Between 2 States

Its been a long time.

2009-09-10T14:56:00.002-06:00

So here is my sad attempt to get back into blogging. I know there is a lot to blog about and I will get around to it sometime soon But here is a fun little video that I absolutely love. Enjoy.

Sick song and AMAZING video

2009-04-29T21:51:00.003-06:00

Recently I have really learned to appreciate the group M83. They are a very ambient/techno band with a really unique sound and visual look. Here is an amazing visual music video for their song "We own the sky" I grabbed it from another blog so im probably late on this but the video is dope.

M83 - We Own the Sky from David Altobelli on Vimeo.

CHI-Town Bound

2009-04-12T11:10:00.007-06:00

So for those of you who don't already know I will be moving to Chicago come May 17th for the summer and if all goes well, which I hope it does, I'll be there indefinitely. I was offered an amazing internship at Leo Burnett advertising agency. They are one of the worlds biggest agencies with over 30 Cannes Lions (considered one if not the top award for advertising) and many many more prestigious awards from honorable competitions.
I am so excited to start this new chapter in my life. I have found what I love and at times think I'm pretty good at it. Im fired up to get out of the mundane and find new inspiration points, a fresher look on problem solving, and amazing scenery, (provo is so bland, I love big cities). The world is my oyster... or from Leo Burnetts perspective, a big pencil to create big ideas with.

Here is some of my favorite work from the Chicago office and a few of their international offices.

Kellogs All-Brand: I loved this spot, and after watching you will all know why.

McDonald's "Dad's Making Dinner": This couldn't be further from the truth in my household. It totally brought me back.

Hallmark "Brother of the Bride": Classic lines great writting

Petronas "Tan Hong Ming." Leo Burnett Kuala Lumpu Office: Adorable

Shelter "House of Cards." Leo Burnett London Office: Simply Rad

Print:
Ambassador Scotch:

Luxor Highlighter:

McDonald's Non-traditional:

Mr. Zogs Sex Wax:

Answered

2009-04-05T12:49:00.002-06:00

Jimmy Kimmel asked the question that is on everyones mind. Thank you Jimmy for asking the hard question and going directly to the source for answers. May the jokes begin, kids not included, but BUTTS are.
Hilarious video.

Half the hand I used to be....

2009-04-02T09:31:00.024-06:00

Pardon the typos Im typing with a 5 inch diameter index finger with no flexibility.

So April Fools day...psych. This story is no April Fools, The names, places and events where not changed to protect anyone. This is raw, this is real, this is "the Slice."

So at school there is this advertising competition called the 1/2 show. A few of the local agencies take a look at anyone who enters creative work and award them cash prizes...What they can afford to do that in this economy. I smell AIG all over again. JK. Anyways I was very reluctant to put anything in this year because I have nothing really new and interesting due to the amount of time being spent working with TAP and also others. But at the last minute I decide to enter a few campaigns that I have gotten some good feed back on from a few agencies in NYC and Chicago.
So I go along my merry way and print out my work. I begin to lay my work out on matte board and cut them out. I got the first campaign out, no problem. Then came the last campaign. I make my first incision, the razor has penetrated the mate, so I realize im god to cut this thing. As I begin to pull down on the razor it pops out of the matte board jumps the ruler and slices vertically down my left index finger. All I saw at that moment was a chunk of my finger slice down the side of my finger. I immediately jumped up and clasped my hand for dear life. The shock instantly kicked in and I had to really think for about 5 sec. if that really happened. I then looked down at the top of my fist and saw my index finger rolled up and my chunk of skin/tissue/fat dangling from a thin loose piece of still attached skin. I looked up, probably green, and said to the lab, "I need to go to the hospital, i just cut my finger off." Everyone just stared at me, like I just spoke Finish. I said it again, pacing back in forth holding my hand, "I need to go to the hospital I think I just cut off a big portion of my finger." They all heard me this time but unfortunately no one, and I mean NO ONE believed me. "Ha ha HA no way shut up, your lying, april fools." These were all reactions I got for a good 2 minutes. Finally My good friend pat who was right next to me when it happened decided to look down at the scene of the crime. After a glance of the scene he looked up and said, "Uhhh I think he is serious, there is blood splattered all over his ads and mate board." A few believed him but still the majority thought I was Fooling them...what a freaking day to injure yourself I can just imagine...."9-11 emergency what is your emergency?" "Im being robbed at gun point please help!" "Oh ha ha thank you for calling today sr. and an april fools to you too, ok Im gonna go ahead and send a unit out there right away ok sr. (wink wink) muahaha no Im really not, have a great april fools day, bye bye."
So as Im starting to leave to practically take myself to the hospital my good friend Kevin Wunder comes throught the door. Instantly i think to myself, there is a responsible father type. I look at him and say, "Kevin I just cut my finger off I need you to take me to the hospital now." God bless Kevin, he didnt even question, it was probably the look of rage/terror/green that convinced him, but he right away said OK lets go.

So during this entire time in the ad lab walking to the car and driving to the hospital there is barely any blood and no pain. My adrenaline is going through the roof. By the time I get checked in and get my vitals checked it all begins to ware off. The pain becomes real and the blood begins to flow. Im clasping my hand even tighter and the bloods not stopping and coming through every crease and angle of my hand. The doctor checking me in was like, "ok that is bleeding a lot, lets go ahead and block that now." About 6 shots in all angles of the finger later and I have a polish sausage for a finger. I mean It looked like I had Shaq's big toe as an index finger.

I finally get to the back and get stitched up (10 total stitches), minus it being that fast. It took a long time a total of about 2 hr. 45 mins total to get in and out of there. The nurses were great, Kevin, my bro Aaron, and I were having a fun time teasing and chatting it up with them. I got toys and juice, I really milked this thing while there, hell I better they are gonna charge me a butt load for it.

So the morning after, I have this huge bandage around my finger which makes it nearly impossible to type (been working at this for about 45 min) and it kills. All the numbness is gone and Im now left with a throbbing painful stitched up finger. (I wonder if this is what the morning after sleeping with someone that gives you an STD feels like, I would be pissed, good thing I don't mess with that)

But I cant think about the pain, I cant even think about the incident or the actual loss of a chunk of my finger, (pray my finger accepts the chunk they sewed back on). All I can think about is how my story will never live up to the little boy in the curtain next to me who got a pea stuck in his ear because he was trying to hide it. DAMN HIM!!! I cant beat that, I get no where near it. So here''s to you buddy, winner of best hospital story.

It went about a quarter deep and about half way to the first knuckle. (please hide any small children and animals eyes from the screen.)

Are you a Wild Thing?

2009-03-25T12:28:00.007-06:00

One of my most favorite and beloved books growing up is "Where the wild things are" Finally after tons of studio problems Spike Jonze visionary labor of love is coming to the big screen. I think this movie looks amazing and hope you feel the same. The copy is rad, the visuals are awesome which makes this movie purely "RAWESOME."
Take a look!

WORLD WATER WEEK IS HERE

2009-03-22T13:54:00.010-06:00

The time has finally come!!! World Water Week is here, running from Mach 22nd-28th. Please check out our website HERE to find participating restaurants where you can donate $1 for the Tap water you would normally get for free and provide a child with 40 days of clean drinking water.
This is the event a lot of us have been working on since June of 2008. Its our baby and we have been so lucky and proud of the opportunity to bring it to Utah.

Its such an important cause and I hope all of you who read my blog will find participating restaurants in your city HERE and join the effort.

FINALLY SOMETHING WE CAN ALL DRINK TO
HERE'S TO LIFE

Updates

2009-03-13T08:37:00.005-06:00

So lately I have been getting razzed by a few friends bc I dont update my blog as much as I used to. I understand their frustration and appreciate their dire need for my witty commentary, but here is the thing my blog is a mix between personal experiences and stories and cool and interesting things I or others have done creatively. My buddy Andrew Garlock has mastered this mix blogging art, leaning more towards the latter part of my criteria. But I will say I appreciate his blog and hope to soon have mine up to par with his, obviously keeping true to myself and my interest. Please check it out here Andrews Blog.
Lastly I hate it when people don't leave comments. If you visit a blog and read a post leave a comment. It not only helps the blog your reading but also gets your name out there as well, thus creating more visitors to your site. Its simple blog etiquette and something that really gets to me. I know you read it so make a comment. Having said that I know that I am not the best at updating and have lost a lot of readership bc of that but feel as though this should be said not just for my blog but all blogs out there. I jokingly give people a hard time about it, but its kinda true. I still love you, kinda... don't take that to the bank.

So here is my pledge for those friends that have vented their frustration. I will do my best to update my blog once a week if not more. This is not only good for me but hope it fulfills your cravings for my word vomit.

Here's to Life

2009-03-06T16:16:00.009-07:00

So for the past two weks Mike Morris, Billy Reano, Tommy Currit and myself have been clocking in countless all night hours to creating the most amazing TV commercials for the Utah Tap Project. I have blogged about this before but in a nut shell the Tap Project is a campaign put on by UNICEF that asks patrons at participating restaurants to donate a dollar for the tap water they would normally get for free. 100% of the proceeds go to providing water for third world countries and saving thousands of children's lives. Of all the things I have ever been apart of I feel most proud and satisfied with these spots. Congrats to everyone who was apart of this. Mike your skills are inspiring and I love you. We have seen this all the way through and I think its something we can all be so proud of. Here's to your guys. p.s. Shout out to Logan Tanner for the amazing copy in all the spots. He is the man

Is he Serious!!!

2009-02-12T09:28:00.002-07:00

Joaquin Is out of control!! You have to watch this. I was uncomfortable the entire time. Its hilarious but its one of those funny moments where your waiting for him to be like...ha just joking guys. LOL this guy is crazy!

Funnies EVER!!

2009-02-04T21:54:00.002-07:00

Recently I have been looking at some of the work of the agencies I would love to intern at over the summer. I recently stubbled upon these hilarious gems done by DDB. I don't know how old these are but I think they are pure genius. I haven't seen something this fresh and original in a while. They were aired in Germany for a time and then were pulled from the stations so the consumers would search them out via the web. I hope you enjoy them, excuse the language for those it would offend... those Europeans.

To see others like Pulp Fiction, The Shinning, and Titanic go to DDB's website or check them out on YouTube. The mentioned ones I believe were made specifically for DDB and VW. enjoy!

Ode to Zune

2009-01-30T08:14:00.002-07:00

Well they're hitting their demographic at least.

You tried so hard to be so hip and so cool but the reality is your just a clunky awkward tool.
The time has come to throw in the towel, just be a man you machine so foul.
Keep your head up high you had some great features, like sharing music with all 10 other Zune creatures.
Don't be ashamed its not completely your bad, it's just compaired to the iPod your clueless and sad.
You know the boy who gets picked last at school in the gym, hate to break it to you, thats you, your him.
Christmas' when you would be open with glee were the fake expression of kids who really just have to pee.
I'm sorry to break it to you so honest and mean, this is suppose to be a celebration to an inferior machine.
So here's to you my wannabe friend, for sticking it out to the short, unsuccessful end.
Maybe there's a comeback some time soon, but let me save you from looking like a failed baboon.
Keep it in the warehouse all dusty and dark, and think of something original with a little bit of spark.
Adios bulky Zune you fought a good fight, you can go down with a smile knowing you gave it all of your might.

Dance Dance Revolution: Eyebrow RemiX

2009-01-24T11:29:00.001-07:00

Enjoy the pure rhythmic sensation!!!

Up and Running

2009-01-22T13:15:00.007-07:00

For those who havent heard from me yet, my website, cpr-design, is up and running. It is my first time coding with XHTML and styling with CSS so go easy.

Its a small sample of my work that already needs to be updated and better laid out. As a matter of fact I already hate it and am doing a redesign right now, so bookmark it and check up on it whenever you get the time. This is what I am going to be doing for the rest of my life so those of you who feel a part of my life enjoy it, comment on it, give advice or feed back.

Have fun!

Slumdog worth a Million

2009-01-13T18:36:00.003-07:00

If you watched the Golden Globes this last sunday you were probably wondering why this movie you have never heard of is winning all the awards. Well I'm here to fill you in on this top honor movie called "Slumdog Millionare."

Let me just say that this is the best movie I have seen all year. It deserved every award it received and then some. Im telling all of you right now to go see it if its near you and if its not find a way to see it, you wont regret it.

Understandably so, most of you haven't seen this movie bc its been in very limited release so here is my 10 cents on the movie (or more like IMDB's ten cents).

"The story of Jamal Malik, an 18 year-old orphan from the slums of Mumbai, who is about to experience the biggest day of his life. With the whole nation watching, he is just one question away from winning a staggering 20 million rupees on India's "Who Wants To Be A Millionaire?" But when the show breaks for the night, police arrest him on suspicion of cheating; how could a street kid know so much? Desperate to prove his innocence, Jamal tells the story of his life in the slum where he and his brother grew up, of their adventures together on the road, of vicious encounters with local gangs, and of Latika, the girl he loved and lost. Each chapter of his story reveals the key to the answer to one of the game show's questions. Each chapter of Jamal's increasingly layered story reveals where he learned the answers to the show's seemingly impossible quizzes. But one question remains a mystery: what is this young man with no apparent desire for riches really doing on the game show? When the new day dawns and Jamal returns to answer the final question, the Inspector and sixty million viewers are about to find out. At the heart of its storytelling lies the question of how anyone comes to know the things they know about life and love."

Seriously this movie is unreal. I honestly have seen it twice in one week. p.s. for all that care, there is absolutly no reason why this movie is rated R, so if you are worried about that you 100% honestly don't have to, there is nothing, and I mean nothing,wrong with this movie.

Best album of 2008!

2008-11-21T14:38:00.013-07:00

The Killers new Cd Day & Age is due out next tuesday but I got it a bit early. Let me first start off by telling you that The Killers are probably in the top 5...nay 3 of my current favorite bands and top 10 for all time favorites. They bring the best of the old world of music and mix it in with the best of the new. There sound is original yet familiar at the same time. Their previous release were big hits in my book. Hot Fuss was a synthesized sound with "sing from the top of your lungs" hit after hit. Sam's Town was a more emotional yet grandiose epic, both musically and lyrically. They go deeper into metaphors and imagery more than anthem alt-pop like their previous.

Day & Age is a perfect hybrid of both these albums, bringing together the successful ingredients that made those albums a success. iTunes describes Day & Age as "truely unique. This is gigantic, cry your eyes out alt-pop with real soul peeping out from underneath the synth pulses and waves of post production."
The Killers truly do bring something new to the table every album. D&A introduces new touches of sounds into it's tracks like, African tribal chanting, harpsichord, trumpets, sax, and harps. But the the music stays true to Killer form.
The more I listen to it the more I love it. Not only do I feel as though this is the best album of 2008, but might possibly be my favorite Killers album and their most successful one.

No Heartbreaks here

2008-11-18T20:23:00.009-07:00

Kanyes West's new Cd 808's & Heartbreaks drops Nov. 25th and I cannot be more excited. The two singles already released, Love Lockdown & Heartless, in my opinion are incredible. They show a more personal and intimate side of Kanye which i feel is a reflection of the past year of his life.
I have had the chance to listen to the entire CD and let me tell you that the whole Cd is sung in the same style as the previous two songs, and I'm not mad about it. I think its different but genius. Kanye truly has stepped up to be the musical voice of our generation and along with that title comes room to be innovative and original. I say good for Kanye for exposing the emotional and darker side of his life and expressing it in a new style of Hip Hop.
808's & Heartbreaks does not fit into his "school" themed catologe; The College Dropout, Late Registration & Graduation. Those Cd's were more cocky, hip hop, mainstream. Believe me they are amazing and what everyone should love and want, but my argument for 808's is this; what successful and influential artist or band hasn't gone off and done a little soul searching and have come back with a different or unique take on their music? (The Beatles, The Killer, Bruce Springsteen, Tu Pac, Chili Peppers, OUTKAST ect.).
I hope everyone really gives this a chance and has an open mind about it. I am very prepared for the majority not to like it because it isnt mainstream or typical Kanye. I say who cares. Its totally new and like nothing you've ever heard before. In my opinion what better person to express new styles in a genre to our generation than Kanye West.
So go out and get it. Enjoy!!!

Songs to look out for:
Paranoid
Streetlights
Tell Everybody that you know Feat. Lil Wayne

AUSTRALIA

2008-11-14T14:12:00.005-07:00

Visionary director Baz Luhrman, most notably known for his breathtaking work on Moulin Rouge!, is returning to the directors chair after a seven year stint with what has been said to be an epic masterpiece. All though I loved Moulin Rouge! and the amazing way it told an incredible story, I understand that it may have been too abstract and visually distracting for some. For those who may have felt that way should rest at ease. This movie looks as if its going to be a more traditional film with yet another amazing story penned by Mr. Luhrman himself. I personally have fallen in love with the cinematography and graphic style in which this film is being presented. See for yourself. The music is amazing and so is everything else.

Australia staring Huge Jackman and Nicole Kidman is a set In northern Australia prior to World War II. An English aristocrat (Kidman) inherits a cattle station the size of Maryland. When English cattle barons plot to take her land, she reluctantly joins forces with a rough-hewn stock-man (Jackman) to drive 2,000 head of cattle across hundreds of miles of the country's most unforgiving land, only to still face the bombing of Darwin, Australia, by the Japanese forces that had attacked Pearl Harbor only months earlier.IMDB.com

Its finally here

2008-11-12T08:16:00.004-07:00

First off, I know many of you are shocked I am posting twice in one week. I told you I was changing my blogging ways. Yesterday at 12pm PST Google released to the public gmail videochat. Its basically iChat for your Google account. All i can say is its about time. This is going to cause added distraction to my gchating experience. It seems to me that Google is once again moving to position itself as a global powerhouse with its innovative and simple to use multimedia applications. So everyone go here download the software and start chatting face to face!!!

Mayne Street

2008-11-11T07:44:00.003-07:00

For all those sports fans out there ESPN.com has just introduced a new short comedy series called Mayne street. It showcases Kenny Mayne and his unique brand of comedy and quick wit. Its hilarious and really takes advantage of the characters and personalities ESPN has created and cultivated throughout the years.
This is sports center.

I've Been Branded

2008-11-06T16:25:00.015-07:00

Here is something for all of you to look forward to...maybe?
I'm shooting for a mid-December debut.
Let me know what you think of my logo. I obviously like it, but would love feed back.
Click the band-aid :)
Hope you enjoy!!!

Move over Mustaches!

2008-10-24T12:14:00.011-06:00

The mustache is making a huge comeback these days and im not completely opposed to it. As a matter of fact im actually sporting a a semi-stache right now...its for the halloween costume. But this recent trend boom has left the me feeling sorry for the true sign of masculinity...the beard. So hears to you, men with beards. I honor you.
Click link below.

Prop 8 Doesn't = Hate

2008-10-21T11:20:00.006-06:00

So a lot of people are posting about prop 8 right now so I thought I would jump on the band wagon. So here's the thing I have many close friends that chosen to live an alternate life style. I have never looked at them or treated them different. As a matter of fact I feel as though they are some of the most genuine people I know. Due to this prop 8 frenzy I have heard a lot of negative things said by BOTH parties and I just dont get it. Why do differences in people always lead to hate or slanders? I understand that we all have different opinions and lifestyles but why does that have to come between us?

This whole prop 8 conversation has really caused me to look at my views on my own life and those around me. While I understand what voting YES on prop 8 stands for I also feel as though we should allow people to live the way they chose. I feel as though we are dictating the kinds of lives people need to live in order to be considered normal. I know this comes as a surprise to some, but I have quite moderate views when it comes to politics and a major part of me is all about letting the individual chose for themselves. Its their lives. How often do we want to be left alone in making decisions that make us happy.

Now Im not writing this to get a ton of responses (that would have to constitute in people even reading my blog period) that are driven towards educating me on the situation and future repercussions if the majority votes NO on prop 8. I am well aware of what is being "speculated" of what is to come. I write this to let everyone know that there has been a clarion call by the prophet to stand up for the traditional family and vote yes on prop 8 and I intend to answer that call.

The point of this blog was to illustrate the fact that just because I believe in the traditional family, its values, and all that the FAMILY PROCLAMATION stands for, I do not hate nor see the reason to cut down others lifestyles and choices. I really wish the best for everyone and their lives pursuits. This is how life is and is going to be as long as we are here, so lets put away the swords and daggers and work towards a better life for everyone.

*I never get preachy or spiritual this was a really weird blog post for me but it has been on my mind a lot. Feel free to tease and make fun of me.*

Concrete Jungle

2008-10-04T13:07:00.007-06:00

A few of us were lucky enough to go to NYC for a week to attend advertising week. It was such a fantastic week. The seminars we went to were alright, nothing too fantastic, but the agencies, McCann Ericson, Wonderman, Renegade, Naked and Wieden Kennedy, were amazing! I learned so much about the industry and what type of agency atmosphere i could see myself in. There is just so much we did and didnt do, but it was the trip of my life. Enjoy!

Tap Project

2008-08-24T20:17:00.006-06:00

Logo concept and design by: Mike Morris, Billy Reano, Tommy Curit and Myself

Many of you have probably heard of UNICEF before… Well, if you have, you’re familiar that they are an organization that works in humanitarian aid.

Recently, an ad agency in NY (Droga 5) approached UNICEF with the conceptual miracle of the “Tap Project.” The owner of Droga 5 was sitting at lunch one day, and had the realization that we, as Americans (and other countries, for that matter) take for granted that which many people don’t have. This realization, in this context, was that drinkable water is abundantly available, at any time, in virtually any place.

What it boils down to is that $1 can provide drinkable water for one child for 40 days, or 40 children for 1 day. So, with this well of knowledge, Droga 5 initiated the Tap Project, and the miracles flowed in. Restaurants started charging $1 for anyone who requested water to drink. The dollar then went to UNICEF who put it in to action.

It was started in NYC, and commenced on National Water day… Since then, other cities have come on board: Boston, Dallas, San Diego, LA, Seattle, New Orleans, Columba SC, etc. Each city was represented by a local Ad Agency, who offered the work for free.

This coming March, the Tap Project will ripple through Utah, collecting donations and proceeding to save the lives of children. The BYU Ad Lab is in charge of the project.

This is why advertising is important. Sure, it is fun to work on the “fluff” projects. But, it’s hard to only do those all the time. If the Tap Project were a glass of water, then the other projects are ice cubes that float on top, buoyed up by the staple of it all.

Thanks Mike for writing this post and allowing me to copy it. I take full credit for this of course. Muhahaha

Viva Vida

2008-06-14T10:09:00.009-06:00

So it has been a long time coming and I apologize. I am awful at this thing. But there is a lot to catch you up on so lets stop with the apologies and excuses and get right to it.

Spring in Utah has had its ups and its downs. Lets start with the downers:
The weather has be quite peculiar. It has been cold and rainy for most of it with the rare sunny occasions. This leaves my impeccable latin tan looking not so golden and shimmery.
School is tough. With only 6 weeks to accomplish everything that an entire 3 1/2 months semester gets done, it leaves me pressed for time and motivation. This curriculum does not go well with my habitual procrastination.
Indiana Jones was fun but at the same time disappointing. Those who know me know i was soo looking forward to this film. I will say i did get lost and jaded by the mere fact that Dr. Jones was on the big screen. (I know Im such a nerd).

Thats enough complaining, now lets get to some of the great things that have happened while here in Spring:
You meet all kinds of great new people! Just the other day I met a man that once traveled the world with a set of plastic utensils a box of strike anywhere matches, a passport, and a sock puppet named Milo. Amazing hu? Ok that isn't true but you can imagine. No It really fun to see who you get to know up here, there is less distractions and competing noise.
You can be more carefree bc there is less of a hullabaloo going about the town of Provo, since we all know its a BoomTown. As much of a city boy as I am, I do love to just relax and take it all in, observe and not worry about a thing. My mom probably would say thats been my attitude my entire life.

You get to take spontaneous trips and not have to worry about the consequences of going. My good friend Jer and I were invited by two splendid ladies, Amanda and Jenn, to accompany them to St. George. Now you know me...Im not gonna pass an opportunity to get out of town and enjoy the sun and relaxation, no matter what I have going on. Ha its probably not a good thing, but what can I say, I love to have fun!!! I have never really stayed in St. George and was surprised how developed it is. It is a nice little getaway town and I know that Jer and I had a blast. Thanks girls for the invite. Next time lets get some good directions though.

***Side story*** So Amanda gave me directions to the place where we were staying. It would be a complete understatement to say that they were bad directions. They were horrible!!!! Ha ha ha Just teasing, they were just plain bad :) We were going to meet the girls who were coming up from Vegas. Jer and I got into St. George around 2:15am Amanda did not konw the password to get into the gated community and either did we. We went around to three other gated communities and I tried like 5000 combinations. I was praying an alarm would go off and the cops would come and we could explain everything.
So Jer and I finally fan-dangle our way into a community down the street. By this time its about 245 AM. We begin to hop fences and got into the gated community where we are staying. Here is where the story gets good. So it is pitch black and you can barely see your own hand in front of your face. I guess St. George is trying to conserve energy and completely eliminate street lights. But we are looking around in the dark for 2 hours trying to find this house that Amanda is describing to me over the phone. Time:345 AM. There is no hope, we have followed the direction to a T and still haven't found the house. Once again, I am going up to almost every garage and typing in the key code that was given to me. We really looked shady, I am shocked the cops weren't called. Probably bc no one ever saw us bc there were no STREET LIGHTS!!! Also we were like ninjas, popping in and out of the shadows. Finally we go further down the street we were suppose to be on and we tried on more house, IT WORKED!!!! Time: 445 AM. It was frustrating at the time, but right after it became hilarious.

There are amazing Concerts going on. So for my birthday, yes thats right half of you missed it and I am really considering how deep our friendship is, I got two 3rd row tickets to see Kanye West. Those who know me or pretend to know me, know (how many times can I use Know in a sentence? I wont try) that I LOVE hip-hop/rap. Its a culutre I would love to be more submerged in. But Along with Kanye West there was Lupe, N.E.R.D. and Rihanna. You guys Im not joking when I say it was the best concert I have ever been to. I could smell the Patron on Kanyes breath, thats how close we were. All of them put on such a great show, it really was a production!!! Huge stage sets and loud hard hitting bass that you could feel in your throat. My ears were ringing the morning after. Rihanna was kinda disappointing, never really finishing all of her songs and playing a mere 20 min set. But Kanye made up for it by playing an hour and twenty min. set with a ten min sermon at the end. I didnt know reverend West was making a debut in SLC. But it is Utah. Thanks Amanda for an incredible night, glad we got you to bust out some moves too!!!

I get to take trips home whenever I feel like it!!!
The new iPhone comes out!!! Only $199 everyone needs to get it.
Great movies will continue to entrain the dickens out of me.
Coldplays New Cd comes out!!!
Im going to San Fran for a business trip, but it will be a nice vacca too.

Well these are a few of the exciting things happening in my life right now. I know I am a total dork, goofy kid but thats what makes my life so fun. Nothing too earth shattering, but still super fun, and thats how i function. Ill try and do a lot better at updating, but there are no promises.

Creative then, Creative now.

2008-04-11T17:05:00.008-06:00

Well for all of you who have been following my life for the past three months know that I have been working my butt off on my portfolio in hopes of getting into the Creative track of the advertising department. What that basically is, is a graphic design minor. Well I turned in my portfolio a week ago and at 3:30 pm today I found out that I was accepted into the program. This is such a thrill and honor for me. There is finally a light at the end of my school tunnel. I am happy and passionate about this major and couldnt be more excited to get started and eventually get out into the real world. Only 16 students got accepted and they are all fantastic. Congrats to all who got in, I look forward to a hell of a school year with you guys.
So basically now i can rest and relax for the next few weeks. Thanks to everyone for your support, I really couldnt have done this without you.

Chance of a life time!

2008-04-06T10:02:00.010-06:00

So for the past two month four groups in the adlab have been working for a pretty big client. This client has big names attached to them, like Lebron James, Kobe Bryant, Tiger Woods. I don't know maybe you've heard of them maybe you haven't. They are located in Oregon and make a nicely constructed shoe. OK enough... yes it is Nike. Two months ago they came to the adlab and asked us to do research and discover why the teen team market isn't familiar with their product/brand Nike i.D. So as mentioned before four teams were created and thousands of surveys were sent out to see if we can pinpoint the problem. Our research team did an amazing job at conducting and putting together the info while the creative team began to brainstorm ideas on how we can target the markets.
Two months had passed and just on thursday I got to present to the head of Brand Integration for Nike i.D. and, I apologize that I cannot remember the title of the other gentlemen but I think he was the head of Nike marketing. It was a dream. They loved the stuff that all the groups presented! Never in my wildest dreams would i have imagined that I would present to Nike, or even do creative work for them. Kudos to our team for an amazing job.
So after the presentation, Jeff the head of brand integration congratulated us and just spoke f how impressed he was with the extent of the labs work. He rewarded us with free Nike i.D. and a hint of commitment that Nike would be back for future projects.
EXCITING HU???????

Here are some of the ads that our group mocked up for Nike:

The Hunt

2008-03-25T13:01:00.002-06:00

So this Easter was incredible. I want to thank Dan and Nicci for allowing me to be apart of their family for the day. Jenny & Shannon did an incredible job with the icing chicks, and the entire ladies did a fantastic job on the feast. It was good to be around such close friends whom I consider family on such a great day. Thanks again you guys, love ya.
Now down to business. I love to talk myself up to Dan that i beat him in every game we play. I don't know how true that is, but I like to convince myself that I have him beat. Truth be told its usually a pretty good match whenever games are played. On easter Sunday Dan was talking big talk about the Easter egg hunt and how he was going to cream all of us kiddies. Before I get to the winner I would like to point out some mistakes made by the competitors; Jenny, i love you but next time come with some shoes on, wearing sandals is a huge rookie mistake. Mike and Shannon, you guys just weren't visually in the game, get out of the kitchen and get in the game. Dig, too much talk not enough strategy. Peter, my only worth adversary, i congratulate you for a game well played. Nicci you hid the eggs very well, you are a fantastic hider, and the soon to be little one is in for a real treat.
Having said all of that, I of course was flawless and won the hunt with 15 eggs. Thank you Shannon for the Cafe Rio meal and to all of you for allowing me to be the guest that ruins the game. You all know that this now will be bragged about for the remainder of our lives, just like my glorious Clue win. Now if I can just get Perudo down!!!

UPDATE

2008-03-19T10:40:00.004-06:00

Ok so where have i been? In the adlab looking into a glowing box called my computer throwing together a creative portfolio for a possible internship in Seattle, and most importantly for my application to the creative track of the advertising program. Its a very competitive and stressful process but I am enjoying it and giving it my all. There are a lot a great and talented people who are applying so it should be interesting.
But to answer all your burning questions that is where i have been and what i am up to. I turned in a portfolio for Seattle yesterday and the application for the creative track is due on the 4th of April. So until then I will remain a ghost. Im just lucky that Its something i really enjoy doing because if I didn't, i might punch my eye sockets out.

Call me Dr. Jones...DOLL!!!

2008-02-15T17:12:00.002-07:00

The happiest day of my life came yesterday when Paramount released the official preview for the new Indiana Jones Preview. I have been an obsessed Indiana fan since forever. I was him for halloween about five times, was at Disneyland for the opening of the ride and had the Fedora Hat and Bullwhip. If i could be in any movie ever made or going to be made i can say with confidence that it would be the Indiana Jones movies. I hope that by sharing this preview you can all get as hyped up as I am for this movie. Whether good or bad I know I will love this movie. So here it is the next installment of Dr. Jones.

Movie review

2008-02-01T10:19:00.000-07:00

2 post in one day...I know its so unlike me. But i wanted to get your guys opinion. I really am not a fan of writing a ton of things about myself or other random interesting tidbits. I want to write about something I love and am passionate about...movies. I see tons of movies all the time, whether its at the cinema (always wanted to say that) of a rental. I would love to start a blog giving movie reviews for you guys and anyone else interested in. I always get phone calls from people asking me if I have seen this movie or that and whether i like it or not. So why not help everyone out, including myself, and write a review blog of movies i have seen. I know not everyone will see eye to eye with my taste and review but if the general consensus is that you would like this, i will try to wear a more critical and honest hat when watching movies. So please let me know because this is something I would love to do.

Its just Hair

2008-02-01T10:12:00.000-07:00

Winter can be so boring, so my roommate sammy and me decided to spice it up a bit by giving ourselves new trims. Every now and then i always tell myself I want to shave my head. I did it last year and enjoyed it so why not do it again. I usually talk myself out of it because of the awkward grow back, you know the up and out making anyone who has a buzz look like a puff ball. Anyways I decided to go for it. I took it really short with a #1 and here are the results. I understand a lot of you will probably not like it but what the hey, its only hair and will be grown back out in a couple months. As for now though i am enjoying it.

Its been a long time....

2008-01-30T10:02:00.000-07:00

Me and My Bestfriend

I LOVE HOTDOGS!!!

30 Rock. This is where Alec Baldwin Works...

The MET

Walking the Brooklyn Bridge

On the Brooklyn Bridge

The Statue of Liberty

Her Turn

Mess with the Bull

Times Square

Abstract at the MET

I realize its been over a month and I apologize. I have been so busy with school and doing a little traveling!!! I have taken some opportunities to get out of the Provs and enjoy what the states have to offer.

During the first week of school I was invited by Hoven to go to Florida and help out with the Surf Expo. It was a really fun time being with the buddies. We worked hard every day standing and talking to people about the glasses and company. I never realized how nice and clean Orlando is. I thought it was a really cool city and wouldn't mind going back one of these days and spending more time enjoying the sights.

The next trip I took was to New York!!! A fabulous person i know named Brooke invited me out there to spend some time with her and finally after all these years experience the Big Apple. Brooke was a spectacular host and such an amazing person. We ran each other ragged. We accomplished all we had wanted to accomplish. Here is a quick run down on the events: Statue of Liberty, Empire State Building, MET, Rockefeller Center, Ground Zero, St. Patrick's Cathedral, The Phantom of the Opera, West Village, SoHo, Canal Street, Little Italy, Brooklyn Bridge, Subway System, Westville Restaurant (Brooke's Favorite), Serendipity, Cafe Lalo (You got Mail Cafe), Stage Deli, Central Park, Plaza Hotel, FAO Schwartz, Times Square, Pizza joints, Pinkberry, Magnolias bakery, Cloverfield, and tons more.

We really did quite a bit. My sincerest thank you to the amazing Brooke for the time of my life. You are the best!!! I loved NYC and can totally see myself living there. My dad has told me since i was a little kid that NY is the place for me, and now i can see why. The energy and motion of the city is so contagious and motivating. Brooke calls it the channel, but i call it the Speed of Life.

If you haven't been, which is highly unlikely (i feel like Im the last person on earth to go to NY), I recommend you go. Just get out there and do it. You will get so motivated and fired up on life. I am envious to those whom I know that had the opportunity to live out there, hopefully its my turn soon.

Merry Christmas

2007-12-25T14:57:00.000-07:00

Well Christmas is here and i couldn't be more happy. I hope everyone had a fabulous time opening gifts and watching gifts being opened. It was a success as always at my house, and everyone seemed to enjoy their gifts. I must say that my gifts were a huge success. I got my dad some Ugg slippers, my mom a nice waffle iron, my nieces a Princess DVD, and my nephew grant a sweet pair of checkered Vans. He looked so good! Im starting to get a little concerned with myself because I am beginning to enjoy watching people open the presents I get them more than I am receiving presents. Could I be growing up? I hope not :)

One of the highlights of this Christmas season was my brother Curt and his wife Kim's Christmas Mystery Dinner party. Everyone had a funny character and had to dress accordingly. Then we all went around reading this funny script in a voice that matches our character. If you couldn't tell from the picture I was the Rock King. It was such a fun night with the highlight being my brother-in-law Todd's costume of a Biker Dude with my sisters tight pants on and a painted mustache.

Well I hope everyone experience Christmas miracles and I will post more pictures of the special day later.

Merry Christmas!!!

Life of the Party

2007-12-15T00:15:00.002-07:00

Yes we unleashed the Train

The Gentlemen

Thanks Pj for letting Sandra dance with me

So i havent had much to update on recently and i apologize. But just the other day i went to a wedding with a few friends of mine. It was a real classy, top notch wedding. Sit down dinner, speeches, and of course dancing. I must say that of recent weddings i have been to my group of friends and i have become the life of these parties. When the music started playing, michael jackson by the way, we did not miss a beat. We were instantly on the hard wood floor laying some slick moves. The only other people dancing were the bride and groom and some little kids. I mean come on people. Its a wedding, the celebration that tops all celebrations. "Get up up on that dance floor give that man what he's asking for." Thank you Nelly! No we had a great time. I love to dance, and while i know i probably look like a fool or someone with turrets i just cant help but cut a rug. We really are clowns, but i think thats what makes a good party, someone to laugh with and laugh at. Im comfortable enough to take wear both hats.

Battle for Los Angeles

2007-11-30T11:05:00.000-07:00

Those who know me know i am a die hard USC fan. Have been since i was born. I have pictures of me and my older brother Curt in our hot neon green and pink high-rise Gotcha shorts standing by the famous tommy trojan statue, and many others with my brothers over the years. Those BYU enthusiasts will hate me for saying this but i am and will always be a USC fan first. I bleed Cardinal and Gold!!!

So every year there is one game that i look forward to the most. USC vs UCLA. I was surprised to hear over the thanksgiving break that my dad was going to fly me home for the game. I was not expecting this at all. I usually get to go to one game a year since i am up at school, but this year was a little different due to the crappy home schedule SC had. I didnt think i was going to be able to see my trojans this year.

Now i know this hasnt been the season all us SC fans were expecting or hoping for, but if you look at the entire college football realm, i dont think it was the type of season anyone was expecting for their team. Fortunately there have been a lot of upsets going in the trojans way, thank you Dixion, that have brought new hope and life into the trojans season.

This game Truly is the Battle of Los Angeles. There is a great possibility that the winner of this game goes to the Rose Bowl. I really hope that this years match up goes a little better for the trojans. Last years was a disaster, and probably was just as devastating as the Stanford loss. Ill let you know how the game went, but you would be stupid not to watch it.

Go TROJANS!!!!

No longer a young buck

2007-11-24T08:13:00.000-07:00

I know i haven't posted for a long time, and i really will try to do better. But i wanted to make a short post to fill everyone in on the weekend festivities. So thanksgiving was a blast!!! We had the turkey and all the fixin's (i used that word like ten times on thursday). My mom did a fantastic job and i am grateful for her hard work. But thats not what i want to write about.

For the first time in Rodriguez Thanksgiving history we all got up and ran a turkey trot. Not the Dana Point one that is so famous, but our own originally crafted Rodriguez Turkey tort. Now i swam and played water polo in high school and hate, hate , hate running. So it was to my surprise that i got first in the race. In all fairness my competition, Curt and Todd, were running with baby strollers. I ran three miles in 26 min. Not that great for all you Prefontaines out there but it was excellent for me. After The run we then divided up for the world famous Rodriguez Turkey Bowl. This is the staple and highlight of our thanksgiving. We are probably some of the most competitive people alive and when you pit us against each other it can get ugly. This year didn't get that bad at all. There were a couple of shady calls that went both ways but for the most part it was a pretty enjoyable game. My team won of course and are now on a 2 year winning streak.

Now to the point of me sharing all of this useless information you probably all don't care about. After playing football and running 3 miles my body has had enough. I cant do simple functions with my body without every muscle contracting in pain. Sitting down is a chore and when i walk i look like i just got off a bull that skewered me in the butt. I am not in the shape i use to be in and i don't think i ever will be. My body is really not happy with the way i treated it the last few days and it is letting me know. While i am convinced it was the run that really did me in, i still feel as though the good old days of being a young buck, the days of throwing my body around in sports and activities, are gone. But don't ever count me out, because Im always in for a good competitive game.

No Exaggeration of how i am walking right now

Are You Listening?

2007-11-07T22:21:00.000-07:00

So in the last three months some incredible music has hit the streets and i just wanted to share it with everyone. I am a huge music fan and like to think I have a very eclectic taste. Here are some of the latest artists who are burning a whole through my iPod because I listen to them so much. I encourage all to at least give some of the ones you haven't heard or wouldn't listen to a try, just so your in the know of the music world.

The CD playing the most right now is Angels & Airwaves new one "I-Empire" For all of those who are still torn up about the break up blink 182 had a few years ago, this CD will help the mourning go a little bit smoother. Tom really pulls out all the stops with this latest installment for AVA. This CD is more anthem like rock with hints of U2 and Blink 182 mixed into each cord. Seriously i know i sound gay right now in my description but these guys are blowing it up and are probably my favorite band out there right now, so go get it, listen to it, love it.

Recommended songs: Rite of Spring, Heaven, Everything Magic, True Love

The FF latest Album is amazing. Dave Grohl is a genius and has once again helped create an album that strengthens the FF catalog. If you like the FF other CD, this one is no different, lots of meaning, emotion (not Emo) and power behind each song.

Recommended tracks: Come Alive, Home, Stranger Things Have Happened, Pretender

My computer is being crapy right now and wont load the other two albums i would like to tell you all about so look forward to Kanye West straight out of Cha-town with his latest album Graduation. This Cd is so sick, it fires me up every time i hear it. Also Jimmy Eat Worlds new one, Chase this light, which i really like a lot as well. So get out there get the music and start listening, at least two songs from each album will make you happy.

One for the Ages

2007-11-06T12:29:00.000-07:00

Ok i know i am really bad at keeping up at this, and ill try and do better. So this weekend was an ideal weekend for me. I spent it with some of my closest friends, enjoying their company and life in general. Saturday we celebrated my buddy mikes 26th birthday. It was a great time had by all. The material was top notch, despite what others may say (shann). the highlight of the evening was going bowling together with this crowd of hoodlums. Of course i bowled near perfection....right, i think i got the lowest score in both games. But despite my score i had some really sweet/spastic moves after knocking the pins down. I must say to everyone there, the moves were inspiring. Thank you for adding to my catalogue of moves for the next few dance parties here in Provo.

In all seriousness, Happy Birthday Mike, your awesome!!! Im glad i was able to be there for the party. Next time though lets make sure that California Love gets played, it just didnt feel the same this year without it. Dan you know what i am talking about.

And Thanks sara for letting me steal the pics

BoySetsFire

2007-10-29T15:29:00.001-06:00

So i went home this weekend to make sure everyone in my family was safe and sound from the miniature apocalypse going on in southern California right now. I was very surprised to see and smell the amount of smoke and ash hovering around my beautiful abode. This is by far the worst fire incident in Southern Cal i have seen in my life time. For the first three nights i was home the sun was covered in smoke and at night it would be blood red. I am happy to say that everyone is fine and things are starting to go back to normal.

They say the majority of the fires were started by arsonists. Well i say they are a bunch of arses. What kind of creep gets his jollies from starting a fire that causes mass destruction and terror. I just dont understand the world we live in today. Dont get me wrong there are plenty of things i love and appreciate, but there are other things that really confuse me and bring me down.

Im sorry for all those who have been affected by these tragic events and i hope for a strong recovery.

On a lighter note while home i got to play with my gorgeous nieces and handsome nephew. It was so fun, making cookies, changing diapers (soon to get old) and just loving them to pieces. Im sorry to say this to anyone who has kids, but these babies are the most adorable and beautiful kids i have ever seen. I may be a little bias but its true.

My dad also put on one of his famous USC game day spreads for the entire family and for our friends the Malu's. The food was fantastic, unfortunately the game was not. What is USC's deal, we have all the parts for a high performance team, but some of the passengers (Sarkisian) just dont know how to drive. We need to get this figured out by next season, but until then it looks like the Holiday or Vegas Bowl for us :(

DumbleBackDoor???

2007-10-22T20:43:00.000-06:00

COMING OUT

Ok for those who have been living under a rock for the last 10 years may not know much about the Harry Potter series. Those who know me know that i am obsessed with the books and movies. Yes i actually read now and then. But recently the author, J.K. Rowling, of the famous series came out and said that Dombledore, the beloved Headmaster of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, is gay.

Now I would like to think i am very accepting and open to the lifestyles people choose to live, but for J.K. Rowling to take one of the most endearing and influential characters of the book and define his sexual preference to me seems a bit much. I mean, who really cares about the sexual habits of wizards except those who are into Dungeons and Dragons and other weird role playing games like that. Now if Dumbledores preference had some sort of influence on the outcome of the story then by all means mention it! My issues is that this little tidbit had nothing to do with Harry adventures through puberty and restoring the wizarding world.

The great thing about books is that it leaves so much to the readers imagination, J.K. dont take away our right of creative interpretation by defining every little irrelevant query, (pun intended), that may go unanswered.

My First Entry

2007-10-20T19:27:00.000-06:00

So i have a few siblings and friends that have a blog and i find myself checking them constantly. I know kinda creepy but get over it. Since these friends and family do not enjoy the same stalkerish habits that i do, i have decided to create a blog so that they can keep up to date with the things that are going on in my life and mind. I am completely new to this, but like i said before, i have seen so many blogs i kinda get the idea. I just hope i can keep up with it. So here it is, the blog of a boy who's head is stuck between two states. I hope you enjoy!!!