tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-39265402024-03-23T12:43:52.499-05:00The Place Where Al Dwells...EST. 2002 • "Unstoppable/Unkaratechoppable" • All contents: © Allan Lorde 2002 - 2017 • Fat chicks rule.Allan Lordehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06401964397804979720noreply@blogger.comBlogger922125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3926540.post-54239314052446682212023-01-01T23:35:00.002-06:002023-01-01T23:38:03.119-06:002023 Resolutions<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5H4CyfVVSZduzJcSBJ9szMyZQYfBSO-gZBNAgFF-x2g8SU38MxLeXhpqyaBf7VfRK8H6A1PQRgQL3ppuRni20cZACTqbMeeU1ws8_HUFPdyszj0bZz0TApEFDd0CrHY6aFhbG-W6nAS1qOptcRIAped82GkVTSiuy4LYFc0irv-YOsP81VjU/s2048/52601884980_94568238fa_o.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Allan Lorde, wearing a mask and a hat, and covered in streamers." border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5H4CyfVVSZduzJcSBJ9szMyZQYfBSO-gZBNAgFF-x2g8SU38MxLeXhpqyaBf7VfRK8H6A1PQRgQL3ppuRni20cZACTqbMeeU1ws8_HUFPdyszj0bZz0TApEFDd0CrHY6aFhbG-W6nAS1qOptcRIAped82GkVTSiuy4LYFc0irv-YOsP81VjU/w640-h640/52601884980_94568238fa_o.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div>I was beating myself up a bit for not having a new year's post ready to go at midnight, but then I realized no one else gives a fuck. I make my annual resolution posts public for a sense of accountability and all that. And they're guidelines for conduct, not laws that can be broken.</div><div><br /></div><div>So, here they are. It's the usual shit. Maybe I'll get somewhere with these.<br /><br /></div><div><b>1. Artistic self-improvement:</b> I realized at the end of 2022 that I've plateaued. I need to level up from a drawing-objects-and-people dude to a more versatile illustrator. Vehicles, surroundings, buildings, etc. I'll be running in place until I fix this, knowwhatI'msayin'?<br /><br /></div><div><b>2. Better health:</b> Eating, exercise, etc. Same ol' shit. Don't expect workout selfies, I ain't that dude (no shade on those of you that are into that). <br /><br /></div><div><b>3. Financial reevaluation:</b> I need more disposable income and some shit needs to get juggled in order for more savings to happen. </div><div><br /></div><div>There we go. I hope 2023 will treat you right. </div>Allan Lordehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06401964397804979720noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3926540.post-24918310764822445282021-12-31T14:08:00.000-06:002021-12-31T14:08:59.812-06:002022 Resolutions<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/elnegro/51790707984/in/dateposted/" title="2022 Resolutions"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51790707984_be5fdc530b_z.jpg" width="640" height="640" alt="2022 Resolutions"></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<div><br /></div>Just like last year, there's no need to recap how shitty things have been. <div>As usual, my resolutions are more like guidelines for living and not rules where the world ends if I slip up. Who needs that pressure? </div><div><ol style="text-align: left;"><li><b>Drawing.</b> More of it, more often, or as often as my mental health will allow. And I'm not gonna beat myself up when I don't because that does nothin' for nobody. It's like, yeah, you gotta "make that thing," but there are some days when you're just not feelin' it, right? Perhaps that's easier to do when you do not depend upon creation for your income.
But I digress–more figure drawing, more backgrounds, more two-point perspective. I also have to remember drawing often elevates my mood because it's easy to forget that. So, yeah, more of that, too.
Looking back at last year's creative resolutions, I got one thing accomplished for sure: I updated my portfolio. What a weight off my shoulders that was, f'real. </li><li><b>Health.</b> I don't eat my feelings as much as I used to, so that's good. I'm eating more fruit and drinking water regularly. Maybe some exercise? Maybe. But I say that every fuckin' year. </li><li><b>Financial Stuff.</b> I had a rainy day fund, but it got depleted by a plumbing emergency, which is the type of thing that shit was for in the first place. That stash needs to be replenished. On an unrelated note, If I cut our landline (yeah, we're among the last folks on earth to have one), I'll save nearly $600 a year. Not too shabby. </li></ol> I hope that 2022 will treat you well. Stay safe and be good to yourself.</div>Allan Lordehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06401964397804979720noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3926540.post-81234827629461692912021-01-01T13:22:00.005-06:002021-01-01T14:47:34.096-06:002021 Resolutions<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/elnegro/50788354151/in/dateposted/" title="2021 Resolutions"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50788354151_9a3169bb47_z.jpg" width="640" height="640" alt="2021 Resolutions"></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
Christmas threw up in our living room and ended up sleeping on our fuckin' couch. It's got cookie crumbs and turkey in its beard—time to kick its ass out.</p><p>2021 is here, y'all. And not a moment too soon.</p><p>The previous year has dampened my enthusiasm for 2021. You can't blame me, right? 2020 was fucked on a never-before-seen level, for reasons we're all completely aware of. No need to rehash.</p><p>Still, there's a glimmer of hope related to the usual new beginnings, clean slate, etc. <br />That means...resolutions. YAY.</p><p>As usual, my resolutions are guidelines of conduct and not hard rules, so I'm not screwed forever if I don't comply on the 1st or 2nd of January. And my resolution-posting is a form of keeping myself accountable.</p><p><b>The Usual Stuff:</b></p><p></p><ol style="text-align: left;"><li><b>Better Health.</b> Less medicating via eating. Seeing the doctor. Exercise? Sure, I guess. Like I said last year if I'm working out, y'all won't know. I'm not into seeing people's workout regimens on social media, and people will have opinions about what you're doing and how you do it - for better or for worse. Other than talking about it here, I ain't telling y'all shit. No offence.<br /><br /></li><li><b>Increased Wealth.</b> I'm ending my year's personal finances in the black. Nice. And thanks to my wife (Love you!), we're caught up on our taxes—time to stack chips for multiple rainy days and ramp up the creative endeavours for more dough.</li></ol><p></p><p>Speaking of which, this is where I'd naturally place the theme of "creativity" in my resolution list, but I think it warrants its own section this time. In 2020, I came to grips with not having innate hustler ability and felt better about having a day job. That said, I'm not totally giving up on the idea of working for myself. I need to gain some momentum from a project (commissioned or self-initiated) and build upon it. I tend to finish something and have lengthy fallow periods. They're good for my mental health, but a portion of the downtime is often due to a lack of confidence. On the other hand, 2020 is the year I rekindled a love for drawing via the iPad Pro and Procreate. Here's what I've sussed out for myself <a href="https://twitter.com/MisterLorde/status/1342256901611016201?s=20" target="_blank">via Twitter:</a></p><p><b>Creative Stuff:</b></p><p></p><ol style="text-align: left;"><li>I will update my portfolio.<br /> </li><li>I will get paid what I'm worth.<br /><br /></li><li>I will sit down and read that <a href="https://hoodzpahdesign.com/product/fabas-freelance-business-book-print/" target="_blank">Hoodzpah Design #FABAS book</a> cover to cover & get my shit together.<br /><br /></li><li>I will make myself available to be challenged creatively AND make shit that is unfuckwithable at the same time.</li></ol><p></p><p>Number four on the list was inspired by a bucket list project that didn't turn out so great, creatively or financially (ask me about it sometime, I won't talk about it here). While I was pushed out of my comfort zone positively and came up with something I will be proud of, I still came up short. I want to create images that won't have their quality questioned a majority of the time. That'll only come from hard work.</p><p>Okay, that's it. I hope 2021 will <a href="https://youtu.be/VUvtlmlBbDg" target="_blank">rub you the right way</a>. </p>Allan Lordehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06401964397804979720noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3926540.post-17602494912474141682020-01-01T00:00:00.000-06:002020-01-01T00:34:33.517-06:002020 Resolutions<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhG6nvPbLX0AMjeC98cvKM3HYSGNm2WDWH1njy60ENQNwkylIgiPQMMZW1exD_GR2OiCbWa9ggJfiDKayvhyphenhyphen3ozVLN15SRPMcZBpQvKI16MDpKJuONBu6MVU36MC6NT6jz35ji3og/s1600/2020ResoIllo.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhG6nvPbLX0AMjeC98cvKM3HYSGNm2WDWH1njy60ENQNwkylIgiPQMMZW1exD_GR2OiCbWa9ggJfiDKayvhyphenhyphen3ozVLN15SRPMcZBpQvKI16MDpKJuONBu6MVU36MC6NT6jz35ji3og/s640/2020ResoIllo.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
Hi.<br />
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As always: my resolutions are guidelines and codes of conduct. The world won't end if I don't comply on the first day of the year.<br />
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Last year's themes are the same as this year.<br />
<b>1. Better Health</b><br />
<b>2. Increased Wealth</b><br />
<b>3. Creativity</b><br />
...and a new one: <b>4. Balance</b>.<br />
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<b>Better Health:</b> Better coping mechanisms. Making sure I go to the doctor. See a shrink again if I have to. Exercise? Sure. Don't expect any weight loss progress reports. I'm not into those.<br />
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<b>Increased Wealth:</b> Pay off that card. Pay off that card, then get that iMac. Stack them chips whenever you can. Celebrate small financial victories...but not by spending. Name your price and get paid what you're worth. Be about <a href="https://hoodzpahdesign.com/product/fabas-freelance-business-book-print/" target="_blank">yo' business</a>, playa.<br />
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<b>Creativity:</b> Keep doing. Just. Keep. Doing. Whether it's self-initiated or commissioned – attack that shit with vigour, or muster that vigour, THEN attack. Put ideas in the sketchbook and flesh out a few. Don't beat yourself up for NOT drawing, though. Like Jake Parker says: put deposits into <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=46OCXFVqRg4" target="_blank">your creative bank account.</a> Consume good work, but don't forget to produce your own. And I can't let the comparison beast consume me, because it put me on the shelf for nearly two months. <br />
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At the beginning of 2019, I decided to start getting up at 5 to get a jump on the day and put thoughts to paper. I quickly forgot about that. However, my friend <a href="https://www.ian.ca/" target="_blank">Ian McCausland</a> posted a link to an article about <a href="https://www.theladders.com/career-advice/10-reasons-you-should-wake-up-at-5-am-for-30-days-straight-2" target="_blank">the benefits of getting up at that time.</a> I decided to give it another go. It's been kinda working. Hell, I started writing this thing around 6:30 on the 31st. It feels good.<br />
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<b>Balance:</b> People talk about achieving a work-life balance. Me? I need a housework-creative life balance. I will make sure the dishes are done over hitting the drawing desk. I'll attempt to chisel away at the laundry instead of jotting an idea down (and the laundry is never done. NEVER.). I don't shirk my duties, but I feel the need to put my duties ahead and above my creativity. This is me speaking it into the universe: I WILL conquer the mountain of sheets and towels in the basement, keep up with the constant onslaught of dirty laundry and load/unload the dishwasher regularly, but not at the expense of letting ideas and creative sparks die.<br />
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Glad to have gotten this off my chest. Thanks for listening. It keeps me accountable. I hope 2020 rubs you the right way. Peace.Allan Lordehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06401964397804979720noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3926540.post-35130373875642448682019-01-01T14:59:00.004-06:002019-01-01T14:59:55.187-06:002019 ResolutionsNo lead-off image this year, just straight facts.<br />
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As usual, my resolutions aren't hard and fast rules, but more like a code of conduct for the year. This year, my code revolves around three themes:<br />
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<ol>
<li><b>Better Health</b></li>
<li><b>Increased Wealth</b></li>
<li><b>Creativity</b></li>
</ol>
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<b>Better Health:</b> I get on/fall off the wagon regarding my health all year, every year. I'm aiming to stay grounded this time. I took a big step towards getting my mental health in shape last year, so now I have to work on the rest. I can and will commit to exercise, getting the right amount of sleep, and eating healthier. I need to keep the latter in mind before flipping the "fuck it" switch when buying the nastiest burger possible.<br />
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<b>Increased Wealth:</b> My wife and I handled some debt issues last year, which is great, needless to say. Now I have to: 1) take care of my Christmas credit card debt, 2) attempt to save more money, and 3) get my freelance business shit correct. I need to get paid what I'm worth. <a href="https://flic.kr/p/2dwUBfB" target="_blank">This oughta help</a>.<br />
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<b>Creativity:</b> The eternal struggle. <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/Bl7HOA3n94j/" target="_blank">Taking a break from freelance last year</a> was something I needed to do, and I don't regret it, but it's time to get back on that horse. I'm not sure how well this will work, but I'm looking at getting up at 5 every day to not only get a jump on the day job and family life, but to also work out the creative muscles before hitting the desk at the 9 to 5. I need to draw more, but not beat myself up when I don't do it for a day.<br />
<br />Allan Lordehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06401964397804979720noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3926540.post-43637109452734181192018-01-01T00:00:00.000-06:002018-01-01T00:05:23.769-06:002018 Resolutions<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFOnBqvSo6X6EtX7dMucTCAW_Sk3CMbYtiEhlBdH5JfmsiyEhvmE7heoX8lyeNiTmPLj2FK44ORHDC-5J0W05J1SKIw0Jt9VqiRuzJsVIefeMgtGFoH6xcXdsfAeJ5EZgjpQ79jA/s1600/38585033454_da4414246d_k.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFOnBqvSo6X6EtX7dMucTCAW_Sk3CMbYtiEhlBdH5JfmsiyEhvmE7heoX8lyeNiTmPLj2FK44ORHDC-5J0W05J1SKIw0Jt9VqiRuzJsVIefeMgtGFoH6xcXdsfAeJ5EZgjpQ79jA/s640/38585033454_da4414246d_k.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span class="s1"><b>The usuals:</b></span></div>
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<span class="s1"><b>1. Be healthier: mentally, physically, eating habits, etc.</b></span></div>
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<span class="s1">Whatever's goin' on in my noggin, I need to speak to someone about it.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></div>
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<span class="s1">DDPYoga, I will attempt to use you again.</span></div>
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<span class="s1">As far as choosing the least healthiest option on the menu, I need to silence the impulse that makes me flick the "FUCK YEAH!" switch in my brain. Easier said than done.</span></div>
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<span class="s1"><b>2. Get better with money.</b></span></div>
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<span class="s1">I've been able to save over <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/elnegro/35092479430/" target="_blank">$100 in change</a> at times and temporarily stash money in a rainy day bank account. I'm also about eight months away from paying off my stupid line of credit. These are baby steps towards financial responsibility. I'm often hard on myself, but in this aspect, it's justified; I have to be strict on my spending – and hustle harder outside of the day job in order to have more to play with.</span></div>
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<span class="s1"><b>3. Draw, then draw some more.</b></span></div>
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<span class="s1">I mentioned being hard on myself earlier; I'm still about drawing every day, but I'm no longer about beating myself up when I don't. And drawing can be anything from a fully fleshed out idea to a scribbled something that only I can understand. I'm just doing my best to get the ideas down when I get them. That's the important part. I've decided to take <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mu5wgcqlF3s" target="_blank">Kasey Golden's approach to sketchbooking</a>. I was already sort of doing the same thing, but she pushes every idea before going to the final piece.</span></div>
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<span class="s1">My hope is that the getting-the-idea-down-and-posting thing will lead to something – opportunities, etc. Right now, I'm still coasting on the good feeling I got from the props I received from an illustrator I admire. I was just signing up for his mailing list when I got a personal response and <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/elnegro/38496017234/" target="_blank">this postscript</a>. It made my day. Hell, it pretty much made my year! I figure I'm on the right track. I just need to keep pushing and update my portfolio.</span></div>
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<span class="s1"><b>4. Tidiness.</b></span></div>
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<span class="s1">During the holidays, I teamed up with my wife and my mom to tidy up two trouble spots for the holidays: the living room and the kitchen. From there, I felt the impetus to move a ton of shit from our beleaguered dining room back into my workspace, which had been repaired months ago thanks to my father-in-law. I wanna keep this up. The first floor may be fully functional again!</span></div>
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<span class="s1"><b>Some new shit:</b></span></div>
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<b><span class="s1"></span><br /></b></div>
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<span class="s1"><b>5. Get that computer fixed.</b></span></div>
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<span class="s1">The display on my iMac is fucked. What took one "on" button press to turn on has gone from three presses to 10+ presses, to rarely functional. Not cool. I want to make stuff. I need this thing working to make stuff. Either a secondary monitor will be coming into play or a refurbished iMac. I don't wanna do either, really.</span></div>
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<span class="s1"><b>6. Watch more movies/even more YouTube.</b></span></div>
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<span class="s1">I've never thought of myself as the biggest cinephile, but I do like a satisfying flick. My attention span is so messed up that I only really watch short YouTube vids, some of which are in my 300+ video "watch later" playlist. I'd like to whittle that down to 150.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></div>
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<span class="s1">I need to challenge myself to watch more documentaries and dramas. And anime...can't forget the anime.</span></div>
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<b><span class="s1"></span><br /></b></div>
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<span class="s1"><b>7. Buy more music.</b></span></div>
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<span class="s1">I still read liner notes. I want that music IN MY HANDS, MAN.</span></div>
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<span class="s1"><b>8. Get more and better sleep.</b></span></div>
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<span class="s1">Needless to say, this is related to resolution 1. I have a sleep disorder. I've had it for years. I feel the need to be reassessed regarding this condition because things could be better.</span></div>
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<span class="s1"><b>9. Be more like Satoshi Kojima.</b></span></div>
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<span class="s1">For those unfamiliar with Kojima-san, he's one of the elder statesmen of New Japan Pro Wrestling. He's held many a title as a singles competitor and as a tag team with Hiroyoshi Tenzan. And as proven through his Twitter posts, he <b>LOVES</b> bread.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8peULR_8Ul2q5PCgYRNLiaSySXuj2h937694BLOIcWOLVVkX0RLIrXEYCnH1l4s7VplIEK8Brq04BvhyphenhyphenPLnWMQsCpRtzyJx-dvB1mdh7i3baHpBlGAAhfRORY6NXhlz1hHw82tg/s1600/Screen+Shot+2017-12-31+at+12.17.28+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="418" data-original-width="617" height="432" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8peULR_8Ul2q5PCgYRNLiaSySXuj2h937694BLOIcWOLVVkX0RLIrXEYCnH1l4s7VplIEK8Brq04BvhyphenhyphenPLnWMQsCpRtzyJx-dvB1mdh7i3baHpBlGAAhfRORY6NXhlz1hHw82tg/s640/Screen+Shot+2017-12-31+at+12.17.28+AM.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial;">He's also incredibly positive. He loves his job and knows his place in the world.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0ODZ9sg6BmS5U9yljT4i7Swt7xXvxv-H7tG5zI98OKo-W0k6SZLwD9jTpglYzbyUD-4UeDCjy5KFwyoLDko44L1a10hPLiPn6Z6mEg7kG3GyidmINmiJznrXBNmJJ-cO-iJ8y6A/s1600/Screen+Shot+2017-12-31+at+12.23.18+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="452" data-original-width="624" height="462" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0ODZ9sg6BmS5U9yljT4i7Swt7xXvxv-H7tG5zI98OKo-W0k6SZLwD9jTpglYzbyUD-4UeDCjy5KFwyoLDko44L1a10hPLiPn6Z6mEg7kG3GyidmINmiJznrXBNmJJ-cO-iJ8y6A/s640/Screen+Shot+2017-12-31+at+12.23.18+AM.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span class="s1">I need to be more like him.</span></div>
<style type="text/css"> p.p1 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px 'Helvetica Neue'; -webkit-text-stroke: #000000} p.p2 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px 'Helvetica Neue'; -webkit-text-stroke: #000000; min-height: 14.0px} span.s1 {font-kerning: none} span.s2 {text-decoration: underline ; font-kerning: none; color: #9e4a2f; -webkit-text-stroke: 0px #9e4a2f} </style>Allan Lordehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06401964397804979720noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3926540.post-21771353133725061392017-08-10T22:54:00.001-05:002017-08-11T00:43:02.957-05:00Random Thoughts: August 10th, 2017<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/elnegro/36229263512/in/dateposted-public/" title="10:05 p.m."><img alt="10:05 p.m." height="640" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4415/36229263512_46d0877cd6_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>I haven't written one of these in nearly three years.</li>
<li>I'm tired as fuck. Dissatisfaction with my professional life doesn't properly cover what I'm going through.</li>
<li>Summer's fading fast. As I get older, I find I miss it a little more. This is coming from a winter guy. Not sure what all of that means.</li>
<li>Now's the best possible time to be a wrestling fan. Never in our lifetime has so much been available to everyone. Everywhere you turn, there's a streaming service. And if you're not satisfied with that, YouTube fills in pretty much every gap in your wrestling interests.<br />And that's the problem: there's too much.<br />I guess that's a good problem to have.<br />New Japan Pro Wrestling is near the end of their annual <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/G1_Climax" target="_blank">G1 Climax</a> tournament. There are 19 events this year. I only made through to night four. Each event has a packed undercard with shit that might affect future matchups. These things are 2-5 hours long! I don't have the time or the fucking attention span. I just wanna watch YouTube. Easily digestible YouTube moments.</li>
<li>An additionally depressing thing about pro wrestling: there's a divide between the folks that prefer the days of kayfabe ("kayfabe" being the illusion that everything in wrestling is real and not a pre-determined athletic contest) – even as goofy as things could get back then – and those that laud the antics of <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=acjPWVvSy2g" target="_blank">Kenny Omega</a><span style="color: red;">*</span>, <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zlAHrHL_FCc" target="_blank">Chuck Taylor</a>, and the <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GJPZzlOhBmA" target="_blank">Internet famous Joey Ryan</a>. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0M9ENbZ2POo" target="_blank">Loyalties are gettin' divided</a>. It saddens me a lil' bit. I love pro wrestling, but what Joey does is the type of shit that makes me embarrassed to be a fan. It kinda makes me wanna just...quit.</li>
<li>I don't do drugs, but if you see me with a bag of Peanut Butter M&Ms, things ain't goin' well.</li>
<li>I feel a little better having written this out. I'm gonna like, do something else. Maybe go to bed early (Yeah, right, asshole.).</li>
</ul>
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="color: red;">*</span>Disclosure: I'm a Kenny Omega fan, and he's from my hometown. I love what he's doing right now and can overlook the wrestling-a-child thing, but he's one of the dudes that comes up in conversation in regard to ridiculous spots.</span><br />
<ul>
</ul>
Allan Lordehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06401964397804979720noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3926540.post-11416468508093839492017-01-01T22:39:00.000-06:002017-01-01T22:39:36.377-06:002017 Resolutions<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/elnegro/31232294703/in/dateposted-public/" title="2017 Resolutions"><img src="https://c8.staticflickr.com/1/633/31232294703_0f5ca1d3dc_c.jpg" width="600" height="800" alt="2017 Resolutions"></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br />
New year, new me, same ol' resolutions. Looking back on <a href="http://elnegromagnifico.blogspot.ca/2016/01/2016-resolutions.html" target="_blank">last year's list</a>, I really did succeed in eating more poutine. I have to set different goals.<br />
<br />
<ol>
<li><b>Financial Management.</b> Me and money. Our relationship could always be better. I haven't budgeted in AGES, and I know it'll help.</li>
<li><b>Health.</b> No more eating every damn thing I see. Back to DDPYoga. Yeah, I know I said that last year.</li>
<li><b>Creativity.</b> I can say that I love drawing now, but it really comes through when I'm actually drawing. And I'm okay with not drawing every day, and I no longer beat myself up for not putting pencil to paper for long periods of time. (Related note: <a href="https://twitter.com/Froregade/status/813871887117852672" target="_blank">these tweets</a>.) Also, I need to get back into practicing the art of sign painting. I don't want to lose whatever skill I gained under Rick Wagner's tutelage. I didn't finish Inktober, and I got down on myself, but I know I'm not the only one.</li>
<li><b>Tidiness.</b> I feel like I've been doing nothing but cleaning for most of the year. That said, my wife and I did a cleaning blitz just before <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/elnegro/31618280490" target="_blank">my brother and his wife</a> came over, and we were both taken by the results. Now, I have to tackle my usual nemesis: the workspace. Get it clean and maintain it.</li>
<li><b>Music.</b> I've listened to Spotify a lot more and realized that I could come up with at least a top six of albums. Not bad. As always, I need to listen to more. More physical copies of albums, too.</li>
<li><b>Japanese.</b> A friend of mine is learning the language and he's working hard at it. I find that inspiring. Also inspiring, <a href="http://russia-insider.com/en/culture/meet-89-year-old-translator-who-learned-russian-age-56/ri14025" target="_blank">this article</a>. It's never too late to learn, and with the amount of New Japan and Crunchyroll anime I've been watching, it'd be great to get a grasp of the language. I'm dying to visit there again, too.</li>
</ol>
<br />
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Allan Lordehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06401964397804979720noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3926540.post-85172761723429161702016-01-01T06:12:00.000-06:002016-12-23T13:50:35.098-06:002016 Resolutions<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/elnegro/23734912449/in/dateposted-public/" title="2016 Resolutions: Puttin' My Best Foot Forward"><img alt="2016 Resolutions: Puttin' My Best Foot Forward" height="640" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1643/23734912449_482f131fce_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script>
<br />
<br />
<ol class="ol1">
<li class="li1"><b>More Music</b>. All I do is listen to podcasts and Spotify (occasionally). Gotta BUY more music. More physical media. CDs. Vinyl. Edison cylinders. Started 2016 by listening to <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/A_Love_Supreme" target="_blank">John Coltrane</a> and <a href="http://www.allmusic.com/album/detroits-son-mw0002864804" target="_blank">Guilty Simpson</a>, so things are goin’ well already. Gotta go out to more shows, too.</li>
<li class="li1"><b>Better Health.</b> Been eating horribly. My lifestyle is sedentary. Time to get back on that DDPYoga. With that said…</li>
<li class="li1"><b>More Poutine.</b> …I could stand to eat more poutine. It can be my “cheat” meal. The poutine at Le Garage RULES.</li>
<li class="li1"><b>More Drawing.</b> As always. It’s becoming more of a habit. 2016 is where it’ll take hold.</li>
<li class="li1"><b>Better Financial Health.</b> Make more, save more. And by “more,” I mean “start.”</li>
<li class="li1"><b>Tidiness.</b> The workspace, the living room, the kitchen…the whole fucking house, really. Dishes. Laundry. Yeah.</li>
<li class="li1"><b>More Comics.</b> Comics America is closing. Time to go to Comic Factory instead. Time to buy more comic PDFs from Gumroad. More mini comics. More webcomics. More, more, more.</li>
<li class="li1"><b>Better Time Management.</b> Pretty much nipped lateness in the bud, now it’s time to take care of the moments I have to myself and use them to the max. <br />No lazing’ about – make the most of it!</li>
<li class="li1"><b>Baking.</b> My wife and I have a Pinterest board of peanut butter recipes. <br />I need to make some of these.</li>
</ol>
Allan Lordehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06401964397804979720noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3926540.post-24487880441759778912015-04-28T00:52:00.001-05:002015-04-28T00:52:41.883-05:00Too Much On My Mind Like L.O.N.S.<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/elnegro/17100683716" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Shaven Lump Mode by Allan Lorde, on Flickr"><img alt="Shaven Lump Mode" height="640" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8697/17100683716_3ec0202c19_o.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
The shit that's goin' down in Baltimore, man.<br />I wish I was a little more outspoken about things but in the end, I just don't want to argue with people. I don't have the time or energy. Folks that are fucking shit up out of anger in that city?<b>*</b> <br />I ain't mad at 'em. Would I do it myself? Nope. But I understand the frustration. We're looking at 400+-year slow-motion genocide against bIack people in the U.S., like it or not. If I mention this on Facebook, I just know that I'll get a lot of static from people I call friends that are unable to walk a mile in black folks' shoes. I guess that makes me a coward or something. So be it.<br />
<br />
I like to think that I can "stay woke" while surrounding myself with beauty for the sake of my peace of mind. If you need me, I'll be at Pinterest or something.<br />
<br />
<b>*</b>As usual, there are multiple angles involved in what's going on. CNN/Fox/CBS/NBC/ABC will sing you a one-note song, but there are people <b><i>right there in the middle of things </i></b>taking to Twitter and Tumblr to give you the uncut dope. Stories about how people are truly being affected, not some unified blanket statement. Stories that are positive about the situation that won't be covered by the aforementioned group, because the shit ain't sexy, and America needs its boogeymen/women.<br />
<br />Allan Lordehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06401964397804979720noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3926540.post-15920459578914815882015-03-20T02:20:00.000-05:002015-03-20T02:20:09.332-05:00Grabbin' the Bull By the Horns<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/elnegro/16682037209" title="Personal Social (Media) Experiment by Allan Lorde, on Flickr"><img alt="Personal Social (Media) Experiment" height="640" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7640/16682037209_3319b3dbcb_o.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
"Internet Code of Conduct" is a bit of a misnomer. What I've actually drawn up for myself is a plan to streamline my online activities, particularly where social media is concerned.<br />
<br />
Why? Because I'm tired, that's why.<br />
<br />
On Tumblr, I'm bombarded day after day with posts related to racism, people denying racism exists, and other incidents of injustice and assholery. (Including homophobia, transphobia, fat hate, etc.) Also on Tumblr, I'm overwhelmed by illustration eye candy on the daily by people that actually use their time wisely and create stuff. My brain, eyes, and heart need a fucking break from both of these things because I'm going nowhere fast. With the former, I wonder what's the point of doing anything when the world is clearly so shitty and out to get me. As far as the latter is concerned, I can't get any better at creating things by just observing. It helps, but you need to put what you've learned into action by doing.<br />
<br />
So, tonight I sat down and wrote out a plan to streamline my online activities; a personal set of rules. The plan is to keep it up for at least a month and see if it's effective. I'll adjust things where I need to. Basically, I'm attempting to take control of my habits and be a more productive me.<br />
<br />
This is long overdue.Allan Lordehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06401964397804979720noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3926540.post-13130902796601744152015-03-19T02:52:00.001-05:002015-03-19T02:59:44.898-05:00Green-Eyed Monster<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4mIWz38I5nOoLMmx9q9RyRiRjjZHU9WzoADQDzfyCPjVagJ7Q8E0Y8A-8s2mYAETSHyI-dvpY2WnkdFWzU9Mrc9fzS2pNNmiBx9Mt235GpXs2unhR0NDa-FLxCV_GH2H9yNWaaw/s1600/Screen+Shot+2015-03-18+at+3.36.44+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4mIWz38I5nOoLMmx9q9RyRiRjjZHU9WzoADQDzfyCPjVagJ7Q8E0Y8A-8s2mYAETSHyI-dvpY2WnkdFWzU9Mrc9fzS2pNNmiBx9Mt235GpXs2unhR0NDa-FLxCV_GH2H9yNWaaw/s1600/Screen+Shot+2015-03-18+at+3.36.44+PM.png" height="222" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
My St. Patrick's Day tweet.<br />
<br />
Wrestling with emotions, man. If you look up the definitions of jealousy and envy, I've got both going on. I need to go to Japan again. SXSW has long been a dream of mine to attend, especially for <a href="http://americanposterinstitute.com/flatstock" target="_blank">Flatstock</a>.<br />
All I know is, it's going to take work. Work to raise the money, or doing work that'll take me there on someone else's dime.<br />
<br />
I can do it. I just have to tell myself that, and keep grindin'.Allan Lordehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06401964397804979720noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3926540.post-23206294529316358752015-01-11T23:21:00.002-06:002015-01-11T23:21:39.574-06:00Birthday #40<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/elnegro/15638204364" title="Birthday No. 40 (iPhone Version) by Allan Lorde, on Flickr"><img alt="Birthday No. 40 (iPhone Version)" height="800" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8650/15638204364_2fefd80b2e_c.jpg" width="600" /></a> </div>
<br />
It was a day like any other, except it was my birthday, and I reached the beginning of my fourth decade on this glorious ball of dirt. I dreaded this birthday like I dreaded my 25th, my 30th, my 35th, and my 39th. However, there was a certain amount of resignation from the whole deal.<br />
<br />
I've been shown over the past year how fleeting life can be, so I've kinda thrown my hands up. No, I'm not giving up on life, I've just given up on buggin' out over the inevitable.<br />
<br />
Does that mean I'm happier about the passage of time? Getthefuckouttahere. Don't get me wrong, I'm happy to be alive, more so than I have been in the past three years. But, if you think I greeted this day with open fuckin' arms, you're dead wrong. No, I wasn't a knuckle-dragging sad sack. Just quiet, y'know? Reserved. I just let it happen to me. And it was fine.<br />
<br />
I talked to my man <a href="https://twitter.com/pop77" target="_blank">Chris Pointon</a> last Friday (we were doing our <a href="http://instagram.com/p/xrvedGrW25/" target="_blank">Draw Mob</a> thing) about the turning 40 thing, and he talked about how he got through it by not looking at his life as a list of accomplishments, but a series of experiences. That worked for me. I've done some cool shit and seen some cool shit.<br />
<br />
I hope there's more cool shit to come. God-willin', I'll be around to see it.Allan Lordehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06401964397804979720noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3926540.post-67165807819099535432015-01-02T00:23:00.001-06:002015-01-02T00:23:14.288-06:002015 Resolutions<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/elnegro/16169921001" title="2015 Resolutions by Allan Lorde, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7532/16169921001_8742f5dc4b_z.jpg" width="640" height="640" alt="2015 Resolutions"></a>
<ol>
<li><b>Health.</b> The usual stuff, really. Gotta get back on that horse. My wife and I started doing DDP Yoga last year, then we both got sidetracked by various ailments and depression. Time to eat right, and live right, because none of us are promised tomorrow.<br /></li>
<li><b>Drawing and Writing.</b> More drawing. Every day, if possible. In fact, my Inktober endeavours have shown me that it <b><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/elnegro/sets/72157636414756533/" target="_blank">is</a> <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/elnegro/sets/72157648812835895/" target="_blank">possible</a></b>. Also, I'd like to do more custom letter stuff. I need to push my skills in that department. Maybe a calligraphy class is in order? <a href="http://www.skillshare.com/classes/lettering" target="_blank">Skillshare</a>?<br />As far as writing goes...I really don't know. I use Tumblr for written expression now, way more than Blogger. I'm not sure what to make of that. Often I'm <a href="http://misterlorde.tumblr.com/post/106385026387/humansofnewyork-i-asked-for-her-photo-and-she" target="_blank">adding my two cents</a> to something, or <a href="http://misterlorde.tumblr.com/post/103872521297/newyorker-is-it-really-that-difficult-for-men" target="_blank">making sure folks know where a certain thing comes from, and who made it</a>.<br />Is that truly expression, though? What am I bringing into the world? Gotta think about this a little more. Tumbleweeds tend to loom large at this here blog.<br /></li>
<li><b>The Business of Art.</b> A full-time illustration career is still a bit of a dream, and I think it remains so because I haven't set goals to make it a reality. Save cash to leave day job, make promo items, contact art directors = GOALS. Now I just have to put those goals in order and write down the finer details. I may be over my fear of selling things, so that's something I can take a shot at doing.<br /></li>
<li><b>The Mint.</b> <a href="http://www.mint.ca/store/mint/visit-the-mint/winnipeg-location-8900024#.VKYZ7GTF_ks" target="_blank">Still haven't been there</a>. This must be rectified.<br /></li>
<li><b>Debt.</b> Still swimming in it. Maybe some inroads will be made in making it manageable.<br /></li>
<li><b>Other Cameras.</b> My PowerShot cameras are pretty much dead. I want to use my Canon Rebel again, but I think I'm having battery issues. Guess I gotta take my shit over to <a href="http://donsphoto.com/" target="_blank">Don's</a>!<br /></li>
<li><b>Clothes.</b> More pants, more socks, more underwear. Maybe some sleep gear? Definitely more t-shirts. In fact, <a href="http://www.prowrestlingtees.com/newjapan" target="_blank">New Japan stuff</a> is a must.<br /></li>
<li><b>Tidiness.</b> My workspace looked like <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/elnegro/14350097397/" target="_blank">this</a> last year, and to some degree, it looks like that again. When you think about it, every portion of the house could use a bit of love. Let's spruce this joint up!</li>
</ol>
This year is looking a lot like <a href="http://elnegromagnifico.blogspot.ca/2014/01/2014-resolutions.html">last year</a>!Allan Lordehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06401964397804979720noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3926540.post-7042454534783909012014-08-31T05:10:00.000-05:002014-08-31T05:11:41.664-05:00Random Thoughts: August 31st, 2014<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/elnegro/14903882209" title="Copin' That Stray Wi-Fi, Makin' Love to Two Bacon McDoubles (and a Large Coke® Zero), and Reminiscin' by Allan Lorde, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5558/14903882209_cc8f5e9092_o.jpg" width="640" height="640" alt="Copin' That Stray Wi-Fi, Makin' Love to Two Bacon McDoubles (and a Large Coke® Zero), and Reminiscin'"></a>
I ain't been right. The following thoughts stemmed from a late night drive/junk food binge.<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li><a href="http://elnegromagnifico.blogspot.ca/2014/06/an-unholy-mess.html" target="_blank">That mess</a> in my workspace has finally been <a href="http://instagram.com/p/sRLkpJAO3Q/?modal=true" target="_blank">cleaned up</a>. I feel better, but I don't feel better enough...if that makes sense.</li>
<li>I shouldn't deal with what ifs, because you can't change what's already happened, but I wonder what would've happened if I hadn't ended that date with (name withheld) on a handshake. What if I had taken her up on her invite to come inside? Would we have fucked or made out? Man, I think I could've used some casual sex in my life, although it would've flown in the face of my somewhat devout Christian lifestyle. I doubt I would've smashed a whole lot of honies. Probably would've been random hook-ups with women of all ages.</li>
<li>I'm eating, because I should be doing something else. The past month has been a huge mental block, where I've been should've been getting this one thing done, but fear of failure/trying has kept me grounded. When I get a flicker of urge to do said thing, I eat or drink instead.<br />Or I get on the Internet.</li>
<li>I've got six sample boxes of an ADHD drug to try, but I need to finish this <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Minnesota_Multiphasic_Personality_Inventory" target="_blank">MMPI-2</a> questionnaire first. It may fuck with my personality, and I want the test to be accurate.</li>
<li>On nights like this, I hit the night in search of fresh air, and a tiny bit of excitement. I look at the night life types outside of Whiskey Dix with a mix of disdain and envy. Disdain, due to the whole bullshit night club experience. Envy, because of the unbridled enthusiasm of the participants. The goal is to have a good time, and maybe get a little somethin'. And if you're not tired by the end, the pursuit of a good time continues. Man, if you could bottle that shit.</li>
<li>I'm wondering if I'll ever get over myself.</li>
</ul>Allan Lordehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06401964397804979720noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3926540.post-51838586165030271162014-06-29T15:08:00.000-05:002014-06-29T15:26:43.842-05:00An Unholy Mess<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="800" mozallowfullscreen="" msallowfullscreen="" oallowfullscreen="" src="https://www.flickr.com/photos/elnegro/14350097397/player/" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="600"></iframe>
<br />
My workspace, the Clifton Santiago Honeymoon Suite, is often in need of tidying. However, shit has gotten really out of hand. I'm tackling it while listening to an episode of <i><a href="http://boingboing.net/2014/06/23/cartoonist-paul-hornschemeier.html" target="_blank">Tell Me Something I Don't Know</a></i>, and it's going <b>VERY</b> slowly.<br />
<br />
But it's going. Slowly.<br />
<br />
On the bright side of things, I've found my umbrella.Allan Lordehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06401964397804979720noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3926540.post-79277490483660888012014-01-01T17:51:00.001-06:002014-01-01T17:51:27.072-06:002014 ResolutionsHey.<br />
It's been way too long.<br />
<br />
My wonderful sister-in-law was killed in a horrible car accident on the 28th of December. Also, my niece, brother-in-law, their friend and her daughter were injured. They need our prayers and positive thoughts.<br />
<br />
Needless to say, I'm not in the greatest emotional shape, and I've been distracting myself with dishes and laundry, in addition to my usual web-based vices. I'm writing this because I think my sister-in-law wouldn't want me moping, and I've been doing plenty of that.<br />
<br />
I know plenty of folks that don't like making resolutions, including super-sexy fashion blogger <a href="http://nadiaaboulhosn.tumblr.com/post/71122044384/plz-understand-this-resolution-change" target="_blank">Nadia Aboulhosn</a>. My homie Troy makes them <a href="http://tallblackguy.tumblr.com/post/71756082450/the-thing-about-not-making-new-years-resolutions" target="_blank">on his birthday</a> (I can feel that).<br />
However symbolic the idea of a clean slate with the arrival of a new year, it works for me. I'm sure I've mentioned this before, but my resolutions are never a diehard thing, where if I trip up on the 1st or 2nd of January, everything gets fucked up. They are guidelines, ideas, and personal suggestions.<br />
<br />
I want 2014 to be a good year, all things considered. It'll definitely be different.<br />
We miss you already, Karla.<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="640" mozallowfullscreen="" msallowfullscreen="" oallowfullscreen="" src="https://www.flickr.com/photos/elnegro/11697288476/player/af2eb98e86" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="640"></iframe><br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>2014 Resolutions</b>
<br />
<ol>
<li><b>Health -</b> The usual stuff: better eating habits, regular exercise, a proper outlet for my sadness, etc. Textbook resolution stuff. It can be done.</li>
<li><b>Drawing -</b> Another repeat resolution, with a difference. This time, when I don't draw, I won't beat myself up about it, because that never helps. Sometimes I'm sick, sometimes I'm really down, and drawing is the furthest thing out of my mind. That said, when sad, I should be drawing (see resolution 1). When I'm depressed, I eat my feelings, which just fucks everything up. The relief is temporary. Tasty, but temporary.<br />Anyway, drawing. More of it. <a href="http://misterlorde.tumblr.com/post/70866471985/i-dont-spend-much-time-thinking-about-my-past-but" target="_blank">Even greats like Shane Glines get the blues</a>.</li>
<li><b>The Mint -</b> <a href="http://www.mint.ca/store/mint/about-the-mint/visit-the-mint-1200026#.UsSbzGRDueA" target="_blank">I've never been</a>. This is wrong, and it must be remedied. This year.</li>
<li><b>The Business of Art -</b> I don't like where I'm at in my creative career. I have the tools to do a lot better, and it's time to use them.</li>
<li><b>Debt -</b> Up to my fucking eyeballs. I'd love to eliminate it, or greatly reduce it.</li>
<li><b>Other Cameras -</b> My Rebel has sat around unused for ages, as has <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/elnegro/sets/72157625653856711/" target="_blank">my Fisheye 2</a>. Need to turn that around.</li>
<li><b>Writing -</b> I need to figure out where I am with writing. This blog sat dormant since September, while I've been doing short form stuff at <a href="http://misterlorde.tumblr.com/" target="_blank">Tumblr</a>, mainly trying to <a href="http://misterlorde.tumblr.com/post/71243668588/peachesandpumpkins-letgoat-tittyfig-if-we" target="_blank">give credit where it's due (kinda NSFW)</a>.</li>
<li><b>Hat -</b> I need a new one. I think it'll be <a href="http://www.draplin.com/1998/01/ddc001_factory_floor_issue_action_cap_1.html" target="_blank">this one</a>, in black 6-panel foam. <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/elnegro/9423966406/" target="_blank">I'm sick of people asking me if I'm a Reds fan</a>.</li>
</ol>
I've got more ideas, but they're escaping me at the moment.<br />
Anyway, I hope you reach your goals and kick a whole lot of ass this year. Hug your loved ones every chance you get.Allan Lordehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06401964397804979720noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3926540.post-79531449584724846592013-09-07T17:36:00.001-05:002013-09-07T17:36:55.959-05:00Bison Smith on The Art of Wrestling<div style="text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="480" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/ywj_22lU-1U?rel=0" width="640"></iframe>
Bison Smith vs. Kenta Kobashi for the GHC title, August 26, 2003 </div>
<br />
<b>EDIT:</b> I've had this sitting in my drafts since July. Holy shit! Gotta start writing at length again.<br />
<br />
I've been trying to get ahead on some household chore stuff, so I decided to load my iPhone up with some podcasts to keep my mind occupied. I'm WAY behind on <a href="http://welovecolt.com/" target="_blank">Colt Cabana</a>'s <i>The Art of Wrestling</i>, so I put four on my device, <a href="http://tsmradio.com/coltcabana/2011/09/21/aow-61-bison-smith/" target="_blank">including one with Mark "Bison" Smith</a>, an American pro wrestler that plied his trade in Puerto Rico and in Japan for <a href="http://www.noah.co.jp/" target="_blank">Pro Wrestling NOAH</a>.<br />
<br />
The Bison episode was terrific, because it gave me a glimpse of what it's like to be a regular <i>gaijin</i> for NOAH, how to get over with the fans out there, and proper conduct with guys like Kobashi, Jun Akiyama, and Mitsuharu Misawa. He also talked about his role as someone that gets pushed to a certain degree, but in the end, gives the native stars of the promotion the rub. The man was just happy to be a part of the pro wrestling family. In the end, the interview was also quite sad, as Bison was in the ring <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mitsuharu_Misawa#Death" target="_blank">when Misawa died</a>, and he recounted the situation, and two other wrestling-related deaths he had witnessed. Bison went on to mention that he had gained an acceptance of death's inevitability, which gave me chills, as he would die a couple of months after this interview.<br />
<br />
I'm not sure why I felt compelled to share this with you, but I did. It just hit home with me as someone that loves pro wrestling, Japan, and the combination of those two things. I guess it's also an opportunity to share a match or two of his, as he was an agile monster heel, therefore, fun to watch.<br />
<br />
Thank you, Mr. Smith.<br />
<br />
Additional Match: I just found this tag bout with <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qBK_A4vDQKo" target="_blank">Colt and Bison vs. Kobashi & Takeshi Morishima</a>.Allan Lordehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06401964397804979720noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3926540.post-31678520546801130852013-05-27T23:10:00.000-05:002013-05-27T23:11:12.848-05:00I'm Hooked<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/pisSXCWiom0" width="640"></iframe><br />
<br />
Friend and illustrator <a href="http://www.stacycurtis.com/" target="_blank">Stacy Curtis</a> got me hooked on <i>Strip Search</i>. With the exception of <i>The Amazing Race</i>, I hate reality TV competitions, but this, <b>THIS</b> speaks to me. Cartooning and a reality show where folks are actually civil to each other? Sign me up!<br />
<br />
I watched the first episode just out of curiosity, and there was enough to keep me coming back for 24 more episodes. Several shows into it, I wondered aloud as to why I was watching this thing, but now I'm fully immersed and unashamed.<br />
<br />
It's down to the final four cartooning combatants, but I'm not going to spoil it all for you. If the teaser above didn't drive you away, jump right into <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zUScIuxZE90" target="_blank">the first episode</a>.<br />
<br />
A side note: I'm a webcomic junkie, but I've read very little of <i><a href="http://www.penny-arcade.com/comic" target="_blank">Penny Arcade</a></i>, the title (and apparent pop culture empire – they've got a shitload of <a href="http://penny-arcade.com/patv" target="_blank">shows</a> and <a href="http://store.penny-arcade.com/" target="_blank">merch</a>, man) that this show is based on. Unlike <i><a href="http://www.sinfest.net/" target="_blank">Sinfest</a></i>, <i><a href="http://www.girlswithslingshots.com/" target="_blank">Girls with Slingshots</a></i>, and <i><a href="http://www.johnnywander.com/" target="_blank">Johnny Wander</a></i>, I've never felt like diving way back into the archives to start at the beginning. And I can't say that the whole <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Penny_Arcade_(webcomic)#Rape.2Fdickwolves_controversy" target="_blank">"</a><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Penny_Arcade_(webcomic)#Rape.2Fdickwolves_controversy" target="_blank">dickwolves</a><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Penny_Arcade_(webcomic)#Rape.2Fdickwolves_controversy" target="_blank">" thing</a> spoke to me, either. With that said, none of the 12 contestants seem to have a problem with any of that. So, I'll continue watching.<br />
<br />
Disclosure: I've got crushes on <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NLwzlCuXlbM" target="_blank">Katie</a> and <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KVyc1WF0_LA" target="_blank">Lexxy</a>. Can you blame me?Allan Lordehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06401964397804979720noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3926540.post-34061983211219212152013-04-20T12:01:00.000-05:002013-04-20T12:01:15.668-05:00Let's Take a Break<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/elnegro/6417419247/" title="The Best Promotion On the Planet (@njpw1972) by El Negro Magnifico, on Flickr"><img alt="The Best Promotion On the Planet (@njpw1972)" height="612" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7163/6417419247_dc5e6f0bdc_z.jpg" width="612" /></a><br />
<br />
I love you pro wrestling, but I think we need some time apart.
I've been down with you since 1985, and you've been there for me through everything. I gotta say though...I've that 28 year itch right now. You're boring me.<br />
<br />
Let's cut to the chase: it's WWE. <i>Raw</i> is three hours. That's too fucking long. I don't have the time or PVR space to sift through wackness.<br />
Also, money is (eternally) short, so I can't buy all the New Japan Pro Wrestling iPPVs I want. And believe me, I want to. I <b>SO</b> fucking want to.<br />
<br />
So, until I get some more free time, more cash, or until <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chris_Hero" target="_blank">Kassius Ohno</a> makes his WWE debut, we've gotta go our separate ways. I'll keep tabs on you via <a href="http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/home.html" target="_blank">Slam!</a> and through Ring of Honor and NJPW's YouTube channels, but no hanging out for a while. No coffee dates, no booty calls.Allan Lordehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06401964397804979720noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3926540.post-5787376122965664002013-03-23T15:15:00.001-05:002013-03-23T15:15:36.293-05:00Signage Mystery<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/elnegro/8583918992/" title="Signage Under the Stairs 3 by El Negro Magnifico, on Flickr"><img alt="Signage Under the Stairs 3" height="480" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8096/8583918992_132013d567_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
Sarah and I have been living in <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/jeope/4661600473/" target="_blank">this house</a> for nearly three years, and I'm surprised it's taken me this long to talk about (and photograph) the old signs under my basement stairs.
I initially thought they were hand painted, but upon closer inspection, they looked like they were screen printed.<br />I should hit up <a href="http://thiswaswinnipeg.blogspot.ca/" target="_blank">Christian Cassidy</a> and see if he knows anything about these signs.<br />
I've got a few more shots <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/elnegro/tags/greaterwinnipeggasco/" target="_blank">here</a>.Allan Lordehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06401964397804979720noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3926540.post-11136499963588624152013-02-10T01:14:00.001-06:002013-02-10T01:14:37.119-06:00An Airing of Grievances<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTL5SX0YBbNrDP8e4hBP49oGFm2yNgvEG6Trwa4AxnSWnGxwo6hN6sGJI9L3XFjpTkrXVH42gMmO40r01Tf5Ng81Yv0ly0mj_h2DSooWpzWWPnHoDDLuwRbUL4lgkwqanCuEQsHw/s1600/Screen+shot+2013-02-10+at+12.15.25+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="172" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTL5SX0YBbNrDP8e4hBP49oGFm2yNgvEG6Trwa4AxnSWnGxwo6hN6sGJI9L3XFjpTkrXVH42gMmO40r01Tf5Ng81Yv0ly0mj_h2DSooWpzWWPnHoDDLuwRbUL4lgkwqanCuEQsHw/s640/Screen+shot+2013-02-10+at+12.15.25+AM.png" width="640" /></a></div>
I was just watching episodes of the unjustly cancelled <i><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sym-Bionic_Titan" target="_blank">Sym-Bionic Titan</a></i> that I PVR’d around New Year’s (there was a set of marathons running at the time), and it got me thinking about Cartoon Network Canada’s schedule. <i>SBT</i> is in repeats in the Toonami block of Cartoon Network/Adult…a block of programming us Canucks don’t get, unfortunately.<br />
<br />
The <a href="http://www.cartoonnetwork.ca/contact-us/">FAQ</a> addresses this (in a roundabout, condescension-with-a-huge-smile way), in addition giving you a reason for redirecting you when you try to access cartoonnetwork.com. It’s a good way to avoid questions about why the U.S. schedule is so much better than ours, questions they get anyway if the FAQ is an indication. Pretty cyclical, eh? Anyway, I decided to write what you see above. It probably won’t change a damn thing, but making my voice heard feels good. I’m also doing it because I’m not a dude that’s into torrenting programs (not judging if you do, though). It’d be great to see those shows here without goin’ on some piracy bullshit.Allan Lordehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06401964397804979720noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3926540.post-88736932221628646242013-01-20T11:00:00.001-06:002013-01-20T11:00:51.119-06:00Birthday #38<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/elnegro/8373079483/" title="Birthday No. 38: Pixel Pushin' by El Negro Magnifico, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8354/8373079483_194daf5bd5_o.jpg" width="612" height="612" alt="Birthday No. 38: Pixel Pushin'"></a>
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/elnegro/8374156580/" title="Birthday No. 38: Thoughts In Transit by El Negro Magnifico, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8085/8374156580_cfe8df6180_o.jpg" width="612" height="612" alt="Birthday No. 38: Thoughts In Transit"></a>
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/elnegro/8374160232/" title="Birthday No. 38: Red and Velvety by El Negro Magnifico, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8359/8374160232_c3e96bc7af_o.jpg" width="612" height="612" alt="Birthday No. 38: Red and Velvety"></a>
I've been 38 for over a week now. Feels all right, so far. Right now, I'm writing this blog post, listening to <a href="http://yourdreamsmynightmares.com/post/41011195027/your-dreams-my-nightmares-episode-041-an">an interview</a> with <a href="http://www.rosenworld.com/">Laurie Rosenwald</a>, and getting ready to draw some stuff for the <i>Manitoban</i>. There are a lot of things I wish were better in my life, but I can't complain about how things are at this very moment.
Allan Lordehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06401964397804979720noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3926540.post-87705892516095753832013-01-08T22:45:00.001-06:002013-01-08T22:45:31.488-06:0015 Years Later...<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/elnegro/4036905716/" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="Shinjuku Sarah! by El Negro Magnifico, on Flickr"><img alt="Shinjuku Sarah!" src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2482/4036905716_a8195ec599_z.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sarah in Shinjuku. May 11th, 2009.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Fifteen years ago today, I met the most awesome lady via telephone dating, a fact that makes us sound like absolute fossils to a bunch of you, I'm sure.<br />
<br />
On January 22nd of that year, we thought we were kind of amazing together and really enjoyed kissing each other.<br />
<br />
Ten years later, <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/luckygirlweddingphotography/sets/72157610622587687">we got hitched</a>.<br />
<br />
Almost five years after that, we now have <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/elnegro/8300975888">a charismatic toddler</a>.<br />
<br />
It's been a fantastic ride so far, Sarah. I can't think of another woman I'd want to share my life with. I'm so glad we found each other.Allan Lordehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06401964397804979720noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3926540.post-20882367503668134292013-01-01T23:07:00.002-06:002013-01-01T23:07:37.562-06:00I Like to Make Lists<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/elnegro/8335722655/" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Happy 2013! by El Negro Magnifico, on Flickr"><img alt="Happy 2013!" height="960" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8364/8335722655_442292a2c2_o.jpg" width="650" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Three lists. Two look backward, one points to the future (I love melodrama).
</div>
<b><br /></b>
<b>Albums I Should've Bought In 2012 But I Was Fucking Broke</b><br />
(I'm sure there are a few titles I'm missing, but here goes anyway...)
<br/>
<ul>
<li>Quakers – <i>Quakers</i></li>
<li>Oh No – <i>Ohnomite</i></li>
<li>El-P – <i>Cancer4Cure</i></li>
<li>Killer Mike – <i>R.A.P. Music</i></li>
<li>King Tuff – <i>King Tuff</i></li>
<li>Alabama Shakes – <i>Boys and Girls</i></li>
<li>Aesop Rock <i>– Skelethon</i></li>
<li>House Shoes<i> – Let It Go</i></li>
<li>Neneh Cherry and The Thing<i> – The Cherry Thing</i></li>
<li>The Jon Spencer Blues Explosion<i> – Meat & Bone</i></li>
<li>Ben Folds Five –<i> The Sound of the Life and the Mind</i></li>
<li>The Walkmen<i> – Heaven</i></li>
<li>Anything Ty Segall put out this year</li>
<li>Blu and Exile – <i>Give Me My Flowers While I Can Still Smell Them</i></li>
<li>King Tuff – <i>King Tuff</i></li>
<li>Sean Price<i> – Mic Tyson</i></li>
</ul>
<br />
<b>My Favorite Posters and Art Prints of 2012</b><br />
<b>Posters:</b>
<ul>
<li>Luke Drozd's "Shhh" poster: <span class="s2"><a href="http://www.gigposters.com/poster/148908_Tiny_Ruins.html">http://www.gigposters.com/poster/148908_Tiny_Ruins.html</a></span></li>
<li>Drew Millward's Black Keys poster: <span class="s2"><a href="http://www.gigposters.com/poster/149603_Band_Of_Skulls.html">http://www.gigposters.com/poster/149603_Band_Of_Skulls.html</a></span></li>
<li>Landland's Eric Church poster: <span class="s2"><a href="http://www.gigposters.com/poster/150075_Eric_Church.html">http://www.gigposters.com/poster/150075_Eric_Church.html</a></span></li>
<li>Drew Millward's At the Drive-In poster: <span class="s2"><a href="http://omgposters.com/2012/04/13/drew-millwards-poster-for-last-nights-at-the-drive-in-show-in-marfa-tx/">http://omgposters.com/2012/04/13/drew-millwards-poster-for-last-nights-at-the-drive-in-show-in-marfa-tx/</a></span></li>
<li>Daniel Danger's At the Drive-In poster: <span class="s2"><a href="http://omgposters.com/2012/04/16/daniel-dangers-poster-for-fridays-at-the-drive-in-show-in-el-paso/">http://omgposters.com/2012/04/16/daniel-dangers-poster-for-fridays-at-the-drive-in-show-in-el-paso/</a></span></li>
<li>Kevin Tong's At the Drive-In poster: <span class="s2"><a href="http://tragicsunshine.com/band_posters/at-the-drive-in">http://tragicsunshine.com/band_posters/at-the-drive-in</a></span></li>
<li>Aaron Horkey's Andrew Bird poster: <span class="s2"><a href="http://omgposters.com/2012/05/03/exclusive-aaron-horkeys-new-poster-for-andrew-bird/">http://omgposters.com/2012/05/03/exclusive-aaron-horkeys-new-poster-for-andrew-bird/</a></span></li>
<li>Scott Campbell's Washed Out tour poster: <span class="s2"><a href="http://omgposters.com/2012/06/11/scott-campbells-washed-out-tour-poster/">http://omgposters.com/2012/06/11/scott-campbells-washed-out-tour-poster/</a></span></li>
<li>Laura Park's Kelly Hogan poster: <span class="s2"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/featherbed/7367603710/">http://www.flickr.com/photos/featherbed/7367603710/</a></span></li>
<li>Miles Tsang's Odd Future poster: <span class="s2"><a href="http://www.gigposters.com/poster/155413_Odd_Future.html">http://www.gigposters.com/poster/155413_Odd_Future.html</a></span></li>
<li>Landland's Eric Church poster: <span class="s2"><a href="http://www.gigposters.com/poster/155678_Eric_Church.html">http://www.gigposters.com/poster/155678_Eric_Church.html</a></span></li>
<li>Rob Jones' Jack White poster: <span class="s2"><a href="http://www.gigposters.com/poster/155773_Jack_White.html">http://www.gigposters.com/poster/155773_Jack_White.html</a></span></li>
<li>Kevin Tong's Umphrey's McGee poster: <span class="s2"><a href="http://tragicsunshine.com/band_posters/umphreys-mcgee">http://tragicsunshine.com/band_posters/umphreys-mcgee</a></span></li>
<li>Mik Baro's Devil Dogs poster: <a href="http://mikbaroblog.blogspot.com/2012/11/the-devil-dogs-electric-sluts-loco-club.html">http://mikbaroblog.blogspot.com/2012/11/the-devil-dogs-electric-sluts-loco-club.html</a></li>
</ul>
<b>Art Prints:</b>
<ul>
<li>Tiny Kitten Teeth's Adventure Time art print: <span class="s2"><a href="http://adventuretimeart.frederator.com/post/15695472846/new-limited-edition-poster-sets-from-mondo">http://adventuretimeart.frederator.com/post/15695472846/new-limited-edition-poster-sets-from-mondo</a></span></li>
<li>Jay Ryan's postcards: <a href="http://omgposters.com/2012/02/09/new-postcards-and-an-art-print-by-jay-ryan/"><span class="s2">http://omgposters.com/2012/02/09/new-postcards-and-an-art-print-by-jay-ryan/</span></a></li>
<li>Tim Lee's "Space Station Number Five": <a href="http://omgposters.com/2012/04/16/space-station-number-5-art-print-by-tim-lee/"><span class="s2">http://omgposters.com/2012/04/16/space-station-number-5-art-print-by-tim-lee/</span></a></li>
<li>Joe King's "Cephalopod": <a href="http://omgposters.com/2012/04/18/cephalopod-art-print-by-joe-king">http://<span class="s2">omgposters.com/2012/04/18/cephalopod-art-print-by-joe-king</span></a></li>
</ul>
<br><b>2013 Wishes</b>
<br>I know we're a day into it, but I'd like to see these 10 things happen in 2013:
<ol>
<li>I hope to see more tan lines in the Tumblr-based nudes I come across. </li>
<li>It'd be great to get my head out of my ass at some point in the year. </li>
<li>I'd like more attribution to take place on Tumblr, so I won't have to get on my fucking soapbox for the umpteenth time.</li>
<li>A cash windfall. Hey, it could happen! </li>
<li>A visit to Minneapolis. It's been two years, and five since I visited Grumpy's. </li>
<li>I need to meet the man who does <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/elnegro/6530264811/" target="_blank">these signs for Public Meat</a>. It'd be nice to get one of those joints, too.</li>
<li><a href="http://mikbaroblog.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Mik Baro</a> will post his more recent work on gigposters.com. That'd be killer. What's currently there is a far cry from the badass shit that he's doing right now.</li>
<li>Maybe <a href="http://www.casarramona.ch/" target="_blank">Michel Casarramona</a> will update his site? Add a blog or something? Fingers crossed.</li>
<li>iTunes. I have serious iTunes problems. It'd be great to take care of those.</li>
<li>Disney...seriously. <a href="http://www.cartoonbrew.com/disney/advance-praise-for-the-book-that-disney-doesnt-want-you-to-read-73722.html" target="_blank">Stop being dicks about the Ward Kimball book.</a> Like, where do you fuckers get off? </li>
</ol>
Allan Lordehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06401964397804979720noreply@blogger.com0