I set up a easter egg hunt for my wife today! This anonymous kindness attack was pretty specific to one person but she deserved it. In the eggs I hid candy and random housework chores that needed to be done and promised to do them in the next week and half. I told her to hold me accountable and I know she will.
Money spent so far: $379.44
Monday, April 1, 2013
03/30/13 - Day 95 - Ani-mall Pet Expo (free)
Today the Animal Protective League put on a big pet owners convention at the local fairgrounds. It was a resounding success. I didn't get to participate in in exclusively but I did enable some of my coworkers to volunteer which I felt was it's own act of kindness. Many animals got adopted. I was able to get over there during my lunch break and snap this picture of an alpaca!
03/29/13 - Day 94 - Good Friday Music (free)
Today I contributed in a small way to a Good Friday church service. I have been able to sing with a small chamber choral ensemble that meets in a nearby town and this Good Friday service was special because we had a guest director. He is the director of choral music at the college I attended and was my choir director back when I went to school. Not only did I get to help people commorate Good Friday but I got to reunite with one of my old instructors.
Money spent so far: $366.98
Money spent so far: $366.98
03/28/13 - Day 93 - Childhungerendshere.com (free)
Today I asked a coworker for a tab that I saw on a peanut butter jar that she had brought in for her lunch. It has a code on it that when submitted to this website: childhungerendshere.com would donate one free meal to starving children. Done!
Money spent so far: $366.98
Money spent so far: $366.98
03/27/13 - Day 92 - Contribution to counseling
A good friend of mine works with young women and single mothers in South Korea. One of her friends was a victim of sexual assault but couldn't afford to get counseling for herself. My friend sent out a plea for people to contribute to get this young woman some counseling.
My contribution was small but hopefully it helped.
Money spent so far: $366.98
My contribution was small but hopefully it helped.
Money spent so far: $366.98
Thursday, March 28, 2013
03/26/13 - Day 91 - Let people cut in line (free)
Generally I am in a hurry. I try to slow down but it never works. It seems like everyone else pretty much keeps the same pace. I never know why I'm in a hurry to get places. I just want to make sure I have enough time to not be late to where I'm going. I used to (and still sort of) have a problem with tardiness.
But today I was at the gas station and I just let a couple people go in front of me. Not in an annoying overly nice way. I just wanted to let them go ahead because I could tell they were tired of waiting. It was a busy day at that particular gas station and I wasn't in a rush.
Money spent so far: $336.98
But today I was at the gas station and I just let a couple people go in front of me. Not in an annoying overly nice way. I just wanted to let them go ahead because I could tell they were tired of waiting. It was a busy day at that particular gas station and I wasn't in a rush.
Money spent so far: $336.98
Tuesday, March 26, 2013
03/25/13 - Day 90 - Working for three (free)
Today my kindness attack was a little weird and on accident. I basically had to work in my section for three people. It was rough and I had a lot of help but still I had to cover my shift and the shift of two other people that weren't able to make it work because of family stuff.
I had to slap a dog pretty hard in the face today also. It was the only way to get him to drop the dog he had in his mouth. He's a coonhound and doesn't understand that little dogs aren't prey. I felt bad and he's okay as is the little dog he was trying to hunt down.
Money spent so far: $336.98
I had to slap a dog pretty hard in the face today also. It was the only way to get him to drop the dog he had in his mouth. He's a coonhound and doesn't understand that little dogs aren't prey. I felt bad and he's okay as is the little dog he was trying to hunt down.
Money spent so far: $336.98
03/24/13 - Day 89 - Cupcakes for Thanks (free)
Today my kindness act was really a thank you for a fellow do gooders act for me. There was about a foot and a half of snow on the ground tonight around 9:30pm and I knew I would never get to work in the morning if I didn't go out and shovel. I had shoveled about half of the driveway when a guy came buy with a little snow plow and offered to plow my car out.
I offered to pay the guy but he said I didn't have to. So I went in and got him a banana cupcake that my wife had made for thanks. All this and I was able to get a car out for work on time.
Money spent so far: $336.98
I offered to pay the guy but he said I didn't have to. So I went in and got him a banana cupcake that my wife had made for thanks. All this and I was able to get a car out for work on time.
Money spent so far: $336.98
03/23/13 - Day 88 - Stop CISPA Petition (free)
Today I signed a petition to top CISPA or the Cyber Intelligence Sharing and Protection Act. It is an act that would essentially give large corporations and ultimately the government access to private users online information.
The government does a shitty job at most business it sticks it's nose and money grubbing hands into. So keeping them out of private citizens private business seems like a no-brainer.
Sign here: Stop CISPA!
Money spent so far: $336.98
The government does a shitty job at most business it sticks it's nose and money grubbing hands into. So keeping them out of private citizens private business seems like a no-brainer.
Sign here: Stop CISPA!
Money spent so far: $336.98
Friday, March 22, 2013
03/22/13 - Day 87 - Offered help to a friend (free)
My wife has a friend that has been going though some tough stuff. She seems to be handling it well but I offered my help anyway.
Not with anything emotional really because my wife is much better equipped to handle that stuff. More like manual labor type help. We'll see what happens.
Money spent so far: $336.98
Not with anything emotional really because my wife is much better equipped to handle that stuff. More like manual labor type help. We'll see what happens.
Money spent so far: $336.98
03/21/13 - Day 86 - Lending an ear (free)
I knew this anonymous kindness attack would roll around sooner or later and today was the day. My brother had something to really bitch about and I was the man he called. I usually am. This particular day it was about traffic in LA (where he lives.)
Money spent so far: $336.98
Money spent so far: $336.98
03/20/13 - Day 85 - Conversation (free)
My wife and I went to eat at Cracker Barrel for breakfast this morning. There was an older woman sitting alone and she struck up a conversation with us. She was super sweet and really funny.
I was singing some stupid song to my wife and she commented to my wife that it must be nice being serenaded over breakfast. We laughed awkwardly. She told us that she too was a singer and sang on some stages with some pretty big country acts. Her name was Phyllis.
Our normal response, right or wrong, is usually to ignore people who infiltrate our conversation but I made a real effort not to do this. She was an elderly woman sitting alone. She was really sweet to the server and very nice to my wife and I.
I asked the server after she had left if she knew her. She told us her name and that she was suffering from cancer. She said she didn't know her really well but that the manager did. I am going to go back and give the manager a gift card to give to this woman.
I regret not taking the time right then and there to get more information from her. The whole exchange was quick and in the middle of a busy restaurant so it didn't occur to me until I had already left to offer a gift card.
Money spent so far: $336.98
I was singing some stupid song to my wife and she commented to my wife that it must be nice being serenaded over breakfast. We laughed awkwardly. She told us that she too was a singer and sang on some stages with some pretty big country acts. Her name was Phyllis.
Our normal response, right or wrong, is usually to ignore people who infiltrate our conversation but I made a real effort not to do this. She was an elderly woman sitting alone. She was really sweet to the server and very nice to my wife and I.
I asked the server after she had left if she knew her. She told us her name and that she was suffering from cancer. She said she didn't know her really well but that the manager did. I am going to go back and give the manager a gift card to give to this woman.
I regret not taking the time right then and there to get more information from her. The whole exchange was quick and in the middle of a busy restaurant so it didn't occur to me until I had already left to offer a gift card.
Money spent so far: $336.98
03/19/13 - Day 84 - Offered a kidney (free)
A friend of mine was diagnosed with a rare kidney disorder. It caused him to put on nearly 40 lbs of water weight in the span of two weeks. I offered him my kidney.
Pretty serious shit. But I've got two of them.
Turns out he doesn't need a new kidney just medication so my kidneys are safe for now.
Money spent so far: $336.98
Pretty serious shit. But I've got two of them.
Turns out he doesn't need a new kidney just medication so my kidneys are safe for now.
Money spent so far: $336.98
Monday, March 18, 2013
03/18/13 - Day 83 - Smile Train Revisited
I am finally able to update my blog on the actual day of the act for a change. It has been an insane week or two. I have been working a lot. My wife has been out of town and that really threw me off my game. I just sort of stumble around the house when she's not here so I tried to keep myself really busy with work and other engagements. It's a good thing. But when I wasn't working or playing with the dogs or devising ways to be sneakily nice for people I was trying to get some sleep. I still haven't managed to catch up.
I decided today to revisit an organization that I had previously written about because I wasn't able to donate to them at that time. It's actually a good thing I waited because now all donations are being doubled by some generous members of their organization.
Money spent so far: $336.98
I decided today to revisit an organization that I had previously written about because I wasn't able to donate to them at that time. It's actually a good thing I waited because now all donations are being doubled by some generous members of their organization.
Money spent so far: $336.98
03/17/13 - Day 82 - Josh Garrels Music Tip
Josh Garrels is a musician that I know very little about. But he is giving away 5 of his albums through one of my favorite websites noisetrade.com. All the proceeds from the tips that people give him go to World Relief of Congo.
I downloaded one of them called "Love and War and The Sea In Between." I feel like I recognize some of the song titles so maybe I already know the record a little bit.
Money spent so far: $331.98
I downloaded one of them called "Love and War and The Sea In Between." I feel like I recognize some of the song titles so maybe I already know the record a little bit.
Money spent so far: $331.98
Sunday, March 17, 2013
03/16/13 - Day 81 - Kegs and Eggs (free)
Today is the day my community celebrated St. Patty's Day. A few members of my band supplied the music for a morning celebration called Kegs and Eggs. We donated our services so that everyone could enjoy some live music while they were eating some free breakfast and green beer.
Money spent so far: $326.98
Money spent so far: $326.98
03/15/13 - Day 80 - Bowl for Kids' Sake Fundraiser (free)
Today my band and I all participated in the Bowl for Kids' Sake fundraiser for the local Big Brothers Big Sisters Organization. We had a goal of $700 and only managed to raise $150. We also bowled horribly. But I still consider it a victory. It was also a lot of fun!
Money spent so far: $326.98
Money spent so far: $326.98
03/14/13 - Day 79 - Family Video Raffle
I rent way too many movies from Family Video. Today they were doing a raffle for lymphoma research. If you donate $10 you get entered into a drawing to get half off movie rentals for a year.
Done.
Money spent so far: $326.98
Done.
Money spent so far: $326.98
Thursday, March 14, 2013
03/13/13 - Day 78 - Foldit Cares (free)
I just recently purchases Flatout brand Foldits. They are these long flat breads that fold over to make really easy and portable sandwiches. They are delicious but I also saw that they have a program called Foldit Cares. If you send them a picture of your favorite recipe using their product they will donate flatbread to Food Gatherers, a member of Feeding America on my behalf. Here's my picture. Super simple but who cares? It tastes good.
Money spent so far: $316.98
Lunch of Champions
Nothing fancy here.
Take fold out bread.
Add two slices Mild Cheddar cheese,
Squeeze a little Simply Fresh Squeezable Chili Pepper and Italian Seasoning.
Fold Over.
Enjoy.
Money spent so far: $316.98
03/12/13 - Day 77 - Laundry Marathon (free sort of)
My wife is has been gone all week. She is visiting her sister and won't be home until Sunday. Cleaning the house before she arrives home isn't really an act of kindness so much as a requirement so I decided to do even more.
Our dirty laundry never seems to go away so I started doing all of it today. Hopefully I will be done by the time she gets home. We hardly ever do all the laundry at once so this will be a really nice thing for her to come home to.
Money spent so far: $316.98
Our dirty laundry never seems to go away so I started doing all of it today. Hopefully I will be done by the time she gets home. We hardly ever do all the laundry at once so this will be a really nice thing for her to come home to.
Money spent so far: $316.98
Tuesday, March 12, 2013
03/11/13 - Day 76 - Pledge to end R-word (free)
I've pledged to stop using the r-word through this website: Pledge. I was inspired by a couple of fellow bloggers. I am a little late because the official day to pledge was March 6th. But I figured better late than never.
Check out this video for a little more inspiration:
Conner and Cayden Long
Money spent so far: $316.98
Check out this video for a little more inspiration:
Conner and Cayden Long
Money spent so far: $316.98
03/10/13 - Day 75 - Sent a gift to random friend #3
Another facebook friend of mine was sent a gift today. She will receive this
gift because she was one of five people to respond to a chain letter facebook
post of mine. I don't know this friend incredibly well but I do not that she tends bar and likes really good music.
Here's what I got her:
1. A hat that says "America Fuck Yeah!" on it. Because it's hilarious.
2. A book by A. J. Jacobs called "A Year Of Living Biblically." It's about a guy that tries to follow every rule of the Bible literally. Including obscure Old Testament rules about not shaving your beard and not wearing woven clothes. Pretty good stuff.
3. An awesome mix CD entitled Farmhouse Mix. I will give a link to my playlist as soon as my itunes starts working again. Here ya go: Farmhouse Mix.
Money spent so far: $316.98
Here's what I got her:
1. A hat that says "America Fuck Yeah!" on it. Because it's hilarious.
2. A book by A. J. Jacobs called "A Year Of Living Biblically." It's about a guy that tries to follow every rule of the Bible literally. Including obscure Old Testament rules about not shaving your beard and not wearing woven clothes. Pretty good stuff.
3. An awesome mix CD entitled Farmhouse Mix. I will give a link to my playlist as soon as my itunes starts working again. Here ya go: Farmhouse Mix.
Money spent so far: $316.98
03/09/13 - Day 74 - Accordian Donation (free)
"It is a good idea to play an accordian at a polka festival.
It is a bad idea to play an accordian...anywhere else."
-from "Good Idea, Bad Idea" on The Animaniacs.
I don't really believe this about accordians but I did think it was funny.
I have inherited a big beautiful accordian and I think some of my music teacher friends would probably have much better use for it than I do. For my anonymous kindness attack, I offered this to a few of them as a donation to their school's music program. We'll see which ones take me up on the offer.
Money spent so far: $308.53
It is a bad idea to play an accordian...anywhere else."
-from "Good Idea, Bad Idea" on The Animaniacs.
I don't really believe this about accordians but I did think it was funny.
I have inherited a big beautiful accordian and I think some of my music teacher friends would probably have much better use for it than I do. For my anonymous kindness attack, I offered this to a few of them as a donation to their school's music program. We'll see which ones take me up on the offer.
Money spent so far: $308.53
Sunday, March 10, 2013
03/08/13 - Day 73 - Failed attempts and messages (free)
While everyone else was out enjoying their Friday, I was out working through my Wednesday. It's just the way my schedule lined up this week but I have my days off on Monday and Tuesday. So this is really the middle of my work week. I worked all day and well into the night.
On my way back home from tracking my radio on air shifts there were two opportunities for anonymous kindness attacks that didn't really pan out.
First, there was dog in the middle of the road. It was cold and rainy and dark and there in the middle of the street was a dog barking at me. It had a collar on but there was really no reason that a dog should be out that in the middle of the night. I got out of my car to see if I could get him to come over to me. He immediately backed off. Slowly at first and barking the whole time. I could see this wasn't going to be easy. I got closer and crouched down to make myself less imposing. This didn't work either and seemed to just scare/piss him off more. He ran into someone's front yard and close to someone's home. I thought this might be the people who own the dog and it was my cue to get back in my car and get gone. It was late. I gave up.
Second, I was nearly back home and I spotted a car with it's hazards on in a ditch. I stopped on the shoulder and got out but there was nobody in the car. Hopefully the person had found the help they needed. I wasn't needed here.
So I sent a message to a friend of mine from high school to let her know that I still thought about her and wished her and her family the best. She sent me back a super nice message and it was awesome.
Money spent so far: $308.53
On my way back home from tracking my radio on air shifts there were two opportunities for anonymous kindness attacks that didn't really pan out.
First, there was dog in the middle of the road. It was cold and rainy and dark and there in the middle of the street was a dog barking at me. It had a collar on but there was really no reason that a dog should be out that in the middle of the night. I got out of my car to see if I could get him to come over to me. He immediately backed off. Slowly at first and barking the whole time. I could see this wasn't going to be easy. I got closer and crouched down to make myself less imposing. This didn't work either and seemed to just scare/piss him off more. He ran into someone's front yard and close to someone's home. I thought this might be the people who own the dog and it was my cue to get back in my car and get gone. It was late. I gave up.
Second, I was nearly back home and I spotted a car with it's hazards on in a ditch. I stopped on the shoulder and got out but there was nobody in the car. Hopefully the person had found the help they needed. I wasn't needed here.
So I sent a message to a friend of mine from high school to let her know that I still thought about her and wished her and her family the best. She sent me back a super nice message and it was awesome.
Money spent so far: $308.53
Friday, March 8, 2013
03/07/13 - Day 72 - KUMFA search (free)
A friend of mine from high school and college is heavily involved with an organization in Korea. It's called Korean Unwed Mothers Family Association. I did a little research on this group and also messaged me friend looking for more info as their web presence is a little sparse.
This organization does great work for single mothers in Korea who feel the societal pressure to give their children up for adoption. I want to find out more about this issue for a number of reasons not least of which is my own desire to adopt.
Money spent so far: $308.53
This organization does great work for single mothers in Korea who feel the societal pressure to give their children up for adoption. I want to find out more about this issue for a number of reasons not least of which is my own desire to adopt.
Money spent so far: $308.53
03/06/13 - Day 71 - Tim Reid Jr. Not Much Else To Do
Today I supported another musician friend of mine. I bought his cd. He's a friend of mine from college and a pretty great singer/songwriter.
If you want to purchase it check this shit out:
Tim Reid Jr.
Money spent so far: $308.53
If you want to purchase it check this shit out:
Tim Reid Jr.
Money spent so far: $308.53
Wednesday, March 6, 2013
03/05/13 - Day 70 - Smiletrain.org (free)
I had the day off today and didn't even know what to do. It was a lazy day. Didn't work out, didn't clean up. I did watch Wreck It Ralph. So yeah...pretty lazy.
I also investigated a website that had popped up on a number of different "good deeds" websites that I frequent. It's called Smiletrain. It's an organization this is dedicating to providing surgeries for children born with cleft lips and palates. The surgeries they perform are mostly in poorer countries and cities. Either the local community lacks the proper medical facilities to complete the surgery or the family lacks the money to pay for it. In certain countries children that are born with a cleft lip or palate are considered cursed and are shunned by their families and communities.
Offering these surgeries free of charge saves these children from a lifetime of ridicule and health problems. Unfortunately I didn't have enough money to donate to the cause right now but I did apply to have some free material sent to me from the website. Go here and you can get a free dvd documentary that shows the story of a girl that received a surgery from the organization:
Order Smile Pinki
I also used my facebook status and twitter account to promote the organization and hopefully inspire some other friends to check out the organization.
My book "The Lost Dogs" came today also. It's about the dogs that were seized from Michael Vick's dog fighting ring. So far it is pretty heartbreaking. :( Hopefully the happy part comes soon...
Money spent so far: $298.54
I also investigated a website that had popped up on a number of different "good deeds" websites that I frequent. It's called Smiletrain. It's an organization this is dedicating to providing surgeries for children born with cleft lips and palates. The surgeries they perform are mostly in poorer countries and cities. Either the local community lacks the proper medical facilities to complete the surgery or the family lacks the money to pay for it. In certain countries children that are born with a cleft lip or palate are considered cursed and are shunned by their families and communities.
Offering these surgeries free of charge saves these children from a lifetime of ridicule and health problems. Unfortunately I didn't have enough money to donate to the cause right now but I did apply to have some free material sent to me from the website. Go here and you can get a free dvd documentary that shows the story of a girl that received a surgery from the organization:
Order Smile Pinki
I also used my facebook status and twitter account to promote the organization and hopefully inspire some other friends to check out the organization.
My book "The Lost Dogs" came today also. It's about the dogs that were seized from Michael Vick's dog fighting ring. So far it is pretty heartbreaking. :( Hopefully the happy part comes soon...
Money spent so far: $298.54
Tuesday, March 5, 2013
03/04/13 - Day 69 - Replenishing work food supply
Working at the APL is fun. I work with some very generous and giving people. Especially of their food supply.
Today I replenished a few of the (human) snacks that we usually have around the shelter.
Money spent so far: $298.54
Today I replenished a few of the (human) snacks that we usually have around the shelter.
Money spent so far: $298.54
Sunday, March 3, 2013
03/03/13 - Day 68 - Pledge music
I helped a fellow musician upon his path to greatness through pledgemusic.com. This guy needs no help from me because he is very accomplished on his own. But I did anyway because his music is freaking great. Supporting musicians through websites like kickstarter and pledgemusic is the way to go. So much more of the money goes directly to the artist than just downloading off itunes or worse just listening on spotify.
Money spent so far: $288.54
Money spent so far: $288.54
03/02/13 - Day 67 - Kiss a pig fundraiser (free)
One of my do gooder friends is always trying to raise funds for some significant cause. She's a local celebrity that rubs elbows with the rich side of town so she usually has no problem picking up dough. (I don't really know if that's true. She is a charming and lovely person which is why she probably easily raises funds.) She ask me to contribute some entertainment to the night's festivities at a local tavern and I was super pumped to oblige.
It was fun.
There were even little pig cookies that her mom made. I ate about 6 of them. Well over my fair share. While I wasn't singing (a bit drunkenly) I was a sort of bullying emcee for the evening. I think at one point I instructed bar patrons to "reach in their pockets and take the biggest bill and throw it in the fucking tip jar!" I dunno. It worked I think. A lot of money was raised.
The way the "kiss a pig" thing works is this: people sign up to raise funds for a cause (in this case the American Diabetes Association) whoever raises the most money gets to have the "honor" of everyone watch them kiss a pig. I thought this was a thing that everybody knew about. We did it at my high school's pep rallies and shit. But my wife was pretty confused by the whole deal.
I do think that it was successful though. My guitar case was full of dollar bills.
Money spent so far: $258.54
It was fun.
There were even little pig cookies that her mom made. I ate about 6 of them. Well over my fair share. While I wasn't singing (a bit drunkenly) I was a sort of bullying emcee for the evening. I think at one point I instructed bar patrons to "reach in their pockets and take the biggest bill and throw it in the fucking tip jar!" I dunno. It worked I think. A lot of money was raised.
The way the "kiss a pig" thing works is this: people sign up to raise funds for a cause (in this case the American Diabetes Association) whoever raises the most money gets to have the "honor" of everyone watch them kiss a pig. I thought this was a thing that everybody knew about. We did it at my high school's pep rallies and shit. But my wife was pretty confused by the whole deal.
I do think that it was successful though. My guitar case was full of dollar bills.
Money spent so far: $258.54
Saturday, March 2, 2013
03/01/13 - Day 66 - A dollar for Muscular Dystrophy
You know how your gas station always has a million shamrocks taped to everything around St. Patty's day? Well so does mine. The funds all go to help research to cure Muscular Dystrophy. Not much but today I donated a buck.
Money spent so far: $258.54
Money spent so far: $258.54
02/28/13 - Day 65 - Donated to Sojourn Shelter and Services
I have been really late with my updates. I'm gonna try and play catch up here.
This Thursday I donated to Sojourn Shelter and Services. It is a local organization that helped women and children victims of domestic violence. More to come with this awesome organization.
Money spent so far: $257.54
This Thursday I donated to Sojourn Shelter and Services. It is a local organization that helped women and children victims of domestic violence. More to come with this awesome organization.
Money spent so far: $257.54
Friday, March 1, 2013
02/27/13 - Day 64 - Donated to NFS
Super busy week. I've been working super hard and staying super busy. Too tired to even think. I need to get out a do some leg work on my anonymous kindness attacks. It's been a little too much trying to good from my computer at home lately. I am going to be doing something on Friday for sure.
I donated to the Not For Sale Movement. They fight human trafficking and are a pretty good introductory organization for me to get involved. They have a number of different platforms that I want to try and work with in the future.
1. Slaverymap. A map of the places slavery have been documented and eliminated.
2. Free2work. An agency that lobbies corporations to eliminate the links on their supply chain where slavery could happen.
3. The Not For Sale Academy. A learning course to offer experiential programs on helping to end slavery in your community.
4. Justice League. An agency to help with educate and deal with the law enforcement community and their part in helping to end slavery.
5. Abolitionist Faith Communities. Getting local religious organizations to participate in the fight to end slavery.
6. Free2Play. Fundraisers through youth sports leagues to raise money for the Not For Sale organization.
7. The Freedom Store. An online shopping wing of Not For Sale featuring products made by former slaves with all proceeds going to benefit them.
As you can see there are a lot of different avenues to take action. Some more time and money intensive than others. I am going to try to contribute to the fight as much as I can. This book really shook me up and I think everyone should read it. It really changed my perspective on the current situation in America. There are so many faceless enemies. Welfare and food stamp recipients, the impoverished, illegal immigrants, etc. They get blamed for things because they are faceless and powerless. You have to take every case on an individual basis. Some could be victims of domestic violence. Some could be victims of the international slave trade. It is worth taking a minute and thinking about it.
Money spent so far: $252.54
I donated to the Not For Sale Movement. They fight human trafficking and are a pretty good introductory organization for me to get involved. They have a number of different platforms that I want to try and work with in the future.
1. Slaverymap. A map of the places slavery have been documented and eliminated.
2. Free2work. An agency that lobbies corporations to eliminate the links on their supply chain where slavery could happen.
3. The Not For Sale Academy. A learning course to offer experiential programs on helping to end slavery in your community.
4. Justice League. An agency to help with educate and deal with the law enforcement community and their part in helping to end slavery.
5. Abolitionist Faith Communities. Getting local religious organizations to participate in the fight to end slavery.
6. Free2Play. Fundraisers through youth sports leagues to raise money for the Not For Sale organization.
7. The Freedom Store. An online shopping wing of Not For Sale featuring products made by former slaves with all proceeds going to benefit them.
As you can see there are a lot of different avenues to take action. Some more time and money intensive than others. I am going to try to contribute to the fight as much as I can. This book really shook me up and I think everyone should read it. It really changed my perspective on the current situation in America. There are so many faceless enemies. Welfare and food stamp recipients, the impoverished, illegal immigrants, etc. They get blamed for things because they are faceless and powerless. You have to take every case on an individual basis. Some could be victims of domestic violence. Some could be victims of the international slave trade. It is worth taking a minute and thinking about it.
Money spent so far: $252.54
Wednesday, February 27, 2013
02/26/13 - Day 63 - Joined Not For Sale Campaign (free)
I have been in a funk for the past few days because I have been reading the book I purchased by David Batstone called Not For Sale. It is a tough read. The subject matter just really sticks with you and I tend to dwell on things for too long. The tagline is "The return of the global slave trade - and how we can fight it." The book is tells a lot of stories of slaves across the globe and how insidious human trafficking has become.
It's tough for me to contemplate this level of evil. To look at a child or a young woman and not be able to feel any level of empathy or compassion means you are at best a sociopath and at worst just pure fucking evil. This book is sort of a scratching of the surface on this issue. It offers some different ways to fight the problem that I would like to investigate further, however I definitely need to know more about what type of organizations I may get involved with in my own community.
I did join the Not For Sale Campaign which means I get constant updates from their headquarters on upcoming events, fundraisers, petitions to push for legal actions, and other cool stuff. This issue just kills me. With the 150 year anniversary of the signing of the Emancipation Proclamation this seems like a perfect time to renew a passion for eliminating slavery once and for all.
Money spent so far: $247.54
It's tough for me to contemplate this level of evil. To look at a child or a young woman and not be able to feel any level of empathy or compassion means you are at best a sociopath and at worst just pure fucking evil. This book is sort of a scratching of the surface on this issue. It offers some different ways to fight the problem that I would like to investigate further, however I definitely need to know more about what type of organizations I may get involved with in my own community.
I did join the Not For Sale Campaign which means I get constant updates from their headquarters on upcoming events, fundraisers, petitions to push for legal actions, and other cool stuff. This issue just kills me. With the 150 year anniversary of the signing of the Emancipation Proclamation this seems like a perfect time to renew a passion for eliminating slavery once and for all.
Money spent so far: $247.54
Tuesday, February 26, 2013
02/25/13 - Day 62 - Badrap.org
It was wet and nasty today. Tomorrow promises to be more of the same. Today I had to be out in it walking dogs.
As I have mentioned, I work with dogs at my new job at the Animal Protective League. At any given times we have a pretty large number of pitbulls or dogs that look like pitbulls. There is a huge number of breeds that get mislabeled as pitbulls because many of the breeds look similar. The pitbulls and pit mixed breed dogs that we have are almost always nice and sweet but they get passed over because of their breed. We actually had a woman adopt a dog and then bring it back two months later not because of anything that the dog had done but because one of her friends suggested that her dog looked like a pitbull. It's frustrating getting to know these dogs and then having someone dismiss them just because of a misconception. I wouldn't want someone adopting a dog that they were afraid of, it just makes me sad that people have that idea of pitbulls.
I sought out a website that deals with this pitbull bias and came across badrap.org. Their tagline is "Securing the future of the American Pitbull Terrier as a cherished family companion." My anonymous kindness attack was to buy a book off their website called The Lost Dogs. It's the story of the pitbulls from Michael Vick's compound and their rehabilitation.
This anonymous kindness attack is more for the animal shelter that I work at and the pitbulls that I work with so I can better understand how to care for and talk about them. There are tons of training tips and helpful pamphlets for the animal shelter worker on this website as well. I hope that through my continued research I can help find these lovable and misunderstood dogs good homes.
Money spent so far: $247.54
As I have mentioned, I work with dogs at my new job at the Animal Protective League. At any given times we have a pretty large number of pitbulls or dogs that look like pitbulls. There is a huge number of breeds that get mislabeled as pitbulls because many of the breeds look similar. The pitbulls and pit mixed breed dogs that we have are almost always nice and sweet but they get passed over because of their breed. We actually had a woman adopt a dog and then bring it back two months later not because of anything that the dog had done but because one of her friends suggested that her dog looked like a pitbull. It's frustrating getting to know these dogs and then having someone dismiss them just because of a misconception. I wouldn't want someone adopting a dog that they were afraid of, it just makes me sad that people have that idea of pitbulls.
I sought out a website that deals with this pitbull bias and came across badrap.org. Their tagline is "Securing the future of the American Pitbull Terrier as a cherished family companion." My anonymous kindness attack was to buy a book off their website called The Lost Dogs. It's the story of the pitbulls from Michael Vick's compound and their rehabilitation.
This anonymous kindness attack is more for the animal shelter that I work at and the pitbulls that I work with so I can better understand how to care for and talk about them. There are tons of training tips and helpful pamphlets for the animal shelter worker on this website as well. I hope that through my continued research I can help find these lovable and misunderstood dogs good homes.
Money spent so far: $247.54
02/24/13 - Day 61 - Donated to Food Bank
I always am intrigued by how the clerks at the gas station that I go to will try to get me to buy more stuff. They often run contests for the clerks to up the average order size. They are pushing a different item every month. This month it has been cookies.
I was pretty impressed this time because the clerk asked me if I would like to donate two cookies for two dollars to the local food bank. They even had a tub behind the counter labeled "Food Bank Donations." I said yes.
Good job.
Money spent so far: $243.55
I was pretty impressed this time because the clerk asked me if I would like to donate two cookies for two dollars to the local food bank. They even had a tub behind the counter labeled "Food Bank Donations." I said yes.
Good job.
Money spent so far: $243.55
Saturday, February 23, 2013
02/23/13 - Day 60 - Customer Survey (free)
I had the day off work today and really had nothing to do. It's been a while since I had a day like that and I didn't know what to do with myself. My wife was gone most of the day also so that made it extra weird. I decided I would try to catch up on some reading.
I bought a book about a week ago called "Not For Sale." It is about modern day slavery and tells some pretty gruesome and sad stories about the victims of slavery. It also tells some tales of the heroes of the modern day abolitionist movement but the stories that really stick with me are the tales of the slaves. I have read through the chapters about Thailand, India, and Uganda and I had to take a break. This stuff is really dark. The author explains how these countries have the type of environment (poverty, over population, weak government, etc.) where slavery is more likely to happen. I still have trouble contemplating evil on this level.
"The world is a dangerous place not because of those that do harm,
but because of those who look at it and do nothing."
-Albert Einstein
I guess the real problem has been people like me. It's nearly impossible to go through your adult life and not hear about horrible shit like human trafficking. But what change will happen if good people do nothing? I obviously am still learning about this issue but I want to do something.
So in what now seems like a completely meaningless act of kindness for the day...
...I filled out on of those surveys that they give you on the bottom of receipts. I went to Papa Murphy's Pizza and just wanted to give the people that work there some positive feedback. I remember hearing in a meeting at my former workplace about how most people are far more likely to tell a friend or fill out a customer survey about a negative experience as opposed to a positive one. I wanted to be that small percentage of people that actually tells someone when they've done a good job. If you haven't tried Papa Murphy's Gourmet Veggie pizza you are missing out. Awesome stuff.
Money spent so far: $241.55
I bought a book about a week ago called "Not For Sale." It is about modern day slavery and tells some pretty gruesome and sad stories about the victims of slavery. It also tells some tales of the heroes of the modern day abolitionist movement but the stories that really stick with me are the tales of the slaves. I have read through the chapters about Thailand, India, and Uganda and I had to take a break. This stuff is really dark. The author explains how these countries have the type of environment (poverty, over population, weak government, etc.) where slavery is more likely to happen. I still have trouble contemplating evil on this level.
"The world is a dangerous place not because of those that do harm,
but because of those who look at it and do nothing."
-Albert Einstein
I guess the real problem has been people like me. It's nearly impossible to go through your adult life and not hear about horrible shit like human trafficking. But what change will happen if good people do nothing? I obviously am still learning about this issue but I want to do something.
So in what now seems like a completely meaningless act of kindness for the day...
...I filled out on of those surveys that they give you on the bottom of receipts. I went to Papa Murphy's Pizza and just wanted to give the people that work there some positive feedback. I remember hearing in a meeting at my former workplace about how most people are far more likely to tell a friend or fill out a customer survey about a negative experience as opposed to a positive one. I wanted to be that small percentage of people that actually tells someone when they've done a good job. If you haven't tried Papa Murphy's Gourmet Veggie pizza you are missing out. Awesome stuff.
Money spent so far: $241.55
Friday, February 22, 2013
02/22/13 - Day 59 - Special Olympics Volunteer (free)
It has been a cold and long day today. I woke up late and didn't eat breakfast and this made me feel pretty crummy the rest of the day. My back hurt and then my head hurt and I just wanted to complain all day. Ugh. I hate it when I'm like this. I definitely need to eat breakfast tomorrow. It was the end of a long week of work.
Also made a big mistake while recording my radio show tonight. I forgot to hit a very specific button on the console therefore everything I was saying into the microphone was being broadcast live on the radio. Fortunately, a friend called me and let me know so it was only for a minute or two. Still I felt pretty mortified.
I decided to volunteer for the Special Olympics. There is an event in September in a nearby town and I am hoping that I will be available for it. I know almost nothing about the Special Olympics but everyone that I've talked to about it says it's a pretty uplifting and inspiring program. I'm excited about it. I wish I commit to more volunteer time. Volunteering always makes me feel less stressed.
Money spent so far: $241.55
Also made a big mistake while recording my radio show tonight. I forgot to hit a very specific button on the console therefore everything I was saying into the microphone was being broadcast live on the radio. Fortunately, a friend called me and let me know so it was only for a minute or two. Still I felt pretty mortified.
I decided to volunteer for the Special Olympics. There is an event in September in a nearby town and I am hoping that I will be available for it. I know almost nothing about the Special Olympics but everyone that I've talked to about it says it's a pretty uplifting and inspiring program. I'm excited about it. I wish I commit to more volunteer time. Volunteering always makes me feel less stressed.
Money spent so far: $241.55
Thursday, February 21, 2013
02/21/13 - Day 58 - Scraping off cars (free)
Snowpocalypse 2013! Snowstorm hit my hometown today. Helped my coworkers scrape off their cars before we got to go home early from work. They spared us the awful driving conditions.
Money spent so far: $241.55
Money spent so far: $241.55
Wednesday, February 20, 2013
02/20/13 - Day 57 - Promoting friends (free)
Happy birthday long lost friend!
One of my inspirations for anonymous kindness attacks was a friend that passed away. He was always doing nice things for those closest to him and complete strangers. I wanted to honor him and his family by trying to really do something kind for people too. Today is his birthday. He would be 30 today.
I host an hour long radio show on a station here in my hometown. We generally play music that is never played on the radio. That's sort of our tagline. It's "smart music that flies under the radar." We play artists that are independent, unsigned, or even well known artists with tracks that are never heard. I thought it would be awesome to open it up to some of my local musician friends for an all local edition. Hopefully this will give them a chance to get some new fans and hear their own music on the radio.
I think it should be a good thing. I love promoting my friends and local musicians. I'm pumped about it.
Money spent so far: $241.55
One of my inspirations for anonymous kindness attacks was a friend that passed away. He was always doing nice things for those closest to him and complete strangers. I wanted to honor him and his family by trying to really do something kind for people too. Today is his birthday. He would be 30 today.
I host an hour long radio show on a station here in my hometown. We generally play music that is never played on the radio. That's sort of our tagline. It's "smart music that flies under the radar." We play artists that are independent, unsigned, or even well known artists with tracks that are never heard. I thought it would be awesome to open it up to some of my local musician friends for an all local edition. Hopefully this will give them a chance to get some new fans and hear their own music on the radio.
I think it should be a good thing. I love promoting my friends and local musicians. I'm pumped about it.
Money spent so far: $241.55
Tuesday, February 19, 2013
02/19/13 - Day 56 - Good Survey (free)
It is freaking cold today. It is not very fun to be outside right now. Especially while you are walking a dog around and waiting for it to poop.
Today I took a few really lame surveys on Good Searches Good Survey's site.
With each survey I donate a little baby bit of money to the ASPCA. But over time it should build up to be something. Spread across the millions of people that use the website that could be quite a bit. It seems like the only search engine that everybody uses is Google. I don't really know Google's reputation as far as charitable giving. Need to do a little research on that. I only know them as a very innovative and profitable company.
I would never stop partonizing a company based on their particular charitable giving or lack thereof. If a company provides a good or service that I feel is quality then I will purchase it. But I also would prefer to support a company that gives something back. It's always nice when those two line up.
I have more to say but I'm too tired to sit here and think right now.
Money spent so far: $241.55
Today I took a few really lame surveys on Good Searches Good Survey's site.
With each survey I donate a little baby bit of money to the ASPCA. But over time it should build up to be something. Spread across the millions of people that use the website that could be quite a bit. It seems like the only search engine that everybody uses is Google. I don't really know Google's reputation as far as charitable giving. Need to do a little research on that. I only know them as a very innovative and profitable company.
I would never stop partonizing a company based on their particular charitable giving or lack thereof. If a company provides a good or service that I feel is quality then I will purchase it. But I also would prefer to support a company that gives something back. It's always nice when those two line up.
I have more to say but I'm too tired to sit here and think right now.
Money spent so far: $241.55
02/18/13 - Day 55 - Congratulations Message (free)
My update is late because it took me a while to properly formulate my anonymous kindness attack today.
I work part time at a radio station in my hometown. I have a few short shifts on the weekend and host a show on Sunday nights featuring independent music and artists. It's pretty fun. I don't do it because the money is good because it isn't. I do it because I like to do it. Anyway this station is in a group of stations, one of which has a talk radio format.
When I worked in sales (my job before APL) I was constantly in my car driving from one client to another. There was a show that was on this station that was one of the real highlights of my day. I hated that job and almost always needed something to lighten the mood of my day. This show did that for me. So today I facebook messaged the host of that show and let him know this.
I know first hand what a small amount of positive feedback can mean to someone in the radio industry so I hope it makes him happy to know he is being appreciated.
Money spent so far: $241.55
I work part time at a radio station in my hometown. I have a few short shifts on the weekend and host a show on Sunday nights featuring independent music and artists. It's pretty fun. I don't do it because the money is good because it isn't. I do it because I like to do it. Anyway this station is in a group of stations, one of which has a talk radio format.
When I worked in sales (my job before APL) I was constantly in my car driving from one client to another. There was a show that was on this station that was one of the real highlights of my day. I hated that job and almost always needed something to lighten the mood of my day. This show did that for me. So today I facebook messaged the host of that show and let him know this.
I know first hand what a small amount of positive feedback can mean to someone in the radio industry so I hope it makes him happy to know he is being appreciated.
Money spent so far: $241.55
Sunday, February 17, 2013
02/17/13 - Day 54 - Not For Sale
I have never had much faith in humanity. Unfortunately my beliefs were only reaffirmed today. I can't believe how fucking cruel and awful humans can be.
Recently I've had a couple "friends" that have just decided to completely cut my wife out of their life. They have given no real reason and shown no regard for anyone's feelings. I am trying to deal with my anger is a constructive way but when somebody hurts my wife's feelings it makes me furious.
I also read a story about how people are leaving razor blades in sausages and anti freeze in water bowls at dog parks around the country. I have read stories like this before but I never let it really sink in and infuriate me the way I did today. The depth of cruelty that some people show is sickening. I get so angry I want to throw up.
I have also been trying to get more educated about human trafficking. So I read many heartbreaking stories about that. It has been a rough day.
My random kindness attack today was to buy a book from notforsale.org. This is an agency and website that was started by Dr. David Balstone. Initially he wanted just write a book that investigated human trafficking and tried to offer solutions to fight this insidious evil. He soon realized that he needed to do more and thus the agency was born.
As part of my continuing education about this subject I purchased the book. The funds from the book go toward the organization and hopefully the book will inspire me for some future acts of kindness. If you want to buy the book go here:
Not For Sale Book
Money spent so far: $241.55
Recently I've had a couple "friends" that have just decided to completely cut my wife out of their life. They have given no real reason and shown no regard for anyone's feelings. I am trying to deal with my anger is a constructive way but when somebody hurts my wife's feelings it makes me furious.
I also read a story about how people are leaving razor blades in sausages and anti freeze in water bowls at dog parks around the country. I have read stories like this before but I never let it really sink in and infuriate me the way I did today. The depth of cruelty that some people show is sickening. I get so angry I want to throw up.
I have also been trying to get more educated about human trafficking. So I read many heartbreaking stories about that. It has been a rough day.
My random kindness attack today was to buy a book from notforsale.org. This is an agency and website that was started by Dr. David Balstone. Initially he wanted just write a book that investigated human trafficking and tried to offer solutions to fight this insidious evil. He soon realized that he needed to do more and thus the agency was born.
As part of my continuing education about this subject I purchased the book. The funds from the book go toward the organization and hopefully the book will inspire me for some future acts of kindness. If you want to buy the book go here:
Not For Sale Book
Money spent so far: $241.55
02/16/13 - Day 53 - Drinks for friends
Today was a cool day.
I was supposed to do The Fight For Air Climb today but I realized (shortly before I was about to leave) that they wanted me to raise more funds than I had planned. I was sort of pissed off. I readjusted my attitude quickly when I realized that I did raise some money for the American Lung Association and I am going to run up the 32 flights of stairs anyway. I will probably do it tomorrow after I get off work. I'm going to try and time it and make it a legit thing so I can compare it with the winner of the event. I asked several of my friends to do it with me but nobody seems too excited about it.
Got a chance to talk to a friend today that I don't get to see very often. It's funny because we sort of are in the same phase of life right now without even trying to be. We are both trying to figure out how to make a positive impact on the world around us. It's not an easy thing to do for two people who were brought together because of our mostly smart ass and pessimistic attitudes. He is expecting his first kid and that is super awesome. I know him and his wife will be awesome parents and it was great to get to catch up. Hopefully a visit to his home will be happening this summer.
My friends and I like to drink. I am not usually the guy buying people drinks but tonight I actually did buy several for my friends. I offered to buy several more but only a couple took me up on the offer. I don't know how much of a positive impact buying somebody an alcoholic beverage at a bar on a Saturday night really makes for the world. But I know it was time for me to try to payback people for all the drinks they've bought me through out the past 10 years. This really is just a drop in the bucket.
Money spent so far: $221.55
I was supposed to do The Fight For Air Climb today but I realized (shortly before I was about to leave) that they wanted me to raise more funds than I had planned. I was sort of pissed off. I readjusted my attitude quickly when I realized that I did raise some money for the American Lung Association and I am going to run up the 32 flights of stairs anyway. I will probably do it tomorrow after I get off work. I'm going to try and time it and make it a legit thing so I can compare it with the winner of the event. I asked several of my friends to do it with me but nobody seems too excited about it.
Got a chance to talk to a friend today that I don't get to see very often. It's funny because we sort of are in the same phase of life right now without even trying to be. We are both trying to figure out how to make a positive impact on the world around us. It's not an easy thing to do for two people who were brought together because of our mostly smart ass and pessimistic attitudes. He is expecting his first kid and that is super awesome. I know him and his wife will be awesome parents and it was great to get to catch up. Hopefully a visit to his home will be happening this summer.
My friends and I like to drink. I am not usually the guy buying people drinks but tonight I actually did buy several for my friends. I offered to buy several more but only a couple took me up on the offer. I don't know how much of a positive impact buying somebody an alcoholic beverage at a bar on a Saturday night really makes for the world. But I know it was time for me to try to payback people for all the drinks they've bought me through out the past 10 years. This really is just a drop in the bucket.
Money spent so far: $221.55
02/15/13 - Day 52 - The End of Poverty Petition (free)
A dog that had been at Animal Protective League for a while was adopted today. That makes it a pretty good day.
I signed another petition today. This one has 10 specific solutions to end poverty.
The End Of Poverty
Check it out and sign it yourself.
Money spent so far: $209.09
I signed another petition today. This one has 10 specific solutions to end poverty.
The End Of Poverty
Check it out and sign it yourself.
Money spent so far: $209.09
Friday, February 15, 2013
02/14/13 - Day 51 - Made my wife Valentine's dinner (free)
(The groceries were already purchased so it's sorta free.)
My wife is the cook in the house so for Valentine's day I make her dinner and I didn't really fuck it up. I roasted broccoli, made a salad, and red beans and rice. She got me a giant cupcake for dessert. It was a good one.
Money spent so far: $209.09
My wife is the cook in the house so for Valentine's day I make her dinner and I didn't really fuck it up. I roasted broccoli, made a salad, and red beans and rice. She got me a giant cupcake for dessert. It was a good one.
Money spent so far: $209.09
02/13/13 - Day 50 - Reviewed a friend's music (free)
I have been pretty lackadaisical about my blog updates lately. This one comes two days late and the past two have been pretty lackluster. So I am just going to try to do better. It has been a somewhat different week as I am now actually invested in a full time job with full time hours. It hasn't stopped me from carrying out my daily anonymous kindness attacks but it has kept me from being awake long enough to keep my updates on time.
This was a long cold wet day. My boots got soaked at the beginning of the day and stayed that way until the time I got home. It made me cranky.
I got an email from a buddy of mine that asked me to do him a favor. He asked me to review and give him notes on an album he had recently recorded. He is a great songwriter and funded the recording of this latest batch of songs through kickstarter. His kickstarter campaign was very successful and he was able to travel to Los Angeles for two weeks and record 12 songs with a very awesome and experienced producer.
I am not as good a songwriter as he is but I do have a really good ear for production and I listen to a shit ton of music. Plus I know he asked me to do it because he respects my opinion about music. Needless to say I am pretty pumped to be able to do this. But it is going to be some work. I began working on the project today. I am not sure when I will be finished with it.
My plan is to give him notes on
1. production
2. song order
3. performance
and that's it. I have listened to it a little bit and from what I've heard it sounds really great.
Money spent so far: $209.09
This was a long cold wet day. My boots got soaked at the beginning of the day and stayed that way until the time I got home. It made me cranky.
I got an email from a buddy of mine that asked me to do him a favor. He asked me to review and give him notes on an album he had recently recorded. He is a great songwriter and funded the recording of this latest batch of songs through kickstarter. His kickstarter campaign was very successful and he was able to travel to Los Angeles for two weeks and record 12 songs with a very awesome and experienced producer.
I am not as good a songwriter as he is but I do have a really good ear for production and I listen to a shit ton of music. Plus I know he asked me to do it because he respects my opinion about music. Needless to say I am pretty pumped to be able to do this. But it is going to be some work. I began working on the project today. I am not sure when I will be finished with it.
My plan is to give him notes on
1. production
2. song order
3. performance
and that's it. I have listened to it a little bit and from what I've heard it sounds really great.
Money spent so far: $209.09
Tuesday, February 12, 2013
02/12/13 - Day 49 - Walgreen's Help A Soldier initiative
While at Walgreen's today I purchased a couple bags of pistachios to put in their bin for donations to US soldiers.
Money spent so far: $209.09
Money spent so far: $209.09
02/11/13 - Day 48 - Dogs Deserve Better Donation
Sorry this update is a day late I went out last night and had too many beverages to properly update my blog. I did however donate to Dogs Deserve Better. This is an organization I mentioned in a previous blog and they do great things for dogs all across the US.
Money spent so far: $207.09
Money spent so far: $207.09
Sunday, February 10, 2013
02/10/13 - Day 47 - Ban Tiger Trade Petition (free)
I had to work at my other part time job today and it wasn't very fun. I am better at dealing with disgruntled dogs (at my full time job) than with just regularly gruntled people. I think maybe I'm in a lethargic mood because my diet and exercise routine has been particularly shitty lately. I'm gonna have to figure that out soon because I have less than a week to prepare for the Fight For Air Climb. I actually had signed up (and paid for) a half marathon that took place yesterday. But there was no way I was physically or financially prepared to participate. So I need to step it up.
While at my part time job I get astoundingly bored. It's not that there isn't anything to do. It's just that there isn't any real rush to do it. That and my motivation today was at an all time low. Not my attitude really just my motivation. So I was going back and forth between facebook and reddit. Something I saw on reddit got me really fired up. Apparently certain Chinese farmers actually farm tigers. China does have restrictions on killing a tiger for profit but you can use parts of a tiger if it has died from natural causes. So these "farmers" are raising tigers and then starving them to death because that is considered "natural." It fucking disgusted me. Here is a link to the petition:
Ban Tiger Trade
So what's the real difference, morality wise, between a chicken and and a tiger? It has to be rarity right? Tigers are rare and the idea that a giant jungle cat would be stuck in captivity and tortured through starvation to have it's bones ground up for expensive and exotic wines and medicines is pretty offensive to most people. Far worse things happen to chickens in industrial farms and it's not nearly as offensive. At least not to most Americans. I know it certainly wasn't to me. It probably still isn't. I really became a vegetarian for the health benefits. Animal rights were really an afterthought. My not eating meat probably doesn't move the needle for the big meat manufacturers anyway. But I'm glad I don't.
Like I said earlier, I think I like animals (even the ones that don't like me) better than I like most people.
Money spent so far: $202.09
While at my part time job I get astoundingly bored. It's not that there isn't anything to do. It's just that there isn't any real rush to do it. That and my motivation today was at an all time low. Not my attitude really just my motivation. So I was going back and forth between facebook and reddit. Something I saw on reddit got me really fired up. Apparently certain Chinese farmers actually farm tigers. China does have restrictions on killing a tiger for profit but you can use parts of a tiger if it has died from natural causes. So these "farmers" are raising tigers and then starving them to death because that is considered "natural." It fucking disgusted me. Here is a link to the petition:
Ban Tiger Trade
So what's the real difference, morality wise, between a chicken and and a tiger? It has to be rarity right? Tigers are rare and the idea that a giant jungle cat would be stuck in captivity and tortured through starvation to have it's bones ground up for expensive and exotic wines and medicines is pretty offensive to most people. Far worse things happen to chickens in industrial farms and it's not nearly as offensive. At least not to most Americans. I know it certainly wasn't to me. It probably still isn't. I really became a vegetarian for the health benefits. Animal rights were really an afterthought. My not eating meat probably doesn't move the needle for the big meat manufacturers anyway. But I'm glad I don't.
Like I said earlier, I think I like animals (even the ones that don't like me) better than I like most people.
Money spent so far: $202.09
02/09/13 - Day 46 - Stray Dog Overtime (free)
Saturday is usually a busy day at the Animal Protective League and this was my first one. It was really like any other day except that at around noon every crazy person in the world comes out in search of their dog. This was the first day where there were people visiting the dogs that I wouldn't feel comfortable approving for an adoption. As a caregiver for the dogs I also have to size up the people who want to adopt these dogs. Most people are great but some people...
My position is also responsible for caring for the dogs that are in the clinic. These are dogs that for various medical reasons aren't currently adoptable. Inevitably when a potential adopter comes to look at dogs they will see me walking one of these unadoptable dogs and completely fall in love with them. I usually have to explain the situation to them four times before it sinks in that they can't adopt the dog at this time. It's sad seeing that recognition cross their face.
I was pretty much done for the day. We had actually gotten everything done a little bit earlier than usual. As I was about to clock out two guys who were on their way south for a huge Mardi Gras party stopped in with a stray basset hound. This dog looked a little underweight and smelled pretty bad but getting into stuff that smells bad is one of the perks of being a stray dog. The guys said he was running across the highway and they had rescued him. They called around and people had suggested they bring him to us.
These guys were actually the real do-gooders in this story. All I did was accept the stray and set him up with a bed and a water bowl a little bit after my scheduled time off. He seemed very sweet like he was somebody's dog at some point. I hope that somebody comes to claim him in the next few days. If not (and if there are no serious health issues) I'm sure that we will have no problem finding him an owner.
In other news, my wife and I watched "What About Bob?" last night. That movie is freaking great. I must have watched it 100 times when I was a little kid. I still think it is funny. Why isn't Richard Dreyfuss in more stuff? That dude is freaking great.
Money spent so far: $202.09
My position is also responsible for caring for the dogs that are in the clinic. These are dogs that for various medical reasons aren't currently adoptable. Inevitably when a potential adopter comes to look at dogs they will see me walking one of these unadoptable dogs and completely fall in love with them. I usually have to explain the situation to them four times before it sinks in that they can't adopt the dog at this time. It's sad seeing that recognition cross their face.
I was pretty much done for the day. We had actually gotten everything done a little bit earlier than usual. As I was about to clock out two guys who were on their way south for a huge Mardi Gras party stopped in with a stray basset hound. This dog looked a little underweight and smelled pretty bad but getting into stuff that smells bad is one of the perks of being a stray dog. The guys said he was running across the highway and they had rescued him. They called around and people had suggested they bring him to us.
These guys were actually the real do-gooders in this story. All I did was accept the stray and set him up with a bed and a water bowl a little bit after my scheduled time off. He seemed very sweet like he was somebody's dog at some point. I hope that somebody comes to claim him in the next few days. If not (and if there are no serious health issues) I'm sure that we will have no problem finding him an owner.
In other news, my wife and I watched "What About Bob?" last night. That movie is freaking great. I must have watched it 100 times when I was a little kid. I still think it is funny. Why isn't Richard Dreyfuss in more stuff? That dude is freaking great.
Money spent so far: $202.09
Friday, February 8, 2013
02/08/13 - Day 45 - PETA signup (free)
Since beginning this project I have really turned into a fucking hippie. I know that isn't 100% true but it sure feels like it. I actually went to PETA's website today and agreed with most of the information. I really like animals more than people. Animals are easy to love because they are mostly simple to understand. They don't have any hidden agendas or secret plans.
People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals is a group that sometimes comes off as a little insane. I think they are really just brilliant at marketing. They are all about publicity. They realize there are some people they will never appeal to and whose minds they are never going to change. They aren't trying to reach those people with their outrageous publicity stunts.
Apparently they are trying to work their way into the brain of people like me. People that think that animals are awesome. People who suddenly become vegetarian after a life of really enjoying meat because they watched a food documentary one night.
I signed their pledge to end animal homelessness. You can do the same if you go here:
Fixing Animal Homelessness
Money spent so far: $202.09
People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals is a group that sometimes comes off as a little insane. I think they are really just brilliant at marketing. They are all about publicity. They realize there are some people they will never appeal to and whose minds they are never going to change. They aren't trying to reach those people with their outrageous publicity stunts.
Apparently they are trying to work their way into the brain of people like me. People that think that animals are awesome. People who suddenly become vegetarian after a life of really enjoying meat because they watched a food documentary one night.
I signed their pledge to end animal homelessness. You can do the same if you go here:
Fixing Animal Homelessness
Money spent so far: $202.09
02/07/13 - Day 44 - Vday planning
Today I bought a secret gift for my significant other. I don't want to give too much away because she has definitely found out about this blog and will be able to decipher any clue that I give her. However here is one clue anyway: this is a non traditional Valentine's Day gift and one that she has never received before.
I also discovered this awesome website that will probably be the subject of an upcoming anonymous kindness attack. It is called Dogs Deserve Better. Here is a description of them from their own website:
DOGS DESERVE BETTER is a 501c3 nonprofit organization dedicated to freeing the chained dog, and bringing our best friend into the home and family. Our mission is to free them through education, rescue and rehabilitation, grassroots legislation, and fencing programs.
The organization has recently moved into Michael Vick's former property where he housed and trained fighting dogs. They are working to renovate it into a state of the art facility for rescued dogs. Working at a no kill shelter has given me an even bigger passion for trying to help dogs and this organization looks like they do awesome work. More to come on DDB.
Money spent so far: $202.09
I also discovered this awesome website that will probably be the subject of an upcoming anonymous kindness attack. It is called Dogs Deserve Better. Here is a description of them from their own website:
DOGS DESERVE BETTER is a 501c3 nonprofit organization dedicated to freeing the chained dog, and bringing our best friend into the home and family. Our mission is to free them through education, rescue and rehabilitation, grassroots legislation, and fencing programs.
The organization has recently moved into Michael Vick's former property where he housed and trained fighting dogs. They are working to renovate it into a state of the art facility for rescued dogs. Working at a no kill shelter has given me an even bigger passion for trying to help dogs and this organization looks like they do awesome work. More to come on DDB.
Money spent so far: $202.09
Wednesday, February 6, 2013
02/06/13 - Day 43 - Helped out stranded family
This has been my third day at that Animal Protective League and I have yet to share any photos of these precious animals.
This is (in order from top to bottom) Elvira, Izzy, and Lexi. They are three of dogs that I look after for my job. I love my fucking job. It's super fun and rewarding. I know this is only my third day but it has been great so far.
As I mentioned yesterday I helped out a friend by covering their shift yesterday. I had the opportunity to help her again by covering her shift tonight as well. After I left the APL and on my way to work my friend's shift I stopped at a gas station and ran into a guy who seemed very down on his luck. He was from Nebraska and moving his whole family to Milwaukee, Wisconsin. He was standing next to his driver's side door while his wife and dog and kids sat in the car. He looked very distressed. He explained to me that he had ran out of money because he didn't budget for gas properly and he had called his family asking them to help but that he wasn't having much luck getting a hold of anybody. He may very well have been scamming me. If it was a scam it was still one that required his whole family to wait in a cold gas station parking lot. He had Nebraska license plates and was clearly far away from home. I could see the back end of his car was weighed down just by looking at it. I assumed this was what they were taking with them to Milwaukee.
Honestly the guy just looked desperate. I have felt desperate before and I wanted to help him out so I did.
Money spent so far: $182.09
This is (in order from top to bottom) Elvira, Izzy, and Lexi. They are three of dogs that I look after for my job. I love my fucking job. It's super fun and rewarding. I know this is only my third day but it has been great so far.
As I mentioned yesterday I helped out a friend by covering their shift yesterday. I had the opportunity to help her again by covering her shift tonight as well. After I left the APL and on my way to work my friend's shift I stopped at a gas station and ran into a guy who seemed very down on his luck. He was from Nebraska and moving his whole family to Milwaukee, Wisconsin. He was standing next to his driver's side door while his wife and dog and kids sat in the car. He looked very distressed. He explained to me that he had ran out of money because he didn't budget for gas properly and he had called his family asking them to help but that he wasn't having much luck getting a hold of anybody. He may very well have been scamming me. If it was a scam it was still one that required his whole family to wait in a cold gas station parking lot. He had Nebraska license plates and was clearly far away from home. I could see the back end of his car was weighed down just by looking at it. I assumed this was what they were taking with them to Milwaukee.
Honestly the guy just looked desperate. I have felt desperate before and I wanted to help him out so I did.
Money spent so far: $182.09
02/05/13 - Day 42 - Covered a friend's shift (free)
My second day at the Animal Protective League was a little bit more exciting. The typical job was actually very chilled out. There are a relatively low number of dogs housed in the kennel and there were actually three people working in that section of the shelter so things really moved along rather smoothly. We did get a call to pick up an animal that had been hit by a car. I really didn't know this was something that the APL typically did. Kyle (my trainer) informed that it really isn't a normal part of the job but that it does happen every now and then.
I had myself mentally prepared for a gruesome scene but when we got to the location we saw a fully grown and very healthy looking dog in the middle of the road. He actually lived nearby and had escaped his enclosure. If he had been hit by a car he wasn't showing any signs of harm. He went back to his home and we spoke to his owners about making sure that he was secure and not roaming the street.
Also this was only my second day and I was treated to free cake. So far so good.
I also work part time at the radio station here in town. I only have my shift on the weekends but I got a call from a friend of mine that works at the radio asking me to cover her 6pm to midnight shifts for the next two days. I will still be getting paid for it so it's not a completely selfless act but I did still consider it an act of kindess. I know what this person has been going through.
Changes in her position at the radio station forced her to accept a new job in television broadcasting. She has been trying to balance her schedule between her radio and television jobs and she was overwhelmed. It was clear by covering her shifts for the next two nights I would be giving her some much needed time off.
I truly enjoy spending time on the radio and getting to listen to and talk about music. The job doesn't really pay that much but I always leave after a shift with a smile on my face. That is true for both my radio and animal care jobs. It's pretty sweet.
Money spent so far: $162.09
I had myself mentally prepared for a gruesome scene but when we got to the location we saw a fully grown and very healthy looking dog in the middle of the road. He actually lived nearby and had escaped his enclosure. If he had been hit by a car he wasn't showing any signs of harm. He went back to his home and we spoke to his owners about making sure that he was secure and not roaming the street.
Also this was only my second day and I was treated to free cake. So far so good.
I also work part time at the radio station here in town. I only have my shift on the weekends but I got a call from a friend of mine that works at the radio asking me to cover her 6pm to midnight shifts for the next two days. I will still be getting paid for it so it's not a completely selfless act but I did still consider it an act of kindess. I know what this person has been going through.
Changes in her position at the radio station forced her to accept a new job in television broadcasting. She has been trying to balance her schedule between her radio and television jobs and she was overwhelmed. It was clear by covering her shifts for the next two nights I would be giving her some much needed time off.
I truly enjoy spending time on the radio and getting to listen to and talk about music. The job doesn't really pay that much but I always leave after a shift with a smile on my face. That is true for both my radio and animal care jobs. It's pretty sweet.
Money spent so far: $162.09
02/04/13 - Day 41 - Wrote a song for my wife (free)
I am a songwriter. I do not claim to be a good one. I have close friends that I know are better songwriters than myself. But today I wrote a song for my wife.
Man did I really piss myself off today. There is an open mic that a friend of mine hosts on Monday nights here in town that I typically participate in. It's a pretty fun community of singer-songwriters that come to this open mic. I started a challenge game where songwriters are required to use a phrase of two or three words in a new song each week. This week the phrase was "hard to love." We are supposed to use this phrase at least once in our song.
I always wait until the last possible minute to write my song. I'm not sure why I wait so long but I think there are two main reasons.
1. When I am up against the wall and forced to finish the song it actually forces me to make quick decisions and get it completed quickly.
2. I have always been bad about procrastinating.
So I worked hard to write a nice love song for my wife that included the phrase "hard to love." The song ended up sounding really good. But by the time it was my turn to play at the open mic I had completely forgotten the way the song went. It was embarrassing.
I did play the song for my wife when we got home for the night and she really liked it. Oh well.
Also, today was my first official day working at the Animal Protective League and it was pretty great. I definitely have a lot to learn but I think everyone seems to be pretty good and patient teachers. Fell in love with a little puggle named Izzy today.
Money spent so far: $162.09
Man did I really piss myself off today. There is an open mic that a friend of mine hosts on Monday nights here in town that I typically participate in. It's a pretty fun community of singer-songwriters that come to this open mic. I started a challenge game where songwriters are required to use a phrase of two or three words in a new song each week. This week the phrase was "hard to love." We are supposed to use this phrase at least once in our song.
I always wait until the last possible minute to write my song. I'm not sure why I wait so long but I think there are two main reasons.
1. When I am up against the wall and forced to finish the song it actually forces me to make quick decisions and get it completed quickly.
2. I have always been bad about procrastinating.
So I worked hard to write a nice love song for my wife that included the phrase "hard to love." The song ended up sounding really good. But by the time it was my turn to play at the open mic I had completely forgotten the way the song went. It was embarrassing.
I did play the song for my wife when we got home for the night and she really liked it. Oh well.
Also, today was my first official day working at the Animal Protective League and it was pretty great. I definitely have a lot to learn but I think everyone seems to be pretty good and patient teachers. Fell in love with a little puggle named Izzy today.
Money spent so far: $162.09
Sunday, February 3, 2013
02/03/13 - Day 40 - Signed petition for Save the Children (free)
It's Super Bowl Sunday and for the first time in a long time I didn't watch it. My wife and I watched Paranormal Activity 4 and now we are pretty sure there is a demon in our house.
I did however sign a petition for the organization Save The Children. This organization does so many good things for children all across the world that it is hard to put your finger on what they actually do. Their self description is:
Save the Children is the world's leading independent organization for children. Our vision is a world in which every child attains the right to survival, protection, development and participation. Our mission is to inspire breakthroughs in the way the world treats children and to achieve immediate and lasting change in their lives.
Nothing makes me more insanely pissed off than hearing about child abuse or animal abuse. It sucks that there are children in the world that have to suffer. It sucks that there is suffering in the world at all but my heart doesn't really bleed for adults. At least not like it does for children.
This petition is very generic but the idea is pretty great. A National Commission on Children. It doesn't get specific about what would be discussed in the national commission. Just that there should be one. It does seem bizarre that the government wouldn't want to investigate how to make the life of children better. Sign the petition below:
Keep America's Children Safe
Money spent so far: $162.09
I did however sign a petition for the organization Save The Children. This organization does so many good things for children all across the world that it is hard to put your finger on what they actually do. Their self description is:
Save the Children is the world's leading independent organization for children. Our vision is a world in which every child attains the right to survival, protection, development and participation. Our mission is to inspire breakthroughs in the way the world treats children and to achieve immediate and lasting change in their lives.
Nothing makes me more insanely pissed off than hearing about child abuse or animal abuse. It sucks that there are children in the world that have to suffer. It sucks that there is suffering in the world at all but my heart doesn't really bleed for adults. At least not like it does for children.
This petition is very generic but the idea is pretty great. A National Commission on Children. It doesn't get specific about what would be discussed in the national commission. Just that there should be one. It does seem bizarre that the government wouldn't want to investigate how to make the life of children better. Sign the petition below:
Keep America's Children Safe
Money spent so far: $162.09
02/02/13 - Day 39 - Signed up for Fight For Air Climb
Tardiness is one of my vices.
Here is a quicklist of stuff that I did yesterday. I will update when I get back from work.
1. Signed up my band for the Fight For Air Climb.
Update: The American Lung Association puts on this event in my city (and a bunch of other cities) every year. It's called the Fight For Air Climb because it benefits lung cancer research but also because you will literally be fighting for air as you climb up 32 flights of stairs. I have wanted to sign up for this event for the past few years and for various reasons haven't until now. I took the plunge and pushed my band in along with me. I actually signed up my band as a team that I will be representing. I did invite them to participate but it's coming up relatively soon. I don't know how physically prepared all of them feel. In fact, I don't know how prepared I really am. This is also a fundraiser. My personal goal is $100 and so far I only have $25. I'm not a huge fan of fundraisers because I don't like asking people for money. Hopefully it won't be hard to reach my goal.
2. Made my wife breakfast and went to get a pizza!
Update: I forgot the awesomeness of Papa Murphy's Gourmet Veggie pizza.
3. Watched Super 8.
Update: This movie is pretty much J. J. Abrams homage to all of Steven Spielberg's science fiction movies. That is just fine because I'm a big fan of Abrams and Spielberg. This movie is awesome.
4. Hung out in my secret room most of the day
5. Was sort of lazy.
Update: This was nice because my wife doesn't usually hang out with me in my man cave area but it really is the warmest place in the house right now. Plus her computer works pretty well in here. So we hung out in here most of the day.
6. Helped my mother in law with computer.
Update: I mentioned in a previous kindness attack that I am the "go to guy" for my mother-in-law when it comes to computer problems. She called again today to ask for some help and even publicly thanked me on her facebook page for helping her out.
Money spent so far: $162.09
Here is a quicklist of stuff that I did yesterday. I will update when I get back from work.
1. Signed up my band for the Fight For Air Climb.
Update: The American Lung Association puts on this event in my city (and a bunch of other cities) every year. It's called the Fight For Air Climb because it benefits lung cancer research but also because you will literally be fighting for air as you climb up 32 flights of stairs. I have wanted to sign up for this event for the past few years and for various reasons haven't until now. I took the plunge and pushed my band in along with me. I actually signed up my band as a team that I will be representing. I did invite them to participate but it's coming up relatively soon. I don't know how physically prepared all of them feel. In fact, I don't know how prepared I really am. This is also a fundraiser. My personal goal is $100 and so far I only have $25. I'm not a huge fan of fundraisers because I don't like asking people for money. Hopefully it won't be hard to reach my goal.
2. Made my wife breakfast and went to get a pizza!
Update: I forgot the awesomeness of Papa Murphy's Gourmet Veggie pizza.
3. Watched Super 8.
Update: This movie is pretty much J. J. Abrams homage to all of Steven Spielberg's science fiction movies. That is just fine because I'm a big fan of Abrams and Spielberg. This movie is awesome.
4. Hung out in my secret room most of the day
5. Was sort of lazy.
Update: This was nice because my wife doesn't usually hang out with me in my man cave area but it really is the warmest place in the house right now. Plus her computer works pretty well in here. So we hung out in here most of the day.
6. Helped my mother in law with computer.
Update: I mentioned in a previous kindness attack that I am the "go to guy" for my mother-in-law when it comes to computer problems. She called again today to ask for some help and even publicly thanked me on her facebook page for helping her out.
Money spent so far: $162.09
Saturday, February 2, 2013
02/01/13 - Day 38 - Sent gift to random friend #2
Today was pretty awesome. I had an interview with the Big Brothers Big Sisters organization here in my hometown. It was a very interesting meeting. I initially felt like I was going to job interview and I defintely dressed like it. The woman who interviewed me is my case handler and placement coordinator. She was very nice and gave me a lot of information. She said she had a tough time reading me right away. I took that in a negative way at first but she explained what she meant was that she had a tough time reading who would be the best little brother for me. I explained that I have no preconceived notions or expectations about what my little brother should be other than that I would like him to be 10 or under. She said the matching process could take up to a month. I'm pumped.
Another facebook friend of mine was sent a gift today. She will receive this gift because she was one of five people to respond to a chain letter facebook post of mine. She was actually the one to initially post the chain letter facebook post that I responded to. I should actually be getting a gift from her sometime in 2013 also.
This friend and I are not super close. I do know she likes to run and loves farmers markets and organically grown food. Here are the gifts she received:
1. Monkey Headphones. Headphones that look like little monkey heads and they keep your ears warm.
2. A blinky LED light for running. This keeps you safe while you're jogging in the dark.
3. A personally crafted "Farmers Market" Mix CD.
Check it: earthy and heartfelt tunes
In other news...I really screwed up my Friday night. I forgot to track my on air shift earlier in the day so I had to go out to the station at 9:30pm and I didn't get finished until now. Suck.
Oh well I didn't have any money anyway so I don't know what I thought I was going to do.
Money spent so far: $137.09
Another facebook friend of mine was sent a gift today. She will receive this gift because she was one of five people to respond to a chain letter facebook post of mine. She was actually the one to initially post the chain letter facebook post that I responded to. I should actually be getting a gift from her sometime in 2013 also.
This friend and I are not super close. I do know she likes to run and loves farmers markets and organically grown food. Here are the gifts she received:
1. Monkey Headphones. Headphones that look like little monkey heads and they keep your ears warm.
2. A blinky LED light for running. This keeps you safe while you're jogging in the dark.
3. A personally crafted "Farmers Market" Mix CD.
Check it: earthy and heartfelt tunes
In other news...I really screwed up my Friday night. I forgot to track my on air shift earlier in the day so I had to go out to the station at 9:30pm and I didn't get finished until now. Suck.
Oh well I didn't have any money anyway so I don't know what I thought I was going to do.
Money spent so far: $137.09
Thursday, January 31, 2013
01/31/13 - Day 37 - Sent gift to random friend #1
A facebook friend of mine was sent a gift today. He will receive this gift because he was one of five people to respond to a chain letter facebook post of mine. I usually think chain letters are pointless, superstitious garbage but this was like a pay-it-forward-good-deed chain letter so I got pretty pumped about it.
I think it made the rounds at the beginning of the year and you may have seen this post. I changed it a little bit, mostly because I thought the original post sounded too girly or like something on pinterest. Here is what mine read:
Pay-It-Forward: The first five people to comment on this status will receive from me a gift! Sometime in the next year it will show up at your house! There will be no warning, and it will happen whenever the mood strikes me. The catch? Pay it forward. Be nice to people in the new year. 2013: the year of not being a total dick.
I think the original post told people they had to post the pay-it-forward challenge as their status in order to receive a gift. I didn't want to make it a conditional gift so I just told people to be nice in the new year.
The first friend to receive a gift is one that I'm not super close with so this made it especially fun. I never promised that these gifts would be expensive or large or anything really. So here are the three gifts my friend received:
1. The Great Sandwich Detective Paper Doll cut out.
2. Hall and Oates "Private Eyes" 45 record.
3. A personally crafted "Funky Soul Fo Yo Ass" Mix CD.
check it: Most of the playlist (what Itunes had)
These might sound like white elephant gifts but I think this friend will really enjoy them. I also enclosed a letter that should make him laugh.
In other news...there are so many things I wanted to do today and I did nearly none of them. Here they are in no particular order.
what i didn't do
-Signup for Fight for Air Climb, Train for Run W/ The Eagles Half Marathon, Sign up for Half Marathon in town, Call Nursing Home and set up gig, clean upstairs, get boot polish, get suit dry cleaned, figure out how to record songs on my computer, look up costs of pa for gigs, figure out some crossfit workouts for workout club, look up self publishing or books and magazines info.
what i did do
-look up procol harum on spotify, get music for radio show, took a shower.
Money spent so far: $132.61
I think it made the rounds at the beginning of the year and you may have seen this post. I changed it a little bit, mostly because I thought the original post sounded too girly or like something on pinterest. Here is what mine read:
Pay-It-Forward: The first five people to comment on this status will receive from me a gift! Sometime in the next year it will show up at your house! There will be no warning, and it will happen whenever the mood strikes me. The catch? Pay it forward. Be nice to people in the new year. 2013: the year of not being a total dick.
I think the original post told people they had to post the pay-it-forward challenge as their status in order to receive a gift. I didn't want to make it a conditional gift so I just told people to be nice in the new year.
The first friend to receive a gift is one that I'm not super close with so this made it especially fun. I never promised that these gifts would be expensive or large or anything really. So here are the three gifts my friend received:
1. The Great Sandwich Detective Paper Doll cut out.
2. Hall and Oates "Private Eyes" 45 record.
3. A personally crafted "Funky Soul Fo Yo Ass" Mix CD.
check it: Most of the playlist (what Itunes had)
These might sound like white elephant gifts but I think this friend will really enjoy them. I also enclosed a letter that should make him laugh.
In other news...there are so many things I wanted to do today and I did nearly none of them. Here they are in no particular order.
what i didn't do
-Signup for Fight for Air Climb, Train for Run W/ The Eagles Half Marathon, Sign up for Half Marathon in town, Call Nursing Home and set up gig, clean upstairs, get boot polish, get suit dry cleaned, figure out how to record songs on my computer, look up costs of pa for gigs, figure out some crossfit workouts for workout club, look up self publishing or books and magazines info.
what i did do
-look up procol harum on spotify, get music for radio show, took a shower.
Money spent so far: $132.61
Wednesday, January 30, 2013
01/30/13 - Day 36 - Nice comments (free)
People that aren't songwriters may not be aware of the huge community of singer/songwriters on youtube that are trying to get their music heard. There are millions of people with guitars and pianos and webcams and original songs that want some type of positive reinforcement from the world. My anonymous kindness attack today was to put a positive comment on as many videos as I could watch.
If I'm being honest this wasn't exactly the easiest thing to do. Some of these songs and singers are just bad. My goal wasn't to give someone false motivation or a mixed message. I'm also not trying to offer constructive criticism. I only want to glean whatever positive input from the song and let the artist know what I liked about their music.
There was an older black gentleman that sang about Jesus with a techno beat and it seemed like he was making up the words as he went along. He clearly worked hard to edit and shoot the video and had put some serious time into it. He also got into a fight about race in the comments section.
There were a lot of girls singing really sad songs about broken hearts.
There were a lot of guys singing songs about girls.
There was one guy with a beard and a weird (but good) voice singing a song about trees out in an apple orchard on a windy day. That video was a little disconcerting because it felt eerily familiar to me.
There was an Indian guy that clearly did not speak English as his first language rapping about world peace to an "amateur" beat. He called it amateur beat, that's why the quotation marks are there.
There was a rock band filming a live performance. The sound quality was pretty rough but if you listened closely enough you could hear a pretty high energy punk band. I thought the production of the video might have been a purposeful choice. It fit the band's punk aesthetic pretty well.
There were quite a few older men singing songs about boats and war and horses and women and cars and warriors and broken hearts.
I left a positive comment on all of these videos. Whether I liked them or not. I found some redeeming value in the video and hopefully the notes that I left will encourage the songwriter to keep writing. Everyone who wants to write songs should do it. Even if the songs suck and they are a shitty musician they should keep writing and singing. They can only get better and it makes them a more creative person. A more positive person.
When I first started writing music I wrote a song every day. I was very aware that my songs really sucked. I didn't perform them anywhere. I just considered those songs to be practice for the real thing. I am not a great songwriter now but I have definitely improved since those early days.
Everybody needs an outlet and I was happy to encourage these people with theirs'.
Money spent so far: $128.89
If I'm being honest this wasn't exactly the easiest thing to do. Some of these songs and singers are just bad. My goal wasn't to give someone false motivation or a mixed message. I'm also not trying to offer constructive criticism. I only want to glean whatever positive input from the song and let the artist know what I liked about their music.
There was an older black gentleman that sang about Jesus with a techno beat and it seemed like he was making up the words as he went along. He clearly worked hard to edit and shoot the video and had put some serious time into it. He also got into a fight about race in the comments section.
There were a lot of girls singing really sad songs about broken hearts.
There were a lot of guys singing songs about girls.
There was one guy with a beard and a weird (but good) voice singing a song about trees out in an apple orchard on a windy day. That video was a little disconcerting because it felt eerily familiar to me.
There was an Indian guy that clearly did not speak English as his first language rapping about world peace to an "amateur" beat. He called it amateur beat, that's why the quotation marks are there.
There was a rock band filming a live performance. The sound quality was pretty rough but if you listened closely enough you could hear a pretty high energy punk band. I thought the production of the video might have been a purposeful choice. It fit the band's punk aesthetic pretty well.
There were quite a few older men singing songs about boats and war and horses and women and cars and warriors and broken hearts.
I left a positive comment on all of these videos. Whether I liked them or not. I found some redeeming value in the video and hopefully the notes that I left will encourage the songwriter to keep writing. Everyone who wants to write songs should do it. Even if the songs suck and they are a shitty musician they should keep writing and singing. They can only get better and it makes them a more creative person. A more positive person.
When I first started writing music I wrote a song every day. I was very aware that my songs really sucked. I didn't perform them anywhere. I just considered those songs to be practice for the real thing. I am not a great songwriter now but I have definitely improved since those early days.
Everybody needs an outlet and I was happy to encourage these people with theirs'.
Money spent so far: $128.89
Tuesday, January 29, 2013
01/29/13 - Day 35 - Microvolunteering (free)
Microvolunteering ambush! Today I laid the groundwork for a few weeks worth of anonymous kindness attacks. I joined three different organizations.
Here they are:
Help From Home
Online Volunteering
Volunteer Weekly
Not all three of these require a username and password so I guess I didn't really join all three but I definitely am aware and locked in to their mission. And that is microvolunteering.
These three organization have projects of all different varieties and I am looking forward to taking them on. I wasn't able to comlete any this evening because most take much longer than one night to complete and require an application process to be followed.
More news to come...
Money spent so far: $128.89
Here they are:
Help From Home
Online Volunteering
Volunteer Weekly
Not all three of these require a username and password so I guess I didn't really join all three but I definitely am aware and locked in to their mission. And that is microvolunteering.
These three organization have projects of all different varieties and I am looking forward to taking them on. I wasn't able to comlete any this evening because most take much longer than one night to complete and require an application process to be followed.
More news to come...
Money spent so far: $128.89
01/28/13 - Day 34 - Joined Redditgifts.com (free)
Obligatory excuse: Sorry this post is so late. I am still getting used to being back on a regular schedule.
Today was a somewhat normal day. I got up really early and took a drug test for my new job at the APL. That was weird. I always feel strange seeing a complete stranger handle my pee. It came back negative and I let the manager at the APL know. She was sort of confused because she hadn't received anything from the drug testing facility yet. I think she was trying to let me know she couldn't just take my word for the test results. Alright then. I guess we'll wait on the official results. Geez.
My anonymous kindness attack might seem a little self serving but hear me out. Today I joined reddit. This is easy and free and a pretty cool thing to do. I felt like it was time for me to actually join. I have been enjoying reddit for almost an entire year without being a real member. Reddit is a is a social news website where registered users submit content. Users can vote things up or down. It's pretty awesome. Some of the main interests that reddit users generally have are: cats, dogs, anything cute, science, science fiction, athiesm, memes, politics (very left of center), good deeds, environmental stuff, advice, jokes, stories, music, history, learning new things, astronomy, astronauts, this list could go on forever, etc. Here is a random picture of something posted on today's front page:
Today was a somewhat normal day. I got up really early and took a drug test for my new job at the APL. That was weird. I always feel strange seeing a complete stranger handle my pee. It came back negative and I let the manager at the APL know. She was sort of confused because she hadn't received anything from the drug testing facility yet. I think she was trying to let me know she couldn't just take my word for the test results. Alright then. I guess we'll wait on the official results. Geez.
My anonymous kindness attack might seem a little self serving but hear me out. Today I joined reddit. This is easy and free and a pretty cool thing to do. I felt like it was time for me to actually join. I have been enjoying reddit for almost an entire year without being a real member. Reddit is a is a social news website where registered users submit content. Users can vote things up or down. It's pretty awesome. Some of the main interests that reddit users generally have are: cats, dogs, anything cute, science, science fiction, athiesm, memes, politics (very left of center), good deeds, environmental stuff, advice, jokes, stories, music, history, learning new things, astronomy, astronauts, this list could go on forever, etc. Here is a random picture of something posted on today's front page:
YOU SHALL NOT PASS!
I think reddit is pretty fun and they do some cool things. The part that could really easily constitute an attack of kindness is my membership in redditgifts.
Necessary Links:
Redditgifts is a part of reddit where you exchange gifts with some random person across the globe or country. I am participating in the book exchange. The book exchange is generally partnered with a charity as well. Last year was donorschoose.org. I think it's an awesome idea to spread cheer and excitement and books across the country. Super pumped.
In musical news...I rocked out some "Material Girl" as a part of a songwriting/performing challenge. We were supposed to perform a song written or generally performed by a member of the opposite sex. I tried to think of the most stereotypically girl song that wouldn't totally suck. Madonna fucking killed it. Pretty sweet.
Money spent so far: $128.89
Sunday, January 27, 2013
01/27/13 - Day 33 - Wrote to Free Pussy Riot (free)
It is better to light a candle than to curse the darkness.
This is Amnesty International's motto. Amnesty International is an organization that has been around since 1961. It fights for human rights and tries to shine a light on injustice. It seems like a pretty legit organization with a great track record. There are a number of issues that you can take action on through signing petitions, writing letters, or donating money. An issue that is located on their front page immediately caught my attention.
Free Pussy Riot! Pussy Riot is an all female punk band from Russia that on February 21 of 2012 staged a performance at Moscow's Cathedral of Christ the Savior. It was a protest directed at the church leader's support of Putin. In March two members of their band were arrested and charged with hooliganism. Yes, hooliganism is a real crime. They have been sent to prison for two years basically because the government wanted to make an example of them. Do not speak out against the government or you will be sent to prison. Fucking unbelievable.
Here are two websites:
Take Action to Free Pussy Riot through Amnesty International.
Free Pussy Riot map.
The Pussy Riot map is cool. There are a bunch of artists and musicians that have little messages of support posted for the band. It seems unlikely that Putin would change his opinion because of a letter writing campaign and a map of people that think his fascist actions are total bull shit. But like the motto says it's better to light a candle than to curse the darkness.
In other news...my band played a weddings expo today. It was weird. The weather was crap today (freezing rain) and it kept many people away. Also we were playing at the very end of the event so people were ready to clear out. But I did introduce myself and my band to a bunch of propspective clients and wedding vendors that we hadn't previously met.
Have to go to bed early because I have to wake up early and take my drug test for my new job at the APL. Never been so pumped to pee in a cup.
Money spent so far: $128.89
This is Amnesty International's motto. Amnesty International is an organization that has been around since 1961. It fights for human rights and tries to shine a light on injustice. It seems like a pretty legit organization with a great track record. There are a number of issues that you can take action on through signing petitions, writing letters, or donating money. An issue that is located on their front page immediately caught my attention.
Free Pussy Riot! Pussy Riot is an all female punk band from Russia that on February 21 of 2012 staged a performance at Moscow's Cathedral of Christ the Savior. It was a protest directed at the church leader's support of Putin. In March two members of their band were arrested and charged with hooliganism. Yes, hooliganism is a real crime. They have been sent to prison for two years basically because the government wanted to make an example of them. Do not speak out against the government or you will be sent to prison. Fucking unbelievable.
Here are two websites:
Take Action to Free Pussy Riot through Amnesty International.
Free Pussy Riot map.
The Pussy Riot map is cool. There are a bunch of artists and musicians that have little messages of support posted for the band. It seems unlikely that Putin would change his opinion because of a letter writing campaign and a map of people that think his fascist actions are total bull shit. But like the motto says it's better to light a candle than to curse the darkness.
In other news...my band played a weddings expo today. It was weird. The weather was crap today (freezing rain) and it kept many people away. Also we were playing at the very end of the event so people were ready to clear out. But I did introduce myself and my band to a bunch of propspective clients and wedding vendors that we hadn't previously met.
Have to go to bed early because I have to wake up early and take my drug test for my new job at the APL. Never been so pumped to pee in a cup.
Money spent so far: $128.89
Saturday, January 26, 2013
01/26/13 - Day 32 - Returned "Borrowed" Items
Throughout the years I have borrowed things from people and I usually return them but sometimes I don't. Sometimes I keep them so long that I forget who I borrowed them from or I make up some elaborate story about how they really gave the item to me as a gift and I forget that I made the story up and I think the made up story is true. I'm weird.
I found three items in my house today that I'm pretty sure belong to a friend I haven't seen in a long time. I thought it was time they had them back. I mailed them today.
Money spent so far: $128.89
I found three items in my house today that I'm pretty sure belong to a friend I haven't seen in a long time. I thought it was time they had them back. I mailed them today.
Money spent so far: $128.89
01/25/13 - Day 31 - Cleaning out the lost and found
Update as promised:
Travel day. Ugh. Suck suck suck! We had to leave Jamaica and come back to the frozen United States. Our flights were delayed and delayed and delayed and I turned into a real dickhead. Fortunately my wife was there to laugh at me and tell me to calm down. It wasn't anybody's fault and getting mad wasn't helping anyone. I just really don't like airports and didn't like being stuck in them. I turn into a little baby. I clearly need a little work on my patience.
We got back home late in the evening and I prepared a package that I had meant to send about three months ago. I had been going through the lost and found at my work and trying to be a detective to reunite people with their belongings. One thing that had sat in the lost and found for a while was a really nice leather binder with some paper inside it. I looked inside one of the pockets and found a business card. I called the number and found out it was the person that owned the binder. They were geniunely thankful and surprised and told me they hadn't been in my town for over a year. I asked for her address and told her I would send it to her.
I completely forgot about it and decided now would be a good time to get it sent on it's way.
Money spent so far: $123.89
Travel day. Ugh. Suck suck suck! We had to leave Jamaica and come back to the frozen United States. Our flights were delayed and delayed and delayed and I turned into a real dickhead. Fortunately my wife was there to laugh at me and tell me to calm down. It wasn't anybody's fault and getting mad wasn't helping anyone. I just really don't like airports and didn't like being stuck in them. I turn into a little baby. I clearly need a little work on my patience.
We got back home late in the evening and I prepared a package that I had meant to send about three months ago. I had been going through the lost and found at my work and trying to be a detective to reunite people with their belongings. One thing that had sat in the lost and found for a while was a really nice leather binder with some paper inside it. I looked inside one of the pockets and found a business card. I called the number and found out it was the person that owned the binder. They were geniunely thankful and surprised and told me they hadn't been in my town for over a year. I asked for her address and told her I would send it to her.
I completely forgot about it and decided now would be a good time to get it sent on it's way.
Money spent so far: $123.89
01/24/13 - Day 30 - Souvenirs
Update as promised:
Today was our last full day in Jamaica so we planned a quick trip in the morning to Ochos Rios to go see Dunn's River Falls. This waterfall is the shit. It's one of the most popular attractions in Jamaica and we were told by one of the attraction guides that we must see it before we left. It was super fun. We pretty much disregarded everything that anyone told us we needed to buy for the falls and just went for it. The tour guide said we needed water shoes and we did not. The tour guide said we had to wait for one of the falls climbing guides and we did not. We went renegade up the waterfall with no water shoes and no tour guide and it was awesome.
I thought it was weird how the climbing guides demanded everyone hold hands as they go up the waterfall. It seemed far more dangerous than just going in a straight line. The falls climbing guides were also taking video and pictures and getting everyone to yell Jamaican phrases the whole time. It may have been the perfect thing for a family but I was happy we avoided them.
The resort we were staying in had invited in several vendors to sell their items and had clearly asked them not to push too hard for sales. It seemed like the vendors were all adept at handmaking the stuff that they sold. I bought some souvenirs (wooden turtle, Jamaican sweatbands, etc.) for a few different friends from an older gentleman. I also got my wife a handmade hair clip made from a coconut. Pretty awesome.
I was blatantly made fun of by the bartender at our resort. I don't really like drinking while I'm in the sun all day so I kept getting really fruity frozen drinks. One I really liked was called The Big Bamboo. It was mostly strawberry and it was a pink frozen drink. I knew it was girly and didn't give a shit. The bartender gave me a weird smile after I ordered a second Big Bamboo and then asked me if I knew what The Big Bamboo meant.
I was ordering the drink named after a huge cock. Oh well.
Money spent so far: $114.65
Today was our last full day in Jamaica so we planned a quick trip in the morning to Ochos Rios to go see Dunn's River Falls. This waterfall is the shit. It's one of the most popular attractions in Jamaica and we were told by one of the attraction guides that we must see it before we left. It was super fun. We pretty much disregarded everything that anyone told us we needed to buy for the falls and just went for it. The tour guide said we needed water shoes and we did not. The tour guide said we had to wait for one of the falls climbing guides and we did not. We went renegade up the waterfall with no water shoes and no tour guide and it was awesome.
I thought it was weird how the climbing guides demanded everyone hold hands as they go up the waterfall. It seemed far more dangerous than just going in a straight line. The falls climbing guides were also taking video and pictures and getting everyone to yell Jamaican phrases the whole time. It may have been the perfect thing for a family but I was happy we avoided them.
The resort we were staying in had invited in several vendors to sell their items and had clearly asked them not to push too hard for sales. It seemed like the vendors were all adept at handmaking the stuff that they sold. I bought some souvenirs (wooden turtle, Jamaican sweatbands, etc.) for a few different friends from an older gentleman. I also got my wife a handmade hair clip made from a coconut. Pretty awesome.
I was blatantly made fun of by the bartender at our resort. I don't really like drinking while I'm in the sun all day so I kept getting really fruity frozen drinks. One I really liked was called The Big Bamboo. It was mostly strawberry and it was a pink frozen drink. I knew it was girly and didn't give a shit. The bartender gave me a weird smile after I ordered a second Big Bamboo and then asked me if I knew what The Big Bamboo meant.
I was ordering the drink named after a huge cock. Oh well.
Money spent so far: $114.65
01/23/13 - Day 29 - Helped Elderly up Steps (free)
Update as promised:
My wife planned some excellent trips to different parts of the island for the next couple days. Today we woke up early and left for Negril. It was a bus tour and we were able to see much of the island. The country side is beautiful and green. Most Jamaicans are not wealthy. While there are some wealthy and upper middle class sections of the island about 90% of the island is lower class. They live in small shacks or huts. Goats and dogs are everywhere. Garbage is everywhere. I really liked the goats and dogs and really hated the garbage. I wanted to clean it up but it is truly a never ending job. I think it could actually be managed with some quality waste management companies.
On our trip the first stop was the Seven Mile Beach. It was pretty awesome. The tour guides were clearly getting kickbacks from the places they would take people. I remember hearing "Do not shop at the stores across the street because they will not give you a good deal and they charge tax. At the shops on this side of the street they will give you a great deal and charge you no tax." We decided to eat at The Boardwalk cafe even though our final stop on this trip was a restaurant. The food was pretty awful in comparison to our resort but I still gave a good tip. I thought this could have been my act of kindness for they day but it still felt a little weak.
Exiting the restaurant I noticed an elderly woman in a bathing suit trying to join her friends that were already seated. Nobody was getting up from the table to help her up that stairs so I helped her. I didn't even think about it at the time until my wife commented that it was a nice thing to do. The woman spoke German so I didn't get to converse too much with her but she did say thank you.
The Seven Mile Beach was broken into different sections that were maintained by the resorts. It was very clear which sections belonged to the resorts and which did not. The sections that were not maintained were over grown and covered with litter. Many Jamaicans had taken up temporary residence along these unclaimed sections of beach and were selling things or repairing boats or sleeping.
We got back on the bus and headed to Rick's Cafe. The crazy rich white guy on the plane had warned me that Rick's Cafe was a tourist trap. I guess it was but I didn't mind. It was awesome. It was established in 1974 and has been knocked down by hurricanes twice and rebuilt twice. There are cliff jumpers that dive from nearly 80 feet in the air. It's freaking sweet. Seriously check this out:
Money spent so far: $94.65
My wife planned some excellent trips to different parts of the island for the next couple days. Today we woke up early and left for Negril. It was a bus tour and we were able to see much of the island. The country side is beautiful and green. Most Jamaicans are not wealthy. While there are some wealthy and upper middle class sections of the island about 90% of the island is lower class. They live in small shacks or huts. Goats and dogs are everywhere. Garbage is everywhere. I really liked the goats and dogs and really hated the garbage. I wanted to clean it up but it is truly a never ending job. I think it could actually be managed with some quality waste management companies.
On our trip the first stop was the Seven Mile Beach. It was pretty awesome. The tour guides were clearly getting kickbacks from the places they would take people. I remember hearing "Do not shop at the stores across the street because they will not give you a good deal and they charge tax. At the shops on this side of the street they will give you a great deal and charge you no tax." We decided to eat at The Boardwalk cafe even though our final stop on this trip was a restaurant. The food was pretty awful in comparison to our resort but I still gave a good tip. I thought this could have been my act of kindness for they day but it still felt a little weak.
Exiting the restaurant I noticed an elderly woman in a bathing suit trying to join her friends that were already seated. Nobody was getting up from the table to help her up that stairs so I helped her. I didn't even think about it at the time until my wife commented that it was a nice thing to do. The woman spoke German so I didn't get to converse too much with her but she did say thank you.
The Seven Mile Beach was broken into different sections that were maintained by the resorts. It was very clear which sections belonged to the resorts and which did not. The sections that were not maintained were over grown and covered with litter. Many Jamaicans had taken up temporary residence along these unclaimed sections of beach and were selling things or repairing boats or sleeping.
We got back on the bus and headed to Rick's Cafe. The crazy rich white guy on the plane had warned me that Rick's Cafe was a tourist trap. I guess it was but I didn't mind. It was awesome. It was established in 1974 and has been knocked down by hurricanes twice and rebuilt twice. There are cliff jumpers that dive from nearly 80 feet in the air. It's freaking sweet. Seriously check this out:
Money spent so far: $94.65
01/22/13 - Day 28 - Litter Pickup and Advil Run
Update as promised:
I bought this trip to Jamaica as a present to my wife for our five year anniversary. When we first got married I thought that I would be able to pay for the honeymoon through my military bonus. The bonus took much longer to disperse than I originally thought so we ended up with a much less tropical honeymoon than we wanted. It was actually a very fun honeymoon just not what we had originally intended. So this is the tropical honeymoon we never did take.
While we were there I wanted to do something nice for my wife. Today I tried to bring her breakfast in bed. Huge backfire. I had left early in the morning while she was still asleep. I guess she woke up soon after I left and was trying to get a bunch of stuff done without me. My leaving without telling her where I was going or when I would be back was not appreciated. This was the first time I have done something that turned out to be a big failure.
We decided that today we would see what Jamaican life is like off the resort. It turns out it is pretty exciting. Jamaicans have relaxed (zero) traffic laws and they drive on the left side of the road like the British. This made crossing the street, walking on the sidewalks, or riding on a tour bus very nerve-wracking. Also, Jamaicans are not content to let you just walk by their store without going in. We were staying in Montego Bay the "#1 tourist city in Jamaica." So it's not surprising that everyone there is trying to get your attention and separate you from your money. Initially I was far too nice. The vendors and shop-owners, even the drug dealers and prostitutes saw my smile or even my glance in their general direction as an expression of interest. I was really just trying to be nice.
The other thing I noticed immediately was how much trash there is everywhere. I am not sure why there is so much garbage everywhere in Jamaica. There are probably a lot of reasons. I tried to make one litter pick up though there were somethings I couldn't handle without gloves and a trashbag (glass, dirty diapers, etc.) I picked up trash on our way back to the sidewalk from a nearby beach cove. I deposited all the trash I had picked up in garbage can at the top of some dilapidated stairs and we continued our walk. On the way back a drug dealer stopped me and said he saw me picking up trash earlier. He still tried to sell me some weed but he did seem like he was trying to thank me.
After we got back to the resort we decided we were going to see the "Mr. Rastaman" show that the entertainment staff of our resort puts on. It was a "gameshow" where the host pulled men up from the audience and made them do ridiculous and embarrassing things. Of course I was selected to go on stage. There were six guys subjected to four different challenges.
1. Pickup line challenge: Go over to a girl and deliver your best pickup line. Mine was "That dress looks really good on you but I think it would look better on my floor." Awful.
2. Pushup challenge: Do as many pushups as you can with a woman on your back. I was disappointed that I didn't win this one.
3. Sexometer challenge: Try to propel a basketball up a ramp by thrusting it with your hips as hard as you can. More about timing than strength. I failed.
4. Dance off: Six white guys dancing. This was awful. Everybody, including me, failed.
I didn't even place in the top three. Pretty embarrassing stuff.
We went back to our room and my wife was suffering from a pretty awful headache and we realized we didn't have any headache medicine. I asked around but nobody on the resort seemed to have any. I decided to leave the resort to try and find some. It was basically a trip through prostitute alley to find some Advil. I was propositioned by at least seven women offering everything in explicit detail. My response was to say "No. Definitely not. But do you know where I could get some Tylenol or Aspirin for a headache?" Most of them were actually pretty nice to me and even pointed me in the right direction. I have no idea what the circumstances of these women are but I found myself really pitying them. Everybody does what they have to do to survive but prostitution seems super fucked up to me.
I ended up running into a drug dealer (Tony) that took me to the one liquor store that was open and they had some Advil. I paid six bucks for six Advil and I gave the drug dealer who took me there three bucks for helping me. He wanted more but took my three dollars without much of a fight. He walked out of the liquor store with me and continued trying to sell me drugs. When it was clear I wasn't interested he tried to sell me some Jerk chicken from one of his friends making it there on the street. A true salesman.
I got back to the room with the Advil and my wife was worried but grateful.
Money paid so far: $94.65
I bought this trip to Jamaica as a present to my wife for our five year anniversary. When we first got married I thought that I would be able to pay for the honeymoon through my military bonus. The bonus took much longer to disperse than I originally thought so we ended up with a much less tropical honeymoon than we wanted. It was actually a very fun honeymoon just not what we had originally intended. So this is the tropical honeymoon we never did take.
While we were there I wanted to do something nice for my wife. Today I tried to bring her breakfast in bed. Huge backfire. I had left early in the morning while she was still asleep. I guess she woke up soon after I left and was trying to get a bunch of stuff done without me. My leaving without telling her where I was going or when I would be back was not appreciated. This was the first time I have done something that turned out to be a big failure.
We decided that today we would see what Jamaican life is like off the resort. It turns out it is pretty exciting. Jamaicans have relaxed (zero) traffic laws and they drive on the left side of the road like the British. This made crossing the street, walking on the sidewalks, or riding on a tour bus very nerve-wracking. Also, Jamaicans are not content to let you just walk by their store without going in. We were staying in Montego Bay the "#1 tourist city in Jamaica." So it's not surprising that everyone there is trying to get your attention and separate you from your money. Initially I was far too nice. The vendors and shop-owners, even the drug dealers and prostitutes saw my smile or even my glance in their general direction as an expression of interest. I was really just trying to be nice.
The other thing I noticed immediately was how much trash there is everywhere. I am not sure why there is so much garbage everywhere in Jamaica. There are probably a lot of reasons. I tried to make one litter pick up though there were somethings I couldn't handle without gloves and a trashbag (glass, dirty diapers, etc.) I picked up trash on our way back to the sidewalk from a nearby beach cove. I deposited all the trash I had picked up in garbage can at the top of some dilapidated stairs and we continued our walk. On the way back a drug dealer stopped me and said he saw me picking up trash earlier. He still tried to sell me some weed but he did seem like he was trying to thank me.
After we got back to the resort we decided we were going to see the "Mr. Rastaman" show that the entertainment staff of our resort puts on. It was a "gameshow" where the host pulled men up from the audience and made them do ridiculous and embarrassing things. Of course I was selected to go on stage. There were six guys subjected to four different challenges.
1. Pickup line challenge: Go over to a girl and deliver your best pickup line. Mine was "That dress looks really good on you but I think it would look better on my floor." Awful.
2. Pushup challenge: Do as many pushups as you can with a woman on your back. I was disappointed that I didn't win this one.
3. Sexometer challenge: Try to propel a basketball up a ramp by thrusting it with your hips as hard as you can. More about timing than strength. I failed.
4. Dance off: Six white guys dancing. This was awful. Everybody, including me, failed.
I didn't even place in the top three. Pretty embarrassing stuff.
We went back to our room and my wife was suffering from a pretty awful headache and we realized we didn't have any headache medicine. I asked around but nobody on the resort seemed to have any. I decided to leave the resort to try and find some. It was basically a trip through prostitute alley to find some Advil. I was propositioned by at least seven women offering everything in explicit detail. My response was to say "No. Definitely not. But do you know where I could get some Tylenol or Aspirin for a headache?" Most of them were actually pretty nice to me and even pointed me in the right direction. I have no idea what the circumstances of these women are but I found myself really pitying them. Everybody does what they have to do to survive but prostitution seems super fucked up to me.
I ended up running into a drug dealer (Tony) that took me to the one liquor store that was open and they had some Advil. I paid six bucks for six Advil and I gave the drug dealer who took me there three bucks for helping me. He wanted more but took my three dollars without much of a fight. He walked out of the liquor store with me and continued trying to sell me drugs. When it was clear I wasn't interested he tried to sell me some Jerk chicken from one of his friends making it there on the street. A true salesman.
I got back to the room with the Advil and my wife was worried but grateful.
Money paid so far: $94.65
01/21/13 - Day 27 - Burger King Haven House
Update as promised:
Today we had to take off super super early. My wife didn't go to sleep. I tried to go sleep pretty early and didn't do a very good job. She woke me up at 3am and it sucked. I whined like a little bitch. I got up and we got our stuff in the car. On our way to Jamaica!
On the way to the airport we stopped by Burger King. We haven't eaten any garbage food for a while so the cheesy tots weren't as appetizing as I remember them being. They were really tasty at first and then super nasty shortly thereafter. I have no preconceived plan for the next four days so I am looking for truly random acts of random kindness and I discovered mine for today at 3:30am in the morning at Burger King. It is Haven House. I didn't donate a lot (two bucks and some change) but I was still impressed with the mission. Haven House helps out families that travel to the city for medical procedures. To find our more or donate to the organization check this out:
Haven House
We got to our layover at an airport we'd never been too and my wife kept talking about how she hopes they have Pinkberry. She couldn't stop talking about it. I was pretty sure they wouldn't have it though I didn't say so. We don't have it in our hometown and I really thought it was just a west coast thing. In fact they did have a Pinkberry and it happened to be right on the way to our gate. It seemed like a miracle.
I ordered chips and a drink from a nearby snack stand just adjacent to Pinkberry. The girl at the checkout stand was named Quita. Pronounced "Koo-wee-tah" and not like somebody who quits things. She was super nice and I complimented her interesting name.
My wife tried to eat one of my potato chips without knowing they were salt and vinegar. She spat it out like a little kid. Pretty hilarious.
On the plane ride to Jamaica I met this super rich dude named Geoffrey. He said he had been to Jamaica a bunch of times and usually stayed in Negril. He is a retired salesman of scrap metal. He loves to smoke weed and doesn't really have to work anymore. He loves to work out. He knows people who live in Negril and they supply him with weed and rides to and from the airport. He says the people of Negril are the most laidback people on the whole island. He usually stays for two weeks at a time. He has a girlfriend, two daughters, two ex-wives. He congratulates me on making it past five years in my marraige and says both of his marraiges only lasted five years. He says he sometimes meets women down in Jamiaca and they hook up and it's not really a big deal. His girlfriend can't come with him because she has been sick. He was an interesting and eccentric dude. I did really enjoy listening to him and he gave me a lot of info about the island I didn't know before.
Our resort isn't the worst and it isn't the nicest. The food here is awesome so far. The people are really nice and they move quite a big slower than people in America. Everybody needs tips for everything. Everyone wants to be tipped. If you are white in Jamaica you are a tourist and tourism is the #1 industry in Jamaica. I wish I could tip everyone but I don't have enough money. People are still super nice. When I don't tip I feel like a real douchebag, but I'll probably get over that by the end of this trip.
Money spent so far: $85.65
Today we had to take off super super early. My wife didn't go to sleep. I tried to go sleep pretty early and didn't do a very good job. She woke me up at 3am and it sucked. I whined like a little bitch. I got up and we got our stuff in the car. On our way to Jamaica!
On the way to the airport we stopped by Burger King. We haven't eaten any garbage food for a while so the cheesy tots weren't as appetizing as I remember them being. They were really tasty at first and then super nasty shortly thereafter. I have no preconceived plan for the next four days so I am looking for truly random acts of random kindness and I discovered mine for today at 3:30am in the morning at Burger King. It is Haven House. I didn't donate a lot (two bucks and some change) but I was still impressed with the mission. Haven House helps out families that travel to the city for medical procedures. To find our more or donate to the organization check this out:
Haven House
We got to our layover at an airport we'd never been too and my wife kept talking about how she hopes they have Pinkberry. She couldn't stop talking about it. I was pretty sure they wouldn't have it though I didn't say so. We don't have it in our hometown and I really thought it was just a west coast thing. In fact they did have a Pinkberry and it happened to be right on the way to our gate. It seemed like a miracle.
I ordered chips and a drink from a nearby snack stand just adjacent to Pinkberry. The girl at the checkout stand was named Quita. Pronounced "Koo-wee-tah" and not like somebody who quits things. She was super nice and I complimented her interesting name.
My wife tried to eat one of my potato chips without knowing they were salt and vinegar. She spat it out like a little kid. Pretty hilarious.
On the plane ride to Jamaica I met this super rich dude named Geoffrey. He said he had been to Jamaica a bunch of times and usually stayed in Negril. He is a retired salesman of scrap metal. He loves to smoke weed and doesn't really have to work anymore. He loves to work out. He knows people who live in Negril and they supply him with weed and rides to and from the airport. He says the people of Negril are the most laidback people on the whole island. He usually stays for two weeks at a time. He has a girlfriend, two daughters, two ex-wives. He congratulates me on making it past five years in my marraige and says both of his marraiges only lasted five years. He says he sometimes meets women down in Jamiaca and they hook up and it's not really a big deal. His girlfriend can't come with him because she has been sick. He was an interesting and eccentric dude. I did really enjoy listening to him and he gave me a lot of info about the island I didn't know before.
Our resort isn't the worst and it isn't the nicest. The food here is awesome so far. The people are really nice and they move quite a big slower than people in America. Everybody needs tips for everything. Everyone wants to be tipped. If you are white in Jamaica you are a tourist and tourism is the #1 industry in Jamaica. I wish I could tip everyone but I don't have enough money. People are still super nice. When I don't tip I feel like a real douchebag, but I'll probably get over that by the end of this trip.
Money spent so far: $85.65
Sunday, January 20, 2013
01/20/13 - Day 26 - Big Brothers Big Sisters FCC (free)
Festival of Church Choirs today! It was an event to benefit the Big Brothers Big Sisters organization. It was inspiring.
I did get paid for my participation so it wasn't exactly an act of complete selflessness on my part. My buddy is the director of one of the church choirs in a neighboring town and he will sometimes pay me to sing with them when he knows he is going to be low on male voices. I am glad that he called me for this Festival. My knowledge of the Big Brother Big Sisters organization I extends as far as the movie Role Models. It was really cool to get to see the real people involved in the organization and the lives that get affected.
The organization's mission is "provide children facing adversity with strong and enduring, professionally supported one-to-one relationships that change their lives for the better, forever." Pretty good idea.
Big Brothers Big Sisters
I started to get very skeptical of the results of someone just spending time with a child facing adversity. What does it really do? Does it make a tangible difference?
They actually strive to keep themselves very accountable. These are the results of a 1995 study of children involved in the program:
more confident in their schoolwork performance
able to get along better with their families
46% less likely to begin using illegal drugs
27% less likely to begin using alcohol
52% less likely to skip school.
I have heard some pretty rough stories about Bigs getting emotionally attached to Littles and being really tore up when something goes wrong. Not doing something like this because I'm afraid something will go wrong is just chickenshit. Something is bound to go wrong but a lot more should go right for this kid if they have a positive role model. I don't know if the organization would want me as a Big Brother. I'm not super rich and I don't pretend to be a pillar of the community or anything. I feel I could be a positive influence in a person's life though.
My anonymous kindness attack today was signing up to be a Big Brother. I had been thinking about doing it since I started doing this project and today was a sign that I needed to commit. I have a friend that is already a Big Sister and she really likes her Little. So I have been able to see first hand what the program entails. I think it will be really good. I'm excited.
I am going to be gone for the next five days. Out of the country gone. My wife and I are going to Jamaica. It's going to be warm and beautiful and I probably won't be able to update while I'm there. I'm going to continue my kindness attacks while I'm down there, write them down and update when I get back home.
Money spent so far: $83.08
I did get paid for my participation so it wasn't exactly an act of complete selflessness on my part. My buddy is the director of one of the church choirs in a neighboring town and he will sometimes pay me to sing with them when he knows he is going to be low on male voices. I am glad that he called me for this Festival. My knowledge of the Big Brother Big Sisters organization I extends as far as the movie Role Models. It was really cool to get to see the real people involved in the organization and the lives that get affected.
The organization's mission is "provide children facing adversity with strong and enduring, professionally supported one-to-one relationships that change their lives for the better, forever." Pretty good idea.
Big Brothers Big Sisters
I started to get very skeptical of the results of someone just spending time with a child facing adversity. What does it really do? Does it make a tangible difference?
They actually strive to keep themselves very accountable. These are the results of a 1995 study of children involved in the program:
I have heard some pretty rough stories about Bigs getting emotionally attached to Littles and being really tore up when something goes wrong. Not doing something like this because I'm afraid something will go wrong is just chickenshit. Something is bound to go wrong but a lot more should go right for this kid if they have a positive role model. I don't know if the organization would want me as a Big Brother. I'm not super rich and I don't pretend to be a pillar of the community or anything. I feel I could be a positive influence in a person's life though.
My anonymous kindness attack today was signing up to be a Big Brother. I had been thinking about doing it since I started doing this project and today was a sign that I needed to commit. I have a friend that is already a Big Sister and she really likes her Little. So I have been able to see first hand what the program entails. I think it will be really good. I'm excited.
I am going to be gone for the next five days. Out of the country gone. My wife and I are going to Jamaica. It's going to be warm and beautiful and I probably won't be able to update while I'm there. I'm going to continue my kindness attacks while I'm down there, write them down and update when I get back home.
Money spent so far: $83.08
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