Tuesday, October 14, 2014

Some randomness

I don't post here much anymore because I am busy with the Facebook page, but I figured I'd make an appearance and do one of my random thought posts.

Gotham is an entertaining show. It has me hooked. Jada steals every scene she's in.

WWE has been a a huge roller coaster lately. Ambrose and Rusev/Lana are the best TV they have right now. I hope they let Ambrose and Rollins go nuts in the HIAC match. And there better be a great reveal for all these Wyatt vignettes.

Sandwiches don't leave GSR. Just thought I'd point that out.

Who in the hell is Anita Sarkeesian?

What do you think Obama's golf handicap is now?

Wendy Davis is a cunt.

Vladimir Putin is 5'7" and 62 years old. But he scares the shit out of me. If I'm in a bar fight, I want him on my side.

Anyone live in the Hickory/Morganton?Asheville, NC area? I want to move there in early 2015 and could use a lead on some jobs/pet friendly apartments.

This season of Hell's Kitchen is better than last season so far.

I predicted the Cowboys would make a wild card spot. Just sayin...

I'm addicted to bidding on baseball cards on Listia. The best cards I've won are Derek Jeter card worth $12 and a Bryce Harper card worth $15.

I am excited for WWE 2K15. I have it pre-ordered and paid off already.

Russell Brand is this generation's Pauly Shore.

I won my fantasy baseball league championship.


Thanks for the read. I know it's been awhile.

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If you cannot be a poet, be the poem.

Tuesday, May 20, 2014

Saturday, March 29, 2014

2014 MLB Predictions

My favorite time of the year is here! It's baseball season! :-) So here's a quick look at what I think is going to play out in 2014.

AMERICAN LEAGUE

Division winners Boston, Detroit, LAofAnaheim
Wild Cards New York, Texas
MVP Mike Trout (He should have won it last year)
Cy Young David Price (But don't be surprised if Darvish or Verlander sneaks in here)
Rookie of the Year Xander Bogaerts (Kind of a easy way out pick, I know.)

NATIONAL LEAGUE

Division winners Washington, St. Louis, Los Angeles
Wild Cards Pittsburgh, Atlanta
MVP Yadier Molina (It should be close with Cutch and Harper)
Cy Young Jose Fernandez (I refuse to take the easy way out here and go with Kershaw again.)
Rookie of the Year Billy Hamilton (Maybe another easy way out here. Polanco could make a splash when he's recalled in June.)

League Champions Texas, St. Louis
World Series Champions St. Louis

Monday, March 17, 2014

Getting Personal: Relationships

It's been awhile since I posted a glimpse into my personal life. So here we go into my thoughts on relationships.

I'm divorced. The marriage failed badly. But it wasn't one of those bitter divorces you hear horror stories about. She and I knew it was for the best and handled things maturely and peacefully. Don't ask me what caused it to fail because I still don't honestly know. It could have been a number of things. The bottom line remains: she and I couldn't keep it together. It's not like we got married and planned to get divorced a few years later. We had grander plans, believe me. But it's not to be. It's over. However, it doesn't stop a small part of me hurting for something that will never happen: a second chance.

So what have I been doing since then? Not dating, that's for sure. Since the separation and divorce, dating hasn't been a priority. I did have a few flings though. Three, to be exact. And one near fling, but the woman involved got cold feet at the idea of a no-strings attached relationship. Now that I think about it, one of the three flings was probably a step or two above a "fling". Anyway, I've been telling myself since we split up I don't want anything serious. Well that's still the case. Sort of.

I do want something serious. I just don't want it right now. Down the road, I'm sure a serious and committed relationship will be wonderful. But I want to take my time getting there. I want to have fun and hang out with someone and get to know her and develop something strong to build on. Then, and only then, will I want to take the turn down Serious Street or Commitment Boulevard. If I start hanging out with someone and we both realize serious wouldn't work, well it's better to find that out sooner than later. And at that point, friendship is still a possible direction. And friendship is always a good thing to find because it is so rare. Of course, hanging out and having fun can lead to no-strings attached situations as well. I'm not saying those are bad, but at some point you must say goodbye to that lifestyle. And I am going to be picky with my next serious relationship. Not that I wasn't with my ex-wife, because I was. Just ask my Mom. There's a rumor she once asked my younger brother if I was gay because I brought women around so infrequently. Meh. Whatever.

So basically, I would to have someone around in the morning for coffee and someone there at night for cuddles. But I don't want that person to have permanent access to me right away. I'd like to start off with visitation rights, so to speak. Lol. Not to sound institutional or anything. :-P But that's the way it must be. It's the only way for me to be fair to myself and any future significant other. Hopefully there are women out there with taking these steps. Hopefully there are women out there capable of dealing with whatever level of relationship we do (or don't) reach. (I already dealt with one crazy bitch after a fling. I don't want to do it again.) Now I'm sure there are women out there who can handle it. It's just a matter of finding them.



Thank you all again for reading. I appreciate the support for this blog. Even with the inconsistency of my posts. And remember, if you cannot be a poet, be the poem.

www.facebook.com/jtlovecraft <----LIKE the page!

Friday, March 7, 2014

How About Some More Beer Talk?

Alright everyone. I'm back for another round of craft beer discussion. I am definitely developing a taste for certain kinds, but I will continue to try different styles and brands for discussion here. So let's start the countdown of the current six pack.


6. Rouge Mocha Porter -- I found very little to like about this brew other than it's pleasant aroma. Otherwise there aren't many positives. It went down rough and left an awful aftertaste. It actually is scaring me away from other Rouge brews.

5. New Holland The Poet Oatmeal Stout -- This was my first oatmeal stout and I was not impressed. I expected a heavier beer but this was heavy and harsh. It's even more disappointing because the label pictures a raven so there is obvious inspiration from Edgar Allan Poe. And since Poe is one of my favorite writers it was what influenced me to choose this beer. It wasn't worth it. I will keep the bottle though because it's pretty cool.

4. Southern Tier Iniquity Imperial Black Ale -- This was my first try at a Southern Tier brew and I wasn't impressed nor unimpressed. This beer was average. The color definitely lived up to its name and the 9% alcohol content will knock you down. So if dark imperials are your flavor, try it. It's just not something I will go back to.

3. Atwater Brewery Voodoo Vator -- I've had other Atwater Brewery beers and have enjoyed them. I liked this one as well. Voodoo Vator is a doppelbock (darker stronger version of traditional Bavarian Bock Bier) and is both dark and strong. It was relatively smooth and with it's 9% alcohol content it could sneak up on you if you aren't careful. It's not quite as dark as a porter or stout but if you pour it into a stein, you may, just for a few minutes, feel like you're in a German tavern.

2. Lagunitas Undercover Investigation Shut-Down Ale -- This was very close to being the number one beer of this six pack. It was strong (9.6% ABV) and sharp. This beer will give you a buzz and Gibbs-slap you at the same time. It went down nicely and it has some witty print on the label if you care to read such things. I would definitely buy this again.

1. Killer Penguin Barleywine Ale -- Brewed by Boulder Beer Company, this limited release season is a MUST try if you can find it. Not only is it one of the smoothest craft beers I have ever tried, but it has an amazing flavor, an unbelievable aroma and a color so gorgeous, you have to admire it for a few seconds before taking that first sip. But be careful, the 10% ABV will kick your ass because this beer goes down easy. (Insert 'yo momma' joke here.) Seriously though, if you can still find a few remaining bottles of Killer Penguin at your local craft beer place, do not hesitate to grab them.


Again, thank you for your attention. Have a fun and safe weekend, everyone.

www.facebook.com/jtlovecraft

Wednesday, February 19, 2014

More Beer Talk

Alright... time to discuss the next six beer in my craft beer journey!


Victory Storm King Stout -- This one didn't do it for me. It had a beautiful color but it went down harsh and had a wicked after taste.

Fort Collins Brewery Double Chocolate Stout -- Like the Storm King, this also had an unpleasant after taste. But the flavor and aroma was bold which helped save it a little.

Brooklyn Brewery Black Chocolate Stout -- I was pleasantly surprised by this beer. I wasn't sure what to expect from a brewery in Brooklyn. It's not the smoothest stout but the flavor was great and the 10% alcohol content was a big plus.

Thirsty Dog Siberian Night Imperial Stout -- I enjoyed this one. It was strong (9.7%), had a gorgeous color and went down smooth. When it comes to imperial stouts, it's one of the better I have had.

Tres Blueberry Stout -- This unique stout from Dark Horse Brewery didn't have a distinct blueberry flavor. (Another craft beer, Wild Blue does have that flavor. So if that's what you want, go in that direction.) It did have a slight blueish tint to it and a wonderful flavor nonetheless.

Thunderstruck Coffee Porter -- I absolutely loved this one. Coming from Highland Brewing Company in Asheville, North Carolina (very close to where I have friends), this aromatic and bold brew is one of the best I have tried overall. And that includes anything I have tried at the bar as well. Without a doubt this is one I would buy again and again.


Thanks again for checking out the page. Until next time... if you cannot be a poet, be the poem.


www.facebook.com/jtlovecraft

Friday, February 14, 2014

Saturday, February 8, 2014

Let's Talk About Beer

Over the past few months I have been getting more into craft beer, especially dark ones. I just no longer have a desire to drink the beer flavored substances produced by Budweiser and MillerCoors. Here's a look at a the most recent six I have tried, ranked from least enjoyed to most enjoyed.

6. Heavy Seas Winter Storm Category 5 Ale -- Something about this one did not sit well with me. It left a bad after taste and was not smooth at all going down. Next time I won't choose a beer simply because there is a pirate on the label.

5. Breckenridge Vanilla Porter -- This one wasn't awful, I'd drink it again most likely. It just had a sweetness to it making it difficult to want more than one or two. It has a lower alcohol content than most craft beers at 4.7% so if you do indulge in a few, you should be OK.

4. Schlafly Coffee Stout -- I am really digging the coffee stouts and porters. This one was really good and if it were not for the other amazing beers I happened to select as part of this round of tasting, it would have been higher on the list. You can smell the coffee when you pour this beer. It's like the best of both worlds.

3. Old Rasputin Russian Imperial Stout -- I was told this is the grandfather of imperial stouts. I was told correctly. This craft has a bite to it, but it is dark, aromatic and strong -- it comes with an alcohol content of 9%. If you want a classic, go for this one.

2. Flying Dog Gonzo Imperial Porter -- This is one of the best beers I have ever had. Not only is it beautiful to look at, it is very smooth and it will kick your ass with its 9.2% alcohol content. Definitely try this one if you have the chance.

1. Innis & Gunn Scottish Porter with Molasses - This beer blew my mind. I didn't know what to expect with the molasses, but it worked. It's not as dark as many other porters, but it is smooth and delicious. The alcohol content on it is 7.4% and with the beer's smooth taste, that could catch up to you quick if you aren't careful. This is a must try if you can get your hands on it.


That is round one of my craft beer tasting. Every payday for the next couple months I am going to head to my local mix-and-match place and create six packs of craft beers (but don't expect many IPA's), and share my thoughts with all of you. Until next time, life is too short to drink shitty beer. So get the good stuff.

Have a great weekend.


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Sunday, February 2, 2014

A Look at Super Bowl XLVIII

Well tonight is the night. Families all over the world will gather in front of the TV for the Super Bowl. There will be countless deli trays, wings, and beer consumed. People will live-Tweet about the commercials. Teenage girls will emerge from hiding long enough to watch the Bruno Mars halftime show before escaping back to their rooms. But for those who care about the game, here is my breakdown and prediction.

The edge in offense definitely goes to Denver. Despite Marshawn Lynch being the most prolific offensive player on the field (he isn't called Beast Mode for nothing), Peyton Manning, Eric Decker, Wes Welker and Demaryius Thomas are one hell of a combination. Yes, I know Russell Wilson is a fine athlete and a threat to run which makes him tough to defend, but he is not the passer Manning is nor does he have quite the same caliber of receivers to throw to. No disrespect to Sidney Rice, Doug Baldwin and Golden Tate intended, they are all solid receivers. They just aren't on the level of what Denver has. Both teams have great offensive lines which allow them to do the things they do on offense. Now, Seattle does have the edge in the running game and that will play a role tonight. But overall Denver has the better tools on offense.

Defense is another story. Seattle is by far the better defensive team. They surrendered the fewest points, total yards and passing yards during the 2013 regular season and led the league in takeaways. Seattle's rushing defense was tied for seventh in the NFL with Denver and the Bronco's rushing defense is playing well right now. The Broncos pass defense however, was ranked 27th in the NFL. We all now know who Richard Sherman is, but he's not just some chump talking needlessly talking trash. He did intercept 8 passes during the season and returned one for a touchdown. Shaun Phillips and his 10 regular season sacks make him the player to watch for in Denver's defense.

Special teams go to Denver. Kicker Matt Prater is better than Seattle's Steven Hauschka and Trindon Holliday is scary returning kicks.

The biggest keys in tonight's game are this: How does Manning approach a defense like Seattle's? Can Denver's secondary step up enough to slow down the solid receivers of Seattle? Who will win the battle of Lynch vs. Denver rush defense?

PREDICTION: SEATTLE 24 DENVER 20



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Wednesday, January 22, 2014

Some Brief Thoughts On Roe v. Wade

It's the anniversary of the landmark Roe v. Wade Supreme Court decision. So I am going to offer some quick thoughts on the decision and abortion.

First off, the political side of me is thankful to live in a country where women have the right to make their own life decisions. For anyone else to decide (male or female) to decide what is best for any other women's life is unacceptable.

Now the side of me with a conscience and morals believes 90% of abortions occur for selfish reasons and of those 90%, each and every one is avoidable. The thing is, I have NO right to force what I believe to be moral and right upon other people. I do not know their situation or what is going on inside their head. The decision on abortion must belong to the woman (hopefully with input and support from the man, but in many cases I'm sure that is not the way it works out). I would like to offer two ways to cut down on the number of abortions in America without any legislation.

1. Women must respect themselves more. Unfortunately in America, perception is reality. If you dress like a skank, that's what people are going to believe. I'm not saying you have to dress like an Amish woman at the club or a concert, there is a time and place to be sexy. I'm saying know when those times are. Men like a mystery. Don't give 90% of it away up front.

Also ladies, even if you are on birth control demand your partner wear a condom. Birth control can fail and it does not prevent STD's and who wants one of those? It must be a deal breaker for you if he won't wear one. Spending a night alone is far better than the possible consequences of unprotected sex.

2. Men must treat women with dignity and respect. Just because a woman is dressed like Ke$ha, it does not give any man the right to disrespect her in any way. And men, dress for the occasion as well.

And men, be insistent with condom use as well. As I mentioned earlier, birth control doesn't prevent STD's. That's not a trip to the health clinic anyone wants to make. So use them. It's better than the alternatives.

it's very simple, if men and women treat themselves and each other with more respect and both genders are equally passionate about safe sex, the need for abortions in America will decline. And if the need decline, the overall numbers decline. And it happens without any legislation whatsoever, which is the best part.


Thanks for reading. Remember, if you cannot be a poet, be the poem.


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Twitter: @jtlovecraft