hOOt

I was hitting golf balls at the driving range today with my dad. I hadin't it a golf ball for over 2 years before today, and I was hitting great. I almost cleared the back fence with my driver, I hit it well over 230 yards. On the last shot I hit, with he very last golf ball in the bucket, I broke my pitching wedge and the head went flying out into the range (I got it back). An omen? Coincidence? Perhaps. But for now, I will play golf more often. I can't just let something like that pass me by.

I have noticed I have been blogging for over a year. I can't believe it has been so long ago that I started this, thanks to Rachel Fuller and Pete Townshend. It has been a joy letting out anger, frustration, and happiness. Along with the occasional picture and comment.

I haven't been busy lately, I just have nothing to write about. I have started school, and now I am a junior. I am 16, but I have not started driving because I am lazy and I would have to get a job to help pay for gas and insurance. I'd rather take the bus, bum a ride, or walk.

I am taking choir, and I was a bit apprehensive about going in ther on the first day. It wasin't bad after all, and now I actually enjoy singing. I am not that great, but I am at least having fun. I am also in jazz, again. It is a lot of hard work, but it is fun. I might go to New York for both choir and jazz- for choir I might sing at carnegie hall, for jazz I might play at lincoln center. Should be fun (and rather expensive- but these performances should look good on my college application).

There has been talk in my house about our family going to europe next summer since we did not take a major vacation this summer. If I do, I will want to meet Mikey, Rene, Rachel, the whole lot. My brother wants to go to Germany, Switzerland or Austria, I want to go to England (duh) and Spain, and my parents want to go to Denmark to visit the people that visited us this summer. I don't think the plans have been laid out yet, though...

Brrrrump bum bum bum bum
-Kevin

pics

Mammoth Lakes and Rainbow Falls. One of my favorite places to be.

2

Oh man, summer school is almost over. Just 2 more weeks. I have to stick it out, Bio is hard for me. Also in 2 days people from Denmark are coming over. It will be fun despite having a house crammed full of people- 7 to be exact. My brother flew home without me knowing and it was a plesant surprise. Now someone can drive me home from the bus stop, whee. Its been really hot here- 106 the other day- and very humid. Humidity is normally non existant around here, and it is not welcome. The past week we have been doing a lot of housework. We got a patio cover and my parents got tile and a new shower door in their bathroom. I got a new bed, and it feels so nice compared to my old bunk. My feet used to hang off the end, it was sad really. I am recording a song called " the heart song" and it is nearly done. I call it the heart song just because of the beat. No lyrics yet. I won't post anything until I get a few songs under my belt though. Still haven't got my congas or anything yet, I need my money back from my dad so I can make some needed purchases. It dosen't sound complete with just guitar. Its hollow and dull. Like an unsalted peanut shell with nothing inside. That will change though.

The other day, a beautiful male california valley quail flew into our window and died. I was really sad, because I had seen him (and heard him) in out back yard for a few weeks with his numerous (2 or 3) females. Poor guy. But 2 other males cane and took his place. Soon I'll see the babies running about in the back yard.

What is it with 2's?

GMAS
-Kevin

Hello, there!

I'm back. Ive been busy (as always). I am taking Biology in summer school to get ahead. I have to wake up at 5 every day, but other than that my summer has been going well. I got back form Mammoth lakes on tuesday last week, I had a blast. I need to get my ass into gear with this blog, I have been slacking lately. More later.

-Kevin.

Post number 90

Thought I would post a favorite song of mine for my 90th post.

Nobody home by Pink Floyd
I've got a little black book with my poems in. Got a bag, got a toothbrush and a comb .When I'm a good dog, they sometimes throw me a bone in.
I got elastic bands keepin my shoes on.Got those swollen hand blues.Got thirteen channels of shit on the T.V. to choose from.I've got electric light.And I've got second sight.Got amazing powers of observation.And that is how I knowWhen I try to get through On the telephone to youThere'll be nobody home.
I've got the obligatory Hendrix perm.And the inevitable pinhole burnsAll down the front of my favorite satin shirt.I've got nicotine stains on my fingers.I've got a silver spoon on a chain.I've got a grand piano to prop up my mortal remains.
I've got wild staring eyes.And I've got a strong urge to fly.But I got nowhere to fly to. Ooooh, Babe when I pick up the phone
"Surprise, surprise, surprise..." (from Gomer Pyle show) There's still nobody home.
I've got a pair of Gohills bootsand I got fading roots.

Life looks better now... much better.

Wow, things have been going great lately.

First off, I had an audition for jazz. And the good thing is, I got into the most advanced jazz class at my school! I am so happy. I only played one song for the audition and my teacher said I was in on the spot without hesitation. I was (and am) so happy. And my teacher is hard to please. The band I am in only plays songs by Duke Ellington. Every year our school competes in a compition in NYC called the Essentially Ellington competition. This year we placed 4th, which is outstanding since schools around the word compete, including art and private schools. I go to a public school, so that is even more amazing. Wynton Marsalis (a word famous jazz trumpet player and judge at the competition) said we should have placed 2nd or 3rd... which is amazing. We would have played at a concert at Lincoln Center. Next year I will be flying to New York, I can't wait.

Another thing, I am going to start driving. Today was the last day of school, and I found out all of my grades, and I have a B average. So I will drive. I can't wait, I will finally be able to go to record outlet when I want to, haha. Perhaps I will get a job somewhere.

I talked with a man from the Berklee College of Music, and I asked him questions about the music production and engineering program they have there. it sounds like I will get in when I apply. He said Agoura High School was a very prestigeous school, and it is famous for its music nationwide. That would help me, he said. The fact that I have already started recording will help me on my application too. I am a skilled musician. I play multiple instruments. I have good grades. And that is what Berklee looks for. I am thinking of applying next year and skipping my senior year of highschool. I'll just get my GED (diploma based on a test). After Berklee, I want to go to London to go to a trade school, look in previous posts.

I have decided to become a mod. I like the fashon, the music, the life. I've already got 3 suit jackets, a few ties and polos. And many pairs of levi's. All I need is a lambretta, with lots of lights, chrome, badges, mirrors and horns. I need more money. I'm saving up, I have over $1,000. I want a 200 cc motor though, I am a big man.

I have world cup fever. There, I said it. I want England to win because USA is sucking hard (and I am about 1/4 english or more). We don't deserve to be there... whatever. During my spanish exam, we were actually watching spain play against ukrane because my teacher is from spain. He was going nuts, it was the happiest I had ever seen him. Spain won, 4-0. Too bad I won't see him until next year, he's a great guy. I am currently watching paraguay play Sweden.

I also got tickets to see Roger Waters in october. I can hardly wait, even though Water's voice is fucking shot.

The rickenbacker is great as ever, and my guitar chops are getting better. I love playing green onions by Booker T and the MG's. What a great song to jam to... It allows my jazz roots to show.

I appreciate all of you people wo take the time to read this and comment. Your support is priceless. Cheers.
GMaS!

-Kevin

Woah

I have just realised something. My life has started. Everything I do (in school and at home) is preparation for something in the future. All I have to say is one thing: the future better be fuckin' worth it. I'm bustin' my ass doing school work, and I hope it will have some sort of practical use in one form or another.

My God I hate preparation. May I start to live now? Oh, guess not. Not until I am 18.

Will post later.

-Kevin

I feel better now

My arms are almost back to normal.

I haven't been writing for a while. Its not just because of my arms, but I had nothing to write about.

I had a three day weekend, thanks to memorial day. On memorial day, my dad and I went out. We bought that new David Gilmore album, and it just happens to kick ass. I love it. Then we went to record outlet, where I bought "the wall" by pink Floyd, the best of the kinsmen, and A Quick One/the who sell out double album. All three of which are on vinyl, and I like em all. I saw some beatles stuff on vinyl selling for 35-50 dollars. Are they out of their fucking minds? That's basically rape (to one's wallet, of course). The thing that pisses me off about that store is that they charge soo much on beatles and Zappa stuff. And they are almost always out of Zappa stuff, which really sucks since I am starting to get into his music.

Speaking of music, I was talking to a big executive at JBL (that speaker company) at lunch. He is also a Latin bassist, and he has done a few tours with big Latin groups throughout north and south America. He said he would take me on a tour of the facility sometime soon, including the room where they test the 1,000 watt speakers at full blast. That is going to be awesome. The same guy got me tickets to NAMM, which is a huge exposition of musical equipment. That was a few years ago, and he said he would give me his pass again for the NAMM that is coming up next year. Hex a great guy, a real family man. If they have any internships, I will sign up immediately. That would make a nice summer job.

Better now,
-Kevin

Ouch

Last night, I was playing basketball with some friends and I slam dunked he ball. But I held onto the rim for too long and I pulled some muscles in my forearms. It hurts really bad, so I'll make a longer post after I put some ice on them (both of my arms.) Why the fuck do I always get hurt? I need to be less clumsy I guess.

-Kevin

Foggy saturday.

It has been very strange weather lately. It has been foggy in the morning and then it hits in the high 80's-low 90's in the afternoon. Its just too hot for me. I can't stand the heat, its so uncomfortable.

This week, out school had STAR testing. It really is a stupid test our government makes us take- to be honest, I don't really see how it directy affects me. I'm going out-of-country (I hope) for college, so I don't give a rat's ass. I'm still trying my best on it though. Normally we have half days during this testing, but since there were fires nearby student's houses in september, we have a few days off to make up for and we have normal classes afterwards. At least they're a little bit shorter than usual.

Today I have a trombone lesson. It should be fun, and I am getting the hang of what my teacher has been throwing at me lately. I have made great improvements since last year. Last year I was fourth chair, this year I am first.

As for guitar- I am getting better too. I am just learning as many chords as I can. 7ths, 9ths, diminished, minor, major, augmented etc. I'm not progressing as much as I am with my trombone because I don't get guitar lessons. My dad thinks guitar is sort of a lousy instrument to learn because so many people play it and because of that he thinks that I will never make any money playing guitar. Please- someone set him straight. He is the only person keeping me from being a great guitarist. I have the will and money, but he won't let me pay for it. I just don't get him. And as for the money-making, I don't plan to be a professional guitarist. I just want to do it on the side- a sound engineer and musician part-time.

Tomorrow is Mother's Day in the U.S. I hope the weather gets beter though, it is likely to be foggy again throughout the day.

Wow, that was a looooong post.
GMaS!

-Kevin

Mondeee

Lately I have been listening to a lot of The Who's album, "A Quick One". Its really good. And I know that many people don't quite appreciate their early works, to those people, have another listen. It's really good stuff. I canactually play "Heatwave", "Don't Look Away", and a few others that I am too lazy to name.

I've been listening to a lot of Pink Floyd as well. Obscured by Clouds and Atom Heart Mother in particular. I wish I could afford a synth so I could emulate their sound. It is a pity I can't.

I'm gonna go to bed, I have a splitting headache.

KOKO

-Kevin

Sunday sunday sunday!

This week has been good. On friday, I went to Allen's house and jammed. Allen and I on guitar, and Hunter on bass. It was a lot of fun, and we practiced a song together. We had origionally planned on buying a barbecue and cooking some steaks, but Allen diddin't have a barbecue and we diddin't have enough money to buy one. So he said we'd have one by next week. Hooray!
My mom went out of town to Minnesota for most of the week, and she bought me a really nice Who t-shirt from the mall of America. Perhaps I'll post a pic.
Yesterday I went over to my uncle's house to say hi to my grandma who just had a blood clot in her leg. Shes O.K. now. Said hi to my grandpa too, and he is still recovering from shingles. He is doing much better too. Then I helped my uncle move his new tv onto his entertainment center. It looks really nice. After that, my cousin and I played computer games for a while. After that, we had a very nice dinner of fajitas.

That'll be enough for now. Smell you later.

-Kevin

Back to the bloggin' world

I'm back!

Monterey was lots of fun, I got back home on monday. The drive up was a long 5 hours. We went to the aquarium the first day, and it was really fun. I saw the otters being fed, it was pretty cool. If any of you readers go to monterey, the aquarium is a must. I also saw cannery row. Fun stuff. The second day, my highschool band played at 10:30 in the morning by the wharf. There were only 15 people there not including the band, and I was kinda angry because our band is so good and we should have been placed in a better time slot. But I am still greatful that we were invited to begin with. And there was a guy with a little monkey on his shoulder, it was pretty cool. For the rest of the day, we watched all sorts of jazz played, from choral stuff to combos to big bands. at the end of the day, the top three bands play. The winner- Beaverton Highschool, from Beaverton, Oregon played incredibly. Their trumpet player was crazy good, and they played an awesome set. When we got back to the hotel, we played pool until the wee hours of morning. Then we set out home, back on the 5 hour drive home. While we started to drive home, my teacher said whoever could answer the most questions about music correctly would win 10 dollars and a free lunch. And of course, I won. I got a free burger for lunch.

When I got back this week, I had lots of work assigned. That is why I haven't been able to blog.

Will post more today or tomorrow.

GMaS

Monterey

Sorry I haven't blogged in a while first off. I have had loads of homework.

Tomorrow I am leaving to go to Monterey tomorrow for the annual jazz festival. I think the who played there once, way back in 1967. I can't believe that was 39 years ago. I don' think I will be playing any songs because I am in a different jazz band than the one that is playing, but I will be going to some clinics and I will have the oppurtunity to talk to people from the berklee college of music. I want to find out what is necessary to be able to get into their recording school. That would be awesome. Our band will be up there from friday until sunday afternoon, and we will visit the aquarium, boardwalk and shops. It will be great fun. I want to bring my dad's digital camera, but I highly dobut he will let me. I'll try though.

I have been thinking about applying to an engineering school in London, and it seems realistic that I would be able to go there since it costs fortunes less than my brother's college per year. http://www.alchemea.com/index.php
That is the link. I think the only expensive things will be housing and plane tickets (I hope). I need to get out of southern california and move closer to the music I love. Not that I don't love music down here. I need a change in life.

GMaS!

-Kevin

P.S. The guitar is simply amazing!

My guitar!

I love it so much.

Yard Work

Today was start of my spring holiday. I woke up late, around 10:45. It was wonderful. I had my trombone lesson at 12. I am currently working ona transposition of a Miles Davis song, "So What". I am learning the trumpet solo (by miles davis of course). Its fun. After a lunch of quesidillas and cholula hot sauce (which is my hot sauce of choice. I'm going to carry it with me wherever I go from now on.), I went to my cousin'e house to help with yard work. Most of it was throwing stuff into the rented trash bin thing. Rotted logs, old PVC pipe, tree trimmings, old yard furniture and various stuff from the yard. It was hard but fun work. When I picked up a log, I found a huge lizard and picked it up. I wish I could have had a camera on me, he was beautiful. A big blue-belly. There were many other smaller lizards around too. There was one pile of logs in a corner area, and when my uncle picked up a log, a cute little mouse ran out. I felt bad for making it scrounge for a new home, but we had to get rid of the termite and ant ridden logs. After that, my cousin and I played computer games and had some lemon bars that he made. Later we watched TV. Then my dad picked me up, and here I am now. Posting this blog. I'm a bit tired now, so I am going to say goodbye. Since I have next week off, it is possible I will post every day. I'll at least try. Keep on keepin' on.

-Kevin

Good news!

My dad is ordering my guitar tomorrow. It comes back in stock on friday 14, and it should be shipped by sunday 16. I can't wait. And one more thing, I will be driving as of this week. I have this week off due to spring break. I am tired, I'll post more tomorrow. Probably pics.
KOKO

-Kevin

More pics.

More pics of the mountain and pond. Can you guess why they call it ladydface mountain? I took these from the computer room. I can look to my left and see the mountain right now. I ofetn thank my mom and dad for choosing this house in this location. It was a windy day so there is crap floating around on the pond.

Rainy, again

Its a bit rainy here. Here are pictures of my back yard and the unfinished pond that is overflowing with rain water. It took me a while to uplaod the pics, I hope it was not for nothing. Sorry for not posting frequently. Enjoy.

Out for the weekend.

Hey everybody! I am going to be out of town this weekend because I am going to Fresno for a wedding reception. It was my cousin who gat married. I will be back on Sunday or Monday. Just wanted to inform you bloggers and other viewers.

I have some more fantastic news. I just found out that some family friends from Denmark are spending 3 weeks living in my house. My old babysitter from when I was a baby is returning to sunny Southern California on vacation. It will be fun, and I want to learn about life over there. My father said she used to love rollercoasters, so I hope we make a few trips to Six Flags while she is here. She is married and has a 6 year old son who will be turning 7 while he is over here, and he said the only thing he was for his birthday is pizza. That is a good thing, we have 7 or more places to choose from where I live. We'll have to share my room, but thats ok.

GMAS!
-Kevin