On Second Thought

A New Home

2010-04-03T14:18:00.002-04:00

I will no longer be posting new entries on this blog. It's been a good run on blogger, but I'm going to try to keep everything in or around my sstill-in-the-works site, israelhilldesign.com.

Keep up with me here:

israelhilldesign.com/theblog

See you there!

Frontier Ruckus

2010-03-21T15:19:00.002-04:00

I really like this.

Triggers

2010-03-09T19:40:00.003-05:00

Isn't it funny how a seemingly unrelated picture can spark a simple memory of a time and place that will never exist again?

Photo via Zhengdong Xu

Mind & Heart

2010-02-26T18:12:00.002-05:00

The mind and the heart are ridiculous.

2010-02-05T10:26:00.002-05:00

Let's see... I've had a Gocco printer (courtesy of tightslice) for the better part of two years and have just finished my first print project. Granted, the design is more than simple and not much of a challenge, but I've got ideas brewing for more complicated designs and color schemes.

I'm just proud of myself for tackling what is possibly the world's easiest means of printing by hand at home.

Top Ten Albums of 2009

2009-12-24T17:55:00.013-05:00

Twenty-ought-nine has come and gone, so it's time to reveal the top ten albums released that I jammed to the most/best. Oh-Nine saw my musical leanings change from the past few years. I didn't really have Josh, Dennis, or Austin to feed me solid albums. So, I went to fill my own plate, and being in Tennessee means I ate a lot more backwoods, not in-the-know music. Or maybe it's just that the music stuck with me differently than if I had been at the musical buffet of a "refined" city.

Also, 2009 was the year that probably everyone saw coming but me. It was the year I became ashamed to be a Kings of Leon fan. Their first two albums would definitely make my top 10-20 albums of the decade, and I even threw them a bone with the last two albums. But radio play and and abandonment of the style that made them The Country Fried Strokes made me tired of standing up for their worldwide pop rock status.
I know every single one of my friends will and have raked me over the coals because of the KOL, but I would remind them of a little band named Weezer and the first few albums that they still laud.

Also, The Avett Brothers put out an album this year. That's all I'll say about it.

Alright.

First, some honorable mentions:

Bill Callahan - Sometimes I Wish I Were an Eagle
Listen to Too Many Birds and try not to really dig the end of the song as he adds word by word the last verse. Also, try not to dig the lyrics themselves.

Daniel Martin Moore - Stray Age
Never heard of this Kentuckian until I saw him with about 15-20 other people at the Social in Orlando. His voice is incredible and his guitar playing is sweet. I love the small little track By Dream. It's perfect for situations gone south and internet crushes.

The Swell Season - Strict Joy
This record almost crept into my top ten, but I kept it away because I am a man. And gawldernnit, men don't like sappy albums like this. It also came to me late in the year, and I hate putting albums that are only a couple of months old in the Ten. After a few listens though, I really enjoyed the melodies and the vocals mixed together like it was a real couple making an album together.

// Okay, here's the serious business. Here's the ten albums I would take on a trip with the balloon boy or to jail with his dad. //

10 / Dan Deacon - Bromst
I loved his previous album so much and was excited about this release, especially after hearing the track Get Older before the whole album dropped. I recommend listening to this only when you're not around old people or people that take themselves to serious. I can't defend this on my list, but it's number ten, it's super fun, and layered like Randy Parker in A Christmas Story.

09 / Bonnie "Prince" Billy - Beware
This gentleman continues to amaze me with every dark line delivered from his hilariously light character. Of course, this album threw curves at me with xylophones and flutes, but he worked them right over the plate for a Denny's Grand Slam. I Am Goodbye is so happy, so serious and so matter of fact. Just the way BPB delivers it best.

08 / The Thermals - Now We Can See
Sometimes I want to be punk but I also want to shower, smell clean and enjoy production with my punk music. That's when I throw this album on the iPod. I get all the anger and the "I-know-we're-getting-screwed-over-but-at-least-I'm-not-clueless-about-it" out of my system, and I don't feel like I'm missing out on palatable, goes down smooth melody.

07 / Bonny Billy and the Picket Line - Fundown Comedown
Okay, remember last year when Bonny Billy snuck out an overseas live recording from Scotland? It's possibly my favoite of his albums ever. It's an amazing recording of amazing arrangements of some of his greatest work. Well, this year he snuck a more backwoods, hillbilly live version out. Recorded at a tiny little show in Kentucky, Oldham rearranged some more of his tunes (and a few other artists') in a manner fitting of the finest hole in the wall Kentucky bar house band.

06 / Phoenix - Wolfgang Amedeus Pheonix
Israel goes Pop. Who knew an album with such a dumb title could have some of the smartest pop contained within. Although I probably couldn't sing one lyric to you from this album, I sure as heck could dance all night to it (I'm looking at you, 1901).

05 / David Bazan - Curse Your Branches
"Dear God,
There's a lot of things I've been taught about you that haven't really rang true in my life. I had high hopes for us and even learned a lot early on. But aside from not understanding you and your "ways", I don't think I really trust that all I've known can actually be true.
Let's put things on ice. Okay?"

Signed,
David Bazan

This is a dumb version of the letter I think Bazan had in mind when he read my mind and wrote this album. Sounds a lot like a Pedro the Lion/Headphones album musically, but Bazan continues to be one of my favorite all time songwriter and thinker. Also, Please, Baby, Please is a simple and perfect Bazan song.

04 / The Antlers - Hospice
Thank you, Tim Reid for cluing me in to this album. I was not at all into this spooky sounding and sad leaning music. Then I listened to it again. Then again. And again. And then every night as I went to sleep. And then every morning when the skies were grey. And now I think it's amazing. And I think you should listen to it. A lot.

03 / Mason Jennings - Blood of Man
Mason Jennings was just alright with me. A few good tracks on previous albums and a unique voice caused me to give this one a shot. Not to pile on too much praise, because let me say that I wish that first track had never been born. I almost quit listening before I started. After I skipped through that first one, the catchy, beautifully written folk rock got to work. It worked smiles on my face, lightness in my heart, and thoughts of past and future into my head.

02 / AA Bondy - When the Devil's Loose
Hard to believe this guy was in a horrible rock band before cutting out on his own to put out two amazing folk rock albums. He seems to have taken Band of Horses down to Mississippi, taught them how to hurt like a man, pine like teenagers, and make a country sounding rock album that doesn't care if it makes the cover of Radar or Filter magazine. A Slow Parade is a song you can play for me any time of the day and I'll expect silence while taking it in. Seeing him live in 2009 was the most bittersweet thing I did all year.

01 / Elvis Perkins - in Dearland
Usually when an album is released early in the year, I don't expect for it to stay atop my favorites list past August. I loved this album right out of the gate. I even listened to it a bit too much. I knew I was going to tire myself of it before I could put it on this list.
I was wrong. Every song on this gem feels natural to me. The slight style differences between tracks works very well. The lyrics are sometimes perfectly vague. You can use his feelings for your own and not feel like you're misinterpreting his song. Then you can go right back and listen to it as he intended and it's even better. Try riding a bike at midnight while listening to Doomsday and not shouting out that last bit of chorus. Try to listen to Chains, Chains, Chains and imagine yourself at shore's edge wanting to be free from something but not being able to step into the sea. While you're at it, lend an ear to Hey and find yourself lending a couple of restless legs aching to dance to a vintage sounding pop tune.
For some reason, I didn't want this album to be my number one. I guess because I sang it's praises long after friends moved on to that Pitchfork band, Animal Collective. Here it is though, standing king over the other albums that had their chance to dethrone it all year long.

Disclaimer: You will not agree with me on the order and albums listed here as being the best put out in 2009. I am prepared to take suggestions and ridicule in the firm belief that your musical tastes aren't as perfect as mine.

Lost & Found

2009-11-22T00:04:00.000-05:00

Also

2009-10-25T11:55:00.002-04:00

Ill With Want

2009-10-20T12:30:00.006-04:00

via ffffound

I've had this image sitting on my desktop for a few weeks and think about it often. Often, because I feel it's truer than anything I've heard or felt in a while.

Mountain Artist

2009-09-09T20:18:00.003-04:00

I have spent most of my summer weekends driving and hiking around these hills I've found myself "stuck" in the past year and a half. But recently, I've really come to appreciate the simplicity of hiking alone and the beauty I have seen just by taking off on a whim. I've used Sunday afternoons and evenings as a time to get outside and see something, and I've felt it center myself for the week ahead.

A few weekends back I hiked to a pair of waterfalls I haven't been to in over five years. It was a great hike and I had the falls all to myself (a rarity, if you've ever hiked to bigger falls in a national forest). After I got back to the car I decided to take the unknown route back to the main road and to Windsor. It was after getting turned around and not quite sure where I was at that I drove past a little old house on the side of a mountain. There was a nice thick garden planted and a small barn/shed in front of the driveway. On this shed there were very colorful paintings hanging all over. The colors were awesome and I thought to myself, "You have to stop and see where this art came from", but I drove on.
A half mile later, I turned around, because there was no way that I wanted to pass up meeting some amazing mountain character panting back in these hills.

It's a good thing I did. There at the house, working in the garden, was David Greer. An forty-something, shy, quiet, talented fella that had lived on this land his whole life. His mother was sitting on the porch and allowed me to peruse his paintings. They not only were hanging on the barn, but he had them stored in the sheds as well. He has about 20 years worth of art just sitting on and in these sheds.

I was amazed at the detail in his folk-style paintings. The shading was great and the figure style unique and pure. He had not been taught by anyone or had any type of training. He is influenced or inspired by pictures in magazines and more than likely never studied folk art. I was glad to hear he was trying to sell them and told them I'd be back with cash to pick a few out.

The paintings I bought are definitely the catch of the summer, and I look forward to sharing his work with others. His work deserves to be admired.

I Refuse to...

2009-08-28T22:39:00.002-04:00

I refuse to...

click this link
think these thoughts
say these things
wish these wishes
feel these feelings
want this want

This Summer

2009-07-05T21:30:00.003-04:00

Spending this summer quite differently than last.
Quiet drives and hikes amongst the many shades of green and perfect evening breezes make up my weekends.
Up and leaving at any time I please to reunite with friends.
A little more manual labor.
Letting it be.
Burying a mystery.

I'm not putting a cap on this summer yet.

Hip Pop

2009-06-29T22:53:00.001-04:00

Also, you must remember that at one time, your own father was cool. And the cars he drove were cool.

Time Travel

2009-06-28T00:54:00.002-04:00

I wonder what it would be like to hang out with your dad when he was the same age as you are now. You'd both be the same age at the same time in his life and you'd see exactly what he dealt with when he was this age. When time travel is finally invented, I'll take that trip.

What if I Tumble?

2009-06-15T20:29:00.002-04:00

Thanks to the prodding of Azuree, I have opened a tumblr account. I will be posting only things I create or photograph. My inspiration comes from in front of the computer, out in the woods, strolling around a city, or listening to music and there's no reason for me not to make my own inspiration.

Follow me here if you wish.

Dead Man's Will

2009-06-11T16:38:00.002-04:00

I visit ffffound.com too much, and I've had that lyric in my head all day.

Of the Sea

2009-06-10T23:36:00.001-04:00

Rittenhouse Square Park

2009-06-08T23:40:00.001-04:00

Here's another post that was denied publishing last year at the end of May. I thought of it while sitting in Rittenhouse Square Park in Philadelphia.
There was probably a reason for no capitalization. It sounded good and flowed at the time...

the park
on a sunday afternoon
a crescent bench sits alone and offers
to me it's company

the park
on a sunday afternoon
a young family strolls by with
games and laughter

the park
on a sunday afternoon
a group of kids hiding smokes from
the multitude that does not care

From a while back

2009-06-06T20:52:00.001-04:00

I was going through drafts of blogs and saw this unfinished post. Since I haven't posted in a while I thought I would resurrect it.

As I trim down my belongings I keep finding stuff I have kept for odd reasons. Among them is this little collection of concert ticket stubs. I remember stories from and situations surrounding them. Here's a quick list of what was going on for each.

The Strokes:
My first real rock concert. Slightly weirded out by all the "crazy" people. One of the first time my "personal space" was invaded. Julian (lead singer) climbed on the rafters/balcony right above us and either beer or sweat dripped on us. Walked away amazed, and was hooked on live shows since.

Nickel Creek:
One of the calmest crowds of people at a show for this one. We pushed our way as close to the front as possible, and I remember feeling bad/lonely when they played "Out of the Woods" and boyfriends held their girlfriends. We were going to wait around and try to meet the band, but left. Come to find out, if we'd hung around we could have got an acoustic show outside their bus.

Iron & Wine:
The only time I've been able to see him. Kinda fell for a girl at this show who was a friend of a friend but never talked to after that show. Yep...

Joanna Newsom:
I had never been taken with anyone the way I was with her and her performance. Austin and I had road-tripped to Atlanta just to see her play. We spent more on diesel oil than diesel fuel. After that show I remember telling Austin I had to make a unwilling vow of celibacy because I would never be as infatuated with anyone else, save Ms. Newsom. Don't ever say stuff like that.

Kings of Leon:
My brother had just left Florida and we were both excited to finally see these guys live. They very quickly became one of my favorite bands and I was pumped for this show. Got sick about a week before the show and did all I could do to feel as healthy as possible for this show. It took them forever to come on stage, but was a show that lived up to what I wanted.

David Bazan:
His solo shows are way less crowded that his Pedro shows. I enjoyed that. Oddly enough I remember watching some TV show before this show about Lars Hamilton and Eddie Vedder hanging out in Hawaii. It was a very relaxing episode of television. So it was weird to go to a show right after.

Chris Thile:
This was a bonus show I was able to enjoy. While in Atlanta for the aforementioned Joanna Newsom show, I found out Thilie was playing the same venue nights before. I had Austin drop me off (as he does not dig this music, and is his only fault in life) and I enjoyed the show alone. I was kind of excited to meet him afterwards and had plenty of time while waiting for my ride. Turns out, he is sort of arrogant.

Bob Dylan:
When he came to Orlando, I figured I must see the legend live before either of us died. Aaron came down from Tennessee to go to the show with DTM and myself. We had really good seats and it was a very policed show. I remember seeing all the older people there and then smelling weed. Going to this show just made me wish I could have seen him back in the 60's. Oh well, next life...

The National:
One of the most expensive tickets I ever bought. I remember how good they were live.

Mates of State:
Good hollering harmonies and short company.

Rilo Kiley:
I happened to get into this band just before they played in town. I love when that happens. Turns out, their bassist reminded me too much of Will Ferrell.

Nickel Creek (Again):
Some of their final shows were this year. They played a bigger venue than I had ever seen them at and it sounded very good but was also the most boring time I've seen them. Good music should be played in as small as venues as possible.

Kings of Leon (Again):
The band had gotten bigger by this show. I somehow ended up eating at the Bob Marley restaurant before the show. This show was enjoyed from a "VIP" section of the venue and was a bit too tame for rock-n-roll.

Joanna Newsom (Again):
I love this musician and the town I saw her in. I love how quiet everyone was and how amazing she sounded.

Chains, Chains, Chains

2009-06-06T20:37:00.003-04:00

By Dream

2009-05-03T22:55:00.000-04:00

Simple Lyrics

2009-04-14T18:42:00.002-04:00

Underwood Champion

2009-04-08T20:36:00.004-04:00

My old neighbor passed away last year, and his daughter made his late 50's Underwood Champion available to me this week. I'm considering writing the rest of my blog posts on paper and then scanning them for posting.

This Never Happens

2009-03-28T09:14:00.003-04:00

This never happens in real life. However, I will be leaving for Italy to find this girl.

Notte Sento (English subtitles) from napdan on Vimeo.

(Also, this short was made with over 4500 photographs)

Almost Forgot

2009-03-26T08:29:00.003-04:00

I almost forgot how good this movie is.

In My Possession

2009-03-23T00:06:00.002-04:00

As it stands at this moment, this is the last live act that I need to see to be satisfied with seeing bands live. Actually, it's probably the last thing I really need to see.

Childhood

2009-03-19T15:18:00.001-04:00

Magic Castle Gift Shop

2009-03-04T23:33:00.003-05:00

Gift Shopping in Central Florida

Splendid China

2009-03-04T23:31:00.002-05:00

Urban Exploration in Central Florida

Song

2009-02-26T17:12:00.004-05:00

DANIEL MARTIN MOORE / BY DREAM

In the End

2009-02-14T02:18:00.002-05:00

ffffound.

This is what I got right now.

West Palm Beach

2009-02-10T12:08:00.002-05:00

"I can't get the sand out of my shoes
Being in Florida has done a number on my blues
Just the way the women walk 'round here
Well it's plain to see the way the sand and sea
Have done a number on me"
Palace Brothers - West Palm Beach

My Top Ten Favorite Albums Released in 2008

2009-02-06T10:24:00.001-05:00

10: Langhorne Slim - Diamonds & Gold
"I wasn't much of a fighter or a lover
You said don't get excited but take cover..."

09: Kings of Leon - Because of the Times
"Just know it was you all along
That had a hold of my heart
But the demon and me
Were the best of friends from the start"

08: Damien Jurado - Caught In the Trees
"Should you ever, ever need me to stick around"

07: AA Bondy - American Heart
"And it's love that's tearing them down
And it's love that turns them around..."

06: This Is Ivy League - Self-Titled
"Although we haven't got much money, we must admit it's pretty funny
How they think we are the richest kids in town"

05: Little Joy - Little Joy
"One thought, has me turning back
A dozen point the other way
We act upon desire
To reach your hand for higher
And patience isn't worth the wait"

04: Micah P. Hinson - ...and the Red Empire Orchestra
"Constantly protecting what isn't mine..."

03: The Racontuers - Consolers of the Lonely
"Take it as it comes and be thankful when it's done
There's so many ways to act and there's many shades of black"

02: Bonnie "Prince" Billy - Is It the Sea?
"When the fever hits on your forehead
And trusive mice chew up your bed
And you call on God and God is dead
Love comes to you..."

01: Bon Iver - For Emma, Forever Ago
"I tell my love to wreck it all
Cut out all the ropes and let me fall..."

Lest We Forget

2009-02-02T10:54:00.000-05:00

The greatest things in life can be memories.

You Always Hurt the Ones Who Love You Most

2009-01-27T22:49:00.004-05:00

I think I get really bummed out when I hear, read, see or even just realize someone is doing something so very ignorant. Not just ignorant in the sense of answering a question incorrectly or failing to yield to pedestrians. More like when someone does exactly the opposite of what they say they want to do. They talk this talk about making changes or wishing the best for themselves, and then the next thing you know, they're taking steps away from what is necessary to bring about the best for themselves. Or, as in the case of what brought this train of thought on, they destroy themselves without even wanting to get better.
I don't get bummed for just them either. I get bummed for all of us. We are all subject to doing these idiotic things, and most of us are pros at doing them. I guess maybe it's a hopelessness for humanity. When you see people make the same mistakes over and over it begins to take away hope you have for them/us. When I see myself make the same mistakes over and over, it begins to sink in that I'm doing the same thing that I hate to see in others.

I made the mistake of watching a TV show called Intervention. It's pretty much about what you'd think it's about.
This kid on the episode grew up under horrible conditions and allowed his upbringing, or lack thereof, and his young brother's death to destroy his life. He was/is an insane alcoholic. The whole first of the show I felt bad for him and they did a good job of setting up the reason why he is the way he is. Then, towards the second half I began to see that he lost control and didn't care to loose control. I began to feel less sorry for him and more saddened that he lost hope, couldn't die, milked his problem for attention, and continued to self destruct while friends and family watched on. In the end, he agrees to go to rehab and straighten things out, and according to the show is sober now.

Anyway, it got me thinking about all the people I know living life like this kid. Maybe they're not drinking hand sanitizer b/c it has alcohol in it, but they mimic him to lesser degrees. And just like his family and friends to him, there's nothing I can really do but watch or turn away.

I did take away a good feeling though. This kids extended family and friends were there for him. It seems that no matter how bad you keep screwing up, someone loves and cares for you.

Maybe I won't watch that show again.

Which?

2009-01-25T10:32:00.002-05:00

Which logo confuses you the least?

I'm working on a move and finalizing my own branding is the next step in designing the new home for my blog and website. I can't decide on which of these logos makes the most sense while being different. So, I thought I'd open it up to more people than I've AIM'd for advice.

Watching My Back

2009-01-20T00:17:00.003-05:00

Jared got a new camera (and I plan on using it some). And yes, all forms of entertainment are strewn out before and beside of me.

That's All She Wrote

2009-01-17T13:45:00.002-05:00

Good Morning!

2009-01-14T09:08:00.002-05:00

This is not a headline I wanted to read this morning. I might have to lay low for a while.

Burning for You

2009-01-14T00:58:00.001-05:00

The best part about Christmas is burning the trees you find out at the curb a few weeks later.

Life Decisions

2009-01-12T17:28:00.002-05:00

I've found the perfect way to decide what to do with my life.

via designerbyfate.com I think.

2% or Skim

2009-01-08T09:24:00.002-05:00

I went to see MILK last night.

Anyone can make a difference if they've got the drive and passion to back up their beliefs.

Simple

2009-01-07T16:29:00.003-05:00

June 18, 1976

Another Song

2009-01-06T09:59:00.004-05:00

I know I keep posting songs and no personal updates, but these songs are just too good.

AA Bondy singing There's A Reason

Micah P. Hinson

2009-01-03T12:20:00.002-05:00

My friend Tim got me into this guy a few years back. He put out an album this year, and this song is really simple and good. Somewhere I heard he was a preacher's boy.

Love Comes to Me

2008-12-29T13:30:00.002-05:00

This live version of Bonnie "Prince" Billy's Love Comes to Me is simply brilliant.

I Need A Fix 'Cause I'm Goin' Down

2008-12-24T00:03:00.002-05:00

Let's go back a few years with this one. I remember getting shivers the first time I heard this song. It still happens sometimes.

Wanna Fight?

2008-12-21T11:11:00.000-05:00

Blows and wounds cleanse away evil,
and beatings purge the inmost being.
-Aramaic proverb

The Adventure Begins 2008

2008-12-15T18:01:00.002-05:00

Three years running, Justin and I are able to capture the adventure beginning.

A Little More Little Joy

2008-12-11T11:48:00.002-05:00

I don't care how much flack I catch for digging this album. I really enjoy the organ on this track.

Just Recently

2008-12-10T11:12:00.003-05:00

About two weeks ago I was riding around town with my father and told him something like this.

If 18-year-old Israel had been told what 28-year-old Israel would be doing, he would have laughed and never believed it.

28-year-old Israel does miss this bus.

Without Trying to Sounds Too Sappy

2008-12-08T09:23:00.003-05:00

I am confused about a lot of things these days. Here are two things that I am really aware of and fairly certain of now.

Love is patient, love is kind.
It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud.
It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.
Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth.
It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.

AND

A Prayer Into the Dark

2008-12-07T03:31:00.000-05:00

Oh God, where are You now?

If You Care the Slightest...

2008-12-03T11:20:00.003-05:00

... this has been my life the past three months.

Saw a girl off to NYC
Bought a plane ticket to NYC
Did not get to go to NYC
Saw an amazing, poignant musical performance
Worked in a garage, unrelated to auto repair
Bought a plane ticket to Portland
Did not get to go to Portland
Planned a school bus adventure
Sold off all of my Irish low whistles
Paid off every debt I owed
Reduced my possessions to fit into just over four boxes
Camped in 28 degree weather in the Smokey Mountains
Pitched a web show idea to a TV network
Kept planning that school bus adventure
Bought another ticket to Portland
Bought the most expensive set of tires for my car
Helped pull out an engine from a Firebird
Chopped stolen firewood
Took a dog to the pound
Retreated to Florida to avoid cold weather and boredom
Ate Chipotle again
Annoyed a friend in California too often
Flew back to Tennessee for Thanksgiving
Saw a child walk on his own. Finally.
Bought a Storm
Played pool for the first time in ages
Got this head cold
Did not use that ticket to Portland. Yet.

All while wondering about that first item.

This Time Last Year

2008-11-24T09:25:00.002-05:00

What a wild ride it's been, only to prove that ignorance truly is bliss.

On the Verge of Overkill, I Know

2008-11-20T00:53:00.002-05:00

Incredible.

Scripture or Bonnie "Prince" Billy?

2008-11-18T11:09:00.001-05:00

"My world's been rocked before
And it will be rocked again
By a tremor or a howling wind
And lord if you demand
If the world at large asks of me
I will surrender to you"

Christmas Wishes

2008-11-14T09:49:00.003-05:00

Eleven Eleven

2008-11-11T11:11:00.001-05:00

Posted on 11/11 at 11:11

Sleep Won't Come

2008-11-06T22:20:00.001-05:00

I have felt almost exactly the same way my little nephew here for the past few weeks.

Last Polaroid

2008-11-01T21:37:00.002-04:00

You don't know when you've used your last polaroid until you try to take the next picture.

Of Going It Alone

2008-10-30T21:12:00.002-04:00

Photoshop those two nerds out of the picture. Photoshop me into the picture. There, you have successfully made an image of the next month for me.

Retirement

2008-10-29T18:00:00.000-04:00

The best way to announce your retirement from acting. Ever.

Original Gangsterz

2008-10-28T17:38:00.002-04:00

Little Joy

2008-10-27T18:05:00.002-04:00

Fabrizio Moretti, from The Strokes, has had a side project for a little bit. Just learned of this and have been enjoying listening to them. Check out this Little Joy song.

A Bench for Two

2008-10-26T16:51:00.002-04:00

If I Could Turn Back Time

2008-10-23T19:09:00.003-04:00

Sorry Austin

Four Miles Out. Four Miles In.

2008-10-23T18:39:00.005-04:00

Here's the view from along the Appalachian Trail on the North Carolina/Tennessee border. It's hard to beat the beauty of Fall in the Smoky Mountains.

Sloppy Eggs

2008-10-21T21:41:00.000-04:00

Thank you Alex.

Still Beating

2008-10-16T22:49:00.002-04:00

Yeah, sometimes I'm sappy.

Talk You Up

2008-10-12T20:26:00.004-04:00

As a younger man, newly friended in Orlando, Florida, I had a vision. It happened while at work one day whilst watching a fellow employee zone out with his earphones on. We could not harass him or offer up our professional, unsolicited critique of his design work. We hated that we weren't able to communicate the way we felt we needed to. We thus began wondering what it was that this designer was listening to to drown out our incessant whining and sarcastic jokes. I suggested he was listening to a recording of a pleasant voice repeating words of encouragement over and over. It was right then I envisioned such an audible friend. One you could load up n the iPod or Discman or even a Walkman if you were so inclined.

I set out with the help of some friends to record this pick-me-up. What it produced is a very excruciating three and some odd seconds recording of myself (heavily influenced by Ron Burgundy) reading out words of encouragement.
Recently I was going through junk and found my original handwritten list of reasons you rule. I have decided to make this recording public and include the album artwork, liner notes, and the mp3's for your listening pleasure.

Enjoy being talked up!

CLICK HERE TO OWN "TALK YOU UP"
Windows users need to right-click and then choose "save as". Sorry.

NBC

2008-10-11T00:09:00.002-04:00

Nevermind the shows, check out that thick typeface. Antenna Black is the best thing on that channel right now.

Remembrance of Lost Love

2008-10-09T11:53:00.003-04:00

In memory of my trusted Canon EOS Elan IIe.
Born June 26, 1996 and laid to rest October 9, 2008.

My love of the natural world, great lighting, f/11, watching/feeling sunsets, lonely treks in the woods, happening upon couples making out, unrealistic goals, and getting dotted on by my older peers for great composition was nurtured though this mid-level SLR.
One of these days I'll get serious about imaging and purchase his newer siblings not requiring film and developing.

Another David Bazan Related Post

2008-10-08T21:42:00.004-04:00

If ever I disagree with David Bazan, you'll know that someone has taken over my body and mind that is not truly me. I say this knowing full well you should never put anyone on a pedestal.

Listen to "Slow Car Crash" by CLICKING HERE

Shade Shifting Self

2008-10-08T17:07:00.002-04:00

More could be done here, digitally. I'm just trying to think of it.

The Lion King in 5 Seconds

2008-10-08T11:31:00.001-04:00

Found online. My favorite Disney movie as a child, shortened for my enjoyment every single day.

Illustration

2008-10-07T17:06:00.002-04:00

Danceability Rating: 10

2008-10-06T17:53:00.002-04:00

I challenge you to sit still while jamming this tune.

Sound and Vision by David Bowie

When Life Hands You Lemons

2008-10-04T21:23:00.003-04:00

Sometimes life really dumps on you. It must be in those times that just at the right moment, life will also find you opening your old Franklin Electronic Bible case and having this wallet sized picture fall into your hands.

He shall find a new home in my wallet. A friendly face and a warm smile amongst the harshest of seasons.

To Be Expected

2008-10-02T12:02:00.004-04:00

On November 3, at long last, these 3 shall be together again. For better or worse, for poor or poorer, in sickos and health, until a lucky lady do us part.
God save the queen.

Mankind Is No Island

2008-10-02T10:12:00.001-04:00

Tropfest NY 2008 winner, "Mankind Is No Island" by Jason van Genderen

Define : Blindsided

2008-10-01T23:07:00.003-04:00

blind-side or blind·side (blīnd'sīd')
tr.v. blind-sid·ed or blind·sid·ed, blind-sid·ing or blind·sid·ing, blind-sides or blind·sides

To hit or attack on or from the blind side.
To catch or take unawares, especially with harmful or detrimental results.

Inevitable

2008-09-28T22:07:00.001-04:00

The Bible

2008-09-25T20:10:00.002-04:00

MAKES SENSE:

There are three things which are too wonderful for me,
Four which I do not understand:

The way of an eagle in the sky,
The way of a serpent on a rock,
The way of a ship in the middle of the sea,
And the way of a man with a maid.

-------------

MAKES NO SENSE:

And He said to them, "Because of the littleness of your faith; for truly I say to you, if you have faith the size of a mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there,' and it will move; and nothing will be impossible to you..."

Old Polaroid

2008-09-24T21:21:00.003-04:00

I picked up some out-of-date Polaroid film the other day. The quality is lacking, but the faded look makes up for it. I've been staying with this more than generous family for way too long now. Now, there is definite reason for me to find new dwellings...

Currently Listening To...

2008-09-23T10:10:00.005-04:00

This was over at Daytrotter

Worth Keeping - New Song - New Recording

These Days

2008-09-23T09:16:00.002-04:00

These make for long, difficult days.

Also known as, "Dating a girl that lives in New York City is rough".

Confession/Notice

2008-09-20T12:37:00.003-04:00

If ever I spend any time at your place of residence and am in need of waste relief, I am sure to notice, and correct if necessary, the way your toilet paper is loaded. It's end in front, not end in the back.

PTL

2008-09-18T23:12:00.001-04:00

Deep green hills whose shoulders fade, into the gray tall wet grass.
Whose flesh makes fools of grazing sheep, whose fleecing makes a fool of me.

And who shall I blame for this sweet and heavy trouble?
For every stupid struggle?
I don't know.
I could buy you a drink.
I could tell you all about it.
I could tell you why I doubt it, and why I still believe.

But I can't say it like I sing it.
And I can't sing it like I think it.
And I can't think it like I feel it.
And I don't feel a thing.
Oh no - I don't feel a thing.

And who shall I blame for this sweet and heavy trouble?
For every stupid struggle?
I don't know.
I could buy you a drink.
I could tell you all about it.
I could tell you why I doubt it, and why I still believe it.
And why I need it.
And what the pharisees don't see.

And we'd have more drinks. We'd speak of so many things.
But I don't know you, and you don't know me.

Pedro the Lion - Achilles Heel - The Fleecing

Revelry

2008-09-15T09:04:00.004-04:00

I present to you the best song from the radio friendly, forthcoming Kings of Leon album.

What a night for a dance, you know I'm a dancing machine
With the fire in my bones and the sweet taste of kerosene
I get lost in the light so high don't wanna come down
To face the loss of the good thing that i have found

Woo hoo hoo
Woo hoo hoo

In the dark of the night I can hear you calling my name
With the hardest of hearts I still feel full of pain
So I drink and I smoke and I ask you if your ever around
Even though it was me who drove us right in the ground

See the time we shared it was precious to me
But all the while I was dreaming of revelry

Gonna run baby run like a stream down a mountainside
With the wind at my back I won't ever even bat an eye
Just know it was you all along who had a hold of my heart
But the demon and me was the best of friends from the start

So the time we shared it was precious to me
All the while I was dreaming of revelry
Dreaming of revelry

And I told myself for the way you go, it rained so hard it felt like snow
Everything came tumbling down on me
In the back of the woods in the dark of the night
Palest of the old moonlight
Everything just felt so incomplete

Dreaming of revelry
Dreaming of revelry
Dreaming of revelry
Dreaming of revelry

Dear New York City

2008-09-13T18:23:00.002-04:00

Dear New York City,

I had an awesome time with you earlier this summer, even if only for a couple of days. I am excited to get the chance to spend more time with you in the near future. I'm sure we'll have loads of fun, smell each other's smells, try to rob one another blind, and go to a Yankees game together.
However, there is a pressing matter at hand. You have made off with a woman I am overly attached to. I understand you have only had her for less than a week, but it seems much longer to me. You see, I am stuck here in a boring little town and there's not much to do but think of her swimming in your wonderfulness. I'm glad you've given her work, but would like for you to leave her a little time to get things organized. Having gone from seeing her daily to next to no time at all, I am becoming agitated with you already.
Here's how you can help. First, have someone in that city return an e.mail concerning the types of employment I am seeking. I have written the most pleasant of letters to employers all over the city. None have deemed it necessary to answer. If I can get a response, I believe I can weasel my way into an interview. That would allow me to see you as soon as possible. Having an interview go well would allow my to permanently bask in your beauty and more importantly be with the one I love.

Don't be a jerk about it, you'll only further the northern stereotype. Just return my letters and calls. Thank you so much for giving me the chance to miss someone so very badly.

With Kindest Regards,
Israel

P.S. I understand it takes time to find work amongst you, but this is why I'm writing personally. You know, to see if you could pulls some strings for a small time admirer.

Apart

2008-09-09T19:20:00.002-04:00

Late Summer, Late Morning: Cades Cove in The Great Smokey Mountains National Park

After a weekend trip to the Smokies, Cara packed up most of her belongings and I took her to the airport today. It hasn't sunk in yet, but I bet in a week I'll be ready to move to New York and live on the streets.
I have had a blast in and around this stupid town with her. Our reuniting is in my hands once again.

Even though these lyrics are darker than her parting really is, they still seem to fit.

My old man always swore that hell would have no flame
Just a front row seat
To watch your true love pack her things and drive away

Self Depreciating

2008-09-03T22:42:00.002-04:00

It bums me out that no matter how hard I try for the rest of my life, I will never be as cool as this guy or have my picture taken to even look as cool as this guy. Oh well...

Weekend Pictures

2008-08-31T22:41:00.003-04:00

I ventured out-of-doors again this afternoon for a lovely time with Cara.
I've always wanted to buy this house and fix it up and watch cars drive by on the J.E.B. Stuart Highway. The lighting was nice and the breeze was just right for some quick pictures of this old frame house. Sure, there isn't much to do in the country, but we have sights like this everywhere.

Pausing at a little overhang along laurel creek, I grabbed this very "natural" image of Cara.

I figured I would be able to equal the pleasant image I created with Cara only to end up looking like a man about ready to jump off the overhang.

The pretty days seem to be at their peek, but I know fall is right around the corner. Then, a different type of pretty overtakes this area. Fire red, bright orange, thick yellows, and warm browns will burst in front of our faces as all the summer's shade says farewell.

Cara & the Wedding

2008-08-30T21:37:00.005-04:00

Cara and I went to a wedding today and I was proud to be able to photograph such a beauty when we returned home.

She's actually pointing to her white shoes that she squeezed in before labor day. I thought the photo looked better as a cropped panorama. They are nice white shoes though.

And then she became possessed and the photo shoot turned into an attack.

Keep It Like A Secret

2008-08-26T20:46:00.002-04:00

Almost 10 years later I discover how amazing a music album can be.

Favorite Blog of the Moment

2008-08-24T23:04:00.001-04:00

Is it okay to have a favorite blog for a moment?

This Weekend

2008-08-24T18:56:00.003-04:00

August 23, 2008. In the wee hours of the morning, my sister Summer powered through and brought this little man into the world. He hasn't a name yet (maybe Oscar), but he came into this world at 9lbs 9oz.
Mother, Child and Father are doing well.

Mind, Blown.

2008-08-18T12:40:00.001-04:00

We are either absolutely nothing or insanely everything. Prepare for a mind explosion.

Summer Waning Thin

2008-08-17T00:44:00.004-04:00

August in Appalachia can be tricky. It will either be very hot all day, or decide on a prettier, balmier weather pattern depending on the year. This year it seems to prefer the pleasant high 70's to low 80's during the day and cooling off very sweetly at night. Sleeping with open windows and waking up to a slight chill is a refreshing way to spend a month or two.

I've had the urge to take advantage of these last warm days and get outside and be active. Last weekend, Cara and I drove up to Whitetop Mountain, walked down to lover's leap lookout and over to buzzard rock. The view is 360 degrees of beauty.

The trip was made even better by getting trek around with someone who is even more stunning than these mountain views.

Just today, Cara and I again ventured out to the Virginia Creeper Trail to spin up cinder on one nice mountain bike and one heavy, straining mountain "bike". The creek that the trail follows during this section of the trail is so clear and cold. We rode for about 2 miles before I could no longer resist going for a wade.