So This is the New Year (2008)...

Let's start this blog with a song...

The New Year
By Death Cab for Cutie, 2003

So this is the new year.
And i don't feel any different.
The clanking of crystal
Explosions off in the distance (in the distance).

So this is the new year
And I have no resolutions
For self assigned penance
For problems with easy solutions

So everybody put your best suit or dress on
Let's make believe that we are wealthy for just this once
Lighting firecrackers off on the front lawn
As thirty dialogs bleed into one

I wish the world was flat like the old days
Then i could travel just by folding a map
No more airplanes, or speed trains, or freeways
There'd be no distance that could hold us back.

There'd be no distance that could hold us back [x2]

So this is the new year [x4]

I love that song. Really captures how people celebrate the ending of one year, and the beginning of the next. As you can see in the picture, that was me this year. My friend Bryan had people over for a very classy cocktail party, and we had a great time. Thanks B.

Anyway, this is the new year, and unlike the song, I do have resolutions. Before I dive into what I want to do this year, I think I need to examine the results of last year's resolutions (original blog on MySpace at http://blog.myspace.com/clintcrockett). So without further adieu...

Wanted to be a homeowner by the end of April. Successful? Yes. I purchased a very nice condo in Broomfield that I like more and more everyday. Very cool huh?

Planned on being a parent to a puppy by the end of June. Successful? No. I am having so much trouble justifying this. I'm never home, I don't have a yard, and it would only be me taking care of the pup (with help from some very considerate neighbors)... and those three things are the main things making me think I'm not ready to be a "parent".

Tried to be more aggressive in my dating life.. Successful? Oh Yeah. I would say this has been a very interesting year when it came to dating. I defiantly went out with more women this year than ever. Some were fun and over, some are still friends, and some just were not meant to be. I learned a lot about the process, other people, and about myself... I haven't learned everything though...

I was looking to make an annual income of $50K by the end of 2007. Successful? ... 10 months early.

Looking to remain active despite all the changes in my life. Successful? ... For the most part. I was able to stay pretty active this year, but I wasn't able to do everything I wanted to. The last time I played golf was the middle of June, I stopped going to the Yoga studio this summer, and I never joined a soccer league... But I was able to figure out a way to stay active...

I was hoping I could keep writing my weekly blogs until July 3rd, one a week for a year. Successful? Negative. The last weekly blog I wrote was on April 29th, two months short my goal (again, check out http://blog.myspace.com/clintcrockett), but I'm not upset about that. I just ran out of topics to write about that would have been any interest to anyone. But I'm still happy with the outcome and some of my writing is actually pretty interesting, so I'm happy with it.

I wanted to learn how to cook. Successful? For the most part. Before my friend Sarah left for Vermont, we were cooking every Sunday. I learned a lot and really want to do more...

Now we know the old, let's check out the new:

Working on the results of my dating so far. Like I mentioned before, I learned a lot this year... And with all the learning I did, I think I'm ready for the next step. As some of you know, I've never had a real serious relationship (some of you might cite otherwise, but one of those was in high school, the other based on a lie, so neither of those count in my book). I want to learn more about being in that situation, acknowledging the necessary sacrifice, compromise, happiness, and comfort that comes with that next step. And yes, I want to learn more about who I am in that situation and what adjustments I could make based on the newly acquired knowledge.

Improving my culinary skills further... And why not? This is fun and, if I have someone to cook for, could even be more fun...

Volunteering: You know, I have things pretty good. Now I think I should do more to help those who haven't had the nice breaks I have. If you have any ideas on where I could volunteer, let me know. I want to be a bell ringer for the Salvation Army next holiday season, but of course there are 11 months before that where I could do some good.

Travel More: To be honest, I'm not happy with myself this year. Not one trip anywhere. Given, funds were lower due to the new house and new car, and my brother Mike and I planned a trip to Mexico that fell through, but I'm still not thrilled. Vacation time was not the problem (I maxed out at my 120 hours numerous times this year). So this year, I've adjusted my finances to add $50 from each check to a vacation/Christmas fund, and I'll get a 40 hour extension on my max of accumulated time, so I should be okay to at least take two trips of some sort this year.

Professionally, want to increase my income by more than $9K by the end of the year: I'm aiming high this year, but hey, nothing wrong with that. I would love to get into a management position this year, so we'll see if that's possible.

I know, I know, there is no mention of a puppy up here. Trust me, it's not an easy thing to omit. But, as I mentioned, I just couldn't provide the attention and accommodations the pup needs. This does not mean I'm not willing to be convinced otherwise though...

So there ya go, my resolutions for the new year. I'm anxious to see what this one holds. I think this will be a good year for me. Not a whole lot new going on now or in the immediate future, and that's not a bad thing.

Here's to hoping you all have a great year in 2008!

Check ya later!

Clint

Year in Pictures: 2007

What up "Yos"?

Hope this finds you all well. This is the first of a few blogs I'll be posting to recap the year. I'll report on the second part of the year soon, but in the meantime I thought I would share my year in pictures. Check it out.

Obviously, the first picture shows my facial appearence at the beginning of the year... Slight change huh?

For those of you who missed the haircut, check out the story below in my prevous blog "I Owe you This...". But immediately below are some pictures from the festive removal.

In April, I made the decision to go from "Renter" to "Homeowner" by purchasing a condo. I do dig my 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom residence. Moving from "the basement" to "the Penthouse" was a good thing... let's just hope the place sells for more when the time come, making the investment that much sweeter. Thanks to all who came to May's housewarming party... And a special thanks to my parents and Mike for "moving" me (if anything, I helped them)...

Another before and after scenerio... On June 30th, Nga, the 2001 2-door Hyaundi Accent, was hit by a drunk driver that ended up being a fatal wound to "Ms. Dependable" (damage is much worse than what is shown on the left). Nga's Succesor, Haras, the 2007 4 door Honda Civic EX, was purchased a month later. She is named after my friend Sarah who moved out of state this summer (she patiently waited three hours while I did the dealing for the new autmobile). May Nga Rest in Piece.

And that's it for the crazy events. The second half of 2007 was semi boring in comparison to the first half. I'll tell you more in detail in a future post...

... But that's the end of the pictures! The above pictures show that the fam is doing well. Matthew celebrated his first birthday this year while Ben was excited to turn five. Mike and Bob as crazy as ever, and Zach, Ma, Pa, and Chowder are doing just fine.

Next are pictures of friends who are doing great and loving life. My old roommates (Chris, Craig, Marcelle, and Sarah) are all still looking as sharp as usual. The three amigos (Carly, Stacie, and myself) are always up to no good, Ryan and Laura are celebrating their marriage that strated this summer. We'll miss Kris and Sarah (dressed to see Transformers), but Greg is still around to lessen the pain. Scottie and Bryan are two cool guys who have been hanging out recently since they are seeing the two female amigos, and we're thrilled to have Neal (and Sarah) back in Colorado. Finally, Troy's still hanging in Denver to my and Lydia's delight, and the rest of the guys (Like Mike, Paul, Andy, Brett, and Josh (A.K.A. Mr. Engaged)) are still having fun and living the good life.

Okay, I know, I didn't take any crazy trips or have a crazy adventure this year, and part of that was due to my large purchases, but that's not to say I didn't have some fun. I was still able to check out some concerts, like Mat Kearney, Snow Patrol, and Jimmy Eat World, among others. I also met my goal of checking out every professional sports team in the Denver area in one year (Avs, Nuggets, Rage, 14ers, Mammoth, Rockies, Rapids, Outlawz, and ended with the Broncos And I still was able to check out lots of fun stuff, like the Renaissance Festival (as Mike demonstrates with this turkey leg and corn on the cob).

So as you can see, it's been a great year. I've had lots of fun, done some good, and had some great successes. Life's looking good for 2008... a topic for a later time. Anyway, I wish you all the best in the upcoming year. I leave you with a great "inspirational" picture from the amigos' adventure at "Film at the Rocks" watching "The Big Lebowski".

Hope you're doing great!

Check ya later!

Clint

The Rebound Syndrome

Hey Everyone...

Hope you’re doing well. Have a good Thanksgiving? Mine was really good. Just hung out with the family and played with the nephews. Also took this week off work completely, had some fun, but it’s kinda ending on a sour note. I’m not feeling too well right now, and I’ve been stuck at home because my plans keep getting cancelled... That’s what caused me to write about the below...

... So I'm really getting sick of this "Rebound Syndrome" I'm been experiencing lately. I'm not talking about Marcus Camby's mad b-ball skills, I'm talking about this idea that someone recently got out of a relationship and is willing to be with someone else shortly after because they are vulnerable and not thinking straight. I know this isn't very flattering for my position, but read further and you'll see that I think my experiance has been pretty situational. Ever since I moved to Denver after school, I have been affected by this. I start getting involved with a girl and then BAM, it's over because of their perception of some other guy they were seeing (boyfriend, dating etc)... what the hell? Let me tell you the two things I really hate about this:

1) The "Rebound" concept itself - This does not make sense to me. In my view, if you don't want to be in a relationship, that's fine. But, if you are looking to get out of one, you can't sit around and mope around about the lost love (especially when you're the person who called it off). I will give you that you can be reminded of that person, but this shouldn't be an everyday/everything thing. Okay, ignoring that last thought, if you're not ready to be with someone again, THEN DON'T DO IT! You end up hurting the other person (i.e. me) more than you end up hurting yourself. Every single person needs to think about this and especially the other person before even thinking about being involved with anyone to any degree.

2) My Role in the situation/Why Me? - This is what I'm sick of. Why is it always me? Why do I keep find people who are experiencing the rebound syndrome (even though they may or may not be coming out of a relationship)? And why do they always move on and be fine afterwards? I am not a fan of being that intermediate step. I feel like I'm perfect for that step for a number of reasons. a) I'm a genuinely nice guy who won't screw anyone over (I'm a safe bet), b) I've been pretty open minded about relationships despite the fact that I've been screwed over more than once; I don't hold my past experiences against the new person I'm dating, and c) I'm patient and can wait for things to move. Last time I checked, this is something all women (and men) are looking for in a partner... so what the hell?

As you can tell, I'm not thrilled about the situation where I keep finding myself. I would think it would be something I'm doing to drive these women away since it keeps happening, but I can't figure out what (If you know, please inform me so I stop making the same mistake).

So what actions am I going to take? Well, for now, nothing. I'm not going to pursue anyone, I'm not going out of my way for anyone, I'm just doing what I want to do. If someone's interested, they better pursue me and let me know, because I'm not doing it anymore (since it seems to always end up the same way). I'm not closing the door on dating; I'm just making it and enter only right now for every girl out there.

Special Thanks to the 2007 National League Champions...

... It's been a couple hours now since the National League Champion Colorado Rockies were swept in the World Series against the Boston Red Sox. Yeah, I'm bummed about it, but, the more I think about it, the more I realize the postive aspects of the whole month of "Roctober". Let me help point those out now:

- As many of you might know, I have not been a huge baseball fan... ever. I never really understood the game. Thanks to the Rox current amazing hot streak, I've learned a lot about the game of baseball that I didn't know. The strategy of pitching and the bull pin, the strategy of hitting the ball in the right spot, changes with the line up, even the fact that bats can break and do, often, in games.

- I don't know how many of you missed this one, but it was funny. The one time in a long time that Colorado looked to have a downer in sports, the Rox picked it up. The Rapids, Outlawz, and Mammoth are done for the year, The Nuggets, 14ers, Rage, Eagles, and the Avs haven't started yet, CSU, CU, and Air Force haven't been in the news much, and the Bronco's weren't doing much to make us happy, so the Rox decided to win 21 out of 22 games in the last two months of the season. That was nice of them, wasn't it?

- You know, I kinda liked Manny Remerez before the MLB Post Season... that all changed. He's an arrogant jerk who only looks out for himself. The opposite is also true. I though Ortiz was lame, but now I kinda like him since he seems like a team player vs. an individual. I'm also not a fan of the Red Sox more so now. What the hell is with the bull pin baggin' on the rail all time? Annoying... It's also kinda frustrating knowing that 4 of the Red Sox players are paid more than the entire Rockies team... The Yankees make me feel a little bit better about this though (Good call on opting out of your contract A-Rod).

- The Rockies organization actually taught the world something: How NOT to handle ticket sales. I hope the whole world looks at the two day debogle caused by the CR Org and learns from it so the 2 half days of little productivity doesn't happen again. I really hope the Rox learned from this, because I'm sure they're will be a seond time...

-... And finally, with the above said, I look forward to another great season from this young team that should be feared this year since they have the necessary post season experiance to be successful.

So congratulation Colorado Rockies! May this just be the beginning! Best of luck in the upcomming seasons!

And as for all of you, hope you're all doing great and loving life!

Clint

Special Post: Dating

Hey Everyone, how's it going? Thought I would post a previous MySpace Blog on here since I've been thinking about it again... It is reviesed for those of you who have read this before... always happy to have feedback.

So, this topic is a doozy... That's right, it's dating... something I am absolutely no good at... more about that later.

First point I want to make about dating is its purpose. Now stay with me. Its purpose is to find your best friend (Your Wife, Husband, whatever). But it's more than just finding that person. Its finding out what you want, who you are in a relationship, and finding that mix that will make you and that other person happy. For example, through dating, I have found out that I don't really care a whole lot about height, hair color, or eye color (but I do have preferences). In fact, some of the girls I've been happiest with are taller and/or have an eye/hair color didn't match "my preferences". At the same time, I've found out that I want someone pretty but, for a relationship to form, they have to be intelligent, deep, and more than happy to hang out instead of going out all the time. I've also learned that in the relationship, I am very open to doing whatever and learning new things, so I don't really have a mix problem. So that's the main point of dating. Moving on.

Alright, so, the second point is regarding process. This is where it falls apart for me, so any and all corrections would be appreciated. It all begins with the first impression. Somehow, someway, someone has to get another persons attention. From what I can tell, most instances, it's a physical attraction, but it can be other things, such as common interests or sense of humor. From there, someone take a risk by "making a move" and actually ask someone out. From what I understand, these dates should be something fun, creative, and involve some quality time to get to know the person AND some quiet time to reflect and see how you interact with that person non verbally (this is why dinner and a movie is a great first date, but then again, how creative is that?). Finally, you have to end the date. This topic is up for debate. The bare minimum would be a hug in the car, but I feel it's a game time decision whether any kind of kiss or additional interaction would be acceptable. Then there's a second date... I would think that the same rules apply. From there, it seems that it totally depends on the people and situation, so I'm done.

Now when it comes to dating, I know we have all heard that expression "the game". As we all know, this refers to making the right moves in order to achieve the final goal. I'm not a huge fan of "the game". Partially because I don't understand it, partially because I'm no good at it (I'm sure). Recently, I had someone suggest that I go hook up with someone (anyone) just to annoy my ex. Now how fair is that? First of all, there's an innocent person involved who's feelings could be really hurt. Secondly, that would put me in an uncomfortable situation that could very likely upset all three of us. Finally, it's forcing my ex to feel a certain way based on a fake situation. So yeah, count me out on this "game", it just doesn't seem worth it. I want someone, and just one someone, to like me for me, not because I can coherse people into feeling how I feel or how I want.

As I mentioned above, there is a process for dating. But where are the best places to meet people you would be interested in? Well, it depends on the people I suppose, but there seems to be some common places/ways. The way that has always worked best for me was through friends. The last person I was involved with I met through a friend of mine, and it actually worked out pretty well (great relationship, and we are still close friends). I know many situations where this has been where people have met and it's worked. Other ways would be through an activity or interest that you two have in common. A rec sport (i.e. soccer, volleyball, etc) or a special interest club (book club, church, so on) would be great places to meet someone, especially since you would know you have something in common. Sure, you could always meet someone at the bars and clubs, but this just does not work for me. I think it's a superficial and just plain fake environment that, unless you are looking for a one night thing, would not work (no offense to those of you who enjoy the bars and meet great people there. In fact, you're just further proving my point by describing what works for you). As for online dating, well, I think this is a lot more effective for older singles, but people my age, this isn't as effective. That hasn't stopped me from trying. I tried match.com at the beginning of the year. Met a few nice women, but for some reason, nothing really materialized out of any of that. But, I had a close friend who's had success multiple successes with eHarmony, so I'm now giving that a shot. I'll let you know the results.

Alright, finally, I'm going to offer what advice I can. Please, feel free to leave a comment to add to any part of this. First of all, you gotta market yourself. Think of the thing you look for in a date, and work on those yourself. I personally am interested in someone with a sense of humor, who likes having fun, is physically attractive, and good with people. These are all thing (plus more) that I constantly work on to improve in myself. Another tip, don't expect it to all come to you. There are way too many people that want something, but are upset when it doesn't come to them. You gotta go out there and get what you want. There have been situation where I have been one of these people who wait around for it to come, and I've come to realize, I need to make it happen. Also, go for someone you'll be happy with. Sure, there are a lot of physically attractive people out there, but how happy would you be with some of them? There are some shallow, mean people out there who have it easy because they are attractive. Don't be one dimensional. Throwing this one out there, be patient. The best things that happen usually don't happen over night. There are a lot of people who want to know the people they are dating at a slow pace. Appreciate and respect that, since the longer you're dating, the better things can be. Finally, believe in yourself. You have qualities that people are looking for. Know that, appreciate these qualities, and use them to your advantage.

Wow, there you go, my dating blog. I would love feedback, such as additional tips, thoughts, or even places to meet the future love of your life.

Hope you are all doing well and to hear from all of you soon!

Check ya later!

Clint

Alright, here's your bonus (like all of my MySpace posts): the song below is one is about making the first move. Yeah, it's a little creepy, but I think it gets this point across.

Unemployed Boyfriend
By Everclear, 1999

[Answering machine:] "Hi, this is Peggy. Leave me a nice message or I'll kill ya."

"Hey Peggy, it's me. You are never going to believe what happened to me today. I'm sittin' at the unemployment office, waitin' on my loser of a caseworker, in one of those nasty chairs, when from out of nowhere, this total stranger walks right up to me, sits down, then leans over and says something like, 'This is gonna sound a little obsessive.'"

This is gonna sound a little obsessive
This is gonna sound a little bit strange
I have one thing to say
Before I turn and I walk away

This is gonna sound a little impulsive
This is gonna sound a little insane
I know you don't know me yet
But you and I, we will be together someday
Someday

I know, I know, I sound like I'm on drugs
Listen to me when I say
That ever since when I first saw you
Sittin' on your car outside
You asked for a cigarette
I couldn't stop starin' at your eyes

Ever since when I first saw you
Looking bored in that plastic chair
With the lights of the office around you
Those blond streaks, they look so pretty in your black hair
You look cool and alternative with that disaffected stare
Yeah you want people to think that you just don't care

Hey you can be with me
Yeah 'cause I just might be the one
Who will treat you like you're perfect
Who will always make you come
Hey you can be with me
Yes I will always let you win
I will never be like those other guys
I will never be your unemployed boyfriend

"Can you believe he said that to me? To me, of all people! I can't even remember the last time a guy took me out on a date and actually paid for it!"

This is gonna sound a little bit out there
This is gonna sound a little insane
I keep having the same dream
You will be the mother of my children someday
Someday

I heard you sleep with that obnoxious guy
I know he is in that famous band
You look so sad when you are with him
Yes I never see him reach to hold your hand

Yeah you can be with me
Yes I will treat you like a queen
I will go to all those chick flick movies
That I really don't want to see
Yeah you can be with me
No I will never let you down

I will never make out with your girlfriend
When I know you're not around
Yes you can be with me
Yeah I just might be the one
Who will treat you like you're special
I will always make you come

You can be with me
Yes I will always let you win
I will never be like those other guys
I will never be like those other guys
I will never be your unemployed boyfriend

"Can you believe this? I mean, can this be for real?"

No!

"Then he takes my hand, writes down his number, and just walks away."
Whoa!

"I mean, wow. But you know, the weird thing is, he's actually kind of cute, in a really intense way. Kinda like Perry Farrell, you know. Intense, but sensitive. Anyway, I told my bitchy sister about it, and she just laughed at me. I told her I'm really excited about this! That I have a really good feeling about this guy! I told her, 'This could be the guy.' I'm like..."

Some Perspectives and Truths... and a Little Fun...

Warning: the first part of this blog entry is deep, emotional, and is about my innermost feelings... if you don’t care (and I understand if you don’t), skip down to the fun part.

Greetings readers. For those of you who were avid readers of my MySpace blog, I apologize for not keeping my nine month pace of every week recently. I also apologize because, eventually, I plan on adding those blog entries on this blog, probably with a little more added to them (it’s like when the band re-releases a CD with six new songs on it... I won’t point out any names, but the band’s name starts with an “F” and ends in “oo Fighters”... you can imagine how much that angers me... at least this is free though). Now that I’ve rambled with filler, I will tell you this: Nothing new to report. That’s right. Same job, same condo, same car, still no dog, no girlfriend, and no money... Yeah, I’m not thrilled about it either. Like all my posts, I wanted to include a picture. The one above of, Amy, Me, and Ashley was from when we went "camping" in Gunnison, I just haven't had a chance to post it anywhere until now.

What I wanted to share this time was some of my inner feelings and perspectives I’ve learned about my life lately (this is the part the warning above was talking about). Some of you realized these views when you were 9, some won’t realize it until your 49, and others won’t realize this at all... and that’s cool. Different strokes for different folks (who learned recently learned perspectives I did when I was 9, that I will when I’m 49, and that I will never learn). Without further delay:

• I have learned that life doesn’t always have to be heading in a new direction. For the first time in my life, I feel like things have slowed down. To be honest, I don’t know how to handle it. I feel like something should be coming down the pipeline. This year in itself has been go go go. New roles at work, new condo, new car, then BAM... nothing. Sure, I’ll be looking to get a dog sometime soon, and sure, I would love to start seriously dating someone, but no set time is in place for anything right now, and it’s different for me. I’m hoping I can adjust and enjoy it sooner than later, because, as we all already know, it won’t last forever.

• I'm getting kinda sick of this "I look out for me" attitude the world seems to be rockin' right now. Work, friends, people I don't even now... what's the?! Please... Apparently you've never heard of "game theory". The theory goes like this: If we all work together and make this the most tolerable to place to live, everyone benefits. But, there's always that one person/group of people that see how to take advantage of this situation to make themselves happier at the expense of everyone else... This leads to everyone then working to catch up to these selfish people and look out only for themselves, leaving the situation where is started and not at it's best... Think about this... I don't know why people don't live by the "Golden Rule" these days, but whatever.

• To go along with the point above, there are people who act this way because they're "pretty"... Okay, yes, as a society, we seem to treat you pretty nice because we're all looking for attractive people to be around for whatever reason (this is human nature, but it should only go so far...), but you know, just because you're naturally pretty doesn't mean you're better than everyone else... and guess what? Karma exists. What goes around, comes around, so don't be surprised if your looks fade someday and not only are people not as nice to you, some won't even acknowledge your existance...

• Moving on, I’ve realized it could be a good thing I don’t have a girlfriend. Why would I say that? Well, a number of reasons. Now that things have slowed down, I can focus a little on me that I would usually be devoting to others. As most of you know, I feel like I have no money these days, maybe not paying for dinners, dancing, drinks, driving, dates, and any other “d” word you can think of is a good thing right now. Instead, I can focus on getting in better shape, enjoying friends and family, seeing the movies I want to see, and possibly giving my attention to "Man’s best friend"... After all, I can’t single forever... right?...

• ... With that said, I don’t think being single is going to tell me much more about me that I don’t already know. I’ve been learning about me for the last 25 years (being single). I need to learn more about others, especially about someone I think would be worth making sacrifices for, but more importantly, I need to learn about me in a serious relationship, since I have really no experience at this point...

• Speaking of sacrifice, I’ve learned that relationships are going to take some serious compromises. I hear way too many people complain how their husband or wife (I know a lot of married people these days) won’t do what they want to do. To be that close to someone, sacrifices have to be made. Happiness has to come from being with that person vs. from objects, events, or people that you would spend a lot of time with otherwise (don’t get me wrong, you don’t need to spend all your time with this person, but come on). However, it shouldn’t be TOO much sacrifice. The last girlfriend I had didn’t sacrifice at all while I sacrificed too much, and obviously that didn’t work.

• Finally, ladies, if you read this, make sure you read the entire bullet point. I am not looking for friends right now. If I’m talking to a young lady, I won’t lie, I’m learning more about her because I want to take an interest in learning more and see what happens. I have enough people that I hang out with for fun and/or talk to often, or “friends”. With that said, I will gladly take on friends if things don’t work out because someone’s not interested. I just want to make sure that my intentions are clear stated. Sure, if you want to be friends, it’s a little demoralizing, but I’ll get over it.

Okay, I'm done with my "rant", now the fun part:

Below is the list of my top summer movies... 300, Grindhouse, Good Luck Chuck, and others you might expect to see are not included because they were released before May or After August. Check it out.

1) Knocked Up – Laughed the ENTIRE movie (probably even during the parts I wasn’t suppose to). Very original, great casting, lots of one liners, and just overall hilarious. And, as a bonus, it's aleady out on DVD (if anyone is looking for a gift for me).

2) Transformers – I liked the cartoon (not as much as other, but I did like it), and they did a great job adapting this from animation to “real life”. Bringing back the original voice of Optimist Prime was brilliant. Action was great, acting was sufficient, and Megan Fox is my “summer girl of 2007”.

3) Pirates of the Caribbean 3 – A great ending to a great trilogy of movies. Given, we all knew what was going to happen, but who cares? Johnny Depp’s “Jack Sparrow” is simply one of kind and a hypnotic character. The story was great despite being based on an amusement ride, and this is a flick I look forward to dissecting on DVD.

4) Superbad – I was excited since day one on this one, and it didn’t disappoint... after I thought about it. After I saw it, this movie was not this high on my rankings... But, the more I thought and talked about, the more I loved it. Great acting in this by the “kids” and the cops, and really funny (even though there are not a whole lot of one liners in this one). And come on, McLovin’? That was just too outrageous to ignore.

5) The Simpsons Movie – I know, many of you expected this to be #1, and with good reason. However, this movie added fuel to my fire that 30-minute animated shows should not be turned into movies... It’s like watching one long episode that seems to run too long since it’s 3 times longer than the show (that we are accustomed to). Other than that though, this movie was great. Very funny, not too long (for a movie), silly plot, silly characters, and Spider Pig. Kudos to the writers and producers for waiting 18 years to do this. South Park was smart to do theirs when they did, but if the Simpsons’ Movie would have came out 13 years ago, it would not have been as good or as funny.

6) Shrek 3 – You know I’m going to love anything with Mike Myers... And this was no exception. And let’s face it, Justin Timberlake has earned my respect since this flick and his Saturday Night Live performance (with the catch song about giving your girl a box with a gift inside). I need to see it again.

7) Live Free, Die Hard – Bruce Willis kicks ass... I think even more now then back then. Typical Die Hard movie, with Justin Long doing his thing, Kevin Smith making an appearance, and “Kumar” playing a henchman. Can’t go wrong.

8) Ratatouille – Pixar has not disappointed me yet. This movie was entertaining and heartwarming. You gotta ask how many more great concepts they have left. I liked the idea that I didn’t recognize any of the voices and did not have that distraction.

9) I Now Pronounce you Chuck and Larry – Adam Sandler and Kevin James never disappoint. Funny concept, funny movie. Yeah, Jessica Biel is very attractive, but I don’t think she adds much to the movie. All the “Happy Madison” actors are in this one, so you know it’s full of quick punch lines and physical humor.

10) Spiderman 3 – Action was great, but the story was lacking. I still have problem seeing “Eric Forman” (from that 70’s show) playing Venom, but he wasn’t horrible. This was my least favorite of all the Spiderman movies... maybe I need to see it again.

11) 1408 – I don’t usually like scary movies, but this one was pretty good. John Cusack and Samuel L. Jackson are always decent, and the movie had lots of psychological thrills and things to make you jump. This was a flick that had you at the end of your seat the whole time.

12) Balls of Fury – ... Christopher Walken... enough said... but, to go on, this flick was very “Hot Shots”... really cheesy, but pretty funny.

13) Harry Potter 5 – The bottom of my list contains Mr. Potter. I think if you have not read the books, you would have loved this. But, being someone who has read them all (yes, I know how it ends), they have just been taking too much out of these movies to really enjoy them. I dunno how they are going to do the 5th and 6th ones, especially since they can’t cut out much from either book.

I would love to hear your feedback about any part of this. Thanks for listening. Happy to have this out there ;)

Hope you're doing great and loving life. Go Broncos! Go my fantasy teams, which aren't doing too much right now, and, probably most importantly right now, Go Rockies!

Check ya later,

Clint

I owe you this...

Yes, yes, I know I owe you all some pictures and an update... so here we go.

2007 has been an interesting year so far... very eventful actually. Lots of events and changes in addition to lots of new things and fun. My job hasn't changed much, but the company I work for has seen some drastic changes... never a dull moment. As for the family, they've been pretty much the same, which is a good thing. My "love life" has been intersting. I've actually spent some time dating a number of women and have learned a lot about the dating process and mentality in addition to who I am and what I want. Currently, I am not seeing anyone regularly, but we'll see what the future holds. And, yes, I've been busy going out and having fun with friends. Not a whole lot of concerts this year thus far, but I have seen every major sports team at least once this year (Nuggets, Avalanche, Crush, Mammouth, Rockies, 14ers, Rage, seeing the Outlaws on Saturday... missing anyone?). So, overall, life is good. But, to give you some more chronologic detail, see below.

Let's start out with February. Interesting month. On the 2nd, I gave up alcohol for six months (I'm currently more than five months in). I did this due to medication and for personal goals (Lent was a good time, and I decided to just keep going once it was over). It's been an interesting experience. It hasn't been difficult to give up, though I do miss the taste of beer and other drinks and the social aspect that comes along with that. It has been tough with some of the events that have happened since February 2nd, including St. Patty's on a Saturday, my housewarming party, and getting in a car accident (details on these events later...).

Back to February, on the 23rd, I finally got rid of the long hair for good. For a fundraiser to benefit Junior Achievement, work raffled off a chance to give me a haircut. After the dust had settled, my VP won the chance to cut my hair. I had to keep whatever the winner (VP) did from the 23rd (Friday) through the 26th (Monday). It was really embarrasing, but we raised over $700, so it was worth it. See some of the pictures here.

March is when I actually purchased my new place. I was busy on the weekends looking for my new bach pad. I'm happy with the results. See the pictures by clicking here. But, when I wasn't deciding my the purchase of my first home, I had a little fun. I went with the other two amigo's to Snow Patrol at the Fillmore, Mat Kearney at the Ogden, and Carly's Housewarming party. See those pictures here.

April was when I (meaning most of the work was done by my Dad, Mom, and Mike... thanks again) moved into "The Penthouse". The decorating was done by me believe it or not. See the pictures above for how the place looked before my housewarming party. I look forward to decorating more and completing some projects around this place.

May was when I actually I had my housewarming party. I personally had a great time having everyone over to see my abode. Click here to see the pictures from the May 19th party.

June was interesting. I turned 26, went to four separate wedding receptions, had game night at the rents, and was hit by drunk driver (I'm okay, but I'm pretty sure my car is totaled though)... Pictures of the weddings, game night, and car are here.

And, finally, so far in July has been busy. Had Matthew and Stacie's birthday, the "Film on the Rocks" showing of
"The Big Lebowski", went camping with my family, and went to the Renaissance Fair. Birthday pictures are here, Film on the Rocks pics here, Camping pics are here, and "Ren Fest" pics are here.

So there you go, 2007 so far. Who knows what the rest of 2007 holds. I'll let you know. Regardless, hope you're doing great and loving life. Drop me an update soon!

Check ya later!

Clint