Had an eventful interim since the last update...some serious computer problems, a trip home to MI for the holidays, and a rendezvous with some pals from college in Chicago.
Much like my scooter, my eMac has been a whiny little bitch these last few weeks. Seems that the hard disk was badly fragmented, to the point that it wouldn't boot (even from a CD). To make a way-too-long story short, I took it to CompUSA on Apple Tech support's recommendation, they were complete fucking idiots and basically cost me a week of work just to have the same problem arise two hours after I got it back from them. Then we took it to a nice little company in Evanston that specializes in Macs called Lapin Systems. Fortunately these folks know their ass from a hole in the ground and had my baby all fixed up in back in action in record time. Very highly recommended. I implore you, avoid CompUSA like the plague.
Had a lovely train ride home to the Olde Hometowne, spent 5 or so lazy days visiting family, exchanging gifts, writing out and delivering holiday cards, reading and finishing The Mother Tongue, an excellent book by Bill Bryson on the English language, and getting plenty of gems from the Flea Market, the shining jewel of Paw Paw. I even got my grandparents to try Indian food, which they remarked "sure was different," as they were expecting to eat buffalo or deer, thoroughly unaware of samosas, chana masala, and the culture that enjoys these delectables.
Just before New Year's Eve, I had the pleasure of an evening of mayhem and lowest-common-denominator decision-making with Ryan, Brad, Maniotes and three extras including Brad's sister. Not exactly my ideal activities, but so good to see the three old pals, especially enjoyed the physical comedy that Brad and Ryan are so fond of exchanging. Fights nearly broke out at least three times, but fortunately we all walked away unscathed. Those guys are Master Champions through and through and it made my holiday to see 'em.
Still some cards to send out, don't worry, yours is probably coming soon if you haven't yet received it. Happy new year to you and yourn.
Posted by pj at January 2, 2004 06:24 PMGlad to see myself portrayed reverse skull-fucking berling. That completes my whole holiday travel experience.
Later that evening, I loaned that sweet hat to Margot. Now I have to go to Phoenix to get it back. Shit.
Thanks for the awsome gifts. It was good to see you.
Posted by: ryno at January 3, 2004 01:47 AMLove that "Ryan-humps-Brad/Trucker" graphic homeslice.
Posted by: Jamie at January 5, 2004 02:41 AMBunch of fuckin' pussies, all of ya.
Brooklyn, awwwww yeah!
Posted by: DDC Brooklyn'ed at January 5, 2004 12:40 PMRyno: did you loan her anything else that night, as promised...or were you just too much man for her to handle, with the cigars and boots and all?
Posted by: Enquiring Mind Chmiel at January 5, 2004 12:46 PMCenturies ago in the province of Mongolia, the Mighty Khan's hunting parties would camp on the banks of the great river Khan-Balik. After days devoted entirely to hunting, they would gather in droves to celebrate their successes. Communing in banquet style pavilions, the Mongols would prepare slivers of meat and vegetables by slicing them with their razor sharp swords. They would then cook their food by searing them on their overturned shields that were heated by a blazing fire. The Kublai Khan and his fiercest warriors would sit high above the hordes, and enjoy the same food prepared for him on a large, roaring hot griddle.
Posted by: Mongo Man at January 5, 2004 01:42 PMwell, dude. things got a little awkward after you left.
Posted by: ryno at January 5, 2004 04:49 PMWant to join in on all the fun? Are you the type of person who likes to work hard, play hard, have fun and make money?
Then come join our team. BD's Mongolian Barbeque® is the kind of place where you'd love to work.
