Leaving Austin in about 15 minutes for New Orleans. I've had a great time here, really enjoyed the city. Not sure how long I'll stay in New Orleans, guess it just depends on how long it takes me to make some money. I need about $40 to get to Mississippi, so it shouldn't take that long.
Alright, I'll post something in a day or two. Take care everyone.
Monday, February 28, 2011
Sunday, February 27, 2011
Saturday, February 26, 2011
Day 13
No work today, which was a bit of a bummer, but not unanticipated. Let's see, I woke up around 9 and drove downtown to get coffee and a scone, for I am MAN. Used up the coffee shop internet to check craigslist out and do some general time wasting exercises that come with an internet signal.
After that I went to a park and played music for a couple of hours, thankfully no one was really listening because I was sloppy. This humidity isn't my favorite, though I have really enjoyed this city so far. Also, I was caught off guard by a gentleman in a penguin suit. Turns out there were a bunch of humans disguised as animals, and occasionally superheros, that were playing kickball whilst being drunk. Another reason why I would encourage people to visit Austin.
Went to the library afterwards and tried to get some work again, and ended up getting hired to drive a dude to New Orleans on Monday, which is great, because I was just thinking about how nice it would be to get to Mississipi so I can shower. It's been a while, folks. I was my body with baby wipes, but that just doesn't quite cut it. I don't know the exact severity, but I'm sure that my current scent isn't pleasant, and might even be bordering on European.
Since I've now got my time line for heading further East, I guess I'll see if I can't land a job for tomorrow so I can have a bit of extra money, for gas to Mississippi or to maybe check out New Orleans. Either way, I shall write it here.
After that I went to a park and played music for a couple of hours, thankfully no one was really listening because I was sloppy. This humidity isn't my favorite, though I have really enjoyed this city so far. Also, I was caught off guard by a gentleman in a penguin suit. Turns out there were a bunch of humans disguised as animals, and occasionally superheros, that were playing kickball whilst being drunk. Another reason why I would encourage people to visit Austin.
Went to the library afterwards and tried to get some work again, and ended up getting hired to drive a dude to New Orleans on Monday, which is great, because I was just thinking about how nice it would be to get to Mississipi so I can shower. It's been a while, folks. I was my body with baby wipes, but that just doesn't quite cut it. I don't know the exact severity, but I'm sure that my current scent isn't pleasant, and might even be bordering on European.
Since I've now got my time line for heading further East, I guess I'll see if I can't land a job for tomorrow so I can have a bit of extra money, for gas to Mississippi or to maybe check out New Orleans. Either way, I shall write it here.
Friday, February 25, 2011
Day 12
Woke up outside the library today at about 7:00 am to the sound of tapping on my window. Or what I thought was tapping on my window. I flung open the curtains in a panic, but no one was there. I figured I should probably put on a shirt anyway.
Drove downtown and walked around listening to the King of Limbs and drinking coffee for a few hours until the libraries opened up. My biggest complaint about Austin thus far is that the libraries have really odd schedules. The one I went to yesterday was closed on Thursdays and the one I went to today is closed on Fridays.
While I was being rejected by automatic doors I saw an elderly woman sitting on the sidewalk trying to fix a plastic guard on her car, so I offered some assistance and was able to fix it for her. In exchange she directed me to a library that was actually open today. She said I'd find it on Guadalupe St. Which she pronounced as Guad-a-loop.
Spent some time scouring through craigslist to find some work and ended up landing a gig moving antique furniture around for a photo shoot and made myself a cool $40 for my troubles.
After working for the first time in, well, a really long time, I rewarded myself with a warm meal. Had smoked salmon enchiladas, which were incredible. I really wanted frozen yogurt afterwards, but was unable to find a place. You win some, you lose some.
Drove back to the library to syphon some free wi-fi and saw a bum with a shitty leg, so I gave him a ride to where ever it was he was headed. Now I'm back again, and making this post.
That's pretty much it for today. Just got done sending off an e-mail for some work tomorrow helping out a moving company. $15 an hour if I drive a truck for them, $12 if I just help move. This would help me out considerably. Figured out that I need $100 in gas to get to Mississipi, which means I need to have $150 to be safe. I've got about $20 of that so far.
Drove downtown and walked around listening to the King of Limbs and drinking coffee for a few hours until the libraries opened up. My biggest complaint about Austin thus far is that the libraries have really odd schedules. The one I went to yesterday was closed on Thursdays and the one I went to today is closed on Fridays.
While I was being rejected by automatic doors I saw an elderly woman sitting on the sidewalk trying to fix a plastic guard on her car, so I offered some assistance and was able to fix it for her. In exchange she directed me to a library that was actually open today. She said I'd find it on Guadalupe St. Which she pronounced as Guad-a-loop.
Spent some time scouring through craigslist to find some work and ended up landing a gig moving antique furniture around for a photo shoot and made myself a cool $40 for my troubles.
After working for the first time in, well, a really long time, I rewarded myself with a warm meal. Had smoked salmon enchiladas, which were incredible. I really wanted frozen yogurt afterwards, but was unable to find a place. You win some, you lose some.
Drove back to the library to syphon some free wi-fi and saw a bum with a shitty leg, so I gave him a ride to where ever it was he was headed. Now I'm back again, and making this post.
That's pretty much it for today. Just got done sending off an e-mail for some work tomorrow helping out a moving company. $15 an hour if I drive a truck for them, $12 if I just help move. This would help me out considerably. Figured out that I need $100 in gas to get to Mississipi, which means I need to have $150 to be safe. I've got about $20 of that so far.
Thursday, February 24, 2011
Finally Found A Place To Sleep
It's 9 PM here, and after walking all around downtown scouting, and driving for well over an hour, I found a place to park where I'm not in front of someones house- because I understand the creepy implications of a dude sleeping in a minivan in front of the place you live. I found a nice library that's across from some apartment buildings. I figure this will do because it's not in the actual lot of the library, just an extension, and with the apartments being right there, the overnight overflow will not seem out of the norm.
So, I'm all set up and have the curtains down. Eating a can of vegetarian chili- cold and straight from the can, like a man... or a homeless man- with a lot of sriracha mixed in.
What I was able to see of Austin today was enjoyable. I'm looking forward to having the time to explore more tomorrow, and am hoping I hear back on some of the places I contacted to play some songs at.
More later.
So, I'm all set up and have the curtains down. Eating a can of vegetarian chili- cold and straight from the can, like a man... or a homeless man- with a lot of sriracha mixed in.
What I was able to see of Austin today was enjoyable. I'm looking forward to having the time to explore more tomorrow, and am hoping I hear back on some of the places I contacted to play some songs at.
More later.
Day 11
Finished the drive to Austin today. I'm tired, and a bit sticky feeling. The plan now is to try and find a place to park and call it a night pretty early. I might try and walk around the peripheral part of the city. I don't know. No plan for tonight other than find a place to park. I went to a look out area, took a picture, that's what you see in the corner there. I'm looking forward to exploring this place.
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
Because it's been requested...
Here is the link for donations again. Thanks to any and all who can and do. I appreciate the generosity and support that has been coming my way through this experience so far.
Day 10
Just pulled into Las Cruces New Mexico about an hour ago. Just sitting in the public library. Spent the past few nights out on some desert road and was thinking about staying there another night, but talked to boarder patrol this morning and decided it was best to move on. He didn't hassle me at all (Sweet, sweet pale white skin. Screams AMERICA) but I don't want to risk suspicion anymore than living in a van already does. Also, I made a little video last night, which I'll also post in place of pictures.
I did some writing while I was out there, and will post it. It's pretty much just a conversation, and I don't know what it means or if anything, but what the hell, why not post it.
Two men are sitting in a diner, drinking coffee while nursing hangovers from the night before.
“I’ve been thinking...”
“About your sexuality? Everyone knows...”
“Yeah, exactly. But seriously, I’ve been thinking about all the girls I’ve ever slept with.”
“Oh, yeah, man. I do that too. A lot.”
“Well, I’ve been thinking about the ones I loved, the ones that loved me. That kind of stuff.”
“You know you tend to romanticize the past. You shouldn’t. This is probably unhealthy. Just think about how they let you see them naked. Don’t do the ‘emotional’ focus. That shit fucks you up.”
“Yeah, yeah. I know that. But don’t you ever wonder what really brought you together with all of them? Was it misery? Those are the break ups that hurt the worst. I mean, you’re already fucked up. Or the ones where it’s just based on convenience? Those are awkward and always linger, usually relapse. The ones based on familiarity are always messy. You have to do that whole friend divide. It’s almost like divorce. Or loneliness. But, that’s really a lot like the misery one. Or...”
“I get what you’re saying. But, what’s the point? It’s done. Even if you were to get any of them back, it would never be as good. At least not the way you remember things after enough time has passed.”
“That’s not really the point, though.”
“Then what is? If you don’t want her back, why stress over it? It’s best to just cut bait. Don’t try the friend shit- just makes you look like you’re trying to get her back. And definitely don’t do the retroactive apologies or the ‘remember when’s, that just makes you look unstable. Which, of course you are, but you can keep some shit secret.”
“Even with all of that, and you’re right about most of it, God knows we’ve all done that stuff. And done it wrong.”
“Exactly.”
“But, still. Don’t you ever wonder? I mean, what if it didn’t end then? What if I hadn’t been afraid to feel something for her? What if she wouldn’t have been turned off by my insecurity?”
“It would have just been the other way around, then.”
“Well, okay, but let’s assume it wouldn’t be.”
“I don’t see why you’d care, but alright.”
“Thank you. Okay, so let’s just pretend you stayed together. Now, pick one girl from your past, then think of having been with her this whole time. That you stay with her through the future, as well. Alright. Once you have this going, think of all the things you hate about her and everything you love about her. I know you can do this, you’ve spent enough time overanalyzing these things since the second it ended. Now that all of that is building, let it set in and refocus on the time element. What things have changed? Do the things you hate about her become more infuriating? The things you love, do you love more? Have any of them crossed over into the other category? After you answer those questions for yourself, would that life be better than the one you live currently? Do this with a few of the girls from your past later, you’d be surprised what you’ll come up with. Then look and see if the one that you perceive as most ideal is the one you’ve been the most hung up on. It’s just interesting- we cross lives with someone. Spend whatever amount of time with them that we do, then it’s done. Some we talk to still. Some we want to, but they don’t, and of course the other way around. Some we just never see again. But there was always a chance, no matter how minute, that you could have stayed together for whatever reason.”
“Fuck, man. This is why you don’t sleep. You know this, right?”
“Whatever. You never think about shit like this?”
“No way. I just search them online when this stuff works its way into my head. Then I look at their pictures and masturbate, then move on. I’m not saying that’s any less pathetic or creepy. But it’s a hell of a lot quicker a process.”
“So, you take the more animalistic route. I do clumsy intellectualizations. Let me ask you a question- In your house growing up, was you mom or your dad the disciplinarian?”
“My dad. The fucking prick.”
“Alright, that’s what I thought. For me, it was my mother.”
“That explains why you’re such a pussy.”
“Yeah, yeah. Come on, try and keep focused. I want to discuss this.”
“I’ll try. You know emotional stuff isn’t natural for me. I always deflect.”
“I know, and I appreciate you playing along. So, for the sake of argument, lets just say that men who were disciplined by their fathers go about things like you and when it’s by the mother, they take my line of thinking.”
“Okay, I’m with you.”
“What, then, would be the effect for women in our position?”
“I think we’re entirely unqualified for this. Seriously, if we knew shit about women, we wouldn’t be sitting here right now having this conversation.”
“I agree, but we’re already working with stuff we’re unqualified for, so just humor me.”
“Well, I suppose there are too many variables. Like who were her parents disciplined by?
“Just assume if it’s a father filling that roll, it’s your’s. You have a sister, you have some idea how their interactions went. If it’s a mother, you’ve been around mine enough, just use that model.”
“Well, I guess Dad was always softer with my sister. He understood he would have some role in who she chose down the line. You’re mom has always been more critical of your sister. As if she didn’t want her making the same mistakes.”
“Exactly. This is what I’m getting at. When that role is filled by the same sex parent, they’re often trying to prevent the child from picking up their flaws. When it’s by the opposite sex, they’re setting an example or how you should look to be treated as well as teaching you how to treat future significant others. Now, with this providing the basis, what would you expect to see in a woman’s development if neither parent fills this role? Rather, one is a comforter while the other is resentful and harsh. Neither providing actual structure just emotional reactions.”
“Really? This is fucked, man. Neither of us is any where near intelligent enough for this.”
“Just play along.”
“Alright. I guess, then, if it’s the mother that causes the discomfort, I would assume the girl would seek a man that could provide comfort, but would be turned away by any attributes of femininity. She would seek strength and security. I mean, all of this is broad generalization, but that’s all you’re really giving me to work with.”
“No, no. I know that. You’re doing great.”
“Alright, so, let’s say the role is reversed. I’d guess, with a woman, she’d still look for a man that is in control, but probably more in the realm of controlling. The father would still be a model, after all. Again, this is a generalization, as I’m only working with heterosexuality. But, I think she would be drawn to more of an asshole. But an asshole with a certain amount of vulnerability. Guys like us, to be honest.”
“Agreed. Go on.”
“Well, I think she would at first be drawn to the distance. Then grow an appreciation for the hints at an inner softness, some redeeming qualities. The catch, though, is if you show any bit of need for a woman like this, I’m guessing you’ll get rejection. She’ll want you to need her, but will be afraid of having to fill that role. You have to remember, Daddy, in this case, is the one doing the rejecting. She’d need you to be in control emotionally. Both of her and yourself.”
“That’s what I’ve been arriving at too.”
“Okay, neat. I guess. But what are you trying to accomplish with this?”
“Not sure, but let’s go back to the thing where we were imagining a whole life with an ex. I’m assuming you chose someone that rejected you, as those are the ones we tend to want back the most. You know, ego driven. Now, think of all the projections you’ve made for her with what she loved and hated about you. Stretch them out again and get a feel for how this life would have been for her. Then add in the thing you’ve decided she resented the most about you, the reason she ended it, and allow that to build or deconstruct based on how you’ve shaped the rest of this projection. Once you’re there, start working in what we’ve come up with in concerns to the role of her parents.”
“Got it.”
“What does this life look like? For you? For her?”
“Pretty ugly, to be honest.”
“Okay, now just think, this is only the relationship aspect of your life. You still have work, friends, maybe kids.”
“This is fucking depressing. Do you do this often?”
“Yeah, man. All the time.”
“Jesus.”
“So, would you ever want this girl back?”
“Fuck no, man.”
“Okay. Now, switch out your perception of self a bit. The things you really hate about yourself, pretend they aren’t so bad. Then the things you like, tame them a bit. Just bring them towards center, don’t negate.”
“Alright.”
“Is the life still as ugly?”
“Not nearly. I mean, far from perfect, but I wouldn’t be frantically searching for a way to end it like in the earlier projection.”
“Okay, now do the same for the things you chose about her. The good and the bad, bring them more towards the center.”
“Yeah. This would be nice. It’s no where near realistic, though. I mean, it’s easy to be logical about these things retroactively, but you can’t do that in the moment.”
“Of course not.”
“Then, again, I have to ask. What’s the point?”
“There isn’t one, I guess. Just interesting the number of lives you could have had. You know, with all of these past women. Then considering not a one paned out, and we are where we are. And after doing this, you’ll still be prone towards thinking things would have been better with one or more of them. Even though you can understand the unlikeliness of it all.”
The waitress comes by to refill the cups of coffee. Both men place their hands, covering the mugs to signify they’re finished.
I did some writing while I was out there, and will post it. It's pretty much just a conversation, and I don't know what it means or if anything, but what the hell, why not post it.
Two men are sitting in a diner, drinking coffee while nursing hangovers from the night before.
“I’ve been thinking...”
“About your sexuality? Everyone knows...”
“Yeah, exactly. But seriously, I’ve been thinking about all the girls I’ve ever slept with.”
“Oh, yeah, man. I do that too. A lot.”
“Well, I’ve been thinking about the ones I loved, the ones that loved me. That kind of stuff.”
“You know you tend to romanticize the past. You shouldn’t. This is probably unhealthy. Just think about how they let you see them naked. Don’t do the ‘emotional’ focus. That shit fucks you up.”
“Yeah, yeah. I know that. But don’t you ever wonder what really brought you together with all of them? Was it misery? Those are the break ups that hurt the worst. I mean, you’re already fucked up. Or the ones where it’s just based on convenience? Those are awkward and always linger, usually relapse. The ones based on familiarity are always messy. You have to do that whole friend divide. It’s almost like divorce. Or loneliness. But, that’s really a lot like the misery one. Or...”
“I get what you’re saying. But, what’s the point? It’s done. Even if you were to get any of them back, it would never be as good. At least not the way you remember things after enough time has passed.”
“That’s not really the point, though.”
“Then what is? If you don’t want her back, why stress over it? It’s best to just cut bait. Don’t try the friend shit- just makes you look like you’re trying to get her back. And definitely don’t do the retroactive apologies or the ‘remember when’s, that just makes you look unstable. Which, of course you are, but you can keep some shit secret.”
“Even with all of that, and you’re right about most of it, God knows we’ve all done that stuff. And done it wrong.”
“Exactly.”
“But, still. Don’t you ever wonder? I mean, what if it didn’t end then? What if I hadn’t been afraid to feel something for her? What if she wouldn’t have been turned off by my insecurity?”
“It would have just been the other way around, then.”
“Well, okay, but let’s assume it wouldn’t be.”
“I don’t see why you’d care, but alright.”
“Thank you. Okay, so let’s just pretend you stayed together. Now, pick one girl from your past, then think of having been with her this whole time. That you stay with her through the future, as well. Alright. Once you have this going, think of all the things you hate about her and everything you love about her. I know you can do this, you’ve spent enough time overanalyzing these things since the second it ended. Now that all of that is building, let it set in and refocus on the time element. What things have changed? Do the things you hate about her become more infuriating? The things you love, do you love more? Have any of them crossed over into the other category? After you answer those questions for yourself, would that life be better than the one you live currently? Do this with a few of the girls from your past later, you’d be surprised what you’ll come up with. Then look and see if the one that you perceive as most ideal is the one you’ve been the most hung up on. It’s just interesting- we cross lives with someone. Spend whatever amount of time with them that we do, then it’s done. Some we talk to still. Some we want to, but they don’t, and of course the other way around. Some we just never see again. But there was always a chance, no matter how minute, that you could have stayed together for whatever reason.”
“Fuck, man. This is why you don’t sleep. You know this, right?”
“Whatever. You never think about shit like this?”
“No way. I just search them online when this stuff works its way into my head. Then I look at their pictures and masturbate, then move on. I’m not saying that’s any less pathetic or creepy. But it’s a hell of a lot quicker a process.”
“So, you take the more animalistic route. I do clumsy intellectualizations. Let me ask you a question- In your house growing up, was you mom or your dad the disciplinarian?”
“My dad. The fucking prick.”
“Alright, that’s what I thought. For me, it was my mother.”
“That explains why you’re such a pussy.”
“Yeah, yeah. Come on, try and keep focused. I want to discuss this.”
“I’ll try. You know emotional stuff isn’t natural for me. I always deflect.”
“I know, and I appreciate you playing along. So, for the sake of argument, lets just say that men who were disciplined by their fathers go about things like you and when it’s by the mother, they take my line of thinking.”
“Okay, I’m with you.”
“What, then, would be the effect for women in our position?”
“I think we’re entirely unqualified for this. Seriously, if we knew shit about women, we wouldn’t be sitting here right now having this conversation.”
“I agree, but we’re already working with stuff we’re unqualified for, so just humor me.”
“Well, I suppose there are too many variables. Like who were her parents disciplined by?
“Just assume if it’s a father filling that roll, it’s your’s. You have a sister, you have some idea how their interactions went. If it’s a mother, you’ve been around mine enough, just use that model.”
“Well, I guess Dad was always softer with my sister. He understood he would have some role in who she chose down the line. You’re mom has always been more critical of your sister. As if she didn’t want her making the same mistakes.”
“Exactly. This is what I’m getting at. When that role is filled by the same sex parent, they’re often trying to prevent the child from picking up their flaws. When it’s by the opposite sex, they’re setting an example or how you should look to be treated as well as teaching you how to treat future significant others. Now, with this providing the basis, what would you expect to see in a woman’s development if neither parent fills this role? Rather, one is a comforter while the other is resentful and harsh. Neither providing actual structure just emotional reactions.”
“Really? This is fucked, man. Neither of us is any where near intelligent enough for this.”
“Just play along.”
“Alright. I guess, then, if it’s the mother that causes the discomfort, I would assume the girl would seek a man that could provide comfort, but would be turned away by any attributes of femininity. She would seek strength and security. I mean, all of this is broad generalization, but that’s all you’re really giving me to work with.”
“No, no. I know that. You’re doing great.”
“Alright, so, let’s say the role is reversed. I’d guess, with a woman, she’d still look for a man that is in control, but probably more in the realm of controlling. The father would still be a model, after all. Again, this is a generalization, as I’m only working with heterosexuality. But, I think she would be drawn to more of an asshole. But an asshole with a certain amount of vulnerability. Guys like us, to be honest.”
“Agreed. Go on.”
“Well, I think she would at first be drawn to the distance. Then grow an appreciation for the hints at an inner softness, some redeeming qualities. The catch, though, is if you show any bit of need for a woman like this, I’m guessing you’ll get rejection. She’ll want you to need her, but will be afraid of having to fill that role. You have to remember, Daddy, in this case, is the one doing the rejecting. She’d need you to be in control emotionally. Both of her and yourself.”
“That’s what I’ve been arriving at too.”
“Okay, neat. I guess. But what are you trying to accomplish with this?”
“Not sure, but let’s go back to the thing where we were imagining a whole life with an ex. I’m assuming you chose someone that rejected you, as those are the ones we tend to want back the most. You know, ego driven. Now, think of all the projections you’ve made for her with what she loved and hated about you. Stretch them out again and get a feel for how this life would have been for her. Then add in the thing you’ve decided she resented the most about you, the reason she ended it, and allow that to build or deconstruct based on how you’ve shaped the rest of this projection. Once you’re there, start working in what we’ve come up with in concerns to the role of her parents.”
“Got it.”
“What does this life look like? For you? For her?”
“Pretty ugly, to be honest.”
“Okay, now just think, this is only the relationship aspect of your life. You still have work, friends, maybe kids.”
“This is fucking depressing. Do you do this often?”
“Yeah, man. All the time.”
“Jesus.”
“So, would you ever want this girl back?”
“Fuck no, man.”
“Okay. Now, switch out your perception of self a bit. The things you really hate about yourself, pretend they aren’t so bad. Then the things you like, tame them a bit. Just bring them towards center, don’t negate.”
“Alright.”
“Is the life still as ugly?”
“Not nearly. I mean, far from perfect, but I wouldn’t be frantically searching for a way to end it like in the earlier projection.”
“Okay, now do the same for the things you chose about her. The good and the bad, bring them more towards the center.”
“Yeah. This would be nice. It’s no where near realistic, though. I mean, it’s easy to be logical about these things retroactively, but you can’t do that in the moment.”
“Of course not.”
“Then, again, I have to ask. What’s the point?”
“There isn’t one, I guess. Just interesting the number of lives you could have had. You know, with all of these past women. Then considering not a one paned out, and we are where we are. And after doing this, you’ll still be prone towards thinking things would have been better with one or more of them. Even though you can understand the unlikeliness of it all.”
The waitress comes by to refill the cups of coffee. Both men place their hands, covering the mugs to signify they’re finished.
Monday, February 21, 2011
Leaving Tucson
Heading out in the general direction of Austin, TX today. Going to pull off somewhere and stay for a bit, hopefully. I'm going to try and find a place where I can get cell service just incase of emergency, but won't likely be posting anything for a while.
Saturday, February 19, 2011
Northern Arizona Snowblind
Left Zion Canyon last night after I couldn't find a place to park the van without risking some hassle, thought I would just get back on I-15, head south, pull into the first rest area and call it a night. I was about an hour outside of Las Vagas when I decided that I-15 just isn't really into rest areas, so I turned off and started driving towards Hoover Dam. I found a nice place to sleep in Lake Mead National Rec Area at the Bowl of Fire lookout.
It was nice to sleep in warmer climate. The wind was blowing, and it rained all night, but I was kept warm the whole night through. I wanted to take a picture this morning, but it was still raining, so the one in the upper left is about five miles down the road from where I slept.
After getting back on the road, I decided I would start heading towards Tucsan Arizona so I can stop in and see my old roommate. Plus get a shower in.
The road through Arizona was a mess. I took I-40 and ran into a massive snow storm that culminated in right around two hours of sitting behind an accident. Not a big deal, though. I have no schedule, no hard commitments to any certain place. I just took my time and did some reading. For those of you that have never seen or heard of Arizona snow, to the right is a picture I took from the van. It got much worse later on, which is why I couldn't pull over to take any pictures of the actual storm.
Right now, I'm in Anthem Arizona at a Starbucks. I needed a quick reprieve from the road, but will soon get back out and drive the rest of the way to Tucsan. Should take me around two and a half hours. Not sure what's next after this. I'm going to try and see if I can't make a bit of money here while I have access to a shower so I don't smell like ass and look like I'm living out of a van. Might spend a few days out in the desert later on next week as well. Just mulling over some options.
Friday, February 18, 2011
Day 5
Today was just too interesting not to post about it while it's still fresh. I left Salt Lake City right after posting this morning, and not too far into the drive started getting texts from Gas Station Dan about Utah history and Danny Boyle movies.
I just kept heading south towards Zion, but saw a turn off for a small town that I can no longer recall the name of right now, which is a bit of a shame. I thought I might grab a cup of coffee if they had a diner, but it turns out they don't. Real small town, the lady said population 250. But I stopped off at the post office to ask some questions and talk to some people. The gal there talked with me for probably close to an hour and another gentalman joined us. She tried to convince me to drive back north four hours and ask her daughter on a date. Seeing as how we were both English major drop outs, obviously made for each other. The older guy offered me a place to park the van and some dinner if I needed it. It was a really nice day. She also asked for my e-mail address so she can keep tabs on me while I'm out here on the road.
Now, I'm at Zion Canyon, and am driving around trying to find a place to park for the night, but stopped to take a quick picture of one of the ridges, which you can see to the upper left. It's pretty warm here, and should be good sleeping, the only problem is finding a spot, since it's a touristy destination being that it's a national park, so everyone wants to make a buck off a place to let your car sit.
I don't know how long I'm going to stay here, I guess it mostly depends on how easy it is to find a place to park, and how little traffic passes by.
In Salt Lake City right now, hanging out at their gorgeous city library. Seriously, one of the nicest public libraries I've ever seen. Woke up this morning in Ogden, but realized that there is just too much moisture in the air this far north, and I don't want to get sick. I'm keeping plenty warm, but it's just not worth risking illness.
Talked to a guy at a gas station off the highway, he recommended checking out Zion National Park, and that's the second recommendation I've gotten for there in the past 24 hours, so I figured I'd take the advice. I've also learned that talking to highway/freeway gas station attendants can really be an enriching interaction. They see tons of people pass through every day, many of whom are no where near local. There is some intrinsic wisdom that must come with that. Anyway, the guy today was really excited when hearing about my journey, and has asked for my cell number so he can text me for updates to live vicariously through my adventure. Kind of a nice experience.
Anyway, I realized I forgot to put any money in the meter, and I don't really want a ticket, so I'm off. I'll update again in a day or two, or whenever I can catch internet service.
Also, the North Carolina deal is a no go, they found someone. And the package was a snake.
Thursday, February 17, 2011
Day 4
Left Idaho yesterday afternoon. Had a great time in Sandpoint on Tuesday night. Thanks so much to the lovely Elsa Chambers for filling in as a last minute model for some of the promo shots, and the beautiful and talented Justin Herrmann for taking the photos.
Spent last night at a rest stop in Lima Montana. It was the coldest night of the three. I was fine inside the van, but the wind was roaring all night. Woke up to see icicles hanging from my front bumper. But every time I wake up and can't stand to be outside because of the temperature, yet am warm under the covers, I see as a good sign.
Got up and back on the road around 10 this morning, or 9 am for everyone in Pacific Standard. Drove straight down to Ogden Utah and arrived here a few hours ago. Hanging out at Weber County public library right now and checking some e-mails. I found a post on craigslist from someone here that needs something driven to their daughter in North Carolina, so I responded to the ad and told them so long as it was legal, and they cover my gas there, I'd be happy to make the trip. However, I'm not banking on it too much, since it's an ad on craigslist asking someone to drive a package across the country. Either way, nothing lost in checking it out.
I wanted to do an open mic night here in the next few days, but it looks as if I'll have to leave Ogden to do so. Salt Lake City is only a bit away, so if I can't find anything exciting here, I may just head down a few days early. You know, unless I'm on a postal service like treck to North Carolina.
I'm also posting one of the photos Justin shot on Tuesday, just want to make sure he gets credit.
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
Idaho
Got to Coeur d'Alene last night, wanted to do an open mic, but they do sign ups a week in advance, which makes no sense to me, but oh well, no big deal. Thanks to the girls for making me dinner last night, I appreciate your hospitality.
Spent the first night in the van, parked in an Albertsons parking lot in Hayden. Kept warm, with the exception of my left arm, since my sleeping version of self decided it best to hang it outside of the blankets and sleeping bag. Even with that, it wasn't too bad. It snowed too, so I figure if I can keep warm at that temperature, I should be solid gold as I start working South.
In Sandpoint, ID now. Getting ready to meet up with Justin Herrmann to figure out how we're going to do the photo shoot for the next Good Wives album.
Sunday, February 13, 2011
Inventory
Books:
Zen & The Art of Motorcycle Maintenance - Pirsig
Life of Pi – Martel
Sons and Lovers – Lawrence
Breakfast at Tiffany's – Capote
Skinny Legs and All – Robbins
A Farewell to Arms – Hemingway
Beyond Good and Evil – Nietzsche
The God Delusion – Dawkins
The Plague – Camus
A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man – Joyce
The Great Short Stories of De Maupassant – De Maupassant
The Idiot – Dostoevsky
Tropic of Cancer – Miller
Death on the Installment Plan – Celine
Welcome to the Monkey House – Vonnegut
Franny and Zooey – Salinger
A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur's Court – Twain
Adventures of Huckleberry Finn – Twain
Something Wicked This Way Comes – Bradbury
To Kill a Mockingbird – Lee
You Shall Know Our Velocity – Eggers
Good as Gold – Heller
Being There – Kosinski
Into the Wild – Krakauer
Tender is the Night – Fitzgerald
Clothes:
Five pair underwear
Seven pair socks
Two pair long underwear bottom
Two pair long underwear top
Three pair jeans
Five t-shirts
One pair sweatpants
One black hooded sweatshirt
One jean jacket
One peacoat
One flannel jacket
One field wool jacket
One dress shirt
One black tie
One suit
One dress sweatshirt
Two pair shoes
Foodstuff:
Canned Tuna
Vegetarian Chili
Granola Bars
Canned Beans
Oranges
Bottled Water
Instruments:
Acoustic Guitar
Vox Practice Amp
Casio Keyboard
Bass Guitar
Drum Machine
Shure SM58 (For shit venues that require you to have your own mic)
Writing Items:
Laptop
Composition Notepad
Misc.:
Deodorant
Two pair nail clippers
Toothpaste
Toothbrush
Mutli-Vitamin
Toilet paper
Handkerchief
Hair junk (so I can look like I purposefully am disheveled rather than living in a van)
Laundry detergent
Dryer sheets
Two packs of dental floss
Tabaco
Digital camera (batteries for such)
Sunglasses
Stocking cap
Two iPods
Cell phone
Chargers for iPods and Cell phone
Back up set of guitar strings
Remaining physical copies of Songs For White Girls With Body Image Issues
Black thread and needle
Zen & The Art of Motorcycle Maintenance - Pirsig
Life of Pi – Martel
Sons and Lovers – Lawrence
Breakfast at Tiffany's – Capote
Skinny Legs and All – Robbins
A Farewell to Arms – Hemingway
Beyond Good and Evil – Nietzsche
The God Delusion – Dawkins
The Plague – Camus
A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man – Joyce
The Great Short Stories of De Maupassant – De Maupassant
The Idiot – Dostoevsky
Tropic of Cancer – Miller
Death on the Installment Plan – Celine
Welcome to the Monkey House – Vonnegut
Franny and Zooey – Salinger
A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur's Court – Twain
Adventures of Huckleberry Finn – Twain
Something Wicked This Way Comes – Bradbury
To Kill a Mockingbird – Lee
You Shall Know Our Velocity – Eggers
Good as Gold – Heller
Being There – Kosinski
Into the Wild – Krakauer
Tender is the Night – Fitzgerald
Clothes:
Five pair underwear
Seven pair socks
Two pair long underwear bottom
Two pair long underwear top
Three pair jeans
Five t-shirts
One pair sweatpants
One black hooded sweatshirt
One jean jacket
One peacoat
One flannel jacket
One field wool jacket
One dress shirt
One black tie
One suit
One dress sweatshirt
Two pair shoes
Foodstuff:
Canned Tuna
Vegetarian Chili
Granola Bars
Canned Beans
Oranges
Bottled Water
Instruments:
Acoustic Guitar
Vox Practice Amp
Casio Keyboard
Bass Guitar
Drum Machine
Shure SM58 (For shit venues that require you to have your own mic)
Writing Items:
Laptop
Composition Notepad
Misc.:
Deodorant
Two pair nail clippers
Toothpaste
Toothbrush
Mutli-Vitamin
Toilet paper
Handkerchief
Hair junk (so I can look like I purposefully am disheveled rather than living in a van)
Laundry detergent
Dryer sheets
Two packs of dental floss
Tabaco
Digital camera (batteries for such)
Sunglasses
Stocking cap
Two iPods
Cell phone
Chargers for iPods and Cell phone
Back up set of guitar strings
Remaining physical copies of Songs For White Girls With Body Image Issues
Black thread and needle
Saturday, February 12, 2011
I have my mode of transport/sleeping area
And will be leaving on Monday. I will post when I can about where I am and things I am doing.
Thursday, February 10, 2011
Last new demo before I leave
I wanted to do something blown out that I can never play live. You know, just for the fun of it.
Wednesday, February 9, 2011
Since I have nothing else to do
I'm being very prolific in concerns to songwriting. Here's a new one.
Sunday, February 6, 2011
Sharing The Load
Another new track. Something uptempo that will hopefully be fun to play live.
If you like it share it.
If you like it share it.
Saturday, February 5, 2011
Eugene
I've moved all of my stuff out of Eugene now, and am one step closer to hitting the road. Hopefully off by next Friday. It was tough to go back this weekend, as it's just another in a long line of my failures. Though I'm turning the page at this point, I'm making sure to dogear it, as I hope to be able to return once I'm able and have some things figured out. I met a lot of great people during my short time there, and I don't want to remove any of you from my life. I wish you all the best, and hope you're still around when I'm more put together.
Friday, February 4, 2011
Trying To Get Used To This
Sorry to be killing with content, I just know that if I don't get in the practice of posting shit, I never will. Then this will have been a pointless endeavor. So I recorded a video of My Old Shirts last night, which is the second to last track on my forthcoming record I've been working on with Nic. As always, if you enjoy it, please repost elsewhere.
Thursday, February 3, 2011
Middle Class Blues
I wrote my firt song of 2011 today, then tracked it. It's somewhat based on what I'm doing right now, or trying to do. I've posted it on my bandcamp page, which you can find in the below link. I'm selling it for a buck to try and raise money for this experience I'm about to embark upon. Even if you don't have the money, which is understandable, as I don't like to charge for this stuff myself, please fee free to listen. Also, I'd appreciate any repostings so that I may leach listeners from your set of friends.
If you can and wish to
I'm adding a paypal link if you'd like to or are able to donate towards keeping me on the road. I appreciate anything you can give.
Tuesday, February 1, 2011
I've lost my mind...
I'm going to try and find it. I'll be using this page to post updates that avoid the intimate details of my decline and hopeful resurrection for those that care to be kept in the know about what I'm doing. The majority of my posts are planned to be centered around my location at the time, photos of where I am, and maybe the occasional video. Who knows. I just know that I'm not much good for people right now, so communication will be spotty in a direct manor. I've got a lot to figure out right now, but please, trust me when I say this is for the better. I'm not running away from anything, I'm not looking to remove anyone from my life. I just have come to understand that I'm not well and haven't been for a long time and am overdue for figuring this out. There isn't any one person or any one event that has led to this. I'm just no longer able to smile and go through the motions. This is probably the most detailed I will be about what is going on with me right now.
I'm in Waterville with my parents for the time being. I will soon be setting out in an attempt to gain some perspective.
I'm in Waterville with my parents for the time being. I will soon be setting out in an attempt to gain some perspective.
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