On The Agenda Today... Blogging Etiquette

*The Door entrance bell rings

"Oh Hello, you must be one of our blog readers. We're so glad to have you hear today, My name is Taniqua, I am the receptionist here at "A Thought Passed Through My Mind." Do you have an appointment?

....

"Of course you don't, I'm kidding with you, if you would please just sign in and take your seat, Tanner will be with you shortly, please be patient, his schedule has been very busy this weekend."

....

"I'm of course kidding again, Tanner has nothing but time for you, please walk into his office, right through those doors. Whats that? No, no, theres no sign in sheet. Don't worry. We're glad to have you here, and let me go ahead and apologize if Tanner says something you don't like. He's one of those guys who likes pushing your buttons from time to time. He's kind of a jerk like that sometimes. Just remember it comes from a place of love. Yes. Right through those doors.

.....

*Door opens. Tanner is sitting at his desk.

"Oh, hello! how are you guys today? Good. Good. I'm glad you have made it here today. I'm not gonna lie, I'm somewhat shocked your here at my place of business today. But hey, I'm so glad that you've made it this far into the blog post. If I could give you a cup of coffee I would. But I'm broke, and this is a computer post, technology does not allow me to pour you a cup of coffee yet. Give it 5 years, Apple will be on top of it. But anyway lets get down to business.

.....

Yes. Business, I know this is weird its definitely different than anything you've read or heard from me. I'm sure at times you've thought I'm a very anti-corporate personality and all that mess. Well... at times, yes I can be, but not today. Today we need to talk about something very serious. Something that is affecting not only me, but so many other bloggers across the worldwide internet.

We need to discuss blogger etiquette.

What was that?

....

No, no, no. Thats preposterous, theres no way that I can tell what you are wearing when you read my blogs. So no, you don't have to wear a business suit every time we come in contact. In fact, yes I support pajama readings. They are quite genuine, and more importantly, quite comfortable.

....

No, I don't care if you eat with your mouth open... can we get to the point please? no more questions. Let me say what I need to say, geeze.

Ok. Blogger étiquette.

So its been brought to my attention by my personal experiences and many of my other associates in the blogging industry that we need to discuss what is expected of you.

....

Ok, maybe not expected of you, more or less how you can help with the equation.

Most blog readers view blogs as a one way street. Its an effort of a writer to write out his or her opinions and the reader just reads and moves on. Well... I'm here to tell you, blogging is actually a two way street. Let me explain this in terms that you will understand.

....

No sir, I'm not questioning your intelligence. AGAIN... let me explain, geeze man!


Blogging is believed to be a form of writing where one writer writes about his or her opinions or ideas on culture, life and what not. It is not an overnight sensation. It actually has been going on for a very long time. Writers are self center beasts who find any area to post there work, so when the internet was provided, they pounced on it like a hungry lion finding a zebra... Ok thats too extreme. I didn't mean that. haha. ANYWAY, blogging is actually not sought out to be a self centered thing at all by most writers/bloggers. Its actually meant to be an experience and or an open discussion...

*Tanner hands you a pamphlet.

If you could turn to page 3 of your Blogging for Dummies(The Pamphlet!) look at the top of the page/fold out. Yes, comments. We are going to be talking about comments and feedback.

....

No, idiot I don't expect you to feed me. Please... please stop with the questions... And I'm sorry, no, I don't really think you are an idiot. That was very unbusinesslike of me. I apologize

....

Thank you for your forgiveness, now back to Blogging for Dummies(The Pamphlet!). Comments and Feedback. If you could read the first sentence out with me please.

*cough cough*

All together now:

"Comments and or any feedback from the reader is a good thing"

Ah, good job. You guys are like pros at this reading out loud thing. Pat yourselves on the back.

Ok, so "comments and or any feedback from the reader is a good thing?" Huh. That apparently just isn't common knowledge to most readers. So thats really why I called you to this meeting. I'm not actually writing this from a selfish stand point. I mean sure, theres no comments on some articles or facebook links I post, but i'm not complaining!

*Tanner starts mumbling under his breathe.

What was that?

No, I didn't say that I want to kill all 2,300 of you readers who continue to read my blog and not comment. Are you crazy sir? Drink some more of your coffee. Moving on!



No, I'm actually bringing this to your attention because I have many other associates in this business and I know how they must feel as bloggers. Most of my associates, can actually be found at the top right of this page. If I may direct you to that right now. Yes, that up there. No... not the flickr pictures above that. Yes.. .the thing that has all of the links to other peoples blogs. Yes, those people. They are my associates in this blogging business. You should know that all of them are hard workers in this business. Its hard to keep going at times when they don't get the feedback to keep them going. Without feedback you basically expect them to keep preparing fabulous readings that you enjoy and then toss to the side, for free. All of those links up there at the top...

No you idiot, above the flickr pictures!

yes, there, all of those writers are definitely worthy of checking out. All of those names you see there are brilliant writers and deserve your recognition.

Recognition/comments/feedback.

They deserve that.

They provide you with plenty of readings. Plenty of your own thoughts have been poked and started by many of these bloggers. LET THEM KNOW THAT!

*Cough cough*

I'm sorry, I think I was a little too passionate with that. I apologize.

Oh, Taniqua already apologized for my outbursts? Wonderful, she's such a gem. Good looking too if I might say so myself.

Anyway moving on before I get sued for sexual harassment....

What I am really trying to get at is this...

There are so many writers out here on this world wide web. So many of them spend countless hours typing away on their computers. They may have had a day that really shook them to their core so they decided they were going to call a meeting/write a blog, and tell you about it. They went out of their way to tell you about it. Yes, you. You are the special people that they write to. Yeah, at times it may come across like they are self centered writers just enjoying the spotlight that the web gives them... but really deep down what they are trying to do is communicate with you in a different way. Communication is key in this time period. We live in a technological age as you know.

Yes, top of page 14 on Blogging for dummies(The Pamphlet!). See says so right there. Technological age.




Yes, as I was saying before you asked me for proof on my statement. We live in a time where technology is driving more and more of us into seclusion and or Introversion. Yes, that is a big word, don't feel stupid for me having to explain it to you. Introversion is where we live in ourselves. We are introverts, we are not outward or social. Society is driving us into introverts with the number one products being music players with headphones, for PERSONAL listening pleasure. Xbox games that drive our youths into their bedrooms for long hours at a time.

What was that? Oh you got them xbox live accounts so they could play with people online? Good job! Way to make something completely introverted and make it social! Way To Go Idaho!

Anyway, not everyone is as special and cool as you for doing that. Like I was saying, ipods, xbox, television is at an all time high. What I am saying is people are becoming introverts and many people are resorting to facebook and blogs for interaction at times. Blogging is... writers who are trying to break that introversion cycle down. Yes, its not as personal as face to face conversations, but think about it. You had to drive all the way down here to Florida to meet with me today in my office. It would have been way easier for you have read this from your computer at home.

....

Oh you already are... Oh....

Details, details, whatever! Anyway, bloggers are trying to get you, the reader, the facebooker, to comunicate on your introvert machines. Yes your laptops, desktops, Ipads(Jeff Graves has been dying to have one if any of you are looking to throw yours away. Always Recycle people) cell phones, and other machines. They are screaming at you trying to communicate with you about things that are affecting their lives and your lives. As a human race, we are unique, we all have different lives that we live, but the thing that is quite amazing is that most of us deal with a lot of the same issues in our lives. But of course you already know that as the reader. You guys have already accepted the invitation to communicate....

But what you are not doing in reciprocating. Sorry, for the big words again.

Geeze get a dictionary people!


Reciprocate and or responding to these writers.

They are literally staying up into the late portions of the night trying to communicate with you readers. The thing is most of us bloggers have this thing, called a "blog counter" on our pages. We see that you readers are actually joining in on the discussion. Yes about 1,000 of those views are probably the blogger checking their blog to see if anyone has joined the conversation, but hey that leave another thousand on this blog alone who are reading the blog! So... that means this friendship is not being very fair to the both of us and my other associates. This is a two way road as I said before. We may start or pave one side of the road, but theres still the other lane for you to be on to. No one two lane road is worthy of being on if both lanes aren't active.

....

You want me to start wrapping up? Ok fine, sorry I like this moment of talking sometimes. Common, I don't have meetings like this often, actually this is my first. So.. excuse me for not considering your time. I know I'm taking you away from your social networking...

Let me sum it up.

We the writers/bloggers love doing this. We love writing and sharing our lives and experiences with all of you.

What I am proposing,

*cough cough* demanding.

*phone rings*


Hold on Taniqua's calling


*mumble mumble through the telephone receiver...

oh, ok. Thanks Taniqua.

*hangs up phone.

Ok, Taniqua, my lovely assistant, just informed me I can not demand anything of you. Its not kosher.

I apologize, shalom, shalom, hail marys, canoli, Whatever!

Anyway,

I really believe that on behalf of my associates and I, asking you the reader for some input into the conversations that we hold on weekly, or monthly basis is not too much to ask.

I have seen so many cases of my associates posting blogs on Facebook and nobody comments on their blog or their facebook link. They have no idea what your thoughts are on their work. They have no idea if it at all stirred anything in you, or did anything more than provide enjoyment for 3 minutes, or if its this blog, 309 minutes of your day. haha.

*tanner continues laughing.


I'm sorry, I'm sorry, I get myself at times. What can I say? I'm a funny guy!

Whew... that was good. Ok, let me do what you were saying earlier. "Wrap this up."

I am begging you to please treat my other associates with proper etiquette. Please. Comment on their blogs, please let them know what thoughts were poked or stirred in your minds by their blogs. Keep the conversation going! There is this really cool button below their blogs that say, "comment." yes that one. You can click on that and leave as little or as long as a reply as you want. Let them know! Again, Keep the conversation going.

Alas there is another option you have, on their facebook or their twitters bloggers normally leave you a link to their blogs. That is because we live in a lazy time where people don't go to your blog, that they go to weekly, unless they see that little link. Whatever. Were cool with it. But lets make it worth their time in doing that. If you don't want to leave a comment on their blog, leave a comment on their link, that they so graciously leave for you to be directed to their website of choice, where they hold their conversations with you the reader.

Does that make sense?
Any questions?

.....

Well, yes... but no, first do you have any questions RELATING to the conversation we just had?

No?
I don't believe you.

....

Ok. I believe you. Sorry for questioning my trust with you. I trust you now.

Ok cool! I'm glad we had this meeting, I really think it went well and I really hope to see some results.

.....

Whats that?

Is Taniqua available?

Actually, yes. She is. But please don't be a pig. She's not a piece of meat for you to look at, like my mother would always say. She's a real person. Real personality.

....

*tanner laughs heartily

Oh, you. Thats just too much. Thats so sexist, but thats just down right funny. You're too much. Ok, well I think that concludes our meeting.

*Tanner rises from his desk and walks you to the door.

Please take one of the complimentary mints on your way out, oh... right... Apple is on that too.

Thank you for stopping by. Please drop in as many times as you want. I am always here. Always having new conversations. And I start them for you. So please drop on by and join the conversation more often.

Oh and yes, this was more or less directed and conducted for my associates who are again, located at the top of the page to the top right... No you idiot above the flickr, how many times do I have to tell you!

Goodness. Anyway, thank you for coming in. Enjoy your ride home back to your social networking sites of choice. Stop by and start any conversations at anytime. I'll be located here all time, but if you have any comments or complaints, I'll be found hiding in the comment boxes of this office/blog, and the facebook links I leave you.

Have a good day!

*Door bell rings as you exit the office.

*Tanner looks at Taniqua.

Hey, good looking

*Taniqua rolls her eyes.

Oh please.

Well... if you ever are interested... I'll be here.

Thanks!



Media Associated With This Post:
Song: Graduation Anthem
Artist: Every High School Band Ever
Album: Kill Me: Assorted Songs For Suicide

All pictures taken by Tanner Pemelton

Tie provided by: Jeff Graves

And Introducing... Take 2 Films

So nobody ever said theres such thing as shameful promotion. Ok.. maybe thats not so true. But hey, I'm proud of my accomplishments of course I'm going to promote them.

Today, Nathan and I launched our official Youtube channel. Take 2 Films.

Nathan and I have launched a production company where we are writing and creating videos for youtube and for your personal enjoyment.

So come over and watch our debut video, "Get Naked!" at youtube.com/take2filmschannel

Please watch, like, and subscribe our video. If you like the video and want more, help us climb the mountain of youtube. And the way you can do that is through liking our videos, which is an option below the video on youtube, and by subscribing to our Channel on Youtube.

Or watch it on here and then like the video on youtube. But if you want a better quality video check out our video at the Take 2 Films page.



If you like what you see and want to see more, check us out at youtube.com/take2filmschannel

Thanks guys... Enjoy!

Tanner

When Creation Flows Through Your Veins...

Today I got an email from my cousin with a link to an interview that the band My Chemical Romance did on LA's rock station, KROQ. So with the little bit of time I have on my hands now a days, I went and I watched the interview. The interview was awesome. They told the KROQ dj all the dirt about My Chem's life for the last few years: making the record, getting married, some having kids. It was awesome to hear all this, as a fan, it almost feels like catching up with old friends. And now that were acquainted, I'm psyched for whatever comes from the next.

But it wasn't the interview that stirred something in me today. It wasn't the interview that drove me to write this. What totally plunged me off the diving board and into my thought process, was this video here:



This video is just a promo for the bands new album, featuring their new single, "Na Na Na." It really at first glance is nothing. Its just a commercial. But when you really think about it, you can't help but respect this group of musicians. When it comes to album promo's what normally is done, is the album artwork is shown while a 30 second clip of a song is played, and then to wrap it all up, they slap a date at the end of the video so you know when the album drops. This promo is nothing like that, this promo was actually completely thought out and created by the band. They created a whole universe for just this 2 minute clip. When you watch that clip you almost feel taken away to somewhere else. In the interview on KROQ they talked about the promo. They literally had the idea for the promo and ran with it and expected to do nothing else with it. After the business execs saw it, they were shocked and told them that, "Na Na Na" is now the first single and they need to go back to shooting next week to shoot more footage for a music video. They were a little shocked and just replied with, "Cool."

After watching that clip I couldn't help but feel so inspired.

I know that sounds a bit ridiculous for some of you who have just now watched that clip and were just like, "what was that?"

How could you be inspired by that?

One thing that I love about the band My Chemical Romance is that they truly are one of the reasons I picked up a guitar and started learning how to play, and how to play in a band. Me and one of my best friends, Nathan Cox, use to stay in his basement all morning long and watch fuse all morning and into the afternoon, consuming music video after music video. But I'll never forget the summer of 2004. Me and nathan saw the video for "Helena" and we were somewhat amazed. "What is this?" I remember watching that video probably 6 to 8 times a day whenever I went over there. We would never turn the channel when that video came on, actually we would flip the channels looking for it at times. We couldn't get enough of it. That video lead my friend nathan to getting the album and then learning a guitar part for "I'm Not Okay" with our friend Steven Lewis. The next weekend Nathan, who was new to guitar as well, taught me the rhythm part, and then we started learning how to play that song together on guitar. All of that all branched from one simple music video. I literally can owe so many memorable moments of playing music on stage and in garages and with friends to that music video and my friend for making me learn that guitar riff.

So all that to say, My Chemical Romance, has been a huge part of my creative side in life. So of course their promo inspired me.

But why did it inspire me?

It inspired me, because it made me remember that thing that I love so much.

Creating.

Creating is the needle that I insert in my veins, push down on the plunger, and take me to that place that I love. It is my high.

There is truly nothing like it.

The feeling of making something completely out of nothing just takes me away.

The last few weeks, actually most of the last year or two I have had this feeling that I get every other day or so, where if I don't write a blog, or a guitar lick, or a screenplay, or something at all, I get this itch. This itch to be creative. This itch to make something. And nothing suffices that itch until I actually do something creative. There have been times that I've tried to substitute that feeling with a movie or something else, but that only worsens the situation for me. I can't really focus on the movie or what I'm doing, because I feel a need to create at times. I know that may sound a little crazy, but its true.

I thought about creation for a long time today. The process of creating something.

Taking an idea and making something in the image of your idea.

It really is somewhat euphoric and magical to see something that you dreamed up come alive.

I couldn't help today but think, we were created, to be... creative.

Its funny, for the last couple of days, I have actually been having some religious debates with my good buddy, Jonathan Pfahl, and some other people about the views of Creationists and Evolutionists and Atheism. So this topic, has been fresh on my mind for the last few days.

As a Creationist at this point, and or believer in Intelligent Design, you can't help but realize that God Himself is our biggest example of this very thing. We even call Him by the name, "Creator" at times. Now we call Him that because, He "created" us, but if you really dive deep into the word and name that we give the Heavenly Father, He wasn't given that title just because of His creation of humans. If you look around us, you will soon realize that almost all of our art is inspired by His art. We recreate that which He created. Have you ever really truly looked around and saw the beauty that surrounds you everyday? The intricacy of the tree that sits next to your car? The beautiful construction of the leaf and how the stem runs the center of it distributing all the necessities the leaf needs to survive until fall. Do you notice the feel of water on your skin? Do you ever notice the magnificence of a sunset? One of the things that always captivates me, is the clouds. Its one of the only things that when I see them, I feel reassured of a Creator.


So I look up to the sky for answers, but I only come up with clouds passing... But those clouds that gave me nothing are what keep me believing. There’s a voice inside when I look into the sky that says I’m not alone. So I keep believing. So I keep believing.-Take It Back

I apparently not the only one who agrees with my last statement...

We are surrounded by so much beauty, because we were given this earth by a Creative God.

But He did not limit creativity to only Himself. He gave it to all of us.

So may argue and say they don't have a creative bone in them, but I would beg to disagree.

Creativity is not only found in the arts.

I would easily say what my friend, Jonathan who I mentioned earlier, what he does as his job is creative and art in itself. Jonathan is a computer programmer. He programs computers. Thats normally not something you think of when you hear the words art or creativity. But when you see this guy behind a computer and going away at it, you can't help but notice the art in the way he knows the machine. The way he treats it, and understands it.... its art.

Another example I would use, is my Mother. My mother truly has an art form with people. Women in particular. She has always been someone who women are just gravitated to for some reason? My dad and I have talked about it so many times. My mother sometimes can hold a conversation with a woman, whose name she doesn't know, and she can move them. My mother has an art form to the way she treats the women who come to her, and the women who mom herself goes to at times. Its art...

Creativity is not limited to just the so called, "Arts."



But the thought that I keep coming back to is God molding the clay in his hands. His hands being dirty with the mud and clay and then Him being completely captivated in His work.

I can't help but relate to that feeling.

Even now at this very moment I am creating. The clay and mud stain my hands more and more as I type.

And at this very moment this blog post is the cure for the itch.

I have created something, and I hope it drives you to create something.

I hope it sparks something in you.

I hope it makes you realize you are a creative human being.

You were "created" to be creative.

So what are you doing in your lives now to cure that creative itch?

What could you be doing?

I know for me, I can't get enough of it.

I feel so blessed to live in a time where I am literally surrounded by so much art, so much creativity.

And I am so blessed to live in a country that does not put limits on our creativity.

I am so blessed and honored to be Created to be Creative...

I'm going to end this post with a quote that I absolutely love by Michele Shea

“Creativity is… seeing something that doesn’t exist already. You need to find out how you can bring it into being and that way be a playmate with God.” — Michele Shea

Lets all be God's playmates.

What will you create?



Media Associated With This Post:
Song: Helena
Artist: My Chemical Romance
Album: 3 Cheers For Sweet Revenge

Main Graphic "Art work" was created by Alex Pardee for The Used's album, Artwork.

"Child Under Table" was taken by Chris Simms.

All other photos found on Google Images.

God, You're Works Are... Mysterious.

I can easily say that today has been the best day that I have had in a long time. I would have never known it at the start of the day though...

I woke up and had probably the most depressing though that I have had my whole time being here. "Whats the point in waking up today?" I just sat there laying in bed, wondering what am I waking up for? I have no job. I am new to this world, this... florida, so I don't have many friends to go do anything with. Why am I waking up today? I sat there in bed while my head went through this spiraling darkness like mirky water down a shower drain. I then just sat there and prayed, "God, please help. Please confirm this move for me. Help me to see this is the right thing."

I then got up and did my morning routine, shower, eat, ect.

But during my morning routine, I couldn't help but just feel a bit down. After at least an hour of this terrible state of mind, I realized, Tanner this is your break. Tanner you are stuck in a weird spot in your life. You're 20 years old, you're only a couple of years away from careers and maybe even marriage, and then kids come along, and then life just somewhat smacks you in the face. Its ok to take a break right now, rest up, cause lifes coming your way sooner than you'd probably hope...

Now in thinking that, I'm not thinking that I'll be getting married anytime soon. haha Goodness no. But I know that it is so true that life just somewhat sneaks up at time and some wish they had what I have now. This time to catch my breath. So I felt better after realizing this...

And the day went on...

I ate a sandwich, watched another episode of my newest addiction, Breaking Bad.

And I was at peace about my new found speed in life.

I can easily say the hardest adjustment, besides not having my family, is the new speed in life. I've talked to both Mrs. Kim and Mr. Jeff about this. Its just weird going from waking up every morning at home in Tennessee and knowing I have 10 things to do, and Reed to pick up and bring back to my house. But here, I wake up and I really wake up and think, wow, what do I have to do today? I some days will have a game plan. Like go put in a million applications, and stop at Jersey Mikes for lunch. But most days I don't have anything that I necessarily HAVE to do. Its weird. Its like going from eating meat all your life, and then being served a plate of brussle sprouts. You can't help but look at it and say, "What the heck is this?" Its foreign to me. But thats a part of change. Its different. And the thing is, things will pick up. Jobs will be found. Friends will be made, time will be lost. But for right now, time stands still. And i'm learning to enjoy this new speed. This new set of responsibilities, and or lack of so far.

My dad put it best today when I talked to him over the phone. It's like starting over...

Starting from scratch.

It's going to be foreign for a while but you'll get a grasp on it sooner than later.

A wise man that Bret Pemelton is. haha

The rest of the day went by smoothly. Actually it turned out to be one of the best days I have had in a long time. I enjoyed an episode or two of Breaking Bad, I filled out a resume online, and then me and josh had a bromantic night. We had Moe's for dinner and then came back and watched Fight Club. Honestly it was just what I needed. I needed to just be a guy with my brother josh. It turned out to be awesome.


I then realized it was 9 and I knew Linkin Park's latest album had released today and I remembered I had a target gift card, so i hopped in my car. I started the car and selected Jimmy Eat Worlds album Chase This Light on my ipod and rolled down the windows. The weather was perfect and my right arm floating along with the wind as I drove, just as I had a done a million times as a kid in my parents cars. I sang along loud and out of key with to Big Casino. I eventually just had this exhilarating thought. This is my life now. This is the new adventure. This is so much change that at times you feel like you can't even handle it. But its still exciting. So I bought my cd, and hawaiian punch, and drove home still blaring my Jimmy Eat World album.

As I was pulling in the driveway I rolled up my windows and got out of my car. As I was getting out of my car, I heard a voice come out of nowhere. "What were you listening to?"

I looked around and couldn't find the voice.

I then saw a man approaching me from across the street with his little white dog.

After gathering myself and the situation together in my head, I answered him. "Jimmy Eat World." He then nodded and said he had heard of them before. He asked me if they were christian, and I told him no but explained to him that they were not a bad band, as in inappropriate. He said that he was assuming that they were christian because he knew that the Graves were christians...


So here I stood talking with this stranger from the neighborhood about music, and then he asked me some more questions after I explained to him that I had just moved in with the Graves.

"Oh? Why did you move here?"

I explained to him that I was pursuing film with my best friend and looking for opportunities for it here, because the opportunities in Music City seemed quite bleak.

He then said some words that moved me so much.

"Ah.. Pursuing a dream. That is amazing son. That is awesome. I wish I had done that years ago."

He told me of his profession and of the statistics of people pursuing jobs for money and people pursuing jobs and fields that they truly are passionate about. He kept saying over and over again that it was the right decision I was making. I kept thanking him and told him as well that 50 isn't too old to still pursue some loves and dreams. But even I know that life is so much different through his eyes. I don't place a wife, and kids and a house on my balance when weighing whats at stake in pursuing my dreams. He assured me that he knew that was true. But then we shook hands and I walked inside.

I walked in to Mrs. Kim's room and told her that I had just had the weirdest but most awesome conversation outside the house at 10 o'clock at night.

While I was describing the conversation to her, I realized, that happened for a reason.

I remembered my prayer this morning.

"Lord help to confirm this move for me. "

I couldn't help but just feel my chest warm up like a fire being fed coals.

God has already done some amazing things in my life already. Things have definitely happen and conversations have definitely taken place that I thought would have never taken place. I know this expression is used a lot, but the stars literally aligned for my move to Florida. It was weird, but comforting. So I have already had so much confirmation before, but today I had forgotten about those times, or wrote them off as coincidence. But I don't think I can write my conversation with the dog walker as just coincidence. Those words, that he kept saying.

"You're doing the right thing."

I couldn't help but imagine God saying the same thing.

And that is probably the most comforting thought I have had since the move.

What else is important in life?

I pray over and over God help me to do what You see fit for my life.

And I have many theories and thoughts on that subject of God's purpose for our lives, and our "callings" but we'll save that for another post.

But to feel almost a Godly approval through a random conversation, thats pretty freaking awesome.

I do honestly believe that was my answer to my prayer.

That was the confirmation that I needed to hear.

God, I heard it loud and clear, and I thank you.
Although you're ways of communicating sometimes comes in a way that I don't catch it at first, I thank you.
Please help me to keep on my toes and help me to see You and You're words in my every day life more often God.
Thank you for reply. As mysterious as you're works and replies are at times, I heard you this time. And I thank you.

So I am here, I am confirmed. I am ready.
Thank You.

Amen.

So for all of you that are praying those prayers that you have prayed over and over and you don't ever hear an answer, I've got to ask you, where are you looking? Are you really listening? Are you just waiting for the answer you want to hear? I challenge you to really just listen. Listen and look around at the world around you. It surprises me so many times that I'll be caught up in my own crap and not realize the answers are right in front of me.

So continue to pray and continue to search for God's replies.

But this time, really observe the world around you, and listen.



Media Associated With This Post:
Big Casino
Artist: Jimmy Eat World
Album: Chase This Light

All photos taken from google images except top photo.

The Birds was taken by Chris Simms

Bonfire Talks and Other Embarrassing Tales

I've been really struggling today. I knew that I really wanted to write today but I couldn't find any inspiration. I feel so numb today. This whole adjusting it starting to set in but I still have days that are harder than others. Today being one of those days. I couldn't think of anything to write about, or had any inspiration to do anything really... That was until I read my fathers blog. If you haven't checked out my dads new blog you've got to check it out. http://www.bretpemelton.com . My dad's always been one of the wittiest people I've known and has always found ways to make me laugh. And his post this week did just that for me. It also got me thinking and inspired to write my own version of his post.

Most Embarrassing Moments In Your Life?

Everyone has been asked, whats the most embarrassing moment in your life?

And like my father I have not had many of those moments. I am not easily embarrassed. When your mother is Diana Pemelton, take it back, when you are a Pemelton at all, you can't have any shame. haha.

But there are some moments that stick out in being the most embarrassing. These are those few times.

I have sat here staring at the blinking text bar trying to think of the times that I have truly been embarrassed and I really can only think of three. So here are my top 3 most embarrassing moments.


Number 3: School Bully

Now this one isn't necessarily starting a light hearted list off.... lightheartedly. haha But bear with me, theres more to the story than the embarrassing moment.

As most of you know, I personally attended most of my elementary, middle and high school years at Pleasant View Christian School. I however did not attend there the first part of my 6th grade year, and the first part of my 8th grade year. During the first semester of my 8th grade year I attended school at Sycamore Middle School. Now one thing I am definitely for certain of is this: Transferring to a new school in 8th grade is social suicide. Everyone already has there established friends and cliques, so you're left to really just fend for yourself.

Now in saying that, my experience at Sycamore Middle was not the most horrendous experience of my life, but it wasn't the highlight of my school career either. Sycamore opened me up to things I never had to deal with before. 1) No dress code. I could wear whatever I wanted. That was awesome. 2) The teachers I had were great. They really helped me through that year. but the third thing is what ties this tale into the topic. 3) I dealt with Bullies for the first time.

During the first few days of homeroom I stayed pretty quiet. Did my work and then moved on. The basketball superstar happened to be in my homeroom, and he also happened to know of his popularity. So pretty early on in the year good ole "Dipstick" people called him, started picking on me. Normally I just ignored his bullcrap that he slung. But one time really caught me off guard and really brought me to embarrassment.

I was walking home with Cooper one day from school and I saw Dipstick and his little posse starting to make his way towards us. I don't know what I expected to happen, but I knew I was smarter than them and always could make them laugh so they would not pummel me. I think I looked up and said something like "Oh, hey guys." And then they pushed me down a hill that descended to the high school. They all ran off laughing, and I was left there wiping off all the grass that had gathered on my clothes and I looked up to see Cooper just staring at me. I was so embarrassed. I was embarrassed for him to see his big brother be treated that way. I was suppose to be strong for him, not some nerd that got pushed down by jocks who thought they were on top of the world.

Now hang with me, don't worry, its starting to get lighter, I eventually got back at the ever so bright "Dipstick."

When I turned 13 my dad gave me a ring that had our family crest on it, and it was somewhat of a symbol for me becoming a man. So I wore it proud, and my dad wore one as well. So one day I was doing my math in class and Dipstick asked to see my ring. Our relationship was up and down. Sometimes he would be a complete jack"butt" and sometimes he would just be whatever and not do anything. I didn't see anything wrong with letting him see my ring so I let him see it. He then looked at me smiled and stomped on my ring. The ring wasn't pure gold or silver so the material flattened and actually broke into a couple pieces. He smiled and looked back up at me waiting to see my reaction.

I wasn't going to let him win again. When he looked at me to get my reaction I looked at him square in the eye and said, "You bastard what have you done?" I think this was the first and only profanity I said at Sycamore. I was known as a christian so I made sure to watch my mouth. But this time I said it, "You bastard what have you done?" He looked at me and smiled bigger. I then looked at him and said "That was the last thing my dad gave me before he died in a car accident." Apparently I said that a bit loud because the whole classroom stopped and looked at Dipstick. His face dropped. He picked up the pieces and said he didn't know. And he turned back to his desk.

I went home and told my dad proudly, that I pronounced him dead to the school bully and I stood up for myself. Even though it was a lie, it was totally worth it and I would totally tell it again just to watch Dipstick's face again.

Ok. Now lets move on to lighter much better stories of embarrassment.


Number 2: Screen Jumper

In 2002 my family all traveled to California for my cousins wedding.

The night after the wedding we all gathered at her new in-laws house for the present opening. We spent all day watching them open present after present. It was a fun day. We had some wonderful food and all had some hearty laughs. But I think the laugh that was heard the loudest was the ones that I heard at the end of the night. My dad told me and my brothers and sisters it was time to go back to my aunts house. So we all got in the car, but I decided I wanted another coke, so I ran back into the house and headed to the backyard where the drinks were at. I quickly ran past everyone in the house and once I got to the end of the room I jumped through the open door. Only problem was the door was open but it had a screen. I jumped straight through the Frawleys screen door. I was so embarrassed. I told them I was sorry and then I ran to the car. haha.

I later talked to Mr. Frawley about it and he laughed thinking about the whole ordeal.

Now its time for the number one, the one thing that I tell everyone was the most embarrassing moment of my life thus far.


Number One: Boyscouts, Bonfires, and Blabbermouths.

Throughout the years my mom has tried to get us Pemelton boys involved in several different clubs of sorts. We tried soccer, basketball, baseball and a couple other things. But nothing really stuck, we've never been the sports type, but we definitely tried. One year mom signed Tucker up for Boyscouts. Somehow through that process she signed Me and dad to go camping with tucker that summer. Cooper somehow got out of the whole event, I don't remember how, but that jerk got out. So it was just me dad and tucker surrounded by a bunch of country men and their kids. Most of these guys had their camouflage coveralls and their hunting gear with them. Where as the pemelton's had our tent and we were looking at the directions to see how to set it up. haha. We clearly did not belong to this group. But we did it anyway!

The second day of the camp I told my dad I was gonna go exploring because I was getting bored of the boy scouts outing. What my dad did not know, was that I wasn't going to go exploring at all. The girl who I was really into at the time lived right behind the camp grounds in a subdivision. So I walked over to her house and spent the day over at her house with her family. They eventually brought me back to the campgrounds. Coincidentally the girl's little nephew was at the boy scout event too so her and her mom came to the camp grounds with me and hung out there for quite a while.

So me and Melissa walked straight up to the campfire where all the men and there sons were cooking hot dogs and marshmallows. I saw dad, introduced the girl to him and started talking with Melissa, but then a voice that I will never forget began to speak. Tucker. Tucker looked up and saw Melissa and his face lit up. Somehow, at the age of maybe 10 or 11 he concocted what I would say was tuckers shinning moment. He saw her and without missing a beat said, "Hey tanner, isn't that the girl that you have pictures of all over your walls? and you draw hearts around? Don't you have a pillow with her face on it that you kiss every night?" The whole group went quiet for a split second. And then my dad just started laughing and gave tucker a high five and said, "Wow tucker, You got him. Yeah!" haha. The whole bonfire erupted with laughter. I could have killed tucker in that moment and so could have Melissa.

I can easily say that moment was the most embarrassed I have ever been. I couldn't say anything. I just looked at his cheap little smile and then back to Melissa look of horror and then back to him. I was literally speechless. How did he come up with that? There were no pictures, no pillows, but there was an awesome statement that came out of this little boys head. I couldn't say a thing. Tucker got me that night, and I will forever remember that moment. haha.

I have only lived 20 years so far. So I'm sure there are many more stories to come over the years, but I pray to God that none of them come close to the embarrassment that I felt that night. haha.

So I end this post with the same challenge my dad left on his that drove me to write this. What was your most embarrassing moment?




Media Associated With This Post:
Song: Bonfire
Artist: Third Eye Blind
Album: Ursa Major

All images taken from google images

"Man"date Tuesdays

So ever since the first tuesday that I moved here, tuesday's have been designated "mandate" night for me and my brother Josh Graves. Nathan is away at college doing that whole "Schooling" thing. Sarah, Jeff, and Kim also have a class that they attend at the church on tuesday nights. So that leaves the two sexiest bachelors in the house to have what we call, "mandate."

We have had 3 of them so far, I believe.

And its awesome.

I love getting to know my brother more and more each week.

The first week we went to our local Chili's and got some chips and salsa and and our meals. I mention the chips and salsa because it seems that they are some of the most fitting food for deep conversations. Before I moved to florida, I had many "Chips and Salsa" talks with my 2nd 2nd mom(no, I didn't stutter. 2nd 2nd, just because you don't have 3 moms to juggle doesn't mean you have the right to make fun of me, so cool it mr.) These conversations helped guide me to start thinking about what I really wanted to do with my life. I cherish those conversations so much. So tradition carries on. We enjoyed our chips and salsa that night and again tonight. We just sat there and eating our awesome chips and talked. It was really cool. I sat there and got to listen to how this kid that I've always known as my little brother is really growing into an awesome young man. We talked about everything from the stuff he does with his church, the play he is super excited to have the "LEAD ROLE" in, and of course, the girls. I am taken away every time I talk to Josh. The kid has one of the biggest hearts I have ever seen. They way he sees the hurt in others lives is so astounding.

Tonight we were driving to blockbuster to pick up a movie after eating dinner and he was just talking about the way he sees the girls his age getting hurt through dating. He said to me, "I don't want to be that way. I don't want to date someone just because they're bored. I don't want to lead someone on through affection and then just drop them when someone gets bored. What I really want is someone who cares about me for me. And I want someone that I can just give all my affection to. I just want somebody to hold." Josh will probably come in my room later tonight when he reads this and give me a hit on the arm for quoting him on that, but I was floored!

What 16 year old, almost 17 year old says that?

Not many thats for sure.

It made me realize what a gem Josh Graves truly is.

Of course I knew he was made of awesomeness and that he is and has always been my friend, but I realized what an awesome guy he's going to turn out to be. All the girls that he will date will be lucky. (Don't worry Mrs. Kim, I'm not saying that is anytime soon. Don't go having a heart attack on me. haha.) But really I sat there and looked at my friend as he talked so passionately about the pain the girls endure now a days over meaningless relationships, and I couldn't help but feel proud.

I'm proud of ya Joshy boy.

I proud that you are shaping up to be one awesome dude.

And one day, soon, you will be a man.

And I no beyond a shadow of a doubt you are going to succeed in life.

In every area you are going to succeed if you keep going the way you are going now.

I'm so proud of you.

So all you ladies out there. You need to beware because in a couple of years, this guy I know Josh Graves. He's going to be looking for a wife. I don't know if you'll be able to handle his awesomeness. But if you can, it'll be well worth it.

But until that day that he finally grows up, moves out, and eventually gets married, I think we'll just stick to our man dates.

I can't wait for the next tuesday.

Where we have the ability to talk about what Paramore album is best, and of course, those things that really matter in life. I'm always there for you Josh. Thank you for our tuesday night outings. I look forward to them more and more each week.

Love ya buddy.





Media Associated With This Post:

Song: Careful
Artist: Paramore
Album: Brand New Eyes

Pictures taken by Tanner Pemelton

(Weird) I Guess This Is The New Life

I have found myself starting so many different blogs or reviews and just stopping midway. Its not that I lose the creativity or the drive to finish them, they just don't seem to be the right time yet. I don't feel I want to post a blog about my favorite characters in movies right now.

For some reason I found myself at times feeling convicted to this blog. I feel as if it is an old friend that I need to catch up with at times before I can dive into the small talk. I don't like that awkward feeling of knowing theres something that isn't being addressed when I talk to someone. So I guess I'll use this post to do just that.

Where do I begin?

This move. Its weird.

I mean that in the most light-heared sense filled with laughter, and I mean it in a deep down sincerity.

Its just down right weird.

I was standing in line at Target today with Mr. Jeff(Padre dos) and we were just talking. Standing there in that line, the thought, "This is life now" entered my head. It was too weird of a thought so I just shook it off. Later on in the car with Padre dos, I asked him about some of the tasks Mrs. Kim(Second Mom) takes on, I was making sure I don't burden her or make her feel she has to do things for me aka find me a job. He assured me that she only does things she wants do do, and she wouldn't stress herself out over something like that. She just feels that if she can help than she will. That made me feel a little bit better and that lead to me telling Mr. Jeff how cool it is that life has brought me here with them. Its really cool that I have over the years stripped the visual of Scary Mr. Jeff and Mrs. Kim. Like I've always loved them and they've always been a part of my life. But its different when you're older. Its different when you get to see the real true characters of people. When you are just a kid, they are just adults. They don't have those things that they fear, those things they struggle with, those awesome personal characteristics. Now that I'm older, its really cool that I can see Mr. Jeff(mind you, I just said, Mr. Jeff, NOT Scary Mr. Jeff) I can see him as more of a mentor and a friend. We have conversations about anything I need to talk about if I address it to him or he to me. Its really cool that life has brought me to a point where I see Mrs. Kim and Mr. Jeff as the real and wonderful people they are and not just as elders.

Its cool, but its wierd. haha.

Another thing that is so weird is how the transition and move here has seemed so easy and almost natural. We were all sitting by the hot tub today, and Josh just looked over at me and kind of shook his head like in disbelief. He then said, wow this is just weird. This is what is normal now. Nathan just left to go back to college for the week and Tanner's here. Its so weird that were adjusting to this. And we all agreed. Its weird! haha. I could literally go on and on about the Graves family and how gracious and wonderful they have been through this whole move. I am so blessed. So very blessed. I am overwhelmed even thinking about that right now. I am literally sitting in there upstairs right now, which they have let me move into for free(they like me, so don't think you can call and jump on this band wagon haha). We have set rules and standards for who pays for what, and it has worked out smoothly so far. Its just so strange that its so natural. Its such an easy move in that aspect.

Again, its strange.

Now we dive into the unknown territories. There are times that I find myself lost. As I have written about in my blog before this. When you literally step out of your life of 19 years and just pack up, you're going to feel that way! haha. There are days where I feel like my music and my conversations with my family over skype or friends on facebook are the only things that aren't new to me. But thats a really cool thing, just gets overwhelming at times. But the thing that levels that out for me is who I am with through all of this. I am with my florida family. They are there with me and its not as bad. I'm not a super shy individual and I'm not a person who is crippled with many fears. But when you transfer to a whole new school, its really nice to know 5 or 6 kids who attend the 3,000,000 student high school. Its just strange some days to wake up and just realize this isn't a vacation. I don't leave to go back home in 2 weeks. Scary thought at times, but I'm taking it head on. And I think i'm holding up pretty well. Its just strange. Its a new territory that I'm not use to yet, but I'm getting there.

Weird.

The thing that is taking the longest to get use to, and I don't know that I will ever get use to this, is not having my family here with me through all this. To not come home after applying my BUTT off and not seeing them is hard. Some days you have a hard day and you just want to come home to your family and talk it out with your daddio. Its weird that I don't have them physically here with me all the time. I miss them so much. Its weird to be alone after so many years of being 1 of 6. To a point I forget that that isn't my identity. I know that this is the way life works. Just not use to it yet. I miss you guys so much. I miss sitting on the couch after coming home from my job that pays and getting to sit next to my siblings and love on them. Don't get me wrong I get to do that here with my florida fam, but you still miss your big tucker hugs. The thing that is so awesome that I think keeps me going sometimes is this thing called SKYPE. Thank you God for Skype. Being able to sit and talk with my dad face to face is so awesome. I don't know that I would be able to do this without that at times. Its so comforting to be able to see my family on a weekly basis. The other night me tuck and cooper were ripping on my mom. They were in the kitchen, she was at the table and I was in Florida. But because of technology I was there with them ripping on our mom like always and laughing together. I am so thankful for that. Because this life without my family is so hard to do, but haven't skype helps to keep me sane. Because guess what Tucker, Molly, Carter, Emma and Cooper. We are a team. I feel naked without you guys at times. But I know that if you guys came to me with your dreams and aspirations and had the opportunities that I have, I would push you out the door myself.I have to do this for you guys.You guys have to know that all we have in our lives is our loved ones and our dreams. I am sitting here crying writing this out and I can't help but think the song that is playing on my ipod right now, is the perfect song for what I am talking about. Chase this light by Jimmy Eat World.Guys, I will always tell you to chase your dreams, chase the light that lies before you. As you guys are there for me now, I will always there for you. Know that. Again... This is so weird and foreign to me. But I know its the right thing.

Its just weird.

So I guess this is the new life.

I guess this is the new speed of life that I am adjusting to.

Yes, life will speed up eventually.

When I get a job, when life starts falling down on me layer by layer, I will become busier and busier. But right now God has set the pace at a level that I am struggling to adjust to at times. But I know that I'm getting there. I know through this quiet and stillness you are speaking to me. I know that I need to open my ears more God. I know that we all need to open are ears more.

But I am adjusting. And that is what is important.

I have never been sad about my decision through this whole thing. I've known that this is where I am suppose to be since night one. But Its just kickstarting the engine that takes a little bit of patience. But I know that when this engine roars to a start its going to be loud. I am not a person that gives up,(unless its football. But when you're main drive to join the team is a cheerleader you've got problems. haha). I know that I am pursuing my gifts and abilities and enjoying it. I am happy now. I'm not sad sitting on my bed thinking of my family. I do think of them constantly, but I know now that its ok to get out of the room and have some adventures. And that's just what I am doing. I'm starting some new adventures. And I'm excited to see where they take me.

But through all of this adjusting know that the weird that runs through my head constantly is....

Weird.

Its all just weird.

But in the end I always remember, I would rather have a life of weird and different, than that of the mundane and menial. I'm not saying I left a life of the mundane. Heck no. My life was full adventure, but if I hadn't followed my heart down here where it was screaming for me to go, I would have regretted it. I would have thought about it every day and wondered, why didn't I pursue what I feel God was sending me towards?

So through the weirdness I'm gonna make it.

Heck, nobody thinks I'm a normal person anyway haha So the weirdness I am use to. And I am ok with that.

I am right where I need to be.

Nashville, I love you.

Crosspoint, I miss you so much. Its hard not walking in your doors every Sunday morning. Its hard to not walk in to church and not see so many faces I recognize. But I have faith in Grace Family Church. I know that it would make you proud Crosspoint.

Mom, dad, emma, molly, carter, tucker, cooper. I love you. I am doing good. I don't know how to survive without you guys standing next to me everyday but I'm getting use to it. And I know you guys are too. Don't stop skyping! haha. I love you guys so much and I miss you so much too. But this is where God has put us, and I know that we all agree that I am where I should be.

So now that the air is cleared, I think we can move on Mr. Blog. I think we can finally talk about topics and movies and music and all the things that I love and enjoy to write about. This blog doesn't have to be tear filled post after tear filled post. haha. I don't know that I could emotionally handle that. I am planning on writing on you more and more Mr. Blog about the things I see in every day life in Florida, about the things that affect me and others. I am excited to get back to you...

Now that the air is cleared.



Media Associated With This Post:
Song: Chase This Light
Artist: Jimmy Eat World
Album: Chase this Light

Photos:

Boy on Bicycle Taken By: Chris Simms

"Running Towards The Light" taken by Fabuchan http://www.flickr.com/photos/fabuchan/

Sunset taken by Tanner Pemelton