"That's what I thought. I'd have a real hard time looking in the mirror if I was in that locker room. Quitters. I'm pissed. That was embarrassing. Fuckin someone shoulda thrown a fuckin chair to wake them up. Goose eye? Get the fuck outta here."
That's the first text I got after the game, and I couldn't have said it better myself. I'd say at least we tried, but I'd be lying.
It's Tribe time now.
5.13.2010
4.05.2010
My first Crew message
Crew:
Or as we would say in the ghetto world of kicks... Krew:
First of all I want to apologize if I have missed any replies to the thread. Ken Hommes spelled my last name wrong, so if anyone has mentioned me in responses, I haven't seen it. Trying to sabotage my first day on the list is ruder than Sully eating all the doughnuts on moving day. But back to the topic at hand...
I had mentioned this weekend that PT has a celeb look-a-like in Hurley Reyes from Lost. And before you think I'm saying this in a bad way, I am a huge Lost fan and have religiously watched it since the beginning. So if there is anyone to make fun of in this situation it is me for watching what I will admit is our generations' version of Star Trek or some bull shit like that. But my idea was to post a side-by-side comparison as my first email. Simple, yet funny. But then I realized that I don't have any pictures of PT anywhere.
So I tried to find mutual friends on Facebook to find at least even a profile pic, but couldnt find anything. So then I hopped on Google, figuring that he would have at the very least have a profile picture from Sherwin Williams being the high ranking official that he is. At first I didn't think that I found anything of substance, but then I started to search further into the depths of Google images. And these are the pictures of "Paul Troy" that I was able to find...
And now for the comparison pic:
So I guess the reality of it all is that I was way off when I said that Paul Troy looks like Hurley Reyes. So much for trying to make a humorous comparison. But to make sure that the backlash is at a minimum, I'll take care of the Dave Graham look-a-likes from the start:
Everyone have a great week, and Sully... I'll see YOU on the dance floor.
Or as we would say in the ghetto world of kicks... Krew:
First of all I want to apologize if I have missed any replies to the thread. Ken Hommes spelled my last name wrong, so if anyone has mentioned me in responses, I haven't seen it. Trying to sabotage my first day on the list is ruder than Sully eating all the doughnuts on moving day. But back to the topic at hand...
I had mentioned this weekend that PT has a celeb look-a-like in Hurley Reyes from Lost. And before you think I'm saying this in a bad way, I am a huge Lost fan and have religiously watched it since the beginning. So if there is anyone to make fun of in this situation it is me for watching what I will admit is our generations' version of Star Trek or some bull shit like that. But my idea was to post a side-by-side comparison as my first email. Simple, yet funny. But then I realized that I don't have any pictures of PT anywhere.
So I tried to find mutual friends on Facebook to find at least even a profile pic, but couldnt find anything. So then I hopped on Google, figuring that he would have at the very least have a profile picture from Sherwin Williams being the high ranking official that he is. At first I didn't think that I found anything of substance, but then I started to search further into the depths of Google images. And these are the pictures of "Paul Troy" that I was able to find...
And now for the comparison pic:
So I guess the reality of it all is that I was way off when I said that Paul Troy looks like Hurley Reyes. So much for trying to make a humorous comparison. But to make sure that the backlash is at a minimum, I'll take care of the Dave Graham look-a-likes from the start:
Everyone have a great week, and Sully... I'll see YOU on the dance floor.
3.02.2010
LeBron's Top 5 Dunks
As most of you know, I currently am the General Manager of a Finish Line here in Cleveland. Because of the nature of the industry, we often get into debates throughout the day about sports with both customers and other employees. So during the all-star weekend we were talking about who should have really been in the dunk contest. LeBron obviously came up, and my assistant manager (a Kobe lover) said that he was not even in the top 5 dunkers in the league currently. What?!?
Because of him, and because of LeBron's nasty dunk last night, I wanted to compile this list of LeBron's top 5 dunks of his career. If you think there are better ones, please add them on. But I think we can all agree that these are proof that he is one of, if the THE, most powerful dunkers of all-time.
Oop from Delonte West
"With no regard for human life"
I thought he was literally flying
Over Damon Jones
Over Tim Duncan
As I made this list, I realized how many amazing dunks he has had, including some ridiculous ones in international play. So definitely add them as comments or on my Facebook page, and I will make another round for voting. Then we'll take the top from each round (however many there are), and decide on the best of all time.
2.23.2010
Be Easy
I really really cannot stand casual Cavs fans who say we made a bad deal in Jamison. Are you kidding me? The main reason that most people give is that he went 1 for 11 or whatever in his first game. They neglect the fact that in the next game he put up 18 and 9, and tonight he's on pace for about the same. Then the next reason they site as reason to be mad is that Z is gone. Yeah, I like Z a whole lot too, and he has been around for a really long time in Cleveland. But seriously, the man is a non-factor on this team at this point, and we got a freakin' All-Star PF for him!!! How does that not make sense??? And then the final reason I've heard from people is that it is taking away minutes from JJ and Andy. Yes that's true, but I think Cleveland fans have forgotten what a power forward is really supposed to do. They should be primarily a post or wing player, who can rebound and block shots. They should be able to play with their back to the basket and create their own offense. Andy and JJ are great at what they do, and bring an element with the backdoor cuts and crashing rebounds that a lot of teams can't handle. But don't for a second tell me that they are better power forwards than Antawn Jamison. The only legit thing I will listen to about him is that his one sleeve style is ridiculous. So are Jamario's socks, and Boobie's... shin guards?
I have been trying to find new music again, and stumbled across this song. MGMT had a few songs that were significant for me in college, but this one is pretty good too.
I have been trying to find new music again, and stumbled across this song. MGMT had a few songs that were significant for me in college, but this one is pretty good too.
1.27.2010
J.J.'s stock rises, while Danny Green searches for a new job.
Well after saying I wasn't too excited about the game against the Wolves tonight, I ended up getting to go with a few friends. But it was good to go on a casual weeknight, and get to see what the NBA's best Cavs are all about.
JJ Hickson was without a doubt our most productive player. He rebounds, he follows shots, he hustles back on D. For being only a sophomore, he's the real deal. He, along with Andy and Shaq, dismantled Minnesota's big men like they were the New Jersey Nets. I mean, Al Jefferson and Love aren't bad basketball player, but they looked silly tonight. So I was happy to see that.
Roy Williams was at the game watching his two former Tar Heels square off. Unfortunately, Danny Green looked like he was still hoping to get recruited or something. No confidence, no energy, no point of being on the team. Ship him out.
Best play of the game by far was LeBron's block of Corey Brewer, here ya go:
Good night!
JJ Hickson was without a doubt our most productive player. He rebounds, he follows shots, he hustles back on D. For being only a sophomore, he's the real deal. He, along with Andy and Shaq, dismantled Minnesota's big men like they were the New Jersey Nets. I mean, Al Jefferson and Love aren't bad basketball player, but they looked silly tonight. So I was happy to see that.
Roy Williams was at the game watching his two former Tar Heels square off. Unfortunately, Danny Green looked like he was still hoping to get recruited or something. No confidence, no energy, no point of being on the team. Ship him out.
Best play of the game by far was LeBron's block of Corey Brewer, here ya go:
Good night!
LeBron Rapping
Just found this video online, it's LeBron rapping before an inbound. The song is "Forever" by Drake, which was the theme song for LeBron's movie this summer. Just thought it was worth sharing...
1.26.2010
Groundhog's Day Realized
My whole life I have always said that I can not stand people who waste their time complaining about their situation. Whether it is playing minutes on a team or required classes they were forced to take. Parties they were at, or relationships they couldn't break off. Quite possibly the best part about life is the ability to make choices and do whatever you want.
Recently, I have been one of those people. I blame it on circumstance. On lack of job opportunities. On a need for income so that I can pay bills. But really I haven't actively done anything to change my situation. I go to work every day (almost literally), do all that I can to be successful, and then come home after dark all to just repeat it the next day. Retail is tricky in that to be successful you have to be fully committed to the store, but if you want to use it as a stepping stone it is quite hard with the lack of time to find that next step. So right now I am at the point where I need to make work bearable, while trying to limit it's control over my life so that I can find something that makes me feel alive again.
Things that I like about my job:
1. The industry is in line with one of my personal interests.
2. I wear shorts and sneakers to work everyday.
3. I operate a $1.7 million business at age 24. The fact that it is in the mall and I eat SUBWAY 75% of my meals doesn't take away from that. The fact that Sakkio Japan sneaks into that mix occasionally, on the other hand, may be a detractor.
4. I have a job, and there are plenty of people in a worse situation than I.
Things I hate about my job (Limited to no more than the positives so that I don't let it take over this post)
1. Dealing with retail customers on a day-to-day basis. Quite possibly the dumbest clientele imaginable.
2. No seriously, being the result of a "Well then I want to speak to the store manager" comment is right up there with getting punched in the goods and watching a "Teen Mom" marathon as worst ways to pass your time.
3. I have been told the quote by many people in this company that "The world changes in a day in retail." I get what you mean about trends and product changing, but the fact is that everyday your successes are zeroed out, you have to execute the EXACT same game plan, set almost identical displays, sell the same products to every person that walks through the door, and go home with the same feeling like, "Wow this day was pointless."
4. I really just want to enjoy my nights and weekends. I want to take trips, and plan things in advance. I want to work LESS during holidays, like normal people do. Not 18 days straight.
Things that I want in a new job:
1. I realize I just said this, but nights and weekends FREE to do whatever I want!
2. Variety. I want to be working on different projects, in different places, with new people on a regular basis.
3. Purpose. I have done service work my entire life, but now my mind is only filled with selling, selling, selling. I want to help people, make a difference in lives, and know that the things I spend so much time and energy doing are making a difference in someone's life. Besides helping them look fresh at the club, that is.
4. A future. I can do my current job for awhile longer, but I don't see long-term satisfaction. I need to know I'm working towards something, and right now I am scared that all I am doing is positioning myself to be seen as a retail manager forever. Gross.
I think I'm gonna try to use this blog as a way to express my self, and to keep me going on my hunt and attempt to stay sane throughout the next several months. The other things that will keep me going are friends, Cavs, LOST (soon!), and music. Oh yeah, another perk of working at Finish Line is getting to hear a lot of good new music. Just to keep things balanced and not too sweet though, Justin Bieber (sp?) is also on it too. A LOT. Anyways, there is a nice new artist name Mozella, you should check her out:
On another, very random note:
Cavs vs. Twolves tomorrow, doubt it'll be worth talking about. But I'll be able to watch it since I have the night off (things are looking up already!) Later...
Recently, I have been one of those people. I blame it on circumstance. On lack of job opportunities. On a need for income so that I can pay bills. But really I haven't actively done anything to change my situation. I go to work every day (almost literally), do all that I can to be successful, and then come home after dark all to just repeat it the next day. Retail is tricky in that to be successful you have to be fully committed to the store, but if you want to use it as a stepping stone it is quite hard with the lack of time to find that next step. So right now I am at the point where I need to make work bearable, while trying to limit it's control over my life so that I can find something that makes me feel alive again.
Things that I like about my job:
1. The industry is in line with one of my personal interests.
2. I wear shorts and sneakers to work everyday.
3. I operate a $1.7 million business at age 24. The fact that it is in the mall and I eat SUBWAY 75% of my meals doesn't take away from that. The fact that Sakkio Japan sneaks into that mix occasionally, on the other hand, may be a detractor.
4. I have a job, and there are plenty of people in a worse situation than I.
Things I hate about my job (Limited to no more than the positives so that I don't let it take over this post)
1. Dealing with retail customers on a day-to-day basis. Quite possibly the dumbest clientele imaginable.
2. No seriously, being the result of a "Well then I want to speak to the store manager" comment is right up there with getting punched in the goods and watching a "Teen Mom" marathon as worst ways to pass your time.
3. I have been told the quote by many people in this company that "The world changes in a day in retail." I get what you mean about trends and product changing, but the fact is that everyday your successes are zeroed out, you have to execute the EXACT same game plan, set almost identical displays, sell the same products to every person that walks through the door, and go home with the same feeling like, "Wow this day was pointless."
4. I really just want to enjoy my nights and weekends. I want to take trips, and plan things in advance. I want to work LESS during holidays, like normal people do. Not 18 days straight.
Things that I want in a new job:
1. I realize I just said this, but nights and weekends FREE to do whatever I want!
2. Variety. I want to be working on different projects, in different places, with new people on a regular basis.
3. Purpose. I have done service work my entire life, but now my mind is only filled with selling, selling, selling. I want to help people, make a difference in lives, and know that the things I spend so much time and energy doing are making a difference in someone's life. Besides helping them look fresh at the club, that is.
4. A future. I can do my current job for awhile longer, but I don't see long-term satisfaction. I need to know I'm working towards something, and right now I am scared that all I am doing is positioning myself to be seen as a retail manager forever. Gross.
I think I'm gonna try to use this blog as a way to express my self, and to keep me going on my hunt and attempt to stay sane throughout the next several months. The other things that will keep me going are friends, Cavs, LOST (soon!), and music. Oh yeah, another perk of working at Finish Line is getting to hear a lot of good new music. Just to keep things balanced and not too sweet though, Justin Bieber (sp?) is also on it too. A LOT. Anyways, there is a nice new artist name Mozella, you should check her out:
On another, very random note:
Cavs vs. Twolves tomorrow, doubt it'll be worth talking about. But I'll be able to watch it since I have the night off (things are looking up already!) Later...
12.08.2009
Tonight's game
Anyone care to fill me in? I just heard we lost a heartbreaker. But hey, HOW ABOUT THAT GAME AGAINST THE BUCKS?! Sorry Jennings, not concerned about your rookie of the year run. I mean, your behind the back dribble was nice until the layup got swatted into the stands by our former rookie of the year. I need info on what went wrong tonight (that will prob be you Greg...) Thanks in advance, you should all get the new Clipse CD, ya dig?
12.03.2009
I am thankful
Sooooo I'm a Thursday late, but I dont think that I take enough time throughout the year to mention all the things that I am lucky to have in my life. So here is my list:
1. I am thankful for my family. I hated (sorry mom, strongly disliked) them for the majority of my high school years, and to this day it is a regret that I will never be able to fully repair. Even though all four of us are completely different individuals, they have all been there for me through it all. The things that I do daily are to make them proud, and it is a great feeling to know that they now, after everything I have put them through, still love me.
2. My Ford freakin Contour. It may not be the best of the best, but I have nothing but good memories when it comes to that car. I have never broken down, never had a flat tire, and ALWAYS change my oil at least 3,000 miles after I should. Even though I have taken the stand that I will not invest another dollar into her, I would be happy to drive it for years longer if it holds up. It has gotten me to every job and event since the middle of college, and for that I am thankful.
3. Root beer. Barq's Root Beer. It is the BEST drink on the planet, and can quench my thirst more than any regular beer ever will. I have a lot of memories associated with it, and would be happy if it were the only thing I could drink for the rest of my life. I sound fat. Moving on...
4. Music. For a while I don't think I owned a single file of legal music, but I promise that if I could have bought it with my Jacket Express it would have been a different story. Steal music or steal beer? The consequences were further removed, so it was a no brainer. Anyways, music has always effected me more than possibly anything else in life. There are songs that have defined memories in my head, and others that have gotten me through some of the worst times. It can change my mood instantly, usually for the better, and for that I am thankful. "Are you in?" by Incubus has the most positive effect. I dare you not to enjoy it.
5. Friends. Blah blah blah, you know who you are and I am thankful for you. Except if you ask me how tall I am. Ever. I hate it...
6. As Sweet Lou would call them: The Cleveland LeBronaliers. I wasn't raised a fan of any professional sport. I chose the Cavs, and I think that makes me that much more passionate. I was a fan when orange and blue weren't throwback jerseys, and suffered through black and periwinkle blue (you da man Tyrone Hill). I never appreciated fall in my life because it was always a sign that winter is coming. But the Cavs get me excited for October, and I intentional make my work schedule around their game nights. Going scoreless in tonight's pathetic rec basketball game gives me even one more reason to live vicariously through them. And for that I am thankful.
7. My job. Yes folks, I actually said it. After much complaining and frustration, I have come to the conclusion that I am thankful for the job that I have. I am a 24 year old manager of a 2-million dollar business. I wear shorts and sneakers, listen to music, and shoot the breeze with dozens of people throughout the day. I have 20 people who look up to me as a mentor, and to top it off it feeds my well-documented (check my bank statement) passion for shoes. I do complain a lot, especially during holiday hours, but then I think how unhappy I would be sitting behind a desk using Z Table Lookup or whatever Excel command it would be that day. It's not a destination, but it's a hell of a starting point for me.
8. Kali Dye. All I will say is that she has been more accepting of me for who I am than anyone else in my world. We've been on, we've been off. Up and down. But through it all I've known that if ever I needed a friend, she would be there for me. So where ever we end up in life, and who ever we end up with, just know that you have changed my life in the best way possible. Thank you.
9. The Sandlot. Squints, Ya-ya, Porter, Smalls, Benny, Timmy and Tommy Tuppins. Wendy Peppercorn. It will always be my favorite movie, and is the only VHS that I wore out from watching too many times. Many lessons to learn, but more importantly it will always bring me back to my childhood.
10. You. Thank you for reading my blog, and for caring (even just out of curiosity) about what I have to say. This takes more time than I thought it would, but the biggest reward is knowing that people actually finding it interesting and/or entertaining. The other option would be to actually call me and talk to me, but I realize you might not want to go down that long, hard to hang up on path. Either way, thanks.
When choosing a song to end my posts with, I always feel guilty because I know that some family members and church members read my blog. I enjoy the majority of the music that I listen to because of the beats and rhythmns that are there. Believe it or not I really don't think "hustlin" and "cookin' crack" are cool or admirable, I just really enjoy the musicality of a lot of hip-hop music. But enough with excuses, this song is from The Cleveland Show Mixtape, showin' a little love to the local talent.
12.02.2009
I forget how to do this. I suppose my typical equation is
1. Say something about the Cavs
B. Put up some related picture
C. Add a song
4. Tell people on Facebook, hoping someone actually reads it. Lame.
Tonight was our first game of rec league basketball. You know, the type of league that old men who are severely out of shape but still want to act like they are athletic play in? We lost. But bigger than that, it made me realize that it is just another example of my life becoming comfortable and midwest like. I have a job that I am mostly satisfied with, but is it really making me happy? I have an apartment but it forces me to always be money conscious and I never really get anywhere with saving or working towards a goal. I drive an average older car, that works just fine but is easily replaceable. I guess none of these things matter, but I have just been thinking about life.
What. Is. The. Point?
I can promise you 100% that I do not know the answer. I'm pretty sure the only definite is that it is different for everyone. But I know for myself that it is (for good reason) the one question that takes up the majority of my free thoughts. Why do I work 50-60 hours a week just to come home to not have the energy to enjoy it? Why do I live in Cleveland, Ohio when there are so many other amazing places in the world? Why do I question any of these things when I COULD just be happy with my life the way it is, and just enjoy it for what it is?
I have always been someone who is enamored with the unknown. In my head there is always something better, newer, more exciting or enjoyable than what I have currently. It has greatly affected every aspect of my life, and not typically in a good way. But I am at the point where I can't deny this fact and I don't think that it will change. I have, more or less, what a lot of people would say is a great life, and yet I am sitting here with little satisfaction. But there are a few things that I DO know.
I know that the point of life has nothing to do with material things. I will not be the old man finally realizing that when he is on his death bed. I love shoes (as you all know), but if they were taken from me tomorrow it would not be the end of the world.
I know the point of life is not defined by where you are or what you are doing. Well, maybe if I was the whale keeper at Sea World I would feel differently; but that's irrelevant.
I know the point of life is different for everyone. What makes you happy doesn't do a thing for me and vice versa. It is all about the personal journey towards whatever your individual passion may be.
And finally and most importantly, I DO know that life's greatest joy comes from interaction with other people. Learning from them. Teaching them. Laughing with them. Sharing memories with them. Without other people no one's life would have any meaning. Traveling the world would be pointless if no one was there to share it. I think that I am extremely blessed with this most important aspect of life and I know that. The people surrounding me are what make the days worth living. Thank you to all of you.
I feel like I have a decent outlook on all of this, and yet I find myself wondering on a daily basis why I continue. So starting tomorrow my goal is to ask one person each day what they think the point of living is. Family, friends, coworkers, strangers... if everyone has a different reason, than everyone can give different insight. People are my key to happiness, so finding out their individual motivations may be the beginning to my own personal happiness. If you know yours feel free to leave it as a comment or message. (Yeah I know, it's next to impossible to figure out how to comment!!) Orrrrrr, gimme a call or text and let me know 216.262.5622. I am going to write down everyone's answers and periodically post them on my blog. Hopefully it can help me, and you, realize why we do what we do.
And per usual, a random song to end my what sometimes seems like endless rant.
And yes, Wally stiiiiiiill sucks...
1. Say something about the Cavs
B. Put up some related picture
C. Add a song
4. Tell people on Facebook, hoping someone actually reads it. Lame.
Tonight was our first game of rec league basketball. You know, the type of league that old men who are severely out of shape but still want to act like they are athletic play in? We lost. But bigger than that, it made me realize that it is just another example of my life becoming comfortable and midwest like. I have a job that I am mostly satisfied with, but is it really making me happy? I have an apartment but it forces me to always be money conscious and I never really get anywhere with saving or working towards a goal. I drive an average older car, that works just fine but is easily replaceable. I guess none of these things matter, but I have just been thinking about life.
What. Is. The. Point?
I can promise you 100% that I do not know the answer. I'm pretty sure the only definite is that it is different for everyone. But I know for myself that it is (for good reason) the one question that takes up the majority of my free thoughts. Why do I work 50-60 hours a week just to come home to not have the energy to enjoy it? Why do I live in Cleveland, Ohio when there are so many other amazing places in the world? Why do I question any of these things when I COULD just be happy with my life the way it is, and just enjoy it for what it is?
I have always been someone who is enamored with the unknown. In my head there is always something better, newer, more exciting or enjoyable than what I have currently. It has greatly affected every aspect of my life, and not typically in a good way. But I am at the point where I can't deny this fact and I don't think that it will change. I have, more or less, what a lot of people would say is a great life, and yet I am sitting here with little satisfaction. But there are a few things that I DO know.
I know that the point of life has nothing to do with material things. I will not be the old man finally realizing that when he is on his death bed. I love shoes (as you all know), but if they were taken from me tomorrow it would not be the end of the world.
I know the point of life is not defined by where you are or what you are doing. Well, maybe if I was the whale keeper at Sea World I would feel differently; but that's irrelevant.
I know the point of life is different for everyone. What makes you happy doesn't do a thing for me and vice versa. It is all about the personal journey towards whatever your individual passion may be.
And finally and most importantly, I DO know that life's greatest joy comes from interaction with other people. Learning from them. Teaching them. Laughing with them. Sharing memories with them. Without other people no one's life would have any meaning. Traveling the world would be pointless if no one was there to share it. I think that I am extremely blessed with this most important aspect of life and I know that. The people surrounding me are what make the days worth living. Thank you to all of you.
I feel like I have a decent outlook on all of this, and yet I find myself wondering on a daily basis why I continue. So starting tomorrow my goal is to ask one person each day what they think the point of living is. Family, friends, coworkers, strangers... if everyone has a different reason, than everyone can give different insight. People are my key to happiness, so finding out their individual motivations may be the beginning to my own personal happiness. If you know yours feel free to leave it as a comment or message. (Yeah I know, it's next to impossible to figure out how to comment!!) Orrrrrr, gimme a call or text and let me know 216.262.5622. I am going to write down everyone's answers and periodically post them on my blog. Hopefully it can help me, and you, realize why we do what we do.
And per usual, a random song to end my what sometimes seems like endless rant.
And yes, Wally stiiiiiiill sucks...
