El Gabacho Más Gacho

Hace Un Mes

2010-06-05T16:05:00.000-07:00

It has been almost a month since I last updated this blog and I think now is as good a time as any to do so. Over the last month, I have taken a few trips. A few weeks ago, I went to the Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge to go bird-watching. It was great! I saw a some pretty sweet birds.

Then I went to Idaho for Memorial Day to hang out with Todd and Nicki. It was pretty fun. Todd barbecued some ribs and Nicki made some pretty good desserts. We also went to Mesa Falls which was pretty cool. If you really want to see pictures, just visit their blog. Then this weekend my roommate and I went up to the Uinta

National Forest by Midway. It was pretty sweet.

What is even better is the fact that on Wednesday I am leaving for MEXICO!!! That's right, I will be gone for 2 weeks. I am pretty excited.

2 days in a row...

2010-05-12T18:18:00.000-07:00

Yes, I have some free time; it IS summer. With that said, I am sure some people are wondering what I am up to. So to appease all those who actually want to know, I am simply working and enjoying myself. Lately I have started birdwatching again. Thanks to my free time, I have been able to go a few times every week. Last Saturday I went to Deer Creek Reservoir. It is only a thirty minute drive up Provo Canyon. The south side of the reservoir is full of boats and people; so, I went to the other side. The birds there were pretty fun to watch. To my excitement I saw a flock of White-Faced Ibis as the flew away. Also, I enjoyed watching two different species of Warblers; the Yellow-Rumped Warbler and the Yellow Warbler. As far as water foul, there weren't many. Just the usual American Coot, Mallards, American White Pelicans, and some Western Grebes. The highlight however, was the sighting of not one, not two, but three Sandhill Cranes. I also saw a Great Egret which was pretty cool. They are enormous and beautiful birds. On Monday I decided to head over to Strawberry Reservoir. Most of the reservoir was still frozen. There were many areas that were not, but there was nothing too exciting (just some old guys fishing). However, as I was hiking trying to get a better view of some birds I saw in the distance I stumbled upon a few Turkey Vultures. Because there were not many birds on the lake I went exploring. I took a dirt road and almost got my car stuck in some mud. But I continued and followed a tributary. Eventually I saw some elk, a beaver, a Mountain Bluebird, and a Northern Flicker. It was pretty relaxing to sit there and watch the beaver. By that time it was getting pretty late so I decided to go home. On my way back out I discovered to Great Blue Herons fishing in the same tributary. It was pretty sweet. Yes. I am Troy and I LIKE birdwatching. It is fun and therapeutic. I just wish I had my dad's camera to take some pictures... oh well. I took some pictures of the paisaje using my phone and posted them on facebook. That is about all I have been doing.

Ingmar Bergman

2010-05-11T20:57:00.000-07:00

My last post probably came off as condescending. It was. However, I will avoid that route this time in favor of something more positive. If you are looking for me to give an update on myself, here it is: I am fine, 'Nuff said. The real reason I decided to post was to profess my growing admiration for Ingmar Bergman. I know, he didn't live the most wholesome life, but the man is a genius. I just finished his movie The Seventh Seal. Not long ago, I watched The Virgin Spring. In the German and Scandinavian Cinema class that I took a few semesters ago I also watched Fanny and Alexander, Persona, and Wild Strawberries. After viewing some of Bergman's films, I can definitely say he is one of my favorite directors (Fritz Lang in second and Lars von Trier in a distant third). There are many others that deserve praise, but I would prefer to focus on Ingmar. Really, if you haven't seen any of his movies you should start with either The Virgin Spring, The Seventh Seal, or Wild Strawberries. After having watched these movies, I added more of his movies to my queue on Netflix and moved them to the top of the list. I will be sure to enjoy Bergman's films for some time because only a few are available online. With that said, I hope you take this seriously and WATCH some of his films.

The Virgin Spring

2010-04-29T20:39:00.000-07:00

A few semesters ago I took a German and Scandinavian cinema class at BYU. During the class, the professor introduced many geniuses like Fritz Lang(M and Metropolis), Lars von Trier (The 5 Obstructions, Dancer in the Dark, and Dogville), Jorgen Leth (The 5 Obstructions and The Perfect Human), Aki Kaurismaki (The Man Without a Past), and many others that I cannot recall. However, there was one among the many that stood out; Ingmar Bergman. Bergman is literally a genius. I feel it is important to state this as clear as possible especially now because many people are referring to Michael Bay, James Cameron, and others as geniuses. Such people provide as evidence of their genius such successes as Transformers and Avatar. I feel that referring to such directors as geniuses is more offensive than stepping in dog poop. First, I find it suspect that such people are qualified judges; this because of their evident lack of depth or experience in good movies. I know, by now I sound very presumptuous and haughty; nevertheless, I maintain that it should be a grievous sin to use the same word to compare great minds to the weak money-driven minds behind Transformers or Avatar. After all, I find it hard to believe that Ingmar Bergman or Fritz Lang would ever cast Megan Fox in a film. So what brings this scathing rant to the forefront of my mind? After watching another film by Bergman, I realize how superficial today's world is. People used to make films because that is what they liked doing (fortunately some still do "film as literature"). The film that brought this about, is Bergman's 1960 The Virgin Spring. This movie touches themes as revenge, virtue, and religion. Just as many of Bergman's films, there is an evident tension between religion and reason. The film's plot is simple; the only daughter of devoutly religious parents is raped and murdered. Her murderers stumble upon the farm that belongs to their victim's parents. How will the family react when they discover they have given shelter to the daughter's murderers? I guess all I can do is encourage all who actually read this to watch good movies before hastily passing judgement on the mind-numbing porqueria that is out there. If you have the time here is a link to watch The Virgin Spring on Youtube. Here are some other Bergman movies: Wild Strawberries, Persona. As I watch more, I will be sure to recommend more.

Poco dinero y Mucho trabajo

2010-04-02T16:35:00.000-07:00

Things>Time + Money

Anyone who knows me, knows how much I dislike math. Honestly, I would probably like it more if I were good at it. Kids, let this be a lesson to you; Don't spend your time during freshmen algebra class sharing jokes with your friends. Also, don't spend the whole class period drawing drunk indians and cowboys on the whiteboard during your sophomore math year. If you do these things, you will be terrible at math. This is my testimony. Amen. With that little rant over, I can proceed to ramble about the other seemingly meaningless thoughts I have at the most random moments (mostly when my roommate TP starts talking nonsense, which is mostly ALWAYS). This week has been pretty long. Monday started with a BANG via the policy paper I had to write for my foreign policy class (also due on Monday). Then came the goliath that was my research paper for American Political Theory. I don't know why I referenced the biblical story, probably just to throw a religious cliché in this post. I apologize because it was a terrible reference, especially because this story did not end with a victory for the smaller, rock throwing David. Before I continue to waste your time, It is important I share this jewel with you. I don't know how long ago, but it has been awhile since a friend introduced me to Camera Obscura. This group is amazing. With that said, watch these videos (starting with my favorite of course).

Crossroads

2010-03-03T19:46:00.001-08:00

For as long as I can remember, I have wanted to be a lawyer. I don't know why, (probably the high consumption of T.V. dramas like Law & Order) but now that I have been thinking about it, I don't think it is the best fit for me. As a matter of fact, I kind of think it would be boring. I just don't like the idea of being stuck in one place for the rest of my working life. I also don't like the idea of the ball and chain that come with the job. If I did end up in law, I would like to practice immigration law, or even family law. The money would be good, but I just don't think that is what I want to do as far as a career. However, this semester I am in Plsci 376, U.S. foreign policy. My professor has been giving us the pitch for the foreign services. Honestly, She has been doing a good job selling the foreign services. She seems to really like what she does/did. I think I would enjoy this career a little more than the other(lawyer). My head is not in the clouds, I realize that the foreign services is extremely competitive; however, what isn't competitive right now. I am still conflicted, but I am leaning more towards the foreign services. What do you think?

Lawyer???

Foreign Services?

So Hot

2010-02-28T21:03:00.000-08:00

Lately I cannot get enough of Hot Chip. They are obviously the recent favorite listen, along with jj, and the lovely Joanna Newsom. Some people would refer to these groups as an "acquired tastes". Those are the people that have NO taste (according to me). Anyway, here is an update on me. I'm studying for a test I have to take by midnight tomorrow. I also have to write a research design about the institutional effects on judicial voting habits. In other words, I need to write a paper on the effects of procedures on the way the Supreme Court justices vote/rule. I also need to write a policy paper for my 376 class. For that one I need to investigate to what extent the U.S. is providing support (fiscal/technological/intelligence...) for Mexico in its war on drugs. Then I need to take a position and argue if the U.S. should increase its support for the Mexican government or if it should decrease the amount of support it provides. This sounds boring and tedious, but I kind of find it interesting; more so the paper for Psci 376 because everyone knows I love Mexico. Also, at this moment I have bad gas. It kind of sneaks up on me then screams for release. Other than that, not much is new. Here is a favorite Hot Chip song, Over and Over.

Let Go

2010-02-26T20:41:00.000-08:00

This week was pretty difficult and Wednesday was a pretty frustrating day. Fate would have it that on that day, "hump day", university professors would collaborate in order to frustrate all Plsci 310, Plsci 376, and Spanish 326 students. Unfortunately, I am taking all three classes which meant that on Wednesday, I took three midterms. They were brutal. Anyways, 'Nuff said. Thursday was a much better day. Other than that, nothing is new. I'm ready for summer because that means I get to take a break...maybe. I can't think of a better video/song than this one at this time and in this situation. If you didn't understand that, just think of it as one of those Bilbo Baggins' sayings from Lord of the Rings. After all of that, here is the song. It is "Let Go" by jj. If you don't love it, you WILL.

Se acabó la música

2010-02-13T23:14:00.000-08:00

After reading "Race in American Politics" by a cuartet of political scientists and "The Feminist Method" by Sandra Harding, I decided to take a "mental" break and watch a movie. I must say that Netflix is amazing. The selection of movies is astonishing. You will find movies on Netflix that you will never see on the shelves at Blockbuster. Last time, I mentioned the movie Dear Zachary: A Letter to a son about his Father. Tonight, a few friends and I watched El Violín, a movie released in 2005 by the director Francisco Vargas. El Violín is a somber, slow-paced, black and white film that depicts the struggles of many indigenous people throughout Latin America. The movie tells the story of a family composed of Plutarco Hidalgo the grandpa (Ángel Tavira), Genaro Hidalgo the son and guerilla (Gerardo Taracena), and Lucio Hidalgo the grandson (Mario Garibaldi). Here is the plot as it comes from the film's website (roughly translated by yours truly). Plutarco and his family lead a double life. On one hand, they are humble rural musicians and on the other hand they are active supporters of a guerilla movement against an oppressive government. When the army invades their village, the guerillas are forced to abandon their supply of ammunition. Plutarco, taking advantage of his appearance as a humble violinist, comes up with a plan to recuperate the ammunition. This movie is absolutely beautiful. The plot is well-developed, the black and white photography is awe-inspiring, and the acting is topnotch. The following is a clip from the movie showing and interaction between the general and Plutarco as well as the official trailer. Unfortunately, there are no subtitles for those who do not speak Spanish. However, a this link you can find a video that does.

Dear Zachary

2010-02-06T18:39:00.000-08:00

THE Documentary

Good films are a rarity in recent years. Hollywood is a business like any other with its main focus on profit margins. Because this is the case, there are a plethora of movies like Avatar, Transformers 1 & 2 (WORST movies ever), and Twilight. You are probably wondering why I decided to include Avatar with what are possibly the worst movies being both movies in the Transformers series and the Twilight series. The answer is as follows: First, while containing blatant undertones referencing Iraq and Bush, it has been completely over-hyped as cerebral and bold. Second, it was nothing more than cliché. When I think of these movies, the words accredited to Lars von Trier;

"American studios give money to directors to educate them away from their creative fingerprint, even if that's the reason they wanted them in the first place. I've avoided that fate by making movies here. You have to fight the urge to do a big action movie. You avoid 'Batman.' The bigger it is, the worse it is."

However, thanks to Netflix, I watched a documentary that shows good films DO EXIST. Dear Zachary: A letter to a son about his Father, a documentary film by Kurt Kuenne details the story behind the murder of Dr. Andrew Bagsby. The documentary is filmed in such a way that is essentially a letter to the son of the late Dr. Andrew Bagsby; Zachary. The director, Kurt Kuenne who is a childhood friend of Bagby, embarks on a trip that covers three nations in an attempt to interview friends and family of the aforementioned. The story of the murder is heartbreaking and this feeling is compounded as a result of injustices that follow the crime. This movie was tough to watch, but not in a bad way. It provokes anger, sadness, and sympathy. This is definitely a film that must be seen. Here are a few reviews that will do more justice than I possibly can. And to give you a taste, here is the trailer.

Parent Pleaser

2010-02-01T15:49:00.001-08:00

Convo

The last time I spoke with my mother she shared a funny story with me. She had told me that one night she found my dad watching a video for a song by Laura Veirs. I posted the video on my facebook page and apparently my dad was intrigued and mesmerized as he watched it. According to my mother, she asked him what he was doing and he said he was "waiting for something". Why this is funny is because a while ago, I posted a video by Holy Ghost!. My mother was mistaken and watched the video expecting some sort of gospel message. Needless to say she was left waiting just like my dad was left waiting. I guess my taste is just different. Anyways, here is a video that will please my mother because it has a "message". It is a cool song by El Perro Del Mar.

Don't Push ME

2010-01-30T21:31:00.000-08:00

Kickin' it Old Skool

Tonight I am just relaxing here at home watching the highlights from the X-Games and listening to some old school rap. Stereogum posted VH1's top 100 hip-hop songs and there are a lot of classics. I know there are a lot of folks who don't care for rap, but that is too bad. It is time to broaden your horizons. Yes, I am going to say your were too hasty in generalizing all rap as misogynistic, violence-promoting rhymes. To say so would be about as ignorant as saying ALL blacks eat fried chicken or that ALL whites like golf. Stepping aside from the stereotypes that plague us, lets listen to some good 'ole music.

Science

2010-01-08T13:34:00.000-08:00

Buhillions and Buhillions
Last year I stumbled upon the video "Glorious Dawn". It is amazing and there were two other video worthy of your viewing, until two days ago. Two days ago, they posted the fourth video on youtube and it is equally brilliant. Here are the four videos. You can download the last three here and purchase "Glorious Dawn" on iTunes.

Biscuits

2009-12-27T21:21:00.000-08:00

The new year is upon us. With the new year, I plan on creating a new look/brand (for myself at least). So I am contemplating a few different looks.

The First one is a combination between vaquero mexicano and the American cowboy. It would include the hairstyle of Travis Tritt or Joe Diffie from the 90's. I prefer the bangs that Joe Diffie was sporting in the music video "Pickup Man" combined with the long, flowing mullet of Travis Tritt. I would then combine this hairstyle with the sweet suits (trajes de naco) you would find on each member of Los Originales de San Juan or Los Capos de México. You be the judge.Travis TrittJoe DiffieLos Originales de San Juan

Finals

2009-12-06T14:57:00.000-08:00

I Wanna Know
There are four days left of classes, then finals. I'm pretty excited to be done with this semester. As for me, there is nothing new, but here is a pretty cool video for the Museum of Bellas Artes track "Who do you love".

2009-11-14T19:01:00.000-08:00

The Calm Before the Storm

For the first time this semester I get to relax a little. I turned in the second research design on Wednesday, which was a big relief. Now, I don't have a major assignment in that class (Psci 200) due until December 2nd. It is pretty nice, but it won't last. Since I have some time, I thought it would be appropriate to update everyone on what is happening. Because I have learned to be more concise in my writing, I will do it in one word; nothing. That's right, nothing is going on. I am just doing my usual routine, and that is awesome. However, on Halloween I did something I absolutely enjoyed. Lance and a few of his friends from Highlands Ranch put together a haunted house. Luckily for me, they needed some help and I was able to fill the role of a crazy clown. At first I wasn't sure how it was going to go, but it sure was fun. The best part was scaring the guys who were desperately trying to impress their girlfriends/dates. Lance and his friends really did a good job with everything. It was too fun.
We were a lot scarier in action.As you can see the haunted house was a success. This was the line on the second night.

2009-10-08T10:46:00.000-07:00

HBLL
At this moment, I am sitting here in the library working on an assignment for Psci 200. It is interesting and boring at the same time. It is very time consuming. After a few hours of looking up sources and articles about Mexican drug policies, I have decided to take a break and update the blog. This semester has been far better than last semester. It's amazing what an attitude adjustment can do. Also, I have been a lot busier this semester which has helped. Now it is time to iron out a few wrinkles and keep "echando ganas". So part of this break includes looking at videos on youtube, and I have decided to put this one up. La Malagueña is a classic song in Mexico. This one just happens to be my favorite version, sung by Miguel Aceves Mejia.

2009-09-25T15:08:00.000-07:00

Video of the Week
Every Friday, in my Psci 200 lab, our TA shows us a video. This week he showed this one. It is pretty funny. Definitely made my day.

2009-08-21T21:33:00.000-07:00

Twilight...No, I am not talking about that tween fetish, the horrid Twilight Book series written by some lady. I'm talking about the Twilight Concert Series in Salt Lake. Thursday, to my enjoyment, I went with a few friends and fell in love with a band. Okkervil River, the amazing band from Austin, gave a pretty cool performance. It was so good, it almost made me forget about the annoying tween behind me calling Lauren Gurgiolo a goddess because she played so many different instruments. She was pretty good though. Iron & Wine also played at the free show. He was good, but he didn't make me want to dance like Okkervil River did.

2009-08-04T17:31:00.000-07:00

Up next
Next stop, Idaho. I'm leaving tomorrow for Idaho. My dad, Todd, and I are going camping. Should be fun.

2009-08-03T19:13:00.000-07:00

Fun in the Sun
The trip to TX has come and gone. It was good. Here are the highlights.

A Flirty Austrian
Sun, tube, and a few hours on the river
Rounders- Austin, TX
The Faint...

All in all, it was a pretty good trip. I got a little too red though, which really sucks.

2009-07-21T17:02:00.000-07:00

I'm not Texan

No, I am not Texan, but I am going there. One week from tomorrow, I will be doing some pretty chill stuff in the Dallas and Austin areas.

2009-07-19T19:09:00.000-07:00

Pond

We spent another day and a half working on the pond. We finished the first half of the perimeter around the pond, but we still have quite a bit to do. Nos falta la cascadita y algunas otras cosas. The small waterfall and a stream are still in the future. You can see where the waterfall is going to be, hopefully it will all work out.

2009-07-18T19:52:00.000-07:00

I haz style

Over the last year, I have sported some sweet styles. Even if you don't like them, you have to admit they are unique. They are ME.My most recent Fu Manchu/HandlebarsThe Unforgettable Costanza El Vaquerito
The Vicente 'Stache with eye protection

2009-07-17T22:01:00.000-07:00

Wish list
I have been thinking of things I would like to own, here are a few of the random ones.

A suit like the ones these guys have on
A Bulldog
Mustache Wax
A date with Natasha Khan
A trip to México Lindo!!!
Tickets to a Green Bay Packer Game
A good nights sleep
A poster, any poster
A heavy duty trashcan
Una chica guapetona

2009-07-16T15:45:00.000-07:00

Miguel Jackson
With the death of the pop icon, all I have heard is how he broke down racial barriers. I ask, What barriers? Instead of giving him credit, we should give it to those who came before Michael. If there were no Fats Domino, Chuck Berry, Ray Charles, Jimi Hendrix, or The Platters then there would be no Michael Jackson. Besides, they were way better than he was, and for the most part, did it before the Civil Rights era (Is that not breaking down barriers?). Michael was not the first, surely not the last successful African-American artist.

2009-07-15T20:19:00.000-07:00

Recuerdos...
Recently, just like in times past, my mind has reflected a lot on the time I spent in México. Sure, it has been more than a year, but sometimes I miss it. I've got México on my mind. I think what I miss the most is the people. People like the Hna Guille and her family, or Saul and the crew in Colima. I even miss the Plata family (TJ's), or Sergio (the wierd atheistic/who knows). There was just something about it all.

2009-07-12T21:48:00.000-07:00

The Pond

I kind of talked my dad into redoing the ponds this year. We finally got the "okay" from the Jefa. We took out the preformed molds that were in and replaced them with pond liner. Now, instead of 3 ponds, there are 2. I don't want to steal the thunder from my mom (she will probably post on this later), but here are a few fotos. It is not done yet, we still have to put rock around the perimeter, and clean it up so it looks nice and purrrty.

2009-07-12T21:39:00.000-07:00

Summer Fun
Thanks to Dr. Black, my Bio 100 teacher, birdwatching has become one of my "gustos". I have been a few times this summer, and here are a few pictures.

2009-07-08T21:30:00.000-07:00

Lost FrogIt has been hot lately, but you won't hear me complaining. Heat>Cold. Some people would argue that cold is better because you can put clothes on, while in heat, you can't take clothes off. I beg to differ, I don't mind removing a few articles of clothing. If you only knew of the nicknames they gave me during the mission. Summer is here and that means heat and yard work. This week I have been helping my dad redo his ponds. We decided it would be better to have one bigger pond with a few amenities. Here is a good summer tune that is pretty chill, and a good one to put on while working in the yard. The Eels

2009-07-04T13:41:00.001-07:00

4th of JulyIt was brought to my attention that posting Banda on the 4th is unpatriotic, so I found this.

2009-07-04T12:02:00.000-07:00

Happy Day
Since today is a special day, I though I would put up a special video. Julion Alvarez made this video, which is FINE, FINE, FINE, VERY GOOD, VERY GOOD, VERY GOOOOD!!!

2009-07-03T22:21:00.000-07:00

Things Will Be Different
In the words of DJ Born Sweaty, this video "is ridic". I must agree, but the guy on the keyboard just made it irresistible to post. Another highlight is the dancing. All moms should like this video, especially because it teaches your children the evils of the Ouija board via the possessed girl playing with a Ouija board. Probably about as child appropriate as the film developed around those crazy talking toys from my childhood "Transformers". Now they are so hip, with gold teeth and all. Anyway, here is Bloc Party with One More Chance.

2009-07-02T19:31:00.000-07:00

Procrastination

Lesson learned; procrastination costs more $$$. So I finally bought my ticket, but at a higher price. I think I checked prices yesterday, and it was $99.60. Today I bought it, but at $124.60. So "en pocas palabras", procrastination cost me $25. The good news is that a few months ago I did NOT wait. I applied for scholarships and luckily I got one from BYU. That helps with a little bit of the stress, and now a little floating on a river in Dallas will do some good too.

2009-06-30T10:14:00.000-07:00

Holy Ghost!
Just saw this Video and loved it. It is Holy Ghost-I Will Come Back. It's amazing. Download it for free at GreenLabelSound.

2009-06-18T16:24:00.000-07:00

Nuff said

2009-06-18T16:03:00.000-07:00

I Have The FEVER.
Other than the often over-used word, creepy, I can not find a good word in my vocabulary to describe the videos or songs of Fever Ray. I like them and find that the videos are delightful. If you are not familiar with the Videos, you probably won't watch this one in it's entirety. It is Triangle Walks, my personal favorite. Here are the links to the other videos, If I Had A Heart and When I Grow Up.

2009-06-08T20:34:00.001-07:00

Viaje???
So, my friend corpsie and I have put our brains together and came up with a crazy, yet attainable idea. All I am going to say is Dallas\MTY\Dallas\Denver\Provo. Hopefully it will work out, but we will have to see what the bank account says at the time. On the flip side, here is a video I saw on Kanye's blog.

2009-06-04T20:45:00.000-07:00

Here
Is a video by Jenny Wilson that I saw on Pitchfork.

2009-06-04T19:53:00.000-07:00

JOBS
After about a month or so of looking for a job, I don't know what to do. I don't even know how many jobs I have applied for, both kinds, the ones I want, and the ones I don't. So far only 2 calls, and they were just to tell me I that I was not going to get the job. So now desperation is starting to set in. Kind of sucks, especially seeing as how I need one to pay for school. So who knows, ¿Quién SAAABE? Hopefully looking for a place to stay next year at school will hopefully be better than trying to find a job.

2009-05-25T17:49:00.000-07:00

UMM...
So, Dave from the city called, turns out he wants someone who can stay until October. Unfortunately, I leave for school at the end of August, so you know, a month makes a big difference. Kind of stupid, but oh well. With that, i am still jobless, and am now considering several other options.

Moving to Mexico permanently and traveling the beaches until I am broke (probably a week) then teaching English for money.
Moving back to Utah and trying to find a permanent job or something to do so I can earn a few $$$.
Gaining 200 pounds and then becoming a contestant on that hit T.V. show, "The Biggest Loser", winning a lot of money of course.
Going to Vegas and gambling all the money that I have, hoping to win big $$$, or at least enough to pay for school, or something like that.

2009-05-13T10:29:00.000-07:00

Esperando
I'm still waiting to hear from the city, waiting is no fun. A while back, I posted on Anjulie, the Canadian singer/songwriter. She, much like Natasha(Bat For Lashes) is more than post-worthy. Here is the video to Boom, her single released back in November, 2008.

Anjulie | Boom from Concord Music Group on Vimeo.

2009-05-11T21:38:00.000-07:00

A little luck

So, I might have a job (fingers crossed). An opening with the city came up and I applied. Hopefully I will get the job. If I do, I will be doing the same thing I did last summer; taking care of the city parks, and working the city festivals. Honestly, I have been thinking about Mexico a lot lately, and I must say, I really want to go back and visit everyone again. That means I accepting donations to help fund this trip... please be generous. Here is a video of a song heard many times while in Mexico. Mana-Muelle de San Blas.

2009-04-29T09:27:00.000-07:00

LITTLE BOOTS

So, still no luck in finding a job, I have applied at a few places, but no luck. Hopefully something will come my way. But here is Little Boots, New in Town

2009-04-23T20:28:00.000-07:00

Old Skool
Well, after another long day, with no success (jobless still), I thought I would kick it old school. By old school, I don't mean the Mamas and the Papas, or The Platters. What I'm talking about is some Valentin Elizalde. This guy was on fire in Mexico at the time I arrived in 2006. The only song I ever heard while walking the streets of Taretan was his hit "Como Me Duele". Too bad it all ended when he was shot dead in the streets of Reynosa in November of 2006. He had some catchy stuff, and much like Biggie and Tupac, still sings from beyond the grave as he released a few records post facto. En Paz Descanse. This is "Soy Asi" from his CD of the same name. Video quality is not great, but "La canción habla por si misma".

2009-04-22T15:36:00.000-07:00

Escape
Have you ever had one of those moments where you just need an escape? It could be anything; the constant nagging of that loved one, finals week at school, those awkward moments when you see the flashing lights of Officer Everett's Wyoming State Patrol cruiser, or just a boring day looking for a job. Whatever it is, here is your escape. Bon Iver with an a cappella version of For Emma.

2009-04-22T15:15:00.000-07:00

Crushin'
If it isn't obvious enough, lately I've been crushin' on Bat For Lashes. Just can't get enough of it, so I decided to take a break from job searching, and post this Live Video. Here is a link to the actual music video for 'Daniel' which is also a must see.

2009-04-21T22:05:00.000-07:00

I Came, I saw

Here is a good song, with a good feel to it. Black Lips-Veni Vidi Vici.

2009-04-21T21:03:00.000-07:00

8 Hours of Reflection

The long drive through Wyoming gave me a lot of time to reflect and think. Unfortunately, i also helped the state fill one of its quotas, but it was good for me. Now, I am home and have the summer ahead of me. Who knows what is going to happen. First thing is first-- JOB. Well, here is yet another movie that I saw in one of my classes this semester. It is the 1957 film by Ingmar Berman, Wild Strawberries, is an excellent movie. Isak Borg (Victor Sjöström) and his daughter-in-law, Marianne (Ingrid Thulin), travel to Lund University for a ceremony held for Isak. On the way, there are several oportunities for Isak to reminisce and reflect on his past choices and what they have brought him in his advanced age.

Boring

2009-04-20T17:15:00.000-07:00

Since my last post was so boring, I decided to spice things up with one of my new obsessions, Golden Filter.

And now some Bat for Lashes

Ranting and then some.

2009-04-17T16:27:00.000-07:00

I thought I would take some time out of "studying", (which in college terms means facebooking, blogsurfing, and texting) in order to update this . So far, so good; two finals down, two maybe three tomorrow, and one on Monday. Life is good, frustrating at times, but good. I am excited for summer, but kind of anxious to see if I can actually find a job in Colorado. Also, it will definitely be a welcomed break, not only from school, but BYU in general. I maintain that I don't hate BYU, however, I AM indifferent to a lot of the things I see on campus. I am tired of the "herding" that I see daily, everyone trying to keep up with fashion, wearing a mini-skirt with spandex (apparently making it modest), or the guys who can't wear anything unless it is Abercrombie & Fitch, Aeropostale, or Polo. It is sickening how everyone seems to fall for that, even though it reaks of superficiality. Well, it seems that I have gone on another tangent, rant, or whatever you would like to call it. Lately I have been reminded that no matter how one fights trends and or becoming one of the aforementioned, they still fall victim to what they are fighting. You try to be so different that you yourself follows a trend, spending hours just to find that shirt that is "different", or those shoes(normally moccasins), and those pants that fit oh so tight--around the ankles. All I have to say is that we just need to forget about classifying ourselves, or trying not to be classified, but rather be ourself, whatever that is. The good thing about life is that there are people who help you remember who you are, regardless of what you are trying to be. Life just seems to work itself out. Anyways, here is a cool video. Simon has a new crush, and the rest of them are crying...
Kind of like Paul.

North America South America

2009-03-26T18:24:00.000-07:00

N.A.S.A. - New Music - More Music Videos

Aboutz Me

2009-03-23T16:20:00.000-07:00

So I guess a few people actually want to know what is going on with me. Well not much, this last weekend was interesting to say the least. I went home to help with the basement project. It is always fun doing things twice or even three times just to get it right. I also learned some good things to know about certain people, and about myself. Guess I need to lay off sometimes and let people breathe...lesson learned. As far as school, it isn't that great, I don't really enjoy being here in Utah, or at BYU. Just something about it that bugs me...the people. (I mean no offense by that to those from Utah). As far as school, I am not doing the greatest, but not so shabby either. I just need to apply myself a little more, which is kind of hard right now because I am worn out. I can't wait for the semester to end, it will be a welcomed break. I'm going to go home and work, hopefully earning enough money for next semester. I know, I live an interesting life, more so than I lead on, but for the sake of your health, I won't go into detail.

2009-03-15T21:55:00.000-07:00

EFTER BRYLLUPPET(2006)
"AFTER THE WEDDING"

Back in August I was in Mexico on a bus and I saw this movie. I meant to write the name down, but I didn't and then forgot about it. Today I was thinking about it for some reason and could not remember the name so I googled it, using the words Denmark, Orphanage, India and Movie. I found it, and watched it again. It is definitely not your cheesy, make you laugh and feel good film, but depicts some of life's most depressing moments in a way that you will truly feel it. It is not overbearing like most films which use excessive music and displays of emotion, but does so in a way that makes it more real and believable. It was done by Susanne Bier and was up for an Academy Award which it didn't win (It went to the German film, The Lives of Others). It was produced by none other than Lars von Trier's production company, Zentropa.
IMDB

Handsome Furs--I'm Confused

2009-03-13T12:31:00.000-07:00

Handsome Furs "I'm Confused" from Sarah Marcus on Vimeo.

Kutiman- I'm NEW

2009-03-13T12:17:00.000-07:00

Kanye Singing his Growth.

2009-03-02T10:11:00.000-08:00

VH1 TV Shows | Music Videos | Celebrity Photos | News & Gossip
He is growing. You have to appreciate the man's style.

DeathCabForCutie

2009-02-27T18:41:00.001-08:00

Grapevine Fires

The people I admire.

2009-02-26T18:30:00.001-08:00

WHOMADEWHO

2009-02-22T16:17:00.000-08:00

This is "The Plot". An interesting video that I liked and so I posted it. Enjoy.

Matt and Kim-Jesse Jane??

2009-02-14T18:02:00.001-08:00

Matt and Kim - "Jesse Jane" from df. on Vimeo.

Some more Matt and Kim, with the sweet style and rhythm.

Fleet Foxes

2009-02-14T17:48:00.000-08:00

White Winter Hymnal from Grandchildren on Vimeo.

I don't know if I can get enough of these guys.

YEAH YEAH

2009-02-14T16:33:00.000-08:00

So I am here in Colorado, searching the internet and I found these guys. Pretty sweet stuff. Don't worry, this isn't the only thing I have been doing. I have done some other stuff...met some new people. Okay I haven't met anyone new, but someone I hadn't seen in like 5 or 6 years. It is definitely interesting, but nice.

New Villager-Rich Doors

2009-02-12T19:37:00.000-08:00

If I had a choice, and actually new something about music, I would write and tell you all about the funky sounds and rhythms and all that other stuff, but all I can say is that I like these guys. I like the beat and all that stuff.
Download

Swagger like us.

2009-02-12T08:13:00.000-08:00

2009-02-11T08:59:00.000-08:00

So this is probably one of my favorite places in the world. The home of the Familia Hernandez in Taretan, Michoacán. They sure do know how to make someone feel at home, plus she made some killer tortas.

BON IVER

2009-02-11T08:29:00.000-08:00

So my compadre introduced me to this guy, or at least his music, and I really do like the sound, nice and calming.

More than Just Marley....Steel Pulse

2009-02-10T19:08:00.000-08:00

¡MUSICA!

2009-02-10T18:36:00.000-08:00

Lars von Trier

2009-02-08T18:59:00.000-08:00

A little about NOW

2009-02-08T17:16:00.000-08:00

So what is going on in my life? Nothing. I am just studying, watching movies and working. To some this might sound boring, and i ask them, have you seen Dogville? Of course not. Les invito que lo vayan a ver. That is about all that is going on. I might go up to Idaho this coming weekend as it is a 3 day weekend, but I kind of doubt it. So who knows what is going to happen. One thing is that........well nothing. So just enjoy life.

Fleet Foxes

2009-02-03T20:00:00.002-08:00

Mykonos from Grandchildren on Vimeo.

Music Go Music -Warm in the Shadows

2009-01-30T11:38:00.001-08:00

I LOVE THIS SONG.
Warm in the Shadows

The Five Obstuctions.

2009-01-29T20:57:00.000-08:00

If you are looking for a good movie to see, and you don't mind subtitles, this is the one for you. We watched in in my German and Scandinavian Film class. It is different and unique, and quickly moved its way on my list of favorites. It came out in 2003, so it is not new, but it may be to you as it was to me.

View the trailer here.

DEAD DISCO

2009-01-28T17:22:00.000-08:00

Delicious! Delightful!

Quote of the Day

2009-01-27T09:58:00.000-08:00

"There is a time in every man's education when he arrives at the conviction that envy is ignorance; that imitation is suicide; that he must take himself for better, for worse, as his portion;... no kernel of nourishing corn can come to him but through his toil bestowed on that plot of ground which is given to him to till."

Ralph Waldo Emerson from Self-Reliance (READ)

In other words, be yourself, and work hard.

Too funny.

2009-01-26T18:00:00.000-08:00

2009-01-26T17:31:00.001-08:00

On My Own (Promo Video) from thecocknbullkid on Vimeo.

She's got style!.!.!

2009-01-24T13:47:00.001-08:00

thecocknbullkid has style. I mean I know nothing about music, but my ears start dancing when I listen to her song.

http://www.thecocknbullkidofficial.com/home/
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lNC3zHFeShg&eurl=http://this.bigstereo.net/

Friendly Fires-Skeleton Boy

2009-01-24T13:35:00.000-08:00

Friendly Fires 'Skeleton Boy' by Clemens Habicht from Nexus Productions on Vimeo.

Mickey Gang- I was born in the 90's

2009-01-24T13:26:00.000-08:00

Thinkbot

2009-01-23T20:34:00.000-08:00

Bien hecho. This month started interesting, then faded into the abyss of boring. I guess I can't really say that because it has been fun in the very unexciting way. We went down to Mesa, AZ for the wedding of the midgets... in other words my friends Skylar and Kaitlin. That is where I joined a biker gang, actually I founded it. I am calling it 'Los Gachos". We returned, and started school. Let me be the first to inform you it is entertaining....So entertaining that we went to Sundance and saw the movie Rudo y Cursi. It was totally worth it. Also I am trying to figure this whole blogging thing out, you know I need to dress this up so I have a chance at dating that one hot chick in my political science class. You know the one who sits up front and answers all the questions. Oh yeah, then I watched the inauguration. Pretty good stuff ( other than that awful rendition by Aretha Franklin). I mean I don't want to offend anyone, but would it hurt her to just sing, and not yell or spaz out on stage? But the speech by President Obama was a good one. No, Really. I enjoyed it, and felt that rather "patriotic feeling" rising in my gut. Honestly, I look forward to these next few years. For one, now I won't have to sit and listen to mind-numbing comments from Hollywood celebrities about the war in Iraq, or President Bush. I mean George Clooney's movies suck, and don't even get me started on Ben Affleck or Barbara Streisand. People like them bug me, and as a matter of fact, bug America. What is the problem with our grand country...mentes bien cerradas. More Coming.

FINALS

2008-12-07T19:19:00.000-08:00

One thing I find depressing about my near future.......FINALS. They start in one week. I don't know what I am going to do. Maybe study, or I could just pray a la Virgen. But I think I will study some. the worst part about it is that before finals, I have two tests. not good at all. on the other hand, at least i have taken one already, and tomorrow I will take the other that way I can dedicate the rest of the time to study for finals (all are comprehensive). So I felt that is should take the time to update this thing on my amazing life. For those who care, I sported a new hairstyle, very similar to that of George Costanza. It was sweet, especially seeing the look on people's faces. It helped me learn that my looks are really important to some people. Unfortunately for them, I don't really like them. Other than that I am still in limbo as to what is going to be my major. I am between political science, and something in business. I really don't know, so to play it safe, I am taking classes from both majors so I don't

get to far behind. Other then school, pues, there is not much else. I know i am a loser, and my bishop has challenged me to go on a date a month(so far I have not kept/taken is challenge).

THe ByU.

2008-10-05T17:11:00.000-07:00

Well, it has been a while since I have updated this so I guess now is a good time. Well here at the "Y", things are going alright. Classes are good, and some of them are even mildly entertaining. I am finishing up a week in which I had to take a few tests, a few too many. I guess that is just how it is again now that school has started for me. It is fun, my roomates are good, the ladies...... well there are plenty. Now I am not saying that I have a date every night, which is far from the truth. I have grown a mustache, shaved it off, and now it is growing back again. That is probably why I don't have any luck with the ladies. There is not much else going on, just working and studying.

2008-08-06T16:04:00.000-07:00

Okay so here is the up-to-date on ME. Well Yesterday I totally got suckered into buying some crap I will never use, by a door to door saleswoman. She pulled the good ole' "profits go to help inner-city kids like me," story. So me being the big softy that I am obliged, and bought the stuff. Happy Birthday mom, you now have a new, all organic house cleaner. Well other than that nothing is new, I decided to grow the great fu-manchu thing. I think it is pretty cool. Maybe the ladies will like it. I don't think so, I have already talked to one girl and told her that I am growing it, she said she wouldn't kiss me if I had it. Well looks like I won't be getting a kiss from her.

Venting

2008-08-01T17:30:00.000-07:00

Well, the lucky few who actually read this are going to be blessed today. That's right, I'm going to vent about American Politics. First thing is first, it sucks. I don't remember a time when are congressmen have been so out of touch with their constituents, democrats and republicans alike. NO MANCHES! I mean, what do we pay these guys for? They are too busy pocketing money from the "big oil" PACS, that they have turned a deaf ear, (much like my left ear,) to the public; the people they supposedly represent. They come up with such great solutions and they make such a great effort to be connected with "the people" (sarcasm.) the tax stimulus was a good idea... oh wait, all that money people received went straight into the "help exxon/mobil post the biggest quarterly profit fund." (11.7 billion dollars.) So like I said, it was a good idea, and I am positive that exxon/mobil, shell, conoco/phillips are really grateful for that idea. The best thing is Barack Obama, that's right the elitest democratic candidate unveiled his new energy plan: a 1,000 dollar check for "working families." He is so smart that he plans to tax the oil industry so that he can cover that check, not send this country into even more of a budget deficit. Sounds like a good plan. Oh wait, teh gas prices are still higher, and we have already seen how much the stimulus checks helped the economy las round. (If I heard correctly, a 1.9% increase.) Heck maybe this one would bump it up to 2%!! Very exciting! Personally I think that Obama is an elitest idiot. (If you support him and are offended...sorry) By now I hope you can get my sarcasm. the funny thing is that exxon/mobil just announced it's profit, all 11.7 billion dollars from april to june. Shell was right behind with 11.4 (check cnn.com for the real numbers.) that is over 22 billion combined. What does congress do? That is right...NOTHING. (Well Sen. Obama did change his mind and say he would vote for "limited off-shore drilling;) Why do nothing? It is simple: The Gas Price provides great fuel for debates among the candidates. That is truly a sign of them, fighting for the people. Sorry, I wouldn't want to interrupt the up-coming 5 week vacation for our beloved congressmen and politicians because low income families are losing their homes, and this country plummets into more and more debt, because of bad spending and of course that juicy 11.7 billion dollar exxon/mobil profit in the second quarter. I guess i could just take the "sissy left wing approach," and blame it all on the bush administration, but then again, who holds the majority in congress? Oh yeah. Let's just say, I am pretty happy with my representatives, (Mark "Left Winger" Udall, Sen. Wayne Allard, and Sen. Ken "people's candidate" Salazar.) All I have to say is thanks. I mean I only have to pay for college, and prepare for my future, but who cares, as long as the oil exec's wallet gets bigger, it is all good. And another thing that makes me mad... there is no such thing as good rap. It is all pretty gay stuff these days.

Okay so here is my disclaimer: I am uneducated, not liberal by any means, and definately not going to vote for Obama. So I apologize for all grammatical errors, and difference of opinions. Have a great day!

2008-07-30T17:58:00.000-07:00

Well it seems I actually have feminine side, and it costs me money. It turns out i like clothes and shoes. So the past few weeks i have aquired a few pairs of shoes. Today I bought 2 more. Well, I bought one pair with the intention to start running, but the other ones were just pretty cool. so yeah, Tim and Tiffany came over and let's just say they didn't like my new pairs of vans. Too bad, but I am pretty sure that they are the coolest things around. Oh yeah, i am going to mexico in 3 weeks, i leave the 20th of august... sweet.

2008-06-14T18:25:00.000-07:00

Okay, well nothing new and exciting is going on, just the same old junk. Well there is one tid-bit of new news. I'm going to Mexico.....again. I am pretty excited about that, it will be 11 days in August. It is going to be "off the hizzy." The Family reunion is coming up, and i need to get off work. Also i realized that I need to learn how to update this thing and put some more sweet pictures and even music. Well, i am going to pour one out for all my homies. Peace out, PAZ A VOSOTROS.

2008-05-25T17:08:00.000-07:00

Okay, so maybe this blog doesn't attract the ladies, or at least the kind I wanted. The only ones who look at this are family, mainly my sister-in-laws. I am cool with that as it means i can keep my money to myself, and I don't have to spend it on some chick. Now that is pretty cool. Not that i am cheap or anything like that. SOY PRUDENTE;) Okay, so my legs are slowly healing, turns out the sun burned a few layers of my precious "pasty white" legs as grandma says. As far as anything new, haha nothing, what do you expect when you work 16 hours a day. maybe i will post a few pictures on here, just to keep you all entertained. (mainly directed to my sister-in-laws because they are the only ones who check this out.)

White legs in the sun turn Red.

2008-05-18T19:09:00.002-07:00

Well this is the new and hip thing to do. So I figured that if I i wanted to be hip and get all the girls, I need a blog. This week was pretty long. I worked over 100 hours, including 21 on a friday. I worked the Thorntonfest this year and wore shorts. I guess it is not the best idea to pick a long, hot, and sunny day to wear shorts for the first time in a few years. So my legs are pretty red, and they hurt. But hey, at least i will get al the ladies now with this sweet blog.

El Gabacho Más Gacho

Hace Un Mes

2 days in a row...

Ingmar Bergman

The Virgin Spring

Poco dinero y Mucho trabajo

Crossroads

So Hot

Let Go

Se acabó la música

Dear Zachary

Parent Pleaser

Don't Push ME

Science

Biscuits

Finals

Boring

Ranting and then some.

North America South America

Aboutz Me

Handsome Furs--I'm Confused

Kutiman- I'm NEW

****Kanye**** Singing his Growth.

DeathCabForCutie

The people I admire.

WHOMADEWHO

Matt and Kim-Jesse Jane??

Fleet Foxes

YEAH YEAH

New Villager-Rich Doors

Swagger like us.

BON IVER

More than Just Marley....Steel Pulse

¡MUSICA!

Lars von Trier

A little about NOW

Fleet Foxes

Music Go Music -Warm in the Shadows

The Five Obstuctions.

DEAD DISCO

Quote of the Day

Too funny.

She's got style!.!.!

Friendly Fires-Skeleton Boy

Mickey Gang- I was born in the 90's

Thinkbot

FINALS

THe ByU.

Venting

White legs in the sun turn Red.

Kanye Singing his Growth.