| Oh yeah... |
[Dec. 17th, 2008|09:51 am] |
I do have a blog. Somebody wanted to use one of my blog posts for something and it reminded me that I have a blog. Thanks for the reminder! Who would have thought that I could still be using this rediculously old school blog format. I prefer to think this blogs format is now vintage. Making it cool again.
Either way, this whole "remembering" the blog thing has got me thinking. One thing I really want in life is to be really good at something. Specifically something artistic (writing, poetry, painting, film making, song writing, musicianship, etc...). And while it seems like I do a lot of those things, I am not necessarily great at any of them. Don't worry, this is not attempt at some sort of affirmation request from my huge reader base. The base issue I think is sticking with something. I think in all my "trying" different things, I have found a few things I really enjoy. But it is always hard to develop those pursuits beyond something casual. One thing I have noticed about people who do something really well, people who inspire others to be like them, is that they pursue their passion/s with all they have. They pick something they love and they give it everything, even when they are frustrated. So, this is my goal, to single a few things out and follow through with it. Push it beyond it's comfortable duration. And no, I don't think this blog will be one of those things. Nonetheless, it would be nice to post a bit more frequently... |
|
|
| Politics. |
[Oct. 28th, 2008|04:14 pm] |
I haven't posted in forever. So why not make it political? I was speaking with a few guys last night about how disgusted I am with the overwhelming bias that seems to be everywhere. Yeah, nothing new. But, I can't take much more of it. And I was so frustrated by the fact that everybody does it, and nobody admits it. Then today, I read an article on yahoo of all places that was so refreshing. A media source being "fairly" realistic about their own bias. I couldn't believe it. Read if for yourself. http://news.yahoo.com/s/politico/20081028/pl_politico/14982#full
As a side note. Just to be clear, I am referencing groups, not individuals. That is to say, this post is not ripping individuals who are biased. And yes, I know that I am biased. I just can't take many more commercials, news stories, articles, headlines that always seem have to have a spin or a slant. Groups that are being payed to bring us the story, but (sometimes)making no attempt at offering the full picture. I am just suggesting we can't swallow everything we hear whole. This particular story is referencing the fact that McCain is being hosed in the media. So maybe it seems like I am endorsing McCain. In all honesty, it was the first article I had read where a media outlet admits that they might have a bias. If I find an article from a random news outlet (cough, f*X) titled "why Obama is being hosed", I promise to post it on my blog, for my thousands of readers to see.
One last note, the company that did the survey in the referenced article above seems pretty cool. Worth checking out. I read a bit on their methodology and it seems like they really try to represent the facts in the surveys the conduct. http://people-press.org/ Maybe my first step towards being a responsible voter. |
|
|
| Glory... Oh the splendor. |
[Aug. 22nd, 2008|11:27 am] |
As all of you know, It was not more than a month ago that I comissioned what would be the first literary contest ever held on this blog. What at the time seemed like a fair and noble idea, turned into what I am now calling "An Experiment In Glory!". You see, I was never good at math, and as such, these contests are never about the numbers. You can put your calculator away, and banish your calculus for different times. "But Jeremy", one might say "your contest was a failure because you only had one real entrant submit a 5 sentence short story." Au Contraire my friend, au contraire.
You see, most see the glass half full of orange juice, I see the glass half full of pure florida sunshine. That's just my take on things. As such, I would like to think that the one entry I did recieve was basically the entire world channeling all of it's literary prowess into one perfect piece. And when I read it I knew, I knew that I would be different. I may look the same, but I am just a whisper of who I once was. JD, you are a knight, slaying those that scoff at the power of the word. Conquering the dragon that might try to burn our books and crisp our literary lust.
Without further ado, the grand champion, "THE GREAT LAMENT".
The great lament.
by Justin Detmers
The disco-tech is illuminated like a wild fire raging through the canyons on a cloudless night. Inebriated twenty something’s wield glow sticks and pulse to thundering electronic music. I yearn to devour this glory, which is set before me like a chalice of splendor. Providence herself begs I claim my destiny, as the one born to dance. Yet to my dismay, participation is forbidden due to my ill-fated condition; motion-triggered flatulence. |
|
|
| Short Story Competition. |
[Aug. 6th, 2008|09:54 am] |
Let it be known, come one come all, this is my official challenge to you, and the beginning of the "best 5 sentence short story contest". This contest is quite simple, and quite difficult, all at once. Simple to understand, but difficult to create.
I will tell you the rules to this contest by repeating the name of the contest. You have to write the "Best 5 Sentence Short Story". I will be posting my entry now, which will serve as my own official entry and the gold standard for this contest. I will post the winner one week from now, assuming that it is not me, which is hard to imagine.
Please post your entry to the contest on your own blog and also post a link to this blog so everybody can read the rules. Then post the link to your story in the comment section under this post. One last thing, if you have any run on sentences in your 5 sentence short story, then you will be immediately disqualified, and I will also start a gossip chain about you and your poor writing skills.
Plane and Simple
The plane fell quickly towards the earth, as if nothing could stop it. And then, at the last second, Dr. mastermind enacted his plan and covered the entire earth in bubble wrap. The plan worked to save the plane, but unfortunately it trapped all sea creatures in the ocean. This is when Dr. mastermind had his second best idea yet. Instead of covering the entire earth in bubble wrap, he would make a miniature version called snowglobes and warm the hearts of all mankind. |
|
|
| Mr. Big Shot. |
[Jun. 11th, 2008|01:55 pm] |
|
So, I am sure that all of you fans out there have been eagerly awaiting the return of the Kite and Jeremy Video project. Well, hold on to your trousers because as of today, we are officially back. Our films in the past have tended towards humor and uproarious, gut busting laughter. We have seen the error of our ways, and have finally embarked on a journey to lead us to a beautiful and gleaming city, a city named maturity. With that in mind, we have chosen a very serious and frightful topic to be the mainstay of our latest film. Grab some popcorn, take a quick bathroom break and put your seat belt on, it's time to take a ride on the movietrain, Kite and I will be your conductors (Mark S. is shoveling coal). Without further ado, I give to you http://www.mr-kite.com/ |
|
|
| OK. |
[Jun. 2nd, 2008|11:50 am] |
I haven't blogged in forever. But who really cares right. Lets get down to business. Without a doubt, "Where the Wild Things Are", is my favorite childhood book. I recently learned that Spike Jonze is making it into a movie. Rarely have I seen a movie with such great potential towards genius or complete failure. And I do believe it will be one or the other. If this movie flops, it could very well mean the destruction of a good part of childhood fantasy. Either way, it will replace what I had imagined when I read the book. Either for better or worse. If the monsters look fake, and max is really a snobby little jerk, then that will be my memory of the book. You may think I am being dramatic, but if anything, I am only minimizing the impact this movie could have on my subconscious. I do believe that this movie will have a profound effect on my Wherethewildthingsare Lobe (which makes up about 19% of my brain). Go here http://www.firstshowing.net/2007/12/11/second-look-spike-jonzes-where-the-wild-things-are/ for screen shots and the latest details.
In other news, Edward Norton, one of my favorite actors of all time, will be starring in the new Hulk movie. Let's hope he doesn't destroy his career.
Ok, just found this clip. http://www.firstshowing.net/2008/05/23/check-this-out-hulk-vs-abomination-fight-scene-clip/
And my response to that 60 seconds is yes please. |
|
|
| Proper Beer Titles. |
[Mar. 26th, 2008|02:25 pm] |
This recent "list" from mcsweeneys.net (seriously, go there, it's an awesome site if your a fan of "the literature", as they call it) is just plain awesome, and piqued my interest on multiple levels.
WARNING: swear words ahead. Don't read this if you can't handle swear words or indie humor.
Brews
to Accessorize
the Modern Hipster.
BY KEVIN SCHEITRUM
- - - -
I Liked These Guys Before Anybody Else Knew About Them English Bitter
Boys Don't CrIPA
Oh Fuck My Rent Check Didn't Come in the Mail Bock
Fixed-Gear Bicycleweisse
Essentially Empty Yet Always Present Messenger Baggleywine
Almost Stout of the Closet
All My Friends Are White Ale
So What If I Messed Up Your Starbucks Order Porter
Rummage Sale Pale Ale
I Don't Really Like This but I'm Drinking It to Get Back at My Parents and/or Friends With an Overt and Crass Display of Being Cultured Lambic
I Am Entirely Fucking Done With Society Because It Is Run by Corrupt and Criminally Exploitative Man-Machines Who Don't Give One Shit for Anyone or Anything Except for Money and Power Light Lager
Sleeping Pillsner
Lastly, I would like to add a link to an event I found on mcsweeneys.net
http://www.826michigan.org/events/433/mustache-a-thon-2
Man, I wish I lived closer, and could grow one (click the link to see what I mean). |
|
|
| Beer and Food Pairing Dinner!!! |
[Mar. 4th, 2008|12:04 pm] |
First things first, congrats to Dan and Suzanne on their new baby girl. Parker Elizabeth was born last night at 7:20. Everything looks good!
For the next order of business, a beer and food pairing dinner!! Well, for awhile now Brett and I have been wanting to put together a beer and food pairing dinner. Mark your calendars for April 4th. The cost will be $25. We have a great menu planned, so the ticket cost will barely cover the food. Kevin, our friend who is a chef in the area, is lending his expertise. So, you don't need to be worried about burnt food! Brett and I will cover the beer selection. We still have a lot of details to figure out, but I wanted to post a very preliminary idea of what the menu might look like. This will be on a first come first serve. Basically we will only have about 13 tickets left to sell after those who are already comitted to coming. Whoever gets cash to us first will get in. Should be fun. feel free to email me at masonjer1@gmail.com to let me know if you are interested.
Course 1
Food – Sesame seared tuna
Beer – Hennepin (Ommegang Saison)
Course 2
Food – Salad w/ Goat cheese (not finalized yet)
Beer – Bells Best Brown
Course 3
Food – curry soup
Beer – two hearted IPA
Course 4
Food – Balsamic marinated beef tenderloin flank Indian brown ale sauce
Beer - Dogfish head Indian Brown ale
Course 5
Food – applewood smoked chedder cheese course
Beer – Sierra Nevada Bigfoot Barleywine
Course 6
Food – Lindeman's Framboise sorbet
Course 7
Food – Flourless chocolate
Beer – Blushing Monk/Expedition Stout |
|
|
| Ahi. |
[Feb. 25th, 2008|03:26 pm] |
I just had seared (basically rare) tuna from the fish market for lunch and it was delicious. Served with Freshly steamed vegetables and a side of garlic mash potatoes. The only thing that would have made the meal more delicious is if Jesus made wine to go with the meal. I am posting this because half the people that read this will say "that sounds amazing" and the other half will say "raw fish is absolutely disgusting".
To tie this post into something you might care about. Seared Ahi (tuna) will be the first course of a 7 course beer dinner that is to be happening soon. More details to come.
 |
|
|
| love. |
[Feb. 18th, 2008|01:56 pm] |
In honor of the recent valentines day, and not blogging in months, I thought I would post on love. Actually, I don't have anything profound to say, but I do have this verse.
Song of Songs 8:6-7
Hang my locket around your neck, wear my ring on your finger. Love is invincible facing danger and death. Passion laughs at the terrors of hell. The fire of love stops at nothing-- it sweeps everything before it. 7 Flood waters can't drown love, torrents of rain can't put it out. Love can't be bought, love can't be sold-- it's not to be found in the marketplace.
This is the verse Kristen and I chose for our wedding. I still love it. I just painted this picture yesterday that's my interpretation of the verse. There is a good chance you can't see it because I took the picture with my phone, but you get the idea. I hope your valentines day was as as passionate as this verse (hopefully the fire of love didn't melt your chocolates).
 |
|
|
| Last Night. |
[Jan. 11th, 2008|01:35 pm] |
So, Eric Craft and I went to a new bar opening in Grand Rapids last night. They are not opening until saturday, but last night was a special night for members of ratebeer.com and beeradvocate.com. Everything was 1/2 off. It is a really cool bar, with over 150 bottles and 48 micro brews on tap, over half of it michigan beer.
Eric and I had ordered burgers and we were hanging out in this cool lounge upstairs when we noticed lights outside. We then realized there was a raging fire in the dumpster. We ran downstairs and told them and then ran outside where they used two fire extinguishers to put it out. Everything ended up ok except for the melted dumpster lid.
It was a great night overall, we met a couple and talked with them for a couple hours. Even sharing our beer. Eventually a brewer from Founders brewing joined us and we talked with him for awhile. It was cool to ask him lots of geeky questions. It was getting late so we headed downstairs to leave. But not before running into Larry Bell (owner and founder of Bells Brewing). I talked to him for a few minutes and couldn't help myself from heaping on the praise.
It was a great bar, great food, great company, and really good beer. The exlamation point for the night came when we found out that they let us eat and drink for free because we told them about the fire. It doesn't get much better than that. |
|
|
| my wonderful personality. |
[Dec. 27th, 2007|11:37 am] |
ENFP - The "Advocate" Myers-Briggs Personality Types (Free Test)
ENFPs are introspective, values-oriented, inspiring, social and extremely expressive. They actively send their thoughts and ideas out into the world as a way to bring attention to what they feel to be important, which often has to do with ethics and current events. ENFPs are natural advocates, attracting people to themselves and their cause with excellent people skills, warmth, energy and positivity. ENFPs are described as creative, resourceful, assertive, spontaneous, life-loving, charismatic, passionate and experimental.
"ENFPs are warm, enthusiastic people, typically very bright and full of potential. They live in the world of possibilities, and can become very passionate and excited about things. Their enthusiasm lends them the ability to inspire and motivate others, more so than we see in other types. They can talk their way in or out of anything. They love life, seeing it as a special gift, and strive to make the most out of it."
"They can't bear to miss out on what is going on around them; they must experience, first hand, all the significant social events that affect our lives."
"Friends are what life is about to ENFPs, moreso even than the other NFs. They hold up their end of the relationship, sometimes being victimized by less caring individuals. ENFPs are energized by being around people. Some have real difficulty being alone, especially on a regular basis."
I would say a lot of this is right on. I am trying to pull the downside from this personality type, I think this quote might help as well.
"outgoing, social, disorganized, easily talked into doing silly things, spontaneous, wild and crazy, acts without thinking..."
-Jer |
|
|
| "Senior citizens, although slow and dangerous behind the wheel, can still serve a purpose" -Loyd |
[Nov. 28th, 2007|01:47 pm] |
One thing I love about Riverview (the church I go to) is the huge population of young people who attend. I think it is unique to have a church that attracts young people. It certainly does not make things easier.
Nonetheless, it is really amazing to see young people with a heart for God. But there is one issue that I keep coming back to. With so many young leaders we have to continue in our appreciation for our elder leaders.
I love the fact that so many of my friends are leaders in various roles at riverview. At the same time, it really scares me. I am 25 years old. I am barely getting used to my first real job, I am in the process of buying my first house and I am still working on the whole having a baby thing (well that's more up to my wife). As far as life experience or wisdom, I feel like I am working from ground zero. It's crazy to think that over half the people at riverview are younger than I am.
Fortunately I am not writing this because I can point to a lot of specific examples where I see this happening. I can only say with regret, that I have been guilty of disrespect before and it did a lot more damage than I thought possible.
So, this is my point. If you haven't thought about this, then start thinking. Ask yourself these questions.
What would riverview (or more specificaly your life) look like without the leadership of our elders (meaning those older than yourself)?
Who are the people in your life who have offered wisdom and advice and how has that changed your life?
What does the bible say about respecting our elders and what warnings does it give if we fail to do so? |
|
|
| Utopias. |
[Nov. 21st, 2007|12:28 pm] |
|
Ever wanted to try the strongest beer in the world? Well clear your calendar for Wednesday November 29. Crunchys bar will be serving tiny samples of Samuel Adams Utopias. Go here for more info. http://www.ratebeer.com/Beer/samuel-adams-utopias/12228/ Coming in at over 25% ABV, this beer is not cheap to make. So expect to spend a mint if you want a few ounces of the stuff. Brett and I will be there. |
|
|
| Today. |
[Nov. 14th, 2007|04:02 pm] |
Today Sucks.
-Jer |
|
|
| Beer and Music. |
[Nov. 2nd, 2007|09:43 am] |
This is my contribution to session #9: beer and music.
I graduated from college in 2005. Go spartans. I didn't know what I wanted to do with my life so I started working with my dad. Eventually I decided to join him and be a financial planner. I took all the tests, got licensed, and have finally enjoyed my first year being independent. I told myself when I was younger that I would never wear a suit and a tie. I wasn't going to sell out and have an office job. Well, that was then, and this is now. I have a wife, hopefully a family, and just yesterday I signed all the papers to buy my first house. Responsibility is setting in.
Sometimes I feel like I live two different lives. Everyday I go home from work, put on my eclectic clothes, mess my hair up and relax. My car transports me from one life to another. I don't think I am two different people, just one person with different responsibilities and passions. I have learned that this job is one that I can support my family with as well as be passionate about and help others. Which I am really excited about.
But, I still love the arts. I have always loved music. From the punk band I used to play in, to the rock band, to the eclectic band I play in now, there has always been music. Most importantly, there has always been art. I love creating, and I love people who create. I have never been one to wear the same shirt (OK, I have a few favorites), go to the same restaurant, or listen to the same music over and over.
Fortunately, about a year and a half ago, I found good beer. I have not stopped seeking and learning since then. The thing I love about beer is the similarties to music, and the art of it all. If I may compare the two. There is nothing more rewarding than writing (brewing) a great song (beer). Or hearing a song that someone else has written (brewed) that really catches you off guard, leaving you smiling and wondering at the beauty of it. The hard work, the risk, putting yourself out there, doing something that hasn't been done before. But the pay off is huge. There will be failure, loss, sadness. But there will also be rejoicing. Upon first listen (taste) by others, you will know that you have done well. And if you don't yourself compose, share your passion for music (beer) with others. Open their eyes to the newness that exists when all is risked to create (brew) something truly special. We were made to create (brew), we were made to take it in(drink) it, we were made to share it. |
|
|
| Lamentations. |
[Oct. 17th, 2007|10:38 am] |
So, I was reading in Lamentations today. Really cool book. After I read a few chapters, I decided to pull out my handy commentary to get the down low on what I was reading. It's basically describing the destruction of Jerusalem. They think it was written by the prophet Jeremiah. One of the coolest things is that 3 of the chapters are written in alphabetical order. Meaning that each verse starts with the next letter of the alphabet. This would have helped with memorization (don't go running to your bible to look, the bible was not originally written in English, in case you didn't know).
The crazy part of the book is that Jeremiah prophesied that Jerusalem would be destroyed. He basically told everyone this was going to happen. But, even though he knew, the book is just describing some of his sorrow for the agony that is all around him. He hardly makes any reference to his own prophecy because he is so consumed by the pain around him.
The other thing that struck me as I was reading was a character quality of God. We serve an honest God. He doesn't leave us in the dark about his hard to swallow justice. He inspired a book describing the torment that a man is going through after his city has been destroyed. Somehow, that is so comforting to me. If the bible only spoke of God's grace and mercy, I would feel so untrusting of who he really was. But God, in his perfect justice and judgement, holds nothing back. He has included so many horrific and tragic events in the bible. God is not like the dad who irks his responsibility of punishing his child. Or wants to forget the punishment handed down. He follows through, and then he leaves an obvious and lasting retelling of the horror that was. God never questions his judgement. It is good to serve an honest God. |
|
|
| Seattle, God, Beer, God, music. |
[Sep. 20th, 2007|10:38 am] |
So, just got back last night from the "Continuous Worship" conference at Mars Hill Church in Seattle. I went with Ben, Brandon, and Dan. Overall it was really good and it gave me a lot to think about. First off, Seattle is an awesome city and I was able to share some great conversations over good food and great beer. Second, Mars Hill is a neat church. They do some things I like, some things I don't, but I think they are really living for Jesus.
Overall, most of the talks were on what "worship" really is. There is a lot of crap to wade through when it comes to this issue. I was challenged a lot with how I am doing music at Riverview, but I was way more challenged on my relationship with Jesus. And that is the biggest thing I need to work on when it comes to the music I create or play.
One thing is for sure, Mars Hill has some crazy talented musicians. The music was really in a league of it's own. Most of that is probably because it is really my "style" of music. Obviously, there were things I liked and disliked about that as well, but nobody can say that they aren't talented.
Overall, it was a conference that I wish everyone I know could have attended. I am really excited to continue making music at riverview. I am also really encouraged that Riverview has been active in discussing a lot of the issues we discussed at the conference. I don't feel like we were blindsided by anything enormous. We, as a church, love Jesus and are striving to be relevant to the people that come to our services. We have talented musicians who love God and are worshiping him everyday. Nobody ever arrives, but it is exciting to try.
Laslty, how could I end this post in any other way than to talk about my latest shoe purchase. For those of you who like to dress a little crazy, you can find my current favorite shoe company here http://www.cr8tiverecreation.com/ (It is ok if Noel is the only one who clicks this link, making the big assumption he reads this blog.) We happend upon a clothing store which had multiple styles of these shoes for 75% off. A girls dream. I have to admit that I probably wouldn't have gone so crazy on the colors if any other pairs were my size. But now, I am really glad I have my first pair of shoes with pink (forget the salmon talk, I am man enough to wear pink shoes) and yellow. Here is the pic of my shoes. This is so you can wear sunglasses the next time you are around me if need be.
Word,
Jer |
|
|
| navigation |
| [ |
viewing |
| |
most recent entries |
] |
| [ |
go |
| |
earlier |
] |
| |
|
|
![[info]](http://l-stat.livejournal.com/img/userinfo.gif){kind=small}
jumpin_jacks's journal