Friday, December 11, 2009

Finals are like battles. We procrastinate. They land on us because we were unprepared. We find ourselves to be the five without oil in our lamps. So, when we meet a classmate in the computer lab before sunrise we compare who got away with more in the last minute. We laugh at them and brag because they were close shaves and we were or are afraid. The comparison is our battle scar that we are so proud of -- as long as no one hears that we actually got it tripping over a tent post on our tour of duty.

Wednesday, June 17, 2009

Prayer Request (part 2)

Dear friends,
After promising so many of you personally that I would keep you updated, I am far overdue for giving you such an update on my medical life.

Since coming home from college, I had appointments with a couple of scoliosis specialists. We found a good doctor at Hershey Medical Center, Dr. Armstrong, who usually specializes in pediatric scoliosis but agreed anyways to take on my case. After a thorough examination and discussion with Dr. Armstrong, he told my that I should not suffer the kind of pain I have from normal scoliosis, so he sent me to have more nervous system focus MRI sequences done and see a neurosurgeon.

The neurosurgeon, Dr. Iantosca, gave me the news that I do have another issue, what he referred to as a tethered spinal cord. Meaning, the ligament at the tail end of my spinal cord is actually pulling it taut. This in turn means I am having this surgically corrected before I can have anything done to correct the curve of my spine.

Here is where my putting off E-mail matters, and I apologize for it again. Many of you may not read this E-mail before the event, but I am having the surgery this morning, after which I will spend a night or two in the hospital.

I should be home again Friday afternoon at the latest and will send out a short E-mail then to let all my friends know that the surgery went perfectly and I am now pain free.

As before, I am very grateful for the prayers, thoughts, and care from all of you.

Thank you.
--Aaron N

Saturday, June 13, 2009

Because you all are so concerned about my personal library --

Current total tally: a depressingly low 360.

Literary classics: 52-ish.
Compilation and collection volumes: 49.
Religion, theology, Bibles: approx. 35.
Music (theory or books of music score): 17.
Latin, ancient history, myth: 15.
Travel books: only 1, huh.
History and politics: 14.
English and writing: 13.
Comics: 11.
Plays: 10.
Biographies: 10.
Math and science: 9.
Arts and architecture: 8.
Behavioral sciences: 5.
Economics: 4.
Philosophy: 3.

Have a nice night.
pax Christi.

Tuesday, May 12, 2009

How every girl should be treated.

To every guy who...
-- believes every girl is beautiful.
-- prefers to say she is beautiful, not "hot" or "sexy".
-- says sex can wait.
-- would never push her.
-- is never too busy to drive across town to see her.
-- gives her flowers and a card when she was sick or down.
-- gives her flowers just because.
-- says he would die for her.
-- really would.
-- does what SHE wants to do.
-- cries in front of her.
-- she cries in front of.
-- holds hands with her.
-- kisses her with meaning.
-- hugs her when she's sad.
-- hugs her for no reason at all.
-- gives their jacket up for her.
-- calls to make sure she got home safe.
-- sits and waits hours just to see her a few minutes.
-- would give his seat up.
-- just wants to cuddle.
-- reassures her that she is beautiful no matter what.
-- tells his secrets to her.
-- tries to show how much he cares with every word and breath.
-- thinks, "Maybe this could be the one."
-- never laughs when she tells them.
-- believes in her dreams.
-- would do anything so she could achieve them.
-- escorts her back home.
-- doesn't push curfew.
-- walks her to her car.
-- holds the door.
-- gives his heart.
-- prays she is happy even if you aren't with her.

Less and less people, girls and the rest of our culture, appreciate real men anymore. Because of this, there are not enough nice guys left out there. Girls fall for the bad boys, and men care about their image.

If you are a nice guy, repost this titled: "This is how every girl should be treated." If you are the girl who thinks every guy should treat a girl this way, repost this as: "To Every Guy".

Tuesday, April 28, 2009

How did you get away from me? (lyrics)

HOW DID YOU GET AWAY FROM ME?
by June Carter Cash (and Johnny Cash)


Oh, I hate it, but you made it.
You're runnin', jumpin', laughin', filled with glee.
Oh, I told you that I'd hold you.
Just how did you get away from me?

I had bars on the windows,
Had you chained to the floor,
And a moss covered monster at the door,
(JOHNNY: 12 feet tall. That ain't all.)
Had a bottemless moat
With a hole in the boat
And a big rattlesnake
If you tried to make the break,
Had a swarm of bees,
A gorilla in the tress.
Just how did you get away from me?
(JOHNNY: You said I'd die if I tried.)

[KEY CHANGE (G to A)]
[DOBRO SOLO; JAZZ FLUTE SOLO]


Aw, where'd you get the sense
To get through the electric fence?
Your handcuffs are gone.
You're runnin' free.
What happened to my sniper
With his high powered rifle?
Just how did you get away from me?

Is it true that it's you?
Did you really did make it through?
How about the tiger in the car?
(JOHNNY: And the dynamite you planted)
(In the jar in the car.)
Did you go like a mole through a hole?
Or did you sail like a quail on a pole?
Give it to the news on TV (JOHNNY: So I can see)
Oh, how did you get away from me?
(JOHNNY: You said I die if I try.)
Oh, how did you get away from me?

Monday, April 27, 2009

Prayer Request

Dear friends,

I would appreciate it if you all could pray for me and keep me in you prayers. Some of you know what is bothering me already, some of you I promised the explanation, some of you have not even heard from me in a long time but.. ..well, as my friends, I would just like the rest of you to know..for your care and prayers. As I address you, I consider you all friends and hope I can count on that.

I have had back problems for a long time now. The past year, though, I succumbed to seeing doctors over it. I was told last summer that I had significant scoliosis. This spring semester I went to see a specialist at the local Orthopaedic and Fracture Clinic. There they did a number of X-rays series and MRI scans. The final result was that I was told I have a nearly 59 degree curve in my spine and, being past all my growth spurts, need major surgery.

We are now working out the final plans. I will find a scoliosis specialist back home in Pennsylvania and have the surgery some time this summer. Full healing from the surgery will take three to five months, so I am taking off the coming semester of college. Full recuperation may take a full year.

Meanwhile, my back pain is getting worse. I spend an even half of my days out of classes because of back seizes up.

Again, please pray for me and remember me. I don't mean to whine or beg for any pity, but I need my friends' prayers. Thank you for your time, all.

pax Christi,
--Aaron Nemoyer

Personality Quiz

Well, it looks like they pegged my personality well:

Linkage: http://www.quizbox.com/personality/test82.aspx

Your view on yourself:

Other people find you very interesting, but you are really hiding your true self. Your friends love you because you are a good listener. They'll probably still love you if you learn to be yourself with them.

The type of girlfriend/boyfriend you are looking for:

You are not looking merely for a girl/boyfriend - you are looking for your life partner. Perhaps you should be more open-minded about who you spend time with. The person you are looking for might hide their charm under their exterior.

Your readiness to commit to a relationship:

You prefer to get to know a person very well before deciding whether you will commit to the relationship.

The seriousness of your love:

Your have very sensible tactics when approaching the opposite sex. In many ways people find your straightforwardness attractive, so you will find yourself with plenty of dates.

Your views on education

Education is very important in life. You want to study hard and learn as much as you can.

The right job for you:

You have plenty of dream jobs but have little chance of doing any of them if you don't focus on something in particular. You need to choose something and go for it to be happy and achieve success.

How do you view success:

You are afraid of failure and scared to have a go at the career you would like to have in case you don't succeed. Don't give up when you haven't yet even started! Be courageous.

What are you most afraid of:

You are afraid of things that you cannot control. Sometimes you show your anger to cover up how you feel.

Who is your true self:

You are full of energy and confidence. You are unpredictable, with moods changing as quickly as an ocean. You might occasionally be calm and still, but never for long.

Thursday, April 09, 2009

To the drawing board!

Do you like getting packages in the mail?
Brown paper packages, tied up with string?

If so, it would be my pleasure to send you something, in the realm of material reality, that I have made for you and for you alone!

This is a crafty scheme. The first five people to respond to this note will get something made by me. However, this offer does have restrictions, conditions, and limitations so please read carefully:

I : There is absolutely no guarantee made that you will like what I make.
(Aaron Note: I have to receive a honest complaint, though.)

II : What I create will be new, just for you, not something made previously or just laying around.

III : It will be sent this calendar year.

IV : You have no clue what it is going to be. It will be something made in the real world, not just from the internets.

V : It may be jam. It may be a necklace. It may be original artwork or a cake or a chocolate mousse or ambiguous knitted goods. Who knows? Not you, that's for sure!
(Aaron Note: With no promise that they will be heeded, requests *are* more than welcome.)

VI : I reserve the right to do something extremely strange or cheap.

VII : I may well do more than five random creative acts if more than five people want random creative parcels. We shall see.
(Aaron Note: I will definitely send "somethings" to as many people as ask for them and fulfill the note's requirements! I have been given most of a year to send the stuff. Please, ask away!)


So, are there any obscured but no-the-less binding strings attached? Where is the fine print, figurative or not? There are no strings attached. Rather, I use thick anything-but-subtle hempen cords. Here is the fine print:

VIII : In return, in a public note of your own, you have to post the offer to make at leas five things for at least five other people.

IX : You have to tag me so I know you did it.

X : I will see you taking those first steps of your own before I make and send you anything.



(Aaron Note: Either put your preferred mailing address in your comment or E-mail it to me [Aaron.D.Nemoyer@gmail.com] so I know where to send your something.)

Pax.


PS. If you really want, you don't have to post the note yourself. It is more fun if I can convince you to, but I enjoy sending mail to anyone. :-)

The Drawing Board

Do you like getting packages in the mail?
Brown paper packages, tied up with string?

If so, it would be my pleasure to send you something, in the realm of material reality, that I have made for you and for you alone!

This is a crafty scheme. The first five people to respond to this note will get something made by me. However, this offer does have restrictions, conditions, and limitations so please read carefully:

I : There is absolutely no guarantee made that you will like what I make.
(Aaron Note: I have to receive a honest complaint, though.)

II : What I create will be new, just for you, not something made previously or just laying around.

III : It will be sent this calendar year.

IV : You have no clue what it is going to be. It will be something made in the real world, not just from the internets.

V : It may be jam. It may be a necklace. It may be original artwork or a cake or a chocolate mousse or ambiguous knitted goods. Who knows? Not you, that's for sure!
(Aaron Note: With no promise that they will be heeded, requests *are* more than welcome.)

VI : I reserve the right to do something extremely strange or cheap.

VII : I may well do more than five random creative acts if more than five people want random creative parcels. We shall see.
(Aaron Note: I will definitely send "somethings" to as many people as ask for them and fulfill the note's requirements! I have been given most of a year to send the stuff. Please, ask away!)


So, are there any obscured but no-the-less binding strings attached? Where is the fine print, figurative or not? There are no strings attached. Rather, I use thick anything-but-subtle hempen cords. Here is the fine print:

VIII : In return, in a public note of your own, you have to post the offer to make at leas five things for at least five other people.

IX : You have to tag me so I know you did it.

X : I will see you taking those first steps of your own before I make and send you anything.



(Aaron Note: Either put your preferred mailing address in your comment or E-mail it to me [Aaron.D.Nemoyer@gmail.com] so I know where to send your something.)

Pax.


PS. If you really want, you don't have to post the note yourself. It is more fun if I can convince you to, but I enjoy sending mail to anyone. :-)

Craft-y Scheme

Do you like getting packages in the mail?
Brown paper packages, tied up with string?

If so, it would be my pleasure to send you something, in the realm of material reality, that I have made for you and for you alone!

This is a crafty scheme. The first five people to respond to this note will get something made by me. However, this offer does have restrictions, conditions, and limitations so please read carefully:

I : There is absolutely no guarantee made that you will like what I make.
(Aaron Note: I have to receive a honest complaint, though.)

II : What I create will be new, just for you, not something made previously or just laying around.

III : It will be sent this calendar year.

IV : You have no clue what it is going to be. It will be something made in the real world, not just from the internets.

V : It may be jam. It may be a necklace. It may be original artwork or a cake or a chocolate mousse or ambiguous knitted goods. Who knows? Not you, that's for sure!
(Aaron Note: With no promise that they will be heeded, requests *are* more than welcome.)

VI : I reserve the right to do something extremely strange or cheap.

VII : I may well do more than five random creative acts if more than five people want random creative parcels. We shall see.
(Aaron Note: I will definitely send "somethings" to as many people as ask for them and fulfill the note's requirements! I have been given most of a year to send the stuff. Please, ask away!)


So, are there any obscured but no-the-less binding strings attached? Where is the fine print, figurative or not? There are no strings attached. Rather, I use thick anything-but-subtle hempen cords. Here is the fine print:

VIII : In return, in a public note of your own, you have to post the offer to make at leas five things for at least five other people.

IX : You have to tag me so I know you did it.

X : I will see you taking those first steps of your own before I make and send you anything.



(Aaron Note: Either put your preferred mailing address in your comment or E-mail it to me [Aaron.D.Nemoyer@gmail.com] so I know where to send your something.)

Pax.


PS. If you really want, you don't have to post the note yourself. It is more fun if I can convince you to, but I enjoy sending mail to anyone. :-)

Sunday, April 05, 2009

A Crafty Scheme

Do you like getting packages in the mail?
Brown paper packages, tied up with string?

If so, it would be my pleasure to send you something, in the realm of material reality, that I have made for you and for you alone!

This is a crafty scheme. The first five people to respond to this note will get something made by me. However, this offer does have restrictions, conditions, and limitations so please read carefully:

I : There is absolutely no guarantee made that you will like what I make.
(Aaron Note: I have to receive a honest complaint, though.)

II : What I create will be new, just for you, not something made previously or just laying around.

III : It will be sent this calendar year.

IV : You have no clue what it is going to be. It will be something made in the real world, not just from the internets.

V : It may be jam. It may be a necklace. It may be original artwork or a cake or a chocolate mousse or ambiguous knitted goods. Who knows? Not you, that's for sure!
(Aaron Note: With no promise that they will be heeded, requests *are* more than welcome.)

VI : I reserve the right to do something extremely strange or cheap.

VII : I may well do more than five random creative acts if more than five people want random creative parcels. We shall see.
(Aaron Note: I will definitely send "somethings" to as many people as ask for them and fulfill the note's requirements! I have been given most of a year to send the stuff. Please, ask away!)


So, are there any obscured but no-the-less binding strings attached? Where is the fine print, figurative or not? There are no strings attached. Rather, I use thick anything-but-subtle hempen cords. Here is the fine print:

VIII : In return, in a public note of your own, you have to post the offer to make at leas five things for at least five other people.

IX : You have to tag me so I know you did it.

X : I will see you taking those first steps of your own before I make and send you anything.



(Aaron Note: Either put your preferred mailing address in your comment or E-mail it to me [Aaron.D.Nemoyer@gmail.com] so I know where to send your something.)

Pax.


PS. If you really want, you don't have to post the note yourself. It is more fun if I can convince you to, but I enjoy sending mail to anyone. :-)

Tuesday, February 24, 2009

Music

"The vibrations on the air are the breath of God speaking to man's soul. Music is the language of God. We musicians are as close to God as man can be. We hear his voice, we read his lips, we give birth to the children of God, who sing his praise. That's what musicians are." --Ludwig van Beethoven

"Without music, life would be an error." --Friedrich Nietzsche

"I have no pleasure in any man who despises music. It is no invention of ours: it is a gift of God. I place it next to theology. Satan hates music: he knows how it drives the evil spirit out of us." --Martin Luther



"About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the other prisoners were listening to them." (Acts 16:25)

"So that the Gentiles may glorify God for his mercy, as it is written: "Therefore I will praise you among the Gentiles; I will sing hymns to your name." (Romans 15:9)

"Praise the Lord, all you Gentiles, and sing praises to him, all you peoples." (Romans 15:11)

"So what shall I do? I will pray with my spirit, but I will also pray with my mind; I will sing with my spirit, but I will also sing with my mind." (1 Corinthians 14:15)

"Is any one of you in trouble? He should pray. Is anyone happy? Let him sing songs of praise." (James 5:13)

"Then Moses and the Israelites sang this song to the LORD: 'I will sing to the LORD, for he is highly exalted. [...] The LORD is my strength and my song; he has become my salvation.'" (Exodus 15:1-2)

"Hear this, you kings! Listen, you rulers! I will sing to the LORD, I will sing; I will make music to the LORD, the God of Israel." (Judges 5:3)

"Therefore I will praise you, O LORD, among the nations; I will sing praises to your name." (2 Samuel 22:50)

"They ministered with music before the tabernacle, the Tent of Meeting, until Solomon built the temple of the LORD in Jerusalem. [...]" (1 Chronicles 6:32)

"David told the leaders of the Levites to appoint their brothers as singers to sing joyful songs, accompanied by musical instruments: lyres, harps and cymbals." (1 Chronicles 15:16)

"Sing to him, sing praise to him; tell of all his wonderful acts." (1 Chronicles 16:9)

"Sing to the LORD, all the earth; proclaim his salvation day after day." (1 Chronicles 16:23)

"After consulting the people, Jehoshaphat appointed men to sing to the LORD and to praise him for the splendor of his holiness as they went out at the head of the army, saying: 'Give thanks to the LORD, for his love endures forever.'" (2 Chronicles 20:21)

"Men cry out under a load of oppression; they plead for relief from the arm of the powerful. But no one says, 'Where is God my Maker, who gives songs in the night?'" (Job 35:9-10)

"Flowers appear on the earth; the season of singing has come, the cooing of doves is heard in our land." (Song of Solomon 2:12)

"Surely God is my salvation; I will trust and not be afraid. The LORD, the LORD, is my strength and my song; he has become my salvation." (Isaiah 12:2)

"Surely it was for my benefit that I suffered such anguish. In your love you kept me from the pit of destruction; you have put all my sins behind your back. For the grave cannot praise you, death cannot sing your praise; those who go down to the pit cannot hope for your faithfulness. The living, the living—they praise you, as I am doing today; fathers tell their children about your faithfulness. The LORD will save me, and we will sing with stringed instruments all the days of our lives in the temple of the LORD." (Isaiah 38:17-21)

"Sing for joy, O heavens, for the LORD has done this; shout aloud, O earth beneath. Burst into song, you mountains, you forests and all your trees, for the LORD has redeemed Jacob, he displays his glory in Israel." (Isaiah 44:23)

"But let all who take refuge in you be glad; let them ever sing for joy. Spread your protection over them, that those who love your name may rejoice in you." (Psalm 5:11)

"Then my head will be exalted above the enemies who surround me; at his tabernacle will I sacrifice with shouts of joy; I will sing and make music to the LORD." (Psalm 27:6)

"The LORD is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and I am helped. My heart leaps for joy and I will give thanks to him in song." (Psalm 28:7)

"Sing to the LORD, you saints of his; praise his holy name." (Psalm 30:4)

"You are my hiding place; you will protect me from trouble and surround me with songs of deliverance." (Psalm 32:7)

"[The LORD] put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise to our God. Many will see and fear and put their trust in the LORD." (Psalm 40:3)

"By day the LORD directs his love, at night his song is with me— a prayer to the God of my life." (Psalm 42:8)

"Sing praises to God, sing praises; sing praises to our King, sing praises." (Psalm 47:6)

"For God is the King of all the earth; sing to him a psalm of praise." (Psalm 47:7)

"But I will sing of your strength, in the morning I will sing of your love; for you are my fortress, my refuge in times of trouble. O my Strength, I sing praise to you; you, O God, are my fortress, my loving God." (Psalm 59:16-17)

"Because you are my help, I sing in the shadow of your wings" (Psalm 63:7)

"Those living far away fear your wonders; where morning dawns and evening fades you call forth songs of joy." (Psalm 65:8)

"The meadows are covered with flocks and the valleys are mantled with grain; they shout for joy and sing." (Psalm 65:13)

"I remembered my songs in the night" (Psalm 77:6)

"Satisfy us in the morning with your unfailing love, that we may sing for joy and be glad all our days." (Psalm 90:14)

"Let the rivers clap their hands, Let the mountains sing together for joy." (Psalm 98:8)

"The LORD is my strength and my song; he has become my salvation." (Psalm 118:14)

"Your decrees are the theme of my song wherever I lodge." (Psalm 119:54)

"Those who sow in tears will reap with songs of joy." (Psalm 126:5)

"Let the saints rejoice in this honor and sing for joy on their beds." (Psalm 149:5)

Thursday, February 19, 2009

Another Issues, Etc. Petition

Last spring, the Missouri Synod fired Jeff Schwartz and Rev. Todd Wilken and ended the well-followed radio show Issues, Etc all without explanation.  Now the LC-MS seems to be again getting its hands dirty and threatening Mr. Schwartz and Rev. Todd Wilken, despite already having kicked the show off KFUO airwaves and out of the synod.  Please sign this petition for Synod leave them alone and discontinue illegitimate pressure over the Issues, Etc. trademark.

The petition is at: http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/trademark/

It reads as follows:
_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _


To President Gerald Kieschnick and the Board of Directors of the Lutheran Church - Missouri Synod:

The mistreatment of Pastor Todd Wilken and Mr. Jeff Schwarz at the hands of the LCMS is an untenable and un-Christian situation which this petition seeks to address.

Regarding the matter of the pending trademark application for the Issues, Etc. name:

- The Lutheran Church - Missouri Synod allowed the trademark of the Lutheran talk radio program Issues, Etc. to lapse in 1999. After the cancellation of Issues, Etc. by the Synod in March of 2008, the Synod's Board for Communication Services recommended that ownership of the Issues, Etc. name be transferred to Host Todd Wilken and Producer Jeff Schwarz. The Director of the Board stated that he had no future plans to use the Issues, Etc. name, and hoped that the show would "continue to be heard through other communication channels." As requested, Pastor Wilken submitted a formal letter to the Synod requesting that they transfer the trademark, though the trademark had lapsed. After being informed by Pastor Wilken and Mr. Schwarz that they planned to resume the show using the Issues, Etc. name, and that a trademark application for that name had been filed with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office by Mr. Harry Madsen, a supporter of the show, the Synod voiced no opposition to their plan.

- The Synod has now inexplicably reversed its position and filed a letter opposing the trademark application, and has indirectly threatened Pastor Wilken and Mr. Schwarz via LCMS lawyers with a personal lawsuit, statements to the contrary notwithstanding.

While Pastor Wilken and Mr. Schwarz have always discussed matters that in any way reflect on the Synod in an exemplary, measured, and Christian fashion, both before and after the cancellation of the show, the same cannot be said of the behavior of the Synod. The threat of a lawsuit initiated by the LCMS against fellow Christians, whether by the leaders themselves or attorneys hired by the LCMS, is a shameful act, and is in fact a sin, as taught by St. Paul in 1 Corinthians 6:1-8. This action causes the Synod to appear vindictive, dishonors our Lord, and hinders the ministry being carried out by the Issues, Etc. team.

Therefore, we, the undersigned, respectfully request that the Lutheran Church - Missouri Synod immediately drop its opposition to the trademark application for the Issues, Etc. name, cease all consideration of bringing a personal lawsuit against Pastor Wilken and Mr. Schwarz, and offer to them the Synod's blessing on their endeavors.

Friday, January 02, 2009

Survey 2009

1. Last regret: Sin.
2. Last person you messaged over Facebook: Ellen Hough.
3. Last person you messaged over MSN: Ellen Hubenthal
4. Last sleepover was with: My cousins.
5. Last movie seen in theater: Twilight.
6. Last movie watched at home: The Shawshank Redemption.
7. Last time you went to the beach: September 2007.
8. Last time you cried: A couple tears last week when I was feeling nostalgic and missing Heidi.
9. Last time you went to McDonalds: Yesterday on our way home from visiting extended family.
10. Last time you drank alcohol: Two sips of wine Monday night.
11. Last time you used a lighter: The world will be relieved to know I have not handled a lighter since the middle of last summer.
12. Last wall post: Either one to Karen last night or one from Jacob the 28th. (I've been mostly without internet for a week.)
13. Last test wrote in school: My Music Theory final on the 15th.
14. Last person you saw: My dad.
15. Last physical fight: A sword duel with Ethan just before Christmas break.
16. Last person you rode a roller coaster with: I don't remember. It has been a few years since I rode a roller coaster. Sad.
17. Last thing you ordered at a restaurant: A mushroom and swiss burger (medium-rare), curly fries, two tall sweet teas, and a lemon slice.
18. Last time you went swimming: Last summer.
19. Last people who were in your house (aside from siblings/parents): I have no idea. We have had no one over the few days I've been home recently.



1. Do you shave your legs? No.
2. Do you drink? Nothing alcoholic beyond an occasional sip of wine.
3. Do you smoke cigarettes? No.
4. Do you swear? Besides solemnly swearing I am up to no good to try and make maps appear on blank paper, no.
5. Do you do your homework? Yes, but I need to work on doing it in a more timely manner.
6. Do you have a good relationship with your parents? Usually, yes.
7. Do you drink coffee? About as rarely as those ocassional sips of wine and beer.
8. Do you talk too much? Sometimes I talk too much, but sometimes also it would be good if I would talk more.



DO YOU KNOW...

1. ...anyone who has died from cancer? Yes.
2. ...that black and white are shades not colours? Yes, though I am tempted to argue with that on some weak technicalities.
3. ...anyone who's sniffed cocaine before? Not that I am aware.
4. ...anyone who is gay/bi/lesbian? Yes.
5. ...the square root of 16? I am acquainted with him, yes.
6. ...anyone who drives a minivan? Lots of people.
7. ...anyone who gets straight As? Yes.



1. If you could live the rest of your life with three people, who would they be? A wife and two kids.
2. What is your hotmail address? pntbrshkid@hotmail.com, but I almost never use it.
3. If you could change two things about your appearance, what would they be? My back and my eyes.
5. Who can you tell ANYTHING to? Heidi Mae.



RANDOM:

1. Have you kissed somebody over 18 years of age? Yes.
2. What are you planning on doing this summer? Working a good summer job and hopefully going to a Higher Things conference.
3. Is your life complete? No.
4. Last time you drank? A glass of water last night.
5. Favourite smells? Baking, the scents along a certain stretch of the Appalachian Trail, fresh baked cookies, old books, and Heidi.
6. What type of cell phone do you have? LG Muziq
7. Pick one; Green or Gold? Gold.
8. Would you do anything for a million dollars? No.
9. True or False; I am very excited about Saturday? False.
10. What school do you go to? Bethany Lutheran College.
11. Do you like anyone? Having a wonderful girlfriend of 27 months, I definitely "like" someone.
12. Ever fallen for your ex's best friend? No, I have never had an ex.
13. What was the funniest night of your life? Haha. Either every single night this past semester rooming with Ethan or one of the numerous nocturnal adventures Chris and I have had.
14. Is there anyone special on your mind at this very minute? Yes! My Heidi Mae!
15. What are you planning on doing tomorrow? Sleeping in.
16. Is music your thing? Definitely.
17. Favorite song? I don't pick favourites among such close friends.
18. If you were a Sharpie, what color would you be? Brown.
19. Do you like taking pictures? Yes, but I haven't done much photographing recently.
20. Do you like heights? Yes!
21. Why did you take this survey? Emily tagged me.
22. What's your cell phone ring tone? Vibrate. :P
23. Are you grounded? Actually, funny story.. You see, after my court-martial, they not only took away my halo but also my wings. This is not standard practice of the Heavenly Host, but it was decided that leaving me with the ability to fly would be too likely to upset the balance and The Plan.
24. Do you want to go to college? Yeah! Oh, right, I already do. :P
25. Do you cheat on tests? No.
26. Do you know how to keep a convo going? When I really try, I can keep a conversation going with anyone who doesn't call it a "convo".
27. Can you listen to songs over and over again? Yes, and I do when others aren't around to be annoyed by it.
28. Do you have a celebrity dream wife/husband? No.
29. Do you like the rain? Yes, especially in the form of pounding summer thunderstorms.
30. Have you ever been to a concert? Not many, but yes.
31. Have you ever cried yourself to sleep? Yes.



MORE...

-- Could you forgive your best friend for sleeping with your boyfriend/girlfriend? I *could*, but it would be very unlikely.
-- How old will you be on your 21st birthday? I will be approximately three-quarters of the way through my 22nd year of life.
-- Have you ever seen a bat? Yes.
-- Is there anything/anyone you hate? Nothing particular comes to mind.
-- Do you like the color orange? Yes! I like orange to the extent that my bedroom at home is heavily sponge painted orange.
-- Have you ever seen a real redneck? I have *been* a real redneck.
-- Do tattoos and piercings excite you? No.
-- What is the meaning of life?
-- What size shoes do you wear? Men's 12.
-- What is your favorite season? I have no favourite among the seasons.
-- Do you care if people talk smack about you? Yes, but it doesn't bother me lots.
-- At what age do you want to get married? 23.
-- How much are you on the phone daily? My phone time can be anywhere from five minutes to a few hours, mostly depending on my ability to see and talk to Heidi in person.
-- Are you in a good mood? Not particularly just now.. I'm grumpy because I'm sick and haven't been able to sleep.
-- Do you think people will always exist? About until the Earth ends, yes.
-- Do you believe in luck? No.
-- Everything happens for a reason, right? Yes.
-- Would you rather skydive or bungee jump? I would definitely rather skydive.
-- Do you like snakes? Oh yes.
-- Where is one place that you'd like to visit? Rome.
-- Anything you're looking forward to? Yes. Most immediately: flying back to Minnesota and being with my Heidi Mae again on the 6th.
-- Does the number 23 has any significance to you? Umm.. It is the age that I gave just a minute ago as a good one to marry at, but otherwise, no.
-- Be honest, do you like people in general? I do like people. (Shouldn't it presumed that we're being honest on all of these questions?)
-- Big or small dogs? Big dogs, usually.
-- Do you like Big Macs? They're food.
-- Did someone bother you today? Yes.
-- What do you think about death? I don't think about it much. When I do, though, my thoughts tend to be good Christian and orthodox Lutheran opinions of death and the resurrection.
-- Does someone love you? Yes! :D
-- Do you know anyone named Dave? Haha. Yes, I know a bunch of Daves.
-- Have you kissed anyone whose name starts with R? No.
-- Has anyone ever mistaken you for a family member? Yes, once.
-- If you were given a drug test right now would you pass or fail? I would pass.
-- Have you cried today? No.
-- Who last made you laugh? My Heidi Mae.
-- What do your best friends call you? "Aaron", "Nemoyer", "silly", and ocassionally "bastard".
-- Thunderstorms or snow? Ooh, I feel terribly torn on this one. It depends. What kind of thunderstorm are we talking about? If it is a good, long, and heavy one and in relatively warm weather, I pick the thunderstorm.
-- Laptop or Desktop? Laptop.
-- What is your pet's name? Snickers.
-- What were you doing 4 hours ago? Sleeping.
-- Where did you go to today? Nowhere yet, but I have both dentist and doctor appointments later today.
-- What friend do you get along with the best? My Heidi Mae.
-- Have you ever fought over the opposite sex? Haha. Only once, but yes, I have.
-- Are you good at math? Yes.
-- Do you listen to your parents? Usually.
-- At what age did you learn to ride a bike without training wheels? I think it was when I was six.
-- Have you ever dyed your hair? No.
-- Do you kiss with your eyes open or shut? Both.
-- Do you act more silly or serious? Silly.
-- Are you good at keeping secrets? Yes.
-- Do you prefer drinking sodas or juices more? Juices, actually.
-- What was the first thing you thought about when you woke up? "Oh, I left the Audiobook playing when I fell asleep... It's going to take me awhile to find my place again.."
-- What did you do last night? Talked to my Heidi Mae.
-- What is the most important part of your life? Faith, family, and friends -in that order.
-- What would you rather be doing right now? Sleeping.
-- What did you last cry over? Accidentally emotionally hurting someone close.
-- What always makes you feel better when your sad? Talking to friends (especially Heidi), music, or readingmy Bible.
-- What is the most important thing you look for in a significant other? Mm.. I looked for a number of things: a Christian and Lutheran, someone who was kind, and caring for friends and family.
-- What are you worried about? School.
-- Have you ever had your heart broken? A little bit, but not terribly.
-- Who was the last person you called? I think it was my cousin Chris, but he didn't pick up so that might not count. :P
-- Who is the last person you freaked out on? I don't really "freak out"..
-- When did you last see your mom? About eight hours ago, just before everyone headed to bed.



RELATIONSHIPS

1. Would you date someone who smokes? I wouldn't not date someone solely because they smoked, but probably not.
2. Would you date someone who was addicted to drugs? No.
3. Would you date someone who lived in another province? (Haha! This question must have been made in Canada, just like my Heidi!) Yes, I would, have, and am.
4. Whats your biggest turn off? Someone who speaks poorly of friends behind their back.
5. Whats your biggest turn on physically? Eyes and smile.
6. Most hurtful relationship? I haven't been in any romantic relationship I could describe as hurtful.
7. Have you ever regretted breaking up with someone? I haven't ever broken up with someone, so no.
8. Have you ever dated someone who you knew didn't like you for who you were? No, and I never would.
9. What's your relationship status? I am dating a wonderful girl and have been since the first day of September 2006.
10. What's the sweetest thing someone you dated did for you? I could never pick between all the wonderful things Heidi Mae has done for me.
11. Last time you got flowers? I give the flowers; I don't get them.
12. Are you ready to get into a relationship right now? No, because I already am in one.
13. Do you like cuddling? Hehe. Yes.
14. Do you hold grudges? Not much.
15. Do you regret dating anyone? No.
16. Hugger or kisser? I love both, but if I could only have one, hugs.
17. Missing someone? Yes.
18. Most important lesson you've learned from your ex? I don't have any proper exes, so.. nope.
19. Are you happier single or in a relationship? In a relationship.
20. Whats the most important thing in a relationship? Trust or communication, though I think they are tied together.
21. Have you ever loved someone who didn't love you back? Yes.
22. Would you date someone who was broke all the time? Yes.
23. How important are looks? Looks are..nice, but they're not really important.
24. How do you know when you are in love? "In love" is when I am infatuated with someone and want to know them romantically and care for them because of that, but I don't think of "in love" as real sincere love.
25. Do you consider yourself shy? Definitely a little shy, yes.
26. Would you rather date someone who was super hot or someone who was super nice? Super nice, hands down.
27. Have you ever been turned down or turned someone down? Yes.
28. Have you ever been ashamed of anyone you were dating? No.
29. Do you currently want to date anyone? Yes, the girl I am dating.
30. Thing that made you the happiest today? Talking to my Heidi Mae.
31. Would you ever date anyone your parents disapproved of? No, never.
32. Do you stay friends with the people you date? Having no exgirlfriends, I don't know. I know it would be much harder to be just friends with a girl after dating her, which makes me even less sure whether I would or not. I would hope to.
33. Would you fight over someone you wanted to be with? If they were already with someone else, no.
34. Do you kiss on the first date? No, and I never would.
35. Would you date someone a *LOT* older or younger than you? No.
36. Does the person you currently like know you like them? Haha. Yes, she does.
37. Do you think the word 'love' is overused? I think it is more misused than overused.
38. Ever been called a whore? A couple times, yes.
39. If someone cheated on you, would you take them back if you really loved them? I might, but probably not.



-- Do you tend to rip the paper off water bottles? Sometimes.
-- Who was the last person you talked to on the phone? Danielle.
-- What was the last advice you gave someone? I give out lots of insignifcant advice, so I don't remember.
-- Is it easier to forgive or to forget? Independently of each other, it is decidedly easier to forgive. Forgetting is nearly impossible without forgiving first.
-- Do you give out second chances easily? Yes.
-- Have you ever had a dream about people you love dying? Yes. It is one of the few things that really scares me.
-- Who was the last person you cried in front of? Heidi.
-- Have you ever had a panic attack? No.
-- Is it awkward when you run into your enemies? I have no particularly strong enemies, so no.
-- What is your current mood? Apathetic and drowsy.
-- Have a crazy side? Anyone who knows me knows better than to inquire after that. ;-) Yes.
-- Ever had a near death experience? Mm, no.
-- Angry at anyone? No.
-- Do you wanna see somebody right now? Yes!
-- Where is your ex? I have none.
-- Have you ever kissed in the rain? Um, I don't think so, but I'm not 100% sure.



FIRST THING THOUGHT

1. Your mom and you = friendly
2. I am listening to = myself breathing
3. maybe i should = try to sleep more
4. I love = Heidi Mae.
5. Chocolate is = Tasty and a good gift for a girlfriend.
6. I don't understand = myself
7. I've lost respect for = politicians
8. I last ate = enchiladas
9. The meaning of my display name is = Um.. it is my given name?
10. God = the all-powerful creator, King, Lord, and Savior of the universe.
11. Someday = over the rainbow
12. I will always remember = THE ALAMO!
13. Love seems to be = Horribly convulated and misunderstood in contemporary society.
14. I never want to lose = Heidi.
15. Tomorrow I'll be with = family.
16. My myspace is = stupid.
17. I always get annoyed when = ..er.. I never get annoyed?..
18. Parties = would rock my world if I ever went to any. :P
19. What happened to #19? = your face
20. Simple kisses = Contentment.
21. Today I = begin the rest of my life.
22. I wish = I were with my Heidi Mae.
23. Randy = Travis



YOU ARE....

01. Is your hair wet? I feel vaguely stalked. Yes. I just took a shower.
02. Is your cellphone by you? Near enough, yes.
03. Do you miss someone? Yes.
04. Are you wearing chapstick? No.
05. Are you wearing pajamas? No.
06. Are you tired? Yes.
08. Are you mad? No.
09. Are you upset? No.



HAVE YOU...

01. ...recently done anything you regret? Yes.
02. ...ever stuck gum under a desk? No.
03. ...ever kicked someone a few times? Probably.
04. ...ever tripped over your own feet? A few times



TODAY HAVE YOU...

01. ...cursed? No.
02. ...gotten mad at someone? No.
03. ...laughed really hard? Not yet, but I probably will.



RANDOM...

-- Is there anybody mad at you right now? Not that I know, no.
-- Do you have any siblings? I have two younger brothers, Nathan and Joel.
-- Do you want children? Yes, very much.
-- Do you smile often? I try to.
-- Do you untie your shoes every time you take them off? About half the time.
-- Do you like your handwriting? Sometimes.
-- Are your toenails painted? No, and they never have been.
-- Are you a friendly person? I try to be.
-- Whose bed other than yours have you slept in? Chris', Ellen's, Ethan's, Heidi's, Kyle's, the Maunula guest bed, Zeke's... lots of people's.
-- What colour of shirt are you wearing? I am a SEXY SHIRTLESS GOD OF WAR! *cough* [Order of the Stick webcomic reference for all you people who look so scared.]
-- What were you doing at 2pm yesturday? Napping.
-- What can you hardly wait for? School to start up again.

Thursday, January 01, 2009

Reading Challenge (2009)




So, the story is that arch-nemesis Stormfield as well as other minor nemeses have signed up for this reading challenge. A certain J. Kaye Oldner seems to host an annual challenge for individuals to make sure they read at least 100 books during the year. Well, I can't rightly allow my nemeses to participate in, not to mention potentially complete, more challenges than I!

As Stormfield noted, pulling a full time college load might make trying to keep up with this reading and recording crazy, but crazy is what room #416 is all about, so try it I will. My list of books read will appear below.


Books Read 2009:

1. The Battle of the Labyrinth: Percy Jackson and the Olympians Series, Book 4 by Rick Riordan 2. Nation by Terry Pratchett
3. Dubliners by James Joyce
4. The Sisterhood of the Travelling Pants by Ann Brashares
5. Jam Jar Sonnets by Pete Bloedel
6. The Shadow of the Torturer by Gene Wolfe
7. The Claw of the Conciliator by Gene Wolfe
8. Rosencrantz & Guildenstern Are Dead by Tom Stoppard
9. "Are We There Yet?" by Harry Turtledove
10. The Sword of the Lictor by Gene Wolfe
11. The Man Without a Country by Edward Everett Hale
12. The Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde
13. Dracula by Bram Stoker
14.
The Last Olympian: Percy Jackson and the Olympians Series, Book 5 by Rick Riordan
15. The Demigod Files: Percy Jackson and the Olympians Series, Book 6 (A collection of short stories and notes) by Rick Riordan
16. A Streetcar Named Desire by Tennessee Williams
17. The Sea-Wolf and Other Stories by Jack London
18. The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein
19. The Missing Piece by Shel Silverstein
20. The Last Days of Krypton by Kevin J. Anderson
21. Casino Royale: James Bond Series, Book 1 by Ian Fleming
22. Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry by Mildred D. Taylor
23. Bridge to Terabithia by Katherine Paterson
24. Something Wicked This Way Comes by Ray Bradbury
25. Beat the Story-Drum, Pum-Pum by Ashley Bryan
26. The Citadel of the Autarch by Gene Wolfe
27. Urth of the New Sun by Gene Wolfe
28. "The Cat Who Walked a Thousand Miles" by Kij Johnson
29. Jim Smiley and his Jumping Frog by Mark Twain
30. The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald
31. The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn by Mark Twain
32. The Return of the Native by Thomas Hardy
33. The Halfling and other stories by Leigh Brackett
34. Twilight by Stephanie Meyer
35. A Drowned Maiden's Hair: A Melodrama by Laura Amy Schlitz
36. Catch-22 by Joseph Heller
37. The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint Exupéry
38. The Door Within by Wayne Thomas Batson
39. Think Thinner, Snoopy: Selected Cartoons from Don't Hassle Me with Your Sighs, Chuck, vol. 2 by Charles M. Schulz
40. American Gods by Neil Gaiman