My first blog of 2008. And it's not a movie review. Well, that will be forthcoming. But first, I wish all my friends a belated happy new year. May 2008 be all that you hope for in greatest wishes. Here's a crazy thought for those of you who know me well enough -- my brooding outlook on life is lightening up a bit. Just a tad ;-)
You're looking at a slightly different Edmond Ortiz. I'm now endeavoring to take a more idealistic yet practical, optimistic view on life. Don't get me wrong. My famed (or infamous) sardonic wit remains, but life is definitely getting better by the day. To what and whom do I owe this renewed sense of purpose? My faith in God for one. I'm far enough since my rock-bottom days of the late summer of 2006 to realize that, yes, life goes on. For the better.
My family has been a source of pride and proper focus. Despite recent corporate changes, my job remains challenging and fun. And then there's my friends. An eclectic, fun-loving, crazy group of friends have not only kept up my spirits, but reassured my faith in humanity, particularly the past year. Special props go to Diosdado, whose smile and easygoing style in the 20-plus years I've known him constantly remind me to not take everything so seriously; and to Mindy, whose warmth and strength are incredible and always brings the best out of me in every way. Gracias to you and everyone.
So, now in the manner of self-improvement, a few things are changing. My bachelor pad for one. I'm re-arranging things. Which for me is a mind-blowing concept to even grasp much less bring to fruition. I pledge to be enlarge my circle of friends and be "an even better pal" to those already in my sphere of influence. You know who you are; drinks are on me! If you aren't already texting me for our next outing, well, get the @$% on the phone! LOL
I pledge to actually do traveling, and not just think about it. Dio and I are headed for a weekend of mayhem and mischief in Vegas this weekend for Randy's bachelor party. Vegas, baby. Vegas =P And soon enough, I'll FINALLY make it out to West Texas, and plans are in the works for a couple of grand excursions to the Northeast. Who knows what will come after that -- another Wurstfest, another Renaissance Faire? I'm game.
Look at the movies I have to look forward to: Indiana Jones 4, Harold and Kumar Escape from Guantanamo Bay (see one of the clips), Star Trek, The Dark Knight, Cloverfield, to name a few. Look at the new TV shows or new seasons I have to look forward to this winter/spring: 24, Lost (another clip), Battlestar Galactica, Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles, Doctor Who, Jericho, The Venture Brothers, Aqua Teen Hunger Force.
Gotta exercise a bit more, and I PROMISE a new set of wheels, TV set and second computer are on the horizon. With any luck, a change of residence later this year. In spite of a looming recession and a painful presidential campaign (anyone wanna fund mine?) 2008 could be a nice, productive year. I mean, the only way is up 8-) In the immediate meantime, here we come Vegas. Enjoy the NFL playoffs! Enjoy the National Hockey League All-Star Game! Enjoy a possible ice storm that hopefully, maybe will hit San Antonio! (please please please please =) Look, more exclamation points!
