Hello Art Institute

I can't believe it... the time has come... the day I've been waiting on all year long, is less then 48 hrs away. I remember as a kid growing up thinking the week before school had to be the worst week of the summer. It was kinda like a bitter feeling because I always had so much fun during the summers and the thought of having to go another year before I got that same amount of time off made me feel dreadful. Nowadays when I look back on my school years, I think they were the best times of my life. What I mean is school was a time when you were always around your friends. When I was in class I remember thinking...why in the world are we wasting time going over this crap. There is nothing in life where this will help me out!!! Well that may be some what true but I still wish I would've paid more attention because these days I love to learn about all kinds of things... Whether it be a poem by Shakespeare or a rattling muffler on a go cart... I want to know. I don't know when or where I got struck by the wanna-know lightning bolt but it has most definitely struck... Oh and by the way, wanna-know is the brother to a wanna-be.... I know... that was dumb but I had to throw it in there. So anyways, I said all that to say this... as of Tuesday Oct 2nd, I will be officially... in class... from 6pm to 10pm.

Do you remember the times when your parents would take you to your favorite toy store? The excitement that you had once you entered the store was sky-high. Well that is kinda what I've been feeling lately. I am so excited I can't hardly stand it. I am just ready to get in there and drain all the knowledge outta them suckas. I have a feeling I will be in debt to that place for years to come because they offer bout everything I want to learn. They are even starting up a photography course! The instructors that teach there work in the industry they teach and they are very professional. My web design instructor had a huge part on the 90210 TV series and even had some work with the movie American Pie. I just cannot wait to tell my instructors the appetite I have for the desires in my heart.

Since I've been feeling like a kid in a toy store these last few days, I figured I would act like a kid once again in a grown up kind of way... just for old times sake:

On your mark......... get set.............. GO............

Ready or not...... here I come.....

I would like to thank my wife Shelly because without her all of this would not have been possible. She is a true believer in me and she is willing to sacrifice so I can pursue my dreams. I already owe her more than I could ever repay so for now a Thank you and I love you is all I can say. Shelly is a big supporter of me in so many ways... you will never know...but there is one I will share with you though. You see, I believe in myself.... and I believe that I am going to succeed in life, no matter what I do or where I go. How do I know??? Because she is living proof as a wife to me that dreams do come true.

Money making idea

I wish I could say I thought of this idea but I didn't. I have stumbled on a way to make some money. As I was on my way to a class the other day I was greeted with some really heavy traffic. My destination that was 25 minutes away took me an hour. As I finally got to 77 going into Charlotte at 7:45 on a Thursday morning, I noticed all the lanes... even the lanes on the exit ramp are at a stand still. The idea is to mount a Starbucks coffee shop on the back of a bicycle and ride through all the cars.... I bet you would make a killing!!!!!

Alone on 742

About 5 years ago, me and a friend were headed out to Amos's in uptown Charlotte to see a 80s rock band. At this time in my life I was still working at Vulcan but living in Lilesville. Before I go any further, I want you to understand that everything you are about to read is true. I am not making ANY of this up. Now that we have that straight... lets continue.
That night after the show, I decided to head on home instead of sleeping over at my friends house. I knew it would be a late night anyway so my thoughts were at least I'll be home and I can sleep in.... BIG MISTAKE!!!!! Well It's about 1 am and I'm on my way with an hour and 15 min drive on my shoulders. This was also the time when I was driving that old geo storm to save on gas mileage. Since I was working in Concord, I knew the shortest drive would be down 742... which is a back country road that will take you through ... no-where-ville. Ever heard of that place??? Now it's gonna start getting good....
This particular year had to be the worst year ever for big deep pot holes... cause they were everywhere. You know, the kind that feel like they're about to rip the transmission out from under your vehicle....So I'm driving down 742... where there are no street lights...no nothing except trees... radio is blasting.... windows down... flying like speedy gonzales..and then all of a sudden...BAAM....I hit one of those pot holes. Crazy part about it was I knew a big pot hole was coming up but I was so drowsy I didn't react fast enough. Well, that woke me a little and as I turned down my radio, I heard a little hissing noise. Yup, you guessed it... a flat tire. Well you can't drive on a flat and I was a good 45 mins away. If there was ever a surreal moment in my life, that would be the one. So as I pull over on the shoulder... I just took a minute to get my thoughts together. Well it's just a flat.... I guess it could be worse...BIG MISTAKE!!! I'm going to say this again.... If there was ever a surreal moment in my life, it would be this night. To make matters worse I didn't have a freaking flashlight.... my hatch back light was out and my phone was beeping at me from a dead battery. It was basically useless anyways because I was so far out of range for a signal it was pathetic. Well, as I was about to make the world record for changing a flat tire in the dark with no light I discovered my sweet little geo storm never had the spare tire took off and the dad blame thing was so tight, I couldn't budge it. I know you are thinking... if that was me... I would have gotten that bolt to turn. Trust me, I gave that stupid bolt everything I had and then some. I didn't want to be stranded out there in BFE no more than superman wanted to destroy metropolis...but I was. The time was almost 3 am and there I set in a geo storm on the side of the road in complete darkness with a freakin flat tire that I couldn't get off. I tried to call out but my phone was so whacked out, that an automated operator kept coming on. I was so frustrated but I had to keep my cool....There was a house up the road but it's 3 am and I'm in the country...nuff said... I didn't want a shotgun in my face. I didn't want to freak anybody out either. I mean that can be a little scary for someone living by themselves especially elderly folk. So I thought, screw it...I'll try to get a little nap cause in 2 or 3 hours, I should get some day light and I can see what I'm doing and then I can be home before anybody wakes up....BIG MISTAKE!!!! By the way, the whole time I was out there, not one car came by. As 5:30 am approached I tried once again... nothing. At this point my thoughts were.. I don't give a %@#&, I'm gonna drive this car back into town if I have to drive on the rim. As I was driving up the road, I put my car charger on my phone once again to see if I could get anything... when all of a sudden I got a signal. When I called home, poor mom was worried to death about what was going on and she had every right to be. She had been through something like that before but it didn't have a happy ending. So I get mom on the phone and I try to tell her where I'm at so she can get some help on the way. When they arrived, Harold, which is an old friend that lived close to mom was kinda joking around about the spare tire...boy you gotta put some muscle in that thing .. I said go ahead my muscles are give out. I want you to know he barely got the screw off with a pair of pliers. The stupid bolt had rusted on the screw... that was what caused it to be so tight. Well my tire is changed and I'm on the way home....BIG MISTAKE!!!! I guess since that stupid spare tire was never put to use, it pretty much didn't have any air in the dadgum thing... but I at least made it to Wadesboro to put some air in. On the way home mom gave me a call on my phone which now had a perfect signal to stop and get some breakfast. What a night... I spent the entire night all alone on the side of a road where there were no lights- no nothing but crickets and frogs singing lullaby's out in the creek beds. Needless to say I made a few changes after that weekend... one of them was a new phone and the other was a complete package of tools, batteries and flaslights. Now that it's all over with, I think to myself... it could have been worse, it could have been freezing weather or snowing!!! Hey I was just glad the seat in my car reclined back... if that would have been broke then I would've been REALLY MAD!!!

9/11

Another anniversary has come and gone for 9/11. A day that has changed America forever. I think I am speaking for everyone when I say this will be a day that I will never forget. I was a little mad that this happened but I'm not getting into all of that. I was even more sad for the people that lost their lives that day. New York is a place that I have always wanted to visit for some reason. I have heard from both sides of the fence. Either it sucks or it is beautiful. With me being fascinated with big tall buildings I would say NY is the place to go. I see movies from time to time that were filmed in NY and they show what the buildings look like at night. I have always wanted to be there in another building looking over the skyline of the city. Although I will never get to see the twin towers in person, I will always remember what they looked like on TV.

To all the families that lost loved ones that day, this is for you. There is not many days that go by that I don't think about what people have had to go through. My heart goes out out to all of you and may the Lord be with you always.

Sue Valley

If you are wondering what in the world I'm up to shooting an old convenience store then sit back and read on. When I was growing up this store was owned and operated by a local couple that went by the names Hazel and Jay Chewning. It was a small store but they had bubble gum and ice cream and that was all that mattered. I can remember so many times when I had friends that spent the night and we would ride our bikes down there to pick up a soda pop and some gum or of course ice cream. I wish I had a nickel for every drink I got from that store. This was when mountain dew, coke and all the others came in a long bottle. You had the bottle opener on both sides of the drink container and you put your bottle in there, pressed down and off came the lid. Ah... those were the days...I also remember going in and there sit a few other locals that just hung out almost all day long. Every time I go down to Lilesville to visit Mom, I go by this store and the memories just start to flood in my mind. The store was called Sue Valley. On any given day, you could walk into Sue Valley and Hazel would be behind the cash register and Jay would be in the back watching TV. Every once in a blue moon Jay would come out and take the order but not that often. I will always miss riding my bicycle down the road to get a pop and some gum. This same store was owned by my Dad at one time but that was before my time. It's a shame good things come to an end. Other people have tried to run a business from this store but nothing seems to come out of it. No matter who or what this store turns out to be- I will always remember this place as my soda pop and bubble gum factory and although times may change, my memories will stay the same.

James Tillman

I will never forget the year 1995. I was sleeping in from a 3rd shift job one afternoon and was awoken by a phone call for a job offer at W.R. Bonsal. Little did I know, there was more to that phone call than a job. My position was loading rail cars and then after lunch loading customer trucks in a control tower. This where James Tillman (A.K.A Blue) comes into the scene.

The first time I met Blue, he acted as if I had known him all of his life. He was super cool about everything. Always smiling and always ready to listen to what you had to say. That loadout tower was the perfect place to get to know somebody. All we had to do was mash buttons... the conveyor belts did all the work. Even when it got real busy, we were kicked back having a blast. We hardly ever had to work hard.... Anyways, Blue just had an outgoing personality that you could get use to very quickly. He was always cheerful and full of good news. Since Blue had that kind of personality, our control tower became a gathering place at anytime of the day. At this point in my life I would say working with Blue was one of the best things that could have happened to me. Not only did he become one of my best friends but I was going through stupid things in life that I just couldn't see the light of day on and he always seemed like he wanted to try to help me solve what was going on. I'm not even gonna tap into the things that were going on with me at that time... you will just have to take my word.... it was stupid... trust me. I don't know how he done it but he could manage everything that was going on in his life and still come to work and act like he is dying to hear whats was going on in my life. To go along with his warming personality he was hilarious to be around. One of the funnest things I can remember was I had been leaving Halloween suckers in the control room and I noticed that a mice were getting in and gnawing on my suckers. This particular day, there were a couple of other employee's in there and we all were yapping away. At the same time, we had some material running and I was kinda glancing over as we were cutting up . You see the material we ran went into a bin and then the drivers loaded themselves... all we had to do was keep the bin full. So were loading a bin and I looked over and the bin was over flowing... I quickly jumped over to hit the stop button and I saw Blue do a 180 in the air. When he leaped in the air he threw his arm around thinking mice were crawling on him. I had just finished telling him we couldn't leave any more candy in there cause of mice and he said the mice were on his mind when he jumped up. I was laughing so hard I couldn't hardly stand up. You just needed to be there for that one....

As time went by I started leaning towards working with heavy equipment and eventually got a job at a different company. I was sad that I was leaving one of my best friends and such a easy job but I was reaching for my dreams and an opportunity rolled into my lap. As even more time went by, I continued to conquer my goals and then what seemed to be the snapping of my fingers- my chances of catching up with my friend were slim to none. You see for me- there were many things Blue told me that stayed in my mind... things like " the sky is the limit" and " never give up on you dreams... keep reaching out until you have it" and many other positive comments he made to me about not giving up on the goals I set in life... or my dreams.

Almost 10 years later I was starting to think I would never get a chance to meet up with ole Blue when all of a sudden I got a message. I was finishing up my lunch when a co worker told me Blue was working with Vulcan now and he said hello. I knew then that it would only be a matter of time and with the same snap of my fingers... we were reminiscing about the old days. It's funny how things turn out. In one moment I thought I would never hear from him again... another moment we are catching up and come to find out he was living only 15 mins away. Small world huh!!! Now that we are back in touch- I have been asked to be in his renewing of vows wedding. You know something, when Blue told me not to ever give up on my goals in life, I believe he meant big or small... well.... this is one I can mark off my list.

Now that I think about it, I don't remember if I ever thanked my friend for all of his advice. The things he was teaching me were more than how to do our job but how to reach for the sky in everything I do in life. I would like to dedicate this story to none other than my friend Blue and his family. Thanks for all you have taught me. I will never forget your words of encouragement.

Weekend wedding

I was sitting at my computer one night ( imagine that) when all of a sudden I got a phone call from my good ole friend Blue. He begin telling me that he wanted me to be in his wedding. At first I was a little disoriented but as I asked him what was going on he said he was renewing his vows. My mind has been known to play tricks on me you know. After I got my mind straightened out, I of course said I would be honored to be in his renewing of vows. The date was set for the 25th and all I had to do was get fitted for my tux.

As the 24th rolled around we headed out to Morven to rehearse. JJ rode with me while Blue , Parnell and John rode there motorcycles down. When we pulled up to the church I didn't think much about it but when I opened the doors and saw everyone that was going to be in the wedding, I almost dropped my jaws. This was gonna be a big wedding.

Well here we are.... the stage is set and everything is prepared and sitting on go. With everyone armed with there tux and there flowers.... all we had to do was strut down the isle, bow to our bridesmaid and escort them down to where they were standing. As big as this renewing of vows was... I believe everyone had a good time. I got to see a lot of people I use to work with and even went to school with. I wanted to get a lot of pictures but since I was in the wedding it was a little hard to do that but I managed to get a few. Congratulations to the Tillman family on 25 years.

A few photos from the wedding

Parnell on his steed...

JJ was all about fashion... can't you tell!!!

More delays

Well what can I say.... I said earlier that an explosion of stories are about to happen and what do ya get... I know you are going to think I'm crazy but since I quit my job to prepare for school... I thought I would write down all the things I've been meaning to do... whether it's small or something that might take a while. Well I don't know how in the world I'm going to get everything done. I guess I have put off so much that I didn't realize how much I have been wanting to do. Just give the ole Bunny a little patience. I am working on everything as fast as I can. I have lots to share with you.... There I go again!!!!!

Mr.Breaking vs Mr.Mazda

Well I'll be dadgum...... Good things come to those who vacuum out there truck!!!! I thought my Breaking Benjamin CD had grew some legs, got up and walked off. Apparently Mr. Breaking got stuck under my drivers side seat as he was getting ready to make a run for it. I thought my CD was gone forever. I have searched high and low for that bad boy.... I was even at the FYE in the Concord mills mall the other week prepared to buy it- but it was not in stock. Way to go Mr. Mazda..... you were taking one for the team. I guess this was a present for me spending all that time washing the grit and grim off since I don't have to go back to the quarry anymore!!!!!

Goodbye Mining

As a kid growing up in a small town, there were many sites and sounds I vividly remember. The sounds of back up alarms, horns and the sight of heavy equipment in operation and conveyor belts sticking up in the air were all a big part my childhood. In fact, the town was so small that Dad knew a big portion of the workers at both the mining operations that were located about a mile down the road- so from time to time, he would take me out to watch the the drag lines or over to the plants to see how everything was run. I was even able to climb aboard some of the equipment while in operation-which is something that would not be allowed by any means these days. It was from that moment on that I knew what I wanted to do in life.

After graduation (1993) I started off working 3rd shift in a cloth mill but in 1995, my hopes of some day being employed with a mining operation became a reality at W.R. Bonsal Co. Although heavy equipment was what I wanted to do, I was hired to load rail cars and customer trucks by control tower- but that didn't stop me. I had such a zeal to learn equipment operation that I would often stay over and practice on my own time without getting paid. I was determined to learn no matter what I had to do.

Several months later I was told of a company that had equipment twice as big as what Bonsal had and decided to check what I thought was a fairy tale. With a simple drive by the quarry I found out the so called fairy tale was true. So with that being said I set my sights on this huge operation that I discovered to be Vulcan Materials Co.

In July 1998, I got the phone call I was waiting on and a week later I was employed with Vulcan Materials operating the biggest equipment I had ever seen. Never in my wildest dreams would I ever think I would be in the position I was in that very moment. I worked at the Rockingham quarry from 1998 to August 2000 and then transferred to the Cabarrus quarry where I would remain until August 31 2007.

As time was passing by I started to notice I was getting more and more interested in the creativity of computers and movie editing and thought this was something I could pursue on the side until I was embraced by the ending product of something I created and the effect it had on my family and friends. I spent a lot of time in thought wandering if I was chasing a fantasy or was I really interested enough to begin another walk in a different direction. As doors began to open for me, I uncovered a passion that I did not know existed. After a little research I learned the best way for me to make this new pursuit a reality was to put my childhood dream at rest so I could fully devote my time and focus to studying and learning this new path I'm headed in life.

In retrospect to my feelings of wanting to work for a company like Vulcan, I am applying that same zeal that I once had for learning equipment towards my new ambitions. You see to me- it is not the years of experience you have- although that goes a long way, nor is it your skill talent- although that too goes a long way, but it is how you apply your heart to what you are doing. That to me is what will take you the distance.

In closing, I would like to say goodbye first and foremost to the employee's of Rockingham and Cabarrus quarry because you were basically my second family and a big thanks to Jim Cooper and David Holsinger and other management that I did not mention but are just as important. It was all of you that hired me for the positions I always wanted to do as a child growing up.

Thanks for the memories.

W.R Bonsal Co- Joey Murdock

Vulcan Materials Co, Rockingham- Jim Cooper

Vulcan Materials Co, Cabarrus- David Holsinger

Free Man

I'M A FREE MAN.................no more getting up at 4:30 am to get ready for work......From here on out.... it's party all night and sleep all day........everyone has fun with when you hang with the Bunns.......... just kidding.... I still get sleepy and start thinking about bed time around 10 pm. Maybe I just need time to get use to not working. I feel a little weird though, I have been working since I've graduated, and to not have a paycheck coming is a little uncomfortable but this is one of those times when you just know beyond the shadow of a doubt-I am headed in the right direction. I was brought up not to be lazy and to be a man of my words... so to sit around and actually take time off feels funny as odd as you may think that sounds. My parents taught me to be a good hard worker and to be honest in everything I do- and that is something I plan to carry with me through school and everywhere else I go. So with that being said... it is now time to turn my focus into studying and not about work. I desire you thoughts and prayer because this is going to be a new challenge for me. Even though this going to be new territory for me.... I am soooo excited to get started. I know the Lord will take care of me through all of this. I have often heard that if he brings you to it- he will bring you through it... and I believe it with all my heart. School starts in October so I have about a month off to prepare. There is one thing for sure... I am ready for this. I am in attack mode and I will not be satisfied until I learn what it is I am going for. I will not give up and I will fight till the end- and I will give it everything I have... this I promise you.

My last day with Vulcan

The day has finally come.... the finish line is right in front of me and I am getting ready to cross the checkered flag with my hands in the air. What a feeling.... if you only knew the things that were going on inside of me today... a ton of emotions. Hold your thoughts now.... I didn't shed any tears but you have to understand.... I have been with Vulcan Materials for almost 10 years and within those 10 years is 20 years worth of thoughts and memories.



When I was at work today, it was almost like I was becoming famous. Almost all of the employees are shaking my hand and telling me it was nice working with me and all that other good stuff. In a way- you could say it felt surreal.... because I definitely felt this was hard to believe.... my last and final day-hour and minute of the day was winding down to check out time. All through out the day, I was thinking back on all the times I could remember- from the day I was hired- till that very moment. I have spent a very big part of my life during the last 10 years at work. I think the reason I felt a little mushy today was all because of me wanting to do this kind of stuff when I was a kid. If I could have looked into the future when I was growing up and seen myself doing all that I have done with Vulcan, I probably would have fainted. This was my goal.... my desire.... my dream. I feel like I have went out with a bang and it couldn't have closed out any better. I even got a hand shake from the boss telling me I have a place there if things don't work out. To me that was very flattering.... to know that I did good enough to be rehired if I choose to go that route. As of 3:27 pm Friday Aug 31... I was no longer an employee of Vulcan Materials Co. and as my childhood ambitions of being a heavy equipment operator are at rest.... they will never be forgotten. Thank you Vulcan Materials Co. You have provided a way of life for me in the past 10 years and I won't forget the way you had my back. I was never threatened with a job loss or even being laid off.... and for that I am very grateful to know I was employed with such a company. Thanks for everything and most of all- thanks for making my childhood dreams come true. 10-4... over and out.

A few pics of the quarry and heavy equipment

I parked my truck beside the pit loader so you can get an idea of the size. Yes the bucket could scoop my truck up in one pass and yes if this loader was to run over you- the operator would not feel a thing.

The last 2 days of Vulcan

Holy smokes... I only have one more day left after this day is over. Once I wake up tomorrow it will be nothing but clock work. Every hour and every minute that passes, will be the last time I have to put forth any efforts for Vulcan Materials Co. After I wake up tomorrow, it will be the last time I have to get up that early to go to work...( thank the Lord). Once I clock in... it will be the last time I have to clock in. I am getting so excited. Stay tuned.

The last 3 days of Vulcan

Getting closer and closer.... I'm starting to see victory circle.

Another bad habit

I tell you, I'm just letting it all out aren't I. If you have been reading my stories lately you will find plenty of things that get under my skin. Look at it like this, once I get all the frustrations out, the only thing left will be nothing but good :) .... trust me...

Another habit I see that bothers me is when I see people throw there nasty cigarette butts out the window. When it's dark you can tell real easy because of all the sparks that fly when it hits the ground. I heard of a fire the other day on the side of interstate 85 and the reason.... a cigarette butt. I despise cigarettes but I do think it's your right to smoke if you choose to do so... but how about keeping them nasty butts in your ashtray.

A great idea

On the way home from a super good Mexican dinner the other night, Shelly had a good idea she wanted to present to me. Since we have moved in to our house, our evenings basically consist of me on the computer and Shelly at the T.V. We haven't had any problems of having a routine like that but she thought it would be cool if we picked a weeknight to not do anything but cuddle up and watch a movie. Now don't sit there and tell me you've never cuddled on the couch before. Well if you haven't -then you should try it. I chose Monday because it's the first day of the week and sometimes they seem to be groggy trying to get back into work mode. So this past Monday me and ole Shelly bean wrapped up on the couch and watched a good movie. I think she had a great idea because I had a good time and I'm already looking forward till next Monday.

Road Rage

You know... I use to think I didn't have any road rage and that I was a good mannered driver but I think I'm going to be honest and say.... I got a bad case of the road rage. I'm not a bully nor do I try to be but I just get so angry when these punks or stupid drivers get right on my bumper. I have even had people get so close to my bumper that I can't even see there headlights.
Another hazard that gets on my freakin nerves is people on there cell phones- not paying attention. Don't get me wrong, I sometimes wonder how we ever made it without cell phones.... for emergency purposes that is. Check this out... just the other day I was coming home from work when I got behind a lady that was swerving really bad. I was a little hesitant to pass her because I really thought she was drunk. After waiting for another lane to open and putting my Mazda through a speed test, I look over as I go by and this stupid woman was on the cell phone with her head leaned over to pinch the phone on her shoulder while she writes on a note pad ..... steering with her writing wrist. Road rage these day has gotten really bad. Everybody is in a hurry to get no where. Nobody is considerate towards each other... Every once in a while I see people being kind, esp when there is a congested area and it's hard to get out. It is a shame the world has gotten this way.

The last 4 days of Vulcan

Another day in the pit has come and gone. I now have only 3 days left. Each and every day that gets closer... I seem to have some great options open for me. Stay posted cause there is getting ready to be an explosion of stories.

The last 5 days of Vulcan

Well here it is, the last 5 days of my journey with Vulcan Materials Co is finally here. Am I excited? You bet your butt cheeks I'm excited. It's kinda like a long marathon and the finish line is getting closer and closer.

Country kitchen

Before I forget about this, I am going to post it right know. I experienced something today that came as a shock... or at least a little bit anyways. Shelly, mom and myself went to a place in Cheraw SC today to have lunch. It was called the Country Kitchen. It was a buffet bar of- yes you guessed it.... country cooking. The shocker to me was when we went to check out the guy taking the money looked at us funny when we handed him a debit card. We don't take credit cards here ..... he said. Wow.... I was a little shocked... It's not a bad thing but I'll be dad gum... I thought everybody took plastic these days. I hope that lady at the Bojangles drive thru don't go to this place.... she might be washing some dishes.....

by the way if you didn't catch that one about Bojangles... just keep reading.... you will get to that little story before you know it.

Weekend browser

Well well well..... what a great weekend. I think I am going to have to do a series just on weekends because it seems like for the last few weekends, something great happens... and the closer I get to the end of this month.. which is my last day with Vulcan, they seem to get better and better. Please be patient with me though. I feel like I'm doing about 10 things at one time. I am so backed up on stories I've been trying to get out.... that it's about to get to me. I know that seems lame to you but hey... what can I say.... I have fell in love with writing. I want to write about everything I do nowa days. So hold onto your shorts because boy ole boy do I have some stories for you.

My little secret

Have you ever had something you've done since you can remember that other people think is the craziest thing they have ever heard when you tell them about it. I noticed myself the other day and it dawned on me that I am still doing this. I have no idea where this came from but ever since I can remember... when I would make myself a sandwich I would tear the edges off.... not cut them but tear. There is a difference you know. I can remember everyone I knew telling me...whatcha doin boy.... that's the best part. I can't seem to figure out why people always say that's the best part when you are talking about food. I think the middle is the best part... of pretty much anything I can think of. Think about this, If I make me a peanut butter and jelly sandwich- the middle is the softest and the thickest. To me, that would be the best part. Speaking of PB & J sandwiches, I made me one the other day and guess what I done. I peeled the edges off.

The future is here

You know, I've seen a lot of things in life but I believe this one takes the cake. I was on my way to the track for a photo shoot and all of a sudden, I began to think about how a good ole chicken biscuit from Bojangles would be so tasty while it gently goes down my throat and into my stomach.... whew.... I got a little carried away with that one. So anyways, I'm in the drive thru line and noticed the lady in front of me. When she got up to the window.... would you like to guess what she done. No, she didn't flash the guy in the window but she handed him a feakin credit card. I think I have seen it all now.

The unknown

A few weeks ago, Shelly and I went to one of our favorite hole-in-the-wall grills up town Charlotte for some grub to devour. You know me, if were heading up town, I'm gonna have my trusty camera by my side ready to get any kind of shot that might appear before me. This was one of those hazy days that got up to 100 degrees or better so I wasn't really seeing anything jump out at me but hey.... this is the digital days so why not get a few shots to see how they turn out. As I was snapping this shot here.... I walked back to my truck to put my camera up when I heard Shelly call my name. Out of my peripheral vision, I noticed a middle aged man come up to me. At this moment there are several things going through my mind.... is he going to try something... or try to rob from me or beg for money. None of the above believe it or not. First of all- when people walk up to you like this.... you don't know if they have a weapon or what they might try to do... esp. since Shelly was there with me... my first and foremost thought was to keep her safe and be on guard just in case.. So I proceeded to listen to this guy while checking my surroundings at the same time. You never know what kind of BS someone is giving you or what kind of prank they might try. Anyhoo, the guy went on and said he was looking for work so he could eat. I begin to tell him I didn't have any work but if he was hungry- I would be more than happy to buy him something to eat. Usually thugs try to hound you for money but his reply actually shocked me. He said he would love that but wandered if I would go to a grocery store and get him a pack of ham so it would last longer. Still in a little shock I told him I would do that if he would stay put. He then said he would like that but nobody never comes back. Coincidentally, we were parked in a parking lot at some burrito grill. I was about to drive off but wondered if he would stand true to his word and then decided to just get him something there. We walked in and I said get what you want.... one chicken burrito w/ fries and a coke coming up... As I was about to walk out- I look over at this fella and said are you going to be OK..... with a gentle answer he just said.... thank ya buddy and gave me a light tap on the arm. When I walked out of that restaurant, I felt something I haven't felt in a long time and that was the feeling of helping some one when they really need help. In this world of craziness and madness....I believe there are some people out there that are sincere. Why else would he have accepted my offer to eat. If not then he just got me for a chicken burrito....... big deal. The part that got me was when he said he was hungry and Shelly and I just walked out of a restaurant with our belly's full... and this guy showed me he had lost a lot of weight from the heat. To this day I often think about that fella... he was wearing blue jeans and an orange T shirt. The way he said thank you and me wishing I could look back into the past to see what he really has went through is a mystery I may not ever figure out. One thing is for sure though.... he got his belly full even if it was only for a moment. Who knows, I may never see this guy again but I do know this... I am very proud of myself for buying him some food. Many people would run because of discomfort from a stranger. Then again...he may not be a stranger. Think about it. For my hungry friend out there..... I hope and pray you are safe and you find your way in life. When you do maybe we can have lunch... because If you are sincere.... I would love to catch up with you and try to understand what you went through. Until then my friend.

Passage Matthew 25:35 For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in.

Day of notice

Well the day has arrived ( and long gone know) that I officially put in my notice at work. I was kinda anxious to hear what kind of lip I would get.... but to my surprise... it went over really well. I was also a little unsure about when to pop the big news but I came to a point where I thought I was in good shape to put in a notice that long. I popped the notice on them the first of the month and will work till the end of the month. To my surprise, I have actually got a lot of positive comments from everyone. I thought for sure they would drag me down into there pit of misery. Instead, it was like...man I can't blame you a bit. I would get out of this place if I was in your shoes .... and I've had a few people tell me they were jealous. You know something though, when I look back on the years I spent working at Vulcan.... I always thought this would be my job till life. I am doing the things I dreamed of when I was growing up and to get paid for it was even better. As my working days are about to come to an end- I am going to write a little story on what it was like to work with a company with a back bone like Vulcan. I know for a 110% fact I am heading in the wright direction. I keep having doors open for me all around in different kind of ways. I will face new challenges in many different ways but I am so excited to get going.... I'm about to go nuts. Be on the look out cause next week I am starting a countdown titled.... The last 5 days of Vulcan.

Falling behind

Once again I am falling behind on my stories. I've gotta get down to the nitty gritty because it almost feels like pressure is building when I don't get to my writing. Normally, I have been taking a big notebook and doing most of my writing in the haul truck I drive. Here lately we have been running pretty strong and not to mention all the other odds and ends they have me doing. I am qualified to run almost all the equipment so when someone is out or has to leave.....whew... it's on. In the next few weeks I am going to get some shots of some equipment so you can understand the size of machinery I work with. However, I need to plan this out because you will not get the full effect if I just take a shot of the 992G CAT pit loader we have running in the pit. Oh no, I am going to have to stand beside of it or park my pick up truck near the bucket so you can see how big this thing is. Now what I really would like is to go back to the Rockingham quarry and get some photos of the truck and loaders they have. Those CAT trucks are huge. Well thats all I am going to spill for this article because I am about to start rambling about another story I have. Just for a heads up though... I am going to write up a few stories about Vulcan Materials Co and my departure with this huge operation. Hopefully I will be able to get the photos I want but if not, then a plain article will suffice.

Photography by Bunn

I told Shell bell the other day.... I bet I would get more customers if I just took pictures all day instead of riding.... boy oh boy... let me tell ya..... I think I need to start looking for an assistant. You know how some people are though, they say they are interested but you never hear from them again. That is the cool part about this for me. I am not out to make a living on this but hey, the sky is the limit... it would be OK with me if I got enough business to support myself and some left over. I told a fella the other day that I was doing this for fun but I can have you a poster or some other type of print made if that is what you want. Only time will tell if I get some business from all who asked.

Since I was not riding- I took over 600 shots....( the beauty of a digital camera).... but when I got home and uploaded them into my computer... I only saved around 300. I was a little impressed with the number of people I talked to about my little poster business after only 1 day of shooting photos of riders. Here are a few of the shots I got that I like the best.....

A few photos from Andrews motocross

My first customer

Patricio

When I first got my camera, the first thing I thought of was..... oh boy... I can't wait till I get some shots and have a few posters made. Of course I purchased this camera for other reasons but all I could think about was making a poster of some friends at the track. I started taking photos immediately after my camera was in my arms but it took a long time to figure out how to get a photo.... believe it or not. I have come a long way but I still have so much I need to learn. Anyhoo, I started taking pictures every time I went to the track and then shared them with my friends through a photo show. Since then I have been asked by a few people about if I sell photos. Hey.... everything is for sale you know...... so I had a few posters made and I'll be doggone..... the next thing you know... I got a customer. This is Patricio Lopez trying to show some style going into a corner. You know, I am tickled like a pickle on a cheeseburger.... I can't wait to see the look on his face when I show him his 20x30 poster. I even had ole Shelly bean make me a little sticky pad so I can put them on the back of the prints I sell. I am so excited about this new adventure I am experiencing.

Customer # 2

Another satisfied customer. I really enjoy talking with these guys. They seem to be some really good people. They come out and ride around together all day long. All I know is there first name but this is Tim (94) and his son Devin (no number). Tim is about 90% deaf but he is able to get some words out where you can understand him. I forget how old Devin is but he has learned sign language very well at a young age.

I don't know what is going on but I seem to be having some technical difficulties here. For the past few weeks I have had a little problem with uploading pictures and now I seem to be having a little trouble with typing a message with a photo. Don't you just love it when stuff like this happens. Almost all of the knowledge I have gained on computers or even this blog have mostly been from myself. Every once in a while I will start begging for answers but for the most part I try to figure it out on my own. The only problem with that is It usually takes me ..... forever to figure something out. Well, back to the grind.... maybe if I start now I can have it figured out before blogging becomes dated.

Apples or Corn?

On the way home from work the other day, I had a big ole red delicious apple by my side- starring at me and wondering when the chance of a roller coaster ride from my chompers to my stomach would come. I quickly answered and I have to say... both me and the apple had an enjoyable experience..... Since I'm driving down 485, I thought I would hang on to what was left from Mr. Apple. I'm in no way going to throw it out the window. Once I got home I had an idea.... wonder if Ralph the squirrel would like some leftover fruit.... so I left it on the little squirrel feeder we got. When Shelly and I got back from grub that evening I noticed the apple was gone. When I say gone..... I mean gone. There wasn't a trace of anything... I leaned over to see if it had fell under the porch but nothing. I thought Shelly was trying to pull my leg but she keeps saying she hasn't touched it. Now wouldn't that be funny to see... a squirrel jumping from limb to limb with an apple in it's mouth. I looked at Shelly and said.... wonder what squirrels do at night.... now get this..... she says they are probably laid back in there nest watching some TV...... I rolled my eyes and thought ... that is the craziest thought I've ever heard..... Personally- I think they are in there nest on the computer surfing the Internet.....

Lost anything lately???

I think I have found something that really works ....I have actually found this to be very precise. If this ever happens to you then rest assured.... I have found the answer.

Have you ever had something in mind you wanted to buy.... something you wanted really bad that didn't cost an arm and a leg but enough to put a dent in you wallet. Well I guess I should rephrase that cause some folks have a deeper wallet than others but hey.... you get the idea right.... I thought so.... lets just say this item you have been wanting is a luxury item instead of necessity.... somewhere between 15 to 50 dollars. You finally purchase your highly valued item you have been longing for since who knows how long.... then all of a sudden that highly valued item disappears.... vanished... grew wings and has flown away or sprouted legs and walked off. The crazy part is you just had it the other day but it is no where to be found. You have looked all over the place time and time again and you are about ready to throw a screaming fit. After all this item you have wanted for so long was one of those things you had to have but could live without. If you have ever had this happen to you then look no further. From here on out you don't have to throw any more fits because I have found a solution that will solve this dilemma once and for all. It is so simple.... just follow this small step and you will find whatever it is you have lost...OK

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-==-=-=-=-=



Here is the answer....



Go buy another one!!!!!!!!!

Hey look here now- I'm not a magician, but I'm telling you this works..... Once you are so aggravated that you had to go and spend your hard earned money on something you already have but cannot seem to find no matter how long and hard you have looked.... within a very short time your lost item will suddenly jump right out at you. Try it.... cause it really works. I'm speaking from experience. There is a money back guarantee on that too.... keep your receipt on the new item. By the way that reminds me .... where in the world is my Breaking Benjamin cd.
I can't seem to find it anywhere.

I have spoken to a few people that told me... they have been reading my blog. It gives me great joy to hear when people have said to me- I have been reading your blog... it's really good. It just makes me happy as a kid in a toy store.... err... a video game store. I forget the kids these days are a little different than when I was a kid. Anyhoo, I said all that to say this, if you would like me to add you to my distribution list or you know of someone then hey- feel free to email me your email address and I will happy to oblige. The more the merry. I really enjoy writing these stories.... to be honest- I enjoy writing about everything. I think I am a little better with expressing myself in writing than in speech. Well there you go, the invitation is wide open... the bunny show is for all who are interested. Just send me an email to the address at the top or either my other address at bunnmx87@yahoo.com

In the meantime, I have some writing I need to get to.

Homecoming 7-22-07

I am a little late posting this but hey.... better late than never right... It started with a call to Moms to see if she was going to be around....cause we had some cycling in mind. When I talked to her she said Homecoming was after church and she was going to be out their for a little while. I don't like to miss Homecoming and I am so glad Shelly loves to go as well. Since I'm one of those wanna-be photographers- I took the big bad Nikon out for some photos of the folks I will always know as ...my hometown family and friends. These are some of the greatest people a person could get to know. Both Shelly and I went out to homecoming and had some good country cooking and then went for a ride around Lilesville. Here are some of the photos from Homecoming. Enjoy!

A few photos from homecoming

A few other photos around Lilesville

The crazy dogs

Where in the world does time go when you're home from work. I have been getting of work around three or four in the evening and I still feel like I don't have enough time. As soon as I leave work I try to go for a run or some mountain biking and then I try to lift weights two or three nights a week. You gotta eat some time (whether you go out or eat in) so that takes up time. I need time to work on my bike to get it ready for the weekend... that can take hours. Last but not least- I need all kinds of time for writing and studying. Good grief.... all this comes from me having to get up so early. I am pushing the limit more than I should really cause I can't seem to keep my eyes open at work. I drive an off road haul truck all day and it can be very monotonous. There is a 150ft drop off on one side and a high wall around 100ft on the other side. I have come close to both.If I can just hang in there 1 more month... I will be done with having to get up so early in the morning. I can't wait.

A close call

Last week while at work I had something happen that could have been disastrous. Once I clocked in the boss came over to tell me to run the rock breaker for the next two days. A rock breaker is just what it sounds like. There is a huge hammer at the end of the stick of a track hoe instead of a bucket. This is what we use for over sized rocks that will not fit into the jaw crusher. I don't normally run this machine but I am trained to run it. As I was lifting the lid that covers the engine, I was thinking about how heavy it was and how it would really hurt if it were to ever fall on you. As I continued lifting, I heard a click- assuming it was in lock position....and it wasn't. I let go and begin to bend over under the lid and in a millisecond.. I could feel something was not right ... and out of my peripheral vision I seen it coming down. I jerked back but I was a little late and that lid smacked me in the jaw under my lip. Once it hit me , I was frightened that I had lost several teeth but I did a quick feel around my mouth just to make sure I had my teeth. Next was my lip, I thought for sure I had cut my lip and needed stitches. I was spitting up blood and thought for sure I had some major issues but as soon as my boss go down there, I looked in the mirror and all I had was a little scrap on the outside but a busted lip on the inside. This could have been really bad. When you are on top of the machine like that- you are at least 8 to 10ft off the ground. What if that lid hit me in the temple and knocked me off the machine. I think I am very blessed to wind up with only a busted lip considering what could have happened. The Lord was definitely protecting me last Thursday morning.

Pocket change

Since I will be looking for a part time job in the near future, I think I have came upon a small way to make a little extra pocket change. Who knows- I might make a little extra cash and then again I might not make diddly squat. I can remember when I started going to tracks to ride and would think, man if only someone was here taking pictures and making posters. One day some dude came out, took some pictures and put them up on his website for sale and man ole man let me tell you.... it was not cheap. Well, since I have fell in love with photography, I have decided to start this little gig going but much better prices. I have been taking photos for a while now at the track but I have never had anyone ask for me to take their picture.. until recently. I don't know how it happened but now I have several people asking me if I could get some shots of them and make them a poster. That's right- a poster.... now tell me, everybody seems to like posters and how cool is it when the poster is of you. Like I said- I might make a little or I might not- but I'm having a good time at it either way. So there you have it... whatever your photography needs are - give the ole Bunny a call and I'll turn some of your life's greatest moments into a giant poster for you to show off.

For the past few weeks, I have took sort of a break from blogging. It seems like I am always so busy in the afternoons after work no matter what time I get off. I am either working on my bike getting it ready for the weekend or I am trying to sharpen my skills up on something else I have took interest in... which here lately is quit a few things. It's like something has zapped me or I got struck by a lightning bolt of knowledge ..... I dunno.... all I know is something is going on and that something is good... or at least I think it is. I seem to have took interest in how everything tics, what makes it tic and why. What I mean is - if you came up to me and said ... Hey Bunny, lets take this refrigerator apart and then try to put it back together.. I would be all over that... well as long as it doesn't take away from my blogging time that is. It's like I want to learn everything....I have even found myself studying the dad gum dictionary. I told you.... I really think I have been zapped by something.... and I'm always finding that I can't get enough. I don't mean to be a nuisance if I ever start to bomb you with questions- but it feels like I have to know or else I am going to go nuts..weird huh... When I get home in the evenings, it's all I can do to pull myself away from this computer...why... because all the information about whatever-the-heck-you-want-to learn is at your fingertips. Kinda like this blogging, this stuff has become almost addictive to me. I just love it. However, I love my wife way more than this computer so I took a little time away to chill out with ole Shell Bell. Since my little hiatus, I have been fully recharged and ready for some more good old fashion stories about who, what, when and where. In other words you could say - I'm back.....

More thoughts

This is starting to sound like my list of pet peeves rather than random thoughts... but don't you hate it when you are shopping in a store and the guy behind you gets a beep on his nextel and he answers the call on the speaker phone with the volume almost wide open. When I hear that crap I feel like yanking the phone away and smashing it on the floor....



Or how about when you are at an intersection and you see the person in front of you yapping away with someone in the car and several good chances to go are passing. They aren't paying attention to whats going on and by the time they get aggravated enough to go, the light catches you and once again- you have to sit through another period of light changes......

Almost done

I only have 1 more week before I spring the big I'm quiting on the boss at Vulcan Materials Co. It has been a long run but the time is approaching to where I must leave that place for another lifestyle. I have been with the company going on 9 years and I'm sure I will get called stupid or a few other choice words but at this point in my life - it will only ricochet. I will keep you posted as this turn of events happens.

Random thoughts

Instead of writing another story, I think I am gonna do a little something different this go round. I am going to share with you some of the things that go through my mind. This is how my crazy minds ticks>

• When you go to a restaurant, do you ever glance at other peoples food to see what they ordered????
  
• It just burns me up to go in a restaurant and get sorry service.
• Have you ever had the pleasure of using a Porto john... if you haven't- you don't know what you are missing. Once you go in you look down the hole and think .. OMG....WHOOF..... man that person must have been sick!!!!!!!!
• Pretty soon I am not going to have any more gravel in the driveway- this house does not have a fence so we let Jack out on a leash and he is blowing out his crap castles between the house and the trucks. Right in the way for you to either step in it or run over it and sling it all under you mud flaps.
• Don't you hate it when you are dipping a chip in a some good ole dip and the chip breaks off.
• It seems like every time I go to church, some parent brings their screaming kid into the sanctuary and it aggravates the dadgum heck out of me.
• I use to tell mom and dad that they had a boring life cause when they watched TV it was either Hee Haw or the news. Funny thing is I like to watch the news now.
• Is it me or is everybody else getting tired of the stupid car dealership commercials ... I mean the stupid things they do just gets on my nerves.... like Samson's used cars where the white headed guy says come on down... were dealing... or the guy at the Nissan lot going BAM while slamming a football down... get real... or even the ones they have the gorgeous women trying to convince you they have the lowest prices in town.... yea right... gimme a break here- I'm trying to watch Jo Dirt.
  

Driving Mrs Shelly

On Sunday afternoons there is something both Shelly and I try to treat ourselves to. We jump in the truck and take off to the city of ...... where else..... Charlotte. Even though the price of gas is sky high we still try to go. Its so much fun.... to me it's living a dream. When I was out of high school, I would drive up to Charlotte and then turn around and go back home. All because I love the vibes of the big city. I have always had a fascination for big city's and tall buildings. I remember when I was a kid and we would be on our way to visit my sisters and dad would go flying around 277. I always thought that was so cool while I glaze over at the sky line of Charlotte. It's kinda like I have always wanted to know all the roads around Charlotte and where they lead to and come out at. I use to be very intimidated to explore roads when I would drive up for the heck of it. Now It doesn't bother me at all- I actually love getting way out on a road and then trying to find my way back. Either we head towards the city( which is my favorite) or we will head for the country (which I enjoy almost as much also). It's so cool to see how people live in the country- although I already know this since I was raised in the country. You see people sitting on the front porch or their having a big cookout with screaming kids running all over the place. It is also cool to see old barns or old cars in the back yard that people just let sit there until it rots. When we head to the city, I like to get close to the center or either the perimeter of Charlotte. I just start taking turns and see where I wind up. You know, when we head to the city I'm trying to discover new places and new things and of course to see new sites. Next thing I hear, that chick of mine will say....man this area sure has grown up since the last time I came through. I use to come this way to work. It happens all the time. Here I am trying to go exploring and she has already seen it a half a million times. A few Sundays ago I was around south park area looking at the new tall buildings and was like man it would be cool to come and eat up here sometime... guess what the next thing I heard was.... yea me and the girls from work come out to eat here sometimes while we are on lunch.... what am I gonna do with that chick.... I'm sure there are very many people that would think we are crazy for driving around Charlotte but like I said... I use to dream about doing this when I was younger. If you told me something you enjoyed doing then I might think you were crazy... you see how that works... that's why we always say- different strokes for different folks. How cool is that though....to have a wife that enjoys sharing your dreams with you. That's my Shell Bell.

I can't believe it...we made it through a weekend without having a terrible waiter or waitress. I don't know what the deal is but it seems like Shelly and I have something marked all over us saying something like... we hate to get waited on or big tip for the worst service. There is a restaurant that I really like to eat at in Monroe called Napoli's. They have about anything you could possible want. There were a few times when we would go there, we noticed the service was a little slow. Well about a month ago we went back for some grub and winded up walking out. Shelly made the first statement and when either the manager or the head honcho stood up... I finished it. Boy it felt good to have a good meaning to be pissed off at someone. Hey - we were just sick and tired of that crap. We sat there and sat there and no one said anything. No drinks no nothing until a couple sat down behind us 10 mins later and the chick was on them immediately.

A week or two later we decided to eat at Logans steakhouse in Monroe and we almost walked out of that place. The only reason we didn't was because Shelly was going through this thing she calls P.M. S ing... and she wants nachos supreme.... man... so she got up and got a waiter and I thought a good smart comment would be much appropriate. I just don't get these freaking sorry slack young guns that can't pay attention to there tables or any other job. Sorriness is a huge pet peeve of mine. I cannot stand laziness or sorriness.

With all that being said... I am happy to inform you that Shelly and I had a super good weekend worth of good customer service. In fact, I seen a few things that actually blew me away. Think about this now.... knowing that you will more than likely get a better tip if you keep up with your tables- why in the dadgum world wouldn't you give it your best. It doesn't hurt to be nice.

Sunday 7-8-07

I don't know what it is but there is something about Saturday and Sunday that I really love. Don't get me wrong, I like Monday- Friday also but it just seems like the weekends were made just for me. I am not a morning person at all so I always look forward to the weekends. Maybe it's because I have worked my butt off thru the week for the past hump teen years and the weekend is my time to do whatever I want.... who knows... Ah... the joy of sleeping in and waking up to some fresh coffee and breakfast and being on your on time schedule... what a treat. This Sunday when I woke up - I got me some coffee and then sat back in the ole love couch while me and the wife watched a movie. After the movie we gave Jack a trim up and then went for a bike ride at Mcalpine park. After that we ran over to McDonald's for a burger and a mcflurry and then home to watch the races. Last but not least we went driving around Charlotte exploring and then to O' Charleys for some dinner. That's a wrap!!