A touch of Unreality

Shaq Fu

2008-11-19T20:32:00.000-08:00

Two nights ago Salt Lake City had the privilege of a NBA home game, pitting the Jazz against the Phoenix Suns. Hooray, right? Another wonderful moment for all them Jazz fans to enjoy a great game of dribbling, dunking, passing, and shooting. That and making sure to boo at Shaquille O'neil with every fiber of their being. Now wait one second. Just hold the phone. Please tell me why everyone's hating on Shaq? What has the Big Cactus done to you? Why's everyone picking on the big guy? Just because he's 7 ft 1 in tall and weighing in at 325 lbs doesn't mean he's made of stone! Just because he's bigger than most two of you put together doesn't mean he's indestructible! Inside that big chest of his is an even bigger heart; a heart that needs to pump oxygen-filled blood throughout every portion of his body. And with such a big heart means he has big feelings, big feelings that could be hurt when people constantly harp on him. The poor guy gets boo'ed every time the ball touches his hands. Why is everyone booing? Is it because he donates millions to the Boys and Girls Club? Do they boo him because he hosted the reality show Shaq's Big Challenge, which helped kids loose weight and stay in shape? Do they boo him for affiliating himself with the Muslim religion? Is that too heathen? Too unpatriotic? Shaquille O'neil is a friendly man, with much love to give. Would everyone boo at Mother Teresa if she was out on the court? Well if she was 7 feet tall and bald they probably would, because look at what the mob is already stooped down to. Sure, he made a crappy movie about being a genie, and some albums where he raps about basketball, but hey! He's a good guy. Just cause he's big doesn't mean he doesn't have feelings. Everyone should feel ashamed for making his life harder every time he takes to the court to play some ball. Shaq doesn't come into your office when you're filling out CTS reports or distracting you from pouring an iced chai frappuccino for your paying customer. No, no he doesn't. He's got a game to worry about, and other things on his mind. He doesn't need you to pester him with your foul mouth and bad sportsmanship. As so, on behalf of Salt Lake City, Shaq, I apologize for the lack of courtesy. You deserve better. You've blessed the lives of many, and your large stature leaves many a lesser man in your shadow.

blug

2008-11-02T21:49:00.000-08:00

So I'm aware that I haven't posted anything in a while. Sorry y'all. Normally I'm on it pretty well, but seeing that I no longer work at the bank, I need to get a cord for my scanner so I can still keep pumping my drawings into your eye sockets. And don't worry, I have some fun things coming up. Such as more things Mormon's are into, more words and phrases kids say too much, and a few other fun observations I've had over the weeks. Not to mention the awesome Halloween costumes I did. So stick around and I'll keep you all posted.

But here's at least something. It's a little different. I drew up some character's for a Dungeons & Dragons campaign for a friend. I thought I'd at least post some kind of drawings.

No handlebars

2008-10-14T16:06:00.000-07:00

I sold my car. I bike everywhere. Biking on the brain, I guess. I just realized I have lots of drawings of bikes. Here are some. Enjoy.

Touchy Touchy

2008-10-14T15:11:00.001-07:00

Last night I found myself at a concert. Voluntarily, of course. I didn’t just wake up there or get beaten, blindfolded and dragged there. Point is, there I was. We had to get through the swarms of spectators, my friends and I, and as we’re moving through, I realized I was purposefully touching almost everyone I passed. A hand on the shoulder here, a hand on the waist there. And afterward, I’m thinking, “what the heck am I doing? What merits such deliberate invasion of another’s personal space?” Because not only was I the culprit, for no sooner had I realized this that I saw everyone doing it. Touching and passing and holding and pressing, and for no REAL need. Mind you it’s all in the realm of appropriate behavior. We’re not cupping a feel or squeezing a rump as we pass. But why? What strange mentality falls over the crowd where suddenly touching almost every person you pass is so comfortably justified? Do we really feel we need to let that girl know we’re passing them or have to alert that dude we’re coming through in case he abruptly lashes out with his fists? Why would he lash out with his fists?
It’s the “collective concert conscience” I’ve decided. We’re all there, together, to experience the music and the performance. We like to know we’re all brothers and sisters, and united in the same music-consumer cause. And so when we pass said male or female, and gently hold their arm as we pass, or place our hand on the small of their back, we’re not saying “watch out, I’m coming through” but rather “I’m glad you’re here. Enjoy the show. You’re a beautiful person.” The spirit of the spectacle blows away all cares of your comfort zone. At least, I sure hope so.

7 Reasons why I'm a dweeb.

2008-10-09T14:02:00.000-07:00

So I’ve got to admit something about myself. This is just how it has to be. I realize there are some things about me that would clearly put me in the nerd category. I just feel it’s time I address them.

1. I love Final Fantasy. You don’t get it. I LOVE it. Thanks to Josh Hughes letting me borrow his Playstation in 8th grade and his Final Fantasy VIII, I became an addict. Maybe I have the soundtrack of every game on my ipod. All 12 of them.

2. I play Starcraft. Well, I do occasionally. I’ve only recently played a few games. But when I was in elementary school, this too, was a huuuuuge pastime of mine. I can still tell you the pro’s and con’s of the Zerg, Protoss, and Terran. I personally, prefer Protoss.

3. I not only play Dungeons and Dragons from time to time, I draw pictures of it. Yes. I’m not even ashamed. I think it’s great. It’s a release from the norm, I get to be creative, I get to be with friends, and I love drawing up different characters. Plus I have a dexterity of 13 with a +2 saving modifier thanks to a magical Elven cloak I found at the bottom of a cave once guarded by a Dragon I vanquished.

4. I’m an Anime fanatic. Akira, Ghost in the Shell, FLCL, Cowboy Bebop, Samurai Champloo, you name it. We’re not talking about that Pokémon or Dragonball Z crap. No, we’re talking LEGIT. I think it stems from my love for Japanese culture. But go ahead, call me a Manga fan, an Otaku. I don’t care.

5. I have an entire collection of Warhammer 40,000 models. Each model, individually assembled and painted, all a small part of an enormous army I had built up from 5 Space marines and a Dreadnought. Now, over the course of 4-5 years in my youth, I now have a force to be reckoned with. Probably worth over $2,000.

6. I like to put sentimental papers and notes and ticket stubs and such in my journal. Deal with it.

7. I cry to Disney/Pixar/Dreamworks movies. Summer of 2002, late at night, alone in my room with Spirit: Stallion of the Cimarron. I cried when the horse jumped the cliff and escaped those bad military men.

A Prayer for more Moisture

2008-10-06T12:11:00.000-07:00

Ah yes, the wonderful month of October, where our lives are richly blessed with the inspiring words and heartfelt anecdotes of the General Conference sessions. What a most splendiferous time of learning and understanding. No time is more looked forward to in the LDS community (besides a Temple marriage or a much anticipated Potluck of course)And I, the Mormon that I am, am easily numbered among the throngs that flock to the television screen, mind alert and ears and heart open to the promptings of the spirit. And with the wonderful blessing of rain pouring down upon the roofs of our abodes, pitter-pattering away in Mother Nature’s lullaby, I found myself in a state of euphoria. Truly, such discourses as Elder Uchtdorf’s "Come what may" and Elder Holland’s "Ministering Angels" were most appreciated in my life.

But, If I might make one, simple suggestion:

As our fellow brethren stand at the podium, and commence in the offering of prayers for more moisture and such, is it too much to ask that we offer them some moisture to their mouths?! What, are they applying Elmer’s Glue to their lips before they address the congregation? I mean, yeah, I get a little dry-mouthed due to nerves and such, but man, a simple glass of water can change all that! Don’t get me wrong, the prayers are the most beautiful, devoted petitions I hear, but that doesn’t mean the corner-of-the-mouth, sticky, pasty sound of peeling mucus membranes doesn’t reach my ears as well and cause slight (yet reverent) convulsions in my spine. I’m just saying, there is no way on earth I will EVER ignore that clammy cacophony of cottonmouth conversing that occurs at General Conference prayers. Just put a little sacrament cup-size water there, or a quick spray of kool-aid, or something. I love my brethren, and I love the church. But that sound, as unintentional as it is, is just unholy.

What Mormons are into (Part 1)

2008-10-02T14:12:00.000-07:00

My Utah Observations have recently accumulated a large quantity of pointless information. I decided to record them. I pray, brothers and sisters, that this becomes a continual service of mine.

Especially for Maggie

2008-10-02T00:24:00.000-07:00

This was supposed to be a simple drawing, which then turned into a four part comic strip, which then transformed into this, a minute long film. I hope Mag Pie can truly appreciate how much I love her hugs. This one's for you sweetie!!

Words and phrases kids say too much

2008-09-18T08:00:00.000-07:00

Jonathan and I once got on the topic of certain words that are completely overused and utterly raped with exploitation. These are but some that we discussed:

"TOTALLY" - for some reason, the Y generation believes they completely and absolutely understand EVERYTHING that occurs in their lives. They either "totally" agree with you, knowing exactly everything you meant, saw, heard, smelt, felt when relating a story, or they "totally" don't get it, not knowing how someone could have possibly done that! They literally can not fabricate one reason to understand how! When they "totally" saw that lead guitarist thrash out that wicked solo, they absolutely, no question, completely saw everything that was humanly imaginable to see in that brief moment of time.

"RANDOM" - Chosen without method or conscious decision? Of COURSE kids know what that's all about. Oh my gosh, the faces he makes are SO RANDOM! There's no way he can make that many funny faces for his Facebook profile pics with conscious decision. He's SOOO without method. How many random trips, random sleepovers, random dance parties can one young adult have? Probably some random number between "Not enough" and "Freakin' awesome."

"OH, I KNOW" - Really? You REALLY know? You really know what I'm going through when my car exploded? You really know the band Ratatat even though you called them Ratatatatatat two minutes ago? You REALLY know how it feels to be cheated on? Are you sure you know? Are you sure you.... don't?

"HOLLA!!!" - Normally said outside parties, venues, or makeshift dances as two or more people are closing the distance. No, most chances are, they aren't black.

"AWKWARD" – Used for pretty much anything nowadays. Used to trigger a laugh. Used to break the ice. Used after a first kiss. Used when next to someone at the urinal. Used in lines. Used in cars. Used in (my favorite place) turtleneck sweater parties, when Suzanne's ex shows up with none other than Jesse, who was last heard making out with Jonathan, which is awkward in itself because Jonathan showed up with Jesse's sister Sophie. I don't know what's more awkward: the inter-relation social web or Brendon's haircut.

"FREAK" - Most often accompanied with one of these: ! A particular favorite amongst the Latter-Day Saint communities, to replace a much more naughtier version. And let's face it. We all use it because we LOVE being sassy and defiant, yet not that defiant. Unruly, but not that unruly. Edgy, but not that edgy. Mormon, but not that Mormon. Spin offs include "freakin' ", "friggin' ", and the absurdly lame "flippin' ".

"ANYWAYSSSS" – I'm not even going to mention that "anyways" was once improper English. The actual wording is "anyway", but seeing how "wing nut", "fan boy" and "webinar" were added to the dictionary this year, why not just add "anyways"? The kids are all saying it. Heck, it's in its own world. It has its own ecosystem. "Anyways" fills entire conversations. It clears all doubts. It solidifies opinions and gives birth to shifting eyes and shuffling feet. It comes out of the same bag you can find "Soooo…" and "Well…". It's normal to say one of these and then just let the sentence trail off into forgotten winds. And I realize I DID mention "anyways" was once improper. It's cool though, right? …Anyways…

"WHATEVER" – I don't even want to talk about this one.

"CHILL" – "Just Chillin'", "It's Chill", "Chillax" (A ridiculous mix of Chill and Relax. Ha. Ha. Soooo witty). This word seems to come out mostly in groups that try and maintain a level of coolness yet remain "mellow" and "distant". Chill actually has been, for the most part, associated with feelings such as "gloom", "depression", "unfriendliness", "disinterestedness", and "discouragement". In the past, I don't think the reassurance "Ah don't worry, bro, he's chill," would've given the same impression it does today. Now, a sketchy climb, a rope swing, a steep hill; it's all "chill". Makes sense.

"SERIOUSLY?" – This one's a favorite of mine. It's a favorite, because its usage usually baffles me. It's context is as follows:
"I just got the job!"
"Seriously?!"
...
"Yes."
What did you expect? No, I didn't? You just got Punk'd. It's actual meaning, describing sincerity, earnestness, or genuineness is completely sardonic by its usage. OBVIOUSLY it's serious. If I'm telling you I just got these sweet kicks for 50% off, and you say "seriously?" I don't think I'd respond with "No, I'm just lying to you because I'm bored." I'd probably say, "TOTALLY!"

"LET'S HANG OUT" – This one is a doozy. It's never actually implied that you two will hang out in the near future. You have about just as much an invitation to spend some time with the individual who employs this phrase than were they to say to you, "Do you know if John's here?" At one time, maybe this had some value to it, but those days are long gone.

"HELLA"/ "HECKA" – "Hella" for those with 'tude, "Hecka" for the more self-conscious (or maybe just with a sense of ironic humor). I honestly don't really understand it. That is hell of cool, just doesn't really flow, nor does That is hell cool. I'm not certain on its origin, but one day it was dropped, and about a billion teenagers picked it up and have been using the name of Beelzebub's domain since.

And there are many others. Such as "Surreal", "Right on", "Yeahrrr" (my friend Lyndsay says she hears this a lot and doesn't get it. Must be a Colorado thing.) Go ahead and leave comments with any other words/phrases you want included. And don't worry, we all know from time to time we say them as well.

Denver: the land of BBLT’s

2008-09-16T12:51:00.000-07:00

I’m not a very spontaneous guy. Yeah, sure, sometimes I’ll say things that raise an eyebrow, or I’ll draw on the back of a church program, or maybe start dancing while leaving a public pool. But you see, these are all rather small things. Nothing your typical North American young male Caucasian adult wouldn’t do. Which is why I found it so odd that in two days I decided I was going to Denver, Colorado, after a thirty second phone conversation, a deal with Delta.com, and an urge to see something new.

I bought the ticket, arranged transportation, packed a suitcase, and left. It was so quick and immediate I didn’t even have time to inform most friends where I’d be the next three days. Needless to say, my parents didn’t even know I had gone.

Sometimes in life, we do things without really knowing why. This can be either productive and good for our progress in life, or it can be detrimental and hurtful to us. This trip fortunately falls within the former category. I was going to see someone I haven’t seen in over six years. Someone, who, even when we both lived in California, I never really associated with. But since pretty much the beginning of this year, I had created what I’d consider my first, one and only, true pen-pal friendship. In its consistency and “open-book” attitude, our friendship grew and solidified. I feel oft times we’re more open and expressive through letters and chatting, no longer shackled down by personal discomfort of saying the wrong thing in front of their face, and feeling the sense of freedom of having so much separating geographic distance. This can be both bad and good. You could possibly say things you don’t mean to, not realizing how harsh or insensitive you’re being because of that gap. But you can also express things you’d be too afraid to say in person, or out loud, and a pen-pal could be the perfect individual to turn to for that “out-of-the-box” unbiased opinion.

So there I am, on the plane, when it hits me. “What if this is super uncomfortable and uber-awkward? Heck, it’s been years since I’ve seen her. Crap, I hope this wasn’t a stupid decision.”

It wasn’t.

The more I relaxed and thought things through, it quickly became apparent this was something I was supposed to be doing. I then couldn’t wipe the smile from my face for doing such a ridiculously impulsive act that filled me with excitement. And when I got off the plane, there she was.

Lyndsay is an amazing person. I instantly felt the friendship and understanding from her which we had cultivated over the many months of talking. It was delightful. It wasn’t odd. It wasn’t awkward. It wasn’t horrifically boring. She smiled and just like that, six years of absence dissipated as we drove off into the busy streets of Denver.

Lyndsay has three beautiful children. There’s Oliver, the man of the house, a strapping young boy of 8 whose mouth is fit more for a 13-year-old. I don’t ever remember sounding that smart at age 8. Then there’s Mila, the squirt, whose facial expressions could melt your heart and send you cowering into a corner at the same time. She was a little stubborn with me in the beginning, but after she realized I had candy, then she didn’t want me to put her down. And then there’s Elliot, the lone wolf, whose rat-nest hair only accentuates her positively unique personality. One second she’s all smiles and softness, the next she’s reigning down on you in a tumult of face-slapping. And seconds later, she’s sucking her fingers and twirling her other hand in your hair.

All together, you have one demanding crew of kids that kept me entertained and on my toes the entire time I was there. I’ve never enjoyed kids as much as I did that weekend. From forcing myself to eat Ho-Ho’s to gain the admiration of my young peers, to bouncing around aimlessly in a wide assortment of blow-up fun-houses, to just laying down with them and giggling or watching Flapjack (a hilarious cartoon on cartoon network) I realized how great it feels to experience the blessings of caring for a young, impressionable child and being a protector. I never fully appreciated my parents until now. Lyndsay and I had gotten the kids into their pajamas, read them their stories, and tucked them into bed, and I was exhausted to the point I was leaning up against the wall for support. Surely it must be past midnight. I look at the clock. 9:30.

Mom, Dad, I don’t know how you did it with 8 of us brats filling up every nook and cranny of the house. I apologize for never believing you when you said you were just too tired to play. I learned something that night. After catching a second wind, I could then sit down and talk with Lyndsay and reminisce on anything and everything that came to mind. It was wonderfully soothing to get to speak to someone who could look at everything from such a different perspective. Being not of my faith, it was even a breath of fresh air to hear what one might have to say about current trials I might be facing. Sorry Mormon friends, but I have to admit, spending a weekend in Denver, feeling the diversity and eclectic vibe of beliefs and lifestyles, it was a much needed break from the monotonous.

Denver has such a distinctive taste to it. I love the brick buildings that are scattered throughout the city. I learned it has the most parks than any other city, that its elevation is exactly one mile high, that it has over 200 lakes, and when you get into downtown, it has even a slight New York City feel to it. These were all things I got to expose my senses to while having some time away from the kids and able to just walk and talk with Lyndsay. And with the up and growing graphic design productivity at hand, I’m eager to return and check out their galleries.

Sunday night, while Lyndsay grilled up some maple-glazed salmon, baked potatoes and corn on the cob, Oliver introduced me to his “How to Draw Dragons and other Mythical Beasts” book. We then sat on the hardwood floor drawing dragons. He asked me to do another drawing for him while he was at school the next day, so I drew him a robot. (He’s a big transformers fan). I'll include the drawings once I get the copies.

I have to thank Heidi and Craig, Lyndsay’s sister and brother -in-law for letting me stay over, and putting up with my stupid and silly humor during Phase 10 Sunday night. They are very warm people and I felt very close very quickly with them. Sorry I skipped you so many times Heidi, it’s just you happened to sit to my immediate left.

We checked out the aviation Museum, went to a fellow student’s birthday party, and never once took a break to catch our breath. I loved every second of it. And never did I expect to fall in love with a family so quickly. It didn’t help when Elliot would say “Night daddy” or Mila would say to her teacher when I helped pick them up from School, “That’s my mommy and that’s my Logan”, or Oliver, who frequently posed the question, “Why does Logan have to leave today?” Crying as I packed my bag goes without saying. Thinking up last second excuses and reasons to stay another day littered my brain like an empty field after a week-long Glastonbury Festival. But I had to go home. And so I kissed them all goodbye, rung out the last tears from my glands like a damp washcloth, and travelled back to Provo, UT, all the while wondering how one weekend could have such an impact on my life. A second trip can’t come soon enough. I shout out a thanks to Lyndsay and her kids for helping me enjoy such a weekend and allowing me to appreciate the beauty and importance that is parenting. I miss you all so much!

Point of View

2008-09-12T11:28:00.000-07:00

I was driving to work today, and watched a man in a suit running for a bus. It put a funny thought in my head. Why do we gawk and stare and snicker to ourselves when we see anyone running and looking distressed, adorned in your average street wear? Why is it so awkward and goofy? Why do they turn our heads? And yet, we don't pass a second glance at joggers and mile runners. If they're dressed for running, good for them, I don't care. I might not even notice them. But when I see a mother running for her kid, a dad in a turtleneck, a woman in high heels and a dress suit, you can bet anything I'm gonna have a smile on my face as I focus on them hustling about. Something about out of the element. It's just a thought I had today. What comes to your mind?

Jane Metcalf made my day

2008-09-05T15:14:00.000-07:00

So, yeah. I know it has nothing to do with drawings of mine. But this killed me. Thank you Jane for being on the Fun Bus and giving me a lift.

CANOE!!!

2008-09-03T11:56:00.001-07:00

So get this. This might actually blow your mind, because it did mine. This is Canoe. They are a musical band. They hail from Portland, Oregon. Some of you might know about them. They are wonderful. (This isn't the part that blows your mind).

See that dude on the left? Glasses? Red and white striped sweater? That is Matt Hoiland. And he is my friend. I've been listening to this band for some time now, and I never knew my buddy Matt was singing through my headphones, into my head, and into my heart. (This is where the mind-blowing occurs.)

My family will remember him more specifically as Elder Hoiland, one of the raddest missionaries to have served in Silver City. And he, with the help of his friend/compadre Hackett, helped mold me and shape me up for my own mission that awaited me. Years later, with new experience in our pockets, we have become separated. It was during this interval that I discovered new music (Canoe) and Matt discovered a family (that's his lovely wife in the red. I also found out he has a one-year-old daughter). And by fate we meet on Fbook, and here's why my Universe explodes. The band I've been listening to is none other than my dear friend Matt, accompanied by wife Sophie, brother Carl, and friend Cameron. How could I have not seen this?! They've even played in Provo! ( I must've been out of town).

So here's to one of my favorite bands! And to one of my favorite heroes of my adolescence! Canoe, you rock. For anyone interested to check out more, go here: http://www.canoemusic.net/

All in one night

2008-09-03T11:50:00.000-07:00

Because I never want to forget that it IS possible to pack that much joy into one afternoon.

Dedicated to someone who always breathes heavily into the phone.

The Fish and the Myth

2008-08-28T11:54:00.000-07:00

So I've become obsessed with humans in animal costumes. It's becoming ridiculous. I drew this at PCS one night, after putting the kids to bed and still holding onto the shower chart. The back of the chart was very large and very blank, and my mind was thirsty for creativity. I don't know where this came from exactly, but I have two ideas - or two movies actually. An obvious influence would be "Eagle vs Shark", a hilarious film about love, romance, and accepting (or not accepting) adulthood. It's on the same vibe as Napolean Dynomite, with the superb kiwi actor, Jermaine Clement. The second movie I happened to see after years of deprivation at my sister's house. A film I find both nostalgic and moving, as well as slightly unsettling. I'm talking about "The Last Unicorn." Illustrated by the same studio that did "The Hobbit" (another classic) and "The return of the king" (a not-so-classic), this movie has pulled more of my heart strings than I wish to count. So there you have it. Eagle vs Shark.... vs Unicorn. Minus the Eagle. Shark vs Unicorn. Uhh.

Little something something

2008-08-21T15:41:00.001-07:00

I got really bored at work today.

Costume Kids

2008-08-15T09:30:00.001-07:00

I find from time to time a moment to sketch at my PCS job. I had been talking with my mother previously about how I thought it'd be fun to draw some bugs (like my ants in the drawing I did for Willard). I watched a potato bug crawl across my desk at the bank one day, which triggered the idea of bug sketches. I think bugs are cool. What boy doesn't? But as I was drawing it, I thought, what about a boy wearing a bug costume? This then spurred into many costumes. I had written on a business card: "Funny picture - boy in gator suit holding death ray gun". You know the best part of doodling? Making yourself laugh with glee as you watch small creations come to life.

This one's for Willy!

2008-08-14T13:27:00.000-07:00

Only one man I know knows where this came from. Here's to you Willard!

Something stranger this way comes

2008-07-25T11:19:00.001-07:00

In one of my most bizarre states of mind, I began drawing these without hesitation or giving them a second thought. And I am so splendifouresly pleased with each and every one of them. The first one, titled "Lego head", most likely comes from some stressful emotion I've yet to detach myself from. The second drawing is still a work in progress, and has been titled appropriately "Ghetto Thug". Finally, and one of the most colorful and most enjoyable experiences I've had whilst drawing it, is "Family Photo". I wanted to create an hodge podge family of random people and creatures, and am in love with the outcome. I only hope to further explore this new unrestrained drawing phase my mind is in. More to come...

And the winner is...

2008-07-11T23:19:00.001-07:00

The results are in and my Dungeons and Dragons design won!!! Check it out!!! But it gets better. Isisdei is so great that they did a photo shoot with me and posted an entire page on their site about me and my work. You can check it out here. Furthermore, check out all their other cool stuff on their site. Look at the neat works coming out. And if you're into art yourself, heck, why not submit your design and win some cash like I did? But I warn you, I'll be competing again....

This company is great and I have a whole universe of gratitude for the guys. So I'm gonna give a shout out to all those at Isisdei for being so cool and eager to help out young, new artists trying to get their feet in the door. And thanks for all those who voted for me, and even the one's who didn't but really wanted to.

On another note, I just want to give a fist pump out to the Wizards of the Coast for making such a sick game. Seriously, how awesome is it that out of 50-some designs, the one that wins is a fat kid who doesn't get to play D&D because he wants to be a Lich King. Just goes to show that everyone can enjoy the world of Dungeons and Dragons. Let the games go on!!!

Shocking!

2008-07-11T09:42:00.001-07:00

So this little number was birthed after I had a similar experience in the bathroom. I just finished washing my face (yes, I try and stay clean) and I saw this black thing on my forehead. I thought it was just a speck of something, but then realized it was a blackhead. So I squeeze it, and the biggest wad of junk comes out! Freaking thing left a hole in my head! So, to commemorate that dandy little flaw, I drew an exaggerated version so as to feel better about myself. The idea of getting entire objects lost in our pores still makes me smile. I had the idea of a guy popping a zit and having his TV remote coming out and him exclaiming, "THERE it is!" Maybe someday I'll do it.

Mind Splurge

2008-07-09T16:52:00.000-07:00

Sometimes your head is filled with so much, and everything is creating a cacophonous display of feelings and ideas. Some of them are good. Some of them are bad. Some of them are completely neutral and/or stoic. And sometimes, things come about and are fabricated within the recesses of the brain folds out of sheer boredom.

Whatever the reason be, I recommend you let it out. Because an exploding head is not only disgusting and rude, but hard to clean up.

graffiti goes giga

2008-07-09T16:22:00.000-07:00

I was bored at PCS one day and started drawing. I had in my head the idea of doing something differently. Something.... Urban. I enjoyed it so much, I ended up doing more.

Isisdei for your protection

2008-05-07T07:46:00.000-07:00

So there's this stellar company called Isisdei that markets laptop covers for macs as well as a handful of other neat merchandise. These guys are off the nufk cool with monthly competitions where the general public (such as myself) is allowed to enter art for their covers! It's a golden opportunity to show off your stuff.

At this time, I have two images being voted on. If I win, I'll get $2,500 dollars!! So anyone and everyone who has supported my work, please go on at vote 5 stars on my designs! Just go to isisdei.com and select "submit your design" then vote for me by clicking the stars! You could help me get my foot in the door on graphic designing. I love you all!!

Such is Life

2008-04-24T11:06:00.000-07:00

I'm not even going to begin to vent on this. Not even.

Hip Hip Hurr-yah!

2008-04-18T12:25:00.000-07:00

Aight, so check it out. My friend Shiloh in New York City is making a book of all my drawings. I'm straight up mega raising the roof, yo!!!! I'm so excited! It's been a dream of mine to actually have a legitimate book of my art, and now I'll have one! Thank you so much Shiloh, you're the epicest.

This is the name of my book. And hopefully some day, my clothing company.

The stats.

2008-04-15T09:14:00.000-07:00

Sorry it's been so long everybody. I've just been really busy. I am happy to announce, though, that two animated shorts are in the process of being made, and will be available soon for your viewing pleasure.
It's been hectic as of recent days, and I've had my fair share of issues. Needless to say I've counterbalanced some of the drama brought on by certain individuals by watching some sweet films. If anyone hasn't seen "Brick" I highly recommend it. Also watched "Traffic" for the first time, as well as "Million Dollar Baby". Anyway, sorry about the lack of creative flowing. It's just that my art river has been dammed with silly Utahn crap, and it's taken some time to clear it out and let things roll.

A Prom

2008-03-28T21:10:00.001-07:00

I just had to post this one because I love it so much and the smaller image doesn't do it justice. This is my friend Hilary Frisby. Back in highschool we went to a Prom together and this was from the photo we took. Good job for looking so pissed off, Hil.

Guerilla cleaners

2008-03-24T13:49:00.000-07:00

Obviously, I loved my childhood.

Baggy shoes and stuff

2008-03-20T11:18:00.000-07:00

So I'm upset with myself for not putting up any art recently. So I just started drawing stuff, being inspired by those around me. Anyway, it felt good to put some art back on instead of photos. Not that I mind photos. But you know, this was meant for drawing. So that's what I'm doing. So shut up!

Thanks to a slip up with words, Julie was on my case for the rest of the night over this one. I wanted to say baggy pants, but was looking at my shoes at the time. Hence, this. But she actually does have a shirt that big. And a tendency to leave her hair where ever it decides to go. Like in peoples armpits and stuff.

Okay, this is for Wendy. She reminded me of this, and I had to do something. Actually, it'd be for Erica as well, since she was also to blame for our mother's missing cooking ingredients. We really did think we could make plants grow and turn into magical things. I remember the strong odor of vinegar, and how Wendy would always hold the bottle and do the pouring. Oh, good times being children.

Self explanatory

The night was grand, I kid you not.

2008-03-16T17:27:00.001-07:00

Saturday night was an epic adventure into the world of rock. The amplifiers brought wave upon wave of euphoric rocking bliss, and everyone was there to celebrate all that is awesome and good. After playing enough games of "No Peekies", Julie, Brynne, Jess, and myself began our voyage to Velour to meet up with fellow appreciators of guitar-licking radicalness. Thank you so much to the Kid-You-Nauts, the Elizabethan Report, and to all others who played and made that evening a memory to keep in you bank of memories. The Human Curtain (pictured below) was stellar. I'm giving a mad shout out to the bands (thanks Quinston for the CD), Crazy dancin Jack, Julie (you're freaking awesome), and all those I met at Velour as well as the Hospital afterwards. Thanks for making my life a kaleidoscope of cool.

The Jack Attack is out of wack

This is by far one of the sweetest photographs I've had the pleasure of taking. Thanks for being such a good visual subject, Julie.

C O O L
Tony was one hard guy to keep in the camera lense. But I got some rad shots of him. Does anyone else think the bottom shot looks freakishly similar to Heath Ledger's "Joker"? To see many more pictures that were taken that night, just check out my photo album on my facebook.

I want to Ride my Bicycle

2008-03-10T20:09:00.001-07:00

Monday was so beautiful, I promised myself I'd go for a bike ride when I got off work

Grabbing my Camelpack, an orange, and my camera, I headed due north towards Provo Canyon
Personally, I'd never put the words "Pink eye" and "Beans" together. Just me.
I saw a lot of neat things along the way. My favorite thing to do
was to pull my camera out at the last second and take a picture
of the people as I passed them.

Sometimes I think they liked it. Other times I just don't think
it mattered.

ORANGE BREAK! And what's with the dude fishing with a Mickey Mouse hat on? Pure genius.

The entire adventure was a treat, and a good escape. Sadly, my tire met up with an unfortunate thorn, and my entire front tire was flat in about ten minutes. Bless you Erika for being there when I needed you. You saved my life! Yey for gorgeous days!

The Match test

2008-03-10T10:49:00.001-07:00

So really, what is the deal with "Strike anywhere matches"? This box I got at home, half the time doesn't even work when I use the striking strip on the side of the very box itself! And it says "Strike Anywhere"! They need to readjust their name. Maybe "Sometimes strikes on hard, rough and particularly grainy surfaces, like sandpaper and very flat granite rocks, and the striking strip on the box itself, sometimes, if you hold it right, but that's pretty much it... Matches". That's better.

And while we're on the subject of Grandpas, why do they always have smashed thumbs? Like, seriously, come on! Is there some kind of initiation or something? Some "Mark of the Grandpa" that I'm unaware of? They say they're always doing stuff in their "shops" or "sheds" or "workplace". What are they really doing? If I'm supposed to believe it accidently ends up with them smashing some phalange every time, they've got another thing coming. Elderly, I'm on to you.

Dungeons and Dragons

2008-03-09T21:42:00.000-07:00

So all my friends who play Dungeons and Dragons naturally turned to me when they found out I could draw and they couldn't. I drew my first character when I was like 20 years-old, and that's this dude: Azrael, the freaking studly Paladin. Next thing you know I've got to draw everyone else's character. I didn't mind though, it was a big change from the more cartoony side I had done for so long, and it allowed my mind to start weaving up some pretty nifty outfits and such. This is Sven, the most barbaric of Barbarians, and he was Turley's character. I still hear him screaming out his name "SVEN!!" in wondrous rage.
Plus, I hadn't drawn too many life-like human images before, in all their many poses. So I've included some of those. This is Antius. I drew him for myself, basically to work on depth and positioning. I was very pleased with him. Good job, Antius. You're cool enough to survive the trashcan.
I always seemed to have a more difficult time drawing females. This crazy Sorceress lady is one who managed to live through my period of female fabricating. She's actually pretty awesome in my opinion, and I was really happy with the ribbons. Once again, I was really excited to work on something different, and this was something TOTALLY different for me.

An old friend reunited

2008-03-07T21:19:00.000-08:00

I hadn't realized that not many people know that I've drawn for almost my entire life. I took some time one night after work and started snooping around for all my old stuff, and found a couple folders and sketchbooks. That's when I came across some of my childhood comics, a little something I started doing in Elementary School, called "Criss Crazy". I guess my parents didn't think there was anything particularly dangerous or wrong about them, even though the poor fellow seemed to end up in some terribly graphic death every time. I mean, honestly, sometimes I'd just shoot the innocent man in the head. But hey, I turned out alright! Right? Come on, who's with me?
I thought I'd start putting these on, to show just how I've changed. Plus, I mean, I've got like 90 of these cartoons. I must've had a very death-centralized imagination.
I also found lots of drawings of other things I did while in Highschool, and even some during my mission.

The Hunter and the Dog

2008-03-07T14:48:00.001-08:00

I think while there's humor found in this, the actual purpose at the time it was drawn was to help me cope with having felt one too many times like the Hunter's dog.

The Adventures Of Bostode

2008-03-06T20:31:00.000-08:00

Well, here it is. I delivered. Fully aware that only a select few will understand why this came to be, it is my belief others still can benefit from it's creation. So to all of those who've supported me and my art, here ya go!

Just another Bank Customer

2008-03-06T12:40:00.000-08:00

Bob T is just one of those guys. He comes in at least once every other week, ready and eager to fill all our minds with the highly anticipated info concerning Credit Unions, Taxes, and anything else he finds fundimental to our society. Why he choses to do so suited in his biking garb is beyond me. But bless the man's heart. And bless his Fanny-pack. And bless his tight, crotch-grabbing biking shorts. Wait. No. Don't bless that. Curse it.

Part 2: Mission Complete! Part 3: In Progress!

2008-03-05T14:53:00.000-08:00

It's finished! I have no more drawing, coloring, and copying to do! It's all in the bag! I think Part two was the most tedious and stressful part of it so far, and fortunately, all I have left is the editing. Once every shot is matched up to the voice acting, it'll be ready to hit the screen. Hopefully I'll be able to hit my due date of March 7th. Wish me luck!

Bird Flu

2008-03-03T19:06:00.000-08:00

So these are a series of shirts I made for friends and family. Sadly, I still have most of them sitting in my closet. Sorry friends and family! Anyway, they've been a lot of fun, and the message they carry is of utmost importance. We MUST. STOP. BIRD FLU. It's already killed over hundreds of millions of birds, and for your information, in the middle east it has already killed 220 people. It has a fatality percentage of 60%, and it's only a matter of time before it hits the states and starts killing us! So help stop it!

The Slot Machine

2008-03-03T18:22:00.001-08:00

What relationship we find ourselves getting into do we not consider a gamble at times? And how many times do we invest into them to have them blow up in our faces? This goes to all types, not just the romantics. I'm talking about sibling relationships, parental, friendships, all types.
I just had a friend move back to California without even warning me or saying goodbye. I have friends who drop off the radar for weeks at a time, others who drop off permanently. Siblings who don't even feel like siblings any longer. Parents who seem like distant beings. And girlfriends who will never quite make sense to you.
I finally just had to draw something.

Just Slapped

2008-03-03T18:19:00.000-08:00

I'm not too sure where this came from. The expression came into my head, and I think it was just a matter of witnessing this happen to many times to people, including myself.

My date with Influenza

2008-03-03T10:10:00.000-08:00

You heard right boys and girls, for the past five days my body has been mercilessly attacked by the wonderful virus. Waking up Wednesday morning, I knew something was off, and by midday I felt strange, but still had not fragment of belief that I was being invaded and my immunity defenses were having their throats slit by Influenza Navy Seals. Sure enough though, by evening I was sicker than a dog. Sicker than an Argentine dog. I don’t recall the last time I felt so terrible. I decided to stay at home, and one day turned into two, which turned into five. It’s been a while since I’ve experienced delirium, and I have some pretty nutty dreams because of it, at which I’ll share at a later time. But besides the delirious manifestations and overall feeling of crappiness, I managed to cough up a lung. That’s right. That’s not a drawing up there. That’s an actual photo of me Friday night. It was terrible. I think I’ve coughed up enough lung butter, that if they used the stuff to lubricate airplane propellers, I’d have enough for the Air Force’s entire 14th division (the one that still has aircraft with propellers).
The only comfort I found during my quarantine was the shower. Oh how grateful I am for hot water! I think I took at least three showers a day, what it being my only moment of relaxation. I would just sit there, letting the hot water wash over me. I also found that one of the best feelings in the world is rubbing a buffer stone all over one’s back side.
Unfortunately, it holds nothing to the worst feelings in the world: that first cough that wakes you up. Oh the horror. As if my throat wasn’t sore enough in the morning! But to wake up to that flesh-tearing hacking cough which pain reaches the back of your eyeballs? I curse you Influenza! And that’s if I even get to sleep so that I can have a cough to wake up to! Most of the nights I spent wading in my own body’s perspiration. I honestly went through three bottles of water a night because I’d sweat it all out within the hours. Saturday night was the worst, in which I actually woke up shivering because my entire bed was wet and all my clothing was plastered onto me as if it were wet toilet paper. So I peeled it all off like a sick lizard shedding its sick, wet, moist skin, and tried sleeping in nothing but a thin blanket. This was in vain, for but twenty minutes later I awoke again to discover my entire body dripping with cold sweat and I’m this close to screaming with frustration. I don’t though, mind you, because my throat is so raw I’m pretty sure screaming would've caused blood to spew forth all over me and my bed, and I love my mattress too much.
It was a callous decision for me to have gone out Saturday. I thought some fresh air would do me good. So I took a walk, and found myself heading towards the mall. I bought an orange Julius, and then realizing I had not nourished my body all day, went to buy something at Subways. Eat fresh, right? Well, then I went through something I’ve come to title “The Vapor Effect”. Let me see if it rings any bells for you. Almost everything tastes odd. Smells are bombarding your system, especially odors like ketchup, mustard, vinegar, and salsas. I really should’ve seen this coming, for it’s not the first run-through I’ve had with The Vapor Effect. My Doritos tasted a little funky, but no biggie. But when I bit into my Sweet Onion Chicken Teriyaki sandwich on Wheat, I felt like I had just stuffed something in my mouth that had been pickled in a bottle of formaldehyde for a year. I instantly dry-heaved, and I even considered vomiting right there in the mall, but dignity was crowned the victor, and I managed to eat all the chicken and some of the vegetables. Lousy waste of six bucks though.
So that was my week, all comfortably wrapped up in my cocoon of disease. I spent most of the time either in bed or in the shower, and only managed to do some drawing when my delirium wasn’t too bad. Sadly, the Bostode Cartoon will probably have to be put off a little longer, since I missed almost a whole week of working on it. I did manage to finish season three of Arrested Development, and whoa is that most recent episode of Lost great!? All in all, a pretty productive, fun, and enlightening week! SIKE!!

This is Linbeck

2008-02-28T13:54:00.001-08:00

So I have this friend and this is one of his favorite bands. I worked it out with his girlfriend, and I went to work making these shirts so that the band could wear them at the concert they were going to. Jolene gave Ryan a Happy Birthday card with this photo on it. Needless to say, he was blown away.

Part 2: Mission in Progress

2008-02-25T12:55:00.001-08:00

Good morning, everyone. Production is going great. I'm really having a fun time now with the coloring process. I finished all the drawings last week, and am already 15 drawings in on coloring. This is one of the finals. This kid rocks. I'm setting myself some due dates.

The way I see it, I have until the end of the week to get all of them colored. And then the most daunting task will be editing them to the voices. But all in all, I plan on being completely finished by the 7th of march. Hopefully, things won't have any obstacles, and I can get it finished before even then. But that's the latest I'm willing to go. So wish me luck, and keep testing that patience!

Part 1: Mission Complete

2008-02-22T12:48:00.000-08:00

I finished!!! Okay, not exactly, but I did finish all the original drawings. Now I'm moving on to coloring each one. Following that will be the editing, and then it's totalmente completo, che! Here's just a couple shots with colors I'll be using. Everyone better be wearing helmets, cause this is gonna blow your mind!

Animation update

2008-02-21T22:01:00.001-08:00

Thought I'd let everyone know the movie's coming along great. Another day of drawing and I should have enough to begin the editing.
For all those wondering, that little critter in there is indeed Bostode, as she befriends a dog. I hope you're all as excited as I am!

Logan's going animated

2008-02-20T22:29:00.003-08:00

That's right. My first fully
animated short, with voice
acting, action, explosions,
car chases, aliens, monster
trucks, cannibals, and left
over chicken.
I'm only showing a few images, before anything's even colored, and will periodically post new drawings up until the final day, where all will witness my genius.

Aubs-o-tron

2008-02-20T10:46:00.000-08:00

So, it's really boring without her here at work. She's sorta my means of keeping sane. But she's been sick for a few days now, and I haven't really talked with her for like five days now. She better get healthy quick, or I might start conversing with Cindy, and that really would be desperate.

Ninjas = I'm better than you

2008-02-19T16:38:00.000-08:00

What boy doesn't enjoy watching martial arts?

Edit my non-mouse hand

2008-02-19T16:33:00.001-08:00

This came from a late-night movie editing adventure. Birthed from the slow-thinking and delirium that haunts us all when we don't go to bed at a decent hour, it has become my much coveted future logo for whatever business I create. It's crammed with inside jokes, from "Off the Nufk" (Thanks Josh), to the shark talons (Here's looking at you Cherie!) Anyway, hopefully one day you'll see this on the back of some dude's shirt

My valentine's day card

2008-02-19T16:25:00.001-08:00

For my dear friend Aubrey, I made her a valentine's card. It was in no way as sweet and thoughtful and precious as the one she gave me, for on mine was a detailed image of an actual human heart. This heart. The inside contained even more graphic drawings which shall not be disclosed to the public. But I love this heart. In fact, no one really knew what it was when they first saw it. I guess not everyone spends their time looking through anatomy books...

My others

2008-02-19T15:31:00.000-08:00

So every now and then I end up really feeling the need to express myself emotionally through my drawings. It gets very personal at times, and so with that, very graphic. I'm not apologizing in the least, and in contrast, commend others who do the same. Sometimes I want absolutely no shackles on my mind. Creations of mine normally always end up with something exploding.

I drew this last night after going through a series of emotions and situations. I looked at it afterwards, felt accomplished in my journey, and slept peacefully the entire night.

At times we feel so down, nothing in the world matters. Other times we are as gleeful as the birds and as light as a wisp of cotton. And sometimes I think we all feel like our heads will explode. Only some of us actually picture ourselves doing it. And don't worry onlookers, I'm not suicidal nor violent. I just think splattered blood looks neat.

Heating Vents

2008-02-14T12:59:00.000-08:00

One day I felt this intense desire to get in touch with my youth again. So I started thinking about things when I was young. I really don't believe I thought this, that there were dragons breathing their hot breath up into my house, and that they were squished into small confined spaces waiting to burst out and eat me, but I DO know I had an extremely active imagination. I DO remember spending hours of my youth under the blankets on the top bunk playing "guns" against "charlie", who at that time I didn't understand why, I had just watched the movie Major Pain one too many times.
I bet some kid out there thought this once though. Now he plays Dungeons and Dragons.

Aubrey verses the Spider

2008-02-14T12:58:00.000-08:00

Chimeless Girl

2008-02-14T12:57:00.001-08:00

My dear friend Aubrey

2008-02-14T12:51:00.000-08:00

So, I know this girl who is really something else. I've come to believe that at least a portion of her thrives on complaining about whatever. Most of the time though, it consists of three things: Boys, her choir class, or her co-worker Cindy. So after some time, I started drawing her in the moment of these "terrible" situations. They've become a great way to pass the hours away at the bank. And Aubs, don't take it personally. You know I love you. And you love the drawings more than anyone.

The Angel Mordecai

2008-01-04T12:25:00.000-08:00

Who's to say we won't have bad days even in the afterlife? I'd actually prefer it that way.

Centaurs

2008-01-04T12:02:00.000-08:00

Ah yes, the Centaur. That mythical beast of wonder. That beautiful concoction of man and horse. I wonder, do they find human women attractive?
Or horses?
Female centaurs, you say?
Well, what if they only saw the rear of a horse, like, the front side was in a barn. Or they saw only the chest and up on a woman, because she was standing behind a fence? What then? What then say you!?

The Warrior

2008-01-04T11:59:00.000-08:00

This was inspired by a video I saw of a barbarian. It was beautiful.

Boy and Gator

2008-01-04T11:57:00.000-08:00

Honest Abe

2007-12-21T11:49:00.000-08:00

My younger sister Tenaya to this day is scared stupid by a mask my family has of an old man. I thought it'd be funny to go with that idea. And possibly, if Tenaya ever sees this, to continue striking fear into her young, under-developed heart.

Broken Flowers

2007-12-21T11:47:00.000-08:00

Inspired by lousy relationships

and Willem Dafoe.

Peas and Milk

2007-12-21T10:06:00.000-08:00

This drawing I made mainly for my mother, who on many occasions caught me for this very act. She'd often put a tiny hourglass down on the table, and me along with my two older sisters were forced to finish our dinner before the timer ran out.

We moved the food around on the plate to give it the appearance it had been touched, possibly eaten. We found though that the milk worked as a cloaking device for smaller foods. For some reason we didn't have to finish drinking our glasses. We'd have to drink some though, and often, we didn't have enough milk to hide all the food.

Luckily, my mother never caught me shoving bitefuls of food wrapped in napkins into my socks.

Dungeons and Dragons

2007-12-21T10:05:00.000-08:00

To be cast out of the out-casts? Now that's just low.

Missing Pencil

2007-12-21T10:02:00.000-08:00

This came from the
sit uation most us kids
went through on those
"first days" in grade
school. The excitement,
the mystery, and the
anxiety.

Halloween

2007-12-21T09:59:00.000-08:00

After sunday, seeing how much fun I was having, I decided to keep it up by drawing more while at work. There's plenty of downtime, so I managed to do another four more.

This one I believe comes from my childhood memories of never really having the store-bought, top-of-the-line products some of the other kids had for Halloween. No, no. Instead I wore the same hand-me-downs as my predecessors; the homeless clown, death, a soldier. Once I managed to scrounge enough money to purchase some flesh wound material. I wanted my face to look like blood and hamburger. Unfortunately, that's what it looked like. Hamburger. On my face. I became the Mcdonald's mishap child.

Shotgun

2007-12-21T08:07:00.000-08:00

Friar Boss

2007-12-21T08:05:00.000-08:00

Lloyd sees something

2007-12-21T08:04:00.000-08:00

Inspired by actual events in Argentina. While living there, I found myself occasionally haunted by the following creatures. Plagued with a disease known as "Sarna", the domesticated life-forms prowled the streets in search of sustenance. They were later categorized and documented as "Armadillo Dogs".

Super Hero girl

2007-12-21T08:02:00.000-08:00

The idea for this was inspired from an old
Weezer poster I had in my room growing up.

Fight of Dragons

2007-12-21T08:00:00.000-08:00

Fighting's always been an American pass-time.

So I thought I'd draw a good ole fashioned fight.

Needless to say, this was my sister's favorite for a while.

Jeremiah

2007-12-20T16:02:00.001-08:00

This was the first drawing that started
a series all under the same familiar
tune. I was sitting in church with my
sisters and picked up a pen and drew
this on the back of some random
church announcement. The following
six I all drew this same sunday.

For all you first timers

2007-12-20T15:42:00.000-08:00

Yo yo yo! So this is what a blog's like, eh? Well that's just swell. It's about time I post my thoughts, and fortunately for all viewers, most of my thoughts will be given in illustrated form. I'd like it to be known that throughout my childhood I've always drawn in pen. And almost never did I color in my drawings. This is the first time I've convinced myself to color my drawings, so I hope you all like them. Just leave a comment if you'd like my work on any projects or ideas you have. Enjoy!