Just another Copy & Paste

it's too nice tonight to be asleep

2009-06-30T00:45:00.000-07:00

it's too nice to be inside...for that matter

the sky is full of stars. if it were up to me; I'd turn off every outside light in this neighborhood and just watch the clouds slowly glide by. that might be the only thing i wouldn't like about living in a large city w/ tall buildings and sky-lines...

they would take all the beauty out of the night sky.

I can hear everything so clearly. The sound of my fingers typing on this laptop. the sounds of all the crickets and other bugs. and i can even hear the one sound of whatever animal freaks you out @ night cause you don't expect it. is that an owl? perhaps.

I can even hear the cars off in the distant that are on 96.

i turned off my porch light. and the garage lights as well. not a bright idea. my laptop screen is attracting all the bugs now.

Well. On to point of this blog i guess.

Every time i look up @ the night sky...and see stars just doing their jobs, i think about a song i wrote a llllooonnnggg time ago. might be the one of the first songs i ever wrote for the opposed. ("slow to speak" @ the time...for those of you keeping track or just wanting to know some opposed history) A song called "Bright Mistakes".

i'm going to type out the lyrics as best as i can remember them. and if, by all means, you want to skip this part...you can...trust me...won't hurt my feelings.

"Tell me how could this be
When you're up there and i am way down here
I'm just trying to find my place
in this life that's not perfect...i've made my mistakes

But yet this ground i stand on...holds me down

you don't hold...all of my bright mistakes....my bright mistakes against me

if i let them go, will they all fall down?
or will i see your hand erase the sky tonight?
or just wish on a shooting star for tomorrow to come

But yet this ground i stand on...holds me down

you don't hold...all of my bright mistakes....my bright mistakes against me

When looking @ the night sky...they seem to go away..."

Most of the songs I write are mostly about feelings that i have felt. ie this song. and if anything...half or a lil less than half aren't about God. ie "farewell to goodbye" (not going to type out the lyrics to that one. if anything...go to itunes and get it. trust me. you'll love it...cause we all have been in that kinda situation before)

Ok, sorry for the A.D.D. moment. Back to what i was talking about.

We've all made mistakes. It's a part about being human. about being flesh and bone. I'm not perfect. Far from it. and you're not perfect. there was only one perfect man. and that was Jesus. and you know how i know that. well. we were all born into sin. sin equals death. just one of the things from bitting the apple. thanks adam and eve! (insert thumbs up here "___")

But while writting "Bright Mistakes", i thought of stars as my mistakes. those in the past. present. and future. and that song is basically a prayer. an honest prayer. for when we ask for forgiveness...the bible says.."I, even I, am the one who wipes out your transgressions for My own sake; and I will not remember your sins" Isaiah 43:25 He doesn't forget, but He chooses not to remember them. Why? His son, Jesus.

Sorry for the preaching there. but. Basically, the song is about letting go about past mistakes. let them fall. it's about God forgiving us of our sins. wiping them away. for we shouldn't worry about tomorrow. for we have enough to worry about today. tomorrow isn't promised.

and now since all that was said...

As some of you know. and that's a small amount...i would hope. and as most of all of you don't know. something might happen here sooner or later...that i have no control of. something cause of my stupid, selfish actions. Right now i will not go into detail. but. whoever might be reading this. I need your prayers. cause it effects...well...to be honest. my life. and the life of others. it's nothing over-the-top. like death or anything. but something that i don't want to take lightly. should of thought about all that @ the time being...but like i said...my selfishness.

I'm sorry for the long winded blog/preaching/lyrically based blog...(and i don't think that sentenced made any sence) but i hope you got something out of it.

i hope you get something out of all these stupid lil post i make. even if it's one sentence. i truly hope you do

Good Night All. and God Bless!

-Edwin <><

and the beauty of grace is...

2009-04-24T23:49:00.000-07:00

that it makes life not fair...

"Less is More"

2009-03-02T00:42:00.000-08:00

fell in love w/ that song all over again tonight. i've been on a relient k marathon. can't stop. my opinion. matt t. is the best lyricist to date. hands down.

too bad that song has nothing to do w/ what i want to talk about. maybe it does. who knows.

so i've come to the realization that i haven't been living the way i need to be. like. not the whole i've turned my back on God. or "taking the wrong road"

but. more of the whole "keeping things behind closed doors" kinda thing.

just the words that came out of my mouth. my thoughts. my actions. my way of living.

friday night i hung out w/ some people that i never met. and/or. haven't seen in a while. and honestly. i felt out of place. and what hurt the most. i shouldn't have. like. everything they were talking about. i couldn't add to it. cause. honestly. i didn't have anything. and it made me sick. to where my stomach felt tight. i don't know if they could of read my face. but. i was sad. cause i use to love conversation like that.

and now. it's like i had to kinda not be the person i have become here lately around them. being 2 different people.

i heard once that people adapt to their surroundings. that the people you hang around w/ will influence you. way is it that the bad always seems to out way the good? like. why can't we see the good instead of the bad? the beauty instead of the beast? the smiles instead of the insults? the truth instead of the lies?

i want to be more positive the negative. i want to be able to influence someone by my good actions. by not complaining. by not talking about someone. by. loving. caring. up-lifting.

by. just. being. like. christ. simple as that.

so. my door is open. i promise to be myself. around you. like i would be around my pastor. my mom. my lil brother. my future son/daughter.

i promise to be more uplifting. to find the good in everything and everyone

and i also promise that i'll have stories to share @ the dinner table next time we all get together.

and just incase you don't look up the song. @ least read it. maybe you'll get something out of it. maybe you won't

"Jesus, I pray
Take all my mistakes
Throw them away
Destroy them for my sake

Jesus, I call out 'cause I'm sorry
Because I fall so short of your glory
To the best of my ability
I'm practicing humility
And I lay myself before
'Cause less is more

~~~~~~~

Jesus, I plead
Please purify me
Make my heart clean
Drench me with your mercy
Jesus, I pray
I love you, I need you
For the rest of my days
I swear I will seek you
To the best of my ability
I'm practicing humility
And I lay myself before
'Cause less is more."

3 years and still alive...

2008-08-16T00:04:00.000-07:00

so. half the year already has passed. crazy. just feels like new years was 2 weeks ago. glad it's not though.

it was full of worries. sadness. all the things opposite of a new year coming.

but. to the main point. today, august 16th, 2008, marks 3 years of being in tn. crazy again. around this time i was trying to sleep. thinking that when i wake, i will be in my car w/ my drums, computer, and whatever was in my closet. not knowing what was in store for me.

saying good-bye to mom while she was crying. (like she always does when i leave) i remember the night i told her i was moving here. we went to ihop. and she cried then too.

i said good-bye to mama. shannon. troy. zorro. (i said good-bye to must of my family and friends the night before)

now here i am. in my room. listening to relient k. troy asleep in my bed. my mustang in the ER.

man...alot has happened in the past 3 years.

i've learned alot. i've done alot. i've done so much that it just blows my mind. that i sometimes have to really sit down and slow down life a bit...and realize.....i am blessed.

i've recorded in amazing studios. in belmont studios. rca studio. dark horse studios. in someones garage studio. a studio where plus 1 and casting crowns(?) recorded a cd. i've been to different states w/ different bands and lead worship and rock concerts. i've heard people sing along @ their top of their lungs while the band stopped playing. i've played @ the christian showcase @ belmont. i've silenced a crowd of 500+ by just putting my finger to my lips. i've recorded demos for a artist that is now signed to sony records.

but most importantly...a kid was saved @ one of the opposed concerts. a kid that was watching some rock band...listening to our silly little songs...was touched enough for something to stir something inside of him. something that made him decide that he needed to change something. that something needed to change. and this was done @ one of my shows.

i could go on and on....and on....and on

but there is something, in this past year, that i have learned more than everything else...

and that's "love"...

it's taking me a while where i want to go w/ that. and honestly...i don't know.

i've learned that love is so complex

it involves so many things. time. trust. commitment. patience. taking account of another. and sometimes forgetting about myself.

it's more than saying "i love you". it's more than words. (as a song once said)

it's enduring pain when it's easy to take the easy way out.

it's showing a person in every way. in every second. in every breath. in every action. in every word. in every look. in everything that i do. that they mean more to me than my own well being. more than work. more than my dreams. my money.(which i don't have much of) my time. (which i have alot of)

someone once told me that i shouldn't let my heart override my mind. i definitely have that problem. but someone also told me, on the worst day of this year...they sent me this...

"I just wanted to tell you that you have an amazing heart and I hope you never lose it because it's what makes you you. I know that life gets hard sometimes, but your strength and your openess and your sense of humor and your amazing capacity for love brings out the very best in you. Take care Edwin, I wish you all the best."

i have no idea why that person sent me that. but the timing of that night was perfect. i needed that.

love is more than a physical act. it's emotions. it's heart. it's minds. it's experiences.

if someone was to ask me today if i were really "in love" 3..5..6 years ago, i would say no. don't get me wrong. i love my family. and my friends.

but this kinda love i've only felt once. but it's gone now. i ask myself if it was true. on my end. yes. i have no doubt that i it was. shoot. ask my mom. ask my friends. ask my enemies.

but it's gone now.

i have a promise ring that i wear on my left ring finger. a promise to whoever she is...that i'll wait to love her and her alone. that i'll be hers. body. mind. soul.

i promise to tell you everything. that i won't keep anything from you. i promise that whatever it takes, i'll do it. i won't let you down. i promise that i won't change a thing about me...but whatever change happens...it's for the best.

i promise you that i'll take care of you.

i'll even let you hold the remote control.

i told a friend once that i want to be so in love that when i'm older and my other half passes away, that i will follow shortly.

i think that's enough for tonight/morning. i am just typing away and i don't know if this even makes sense. shoot. most of my post dont...but hey....who reads this right?

well. i'm off to bed now. it's 3:45. troy is waiting on me. and so is my pillow.

good night

ps
and to be honest...i think i have met her

Gone Away

2008-06-30T09:25:00.001-07:00

I think about life
And how it changes so fast
And how it's so hard to last here
Waiting for something to give

I think about time
A luxury so hard to find
And I just can't figure out why I
Wasted it all here without you

But I'll be fine
Oh don't you worry
Cause I'll be fine
See I'm in a hurry to be

Gone away awhile
Tell me all the things that I
I'll be missing here in this old life
Cause I just don't know

I think about you
And all of the times that we shared
And what a wonderful pair we
Made it so far here we go again

I think about love
And what a beautiful song
And oh how it needs to be sung here
Sing it so loud all the world can hear
I think I'll be

Gone away awhile
Tell me all the things that I
I'll be missing here in this old life
Cause I just don't know

I just don't know

But I'll be fine
Don't you worry
Cause I'll be fine
See I'm in no hurry
No I'll be fine
Don't you worry
Cause I'll be fine
See I'm in a hurry to be

Gone away awhile
Tell me all the things that I
I'll be missing here in this old life
Cause I just don't know

something you want to read

2008-03-10T21:43:00.000-07:00

so. it's pass mid-night. it's the time where i usually do all my deep thinking.

or over thinking.

sunday, my church showed a video called "march of the unqualified".

it kinda hit home.

as i was watching it. i thought to myself "that's me..and...oh...that's me"

the video was basically showing all the people that God used to do his work. and it was kinda funny how this video was telling you some of the flaws these people had. and when i say "some" i mean some. cause most of them...well...all of them had more than one flaw.

it just got to me for many reason. not only did i see my flaws up there, but i thought to myself of how many christians look down upon people w/ flaws. having forgotten that they are not perfect. they haven't nor will they ever be. Only one man was. and Hes not walking this earth anymore.

that they forgot that they shouldn't judge. that they should remove the log out of their own eye before they try to remove the speck out of someone else's eye.(LUKE 6:37-41)

and by all means. i'm not perfect. im not claiming to be. i do claim to be a christian though.

and that brings up the question, "what does it mean to be christian?"

well, i googled (God Bless Google) "christian", "meaning of christian"....and some other stuff. but. what's that going to do. well. it gave me the meanings that other people had or thought of. so. i'm going to tell you what i think it mean. to me.

being a christian is, to me, is being ok w/ not being perfect. i was born to this world a sinner, right? and weren't you? He died for my sins. but i have to believe that. so i don't die a sinner. He wants me to make a choice. I've made it.

but i'm not perfect. i'm not proclaiming to be. sorry to break it to you.

now here's the video. you don't have to watch it. but. you should.

so. the video named alot of people.

from moses to david to paul.

but i did see my own name as well.

Jonah ran from God. i've done my share of running. and i might do it down the road too. it's easy to try and hide things rather then face the problem.

Jacob was a liar. i kinda laughed when i saw that one. why? i don't know. cause, maybe, like typing, i have to think of what i want to type. same thing goes before you speak. you have to think. you have to process it and then it comes out. why do you lie before we even speak it?

Noah got drunk. HA! oh boy. this one should be fun. so. to start this one off, i'm going to answer the question that is going through your mind. yes. i've been drunk before. it was a long LONG time ago. i don't drink anymore. why? do i think drinking is a sin? no. people in the good ole days w/ Jesus drank. i think the state of drunkenness is a sin. it's @ the point where you don't remember things. or actions. or words that were spoken. that's just my thought on it.

David had an affair. the man that is known as "a man after Gods own heart" had an affair. but you know what the video didn't say. the man after Gods own heart killed a man. he saw a woman from his rooftop and wanted her. he sent for her. had sex. and to have her as his own, david sent her husband to war and made sure he was on the front line. David, the man after Gods own heart lusted, had an affair, and murdered. (did i mention moses was a murderer too?) im not going to have a story like this.

Jeremiah was depressed......ALOT! ah. the first emo kid to be mentioned! EVER! in the history of man! i thought it was funny. anyways, this dude is known as the weeping prophet. i've had my days of being down. i wear my emotions on my sleeve. can't help it sometimes.

John the Baptist was just plain poor. don't have to say much there. i don't have much money. i don't know if i ever will. it does make me appreciate the things i have though. someone once said that it will be hard for a rich man to inherit the kingdom of God. well. if He is saying that money is the root of all evil. by all means, give me enough to give right back to bills and gas prices. yes. you read right. gas prices!

Lazarus was dead. this one is my fav. dude was dead. if Jesus was a gangsta, this is the way it would of said it in the bible. "yo, lazarus. fool! i'm talking to you, homie. i need you to do something for me. hey! you listen chump?!?! get up! like for realz. don't make me come in there! i just got these new kicks and i don't want them to get all nasty in that tomb you call a crib. now get out. let's roll out man. i'm hungry!" Lazarus comes out of the tomb. Jesus says "dude. you look like trash man. i can't be seen w/ you like that. let's go. before i put you back." ha!

Paul had a short fuse....and so did peter......and moses and so do you...and you....you....yes...even you! we all have our buttons that people push sometimes. shoot! i even have a button. but you can have a case over it. or make it hard to find. i try my best though not to get angry. i've been slacking the past couple of weeks cause of my car situation. and work. but. things happen for a reason. so i'm just trusting. and believing.

well. that's it.

you see. these guys aren't perfect. far from it. they were humans. just like me and you. and that's what i think we forget. that we are flesh. and the flesh is weak. i'm not saying we have the right to do whatever we please. that's not what i'm saying.

all i'm saying. don't be quick to judge. remember that we have our own flaws. and all we can do is strive to be perfect. and ask for forgiveness. cause it's there. waiting for us.

and remember. forgive each other as well.

don't know why i am doing this. took too long. started around 1130. it's 330 now.

that's it for tonight. i hope that everything i said made sense. if not. sorry. and there isn't alot of mis-spelled words. if so. sorry again. take care and God Bless!

- Edwin Rivera III
the imperfect christian
<><

ps
i miss you grandma. hope heaven threw you a big party when you got there. i know that all your pain and sickness is gone now. might of even gotten a little younger ;) i love you. thanks for everything mama. for taking care of me since day one. and never leaving my side. tell grandpa hello for me.

24

2008-03-06T21:31:00.000-08:00

24 oceans
24 four skies
24 failures
24 tries
24 finds me
In 24th place
24 drop outs
At the end of the day
Life is not what I thought it was
24 hours ago

Still I'm singing Spirit take me up in arms with You
And I'm not who I thought I was 24 ago
Still I'm singing Spirit take me up in arms with You

24 reasons to admit that I'm wrong
With all my excuses still 24 strong

See I'm not copping out
When You're raising the dead in me
I am the second man now

And You're raising these 24 voices
With 24 hearts
With all of my symphonies
In 24 parts
But I want to be one today
Centered and true

I'm singing Spirit take me up in arms with You
You're raising the dead in me now

I want to see miracles, see the world change
Wrestled the angel, for more than a name
For more than a feeling
For more than a cause
I'm singing Spirit take me up in arms with You
And You're raising the dead in me
24 voices
With 24 hearts
With all of my symphonies
In 24 parts.

I'm not copping out

it's been a while

2008-02-27T22:56:00.001-08:00

boy. does that song bring back memories

well. it's been since july since i've posted anything

alot has happen since then

don't know where to start to tell you the truth

been really busy w/ work and band.....and not having a car.

haven't been able to do much. asking for alot of rides thats for sure

nor have i been able to go to knoxville either...

but hope that all changes this weekend

seen some good movies here. had a awesome valentines day. have a kid now...well...troy my dog. got you!

in a house now. no more apt.

i have writers block. i've started like 3 songs and have yet to finish one

oh. and it's a new year. 2008. haven't written 2007 on anything yet

it's late. i've been told that i'm getting old. or am old. either/or.

it's time for bed

night everyone

<><

ps
OJ did it. i don't care what you say. he did it. end of story!

silence will either kill me or......

2007-07-23T00:55:00.001-07:00

......makes me weak

it's been a while since i have done this. two months? maybe. don't know why it has taken a while

been really busy. (i've come to make that my excuse for everything)

might as well catch you up on things here.

went to the nashville zoo for the first time since i've been here. i liked it. had my own personal tour guide. and it was free

lots of changes have been made @ work. we carry macs now. the whole store looks different. and that's a good thing. i was getting bored. tired. annoyed. and fet up w/ it all. nothing much you can do though. it's good to have change every once in a while.

ah. here's something new. i have a zune. yep. you read it right. homeboy got a zune. i was tired of carrying my "other bibles" (yeah...two cd cases) every where i went. what better way to help then to get a mp3 player. and what's better than an ipod. a zune.

i've recorded alot lately. still can't get the freaking click track out of my ears. hurts. but it's fun. did about 3 songs for taylor martin. can't wait to hear them. they are going to be pretty good. about 4 nights ago i recorded for my band "The Opposed" We did a rough recording on two rocking your face and kicking you in the....well......you know songs. check out the our myspace. we'll be posting them out sometime soon,(my top friends) and our little website www.theopposed.com

i'm in memphis right now. getting on a bus to go to florida in a couple of hours. playing @ a camp this week. and it's going to amazing. pray for us and the kids as we travel.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

so....alot has happened lately

scott and i had a good conversation a couple of nights ago.(i've missed that guy) i needed it. too much was building up. he's one of the few people (and there's maybe less than a hand full) i know i can trust w/out me worrying about him telling the whole world. or talking behind my back. or judging me.

you know what i think is funny. people that judge someone else.....and it's the very same thing they are doing. kinda like looking into the mirror and seeing yourself....but pointing the finger @ someone else. sad.

there's someone that has been stuck in my head lately. for a while too. kinda emo. (ha...can't believe i just said that. been hanging out w/ you too much. or is it the other way around?)

well, there's a baby crying in the background now. good times.

i'll keep you guys updated on the florida trip

-edwin <><

ps. my dandruff is acting up. head-n-shoulders ain't doing it's job. time to warm up the "pimp-hand"

so...it's over....

2007-06-03T19:06:00.000-07:00

for now

well, we are here relaxing @ emilys house and watching "children of men" (so far so good)

we are finished w/ out tour dates. we will be on our way home tomorrow morning. early.

it's back to work for me on tuesday.

but sunday, i will be on my way to tx! i'll be there for about 3 days and then i'll be coming back to nashville to go back to the camp w/ played @ last thursday night.

by the way.....thursday night was amazing. I never had so much fun before like that. the kids were awesome. the coolest thing that happened that night, they learned one of jons song that week. I was so blown away by it, that i had to stop during the chorus. the band didn't expect it, but....i just had to hear them singing. it was awesome! i had the biggest smile on my face! we have a camcorder w/ us...and caught most of it on tape.

and talking about camcorder....we have been documenting everything. we have sing-a-longs. and we have us climbing mountians. and us bashing each other. i have to get a program from work for video editing.

so...these past couple of days have been great. if i could tour for the rest of my life....i would do it!

Wel, i didn't get much sleep last night. so...i'm off to bed

edwin <><

on the road.....

2007-05-30T11:57:00.000-07:00

well, i'm here in georgia.

i'm here playing w/ the Taylor Martin Band (if that link doesn't work, search myspace for "Taylor Martin")

CJ, jon, and I road up here in the beast! Excursion baby! We had fun. We listened to random music (thanks to CJ) we have our camcorder and have lots of funny stuff. We might youtube it. who knows? :D

So, we are out here for 5 days and playing for 4 of them. It's going to be fun. I can't wait to play

I need to tune my drums and fix my bass drum head. The emad head is messed up.

Well, i really can't stay on here much longer. I am on cjs laptop.

I'll try to keep you guys updated for this semi-tour.

pray for me and the guys

love you

miss you

edwin <><

there he goes off to his room to write that hit song "Alone in My Principles"

2007-05-18T00:53:00.000-07:00

good movie

oh

how about this one?

Smalls: Oh yeah, the Great Bambino. Of course! I thought you said the Great Bambi. Ham Porter: That wimpy deer?!

i laughed really hard whenever i read that on a friends myspace.

So......guess what time it is?! yep....you're right. Time to take a ride in Edwins head.

Fun, right?! Yeah, i know what you are thinking..."I should stop reading now" By all means, you can. Won't offend me @ all.

Someone told me that I confuse them. I replyed w/ "I confuse myself". Which I was telling the truth. and so was she.

My heart. My mind. They never like to be on the same page w/ each other. or even on the same boat together.

sad.

i should have this under controll. but i don't. it's gets harder every day. and it likes to happen whenever i think i know what i want. things just happen differently. the way words are spoken. and thoughts are let out incomplete. praying to God that somehow you are right.

and yes....i am talking about relationships. Funny, isn't it?!?

i think it is.

and if you are reading this....i am still waiting to hear what happened?

maybe...just maybe....i've gotten selfish in this area.

i've written a song about this (or two situations) and the second chorus is me just telling God that I'm sorry. that i have been like this. that i need Him. i've always needed Him.

but i dwell upon the past. wishing to have that feeling back. those moments back. but i know it's not going to happen. i've screwed up.

i remember someone telling me that musicians already have a girlfriend/boyfriend. Maybe she's right....well...in my case she is. for right now...that's all i have. get me behind a drum set, and everything just disappears.

i'm done for now. Underoath is tonight. I can't wait. I need it.

So, you've made it all the way to the end of the blog

congrats

the right thing @ the wrong time......is still the wrong thing

2007-04-10T21:03:00.000-07:00

i don't remember who said that. but it's true

for those who don't know (which is pretty much all of you), i will not be leaving for tx like i planned.

why?

well, for starters, best buy in lufkin didn't have a spot for me to transfer to. i don't really want to start all over w/ best buy. it's a really good job. just got a full time spot. benefits. and a chance to move up to a better position. i am no good to my mom w/out a job.

and to tell you the truth......i still think there is a reason for me staying here. don't know what it is.....but.....i have faith that everything will be ok.

sorry to all my friends in tx. i'll be home to visit soon....i hope

thanks for all the prayers......keep them coming

sorry that this isn't a good one....bit sleepy

night

<><

"Hello, I swear I won't be too long
Hello, I promise I'll be real strong
Wait up, I just wanna tell you
Hold up, why are you still here?

I've been dirtier than you wanna know
I've left earlier than you'll ever know

Why do, you wanna be all listenin' to me
Why do, you spread your arms and tell me I'm free
Why do, you wanna be in my life
In my life

I've been dirtier than you wanna know
I've left earlier than you'll ever know

Jesus, Jesus
There's something about Your name
Master, Saviour, Jesus"

the days when we were younger

2007-03-19T00:30:00.000-07:00

remember whenever we had to get up in the morning and not worry about bills?

or

whenever we woke up and didn't have to worry about what time you had to go to work?

or...here's a good one

remember all you had to worry about was looking cool in front of your friends?

i miss does days.

when all you had to do was impress that one girl that caught your eye?

what happened to those days? did we grow up too fast? or did we just grow up? funny how i miss those days. why? i have no idea. maybe it was easy back then. maybe we didn't have to worry about anything @ all. maybe i am just making this all up.

remember whenever we got our drivers licences? our first car? our first kiss?

well, i don't know where i am going w/ this....so...i think i'll just stop here

night everyone

oh...i just finished our inventory count @ our store. we don't have a small store. i don't want to count anything anymore.....well...maybe i am going to count sheep....if my brain allows it

later

edwin <><

1 sheep
2 sheep.....
3.....sheep.......
........4.....sh...eeeeeee......p
zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz

here we go...well...here " I " go

2007-03-11T22:30:00.000-07:00

well....i don't know where to start....so I'll just "wing" it

I've done so much while being up here. I've created some awesome friendships. I've played w/ so many people and met so many musicians! I've recorded in amazing studios that will blow your mind away. I've done things that Belmont students don't do till junior or senior year! I've played for an anointed church! and I've seen Underoath!

I've have done so much since I have been up here. I have learned alot of things. Things that have helped me mature as a musician, son, and must importantly....friend. Alot of people here don't know how much they mean to me. Scott, CJ, Brian, Forrest, Kristin, Meagan, Britt, all the zjamers, all my friends @ work, the rowlands, my church, all my belmont friends. I am nothing w/out you guys. I wouldn't be the person I am now w/out you guys. I know that I am not a good friend sometimes, but hey, I''m not perfect! But I am glad that I've had the chance to meet and share some memorable times w/ you guys.

So...why am I talking like this? Well, I'm moving back to Lufkin, Tx on April 23rd.

I don't know why I am telling you know. I was planning on telling everyone a couple of weeks from now, but I've just been doing alot of thinking tonight. (yeah..one of those nights)

The reason I am moving back....well, it's family. Mostly for my mom....well, it's for her really! A man once said, "It goes..."God, Family, and Friends"...nothing else matters." It's hard though. Cause my friends are my family. I'm that person that loves to be w/ everyone. Loves to talk about nothing, everything, and the things in between! I'm afraid of losing them. I really am. I guess that's what's getting me tonight.

God never said that He was moving to Nashville, Tn to become a rock star. He never said that. He knows my hearts desire!
Psalm 37: 3-7
"Trust in the Lord, and do good. Then you will live safely in the land and prosper. Take delight in the Lord and He will give you your heart's desires. Commit everything you do to the Lord. Trust Him, and He will help you. He will make your innocence radiate like the dawn, and the justice of your cause will shine like the noonday sun"
He has given me the chance to come up here and make music. I won't be that old man that says "I wish I could go back and @ least tried.". I will never say that. I'll never regret. Does this mean that I am going to stop playing drums? Drums are a part of me, like air is to my lungs! I'll never stop playing! NEVER

My hearts desire is now my family. I'm going home to help my mom feel comfortable to come home. To make her feel like she's raised a good son. One that shows her how much she means to me. I'm going to help her fix up the house. New rug. New dinning room set. New everything. She's taking care of me for 20 years....I think I can take 1 year of mine and take care of her.

I will be going back to school and starting all over. (crazy...i know) but, I'm more focused than I've ever been. I feel like I won't be staying in Lufkin too long. I feel like Nashville could be a home for me. I know that I want to transfer to MTSU or something. I feel like in a year and 1/2 i'll be back up here. We'll see where God does.

I'm afraid to lose some of you though. If feels like I owe you all so much. You guys helped in trying to make my dream come true. Helped w/ money, gas, food, a place to stay whenever the drive was too long, cheering me up whenever i was down, laughing till we cried, deep conversations.....the whole nine yards. I couldn't have asked for more! Makes me sad

Well, I don't know what to say now. So, I'll leave you this

"So hold your head up high and know
It's not the end of the road.
Walked down this beaten path before
You've packed your things and head home
At the end of the road,
you'll find what you've been longing for

I know cause my feet have the scars to show
I was lost w/ vague direction and no place to call home"
-Underoath

I'm coming home!

edwin <><

True Love?

2007-02-11T00:42:00.000-08:00

i just finished watching "A Walk to Remember". My second time seeing it in years. Really good movie. Now I'm watching "The Notebook"

You might think it's stupid....some of you guys might even think it's "gay". Funny how men think they can't watch movies like that cause it makes them look "weak" or "feminine" (if that's the correct spelling)

any ways...sorry that it's been a while that i've posted anything. been really crazy around here and in texas. here we go....

my aunts husband died a couple of weeks ago. had to go to texas for the family. it was good to see them....but i wish it could of been better circumstances.

i didn't get into "Candlefuse". that was a big hit for me. reason why, is because I didn't fit the "part". The dude that got the part is buddies w/ the bass player. I guess it's true about what they say "it's all in who you know". someone told me it's their lost...i wanted to agree, but to tell you the truth, they are the ones touring and playing every where. oh well

work has become...well....work. it just feels like i am doing the same things...saying the same things (well, the new microsoft vista helped chang things a little bit), but...honestly....i've haven't enjoyed my job in a while. don't get me wronge...i love best buy, but....i don't wake up in the morning and tell myself "ok...time to go to work and have some fun". it's changed to "ah come on....it's already morning. do i want to get up or call in sick?....ah....bills....guess i'll get up"
it snowed a couple of days ago....for two days! just a couple of inch...it's better than nothing.

i got to play w/ jonathan martin a week ago. got to record too. i've missed that. it's been a while. so...me and my room mate, cj, have been recording here and there @ the apartment. check it out myspace.com/cjandedwinrock it's nothing AMAZING. it's just two guys having fun. so...don't expect great vocals from me. remember, im a drummer. "Get Up" and "Draw Me Near" are CJs songs and "Heart Of Worship" and "Coming as I Am" are mine. we did all the bass and guitar parts and cjs the man behind the drum loops.

well, back to the main point. have any of you ever been in love? like...true love. these movie just make it look easy. makes it seem effortless. makes it seem "real". to bad it's holloywood. it's all make believe.

when you love someone...aren't you suppose to make each other happy? aren't you suppose to help each other out through everything you go through? for richer or poor. through sickness and in health. i think we have lost that. i think we got this picture perfect LIE of how a marrige should be. there are no fight. no moments where you want to kill one another. well, hate to break it to you....but there isn't a thing as a perfect marrige. and if you don't believe me...well, whenever you get married and have a fight or think badly of one another....remember that you read this blog and said "he's full of it. my marrige is going to be the way i've always pictured it" can't wait for you call to tell me sorry. I know that i will do everything in my power to make WHOEVER i marry happy. but will i ever get selfish....well...hell yeah...i'm a human. and a guy. when do we get anything right the first time. but when i say "for better or worst" well, i'll mean it. "for richer or poor"...shoot...i'll mean that too. i don't expect to have everything. but what i do expect is that...whenever i get married it's going to be, maybe, the best thing in the world. aside of having my first born child, that i pray it's a boy! :-)

well, i think i am done for tonight. If i hurt your feelings....i'm sorry. if i made you sad or anything....i'm sorry. but this is just how i feel about this.
divorce is so high now. (i think so...i didn't look it up or anything) but it makes me sad for all the kids that have to deal w/ such things. hurts me really. hurts me that two people can't fix things between them so their marrige can work.

ok...now i am done...well...one more thing. this does not go out to any one i know. this is something that i've just been thinking about.

and if you haven't seen either of the movies i mentioned...go see them. and if you are a guy....if you have to watch it by yourself and late @ night so no one knows you saw it....it's worth it. Get into the movie. For one night....believe in love...

i leave you w/ this....
"Love is patient and kind. Love is not jealous or boastful or proud or rude. It does not demand its own way. It is not irritable, and keeps no record of being wrogned. It does not rejoice about injustice but rejoices whenever the truth wins out. Love never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful, and endures thourgh every cicumstance" 1 Corinthians 13: 4-7

well, some of you might ask me "do you believe in divorce?" honestly...no...i PERSONALLY don't believe in it. For some people, it might be the only thing that can be best for both of them. I will do everything in my power to fix my marrige befor it gets to divorce.

Ok...now I am done.

night

edwin <><

you'll never understand...

2006-12-29T00:53:00.000-08:00

this feeling inside

someone please turn the lights back on

oh GOD

i hate the me that i've become

all this stuff in my head....it's overwhelming....all of it

it's like bringing a knife to a gun fight

so break out the shotguns....we're going to town

it's all worth reaching for....the hand to pull you up

it's a wish full of dreams

a moment suspended in time

i'm the man on the side

a boy brushed red...living in black and white

it's the night your guardian fell asleep

Moving for the Sake of Motion

you're almost gone...and i'm ok to give you time to be afraid

pull yourself together man

Come What May

just what are you so afraid of?

you're staring truth in the face

maybe we...

why don't we....

sit right here for half an hour

return to sender

FIGHT FAIR

i hope to God you come down....i hope you feel this now

I hope to............GOD

"My Boss is a Jewish Carpenter"

2006-12-22T08:39:00.000-08:00

so last night was when i found out what that meant......

sad isn't it??

you know what else is sad...it's December 22, 2006...and it's 56 degress.

I WANT SNOW!!!

anyways...just felt like sharing that w/ you

i have stuff to do around the house

later

oh...and there was a mike portnoy snare in a magazine for $65....yeah...it's a $900 snare...they said they couldn't give it to me @ that price.....super sad!

it's cold in this room

2006-12-18T23:57:00.000-08:00

no

really

it is

well, no word on "candlefuse" yet. still waiting. so....go to myspace.com/candlefuse...add them...then tell them how much they need me! ;) just kidding. but go there and check them out! and keep praying for me

work is still work. just getting crazy as christmas gets a little closer.

talking about christmas....i am not able to go home for christmas or new years. kinda makes me sad....cause...it's my family. my brother, mikey, will be home for the Army Reserves. I am full time @ work so I can't really go take a week off on the most important season for retail.

I've been to a couple of rock shows lately. Chasing Victory was awesome. I got to go on stage and share mic duties w/ them! :D word! Deftones were amazing. and so every other band i saw. now..the band "crew" is amazing! You should def. check them out. You'll like them!

nothing really knew yet....but i'll live you w/ an awesome so for you to listen to!

"I Celebrate the Day" by Relient K

click here "http://www.filelodge.com/files/hdd2/19867/Relient%20K%20-%20I%20Celebrate%20the%20Day.mp3" to me, it's the greatest christmas song!

here are the lyrics

"With this Christmas wish is missed
The point I could convey
If only I could find the words to say to let you know
How much you've touched my life because

Here is where you're finding me
In the exact same place as New Years Eve
And from the lack of my persistency
We're less than half as close as I wanna be

And the first time that you opened your eyes
Did you realize that you would be my Savior
And the first breath that left your lips
Did you know that it would change this world forever
And the first time that you opened your eyes
Did you realize that you would be my Savior
And the first breath that left your lips
Did you know that it would change this world forever

And so this Christmas I'll compare
The things I've felt in prior years
To what this midnight made so clear
That you have come to meet me here

To look back And think that
This baby would one day save me
And the hope that
That you give
That you were born so I might really live
To look back And think that
This baby would one day save me…

And the first time that you opened your eyes
Did you realize that you would be my Savior
And the first breath that left your lips
Did you know that it would change this world forever
And the first time that you opened your eyes
Did you realize that you would be my Savior
And the first breath that left your lips
Did you know that it would change this world forever

And I
I celebrate the day
That you were born to die
So I could one day
Pray for you to save my life
Pray for you to save my life
Pray for you to save my life"

have a good night everyone....thanks for all the comments and prayers about "candlefuse" and everything. love you guys!

night

-edwin <><

the update everyone wants

2006-12-11T15:01:00.000-08:00

so......everyone has been texting and calling me about how the aduction went...and i haven't been able to get to everyone....so might as well do this

so it went really awesome. I kinda woke up late. it was funny though. CJ woke me up...and it wasn't one of those "hey...wake up" it was one of those "200 pound dude jumps on me and wakes me up"
true story

so...we left late. the drive was alright....just listened to the cd the whole way there. got there roughly around 1.

We started @ 2. I was putting my stuff together. I took my double bass drum pedal, my cymbals, and an awesome snare my buddy, ben, let me borrow. We started playing the songs they told me to learn....and it went amazingly (is that a word?) well. They asked if I wanted to play another song...and I said sure. They were surprised that I knew another song. (brownie points!) Out of the whole thing...I only messed up once.

Oh....here is something funny. When the first song was over...the bass drum moved on my, cause the spikes weren't out. I had to tell them "hold up..have to move the bass drum back to place. people tell me that I have a heavy foot" bass player said "hey...that's good for me man. I love that"

then we played a song that they have been working on....and that was fun! then we sat down for about 30 minutes and we all just started asking questions.

I was the first drummer to go...and they had one to try out that day. The other guy couldn't make it..so he is trying out sometime this week or something. I think I set a good bar for the other guys to aim for. We'll see.

Now I am just waiting on a phone call. They have to make a decision before Jan....so...we'll see how it goes.

Thanks for all the support and prayers......keep doing it. Can't do it w/out you guys!!!

alright...that's all I got for now....

later

edwin <><

a must read

2006-12-08T01:04:00.000-08:00

just wanted to let you guys know that I am auditioning for a band called "Candlefuse"

i will be driving down to alabama in the morning.

to tell you the truth.....i am highly excited and way over nervous. this is an awesome opportunity for me. These guys really tour and open up for some awesome bands. (kutless, thrid day...just to name a few)

It starts at 2. so....if you are reading this...and it is a little befor or a little after....well...i don't care what time it is....if you are reading this....pray for me! but not only for me, but for the guys making the desicions. It's me and two other drummers......

Britt is coming w/ me for some support...scott was suppose to come but it got moved to friday and he works....

i just want to see thanks for all the support and prayers...from here and back in tx.

i won't let you guys down.

i promise

take care and good night....i need rest. i've been playing drums all night....ears are hurting!

God Bless!

quick update

2006-12-04T16:06:00.000-08:00

so....this is going to be fast

my two good friends, Josh and Heather, got married

i am sick.

winters here. i have to let my car warm up for 5 minutes.

christmas is coming

i am working alot now cause of the holiday season, so sorry for not updating this.

I am going to post something on Thursday......so....keep out for that

well, that's it....see you thursday

the one thing i always wanted

2006-11-08T00:10:00.000-08:00

i watched the video update of Underoath....

yeah...I know....I need to see a doctor about it

i can't help it...i love those guys....

anyways...

it's amazing to see people fill up a club, rock venue, or field to see those guys. to see hands lifted up and clap on time....to see people jumping up and down....crowd surfing (i'm not that big of a fan of it) and the one thing that gets me everytime....

singing every word to every song.....

i want that so bad....to hear thousands of people singing lyics that I wrote or the band wrote. to know that I have influenced someone to pick up drum sticks and play.....to just start a band and be the "next big thing"

Underoath is that band that I wish I started....or just be a part of.

well....we'll see where I end up....

night

Things that God is looking down and laughing at

2006-11-07T23:56:00.000-08:00

God Bless Brittney Spears and Kevin Federline (who didn't see that coming)

God Bless Political Commercials (it's just funny)

God Bless Faith Hill (and she said it was a joke...right)

and....

God Bless Pluto (scientist declared it "not" a planet....why can't we vote on it??)

For You

2006-11-03T00:27:00.000-08:00

I heard a voice through the discord
A deluge of passersby
I saw one gaze frozen in time
Watching me passing by

I swear I'll know your face in the crowd
And I'll hear your voice so loud
When you're whispering

Hey unfaithful I will teach you
To be stronger
Hey ungraceful I will teach you
To forgive one another

Here's my kiss to betray
Desperate to brush the lips of grace
Do you feel hollow when you think of how I lied?

Oh sweet angel of mercy
With your grace like the morning
Wrap your loving arms around me
Oh sweet angel of mercy
With your grace like the morning
Wrap your loving arms around me

Hey unfaithful I will teach you
To be stronger
Hey ungraceful I will teach you
To forgive one another
Hey unfaithful I will teach you
To be stronger
Hey unloving
I will love you
And will love you

Jesus I'm ready to come home
I'm ready to come
Jesus I'm ready to come home
Unfaithful
Ungraceful
And unloving
I will love you

-Underoath

tonight was brought to my attention that this world is coming to an end.....

it's hard to look around and try to find hope in anything....hard to find peace w/ all this terror around us.

I wrote a song about a year ago called "what love is". What made me write it...(i think i blogged about this...so forgive the double blogging)...well, i was talking to my friend at work and we were talking about how computer (mostly laptops) are made just to be replaced by another one in 5 to 6 months.

Basically....they are meant to be thrown away.

and that's when it hit me...."is everything made to be thrown away?"

I want to believe that I am made for a reason.....something beyond my controll...but it's so difficult to believe that when I am told that the end is near. That our days are numbers.....make me sad...makes me upset...makes me scared.

but the bible tells me that I am to be comforted by these whispers of war....whispers of Jesus coming back.

Is it because I have lost friends that I could be reaching out to? Is it because I am living this life selfishly?

or is it because I know that He is coming back? because these are my final days....

but I should be happy that I will be taken to a better place. I place where I will be walking streets of GOLD! Where I will meet my heavenly father face to face. I will be able to pet a lion.....

I hope that I am pleasing God w/ everyting I do. I hope that my mustard seed faith is enough.....well, i know it is...cause He said that's all I need to move a mountain...."faith like a child" like a song once said

but all you have to do is walk outside and hear the world crying....or you can just turn it on to CNN or FOX NEWS or some major news station and see it...

seems that we are just worried about ourselves. that we want to surround ourselves w/ things that will drive the world away. like a big house, a fast car....kinda funny that all of that can be taken away so fast and easily.

i don't know.....maybe this is my just thinking after midnight...but...honestly...

what are you living for? yourself?

or are you maybe making a difference in other people lives?

don't waste this life....this one life that you have to live....go make someones day.....go make someone feel loved....give a homeless person some change.....give some a hug and a kiss on the cheek....help build a house for someone in need.....call someone.....give some one thanks or even praise....

but don't do this so one day it all can be done to you.....we sometime take love or friendliness as a game of tug-o-war. You don't do something for someone for the hope of getting something equally back. You do it out of the act of love....kindness....your reward is something much greater.

i'm sorry...i'll stop...just one more thing....

"Go make a life......not a living...." - Jason Mraz

happy (late) halloween

2006-11-01T21:43:00.000-08:00

well, everything's going well

holidays are coming...and you know what that means.....it's going to get crazy at best buy. we are talking about at the most 55 hours a week. that's cool w/ me cause of the good ole overtime! but sucks...cause i can't go home for christmas or thanksgiving. I'm going to miss my family this winter!

So, some buddies and me were having lunch about a couple of months ago, and "relationships" was brought up. We started talking about what we see in the opposite sex. Things were said from hair, eyes, lips, body.....and such and such. and then me and my other buddy (not using names) were at best buy and we were checking out...and to make this a short story....i was taking out my debit card out and then he took out his debit card and threw my card down on his just to be funny...and he said "i bet i have more money than you!".....and then i said "that's cool...at least i have a girlfriend". and sometime down the convo i said that money doesn't matter...and he was like..."yeah it does"

and i thought to myself....."does money really matter that much to a girl?"

in my head i was telling myself that it doesn't...but in this kinda city (franklin, TN) that matters alot to girls. even to guys. (more of a competition for the guys) Is it cause most of these parents pamper their daughters? no...i don't think so. i just think that some stay in that pampered mode and never get out of it. so they look for a guy who can do the same as their "daddy" did for them. kinda sucks.

don't get me wronge....there are girls that dads did that for them cause they love their little girl, but the girl grows up. and she understand that this world is not going to just give them everything in a silver platter. they just don't relay on their "good looks" to get by in this world. shame really.

and why does it seems that it's a competition between the guys? like...we have to have something better than the other dude...better car....cell phone.....cool little toys....tv....stereo systems....even the clothes we wear. sad isn't it. i'm glad that it's not like that w/ my close buds. we might joke around w/ it...but never really trying to bring anyone down.

what happened to the guys trying to open the doors for a girl? or even pulling out a chair for them when they sit down?

what happened when for a girl, all that mattered was how the guy made them feel? like they are amazing or, now a days, sending a text telling them that they miss them or are thinking about them? or flowers?

i really don't have a standard when it comes to a girl. well, i take that back....i do have some.

to me...a girl needs to have a sense a humor. an up-beat personality. out going.

i mean...there are things that catch my eyes....like...blue eyes...long hair....blonde....and just incase you are reading this....and you meet all these things......call me!!! lol

but, honestly, all that matters to me....if she loves me for who i am....not for what i'll become. cause i know that i am not going to change who i am....but i also know that i might not have a million dollars...or have fancy things...or even a big house....but....

i do know how to love someone

and that's what i am going to do

i'll give 150%

so.....that was my rant....i'm done

and i am going to the gym now. going to tone up a bit...and going to lose this gut that i have.

can't wait to go home for my buddies wedding. I'm the best man....and i have to give a speech...haven't wrote it yet....and i have to throw a party too!! i need to start planning stuff

anyways....later folks

PS
i met the singer of paramore last night...she's a cuttie

"i know she had brown eyes...."

2006-10-23T23:10:00.000-07:00

start taking notes

2006-10-10T01:10:00.000-07:00

for real....all you guys and girls....take notes!!!!!!

here is the picture.....

you walk your date up to the car....you open the door for her..then you close the door. then you go around to your driver side and you already pressed the unlock key or you might have to put the key in and turn...which ever you have....open the door and then close it and then start the car....right?

WRONG!!!!!!

you didn't open the door........

cause when you were walking around to the driver side....she reached out...from the passenger side....and opened the door for you!!!!!!!!!!

AMAZING!!!!!

never has that happened.....ever never ever!!!!!!

i stood there just blown away by it. she asked "what's wrong?" i looked at the door...and then back at her and asked "did you just...? for real...did you just open that from the inside?" there was a little laugh and she said "yes"

So......hope you wrote that one down!

Must of you know already...or might not know...that i am dating.

her name is brittany work. she's a grad student at belmont. she's awesome....that's all i can say....not really...i just don't have time...it's getting late.

but here is some info for you guys...

1) i've been to two concerts...and they were pretty much amazing. one was w/ paramore and family force 5! let me just tell you that FF5 puts one heck of a show. i couldn't stop singing and dancing....if you have a chance to see them...do it!!!! the second show was w/ Norma Jean and between the buried and me.....let's just say...it was a metal show...i love it!

2) i am working my butt off at work and enjoying it. it's been a while since i have had any fun

3) i went home to see family and friends.....and my brother, mikey, graduate from the army reserves. he looks good...gave me the itch to join. miss that kinda stuff...dont know why

4) FLiNT is no longer a band.....details to come later

5) I am the best man at my best friends wedding next month...can't wait...it's going to be good times!

and

6) i am dating Brittany Work......more to come on that too.....oh...and all my friends approve so far....that's always good. even all my guy friends from work and church were blown away by the door thing....scott approved right when i told him that story....ha!

well, that's it for me...I am out!

have a good night and God Bless!

it's past midnight....so...have fun

2006-09-24T01:33:00.000-07:00

tonight was one of those nights where i talked alot to some of my friends....and of course, it was past midnight.

i find myself very easy going and easly out spoken whenever it's past midnight....why? i don't know..my it's because I don't care anymore or maybe it's just...well, crazy stuff happenes after midnight....

we started talking about "past" things...like...for example:

high school, relationships, regrets, drama

and then we talked about "future" things...for example:

jobs, getting married, kids

well, overall....we talked about "Life"

We have alot of choices to make in our life. We've all made bad ones, and we've all made good ones. And I promise, we'll makes bad and good ones all the time.

But what are you going to do in those moments? Sit there and cry about it? You going to always rejoice in that one good thing you did? Some of us stay stuck on past victories and past regrets, sometimes so much that we don't look ahead or even turn around. We miss out on everything else life is made of.

"Go make a life....not a living" - Jason Mraz

I love that saying....cause it's true.

We get stuck in the american way of living. Big House, white fence, 2 1/2 kids (or whatever it is) and whatever else goes w/ that. We are all trying to be like everyone else. We are all trying to make as much money as possible. Have the fast cool cars. The expensive new trend. Don't get me wrong...I want all of that too. But I am not striving for that. You know what I told my friend tonight.......

I told her that I am built for two things (in no order)
1) be a drummer.
I will always play drums. If it's touring w/ a band, playing at churh, or just playing w/ local acts....I will, no matter what, always be a drummer!
i was told tonight that "you can't think edwin w/out drums....it's who you are!" i thought that was awesome!!!

2) be the best father/husband to my kids/wife
I've learned what it will take to be those two things. I know that I will try my hardest to be that.
i want enough out of life, so whenever my times comes to go...i will be happy w/ the life i have lived.

back to my point though.....

Some are different. Some help other people whenever they are in need. Some are selfness....and that is the kind of person i want to be as well. i want to be "that guy"......

sorry for the jibble jabble...but...like i said...it's past midnight

well, i am out. i have to drive to TN

i've had fun here in TX seeing some friends and hanging out w/ the family. and it was good seeing my brother, mikey, as well. He graduated from the Army Reserves....happy for him. i'll have pics up soon from the trip...

well, take care and God Bless

tell me what you think about this post...i never ask for that...but for this one...i would like to know....your call!

night
<><

Well, what you wanna hear gurl? Shake like an Earthquake?

2006-09-17T00:45:00.000-07:00

well, tonight was awesome!!!! saw my friend, LoriE!!!! it was freaking awesome!!!! we just talked and sat in the good ole' wet grass....laughed about all the crazy stuff we use to do back in the day....

gave her the biggest "edwin hug"...well, kinda.....i didn't want to kill her.
but it was a good end to a long day....i thought about alot of stuff. i'm glad she called though....needed to chill and relax
can't wait to hang out more

anyways.....

i get to go home next week. going to texas for a day or two, but i am going to see my brother, mikey, graduate from the Army Reserves. i am proud of him....miss him too...well, miss my whole family...well, miss them and all my friends...and my dog. can't wait to see him. he goes crazy ever time i come home.....he's so big now that he knocks me down.

sorry for not commenting back to all of you....and for not emailing you back (susie) but, like i said, i promise to comment and email everyone whenever i get the internet.....

well, goodnight everyone...God Bless and take care!

thank you, God, for tonight.....it was awesome!

sorry

2006-08-31T22:41:00.000-07:00

just wanted to say sorry for not replying to everyeones comments...i have been really busy and i just moved to a new apartment...so i don't have internet. going to get it soon.
so, once again, i am sorry...once i get internet...i'll reply to everyone.
mean while...keep commenting! : )
later

"when you want to say "yes" in french...you say "weewee""

2006-08-19T14:13:00.000-07:00

"oh...you got to be yanking me?!?!?! so what do you say for "no"? "dodo"? HAHA Hey, i'll be right back...i have to take a wicked "yes"!"

lol

ah...God Bless Family Guy

this is going to be short

i got a full time spot at best buy...and a nice raise...

when i have more time i'll tell you the story...and fill you up on florida and other stuff....anyways....take care

the "full of links" blog

2006-08-11T01:29:00.000-07:00

well, last night was the FLiNT show at "The End".

We had an awesome turn out. My friends from work (Best Buy) came out and some friends from Belmont came as well. It was great to see them come out and support us.

Thanks to Kristin we got some cool pics.

It was great to play live again. I missed it so much. yeah...i like to practice...but there is nothing like playing in front of people! There's nothing like it...can't wait it's in front of 100s...maybe 1000s of people.

If you want to see the pics...go here -------> FLiNT PICS (it's under PHOTOS)

~~~~~~~

Things are changing around here. Some for the good...some for the bad. I just have to learn how to deal w/ them.

~~~~~~~

My friend, LoriE, is coming to Nashville in about 2 weeks. Man, I can't wait to see her. She is from good ole Canada!!!

~~~~~~~

So, i started listening to "Family Force 5". Easily becoming one of my fav. bands. Good driving Music! Check them out!

~~~~~~~

Happy B-day, Mom!

I love you!

~~~~~~~

I am going to be away from Nashville for a while. Going to Destin, Florida w/ the Rowlands! I am leaving tomorrow (today) night and i will be back Weds. afternoon/night-ish. Then it's back to the ole drawing board. Have to start practicing w/ Brett McLaughlin for "Welcome Week" for Belmont!

~~~~~~~

This song reminds me of you.

"Vindicated" by Dashboard Confessionals

~~~~~~~

Night

(pics didn't work here. sorry. Go to the other link)

"that's the coolest way to start a story..."

2006-08-06T22:35:00.000-07:00

that's what she said when we were just sitting there

she also said, "she can't date musicians."

i asked, "why?"

"cause they already have a girlfriend."

"what?!?"

yeah...."what" is what i said. i don't remember much of her answer; i know it had to do something w/ "too much practicing. and the shows and the rest of the stuff that comes w/ being a musician", but all i know is that it was really hard to concentrate after all that was said.

i was just blown away. i just didn't know what to think. i was asking myself "is she right?" is it wrong to be passionate about something like that?"

yes..i love what I do. if i didn't...it would feel like a job. i love to play drums...i can't see myself doing anything else. i mean...i moved up here to play. i dropped everything to come up here..and when i say "everything"...well...i wasn't bs-ing.

you know what...here's my answer why musicians love what they do. Read this "Beautiful"

and being passionate...well...

"The fame will come and go but the music, the passion, will always be here"...

On a different note.....

i said "that i am just trying to be nice"

she said "yeah...and nice guys finish last"

WHAT THE HELL?!?!?! once again...blown away. should i be just like "every other guy"? i can easily be one of those guys that want one thing and one thing only. i can easily be one of those guys that look at woman as objects!! i can easily be one of them. but i choose not to. i choose to be one of the few...rather than one of the many.

but what am i talking about?...none of this matters...we've erased the line between black and white.

i felt like this a couple of weeks ago ----> HERE (thanks susie for letting me use your words)

though a couple of nights ago i just sat here looking at this blank screen for 30 minutes

and...

tonight makes it the second time...

should i put down everything i feel? this is funny...that I am writting all of this on this thing...to you. "you" who might not even know me...but ran across this page and maybe felt the same way one way or another....or still feel it. "you" who do know me, but only from the surface...not knowing what is going on inside me. "you" who do know me...and know me very well.....

I just want to hear "well done, my good and faithfull son"

by the way it's 3:11 in the morning

[Untitled]

2006-08-01T21:26:00.000-07:00

i decided to play this part in the play...i just don't know the lines

What are we doing?

2006-07-26T17:30:00.000-07:00

yet another blog from Tim from Underoath....

"So we've been on warped for almost a month now and every show has been insanely amazing. I can't believe the response we've been getting every day. Thanks to all of you dudes and gals that have made it the best summer ever. My life has been up and down like crazy lately. I'm in the middle of a book called "Revolution", written by a guy who owns a statistical analysis firm, and he is writing a book on statistics based on the average church going christian and how they apply to our culture and what we need to change in the church as well as our personal lives as christians to truly experience a life changing encounter with Christ, and not just go through the motions week in and week out. He also predicts how or culture is going to change in the next 10-20 years so the church can learn how to approach certain issues. It's extremely interesting and thought provoking to say the least wether you are for or against organized religion. I would encourage you guys to pick a copy up and decide for yourselves how it hits you. I have also found myself adopting some extremely leftist opinions and have been put in a lot of situations in which I get a chance to share what God's been doing in my life. We're on tour with a lot of Leftist/Activist bands who assume that we hate homosexuals, feel that woman shouldn't have equal rights, and support this war of ours on every level, and it has been a very interesting and amazing opportunity to hoefuly break down a lot of walls and understand that we are all going for the same goal, regardless of our religous or sexual preference. I wish I could say the same for the "church" of today, but sadly I can't. My point is if we stopped worrying about blue states and red states, and we stopped 'Rocking Against Bush' and started 'Rocking Against poverty' or for equality we would have a lot more allies and those blue and red lines would blur. It's almost impossible to see Christians, Leftists, Feminists and all other types of people uniting to fight major problems in our world, but for some reason it seems achievable. Fat Mike from NOFX said to me the other day,"If you guys would stop talking about Jesus and start talking about a real issue that people can latch onto and get behind, you might find that more people will get behind you and less people would feel secluded from your little group." There's a lot of wisdom in his words, and although I will never stop talking to people about Jesus, I will challenge those of us who claim to be christians to be them. Figure out something in your heart that you are passionate about changing and go change it. Dont worry if you're standing next to a homosexual, or a hardline feminist....don't ever forsake or water down your faith, but don't allow it to cause division among groups of our fellow humans trying to do some serious good in this world. There's always going to be ignorant christians and equally as many ignorant leftists, but those few of us on either side that see through the social walls we'e built will recognize we're all the same, or similar enough to make a stance against major world issues as one body and not a divided and misunderstood underground. I've let stuupid social road blocks stop me from a lotin my life and it's time to start changing things. I love each and every person who is readng this rigght now, regardless of what you get up for each morning. I hope this blesses you in one capacity or another. Be blessed my friends. Timmy"

our homeless have 20/20 vision

2006-07-26T16:31:00.000-07:00

blog from Tim of Underoath....

"So last September we were on tour with The Used in Canada, and spent a day in a small western town called Kelowna. There I met a homeless man who looked like Tom hanks from Cast Away. He said God told him to sell all that he had and move to Kelowna and live on the streets. We spent a good portion of the day together and I heard some of the most profound things come out of his mouth. I often wonder how those "dirty" people we seem to pass on the street ,and pretend don't exist, can have a far superior grasp on life and how God is wanting to integrate himself into every aspect of human life....they have no distractions! Here I am consumed by motion pictures, strip malls, and social status...and this man with nothing but a backpack to his name is teaching me the very bare bones basics to life and why we were created. In a world clouded by society and it's predispositions, a man with no distractions or goals to climb the ladders of success can truly focus all his time and energy on allowing God to renew his mind and rewire his heart. We had a day off last week in Kelowna as well and as I was driving my scooter around town, I passed Castaway on the street again. I pulled over and said hello and he remembered me from last year. I asked him how life had been and he said to me..."God has shown me that the time of believing in something we can not see is over. That is a childlike mentality, and we must mature past this spiritually. We must KNOW that God exists, and not just hope he does. The time has come for us to allow God to manifest himself in our lives in a way in which we have no choice but to know he exists. To believe in something we hope for is childish, to not believe at all in ignorance, but to believe in something we know is perfect. The root to perfect is FACT! We must know God factually exists in our lives to truly see what he is capable of doing." Although I believe there is some biblical truth to having the "faith of a child", I believe there is something to be learned by what Castaway had to say. The time for hoping and wishing is over...today is a day of knowing and doing. Wishing and hoping doesn't change anything...but an action spawned from an undeniable truth revealed to us by God himself is as effective as any weapon on earth. We must KNOW and we must put what we know into action. "Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says"...James 1:22. I also have had the opportunity to see a very enlightening and inspiring film this tour called "The Inconvenient Truth". It is a film mainly rooted in the science of global warming and the effect it is having on us now, as well as what to expect for the generations to come if we don't change something. I would encourage everyone to go see the film and decided for yourself what your part in helping solve this world wide crisis may be. You can also log onto www.climatecrisis.com to get more info as well as a lot of tips to altar our lifestyles in very practical ways, in order to preserve what we have left of our earth for our children and their children. I hope you have all been good out there friends. I also just found out that our friends MewithoutYou will be joining us on Warped Tour for the next two weeks, so it will continue to be an inspiring couple of weeks. Until next time friends...be blessed. Timmy"

hope you got something out of it

I hope to God.......

2006-07-16T23:37:00.000-07:00

Chew on this....

Job 1
Prologue
1 There was a man named Job who lived in the land of Uz. He was blameless, a man of complete integrity. He feared God and stayed away from evil. 2 He had seven sons and three daughters. 3 He owned seven thousand sheep, three thousand camels, five hundred teams of oxen, and five hundred female donkeys, and he employed many servants. He was, in fact, the richest person in that entire area........

Jobs First Test
6 One day the angels came to present themselves before the LORD, and Satan the Accuser came with them. 7 "Where have you come from?" the LORD asked Satan.
And Satan answered the LORD, "I have been going back and forth across the earth, watching everything that's going on."

8 Then the LORD asked Satan, "Have you noticed my servant Job? He is the finest man in all the earth--a man of complete integrity. He fears God and will have nothing to do with evil."

9 Satan replied to the LORD, "Yes, Job fears God, but not without good reason! 10 You have always protected him and his home and his property from harm. You have made him prosperous in everything he does. Look how rich he is! 11 But take away everything he has, and he will surely curse you to your face!"

12 "All right, you may test him," the LORD said to Satan. "Do whatever you want with everything he possesses, but don't harm him physically." So Satan left the LORD's presence.....

Here is something that you might not see.....

First thing that you see is that Job had riches. LOTS OF RICHES!!!! He was the riches man in the area. But he was blameless, and a man of integrity. These are the words from the bible..and the word is God. So....Job, in the eyes of God, was blameless and a man of integrity.

But here comes the best part.....

You can see that satan was before God. God and satan are face to face and carrying a conversation!!! God asked him "what are you doing?" It goes to say that satan was roaming around the earth; just watching what's going on.

God asked satan if hes seen his servent, Job. God is bragging to satan about Job. How he is upright and has nothing to do w/ evil. Satan then tells God, reason for that is because You protect him. Blesses him w/ riches. That He has made Job prosperous in everything he does.

Then satan has the balls to test God; telling Him that if everything was taken away from Job; that Job will CURSE You to Your face!

God said, "ok...do whatever you want to him. touch his family. his riches. but you cannot lay a hand on him."

What I got out of this....

Satan had to persent himself to God. Satan is accountable to God.

But what's crazy....what blows my mind away...

God has to give satan permission to mess w/ us. Satan cannot do anything w/out Gods permission. But not only that....but God sets the limits for satan.

To me, that tells me that everything happens for a reason. To me, I think God was testing Job, like He tests all of us, for a deeper understanding of our relationship w/ Him. He doesn't allow trials to see if we will fail; He allows trials to strengthen our faith. To hope that, no matter what, that we are still willing to lean on God to be our strength. If you keep reading Job, you'll see that satans takes everything away from Job. Even messes w/ his health. at first he doesn't give in. He still praises God. He didn't sin.

I haven't read any futher..cause I was just amazed by what I read. I know that down the road Job sinned...but I know there is a reason for why he did.....

THERE IS ALWAYS A REASON THINGS HAPPEN THE WAY THEY DO.....JUST HAVE ENOUGH FAITH THAT GOD WILL GET YOU THROUGH IT. THAT HIS PLAN FOR US IS BETTER THAN THE PLAN WE HAVE FOR OURSELF!

"I hope to God you come down...I hope to God you can feel this now"

<><

To Whom it May Concern

2006-07-13T23:01:00.000-07:00

So hold your head up high and know it's not the end of the road
Walk down this beaten path before you pack your things and head home
At the end of the road you'll find what you've been longing for

I know cause my feet have the scars to show
I was lost with vague direction and no place to call home

It's time fo you to press on
This is not your war
Set your sights to North and press on
This is not your escape
Wash away what they thought of you
Because in this place, we all as good as dead
..end cycle..

Behind the mask you'll find yourself alone
It's not the end of the road for you

Super Man, recording, and a really loud ring in my ear

2006-07-08T00:49:00.000-07:00

it's about 3 in the morning and I, once again, finished recording. good times good times.

I got to use my new baby, tama iron cobra, and, boy...let me tell you....it adds alot to your playing!!!! the tracks sounds amazing!

I have this crazy pounding in my left ear....like...crazy pounding!!! I had practice after work and I, the master at forgetting things, left my earplugs at home. so, yes, I am hurting.

last week I watched super man returns and man, was it alot better than I thought. I thought it was going to be "ok", but it was awesome! the cinematography was amazing! people were crying behind me! everyone that went w/ me loved it as well. I recommend seeing it. everybody so far that I told to go see, has, and they thanked me! word to your mother

but...let me tell you, I saw the preview for spider man 3....OH MY HOLY COW AND SNICKERS!!!! THAT MOVIE IS GOING TO OWN ALL SUPER HERO MOVIES (x-men 3 is still my #1!)

so...if you didn't like super man...well, you either, a) don't know the history of superman b)didn't watch the last 4 before you saw the new one or c) you were kept in a closet whenever you were little.

well, I have to work at 830, so that means I have to get up at 715 to get ready and all that jazz!

night everyone

<><

Finally have internet

2006-07-06T10:21:00.000-07:00

that's right...I have internet now! whoop!

well, alot of awesome stuff has been happening. Here are just some of them...

3 days ago, Stellar Karts drummer, Jordan, came over and him and I just jamed from 7 to 1030. It was great! He brought his drum-set over...and just incase you wanted to know...he plays on "Truth"!! I love their drums! one of the pics is me sitting on his drum sit! so yeah, stellar karts drummer was at my house..word!!! Check them out. They are on tour right now in the west coast. New cd comes out at the end of this month. Heard some of the songs...going to be pretty saweet!

ah..I already talked about warped tour, so here are some pics.....

i talked about recording at the dark horse recording studio too...so here are some pics. songs came out great. i just have rough mixes. Can't wait till I get the real ones..i'll put a song up on this thing soon....but for now....ejoy the pics

well, that's it for now.

oh wait...no it's not

I got a new bass drum pedal. My old one was giving in so I got my dream pedal..

TAMA IRON COBRA DOUBLE BASS PEDAL!!!

I feel like a new drummer!

ok...I learned how to do my own oil change....so that is what I have to do and then some more stuff today! peace!

<><

oh, the joys of recording

2006-06-30T17:44:00.000-07:00

yo! just wanted to let some of you know, I am in one of the top (or the) recording studios in Nashville, TN!

www.darkhorserecording.com

it's amazing! like....it's amazing!

last night we did 5 songs.....from 6 to 2 in the morning. Didn't go to bed till 3, and then I had work from 645 to 2.

oh...by the way...I never heard any of the songs too. I was called the night befor...so we practiced and recorded the same night.....fun!

I am back in the studio tonight and we are doing vox and guitars.

I am glad they called me to do this. I am blessed to play w/ them!

I will post some pics up later....but go to the website and check the really nice pics. and check out all the people that recorded here too...I was blow away whenever I looked at that list. alot of artist that I listened to whenever I was growing up recorded here...and some new artist too that I listen to (like relient k :D )

i'll have some rough mixes tonight whenever I leave this hot place!

oh...going to see Superman tonight. I am not the greatest fan of Superman, but I heard it was an awesome movie. Maybe it's going to be IMAX :D oh...X-Men 3 is off the shiz nit. (is that how you spell it?) I saw it 3 times, that's how good it is. go see it

saw "cars" too. funny movie

i need an oil change.

love you guys

<><

oh....one more thing

2006-06-23T23:02:00.000-07:00

saw as cities burn too.....

and they are breaking up

:( <---------- sad face

warped tour, underoath...and more underoath

2006-06-23T22:58:00.000-07:00

well, kristin took me to warped tour...amazing.

saw emery. thursday. paramor (spelling) the pink spiders (sucked) plain white tee's (good)

and

UNDEROATH!!!!!!!!!!! (they owned)

sorry that this stuff isn't interesting anymore...but hey....big stuff is starting to happen. just keep praying

love you guys

1 2 3 4...I declare a thump war

2006-06-12T16:50:00.000-07:00

well, as you guys know...I am a huge....HUGE Underoath fan!!!

like...I am addicted!

why? I really don't know

but I'll explain later...don't have that much time.

watched their new video online about 5 times!!! new cd comes out in a week...AND...I am going to see them for the second time at warp tour!

GOD BLESS AMERICA!!!! lol

if you want to watch their video (which is off the chain) go to here and enjoy!

off to practice

oh....we have a show coming up in about two weeks in NC! wish us luck. and I am playing w/ Jesse at a summer camp too! busy like crazy!

love

<><

i little bit of everything

2006-06-03T21:04:00.000-07:00

hey.

sorry that it's been a while since I have posted anything on here.

but here is everything I have done so far

went to texas twice and loved it. so all my awesome friends. the second time I brought a friend from TN. That was fun. So kevin jones play. that fool is amazing! amazed everytime I see him.

moved to a new house. it's awesome. there is about 40 to 50,000 worth of recording stuff in the basement. I get to wake up and eat and brush my teeth and go right to work! love it!

became a memeber of my church. love it. can't wait to start playing drums. been playing bass for the youth....yeah..i know....me? bass? hey....it's fun.

but the one thing that is awesome would be the underoath concert that I went to this past Monday!!! IT WAS OFF THE CHAIN!!!!! brought my brother, Jon, and his g/f, Anne, and they both had an awesome time. we got here sunday and they left thursday. so....it was fun to have them around.

well, that's about it.

once I get my computer w/ internet i promise to do more of these.

oh...one more thing...someone stole my digital camera at the concert. I got pics w/ Spencer and Aaron and Tim before the concert and it was great. :( it's sad cause it was awesome to talk to them for a while

well, I am done. Love you guys.

God Bless!

<><

God is Love

2006-05-19T01:09:00.000-07:00

1 Corinthians 13:1-7
Love is the Greatest

If I could speak all the languages of earth and of angels, but didn't love others, I would only be a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal. If I had the gift of prophecy, and if I understood all of God's secret plans and possessed all knowledge, and if I had such faith that I could move mountains, but didn't love others, I would be nothing. If I gave everything I have to the poor and even sacrificed my body, I could boast about it, but if I didn't love others, I would have gained nothing

Love is patient and kind. Love is not jealous or boastful or proud or rude. It does not demand its own way. It is not irritable, and it keeps no record of being wronged. It does not rejoice about injustice but rejoices whenever the truth wins out. Love never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful, and endures through every circumstance.

1 John 3:18-20
Dear children, let's not merely say that we love each other; let us show the truth by our actions. Our actions will show that we belong to the truth, so we will be confident when we stand before God. Even if we feel guilty, God is greater than our feelings, and He knows everything.

1 John 4:7-10
Dear friends, let us continue to love one another, for love comes from God. Anyone who loves is a child of God and knows God. But anyone wo does not love does not know God, for God is LOVE. God showed hou much He loved us by sending His one and only Son into the world so that we might have eternal life through Him. This is real love - not that we loved God, but that He loved us and send His Son as a sacrifice to take away our sins.

1 John 4:16-18
We know how much God loves us, and we have put out trust in His love. God is LOVE, and all who live in love live in God, and God lives in them. And as we live in God, our loev grows more perfect. So we will not be afraid on the day of judgment, but we can face Him w/ confidence because we live like Jesus here in this world. Such love has no fear, because perfect love expels all fear.

1 John 4:20-21
If somone says, "I love God", but hates a Christian brother or sister, that person is a liar; for if we don't love people we can see, how can we love God, whom we cannot see? And He has given us this command; Those who love God must also love their Christian brothers and sisters.

Luke 6:32-36
Love for Enemies

If you love only those who love you, why should you get credit for that? Even sinners love those who love them. And if you do good only to those who do good to you, why should you get credit? Even sinners do that much! And if you lend money only to those who can repay you, why should you get credit? Even sinners will lend to others sinners for a full return. Love your enemies! Do go to them. Lend to them w/out expecting to be repaid. Then your reward from heaven will be very great, and you will truly be acting as children of the Most High, for He is kind to those who are unthankful and wicked. You must be compassionate, just as your Father is compassionate.

<><

May 6th, 2006

2006-05-08T23:22:00.000-07:00

so our first show was awesome. thanks for all who came, and also to those who wished us luck!!!

my friend did bring her camcorder!

I am working on the dvd right now. just trying to see what kind of effects I can use to make this dvd cooler!

Some of you have asked for some, and you guys will get them, just give me some time to see what I can do. also, you don't have to pay for them. Whatever you are felt to give to "Slow to Speak"...go right ahead.

We didn't get to play all our songs. They started kind of late so we had to take off 2 songs. So it's only 5 songs.

The audio sounds really good for just being recorded by a some "odd year old" camcorder. there are some spots where you can't hear the bass or the other guitar player. but everything is fine.

on the other hand....

I am in another band called "Flint" (switchfoot...kind of punk/rock-ish) We took some photos tonight in downtown nashville. it was fun. never taken band photos befor. but they turned out really well. what do you think?

Please pray for "slow to speak" we made some changes w/ the band and it was hard for us to make a big step like this. I will tell you soon, but right now just pray for us. for the band. we aren't breaking up or anything...so it's all good.

well, still working on this dvd. going to be up for a while.

love you guys

God Bless

<><

ps
must of the pics will be on my "My Minds Eye" link under phots...check them all out there

Global Night Commute

2006-05-01T23:42:00.000-07:00

April 29th, 2006

I don't know if you guys ever watched the "Invisible Children" dvd, but I dare you to buy it, and if you are not moved, motivated, touched, mad, hurt, sad; I will refund your money!

I am not going to go into depth about this but I do want to tell you about it

"The Invisible Children" are kids, from 5 to 11, being kidnapped and FORCED to join an army that tells them to kill their families, and fight a war that they want nothing to do w/

FACT!
NORTHERN UGANDA CALLED THE WORST HUMANITARIAN CRISIS IN THE WORLD TODAY BECAUSE OF THE LACK OF ATTENTION1.6 MILLION PEOPLE FORCIBLY DISPLACEDAN ESTIMATED 20- 50,000 CHILDREN ABDUCTED TO FIGHT AS SOLDIERSTENS OF THOUSANDS OF CHILDREN COMMUTING NIGHTLY130 PEOPLE DIE PER DAY IN NORTHERN UGANDA DUE TO VIOLENCE

On April 29th, I joined 2500+ (in franklin, TN alone) at target and walked 3.5 miles to Peoples church. It was raining, I worked that morning and that night before. I was carrying a duffle bag that was stuffed w/ our sleeping bags and blankets. I wanted to sleep in my house, where I knew it was going to be nice. where I have a roof over my head and hearing the rain drops make a melodie by my window.

but I chose to walk 3.5 miles that night.
THEY walk 5 to 7 miles every night

I slept on the wet grass but the rest of the week I will be in a bed.
THEY sleep on the floor every night crowded w/ other children

I ate 3 meals that day
THEY barely eat one meal a day

I am 21 years old
THEY are kids from 5 to 11 years old

"THEY" are the invisible children. "THEY" are why I, for one night, walked their footsteps.

why do they commute every night in another town?
cause they are being kidnapped to join a war, an army, A WAY OF LIFE they do not want to live. they are forced to kill their families so they have nothing to return. they are tortured. beaten. killed.

these kids...they want to be teachers. doctors. rappers. lawyers. but they have to hide. walk. run.

and sometimes we think we have it bad.

so why did I do all that?

I did it so that the invisible children could be seen. heard. remembered.

they are way I am going to africa next year. matt, magen, jamie, and I feel that God has called us to go. and I know when He says to go....well, you better listen. amazing things happen when you do. I can't wait.

So, are you going to go see them? visit the website. donate. buy a dvd/bracelet. read about it.

i dare you

<><

oh...one more thing

2006-04-19T23:30:00.000-07:00

about the whole dvd thing...if it's good quality...i'll send it to them....sorry...I am asleep

Once upon a time....

2006-04-19T22:11:00.000-07:00

hey guys. sorry that it has been a long time since I have bloged. Been pretty busy.

So let me lay it down for you....

I have two jobs now. Mornings I work at Best Buy and evenings at Towne Park. (Parking cars at Doulbe Tree Hotel) Been dring some really nice cars. Jags, Benz, really $$$ cars. Had one boo boo w/ a blue jeep. but it's all good...still have my job. Tell you the story some other time. whenever I am not sleepy

I am going to an awesome church called "Fathers House" it's amazing. friendly. loving. giving. first time I walked through the doors, I got a big hug. Going to the college/younge adutls study group on tuesday nights. the speaker, Darren, is smart/detailed/funny Godly man. (Darrens also the tour manager of Kutless/Stellar Kart/Racheal Lamba) the pastor of the church and I have talked and I am going to be playing drums for the youth and sunday morning servies. they have some talented people there. for example. Petras piano player plays at the church. the bass player of amy grant/and some other contemporay artest plays there. and one of the members of 4Him goes there. I have met all except the Piano player. I am bad w/ names...sorry. The youth/college students are great group. every night I get called from everyone and we just talk and pray about stuff. I try to hang out w/ them whenever I am not working. these guys are a blessing. God has perfect timing

and talking about timing.

Slow to Speak has a show on May 6th. It's going to be awesome. we are playing "Hope Jamz" Festival. It's going to rock. an up date for STS. tonight we just had a bass player come in and laid down the tracks for our EP. the songs sound so much fuller and complete. we are going to have a photo shoot coming up soon as well. then a press kit. word! going to playing alot this summer. Please keep us in your prayers. I want God to get a hold of this and take it where He wants us to go.

My b-day is coming up the 22nd of this month. going to be 21. crazy. I work morning and night that day. but going to go out sometime the next week. going home to lufin in may. then an underoath concert. it's going to rock. cant wait till their new cd comes out. it's going to own.

well, I hope that everything is going well w/ everyone. God Bless!

<><>edwinrivera3@hotmail.com) / call me. i'll do it for free. but here is a cool deal. you get a friend to get the dvd/cd ($10), I'll send you $5. so, just contact me and I'll hook all of you up!

PSS
sorry for the spelling. i blame it on the time. it's past midnight...crazy things happen at this hour

the night that rocked my socks off!!!!

2006-03-24T10:44:00.000-08:00

ok...for starters, i am not, in any form or fashion, boasting here. I am just very excited about what happened last night!!!

ok..here we go!!

last night was the show w/ jon. it turned out really good. about 40 to 50 people showed up.

the last song was my fav. for me. cool little acoustic rock song. At the end of the song, we all got solos. and then we ended it pretty big.

so, whenever we finished, I always like to tell the band "good job" and all that jazz. so, I see this oldish kinda man go to each member of the band saying "good job" and all that jazz :P, I was the last one he came too. He said that he loved my attitued and to never change it. that he enjoyed watching me play..and all that jazz! (man I love that pharse) I told him thanks.

AND GET THIS!!!

My friend, Patrick, (the next john mayer) came up and told me that he loved my solo and asked me if I know who that was. I was like "nope". He was like, "dude, that was the president of Belmont, President Fisher! " I FREAKED!!!!! I was like "WHAT?!?!" and then patrick told me that he was talking about me the whole entire time. I was like "No way!" and Tim was like "for reals man...that was him" Patrick told me to go tell him that I didn't go to school and that I am interested. I didn't know what to do.

SO....

I was making my way to the back where he was talking to the sound people. I told him that I am sorry that I didn't know who he was. he said that it didn't matter right now cause you were amazing! the sound guy was like "he's right man....awesome job play and on the solo" so...I told President Fisher that I didn't go to school and that I was really interested in going to belmont. he asked me if I was going to school, and I told him that I was going to Texas A&M, but I moved here to play drums.

NOW TRY THIS ON FOR SIZE!!!!!!!

so he get's his wallet!!!! and pulls out his card!!!!! and gives it to me!!!! and tells me that whenever you started applieing to give his office a call and to see what he can do, cause i have connections. I was like "no freaking duh!!!! you are the president!" :D "Hope to hear from you"! oh yes Mr. President you will!!!!!!

AHHHHHHH!!!!! I AM SO STOKED!!!!

so yeah...that was amazing! I am still not over it.

OK...

butit's not over!!!! :D

while tearing down my drum set. the head sound guy was getting his mics and stuff. I told him sorry for stepping on the mics. he said it was cool. and then he asked me how long have i been playing. I said "roughly since I was 6 or 7"
"do you do any studio work?"
"dude, I love doing studio work. I been doing some here w/ some students for their projects"
"sweet. I have a studio at home and I like to do demos and stuff for people. you think you can come out there and lay down the drum tracks whenever I have people out there?
"man...I would love to!"
"sweet...befor you leave, get me so I can have your number."
"no problem man...thanks man for asking man.!
"it's cool. you look like you get your stuff down"
"trying man...trying"

SO yeah...I am going to be a studio drummer for this guy! pretty saweet. even get paid for it too! that's a bonus!

BUT GOD KEEPS ON GIVING!!!!

I invited the guy that I recorded w/ a couple of nights ago to come check outthe show. He came w/ his family. They are cool people. but his kid is amazing. he loves playing the drums. anyways, he gave me a cd after the show and told me that he would like me to play drums for his recording! I was like "word man" "sign me up!"

Driving home, I was thanking God. For giving me this ability. For giving me these chances to play and record. I was thankful for Him making me a man of feeling too. (Go to my archive for the month of September and you'll know what I am talking about. Name of it is "beautiful". Nattie, you should check it out...you'll like it! promise!!!)

GOD IS AMAZING! I am just wanting His will. Nothing more

now...back to cleaning my room! Fun!

oh...befor I go though...the other band were pretty good.

second band...there was this chick that was amzing on the acoustic guitar! AMAZING!!!

but the last band was awesome! like...for realz...got the whole place dancing and people where clapping and everything. I was all smiles and laughing. I loved it!

ok...now I am out!

Later!

<><

e.t. phone home

2006-03-22T21:55:00.000-08:00

worked at best buy from 9am to 330pm

worked at town park today from 5pm to 11pm.

drove alot of nice cars. it has given my ideas for the futuer.

but i finally beleive that I have lost my mind. here is the proof.

1. i locked my car keys in the car while getting gas at the gas station two days ago. fun!was a hour late for work by the way

2. while working at town park, i locked my car keys in SOMEONE ELSE car.

and this one is the greatest of them all....

3. i parked a car. got out. walked away and relazied i didn't have the car keys in my hand. so, i went back to look in the car to see if i left the car keys in there. couldn't see it. so i stood there for a while and thought to myself..."where could they be?" so, i told the other two guys what happened. and one of them came to see what was going one. so, we get to the car....and I WAS LOOKING AT THE WRONG ONE THE WHOLE TIME!!! the car beside it was still running and unlocked!!!!!!! :( so yeah....

i have lost it. if i can't remember your name...I am sorry!

work tomorrow from 7am to 3pm and then I have to load my drumset and go do a show at the curb cafe. good times. belmont needs to start paying me for doing these shows....

oh...i was sad the other day...my friend, jenna (the next faith hill) asked me to play w/ her. i said no!!!! :( first time I have turned anyone down.

oh..and my upper piercing closed. not a happy camper right now.

well, night everyone

<><

PS i decided that I am not going to the whole "blue" font stuff anymore...take too long :P sorry to anyone who liked it

I thought about a loving fire....

2006-03-20T23:05:00.000-08:00

So, today was a monday. I remember going to school and hating mondays. cause you just had a fun weekend. you hung out w/ all your friends and didn't do any homework. but then monday rolls around and...you aren't ready for it!!!! the good ole days!

Well, I was off from work today. and it was raining this morning so I woke up at 8 to make some breakfast...but I looked out said and saw that it was raining...so I went back to sleep and didn't wake up till 11 I did get stuff done though. Did the dirty laundry. Cleaned the kitchen. and did some of my room.

but I have been enjoying my new computer. "The Beast" That's it's name. This thing is so freaking fast, it blows me away. Can't wait to get Call of Duty 1 & 2 for this thing. Graphics are going to be off the chain!

Tomorrow I have practice w/ Jon for the show on Thursday at the Curp.

oh...and talking about the curp. I recorded at Belmont a couple of nighs ago. I record for a band called "7 Miles" Check them out. they are good. we all chilled while I was hearing stories of how they know the drummer for Demon Hunter!!!! one of the guys live next to Underoaths tour manger!!!! Yeah...I am going to become friends w/ these guys!!! lol So, I was in the "WOW" mood that night.

One of the guys has a side project he wants me to play for. so, I hope I can do it...cause he told me that he has connections! HOLLA!

Wed I start the new job. Fun! Two jobs aren't my fav. but it has to be done if I want to stay here. Hope I get to tour so I can drop one..might be best buy too cause the trip back and forth is not only sucking my gas...but it's also sucking my money from my wallet getting all that gas. but the discount is good! we'll see

UNDEROATH MAY 29 BABY!!! Can 't wait. It's going to be amazing again. And I will be there early in the morning again. and I will be in the front screaming w/ Spence again!!!!!!! Word!

Well, I am out. Take care and God Bless!

<><

If I could dim the lights in the morn...and create a moon....i would

2006-03-14T00:27:00.000-08:00

I am sitting outside in the cold on my back porch. My fingers are getting numb.

But I was just looking up at the night sky, it's been a while since I have done this. just sit out here and just be amazed by all the silence. You can barely hear the city move. Like everyone fell asleep. You just look around and all you see are lights. It's a full moon too. It's so bright.

Today was a emotional day. yeah i know..fun. it's not that I am depressed or going crazy...it's just that things are different. To tell you the truth, it's been different since day one up here. I remember sleeping on the floor the first couple of months. Ran out of gas on the interstate. Had pop tarts for about a week. and oatmeals. Went negative on my bank account once.

But I'm still here. I am still breathing. I'm still have my health, my job, my car....and I have my drum set. It's the reason why I am up here. I've recorded w/ people I've never met. I just made friends and they tell people about me, and then I get asked to record.

I'm amazed. and greatful. and blessed. Cause I've been taken care of. I'm being used for a much better cause then I ever imagined. I could be at Texas A&M, but that is not where God wants me. I could be at AC, the the Fire Academy, but God said no, I have something much bigger for you. But you have to trust me. have faith.

I heard once "You can't see the wind, but you can see the effects of the wind." I might not know where God is taking me, but I know that He is working in my life. My talents aren't my own. I was born a sinner, but God saw a better perons. A better son. Do I trust Him and have faith in Him? yeah, but ask me if I have patience.

I think God is really teaching me that. I have alwaysed wanted things my way. I remember going through high school telling myself that I wanted to get married right after high school. Funny, isn't it. When it's on Gods timing...that moment is going to be so amazing! I think that is going to be the greatest day in my life...well, second. When I stand before God and hear Him say "well done, my good and faithful servant" That will be the greatest day. Knowing that I layed myself and my dreams at His feet, and said "God, I am yours. my dreams. my life. My everything...is Yours" I know that He will take care of me.

It's starting to get really cold out here now. and the battery is dieing on this laptop. So, I am done for tonight. Take care!

<><

Cannonball into the water!

2006-03-12T10:09:00.000-08:00

It's been a while so....here it goes!

I worked 40+ hours this week. This is a good thing for the old wallet, but my feet are killing me! I got the job for town park! *word* I will be working morning at Best Buy and nights at the Double Tree Hotel. One of my friends, Jesse, works there.

My computer should be in sometime this week. Can't wait, cause it's going to have the AMD 64X2 Processor. It's going to be a beast!

For the past couple of days, it's been beautiful outside. We have the windows open in the house, the a/c going in the car. Good stuff!

Got a song to try out on you. That will be coming soon.

Well, that's about it. Just working alot this week. This coming week is going to be the same!

<><

It's raining cats and dogs!

2006-03-07T11:15:00.000-08:00

Had a job interview this morning. Went well. Left my house an hour early just incase I was going to get lost, but I made it ok.

I got the job! I just need to talk to the manager at the place I will be working at, and then do the drug test and driving record. Fun!

Then I went to Billy Joes Tattoos. That's a cool place. All the top christian rock bands, whenever going through Nashville, stop there and either get their tattoos touched up or get new ones. You should see all the posters they have up there. Pretty cool stuff. I saw a tattoo that I might want to get in the later future.

I went to the Nashville Humane Association. I saw soooo many dogs and cats. If i could I would take them all home! There was this one dog, though, whenever I went to pet her...she would just rest her head on my hand and wine for a second. :( One day I will be able to walk in there and get every dog and cat, and take them to my house!

Well, this weekend was kinda rough for me. I had to make a choice of the heart. It was hard to do, but it had to be done. I wish it could of gone differently, but I know that it happened that way for a reason. Wish I knew.

<><

God....

2006-03-02T00:10:00.000-08:00

it hurts

Man it feels good to be a gangsta!!

2006-03-01T14:58:00.000-08:00

I just finished cleaning the whole living room. Dusted everything! Nothing escaped from the EDWIN!!!!

It's a nice day outside today. I am wearing shorts and a t-shirt. No heater going; just the fans in the house. "It's a beautiful day in the neighbor hood!"

Well, nothing new to report.

Tonight I have practice w/ Jon. He has a show coming up soon. It's going to be pretty cool.

and if you guys know anyone that gives really good back and neck rubs....please....send them my way.

<><

REALLY, I NEED TO WORK ON MY MEMORY!!!

2006-03-01T07:05:00.000-08:00

Went to bed last night around 230ish.

Set the alarm for 730.

Woke up and took a shower.

Shaved.

Made a nice good breakfast.

Starting getting ready for work.

All I needed was to put on my shoes.

I look down on the paper that has my sched.

I don't work today. AT ALL!!!

*Alright....gigadee gigadee*

<><

2006-02-28T08:48:00.000-08:00

"you know where you are going, alice? to the moon!!! BANG! ZOOM!"

2006-02-27T20:58:00.000-08:00

right when things were looking up. Satan packs a pretty big punch. I've been praying about everything. School? Music? Work? Relationships? thought I had it all pretty well planned out.

Once again...i find myself right where I belong.

In the arms of Christ.

The one person i know who is there....even when I turn my back. He is there waiting.

What love is this?

That He takes a man, not worthy of such love, and waits for him. Waits for me to turn around and run.

But what amazes me, is that no matter what I have done in the past. no matter what kind of regrets, or sins. lies. dis-honesty. He takes me. and has a plan for me. When people jugde you for past mistakes; He forgets them. Throws them away. Never again to be spoken of. Never looking at you w/ those things...but He looks at you. With a new heart. A new life that He has planned for you.

what amazes me more is that He knows everything that is going to happen. Knows when I am going to fall again. Knows what path I will take. but He gives me a choice. Cause I know what is right from wrong. but that doesn't mean I will always do the right thing.

Kinda makes me sad really.

I'm the strongest; not when I am standing; but while I am on my knees...praying.

I just want to make Him happy, you know? To make sure that I am where I am suppose to be. To make sure I am suppose to be w/ the right person? if there is one

ahh...now we are talking about "the one"? Boy, what a touchy topic. Do i think about it alot? HA! dumb question. That's what I think about everyday! Every hour. Every second. have i found her....well, I thought i did...a couple of times to tell you the truth. but....i think w/ Gods timing....it will happen. Can I wait? HA! I've been told that I rush things.

But I'm learned alot. and I still have a lots to learn befor then too.

Well, enough of this. I know you are bored, and might not even read the whole thing. Sorry that I leave such dumb long blogs. It's just what's going through my head.

<><

oh...i can now leave "audioblogs" you can hear my thoughts while I am on the road or whenever I think of something and I know I will forget when I get home. don't have to worry about spelling. but who wants to hear me talk.

FLAVOR FLAV!

Flavor Flav!!!!

2006-02-27T16:14:00.000-08:00

i really am a.....

2006-02-26T23:32:00.000-08:00

dork

Say goodnight to, All the friends who, Rocked and Rolled beside you!

2006-02-24T07:44:00.000-08:00

Good song. If any of you don't know, Audio Adrenaline is calling it quits after their new cd comes out!

"Audio Adrenaline Says "Adios"... After Three Million Albums Sold, 18 No. 1 Radio Hits, GRAMMY/Dove Trophies, 15-Years of Sold Out Concerts, AudioA Prepares 2006 Farewell Album, Live Events"

Well, last night, Jon and I, (i played drums and jon did some BGVs) played w/ a good friend, Devon Graves. We played for a full house at the Curb Cafe at Belmont University. (It's been a while since I have played in front of people) For those who don't know Devon, she sounds like Bethany Dillon and Jars of Clay. That's a good mixture right there. My fav. two songs of hers are "Waiting" and "Diamond in the Rough". Those two songs right there rocked the house for me. Good times!

Watched "Gone in 60 Seconds" last night. If you haven't seen it, there is a beautiful '67 Ford Shelby Mustang 500 GT. Everyone...meet "Eleanor"!

She's a beauty!

When I got done watching the movie, I was walking to my car and I was talking to myself and I said "I might not have an "Eleanor", but I do have a "Ellis"! (Hey...it's was 2 in the morning! :P ) but what is it about car movies that make you want to drive faster? or just spin out? I didn't do any of those things, but still. Driving home felt good. Can't wait to fix my car up. But nothing like $200 rims for each wheel, or NOS, or $2000 system. I just want to get a new hood. New paint job. Wouldn't mind having new speakers. But a new engine would rock.

But hey...I love my car! She is good to me. I get from point A to B w/ heater or AC. Everything is fine. Just some minor dents and scratches! :D

Well, I am out. Take care!

<><

Something that has to be learned.....

2006-02-22T22:46:00.000-08:00

Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more important than food, and the body more important than clothes? Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable then they? Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life?

And why do you worry about clothes? See how the lilies of the field grow. They do not labor or spin. yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you, O you of little faith? So do not worry, saying, "What shall we eat?" or "What shall we drink?" or "What shall we wear?" for the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. each day has enough trouble of its own.

Matthew 6: 25-34

I just feel this is something God is teaching me more and more each day. To fight my flesh. Everyday.

<><

I have a dirty phone! Dirty dirty phone!!!

2006-02-21T22:57:00.000-08:00

Well, just a bad battery!

Died while being on the charger. Connected to the wall! Not good.

Day started off bad, but as it got further into the night...it got better. Found out that PluseOne is still together! Only w/ 3 dudes though. oh well, "win some lose some".

Also found out that bald men are scary! HA! (Good times!)

Found out that riding a bicycle from town to town would suck!!!!!!!

Oh, here's a good one....asking someone what time is their bed time is not a good question. yep...not even close!!!!!

oh...this one is even better. If you see a "buzzard" in the road; go around it. lol That is priceless! but not funny...not funny one bit! ;)

Well, I work in the morning. 9 to 4 baby! Take care and God Bless!

<><

*And I would walk 500 miles...well, not really, just 10 to 15 feet........w/ my laptop!"

2006-02-20T22:58:00.000-08:00

you thought it was the song! :D

but for reals, this is a conversation I had w/ a person...a human being...that thinks and feels like the rest of us!

"thanks for calling best buy computers, this is edwin, how may i help you?"

"yes...ummm...I have a question. i have high speed internet at my house and I was just wondering, if I got a wireless router at my house, could I go like 10...15 miles from my house w/ my laptop?"

*WHAT?!?!?! this is not a real call...no way*

"sir, i don't think you can...well..."

*second guessing myself*

"well, i see people in the air-planes w/ laptops and stuff...and not plugged into the wall, so i am thinking that they are getting it from their house, right?"

*for reals...he's joking right*

"no sir, there is no way you can get wireless internet 10 to 15 miles from your house. and the airplane must have some kind of wireless on board. or they could be just looking at photos or playing games"

"so, how far can they go?"

"hold on sir...let me check. hey derek, how far can a wireless routers go?.....ah..ok...thanks. yeah, sir, you are looking about 100 feet"

"wow. *long pause* well, thanks for the help, edwin"

*LOL*

"any time sir"

That ladies and gents, is the "Question of the Month". If anyone can beat that...well, good luck, cause i don't think there is anything better than that. And you have to picture this in a hick southern accent. *Must of you reading this are from east texas...so...Picturing this won't be hard* HA!

Changing it up now!

I worked today from 12 to 8. so that means that I have to get going, in the car, by 1130. so, when getting into my car, this guy that I see walking the streets (i wave at him everytime...cause I am a nice guy! :D ) he waves me down and tells me to lower my window. so....I do. and we say hello. and then he tells me that, maybe last week or so, there were 4 guys trying to break into my car. 4!!!! not 1....4!! here...let me spell that out for you...F-O-U-R!!! (did I spell that right? :P joke!)

When did breaking into a car become coordinated!!!??? When did my car get into the blue-prints!!!???

So, I told him thanks and that if he ever needed to chill or hang out, he could come over my place. He said thanks and asked me if "smoked a bud?" Smoked a what??! "bud"? When did the code name of "joints" become "bud"?? I lost faith in man-kind. The end is near!!! LOL

I said no by the way. then he asked me if I drank. I told him that I wasn't old enough.

We can't just chill and talk? we have to be smoking a "bud" and drinking beer? (which by the way...it taste really bad. yeah..i tasted...and it's not good)

Now...one more thing and I am done.

I recorded my vocal part on the song that I told you about. "Untitled secret" Sounds amazing. First time you hear it...it's going to kick. and really hard too! But now all we have left on every song is harmonies! and mixing. and getting it to EVERY ONE OF YOU!!!

night folks. going to sleep in my car so noone can take it! :D

<><

"I love you. You love me. We're a happy family. With a great big hug and a kiss from me to you. Won't you say you love me too"

2006-02-19T09:47:00.000-08:00

Get the guitar and we'll sing "kumbyah"

2006-02-19T09:29:00.000-08:00

went to a party two nights ago. It was fun. I was the "Keeper of the Flame" and the girl you see in the purple w/ me, in one of the pics, she was the "Keeper of the Stick". Met some cool people from Belmont there. and saw some I already knew. Made smores, I got to play w/ fire!!!!!, and I made my own burger for the first time. Like...really...I got raw meat and spanked it and rolled it around, and spanked it some more, and made it into a ball....and then a patty. It was really good. if you want to see them, go here ---> Kelseyw.com

<><

Old McDonald had a farm....e i e i o!!!!!

2006-02-18T23:31:00.000-08:00

So let me just start out w/ one thing.......

IT WAS ALL WHITE OUTSIDE THIS MORNING!!!!!!!!!

I woke up and just laying here in bed. I went down stairs to get some food and I looked out side and I stopped!!!!....then I looked again....and then I opened the door and my blue car wasn't blue anymore...the grass wasn't green anymore...let's just say that it was all white outside.

I had to let my car warm up for about 10 minutes. and i worked today...so I thought, "man, it's snowing...nobody is coming to best buy." boy...was I wrong. it was packed.

and!!!!!!!!

My car door was stuck. STUCK!!! What kinda weather makes your car door STUCK?!?!?! Only in America!!!!

And for those of you who don't know; I got my new phone in. So please....give me a call so i can have your number. BUT!!!, you have to call my after 6 oclock on weekdays...that's when I get free minutes. :D on weekends though, it's a horse of a different color. on weekends it's all free.

(it took me about 5 minutes to spell "horse", cause I didn't want to mis spell it, cause you know what happens whenever you mis spell "horse"...it comes out the wrong way....I suck at spelling!)

My friend came over w/ me from work. his name is matt. he's a good guy. we talked about life and everything. we talked how whenever you are in the world, everything can seem like it's going ok. you have money in your pocket. car is in tip top shape. everything just falls into place

but whenever you find Christ, whenever you say good bye to the world....Satan doesn't have you anymore. your car starts falling apart. you have cobwebs in your wallet. life just starts throwing things at you from every corner. Satan doesn't have you anymore....

but the prize is so much bigger in heaven. God cares for who you are. He wants you to come to Him as you are.

The call of God isn't easy, but it's fulfilling.

That is what I have to think sometimes. I just wrote to my friend that "i dropped everything. school, my comfort zone, my false intenstions. cause He called me. and I answered.

"The word of the Lord came to me, saying, "before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart. I appointed you as a prophet to the nations."

"Ah, Sovereign Lord," I said, "I do not know how to speak; I am only a child"

But the Lord said to me, "Do not say, 'I am only a child'. You must go to everyone I send you to and say whatever I command you. Do not be afraid of them, for I am w/ you and will rescue you." declares the Lord."

Jeremiah 1 : 5-9

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Little Pig Little Pig.....let me come in!!!!!

2006-02-16T00:40:00.000-08:00

Well, if you click on the link to see the video of Subseven in Nashville on my last blog...well, it's not going to work. So, if you clicked on it and all you saw was a little dude w/ a guitar singing into a mic...well, yeah...this is going to fix that "little pig little pig" problem

If you want to see it (cause I know you do...don't lie to yourself) just follow these "little pig little pig" directions

Go here ------> Subseven Website
and then go to video that is named
"TITLE: Video #3 of the FTC Tour. the van, the creature, nashvegas"
and then enjoy the video.

"not by the hairs on our chinny chin chin"

is that really how you spelling "chinny"? :S

oh...and talking about "cheney", did you know he shot someone?!?!?! oh man....that is crazy. Vice President Dick Cheney shot his friend while hunting......W/ A SHOTGUN!!!!!!! God Bless America!!!!

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My tires are "bling blinging"

2006-02-16T00:19:00.000-08:00

if you are wondering why i started just putting random titles on my....ummm...title space...well, I just write down whatever I am think is cool to say. Like, for this one I chose to say "my tires are bling blinging" cause I washed my car...and boy does she look sexy! lol

And the one w/ the "DMX cannot act" one came from me watching a Jet Lei movie w/ DMX in it. and may I say....DMX cannot act!!!! lol

Something interesting happened tonight. It's 221 in the morning, and I am just on the internet surfing. What am I doing on the internet this late? Well, if you thought porn.....SHAME ON YOU!!!!!!!! tisk tisk...I am hurt!

Well, I was looking up my fav. band "Underoath" (check them out) Anyways, I was checking out the website and I saw a link for Zambooie. So, I went there and I was just looking thur the stuff for underoath. IT SO HAPPENS THAT THEY HAVE A VIDEO FROM NASHVILLE TN. and guess who I see in the front row on the monitor!!

ME!!!! (holla!)

So I watched it and watched it and watched it. and then I thought, "man, let me check out the rest of the bands that came to rocketown and see if they have videos" AND THEY DO!! I am on the monitor again for "As Cities Burn" and "mewithoutYou". GOOD TIMES!!

And a while back, I found out Subseven had a video from nashville, and I was in it. click here for the video-------> Subseven Video. You'll see me w/ my hat that I always wear. (and also pointing at the guitar player....cause he's cool!)

Well, that's all I wanted to share for right now. Nothing new.

I need to shave though.

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DMX cannot act!

2006-02-12T18:06:00.000-08:00

I just got up from a really good nap. Well needed.

So, as you guys know, I needed a good car tune up. The brakes, engine belt, blah blah blah. So, to get it done at a shop, just to do the brakes would of cost me 580 to 620.

Well, I got the brake and everything else for less than 200. How? Well, first of all, thanks for the prayers, and a really cool friend at work He also works for GM. Thank You, God for Freddy.

We did my brakes. I got a new belt for the engine. Got 50/50 and cleaned my radiator. Bled the brakes, did the pads for them. I had to get a new clamp for the back right brake and a new brake calibre as well. So i needed brake fluid as well. and also got wind shield washer.

ALL THAT FOR 200!!!!!

But I learned alot from Freddy. We also found out alot of stuff about each other. He's from New York and so am I. We had pizza on brake. And whenever we got done, he showed me all his drum set, guitars, and bass. It was really cool.

He told me about cars, and I told him about drums. Next week we are going to get new cymbals and heads for his drum-set. I am going to tune them and all. Brother helping Brother!

God is good!

That's it from me.

So, moral of the story. Make a friend that knows how to fix cars...not only do you save money, but you also make a friend.

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"If you can dodge traffic, you can dodge a ball!"

2006-02-07T18:29:00.000-08:00

I love that movie!

Anyways, quick up-date.

I have been recording alot these past couple of weeks, and it's going well! Recorded with "Slow to Speak", Daven, and Kelsey. Fun stuff!

Been working about 20ish hours a week. Need more.

Breaks on the car are going out. Need new ones...and fast. so, if you want to send money to the Puretorican Fund...just give me a call.....

oh wait

I don't have a phone. I lost it. yeah...bought a new one. should be coming in the mail soon.

and I haven't gotten my computer yet. Ross let me borrow his laptop till it gets fixed (or replaced :D )

Alright...now for what I wanted to tell you.

Got a new song for you!

Just let me go, I'll show them what Love truly is

Have we finally erased the line
Between black and white
For in this world, I am told,
Nothing is meant to last
Everything is made to be thrown away

But You gave something more
Something greater than us
Greater than us

Hope to the Weary
Strength to the Weak
Love to the Lonely
Life to the Breathless

I've never walked on water
Never healed a blind man
But on that day
When the earth shook and Heaven cried
You thought of me

But You gave it all
So I can be with You
Be with You

Hope to the Weary
Strength to the Weak
Love to the Lonely
Life to the Breathless

"Greater Love has no man than this...that He lay down His life for His friends.."

Well, that's it. What do you think?

I am out for tonight.

oh...and I get paid friday. Party!!!!! (not really...bills, bills, and food)

God Bless,

<><

Well, it's time to put the computer down

2006-01-10T15:56:00.000-08:00

My computer fried this morning. Don't know why, but it's all good, cause I have the PSP (Performance Service Plan) and it's covered. So, it's at Best Buy and it's going to be sent to service (Geek Squad) tonight. If it is fixable, it's going to be about 2 1/2 weeks, but if they junk it out, I get to get a new computer!!!! HOLLA!!! I have $750 to work with too. So, yeah, I hope that I can get a new one, but if they fix my old one, it's cool. But I rather have a new one cause mine is about 3 years old. The one that I am looking at is a "Bad Boy"! lol It does everything I want it to do...AND MORE! Well, I will be checking all my stuff on my buddies, Forrest, computer, but I won't blog. I will blog whenever I get my computer. So, send e-mails, comments, or something.

This is where I will be picking up my bible and some good books to read. I have been falling behind on that.

Well, to everyone going back to school, have fun and good luck with everything.

Take care and God Bless!

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Something you should know.....

2006-01-06T23:22:00.000-08:00

Sorry that it's been a while since I have bloged. I really didn't feel like telling everything that has been going on in my life, cause I just wanted to keep it to myself.

But ever since I went home to Lufkin...things have been going up.

I got to see my family for a week. It's always great to see them. I love them!

I got to see most of all my friends, but the ones I did see....man was it great to see them as well.

I the way home I got a flat tire. Yep....I was making good timing too. I would of made it in about 9 hours. But the flat and change the tire and going about 55 mph from marshall to lufkin made it right on the money of 12 hours. Fun! Oh...flat happened at 4 o'clock in the morning....in the boondocks. ("Boondocks" - middle of nowhere but with trees) I was pretty freaked.

Talking about tires and friends; Heather; got me brand new tires for my car. I thanked her about 5 million times. But she took me out to dinner at Apple bees and had a steak dinner. And a 100 pack of blank cds.

Josh got me a sweet, awesome, Pioneer cd player for my car! It was great! It plays MP3s, WMAs, and ACCs files. WOOT!

The band I am playing for got me a new crash cymbal!!!! Now I don't have to kill my one and lonely cymbal anymore! (I'll keep you updated on that band....I am going to be playing with a couple of bands. That deserves a WHOOP!)

Amanda filled up my tank in my car whenever I left Lufkin! Holla!

Family got me "Batman Begins", and official "New York Yankee Throw Back Blanket", $100 (which went to gas and bills...fun), $20 gift card to rue21. (Go there...you'll love it.) And they have been sending me some money here and there while I have been living here....so...it's Christmas all year 'round baby!!! Two "Underoath" shirts and "The Used" and a "Staple" shirt!

Shannon got me a James Avery necklace. It's freaking awesome! The neck strap was a bit large so she is getting a smaller one. Should be getting that bad boy in the mail soon!

And talking about Shannon, she was up here in Nashville, TN for a whole week. It was great to spend time with her. I cooked her breakfast every morning....except one morning whenever we had cereal. lol We went and saw King Kong. Please....get up and go see that movie!!! IT's GREAT! The graphics...the story...the 3 hours of sitting down is so much fun! You'll be at the egde of your seat...and then crawled up in the back of your seat....it's crazy. At the end though......people were crying...so....don't get too attached to the huge gorilla. GO!!!

Anyways...back to what I was saying.....

We went to Shake and Stake. If you haven't been there; when you get back from watching King Kong....get right back up and go! AMAZING SHAKES!!! You'll love them. Then she took me to "Hard Rock Cafe" (what can I say...."I'm a rock star!") lol She even cleaned my room and the bathroom. (this was done in free-will...promise!) We had a Smallville marathon, and we cooked dinner, and we made brownies. THAT'S HOW WE ROLL!!!!

She missed her plane home though...I got lost. Sorry, baby!

Oh..I met David Crowder at the air port whenever picking up Shannon. Music City rules!!!!!!!

Oh...check this out "Ad for rue21 and Underoath" LOL
and also the pics. and I got my upper-left ear done...as you will see in the video. Check out the rest of my post that I wrote. It's just stuff that has been going on. ("Meeting Stars..." and the two concert ones)
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

So as you can tell, since my last post ("Letter I hate to Write") I am much better. God has giving me so much to be thankful. I just forget sometimes of what I got.

To all my friends and family,
Thanks for being there. Thanks for everything. I love you,

Edwin <><

Meeting stars again at Best Buy

2006-01-06T23:10:00.000-08:00

I met Matt Hoopes again at Best Buy. It was cool once again. I saw him while I was helping someone, but whenever passing each other we said hello. When I checked out the customer, I saw Matt waiting by the digital cameras. It was pretty tight that he went and did his shopping and waited so we can talk for a bit. We talked about what we got for Christmas and were we went. We talked for about 10 minutes and then I met his sister-in-law. I thought it was pretty cool that we chatted again. This time I wasn't that "star struck" so I was a bit more relaxed. lol

Then I met the singer (the husband) of FFH again. Once again...we talked about Christmas and what we did. We both got to go home for the holidays....good stuff!

Oh, by the way, I got transferred to the "Computer Department"! It getting me closer to "Geek Squad" and a much better pay check! lol

Man do I love Best Buy!

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Pillar, Falling Up, The Wedding, John Davis, Staple

2006-01-06T22:45:00.000-08:00

Staple opened up and I was the only one singing!!!!!! I was kinda shocked about that one. But hey...that means that the singer came up to me everytime and we sang along!!!! WOOT! It was good seeing these guys. It blew that they only played 4 songs...but it's better than not seeing them at all!!!!

John Davis was sweet! He is that old school rock and roll, but jazzy and bluesy too. Good stuff.

The Wedding is always great to see. This time though I knew every word! For realz though...check them out!

Falling Up always puts on a good show. I love the whole..."Lets do a back-flip from the top of the bass cabinet!" Ah...good stuff!

Pillar was great! First time seeing them. The lights...the smoke...the rocking guitars and did I mention the most amazing drummer with one bass drum pedal. This guy is awesome. I asked him how long he's been playing; He said "21 years." Must be nice! Can't wait till I get to say that.

Man do I love Rock Concerts!

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Underoath, mewithoutYou, The Chariot, and As Cities Burn

2006-01-06T21:11:00.000-08:00

As Cities Burn opened up. First time hearing and seeing them. They were awesome. Their fans were great as well. Sang along loudly. Awesome. I got the cd. I am practicing on the lyrics for next time.

The Chariot was 2nd. If you think that metal and God don't mix, this band showed how it was done. While they came out, the nights where dimmed, and they had an old hymn playing over the PA - "Swing Low, Sweet Chariot". At first I thought they just did that cause it goes with their name. But the band, the Tooth and Nail crew, and the crowd were singing and raising their hands. The guitarist, the singer, the bassist, and the drummer were praying right before they started their show. The last song they played really got to me. It's this heavy metal song with an ending that says "Take my heart, prophet!" It was repeated about 4 times. Each time the bassist was on his knees screaming out the lyrics. When the song finished, he was resting his head on the floor monitor........crying. I was just amazed. I know that some christians will not call this music or yet alone try to listen to it, but even these christians playing this kinda music brings glory to God. While the whole crowd was clapping and screaming...and pushed myself up enough on stage to put my hand on his head, and I said a little prayer for him.

mewithoutYou came 3rd.ow.....these guys....this band...is different. But in a good way. Singer doesn't really sing...he talks during the songs. When listening to this band; make sure you have their lyrics, not because you can't understand him, but to better understand what he feels.

Underoath came out last. I don't know what to say about these guys that you don't already know. They opened up with "It's Dangerous Business Walking Out Your Front Door" and boy did I flip out. I sang every lyric. I "air-drumed" the drum parts that stood out in every song. I sang along with the singer whenever he knelt down into the crowd. My friend, Audra, was talking to Aaron (drummer) and text me to go to the back. But I didn't go cause I didn't want to lose my spot. So I texted her to tell him to throw a drum stick to the dude with a "Braves" shirt on. Right when the drummer started singing on the first song.....I pointed to him and yelled the lyrics right back at him. And he sang the lyrics back and threw a stick. I got it!

So, this night of yelling and screaming...and the last song was.....

....Amazing Grace.

I was blown away. They played it for about 10 minutes. I stood there and just raised my hands. I forgot about the bands...and forgot about all the people around me. I just sang to my Father, and I was greatful for His unfailing love.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Each band, at the end of their show, said what they do on this stage is for the glory of God. "We aren't trying to beat you with our religion. We are just here to let you know that you don't have to hide in this world. There is someone who loves you. Just look inside you and search for the truth. Don't let the world tell you what truth is....."

That is one that I remember clearly.

The bands didn't get anything for this. Everything went to the "Invisible Children" project. You might want to check it out.......it'll open your eyes a little more.

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The letter I hate to write

2005-12-13T23:30:00.000-08:00

You know that feeling of how no matter how hard you try, no matter how nice you are, or even how much of yourself you give; you always have that feeling of being alone.

Everyone has left this town. Making it a ghost town for me. I have this house to myself now. I have friends at work, but everyone there just loves to drink and get drunk. That is something I can't do. I won't! They all go to bars and get wasted, and I am here in this empty house. I do have friend here though, but it feels like I have to go to their level to even speak to them. Maybe it's my own fault for anyways trying to please every one of them.

but I am here for a reason. Maybe I am suppose to be alone. I just want to be home. I just want to feel wanted. To feel like I matter to someone.

I didn't get into Belmont. My fall grades at Texas A&M weren't good. I knew that whenever I applied. But I still had to try. I didn't have that feeling that I could get in for nothing. There has to be a reason for it. I know there is. I told myself once that if I didn't get in I would go back home. But why would I do that? I am not up here for school. I am up here to play. To see if I have the faith to trust God. I do though. I do trust Him. I do have faith in Him. He's all I have whenever I am here alone. He's my father. My best friend. My all.

I just want to feel wanted sometimes.....like I matter to someone.......

Whistle while you work

2005-12-09T11:29:00.000-08:00

Well, I asked for about 40 hours a week....and that is what I got! Today is my only day off this week!, and I will be enjoying it too. Next week I'll have 39 hours....with 2 days off! Now that will be fun.

SONG UPDATE!!!!

Oh my goodness.....you guys do not know how good it feels to have one of your own songs played with a full band. (well, maybe Jon, Susie and Todd) But the band I have been playing with, Slow to Speak; I gave them my song that I wrote titled "Untitled secret" (ooooooo....nice title). The music is amazing! The way the lyrics are sung.....oh my gosh! I even sing in the song! Can't wait to have a rough recording so you guys can just listen to it. One of the guys, Jesse, goes to Belmont and is majoring in Music Busi./Music Production and he has a bunch of equipment at his house and he told me that he just ordered some drum mics!!!!!! WOOT!!!! (that was for Josh H.) Look out for that! And a new song that I started too. But here is the new arrangement to the song too....

"Untitled secret" yellow part is what I sing

Seems like I get trapped every time, I think of you
I hate this place but I love this feeling
Can't seem to make up my mind, on what to do
I'll stay asleep to keep on living, in my dreams

*Chorus -
This sound of silence breaks the window
This flash of light cast a shadow (that won't let go)
Arms Open, Eyes closed Ready to Fly, Take me home
Arms Open, Eyes closed Ready to Fly, Take me home

It could be different at the other end of the line
But who will know if we both stay silent
Standing out in the cold just to see, if I'm still breathing
Watching the sun set and seeing the moon rise
I'll just stand awe of You

*Chorus *

Bridge -
These words won't come out...(repeat 6x's)

*Chorus*

Man, do I love music!

I was kinda sick for about 3 days, but I am all good now, baby! I only get sick once a year and that was it for me. It was the cold. So, tonight for only $5, I am going to see Kids in the Way and Staple! and a week from today....UNDEROATH!!!!!!! Man, you guys don't know how excited I am about this. (well, maybe Todd) I can't wait to sing along to every song. I heard they are doing some songs from their new cd that they are working!!! AHHHH!!! Can't wait!!!!!

I get to go home for the holidays! Best Buy rules say that we can't ask off for any vacation time during the holidays, but does Edwin listen. NOPE! I want to see family and friends, dang it! So, Lufkin, HERE I COME!

Belmont cashed my check :S That means they are looking at my app. Nothing in the mail, but something has to happen soon....so....keep me in your prayers.

I got everyone in my family a gift. And they all are going to love it too. Mikey is going to laugh, Jonny is going to be amazed, James is going to yell "Yay!!!!", Mom is going to cry cause she is laughing so hard, mama is going to feel comfortable, Troy is going to have stuff to chew on, Tiger is going to play harder, and Cookie might get something...if he is nice! lol

My wish list:
I miss my PSP :(
iPod
I miss my Cross Ring :(
alot of band t-shirt (the used, underoath, dizmas, demon hunter...every band I love! Hey...i really need it! :D )

My "what I really need" wish list:
Bed
New battery for the car
New tires for the car
double bass pedal
18" AAX plosion crash cymbal
cases for my drums
Braces

Well, I guess that is it for today. Don't have my cam for the concert tonight or for Underoath. (thanks to forrest, you punk! lol ) I'll post about tonight! Peace!

<><

Marvin Gaye's - "What's Going On?" Performed by All-Star Tribute

2005-12-02T00:59:00.000-08:00

(P Diddy:)
What's Going On

(Jermaine Dupri:)
Tell Me

(P Diddy:)
People Dying
People Crying
Lord help us

(Bono:)
Mother, mother
There's too many of you crying

(Gwen Stefani:)
Oh, brother, brother, brother
There's far too many of you dying

(Jermaine Dupri:)
That's Right

(Aaron Lewis:)
You know we've got to find a way
To bring some lovin' here today

(Nona Gaye:)
Oh my father, father
We don't need to escalate

(Backstreet Boys:)
You see war is not the answer

(Nona Gaye/Backstreet Boys:)
For only love can conquer hate

(Christina Aguilera:)
You know we've got to find a way
To bring some lovin' here today

(Britney Spears:)
Barricades, can't block our way

(J-Lo:)
Don't punish me with brutality

(Destiny's Child:)
Talk to me
So you can see
(Destiny's Child/Britney Spears:)(First chorus)
Oh what's going on
What's going on
Yeah what's going on
Ahh what's going on

(Ja Rule:)
What's going on in a world filled with pain
Where's the love for which we pray
What's going on
When our children can't play
Homeless can't eat
There's got to be a better way
What's going on
When we politically blind
Can't see the signs of endangered times
What's going on

(Nelly Furtado:)
Ah tell me
What's going on in the world today
I'd rather be dead
Than turn my head away
We gotta first world vision to complete, to lift our
Hands in the air and cry for a switch

(Michael Stipe:)
Father, father

(P Diddy:)
Father help us, come on

(Michael Stipe:)
Everybody thinks we're wrong

(Alicia Keys:)
Oh, but who are they to judge us
Together we can all be strong

(P Diddy:)
United we stand, United we fall

(N'Sync:)
Oh you know we've got to find a way

(Mary J. Blige:)
To bring some understanding here today

(N'Sync:)
Barricades can't block our way

(Darren Hayes (Savage Garden):)
Don't punish me with brutality

(N'Sync:)
Baby talk to me
So you can see

(Second chorus)
Yeah, what's going on
Hey, what's going on
Somebody tell me what's going on
I'll tell you what's goin' on-uh

(Nelly:)
What's going on 'cross seas
Every minute a child dies by this disease
In record numbers indeed
Got momma's crying out please
My baby hold on
My child ain't done nothing wrong
Still I want to holler
Ask them why they don't bother
Oh no, oh no
Make me turn to my father
And ask him why they all got a trapped soul

(Nas:)
I can feel what was bothering Marvin
Why his words forever remain Dealing with these modern day problems
'Cause of ignorance surrounding me and my constituents
Too many infectedToo many lives diminishing Nobody say Protestants, Jews, Blacks, and Whites, Latinos and Asians
Pray togetherLess fight We better unite
As genocide chemical war And the rich and the poor
Know that God delivers a cure

(Eve:)
It's a shame our reality is devastating
People praying for a cure
Dying while they're waiting
Ask the Lord for the comfort and strength to face it
All the kids with dreams Won't get the chance to chase it
Makes me sad
Think about the lives they would've had
Think about the orphan babies got no moms and dads
How can we sit back and not try to make it right
We gotta come together
We gotta fight for life

(Fred Durst:)
Somebody tell me what's going on (what's going on)
We got human beings using humans for a bomb
But everyone wanna live
Don't nobody really want to die
You feeling me right
I can't be watching people die (die)
And watching people cry
Let me break it down for a minute
If there's enough room here for you and me
There's plenty of room for some humanity

Somebody tell me what's going on (what's going on)
Somebody tell me what's going on (what's going on)
Somebody tell me what's going on (what's going on)

<><

BELMONT UNIVERSITY....HERE I......

2005-11-30T12:43:00.000-08:00

am knocking at your door!!!!

Today I turned in the rest of the paper work. Just want to give a shout out to......

Mrs. Compton, Todd Wright, and Ryan Finn - for sending in those Recommendation forms! Thanks for the awesome things you said.

Shannon Alexander - for being able to get all the crap done so I can get my Texas A&M transcript!

Mom - sending me money! ( Keep it coming! ) and always believing in me.

grandma - sending me money too :) and asking me everytime I talk to you on the phone when I am coming home. I miss you!

To all my friends - thanks for the late night talks and encouragement! Keep praying for me!

God - for what You've done, are doing, and what You are going to do. Thanks for this amazing talent that I owe it all to You. I am nothing without you. Thanks for taking me as I am.

Guys...I didn't want to post about this cause I am afraid of the answer that I will get. Just pray (not just crossing your fingers..that's for you Julie! :P ) If I don't get in next semester....there's always fall!!!!

Love always,
Edwin <><

New Song and Good stuff!

2005-11-27T23:54:00.000-08:00

My friend, Kelsey, asked me to record a song with him the day before Thanksgiving. We started recording around 1215 in the morning. Reason being was that I had to work that late. So, I got there and set up my drum set. I listened to the songs that he had already recorded with a click track. It was really cool. Alot of guitar overdubes...and cool! While listening to it for the "however many times I listened to it" (which was a bit much). My part just hit me. Like..."BAM"...right in the face!! So here is the song; "Name". (Really don't know what to name it)

Last Sat., I ran into Bebo Norman. It was pretty cool. Him and his wife were getting a new camera. They are going to Hawaii for their Anniversary. But I rung them out and we talked for about 10 minutes. I told him that I saw him play in Lufkin, Tx behind Chick-fil-a. And then it dawned on me...Shannon loves Bebo Norman. So...this is what I said, "Hey, my girlfriend back in TX loves you! You mind talking to her and freaking her out?". He said sure. So I called her up and said that I had someone that she needs to talk to. So I gave him the phone and they talked away! Mean while, I was talking to his wife and she graduated from Belmont! They both thought that it was cool that I am applying there. So...yeah.....good stuff!

But check this out....I ran into someone today at Best Buy. You guys ever heard of Josh Gracsin? Well, I met him today at Best Buy, but didn't really know it was him till I asked him about his drivers lisence. I am use to TN DL and he had a Michagian DL. He told me that he hasn't had time to get a new one cause he is on the road alot. So I asked him what he did, and he told me that he is a country singer. So..he told me his name and the names of the singles that were out and I was like "Cool! I'll check it out." The whole intire time I was thinking "Is this the dude that sings "Big Brass Bed"?" I didn't want to ask him that cause if he would of said no...I would of felt bad. But the song is really called "Stay With Me (Big Brass Bed)". So yeah...I knew who he was...but I really didn't know who he was!" lol (Mom, if you are reading this "We're going bowling...but we're not going bowling" :D ) So yeah...good stuff!

Well, tell me what you think of the song (whoever still reads this) and check out those two aritest!

Much Love,

Edwin <><

Underoath Sing Along

2005-11-24T23:37:00.000-08:00

The video (tell me if you can see it) is what I will be doing Dec. 16, 2005!!!!! IF YOU KNOW IT....SING IT!!!!!

That is what I love about concerts...the singer can stop singing...but you can hear every word sung by the fans! Now that is a ROCK CONCERT!!!

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P.S.
Give it a minute to buffer!

Peanut Butter Jelly Time

2005-11-23T12:08:00.000-08:00

Peanut Butter Jelly...with a baseball bat!

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P.S. If you click on it and it doesn't show a video, right click on it and save it on to your computer! Trust me...you'll laugh..and if you don't....leave a comment on how not funny it was! :)

Random stuff to get you caught up....

2005-11-22T23:40:00.000-08:00

Alright...so here is some stuff that has been happening around here

First, finally have that song that we have been recording at the Belmont Studio. "Apart from You" It's not mixed right now. So...give it some time. I went back to Jesse house (he's the recording engineer) and did the scream vocals at his place. It's not on here...but I will post that whenever I get it. It will rock your face off!

I got some pics of my friend, Tim, getting his tattoo!!! (I wasn't there cause of work..but Jon got the pics.) I like it! It looks good. He always drew it on himself...but now he doesn't have to worry about it! LOL (Love you, Tim....it's all going to be good...you will still get a job)

I got a pic of my sexy car! Named her "Ellis"...yeah...that's right..."Ellis"....get over it! I don't see you with a Mustang! :D

The pic you see of the "Floor tom, bass pedal, and the jungle snare" is the smallest set I have ever played on. Whenever I played with, Devon, we had practice right before the show and I didn't want to bring my whole set cause (well...it's alot of drums to put in a small car for a little practice) there was going to be a drum set provided. So...yeah....smallest set right there baby!

I went to a Thousand Foot Krutch and Hawk Nelson concert! If you brought a canned food...it was just 5 bucks!!! I wasn't going to miss that!!!

oh...and just incase you didn't know.......UNDEROATH IS GOING TO BE HERE DEC. 16!!!!!! I AM READY FOR THAT, BABY!!! I can't wait. I will die a happy man after that concert!!!!

I am out like a fat kid in dodge ball!

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This is for you, Mom!

2005-11-16T22:27:00.000-08:00

This morning while eating breakfast, I was going through the channels to see what's a good 30 minute show to watch. (Didn't want to watch "Family Guy") But I came up across something.........it's called........

HAPPY DAYS!!!

Man, it's been a while since I have seen that show. My family loved it! We would watch "Nick at Night" and watch "I Love Lucy", "Bewitched", and the "Happy Days". I know there might be more shows that I am missing, but those are the ones that I remember right now. I know that my family loves to watch the "Honeymooners". My mom loves that show! So, if you know the song...sing along!!!!! :D

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Late night Convo with Bank of America.....

2005-11-15T22:09:00.000-08:00

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So, I was filling out a app. for a new program thing that Bank of America has called "Keep the Change". Well, I had a couple of problems, but then out of NOWHERE comes this chatting thing with a assistance from Bank of America. So...here is how it went! :)

Welcome to an online chat session at Bank of America. Please hold while we connect you to the next available Bank of America Account Specialist. Your chat may be monitored and recorded for quality purposes.
You are number 1 in a queue of 1.
Thank you for your patience. You are now chatting with Travis .
Welcome to Bank of America. How can I help you complete your online checking or savings application today?
You: i was just wondering
You: can I still use the 100 that will be going into my savings account?
Travis : Yes.
You: can you explain how this "keep your change" works. like how do I get to it? can i check online?
Travis : Here's how it works: every time you buy something with a Bank of America Visa Debit Card, we'll round up your purchase to the nearest dollar amount and transfer the difference from your checking to your savings account. So you get to keep the change and grow your savings.
Travis : Please follow the steps below to register for Keep the Change through Online Banking.
Go to www.bankofamerica.com
Click on the Savings Choices link located on the left column menu.
Click on the Savings Accounts link.
Click on the Keep the Change link, and the Keep the Change product page will display.
Click on the What You Need tab.
You: alright
You: thanks man
You: have one more question
You: how did this thing pop up? did it do it automatically?
Travis : Kind of, at some point you clicked an accept button, but it might have been accidental.
Travis : Technically, it's only supposed to approach people who need help with the online application, but that's hard to target...
You: ah...just wondering..cause this thing scared me! lol
Travis : lol, I could see how it could be startling.
You: yeah, but I needed the help. thanks man
Travis : Sure thing
Travis : Is there anything else I can help you with today?
You: nope. I got it from here. You have a good day or night. (don't know if you are in the same time zone) Take care Travis! thanks again
Travis : It was a pleasure assisting you tonight. Thank you for choosing Bank of America! Have an excellent night!
Thank you for chatting on bankofamerica.com. Your feedback is important to us. Once you close this window, please take a moment to fill out our survey and tell us how we did today. The survey takes only a few moments to complete.

I made a new friend! So if you want someone new to talk to...go to Bank of America and mess up!!!! LOL Well, I got work in the morning. Take care and God Bless!

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Tims B-day!

2005-11-13T23:08:00.000-08:00

Jon is on his tip toes ;)

Yesterday was Tim Bergstrom b-day! Good times! He had his first drink, which was a Roman Coke, and didn't like it. Then he had a "Sex on the Beach" and he said tasted better. Why it's named "Sex on the Beach"??? Beats me! But I did take some pictures of tonight. Enjoy!

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To All the Veterans.....

2005-11-11T19:28:00.000-08:00

Your Dedication..
Your Sacrifice....
Everything you did..
For our Freedom......

Will never be forgotten!!

And to all still serving....Thank you!

With the highest respect,
Edwin Rivera III <><

Bright Mistakes

2005-11-10T20:11:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I learned a song on piano. I asked my friend, Devon, to teach it to me. The song is called "But a Breath" by The Wedding. (It should be playing right now) Here are the lyrics. Tell me what think of the song......

But a Breath

"One shot is all you've got
To make your mark, to make your difference
One chance, but you don't understand this

Life is but a breath
Don't waste it

Cause your time is limited
All you have is the breath already exiting your lungs
If you won't live, you might as well die
You can't afford to lead that life

Hands down, no regrets
Life has its hands around my neck
Fight back, no regrets
Life has it's hands around our necks"

One of my friend, from Texas, is getting married this weekend. Her name is Laci Love. It's weird wierd for me to talk about this, but might as well talk about it, right? I am happy for her and Mich though. Her family is very happy for her as well. Nothing really worth mentioning....so....next subject.

I wrote a song a couple of nights ago. It's called "Bright Mistakes". Tell me what you think...

"I count all my bright mistakes
when looking at the night sky

tell me how this could be
when you are up there and I am down here
I'm just trying to find my way
through this life that is not perfect...
(i've made my mistakes)

but yet this ground I stand on
seems to hold me down
from where I'm suppose to be

I'll count all my bright mistakes
when looking at the night sky
they seem to go away when the sun rises
.....when the sun raises

if i let them go, will they all fall down?
just let me see your hand erase the sky tonight
or let me wish on my shooting star (for tomorrow to come)
let me stand on the moon....
to get a little closer to you

Gravity no longer has a hold on us
Gravity no longer has a hold on us
I'm ready to go home tonight"

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Good stuff...Good stuff

2005-11-08T17:19:00.000-08:00

Alright...here is the drill!

Last friday, I got to play with a friend of mine, Devon, at Belmonts Curp Cafe. It felt good playing again. She has some really good songs. I enjoyed!

But other than that...nothing really is going on. I am just chilling this whole week.

WORD TO YOUR MOTHER!!!!

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Life is but a breath....Don't waste it

2005-11-05T10:34:00.000-08:00

I am applying for next semester to go to Belmont. Yeah...crazy, huh? I was brought up here to make music. I am given the chance to do something in my life, and I have a strong feeling that going to this school will help me become a better musician. God has put this desire in my heart after playing and recording with so many people here at Belmont. So, all my stuff is due Dec. 1 and I am going nuts! I just asked many of my friend from home to do a "recommendation form" for me....hope they say some nice things . My mom sent me all my transcripts from A&M, AC, and my high school. I am going to talk to a Transfer Advisor this coming Wed. I am also going on a campus tour, and talking to a Music Business student.

Yeah, you read it right, Music Business Degree. I just think that will be the smartest thing for me to do. I have been thinking about Music Performance on drums, but I thought about what will I do with that. All I know, with a music performance degree, I can go to a major studio and ask if they need a studio drummer. I wouldn't mind doing that...but that will be hard to find a studio that needed another drummer. So, with the Music Business Degree, I am also going to (this is still in the air for grabs) have an emphasis in Music Production. I just think it would be really cool to record bands and throw ideas to them and see if they like it. But that right now is not the important thing. Right now I am just trying to get my foot in the door. Pray that everything will go smoothly. Take care!

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Saw II again

2005-11-02T22:54:00.000-08:00

I saw "Saw II" again....but this time...Jonathan Taylor Martin came with me. And if you guys don't know him, well, let me tell you something...this fool does not like scary movies!!! But hey came...I give him props!

But oh my goodness, I still jumped. I was still holding on to dear life!!!!! What I movie!!!! For reals...you know it's good whenever you watch it twice! I mean..for crying out loud; I saw "Titanic" 7 times in the theater! (Wow...should of kept that to myself) And if you are thinking why I went back to see it that many times....and you think of one part....SHAME ON YOU! Well, I think with that being said, I am going to bed. Night folks!

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Read at your own risk......

2005-11-01T12:26:00.000-08:00

OH MY GOODNESS!!!!!

Saw II was amazing! It had me at the edge of my seat from the very beginning!!!! Well thought out movie. Whoever hasn't seen the first one and is thinking about seeing Saw II....DON'T!!!! You have to watch the first one! There are more spots in the movie that make you jump...More Jigsaw games....More intense....More everything!!! Have fun.......Saw II Space!

Let the games beginning!

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Look out for this movie too ------> Hostel! Trust me....that looks like a wicked moive!

Recording Session at RCA

2005-10-30T10:38:00.000-08:00

I was asked to record with a friend, Tim, for his friends recording project. We covered a Ben Harper song. It was really cool to go record at the RCA Studio. Just incase you didn't know; Elvis recorded there! Word! I get to tell my kids and grandkids that I recorded where Elvis recorded. Then they are going to look at me with this dumb look and say "Who is Elvis??", and at that point I will just ground them all! lol

But it was great to go there and do that. I enjoyed it. Can't wait to hear what it sounds like. Take care and much love....

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Andy Davis!!!

2005-10-30T10:36:00.000-08:00

Andy Davis!!!

That's all I have to say about him, but you better click on the link!

But, for realz...

This guy is awesome!!! Go get the cd! I promise you, you will be singing every word by the 3rd time you listen to the cd....and then you will be dieing to see him in concert! And then you will be singing all the words! He puts on a good show...nothing flashy...just a good show from a great artist. (Sorry for the bad pics...forgot my camera...so these are from my phone)

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Falling Up w/ MainStay, Dizmas, and The Wedding

2005-10-30T10:34:00.000-08:00

Falling Up was awesome!

Falling Up - Ever since I heard that these guys do backflips at their shows...I have always wanted to go. Well, I got the chance and boy did I love it! Basses got on top of his cab. and did a back flip!! It rocked! Good show and great band!

Mainstay - These guys opened up the concert. They were pretty good. They sound like Building 429. The guitar player had a PRS! Fell in love at first sight! lol

The Wedding - WOW! I heard alot of this band from a couple of my friends, and they were right. This band is realy good. Like.."I want to buy the cd" really good!

Dizmas - Well...what can I say...Good old rock and roll! Good stuff!

I love rock concerts! Cause you know everyone is there for one reason...and you can make friends easy! Pics are up! You'll love them.

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