I just joined this choir. It'll be interesting getting to learn their style. Most of their music that is sung in Latin is pronounced with the classical pronunciation. That's hard enough to get used to. Also, the music pieces just beg for Renaissance touches: crescendo/diminuendo, increases and decreases in tempo, or other kind of vocal styles. However, that is not how this music was originally sung, so I'm trying to keep it all out...
It should really get interesting when I have to sing transliterated Russian...
Wednesday, September 13, 2006
Tuesday, September 12, 2006
A heck of a weekend
Saturday, went to confession first thing in the morning -- I'd wanted to go that day, but I wasn't sure if I would make any of the other times. It's cool going first thing in the morning. It's like a shower for the soul...
I had choir practice at Christendom at ten -- I was a bit late, but that's to be expected. After choir practice, I worked on getting the Sentra up and running again. Ryan O. joined me, and he actually finished the job when I took off to go see Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest with Jonathan D., Michael C. and B., Daniel C. and another freshman.
All I can say is that Ryan is the man for actually staying and working on it. He got the Acura that night, but we still have to do the paperwork on it. It's still officially mine, but he's got it...
The Sentra ran just fine. I was expecting it to creak and moan since it hadn't been run in about three months, but it started up fairly smoothly. The battery was dead, but that's also to be expected.
Sunday morning after I had choir practice and Mass, Jonathan drove me into town, where I purchased a new battery of the Sentra. That made a big difference in how quickly the car starts. It's pretty nice...
When I got back to the church, shortly before the select choir practice, I went into the Commons. Emily's parents were in town, and I happened to be the only bass present, so I got called over, and we did a little bit of singing around a table.
After that was the select choir practice. After that, I went to Old St. Mary's, and sang with the schola there for the 5 PM Solemn High Mass. Fr. Pope said the Mass just like he always does, and he gave a great sermon, even though I fell asleep in it. I know, I know, seems contradictory...
I stopped by the apartment, and then drove back to Front Royal. I took Lizzie to Ruby Tuesdays, and we chatted for a while. I spent the night in Front Royal and drove in to work with Ken on Monday morning. I needed to call Trevor's Run and get a parking pass for my car before I could park it at the apartments, so I called them towards the end of the day, and got them to put a pass on the outside of their door. That evening, when I rolled in, I grabbed the temporary tag and I put it in my car. It was nice knowing that I would wake up the next morning and my car would not have been towed overnight...
I had choir practice at Christendom at ten -- I was a bit late, but that's to be expected. After choir practice, I worked on getting the Sentra up and running again. Ryan O. joined me, and he actually finished the job when I took off to go see Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest with Jonathan D., Michael C. and B., Daniel C. and another freshman.
All I can say is that Ryan is the man for actually staying and working on it. He got the Acura that night, but we still have to do the paperwork on it. It's still officially mine, but he's got it...
The Sentra ran just fine. I was expecting it to creak and moan since it hadn't been run in about three months, but it started up fairly smoothly. The battery was dead, but that's also to be expected.
Sunday morning after I had choir practice and Mass, Jonathan drove me into town, where I purchased a new battery of the Sentra. That made a big difference in how quickly the car starts. It's pretty nice...
When I got back to the church, shortly before the select choir practice, I went into the Commons. Emily's parents were in town, and I happened to be the only bass present, so I got called over, and we did a little bit of singing around a table.
After that was the select choir practice. After that, I went to Old St. Mary's, and sang with the schola there for the 5 PM Solemn High Mass. Fr. Pope said the Mass just like he always does, and he gave a great sermon, even though I fell asleep in it. I know, I know, seems contradictory...
I stopped by the apartment, and then drove back to Front Royal. I took Lizzie to Ruby Tuesdays, and we chatted for a while. I spent the night in Front Royal and drove in to work with Ken on Monday morning. I needed to call Trevor's Run and get a parking pass for my car before I could park it at the apartments, so I called them towards the end of the day, and got them to put a pass on the outside of their door. That evening, when I rolled in, I grabbed the temporary tag and I put it in my car. It was nice knowing that I would wake up the next morning and my car would not have been towed overnight...
Monday, September 11, 2006
Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest
My first reaction to Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest was: "Ooooooooo..." followed by comments on how it's such a great movie, and so much fun, as is usual for me.
The actors were awesome! As usual, Jack Sparrow was played by Johnny Depp, who is a great actor. Kiera Knightly is the smashing Elizabeth Swann, and Orlando Bloom is Will Turner. It was such a fun movie. I highly recommend it. It was done in a way that had me at the edge of my seat through the whole movie, and it ends on a note similar to Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back. It sets you up in such a way that you really want to see the third one, just for the fun of it!
I highly recommend this movie to everyone, except really little kids. They might be terrified of Davy Jones and his crew, and if that doesn't scare them, the Kraken probably would...
Of course, none of it scared me, because I'm a great big strapping lad...
+ + +
Fifteen men on a dead man's chest,
Yo ho ho, and a bottle of rum!
Drink and the devil had done for the rest,
Yo ho ho, and a bottle of rum!
The actors were awesome! As usual, Jack Sparrow was played by Johnny Depp, who is a great actor. Kiera Knightly is the smashing Elizabeth Swann, and Orlando Bloom is Will Turner. It was such a fun movie. I highly recommend it. It was done in a way that had me at the edge of my seat through the whole movie, and it ends on a note similar to Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back. It sets you up in such a way that you really want to see the third one, just for the fun of it!
I highly recommend this movie to everyone, except really little kids. They might be terrified of Davy Jones and his crew, and if that doesn't scare them, the Kraken probably would...
Of course, none of it scared me, because I'm a great big strapping lad...
+ + +
Fifteen men on a dead man's chest,
Yo ho ho, and a bottle of rum!
Drink and the devil had done for the rest,
Yo ho ho, and a bottle of rum!
Monday, September 04, 2006
A True Statement: Americans Take Notice
Muslims who want to live under Islamic Sharia law were told on Wednesday to get out of Australia, as the government targeted radicals in a bid to head off potential terror attacks.
A day after a group of mainstream Muslim leaders pledged loyalty to Australia and her Queen at a special meeting with Prime Minister John Howard, he and his Ministers made it clear that extremists would face a crackdown.
Treasurer Peter Costello, seen as heir apparent to Howard, hinted that some radical clerics could be asked to leave the country if they did not accept that Australia was a secular state, and its laws were made by parliament. "If those are not your values, if you want a country which has Sharia law or a theocratic state, then Australia is not for you", he said on national television.
"I'd be saying to clerics who are teaching that there are two laws governing people in Australia: one the Australian law and another the Islamic law, that is false. If you can't agree with parliamentary law, independent courts, democracy, and would prefer Sharia law and have the opportunity to go to another country, which practices it, perhaps, then, that's a better option", Costello said. Asked whether he meant radical clerics would be forced to leave, he said those with dual citizenship could possibly be asked to move to the other country. Education Minister Brendan Nelson later told reporters that Muslims who did not want to accept local values should "clear off ". Basically people who don't want to be Australians, and who don't want to live by Australian values and understand them, well then," they can basically clear off", he said.
Separately, Howard angered some Australian Muslims on Wednesday by saying he supported spy agencies monitoring the nation's mosques Quote: "IMMIGRANTS, NOT AUSTRALIANS, MUST ADAPT. Take It Or Leave It. I am tired of this nation worrying about whether we are offending some individual or their culture. Since the terrorist attacks on Bali, we have experienced a surge in patriotism by the majority of Australians." "However, the dust from the attacks had barely settled when the 'politically correct' crowd began complaining about the possibility that our patriotism was offending others. I am not against immigration, nor do I hold a grudge against anyone who is seeking a better life by coming to Australia."
"However, there are a few things that those who have recently come to our country, and apparently some born here, need to understand." "This idea of Australia being a multicultural community has served only to dilute our sovereignty and our national identity. As Australians, we have our own culture, our own society, our own language and our own lifestyle."
"This culture has been developed over two centuries of struggles, trials and victories by millions of men and women who have sought freedom"
"We speak mainly ENGLISH, not Spanish, Lebanese, Arabic, Chinese, Japanese, Russian, or any other language. Therefore, if you wish to become part of our society, Learn the language!"
"Most Australians believe in God. This is not some Christian, right; wing, political push, but a fact, because Christian men and women, on Christian principles, founded this nation, and this is clearly documented. It is certainly appropriate to display it on the walls of our schools. If God offends you, then I suggest you consider another part of the world as your new home, because God is part of our culture."
"We will accept your beliefs, and will not question why. All we ask is that you accept ours, and live in harmony and peaceful enjoyment with us."
"If the Southern Cross offends you, or you don't like A Fair Go", then you should seriously consider a move to another part of this planet. We are happy with our culture and have no desire to change,and we really don't care how you did things where you came from. By all means, keep your culture, but do not force it on others.
"This is OUR COUNTRY, OUR LAND, and OUR LIFESTYLE, and we will allow you every opportunity to enjoy all this. But once you are done complaining, whining, and griping about Our Flag, Our Pledge, Our Christian beliefs, or Our Way of Life, I highly encourage you take advantage of one other great Australian freedom, 'THE RIGHT TO LEAVE'."
"If you aren't happy here then LEAVE. We didn't force you to come here. You asked to be here. So accept the country YOU accepted."
Maybe if we circulate this amongst ourselves, American citizens will find the backbone to start speaking and voting the same truths!!
A day after a group of mainstream Muslim leaders pledged loyalty to Australia and her Queen at a special meeting with Prime Minister John Howard, he and his Ministers made it clear that extremists would face a crackdown.
Treasurer Peter Costello, seen as heir apparent to Howard, hinted that some radical clerics could be asked to leave the country if they did not accept that Australia was a secular state, and its laws were made by parliament. "If those are not your values, if you want a country which has Sharia law or a theocratic state, then Australia is not for you", he said on national television.
"I'd be saying to clerics who are teaching that there are two laws governing people in Australia: one the Australian law and another the Islamic law, that is false. If you can't agree with parliamentary law, independent courts, democracy, and would prefer Sharia law and have the opportunity to go to another country, which practices it, perhaps, then, that's a better option", Costello said. Asked whether he meant radical clerics would be forced to leave, he said those with dual citizenship could possibly be asked to move to the other country. Education Minister Brendan Nelson later told reporters that Muslims who did not want to accept local values should "clear off ". Basically people who don't want to be Australians, and who don't want to live by Australian values and understand them, well then," they can basically clear off", he said.
Separately, Howard angered some Australian Muslims on Wednesday by saying he supported spy agencies monitoring the nation's mosques Quote: "IMMIGRANTS, NOT AUSTRALIANS, MUST ADAPT. Take It Or Leave It. I am tired of this nation worrying about whether we are offending some individual or their culture. Since the terrorist attacks on Bali, we have experienced a surge in patriotism by the majority of Australians." "However, the dust from the attacks had barely settled when the 'politically correct' crowd began complaining about the possibility that our patriotism was offending others. I am not against immigration, nor do I hold a grudge against anyone who is seeking a better life by coming to Australia."
"However, there are a few things that those who have recently come to our country, and apparently some born here, need to understand." "This idea of Australia being a multicultural community has served only to dilute our sovereignty and our national identity. As Australians, we have our own culture, our own society, our own language and our own lifestyle."
"This culture has been developed over two centuries of struggles, trials and victories by millions of men and women who have sought freedom"
"We speak mainly ENGLISH, not Spanish, Lebanese, Arabic, Chinese, Japanese, Russian, or any other language. Therefore, if you wish to become part of our society, Learn the language!"
"Most Australians believe in God. This is not some Christian, right; wing, political push, but a fact, because Christian men and women, on Christian principles, founded this nation, and this is clearly documented. It is certainly appropriate to display it on the walls of our schools. If God offends you, then I suggest you consider another part of the world as your new home, because God is part of our culture."
"We will accept your beliefs, and will not question why. All we ask is that you accept ours, and live in harmony and peaceful enjoyment with us."
"If the Southern Cross offends you, or you don't like A Fair Go", then you should seriously consider a move to another part of this planet. We are happy with our culture and have no desire to change,and we really don't care how you did things where you came from. By all means, keep your culture, but do not force it on others.
"This is OUR COUNTRY, OUR LAND, and OUR LIFESTYLE, and we will allow you every opportunity to enjoy all this. But once you are done complaining, whining, and griping about Our Flag, Our Pledge, Our Christian beliefs, or Our Way of Life, I highly encourage you take advantage of one other great Australian freedom, 'THE RIGHT TO LEAVE'."
"If you aren't happy here then LEAVE. We didn't force you to come here. You asked to be here. So accept the country YOU accepted."
Maybe if we circulate this amongst ourselves, American citizens will find the backbone to start speaking and voting the same truths!!
Busy weekend
On Friday, since it was First Friday, there was Holy Hour at Christendom. I actually made it in time for the choir practice and the Holy Hour. It's been a while, and I really needed to get away from the pressures of the world, and escape into the quiet of the church...
After this, a large group of us went to Spelunkers for ice cream. It consisted of most of the select choir. We got there about 8:30 PM, and sat around chatting and being silly until about 9:30. After that, I headed back to the apartment.
Saturday was spent prepping for a party. Alex and I had decided that we needed to have a party at the apartment, first of all to get the place cleaned up (because it was a mess) and also show off the new furniture and dishes what we had bought when Pat moved out. Saturday morning, Josh, Alex, and I went to Costco and purchased the food. We basically walked into the store without much of an idea of what we wanted to do. We landed upon a hunk of pork, and built from there. We bought pineapple, BBQ sauce, honey, and some other stuffings. We ordered a pizza for lunch, since we hadn't had anything to eat yet. The afternoon was spent cleaning up the place...
On Sunday, after Mass and the select choir practice, Josh and I drove back to the apartment. Josh began cooking, and Alex and I made the finishing touches on cleaning up the place. I completely forget to get parking tags, so I had to drive people from a distant parking lot to the apartment. Lizzie and Emma were the first to show up, followed by MikeE, Carissa, Ken, Alaina, and Sarah. We ate, played some videos online, played Apples-to-Apples, and also sat around chatting. The party went pretty late, and the people left (oddly enough) in the same order that they arrived.
After this, a large group of us went to Spelunkers for ice cream. It consisted of most of the select choir. We got there about 8:30 PM, and sat around chatting and being silly until about 9:30. After that, I headed back to the apartment.
Saturday was spent prepping for a party. Alex and I had decided that we needed to have a party at the apartment, first of all to get the place cleaned up (because it was a mess) and also show off the new furniture and dishes what we had bought when Pat moved out. Saturday morning, Josh, Alex, and I went to Costco and purchased the food. We basically walked into the store without much of an idea of what we wanted to do. We landed upon a hunk of pork, and built from there. We bought pineapple, BBQ sauce, honey, and some other stuffings. We ordered a pizza for lunch, since we hadn't had anything to eat yet. The afternoon was spent cleaning up the place...
On Sunday, after Mass and the select choir practice, Josh and I drove back to the apartment. Josh began cooking, and Alex and I made the finishing touches on cleaning up the place. I completely forget to get parking tags, so I had to drive people from a distant parking lot to the apartment. Lizzie and Emma were the first to show up, followed by MikeE, Carissa, Ken, Alaina, and Sarah. We ate, played some videos online, played Apples-to-Apples, and also sat around chatting. The party went pretty late, and the people left (oddly enough) in the same order that they arrived.
Monday, August 28, 2006
Chorus, by Mirandum Pictures
This was overall a good movie, although I was really confused for most of it. The plot ran around itself and kept throwing in a few more twists, but that's part of what made it good, even if it was confusing...
The producer was Dr. Patrick K. of Christendom College, the director was Colin M., the script writer and assistant director was Mike P., and the man in charge of sound was Nick M. These four men had a vision, and their vision looked great. :) The future of Mirandum Pictures looks bright.
Anna S. did an amazing job of freaking me out. She has this look in the movie that could make your blood run cold, if you can figure her out. Otherwise, she looks innocent enough. I spent most of the movie trying to figure her out...
Laura S. also did an amazing job. Her character was great -- her portrayal of stress, of commitment, of, well, her entire character was very well done. I was very impressed.
Annie C., Joe. P., Julian A., Mike P., Colin M., and everyone else in the movie also did a great job. I was really impressed with the quality of everything for a low-budget independent film. I'm looking forward to their next full length motion picture.
I should make one small addendum: everyone did a wonderful job, except this one crazy lunatic driver. I mean, good gravy, he couldn't even keep his eyes on the road! I hope I never have to be in a car with him...
The producer was Dr. Patrick K. of Christendom College, the director was Colin M., the script writer and assistant director was Mike P., and the man in charge of sound was Nick M. These four men had a vision, and their vision looked great. :) The future of Mirandum Pictures looks bright.
Anna S. did an amazing job of freaking me out. She has this look in the movie that could make your blood run cold, if you can figure her out. Otherwise, she looks innocent enough. I spent most of the movie trying to figure her out...
Laura S. also did an amazing job. Her character was great -- her portrayal of stress, of commitment, of, well, her entire character was very well done. I was very impressed.
Annie C., Joe. P., Julian A., Mike P., Colin M., and everyone else in the movie also did a great job. I was really impressed with the quality of everything for a low-budget independent film. I'm looking forward to their next full length motion picture.
I should make one small addendum: everyone did a wonderful job, except this one crazy lunatic driver. I mean, good gravy, he couldn't even keep his eyes on the road! I hope I never have to be in a car with him...
Jake's wedding and Chorus Premiere
What else is new?
Saturday was Jake's wedding. I went down to Front Royal late on Friday night, and hung out with Sarah, Ken, and Alaina. I spent the night at Ken's house, and at 4 AM, we got up. We arrived at the parking area just after 5 AM, where Bob T. and Sam P. were waiting for us. We drove out of Front Royal just after we loaded up our stuff, and then got on the road. We got to Asheville, NC, at 10:30 AM, three hours ahead of schedule. Traffic on good days rocks...
The wedding was awesome. Jake and Laura were married in the same church where Mike and Liz were married last year. It was cool going back in there and sitting downstairs instead of singing.
All the Christendom guys were in one pew, and all of us were in suits. We were all on Jake's side of the church. In the first two pews, there was the family. From the beginning, it was obvious who were Catholics. The entire first two rows, with the exception of Jake's father and the groomsmen, were all seated throughout almost the entire Mass. Before Mass began, they were turning around and chatting with each other.
Third pew from the front, right in front of the Christendom guys, was Therese O. and her family. Obviously good Catholics, so I don't need to say that the difference between the second and third pews was monstrous. Behind them, to quote Ken, "was a wall of suits." And it's true. Every Christendom guy was dressed in a suit. And we were studly...
When the wedding began, Jake and the groomsmen came out from the front of the church. The wedding procession began, and everything got underway.
The music wasn't so great, I'm sorry to say. The organist sounded nervous -- I know he's really good, so I really noticed his little slips. When he stopped and the violins started, from the first note, I could tell that they were amateurs, so giving them credit for their level of experience, they were really good.
Further on in the wedding, Jake had me cracking up in my pew. When he and Laura were listening to the sermon, they looked at each other and grinned a couple times. It got me laughing, just seeing how happy they were. Shortly after that, at the presentation of the gifts, Jake and Laura were standing at the front of the church, waiting to receive the gifts, and then, in turn, hand them to the priests. While they were standing there, Jake was singing along with the Offertory hymn. That got a big smile out of me, and then Sam started cracking up next to me. I looked up, and Laura, who had been quietly singing along, had stopped and turned a little red. Jake turned to her and smiled (while continuing to sing). She tried to continue singing, but couldn't. I about died laughing.
I should point out that as much as I laughed in the church, it was all under my breath. As difficult as it was sometimes, I kept it as quiet as I could...
Now, for the priests: Father Buddy, from Florida, gave the sermon. His first words were, "I can feel the presence of the Lord rockin' and rollin' in this room!" My jaw hit the floor. But his sermon only got better. It ended up being a very good sermon, considering the poor start...
The sign of peace was also interesting. I should insert a comment before continuing that there was a little Asian woman in the congregation. I didn't see her, but Ken watched her. You know how some people are very active with their hands during Mass, i.e., raising them during the Our Father, doing other interesting things when they say, "And also with you," etc. Here's what happened:
Father Buddy was the concelebrant. The primary celebrant announced the sign of peace with the words, "The peace of the Lord be with you all." She responded with the usual, "And also with you," but she made a motion with her hands that looked like she was pushing the "peace" back to Father. Or throwing it back. I didn't see it, but that's as well as I can describe it here without the motions. This was followed up immediately by, "Let us offer each other the sign of peace." At this point, Father Buddy raised his right hand in the air with the "V for Victory" peace sign to the congregation. That was the second time my jaw hit the floor...
After the wedding, several of us went to Wal-Mart to pick up supplies for Jake's car. We arrived at the reception, and at a good distance away, we prettied up his car. When we were done, there was shaving cream all over it, as well as white soap/paint all over it.
When we were finally done, we caught the tail-end of the toasts, just before the dancing. The reception was a lot of fun. I danced to the Electric Slide, and that's about it. I was having too much fun chatting with everyone else.
We managed to pull Jake off the main floor, and got him outside with all the Christendom guys. We had some pictures taken with him, and then Sam and I carried him back inside on our shoulders to the dance floor. As we were passing people, I heard the question, "Where is Jake, anyway?" And people looked around, and laughed. I hope it was as fun for Jake as it was for all of us...
Ken told me that Jake wanted to have the guys sing Red is the Rose for him and Laura as they left, so we rounded up all the guys who knew the song. We ended up with a group of about ten guys, and it sounded really good -- at least to me, it did. Jake said it sounded good, but I think he was just saying that...
The drive back to Front Royal was uneventful -- we got back about 1 AM. This time we had Bob and Michael C. with us. We dropped Bob off at his car, and drove Michael back to campus. We almost hit a deer about ten miles from Ken's house...
Today was the day for the premiere of Chorus, the film by Mirandum Pictures. I sang at Christendom on Sunday morning, had the select choir practice, and then hung out at Eric's for a while. Colin O. was there, and we signed into X-Box Live, and got whaled on in Halo 2. After this, I helped out Catherine B. by setting up speakers for the reception following the premiere. I put on my tux and drove to the theatre for the showing. After Chorus, went to the after-party, where I got a lot of, "Hey, aren't you that driver? What happened to you? Are you OK?" At about 11 PM, I decided it was time to go. I changed at Dane's, and went home.
Saturday was Jake's wedding. I went down to Front Royal late on Friday night, and hung out with Sarah, Ken, and Alaina. I spent the night at Ken's house, and at 4 AM, we got up. We arrived at the parking area just after 5 AM, where Bob T. and Sam P. were waiting for us. We drove out of Front Royal just after we loaded up our stuff, and then got on the road. We got to Asheville, NC, at 10:30 AM, three hours ahead of schedule. Traffic on good days rocks...
The wedding was awesome. Jake and Laura were married in the same church where Mike and Liz were married last year. It was cool going back in there and sitting downstairs instead of singing.
All the Christendom guys were in one pew, and all of us were in suits. We were all on Jake's side of the church. In the first two pews, there was the family. From the beginning, it was obvious who were Catholics. The entire first two rows, with the exception of Jake's father and the groomsmen, were all seated throughout almost the entire Mass. Before Mass began, they were turning around and chatting with each other.
Third pew from the front, right in front of the Christendom guys, was Therese O. and her family. Obviously good Catholics, so I don't need to say that the difference between the second and third pews was monstrous. Behind them, to quote Ken, "was a wall of suits." And it's true. Every Christendom guy was dressed in a suit. And we were studly...
When the wedding began, Jake and the groomsmen came out from the front of the church. The wedding procession began, and everything got underway.
The music wasn't so great, I'm sorry to say. The organist sounded nervous -- I know he's really good, so I really noticed his little slips. When he stopped and the violins started, from the first note, I could tell that they were amateurs, so giving them credit for their level of experience, they were really good.
Further on in the wedding, Jake had me cracking up in my pew. When he and Laura were listening to the sermon, they looked at each other and grinned a couple times. It got me laughing, just seeing how happy they were. Shortly after that, at the presentation of the gifts, Jake and Laura were standing at the front of the church, waiting to receive the gifts, and then, in turn, hand them to the priests. While they were standing there, Jake was singing along with the Offertory hymn. That got a big smile out of me, and then Sam started cracking up next to me. I looked up, and Laura, who had been quietly singing along, had stopped and turned a little red. Jake turned to her and smiled (while continuing to sing). She tried to continue singing, but couldn't. I about died laughing.
I should point out that as much as I laughed in the church, it was all under my breath. As difficult as it was sometimes, I kept it as quiet as I could...
Now, for the priests: Father Buddy, from Florida, gave the sermon. His first words were, "I can feel the presence of the Lord rockin' and rollin' in this room!" My jaw hit the floor. But his sermon only got better. It ended up being a very good sermon, considering the poor start...
The sign of peace was also interesting. I should insert a comment before continuing that there was a little Asian woman in the congregation. I didn't see her, but Ken watched her. You know how some people are very active with their hands during Mass, i.e., raising them during the Our Father, doing other interesting things when they say, "And also with you," etc. Here's what happened:
Father Buddy was the concelebrant. The primary celebrant announced the sign of peace with the words, "The peace of the Lord be with you all." She responded with the usual, "And also with you," but she made a motion with her hands that looked like she was pushing the "peace" back to Father. Or throwing it back. I didn't see it, but that's as well as I can describe it here without the motions. This was followed up immediately by, "Let us offer each other the sign of peace." At this point, Father Buddy raised his right hand in the air with the "V for Victory" peace sign to the congregation. That was the second time my jaw hit the floor...
After the wedding, several of us went to Wal-Mart to pick up supplies for Jake's car. We arrived at the reception, and at a good distance away, we prettied up his car. When we were done, there was shaving cream all over it, as well as white soap/paint all over it.
When we were finally done, we caught the tail-end of the toasts, just before the dancing. The reception was a lot of fun. I danced to the Electric Slide, and that's about it. I was having too much fun chatting with everyone else.
We managed to pull Jake off the main floor, and got him outside with all the Christendom guys. We had some pictures taken with him, and then Sam and I carried him back inside on our shoulders to the dance floor. As we were passing people, I heard the question, "Where is Jake, anyway?" And people looked around, and laughed. I hope it was as fun for Jake as it was for all of us...
Ken told me that Jake wanted to have the guys sing Red is the Rose for him and Laura as they left, so we rounded up all the guys who knew the song. We ended up with a group of about ten guys, and it sounded really good -- at least to me, it did. Jake said it sounded good, but I think he was just saying that...
The drive back to Front Royal was uneventful -- we got back about 1 AM. This time we had Bob and Michael C. with us. We dropped Bob off at his car, and drove Michael back to campus. We almost hit a deer about ten miles from Ken's house...
Today was the day for the premiere of Chorus, the film by Mirandum Pictures. I sang at Christendom on Sunday morning, had the select choir practice, and then hung out at Eric's for a while. Colin O. was there, and we signed into X-Box Live, and got whaled on in Halo 2. After this, I helped out Catherine B. by setting up speakers for the reception following the premiere. I put on my tux and drove to the theatre for the showing. After Chorus, went to the after-party, where I got a lot of, "Hey, aren't you that driver? What happened to you? Are you OK?" At about 11 PM, I decided it was time to go. I changed at Dane's, and went home.
Tuesday, August 22, 2006
V For Vendetta
Wow! It was a great movie, but it was slightly disturbing. I'm not really sure what I think about it. I had some valid points, but at other times, it was very far fetched.
It was very sweet, as far as spectacle goes. :) And, no, I did not recognize the actor who played V until I watched the special features...
It was very sweet, as far as spectacle goes. :) And, no, I did not recognize the actor who played V until I watched the special features...
First weekend of the semester
That is for Christendom students, not me. I had to take advantage of this, and go down to Front Royal to visit everyone. Alex and I drove down in the morning, him to see Ashley and me to go to choir practice in preparation for the first Mass of the semester with Bishop Paul S. Loverde. After practice (which was about two hours), Alex, Ashley and I headed back out to Herndon, where we fired up V for Vendetta. About 6:20 PM, I headed out the door for Holy Transfiguration, so that I could sing at Vespers.
When I got there, Vespers was over. It did not start at 7:00 PM as I thought it did, but at 6:00 PM. I felt like such a fool, but it wasn't my fault. I just got the times mixed up.
Well, I headed out of there after grabbing a quick bite to eat, and went to confession at St. Veronica's. Then I went back to the apartment. I should have gone to sleep right then, but I didn't. I stayed up late doing who-knows-what again.
I regretted this the next morning, when I woke up and barely had time to get everything together before choir practice began -- not to mention the fact that I still had to drive from Herndon to Front Royal. I didn't get there until close to Mass time.
After Mass, I had brunch with Draper, then a large group of us went outside and sang for a while. It felt good to do that, especially after a summer of only Gregorian and Eastern Chant.
After that, I went to the guy's apartment (Guardian Angel: Dane, Jon, John, and Paul) and hung out there for a while. Dittert and I drove out to Ken's place for a barbecue, and then to the barn dance to mingle with the newcomers. After that, we went back to the apartment, where I fired up xXx for John, Jon, Dane, Paul, and Breanna. I really enjoyed that movie. Others didn't so much, because of the music. I can understand. I love all kinds of music, whereas almost everyone else there prefers much nicer music...
I arranged to spend the night there and work from the apartment on Monday. Just as I planned, I got up and worked very smoothly. At 11:00-ish, I went to Christendom to attend the Memorial Mass for Will Davulis. The church was almost packed.
That afternoon, when I finished with work, I went to the store and bought ingredients for spaghetti, alfredo, and some beef to mix in there. Yeah, I cooked dinner, and no one has died -- yet...
After that, I took off for home, after swinging by Dr. Poterack's office to see if he had any music for me to practice for next week. He didn't, so I went home, and went to sleep.
When I got there, Vespers was over. It did not start at 7:00 PM as I thought it did, but at 6:00 PM. I felt like such a fool, but it wasn't my fault. I just got the times mixed up.
Well, I headed out of there after grabbing a quick bite to eat, and went to confession at St. Veronica's. Then I went back to the apartment. I should have gone to sleep right then, but I didn't. I stayed up late doing who-knows-what again.
I regretted this the next morning, when I woke up and barely had time to get everything together before choir practice began -- not to mention the fact that I still had to drive from Herndon to Front Royal. I didn't get there until close to Mass time.
After Mass, I had brunch with Draper, then a large group of us went outside and sang for a while. It felt good to do that, especially after a summer of only Gregorian and Eastern Chant.
After that, I went to the guy's apartment (Guardian Angel: Dane, Jon, John, and Paul) and hung out there for a while. Dittert and I drove out to Ken's place for a barbecue, and then to the barn dance to mingle with the newcomers. After that, we went back to the apartment, where I fired up xXx for John, Jon, Dane, Paul, and Breanna. I really enjoyed that movie. Others didn't so much, because of the music. I can understand. I love all kinds of music, whereas almost everyone else there prefers much nicer music...
I arranged to spend the night there and work from the apartment on Monday. Just as I planned, I got up and worked very smoothly. At 11:00-ish, I went to Christendom to attend the Memorial Mass for Will Davulis. The church was almost packed.
That afternoon, when I finished with work, I went to the store and bought ingredients for spaghetti, alfredo, and some beef to mix in there. Yeah, I cooked dinner, and no one has died -- yet...
After that, I took off for home, after swinging by Dr. Poterack's office to see if he had any music for me to practice for next week. He didn't, so I went home, and went to sleep.
Friday, August 18, 2006
xXx: State of the Union
Not bad. Ice Cube played his role well, but he just wasn't xXx, the way that Vin Diesel was. It's a good thing, too, because it just wouldn't seem right, with them acting the same.
The stories are largely different. In the first, Vin Diesel goes undercover in a foreign country. In the second, Ice Cube goes ghetto on American soil.
One thing I'll say about both xXx movies: their vehicles are AWESOME. The one car in the first was an old muscle car. That theme carries over into the second, where Ford seems to be the primary manufacturer -- and I don't have a problem with that. There's a very sweet '67 GTO in the beginning, as well as a super high-rise F-350 (which I want, complete with everything, because we all know I'll drive it through buildings), as well as two Shelby's. Oh, wow.
That's about all I can say. The cars made the movie in this one.
The stories are largely different. In the first, Vin Diesel goes undercover in a foreign country. In the second, Ice Cube goes ghetto on American soil.
One thing I'll say about both xXx movies: their vehicles are AWESOME. The one car in the first was an old muscle car. That theme carries over into the second, where Ford seems to be the primary manufacturer -- and I don't have a problem with that. There's a very sweet '67 GTO in the beginning, as well as a super high-rise F-350 (which I want, complete with everything, because we all know I'll drive it through buildings), as well as two Shelby's. Oh, wow.
That's about all I can say. The cars made the movie in this one.
He-Man and the Masters of the Universe, Season 1, Volume 1
Wow...
Nope, no other comments...
"By the power of Grayskull! I have the power!!!"
Nope, no other comments...
"By the power of Grayskull! I have the power!!!"
Sunday, August 13, 2006
Baby B.'s Baptism
I went to Holy Transfiguration on Sunday morning for the baptism of little Daniel Athanasius B. I had been trying to convince Ryan O. that he's gotta com to Holy T. at some point, and so he finally decided that he was going to come today. Quite a good thing, too, because he got to witness a Baptism, Confirmation, and First Communion all in one day for one person. :)
Ryan and Maria showed up at the apartment early in the morning, and we drove out to Holy Transfiguration together. After the liturgy, Ryan drove back to the apartment, and then he and Maria took the Acura out for a test spin. They liked it, so it's pretty certain that Ryan will be buying the Acura. Now I need to get a couple things done to it before I can sell it, and then fix up the Nissan...
After hanging out at the apartment for a while, I drove down to Front Royal. The family was holding a party for their baby's baptism, and I was invited. I showed up bearing gifts of cookies and other things that are yummy, but I'm sure aren't as good for you as one would hope. But, hey, it's a baptism party! Live it up!
I went back home fairly early, actually getting back before 10PM. Sweet! I crashed early...
Ryan and Maria showed up at the apartment early in the morning, and we drove out to Holy Transfiguration together. After the liturgy, Ryan drove back to the apartment, and then he and Maria took the Acura out for a test spin. They liked it, so it's pretty certain that Ryan will be buying the Acura. Now I need to get a couple things done to it before I can sell it, and then fix up the Nissan...
After hanging out at the apartment for a while, I drove down to Front Royal. The family was holding a party for their baby's baptism, and I was invited. I showed up bearing gifts of cookies and other things that are yummy, but I'm sure aren't as good for you as one would hope. But, hey, it's a baptism party! Live it up!
I went back home fairly early, actually getting back before 10PM. Sweet! I crashed early...
Saturday, August 12, 2006
xXx
I just watched it for the first time. It's so awesome!!!
Vin Diesel is one of the most talented actors that I've ever seen. The movie seemed to be written with him in mind. To me, it seems that this movie defined him as an actor, especially as an action movie star.
I have no real comment on it, except that I'm really impressed with the number of stunts that were real. There was obviously some CGI, but not as many as you would think...
Vin Diesel is one of the most talented actors that I've ever seen. The movie seemed to be written with him in mind. To me, it seems that this movie defined him as an actor, especially as an action movie star.
I have no real comment on it, except that I'm really impressed with the number of stunts that were real. There was obviously some CGI, but not as many as you would think...
Tuesday, August 08, 2006
Will Davulis
I'm sure you know by now, but a fellow student of mine, Will Davulis has passed away. Please remember him and his family in your prayers. The family has to deal with the loss of two, because seven hours after Will died, his younger brother Dominic passed away as well.
The following are a list of posts from fellow classmates as well as other bloggers about this.
Will to Learn
Will Davulis
Family Tragedy in Dorcester, MA
Tragedy strikes Catholic family (sad story)
People to pray for
It makes you think...
Brother killed hours before tumor takes his sibling's life
Devout family loses two sons within hours
An Italian Existence
The original article:
Tragedy strikes family: Brother killed hours before tumor takes his sibling’s life
Orbituaries:
Dominic Thaddeus Gabriel Davulis
William Joseph Gregory Davulis
Requiem aeternam dona eis, Domine, et lux perpetua luceat eis. Requiescant in pace. Amen.
The following are a list of posts from fellow classmates as well as other bloggers about this.
Will to Learn
Will Davulis
Family Tragedy in Dorcester, MA
Tragedy strikes Catholic family (sad story)
People to pray for
It makes you think...
Brother killed hours before tumor takes his sibling's life
Devout family loses two sons within hours
An Italian Existence
The original article:
Tragedy strikes family: Brother killed hours before tumor takes his sibling’s life
Orbituaries:
Dominic Thaddeus Gabriel Davulis
William Joseph Gregory Davulis
Requiem aeternam dona eis, Domine, et lux perpetua luceat eis. Requiescant in pace. Amen.
Talledega Nights: The Legend of Ricky Bobby
This was the funniest movie I've seen in a while. I saw it was Alex, David, Paul and Lynn. We were laughing almost through the entire movie. We even laughed at the subtler humor that the rest of the people didn't pick up on. I won't tell you the jokes. Go see it yourself. Yes, you can see it. I give my my stamp of approval.
Monday, August 07, 2006
Busy weekend
Late on Friday night, I went to the girls house, and chatted for a while. On Saturday, I drove Jonathan D. out to pick up his new car, a 2000 BMW 740IL. It's a very sweet car -- I'm actually thinking about getting one, even though I've been sold on Caddy for some time -- thank you, Uncle Nelson...
I did some car searching: I looked around the same lot where I brought JD, and I also went to Carmax. I was still looking around for an FJ or a Prius, but I was wide opn to other options. I saw a few cars that basically sold me, but since I was in no position to buy that day, I kept the cars in mind, and thanked the gentleman for his time.
I then went to Aunt Carmen's for dinner. I had spoken to her earlier in the day about what she and Barry were doing later on. I went to her place, and gave her a picture of Dad. Then we sat around and talked for a while, had dinner, and watched television. Once we got started on the Discovery channel and prehistoric creatures, I was hooked. About 11 PM, I finally said that I really had to go, in spite of the fact that there was another prehistoric creature show on...
On the way back, I called Mom. We talked for about 45 minutes or so, and I told her about all the "fun" things that I'd been doing recently.
On Sunday, there was the first Tridentine Mass at St. John's in Front Royal. It went well. Dr. P. directed Draper and myself in the schola, and that also went over rather well.
I then went out to Winchester for Josh & Leslie's marriage affadavit. While I was waiting for the priest to show up, I spent some time in the perpetual adoration chapel. It was really nice getting away from everything for a few minutes. :) When I left, Father still wasn't there, so I walked to the rectory and delivered the affadavit.
After that, I went to the girls' house, where there was a party going on. Christine, Carissa, Sarah, Alex, MikeE, Ken, Alaina, Paul E., and Dr. P were all there. Before it got too late, though, I drove back home, got there about 11:30 PM, just in time for me to go to bed and start a new week...
I did some car searching: I looked around the same lot where I brought JD, and I also went to Carmax. I was still looking around for an FJ or a Prius, but I was wide opn to other options. I saw a few cars that basically sold me, but since I was in no position to buy that day, I kept the cars in mind, and thanked the gentleman for his time.
I then went to Aunt Carmen's for dinner. I had spoken to her earlier in the day about what she and Barry were doing later on. I went to her place, and gave her a picture of Dad. Then we sat around and talked for a while, had dinner, and watched television. Once we got started on the Discovery channel and prehistoric creatures, I was hooked. About 11 PM, I finally said that I really had to go, in spite of the fact that there was another prehistoric creature show on...
On the way back, I called Mom. We talked for about 45 minutes or so, and I told her about all the "fun" things that I'd been doing recently.
On Sunday, there was the first Tridentine Mass at St. John's in Front Royal. It went well. Dr. P. directed Draper and myself in the schola, and that also went over rather well.
I then went out to Winchester for Josh & Leslie's marriage affadavit. While I was waiting for the priest to show up, I spent some time in the perpetual adoration chapel. It was really nice getting away from everything for a few minutes. :) When I left, Father still wasn't there, so I walked to the rectory and delivered the affadavit.
After that, I went to the girls' house, where there was a party going on. Christine, Carissa, Sarah, Alex, MikeE, Ken, Alaina, Paul E., and Dr. P were all there. Before it got too late, though, I drove back home, got there about 11:30 PM, just in time for me to go to bed and start a new week...
Tuesday, August 01, 2006
John Tucker Must Die
This little teeny-bopper movie actually wasn't that bad. It was, in my opinion, extremely humorous, except some people I know would call a lot of the humor in it "inappropriate". In spite of that little fact, it's a hilarious movie. The guy who played Jogn Tucker is a very good actor. The bitter girls are also acted well. I think that since John Tucker is a lot like me (in his popularity, in his studliness, in his ability to impress all the ladies like there is no tomorrow, in the fact that I'm lying my big blue pahookie off right now about these similarities), I actually began to feel sorry for him. Not that he didn't deserve it -- I think he deserved everything that he got.
However, the fact that he was able to play off everything made me like his character that much more. Along the same lines, I also like the main girl who knew that she was going too far and eventually backed off, even though by that point it was too late.
I'd recommend this movie to people who enjoy teeny-bopper movies. If you're not sure, give this movie a shot, anyway. You might be surprised...
However, the fact that he was able to play off everything made me like his character that much more. Along the same lines, I also like the main girl who knew that she was going too far and eventually backed off, even though by that point it was too late.
I'd recommend this movie to people who enjoy teeny-bopper movies. If you're not sure, give this movie a shot, anyway. You might be surprised...
Monday, July 31, 2006
Not-as-busy weekend
Saturday was the last day of the Summer Institute, and Cardinal Arinze was saying the Mass. Dr. Poterack, Draper, Josh, and I were going to be singing there.
Practice was about an hour before Mass, and after practice, the Suspicious Cheese Lords showed up. This is an all-male acapella group who does (from my limited experience with them) entirely sacred polyphony. They are also really good.
That day was just an off day for them...
On Sunday, I went to Holy Transfiguration and sang with the choir there. There was nothing special going on that day, so I went home. On the way back, I decided to stop by Koon's Toyota and test drive two vehicles: the Toyota Prius, and Toyota FJ Cruiser. I test drove the FJ Cruiser first -- it was an amazing vehicle. It handled like a dream, on top of the fact that it felt like I owned the road. The Prius was also a very sweet little car: it had pickup that almost rivaled the FJ Cruiser, and a lot of space. Space is a huge issue for me (no pun intended)...
I learned something quite a while later. The Prius may be a really sweet little car, but Toyota reports that its batteries are not made to last over 100K miles (the batteries are warrantied for 80K miles). That just simply won't do. With this knowledge, of the two, I'd buy the FJ any day over the Prius. The FJ has more room (overall), plus it's not scheduled to die at 100K miles. The FJ's starting price is about $21K, whereas the Prius' starting price is about $20K. However, at the time that this post was begun, I did not know that little fact, and so I was really excited about both vehicles...
I went back to the apartment. Pat and Laura were there, so I told them of the test drives, all the while trying to control my excitement over the two vehicles. After they left, I fired up the watched She-Ra movie, and then continued with the He-Man episodes. That lasted me for a while...
Practice was about an hour before Mass, and after practice, the Suspicious Cheese Lords showed up. This is an all-male acapella group who does (from my limited experience with them) entirely sacred polyphony. They are also really good.
That day was just an off day for them...
On Sunday, I went to Holy Transfiguration and sang with the choir there. There was nothing special going on that day, so I went home. On the way back, I decided to stop by Koon's Toyota and test drive two vehicles: the Toyota Prius, and Toyota FJ Cruiser. I test drove the FJ Cruiser first -- it was an amazing vehicle. It handled like a dream, on top of the fact that it felt like I owned the road. The Prius was also a very sweet little car: it had pickup that almost rivaled the FJ Cruiser, and a lot of space. Space is a huge issue for me (no pun intended)...
I learned something quite a while later. The Prius may be a really sweet little car, but Toyota reports that its batteries are not made to last over 100K miles (the batteries are warrantied for 80K miles). That just simply won't do. With this knowledge, of the two, I'd buy the FJ any day over the Prius. The FJ has more room (overall), plus it's not scheduled to die at 100K miles. The FJ's starting price is about $21K, whereas the Prius' starting price is about $20K. However, at the time that this post was begun, I did not know that little fact, and so I was really excited about both vehicles...
I went back to the apartment. Pat and Laura were there, so I told them of the test drives, all the while trying to control my excitement over the two vehicles. After they left, I fired up the watched She-Ra movie, and then continued with the He-Man episodes. That lasted me for a while...
Wednesday, July 26, 2006
Monster House
I saw the preview for it, and I didn't like it. I watched it anyway, and I really liked it. Watch it. I dare you. You'll be surprised. I actually jumped a couple times.
Yeah, it's a kid's movie -- I just wasn't expecting anything...
Yeah, it's a kid's movie -- I just wasn't expecting anything...
Tuesday, July 25, 2006
U.N. B.S.
This should upset every tax paying legal citizen with voting eligibility of the United States:
How they vote in the United Nations:
Below are the actual voting records of various Arabic/Islamic States which are recorded in both the US State Department and United Nations records:
Kuwait votes against the United States 67% of the time.
Qatar votes against the United States 67% of the time.
Morocco votes against the United States 70% of the time.
United Arab Emirates votes against the U. S. 70% of the time.
Jordan votes against the United States 71% of the time.
Tunisia votes against the United States 71% of the time.
Saudi Arabia votes against the United States 73% of the time.
Yemen votes against the United States 74% of the time.
Algeria votes against the United States 74% of the time.
Oman votes against the United States 74% of the time.
Sudan votes against the United States 75% of the time.
Pakistan votes against the United States 75% of the time.
Libya votes against the United States 76% of the time.
Egypt votes against the United States 79% of the time.
Lebanon votes against the United States 80% of the time.
India votes against the United States 81% of the time.
Syria votes against the United States 84% of the time.
Mauritania votes against the United States 87% of the time.
U S Foreign Aid to those that hate us:
Egypt, for example, after voting 79% of the time against the United States, still receives $2 billion annually in US Foreign Aid.
Jordan votes 71% against the United States and receives $192,814,000 annually in US Foreign Aid.
Pakistan votes 75% against the United States and receives $6,721,000 annually in US Foreign Aid.
India votes 81% against the United States and receives $143,699,000 annually.
Could we use this money at home? You bet we could!! Perhaps it is time to get out of the UN and give the tax and foreign aid savings back to the American workers who have to skimp and sacrifice to pay their taxes and buy gasoline; or perhaps apply it to one or more of the social problems we have right here in this country.
Disgusting isn't it?
You may wish to pass this along to every taxpaying citizen you know.
How they vote in the United Nations:
Below are the actual voting records of various Arabic/Islamic States which are recorded in both the US State Department and United Nations records:
Kuwait votes against the United States 67% of the time.
Qatar votes against the United States 67% of the time.
Morocco votes against the United States 70% of the time.
United Arab Emirates votes against the U. S. 70% of the time.
Jordan votes against the United States 71% of the time.
Tunisia votes against the United States 71% of the time.
Saudi Arabia votes against the United States 73% of the time.
Yemen votes against the United States 74% of the time.
Algeria votes against the United States 74% of the time.
Oman votes against the United States 74% of the time.
Sudan votes against the United States 75% of the time.
Pakistan votes against the United States 75% of the time.
Libya votes against the United States 76% of the time.
Egypt votes against the United States 79% of the time.
Lebanon votes against the United States 80% of the time.
India votes against the United States 81% of the time.
Syria votes against the United States 84% of the time.
Mauritania votes against the United States 87% of the time.
U S Foreign Aid to those that hate us:
Egypt, for example, after voting 79% of the time against the United States, still receives $2 billion annually in US Foreign Aid.
Jordan votes 71% against the United States and receives $192,814,000 annually in US Foreign Aid.
Pakistan votes 75% against the United States and receives $6,721,000 annually in US Foreign Aid.
India votes 81% against the United States and receives $143,699,000 annually.
Could we use this money at home? You bet we could!! Perhaps it is time to get out of the UN and give the tax and foreign aid savings back to the American workers who have to skimp and sacrifice to pay their taxes and buy gasoline; or perhaps apply it to one or more of the social problems we have right here in this country.
Disgusting isn't it?
You may wish to pass this along to every taxpaying citizen you know.
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