Down But Never Out!

Be aware, be very aware.....


The past couple of nights of bartending have been real cool but a little slow. A little slow because we 2 hours of lecture on alcohol awareness on Wednesday and 4 hours of the same thing on Thursday. When we are practicing making drinks, the time flies by so FAST, it doesn't seem like you've been there a long time. It was basically about knowing certain laws, and what to do in certain situations if a person becomes drunk. It is very important that you display customer service to all customers. Also very key to know all of the safety issues as well. We watched tapes of certain situations like carding people, people pretending to be drunk to see if they would get served at an establishment, results of bartenders not doing their jobs correctly. I didn't know that we was having a test on all of this last night, but I did pass it and that is one certificate down, and one to go! Today we will do cream drinks and get more practice on martinis and manhattans. I spoke with the bartender at the bowling alley last night. Was a pretty long conversation. He basically gave me some pointers on bartending. He also told me that not knowing how to make a drink will be the simplest of my worries. He has been there for 26 years. I think it depends on where you are working at of what will be the simplest of your worries. If you are @ an up-scale establishment like a hotel or restaurant, it may be important to know the drinks. If you are a spot like a bowling alley or a neighborhood spot, it may not be as important. They usually want mostly beer anyway, and then they tell you basically what they want to drink. They'll give you what's in the drink instead of the given name for it. So I think it depends on where you are at, but it is still important to know the drinks regardless.


No Longer Bankin'...


I went back to work this past Wednesday. I was so prepared to give them my notice of me leaving them but they called a meeting. Wednesday is the only day out the week that everyone in our department is there working. The meeting was wild. It was basically a decision by management that we are to start working on Sundays. When that was anounced, we suddenly were glancing at each other like, "Are these people fuckin' serious?" They said that starting February 27, we are to work 4 hours on Sunday, either 8am-12 noon or 10am-2pm. This was nothing that we had a say in. If we decided to miss a Sunday, then management will have a meeting to decide if you should stay on board. Well....I know you are waiting to read how I feel about this. Well, I DON'T LIKE IT AT ALL!!!!! I am not doing ANY collections on Sundays. I haven't in the past, and certainly not now. THESE PEOPLE ARE CRAZY!! I simply told them that I cannot do that at all. One manager stated that I will be jeopardizing my position at the bank. I had my notice in my hand, I slid it over to him. They didn't know I was going to be leaving anyway. I do not plan to work this Sunday either I also told them. It is not even overtime these cheap bastards. They would take 4 hours off of Thursday and add them to Sunday, so I would have to go out to Rolling Meadows six days a week. I told them "Peace!" and walked out. I went to my desk to gather my belongings and people were stopping me sayin, "Man, don't leave, don't leave!" I told them exactly, "I am out dis bitch and PLEASE do not try to stop me either!" I was out!!!! I suddenly then found out that I was NOT the only one to quit. Four other people quit at that time as well. One guy told me that Sundays is the only day that he get to spend the whole day with his wife and kids and the bank is trying to take that away from him. Management wouldn't even make any exceptions. He told me that he needs money to take care of his family but if it means the sacrifice of time to get it then it's not worth it. I was feelin' him. I'm not in that situation but his analysis of everything I could understand. People told me that I should not leave, but if I'm not happy, I need to do what I need to do to satisfy myself. So I was leaving the parking lot with a HUGE smile on my face and not looking back either. So where do I go from here you ask?????.......


Where I go.....


I did say that I was giving them my notice that day, so yes I have another position. I either start on March 7 or March 14. I traveled to Downers Grove yesterday to wrap up everything. Like my previous position, I had to get through two interviews to get it. The first one was simple. The lady really liked me. She gave an option of three positions. I took the Financial Aid Advisor position. Now with this, I will start off making less than I did at the bank. This is a temp to hire. I have to do 480 hours(12 weeks) if I am selected for this. Then they will decide if they want to hire me, if so I will then make more than what I was making at the bank. Kinda crazy hunh?...but I will and that's good. Also it is not collections either. Just helping people with their financial aid. In the group interview, there were 20 candidates going for this. I was told by the lady in the first interview that if they like all of us, then they will hire us all. If they like none of us, then you know what will happen. It was about 6-7 employers in the room, all had a hand in selecting the right candidate. The president of the university basically just opened up by giving a brief history of the university and an explanantion of the position. Then he went around the room and we had to answer several questions like define success, what are our top two attributes,most competitive thing we have done,etc. I was may the 9th person in the circle. I stood up when it came to me. I did they every time. Shit, you are supposed to!! Then the lady after me stood up. So crazy this was. I was very loose for some reason. I was str8 to the point, I didn't give a life story like some of the candidates did. I didn't hesitate or did my cell phone go off, like some did. I left there very confident. Two of the employers told me that I was very impressive. Even a few of the candidates told me I was good.......The next day the lady I had the first interview with called me. She told that they had their mind made up already before the group interview that they only looking for three candidates. I didn't know this. So a 100% chance of getting the position went down to about 15%. She told me not to worry because they told her that I was best candidate of the 20. They couldn't stop talking about me. They received all positive vibes from me. She also said that I should not worry about not being hired permanently by the university unless I don't like the job. My chances are very good unless I blow it, which I DON'T plan to do. I hung up the phone and I felt like........


-Da Original 1-

***Things I Wonder***

"You used to be fly but you crashed your plane!"
"Some things change some things stay the same!"
"Hey my man, what it look like?"

-One Be Lo-

I like to write about things I wonder about...
I am not looking for answers but you can answer any question that you want to on here...
So feel free as always....
If I offend someone with a question, well........Don't know what to say...
It is what it is......

Peace...

I wonder......

...why Uma Thurman is very appealing to me all of a sudden?

...why have I been hung-up on the past five days?

...why have I turned down five dates this month?

...why do people lie in my face?

...why do married men cheat?

...why do people give you advice that they don't follow?

...will the Bulls make the playoffs?

...will Ben Gordon get "Rookie of the Year"?

...why am I not excited about my trip to Vegas anymore?

...when will my friends suffer taste loss from their beer?

...if I can any happier with working towards my goals?

...if all this working out will pay off?

...why I don't play the lottery?

...why don't psychics win the lottery?

...why do people( mainly women) say,"Any woman will be lucky to have you!" ?

...why do people call me and say,"Where you at?," instead of "Hey! How ya doin?"?

...where do I go from here?

...why am I still mad even though I passed my bartending test last night?

...why I have never been in love?

...why two girls in my bartending class are hitting on me?

...why I won't talk to either of them?

...if I am emotionally confused?

...who will I have as a best man when I ever get married?

...when will I come across an aggressive woman?

...why people put their "past" in the way of pursuing something or someone better for them?

...why didn't that groundhog bite that man on "Groundhog Day"?

...if I change my car insurance to Geico, will I save a ton of money?

...how will people react to my all of sudden "carefree attitude"?

...where will Bush get 86 Billion from? I ain't got it!!! LOL!!!

...when will I tell the bank to "kiss my ass!"?

...why I have written the best poem recently but yet will share with no one?

...why was Chris Anderson in the Slam Dunk Contest?

...why my cousin, who is online, hasn't IM'ed me yet?

...why so many women like me and I don't like them?

...when will I have my way?

...why are people scared to take risks these days?

...why do people seem to be concerned about me when they are not?

...why did I choke last night on making the easiest drink?

...why don't I watch videos and award shows?

...why people feel they know me when they don't?

...when will I get to Spain?

...if Spain can come to me?

...why didn't I want a smoothie today?

...why did I do 200 pushups and 200 crunches today?

...if I am even crazier than I think I am now?

...why women say "Men ain't shit" when they ain't shit either?

...if I run into a wall, will the wall fall?

...why I feel like drinking this whole bottle Absolut?

...why I can't wait for summer to get here?

...when will people stop following and start leading?

...if I offend somebody with one of my questions, will I care?

...why I didn't want to make a comment to my friend's post today when I had something to say?

...why I am more confident than I have ever been?

...if the world is really flat?

...why I always speak to people first?

...if I am losing some of my friends?

...if only God knows the future?

...when someone will appreciate me for me?

...if anyone knows that I am a "shining star"?

...if I took the job in Detroit or the one in Houston would I have missed Chicago?

...when will I see the light?

...why can't I fly?

...who all will read this?

...can't I no longer run a 4.19 in the 40-yard dash?

...can't I no longer dunk on anyone anymore?

...why do people underestimate me?

...if I can still hit an 90mph fastball?

...where do I go when I die?

...will I ever have the opportunity to make a woman happy?

...if I get too deep for people?

...If I can answer all of these questions?

All I can do is just wonder....
Wonder, wonder, and fuckin wonder....
Can someone step into my shoes and be me?...
I don't think so....


-Da Original 1-

"Pressure Bust Pipes, Time to Apply!!!!"

I'm currently watchin college basketball. San Diego State vs. Wyoming game. It's the last home game for Jason "Jay" Straight, a Chicago product. From the Robert Taylor Homes to the University of Wyoming, he has come a long way. I have seen him play on courts and in games as well. He plays in a conference that besides "Big Monday" doesn't really get any TV time. It's good to see him finish all four years thought. A lot of Chicago products usually don't finish and leave early or dropout.

It's test time....


I had my first test today in ny bartending class. Now I have been having fun in this class but I know that I am there for a purpose, and that's to learn, learn, and learn. There are 10 people in my class. We were placed in groups of two's. I had to make 5 drinks in 5 minutes. I stood behind the bar with a older lady that was grouped up with me. I raised my arms and waited for my instructor to flip over the card with the 5 drinks. He flips the card over. ***Oh shit*** I was nervous that I might see a drink that I don't know how to make. When I looked, I saw the drinks, "Cherry Cheesecake, Hurricane, Courvoisier, Blow Job, and Orgasm." Said to myself, "I can make these." Also I said " Blow Job and Orgasm?, is he tryin to tell us something?" **LOL** Hey, you never know these days. **LOL** I made the Orgasm first, the second easiest drink to the Cherry Cheesecake. It's a simple shot containing a 1/3 oz. of Kahlua, a 1/3 oz. of Bailey's, and a 1/3 oz. of Amaretto, and it's chilled before it's poured into the shot glass. DONE!! I skipped the Cheesecake because it was the easiest one. Next I made the Courvoisier. I grabbed a brandy snifter glass and poured about somewhere between an ounce and 1 1/2 oz. of Courvoisier into it, then served it. Next was the Blow Job. This is a shot too. Using a 1 oz. shot glass, I poured a 1/2 oz. of Kahlua and 1/2 oz. of Bailey's inside. Then I was to fill the top of the shot glass with whipped cream, place a rocks glass upside down and place the shot glass on top. After that the customer is to drink the shot with his/her hands behind his/her back. A man had betta NOT ask me to make this drink for him. I will slap da SHIT outta him!!! Next was the Hurricane, the most difficult of the five, but I knew it.

1 oz. light Rum
1 oz. dark Rum
1/2 oz. grenadine
1 oz. orange juice
1 oz. pineapple juice
topped with 1/2 oz. of 151 Rum
Garnish with cherry or flag
DONE!!!

Last was the Cherry Cheesecake. I was ready to make this shot and then something happened. I blacked out! I could NOT remember how to make this shot. I have read and practiced this shot and I should have had no problem with it but I did. I knew that the ingredients had nothing to do with cherries. I remember that the second part was the cranberry juice, but you are supposed to pour the liquor first, then the juice. I was shocked and then time ran out on me. The instructor knew that I know how to make this shot, but I choked. Each drink is worth 20 points and 70 is passing. So with 20 points off due to me not making the Cherry Cheesecake really hurt. I also forgot to waterback the Courvoisier drink by placing a shot glass upside down next to the drink. So 2 points off from that. Bad news is that I am down to a possible high score of 78 points, 8 points over the required score to pass. The good news is that everything else was right so my score was a 78. The lady next to me scored a 96. ***Shit!! She cheated!!!! LOL...*** Naw she didn't. We were the only two people to pass. The other eight people failed. They have to take it again next Monday, which may delay their graduation. Even though I passed, I am not happy that I scored that 78. Maybe I should have made that shot when I was thinkin about it earlier. I will strive for a 100 for the next test.

I would like to write some more, but my eyes are tired of looking at this screen. I will watch the game and holla back manana. Peace!!!


-Da Original 1-

"Let's Go Crazy!!!!! Let's Go Crazy!!!!!"

What'ya have to drink tonight???


I know that the anticipation has been buildin' here. People from all over the land have been anxiously waiting for something from me. Well you are in luck today! Here it goes! My people, bartending is the SHIT!!!! Maybe you didn't hear me the first time. "I am here to tell ya, BARTENDING IS DAT SHIT!!!!! After two days, I have been more excited about a career since........well you get dat point. Tuesday night, we did tropicals, shit like Pina Colada, Rum Runner, Mai Tai, Zombie, Bahama Mama, shit like that. The people there are real cool. It is definitely worth it. There are so many drinks, I say "God Damn" LOL! Wednesday night we did shot and shooters. Oh yeah, now we're talkin! Jagerbombs, Kamikaze, B-52, Silk Panty, Multiple Screaming Orgasm (OH FUCK YEAH!!!) , and more. Knowing how much to pour for each drink is very vital here because you don't want to mess up the flavor of the drink here. It will take a lot of practice, but since I am suspended from my job ( it's a job now!!!) and don't go back until Wednesday, then I will have time to practice. YEAH!!! YEAH!!! It's only a matter of time now people. The bartending will definitely be a part of my life. There is good money to be made out there but most importantly "I WILL BE HAPPY!!!" doing what I want to do.


Da second interview and results....


I had my second interview yesterday out in Hoffman Estates. I got there early. The interview was at 2pm, but my sheet said 1pm. Wait til I talk to Leah! She's the one I had the first interview with. It was a group interview with 20 people competing for a position with the company. It was about 6-7 people from the company in the room as well. The "man" over the financial aid department gave brief info about the company and the position. After that, he wanted everyone to introduce themselves and give a brief description of us as well. I was **trying to picture the room** about the 9th or 10th person, so like in the middle. I noticed that no one before me stood up. I was like, "Hmmm.....that's weird." I say that only because in a group interview, YOU ARE SUPPOSED TO STAND THE FUCK UP!!! You are in a group, you cannot see everybody, so therefore you have to stand up and conduct yourself that way. By that, you have everyone's attention, and no one is trying to stretch over to see you. I guess they didn't know that. After I stood up, the lady after me and the guy after her stood up as well. This was a good thing for me. He asked other things as well. I stood up and was myself. I was very loose and was very comfortable. I could have talked forever, but that's not the key to a group interview. They are looking for several things in these type of interviews. Anything about your previous jobs and education experiences, PEOPLE!!!, they already know about. Duh!!!! They have you resume already!!! They have seen it, that's why they called you in the first fucking place! So they don't want to hear that. They're looking for people who are not afraid to speak in front of people. People who can sit up straight, look interested, smiling, and very driven. They don't need your life story when you are trying to answer a question. If that case, they could have just told you to write a book and give it to them. They want you to answer their questions by being brief, str8 to tha point, don't need to go on and on and on. You will lose their focus that way. Someone yesterday had their cell phone ring twice. We all know what happened to him!!!
Leah called me this morning but I was sleep. I did get to talk to her later. She told me that they are REALLY excited about me. They couldn't stop talkin about me, a lot of rant and ravin'! Leah also said that they are ONLY looking for THREE people. I didn't know this. I thought if they liked us all, then we were all on, but at the same time, if they didn't like none of us, then we all were toasted. Leah told me I was their TOP pick! I was then excited at that moment. I felt like LeBron James! (just kiddin) I now have to show them why I was their top choice, and that will NOT be a problem. "Baby I'm a Star!!!"


I haven't talked about sports in a while, but I can now. The NHL, National Hockey League, have just cancelled their season, not like you care! LOL!! The steroids, with the help of Jose Canseco, has been a big hit in the baseball season, that to remind you all has not started yet!! Not like you care about that either. I have something that you will care about. The NBA All-Star Weekend is this weekend. Oh yes!!! I am considering holding the All-Star Game here on Sunday @ my apartment. From the Rookie Challenge to Three-Point Shootout to Slam Dunk to da Game, it should be cool!!!! There will be new people in the game and the other challenges. The Illini are still undefeated @ 26-0. I am waiting for the NCAA Tourney!!!! Oh Yeah!!!!! Ready to do the brackets! I won last year with our yearly tournament thus I have to defend my title. Re-Peat!!!!! Last year it came down to the National Semifinal Game between Duke and Connecticut. I needed UConn to win cause' Oklahoma State has lost. My friend had Duke to win it all and I had UConn so it was basically down to this game. Duke was leading by 10 with a little over three minutes to go in the game, but UConn came back to win!!! I was mad that they made UConn a #2 seed in the tourney. I felt they were the best team that year. They then went on to destroy Georgia Tech for the title. This year, the field is open, but I will not talk about the teams. Don't want to give nothing away. LOL!!!


-Da Original 1-

Update on "Da Original 1"....

I have been "MIA" in here so I need to let people know what's going on....


Blowing up da Bank....


I am sittin' here at home. "What, you didn't have to work today you ask?" Well of course I did, but I got sent home. Yes, sent home. The company I work for, Harris Bank, suspended me for three days. I had an altercation last Saturday. I was recently promoted to handle larger accounts. Now some people at the bank have not approved of this. They haven't told me personally, but LAWD knows, as well as people that know me, that I can read people pretty well. I thought that we were a team up there, but shit who am I kiddin? I have only been there **counting on fingers** lemme see.....9 months?? and people have been there 15,8,12,24 years, (no particular order) and doin the same thing? I have noticed different reactions, facial expressions, gestures, and their availability towards me. Even though I don't give a shit about these people, but it did hit me a little. This happens everywhere? Dunno. I said some things that I shouldn't have said and I walked out of the meeting. I shouldn't have done that. I know this, so if you comment on this post I don't want to hear it. **Now thinkin of ways to blow up bank** I have just decided that I will blow up the bank. "Does anybody want in on this man!??"


In other news....


I start the bartending classes today!! Yay!!!! Time to celebrate! "Drink up!!, Be merry!!!" LOL!!!
It was also one of my goals for the year. Three weeks of str8 bartendin shit! Should be fun and educational at the same time. I will be able to make drinks at a hotel, or a bar, or a home near you! It's a lot of hands-on with some lecture, but nevertheless I made it. Just like the workout situation, getttin' there is a more than a start. I am not worried about failing, I will not let it cross my mind. I will make sure that I will do whateva it takes to get what I want, and that is that Fuckin' Certification!!!


I have a second interview tomorrow. The first one went really well. I have spoken with the lady that interviewed me so I know what I need to do. I will know an answer by Wednesday night or Thursday morning, so you wish me good luck, ya hear! I need to have backup after I blow up the bank and I want this to be it.


I have spoken with my uncle (via email) and he is planning a trip to Chicago to show me his business. I am very excited about that. I feel that if I get what I need to succeed in this, that I will do just fine. Having a business is always da shit. I cannot work for other people. **see my bank situation** There are too many reasons that I can come up with as to why I don't like working for other people. Remember: You cannot get rich working for someone else! Prove me wrong if you like! No disrespect to anyone, but I can't stay in a company for 10,20 years. It's just not me baby. I am driven. I settle for nothing less than success. If you don't understand yourself...**Sorry RBG** you need to look in the mirror, you need to re-evaluate yourself and see the big picture of everything that you are involved with on daily basis. Whether it's school, work, family, or dealing wit self, you need to look at that. It took me a while to do so, but it's better to see it now than never see it. I am not the one to tell you what to do but are you satisfied with where you are in life?... Inquiring minds want to know!!!!


-Da Original 1-

HISTORY, HISTORY, HISTORY...

HISTORY, HISTORY, HISTORY....


I was motivated from the elegant mind of "If You Don't Understand Yourself...." to write about Black History. I ask myself, why haven't I written about Black History? Many people have a problem with it being in February. (shortest month) That doesn't anger me anymore, but I will tell you what does. I am angered by the people who let society dictate what they do. To further explain this, I don't need a month assigned to me telling me that I need to acknowledge something. I'm not in school anymore. Let me take that back! I am still in school. I will ALWAYS be in school. People do NOT allow this sorry ass, sack of shit-ass society to manipulate you. We are all in school, whether it involves instructors, books, and projects. You learn all around you. You attend school everyday. You learn outside the classroom. See what I'm gettin' at here? Back to da HISTORY thang, I have learned to explore, acknowledge, and celebrate BLACK HISTORY in ANY FUKKIN MONTH I FUKKIN FEEL LIKE IT!!!! I am not laughing, neither should YOU. Last month, I was fortunate with my schedule to watch "The Rise and Fall of Jack Johnson." It was a two-part series which portrays the story of, in my opinion, the triumphs and struggles of the BEST heavyweight champion of all time! He was a fugitive, he contribute to who he can, he fought 30 round, 40 round bouts. (YES!!! They were that LONG!!) Forgot to mention that the storyteller was Samuel L. Jackson. Whether if Johnson will be remembered for the "rise" or the "fall", is determined by you.


I was also blessed last month to meet an very interesting person. I have a friend who lives in Evanston, who is really deep into just about everything. She is a member of the EHS, Evanston Historical Society. She invited me last month up there to check out a preview of the function, "Anthony Crawford Remembered" which was to be conducted on 02/10/2005 at the EHS. I was also blessed to meet the mind behind this extraordinary event, Doria Dee Johnson (Evanston researcher), where Anthony Crawford is the great-great-grandfather of Johnson. She opened me to many photos, letters, and art work of this remembered man. He was lynched in the South Carolina in the year of 1916. She also touched on lynching as a whole, gave me a briefing on how it was created and destroyed. The show was last night and I called my friend before I went bowling to see how it went. She said that it was tight. A few people, including Doria was moved by it.


I plan to take a trip to the Museum of Science and Industry where I will see two exhibits. The first one, "Engineering the Future", is an exhibit that demystifies (**good word**) the variety of engineering fields while it highlights the careers and achievement of African-Americans. It also displays superhero characters and the chance to assemble a computer, design a building, create a molecular structure and more. I am lookin' forward to that. The other one, "Juried Art Exhibit", will display the original works of over 100 professional and amateur African-American artists. It goes from ceramics, drawings, and painting to mixed media, photography, sculptures and textiles. I will enjoy this as well. I was invited to see a play at the end of this month, but I don't know what it will contain yet because it is a suprise for me, but I will keep ya posted. Next month I will check out the DuSable Museum for the exhibit, " Countdown to Eternity: A Photo Documentary of Martin Luther King and the Civil Rights Movement". The exhibit will have almost 80 black-and-white prints by acclaimed photographer Benedict J. Fernandez, that were taken throughout the year before the assassination of the civil rights leader. I'm lookin' towards the first week of March for this one here. **Is it me or does February and March on the calendar look quite similar with the exception of three short days in February?**


I also want to express something else as well before I finished this. **Plays album "S.O.N.O.G.R.A.M." by One Be Lo** I am not here to anger people on my opinions and feelings in regards to BLACK HISTORY. If it does, then something is wrong. I feel that a lot of us do NOT appreciate the history behind our culture. It's bad enough that we fight each other instead of standin' in each other's corner to give support. They were people who fought to help establish our well being today. We may be a long way from freedom, but at least we can now at least have an opportunity to seek it versus the past where freedom was considered as a "heavenly destination". People seem to be more into drama, rims, and sex. Hearin our young ones reciting lyrics to "How We Do" by 50-Cent and The Game instead of them reciting "Children's Rhymes" by James Langston Hughes makes me punch the wall, the tree, or whateva is nearest to me. Or that's the way I feel on the inside. Who do you blame? What can you do? Where did we go wrong? Why can't life be simple?



-Da Original 1-

Mind-Boggled...

D.O.1: Damn!! I need an easier password to remember.

Blog: Welcome back Original 1...

D.O.1: Thanx!

Blog: Where have you been 1?...

D.O.1: I've been around and about Blog, tryin' to get some things str8 with myself.

Blog: What ya mean? What's wrong?

D.O.1: Nothing is wrong. Just chillin.

Blog: You mean to tell me that there is NOTHING wrong with you? Nothing?

D.O.1: I can't say.

Blog: Stop bullshittin' me Origie. There has gotta be somethin'. I can feel your mind now. You have something to tell me today. Too many things have been going on lately for you NOT to have something to write to me. I thought that we were friends my Original 1.

D.O.1: We are. I'm cool. I just....

Blog: Ah ha!!!! Just what...

D.O.1: I dunno...

Blog: Come on Origie!!! That's what I'm here for. Isn't that the reason why you started me in the first place? Spit it out! It is what it is, remember???

D.O.1: Yeah you're right Blog. Sorry!

Blog: No need to apologize here. Now come on with da shit already! Let's go, get them fuckin fingers movin already!!

D.O.1: Very aggressive we are hunh?

Blog: "I'ma let it do what it do baby!!!"

D.O.1: LOL!!! I didn't know that Blogs watch movies.

Blog: There's a lot of shit you don't know my young 1.


The Blog was right. I do have things on my mind and I should have been in here yesterday but I wasn't. I really don't have any excuse. I had things to do but I had time to come here and I didn't. With that said, I will blog today.


Yesterday I had an interview with a company located in Downers Grove. I prepared myself the night before so I was ready. It was like an employment agency sorta, but it was different. Usually with these, you have to fill out paperwork and take multiple tests to prove skills and then they search employment for you. Now I didn't apply for the agency, I applied for a position, but I found out that they are there to help me. At the interview, the lady had about 2-3 positions that I was qualified for. I told her as long as it is not collections, I will give one a shot. The two positions were Student Advisor and Financial Aid Advisor. Both positions pay very well and perceived to be very likely to get aboard permanently. I chose the Financial Aid Advisor position. I have a 1pm interview next Wednesday in Hoffman Estates(which is by my current job), so wish me the best of luck, and hopefully I can count down the days in the bank. Yay!!! Yipee!!!!


"Pour a drink on em', hit em' wit a Bottle!"...


As you all know, my bartending classes start 02/15. I am "VERY EXCITED" about this. I don't really think you people know how EXCITED I am. (With the exception of two,three people) Here at the bank, I asked management if I can change my schedule for three weeks due to the classes. They told me no with no hesitation. I started to slap the SHIT out of any of them, but I calmed down and walked away. So I will keep it like I have it by going in on Saturdays to make up for Thursdays. As I sit up in here today writing this, I feel like walking out right now and NOT coming back. People may think that I'm crazy as usual but I have done this before. People say you should leave on good terms. Fuck Dat!! That doesn't apply for everyone.


The Water Experiment...


For those who have read the previous blog and saw the comments pertaining to the water thing, I am here to clarify that. I have been talking with my friend, who at one time was overseas. We were discussing my motivation to work out and everything. He went on to tell me about competitions that he has had, certain exercises, and the different techniques he has learned and used. There was one technique that I picked up from him that he encouraged me to try. To when I do my cardio (running, bike, or any cardio exercise), to put water in my mouth. This will allow me to breathe correctly and will also improve my lung capacity so I run longer. I tried this on Monday twice. I wanted to throw the water up I had such a hard time with it. It felt awkward but I was able to breathe very well, despite the difficulties. I will need to practice this more til I get the hang of it. You learn somethin everyday!


-Da Original 1-

***Catch Up, Recap!!***

A Super Weekend...

Saturday...

I went to work for four hours, 8-12pm. The Saturdays at work usually fly by really fast. After that I hit da Woodfield Mall to pick up a few items that I needed. It was suprisingly warm at that time. I didn't get carried away and start strippin**calm down ladies** but I had a light jacket in the car. I drove back to the city. I didn't have my bag so I didn't workout at the fieldhouse but I did do some abs when I got home. I then traveled to a friend's house to get my haircut and watch a few games. Then ran home, took a shower, and made my way to Dave & Busters. My friend was having a CELEBRATION so I attended. I was able to see some old classmates that I haven't seen in a while. Unexpectedly I saw a classmate from grammar school. I kept lookin at her until her name popped in my head. When it did, I walked over to her and she was who I thought she was. She looks the same. She gave me so many compliments, she made me think that I have came a LONG way from grammar school, but I have. I played the basketball game, shootin' dat shit like I was Dale Ellis. **old school** Also Hydro Thunder and Arctic Blast I played as well. After that I took a trip to Laurence Fisheries. **So Yummy!!**


Super Sunday...


I woke up as I do everyday and cleaned a little. My workout partner called to see I was to workout today. I didn't workout on Saturday so yeah I made my way to the fieldhouse and put in a good two hours. Shuttled home, shower, iron clothes to prepared for the game. I was tired, irritated and a little frustrated from a friend's decision-making but I received a phone call from someone who was thinking about me **Yes!! Me!!** After that call, I was no longer frustrated, nor irritated, but still a little tired. I knew that when I get to the party that I will be fine. I had recovered from the expected absence of "Da Turkeys." My friend fell down the stairs on Saturday and was in no mood to season the turkeys. I understood that, but he was okay, and that was more important that the turkeys. I picked up a friend and went to the party. We watched the game on the wall. Projector!!!! Yes!!! I ate and drank very well. Although the result of the game wasn't what I wanted it to me, it was cool. Owens came back and was strong with it, he should have gotten the ball more. The Patriots had no answers for T.O., but when you turn the ball over, you will dig a deep hole. The Eagles will be back!!!!! After the game, the host conducted an air hockey tournament. 12 people, 1 goal. To win baby!!! Only one person can win the tournament and I was that one, but it wasn't easy. I won four matches that I trailed in all of them. I even trailed 5-0 in the championship game, eventually won 13-10. The sistas were rough. They got down on that table. They gave a harder time than the men did. But the hell with Freddie Mitchell, you people will refer to me from now on as the new "People's Champ!!"


Monday...


Well it's a off day for me so it's still the weekend!!! I do agree that the day after the Super Bowl should be a holiday. Even though the Super Bowl is played on Sunday, it should be a reserved holiday for Monday like they do President's Day***BOOOO*** or King Birthday ***YEAAA***.
I went to my appointment for the Bartending School. The lady was really cool. She gave me a lot of information, regarding the flexibility of schedules, hands-on, lecture, job placement, certifications, everything. I decide right then and there that I was to go with them. I put my deposit down **Yay!! for payment plans** and will start on 2/15/2005 for a three week session. I am also going to the Chicago Loop location too. She told me that wouldn't be a problem if I was 10 or 15 minutes late, just don't be a hour late. When I thought about it, I get to the loop at about 5:45pm or 5:50pm so I will be okay after all. **Talking to Man up!!,Quit Bullshittin, and I'ma punk!!** **LOL** I went back home, did some things and went to workout. My partner wasn't there. I don't know what happened to him but I got a good two hours in. Went home and baked me some chicken **Still thinkin about turkeys**


-Da Original 1-

The Weekend is Almost Here....

I am currently taking a short break from my work. **Sitting here wishin' my break was til 5pm** So I think I can dab a little into my blog here.


Sleeperitis....


As you all know, I do NOT like my current career position. When you don't like something or someone, you get bored. I am very bored here. When you get bored, you tend to yawn. I yawn everyday that I am here, but the past two days I am yawning more than usual. I didn't really get a lot of sleep Tuesday night. For Wednesday I worked and worked out hard, got home around 10:30 but didn't get to bed until almost 1. Thursday it all hit me and I was dead tired. Working from 8am-8pm is not easy. I was very tired. I did not go bowling, I went to sleep early. I tried to stay up until midnight because there were some things that I needed to do, but I couldn't. This lets me know that I need to get more sleep. As I have gotten older**But no old man in me,lol**, I realized that I value sleep more now than in the past. In those days, you didn't want to go to sleep sometimes because you would feel that you would miss something. Sometimes I'm still like that. From what I am putting myself through on the daily basis, physically and mentally, I need to get the sleep that I need. I have to work on that too. I feel though that when I get adjusted with working out and change of the eating habits, that I will do much better in terms of gettin' the sleep I need.


My weekend...


Well today, when I'm off work, I will go workout and then if I don't get a haircut, I will go home. Gonna rest up a little and then clean my kitchen and bathroom. Just hang around and chill out I guess. Saturday I work again but only from 8am to 12pm. I am undecided if I am going to workout after work. I probably will. Haircut is possible if I didn't get it on Friday. I want to visit a friend but he hasn't gotten back to me yet. One of my friends I went to high school with is having a CELEBRATION @ Dave & Busters that evening. Another friend of mine, his mother's b-day is that day and it's a party that evening as well. If his mom is making lima beans, then I will definitely stop thru. I'm into really into lima beans, but I tell ya', this lady can throw DOWN on them lima beans. I will see how that evening will go. On Sunday, I may do some cardio and prepare for the Super Bowl!!!! One of the guys that is going on the Vegas trip is having a Super Bowl Party. I heard he has a BIG screen built into the wall with a serious surround sound system. I truly can't wait to see it. NOW THAT'S HOW YOU WATCH THE SUPER BOWL!!! We will also be accompanied by some turkeys that are going to be DEEP-FRIED. We deep-fried some turkeys for the tailgate party before the Bears' game. I can't wait for that. Not sure of the rest of the menu, but as long as the turkeys come to the party, I'm all good. Of course, alcohol will attending the party as well. It should be a good game. The Patriots I believe have the better team but I really want the Eagles to win. It's time for McNabb to get a ring!!! I also want to see if "GOD" cleared Terrell "T.O." Owens to play. Monday is the beginning of the week but that's my off day, so therefore it is an extended day in the weekend. I have the appointment with the bartending school at noon. Will workout as well, and supposed to hang out with another friend from high school but she hasn't gotten back to me on that yet.


So I hope that everyone enjoys their weekend and to be safe in whatever ya do!!!
Peace out!!!


-Da Original 1-

Place Name of Title Here:

I received two voice mail yesterday. They both were a bunch of laughs. It was regarding the previous post of "Open Thoughts #1". I did manage to read it over to realize that there is something totally wrong with me, but it was FUNNY.


A Date With Da Hard Rock.......Floor?


"Did anyone by chance see the 'MIME' on 'American Idol' last night?" I was at the gym last night. I was riding the bike while I was watching American Idol. When I saw the performance of the MIME, I was like ..."WTF??"...and my foot slipped off the pedal. I tried to put my foot back on while I was laughing so hard, that I missed the right pedal, all my weight shifted to the right. If it wasn't for me grabbing the left handle at the last second, I would have encountered the most embarassing tumble to pavement in my life that I can remember. I laughed along with others in the gym as I retained myself on the bike. My workout was pretty much over with then. Thought I would share my death-defying experience from last night...


I hope not to repeat the near tragedy tonight when I go to workout. I do plan to ride the bike again. I'm beginning to like the bike. I used it yesterday to warm me up for the exercises I had planned with my lower body. I will do more cardio tonight and do some abs. I did abs last night and let me tell ya...NO JOY.....ALL PAIN.... I struggle to KRUNCH this miniature beer gut of mine to one day be able to say, "Hey, I got a six pack, and I don't mean a six pack of beer." I took the Kennedy yesterday and got to the fieldhouse quicker. Ladies and gentlemen, I have a new route. I have gotten comfortable with the gym room and the surroundings. I don't know about you bitches but that being comfortable with the gym room is very important to me.


Reach One.....


I received a email from a friend. I don't know if she reads my blog or not. She was talking about her weekend. All she did was work, sleep, and watch TV. Now it's not a problem with that because she has a very hectic schedule, but what got me thinkin' was that she typed she realized that she is boring as she was typing this email to me. I sat back in my high-tech rockin' chair and thought about this. Every time we talk on the phone, she is always amazed by me because I am always doing something at that time. From being on a boat, to D&B's, to poetry, to museums, and there are more, I can't remember the last time I talked to her from my apartment. So basically I told her in the email that she needs to spice it up a little. ***Grabs paprika, basil, lemon pepper, cajun seasoning*** I have told her in the past that she needs to set some time out for herself and get out. Told her that to get out and meet people, hang out with friends, do things to keep your mind off things. It's okay to make your schedule busy to whereas you can no longer breathe, but at least make sure that you put things like "Lounge, or Kickin' at friend's house, or going bowling, or going to a play" somewhere in it. There's no need to make yourself depressed and lonely. Sure I understand that people go through situations that only one could imagine **I am included**, BUT if for one second you can take your mind off of it by going to a jazz club, or going to a concert, or playin' spades **no French cuttin' please**, then DO IT!!!


Tonight's agenda:

1. Run like FUCK out the plantation.
2. Workout **No you work it!, No you work it!**
3. Go home.
4. Cook, clean, shower
5. Hop on computer
6. Open time???
7. Bed time!!!!

Peace!!!!


-Da Original 1-

***Open Thoughts #1***

"Cocaine's a helluva drug!!!"
"Come on, I got a lil bit mo' sense then that!"
"Yeah I remember grindin' my feet into his couch!!"
"Black magic!!!"
"You is COLD as ICE!!"
"They shoulda never gave you niggaz money!!!"
"You can buy another couch....what I'ma do bout my legz!!!! Charlie Murphyyy??"
"Rick really needs help!"
"Yo! We just gave him some help!!"
"Cocaine's a helluva drug!!"
"LOL!!"

I was just thinkin about that, saw it the other day.

For all you bitches out there, I am starting a new thang with my blog here. Today I am doing what I call "Open Thoughts". The purpose of this is for da reader, which is YOU, to read about what I am thinkin about at that present moment. I will put down everything that I am thinking about. I will do these type of posts from time to time. I think that the reader, which is YOU, should have fun reading some of the things that goes, no!, better yet, travels through my estranged mind at that time. So feel free to comment, laugh, cry, or whateva ya heart desires. Caution: Remember these are my thoughts. Do NOT get offended by what I'm thinkin about. Some of these thoughts may relate to you in some fashion. Good Luck!


Open Thoughts for 02/01/2005 at 3:35pm......


1. This lady sittin next to me has the most annoying laugh. I would like to slap the shit out of her the next time she laughs.

2. She has very bad jokes too. The most lame jokes ever.

3. I got a joke fo her ass!!!

4 "Hey lady that sits next to me, what did the five fingers say to da face?" "SLAP!!!"

5. Guess I don't like this lady, hunh?

6. "Shit I can't wait until 5pm."

7. I should leave now.

8. I can't wait to bartend. I'll bartend every day if I have to.

9. Shit, no I won't. Brotha needs relaxation time.

10. I need to go to the bathroom, but I don't feel like getting up.

11. No need to shit on myself, I'll be back.


Fifteen minutes later, just an estimate, I'm back...


12. It is not 5pm yet!!!

13. I can't wait to workout.

14. I really do want to see the Illini/Mich St. game though.

15. Naw, I'ma workout.

16. I am so tired of collections.

17. "You is COLD as ICE!!"

18. This customer is gettin on my nerves.

19. Maybe I should hang up on them.

20. Fuck it! I hung up on her.

21. I don't need my blood pressure going up high from this shit.

22. "What am I going to eat for dinner?"

23. "Michael Jordan!!!!"

24. "I wonder if Michael Jackson is going to jail."

25. Someone sent me a picture of Michael Jackson with huge ass titties.

26. I should sent it to someone. I'll do it after the post.

27. Uh-oh! That lady I hung up on is callin back.

28. I am not available, lol....

29. I need to email my uncle in Houston.

30. I need to leave this blood-suckin job.

31. ONE MORE HOUR!!!! YES!!!!

32. What's worse than that? Oh I know.....

33. "FOUR MORE YEARS!!!" Goddamn Bush.

34. I want to go to the Dusable Museum.

35. I went a few months back.

36. Shit, that lady is laughin' again.

37. They are moving my seat here, but I will still probably hear her.

38. I am taking no more inbound calls. They can kiss my ASS.

39. I want to play my friend in "Game of Life" tonight.

40. Jamaica or Canada?

41. Decisions, decisions, decisions...


Short meeting with manager...


42. I thought it was about me hanging up on that lady.

43. The meeting was real cool.

44. I still want to leave here nevertheless.

45. People are calling me to find what happen.

46. Damn!! I don't even talk to these people.

47. 5pm please.

48. I think the Bulls play tonight.

49. I really want some herbal tea.

50. Maybe tonight.

51. Someone is text messaging me.

52. Now someone is calling me.

53. "Cold-Blooded!"

54. I need to put my car in the shop.

55. I need to put myself in the shop.

56. Why am I infatuated with Ashanti's thighs all of a sudden?

57. She can't sing, she can't dance, but she has thighs!

58. "Ashy Larry! Marcy Projects! Marcy, son, what???"

59. Too much Dave Chappelle for me.

60. This lady up here has a very big nose,DAMN!!!

61. I don't feel like working these last 20 minutes.

62. I have email a lot of people today.

63. I seriously don't know what I'll do without a computer.

64. I am missing "Pardon the Interruption" right now.

65. "Drink beer at a Picnic?? BRILLIANT!!!!!"

66. I am truly bored out my mind.

67. I feel like chicken tonight.

68. I got a real cool shirt being delivered to me very soon, can't wait.

69. I want to get a business started.

70. Can't talk about it, gotta be about it.

71. The girl that likes me just waved at me.

72. I did NOT wave back.

73. She needs to keep on going.

74. Hot-ass!

75. I will try the Kennedy today to get to the fieldhouse. May be quicker.

76. These fags don't say "Bless you" when I squeeze, but for everyone else they do.

77. Is it because I'm black maybe and they're not.

78. Or are they mad it's Black History Month?

79. Or they don't like me?

80. I really wouldn't give a damn. I could care less.

81. "I'm Rick James, Biatch! Do somethin!"

82. "That means you wanna do somethin to me!"

83. "So I stepped back!"

84. "And I told her, "Bus a move!!! Bus a mutha fuckin move!!!""

85. I am crazy. Maybe everyone that calls me crazy is right. I dunno!!!!


-Da Original 1-