Day 8: Fountains of Wayne - I Want An Alien For Christmas

  Have you been asking and asking for all sorts of things over the years? Perhaps you asked for that hippopotamus, or a red ryder bb gun, or your very own weenie whistle? Well, that's not enough for me. I need a little green guy that's about three feet high. That's why I asked for Fountains of Wayne - I Want an Alien for Christmas this year.
  P.S. I think this video is about the most cutest thing I've seen in a long, LONG time (besides, you know, my own kids).

      Currently Playing: fountains of wayne/i want an alien for christmas

Day 7: Home Free - Full of Cheer

  Another new-comer to the plethora of Christmas songs this year is a unique styling from my favorite acapella group, Home Free. Off their holiday album Full of Cheer comes the title track, Home Free - Full of Cheer, a song that documents the upsides of being single during the holidays. So, if you are single and feeling a little down, give this song a listen and realize that hey, you are in the driver's seat. You'll have plenty of cash for the new year ;)

    &nsbp;  Currently Playing: scg portland/legacy finals

Day 6: Straight No Chaser - Text Me Merry Christmas (featuring Kristen Bell)

  If you could think of a "breakout" Christmas song, then look no further than Straight No Chaser's "Text Me Merry Christmas" for 2014. This seems to be the breakout hit, showing up everywhere over the last couple weeks. I'm not sure if the success is because Kristen Bell is STILL riding the ice wave from last year's "Frozen" or because it's an insanely catchy tune (because, it is). Perhaps it's just because of reasons, and we'll leave it at that. Straight No Chaser has become a holiday mainstay for their unique acapella arrangements over the past couple years, and this year they make their presence known again. ...And if you haven't heard it yet, I'm here to barrage you with the song, audibly and visually. So for no further ado, I present to you "Text Me Merry Christmas."

• Lyric Video
• Offical Music Video
• Live on NBC (featuring Laura Osnes)

  And as a complete aside, I always hear something pretty awesome. So for all you acapella/Frozen fans out there, check out Straight No Chaser - Frozen. It's really good!
  So I don't know if I've asked yet, but if you are enjoying the list and feel there's something you are listening to that I am not, feel free to let me know. Drop a comment on facebook, leave a comment here on the blog, or leave it in 140 character or less @clubbprez. Look forward to hearing from you all, and look out for Day 7 which is coming tomorrow!

      Currently Watching: ncaa football/fsu vs gt

Day 5: Aaron Neville - Such A Night

  Take a song that was written in 1953 and first recorded by The Drigters. Then let that song become a hit single Johnnie Ray. Then, take that same song, give it to Evlis, and let him record and release a version...
  Then you wait a few years, you pull that song back out, you change a few lyrics, you put a little spoken word in there. Oh yeah, and you give it to Aaron Neville. What do you have? A gloriously soulful Christmas tune with one of the most unique voices ever to grace the radio waves. Give it up for Aaron Neville - Such A Night
  But, there's a musical history buff inside of there (which I know I am, and I had no clue about this song before this blog post) and you would like to listen to the song transform from 1953 to it's recent incarnations, feel free to click through the following links and give them a listen!

• Clyde McPhatter and The Drifters Listen close, you'll hear a lot of elements from this song in Neville's version. Not to mention, Clyde McPhatter
• Here's a white guy NOT named Elvis giving his interpretation of "Such A Night": Johnnie Ray - Such A Night This was a #1 in the UK, believe it or not...
• And then there's Elvis with his unmistakable voice: Elvis Presley - Such A Night
• And then The Four Lovers (who would go on to become The Four Seasons) gave us their interpretation: The Four Lovers - Such A Night
• And then there's a version with Neville admitting it was "turned into a Christmas song." And it's my favorite version of them all. Aaron Neville - Such A Night (Live)

  I hope you are enjoying the list so far, and if you have a Christmas song that you think is awesome, feel free to let me know by leaving a comment on facebook, here, or as always, the twitterverse @clubbprez.

      Currently Playing: aaron neville/such a night (live)

Songs of the Week: December 6!

  Another week has flown by. Another week closer to Christmas, and another week filled with musical awesomness. At least I think so. Give a listen and see if you agree!

•   MASH-UP AWESOMENESS: DJ Earworm - United State of Pop 2014 (Do What You Wanna Do) So it's that time of the year where Mr. Earworm takes the top 25 songs of the year, puts them in a blender, and pours awesomeness into a YouTube video. Go check it out, because it's definitely worth it. Shout out to Jordaon for letting me know this was out!
•   Epic Rap Battles of History - Jack the Ripper VS Hannibal Lecter
•   NEW CHRISTMAS SONG OF THE WEEK! Pentatonix - Dance of the Sugar Fairy These guys are having AN AMAZING holiday season. They are everywhere, and their performance on the Rockefeller Tree Lighting Special was awesome!
•   Garth Brooks - Belleau Wood (Live) Sometimes, a song comes outta left field and hits you hard. And that's definitely what happened ot me earlier this week. I was driving to the bank and happened to hear this song on the radio (which is amusing, to a certain extent, because it wasn't released as a single). It's a beautiful song, unfortunately Mr. Brooks and YouTube don't play well with one another, so you'll have to enjoy this live version of the song, but trust me, it's really really good. If you missed it earlier this week, I mentioned this song being the Yang to The Royal Guardsmen's Christmas classic "Snoopy's Christmas." It's really good, and for a little shameless self promotion, click here.
•   GEM OF THE WEEK! Queen - Don't Stop Me Now It's Queen! It's Awesome. I'm having a good time, that's why the call me Mr. Fahrenheit!

      Currently Playing: queen/don't stop me now

Yin and Yang: Garth Brooks - Belleau Wood

  Anyone keeping up with my Christmas songs hopefully got the chance to listen to Snoopy's Christman by The Royal Guardsmen. If not, scoot over there and give it a listen before going on. It leads a little context, possibly...
  I'm a Garth fan, always have been and always will be. The amazing thing that I've learned when it comes to listening to any Garth Brooks album is the fact that the hits he puts out are amazing, but the stuff on the album that isn't released is just as amazing, and probably much more powerful. This fact is defined with such songs as The Night I Called the Old Man Out, The Night Will Only Know, and Ireland. However, one little gem was packed away at the end of Sevens, and that song is called Belleau Wood. Not a Christmas song, by definition, but takes on the very real aspect of soldiers at war during Christmas. Very similar to Snoopy and the Red Baron, there was pause in this barbaric war against each other for country sake, and the raw, powerful, human side steps in. Full of emotion and consideration for one another, Belleau Wood woefully tells the story of two sides at war, stopping momentarily to observe a holiday that most people almost take for granted in today's day and age. However, at the end of the day, Snoopy and the Red Baron parted ways "knowing they'll see each other" again. Unfortunately, in Brook's tale parting ways is not an option. "When the devil's clock stuck midnight" the unspoken truce and unrestrained human consideration were both gone. A deep cut off an album that most people missed, sit back and give this song a listen. Be thankful for those who gave all so we can be free this holiday season. If you do AT LEAST that, then this holiday is not one taken in vain. Garth Brooks - Belleau Wood (Live).

Day 4: The Royal Guardsmen - Snoopy's Christmas

  I remember when I first heard this song. I was looking for "unique" Christmas songs to make a cd out of way back in 2004. TEN YEARS AGO. And I come across this song The Royal Guardsmen - Snoopy's Christmas. I could not believe that I had never heard of this song before, considering I was a casually big peanuts fan. It does have that "oldie" feel to it, because let's be honest, it is. It was released in 1967, but it still positively upbeat (like any good Christmas song should be, right?). Still a very popular in New Zealand, Snoopy's Christmas is a song that will certainly put a smile on the face of your guests at any Christmas party this year.

      Currently Playing: garth brooks/belleau wood (live)

Strech a Dollar Web Series - Session 2: Receipt Hog

  So, you've done your holiday shopping (or in some cases, other shopping) and you've got a pile of receipts. Some from the grocery store, some from shopping here and there. Most likely, you are just gonna toss them in the trash as soon as you can (unless you don't use the standard deduction come tax season). Why not get PAID for those receipts? It just takes a little time and you can still end up tossing them in the trash. How?...I hear you ask? It's quite simple, and I'm here to show you how simple it can be...
  First off, lets start with the things you're going to need in order to profit a little from Receipt Hog:

• A smartphone with a working camera
• The Receipt Hog App - New users, please use the code gog18846 when prompted
• A receipt from almost any store. Honestly, as long as it isn't a receipt from a restaurant, send it in.

  The process is simple. Open the app, take a picture of the receipt, tell them who made the trip (Adult Boy/Girl, Child Boy/Girl, or some combination of the 4) and rate the experience from 1 star to 5 stars and hit send. They do the rest. Your account will be credited based on how much you spent, up to a certain amount.

• Receipts totaling less that $10.00 = 5 coins
• Receipts totaling between $10.01 and $50.00 = 10 coins
• Receipts totaling between $50.01 and $100.00 = 15 coins
• Receipt totaling greater than $100.01 = 20 coins

  Once you accumulate 100 coins in any given week (Monday through Sunday) you will continue to earn coins at a rate of 5 per receipt, regardless of the total amount.
  There are some "mini-games" and a referral system too that can help you earn more coins. The first qualifying receipt you enter every week will earn you a "spin." There is a mini-game that resembles a slot machine that you can spin and earn more prizes. Common prizes range from 5-15 coins if you win anything at all. However, some of the bigger prizes available are 100 coins, "last trip" (meaning enough coins to cover the cost of whatever the last receipt entered was), and $100 cash (which I'm assuming is credited to your account in the form of coins equal to the cashout amount of 100 dollars. I've not won it, so I'm not sure how the app pays that out.) More recently, Receipt Hog has added product scans and surveys. The product scan is pretty simple. After your receipt has been submitted, you can look to see if a scan is available (there will be a green symbol beside the total under the receipts tab). If available, you find the produce and use your camera to take a picture of the UPC symbol. You will be reward 2 coins for each successful scan. Occasionally you will have the opportunity fill out surveys based on your recent shopping experiences. Most are short and pay between 20 and 40 coins per survey, so its worth it.
  This app rewards loyalty, to a certain extent. At first earning coins with this app is a slow go for a while. However, once you go "hog wild" the earning potential really picks up. After inputting a qualifying receipt for five weeks in a row, you go "hog wild." You begin to earn spins for each receipt you enter in addition to the one spin you earn for your first receipt of the week. Being able to spin more frequently will help you earn anywhere between 10-50 coins per week consistently, which will help out as you earn your way toward the payout tiers.
  The payout tiers themselves also reward loyalty. The minimum transfer you can make is a trade of 1000 coins for $5.00, which can be paid either directly by via PayPal or in the form of e-gift certificates for Amazon. However, the longer you stick around and earn coins, the more you are rewarded. The next tier allows you trade 1800 coins for a $10.00 payout. Care to keep going? Tier 3 allows you to trade 3200 coins for a $20.00 payout. And if you choose to keep going (or if you are just lucky enough to win something awesome from one of the spins) the maximum payout nets you $30.00 for 4500 coins ("25% Better Value" according to the app).
  And don't forget to invite friends! For each new person who signs up, you'll get 10 spins and they will get 5 (up to 20 friends).
  So there's Receipt Hog. Remember, this is a grinding game, and it doesn't get any grindier than this. So what are you waiting for, get out there and bring home the bacon!
  What's that? Can't afford to buy anything? Well then, next time I'll show you just how far piracy can really go...

Day 3: Children, Go Where I Send Thee

  I spent seven years working at a summer camp (for those of you who didn't know) and there is one asepct that I truly miss, most of all. The campfires. There's something soothing about sitting around a flame, being entertained, and reflecting on the day, or week...or sometimes an entire summer. One of the bigger pieces of entertainment that we had was a song called "Children, Go Where I Send Thee." Unfortunately, politics allowed that song to be used less and less with each passing year...but, when performed, it was amazing. The song took an unforutnately amount of buildup, and a few rounds before everyone caught on, but by the time we got around to four for the four knocking at my door, everyone was clicking on all cylinders and it truly was one of the more enthusiastic and powerful tools that we used for campfires, and for those weeks who allowed us to employ that tool, the payoff was huge.
  It's pretty awesome to hear that song during this time of the year. The season is about happy memories, and to instantly be taken to a campfire, the smells, the views, the friends...it's pretty awesome...
  So I'll leave you with a couple versions of the song. I'm sure there are many, but unlike most songs that I enjoy, unless it's a group of kids getting fired up and involved and singing along, I just want to hear Natalie Merchant's version...

•   My favorite version, and for me personally, can't be beat. Natalie Merchant - Children, Go Where I Send Thee
•   For the country fans out there, here's a nice little version that was on the CMA Country Christmas Special in 2012: Little Big Town - Children, Go Where I Send Thee

      Currently Playing: little big town/children, go where i send thee

Day 2: Skip Ewing - Christmas Carol

  You know, there are a lot of Christmas songs that get covered, new artist, new interprtation, same song, year after year. However, there is one song that, in all the years I've been listening (and loving) Christmas music, I have only heard one version. One recording. That song is Skip Ewing - Christmas Carol. It's an amazingly sad story about a young girl looking for a family during the holiday season, because "...I don't know who my daddy is and mommy's gone away." And wouldn't you know, she's telling Santa Claus this. I'm not going to ruin the ending, that's what the link is for. However, it's a Christmas song, so you can assume that everything ends up ok.

      Currently Playing: skip ewing/christmas carol

Day 1: Angels We Have Heard on High

  It's that time again! Christmastime. And you know what comes along with Christmas? You should know. You've been hearing it since Halloween. It's Christmas music! I love Christmas music. But let me put that in some context. I'm just as tired as you are of hearing the same Bing Crosby/Dean Martin Christmas "classics" every year on the radio station. I strive to find some less celebrated, but definitely more enthusiastic, Christmas music to get me through the perils of the season. Hopefully, you'll agree with my choices and you too, can have some Christmas cheer that's a little more towards your stylin'
  Day 1 brings us a classic that I hope will ease you into the season, if you haven't started already. Angels We Have Heard On High is a song that is timeless, and has seen recordings by the likes of Andrea Bocelli, Jewel, and Josh Groban with Brian McKnight. However, if you are looking for something non-conventional this year, feel free to give these versions a listen:

•   Acapella darlings Pentatonix puts a new spin on this classic, and does so in such a beautiful way. Acapella is one of my favorite musical stylings, and Pentatonix delivers a wonderful sound with their version: Pentatonix - Angels We Have Heard on High
•   Another acapella darling, Home Free offers a more traditional version of the song, but once again, it's acapella, and it's beautiful. I've said before that I love these guys, and listening to this, you can understand why. Home Free - Angels We Have Heard on High
•   Next up is an instrumental arrangement by a group called The Piano Guys. If you've never checked out their stuff, give it a listen. You can start here by listening to their version of Angels We Have Heard On High. It's a visual and audio rollercoaster of awesomeness, and it starts here: The Piano Guys - Angels We Have Heard on High
•   For the guitar hero in us all, Trans-Siberian Orchestra put out a medley of sorts called "Joy/Angels We Have Heard on High." It's pretty awesome and deserves a nod on any Christmas list: Trans-Siberian Orchestra - Joy/Angels We Have Heard on High
•   And for the bad boy or girl in all of us, Bad Religion offers a punkish version that aboslutely cannot be missed, espeically if you are looking for a fresh version of this song to play at your Christmas party this year. Bad Religion - Angels We Have Heard on High

  If you are interested in some other recordings, head on over to Wikipedia to get a list of some other great artists that have covered this song, and perhaps you'll find one that fits your mood this holiday season, if you haven't already.
  Have a Christmas song that you love? Feel free to let me know. I'm always looking for new Christmas music, and I'd love to listen. Feel free to comment here, leave a message on facebook, or as always, da twitters! @clubbprez

      Currently Watching: nfl/fins vs jets

Songs of the Week: Thanksgiving Edition!

  Sorry about missing last week. I had a few computer issues that I had to take care of. But, I'm back on the horse and it's time to hit you with the songs of the week!

•   Arlo Guthrie - Alice's Restaurant Massacree  Big props to Amelio, my college roommate, for introducing to me this Thanksgiving classic many, many moons ago.
•   Adam Sandler - Thanksgiving Song
•   Queen - Killer Queen  This song is just awesome. I only caught the tail end of it on Thanksgiving Day when I had to go out and get some necessities. I immediately came home and listened to it. Three times. At least...
•   Fleetwood Mac - Landslide (Live)  and  The Dixie Chicks - Landslide  Funny story here. I've heard a lot of weird things on the radio. I've heard the same song on different stations at the same time, I've heard artists played back to back on the same radio station, and I've even heard the same song played over and over and over (for almost four hours straight, that was interesting). But I've never heard the same song played back to back by different artists...until Thursday. I'm not entirely sure if the DJ knew what he was doing, because he said something to the likes of "...hope you are having a happy Thanksgiving, here's Landslide by The Dixie Chicks.." There's a first for everything...

  I certainly hope everyone had (or will have) a wonderful Thanksgiving. And here's hoping there's plenty of leftovers to make it through the weekend. As always, if you have a song feel free to leave a comment here, on facebook, or on twitter @clubbprez.

      Currently Watching: ncaa football/wahoos @ hokies

Songs of the Week: 11/14/2014

  Another week has FLOWN by. I cannot believe that we are halfway through November already. Before you know it, we'll be decking halls baking cookies and making fudge and celebrating a brand new year! Let's slow it on down just a hair though, we have this weeks songs to get to first!
  For anyone paying attention...yes, there is an awful lot of rap on this list. I personally listen to all sorts of music, and this week just happened to see a massive amount of new rap music released. If you are a rap fan, good week. If not, never fear! Like I said, I listen to all sorts of music. If you have something new for me to listen to, leave a comment here, on facebook, or @clubbprez via the twitters!

•   MASHUP! The Hood Internet - Backseat Shake Off (Kendrick Lamar x Taylor Swift), That's where my heart really is when it comes to music. Especially if it's done well. Here's a couple unexpected artists mashed together for an unexpectedly enjoyable outing. Kendrick Lamar and Taylor Swift on The Hood Internet's Backseat Shake Off!
•   Slaughterhouse, Yelawolf, and Eminem - CVXPHER, Via Neeko! Just wow. If you wanna hop to Eminem's part, because for some reason you hate rap but love Em, click HERE.
•   Eminem - Detroit Vs. Everybody (featuring Royce Da 5'9, Big Sean, Danny Brown, DEJ Loaf, & Trick Trick), Another Neeko suggestion.
•   Epic Rap Battles of History - Ghostbusters vs. Mythbusters, I love these guys, and this is sooo silly. Wanna see the trailer for the new season, check it out HERE.
•   Home Free - Any Way the Wind Blows, Because I absolutely cannot get enough of these guys. Expect to see them here...a lot
•   The Script - Superheroes, Big ups to Maranda Dawn for introducing me to this song. How have I NOT heard this song yet?
•   GEM OF THE WEEK! Zac Brown Band - Fortunate Son (featuring Dave Grohl and Bruce Springsteen) (Live), For those people who didn't know, there was a HUGE concert on Veteran's Day in Washington D.C. Plenty of people were there, and then there was this song. Stirring a little controversy, Brown, Grohl and Springsteen performed the hell out of a Creedence Clearwater Revival classic "Fortunate Son." Don't believe me? Click the link and see!

  So that's this weeks list. Once again, got something awesome that you are listening to and you think I should? Leave a comment here, or at facebook via Monroe Haynes (find me), or hit me up in the twitterverse @clubbprez! Until next time true believers! ... wait, that's not my line...

      Currently Playing: dia frampton/inventing shadows (live)

Stretch A Dollar Web Series - Session 1: Walmart Savings Catcher

  I promised you that we would start off easy. Today we are talking about the Wal-Mart Savings Catcher.
  So a little quick backstory. Over the summer Wal-Mart decided to create a program that would allow it's users to insert a receipt. That magic behind the scenes would compare prices with other competitors in the area and if it found a price that was lower, you would get the difference back. It was originally limited to three test cities, but was expanded soon thereafter to include all of the United States. At first, and with the US rollout, the catcher was very limited as to the items it would compare (only groceries at first). It's expanded since to include a few more items but it still isn't an all encompassing system.
  With that being said, lets take a look at the things you are going to need:

    Wal-Mart Savings Catcher  

• A valid email address (it could be one you just made up, however)
• A Wal-Mart account (Wal-Mart has to know where to put your money)
• A computer with internet access
• A Wal-Mart receipt
• A smartphone with the Wal-Mart app (optional)

  The process is pretty simple. You get your receipt, you log into your walmart.com account via your computer or smartphone and you upload your receipt. You can do this one of two ways. You can either upload the receipt online or you can use your smartphone app for iPhone. Then Wal-Mart gets to comparing items. Here's a pretty quick YouTube Video on the entire process.
  So, now that you know what you need, the next question is "how do I make this profitable" and "how can I cash out?"
  Let's start with the first question, how do I ensure I am getting money back from Wal-Mart? There's a couple things you need to know regarding this. Wal-Mart, regardless of your personal feelings about the company, does a really good job of price matching. That's their selling point to drive the business. We have the lowest prices, and if we don't, prove it and we'll make it so. In the past the company was willing to price match as long as you had the advert from the competitor and could show them (or you had a sympathetic cashier who already knew of a lower price). This takes some of the work away from the customer and puts it in Wal-Mart's hands. They WANT to be the lowest when it comes to pricing so they've established a system that will actively look for those prices. With that being said, keep in mind that they are looking for prices on items their competitor would carry, not "items similar to what we carry." Any Great Value (or other in store brand) is automatically disqualified from this comparison because no other stores carry Great Value products. Also, Wal-Mart has a way of packaging multiple items together that are Wal-Mart brand specific. (remember that 3 pack of Hamburger Helper you just got?) Typically speaking, none of those are eligible for comparison either, because no other store is carrying the items packaged in this exact way.
  To answer the second question, it's fairly easy to cash out and you have a couple options. As Wal-Mart finds more savings, it adds those findings into your walmart.com account (also accessible from your smartphone app). While here, it's just a number with no monetary value whatsoever. When you choose to (or automatically at the end of the year) you can cash this money out via a Wal-Mart e-gift card that can be used for either online or in-store purchased. Also, through 2/28/2015 you can double the Wal-Mart Buck$ (as they call it) by having your savings transferred to a bluebird account. I've looked over it and I do believe that's the route I will take when I plan to cash out.
  So in case you were wondering just how much one can save, the upper limit (as noted in the terms) is $599.99 per calendar year. I sincerely doubt I'll personally hit that mark, ever, but $46.65 ($93.30 if it were a bluebird account) is not a bad pay day.
  So a little strategy that might help you stretch the dollar just a little. Make sure you get your receipts in as quickly as possible. You are limited to seven receipts per week, and you have ten days from the purchase date to get it entered. Take a look through the FAQ so you can see exactly what kind of items you can expect to be price matched. And keep your eyes open for receipts that someone else may have left behind. You never know when a receipt could earn you a few extra buck$, I know I have.

  Oh, and don't throw those receipts away just yet. In the next session we'll see what YOU can do do with those receipts to help feed the pig!

      Currently Playing: the hood internet/backseat shake off (kendrick lamar x taylor swift)

The "Masses" Have Spoken

  Well, it was an overwhelming response. But at least two of you out there are interested in ways to save, or make, a little extra cash here and there using your phone or computer. That's awesome.
  So here's the deal. I'll be sharing one way a day (app or online) to either stretch your dollar or earn a little more on the side. I'll try to follow this general outline: name of app, necessary equipment, my experience, how to maximize profit, is it in anyway profitable. When it's all said and done, I'll share the spreadsheet I've been using so you can see kind of where I am to date. Keep in mind that everything I've earned isn't necessarily on the spreadsheet. I have a pretty strict rule about not adding to the spreadsheet until I actually have money in hand (transferred to my paypal account, check cleared, etc.).
  Let's prepare you a little for the things that you are going to need. I'm going to start with something as simple as a computer, so that will give you a little bit of time to play catch up if you need to.
  

• An email address: Each of these require you to "register" in some way, shape, or form. Typically I have received very little in the way of "spam." But if you are uneasy, feel free to make a new email just for this.
• A smartphone: It's not 100% necessary, but most of the opportunities come in the form of apps designed for smartphones. Also, ALL of my experience is with Android devices. If you have questions about iDevices, I'll certainly do my best to research and help.
• PayPal: A good portion of the apps have multiple payout options, but PayPal is a common one. If you want "cash" you'll need a PayPal account, and it certainly isn't that hard to get one. If you are interested, and you need a PayPal account, click HERE.
• Patience: I'm not here to make you an overnight millionaire. I'm simply giving you opportunities to make an extra little bit here and there. I currently have over 310 dollars in my paypal account, and that was all pure patience. Keep digging, and who knows what you can accomplish.

  So that's about it. I'll start tomorrow with something extremely simple and extremely easy (if you haven't completely shunned Wal-Mart yet).

      Currently Playing: home free/any way the wind blows

I'm the Boss of my Birthday!

  I'm the boss of my birthday. I heard that from the time p.c.h. woke up on her birthday, at 4 o'clock in the morning. It was my baby girl's birthday, and not only did she know it, she was letting the ENTIRE world know as well. It was quite an interesting day, because having a birthday, in her mind, meant that she was exempt from all wrong doing. It was her birthday. So when I woke up to take L.I.Am to school, there was peanut shells on the floor. I told her to clean it up, and her response? "It's my birthday." It most certainly is...
  For the most part her birthday was just like any other day. However, she and I did get a chance to sneak out of the house to get a cake. A "pink and purple" cake to be exact. p.c.h. is definitely a girl. And she's still the boss of her birthday. We finally found a cake that we could agree on, and we had "happy Birthday Britain" (just like that, go figure) put on in pink icing. She got her "pink and purple cake" and was good in the land of p.c.h. She is the boss of her birthday.
  We went over the birthday decor aisle to find something modest to make the birthday a little more memorable. We didn't have anyone come over, so it was up to me to make it as memorable as possible, she is the boss of her birthday mind you. To continue with her love for Elsa, we got a pack of Frozen plates and a Happy Birthday sign decked out in Elsa attire (Anna, Sven, Olaf, and Kristoff). Not to mention the balloon that she found that said "Happiest Birthday." She proceeded to walk around the store with this balloon for the rest of the trip, make sure that anyone she came across knew that it was her birthday and she was the boss.
  We were barely in the door before p.c.h., aka Birthday Boss, was demanding that we decorate for her party. "When I come back in here, I want to see a party!" So cute, so bossy. She played with the brand new Doc McStuffins playset that I got her and Liamus immediately started doing is his big brother job of being as annoying as humanely possible to his sister. Dlo was on point with some of the best lasagna I think I've ever ate, but even awesome lasagna couldn't keep the kids from asking for cake halfway through the meal. Britain bossed on the candles by blowing all of them out at one time, she is the boss of her birthday mind you, and the smiles across her face all day was nothing short of amazing.
  It's amazing that we got her to four years, but at the same time I have to ask myself where in the world did the time go? They are both getting so big so quickly...and it's hard to put into words the emotions that I'm feeling. Anways, with that being said, here's a nice collage with the very few pictures we took. We were too busy taking in the moment (and keeping the Birthday Boss from killing Liamus Prime, it's her birthday she may have tried)...

      Currently Playing: relient k/pirates who don't do anything

Songs of the Week: November 7!

  Well folks. It's that time of the week again. That time where I open up the crystal amazeball and let you peer into the depths and see what has tickled my musical bone this week. To the list!

    Hozier - Take Me To Church
    Logic - Driving Ms. Daisy (featuring Childish Gambino)
    GEM OF THE WEEK: Ki: Theory - Stand By Me
    STRAIGHT FIRE! Slaughterhouse - Y'all Ready Know
    Home Free - Champagne Taste (On A Beer Budget)

  There you go folks. If you haven't already, head over to HERE and vote on whether you'd like me to blog about ways to learn a little extra money (slowly but surely). And as usual, leave a shout and let me know what tickled your musical fancy this week! Hit me here, facebook, or twitter @clubbprez!

      Currently Playing: home free/champagne taste (on a beer budget)

A Little Bit About Money...

  So everyone likes to earn that little extra money. It's something I've been doing for about six months now. I've learned a thing or two from it. I'm going to gauge interest in this. If you are truly interested, feel free to vote at the bottom of the page and let me know. I'll leave the voting up for about a week (or until I feel people have already voted). If it's a yes, I'll start with what I've already learned. Some might be repetitive to what you already know, or what your friend already doing (i.e. iBotta) and some of it might be informative.
  Before you vote, I'm going to throw a number out at you: $307.04. That's the total I've made since I started doing this in April. I've kept a spreadsheet, so I'll show you kinda what I'm doing and I'll provide a little insight into how I'm doing it. The only thing I ask is that if you do decide to jump in, I'll be providing referral numbers and what not. In most circumstances the referral will help us both out.
  So that's that. Interested? Let me know, here's the votey thingy. Get to it!

Do you want to know more about how to make money online and using your smartphone?

Yes

No

Poll Maker

    Currently Playing: hozier/take me to church

Songs of the Week: All Hallows Eve Edition!

  Every time I spend an extended amount of time away from this blog, I come back with the intention, and enthusiasm that I'm going to keep it going. With some decent content that is worth returning back for. And each time, I flake out for whatever reason. So, let's give it another shot, and hopefully I can keep it up, at least some halfway decent updates...
  For a while I was updating with my "songs of the week." I have such an varied and unusual taste in music that I like to share the things that I'm into and I invite users to offer me something new to listen to. Let's start doing that again. With Christmas looming right around the corner and enough musical holiday cheer to make any sane person reevaluate their life, it may be nice to get a glimpse of some non-christmasy music for the ears. (however, I do love Christmas music, and we'll talk more about that come December. Let's enjoy some turkey first...) So, with all the "legal" mumbojumbo out the way, let's hit you with my songs of the week! Commentary when appropriate...

    Garth Brooks - People Loving People      A new Garth song! He's playing in town this weekend, and unfortunately I can't go. With that being said, go listen to it. It's a great song, and a great message. (Unfortunately, it's not the entire song either. It cuts off at abou the 2:45 mark. If you enjoy it, keep you ear tuned in to local radio stations and see if you can catch it. Or better yet, make the call and request it!)
    The Allman Brothers Band - Jessica      Normally, this song wouldn't be here. It's a great song, don't get me wrong, and I love hearing it (and occasionally guitar heroing it). However, it's not everyday that you hear this song four times in one day without trying. But, that happened to me. While running errands last Saturday, I managed to hear this song four times on local radio in less than a 12 hour stretch. That's quite the accomlishment!
    Logic - Soul Food
    Home Free - All About That Bass
    Kendrick Lamar - I
    Holiday Song of the Week! Bobby Boris Pickett - Monster Mash
    GEM OF THE WEEK! Boots Randolph - Yakety Sax (featuring Chet Atkins and Ray Stevens) (Live)      Yeah, I'm a huge fan of this song. I'm a huge fan of Ray Stevens. And this is awesome. But that's just one man's opinion.

  There you have it folks. Feel free to click and watch. They should open in a new window! Leave a comment here, facebook or on twitter @clubbprez and let me know what you are listening to. I'd love to hear it!

    Currently Playing: boots randolph/yakety sax(featuring chet atkins and ray stevens)

Blood Moon

  I had the opportunity to see my first lunar eclipse last night first hand. It was pretty awesome, even though it was at 5:15 in the morning. I also had the delight of sharing this experience with my daughter, who reveled in it so. Nature is really an awesome power to bear witness to at times, and I was very glad I was able to share this experience with her. I also woke my son up earlier than normal so he could see the "red moon" as well. He wasn't as enthusiastic about the experience as his sister. Perhaps it was because I had to wake him up (pch had been up since almost 1:30 for reasons unbeknownst to me) or perhaps his genuinely was unimpressed with it. If so, I guess I can't blame him. When you talk about a red moon, kids expect rudolph the red nosed, red crayon from the 8 count box, Coca-Cola red. Instead, they were treated to a very copperish color. We also live in a fairly large city, so the amount of lights around the town didn't help the situation at all. The timing also played part in not he grandest of stages for seeing a red moon. The moon had sat before the eclipse was over. Which is unfortunate, but still pretty awesome all the same. We humans will be treated to 4 of these eclipses in a row over a two year time period. Half-way through ladies and gentlemen. The next lunar eclipse won't be until April 4, 2015. Add that to your calendars! Until then, we can look forward to a partial solar eclipse (and it's only two weeks away). Be sure to go outside and check it out on October 23, 2014!

MySpace Diaries: Day 6 - It's been a long day

  I really don't remember this...

Subject	Its been a long day
DateCreated	1/1/1900 12:00:00 AM
PostedDate	8/2/2004 8:46:00 PM
Body	So it seems like today has been one of the longest days ever. I think its just the fact I haven't had a day off in over a week. My night off this week isn't until Thursday night either. I'm really strugling. However, it seems like its going to be a good week. There are only 126 or so people here this week. Its good times. Other than that, I really don't have much to talk about, or complain about. I guess I'm going to leave it at that. Peace out all :) Currently Playing: Horrible Racist Jokes from Black Guys Current Mood: Nostalgic

    Currently Playing: cheap cologne/moment of clarity

Day 5 - Do you wanna, wanna fanta

  I hope I got that right...we'll find out momentarily, more nonsensical bs on a non-astronomical level...

Subject	Do you wanta, wanta fanta?
DateCreated	1/1/1900 12:00:00 AM
PostedDate	7/29/2004 10:30:00 PM
Body	Interesting day today. No spinal injury possibilities today. Today was as normals as a camp day gets with the exception of one of my back teeth. It started falling apart. Heh, not good times, but we'll just have to wait and see what happens. Currently Playing: The eerie sound of the air conditioner Current Mood: Sleepytired, but mad at myself

    Currently Playing: the talking dead/3-16-14

MySpace: Day 4 - Red Vs. Blue

  Relatively uneventful...

Subject	Red Vs.Blue
DateCreated	1/1/1900 12:00:00 AM
PostedDate	7/28/2004 10:15:00 PM
Body	The theme of the day today was: Halo. Gotta love some Halo. Today was much better than the previous ones :). I resumed my duties as archery instructor today. We played Halo with the teens again today during 5th period. I got a few more comics in the mail today. Good times :) The day run pretty smooth, as far as camp goes that is. We did have a girl fall down a hill today and she needed to be backboarded. I an say 2 in 24 hours, go SML 4-H ;)! I don't quite know much about this one, and even if I did, I wouldn't talk much about it. However, mad props going out to the staff for doing a great job both times during in-line stabalization. When it rains, it pours as the saying goes. However, we did a good job dancing in between the drops. Roanoke has to be the most talented group of kids I have ever seen. I feel kinda left out in the world. There was an eleven year old that could play the piano beautifully. But its not the fact that she could just play it, she wrote it as well! I felt pretty behind in life after that one. But its ok, they were still an enjoyable bunch to listen to. When we got back to the staff house, once again it was Halo time. Today was a pretty good day. No complaints from the peanut gallery today. I have a bit of good news. However, I'm not going to share just yet. I'm not sure if it has been approved yet. Currently Playing: Candlebox - Far Behind Current Mood: Complacent

    Currently Playing: my kids strumming the guitar

MySpace - Part 3

  Let's continue on as we take a gander into the distant past. I haven't looked at this one yet, so...lol

Subject	Oh I love a rainy night...
DateCreated	1/1/1900 12:00:00 AM
PostedDate	7/27/2004 7:25:00 PM
Body	It seems like everytime I decide to write ablog, its about how horrible my day is or how much life is treating me horribly. Unfortunately, today is no exception to that... Today started off just fine. I was really looking forward to the day, especially after 4 hours sleep, which is pretty much unheard of at camp at the time of the week. However, I taught canoeing today. It was good times. A kink was thrown in today around 11 when I was informed that I have to teach archery. It was kinda intriguing teaching archery in my water shoes and wet shorts, but hey, i got the job done. I had the weonderful oppurtunity to watch the teens canoe and kayak toay. It was intriguing, to say the least. It was very hectic. As a matter of fact we were still feeling reprications of that hour three hours later, but more on that later. However, a boat was pretty swamped. Monroe, being the ferverent hero that I am, jumped in thinking I could actually help. Yay Monroe for being a dumbass. But the time I swam to the boat they had pretty much brought it all the way in. It still felt pretty good to get in the lake however. Some teens have been talking smack about playing Halo this week. Jon, Braynt Crawley, Kool-Aid, Drip and I decided to give them a taste of the Smith Mountain Lake 4-H Conference and Educational Center Summer Staff Halo playing ability. We made them look pretty bad. I say we, however, thinking that I actually helped. Jon pretty much carried us. Of course hes the veteren, I just started :-p Remeber I said we were feeling reprications? Around 5:45, one of the adult comes into the office and says hey man, you got a paddle floating in the lake. Kool-Aid and I thought "hey, simple ride down on golf cart, extract from shore, replace in paddle room, back in five minutes mission." However, that didn't quite work out that way. We got down there and realized the damn thing was out in the water, about a football field from the bank. At this point Kool-Aid and Monroe decide it would be best if we went out in a canoe to retrieve this paddle. All fine and dandy, till I get completely seated. Then the boat flips over on its side and half of my body gets wet. YAY MOnroe for being a dumbass and not telling Kool-Aid where to sit in the damn boat. We finally make it out there, retrieved the damb paddle, brought it back. Now let the good times roll: A rainstorm comes up tonight and I get drenched. However, it doesn't stop me from doing what I do best. Using soaking wet PA systems, helping crying kids understand that camp is fun and that there is no need to go home, answering 12 questions directed at me at the same time from 12 different people. Add to the fact that Lindsay hurt herself today and I was pretty worried about that. The good news is Lindz is ok :) and we got through the night. On that note, i'm going to let it ride for the night. Currently Playing: Army of Me - Saved Your LIfe Current Mood - Exhausted

  And that would be the fateful day that eventually lead to the banning of flip-flops at the W.E. Skelton 4-H Educational Conference Center. Lulz

    Currently Playing: rain delayed food city 500 from bristol

MySpace Past - Part 2

  We continue on the trail of memories with my next post on MySpace, many moons ago. This one I did read I remember that day full well. Just one day later, July 26, 2004. Yes ladies and gentelmen, that's a 4...

Subject	Understanding In A Car Crash
DateCreated	1/1/1900 12:00:00 AM
PostedDate	7/26/2004 10:28:00 PM
Body	So today started off decent, as far as Mondays go. Roanoke came here and we started their week with a blast. I've had the most fun and had the most energy that I think I've had in a while. However, no day goes without its fair share of hardships, and today was definitly one of those days packed full of hardships. Eariler today, our horsemanship instructor, Ruth, was either asked to leave, or she asked to leave. We will probably never heard the entire story, and if we get any of it at all it will be entirely one-sided. Its ok though. "Tis the way of camp. Its unfortunate to see happen, but she had it coming for a while. Its quite unfortunate to think back and realize that you may never see someone again. However, it is comforting to know that my last words to her were: "Hey Ruth, I was your secret buddy!" Due to some pranksters in the house and the need to build a fire that may or may not have been used, my night off got off to a very late start, and it never seemed to end. On our way to Roanoke, Crawley, Annie and I decided to get up close and personal with a Jeep Cherokee, or something like that. It was the first time I've ever been involved with two vehicles colliding into one another. There was that time we hit the deer with the camaro, but thats another story... We finally made our way to Best Buy. I came out with the lostprophets cd, the Yeah Yeah Yeahs cd, The Crow, Blade and Blade 2 on DVD, and 100 blank cds. Yeah blank cds. I racked up at Best Buy for some odd reason. Yeah spending money. Neways, we made it back without incident. Jon and Brandon proceeded in schooling Kool-Aid and I in Halo. Its all good. I'm not good at that game, but I am learning :) Currently Playing: Thursday - Understanding in a Car Crash Current Mood: Somewhat playful, but mostly tired P.S. Taking Back Sunday's new CD Comes out today :)

  Once again, what a pussy. But somethings never change...@BattleCrane still cannot drive to save his life...

    Currently Playing: thursday/understading in a car crash

FREEMIX FRIDAY

  Man oh man. I love music, of all sorts. The only thing better than listening to music is sharing that music, and listening to new music. I've done this before, but I'm going to give it another try. This time, I'm not going to force anything on myself, as I've done in the past. If I've heard something new and awesome this week, I'll post it and let you decide for yourself if you like it or not. Let's dive in to the FREEMIX FRIDAY!
  Keep in mind that these songs I have listened to in the last week (last Friday to this Friday) and predict you gon' enjoy them thoroughly (see what I did there!). I want you to give me a shout out on twitter @clubbprez and let me know what your song of the week is. I'd love to listen to something new. And Here. We. GO!

    nilsofficial - Never Gonna Wake Up
    Pop Evil - Trenches (DMC Remix)
    Daft Punk - Computerized (featuring Jay-Z)
    The Zombies - Time of the Season (d.veloped Vocal Remix)

    Currently Playing: the zombies/time of the season (d.veloped vocal remix)

Welcome Back - Something New

  Has it really been almost a year? ALMOST AN ENTIRE YEAR? Yeah...it has been. So, normally I do this. I tell you I'm going to stick around for a little while, then I blog for about four days, then I remember it's hard for me to blog and live life, then I disappear for a year...(<- don't lie, it's about like that). So...let's try something new
  I came across something very interesting. I found my old blogs from MySpace. Remember MySpace? No? ... ok ... But, this is what I'm gonna do. I'm going to give you a blog a day(ish) until I have my entire backlog of blogs up on blogspot. EXCITING!...kinda, not really. I'm going to level with you 100%. I simply downloaded the things. I haven't really looked at them yet...so with that being said, let's take a look at my history of blogging

Subject	Heh
DateCreated	1/1/1900 12:00:00 AM
PostedDate	7/25/2004 5:47:00 PM
Body	Yeah...so I sit here. I feel good and bad all at the same time. Roanoke comes tomorrow. A lotta cool people are coming with this group, like Lindz ;) hehe. However, i'm not feeling great physically or emotionally. Its always possible that one is the cause of the other. I actually think that is the case. I talked to Trisha yesterday. She says shes moving to Cali when her lease is up next May. I got the chance to catch up with Kevin yesterday too. Yeah, so I'm going to miss that bunch. Maybe I'll see them again soon, but with me not returning to college, those days will be short and far between. And speaking of college, I think I am the dumbest person ever for thinking that I could make it in the college world. Maybe not going to college next semester is going to be a good think, maybe not. But my mind is set. I will find my way eventually. I have lots of support from great friends and family. Speaking of friends and family, big shout outs going to WV. A very close friend, at least I thought she was, seems to have completely disappeared off the earth. No phone calls, no e-mails...nothing. I guess it goes both ways, but i got tired for being the only one trying. And it really did seem that way. I always emailed first. I've tried calling a few times, but I never could get through. She has a life of her own now, I guess. I think she may have a boyfriend. Someone at some point in time she completely hated, or at least despised. I guess we all have change of hearts. As for family, my sister went to Kentucky to spend a week or so with her on-line boyfriend Pat. My feelings are very mixed about this whole ordeal, however, she seems happy. If she is trully happy, then I'm extremely happy for her. It's nice to see her meet someone she can relate to, even though he lives in Kentucky. Hey, I'm not opponent of long distance relationships. I had one myself. I was engaged to her for a year and a half. Somehow, for some reason, I find myself looking back on this relationshp more and more. Perhaps I miss the feeling of just having someone. Perhaps I'm mentally searching for something in my memories. Or perhaps I'm looking for the closure that I never recieved from an "online breakup." Break-ups in instant message form are harsh. Well, I guess my rantings are done for the time being. Roanoke comes tomorrow bright and early, and I get class reunion with the old class I used to teach, Canoeing! YAY! Currently Playing: Cactus Patch - These Hands Current Mood: Down in the dumps for some odd reason :-/

  I actually have no clue what song that is, so I'm going to go look it up...
    Currently Playing: the cactus patch/these hands

    God I was a pussy back then, get ready for a lot of that...