whole time. It was a great time for me to sit and sift through my thoughts without looking to my phone for distraction. I even noticed that my days at work were clearer and more productive without a cell phone in my back pocket. I mean I wasn't even bringing it to work with me. I had less jumble to sort through when dealing with tasks, and I wasn't even considering any text messages I had 'missed'. It felt good :) So I recommended giving it a try if you can. Disconnect and as a result reconnect with yourself. See you on the next post!

The Cosmopolitan Hotel Las Vegas: Restaurant Hopping

2011-01-04T02:27:00.000-08:00

So I had previously mentioned that there was to be a new addition to the Las Vegas Skyline. It is the Cosmopolitan Hotel and Resort. It is the newest venture to go up on the strip, that combines style and world class accommodation alongside a very modern feel to the whole property. It went live and opened on December 15th, 2010. It had a lot of fan-fare and visits from celebrities and superstars like Jay-Z, Beyonce, and Kanye West.

I recently had a chance to visit and do some impromptu bar, and restaurant-hopping. It was an interesting evening and I will have to get back for more but this is kind of how it went: We started our tour on the 2nd level dining area at a Greek Restaurant from NYC called Milo's. It was a modernly decorated room, with a very clean style and welcoming appearance. My friend and I only sat at the bar but we noticed all the fresh ingredients in the food that was being served around us. Fresh shellfish, tomato salads, and beautiful pastas. My date opted for a classic martini and I decided to go with a bourbon and apricot preserve beverage which was really awesome and really good! We sat at the bar and the bartender was very attentive to us and we caught up and filled in the details of life in Vegas for one another. Even though the menu looked excellent, neither of us was in the mood to do "Greek-Food", or spend $120 on the "Lobster Pasta for 2" that was on the menu..So we went ahead and closed out out our tab and decided to check out a few other spots before deciding on dinner.

Next up was STK. This is a 'modern-style' steakhouse with roots in NYC and Miami. They boast "STK Las Vegas is a celebrity hotspot that breaks with tradition, offering a flirty, feminine take on the classic American steakhouse." By Feminine, they are referring to the amount of scantily dressed bartenders and serving staff they hired. It's the kind of place you go to when you are looking for something one level down from a nightclub that serves food. It's loud.. too loud in fact.. and the service is all about the flirting of the staff with every word, and as far as I could tell, not much skill was involved.

I will give it another shot in a few months, as they have just opened, but as for this night we visited.. we requested our check long before we received our drinks that took nearly 15 minutes to arrive. So off to the next spot which was intended to be "Jaleo."

Jaleo is Chef José Andrés creation and is stated to be the first Critically Acclaimed Tapas Restaurant in the U.S. The restaurant was modern and fresh looking, with amazing aromas wafting from the center of the restaurant. Check the menu HERE. Sadly, we could not get into the restaurant without a 20 minute wait, and we had had much to drink so we opted to choose something else... but Jaleo! I will be back!

So this leads us to Blue Ribbon Grill also from NYC. Drunk as we were becoming after hopping32 or 3 spots and as many drinks at each location.. this was the choice for dinner. We had a chance to sample about 4 of their appetizers, a few specialty cocktails and a bottle of the House Sake. The staff was great , accommodating and friendly.. and the food was very clean and fresh tasting. The room is very modern and on the smaller side, but has two full Sushi bars with traditional offerings like Sea Urchin. The Prices were fair ..and averaged about $75 for each of us when all was said and done, and that is including the gratuity of 20% that we left. It was a great little restaurant and I will be back there again.

I was very happy with my first visit to the Cosmopolitan Las Vegas, and if you have a chance i suggest checking it out. I will be back again for more and more and more! Until the next post!

Gift Shopping For The Winter Holidays

2010-12-17T10:06:00.000-08:00

Here we are again, days before Christmas..and myself not even giving a second thought to Holiday Shopping. Usually that is because I just don't do it, the shopping I mean. Not to sound like a Grinch or anything but most of the people in my famiy are all grown-up and we don't exchange gifts anymore..aside for some of the teenagers. With the amount of people that are in the house at any given time during the Holiday Season, they are usually showered with gifts.. and actually.. there are always people around that are showering them with gifts all year! So having said that.. spending time together over good food, games and stories is more than a great gift for most of us.

This year will be no different as I head home for the Holidays, the house will be filled with people from all over the Country.. laughing and ready for good food and story telling. Only I have actually decided to get in on a bit of the gift-giving. We have had a big year with a newborn or two, some marriages, marriage engagements and just the event of the kids now becoming adults. I will say that the teenagers in the family are few, so they get spoiled all year long.. so Christmas time is great for them as more family arrive to shower them with gifts.

As may have been previously noted, I am a big fan of doing many things, including shopping, online. One of my eldest cousins had been asking me for the places I go to get this done. My usual ONE-STOP shop is amazon.com. I have never gone to amazon and not found exactly what I was looking for, for the best price availabale.. and that usually includes Free Shipping. This year I branched out a bit and added JackThreads.com , and Threadless.com into the mix for some great gift ideas.

With JackThreads you have to sign up to gain entry.. it is a free invite if you click the link, and once you do sign up it's pretty simple from there. It is just their way of getting the emails to you that include sale items and specials that are going on. I spent $90 on 5 very cool items from JackThreads, and that included free shipping on orders over $75 and Threadless had a great $10 sale with free shipping as well on orders over $75. It was a great thing.

One of the other places I got some great gifts this year was some quality jewelry for the girls from ZYKDesigns on Etsy and ... The Jewelry is made by a close friend and has always been a big hit with the girls.. It is quality stuff with a fresh edge to it and I am proud to show off her designs. She always has some cool gifts ideas and I am looking forward to a line of cuff-links someday :) (hint)

Well all, I hope this post finds you all well and Happy & Healthy for the Holidays! See you on the next post!

The Holidays In Las Vegas

2010-12-14T19:02:00.000-08:00

For as long as I have been in Las Vegas, I think I have always flown away to my home-town for the Holiday Season.. or at least for part of it. I have had to work certain Holidays like Christmas or New Years Eve, which doesn't necessarily bother me. In any event, I have at least had time to go home and spend with my family. This year will be no different and I am fortunate for that. My place of employment has taken a 2 week hiatus of sorts.. 10 days anyway.. and it has allowed all of the staff to get away and spend it with their families.

Though I myself with have to be back for the actual Christmas Day, I will be going home to see the fam too. It's a welcome break in my routine that I look forward to. A few days of Mom's home-cooking, and the usual slapstick that is my immediate family, will make me a happier guy all around. Until then I have been stocking up on rest, which I am sure I will only get more of.. revv'd up my workout routine to accommodate for what magnificent eating is to come.. and cleaned out my home to help refresh my thinking. It's all part of a plan to ease into another great year here in Las Vegas and make things a bit more streamlined. I'll keep you posted.. even you bots that keep leaving comments : ) Have Happy Holidays ALL!

Refresh

2010-12-06T06:28:00.000-08:00

It's a very interesting time of the year when it comes to the Holiday Season here in the U.S. and for me, specifically here in Las Vegas. From personal experience I can tell you that it always feels a bit colder, not so vibrant and a little dead. Not just in terms of the weather, but in the mindset of the people that come to visit and those that reside here. Even with all the neon lights and everything that goes on in a Vegas minute.. the Winter season still has it's effects... and while I am not complaining about the 60 Degree days and 50 degree nights.. because those are fantastic temperatures for 'Winter'... this time of year also signals the slow season when it comes to traffic in and out of Vegas. For someone who is in the 'service industry'.. this can be a tough time. Thankfully, I have been here for some time, have a bit of experience with it all, and I have adequately prepared myself.

However, I have watched the season take it's hold on many people around me in a way that drops the mood to something a bit somber. It makes them more silent, and refuses to let them open up. They forget what they are thankful for and what greatness already exists in their lives. The outside forces become a non-friend and make people turn inward and shut down a bit.. The coming 'end' of the year and the beginning of a new one reminds people of their personal timelines and all they that wished to accomplish in the past year. There are reminders of what has been left off their lists and what they need to do to quickly to scramble and try to make the best of the last days of the current year. Focus shifts, and blurs at the same time. Importance is placed on Family and people that have become Family. Relationships are tested and sometimes strained from the pressure of trying to be everything to everyone all at once.

Along side that.. the energy in Las Vegas always changes as well. Of course with less people coming through town from all over the World, the vibe and flow of things is altered. It's the Nature of things, a way of life.. seasons change and so do those experiencing them. I can say, that it's been a tough time for a lot of people close to me lately.. this includes people in my immigration circle. So many choose not to see the connection between their surroundings and their immediate being. They separate themselves from the environment that they are part of and help create. So when the energy and vibe levels fluctuate.. It's like many people don't recognize how it affects them on a biological and personal level.

Vegas very much depends on the energy of the people that travel here, spend their time and money dining out and shopping..and sharing their stories with everyone they know. It fuels the economy and helps keep the locals on a very high level of 'green energy'.. that being financial stability of sorts. When they tides are low and the travel is light, the local Vegas population gets in a funk. Every year, I see the same fluctuation occur. I feel it.

For me, in the last couple of weeks, I have watched no less than 2 personal relationships in my life, crumble.. and in both cases I believe if the people involved had individually taken a second to step back, breath, and refresh their thoughts.. they may have had a much more positive outcome. The outside forces of Nature have that affect on people and this is too often over-looked.

I watch beings that I know as friends, struggle from the energy shift. Their personal and romantic relationships are affected, and even their work life suffers a bit. I see men and women that I thought I knew fairly well as strong Beings, break under the pressure of the 'Holidays' and the stress that comes with it. There becomes a certain alienation to it all and you just want to crawl back into your shell till the Spring when everyone is filled with new life and energy again.

It's important for me personally to take stock in who I am, and what I have accomplished in my days here, overall. It's not what I haven't done, but rather how much more there is that I still want to experience. The relationships that have helped define me are the ones that I cherish the most.. and they are the ones I hold onto tightest. Even with the end of seasons and the World around me renewing itself and preparing for a fresh new start, it's all I have to do to remember that it's part of a cycle that is our lives.

I will be off of work for nearly 2 weeks and this will be my time to refresh. To get back to me and what I live my life for. I will be with Family and the people that helped mold me into the Man I am today. Good or bad, the time I will spend at 'home' will keep me in a more positive place when I return to my own personal areas in life.

You have to take the time to refresh and not let it all get stuck in a cycle.

The Cosmopolitan Hotel Las Vegas

2010-12-04T01:38:00.000-08:00

Wikipedia : Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas^[1] is a luxury resort casino, hotel and condo that broke ground in October 2005 just south of the Bellagio on the west side of the Las Vegas Strip and consists of two highrisetowers. The resort opened on December 15, 2010. The $3.9 billion project features 2,200 condominium-hotel units; 800 hotel rooms; a 75,000 sq ft (7,000 m²) casino; 300,000 sq ft (28,000 m²) of retail and restaurant space; a 40,000 sq ft (3,700 m²) spa and fitness facility; an 1,800 seat theater; and 150,000 sq ft (14,000 m²) of meeting/convention space.

The Cosmopolitan Las Vegas is one of the newest and most exciting properties to go up on the Las Vegas Strip in a long time. At least in my opinion I think this will be a pretty great property. While I have often expressed that I wish Las Vegas would cool it' on the building of more casinos and high-rises.. I do believe that this property could add an awesome twist to the Las Vegas Strip skyline. Slated to be one of the 'hippest' and trendiest destination on the Las Vegas Strip, The Cosmopolitan will have everything from World-Famous Chefs, Exclusive Shopping and unique architecture. Sitting on the North side of the MGM City Center, it will border the Bellagio Casino and include 800 Hotel Rooms.

I look forward to this property, though I know we could do without a bit of expansion for awhile.. Here's Hoping for the best!

Shifting Your Perspective

2010-11-28T08:11:00.000-08:00

Things change. It's the way of the grand scheme. What was once, will not always be, and what could possibly occur may have been before but will not always remain. A place in time is both current and past within any given space. Relativity is a superior fact. What happens to us within the equation of "Now - Then + Yes = No / Divided by How".. is entirely up to our perspective. Personal, social, and accepted perspectives are a guiding force within the way you perceive your moments.

When the day-to-day becomes routine and you have found your self in a niche of sorts.. then you may have decided that it is, or is not where you want to be. The trust and honor system that you have built into your - self, is what helps you to make the decisions that support your fellow beings having this Human experience along side you. It's what helps your Being support the decisions that you make into your memories. It's where your heart and soul combine and you see through to the center of it all. So what is most important?

Support and management of your life is bound together by the Love that you experience from day to day. Those that claim not to have Love need only to look deeper into what it is that brought them into existence and what it is that keeps them smiling and healthy from day to day. It's the Love of one being or another who's energy flows into your space, altering your your perception. Therefore, on some perspective level.. Love always exists. When you choose to look from the vantage point of Love, you can cut through a lot of what blinds you to how you are actually feeling about a particular situation. Angst and hard emotion will melt away and you can more calmly relate to yourself.

For me it always ties back to living in a City like Las Vegas that has been described, by a personal friend, as an environment that is "Cut throat, trendy, fast-moving, and superficial.. hard to have anything real..." I'm told to "try and stay sane" within it and not lose my grip.. but that all comes down to how I perceive myself within this place.

It is a place where sometimes we lose perspective of why we are here.. and I don't just mean in Las Vegas. It is very easy to forget what our goals are and what the big picture really is when you are caught up in the emotions and energy of everyone around you. Perspective on why we choose to live our lives a specific way can be clouded by the outside stimulation we experience at any given moment.. being pulled in every direction with every possible opinion and choice before you... and you do have every choice. Here is where I then find myself constantly repeating a mantra that can get me through the toughest of times. It's funny.. but some of the wisest words I have ever heard.. that went straight to my heart are those of Comedian and Talk Show Host Conan O'Brien.. "Work hard, be kind, and amazing things will happen.. "

I feel like truer words had never connected with me as much as those. They were instantly the magic words that helped me shift my perspective when I have been in a rut, or feeling let down by the choices I have made in my life - both personal, and work-related. When I feel like my trust has been betrayed, or possibly I need an extra push to get through a difficult task or situation.. these words are what have often gotten me through.

I think it is easy to get in a mental and emotional loop where you feel left out or unsupported by what choices you have made, when things aren't going quite as planned. With so much happening around us, and so much distraction, it's hard to see clearly through to what is really meant for you to experience... but if you work hard and are kind.. amazing things can happen. When you look at it from that point of view.. you are asking your-self to be the best you can be to your-self and your fellow Man.. and thus, doing what is right.

Shifting perspective can keep your head cool when things get a bit tough in relationship departments that deal with close friends, family, lovers or social groups. Being true to yourself, while doing your best at being You, will only have an outcome of greatness. Being kind to yourself and those around you will only be the best decision you make every day. Remembering that it is all truly about the experience will always bring you back to what is most important. Be grateful for what Is, and has always been right, and do what you can to flow into the next moment with Love in your heart and a smile on your face. Shift your perspective and keep it all going.

"If you don't go within, you go without"

2010-11-22T23:01:00.000-08:00

I have been saying these words a lot lately "I only started growing up a few years ago".. and it's true..and I think I say them a lot because I know it to be so very true. I ask myself if the feeling is referring to actually making adult decisions, making the money of an adult, playing more like an adult rather than a child.. meaning playing "weekend warrior" style.. too hard and not often enough.. or if I am just making myself believe that I am growing up because I believe I should. Does the numerical value of my age come into play? Like, do I think that I am supposed to be grown up by now? Maybe it's just the connection of knowledge in my head that I actually retain and connect through the synapses and brainwaves.. patterns are formed and somewhere in there the Nature-thing is happening and I am just growing up in that manner.

I am often told I do not look my age.. but also that the words that come from me are not the words that would come from someone that didn't have a bit of life experience. So I guess there's that? It's a struggle for sure to retain the Man you are and also still contain a bit of your boyish charm to keep you smiling. In a town like Las Vegas, it's so rushed and overly stimulated, sometimes you forget where to start your day and at what time.. it's all one big never ending shift it can seem.

I had to reset myself this weekend. Stop, click things back into place and remember what is important to me. I had become very comfortable in a groove that was not lazy by any means, but maybe not the most potential I could expect from myself... and certainly not the most I could muster up. I'll say this.. in recent years I made the decision to Love those people that I actually do LOVE and 'like', for that matter.. out loud. Love them and let them know, because it could all be over at any moment.. to have no love at all is worse than trying to not let Love in so you don't get hurt in the end. It's a truth .. a Universal truth. Without that particular emotion, the World would cease to exist as we know it. The problem is that at times, the perception of your Love can be skewed if you aren't in belief yourself.

"It's difficult to relay though.. people can perceive different things and when you don't feel it yourself, it's hard to convey something like love. It's such a little word that can mean soo much.. I always said to you that if there were some other way to tell you how much I loved you I would do it.. but it was immeasurable."

Those words almost sum up what I am saying.. it is such 'a little word' but it is immeasurable and without it we are less than we are at our best. So in writing all that I remind myself that Love, and an acceptance of it in my life have helped me to grow and wise up a bit. It unlocks the power within, as long as you are a true believer.

Thankfully Busy

2010-06-12T14:18:00.000-07:00

Since starting at the new job, I have become more of a focused man. OK, not really.. I am still a ball of mess when it comes to anything... but I have had more time to myself since I am working one quality job, rather than 2 that were driving me crazy. Not only am I able to make the same income or more than having two jobs that I was working 6 days at.. but I am in a situation that is just more quality all around. One place of employment, great environment and good money. It's a great thing. Since Summer in Las Vegas is one of the slower seasons as far as dining out and higher end dining.. this is the time that is usually spent cutting back, and really focusing on being a bit more frugal with savings and income. However, I can say that it has been a bit more busy than usual.. thanks to many different factors. One of them is that people are really becoming comfortable with spending money again and the economy is making an upturn.

As for me personally.. I have been trying to "re-wire" myself and get back to what it all was that I found important about being me at one time. I had mentioned previously that I was entering a Renaissance of sorts when I hit my 30's .. and I have continued on that path. I was a bit sidetracked for awhile.. and now I am endeavoring to get back to it. I've told you about my work-out schedule..and that has been great. I moved from doing alot of working out in my apartment to joining a great gym nearby. I have made some serious progress and I am currently in better physical shape than I have ever been in. Recently I switched to going to the gym late at night.. like after work. Between the hours of 11pm and 3 am. Sounds crazy.. but it has been great for me. I am sticking to the Monday through Friday routine.. 2 muscle groups a day, but I have added in more Cardio everyday and of course more eating. I was getting some great muscle gains but still holding onto fat because I wasn't eating enough calories throughout the day. I'm back up to about 6 meals a day. It's great.

I am making the effort to clean out the clutter in many areas of my life. Emotionally, physically, and materialistically. Emotionally is a constant work in progress.. as is physically. Materialistically, I am cleaning out the clutter built up over years. I even took my 8 foot by 11 foot sectional couch to a friends house to put in his game room loft. I just wanted more from my little living space. To be honest, I live in my bedroom and a large studio apartment would suit me much better. For now I will make a large living space out of what I have.

It's all a work in progress... my lease on my place is up soon and I am trying to decide what the next move is. I do believe there needs to be a move of some sort though. I'll keep you posted.

11:59 Cinema : Iron Man 2

2010-06-01T04:32:00.000-07:00

I guess all I have been writing about lately is my workout routine. Between a slightly intense training schedule at the new job and trying to sort out my personal life..as well as family matters.. I just felt like i needed a break. Mr. Lister and I went to check out Iron Man 2 for a much needed return to the 11:59 cinema. Though, we went at 8 pm... ha.

It was good. The special effects were pretty bad-ass and even though I though the story was essentially designed as a bridge to another movie to follow.. it was still pretty fun to watch. I had heard that Don Cheadle had had replaced Terrance Howard from the first movie... (read about it here) but I didn't realize how bad Don Cheadle would be in the part. I didn't really have an opinion of Terrance Howard's original performance, but Don Cheadle SUCKED! haha.. I mean it was bad! Oh well though.. the movie rocked pretty much in every other department.. it was what it was. Go check it out for some basic action movie/super hero fun! :)

Tuesday Burn - Chest and Core

2010-05-25T17:14:00.000-07:00

k.. so I took an intentional extra day off of working out yesterday, and it was a good decision I think. I woke up feeling rested, and refreshed, no soreness and muscles all healed and ready for more. I made plans with Mr. Lister (@NgLister - Twitter) to go and get a full on chest workout at our local gym and really do it up for no less than an hour. Turns out we were there for about an hour and and a half, not counting the steam room antics that Mr. Lister likes to get into, post work-out. I went and setup a proper membership since I had been going on guest passes, while he steamed it all out.

We did a few really great exercises including but not limited to, dumbbell chest press, the pec deck, and even worked on some core exercises. My core routine sucks, and thus I could always use more core training.. which I have been working on.. but more on that later. I ran a mile before the workout to warm up, and a mile after. It's not my usual cardio routine, but i wanted to add more cardio through out the week, and that was a baby step. In all, I can really feel the burn all the way across my chest. I did not get as heavy a workout as I had been getting, but I did much more for the chest routine overall. I want to focus on really building the depth of my chest muscles and getting them to fill out nicely.. so I focused alot on form within my workout today. I stretched well before the workout, and that always makes a huge difference.

Whenever I work out with anyone else, it allows me to get some feedback on form and some insight as to how others look at the routines that I do as well. Mr. Lister also does alot of work on core and "fight-style" workouts, so I am sure I will be more exposed to some of that sooner.. as he has been trying to get me interested in it all for some time.

SO off to work for the evening... i have been eating nicely all day.. but I'll have to get back to you on the details!

Wednesday-Thursday Workout

2010-05-22T12:04:00.001-07:00

Wednesday saw me not working out at all. I was up at 0645 and straight to work at 0800 then all day long I sat in a meeting while the white florescent lights drained me until around 1600. ha. Then massive amounts of errands and busy work kept me going till later. I didn't get home till near 2100. and was exhausted from the day, so I ate and cleaned up..then crashed out. Slept about 10 hours so that was good.. I guess, Up at 0800 again and on to another day.

Today I ended up doing a leg routine for about 30 minutes. My legs aren't in bad shape, but by no means are they in great shape..and after about 30 minutes I am literally shaking and pouring with sweat. So I am getting a great workout, and even now as I sit on my butt, I can feel the pain.. which is the point. My calves are always up for a good work-out, and my hamstrings and quads got a really great shape up too. I do also stick the P90X routine for legs and back. Even as I did back a day a g o, I did it again today. Most of the workout centers on pull-ups for back workout, so I use the heavy resistance bands to supplement that as I am not great at doing pull-ups yet. I still get a really great burn from the workout, and I will not do back again for 5 days, so doing 2 back workouts this close together wont hurt me. I am trying to trim down my back, and not bulk it up.

After the leg routine, I used my ab wheel again to strengthen back and abdominals. I take this exercise very slow and really try to get a good stretch in during, and afterwards. This is a major area for most men to work, the abdominals.. and while it is not my most in shape-area, it is getting there. Doing something for them is so much more than doing nothing, so for me.. baby steps. I will eventually graduate up to a better ab routine.. but for now this ab wheel and a Pilate style stretch to help lengthen the muscles in my torso are what I am going to stick to. I ate well yesterday.. cheating a bit during the meeting when they brought cookies in.. it was too tough to resist. I had a banana and protein shake for breakfast with a hard boiled egg and a cup of oatmeal. I brought an apple and a Clif Builder's bar for a snack. I actually split the bar up into two and had the rest after lunch. Lunch wasn't until 11300 since it was such a long meeting. I stuck to water as my beverage all day and had a burger at lunch with no cheese and some jalapeños on it. I know it's not the healthiest.. but the dining area available to us didn't have much of a healthy selection. I wanted some protein and had some spinach with some cottage cheese with my burger to fill me up. (as well as only half the burger bun) Then back to the meeting, and at around 1500 and I had the rest of my protein bar. I had expected it all to be over long before 1600 so when they brought cookies in, i was a bit too tempted and had 1 chocolate chip cookie. After the meeting I went to run errands but stopped to change out of my big boy clothes into a t-shirt and shorts. I gulped half a whey protein shake (1 scoop and water) and ran errands until around 1800 when i headed home. around 2000 I was beat and fell asleep for like 15 minutes. I woke up and had a turkey sandwich on 12 grain bread, with mustard and an apple. I ate a handful of almonds which I keep near my desk, and half a casein protein shake before bed, (again 1 scoop). It wasn't my ideal day of eating but as I really had no workout, I think the calories were sufficient. I popped a few CLA also with my shake.. I'll talk more about that if you haven't looked it up yet. Gotta hit the showers now and get to the grind. Hope to see you on the next post!

Break A Sweat Everyday

2010-05-22T12:04:00.000-07:00

Saturday May 22nd

As of late.. I have been very busy with family matters, work, work, and work. I am between 2 jobs, meaning I am transferring from one and picking up another and dealing with personal matters as well.. point being.. I have been fairly busy. Sometimes that gets in the way of my daily routine, and competes with time for my daily workout. Though I make a point not to let that kind of schedule interfere with getting some quality exercise time it. It's more than just being in great shape.. which I am aiming for.. but the rush and great feeling from the endorphin release that comes from a strong workout.. is priceless in making me available fully for the rest of my day. It really clears my mind.

So Friday saw me catching up on Cardio.. only doing a mile run in 9 minutes after doing some sets for abdominals. I threw in 3 sets each of lat pull-downs, (< lighter than what he does,) a little work on the trapezius' and the upper chest. It was all kind of an end of week round up. Just a few extra muscles groups that hadn't received much attention during the week. I know I did chest already this week..and went had.. but i wanted to add a little bit at the end of the week before I go back to a hard chest workout next week. It just keeeps me feeling pumped in that area. It was a total of about 40 minutes only of workout time, but I went hard to break a sweat and really benefit from the shorter time in the gym. It felt good and I was glad I did not skip it. Though I was rushed after to get to work on time, I had a better night and really felt more alert after having exerted myself in the gym. It really clears my mind a bit and makes me available for a quality evening, no matter what is on the agenda.

I made sure to keep on my plan of eating every 2-3 hours, beginning my day with a good morning stretch and a banana, some almonds, a cup of oatmeal and a giant brewed green tea. I have a good recipe for a green tea drink that I will tell you all about. Green tea is great for you in many ways, and the boost I get from it helps me start my morning. Added with honey and a special recipe.. it really rocks my morning!

MAXIMUM VEGAS!

2010-05-21T00:21:00.000-07:00

That is a motto of the MGM Grand Casino Hotel here in Las Vegas.

The idea is, if you ever want to stay within the hotel and still have a great time, you can @ the MGM Grand. There is everything from Casual Dining and Nightlife, to High End ULTRA Lounges and Nightclubs. The reason I bring it up is because I have recently become employed by MGM Grand, and more specifically Michael Mina and his restaurant, SeaBlue. Its a upscale, quirky little cafe that has a funky style to it that conveys some really great energy in a more intimate space. The food is very clean and fresh seafood flavors accented with a hint of fusion style flare. There is a great wine list and a really great open bar area to sit at. It's located on the City Walk inside MGM Grand on the way to the Grand Garden Arena. It's cool. I like it alot so far, and I cannot wait to dine there again, as a team member. I have dined there in the past but it was always a bit rushed or only for a quick happy hour and then off to a show.

Today was day ONE of actual training onsite in the restaurant. I had to do a long day of MGM initiated Orientation yesterday.. that was really a long day.. 8 am until 4 pm.. then a bunch of paper work afterwards. I ended up home near 8 p.m. It was tiring but I am glad that part is over with. Right now I have to do some more studying as I have a quiz everyday about the previous day's training. Tonight I was in the back-waiter, or busser department following them around. So for the evening I was a bus-boy. It's great, and I like training that puts you in each position of the team you work with. It's always great to get a better understanding of what you are doing by putting yourself in each position and their responsibilities for the night. So that was good. The guy that 'trained' me knows his stuff and was really on top of his game. He was running his section very nicely and he did it well with some serious finesse. It was refreshing to see.

Tomorrow I am going to be near the kitchen and the food runner's department.. tasting food and taking notes. So more on that after it happens. Now back to studying a bit and then crashing out. Hope to see you on the next post!

Tuesday Burn

2010-05-18T16:19:00.000-07:00

Ok so in a previous post about a similar workout that Brad Pitt used while training for the movie "Fight Club" .. I mentioned that on Tuesdays I like to do a Back Routine'. Today however, I decided to mix it up a bit and do a Back and Biceps routine all in one workout. The total workout is about 45 minutes and really gives you a good burn on those "glamour" or "vanity" muscles. I actually use the disc from P90X series that is made to work both your back and biceps in a single workout. I highly recommend the P90X series for anyone that wants to get into a good workout routine, and get into great shape. The workouts help with your form, in easy to follow videos that are neither too difficult, or too easy. The instructor works out with you, and shows the same exercise in at least 3 different setups so you can do them as best suited to you.

The different parts of the Biceps and Back routine has you alternate among exercises that are everything between "hammer curls", "chin-ups" and even "lawnmowers". For me, this is a fantastic workout. I really work up a sweat, burn some serious calories, and I am seeing some good muscle gains in just a few short weeks. I will tell you that even as I have a chin up bar, I am not very good at chin ups yet (I can do only about 6 or 7 without failing,) so I use resistance bands when I get to that portion of the program. I do as many chin ups as I can, but when I am too fatigued to pull my own body weight, I use the bands to assist me and still get a really great burn from them.

Right now, I am having my post-work-out snack, which consists of 2 scoops of whey protein in water, some glutamine, and a banana. I can tell you that right now, my muscles are in a bit of a quiver, so I can barely type clearly.. haha.. but it feels so good. In a bit here I am going to spend 20 minutes or so doing some ab crunches and even use my ab wheel for a little bit to strengthen up my core. I only mentioned 1 day of ab workout in my "Fight Club" post, but in the case of abs, I could always use more work, who couldn't, so doing more reps in that case.. is the way to go for me.. so whenever I can.. I do.

I would normally do about 45 minutes of Legs today as well, but I had a long morning and didn't get to start my workout till a bit later in the afternoon. I was up a lot earlier this morning than normal to do some paperwork for a new company I am going to work for, and tomorrow is going to be a day where I can't work out at all, as my day will start at 7 am and end around 11pm. So I am trying to do a bit more of whatever I can today.

I have been keeping track of my eating habits, and I made a trip to the grocery store to get some healthier alternatives around the house. Apples, Bananas, Lean Turkey, Carrot Juice, Tuna and Oatmeal.. along with some veggie patties from Morning Star to have as a snack and some good old fashion 12 grain bread. The thing is, I have an employee dining area at work where I can eat fairly well and usually have some grilled chicken, beets, cottage cheese, spinach, or anything else I can get from there as my main meal of the day. I also bring a banana and a protein bar to keep my furnace burning throughout the evening.

Ok soo... of to the abs then into the shower..and off to start the "one man show". Ill explain that another time. More on the next post! See ya!

FIGHT CLUB Workout

2010-05-17T04:13:00.000-07:00

Listening to: Proxima Estacion: Esperanza -by Manu Chao

Here are the exercises that made up Brad Pitt's Fight Club workout... or so I have read.

3 sets of each exercise, taking approximately 60 seconds of rest between each set. Pitt used a weight challenging enough that he could successfully complete 15 reps, no less (with the exception of pushups and pullups), but be fatigued on the last rep. Proper form was maintained throughout.

Monday - Chest

I actually do a drop set first for my first set of

chest exercises and that gets me going. I do

an incline press starting at around 200lbs for

now then drop down 20-30lbs between next set. 3 sets total.

25 push-ups .. (remember to use proper form)

Nautilus chest press (if you cant get to a Nautilus chest press.. it looks like this. You can create a good alternative with some weights.) I like to do good old vertical bench press with dumbbells. It forces you to use the pectoral muscles separately rather than with the bar which allows you to use the stronger muscle to carry t he weight.

Nautilus incline press

Pec deck machine (chest fly) Again, using the bench to do fly's also works well for this.

Tuesday - Back

5 pullups (grab a pull up bar.. i use this one for my door frame and its perfect for me right now, I am currently am not very good at it.. but i am getting there!) Seated rows (this works your back.. so if you do pull ups with a wider grip.. you can get a great substitute for the back exercise) Lat pulldowns (Bent over rows are the best alternative to lat pull downs) T-bar rows

On my 'Back' Day I add a leg routine. Squats, Dumbbell Lunges, Deadlifts and calf raises. It is important, for me, to do this on the day before my abdominals.. so I can get a good stretch on my abs the day before. It's all a new program so It may change over time, but for now that is what I am doing. I'll write more about the specific routine eventually. For n ow, do what is good for you, and try it without the addition of weights if you are not used to doing leg exercises like these.

Wednesday - Shoulders

Arnold dumbbell press (like a military press, but start the action with palms facing in and end the action with palms facing out)

Lateral raises

Front raises & The video shows using a plate.. you can use dumbbells too, of course.

On my 'shoulders' day.. I also add in an abdominal routine.. pick one that works for you, that actually challenges you but that you can actually get through. Do it till you can't. Fatigue yourself. I will get into details of what I do later.

Thursday - Biceps/Triceps

Nautilus curl machine

EZ cable curls

Hammer curls

Tricep pushdowns

Friday - Cardio

Walking or (preferably) running on the treadmill for 45 minutes at 65% to 75% of your maximum heart rate. Switch up your cardio routine. I try to run no less than 3 miles but that is spomething I have worked up to, as running is not my favorite cardio.. but I get results from it.. and I don't always use the treadmill. Sometimes the stair-climber works better for days that you feel you need a bit more resistance. Don't kill yourself, but do it at a speed that gets your heart rate up and then take a break by slowing down the routine, do not stop... then raise back up to a higher speed. You can read a bit about what I do here. It's not as important, the amount you do when you first start a workout like this, but that you are actually doing it.

Saturday/Sunday – Rest

Nutrition&Diet

Brad's diet is the most important aspect when it comes to getting him in shape for a role. Don't just think he trains hard in the gym, his diet accounts for much of his success in achieving the physique produces. For his Fight Club role Pitt took on a very strict and consistent diet eating six small meals a day which included a Whey Protein Powder and on occasion some protein bars, no other supplements were used by Pitt, however much of his nutrition came from whole foods high in protein like Chicken, Turkey, Fish, Lean Meat, Eggs and Cottage Cheese. Carbohydrates were very clean and included Wholewheats and Grains, Green Vegetables, Oats and Rice Cakes, which were then tapered off in his last two meals of the day.

Breakfast would be: 6 eggs, 6 whites, 7 yellow.. I don't personally eat that many eggs in one sitting, yet.. but i do have 3 eggs that i have hard boiled ahead if time, and i eat the whites mainly. They make a great snack too for a quick protein kick during the day. Also.. he would eat 75g of oatmeal with raisins. I use "McCann's Steel Cut Irish Oatmeal".. it does take about 30 minutes to cook.. but i make enough for 2 or 3 days. Very easy and really great for you. Occasionally Pitt would replace the eggs with a Protein Shake if his schedule was tight.

Midmorning snack: Tinned Tuna in Wholewheat Pitta Breads

Lunch: 2 x Chicken Breasts, 75-100g Brown Rice or Pasta and green veggies. I got some brown rice from "Texmati". It's easy to cook and very reasonably priced.

Mid-afternoon snack [Pre-Workout]: protein bar (or Whey Protein Shake and a fresh Banana.

Post Workout: Whey Protein Shake and a Banana..sometimes an apple as well if im feeling like it was an especially hard workout.

Dinner: Grilled fish or chicken, brown rice or pasta, vegetables, and salad. Often times I will have a Turkey Sandwich, even as you are meant to taper off your carbs by the end of the day. AS long as it is not too late in the evening. One of my favorite things to make is a tuna and egg "patty".. from canned tuna, egg whites and some a little bit of onion and garlic. It's high protein and easy to make.

Evening Snack: Casein Protein Shake Protein shake (my personal favorite is BSN Syntha-6 Ultra-Premium Sustained Release Protein Powder, ) or Low Fat Cottage Cheese (Slow Release Protein)

Myself, I have added CLA to my evening snack and sometimes I have a half portion of a Casein Protein Shake before bed. The CLA really seems to work for me.

Chasing Excellence

2010-05-17T00:34:00.000-07:00

I have been on a quest, like so many others, to make myself better. Physically, emotionally, monetarily and spiritually. The idea of really being more of a solid being throughout came up when I was a young adult leaving home and the comfort of my family surroundings for the first time. I was 19 years old and looking for adventure.

That's another story.

Since then, I have had a lot of time to think about who I am who that is to the rest of the world, and what it all means to me. In this 3rd decade of my life I took the responsibility, finally, for my whole being.. starting with my emotional way of thinking and spirituality, and now my physical appearance. I have been working out for years on a regular basis, but with another big birthday looming over me, I kicked it back into high gear once again. In a town like Las Vegas, it's easy to get caught up in not getting the exercise you need when there is so much going on around you to distract.

have made a few changes in my personal health habits and the way I live my life in general. I have re-kick started a program in which I exercise well, eat right and feed my mind. In that light.. I usually work out physically 5-6 days a week, eat 6 meals a day, including snacks, and read whenever I can. Sunday is usually my rest day, Saturday as well to be honest.. but as I have a busy week coming up i did my end of the week cardio tonight. I ran 2.5 miles in 30 minutes. It's not the fastest ever.. but i ran at 6.5 miles an hour for 1 full mile, then dropped to 4.6 miles an hour to lower my heart rate and raised the incline on the treadmill to wok my glutes a bit. It was about 400 calories burned according to the little on board monitor.. though I never put alot of faith in those. It is still a nice way to see what progress you may be making.

I'm told by online BMI calculators that I am much overweight at my measurements. I am currently around 170 lbs, about 5'8" inches tall, and have a 32 inch waist with a 16 neck. I wear a 42 suit jacket and though at this point I have never actually measured my chest, It's in descent shape. I am trying to get to a weight of 160lbs and alot more lean muscle. I know this can be done because last season, I was attempting to drop body fat only and stay toned, and I was down to 168 without even trying very hard.

Today I read up on the routine that Brad Pitt used when he was trying to get fit for the movie 'FIGHT CLUB'. It involves your basic regiment of working out solid and eating 5-6 smaller meals a day to keep your metabolism burning. I have been basically been doing what the routine suggests, which is burning out a muscle group, or two per day till fatigued.. buy doing heavier sets and shorter reps. 8-10 reps of 3-4 sets is the max.. so if it's too easy.. i'll go up in weight. Right now i'm doing drop sets for my chest, and only doing about 20lbs on biceps and shoulders when using dumbbells. I will get more weight eventually, but I wanted to get my form down first. This is basically my 3rd week of this program, and on top of it all I realized I was only eating about 1500 calories a day, and I think I need to get it up to around 2000 calories a day from about 3 solid meals and 2 or 3 snacks. Higher protein, tons of water .. in fact water only! and vitamins.

I have been taking specific vitamins that I will talk about later.. and eating a pretty lean selection of foods that are not too boring. I have tried to combine the results I know I can get from past efforts with information on how to get leaner muscle with weight training. I'll talk about some of those resources later as well. I gotta get some protein in my system after that run, get showered and crash out. So.. see you on the next post.

Listening to: "She" by Harry Connick Jr

"Gentlemen, we can rebuild him. We have the technology..."

2010-04-27T15:25:00.000-07:00

Not quite the The Six Million Dollar Man , I am setting my sights higher these days as far as getting to a stronger self image and self awareness. Among my endeavors are a much lifted weight resistance program, more sleep and a cleaner diet. I have always been a huge fan of all three, but my life has been so crazy lately that some of the practices may have suffered from lack of attention on my part. So now I get back to it. Following recent heart-break, I have taken time to heal, and while the healing is still on-going, I have made progress.. I am moving forward. My heart and muscles are strengthening once again, and my mind is benefiting from the sleep that I have allowed myself. (It's so important)

The recent break-up made me see that I was too dependent on the comfort level that I was at. Now, I have become friends again with the most important love I have ever known, and my schedule in life is starting to reflect a renewed hope for one day getting back into that love. I have setup a plan for a more profitable work program, which I will keep you updated on, and I am kicking my workouts into high gear. As I get older, I find myself having to do more to stay in shape. I added the P90X Extreme Home Fitness Workout Program routine to my workout schedule to help me get motivated and stay there. I have to say that I am not necessarily doing the 90 day setup, but i have been using the DVD's to supplement my current schedule of high cardio and weights. Particularly I have added the back and biceps routine, as well as the "Cardio-X" disc and the program that deals with legs and back. It is quite a workout. I picked up a 25-Pound Adjustable Dumbbell Pair, and I am finding that even tho they are great for the resistance of higher reps, I think that in a couple of weeks I will need a higher set of weights. Which is GREAT.. but I JUST bought these. Point being, the P90X routine is a nice addition to my work-out schedule.

I was looking up supplements, and while I already have extra protein added to my diet in the form of whey and casein.. I was looking for something more natural and came across Clif Shot Recovery Protein Enhanced Drink. Its made to be a finishing beverage after you work out and is designed to be more natural than a lot of supplements you can get of this nature. It's great, tastes great, and I really do feel better after I take it. It replaces a lot of what you sweat out and gives you a protein boost needed for muscle repair.

On top of that , I have re-assumed the position (ahem) of reading more books and getting away from as much online video game playing.. haha. Yeah I am one of those guys. I was spending far too much time playing games ad adding to my practice of procrastination. I just finished Blink: The Power of Thinking Without Thinking.. which is a nice little reminder of the form many of us take when meeting new people or coming into a new situation. It's a quick read, took me about 7 hours on a plane to finish and I'm not the fastest reader. I'm working on reading Unconditional Life: Discovering the Power to Fulfill Your Dreams. Sounds good right? I'll let you know how it goes.

So now the healing in my life has begun, and I am rebuilding who I am from the inside out. The Love I miss intensely will come back to me, and I will be in a stronger physical and mental form when it does. In upcoming posts I will tell you all about my monetary changes and work schedules I am trying to streamline. See you on the next post.

P.S.

I have been chronicling my workout routine as of late.. you can check it out here if you want :)

"When a heart breaks.. It don't break even.."

2010-04-23T02:35:00.000-07:00

"Finding the logic in progression of stages can help you make sense of your life.. you have a choice to resist the change or trust that the flow is taking you to a better life.."

It's difficult to sometimes find logic when you as a Human are programmed to scrutinize every detail. Going with the flow of things is not always the first stop when you tell yourself to "find the logic"... but I am finding that these days, the logic is what the flow is all about. Meaning, when you let go and let it happen.. you sometimes come to the conclusion long before you would have, rather than if you spent your time burning braincells trying to figure it out. It's been said that it is ALL happening as it is meant to. That in itself is a difficult notion to accept, when many of us feel that we are the creator's of our own destiny. So what happens when you are in the groove, living life, chugging happily along, and you get blind-sided by some life event you could never have even imagined.

As tough as it can be to accept.. you have to move forward. In my personal situation I have had a hard time, because for me it was a matter of my heart. My heart was broken, and I just did not know how to handle it. In this stage of my life, I can honestly say I have finally been in love, and when the situation changed, I was caught painfully off guard. Even just saying that I have been in love only scratches the surface. I have been in a relationship with someone that has shown me what LOVE really is. The complete security that I feel when in the presence of this love, is more than I could have ever imagined.

Now things are moving forward and I am making great efforts to retain the love that I have had the pleasure being part of. It is something that I am not going to let go of so easily, since the magic of how I feel within this relationship, is the most spectacular sensation I have ever experienced. The interesting way that I am allowed to fly with thin this love, is not easily let go of.

So making myself live through it, is very important. I could be upset, which I have been, I could cry, which I have done, and I could get angry.. but what good does all of that do.. if I do not make the effort to retain the emotions and keep my love flowing in that direction? This is the part that would seem to contradict "going with the flow".. but I feel that if I remain within the field of love, the mistakes made will be realized, lessons can be learned and growth attained. With a bit of help, and a bit of letting go to healing... living through it all can be a satisfying experience. Learning to let go and realize what is most important, is the key. Remembering why you are in the field of love to begin with, is where it all starts.

So now I am hurt, but healing and hopeful. I am still in love and that gets me through to the next steps. I will let you know what they are after they have come to pass. For now.. I am going to be the best I can to get back to where I want to be.. and that is fully enveloped in love.

Living The Life Las Vegas 2010

2010-01-27T02:52:00.001-08:00

OH LAS VEGAS! How crazy you have made me feel lately. This is a great town that I have been a happy resident of for just more than 10 years.. but how this town has been beating me, and maybe you up lately.. Is. So. Rough. The economy, blah, blah, blah.. yes I know, we all know. It sucks. Moving forward is really the only solution, and dwelling in what was, or is no longer - does no-one any kind of good. Having said that.. I do what i can to be the best I can at whatever it is I am doing.. and being in a good mood and being thankful for everything I Do have is tough..when there are so many people that are not looking out for anyone but themselves. I know that you might say it's a selfish town.. and with that I would have to disagree. I have learned more about who I am and what it is I want to be when I grow up, through the hearts and lives of so many cool people I have met in my decade here.

In 2010 it's not quite the Utopian World we may have all hoped for, but it is a great place to be if you let it. I gotta say that my fellow Las Vegans, for the most part, are doing what they can to get the ball rolling again and make things happen.. but there are some out there that just do not care. That sucks. Someone recently told me to "turn my personality down" ... ... ... really? Ha. I was literally so stumped by that, that I just had to walk away. It was an attempt to deflate me of my good mood at the the time, and I really could not believe it was said out loud. I mean, really? It's an example of what I refer to when I say that there are those just not out for anyone else but themselves. What makes them feel better, is if someone feels worse. This town is designed for people to have fun in. I know that the current trend of of things makes it more difficult for people to get away and have fun in Las Vegas, but it IS happening. So let's be thankful for that, ya know?
I have literally never felt so much optimism in myself, as I do lately. I know it is going to be better, I want to be part of that and contribute to that but I cannot do it alone. It's more than smiling and being kind to your neighbor. It's more along the lines of being the best you can for yourself and striving for something bigger in the long run. I recently heard a guy complain that he is only, ONLY, averaging $200 a night where he works. Let me tell you, I am well aware that there have been much better days in terms of pay.. but complaining about an average of $200 dollars a night.. is ridiculous. RIDICULOUS. It just doesn't make sense to me. Sure, there are alot of people that were accustom to a different life-style that involved having alot of nice luxuries.. but those days are few and far between. Work has to be done to make things right again, and it doesn't begin in Las Vegas, but it sure can't hurt for us to all do our part.
Something that has been in my head since I saw one of Conan O'Brien's last shows as host of the Tonight Show.. (you are better off Coco!) .. was what he said in the early part of a program.
"Nobody in life gets exactly what they thought they were going to get. But if you work really hard, and you’re kind, amazing things will happen..."
If you work really hard..and you're kind... AMAZING THINGS WILL HAPPEN. It's not any kind of new concept. It's not a concept at all, you know it, I know it.. If you are a good person and work hard, you will be rewarded. It may not always be instant, but the gratification will come, as you deserve it. Things are changing, but as Human Beings, we are designed to adapt. It is how we have come this far. All I am saying, is if we stick it out together, we can only succeed and support one another where needed. I dunno. That's my rant. I love this town, and its people and the things I have experienced here. Just keep smiling and do your best. Please. Thanks. More on this later.

Posted via email from lostboyblue's posterous

My slightly late, but nevertheless enthusiastic, review of James Cameron's AVATAR.

2009-12-27T15:44:00.001-08:00

I have now seen this movie a couple of times, and to quote a buddy of mine, "it was even better the second time". I personally really loved it in fact. It was fun to watch, in regards to special effects, and action sequences. The second time I saw it, I went with my Mother and two teenage girls, (sister and cousin), and they thought it was amazing. My Mom gave it rave reviews and that just never happens. She just isn't' into sci-fi or fantasy much.. and even after we saw Return of the King, she wasn't that excited. She thought AVATAR was really cool.
According to James Cameron, he began writing the story for the film, in 1995.. but knew that the technology to execute the film in the way he imagined, just didn't exist. So in 2005 he brought the idea back to the table and started the work to make this in a real film. Stages were built, programs were written, and filming began. This is a revolutionary film and the art of it is the compliment to the technology involved in the making.
For me, it was the coolest, dreamiest, and most perfect version of a movie created in a decades.. in terms of this style anyway.. Many parts were so perfect in the execution of effect and performance, that I was hardly even aware that the the run time was over 2 and a half hours. It was fantastic. If you have a chance to see it in the REAL 3D that it is being presented in, in many cities.. I highly recommend it. It makes the experience even more amazing. Check it out and let me know what you think!

Posted via email from lostboyblue's posterous

The Center of Attraction

2009-12-16T10:56:00.001-08:00

Today is another big day on the Las Vegas Landscape.. It is the opening of the ARIA Resort, part of the new and much anticipated City Center Las Vegas.
The Festivities are set to begin around midnight with reports of fireworks at the grand opening and a whole slew of celebrities. To quote Jim Murren, Chairman and CEO of MGM MIRAGE, "Travelers will finally find in Las Vegas what they find in other great cities around the world – spectacular architecture, culturally significant art, great public spaces, sophisticated hotels, unique restaurants and incredible amenities. We look forward to unveiling all of this and more as the month unfolds.”

According to Vegastripping.com, the opening of the ARIA Resort on December 16th has some significant relevance. "Why the 16th? It makes good numerological sense : 12/16 = 1+2/1+6 = 3/7 = 7 7 7 = jackpot."

Personally I am also very excited.. City Center is a destination in itself, and really h as added a gem to the Las Vegas Strip. I believe that the bar has been raised once again and this is really going to be something good. For individuals like myself, as a local, I have watched the project really come along over the years. Reading the news stories and witnessing the construction the gigantic structures rise over anything on the Las Vegas Strip, really has been a sight to see. Now, as part of the opening staff for a The LIGHT Group's newest dining venture, UNION, I am also excited to help make this a great place to dine and shop.

Tonight will be alot of fun, and the culmination of a lot of work that literally thousands of people have contributed their time to. Look for my next post.. Let The PARTY Begin.. See You then - Jiggins

Posted via email from lostboyblue's posterous

New Digs

2009-12-15T11:32:00.001-08:00

Like so many other people that live in Las Vegas, I was part of the great series of lay-offs and job switches that came about due to the great economic break down that was early 2009. As a result, i spent months doing the jobs that came to me, allowed me to pay bills and still smile, while heading in some direction towards something more profitable. I spent a few months among the nightclub scene, specifically the BANK NIGHTCLUB at the Bellagio. Working the door at the "ladies VIP line" has been a interesting line of 'work'. The females that I deal with 4 nights a week, are all in club mode, dressed accordingly and have the demeanor to go with it. It is, to say the least, very interesting.

I honestly have a great time doing that job, and playing doorman to a bunch of overly-excited girls that are all about the 'celebrity of the moment', that happens to be in the club. It is a nightly compilations of stories and good laughs that make it all really fun to deal with at times. The main thing I have always done for work, is the restaurant industry. It is something I love. I originally got into the food service line of work, through a desire to want to learn to cook. I up and moved to New Orleans, La when I was 19 and decided to make a life of it.. That is another story..

Recently I went to an "Open-Call" for work at the Mirage Casino here in Las Vegas.. eager to find work in the high-end restaurant field, I went in prepared for anything. The Mirage Casino and Hotel has recently been re-vamping themselves to be more of a nightlife and dining spot than they were once previously. I figured I would give it a shot, so resumes in hand and suit on, I showed up at the call. When I arrived, I found that the "Open-Call" for work, was actually for the LIGHT group, the company that owns the BANK Nightclub, and the company I was currently working for. It caught me a bit off-guard, as I had really never thought of working for the dining-side of the LIGHT Group. They are restaurants that I enjoy dining in, and as I always tell my guests at the club, and extension of the nightclub. Trendy, attractive people working their establishments, and designed to help you have a great dining experience while out on the town. I just never saw myself as the type that would fit on their team. Yet here I was, interviewing like mad for a position. Best foot forward, I had 3 interviews the very day I walked into the call.

Months later.. I am happy to say that I am among the newest members of the LIGHT Group dining establishments. It is called UNION Steakhouse and is part of the newest and largest project that Las Vegas has ever seen - City Center. It has been weeks of training and lots of re-familiarizing moments .. but it has been a great experience thus far. Stay tuned, I will be posting more about it all very soon! See you on the next post. - Jiggins.

Posted via email from lostboyblue's posterous

TIMELAPSE

2009-12-15T00:46:00.001-08:00

Drag Your Mouse Across the Screen.

Posted via web from lostboyblue's posterous

Rodger

2009-11-11T09:35:00.001-08:00

The LIGHT Group Las Vegas

2009-10-16T09:06:00.000-07:00

"Leading hospitality development and management company, The Light Group, announced its plans to open four innovative hospitality venues at the ARIA Resort & Casino located at the new City Center complex on the Las Vegas Strip. Light Group's new venues are designed to match City Center's unparalleled luxury and opulence, and will include a nightclub, a lounge, a restaurant and a pool lounge."

I am very excited to be a part of the team that works for this company. Currently as I have written in the past, I work a at THE BANK Nightclub inside Bellagio. I am at the front door there many nights a week, checking in the ladies at our Ladies VIP line. It'd a rough job, but someone has to do it! Working there has been a fun experience and being part of that aspect of the landscape has been very interesting. Even though I am new to the nightclub scene, in terms of working for it, I started back in December of '08 there and continued to work in high-end dining aspect of the Las Vegas service industry as well. Now with the creation of the new venue's at City Center, I am going to be part of the team that opens up UNION Steakhouse on the main casino floor of the ARIA resort.

"First in the list is Light Group's Union Restaurant & Lounge, serving a creative menu that combines contemporary American cuisine and exclusive dishes created by Chef Brian Massie. Union's unique interiors, by renowned designer Adam Tihany, will allow guests to enjoy a meal within a hip and open layout. A series of strategically positioned floor-to-ceiling architectural "trees", bathed in natural tones, give the open space a greater sense of seclusion and intimacy."

"Second is the Deuce Lounge. Located off the main casino floor, the Deuce Lounge fuses elements of an upscale lounge with high-limit gaming, creating an intimate nightlife experience. Designed by Franklin Studios, the space will invite guests to try their luck on the numerous blackjack tables around the room while enjoying cocktails and beverages in an alternative gambling scene The lounge also will feature a number of HD flat screen TVs for guests to watch evening sporting events while enjoying hors d'oeuvres from Union's kitchen."

And.. "Created to mirror the success of the existing Light Group venues, Haze Nightclub will offer partygoers a cutting-edge space designed by award-winning interior design firm, ICRAVE. The new Las Vegas nightclub will feature the latest in visual technology such as interactive projection screens and a unique two-story wall of lights coupled with a state of the art sound system exclusively designed by John Lyons Systems."

It's a pretty exciting venture and one that will help shape the future of the party and dining scene on Las Vegas. More to come on all of this.. See you on the next post!

Neon Lights

2009-10-13T21:24:00.000-07:00

I know that nearly 2 weeks between posts in unacceptable, but it is what it is. I changed up my schedule to accommodate a new plan that involves working.. alot.. and as a result I have had to re-arrange the scheduling of the things I like to update regularly.. this page being one of them. My days are not necessarily longer than they have been in the past.. but here seems to be more to do in a shorter period of time, giving the feeling of "overwhelming" moments. It's all good though.. I just have to re-adjust my perspective. This new perspective is alot like the more recent perspective. I take full responsibilities for my actions and make every word count when I speak with others. Eye contact, and a calm demeanor get you a long way.

It does become a drain on you, or can be - when you are speaking to people all day and all night ... then wishing for nothing but a moment to yourself. Gaining that moment, is a task on it's own. It is possible however. It is the nature of the beast that is the nightlife scene in Sin City. I found myself recently asking out loud, why do I still deal with it all? Why am I in Las Vegas? Having just told you that I make a point to take full responsibility for my actions.. I know that I clearly have no one to look to for an answer to my questions.. other than myself.

For now I will continue to live the life I have set up for myself, chronicle the happenings here.. and move forward. I hope you guys all stick around for the stories. I like to talk. It's ghonna be another one of those weeks.. I can tell already. For me .. tomorrow is Monday.

See you on the next post.

Getting Back to It

2009-10-01T02:38:00.000-07:00

.. So.. I had lost some interest in sharing my days and life-like adventures with you all.. becuase I was just a bit disillusioned with the way my life was going. I took a minute, or a few months, and did the personal inventory thing. Opened up the "Jiggins-Schematics" and took a look. What I found was what I always find during such a situation. It was all me all the time. I can blame my surroundings, and circumstances, and teh viral nature that some people just have with their personal ways.. but really it is just about me and what I make of it.

I'll tell ya.. Las Vegas has a lot to offer..and I have learned how to maneuver the streets and craziness that is life here.. but it can wear you down if you are not careful. I was going non-stop.. and allowing things to build up and just not dealing with my situations and worries as they came up. The people I was surrounding myself with were all in a state of flux themselves.. some of them have no idea what it means to be that way..and I was letting it affect me. One night i turned off all the ..everything .. in my apartment, closed my eyes.. and just listened to my mind whir. The grinding and peddling, rushing and whooshing and fluttering.. the noise and sounds that fill my head. I listened and let it all float by behind my eyes, watching as things and pieces of time lines arranged themselves to form one stream of my personal consciousness.

Nearly instantly I felt better.

More to the point.. I am getting back to what is me. So posting again I will be.. Yoda style if needed. I will be catching up with those of you that have continued to include me in your writings, and for the rest of everyone.. you will be seeing me anyway! Hope to hear from you soon!

Stepping Away

2009-08-18T23:14:00.000-07:00

I have a few things to work on.. so I won't be writing here on Splitting Tens for a short while. I hope you are all well, and for those of you that support the page, I am appreciative of your visits and comments! I will be seeing you soon! See You On The Next Post!

11:59 Cinema : District 9

2009-08-14T09:46:00.000-07:00

Ok, I have to start with this... I LOVE PETER JACKSON. Like, LOVE HIM, in a weird fan-like obsessed with his work and ideas kind of way. The man is a main reason for allowing me to REALLY LOVE and ENJOY movies and films again! Having said that.. In this past week's visit to the 11:59 Cinema Session, it was to see a movie the produced called "District 9". IT ROCKED!!!!!!

Man, From about 2 minutes into the movie, I turned to one of my friends and said.. "I love this so much"... I am kind of a nerd for a good sci-fi film, but I am obsessed with quality spcial effects and story-telling, and on that front Peter Jackson and his team have never failed me.

This is not your typical, Aliens come to Earth type of flick either.. First off, the CG (computer Graphics) are like nothing else. If you saw the work that Peter and his team did on Lord Of The Rings, you know that they have some skills in that department.. I tell you, this blows it all away. The visuals will leave you completely wanting more..and the story is pretty original.

They movie is shot in an almost documentary style way, and the characters are so well played that it just takes you directly into the scene. I cannot wait to see it again. The consensus amongst the group of friends I went with, was that it was "probably one of the best films I have seen in a long time.. " and that was said by most of them, almost word for word. If you like a good action flick, sprinkled with a quality story and almost perfect special effects.. go see this flick! I will be seeing it AGAIN, soon!

Random Tuesday Thoughts

2009-08-04T12:14:00.000-07:00

It's that time again, and not that most of my thoughts aren't random.. here goes another set of them for this edition of RTT.

On Nightmares: This is a particularly troubling issue for me.. because I don't usually have nightmares. At least I don't remember them if I do. As I am one to listen to the messages that my psychic underside is sending me.. but nightmares are uncharted territory for me. Initially, I would have to say that there are reasons for everything that happens on the inside slopes of the mind.. but these days I don't exactly get what is happening. An example: last night I had one of those moments where you are pretty much entirely awake, then you completely fall asleep within seconds and go directly into REM style sleep (nothing to do with Michael Stipe) ..and begin some hard-core dreaming. This happened to me..

In the dream, I was sitting at my computer chair in my desk, right in front of my computer (where I spend quite a bit of time,) ...and instead of my bedroom window being to my right side, the sliding glass door that is in the living room area, was there in it's place. Suddenly, a very large and tall woman, with short-ish curly hair.. along with a small child, literally walked OVER the balcony, into my bedroom! (which is now somehow connected to the balcony in my living room in the dream) ...and she just made this face of "i'm sorry" as she covered my mouth with her hand! She walked OVER the balcony as if it were a small obstacle that was merely in her way! I could barley speak, my hands felt numb and I was attempting trying to ask her to leave the place. I have no idea where the child was at this point.. but the dream lasted all of what seemed to be seconds.. and I snapped out of it.. quite aware that I had been abused in the nightmare. It was pretty weird and a little scary.. so of course I decided to get up and check all the doors and windows. Keep in mind, I AM on the second floor of my apartment complex..and the dream was a bit un-reasonable..as dreams are often meant to be ... but it scared the heck out of me.

I have no idea what relation of images like that could have to my 'real-world'.. but I am left to still think about it until this afternoon, as I write about it. What do you think? Strangeness for sure. It completely freaked me out.

As for every-day nightmares.. my little sister.. is 14 this year. FOURTEEN. She is a young woman, and I never knew how scary that could be for a big brother. I mean, I am more than a little tripped out. It makes me want to move home and watch over her constantly, as I know exactly how boys are at her age.. and beyond.. I am honestly sitting here with a shiver of fear running through me as I think about her at school with those little punks.

My lil' sis is the first girl amongst my siblings and the youngest. In many cases the youngest gets away with everything.. but not in this case. My Mother, rightfully so, keeps almost an oppressive thumb on her social activities. No Myspace, Facebook or unauthorized online activities..and definitely no un-supervised outings with friends. It sounds harsh, but I do believe that it is necessary. SO when My Mom told me that my little sister is going to spend the day at the mall with her girlfriends and see a movie and have lunch for her birthday.. I almost lost it! Of course, these are American teenager-style things to do .. things I did with my friends when I was a kid.. but in t his case.. I am again, freaked out about it. I asked my Mom.."are you letting her go alone!?".. My Mom just kind of chuckled and explained that she would be at the Mall with the girls, just not hanging not with them.. I feel better.. but it's still crazy.

Work nightmares have been prevalent lately as well. I heard a co-worker say some years ago, that - if you are having dreams about work.. you are working too much.. and I tend to agree. I do spend more time with my co-workers, at work.. than I do at home most weeks.. The thing is, I feel like have successfully separated my brain functions that involve work, away from my home-life. It is a sanity measure. Sometimes though, the images of the day seep into my dreams, and thus, nightmares.. making for a few moments where I just lay there wondering what it all means.

Working as much as I can, during the busy season, is something I have mentioned before.. it will be very slow soon.. and for about 6 months.. so I gotta get the cash in the bank while it's available.. or I will sorely regret it later... but yes, it fuels some crazy dreams sometimes.. when you are always working.

Well..that is my submission for this week of the RTT. I am gonna finish laundry, hit the gym, and get my ass to work. Usual day stuff. I hope to hear from all of you about your RTT happenings, or just life-doings. See you on the next post!

11:59 Cinema: Funny People

2009-07-31T12:56:00.001-07:00

This week's trip to the 11:59 Cinema was to see a really finny movie called "Funny People" Starring Adam Sandler, and Seth Rogan. The movie was also produced by Judd Apatow, who brought you other funny flicks like"Knocked Up" and "Pineapple Express". Seth Rogan really brought it up a notch with is performance. I mean, it's not like some kind of breakthrough performance, but I lost interest in Adam Sandler's movies a long time ago. This one has me wanting to see more films he is in... a renewal of faith if you will.

The timing of the comedy, the story-line and all the actors that were in, along with many, many cameos by famous comedians.. really made this something special to watch. There was even a short scene with Eminem.. which I don't tell you as incentive.. just as a funny fact. Seth Rogan departed from his usual slapstick comedy that he has become known for and turned up his acting levels. He was this little, geeky Jewish guy that was trying to become a comedian. He was awkward and goofy, and delivered the story like a champ. I would see this again in a heartbeat.. and I will be adding this to my permanent collection once it is available. Go check it out! Hope to hear from you all about it soon!

Thousand Words Thursday...

2009-07-30T15:04:00.000-07:00

I Need A Break

2009-07-30T13:55:00.000-07:00

I like Las Vegas.. . I really do. I have been here something like 10 years (this year,) and there is obviously something about it that I enjoy.. becuase here I still am. I make a good living and it is such and easy living, it almost makes me feel guilty.. but not really ;) I earn my keep, dealing with the tourists & families, and clubbers, and drunk bachelorettes and groups of angry little men that try to come through and perpetrate that they are "baller's".. haha.. it's a living!

Occasionally I take a break and go somewhere else. A quick trip to California to see the fam, a flight down to see friends in the South.. but right now I just want to take a break and be a tourist in the City that I make my living in.I want to experience the nightlife, and the fake beach, and the dining..and I just want to have a little bit of fun without breaking the bank. So I am wrking on pulling some strings and getting in contact with some of my connections around town and I am gonna chill for a week. It is in the works.. and I am looking forward to it! (I know, Ihave such a tough life) More to come on this!

Threadless Thursday!

2009-07-30T12:53:00.000-07:00

Three Really Great New Prints.. I love The "MISSING BIKE Poster" Print! So Awesome!

Southwest Airlines, Strip hotels team up for offer in Las Vegas Travel!

2009-07-29T12:15:00.000-07:00

Southwest Airlines has teamed up with 27 Las Vegas hotels to offer an incentive for those on the fence with this year’s travel plans.

The deal works like this: Book a flight and a room at one of the 27 hotels and a second person flies for free. Stay three nights at your chosen hotel and receive a fourth night free.

The hotels include the Bellagio, Wynn, Caesars Palace, Palms and Planet Hollywood.

The deal must be booked by 4 p.m. Las Vegas time on Aug. 10 with travel dates between Aug. 17 and Jan. 7.

As always, some restrictions do apply. Travel must be booked five days in advance and is not valid with Friday and Sunday travel. Blackout dates include Labor Day weekend, Thanksgiving week and the week of Christmas and New Year’s Eve. Travel from some cities does not apply.

For the first available day of travel with the deal out of Chicago’s Midway Airport, prices range from $212 at the Plaza Hotel to $354 at the Bellagio, per person, for a four-night stay. For travel from a city closer to Las Vegas, like Phoenix, prices run $113 to $255 a person during the first available week of travel.

Random Tuesday Thoughts

2009-07-28T05:46:00.000-07:00

It's just before 6 a.m. and I woke up nearly an hour ago. My sleep schedule has been incredibly out of whack ever since my slight sicknes last week, that was a result of my detox. The thing about that is.. I hadn't originally planned a detox of any sort.. but when I realized hat was hapening, I went with it and followed through.. it was a rough one. I had the chills for like a day and a half.. and I just couldn't do anything. I skipped the gym for like 3 days and ate all kinds of raw food and very basic items. I slept.. alot.. something like 18 out of 24 hours. No wonder I can't crash out properly. I have to work later tonight so I am sure I will be crashing out again here in a bit.

Speaking of that, things have been pretty chaotic around work lately. With all the publicity from Top Chef and Top Chef Masters, that Chef Rick has been receiving.. it has been quite a show in there. That and the Travel Channel did a piece on a special dessert that we serve.. 16 home-made ice creams.. no two alike... it's a guessing game of sorts. With 15 original flavors,(plus home-made vanilla) - there are new flavors almost every day .. if not more. We went from selling about 5 of those Ice Cream Tastings a night, to around 20 and 30 a night. I can't find a picture of it, so I will have to get back to you on it.

During my sick-leave from life.. i came across two Saturday Night Live sketches that I hadn't scene before.. both featuring Justin Timberlake.. and both pretty funny. One he plays his own ancestor, and the other an older woman named Peg. Check Em Out. I will post them at the bottom.

I think I am hungry.. I have been eating alot too.. It's that afore mentioned detox.. cleaned me out.. the receptors are all tuned-up and waiting for stimulation, i.e. .. food! So I am off to make some of that! I hope these RTT's find you in a sharing mood! I hope to hear from you :P

Yoga To Go - Jason Mraz

2009-07-27T22:46:00.000-07:00

It may be no secret to a few of you that I am a big fan of Mr. A-Z .. also know as Jason Mraz.( you can see his blog listed in the sidebar of my page). He has a youtube channel..and sometimes posts some pretty silly stuff. This clip is no exception! Check it out. " Get in Touch With Your Inner Chi!"

Music Monday

2009-07-27T01:32:00.000-07:00

Please check out my previous Post "Musical Accompaniment" in reference to some places I like to get my music from.

Download: The Script - The Man Who Can't Be Moved. I came across The Script whilst browsing the library at iTunes. This particular song is great, and catchy..and is not by far my favorite... even for as great as I think the track is.. there are more that are even more appealing. This was the first track I was introduced to. I really recommend checking them out for some smooth indie-rock with lyrics that really flow. Give it a try!

Download: Gossip - Heavy Cross..'Gossip' are an interesting blend of punk, pop, and funk.. this album - Music For Men is mixed by legendary producer Rick Ruben.. who has worked with such artists as Johnny Cash, Neil Diamond, The Red Hot chili Peppers, and the Beastie Boys. This is a fun album, electro and rock.. great listening for a day driving around town, or staying in chillin out.

Download: Chromeo - Bonafied Lovin Chromeo is a Montreal based electrofunk duo whose music is described as "a shameless return to the glistening, sex-saturated synth-pop which ruled the eighties" This track was my first introduction to them.,.amd it is sugar-coated with a pop addicting sound. I hope you like it too!

Download: My final track listing for Music Monday is a lot more calm than many of the songs presented in this post... it is by Fleet Foxes & Mykonos is the single that is currently my favorite off of the Sun Giant EP.. it is very cool to listen to. Sit back, relax and hear the chanting words of this excellent song.

Get Some Cheap Eats and Cold Beverages in Vegas - $1

2009-07-27T01:11:00.000-07:00

With the current economic times, everyone is looking to stretch their dollar.

M Resort’s 32° Draft Bar is offering up $1 12-ounce domestic drafts this summer Sunday through Thursday from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. through Aug. 31. The bar has 96 beers on tap.

Other off-the-Strip $1 drink specials include around-the-clock $1 Miller Genuine Draft bottles at the Silverton’s casino bar and $1 margaritas and $1 Bud/Bud Light drafts and margaritas at Fiesta Henderson’s Cerveza Cantina all day, everyday. Las Vegas’ four Roadrunner locations are serving up $1 slices of pizza and $1 beers every day from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. and 10 p.m. to 2 a.m.

Mondays at the Las Vegas 51s games are Value Menu Mondays with items like pretzels, hot dogs, popcorn, peanuts and Cracker Jacks for $1 each. For those looking to kick off the weekend a little early, Thursday nights are $1 Budweiser nights at Cashman Stadium.

Drinks can get expensive on the Strip but specials can be found if you know where to look. Casino Royale has $1 margaritas and $1 Michelob bottles 24/7, and just south is Bill’s Gambling Hall with more $1 margaritas and drafts beers at not quite a dollar, but $1.25, every day from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Dollar Days are back at the Sahara this summer. The casino has welcomed the return of its $1 blackjack but the dollar deals don’t end there. Sahara is also doing $1 shots (bonus: Sahara souvenir glass), $1 hot dogs and $1 beers.

11:59 Cinema : Pineapple Express

2009-07-24T06:14:00.000-07:00

This week for the 11:59 Cinema post, I decided to stay in. Mr. Lister (my usual partner in crime for the 11:59 Cinema) had a lot of school, personal, and work issues to deal with. So I was solo. I wasn't feeling well enough to go to a midnight movie anyway.. so it worked out.

So I finally got around to watching Pineapple Express streaming on Netflix. Let me tell you something.. this movie is hilarious. It's dumb humor, and really funny at that - and filled with a storyline that is just ridiculous. I had heard many things about how awesome the flick was, and how funny it came across... and they were all true. I really couldn't stop laughing.

Seth Rogan has made some really funny flicks since becoming a main-stream actor. His movies are full of his real-life friends.. and alot of really great actors that don't get enough screen time. Rosie Perezis part of the cast, along with Ed Begley Jr. - who is makes a brief cameo and is hilarious in this. I really can't say enough how funny it is. This movie is obviously NOT for children.. lots of off-color language and gunfights and chase scenes. It's worth the watch for sure! Check it out if already haven't already!

I hope to here from you all soon!

Threadless Thursday!

2009-07-23T13:57:00.000-07:00

These are three great new Submissions to the Threadless Line of t-shirts! Check em out and
get your own!

Here we have 3 really great re-prints! I love the Funnkalicious Spaceman! ...and as always Check out the Sale Section with t-shirts as low as $9!
See you there!

Random Tuesday Thoughts

2009-07-21T11:23:00.000-07:00

I have decided to join this movement of peeps that submit their Random Tuesday Thoughts.. brought to you by the "Un-Mom".. click the banner above to visit her page.

My thoughts are usually Random, but this Tuesday is especially un-exciting. I was off for the first time in 6 days, yesterday.. all I could bring myself to do was eat and sleep.. re-charge and refill I guess. I do feel great today, as a result, and I am headed to the gym just now. It rained all last night here in Las Vegas.. which is random in itself .. so today it is about 96 degrees.. rather than 108! That's a bonus. Other than that, today is basically my "Monday".. so I am doing all the things to get my week back into gear, before I head into work tonight.

I started my day with my new favorite breakfast of champions from Health Force Nutritional's. You can rad more about them here. I add their Vitamineral Green, along with Organic Raw Maca Powder to my O.N.E. Coconut Water... per Mr. A-Z over at Freshness Factor Five Thousand ... (read his post about "Easy Being Green") ..it is a nice start to my day. The mixture tastes a bit like wheat grass, which is in the blend..and it really has a "sweet-very green" flavor to it. Beats a donut any day! Well, i am off to do my 2 miles at the gym and some resistance training. Have a great one! See you on the next post!

Music Monday

2009-07-20T00:37:00.000-07:00

Please check out my previous Post "Musical Accompaniment" in reference to some places I like to get my music from.

Download: Breathe Your Name - by Sixpene None The Richer. Many of you have heard of SPNTR in the past..this is a re-release of one of their most catchy songs. Be careful, it sticks..
Download: Michael Jackson - Wanna Be Startin' Somethin' 2008 with Akon. Part of his 25th Anniversary re-release of the Thriller album... Michael has some of his classics remixed along with some top names in music. Kanye West, Fergie, and Will.I.Am from the Black Eyed Peas. Here he sings one of my favorites with Akon. Check it out!

Download: Shoot 'em Down - Ghostland Observatory. These guys are pretty cool. I cam across their album when checking out the tracks by Vampire weekend.This song - "Shoot 'em Down" is from the LP Delete.Delete.I.Eat.Meat. Fun Electro-rock that is great for chillin, travelin' or chair-dancing! Check them out.
Download: Make It Mine [From The Casa Nova Sessions] - Jason Mraz. Jason Mraz has to be one of my all-time favorites for chill rockin stuff. This version of Make It Mine is a favorite that I can listen to over, and over.. check it out. It's message is infectious if you really listen!

Download: If you have never heard of Manu Chao- then I suggest you check this out. "Me gustas tu" - Manu Chao. It is one of my favorite tracks by him, but i really love the whole album Proxima Estacion: Esperanza. Chao was born on June 26, 1961, in Paris to Spanish parents -- Growing up bilingual, he was also influenced by the punk scene across the English Channel that happened while he was still in his teens. He played in bands, including a rockabilly outfit called Les Hot Pants, which won local critical praise but never went anywhere ... He is a great artists to add to your World-Music collection.. or begin one if you haven't delved into that section of your tastes! I love Manu Chao!
Download: My final track listing for Music Monday is by Ohmega Watts. it is Ohmega Watts - Mind Power. I really dig Ohmega Watts. He is a rapper with clever rhymes and fresh sounding clips. It's artistry and poetry set to groovin' beats. This track Mind Power is singable and positive. Check it out!

Remember that Amazon.om has great deals on their Mp3's and they have an excellent list of editor picked albums are all $5! Check out - 50 albums for $5!. There are some really great finds on that list!

Mid-July

2009-07-19T12:35:00.000-07:00

It is Hot! An understatement usually in the Summer, by Las Vegas standards. Humid and hot... Yesterday left us here in The Valley with a heavy downpour for a couple of hours. It was refreshing and washed away the mess of the heated Vegas days and nights.. but soon after.. I mean immediately after the rain stopped.. it all turns to steam and humidity. It's like 105 degrees in the shade with a hot oven-like damp wind blowing in your face. The walk from my apartment to the laundry room felt like 120 degrees in the South of New Orleans. Ok, not that bad.. but unusually humid for this desert climate.

I have been working 6 days a week for the last few months, and it has been worth it, and somehow profitable. July is notoriously the slowest month for this town in terms of higher-end travelers and conventions. The fact that we didn't pick up in business until two months after the traditional busy season start, in January, makes this busy-ness that we have been experiencing.. very nice. With the first annual UFC Convention that was in town and held at Mandalay Bay.. along with various small events around town, I am happy to report that it has been a good Summer so far. I have seen some great deposits into my bank account, and I have still managed to have some fun while working all those hours.

A few late-night drinks and beers with the guys from work..and just a quality amount of time with myself to relax in the evenings after working a long day, make for a good Summer so far. Soon I will take a week or so of to relax before the Summer has officially ended. Most likely, I will be spending some time at my favorite faux beach .. the Moorea Lounge at the Mandalay Bay. So I am sure you will all be hearing about that! Until then.. see you on the next post!

11:59 Cinema : Harry Potter and The Half-Blood Prince

2009-07-17T02:39:00.000-07:00

So.. I went to the late showing tonight of Harry Potter and The Half Blood Prince. Right off the bat, let me say.. that I really dug it. From the way the story was told all the way to the direction, filming and special effects.. everything seemed alot more genuine, and less 'Blockbuster-Hollywood' like previous films in the this series. It actually felt like a film. It was, and will remain one of my favorites in the series, since Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban. Here is the thing... I have not read the books, and I will for sure read them someday soon. No problem there. The thing is.. until The Prisoner of Azkaban came along, I did not see anything remarkable about the telling of the stories that were written by J.K. Rowling.

In Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban, the story was told so cleverly and with such care - that you wanted more of the World that was portrayed in that film. It was in large part due to the director - Alfonso Cuaron. He is an amazingly clever man. He directed such films as Y Tu Mama Tambien, and the box-office failure that was Children of Men .. (and I had such high-hopes for that one.) He was asked to do another Potter film.. but declined to make Children of Men.. that is another story.

Here in Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince, there is a definite story-telling going on. There has been a clear directive made to show more of the World that is Harry Potter. With the final installment already filmed, I think they really did a great job fleshing out the storyline. I was really very impressed and I look forward to the next film. It ended strangely though.. and that is the only issue I had with the film.. I won't spoil it.. but in the long and short of it - I really enjoyed it! Go check it out and let me know what you think!

Threadless Thursday!

2009-07-16T11:18:00.000-07:00

Threadless Thursday Brings You Some Great New Tee's!.. And don't forget to Vote...For your Favorite Threadless.com Tee's! The Bestees

TOP CHEF: The Masters in Las Vegas

2009-07-15T13:28:00.000-07:00

So tonight is going to be interesting. This evening. RM SEAFOOD at MANDALAY BAY is hosting a viewing party for TOP CHEF MASTERS. This is especially exciting, because the owner/chef of the restaurant i work for - Rick Moonen.. was on the show this past Season. It is pretty exciting for the rest f us that work for him, because it has a brought alot of new energy to the place.

I will give you a brief history... Rick Moonen is a celebrated seafood chef and an early champion of sustainable fishing practices. Moonen graduated first in his class from the Culinary Institute of America and then went on to work at New York City’s La Côte Basque, Le Cirque and The Water Club where he commanded the kitchen for six years. He then became executive chef and partner at Oceana before he opened rm in New York, which earned three stars from the New York Times. In 2005 Moonen closed the New York rm in order to open Rick Moonen’s RM Seafood and r bar café at Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas. (Wikipedia)

This past couple of years has been especially exciting or Chef Rick. His cookbook Fish Without a Doubt: The Cook's Essential Companion, went to the top of the lists.. he was on Top Chef Masters and has been honored by Star Chefs.. and .. they even filmed a couple of episodes of TOP CHEF in RM Seafood this past season.. of which my big head may be seen eventually. (I served the judges) Though they may just want to edit that out..and I am OK with that! :)

Tonight there are already 300 people invited to come to the festivities alone, as well as the restaurant being open for regular business. I am looking forward to a fun night and I will post more about it asap. Photos to come! Hope to see some of you there. and for the rest of you.. stay tuned!