First Day of Autumn

Greetings Readers

Today, I woke up refreshed rejuvenated and ready to Rock and Roll.  And after a night of something something with someone new, young, fit, well... its all good.  Though that was not the reason why for this mood.

Something about the morning was great.  The morning was partly overcast and looked cold which meant I would have to wear a jacket or put something under my bike jersey - which I do not want to do.

I opted out and decided to take a chance.  And it worked out for the better.  I got on the bike and decided to listen to Dire Straits this morning - Brothers in Arm.  I do not know what it was but maybe the combination of my mood, the music, the bike ride and the morning I was in Heaven.  I smiled at everyone I crossed while going to work this morning.  And lo and behold Readers they smiled back.  Yeah I know that is what happens, but I rarely do do that so it is a surprise from time to time for me.

Anyway, there is one convenience store that I visit weekly for the past 8 years going to work.  I have gotten to know the employees whom work there and they have come to know me.  Well, this morning I did my usual routine and then got to the cashier counter.  I was still listening to Dire Straits and then I saw that the employee was talking to me.  I pulled out my earphones and she said "hey there stranger."  I looked at her and I couldn't place her face.  "You don't remember me do you?  You used to flirt with me alot.  I am alot older now"  I took my Oakleys off and took a look at her.  I still could not place the face.  I smiled "Well I am alot older as well" she responds "But you still look the same"  I am still looking and trying to rack my memory "If your working tomorrow morning I will see if I remember you"

As I was leaving the parking lot I think I remember now.  Yes Readers, I am almost positive where I know her now.  I just got to remember her name by tomorrow morning.  And yes I remember, if this is the same person, that I flirted with her when I saw her and was so close to asking her out that, but she transferred to another location. 

Could this be fate?  Who knows.   Things have going great and alot is happening.  If she is there tomorrow and if the same person I am thinking of - yes I am going to ask if she would like to go out for a drink / dinner and catch up.  Granted, I knew her for a while, but I really did not know her so I am not sure if that sounds ok to ask.  Sorry, I did not look at her hands - for all I know she could be married.  And yes she is older than me by a little bit, I think.  Of course, she could be involved or just not interested in me.  But regardless I will ask tomorrow one way or the other.

Now onto other things - well not really, but music.  I really forgot how much I did not listen to my ipods when I was in this recent relationship that ended.  Earlier this year the ex moved closer down to where I live and work and soon thereafter she was driving me to and from work.  It was nice of course.  But now, being back on the bike since 7-19-14 full time I am getting to use the Ipods once more and get to bike to what I want to hear or randomize the songs.  You Readers know that I love variety of music genres and not restricted to one or two music genres.  The ex was limited to two genres - classical and techo (the techno that she listened to is not really techno thou).  As we speak I am listening to James Brown is Dead by LA Style, but all morning I have been listen to a variety - 10,000 maniacs, Queensryche, Prince, U2.   Oh by the way Readers, I downloaded the new U2 album while I was in Albuquerque - and I do like it, but there is but and I can save that for later), the Doors, W.A.S.P, the soundtrack to The Good, The Bad & the Ugly, Tiesto and Johnny Cash.  I am sure there is a bit more, but what I am saying is that I am in the music zone and I am loving it.  Every minute of it.

I am not quite ready for the announcement I was talking about blog post before.  Nothing big in my opinion and nothing new, in a manner of speaking, but I am stoked.  Looking forward to this.  Sorry, that is all I have to say about that.

oh LaMont - well LaMont has left the place where we worked together for the past 8 years.  Kind of sad to see that, but he told me no LaMont stories on my blog.  I do not think that I have any LaMont stories to tell... well I guess I do have one.  Breaking Bad.   Last year, last summer LaMont actually watched an episode of Breaking Bad since that was the final season and of course the talk was the talk on Breaking Bad.  We faithful watchers who have been on board from the beginning were left with the biggest cliffhanger at the end of Season 5 Part 1.  Hank is in Walter's Bathroom and sitting upon the Golden Throne and looks for something to read.  He sees a book and opens up to the first page "To my other favorite W.W. it's an honour working with you.  Fondly, G.B."  And then Hank looks up with that look and then the screen goes black.  Wow.  Just thinking about that moment now gives me the chills and i can recollect the first time I saw that scene and every time I still see that scene - it is awesome.  The beginning of the end.  And just think Readers - We had to wait a whole year to find out what was going to happen.  This is probably the second best cliff hanger for Breaking Bad in my book and I will share my most favorite season end episode that made me think.... well I will save that for tomorrow perhaps.  Anyway, getting back to LaMont.  I let him borrow my DVDs and LaMont crammed all 5 seasons in like 2 or 3 weeks.  LaMont was addicted from the beginning and was not working out, not going out and even LaMont's wife was getting into the show as well.  It was funny to see this since he always had something to say about me - You kept me up, your fault for me watching Breaking Bad, I aint getting any housework done.

On the last day of his work with me - LaMont thanked me again for Breaking Bad.  And as a gift I gave him Season 3 as a parting gift and to remember me when he needs a fix for Breaking Bad.  Oh Readers I had to buy seasons 1 through 4 again since the ex did not give them back to me - She wanted a gift back (though I did pay her 10 dollars for both shot glasses since the guy at the liquor store opened a gift set-I remembered this now, so technically these are mine since I gave her money for them since she did buy at the liquor store), some money and then to look around my humble place after we have broken up.   That may be a story for the down the road as well, but since this is all related I thought to let you know that as well.  I was Breaking Bad less for a while.  Sorry Readers, that's all I can say on that topic of the ex with the Breaking Bad seasons she kept.  I would think that is a sin to do that, but fuck if I know that is one or not.  I would consider that the sin of stealing - thou shall not steal - if I remember correctly.

And LaMont - I want to thank you for your friendship for almost 7 years.  Yes, I had a bad one year relationship I had with you.  Two donkeys, Two type C personalities was the cause of that, in my opinion - as well as my character.  Though I am glad that I/we made up.  I hope the best for you my friend.

until the next time

Daryl Charley
The Athlete (still working on a new title)

The Ignorant Senor(ita) - Update 12/2010

Greetings Readers

The Ignorant Senor(ita)

Well, I happened to go to this blog the other day (that I use to follow off and on) and I see that he/she is almost in the same boat I am. Though a bit different. Blogging off and on, but he/she has some issues about coming out from his/her anonymity, maybe, again.

Fuck me Readers - That recent blog post on why, how come and what would - was like the terms and conditions on the back of the credit card statement! And talk about beating a dead horse - over and over! I get it. Your Readers get it. You obviously have issues about yourself and can not see them.

As Nike indicates - Just do it! Or shut the fuck up and move on.

Although, I do keep my friend's names classified. Those names are just as confidential as the nuclear missile arming codes. Although, I think I have posted a couple of pictures of my friends.

Anyway, he/she wrote a fucking epic post on why he/she keeps everything "secret" Believe me, I can understand and relate. But, then he/she wrote another epic post on what if he/she came out.

Though what I have read is no different from any other person's life and relationships. Your stories and relationships are not unique. But of course, other people's stories, lives, events are kind of interesting to read if you are looking for other things to learn, know, explore or just follow. Your friends are no different than my friends. I have friends that do not get along with certain other of my friends for what ever reason. I too have some cheap skate friends that do not tip 15%. I have friends that I desire. I have thought dirty thoughts about a couple of friends I have - come on who hasn't. I have friends who mean the world to me, but I never told them that.

I can write, spell, use big words, but I do not do that all the time. I mess up my sentence structures from time to time. I use the word their, when I should have used there. I try to type correctly and most of the time I will proof read my blog posts for grammatical errors. And I try to write more than a few sentences when posting. Though, I am not going to write a 3,000 word essay on every blog I post.

I do not think I have blogged about specifics of my sex life. I know I mentioned a couple of intimate desires, thoughts and things, but nothing about a specific sexual encounter I have had. I will admit that there is a desire to write about a sexual encounter I have had. Yet, that is personal. Excuse me Readers, I am smiling as I am typing this since I know that most likely will - I have planted (blogged) that thought and now that will probably bounce around until I do. And should I - I will tell you Readers - The aroma of her fragrance, the clothes she wore, what she was not wearing, her body, the way she looked, her lips... Whoa. I better stop.

I understand the Ignorant Senor(ita) being in their twenties, thinking they are more mature than they are. I will not argue. Matter of fact, I thought that way when I was in my twenties. I lived the life of a twenty something. I did all that. and more, I bet.

I also tell you Readers that I am flawed. I am an asshole. I am rude. I am pissed off. I was wrong. What he/she has not told his/her loyal Readers that he/she is none of that. He/She does not not say that.

I have told you Readers alot of myself, which if I knew you in person I would never tell you all of this. And if you know me and did Google me to find out what/who is Mr. Charley, I could care less. I know what I post is out there for everyone to see. You Readers have seen my nipple(s), probably seen a few butt cheeks, the type and color of some of the underwear I have. I am not embarrassed or ashamed. I blog like how I feel / act. My friends know that I blog and I have provided a few of them the link. I have told you Readers what turns me on about a woman and what not.

Again, the only thing I do keep secret is my events/interaction with certain friends. And yes Readers, the friends that I do write about on certain situations, I often give them their "codename" on my blog. They laugh and ask how did that name come up, but I really do not know. Bobbie Rae is Bobbie Rae, I actually believe if she was not who she is today - she would be a Bobbie Rae from the South. LaMont was used because of Sanford & Son - which me and friend just smile and laugh about since he is so not Lamont. hah hah. Pssst - yes Readers - he is so a Lamont.

What I do not do on this blog is gossip or talk shit about on my friends. It would be easy, I bet. But this blog is, and never, will be about that. I do gossip in my real life, yes I admit that, and do talk shit. We all "hate" or "dislike" someone else for whatever reason and I could blog about those people, but I feel that is wrong. But I do blog about the people I "hate" who ask me "what time is it" while waiting for the bus, while I have my earphones in, which he/she can clearly see.

Readers, I think this blog post is getting too long now. Anyway, I am not making a point, but this recent blog from the Ignorant Senor(ita) was about his/her secret identity, relationships and life. Again. Oh yes, again and again. In the beginning of his/her first blog was the reason why for the blog. Then, throughout he/she still has to bring up a few reasons why he/she can not divulge his/her identity and his/her friends. Matter of fact, his/her friend's names are not even fake names. An Example would be like, "The fuck up," "The Coffee Drinker" "The Canon Powershot picture taker" "The 5th time unemployed friend" etc. You get the idea Readers.

In closing, I could not read every word of his/her recent last post. It was the same story again. And the same analytical breakdown on why he/she can not come out from his/her secret blog. And once again too fucking long to read and think this is interesting (for the umpteenth time)

He/she has not blogged about about committing a crime. Well, he/she did blog about getting so drunk and passing out on a front lawn - so that would be the crime of public disorderly. He/she has not blogged about sleeping with a CEO/President that would / could create a scandal. I think he/she is worried about what his/her friends would truly think of him/her if his/her friends, that he/she does calls friends, could put a real person with the Ignorant Senor(ita) blog. Or he / she is really worried about all the things he/she said about her friends on the internet. Not down and out bad, but carefully written that he/she is better than everyone else in a nice condensing manner.

Sorry Readers, I can not stop typing - Again, that Tipping and the Ignorant Senor(ita) had with a couple of years ago. He/she has some serious issues about tipping. I do myself, but would not blatantly point that out who specifically did not tip 15 % on my blog with my friends. If he/she is worried about not meeting the 15% unwritten rule to tip (though not unwritten at some restaurants these days) after a friend's get together meal then leave extra. Yes, you should not have to, but shit happens. Some people do, some people don't - who are you to say that is wrong. And to make sure that you never have to leave extra tip do not go out with them again for a meal, except fast food (where we as a society do not generally tip fast food employees)

Until the next time

Daryl Charley
The Fallen Athlete

May Day - 2nd Annual May Day

Greetings Readers

May Day. May Day – Blogger in trouble. Well, in not trouble per se, but getting ready for trouble.

I am actually not worried about the Bike fashion show, but I would like to show off my bike this weekend. So far I have decided to wear the green Southpark Bike jersey and then buy four new white bandannas to replace the four old white bandannas on my handlebars.

Next subject. I really do hate sacrificing the money I just spent for that one wheel I bought a couple of weeks ago. I cannot go out with friends in a manner of speaking. Well, I can with the promise that they would buy me a drink, but I am really not wanting to go out and have someone (people) buy me drinks, whatnot.

Being single I have gotten used to doing and paying for things that I need, want or desire. I feel that should someone get me something I feel indebted to him or her. Not indebted like if they save my life they are responsible for it, but I do believe in tit for tat.

When I saved the money up for the wheel this was not a spur of the moment buy. I actually planned the month, the food and my income I will allow myself for about 5 weeks. After all I too have bills to pay, food to buy, and to spend a bit for myself. Though, I had to cut out going to the grocery store every other day, buying beer, going out for lunch, riding Light Rail and buying Coca-Cola.

Now, I stay home since I cannot afford to go out. I have allowed myself $ 30.00 every Friday.

I pulled out the Playstation 2 and started playing the games I got in the past. Let me tell you Readers – that first Need for Speed – Underground game that is over five years old is so brand to me again. I am cursing, throwing that controller around and my thumb is hurting from pressing down the “gas” button on the controller trying to make my car go faster and faster. Seems like old times.

I have started making Sun Tea again. First of all I need to cut back on buying Coca-Cola and Dr Pepper and two I like fresh brewed Sun Tea with Sugar and Lemon. Yet, with drinking Sun Tea I was finding myself wide-awake for the first two weeks at about 10 PM.

Well, I finally was able to figure out how to solve that problem. I have once more started running again. Matter of fact, I was able to use one stone to solve two issues. I started running at lunch. Doing that I was able to solve not going out to eat for lunch (meaning not spending basically 10 dollars for lunch) and two I am really tired and sore from running and by the time 9:30 PM comes – I am ready for bed and still can go to sleep even after having a cup of Sun Tea.

I only mention a few of the things I have to learn to live with (adapt) to, but I do not regret spending that money for that one rim. The sad thing is I will have to do this again for the other rim. I cannot go around with just one rim.

As Lamont said, I am going to be like that one driver he saw at a stoplight. The driver only had one spinner on the front left side of his car. The driver got out of his vehicle and then spun the spinner and got back into his vehicle. Lamont laughed as he recalled that story to me, which I too laughed and then after our good laugh I decided at that point I am not going to be that one spinner guy.

Until the next time

Daryl Charley
The Fallen Athlete

Gift Card Shopping

Greetings Readers

When I came back from vacation I still an obligation to fulfill and that was the reward I promised for Andy.

So, on Saturday I decided to get some gift cards. Oops Readers, I also have to reward other people in life who have helped me in one-way or the other. “Gold heart” or “Heart of Gold” Charley makes another appearance this year. Or as Lamont would say “Tim Man” Charley.

I picked up three gift cards on Saturday – two restaurant gift cards and one iTunes Gift card. I know I wrote that I would get a $ 30.00 dollar gift card for Andrew, but I could not find one at Safeway or King Soopers. I do not think I could have found for that denomination at either store. I know, I know I could have gone to the restaurant of my choosing to get a gift card for whatever amount I wanted, but I wanted to do all my gift card shopping in one place and at the same time.

So, I have some low dollars to choose from then $ 25.00 and then the next denomination was $ 50.00. Fifty dollars was a lot and perhaps I should have picked that one, since Andrew did save my half a grand road bike from the bike thieves. After all, what is $ 50.00 dollars compared to having no bike right? Well, I settled for $ 25.00 gift card that was good for four different restaurants – Chili’s, Maggiano’s, Macaroni Grill and On the Border. As I am writing this I still think that perhaps I should have given him a $ 50.00 gift card.

Saturday afternoon I headed over to the Library to see if Andy was available.

I asked, “Hi is Andy working?”

“Andy?”

“Yes Andy”

“I’m the guy that Andy saved the bike from the bike thieves a couple of weeks ago.”

“We have an Andrew? Tall guy.”

Readers. Let me tell you. I did not take a lot to restrain from being a sarcastic son of a bitch at this moment. I mean come on Readers. Who does not know that Andy is usually a short nickname for Andrew. I did not laugh. I did not roll my eyes. I kept myself in check and just L.I.G. I do have to admit that I am talking to the cutest Librarian working at that location. So my type, but I have seen the rock on her finger indicating a Mrs. So that was another reason not to be the sarcastic guy I am most of the time.

“Yes.”

“Oh he is not working today”

“Do you know when he is working next?”

“He usually works Monday evening.”

And so goes the conversation.

“By the way, please do not tell him that I came by with a reward. Ok?

“Sure. No problem”

And that was the end of trying to give my reward to Andy, I mean Andrew.

Now, in case you Readers are curious about the other two gift cards. Well, I am going to tell you only one of the reasons why I had to get another gift card. As I have mentioned in the past I do participate in the Coca-Cola rewards program. Though, right now I am still a bit peeved about the changes and current rewards. Anyway, I have a friend who has been collecting all the Coca-Cola bottle caps and Coca-Cola 12 packs points that he gives to me. I think he has been giving me his Coca-Cola points for almost a year now or perhaps pretty close to a year.

So, since he has done this for me and he did actually help me purchase some of the Coca-Cola gifts that I have redeemed in the past year. He was actually helping me get so close to getting a high end gift, but as last year drew closer and closer I was not going to be able to get to my goal of a flat screen TV as a redeemable Coca-Cola item for points.

Anyway, since he has been giving me points I have been thinking about getting a gift for him from my Coca-Cola rewards program. However, I look at the gifts available and I just know that I did get something for him I might receive that gift and keep that for myself. Yeah I would do that since I am a Coca-Cola collector.

Then I thought to myself – iTunes gift card. He always talks about iTunes and how he sometimes gets caught up spending some time on iTunes finding and buying songs. Enough said. I came in Monday morning to work and gave him a gift card for $ 15.00 dollars for iTunes. He was on the phone, so I dropped off the card – mouthed thank you and then left.

Now, would “the rudest person ever known” give gift cards for someone he did not know for saving his bike from being stolen and another for a friend just helping me out for giving me his Coca-Cola points that he just throws away? I did more than say Thank you and that is that.

Until the next time

Daryl Charley
The Fallen Athlete

A Funeral Song List ?

Greetings Readers

I guess that is about how I can describe what I heard this morning. And of course, this came out to me in a round about way to the "death list of songs" to be played at one's funeral

Flashback - An Ipod owner I am - Three Ipods now - I did have four, but lost one due to damage.

Anyway, ever since becoming an Ipod owner, my music on my Ipod comes from my own personal collection of music. And yes that music is huge and unique. I have never, ever thought about going on Itunes and purchasing a song from Itunes. Especially so since if there was a song that I wanted to listen to - I bought the CD. Even if that CD had the only one good song I bought the entire CD.

In my view, buying a song for a dollar is alot of money. I am not talking about cost per minute or anything like that, but song buying in general.

Anyway, I go to Lamont and tell him of my dilemma of the “15 Wishes” I have been recently granted.
He smiles and shakes his head and laughs. Yes - At me. I could not help to smile and laugh back.

I explained that I purchased 15 wishes a week ago and still have yet to redeem those wishes.

I told Lamont what I wrote to you Readers – I have a tablet full of songs and artists. I have scraps of paper with songs written. Yet, I still cannot choose a wish. Then, I explained three days after getting the wishes I thought that I needed more for my money. Meaning that I had to revise my songs and pick some longer (time wise) songs as opposed to the shorter songs.

He again laughs and says to me “I’ve been there, bud”

Lamont tells me…

“Choose the songs that you chose first and purchase them – after all you can get another gift card – or as in your case 15 more wishes.”

I say “yeah that’s $ 15.00 dollars more”

“I thought you said they were wishes?!”

“They are”

“Well then, are they 15 wishes or 15 dollar gift card?”

I decided that was going to be the end of this topic.

Lamont reaches for him Day timer, opens it up and pulls out a folded piece of paper.

Lamont says to me he has made a “funeral list” of songs. Apparently, Lamont was at a funeral recently and the thing that he noticed was the music that was being played during the funeral.

I laughed at him and shook my head and I really could not believe that he has a “funeral list” that he wants to be played at his funeral. I was really shocked that he has actually put some thought into the music that he wants to be played at his funeral. Lamont recently had a birthday, which puts him into a new age bracket. Perhaps with attending a funeral and his new age bracket he may be thinking more about his death. I do not know.

Believe me Lamont talked about how this funeral list came about, but the thought that he actually put some thought into this funeral list was just a bit tad too much than my “little” problem of trying to choose 15 wishes that I want.

I did not get to see the list for myself, but Lamont did read some of the songs and artists that were listed. I did not agree nor disagree on the songs that he mentioned to me. Who am I too tell him whether those songs are good or bad.

I am still speechless on the existence of funeral list he made.

And I hope that I never, ever compile a funeral list.

Until the next time

Daryl Charley
The Fallen Athlete

Guitar Hero - Aerosmith Limited Edition

Greetings Readers

Well, I am not one to hide an embarrassing thing of what might of interest to you Readers. Right? I think that the only thing that I have been hiding is my locations of where I exactly live, where I work, my phone number, and of course my mother’s maiden name. Well, actually both of my parent’s names.

Though, What is this embarrassing thing?

Yours truly now owns Guitar Hero – The Aerosmith Edition for the PS3. A few people coaxed me into the game, but I have not been interested in buying. Many reasons. Well, first Guitar Hero does not appeal to me. I had no desire to buy. I saw that Southpark Episode that mocked Guitar Hero and believe me Readers I agreed with the entire episode of Southpark’s take on Guitar Hero.

Yet, my friends say that this is a great game for parties, get together and what not.

I was okay with not owning Guitar Hero, until up to about two weeks ago when I purchased another DVD recorder. When I was in Best Buy I was looking around at this and that and then I heard Aerosmith playing in the store, which I assumed was the recent Guitar Hero release that featured Aerosmith in the game.

Sidebar - I listened to Aerosmith when I was young and loved every album up until Permanent Vacation when Aerosmith became something I believed that Aerosmith should not have gone. Too pop perhaps. Or perhaps too ballad-y. I do not know really, but I used that excuse and from there I have not listened nor bought any albums from Aerosmith after their Permanent Vacation Album.

Back to present day – I turned the corner in Best Buy and lo and behold I saw a young girl 10 to 15 years old perhaps and she was kicking ass on Guitar Hero to an old Aerosmith song. Kicking ass is being polite. She was fucking rocking on the Guitar Hero game and she was basically sticking it to me. She hit almost every note and was swaying to the song and showing off to anyone who was watching that she fucking kicks ass.

From that instant I was not bothered that she rocked, but that this girl of that age was doing something better than me. No fucking way was I going to let that slide. Now, if this was something like she was building a better dollhouse than me – so what. No man’s ego can be offended by that. But, A video game with a Guitar – that’s encroaching upon a male’s ego that he must be better than the opposite sex. Period.

I brought up this incident to my friend the following week and told Lamont that this girl rocked and put to me to shame. He smiled and laughed. Yet, after talking to Lamont about this more I knew that I would not be able to live with myself. And Lamont did not help by rubbing it in that he was rocking the Guitar like Jimi and Eddie. He laughs and I too laugh, but secretly thinking that Lamont is also better than me and that really cannot be – in the right scheme of things.

I knew that I would be spending the money, but it would not a real senseless purchase since I do entertain guests from time to time and this would be a great party thing to have available.

So, this morning I headed to the same Best Buy and looked for the Aerosmith Guitar Hero edition and now I own my very own Guitar Hero.

Fast forward – I played that game for over four hours. Where in the hell did I lose 4 hours?! I was pulled in and I had a goal - to learn to use my left hand for certain moves, while my right hand “strummed” and then I had to learn more moves on top of those two independent moves. I had no clue that there was that much things that needed to be done to play Guitar Hero. I thought it was simple. Yet, you had to move fingers, watch and match the colors to the things on the TV showing what needs to be done. Also, tilt the guitar upwards when you get Star Power and also to use the Whammy bar for additional points. I was pretty crazy by the time the fourth hour came and went. I was not even blinking until the song was over so I would not miss a time that I had to pick a chord to play. I was absorbed by the game – how I did not see that coming.

And lo and behold when I made a “dead note” I cussed. Not just cussed. But Fucking cussed. That was how mad I got when I made a mistake. Is that not fucking crazy?!

In the end, I was able to get pretty far in the career mode and I did not once get booed off stage. Whereas Lamont got booed off the stage during a Slayer song. So, I guess that means I am once more better than Lamont at something we have done in common.

And you know what Readers, that’s what really matters in my own world. Shallow, but if I got a smile, walk taller and feel good then that’s all a plus in my book.

Until the next time

Daryl Charley
The Fallen Athlete

2007 Summer Solstice - 4:06 PM MST

Greetings Readers

I caved in last night and bought a medium Pan Pizza - Meat Lover's Pizza. Damn, that was good and I enjoyed every bite I took. Gluttony and yes I felt like that after a few slices.

Last night the heat could be felt in my humble abode. Nope. I still did not turn on the AC. Yes, I could have, but I am being "hard headed" and will only when it gets too hot. I woke up sort or sweaty, sticky, but not too bad. I had the portable fan blowing in air from outside so it made the night nice. Although this morning the air was cool and I so wanted to stay in bed and actually close my eyes for another hour. Alas, I have to go to work.

I bought another Tiesto album last night from Best Buy. I was able to locate the album "Just Be". I finally have the song that I wanted which is "Just Be" Otherwise, most of the other songs are available on the other CD's that I bought recently. And I still have five more coming from Amazon.com in three shipments. I really have gotten into Tiesto.

So, me & LaMont when over to Samurai Sam's in Lonetree, CO (9231 West Lincoln). and had ourselves a nice lunch, courtesy of me. Lunch was good.

Getting to the point of the story. So, I got the rest of my "big" meal to go since I did not finish. While eating I had put on some salt and pepper from those small packets and yes I made a mess. I threw my empty packets off to the side of my bowl. Meanwhile, I bagged my lunch with some napkins and plastic fork. Then, LaMont says "aren't you gonna clean up your empty salt/pepper packets?" Not even blinking,"I said why should I there those people behind the counter who are here to do this. They are here getting paid for doing their job. I do not come into this place to eat and clean up after myself. etc...."

As I was getting on this "rant" er "point" LaMont's stern face slowly turned into smile and laugh. I immediately stopped talking and looked at him and got what he was doing. He asked that question because he knew that I would go off, so to speak. Yes, he got his laugh at my expense. Yes, I did also and did not realize that was intention.

Granted, I do not have that reasoning I just wrote, but most of the time I do. I know that we, as a society, view/treat fast food place differently from Restaurants. We tip at restaurants, but not at fast food places. We order like we are Kings/Queens of the manor at fast food joints while at restaurants we sort of order like squires. This is being general, of course. There are people like me who feel like kings everywhere they go. Not because I can, but damn people I want my order the way I want it. Not the way the menu, board says. If I want Fries instead of Onion rings - Then I want fries. More importantly - if I say "I want only mustard, lettuce, pickles on my hamburger, and that's it." That means that's it. Do not ask if I want cheese. I said "that's it" and that means "that's it" You can ask me over and over and I will be silent as a mute. Unless I am feeling pretty frisky and then I will ask you question "What did I just say?"

Of course after that I have to stand in view of my hamburger so no one will spit or do something else to get revenge on me.

Well, I better not get into this subject now, but I will return to this later.

Until the next time readers.

Daryl Charley
The Fallen Athlete

The McDonald's Incident - almost

Greetings Readers

I guess I will start with the picture that has made my day "right" again. I see that http://www.myfoxcolorado/ on the Blogs tab I have had another photo selected for the community pages. I am not sure if there are not enough pictures for them to chose from. Our I am just that darn beautiful. I know, I know, get the fuck out of here. Hah hah. Well, I got to get the laughs from myself if I am not going to get them from someone/anyone else.

Just Be
DJ Tiesto

Now, onto the story that sort of got me almost bent out of shape this morning. I decided that I was hungry this morning. Well, let me say that I was craving a McMuffin of some sort. I knew not what I wanted. And I would not have a clue until I actually got to the counter.

So, I got to the McDonald's Lonetree at 9800 South Yosemite; Lonetree, CO 80124. When I walked in I could smell the hash browns. That was what got my attention first and the McMuffin no longer seemed appealing. Yet, I thought to myself that a Combo meal would be just fine. I walk up to the counter and asked

"So, tell me what is the most popular combo that people choose?"

I said this very nicely. Well, I must of got the "immigrant" who does not understand what I just said or was not going to answer my question. She looks at me mumbles something and points to the menu and says...

"The meals are up there" or something to that effect.

"I know where the menu is, but what is the popular McMuffin that people chose?"

Well, she just looks at me and gives me the "I can wait" attitude. Well readers, you can figure out where this is going. I looked at her a few seconds back and I knew that this was going to be like talking to a "mutt" dog. I then said

"I will have the Sausage Egg Muffin. Number 2."

She says to me

"2?"

"Yes. Number 2"

"You want 2?"

"I will have number 2" and I hold up two digits of my fingers, like the universal "peace sign."

"You want two number two's?"

Check this readers. Sure I was mad, but not mad in the sense that she did not understand. Two can play this fucked up exchanged. I pull out the other ear phone from my right ear and got up in her face and said slowly

"I want combo meal number 2. period"

She opened her mouth to most likely say that I wanted two orders. But it must of been the look in my eyes and she shut that fucking partly open mouth of hers and rung my order up. Oh you bet I checked the display on the register and sure as shit that immigrant knew who owned this conversation.

I have to state this readers and I am sure that my faithful readers know that there was going to be a "throw down" if she charged me for two. A "throw down" by meaning that I was going to raise the roof in Lonetree. I have no problem making a spectacle when I am right. Granted, there were only two other customers in McDonald's but I would do the "throw down" just to get myself worked up. And honestly, I "feed off" the energy of showing that this fucking customer "is right"

Well, I gave her my cash and then she proceeded to give me my change. So she had her hand cupped with the coins and then the bills in between her fingers. I was still a bit worked up that I had to repeat myself several times. Yep you heard me right readers I actually let this immigrant get away with me repeating myself more than two times. As soon as she dumped the coins in my hand I immediately took my left away and then held out my right hand as far to her left that it did not look to obvious what I was doing. I made sure that she had to work to give me my money back to me. Uh-uh. You do not "played dumb" with this customer. Needless to say she gave me a quick look and I could see that she wanted, so wanted, to say something. By then there was this small smile on my face and knew she better not try her luck any further than she did. So she had to move her right hand to her left and I did not make any attempt to move my hand any further closer to her hand.

I did not get the last word though. Of all the McMuffins pre-made I got the one that was black, burnt on the very edge of the muffin. I took about two seconds to decide whether to take this up with the Manager or LIG. Needless to say, I smiled big and lightly laughed at myself while shaking my head with the attitude of unbelievable. The Sausage McMuffin was not bad, but I only ate about half the McMuffin and demolished the Hash Browns.

LaMont would say that was Karma. I would not say that.

Readers, in case I do not blog this weekend you better wish/call that mother and say "Happy Mother's Day"

until the next time readers

Daryl Charley
The Fallen Athlete

What is up with the Damn M&M's ?!

Greetings Readers

I do not eat the Blue M&M’s. Period.

I do not have to tell you the reason why I do not consume the Blue M&M’s. I do not have to give an explanation to anyone. Nor do I “owe” you readers an explanation. I have my reasons. I can tell you - go fuck yourself. I can tell you it is none of your god-damn business. I can and have the right to ask you why do you care. I can tell you there are more portentous items than why I do not eat the Blue M&M’s.

I do not care if the M&M’s are plain, peanuts, peanut butter, or dark chocolate. I just do not eat the Blue M&M’s. I am not saying that I have not eaten a Blue M&M in X amount of days. Sure it happens that I might grab a handful of M&M’s and eat them all without segregating the M&M’s by color. But very, very rarely does that happen.

Yes readers, I divide my M&M’s by color before I eat them. And! I am not the only person on planet Earth that does this segregation. Matter of fact, the person who instigated this blog – LaMont does the separation process that I just mentioned. I am not sure if he does this subconsciously, but I was witness to this incident.

I do have a reason why I do this particular ritual, but I do not owe anyone a reason why. I will admit to you readers though this would not be an uncommon element in my existence. I am very, very analytical about most factors in my life. There has to be an unfluctuating order in my life and any “chaos” that I can elude - I will do. Hah hah. Readers, there are others who would declare “Damn that is one fucked up guy to do that!” You readers are entitled to your opinion and I would think not one thought about what you think. Believe me, there are many things other people do that are more fucked up than what I do. Hah hah.

You bet readers. How many of you readers put your pen in your mouth at work? Well, consider this. I bet none of you put your pen in a place that no one would use it by chance. Perhaps leave the pen laying on your desk/table, or put in the pen holder when not using the pen, or someone borrows your pen for a moment when you are not present. Who knows what/where that pen might be picked up by someone. Could that person put a portion of your pen in their mouth? Or chew on the pen cap. Perhaps the person who borrows that pen washed their hands in the restroom, but did not use a paper towel to open the restroom door thus acquiring other germs? Or maybe that person wiped their nose with some part of their hand / fingers. You just do not know or do not know to care.

I am thinking about all those things, but I bet most of you readers are not. So – who is more fucked up? Will I sleep better for watching myself about those things I mentioned? You bet. Will you readers sleep better not even thinking about that? You bet. No one is right or wrong in their view. We all have heard that phrase “what you don’t know can’t hurt you.” Well, what I know that you don’t know may hurt you. Think about that the next time you use your pen.

Getting back to the M&M’s. In my opinion – yes, there is a slight taste/texture to each of the M&M’s colors. I could care less about what the chemical make up of each color is. For example, I think I heard that a color red dye had a hazardous substance to that particular number back in the day. There may or may not a reason, but I organize my colors into each of their own color piles. No, I do not have a particular color that I must start with or end eating with. Just as long as I eat all the same color before moving onto the next pile of color.

Again readers, I do not condone the people who eat M&M’s what I would call - recklessly. These are most likely the same people who do not think about other things I do not take for granted. How filthy money is. How dirty restrooms are. What could be / is on the salt & pepper shakers at the restaurants. Who sneezes/coughs without covering their mouth. Or they sneeze in their hands and then grab a door handle. Yuck, yuck and yuck!

These are things that I think of constantly. Do I let that ruin/lead my life? No. I do take whatever steps to avoid those things. Yet, there is the extreme. There are people that have to wash their hands 20 to 50 times in one day. Or people that have to check the door locks 10 times or more just to be sure that they locked the door. There are others that have to use a new bar of soap each time they wash their hands. You could say OCD. Would I? I would not say it was not OCD, but I also would not say it is OCD. I definitely do not consider myself an OCD.

Do not concern yourself about why I separate my M&M’s into their own solid color of piles. And do not worry why I do not eat the Blue M&M’s. I have my reasons and they are none of your fucking business.

You can take that a face value. You can take that personally. You can laugh at me. You can think whatever you want about me. Does not matter. I sleep like a baby who goes to sleep content.

You readers can ponder, wonder how this came all about. Who knows. I can tell you readers I was fortunate to be raised in a lifestyle wealthier than most of you readers did when growing up. I did get what I always wanted… well I would have to say that I almost did get everything I wanted. I was not spoiled, but did have the benefit of having a preference about things, in general. Was I born with a silver spoon? Perhaps. Do I currently eat with silver ware? Oh yes! Only the best in that department.

If I did not like a certain food when growing up, I had the choice not to eat that food. There was always something else to be eaten or could be made for me to eat. Or I just did not eat at all.

I remember this tidbit from my youth – approximately 1st to 3rd grade for me. I loathed green olives, but I loved the red thing that I could slurp out of the green olive. So, my parents bought me jar of olives and let me only eat the red portion of the olive. I did not have to eat the green olive itself. That was a choice. Not stuck up. To a child that is choice and not a “problem”. Also back in the day there was no one saying “there is a whole village in Africa that is going hungry and you just threw away a week’s worth of food that could feed an entire village on the Serengeti.

Presently, I do imply that saying. Famine is everywhere and I hate wasting food. Now, I really do know that there is a starving village out there in Africa.

The Blue M&M’s that I do not eat, I often give away. If not, then yes I will throw away the Blue M&M’s. Those Blue M&M’s are my leftovers. Those Blue M&M’s are my “rejects”. Those Blue M&M’s are not good enough for me to eat.

Do not bite the hand that feeds you or offers you a gift. Yes, a gift in my view, but in your eyes you may see that as “my leftovers.” I do give the Blue M&M’s to the fortunate / unfortunate people and if you decide to throw them away – so be it. Not my concern. I could care less. At least I was thinking about other people than just me. I every now and then do show some non-selfish qualities about myself.

As I stated in my opening line and will use as my ending line - “I do not eat the Blue M&M’s. Period.”

Changing topics, if you readers can not guess from the blog pic that graces this blog, well I have made the community news blog front page. I guess my "Soldier Statue" blog from this blog was something worthy of front page news. As my favorite Simpson would say again - Woo Hoo!

And the Season Finale of the Amazing Race - All Stars. A very tough choice to pick a winner from the three that are left. I think that almost all of us faithful viewers do not care for any of the teams that are left to win the million dollars. My co-worker chose the "Beauty Queens" and I chose "Charla & Mirna" I agree with my co-worker that the Beauty Queens have an 80 % chance to win tonight. Yet, something inside of me is rooting for Charla. Charla has so many things and because of her size I see her as the underdog. As with most "underdogs" I want them to finish first, to win. I could care less about Mirna.

Until the next time readers

Daryl Charley
The Fallen Athlete

The Taco Bell Incident Revisited

Greetings Readers

Do you realize that LaMont is most likely still pissed off about the "Taco Bell incident" back in February. For you fairly new readers you can read the "Incident" in the month of February or click on the label "Taco Bell" and you should be able to locate the blog.

LaMont has not once asked me out for lunch since then. I made a couple of comments about going out to lunch. You know readers - inviting myself, but he came up with the excuse that his wife, "Shay Nay Nay" made him lunch. Then, the other time he said he did not want to drive out to the Bell. So after that last suggestion by me I stop asking.

Well, last week I decided to bring this subject to light. I told LaMont that I knew he was still mad about the Taco Bell Incident and that is the reason why he has not invited me out to lunch since then. You know I say that jokingly, but I do think that is that. Does it bother me? No. But then one would say why blog and write about the incident if it does not bother you. Because I can. As of today, status is still status quo.

LaMont indicated that I should get over it. And I am. But I like bringing up the issue. What I mean is that there is nothing else I really have to talk about between me and LaMont. Readers I have to admit if I want to get a smile on my face, or lift my spirits, just read that blog and you will start laughing about how LaMont was handling his order after finding out his tacos were not his tacos. Hah Hah

I normally do not eat out, but I have something to "hold over" LaMont and now bring up at any opportunity I can. And with Spring and Summer here I am able to bike over to that area of Lonetree or drop by after a lunch bike ride.

My "Pink" Ipod. I can not believe that I have had this Ipod for two months now. Two months. I hate to say this and even state this, but the Ipod is very, very cool. Putting the songs on "shuffle" I am able to hear songs that I have not heard in years. Years baby. I do like the compact design and so much easier to run/jog with. The only drawback is no radio/tv/weather channel reception. I still have to use my portable CD player for that. Not a problem.

I have programmed a music list, set up the alarm for my Ipod. I guess I better fess up and tell LaMont he was right. The Ipod is so much cooler than my portable CD player.

The M&M issue did not get finished last night since I did not get home until late last night. That is the reason why I did not post on today's blog.

until the next time readers

Daryl Charley
The Fallen Athlete

Number 99

Greetings readers

I am not sure if you care or not about "99". I do not think that I care, but it is sort of an amazing thing. 99 is the number of blogs have been posted to this blog. I guess this is the last of the double digit blogs for me on this particular blog. I hope that I have kept you readers entertained and informed perhaps on some level.

Of course, you may be thinking this guy had 99 fucked up things to say and there is no end in sight. Which I have to agree - I do not see an ending, so far. I am not hear for you to pass judgement on me, I am here on blogging since I have come to be comfortable about blogging. As you can see in the beginning I did not know how to start, but then in the last five months I started to get into a rhythm. A good thing.

Which brings me to my next topic, I think, LaMont and M & M's.

La Mont had something yesterday and really provoked me thinking about what was talked about last night between. I am not sure what to call this or even how to start. But I think this "issue" is something I am going to write about. The working title that I have been throwing around since yesterday evening is "What is up with his Damn M & M's". It is not an isolated case, but something that is probably unique. However, on a lower level than me LaMont is still guilty of the same thing with me and my M & M's.

Anyway, this is a topic that I am going to write about - and soon. It is funny, but also not. You could bring up so many things about me, or you readers. I have not stop thinking about this so I am going to write about this as soon as I organize some thoughts.

Oh news from yesterday, Rosie announced she is leaving the View, Adam Baldwin rant is still in the news, Brittney and Lindsay both out of rehab, Richard Gere in trouble with India, and in closing I have no news to report on the VA Shootings. Can you believe that?! I have been able to avoid the news regarding that. I do care, but in this current year somehow news reporting and gotten to an high time about who can report first, more and the breaking news to us viewers. At least this event, in my opinion, will overshadow the Columbine incident. Woo Hoo. At least we, meaning Colorado, will not have the "braggers" about we are known for the worse tragedy in education history.

Let me tell you readers out of state from Colorado. People come out of the woodwork. Saying this, saying that, remember-never forget, give us money, he/she was a hero, etc. I will be looking forward to next year when the focus will really be off Columbine and onto VA Tech. Of course, we are going to hear something to the effect - It was a real tragedy about VA, but don't forget Columbine. P.S. give us more money for the memorial that has not been built yet.

I will tell you readers right now. No one really cares anymore, except the community. If someone really did care, then the Columbine Memorial would have been completed already. I think I saw a picture, an overhead picture of the sight, and it is a picture of dirt here and there. Basically, all that has been done is Landscaping. Get the fuck out of here! Hah hah. If they are really complaining about that - start a volunteer program to get the landscaping done. This could be irrelevant since I really do not know nor care. Save the Memorial money for the actual Memorial.

Although, the community near Columbine did get in a uproar last week or was it two weeks ago about a statue of a fallen soldier from Iraq. It was a statue of a Soldier holding a machine gun with his Gulf war uniform on. Long story short, from what I remember from the news, is the community, some or few (who knows) do not want a "machine gun statue" so near the Columbine site. In my opinion, they are upset that there is a statue/Memorial and the Columbine Memorial has not even been started. Who knows readers. Perhaps I might do some research on this so I can get the facts on this case. I think I have something that is now starting to get interesting to me.

From The Blogs: Group Protests Statue for Soldier Killed in Action
Hero's Statue: Should It be Built?

by DavidM
A group of parents in Littleton has expressed concern about a statue that is going to be built in honor of Danny Dietz.
He was a Navy SEAL who died in Afghanistan while saving the lives of his other team members, the U.S. military said. He received the Navy Cross for his actions.
The parents group says the statue depicts Dietz clutching an automatic rifle. It will be built in Berry Park, which is within a few blocks of three schools and two playgrounds. The group says the statue glorifies violence.
Dietz' family members say they are upset about the uproar. So are the people who raised $42,000 for the statue.What do you think? Should it be built? Should its design and/or location be changed?

You see readers, sometimes I do not want to write about something, but as the words start flowing I start to see a path or two that I want to run down and see where they end up.

time for me to bring this blog to a close

until the next time

Daryl Charley
The Fallen Athlete

The Family Truckster

Greetings Readers

I want to talk about the family vehicle. Or as in the case that I can probably relate to is the "Family Truckster" as in National Lampoon's Vacation.

I think that there is a vehicle that we all remember from our youth that we took the family vacation in. I guess why I want to blog about this is that I was watching the Wonder Years and Jack was trying to keep his car, the family car, and the rest of the family wanted him to sell the car so they could get a new one.

Watching the episode last night I started to think about our "Family Truckster". Our family still has this vehicle and technically it is mine, but my brother had used the vehicle last and sort of ran her into the non-working state. So last week, I saw her. A 78 Chevrolet Blazer with the colors blue and white. Although, the blue has faded over the years and the white is now no so white and there is rust eating around the wheel wells. The rust is from the all the salt that is used during the winter months in Colorado. She is missing a Gas cap, the tires are all flat, but otherwise she is still with us. Her Odometer has been "rolled" twice and currently on, was, her third leg. This was the vehicle that I grew up in, the vehicle that our family used on our long family vacation and this was the vehicle that I used during High School.

The back windows of the Blazer is tinted. Oh, she is a full size Blazer. None of this "'Jimmy" or compact size Blazer. I used her for my first date ever. I remember the girl that I took out from High School like it was yesterday. I also remember sleeping in the back of the Blazer at home. This idea was the idea of me and my brother. I do not know the reason why nor was there a reason, but it was something neat to sleep in the back of the Blazer at home. It was not always the Blazer. Sometimes it was the other family vehicle - the Phoenix Pontiac.

I think I can remember all the times that I had with that Blazer and every time that I go and see my parents I can see that Blazer at the Ranch sitting almost next to my Chevrolet Camero. Kinda of a sight to see. Both cars are Classics (over 20 years old) and both are American Made Vehicles.

The Blazer was used during in the winter at the ranch to pull us kids in back on a sled all over the New Mexico Continental Divide. I remember the times of sleeping in the Blazer in the middle of Texas while going to and from New Mexico. I remember that one time I got the Blazer high centered and I had to go and get my dad to help me dig her out. I remember we using her, with a red trailer (yes that is also parked next to the Blazer) to go and cut and haul wood from the Rocky Mountains. I remember taking her on dates. I remember taking my friends out in High School. I remember the Blazer parked out from of the House while the other cars got the car garage. I remember her using regular gas, which now we had to convert to Unleaded 10 years or so ago. She still has her original Colorado plates on her when she got to Colorado. I think the Texas plates are somewhere also.

I do have a lot of memories and I somehow was reminded of them while watching the Wonder Years last night. Kevin had started to remember his times in the family car when the tow truck was starting to haul her away. It was sad, so to speak, but I am glad that our family still has our "Family Truckster" and guess what readers next year she turns 30 years old. Not running, but still with us, like the family member she is us other family member.

I am not sure that most of you readers can say that, but I am happy to share this tidbit of information and I hope that perhaps you may have similar feelings/memories about a your "family truckster" Although, perhaps to others a family car would not have the same effect.

Oh yes readers! I have photos of this vehicle and I think I will find some later this week. I want to share this Blazer, because I am proud of her and technically she is the next oldest thing that I own from my parents. The first thing I have is the family Toaster. Yes! The toaster is older than me and still works. There was a TV, but she died about 6 years ago.

Readers, readers, readers. It was raining like cats and dogs this morning and I was soaked to the bone after 1/2 mile of riding. By the time I got into work I was drenched and I was wet all the way to the core. I am so glad that I put my work clothes into a plastic bag otherwise my clothes would have been soaked. Anyway, after about an hour the rain changed to snow and I wish that it could have done that earlier and perhaps I would have been less wet. Who knows. By the way, I also got a flat, but amazingly enough I did not get mad. I sort of shook my head in disbelief and then smiled away to no one. Being soaked was the deal breaker and with the flat it could not get any worse.

Lamont may say that was Karma, but I would wholeheartedly disagree.

Update 8:39 PM

Gosh darn, trying to find a worthy picture of the 78 Blazer, blue and white, on the internet is sort of hard. There were some other models and design, but I did not want to use them since our "Family Truckster" is really one of a kind. I would also hate to give you readers and different view of the 1978 Blazer that we have at the Ranch.

until the next time readers

Daryl Charley
The Fallen Athlete

Taco Bell incident in Lonetree, CO

Greetings People

I was chuckling and had a self-righteous smile all Friday afternoon. My elevated mood was in all probability not the intention you would presume from me nor would you consider a possibility. The good mood was not because of an anecdote, nor a kiss, but Karma. Or conceivably – justice was dispensed. Who the fuck knows, but I just could not suppress reflecting about the incident after our lunch run on the last Friday of February. And I also have to confess that this was just too hilarious. There is ying and yang in the world. Or in one fundamental word – Balance.

LaMont and myself decided to go to “the bell”. “The bell” is also commonly known as Taco Bell. On our drive to the Bell we conversed the customary guy topics. Then, I mentioned I was going to burn a CD and call the CD - the Lamont “Oops I did it again” Remix. Hah hah.

Britney Spears. And yes, I do possess a Britney Spears CD from back in the day for me to produce the “Oops I did again” Remix a reality. Yes readers, to reiterate, I do own the “oops!…I did it again” CD in my extensive CD collection, or if you prefer, I own a CD by Britney Spears. Anyway, I digress.

There was LaMont trash talking Britney Spears and myself for owning a Britney Spears CD. This and that and why the fuck would I own a Britney Spears CD or even admit to owning a Britney CD. You loyal readers understand the chronicles of my fixation with a particular part of Britney’s anatomy. Or if you are a new reader to my existence that is inquisitive in nature and require an explanation to why I own a Britney Spears CD, then you will need to read the other blogs that I have posted on Blogger.com and you will then comprehend why I “love” that part of Britney Spears. LaMont was attempting to make me feel like a total “un-guy” for owning a Britney Spears CD. Sorry readers, this manner of tactic was not going to work with me.

You faithful readers know that I have two pictures of Britney Spears on my “touring” bike helmet and I flaunt around to the universe that I have Britney Spears on my bike helmet. What the fuck is someone going to express, mind you that just words, is going to make me feel less than a guy about me owning a Britney Spears CD.

LaMont could gibber all he wanted about Britney. I was not going to alter my view on her or get embarrassed for admitting this fact. Although with recent events in the past two years my admiration for her has fallen wayside. I saw the infamous photos on the Internet of her night with Paris, but readers the sight was not like winning the lottery. There was no excitement or thrill, but I viewed the photos as another ordinary photo – nothing I have not seen before.

I again digress from the yarn at hand.

We arrived at Taco Bell and decided to go inside and order since the drive thru line was lined up with customers.

This is the point where the afternoon truly commenced. There was an empty parking spot as Lamont pulled into the Taco Bell parking lot and the parking space had LaMont’s name all over it. As LaMont was pulling into the parking space a man walked into the parking space toward his vehicle, which was in the space adjacent to the empty parking space.

This man walked into the parking spot without any acknowledgement to us. This man did not raise a hand and give the “universal sign” of saying sorry or thanks. He walked with a “stupid” stupor and the demeanor of a slightly overweight married husband driving a Subaru Forester.

A Subaru Forester. What? Why of course I know the color – sort of a Jay-z Blue color. What was that? Yes of course he was white – who else would drive a Forester. My married friends that I know of do not even drive anything remotely like a Forester. One drives a Cherokee, another an F-series truck, another A3 BMW, etc. Of these, one is Hispanic, one white and the other black.

I do observe things with such detail when the occasion calls for remembering later. Such as it is right now with me revealing my experiences to you readers. While Lamont and myself were waiting for the man to get into his vehicle, a brief topic ensued. The subject matter was about this man getting in the car. I unhesitatingly mentioned that this man should have done something to acknowledge us. I was not seeking an apology, yet I felt this man should have recognized. However readers, I too would have of stood by for the man, as LaMont was doing, to get into his vehicle. No readers, I would not have given him an unfavorable look or flipped him off, but sure as shit my frame of mind would transform. And not for the better.

Not five seconds after LaMont and me got out of the car; I did not give the “Forester” man another thought. I still had to abide to the standards of being a guest in LaMont’s vehicle and that meant me not taking matters, I deemed “rude”, into my own hands. I am permitted to express my opinions, but I am not allowed to act upon my opinions. Nor would I coerce my guest to share my convictions.

Inside Taco Bell was where the afternoon’s events transpired and inspired this blog. And the sad part of this event – I was not even aware that it happened. LOL.

Sorry readers, I am laughing once more uncontrollably thinking about what had happened which I was not even conscious that was playing out in front of LaMont.

So, Lamont got in line, but the line appeared to me that he was waiting in an area for people waiting to pick up their order. I got a smile when this became evident to me and I said something to the effect that the line is over here. LaMont smiled his “fuck you” smile and sauntered over to where I was standing. I was foremost in line and was waiting for my opportunity to order. Mind you, I was not waiting for the next person to assist me.

Yet readers, there is more to the story than you expect.

There is this one girl that I have noticed previously that works at this Taco Bell. Today, she was working the drive thru window, as she has in the past several times that I have seen her at Taco Bell. Anyway, I am going to confess to you readers she has the “ass” that I think is all so close, in my opinion, of a perfect ass. An ass that I have not seen since I worked down near the Cherry Creek Mall. That part of the body is something I do not hold as something I “require” in a woman. Yet, when I happen to look around and see an “ass” that will… well gets my attention, it is hard not to check out that part of the body.

I just hope I was not too obvious, but it was pretty hard for me not to look since the cashier lady is in front of the drive thru girl. The drive thru girl is about the same height as me, young, and does wear a bit more makeup than she should, but is a person that I could date.

With that foundation of the story laid down for you readers, you see I was sort of pre-occupied with me being next in line for ordering and looking at… well you know. Oh, LaMont also had to point out a lady outside the drive thru window who, according to him, was a looker. You see readers I was multi-tasking and with two of the three tasks including women of a man’s desire; I neglected to notice another cash register lady. Well, let me rephrase that – the other Latino or Hispanic cash register person.

So, I was looking at what I should not be and walked up the counter to the first cash register lady that usually “waits” on me and ordered my five tacos.

Fast-forward an hour, LaMont mentioned that the “second” cash register lady had apparently gave me the “who the fuck are you” look all the time we were in Taco Bell. According to LaMont, her gaze was the look of pure hatred. I do not even have an inkling why I would get such a look. Nor was I aware of this gaze was even taking place in Taco Bell. He even said that I was getting “the look” from the second register lady while he was giving his order to the second cash register lady. Wow.

Returning (re-wind) back to Taco Bell, an hour earlier. I was waiting for my order and also trying to position myself to get a better look at the woman outside the drive thru window. From the angle of where I first was made aware of her I could not see whom this woman was that LaMont had mentioned. I also neglected to notice that LaMont was not really waiting next to me for our orders to come up. I presumed he was getting napkins and stuff, but after the fact I found out he was trying to distance himself from me.

My order came up since I heard “229” and “5 tacos” and then about a minute later LaMont’s order came up. We then left Taco Bell. We were not even three feet outside the door when LaMont mentioned that the second cash register lady was giving me “the look”. I said what look? He said something to the tune of – oh fuck man, you pissed off the other cash register lady by going to the other cash register lady. I laughed, but I was like - so what. I did nothing wrong, one may say I was on my best behavior. For a change.

Oh readers, that is a whole other subject of its own, but I can address that particular fast food topic another time.

Anyway, I did not notice the other lady and apparently I had a negative impression on her. But my faithful readers know that I have a tendency to have that sort of impact on people. I would laugh, but in all seriousness it is true. However, on this particular Taco Bell experience I was not aware of pissing the other lady off. Would I say sorry to her? No. I did not interact with her nor did I give this lady the attention she may be looking for. If my presence ruffled her “feathers” well that’s tough – roll with the punches and get over it.

Readers, I am not into the habit nor am I going to start to acknowledge everyone in this particular Taco Bell. I was hungry, I wanted my order and that’s that. I was not in there to make friends with everyone, even with the sun shining on this particular warm and windy Friday. OK. OK. The young girl would be someone I would not mind to get to know, but that is something only in passing for me. Also, it is just shallow thinking for me when I have to admire a woman by her body alone.

Back at work I was eating my lunch, enjoying my tacos while working. I then had to go visit someone and when I came back to my desk there was LaMont with the look of… well it was not a happy look.

“What?” I asked

“I got sour cream in my taco. When I opened my tacos I saw tomatoes and knew something was wrong and then I saw the sour cream. I fucking hate sour cream.”

I was laughing, but a controlled laughter. It was funny.

“It’s Karma,” I said with a huge smile

“Karma? Fuck you. You pissed her off and I am paying for your insolence to her.”

“It’s not my fault that you did not check your order before you left the counter.”

LaMont was mad, but I was still trying to keep my laughter in check. I did not want to make Lamont any more pissed off that his lunch got fucked up.

Then, what sealed the deal for me was LaMont was scraping the sour cream from his taco with a spoon complaining away. I swear the “tears of laughter” were about to start coming from me really soon. There was LaMont scraping the sour cream out from his taco with such determination. I had already eaten three tacos and I had to offer my other two tacos to him, or to trade. I did feel bad, but it is really his own fault for not checking his order. Yes, he can blame me for his fucked up order, but the blame is all on his shoulders. I started to feel bad, but still laughing silently making it hard to breathe normally once more.

Someone one walked by and saw what was happening and asked what’s going on. I said there was sour cream in LaMont’s taco. Yep, LaMont does not like sour cream he said. Matter of fact, I have a friend when he takes a woman on a date and if she does not eat sour cream or guacamole he would not date her again. I said if woman I were dating was to eat sour cream or guacamole I would not date her again since I would not have that stuff in my humble abode. Meanwhile from LaMont “I can’t believe I am fucking paying for you being rude to that other cashier lady” I started to laugh once more.

Thinking about this event while I was writing this blog – it is justice. For trying to make me feel bad about owning a Britney Spears CD. It is also Karma – we readers do not know LaMont, but he is not as squeaky clean as we would like to think. I am sure that he has his moments for having Karma to wield its vindication that Friday afternoon.

All in all, I offered to give my remaining tacos to him. I did feel bad for what happened, but I do not take any responsibility for what happened. I just did not want his Friday to end on a bad note. Throughout the afternoon I had to make sure we could still laugh and smile about happened. I had to say “Karma” with a smile and also mention I have been laughing off and on all afternoon. LaMont said I better look behind my back while riding – “Karma” will be behind you in a green jeep Cherokee, with nice rims looking for you. Hah hah.

I said “Welcome to my world”

Tomorrow I will re-cap Sunday's Run the Register 2007 event.

Until the next time

Daryl Charley
The Fallen Athlete

And onto the Next Holiday

Greetings People

Nothing much to blog about.

Hope everyone had a nice Valentine's Day if it does matter to you. Yes, Believe that! I agree that it is very hyped up day and yet sometimes it is nice to recognize someone else other than myself.

I did not get to see the, er my, Qdoba girl yesterday. It had been snowing the night before and accumulation was about 3 to 6 inches and on top of that there was icy beneath the snow since the sun has been melting the snow/ice for the past week. Oh well. I did have a card to give, but I guess I will have to make a visit sometime soon.

Oh my OWGE made a joke yesterday. I had emailed her and said you better not get him a pink phone and she had had written back "I put a pink bow around the phone" To me, that was too funny. Something unexpected from her and caught me off guard. I laughed and laughed.

31 days of Oscar - The Bridges of Madison County was the next movie I saw, but only in a partial sleepy daze. I was kind of exhausted and just wanted to go to bed, yet was also wanted to watch the movie since I have never seen the movie. It does have Clint Eastwood.

I am not sure what else to blog about. Pretty darn cold this morning and the high is only in the twenties.

Oh, so there I was yesterday evening walking with LaMont and there were a couple of people behind us about 5 to 10 yards. I walked through the first set of doors and held the door open then LaMont held open the second set of doors. Well, I can not believe this. LaMont got the "Thank you" from the both of them while I did not get any. That was pure BS. Of course, LaMont did not even think to care about how my feelings were trampled. Not only did this piss me off, but I think those two said "Thank you" because he was white. They probably thought I was Mexican or Hispanic and not worth a Thank you. Of course LaMont says he is not white. Well, I beg to differ. If we both were standing out in the snow with the snow falling who would be the person you would see? Me! LaMont would blend into the world. Me, you would see my light brown skin from miles around. Okay, well not miles, but you get the idea.

I knew I should of just followed more normal instinct and put some distance between people so I do not have to feel obligated to open the door for anyone. What? Selfish thinking? No. I have every right not to hold open the door. You have two hands, I have no ring around my finger indicating you own me, nor do I "love" you. I either feel in the mood to hold the door open or I do not. So, if I do not hold open the door for you - you better wipe off that look off your face or hold that tongue before you say something you regret. I will put you in your place and make you regret ever thinking about saying something to me.

No, I do not do this all the time, but I will admit it is most of the time. I will gladly hold open the door open without a thank you and think nothing of it. Yes, rarely it does happen. It is like society expects this (IE why not tip the fast food people - they wait on you) or that.

Anyway, I was a bit peeved, but soon got over it. LaMont think it was funny and accused me of being selfish. Well, he is white and therefore thinks nothing of this. These two people probably thought - oh a Mexican in a jean jacket I ain't saying "thank you" to this guy. Habla no Espano.
I think LaMont is just used to the people taking for granted his opening doors and thank you since he is white. While I will still be racially challenged person that people take for granted. Not this guy - I make sure that you recognize anything you take for granted around me.

I know, I know - incomplete thoughts but thought to write this down in my lunch time before I forget.

until the next time

Daryl Charley
The Fallen Athlete

Back to the old Me - it was a nice 24 hours of joy

Greetings readers

Well, I thought I was going to continue about the light rail incident I had yesterday morning, but I have lost all train of thoughts on yesterday's blog so I guess there is not much else to add.

Me and OWGE then caught up a bit. She made me laugh and yes readers my smile got bigger. Who knew that I could smile that much in the morning. She told me some news at the company and I told her nothing has changed with me, except spending $ 105.00 in the past month. Again, my OWGE laughed like it was the funniest thing in the world. In truth readers, I think that she was laughing at me and another moment in the life of Daryl Charley and how does this guy do it? She is also probably thinking there is some work ahead for some woman that tries to win Daryl's heart. This guy is complicated and picky and "the drawer" has only been opened a few inches. Hah hah.

This would also pertain to another person I know. For the sake of animosity he will be forth known as LaMont. LaMont had reference his "new" name and had mentioned that this was the son on Sanford & Son. I can not remember for the life of me, but I think he is right. I think that I have to watch TVland this week to see if I can catch a Sanford & Son. So, if that is true I think I can call Lamont - "Big Dummy" Now, that is what I remember he called "his" better half when he wasn't calling out Ester. "Big Dummy" I like that. Hah hah.

So, LaMont most likely agrees with OWGE opinion of me. Do I care? Nope, perhaps to a certain extent though. But OWGE, Lamont and the others all have their opinions and believe me I think I keep them entertained when I need to talk about an "event". I think most of the time I tell the stories is to get a laugh, a smile, which in turn gets me to smile and my day turns around from that point on.

Oh readers, I have a person (who I met over the phone that left the company last year) that was down in Australia during the Australian Open 2007 and he has granted me permission to use a photo that he took of a Roddick vs Federer match. So, the picture shown is that. I like the picture and the view is perfect.

Well, nothing really else to blog about.

I guess I do have another incident at the Light Rail Station this morning. So, my mood was neither good or bad, but to tell you the truth readers I was looking for something, someone to start me "off on the wrong foot". I get into the Light rail car and picked a seat, a smaller seat, near the entrance of the car. Well, there was a bag sitting on the sit and a guy sitting across the way. I saw him open his eyes look at me and that is when I said "You better move this bag or I will move it for you" Well, that certainly got his eyes alert. He gave me the look "who the fuck do you think you are" and I sort of gave him the "go ahead and try me look". I imagine this only took 15 seconds or so, but thinking about it more, I think the whole ordeal took 5 seconds or so. Oh yes readers, I was ready to throw down. I was in no mood to take any crap this morning and nor was I going to be the submissive person. Let us say after I got him to move his bag and I moved to another seat. I won the "bag" battle, but staring each other down was getting me even more pissed off, so I had to move. Hah hah. I once again give myself a hand, for being the better person in moving, since he was there first. However, this whole incident would of been averted if he did not have his bag there in the first place. Oh, I know readers, I could of picked another seat and avoided this incident period, but I had a right to sit there - and since this is black history month I was just like Rosa Parks. I will sit whereever I damn please. You see readers, I do care about the oppressed people in life, past and present!

Until the next time

Daryl Charley
The Fallen Athlete