It's Cold As - F Outside!!

Written on Sunday, December 21, 2008 by Deeze



From my understanding, it is colder than a mutha..... outside. I checked the weather yesterday when I returned from my morning workout and realized that today's high would be 3 degrees (not the wind chill). That let me know, to be proactive by going to the grocery store, and shut myself in the house for the remainder of the day.

Fortunately, I have the NFL and a PS3 to keep me company when I don't want to leave my house. My friends wanted to meet up at a sports bar last night and today, but..... ummm.... that's a negative!

What people don't realize is although I was born and raised in Chicago, I hate cold weather more and more each year. The more winters I spend here, the more I plan on it being among my last winters :)

For those crazy people that want a white Christmas, come up here, and you'll see as much white as you want to see. I want a warm Christmas. Complete, with nice weather, BBQ for dinner, and a good NBA game...... Now that's a Happy Holiday!

Not feeling Blognificent!

Written on Wednesday, December 17, 2008 by Deeze

The Return of Mr. Blognificent hasn't been much of a return this year. It seems to get harder to write about things these days, especially since I've settled down and have no more crazy dating stories. I guess this year has been so much of a transition year as far as family, career, relationships, and personal issues that my inspiration for writing has subsided.

I look at it this way.... there's always next year!

So I'm going to try to re-commit myself to writing at minimum once per week even if it's a short post such as this.

Yet Another One

Written on Sunday, December 07, 2008 by Deeze

I've made it yet another year, and I'm glad about it!
I don't have very much to say during this blog, except for some random blabs.

I never thought it would be so difficult to regularly blog....
Has life now gotten boring?
I'm having difficulty coming up with material to blog about....

I'm excited for this new year of my life. I accomplished pretty much everything I wanted to last year, and this year, I plan on accomplishing more than I plan on.

Guess it's time to spruce up my life....
Look forward to new and fun stories!

Palin Power!!!

Written on Tuesday, November 04, 2008 by Deeze



Yeah right...
People in the south and midwest (Ohio), you really need to wake up. The civil war is over, and the Civil Rights bill was signed in 1965, so W A K E U P!!!
Little known history fact: "Red States" were "Blue States" before the Civil Rights bill was signed.... in other words they were Democrats. So what that tells me is these 'so called' conservatives don't believe in 'progress' aka they are predjudiced.

Also, those who had no other reason to support Hilary Clinton other than she was a woman, W A K E U P! I like Hilary Clinton as a politician but as the President, I felt like nothing too much would change. She's one of the people that supported the stupid war, and then talked about bringing troops home. If you supported the war, what makes me believe you'd be in a hurry to bring them home? You were under enemy fire in Bosnia? Ummmm no that was a lie. Crying during a speech? Character assination? That color doesn't fit you well. The list goes on... It has nothing to do with being a woman. Hell, Mickey and Minnie Mouse could have run if they posessed the right qualities. I really had respect for the Clintons until the dirty campaign, and the unnecessary lies that were told to voters. I believe America may FINALLY be tired of having their intelligence insulted. Bush did it for 8 years with 9/11, Katrina, Iraq, and Terror.

I have respect for McCain, but I don't know if he's in touch with the realities of the average person in America. However, I think picking Palin was yet another insult of America's intelligence. Then again, it wasn't that crazy of a pick. He knew that many of the Hilary supporters supported her because she was a woman, and really wouldn't be able to intelligently tell you another reason why they supported her. So logic says since that woman lost, let just throw another woman in there and these same misguided people will switch sides and vote for you. Yes, I said it.. I'm talking about femminist. Not people that advocate womens rights (I support them and am all for them) but pure femminist. They are as dangerous as the predjudiced. The main difference is beliefs are gender-based instead of race-based.

It's a damn shame that the election is this close because if Barack was a white man, it wouldn't AT ALL be as close as it is. There are many people out there will not vote for him for no other reason than he's black. Not for his beliefs, policies, or personality, but because of his skin. I'm not supporting Obama because he's black (however I'm proud of that fact), I'm supporting him because of his policies, his appearance of being different than the other Capital Hill politicians, and majority of his policies I believe in especially helping the middle class and the WORKING poor.

No, he isn't taking money out of people's pockets, he's redistributng taxes the way they SHOULD be.

Example: If I'm buying a $2000 LCD HDTV, should I pay LESS taxes than someone buying a $399 iPhone? Doesn't that just SOUND wrong to you? Well, thanks to Bush and the Republican party, that's EXACTLY what is happening for the rich.

From my angle Republicans don't like one or two types of people: Poor and Blacks (which sometimes are one in the same). What happened and what's happening in New Orleans a prime example of that. They believe that if you work hard, everyone can be rich and it will cause a 'trinkle down effect'.

Being Black in America has a different reality. If you work equally hard, you will get less, and if you work twice as hard, you might get equality. Being exceptional is the only way to overcome. However, what gives us hope is those exceptional people that have been able to overcome.

I'm not endorsing Barack because he has overcome but I'm endorsing Obama because he's the candidate that may can save this country from our freefall to becoming a third world country. No Barack will not be able to fix it in 8 years, but maybe be able to put us in the position to make it better after 2 terms. What Bush has done in 8 years will probably take 12-16 years to fix to get us back to the 90's era of profitablity and stability.

Please everyone, especially blacks please don't be lazy and go vote. Too many of our ancestors died for this right. For you to sit at home and criticize the process and how the 'White man' is keeping you down shows you are a loser. If the 'White Man' is keeping you down, prove him wrong, and show you're not lazy and exercize your right!

This is what the 'conservatives' think we're getting:



Here's the reality:

GTA Addicition

Written on Friday, October 31, 2008 by Deeze


Oh boy, here we go again. I'm addicted to Grand Theft Auto the video game AGAIN. A few years ago, I was addicted to GTA Vice City. It got so bad that I used to come home at lunch to play it. I worked 5 mins away from work then so it wasn't a major undertaking to come home, but it was the point of it. The excitement of being 'bad' and not having any consequences is addictive :)

It's started all over again. The first month that I got my PS3, I probably only played it 4 times at max. Now out of nowhere, I'm getting in a few minutes almost everyday. I usually don't play more than 30-45 but the point is I'm doing it 4+ days per week before I go to bed, lol.

GTA 4 is so addictive, I even got my girl to play it and she even got a little hypnotized playing it, and it's totally opposite of what anyone would think she'd enjoy. This game is so insane yet so much fun, it's like another world almost. Now with the graphics and HD game play, it looks so much more real than the PS2 version.

I do have one problem.... Parents are buying this game for their kids. That's totally ridiculous. There is so much violence, cursing, prostitues, pimps, drug dealing, etc., kids should not be allowed to play this game, it's strictly for adults.

At least now I'm getting my money's worth with my PlayStation now.

Student Confrontation

Written on Monday, October 27, 2008 by Deeze


Out of my 3 years teaching, I finally had my first real student confrontation. To make a long story short, she got mad because I caught her cheating. Let me ask my readers this..... If you're in school, and you're looking on someone else's screen for any reason, isn't that cheating during a test, a midterm at that? I didn't even fail her immediately but I asked her not to look at anyone else's screen, and if she did it again, she'd get an 0. Then she became disruptive, and I said if she can't stop talking she would immediately get a 0. She must have thought I was playing games.

I told her there is no discussion.. she has a 0 and she needs to leave immediately. That's when she got mad and started calling me crazy, lol. She kept yapping when I asked her to leave but then I was getting pissed because she was disturbing my other students while they were taking their exams.

She finally got her stuff and walked out, and I walked out right behind her because I was REALLY about to put this wench in her place. She then decided to not want to talk anymore, and I think she must have known I was about to light into her butt!

The problem is this student, doesn't half come to class, doesn't listen well, doesn't do the homework, and just got a book 4 weeks into class. She was spiraling towards an F anyway.

I honestly hope she doesn't come back but I'm sure I'll have to deal with some administrative stuff, but I honestly don't want her back in my class, and I'm calling the dean that tomorrow. When you work for a 'for-profit' school, the administration bends over backwards to give the students a free pass in my opinion, just to keep making money. I'm really (sarcastically) looking forward to that freggin conversation.

Love / Hate Relationship

Written on Sunday, October 26, 2008 by Deeze



Chicago and I have this love/hate relationship. Sometimes I'm happy here, sometimes I'm not. I believe sometime in the somewhat near future, I'm going to make a change, but where and when I have no idea. I'll see where my business takes me. I have a time and a plan in my head, but we'll see if it works out. While doing some business planning last night, I came up was just thinking about how much I love and hate Chicago at the same time.

I love it because:



  • This is where I was born and raised
  • This is where my mom and some of my friends are
  • The summertime is absolutely wonderful. Chicago is the perfect city for about 3 months out of the year to live in.
  • There is ALWAYS something to do, even free and cheap stuff
  • Chicago has a lot of cultural things to do, especially in the warmer months
  • Just because it's cold, life doesn't stop
  • Chicago has some of Nations best colleges i.e. Northwestern, U of Chicago, DePaul, Loyola
  • Strong multi-industry job market
  • It's easy to have fun dates here if you can find a quality woman to date because of the assortment of options of places to go


I hate it because:



  • The 'City of Chicago' is full of s#!* with taxes, and traffic tickets have completely gotten out of control
  • Segregation of this city is insane. I have to live downtown or up north to enjoy things of quality without having to drive for miles.
  • The traffic is insane at any random time of the day or night. Each night when I leave from teaching about 7 or 730, you would think it's 5 in the evening because traffic isn't moving. WTF?
  • December thru March. The weather is miserable!
  • Property is sky high in comparison to what you get. For a LITTLE more reasonable pricing, I'd have to move out of the loop areas. For me, living on the northside is ABSOLUTELY out of the question. I would never live anywhere north of Division because I don't feel comfortable there since there are not too many people that look like me in that side of town. My other options are the middle of nowhere (aka the burbs) or the southside and westside to get substandard stuff such as shopping, restaurants, bars, poor schools, among other things.
  • This is not a very good place to find a date (from a guy's perspective) unless I was interested in interracial dating. Some of us have gotten lucky, but it's definitely not a 'guys market' here as stated from many guys from here and visited here.

Tough Blogging

Written on Sunday, October 26, 2008 by Deeze

It has been really been tough to blog for pretty much this entire year for me. Normally, I have more topics to blog about than time to write them, but lately I haven't had the time nor the inspiration. However, as the end of 2008 approaches, I need to get my blog life back in order :)

In saying that, sometimes my blogs will be short and some will not make a whole lot of sense, but I'm going to dedicate myself to write 3-4 times per week if it's nothing but a sentence.

New Toy

Written on Tuesday, September 23, 2008 by Deeze

Ok..... I have finished making any electronic purchases over $100 for the year.
My latest toy is the PS3. I've been wanting one since they came out, but I've just been cheap, electing to buy other things.

Two Saturdays ago, I finally broke down and bought one with the encouragement of a few people. I've been playing video games since the days of the Coin-op Pac-Man. It's one of those things I still like to do, however I'm not by any stretch of the imagination a hard core gamer.

The funny part is, I've played it probably 3-4 times in the almost 2 weeks I've had it.

I know one thing... The PS3 is such a racket! Once you buy the freggin $399 system, you have to probably buy $200 worth of crap to get any decent usage out of it. It's actually like having a little computer though. It's pretty cool. It has it's own hard drive, connects to the internet, and has a Blu-Ray player.

Here's the things that you will need to buy in addition, in order to get full enjoyment:


  • The HDMI Cable - To play the games in High Definition
  • Games - Duh
  • Audio Cord - If you want to get 5.1 or 7.1 Dolby Sound from your games or Blu-Ray disc player
  • Blu-Ray Discs
  • 2nd Control Pad



It's definitely the most expensive toy I've ever bought.... next year my toy will be a scooter, if I can find a place that I can park it without having to pay for parking!

Difficultly In Blogging

Written on Monday, September 22, 2008 by Deeze

Why am I having such a hard time blogging these days. I'm not any more busy than normal, I am just not feeling the creative juices. I've had more than enough funny stories to blog about, as well as real life situations, but it's been difficult to pull them out of my head and type them on the screen.

I'm going to just write and see how disorganized my thoughts really are...
I haven't been feeling really "Blognificent" lately.

My Life - Pop Life

Written on Friday, September 05, 2008 by Deeze



Today, I have been listening to Mary J. Blige's "My Life" album. I almost forgot how much of a true classic it really is. Mary and Puff were magic back in the day. 1/2 Soul, 1/2 hip-hop. There's not too much in that in music these days. Soul music, and Artist singing/rapping from their soul. You find it sometimes now, but it's very rare. Albums are now made with crossing over to the 'other peoples' station.



Now our artists are selling their souls and going pop.
Remember when POP = Corny and it was an embarassment for a R&B or Hip-Hop artist to cross over? Where's the soul in out music? Where's our soul? I guess the time is over when R&B and Hip-Hop Artist did music that could be classic, and something to be proud of.
Oh well, I guess, I'll listen to 'chant' music and be hypnotized like the rest of the masses.

Blubber Reduction Therapy - Lake Meditation

Written on Thursday, August 21, 2008 by Deeze


I've been slacking a bit doing my cardio. I'm still going to the gym, but out of my 2 hours 1 3/4 of the time is spent lifting weights. The good news is that I can definitely see a difference in my arms, but the problem is I'm not getting a balanced workout. I'm feeling a bit pudgy around the mid-section so I need to get back on board.

Yesterday, I limited myself to lifting weights to an hour although, I was kind of anxious to do more. Afterward, I drove up to the 31st beach and decided to run to McCormic Place and back. It wasn't a long run, but about 20 minutes each way.

I couldn't resist stopping on the way and sitting on the water for about a 1/2 hour. I sat down, turned off my headphones, and just looked at the water while I relaxed for about 20 minutes. While sitting there, I started hearing the "tiny, small voice" which was a lot louder yesterday. I felt like God was downloading a scores of instructions to my brain. Although I pray at home, yesterday while sitting on the water, felt like the first clear conversation (although I didn't do hardly any talking) He and I had in a while. Long story short, I feel like I've gotten a bit back on track now.

I did my 20 minutes back and I ran into one of my best friends riding his bike. We talked for a minute and then I return to my car. Lo and behold I have a ticket for tinted windows. Of course, I'm NOT going to pay it because I've had tinted windows on each car I've owned since 1992 CPD can kiss it! City of Chicago...... good luck trying to get that $25.00 out of me.... I digress.......

I looking to change up my workouts. I'm registering for Yoga on Mondays, and Kickboxing on Saturdays. At my gym, these classes are offered, but Yoga has nothing but women in there, and kickboxing is just about all women, and it's too slow for me. There's a place a few blocks from my place that has these classes, and I'm going to give them a try starting next week. I'm actually excited. The kickboxing is a contact class and instructed by a martial arts champion. I can't wait! My doctor told me last year that I need to work on my flexibility, but I never did. I feel like I need to now because I think my limited flexibility is preventing me from being in the best shape I can.

By incorporating kickboxing, yoga, outdoor running, and some extra crunches into my weight lifting, it will help my "Blubber Reduction Therapy." Fortunately my blubber consists of only 2inches around my waist that I should be able to get rid of in about 1 1/2 - 2 weeks of my new regimen. I think I'll do bootcamp and some other activity in about 2 months when it's time to change up my workout.

College Fever

Written on Friday, August 15, 2008 by Deeze


Lately I've been a bit disconnected from my glory days being in college. Those were the best and the poorest times.
I haven't participated in any AAMU events in over 3 years. In fact, I've missed the last 3 homecomings. Before I had a streak of about 8 or so consecutive ones (most while attending). This year that will change. Not only am I going to homecoming, but I'm also going to the Circle City Classic because AAMU is playing in it this year.

For those of you that don't know. Black College Homecoming and Football is a big deal. It's not so much the game, but it's more of the social scene, the halftime shows, the Greek shows, and the parties. For a non-HBCU school, it's usually not too big of a deal. Just one of the many cultural differences.

Also AAMU has an Alumni website that is similar to MySpace/Facebook. You create your own page and upload pictures and everything. For the last few days, I've been addicted. I've seen and emailed people I haven't seen or talked too in years. I feel like I've expanded my network a lot more now. Whoever created this I have to say great job!

Anyone who's reading this make sure you make a page.... you will be shocked by some of the people that you will see.

Here's a few links:

Alabama Live Network
Circle City Classice
AAMU Homecoming

Smallville, Illinois - Fall Idiot Box

Written on Saturday, August 09, 2008 by Deeze




Oh boy I have gotten addicted to yet another show....... Smallville
Normally, I'm not a big Superman fan, but the show is really good. The allure of the show is that it's so well written and I had an opportunity to watch it from the very first show. Last summer, HDNet played the show from day one (around 2001) every day so this summer I finally caught up to season 6 thanks to DVR.

Unfortunately, they stopped at the end of Season 5 and started back from the beginning a couple of weeks ago. Now I'm like WTF????? So being the closet geek I am, I decided to look for the remaining seasons (6 and 7) online. After a few weeks of combing the internet... I found them. Now I've obtained both seasons 6 and 7, it will keep me occupied until football season which begins in less than a month!!!!!!!

Now I'm ready for Season 8 when it starts up in the next month... Darn, something else that I have to add to my DVR schedule. I hate getting addicted to tv shows.

Here's my fall addiction shows that I'm now aware of:


    Heros
    Sportscenter
    NFL Football
    Hard Knocks - Cowboys Camp
    Entourage
    Bill Mahr
    Grey's Anatomy
    Nip/Tuck
    Smallville
    The Boondocks
    I Want To Be Diddy's Assistant


I'll have to catch up on most of these on the weekends since I don't have time to watch this much TV during the week. I hope I don't get addicted to anymore shows.

New Tracks I'm Diggin'/ Lookin' Boy Remix

Written on Friday, August 08, 2008 by Deeze

I had been a little slack on new music lately since I had been neglecting my XM Radio and I no longer have VH1 Soul :(
I've downloaded a bunch of new tracks lately because I need some new stuff to work out to. My May/June Playlist for the gym that I compiled is no longer doing the trick.. For probably the first time ever, no ballads made it in my favorite song list.

Here's Mr. Blognificent's Hot 10 tracks of the week:


    10. Baby - L.L. Cool J f/ The-Dream
    9. Here I Am - Rick Ross f/ Nelly & Avery Storm
    8. Closer - Ne-Yo
    7. Green Light - John Legend f/ Andre 3000
    6. I'm That Chick - Mariah Carey
    5. Comfortable - Lil' Wayne f/ Babyface
    4. A Milli - Lil' Wayne
    3. Stepped on My J's - Nelly f/ JD
    2. Spotlight - Jennifer Hudson
    1. Put On - Young Jeezy f/ Kanye West



Song I'm embarrassed to like:

Lookin' Boy - Hot Styles f/ Young Joc

If you've been under a rock somewhere, that's the song that says "Lookin' Boy" after each line, and there's a break in the beat where the big punch line comes in. At first I thought it was completely stupid (I still do) but Doll had me listen to it and when I saw the video, I found myself laughing after I listened to the words.

It reminds me of how my friends and I used to Freestyle on the back of the bus (6 Jeffery Express) on the way home from High School daily (Yes Mr. Blognificent used to rap and play the dozens). The only difference was we either had someone beatbox or used a Casio Keyboard.

I haven't freestyled in many years but since this song is so easy and I decided to create my own remix.... If I hear my lines on the radio, I'M SUING!!, LOL. Here goes.... don't laugh at my silliness too hard!!!!

    Lame lookin' boy,
    Game lookin' boy,
    Sam Cassel, ATLien lookin' boy

    Boyz II Men Motown Philly, lookin' boy
    Little penguin, Chilly Willy, lookin' boy
    "Take That, Take That, Take That" P. Diddy, 'lookin' boy

    Family Matters Eddie Winslow, McCray Darius, lookin' boy
    Tight leather suit Eddie Murphy Delirious, lookin' boy
    "Whyyyyy sooooo serioussss?????????????????????" Batman Joker, lookin' boy

    Short Katt Williams broke pimp, lookin' boy
    Can't see, patch over yo' eye.. Slick Rick, lookin' boy
    I've fallen......... and I can't get up, old chick lookin' boy

    Scary beast, 'lookin' boy
    Tarter sauce on your teeth lookin' boy
    "Aaah you want to throw garbage cans, now I got's to cut ya", Della Reese lookin' boy

Wow, what a Sunday!

Written on Monday, July 21, 2008 by Deeze

It started at 4:45am..... I went to the IMAX at 6am to see "The Dark Knight." I must admit, it was one of the best movies I've seen in quite a while. The movie was less about The Batman, and more about the Joker. This guy in the movie was sicker than Hannibal Lector. All I can say is.... the critics were actually right for once! I'm not going to talk about it more yet.... just go see it!

We followed it up with breakfast at Crakerbarrel, a drop off at the airport, then dinner at Outback (one of my favorites!!!!)

It was around 6 and I was pretty much pooped then a text came in from one of my former co-workers, to met them at Lux Bar. I had every intention to only stay for an hour or so but was there until almost 11pm. My friends are absolutely crazy. We probably almost got kicked out for being loud and using obscene language (2 of my friends were drunk by the time we got there). The bad part was we were outside, right by the door in River North/ Gold Cost area so you know we REALLY stood out!

I know I'm still young if I can be gone from the house from 5 am until almost 11pm and still get to work at 730am and still function effectively. I did everything but go to Church on Sunday..... I'll be back this upcoming Sunday :)

Random Wednesdays

Written on Wednesday, July 16, 2008 by Deeze


Why is an iPhone activation that isn't store bought so difficult?

Wow, I've only been to Atlanta once this year, and I have no current plans to go

Is it football season yet?

Why does it rain EVERY weekend with the exception of 2 since April 1st?

Summertime is over, and in September it's back to working like a maniac. I miss my EXTRA money.

Can I get a raise to cover these inflation costs?

Public Transportation is a great invention!

I'm sore from working out.

Why do you have to take an Accord to the dealership to change the freggin headlight? Remember when you could just pop it in under the hood?

I think my DAD has some pull in HEAVEN with GOD because I'm getting an EXTRA helping of favor. Somethings happen so good, it scares me!

I'M RSS READABLE NOW!

i Irritation - Error 3259

Written on Tuesday, July 15, 2008 by Deeze

Now that I got an iPhone, the set up has been an irritation!!!!!!!
I bought my iPhone from someone so it was already setup by the previous owner. I needed to update to the 2.0 software because I need to be able to use my work email (they pay my bill :)). I tried to download the software but no go.

I got error 3259 while trying to download. I called the Apple Store to see if they could help me. I was on hold for about 20 mins. Since I'm very tech savy, I already did everything they suggested over the phone already, so after all that they could only set an appointment tomorrow for me because they are not taking any walk-ins because of the 3G phone.

Since I felt waiting until tomorrow night was not an acceptable solution, I decided to figure this thing out myself. I did find out that I needed to get a new SIM card for the phone since it was previously owned. I went to AT&T - South Loop and they were really cool about it, and gave me a FREE SIM card ($24 value). I registered and activated my new phone, so I figured that may be the reason that I couldn't upgrade to 2.0 Software. After a few hours of trying no go.

I researched the web over and over and found dozens of things to try like changing the 'msconfig' settings, deleting IE7, and so forth. Then I read somewhere to open port 3689... still no go. Lastly I opened port 5353 and FINALLY success.

I wasted 4 hours of my life trying to set this thing up and it should have been on Apple's website. Since they didn't hopefully I'll help someone here.

These instructions are for a previously owned 1st Gen iPhone. If it was not previously owned skip steps 1 and obviously the activation step.


  1. Buy new SIM Card
  2. Go to Control Panel > Network > Change Firewall Settings > Exeptions > Add Port TCP 3689.
  3. Add Port UDP 5353 > Apply Settings (name the ports something unique like iTunes Download 1 & 2)
  4. Sync with iTunes.... DON'T TURN ON UNTIL CPU SYNC
  5. Go to iTunes >
  6. Activate Phone and follow on-screen instructions. Since I am an AT&T customer already, it was easy to transfer my service.
  7. Help > Check For Updates >
  8. Follow on-screen instructions
  9. Allow iTunes to update iPhone.. usually takes about an hour for this whole process.

That should eliminate the Error 3259

Now I have to set up my work email and I should be good to go.

New iToy

Written on Tuesday, July 15, 2008 by Deeze


I finally done it... I've bought 1 of the 2 major electronic purchases for the year. I bought an iPhone.... I didn't get it from the Apple Store though. I bought it off of someone for $125 in like new condition. Boy do I LOVE getting a bargin; it's the next best thing to free. It's not the 3G version, but they give you a 2.0 version to have the same functionality with the exception of being on the 3G network, which is fine to me. I don't use the phone internet THAT much anyway.

I've been in the stores playing with it since it came out but I couldn't justify buying it for $499. It just wouldn't happen!


Doll has one but only uses it for the phone...... she just realized it had GPS, lol. I'm love getting new toys... well, it's time to set it up now... the part I HATE! Wish me luck!

Feelin' Geeky

Written on Sunday, July 13, 2008 by Deeze


Since being liberated from programming and taking a vacation from school, I have been really out of touch with technology and gadgets this entire year and the last quarter of last year. In fact, it became so bad, I stopped teaching technical classes, I didn't use a computer beyond work hours except to use things like iTunes and write an occasional blog. I used to take my laptop everywhere with me that I was staying more than a few hours. Now, I don't even consider taking it anywhere with me besides work.

I think on Friday, I've gotten new inspiration for some reason. I've gotten the itch to get back into gadgets, designing websites, and creating applications. Also, I've decided to go back to finish school in September (if I don't change my mind AGAIN). It's weird, I got completely disinterested in technology for a while, but I think I'm getting my stride back.

Working From Home

Written on Thursday, July 10, 2008 by Deeze


Yesterday, I had a major proponent for a Project that I've been working on since I started this job to finish out, and I figured it would be more productive for me to finish at home instead of spending 1.5 hours to get dressed and commute back and forth.

I've noticed that when I work at home, I can actually perform my job at a higher level on days that I don't have meetings. When I'm in the office, I have my ipod on anyway, so it's not like I interact with anyone, I'm in my own music world. The difference is I'm conscious of quitting time, while at home, it really doesn't matter when I finish because I have no commute. Although I pulled a 12+ hour day, I feel a lot better because I started at 630 am and finished around 7, and still had the rest of the evening.

At some point I should be working from home 2-3 days per week because I don't see clients or have meetings for the most part. With the was gas prices are, I won't be able to come into the office but 2-3 days per week anyway. Although I can work from home when I want, I am going to request a standard work from home day (probably Thursday instead of Friday to not seem like a slacker).

Random Wednesdays

Written on Wednesday, July 09, 2008 by Deeze


Why is the guy from P90x a complete animal? Doll and I did a few exercises from the series, and he's a nut....... it was great. The ab exercises were only 15 minutes and they were killing us in 5 minutes.

4th of July weekend is still the best holiday of the year... no gifts to buy, no commercialization/ lies to tell children (Santa/Easter Bunny), relaxation, outdoors, and bbq!

What's with the insane cover charges these days? Only places where Black folks only/majority charge $20-$60 for absolutely nothing..... Let me get this straight..... you want ME to pay YOU for MY PRESENCE at YOUR place? .

Is it me or isn't it true that summertime always had the best music and albums to come out? Lil' Wayne is the only fire to come out so far... Usher was good but not great by his standards..... otherwise..... nothing for the Summer other than stupid chant songs.

Why was this the first Friday, Saturday, and Sunday in Chicago since April that we didn't have NO rain for all 3 days? Damn that Global Warming.

Why do I think less and plan less for the future than I used to?

I've gotten very casual and lazy with my dressing lately. I think it's because now you can wear jeans everywhere, I go to the gym pretty often, and I can wear whatever I want to work.... That's about to change... I didn't even own a pair of sweats until I was 24.

$240 a month on gas is too much.... I'm working on knocking it down to $100.
I filled up my car for the first time in 2 weeks. Normally I fill it up once a week.

It should be mandatory for all companies to allow their non-customer face-to-face office workers to telecommute at a minimum of 2 days per week.

Direct TV sucks..... I'm glad I only pay $15 per month since it's included w/ my building. The only good thing is the NFL Sunday Ticket.. can't wait until September.

I found some new Video sites... why was I up the last two nights watching cartoons like a kid?

I'm buying a PS3 for Madden 09 and Grand Theft Auto soon (probably August)

I still haven't gotten my stimulus check from the government

We have BEER in our Fridge AT WORK!!!!

Corporate Meeting

Written on Tuesday, July 08, 2008 by Deeze


Today was my first BIG client meeting for my new job. It was funny.... my boss was more nervous than I was. I think b/c I talk for a living as a professor, giving presentations in front of people don't really affect me.

My boss and I were very pleased with the results in the meeting, now I'm just hoping that they will sign the contract although I believe we have an excellent chance. I've been working on this project since I started in April so it's good to see my work pay off in front of my face and my boss' face as well; especially since I had to start working on it my very first day of work when I had no idea what to do.

Whew... I'm glad that's over.. now I can not be stressed!

Gettin' My Taste On

Written on Thursday, July 03, 2008 by Deeze

I went to the Taste again last night, and this time I actually was able to eat. I went last Saturday to see Stevie Wonder and it was so crowded, you could barely move so I went somewhere else to get some food.




Fantasia and Estelle performed last night and it was a decent show. I took Doll to see Estelle at the House of Blues a few months ago (the tix were only $15 so I was happy :) ) and she was pretty good. For some reason Doll LOVES Estelle and was so geeked to go. I could have stayed home and took a nap very easily. I was overcast and drizzling majority of the time which was fine with me, because I know people stayed at home because they are allergic to rain. Estelle's performance was almost exactly the same as it was at the HOB, so it was good. There was no Kanye doing his part on 'American Boy' so of course the song doesn't have the same appeal, but it closed the show well.

Fantasia was being Fantasia..... screaming and hollering half the show. That's what makes her entertaining. We all know she doesn't have any hits that are uptempo so she was singing the uptempo songs of her albums that no one knew. She then threw in a few old school songs like Purple Rain which was good as well. I only came to see her sing 'Truth Is' and 'Free Yourself'.

Since Fantasia has problems with the "TH's and N'Ts" in her words, "If You Don't Want Me Then Don't Talk To Me" chorus of the song is hilarious. I love the song nonetheless. I was however disappointed the 'Truth Is' wasn't sung. Then she brought people on the stage with her to sing and dance, which was pretty cool. She pretty much closed with the ghetto anthem of 'Baby Mamma'. I can't stand the song, but I did like the fact that Jennifer Hudson sang with her for a few minutes. Honestly, that was the best part of the show. I like Fantasia because she can put on a show, which is the reason she won American Idol.

Now I have to go back to the Taste Sunday evening to get rid of the remaining tickets I have since it's the last day :)

Random Wednesdays

Written on Wednesday, July 02, 2008 by Deeze


This is the first installment of "Random Wednesday." Random Wednesday is a day when I post COMPLETELY random thoughts/rants that have nothing to do with each other. So here goes....


    Why can't I stop listening to Lil' Wayne's "Comfortable f/ Babyface & Kanye West?" I love the whole album, but when this song comes on I keep having to replay it about 3-5 times.....

    That woman has even slowed down Usher's music too. I like 'Here I Stand' but can I get a few dance tracks (i.e. "Yeah", "You Don't Have To Call", "You Make Me Wanna")? What's with the trend of Hip-Hop and R&B artist with this mid-tempo melancholy crap? It's hard to find a hype song unless you listen to some wack rappers like Solja Boy or some chant rapper. Hip-Hop/R&B.... Can we PLEASE get back to having fun again in music?

    I'm going to see Fantasia and Estelle at the Taste whoopee(sarcastically) !!!

    When will gas be $10? Once we start having electric cars, won't that be an opportunity for the electric companies to get rich like the oil companies?

    Chicago's Sales Tax is now the highest in the nation. Word of advice to visitors.... don't buy anything in the city. Yes, Mayor Daley I said it! I'm not buying anything else in the city until they get their minds right in City Hall.

    I thought about buying a scooter or motorcycle.... Then I did a cost/benefit analysis, and realized how stupid that would be.

    I rode my bike to the gym (about 3 miles each way) and worked out 1 1/2 hours. I rode my bike the last 2 days for about 15 total miles.

    Why is my girlfriend as funny as a stand up comedian? The bad part is she isn't trying to be funny, it's just natural.

    Is Downtown/River North Chicago the hiding spot for BF/WM dating/relationships? I swear that's all I saw the last 2 weekends while in the area. I still get nauseous a bit. Uggghh.

    I still think about burning down the place that I got food poisoning from.

    Why am I thinking of getting a new car since car dealers are so desperate to sell them now.... don't be surprised if I'm in a 3-series convertible..... Kidding, my car is 95% paid off, so I'm not buying one at least for a year.

    It should be mandatory that all companies give their workers an option of a 4 day 10 hour day to cut down on gas costs and usage...

    I'm considering going to my Line Bro's wedding in Jamaica instead of the Black MBA Conference in DC.

    I can't wait for AAMU's homecoming....

    Is it football season yet? I'm miserable with no real sports :( (baseball sucks)


Someone just got hit on their motorcycle in front of my office building.... see why I thought better of getting a motorcycle? It's dangerous enough to ride a friggin' bike these days!
End Rant

Well....... It's Cheap Time!

Written on Thursday, June 26, 2008 by Deeze



For the first time, I'm really starting to feel the economic crunch for the simple things in life. Normally, I don't let economics guide too many decisions as far as life style. Due to transportation and food costs, I'm unfortunately going to have to make some changes since I don't want to pick up another side gig to make up for the difference. In the past, I would pick up an extra class, or side gig to make up for new expenses or rising costs. At that rate, I'll have 10 jobs and be dead by 34.

For the first time since I've was laid off in 03, I'm going to have to make a tight budget for myself. I hate being cheap!

New cost cutting measures:

Buying the Sunday paper 2 times a month to get the coupons.

I can't afford to buy gas anymore but once a month. When living in Atlanta between 2001 and 2005, my gas expenses was $60-80 monthly driving approximately 1000-1200 per month. Now, my gas expenditures are about $240 monthly and I actually drive less, approximately 700-800 miles a month. The funny thing is my salary hasn't increased by 400% but my expenses has! My salary has only increased by approximately 35% instead of 400%. I can't totally offset the cost of gas but I can make some changes to help offset costs.

Searching for a new Barbershop:

I'm looking Downtown, South Loop, or West Loop area that doesn't cost much more than 3-5 my South Side Barbershop's rate. I've been going there since 1999 so I really hate to change.

Take the train to work, gym, barbershop, dinner, etc.

Riding my bike to the gym on good weather days. My gym isn't very far from me, but those 5 miles add up if I'm going 4 times a week. Also go only on heavy weight-lifting days, and go on core/cardio days in my building since I have a nice one there. That should save about 80 miles per month.

Now that I no longer work walking distance from my place, I drive to work, which is about 300 miles a month, plus about 20 more if I go out and buy lunch instead of packing. To take the train is about $60-80 per month which is the price of a tank of gas for me.

Taking the train should cut my traveling expenses by 40%. Cabs are also going to have to be cut out the budget because they've added a $2 surcharge for each ride. I usually only use them for going out on the weekend, but I'm cutting back on that too.

Food Expenses

Packing lunch daily, Coupons, Super-Walmart, and Ultra foods are the keys to cutting back. I used to go to Whole Foods about 3-5 times a week, but now I only go once. I go for their fruit, and bottled water for the gym. I'm still going for fruit, I'm going to buy water a gallon at a time, especially since Chicago imposed a bottled water tax. I'll buy it at Super-Walmart. Also, I'll get a liter water bottle to start taking to the gym to get out of the buying a liter of .99 water at Whole Foods habit (and an Odwalla smoothie when I'm feeling sluggish for $3.39 which went up $.40 in the last month). I hate cooking but I'm going to have to start eating my horrible cooking or bbq everyday :) . I love to go out to eat, but instead of once or more a week, I'm going to have to do it a few times per month, and make one of them 'cheap eats'.

Utilities

I'm already cheap with utilities so that won't be a problem. I keep the house dark, and don't watch much TV..... maybe I should use my ipod around the house instead of the stereo and use my laptop on battery power and charge it when I get to work....... Ok, that's a little to far... just kidding.

I'm going to try all this stuff for the rest of the summer in hopes of saving about $300-500 per month. Considering the gas and food prices, that shouldn't be too hard.

Life Reloaded: Changes I've Been Going Through

Written on Wednesday, June 25, 2008 by Deeze

We're half way through 2008 already.... sure doesn't seem like it.

It's amazing how many things change and how quickly things can happen in life. One minute things are one way, the next, life is completely different. One thing I've learned about life is it's not what happens, it's how we respond to it.

My Dad Passed


On February 10th of this year, my dad left me to go be with the Lord. My dad was sick for a while so I knew it was coming, but it still doesn't make it any better, I just handled it better publicly. People were amazed that I didn't cry during the funeral, and I got up and spoke. I did all my crying the night before when I wrote the obituary, and the times when he was sick. Plus my dad wouldn't have wanted me to go crazy, and jump in the casket, etc. I will say this was the pinnacle of a miserable winter for me.

I've Met Someone VERY Special

Just when all hope was lost....
Doll, you're the last hope for the Sistas ;)
I originally wrote more here, but I'll save it for another post.

New Job

I have upgraded places of employment. I was actually skeptical at first because I was content (not happy, not unhappy) where I was. The fact that I'm making a significant amount more, and have a much larger potential bonus, definitely helped. The main reason for the move is because it's a smaller company, and I'm closer to the top of the Org chart. I can literally see every decision I make has an effect. Plus in my new role, I'm learning how to run and oversee several sides of the business. The other thing that sold me is the open, flexible environment. No cubes or dress code. Each week, I realize that it was a great move for me. I do miss a few of my co-workers but fortunately we still hang out from time to time and have a ball.

New Place

At the first of the month, I moved into a new place. I began to HATE the place I used to live (Shot out to "Presidential PROJECTS"). I strongly considered buying a condo this time around, but I decided to wait for a little while longer so I can get exactly what I want. What I want is less affordable, so I don't want to bite off more than I can handle financially. I will wait for what I really want.

Last month I was VERY stressed out because I couldn't find anywhere to live that I wanted (I'm pretty picky when it comes to where I stay). I gave my notice so I had to move out by 6/1 but as of 5/15 I didn't have anywhere to go, and I strongly considered moving back home until I thought about my commute to work, and moving twice. If it was winter time, I probably would have. However, things worked out; After looking at about 10 places and inquiring about 25, I found the perfect place with no move-in fees and brand new. In fact, I'm the 5th resident in a 35 story high-rise. I hated my other place, now I enjoy coming home. The best news is I'm saving a little money in the new place, and it's 10x better than the last.

Back to school - Change Majors

I've been on hiatus from school for the last year. I've decided to go ahead and finish because I hate leaving things undone. With my last job, I discovered that I really don't want to be a technical professional. My natural gifts are more towards managing projects and getting things organized. Also since I'm a teacher and that's something I'm pretty sure I'm going to do for the rest of my life, I'm going to get into Instructional Design. It's technical, but it is an educational role that uses technology. If you have no idea what that is, click here.

Writer's Block - Slowly Returning

Written on Tuesday, June 24, 2008 by Deeze


I have a bad case of writer's block right now....

I have been trying to post a blog for the past several weeks, but I can't seem to get it going. Several has already been started, but I'm not happy with any of them yet.

I'm sure I'll snap out of it soon.........

Don't Call It A Comeback.........

Written on Tuesday, June 10, 2008 by Deeze

Welcome to my new readers, as well as my veteran blogger and myspace readers.

This is my new blog home. I've decided to shut down the myspace and the other blogger page and just create one combined page.

During, this blog, I'll discuss dating/relationships, social events, friends/family,spirituality, politics, odd news, and some of the lies that society tries to make us believe though the media. Get ready, because we will be experiencing major turbulence. Have fun reading.

Upcoming blogs:


  • Life Reloaded - Changes I've Gone Through
  • My Wedding Weekend: Black People Do This...... White People Do That....
  • Day Dreamin' and I'm Thinkin' Cheese
  • What's With The Ice Grill / Stop Hatin' On Doll!