March 31, 2011

That's A Wrap

VIDEO #365
Various music compiled over the year
Well, this is it. The video to complete the 365 marathon. Excuse me for a second while I scream in excitement.......................... ok, I'm back. For you wondering, 'humm, maybe I should take on a project like this,' here is my 2 and a half cents: I didn't think very far ahead when I committed to this project. It started with the idea I would upload a simple little video and my day would not be affected too much by this endeavor. A couple weeks passed and I was thrilled that I was doing something for myself and that I had an audience I didn't want to let down, even though that audience was somewhere in the ballpark of 2 - 6 people. Somehow a couple months went by. This was the start of a whole new beast.

Around that time, life as I knew it, would be hell. Ok, I'm kidding there but seriously, it wouldn't be too far from it. When you need to be on a computer everyday, upload a video and write a caption is one thing. Just the stress of knowing you need internet access whenever you hit the road can cause an early death (and no, I was not able to upload from my phone and I had not once, scheduled an upload). Let's add lugging around a camera everywhere you go, filming sometimes anything, just in hopes you get something, import footage to the computer, edit that footage, export multiple times for various websites, then begin the upload game. Do that everyday, for one year.... what was I thinking! Hey, I wasn't.

It became a challenge that I could only lose if I gave up. Sure there are many other circumstances that could have prevented me from getting a video made and uploaded... that was part of the challenge which made it interesting. What would it be? If I wasn't going to quit, what or who might stop me? What was this obstacle going to be? It is the last day and I am uploading the final video as I type. I guess what I'm trying to say, or figure out how to put into words is that, I feel very fortunate to have been able to do this and not to have come across a major bump in the road to steer me off this journey. Having my health, support from family and friends and shelter from the rain made the year possible. Without that, my head would have exploded shortly after Dirty Homies (Video #027). My biggest thanks goes out to my sweetheart, Katana, who has put up with not only being filmed at any moment but a year of supporting a sometimes grumpy and tired guy. Thank you sweets. You're the best. So with that I would say, if you are committing to a challenge, make sure the time is right and find support wherever you can. It will help during the hard times.

Thank you, everyone for being a part of these videos, watching, commenting and passing along these silly moments. Please continue to do so as I will continue to create videos and share online, just not everyday. Also, if you've watched this video and did not recognize every character, that means there are videos for you to go back and watch. I'd tell you where to look but that wouldn't be fun now would it? That's it from me for know, again, thank you all! That's a wrap!!!

March 30, 2011

One Crazy Adventure

VIDEO #364
Song - "You're So Cool" by Hans Zimmer (Thanks Markley for the music tip!)
One last day trek to share with you fine people before this old man retires. This adventure brings us to an island on the Columbia River near my house and, for some time now, I've had thoughts of exploring. I woke up today and thought today was the day. A moderate paddle across followed by a pleasant stroll through a dryish marshland... then the fun comes. Muddy dead ends, needle sharp blackberry forests, rain and unseen, but imagined, oversized Beasts lurking in the brush... just a couple of the obstacles I can remember. But in life we're faced with obstacles, and if we do not face these obstacles and overcome them, we will never see what's waiting on the other side, whether it's good or bad. In this case, the thorns cleared, the rain turned to partially blue skies, Beasts turned into cute little deer and muddy dead ends became sandy beaches. So, with that I give you the second to last video from a year of obstacles overcome to enjoy the end of this fine day with you, whoever you might be. Thank you for watching!

March 29, 2011

America's Got Talent?

VIDEO #363
A Jesperson Trio Original
People might be wondering what I'm going to be doing after the next couple of days with the video of the day blog being done and all. Well, here is your answer. I'm planning a tour with the Jesperson Trio (aka Jesperson Tripletts). The goal is simple... share the finest jazz recorder music in the world at all major venues across the globe. I'm sure there will be a snowball effect with an instant fan base so I will not be advertising past this video upload so, if you want to see The Trio perform live in your area, just follow the tickle in your ear. When your head explodes from aural bliss, you've found us.

March 28, 2011

A Trip to the Zoo

VIDEO #362
Song - "I Gave You" by Matt Sweeney & Bonnie "Prince" Billy
I've had the Oregon Zoo on my mind for a while so thought I'd get out there to say hello and share footage with ya'll before these blog videos come to a close. It has been a while and walking around alone, capturing the emotions of these guys really had me down. Don't worry, the other humans appeared to be having a blast (average age was around 11... yes, a lot of kids but that's who a zoo is really for). I had this song on my mind for a while also, couldn't find a match until now and I think, if you listen carefully, it really could work for an animal vs zoo and man kind of thing. I'm sure the artists were not at a zoo when they wrote this song.... then again, they might have kids?

March 27, 2011

Secrets of the Ninja

VIDEO #361
Karate Choppin', Ninja Kickin', Fist Punchin' Soundtrack
We would all love to be able to karate chop wood like a ninja, right? Of course we would and now you can. Get off that couch and get yourself a handy little Box Saw, the tool Hollywood doesn't want you to know about. It will provide you with all the confidence after sawing 99.2% through your target. If you are aspiring to be a ninja, highly consider this tool, I have.

March 26, 2011

Expedition #4: Retrospective

VIDEO #360
Song - "Blindsided" by Bon Iver
Some of my favorite moments from the year were very simple. Spontaneous hikes in and around Oregon, smiling with my sweetheart, great music and the comfort of a new home. So, in retrospect, I'd like to throw this out there...... breakdancing, teleporting, pocket dogs, holiday nut sacks and redneck birds might appear to be 'what it's all about'... but it's not. It's about the Hokey Pokey.

March 25, 2011

The Dance Off

VIDEO #359
A Collection of Great Breakdancing Tracks
My sweetheart is back from out of town and felt it was mandatory to take full advantage of her return. We both had a busy day so I thought, hey, let's take a "break." We enjoyed ourselves thoroughly but the real fun, I'm sure, was had with our neighbors watching us from across the street (if you have been watching the video of the day religiously you would know these fine people as they have been featured in 4 videos to date).

March 24, 2011

Backyard with the Beast

VIDEO #358
Song - "Luna Y Sol" by Manu Chao
I thought Mike the Cat has had his fair share of videos so this one is dedicated solely on the Beast and her great curiosity to life in the great outdoors. I think she was going for a kill but the bird she was stalking had too many friends. Strength in numbers kind of a thing.

March 23, 2011

Urban Camping

VIDEO #357
Song - "The Cure" by Tegan and Sara
I really did have an idea for a video tonight but, because of the amazing contribution from the family (Mike the Cat and Lil' Beasley aka 'The Beast'), I had no choice but to let the camera roll. It seems the little ones like urban camping just as much as the next guy. A very happy accident that we can bring the family closer with a simple tent and fire. Oh, and yes, I will be sleeping in the tent tonight, pre summer camping jitters, unless of course the rain ruins our parade...

March 22, 2011

The Power of Cheese

VIDEO #356
Euro Tracks from Euro
Hans Christmas was once the strongest man in the world. Now, he appears in local television commercials advertising for products that appear metaphorically stronger. Well, I had the privilege to watch Hans in action after the shoot. He was furious with the script as he should be. This guy is made of steel and here he is playing with a cheese loaf. Long story short, Hans still has it, he just needs to pay the rent.

March 21, 2011

The Line Up

VIDEO #355
Sounds from Downtown - District #00355
Rebar took the whole family to Taco Bell for tasty treats. Little did he know it would turn out to be one of the worst days of his life. That's right, Rebar was sexually harassed in the men's bathroom. I'm sure it will end up being a positive life experience for Rebar after years of painful memories, I'm sure of it.

March 20, 2011

Spring is Here

VIDEO #354
Song - "The Final Countdown" by Europe
It is official, Spring is here! I was pretty excited so I took to the outdoors to see what's "up." Not too different from days past... gray skies, soggy grass, cold breeze, etc. Keep the faith, warmer days are sure to come.

March 19, 2011

The Super Moon

VIDEO #353
Song - "Night Time" and "Stars" by The XX
If you were fortunate enough to see past the clouds tonight, the "Super Moon" (Super because it was the closest to the Earth tonight versus the last 18 years or so, Moon... well, because it's still the moon) lit up the sky......... just a little more than it did the last time I saw a full moon. Still, it was awesome and I am very happy to have seen such a super moon. I wonder who the genius(s) is/are who come(s) up with such a name for such a spectacular event? Maybe super people?

March 18, 2011

The Great Campfire of 2011

VIDEO #352
Pacific Northwest Camping Sounds
Rebar and family took the VW and headed for the woods to show the young one what life is all about. But when they realize they forgot just about everything for the outing, will the simple beauty of mother nature be enough to keep them from heading back early? No one knows......

March 17, 2011

Happy St. Patrick's Day

VIDEO #351
St. Patrick's Day Tunes
Oh no, the Tiger Beer Guy is fresh out of delicious tiger juice! As a result, the Green Leprechaun of St Patrick's Day takes over and pours a large green beer to celebrate with you a safe and happy St. Patrick's Day! Cheers... or should I say Sláinte or Gártha?

March 16, 2011

The Missing Socks Mystery

VIDEO #350
A Tribute to Lost Socks
Have you ever wondered where all those lost socks end up? I've recently discovered not just where they go, but also why they go. You see, socks need love too, and when their better half is off, galavanting around with some stripped, knee high... well, there's no reason the other ankle sock can't do the same. Mystery solved.

March 15, 2011

Mother Nature at Work

VIDEO #349
Song - "Happiness" by Jonsi and Alex
From the other day, I had a handful of clips I liked and wanted to put something together, here's what came from it. Good old mother nature showing us what she's made of. She's a beauty, but sure can be a beast sometimes.

March 14, 2011

Catzilla vs Tuna Town

VIDEO #348
Pure Chaos, but fun
This video goes out to Kim and Katana... Kim for coming up with this idea on her birthday (happy super belated birthday) and Katana... being that you're out making the mighty dollar, thought you'd like to see what the little girl is up to. I hope you two can watch together and get a smile after a long days work.

March 13, 2011

Earthquake Memorial Video

VIDEO #347
Song - "Numb (instrumental)" by Linkin Park
Maybe this video is a little cheesy but I thought why not try and show a little empathy towards the recent earthquake victims over in Japan. Quite a tragedy, hopefully all the support will help in a fast recovery. From the shores of Oregon, my heart goes out to you.

March 11, 2011

Pocket Dog Commercial

VIDEO #345
Pocket Dog Informercial Jingles
I was at the grocery store scanning random products and came across frozen corn dogs. Instantly, I needed them. I thought, there's a commercial here somewhere, no problem. So here you have it... Pocket Dogs. If you think about it, not that you would do this, you could do exactly what this commercial is advertising... they're fully cooked!

March 10, 2011

CSI Toys: Bathroom Crime Scene

VIDEO #344
Detective Smith and Officer O'leary Investigation Sounds
Mr. Tarzan has been feeling miserable lately, so miserable he feels his life is going down the toilet. So sad, let's hope the police arrive on time to save him from a horrible decision! I hope this video does not offend anyone, it is meant to be comical... I mean come on, they're toys!

March 9, 2011

Vitamin D

VIDEO #343
Song - "Wonderwall" Performed by Cat Power
Rain is back in the extended forecast here in these neck of the woods so I thought I'd treat myself to a great memory of a hot summer's day at the beach with my favorite girl. These are the days we need in our extended forecast, help us out Mr Roker!

March 8, 2011

There's a Monster in my Basement

VIDEO #342
Person Under the Stairs Mix
It felt in order to switch from the recent comedy genre to a little bit more from the dark side, so here you go... late on a tuesday night, right before bedtime. Good night, sleep tight, don't let the bed bugs bite... and try not to worry about the spooky stranger hiding in your basement (if you don't have a basement, I was told the spooky stranger lurks under beds). Night, night!

March 7, 2011

The Duel

VIDEO #341
Dueling Soundtrack
Today, at high noon, Black Bart and White Willy had a showdown. Who came with the faster hand? Who will get to live another day? Who, man, who!

March 6, 2011

Physical Challenge: Tree Transfer

VIDEO #340
Tree Huggin' Track
Another fun physical challenge video. Sure it might not look too hard, but hey, when you're in front of the computer everyday for almost a year, you loose your super human strength which makes a tree transfer challenge that much harder. My secret? I had a tiger beer before the task. Also, you might notice Beast the Cat also accomplishes her own mini tree transfer challenge. Good job Beast!
Other Physical Challenges: One - Two - Three - Four

March 5, 2011

Smokey the Bear

VIDEO #339
Smokey the Bear Radio Ad from 1977
Smokey the Bear Ads were pretty awesome back in the day and I was wondering why haven't we see him lately? I thought I'd recreate the 1977 radio spot into a low-fi animation for you kids out there to enjoy and help put fear into you at an early age. Humans are destructive and evil to Smokey and his many forest friends so make sure you don't start a forest fire because Smokey will hunt you down!

March 4, 2011

Tiger Beer Commercial

VIDEO #338
Tiger Rock
Having one of those days where you're feeling down? No hope? Life is at its bitter end? Well, before you do anything silly, go out and grab yourself a Tiger Beer! You'll soon feel the strength of 9 tigers, the smell of a wet jungle and free of all your life predators. And it tastes good too!

March 3, 2011

iSandwich

VIDEO #337

The iSANDWICH App Theme Music

The best part of this video was I had a sandwich made after the shoot. I think I'm on to something.... So my buddies and I came up with this idea last summer and thought it'd make for a funny video but forgot all about it until today. So, here it is... the iSANDWICH app for all you "app people." Thanks Alex & Kai for the idea!

Watch the Self Eating Sandwich (Video #004)

Watch Video in HIGH DEFINITION

March 2, 2011

Wine-Os

VIDEO #336
Song - "Red, Red Wine" by UB40
Thanks to my buddy Brian, I and a handful of other fortunate friends, tasted an oh, so delicious 1982 Opus One which might have ruined me for good on buying three buck chuck (Charles Shaw). Thanks so much for sharing Brian!

March 1, 2011

The Drought

VIDEO #335
Happy Drought Music
Yesterday was so fun going out in the freezing cold, showering in the rain, that I thought maybe I'd find a way to do that again today. Not that Portland will have a drought anytime soon, when the day comes, here is the stock video that all the news stations will buy. Brrrrrrrrrrr..... hot shower!