Election 2012...

... Can't wait for this to be over.

Anyone else sick of all the political ads? Seriously, I don't watch much TV, but every time I do, I hear about some candidate doing something. Let's just vote already...

... Or maybe not. I feel most Americans don't really do any research anymore about who to vote for. We hear things on TV, and maybe the radio, but that's about it. I feel like people don't discuss politics because they get too angry. That's a shame.

This blog will go on for a bit, and there will be many thoughts shared, but if you take two things away from this reading, let it be:

1) Do your research, and 2) VOTE!

I know some of you will claim that you do research, but I'm telling you right now, watching Fox News and/or MSNBC is not enough. These two stations, while actually reporting news, do swing a certain and opposing ways when reporting on politics, so things can be a little skewed. Also, quit sending e-mail and posting pictures on facebook/social media that have no citation go along with it. The other day, I got an e-mail talking about how Michelle and the Obama girls were wearing South African apparel during the Olympics, accompanied by a picture of the ladies wearing blankets, jackets, and shirts saying South Africa... So I took three minutes and Googled "Michelle Obama" and "South Africa"... Sure enough, the ladies were in South Africa back in June of 2012 (the link is the first link that appeared when Googled). Again, do your research, don't believe everything you see or hear.

To go along with that, make sure you're voting for someone because of what they're about, not soley because you don't want to vote for someone else. This election especially has been bad about this. It has turned into hate for Obama (You don't think he proved he was a US citizen before his time in office in Chicago and for the US? Still? Really? Come on, give your country more credit than that). Watch people's cars. You'll see more "Obama Out of Office" stickers than you will "Romney in Office" stickers... Seriously, you'll be surprised. Under this logic, you would rather have Hitler in office than Obama... correct? See? You come off as a hate filled ignoramus. Hence, doing your research is important on why to vote for some one, not just the reason to vote them out.

And listen, I know things may not be ideal in this country sometimes, but if you don't vote, you really have no right to complain. Trust me, I understand that voting can seem insignificant and as a waste of time, but if more people start voting, and get the momentum going, it will matter a lot more. Always remember that politicians will be looking for re-election, and therefore, will always take public opinion into consideration. So, with that said, make sure to register/update/confirm your voter registration by October 9th (for Colorado citizens, go to http://www.sos.state.co.us/).

Thanks for reading!.. Seriously, if you stopped here, I would be happy. but, if you're interested in reading more, great! I'm now going to talk a little about why I'm voting for Obama, both due to his stance and why I would never vote his opponent (and why no one really should). Hold on tight.

First, want to see what Obama has done so far? Make sure you spend a few minutes on whattheheckhasobamadonesofar.com.

I know that the economy keeps coming up... why wouldn't it? But you have to remember that Obama inherited that issue, he didn't create it. And in the past four years, things have gotten better thanks to work Obama's administration has completed.

Listen, I'm not huge on paying taxes. Like you, I don't like having anything taken out of my paycheck. But also like you, I like having maintained roads to drive on and police to enforce the laws. I think everyone does. Obama thinks those who use should all pay their fair share, as he stated in his last "State of the Union" address. Taxes currently and potential fund a lot of great things for our country and our citizens, so why get rid of them? Hence, let's pay our fair share and use taxes to help further fund our economy!

Healthcare is huge... for everyone all the time. "Obamacare" isn't bad and won't really affect some of you (for a while), you just need to understand it. Check out the Wikipedia page and see for your self (look into the citations if interested). Not only will this help with healthcare costs for those that are uninsured, but it will also help with reducing the need for medicare in the future... Which means either fewer withdrawls from your paycheck and/or that money going elsewhere... Funny how this has worked in other countries too...

Now, why wouldn't you vote for Mitt Romney and Paul Ryan? This part is easy in my opinion, and I'm going to share it by different demographics... ready?

First, as I'm sure my faithful reader will be shocked to see (I'm being sarcastic), is the LGBT community. Obama came out and said he support Gay Marriage and Civil Unions. Romney went out of his way to say the exact opposite once Obama said he was in support... Really? What kind of guys comes out and says something like that, just to differential from his opponent? I know he actually believes that the constitutional definition of marriage is between a man and a woman (since marriage is defined in the constitution and all...), but that's just it, it's a belief. Why should your beliefs hold down other people in a place where we are proud of freedom? Isn't the belief that God will judge and sort this out... Now, I am aware that the states are in charge of marriage laws, I get that. But you don't think the President influences those decisions? Are you crazy? ... Okay, enough beating of dead horse... after all, this isn't news to any of you.

Second, let's talk about "minorities" (I use quotes because the "minority" is quickly becoming the "majority", and that's not a bad thing). The first thing that comes to mine is the beginning of fairer treatment. Your predecessors had to fight for it, no doubt. And their fight has been everyone's gain. Same is going to go for gay marriage. This is a civil rights issue. How can you support someone who doesn't believe in civil rights? That alone should infuriate you, but I'll keep going. Did anyone else notice how many minorities were at the RNC vs. the DNC? Romeny doesn't really seem to be putting a lot of effort into non white voters, slightly increasing time and resources recently... I wonder how minorities feel about Romeny's "fake tan" during a recent Univision event (even if it was an actual tan and/or make up, you have to admit it's suspicious...)

Third, Women. See the above because the civil rights issues in this country recently affected the ladies... and it still does. And I can't believe how big of an issue abortion is in this country. It's not like we're not on our way to being over populated. Again, this comes down to beliefs. But we're not going to allow abortion even in cases of rape ("legitimate" or not)? How does that make sense? The father obviously had some kind of issue, there could be physical ones as well. And you think raising a kid that was not even considered and associated with a traumatic event in a women's life won't have a negative effect on the whole family? Are you mad? That's one of example of how being born would have a horrible consequences for all involved, and if something isn't alive, why would you want it to be? Now, I know Romney has said he is okay with abortion for women in cases of rape and incest, and maybe it's just me, but Romney is starting to look like someone who will say anything to get elected and be a push over once in office... To go along with this, Romney doesn't seem to understand that women's health differs from Men and requires different resources... Makes me wonder if his wife is getting the care she needs...

Fourth, let's go with the middle class, or even the 99 percent. Romney's tax plan, any way he says it, hurts the middle class one way or another. Anyway you slice it, the "arithmetic" does not make sense.

Finally, how many times has he fumbled over his own words? The "47% percent of Americans" comment at a fundraiser, anyway you look at it, is a debacle. Things like this make me feel like he doesn't really care about America, or the position for the right reasons... Also makes me wonder how easily he can be bought out... The fact that his campaign is being annoyed by "fact checkers" should raise a red flag.

So basically, if you're a rich, white, straight man, by all means, vote for Romney. He has you (and his own) best interests in mind. Bill Clinton said it best during his speech at the DNC: If you want a winner-take- all, you’re-on-your-own society, you should support the Republican ticket. Unfortunately, that's completely true...

So there you go, for those reason and more, I'm voting Barack Obama and Joe Biden come November 6th, but as I said in the beginning, don't take my word for it... Go out, do your own research, and VOTE! That's the American way...

Oh Chick Fil A…

...If you’re like me, you are sick and tired of hearing about Chick Fil A... but if you’re like me, you know that it’s necessary. I’ve been reading all the comments and thoughts via social media, and I’m starting to realize that people do not really understand the issue that’s being debated and considered... I’m going to try to illustrate what the issue is with a living example... strap in.

I’ve seen a lot of comments stating some around "its Dan Cathy’s first amendment right to say and feel as he does…" That’s right. No one is arguing that regardless if you do or do not agree. In fact, the LGBT community has been aware of this fact for sometime. The issue arose because Dan's comments landed at a time when the country is more fractured than ever about the issue of same-sex marriage. The real life example is this:

"I don’t think Dan Cathy and his wife Rhonda should be allowed to remain married because they are ugly people, inside and out."

Okay, fine. No big deal.

Now, let’s say I’m president (Dan Cathy is not CEO, his pops it) of a company… Clint Co. I make that same statement as president of Clint Co. Fine, whatever, no change. Here’s where it gets ugly. Let’s say I give some of the profits from Clint Co. to some organizations, including organizations that believe and fight for only marriage of people who are beautiful inside and out and fight against the opposite. One of those organizations it even a "certified hate group" that can be known to be violent against this…

How is THAT okay?

I’ll tell you this, it’s not. Click here to see what I’m talking about.

Back to reality, I understand why the LGBT turned the other way for so long. Chick Fil A actually has some redeeming qualities. I like the food, and studies have shown they are one of the healthiest fast food establishments out there (depending what you order). Have you ever gone into a restaurant and had an issue with the staff? They are very polite, professional, and happy to work with customers. The restaurants are kid friendly and have lots of family support. And even though they are closed on Sunday (when people seem to really crave the food), I appreciate giving the employees Sunday off. Before you say anything else, I’m aware that some of these values stem from the companies religious stance. Cool. But can’t these be human values or even "American Values" as stated by Bill Marriot? Check out the link, see that there are other "head honchos" that have strong religious beliefs, but by no means do they make that their professional demeanor that reflects on an entire company. The Marriott is proof... I suddenly want to get a drink and stay at one of Bill’s hotels.

You all know my thoughts on Gay/Civil Rights, and that is what has stemmed everything in this debate. But this raised the stakes when personal beliefs stated mixing will business, and basically causing a company to become a bigot. This has nothing to do with chicken, but with people. I am sure that every single person on this planet, regardless of how strongly you feel, knows someone who is homosexual. These people might be in hiding due to your beliefs, and who knows what that will lead to (see the link), but this is something that affects people we know... Keep that all in mind the next time you wait in long lines to support a company that gives the money you spend to organizations against the orientation of your friends, co workers, acquaintances, and/or family.

As always, happy to discuss, so comment, especially if you think I missed something, am wrong about something, or you have a valid argument. If you want to read more about this issue, check out this blog.

Really?..

...REALLY?

That is my reaction to the Aurora Theater Shooting that happened the early morning of Friday, July 20th, during a midnight screening of The Dark Knight Rises. Really? Did this really happen? Did someone really do this to innocent people? Did this really happen in the Aurora, Colorado? Was this guy thinking he was a super villain, really?

Before I say anything else, of course my heart, thoughts, and prayers go out to those patrons in the theater, those who know the victims, and the community of Aurora and the Denver Metro area. I can't imagine what some of you are going through and I hope that you know you have loved ones & others ready to assist in any way possible.

With that said, I don't think I know anyone directly affected, but that doesn't mean I don't care. In fact, when I hear a child being injured or killed with this, I'm concerned. I have a nine year old nephew who's into superheros, and he lives in Aurora (and frequents the theater where the incident occured), so of course that hits close to home (he wasn't there). There was a three month old injured (and released from the hospital). There were kids, mothers, fathers, uncles, aunts, friends, co workers, and just people in that theater, so of course everyone should be sympathetic and supportive. I appreciate all the facebook statuses stating feelings and emotions, but I hope people are doing it because they feel that way, not because they feel they have to (and I believe the majority are illegitimately saddened and upset about the turn of events). If you want to assist further, make sure to check out The Red Cross for details.

"Why?" is a common question... as it should be. Why did this dude, James Holmes, who is 24 and a neurosciences student at CU Boulder a month ago do this?.. My initially thought is, and I hate to say this, but I think this guy took the movies was too seriously. James had his third floor apartment booby trapped, basically ready for authorities to investigate... This sounds like the mind set of the Joker from The Dark Knight, portrayed by Heath Ledge in the second movie of the current Batman trilogy. Neurosciences was something that was explored in Batman Begins by the Scarecrow, played by Cillian Murphy... This guy wanted to be a villain. I'm not saying that's normal behavior by any means, but he wanted to be a bad guy, and he planned for that for sometime. I'm wondering what else will come out of this about him, but I hope he's under close surveillance, as the Joker hurt people once he was incarcerated in the movie... Either way, I will actually be praying for this man's family and for him. Something happened, somewhere, some time, for someone to turn out this way.

I've already heard some political notes/messages come out of this. While I completely agree this is not the time, I wanted to quickly address them. Gun Control, always a fun topic, but I don't think that it means much here. If someone wants a gun, they'll get a gun. Having tighter restrictions would not have prevented this. It's the person with the gun, not the the gun itself. If James couldn't get a hold of a gun, I'm guessing he would have found other methods (in fact, a gun could have limited the impact vs. him building a bomb and blowing up a theater, for example). I've also heard this was an attack "Judeo-Christian Beliefs"... WHAT? Really? This dude, James, is nuts. He wasn't proving a point or doing this for any "valiant" reason. He's not trying to prove a point about an ideal or movement. This was a selfish attack, one that is isolated and will probably never happen again. "Why nobody else in the theater had a gun to take down the shooter?" Really? Because guns and movie theaters do not mix, that's why! That's just another accident or problem waiting to happen, and thank goodness no one did that. But this isn't a political issue, quit trying to make it one.

I am pleased to see some action taking place nationally and internationally to show the significance of the incident. Both presidential candidates have released statements, while Obama cuts short Florida campaign trip because of Aurora shootings. Meanwhile, across the pond, Red carpet premiere of "Dark Knight" canceled after shootings. I'm happy to see this in being taken seriously as situation that could happen anyway, to anyone (not by anyone), and needs to be examined and observed.

Colorado seems to be a place where lots of craziness happens, especially recently. I know people are reminded of Columbine with this. Is there some reason these both happened in Colorado?.. Nope, strictly coincidental. The high school photo of James is from a high school in San Diego. I'm guessing he moved here for work or school, maybe another reason, but that alone should say there is no connection between the two. Why did I mention this? Because I never want to hear something like "what's in the water in Colorado?" or "that altitude make people crazy, huh?" kind of remark... uncalled for and completely unjustified.

So here are my initial thoughts on this horrible incident. I'm very interested to see what else comes out of this. Like I said, REALLY? It still seems surreal to me. This was a one time thing that will lead to changes, but most importantly, we need to be there for one another, one way or another. Open your heart, discuss, donate, pray, smile. All these can help people and a community that didn't deserve a senseless act to happen to them. Always remember what's important in life, and do not take it for granted. God Bless every one of you.

Clint Crockett's Guide to Fantasy Football...

... It's America's pastime...

... Okay, not really, but based on it's popularity, you would think so (there's even an awesome show called "The League" based on fantasy football).

So it's July, and people are already getting excited for the upcoming football season. Training camps, preseason, trades, rankings, really, it's a little insane... and personally, I wouldn't have it any other way. But this post isn't about the NFL of NCAA football seasons... well, not directly anyway...

... This post is about Fantasy Football, and by the time you finish reading this, I hope you understand the appeal and mechanics associated with this nationally popular game.

So the first thing anyone needs to know about Fantasy Football is this: YOU DON'T HAVE TO KNOW FOOTBALL TO PLAY/APPRECIATE THE GAME!... I know you don't believe me, but here's the truth. Fantasy Football is a game based on statistics, trends, and analysis, not on physicality or cunning. Let's face it, this has always been the excuse for "the jocks" to play "their" version of Dungeons and Dragons. So even if you don't watch football, you can play fantasy football, you just need a little education. In fact, fantasy football can help you appreciate the game more (it has for me!.. And by the way, I've been in leagues where the person who knows nothing about the game and picks players based on "how hot they are" has won the whole thing...)

Have you ever heard the term, "Touchdown?" "Interception?" "First Down?" More than likely, you have, and more than likely you know that those terms mean "crossing the scoring plane (End Zone) with the football in a controlled manner" (touchdown), "catching a ball thrown by the opposing team" (interception), and "completing a 10 yard progression by throwing or running with a controlled football in four tries of less by the offense" (first down). There you go, you know more than you thought you did. Let's work off that. Quarterback (QB), Running back (RB), Wide Receiver (WR), Tight End (TE), Kicker (K), and Defense (DEF)... Heard those terms? Those are the positions in football that are important to most Fantasy Football leagues (you can do others, but these are the basics). Quarterback runs the offense and can throw the ball to a receiver or run the ball himself. Running backs are set behind the quarterback and usually run the ball forward. Wide Receivers usually catch the ball thrown by the QB (but can run as well). Tight ends block for a QB, RB, or WR, but can be used as a WR as well (think of this as a "hybrid" position). Of course, the kicker kicks that ball, sometimes between the goal posts to score points, and the defense is responsible to limit the opposing team's offense scoring...

... So how does all that work it's way into Fantasy football? Great question. For offensive players (QB, RB, WR, TE), through yards and scores. This can vary between leagues, but basically, player receive points for running the ball forward, throwing the ball forward, and catching the ball further than the previous location (or "line of scrimmage"). So, the more yards a player gets, the more points your team receives. Yes, it is that simple. Then, if a player has a ball controlled and passes the End Zone for a touchdown, the offensive players involved will receive additional points (i.e. if a running back crosses the plane, he gets the points, but if a WR gets into the end zone, both the WR AND QB will get points for the yards and touchdown. Same goes for a TE). As for Kickers, they receive points every time they kick a ball between the "uprights" of the "goal post" (The Fork Looking pole at the back of an end zone). Kickers kick balls after a touchdown in the deal elects to go for an extra point (1 point in football) or, if the team was not able to get into the end zone in the allotted time/attempts, they will elect for go for a field goal (three points in football). In Fantasy football, extra points are always one point, but field goals can range from three and above depending on the distant of this kick on the field.

How does the defense work? Well, kind of different, but kind of the same. It's different because they get points for when their opponent does not score. For example, a defense might start their game with 10 points, and loose three points for every touchdown the other team scores (again, rules vary per league). Defensive scoring is the same because defenses get points if they score a touchdown (also points for interceptions and recovered fumbles, which "occur when a player that has control of the football loses the football while within bounds.").

To wrap up the points section on this, note that negative points can and will happen. If a player loses a ball (fumble), he might be award negative points. Same go for a QB's interception and/or a Kicker's missed field go. League rules vary, so make sure you know the rules ahead of time!

Okay, we now know players and points, so how exactly does that all get put together to form a team to play against other teams? Another great question. First, you have to draft players. For those unfamiliar a draft, it's an event where professional sports teams "draft" or add rookie players to their team. Fantasy Football teams do the same thing except draft players currently in the NFL. Usually, draft order is assigned randomly, and this is where all the analysis comes in to draft the players more likely to score and/or accumulate yardage while not losing points with their actions. There are restrictions to how many players you can draft and at what positions. In most leagues, you'll start a QB, a few RBs, a few WR's, a flex position (which can be a RB or WR), a TE, a K, and a DEF. You will also draft "bench players", which are players that you can change out, depending on position, when your "starter" (best player) in that position is on Bye week (not playing that week), hurt, and so on. Another thought about the draft is most fantasy football leagues are won during the middle and late rounds (or turns) of the draft. You'll hear terms like "keeper league" or "Auction Draft" mentioned, but until you get more into Fantasy Football, don't worry about these terms.

So the draft is a great time to socialize and to have some fun as a group. In fact, this might be the only chance you have to get together as a group and have some fun, so draft parties are highly recommended. Lots of bars and restaurants provides deals, goodies, and discounts to participants of draft parties that schedule ahead of time... for example...

Locally in Denver:

• Tavern (all locations)- $100 for up to 12 people to drink all domestic and import beer they want for two hours (during draft). Other specials as well.
• Lodo's Bar and Grill - 30/person all you can eat wings and all you can drink Coors Light.

Nationally:

• Buffalo Wild Wings - Exclusive BW3 Draft Kit & $100 in free food to use on a future visit.
• Old Chicago - $6.99/person All you can eat Pizza, beer specials, and free draft kit.
• Dave & Buster's - Book your fantasy draft party at Dave & Buster's and receive a free Pro Football Weekly Fantasy Football Guide (while supplies last), free CBS Draft Kit complete with draft board, stickers, and worksheets (while supplies last), free room rental and WiFi, 10% off food and non-alcoholic beverages, and free $10 in game play per person.
• Hooters
• Twin Peaks - Miller Light drink specials and free queso and chips during the draft, plus $5 weekly incentive for the commissioner (in addition to T-shirt, mousepad, and koozie). Board and Pens also provided.
• Sherlock Pub Company (Including Baker Street Pub and Grill) - Free Draft Kit (Draft Board, Stickers, Koozies) & $100 Free food to be used during a future visit.

If there are others, let us know in the comments below. But make sure to arrangement and book your draft party early! Live draft times and local establishments do have limitations and could fill up fast! I always try to arrange the draft as late in the preseason as possible (late August, early September), but I arrange everything as soon as possible, usually early July. If you need Wifi for an online draft, make sure the establishment can handle the bandwidth. And if you go somewhere to draft, get their early to set up, just in case there are issues (technical or otherwise).

So, you've had your draft, you have your players, there's a league, players, and schedule. You have set up your roster with your best players for week one... is the fun over? Of course not! In fact, this is where it gets interesting. Now the one on one match ups start happening. This is where you get to run your mouth and try to talk a big game... this is a big part of fantasy football, so make sure to get your fill :) Also, you might have to adjust your line up as players excel or decline in performance, get hurt, have bye weeks, among other reasons.

Finally, note that your final roster at the end of the season will not (and should not) match what is was at the beginning of the season (player wise). As players get hurt or possibly even cut from their team, you'll need to replace them. Also, some players "breakout" during the season and must be owned and played. This is where the "waiver wire" comes in. In most pro sports, the waiver wire is a process where a player is dropped from a team and other teams are allowed to add that player to their roster, priority usually given to the team with the worse record (and if that player is not claimed in a certain amount of time, they become a "Free Agent" and can be picked up by any team). Same rule applies for fantasy football. When a player is dropped, the team with the worse head to head record can add that player. If they do not take action, the next team with the worse record can, and so on. This also applies every week after the games are played for every "available" player, to allow teams time to adjust and plan on their next move.

Yes, their are playoffs, and yes, they vary from league to league. Usually, only a top ranked number of teams make it, some with a by week or "free win" depending on their record. Some start sooner than others (and should as the last games of the season some players might "rest" as their team in already in the NFL playoffs). Some leagues have trophies for the winner, other have cash prizes (these usually come with an entrance fee), and some are just for fun. Regardless, you're always playing to be the best, now you have to do it keep playing (towards the championship). Plan accordingly!

So there you go, the course of a fantasy football season along with a crash course on the rules and requirements. There is lots of information on the interweb for the novice, including ESPN, Yahoo! and the NFL's websites. Twitter is an awesome resource for following player news, and I would straong suggest following Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter), Matthew Berry (@MatthewBerryTMR), Jay Glazer (@JayGlazer), and John Clayton (@ClaytonESPN), among others. I also think Rotoworld is a great resource for news and rankings (like I said, all about statistics, trends, and analysis).

Best of luck this season to all of those who play! If you have any addition thoughts, questions, suggestions, or comments, leave me a comment, so the rest the world can see it!

Word!

Clint

The Proposal

For anyone that has had any interaction with me the last three years knows that I have been involved with, talking about, and learning with a special woman... One Carolyn Brug. Well, in case you didn't know, I love that woman. She makes me smarter, happier, makes me see things in a new light, and listens to me, among roughly four billion things that make me a better person. And after being together for over three years, living together for almost a year, and raising a puppy together for a few months, I decided it was time to make a commitment to her... This blog is about that commitment and the process to make that commitment become a moment and event Care will never forget...

The Ring

The first thing that pops in everyone's mind for a proposal is the ring, for obvious reasons. And this was where I started for my proposal as well. I started by asking around for thoughts and suggestions from those I know have gone through this process before. I got a ton of good advice, and even if I didn't use it, I was listening and appreciate the help. Anyway, originally, I intended on going to all kinds of jewelry stores, but ended up only going to one: Shane Company. Why did I decide on Shane Co? Well, between the no commission salesforce, selection, prices, locations, warranty, and all the recommendations, I felt I really couldn't go wrong.

Carolyn always said she wanted some thing more down-to-earth when it came to her ring... But I got to thinking, she'll wear this for the rest of her life, so it can't be TOO minimal. Care does like tradition and style, so I wanted to get her something established, sporty, classy, simple, yet elegant. The ring pictured was what I decided.

The Blessing

I think one of the most stressful parts of the process is approaching her parents solo to ask for their blessing... and why wouldn't it be, right? Meeting with the people who have always wondered what your intentions were with their child, and doing so without the support you usually have. Given, I'm sure this experience varies from person to person, but I have to think nerves play a part regardless of the preexisting circumstances. Anyway, I asked Mr. and Mrs. Brug to dinner at the Keg Steakhouse because a) it was nice, but not over the top, b) somewhere easy to get to and not too far away and c) Someplace I wanted to try (also, d) I like a good steak). Originally I had thought about taking them to Chad's Grill because that's their favorite restaurant, but decided against it since this is was special occasion, not a common meal.

The meal went better than expected, and I didn't really expect any trouble. It was a delight to sit with Carolyn's parents and discuss my intentions, plans, and appreciation for their daughter. We ended up eating, drinking (mostly water), and being merry for almost three hours. We also talked about lots of happenings, stories, and other people that affect or lives. My mom has always called the Brugs "my other family" and lucklily, they are okay with that, both in name and soon to be actual relation :)

The Proposal

The big event! Finally, months of thought and planning - along with some monetary purchases - come together for one moment to be completely perfect. For weeks, maybe months, I constantly told Carolyn I hadn't really looked at rings yet, or that I wasn't sure how to propose, and at times, I think she fell for it, but the entire time, it made her second guess everything (we all know I'm a planner, including her, so of course I had this under control from the beginning)... She was always afraid we would run out of weekends or time to do this as I told her we would be engaged before my birthday on June 12th.

Initially, the plan was to propose on the morning May 19th. Carolyn has been talking about wanting to take a hot air balloon ride for quite some time, so I took that as a pretty clear clue on what to do. I arranged a "Romantic Flights for Two" through Life Cycle Balloon Adventures for the event. With the help of our friends Layna and Dave Gaffield, we "scheduled" a hike the morning of May 19th in North Boulder so we could have a plan to get her out there. When the 18th came around, I was going to tell her that night to dress and prepare accordingly (we are leaving our place at 5:00). I know she wasn't big on hiking, so I told her we would drive separate so we could leave when we want. After unpacking and getting the balloon airborne, I would propose in the air (I'm assuming that as of that morning when she sees the balloon, she would figure out what was coming). I had a little prepared on what to say, but wanted to "shoot from the hip as well."...

... and what actually happened wasn't that. The weather on the 19th of May turned out to be the exact opposite of what is necessary to fly. The day before was perfect, and the day after was great, so this was either a test or a sign... I went with test. :) I was contemplating a way to actually propose the same weekend, but with our schedules, I didn't see it happening. So, we were postponed until June 3rd. I decided that, no matter what, June 3rd was going to be the day, so I needed to come up with a back up plan... But luckily, the back up plan was unnecessary. Instead of telling Care we were going hiking, I didn't tell her anything the night before. We hung out and I went to bed early (for me) while she went to bed late for her (despite my encouragement to go to bed). I set her phone alarm for 4:00 am to wake her up... and she didn't complain! She had an idea it was coming and was happy to wake up early. We got ready and went to the field at 5:30 and flew Over Boulder and into Lafayette on what seemed to be a perfect day. Shortly before the halfway point of our ride, I handed the camera over to Michael, our pilot, and proposed to Carolyn... mostly shooting from the hip; short and sweet... Thank God she said yes!

So as you can imagine, this is a process. Almost five months from inception to creation. For those of your proposing, makes sure to plan ahead and ask lots of questions. For those of you already proposed to, make sure you remember and appreciate how much effort, energy, money, and time goes into a proposal... Don't get me wrong, it's fun and I enjoyed it, but it's semi nerve racking and, well, scary... But totally worth it! I love you Carolyn, and excited to spend the rest of my life with you!

To see all the pictures, see below

Click here to view these pictures larger

Gay Marriage...

... Really shouldn't be an issue, and especially not this big of an issue, but here we are.

First, I hope this find everyone well. Also, I would love feedback of any kind on this blog either below or on the social media sites where I post this. Finally, don't be surprised if this gets added to or updated as time goes on.

So Gay Marriage and Civil Unions have been all over the news lately, mostly because actions taken in North Carolina and, unfortunately, in Colorado. Both are insane to me, and Colorado just shocks me, not only the final outcome, but what was and could be done to avoid the outcome roughly 3/4 of Americans want (support either gay marriage and/or civil unions, here's one example of gay marriage support from 2011). It's going to be a big deal come election time, even though I thought we were past this. So I'm going to share my responses for what I've heard as reasons to deny homosexuals marriage, then I'll share why I support it... If you have an addition argument for either side, I would love to hear it.

- The most talked argument against gay marriage has always been religion and the bible. This boggles my mind in so many ways. First of all, the Bible is a book. It's not a book of things that actually happened. You can tell me it is, but without any proof or evidence, you're wrong. Some of it might have happened, some of it seems possible even, but you're going to tell me bushes can talk, men can part large bodies of water, and people come back to life.? I understand the point of the stories in the bible, and not saying you shouldn't take lessons and knowledge from it, but don't claim that it's wrong in there and, therefore, wrong in civilization. If we did everything by the bible, there wouldn't really be rapists, just husbands. If we did everything mentioned in this 2000 year old book, slavery would still exist. If we did what was acceptable per the bible, people would not be nice to a lot of people because of self righteous action that would be taken and rewarded... Basically, what I'm saying is you can't pick and choose what you want to use from the bible and what you don't... if you're claiming that's the reason you do something, you better be doing more than denying a certain group of people their rights... By the way, a note from a friend who knows the bible better than anyone else I've met, "... I never actually read that Jesus condemned homosexuality either, although Paul did later on, but his quotes have often been taken out of context (again to "prove" someone's already prejudiced side)". I'm not against religion (many, MANY pros do exist), I am against using it in the land of the free and free of religious rule to hold a group of people down...

... Oh yeah, and I'm pretty sure every religion, even those that have no opinion on gay marriage, revolve around "the golden rule"... Which apparently needs repeating: "Do unto others as you would have them do unto you" (in Christianity, that is how I've heard it recited). How would you feel if a small group of people were holding you "down" because something written long ago "told" them is was wrong? Think about it a second before reading on...

Update - 3/26/2013 - Another thoughts: Our country is not ran by any religion, so even if you think it's morally wrong, it shouldn't matter. I'm not going to claim I know any religion very well, but isn't the judgment left to the higher powers, and not us? So quit judging and let people celebrate their love in the traditional manner... if they go to hell, well, that's their problem, not yours.

- "The sanctity of marriage will be ruined..." Vs. now? What part? Please clear this up for me... From what I understand, gay marriage will lessen your marriage by... uh... hmm... I guess I don't know. Per Wikipedia, "Marriage (also called matrimony or wedlock) is a social union or legal contract between people that creates kinship. The definition of marriage varies according to different cultures, but is usually an institution in which interpersonal relationships, usually intimate and sexual, are acknowledged."... I didn't see anything in there specifying gender. Yes, I know that the dictionary mentions "a man and a women", but it all mentions "a similar institution involving partners of the same gender", so don't even try that argument. So marriage is "a contract" or an agreement by two consenting partners... makes sense to me. I've heard extreme arguments that if we do this, what's to stop someone from marrying a goat or a chair? Yes, it's getting that ridiculous, but to answer the question: consent. Agreement is what holds a contract, and a horse or a table can't agree to anything because it has no conscious being. So, the agreement is still there, and I don't see any sanctity ruined there...

... Is it just me, or are a number of the people complaining about gay marriage and it's purity the biggest hypocrites you ever saw? Rush Limbaugh comes to mind. He claims that President Obama is going to lead a war on traditional marriage... really? This coming from the guy who's been married four times, the previous three ending in divorce? Come on guys, anyone who's been divorced has lost any credibility is talking about "the sanctity of marriage." "Till death does us part" apparently means "When I don't want to work on it anymore"... I'm not sure what the divorce rate in this country is anymore, though I know it's high, but I bet that gay marriage would actually lower that rate... look how many gay couples stay together (and raise families) without the title of "married"... So if you think about it, absolutely nothing will change with the legalization (in this regard)... "cosmic..."

- "The health insurance mandate would place new burdens on employers who offer group insurance (if civil union is legalized)... What?! How does this even make sense? The article sited goes on to say, "Expensive treatments for AIDS and other serious maladies would necessarily escalate premium prices, and a couple of instances in one business could force the employer to drop health coverage for all.".. First of all, the writer of this is stuck in the 80's when this became know as a "issue", but I'll go on record and say most homosexuals practice safe sex, so the AIDS comment is totally asinine and ignorant. Secondly, you're going to deny people health coverage because of who their with? How many heterosexuals get sick? How many have Sexual Transmitted Diseases (STDs)? Why do they get health coverage and others don't? What the author also failed to recognize is these people already get healthcare, but their partner would be covered some other way (like their own job), so if anything, this might be able to reduce coverage (as I feel that couples and families are given a lesser amount at times then a single person would)... This argument holds no water, just like the rest.

Again, if there any more, let me know, as I still want to know what's so damn scary about something that has no impact on any non homosexual whatsoever...

You've heard why Gay Marriage/Civil Unions shouldn't be banned, but why should they be allowed? Here we go...

- Who are we to deny love for one another? Seriously? Isn't love unplanned, unpredictable, and unprecedented in feeling? Isn't love spontaneous and wonderful? Why are we denying that? How would you feel if you were denied the chance to make a legal binding commitment to the one that means more to you then you mean to yourself? Why does anyone have the right to stop two lovers from being together and having the same feeling others due? When you come up with an argument for that, you know where I'll be.

- Civil Rights! Dur... I am SHOCKED at the number of women and "minorities" that do not support Civil Unions and Gay Marriage... Maybe it's just me, but weren't your rights denied a while back? And weren't you mad about it (as you should have been)? Didn't you fight for it? Were one of the claims that you're people too? Well, that applies here. I believe that women and "minorities" still aren't treated as equal in some situations, and I don't think it's fair, so how can you do the same thing to homosexuals? How is it different? I look forward to your response. And I don't think it should be news that the NAACP supports gay marriage, but I'm glad they do.

- I'm going to put my "greedy CEO" hat on for a minute and share a thought... "for the money"! Seriously, our economy is not really doing all that well, so why not help improve that by letting some of the biggest money spenders add to it with a wedding? I realize saying that and the following is stereotypical, and I apologize for any offense, but I feel it will help illustrate my point better. Traditionally, homosexuals can be put into the "DINK" demographic... meaning "Duel Income, No Kids". These people have a lot of disposable income, income they could pump into a wedding and the decorations, cake, venue, outfits, and so on. Homosexuals have also been known to be very fashionable and have exquisite taste, and spending top dollar for quality... all adding to more money in the economy and more money for many businesses, directly and indirectly (someone has to create the materials used for the decorating, right?)... Besides, can you imagine if Elton John got married in the US? Can you imagine how awesome the set up would be, and how much press and interest there would be? I have to think it would be a ton of fun, and I would want an invite.

This is the tip of the iceberg, there are many, MANY more reason people should be allowed to marry people, regardless of what others say. In reality, gay marriage and civil unions have no affect on the day to day lives of a large number of people. I have a gay brother, and you know how our relationship has changed since he "came out of the closet?" NONE. I'm not worried that his friends will hit on me (in fact, I'm REALLY flattered when a gay guy hits on me), we still hang out, play video games, drink beer, and even talk about women (just with a little different perspective). And you know what? If he brings a guy home or to hang out, cool, doesn't affect me in any way, shape or form. And you know what else? I wouldn't want to hear about my brother's sex life if he was straight or gay, and even the "flaming" homosexuals don't have sex in public, so again, it has no affect on my life. So really, why shouldn't (these) people be happy and share love?

Thanks for reading what I have to say about this. Again, input is welcome and appreciated, even if I don't agree. Make sure to follow my "Gay Marriage" Pintrest board for more fun pictures and quotes regarding this topic (I'll get better about updating soon)...

... Oh, and Coloradoans, feel free to let our state speak of the house, Frank McNulty, know how you feel about his recent tactics regarding civil unions on his webpage (phone number also included). Update 3/26/2013 - This no longer applies as Colorado Governor John Hickenlooper has signed the bill approving civil unions in Colorado!... Now let's hope things go well Today in the Supreme Court...

Lent 2012: My Time Away from Coffee

Hello readers! Another year of Lent come and gone. In the tradition of giving up something I hold "near and dear," for Lent (like chocolate, facebook, and alcohol), I gave up coffee this time around. Why did I do coffee? Well, unlike the past, I gave up something I loved, but not something I was really "addicted" to... or so I thought.

Giving up coffee turned out to be tougher than expected (like everything you give up). I never thought of my self as really "addicted" to it, since the caffeine never really did much for me, but after giving it up for a couple days, I realized that there was a buzz at work that kept me going though the morning. I'm wondering how I'll feel Monday morning after that first cup after a six week sabbatical...

Anyway, I would usually enjoy a cup in the morning at work, and maybe go to Starbucks once during the weekend, and that would be it... Mostly because I enjoyed the coffee, not needed it. I enjoy the flavor, the temperature (hot or cold), and the smell. I always saw it as a treat vs. a necessity. So, giving up a treat was easier than something I would need, but it was still something I deprived myself that made me happy. I'm sure there were mornings in the office when I was grumpier (and more tired) than usual. Also sure there were car rides and coffee shop encounters when I could have been more pleasant. So for those of you who might have endured a "less than pleasant Clint", I apologize.

Trying to substitute a favorite treat is never easy, and coffee was no exception. At work, I basically went "cold turkey". I drank green tea, but I did that after my morning coffee anyway, so no real change there. I probably drank more water at work, but not much. During the week, didn't do much subbing there either. On long car rides to Pueblo, I would consider getting a smoothie or some other drink, but, of course, it didn't bring me the same joy. Carolyn and I like to hang out at coffee shops, and officially this is tough without coffee. I would get a cider or green tea frappuccino depending on the weather, but it could never be the same. I love our dates at the coffee shop, and am so excited for them to be normal again.

Unlike previous years, I don't think that giving up coffee is going to change much post Lent. Like I said, I never saw coffee as an addiction or something I needed, just something I enjoyed. Maybe I won't have it EVERY morning, but I find that hard to believe. Besides, coffee's not all bad for you (just like beer).

So there you go, my thought on my Lent experience for 2012. Not as interesting as past years, but hey, that's the way it goes. I think I've already decided on 2013's sacrifice... TV... completely... No video games, no Blu Rays/DVDs, no nothing... Still haven't decided if the movie theater will be acceptable, or other factors I may have missed, but this will be a doozie, and rightfully so after a "easier" year. Now if you'll excuse me, I need a cup of coffee.