Alex's Blog

Juno's Awesome Thingy

2009-04-06T21:09:00.004+02:00

I AM STEALING THIS FROM MY FRIEND JUNO!

(Check out her awesometastic blog)

i am quite sure that i am slowly
but definitely, ruining
any chance of you
ever liking me
as much as
i like you.
just by
being
alex.

/sadface

PAiX

Sestra Peacock

2009-03-03T02:16:00.011+01:00

Alex loves his sister missionary; look at how amazing she is.

This was her on Christmas day sporting her Christmas present.

"And last p-day, we went to Ptuj for Pust! Okay, so the carnival was actually on Sunday, so we kind of missed the big stuff, but it was still super fun. We went and had to find some Kurents. They wear these big costumes made of sheep's wool with big cowbells aroudn their waists. We heard them a few times around town and tried to chase them down, but lost them. Then finally we found them and got to take pictures with them, so our excursion to Ptuj for Pust was complete! Except we still needed fresh krof. They're like beignets pretty much, but just with powdered sugar on top and thicker."

Andrea's first Baptism; FRANJO!

PAiX

Zionism = Racism

2009-02-06T08:07:00.017+01:00

Why are we allowing this atrocity to continue unoticed? Why will none of our politicans stand up for whats right and break all ties with Israel?

As a gentile, am I to really help the people who did this?

No...

The current Israel is not the one prophesied about in scripture; it can't be.

Just today; more civilan deaths in an already shattered Gaza.

PAiX

Tamar "Purified"

2009-01-24T08:28:00.007+01:00

Call him what you will, a girl, a woosy, freak, but Alex still likes this song by Tamar.

Tamar "Purified" from Ramon Boutviseth on Vimeo.

PAiX

Marriage Is Carnage

2009-01-08T06:15:00.023+01:00

Alex here...

I recently had an encounter with a distressed girl. What was she distressed about? Why marriage of course. Sadly, this is not the first time I've run into this situation or similar ones unto it. This individual had freshly turned 25 and was reflective upon her life thus far and into the future. She was concerned that she was not yet wed, nor had prospect in the foreseeable future. What has our society done to cause this? Why so much anguish from and for those not married at 30? It's as if all hope is gone once a 3 is added to the beginning of your age. Like my previous entry, I'm enraged by this negligence.

I'm pretty sure it's common knowledge that I 'm often abroad, and have a special place in my heart for Paris. Part of the reason I love Paris so much is due to their sociology. The way the Parisians, and more generally Europeans, interact means so much more than the cheesy and fake way Mormons and Utahan's in particular do. Yeah, they may not appear as friendly as small town Utah, but strangers generally aren't. The relationships they have with others are more meaningful. It's all hunky-dory on the outside in Utah, but beneath that lies deep seated feelings; whether they be jealousy, anger, pride, or even hatred. Meaningful relationships are important, marriage being the top priority in that.

The average age of marriage in France is 31.2 for men, 29.1 for women. This is the general pattern through out the remainder of Western Europe. In Cameroon it's 29.7 for men, 25.2 for women. Again, the general pattern for the majority of the African continent is represented in these figures. In New Zealand, 29.2 for men, 27.3 for women. (That one's for you Junebug.) Iran, 27.7 for men, 23.9 for women. 34.3 for men, 31.7 for women in Canada!

I relate this back to my previous assumption. The later the marriage, the more mature and ready the couple is. The more meaningful and serious the marriage will become. Our simple and unexposed minds are not ready to handle the sacred right of marriage at such a young age; as experienced in so many LDS Utah weddings. I graduated from Orem High School in April, and already, I know of at least three girls engaged to be married within the upcoming months. I'm pretty sure they're all 18 but 19 at the max. This is wrong. Sure, when humans only lived to be 35 marrying at such a young age was not only acceptable, but necessary. However, I'm pretty sure we've progressed beyond this point in our history.

The nice thing about having global acquaintances is that I get perspective on things from other cultures and other points of view. Par example, (like my use of French there?), this Thanksgiving I went to dinner with two new found Polish friends. We discussed everything from the EU to leather boots. The next day I invited one of them, Anna, to visit Rome's sights with me. She did, and we had the opportunity to discuss marriage. She gaffed at the thought of marriage within the teen years. Yet she was even more astounded after she found out that two of the girls on my study-abroad of undergraduate students were engaged to be married. Recently, another one just got engaged since she's been home; not even a month... "How are they ready to raise a family," she asked. "How can they seriously feel mature enough to enter into the vows of marriage?" "Good question", was my subsequent response. How can they? Our simple and inexperienced minds aren't ready for that kind of commitment. The concept of marriage for most European youth is first, nonexistent, and second, so far off into the future, it feels as if we're in Jr. High talking about marriage rather than the university students we are.

I know right now some of you are thinking, "Yeah but...".

I DON'T CARE. I don't care about you mother's cousin's aunt who got married at 19 and lives a happy marriage. I don't care if YOU are married at 19 and happy with it. Of course you are, you're only experiencing the carnal right now. Give it 5-10, then tell me how happy you are.

Of course there are those happy with their young marriage. There are always exceptions to the rule, which is why I hate economics. That being said, the standard and statistics speak for themselves. The vast majority of us are not able to handle such a sacred right of passage at such a young age.I'm going to beating an already dead horse into oblivion by these two points. Considering the LDS notion of eternal marriage, it would seem to suggest the extreme importance of marriage. If you're going to be spending forever with them, and of course I mean beyond the mortal realm, you better like the person a whole lot, and I don't mean for their eyes. I know it's uber cliché, but regardless, it's true. Divorce has provided a scapegoat for people. There's no more real commitment in our society; and yes, I'm part of that. Just yesterday, I made an appointment, and blew it off for something far less meaningless, more fun, nonetheless useless.

This leads me to my second dead-horse point. In the LDS Church we practice what we refer to as the Law of Chastity. Simplified, this law does not allow for sexual relations outside the bounds of marriage. Namely, abstination, and after that, loyalty to your spouse. Due to this, it seems to me as if those within the LDS religion get married earlier for obvious reasons, (namely, raging hormones). I find this lack of self-control in young people disheartening. You're going to have a long married life together. The majority of most people's lives in fact. There will be plenty of time for that later. Enjoy life and have fun while you still can. Marriage is probably one of the best things you could ever do, (not from experience, but hearsay), yet enjoying your youth is too. There's a time and a place for all things, and marriage shouldn't be on the radar until you're ready. There's a reason divorce rate among LDS Utahans is much higher than of those around them. They are marrying for all the wrong reasons; lust being the primary culprit.

I can't wait until I get married; however, for now that concept is shelved. I'm far too young to be thinking about anything in relation to marriage, especially eternal marriage, (marriage after death). There's a reason I find other cultures far superior to ours here in Utah. They've lived for a long time, and realize the right times to do things. Again I say, there's a time and a place for everything. Don't stress about being single at 25, just have fun. The reason you're probably not married yet at 25 is because you're frazzled about still being single. Shut-up and live life. BFD! Just because you're friends and family are all married doesn't automatically require you to do so as well. Quit whining and live life while you can, and how you want to. Create meaningful relations with others. Be serious in commitment, and don't lust. And what's with this. A wife-beater is allowed the rights of marriage over two guys who love eachother 10X as much. Don't even get me started on gay marriage... We'll just stick to hetero today. (PS-Civil Union, not marriage... I just like to get animated.)

Find the average ages globaly for marriage here @:

AGE AT FIRST MARRIAGE

PAiX

A Palestinian State In My Lifetime?

2008-12-30T21:01:00.005+01:00

I awoke this morning to terrible news of Israelis bombing Palestine, again… This sad reoccurrence enraged me to boiling point. I can no longer stand the West’s cowardice in this conflict. We dick around the issue with no real solutions being proposed. I want to see action. I want to see Israel destroyed and the Palestinians returned their homeland. The fact that I hate Israel does not make me an anti-Semite. There are thousands of Jews who march against Israel as well. I just find our white guilt nauseating.

Today Israeli President stated, “None of us can say how long it will take”, and Defence Minister Ehud Barak said Israel, which is blockading Gaza, was gathering ground forces at the frontier and would expand its operation “as much as is necessary”. This is why I side with the Palestinians. Yes, there is mass killing on both sides. Blame is to be spread on all. However, what I find disgusting is that it is the Israeli military killing innocent civilians. The Isaeli President himself stated today that it is, “complicated,” because there are those targeting civilians. Well then, why don’t you order them to stand down?! Or, here’s another idea, don’t initiate the attack in the first place! At least when the Palestinians attack, it’s rouge extremists. The Israeli military openly murders men, women, and children. Just today in Beit Hanoun, in the northern Gaza Strip, two sisters were killed in a air raid as they were taking out the trash near their home, medical workers said. Later a security man was killed in a strike on a headquarters in Khan Yunis and Israeli missiles flattened five ministerial buildings and a structure belonging to the Islamic University in Gaza City! They don’t care what they hit, as long as it’s Muslims dying. We’re blinded to the GENOCIDE occurring by Holocaust guilt.

I’m sick of politicians not doing a single thing as year after year, hundreds of innocent Muslims and Arabs alike are killed. Everyone is too afraid to stand out against Israel for fear of reparations politically, degradations socially, or any other manner of self-destruction. Even my current hero, Barack Obama, realized what not going to pro-Israeli events would do to his campaign and career. This atrocity must end! Palestine must be set free, whether or not we consider Hamas to be a terrorist organization. They’re only terrorizing Israel for their freedom, which we stole out of white guilt!

Many propose peace, a bi-lateral state, meaning the two live together in coexistence with equal rights, (BS), all under the Israeli flag. Even now they try it, but the Israelis could care less. They step on the human rights of other to accomplish their means. For example, just last month, I watched a report on Al Jazeera TV. In it, a report was given about housing in the West Bank. Arabs had been given this specific portion of land for farming, living, etc. Just last year, several Israeli apartment complexes were put upon the land. The farmers had legal documents in Arabic, English, and Hebrew, but no one cared. This trampling of supposed “equals” makes me extremely distressed. A unified Israel will never work. How many times has peace been tried in the region. Every time they agree upon it, Israel breaks the treaty and bombs the living crap out of their Arab compatriots. No more must our guilt or fear of repercussions stand in the way.

Instead we must create two states, and break our alliance with the Israeli’s. Without the U.S. backing them, politically, economically, and primarily militarily, they would crumble within the year. This would not only create relative peace within the region for years to come, but ultimately, it would improve our standing with the Middle East beyond immeasurable means. Beyond that, when polled today, most Israeli's and Palestinian's want a seperate state.

FREE GAZA, DOWN WITH THE ISRAELI STATE! WE MUST NO LONGER BE BLINDED BY OUR GUILT AND FEAR OF THE PAST! NO MORE PAMPERING THE JEWS FOR PAST WRONGS! THEY MUST DEPEND ON THEMSELVES TO SURVIVE! A FREE PALESTINE IS POSSIBLE! DEMAND A SHIFT IN THINKING!

PAiX

Alex:The Trend Setter-Not Really...

2008-12-09T12:41:00.007+01:00

Cheers to Elyse for this questionnaire game who's @:

http://elysehawks.blogspot.com/

1. Where is Alex's cell phone?

In Alex's suitcase in his Parisian appartment; He's on Crete.

2. Where is Alex's significant other?

Exact location unknown, but somewhere in the Belgian or Dutch region. Or it could possibly be that Polish ice skater he hung out with in Rome.

3. Alex's hair color?

Dirty Blonde in Greece, Dark Brown in Utah

4. Alex's mother?

The world's number one art historian in Northern female artists.

5. Alex's father?

Get's on his nerve's alot, but loves him regardless.

6. Alex's favorite thing?

Barack Obama or Olympique Marseille

7. Alex's dream last night?

Alex has not remembered a dream since he was a child. He has only ever remembered two or three in his lifetime.

8. Alex's dream/goal?

Married to a European, and ambassador to France.

9. The room Alex's in?

A smoky but exciting cafe in a desolate town of Crete.

10. Alex's hobby?

Stain glass production.

11. Alex's fear?

Intimacy & Dick Cheney.

12. Where does Alex want to be in 6 years?

In Paris with his Polish/Dutch/Belgian wife and kids.

13. Where was Alex last night?

On a rocky yet gorgeous beach of Crete's northern coast.

14. What Alex isn't?

Forgiving, shy, humble or awesome.

15. One of Alex's wish-list items?

A girlfriend.

16. Where Alex grew up?

Orem, with Paris being his second home and attended some school in Vienna.

17. The last thing Alex ate?

Lamb Gyros.

18. What is Alex wearing?

Short beach shorts, leather sandals, and a traditonal Greek light cotton shirt.

19. Alex's TV?

His computer screen.

20. Alex' Pet(s)?

A lot of Greek stray dogs and cats, but used to have a goldfish for SEVERAL years.

21. Alex's computer?

Whatever this cafe has...

22. Alex's mood?

Flirtatious & Laidback

23. Missing someone?

His sister missionary whom he won't see for over 3 & 1/2 years; and his Polish girlfriend.

24. Alex's car?

His pair of Saucony's and occasionaly his Schwin road bike.

25. Something Alex is not wearing?

Underwear.

26. Favorite store?

Gamestop or Insport

27. Alex's summer?

Was spent going to school, yipee...

28. Love someone?

Kind of self-explanitory after reading the rest of the answers.

29. Alex's favorite color?

OM Blues

30. When is the last time Alex laughed?

20 minutes ago watching Buster Bluth from Arrested Development curse out his mother.

31. Last time Alex cried?

He would be a macho and say men don't cry; but since I'm typing, last week, about...

I now award the following 6 people the "I Love Your Blog Award":

ANNA:
http://thelongsmellysock.blogspot.com/

JUNO:
http://junoluvsu.blogspot.com/

MCKENZIE:
http://kenzierosaline.blogspot.com/

KELSEY:
http://kelssoel.blogspot.com/

LAUREN:
http://www.lauh-ren.blogspot.com/

MARK (THE SOLE GUY):
http://markus-hoki.blogspot.com/

ALEX CONTEMNO ROMA! (Alex Hates Rome)

2008-12-03T12:37:00.013+01:00

Well, yet another tremendous week for Alex. Yes, it's been more than a week's time since he last updated, but he is in freaking Europe; get off his case! Wouldn't you rather have him out enjoying, rather than sitting in a hotel making you jealous? Regardless, he is a horrible record keeper, and needs some sort of account of his incredible experiences.

After leaving Paris on a night train, he arrived in Rome at approximately 12:30, 3 and a half hours after the arrival time on the ticket. Well, the Italians were sure not off to a good start, and things only got worse. The metro was packed to the brim, and about a mile and a half underground. It took a full 5-10 minutes to surface onto the street. Mind you, the smell of urine, smoke, puke, poo, and every other putrid bodily odor permeated every man, woman, child and dog throughout the city. He then waits with these disgusting human beings at a bus stop outside the Metro. As per usual, the Italian bus didn't have a schedule, and showed up about a half an hour later. Due to fat people crowding the bus with luggage, there was simply no more room to ascend onto the bus. So he waited yet again for another half-an-hour until the next bus came; mind you, it's not on schedule, because there is none!

He shoves himself and luggage onto the already stuffed IECO bus. It was here that two larger than life, loud, obnoxious Italian women shove in behind him. Now, there's little red triangles on the ground, showing the path of the doorway when it opens and closes. Alex was already pushing the boundaries, only because he'd already waited for another bus. These two fatties were blocking the doors from closing. Alex leaned as far in as possible. This didn't help as their bellies and cleavage was flung all over Alex who was trying his hardest to stay away from the odorous women. To make matters worse, yet another woman louder than the rest hustled her way onto the steps. As the doors began to power shut, these women were squeezed evermore upon Alex. The doors were moaning from the strain they were forced into. They refused to close with the obese women in their path. They would move in and out, in and out, in and out, at about a 10mm interval. They never even made it halfway. The driver said nothing as he looked on, almost laughing under his breath. The ladies began screaming at the other passengers. Alex was confused as to their anger. He was the one who should have been angry. He waited over an hour for a bloody bus, and then they have the gall to yell at him and others for not scooting in when already at their limits? "Who in the world do they think they are?!" The doors continued to moan back and forth, back and forth until the fatty nearest Alex, shoved him as he fell over his suitcase, She fell on top of him, allowing the door to finally groan shut after about 5 minutes of struggle. As he stirred, he realized that without stepping on about 20 feet, he would have to be on his toes until the bus was relived of some of its baggage. After about thirty minutes of hell on his tippy-toes, the bus pulled onto a jam packed freeway.

He was told to take the first stop once on the freeway. The bus pulled off to the side of the road on the freeway. "This couldn't possibly be it," Alex thought to himself. "What kind of bus stop lets off on the freeway? There wasn't even a sidewalk." Regardless, he got off the bus with several others and realized that there was a sidewalk, but on the other side of the highway barrier. He was forced to jump the barrier in order to reach it. What kind of ghetto city was Rome? He was semi-grateful to be off that gosh-forsaken bus though.

Ancient Rome turned out to be magical. It's stunning to see the immense history that this city once held. It truly has a democratic and inspiring feeling. The Italian stuff was really crummy however.

All-in-all, Rome is the worst city in Europe. It's a filthy, morally dirty, pigeon-infested, polluted, amputee-filled, smoky, and immigrant beggar haven. I really wish modern Italians could take a thing or two from their ancient past that they claim is so great. It's true that Roma was incredibly productive, academic, intellectual, inspiring, but now? The people are boorish and crude, but not in a cute way. Alex saw more women's butts pinched and squeezed than he'll ever need to. Female are so objectified. They dress up gorgeously, but half of them look like a cow's behind. I like the open Mediterranean lifestyle. The Greeks for example, are incredible people. But these fools are lame. Their good food isn't even theirs! Pasta and pizza come from Asia! Modern Italians have nothing to offer, absolutely nothing.

Nearly two-thirds off the peninsula is still run by the mob. How can they claim to be a western, fair, democratic society?! A couple of months ago, they didn't even have a government. There was absolutely no one in power due to a transition in power. The country could/should have turned to chaos, but fortunately, the citizenry is so close to being retarded, they didn't even notice. Italy sucks.

It wasn't all bad however. He did meet two really nice people, (one of them being very cute). Ironically, they weren't Italian, but Polish down for a conference. He spent his Thanksgiving with them in the cool, (ancient), part of Rome. One of them was a brilliant ice skater. She was number one in Poland, and won second place in a bunch of European competitions. The other is currently teaching English to school children. Afterwards, he got some traditional Italian, (Asian), food with them. It was, mediocre at best. Thanksgiving turned out to not be so horrible with them. They were very fun and cute! As soon as they e-mail him the pictures, he'll post them here.

Here's some pictures from the disaster.

Here is the Apollo Belvadire.

This dude is getting his entrails pulled out... Yet another saint being martyred.

This cat was so scary. I was sitting there eating lunch, and it appeared out of nowhere. It suddenly appeared in the corner of the building; it must have jumped, but I think, it appeared out of nowhere, seriously, some crazy stuff...

This is the Marie della Poppolo square. Alex will post his Angels and Demons tour experience later!

More of Marie della Poppolo...

An upwards look at the incredibly old but stunning Parthenon roof.

There was a French chapel in Rome. I thought it was wierd that Joan of Arc, (pictured below), was in an Italian church. She saved France, not Italy. I thought it was odd too that the Fleur-de-lils was everywhere. Then I found out that it was for French members.

Thanks for reading! Let Alex know how much you hate Italy too!

Election Night-Harry's Bar

2008-11-08T14:22:00.005+01:00

Well, Alex had a lot of fun this week. It was a great week. He saw Normandy, (D-Day), but most importantly, he watched history unfold on Tuesday night/early morning as Barack Obama soundly defeated his Republican opponent, John McCain.
It was a glorious moment for Alex, and he was sure to live up every minute of it. He headed to Harry's Bar, the oldest American bar in Paris, at around 10 o'clock. Results wouldn't start coming in until way after midnight. He was proudly wearing an Obama t-shirt and was carrying a placard as well. The second he stepped onto Rue Daunou, he was an instant celebrity. He held up his sign with pride as people cheered him on through the massive crowds of people. His ultimate goal was Harry's bar, in the middle of the small Rue. It was here that every president for the last 80 years had been polled as winning in the straw poll held there; and this night was no exception. Obama won the straw vote 272 to 170.

It took Alex forever to get through the massive crowds of people. Everyone wanted their picture with him, and he was just eating it up. Drunk and high alike, he posed for everyone. There were some cute girls to say the least; two of which are featured below...

He of course made some new Facebook friends including the one on the right; not the drunk guy with the beer.

At one point during the night, Alex came up on the rafters surrounding Harry's Bar. This was to keep out the common uninvited folk. Well, with the help of his friend David, Alex was boosted up on to the rafters, which erupted the whole street in cheers. He got O-BAM-A cheers going as well as YES-WE-CAN! It was super intense. The rafters can be seen below. Watch the movie at 4:40, you'll see him the 2nd time on the rafters. Unfortunately, it lost it's cool the second time around, but a reaction none-the-less, albeit a weak one...

USA UN MINISTRE AU BAR AMÉRICAIN
par latelelibre

He went to a party at Porte Maillot as well; even bigger and more people! On the way there, he met up with two girls studying abroad while sailing under Paris on the Metro. They, being the political geekies such as Alex, were on their various electronic devices checking constantly. One showed the other her phone, and they both immediatley received looks of horror. Alex informed them that he did not want to hear any results. He simply wanted to party as if Barack won. That way if Obama did end up winning, Alex would have nothing to regret; he lived out history spectacularly. If McCain won, (WHY IS MCCAIN NOT A SPELLING ERROR BUT BARACK OBAMA IS!? RACIST COMPUTER!), he would have just had a great night out on the town. Either way, he was making the best of it, and cared not for results till the morning after.

Eventually, he staggered out onto the street at around 3' AM. The street was still packed with people, enamored by Obama, however somewhat diminished. As the Metro was closed already, he began his trek home, dreaming of Obama's acceptance speech that he'd be giving in a few hours...

The next morning, he woke up to papers filled with Obama's face in them! We'd done it, Alex had helped reclaim the White House!

Beyond that, Alex saw himself in Euronews, TF1, LCI, Express.fr, LCP (France's C-SPAN), and countless other things. He'll post the links below. It was a marvelous night for America. Yet, he realized we still have a lot of work to do to fix our nation. Thanks to the previous generation's errors, we now find ourselves in severe debt, and continued destruction of our world, both physically and culturally. We must reverse this cycle if we're to have hope for our own children. Together, we must dig in and build not only America, but the world. Continued laziness will lead to our ultimate destruction. The time is now, we are the ones. Obama provides us with opportunity and hope to fix the future; but it's going to take work.

Regardless, it was an amazing week for Alex.

Links:

Euronews:
L'Express.fr:
YouTube #0:
YouTube #1:
YouTube #2:
YouTube #3:
Challenges.fr:

LaTeleLibre.fr:
Radio Interview (RTL):
VPodTV:

If anyone comes across this post who was there that night, and saw Alex, leave him a message or e-mail Alex at alnpeacock@gmail.com.

PAiX

You Can Vote However You Like

2008-10-27T11:37:00.001+01:00

You know, I hate to stereotype; but the funny thing about these kids is that all of their parents are voting for Barack Obama. Not only because they're black, but because their intellectuals too if their kids go to Ron Clark. Bravo to them though for involving themselves. I also find the one white kid hilarious.

PAiX

E-Bay Auction:Pencil Shavings

2008-08-12T06:19:00.000+02:00

First off, I would like to thank you for taking the time to read this. It is vitally important, and may change your life in ways that you had never imagined before. I appreciate your time, and if you get to the end thinking to yourself, “What is this guy talking about,” at least you will have worked your brain and heart a bit by reading an impressive essay full of emotion. I might as well start off with the reasoning behind my selling of this incredible multiuse object. I just recently started my university career and am already low on the greenbacks. Keep in mind that it is only the summer semester, meaning everything from tuition, to books, to my apartment rent is substantially less expensive than it will be in a couple of weeks. If my bank account is already running low now, imagine the rest of my college life. Suppose my financial path continues down the path it has already started on. I fear college will be a relatively short-lived experience. Furthermore, I’m going to be attending school in Paris during the fall semester. Due to several factors, the U.S. Dollar’s value has plummeted and is dropping ever more increasingly these days. Basically, Europeans are grinning from ear to ear, traveling across the globe, while American citizens, such as me, cry anytime they purchase anything, not to mention buying things outside of the country. It is not going to be cheap, and therefore I need all the assistance I can get. My excursion to Europe is the primary reasoning behind this e-bay business. Considering the fact that I am a full-time student this summer, I refused having a job on the side. I decided that I would not fail out my first semester, maybe later, but not now. For this reason alone I am trying to get as much help in getting over there and surviving. You can do this for me. Unlike other nonprofit organizations where you often do not literally see benefits of your donations, you will be able to see me experiencing Europe the way it is meant to be experienced. You will know that your dollars are benefiting a hardworking student, who will return that profit into society.

Now, you might be asking yourself, “What’s so great about a bag full of pencil shavings?” Let me inform you of several valuable uses that this product is capable of.

Alternative Pepper-Spray: Do you ever go running late at night? I’ve noticed as I came to campus, there are thousands of students trying to stay in shape and not gain the dreaded freshman-fifteen. The easiest way to do this aside from bulimia or anorexia is running. A college student’s life is extremely busy, and there really is not time for anything other than the vital things such as spending time with the opposite sex. Subsequently, running is saved for really late at night. This, especially for females is extremely dangerous. In our modern world, we have come up with several ways to prevent kidnapping, rape, or simple harassment; the most commonly used of course being pepper spray. Seriously, I don’t even know where to get that kind of stuff; do you? This is a simple and easy solution. Merely tie this to your drawstrings or put it in your pocket as you head out for you nightly run. When halted by an unwanted visitor, easily throw a handful of the shavings directly into the eyes of the predator. This will prevent you from becoming their next victim. Your actions will teach them a lesson long-deserved.

Packaging Material: Those who move often know what a pain it is to run out of packaging materials right in the middle of a stressful move. Yet, it happens nearly every time. There never seems to be enough room, boxes, tape, or those fun little white Styrofoam peanuts. No more problems if you purchase my bag of perfectly shaped pencil shavings. The bag is perfectly sized for those small delicate items you deem as extremely fragile yet important. Simply place the precious item within the bag and then secure the bag. It is as straightforward as that. Protect all the little things that mean so much in all of our lives. It’s the little things that count right?

Party Confetti: We all love to partaa! Maybe we all don’t, so this particular use would not be valuable for an individual that would rather enjoy a good novel. However, that’s what makes this product so great, its multiuse purposes. A person like that would possibly want to skip this one use, and continue on in discovering a whole new world within this versatile product. Got a New Year’s gathering coming up, and can’t find that extra sack of colored and shredded paper anywhere? Well, pull out your food coloring, squeeze a few drops of a color of your choosing into my product, shake it all up, and voila! Confetti that would make even the ancient masquerade parties in Italy proud. There are several benefits of choosing this product over the typical paper we always see. First and foremost, it is much more environmentally friendly. Conserving and reusing resources is becoming ever more necessary in our squandering modern world. It reuses rather than destroying trees for new less effective confetti. Secondly, it is much more effortless to clean up over the traditional confetti. Paper grabs a hold of the carpet fibers and refuses to let go when being vacuumed. Shavings practically leap into the inhalation of the vacuum. Lastly, it is customizable. You choose the color combo, you choose the amount, and you choose everything else in between.

The Vomit Picker-Upper: We’ve all seen it; we’ve all almost lost our own when viewing someone else’s that’s misplaced on the floor. I’m talking of course, about vomit. It is the atrocious substance our body sometimes forces out of us due to various means. There is no one who likes to look at it, touch it, or experience it in any manner. Here’s where my product comes in extremely handy. When your little child gets the upchucks after eating something atrocious, don’t get mad. Just simply pull out your bag of shavings, and throw them on the mess. Surround the barf, let it sit and absorb for a few minutes, and then it’s ready for cleanup. Simply sweep up the reaming mess without all the goopieness involved. It’s fast and much less painful for you. No one likes to see vomit, nonetheless clean it up. With my product, it makes that part just a little bit easier.

Source of Fiber: We all need to clean out our systems every once and a while. Those arteries and various organs in our bodies get clogged with years of use. The easiest and most simple way to both cure and prevent future problems in this area, fiber is the way to go. Simply mix the shavings in with your morning shake, stir it into a salad, or simply just give your kids an after-school snack. It will ensure that those fatty acids causing problems in you to be excavated. Nutritionists are constantly recommending more fiber in everyone’s diet, and what better way than directly from the source.

Chicken Feed: This product is not only beneficial to the health of humans, but our flying friends as well. Actually, chickens don’t fly, but my shavings will ensure that they get that much closer to doing so. Surprisingly, chickens need many of the same nutritional benefits people need. Farmers everywhere are in dire need of a new source of fiber for their birds. This product has been tested by a neighbor of mine who has a handful of chickens himself. He noticed an immediate shift in the chicken’s behavior after feeding the shavings to his own birds. Better eggs, offspring, and generally more meaty as well. It’s a potential breakthrough in the chicken feed world. Simply blend the shavings with the feed of your choice, and you’ll have vigorous chickens running around and laying more eggs than ever in no time.

Pranks, Hoaxes, Etc.: Now, as listed there are several uses for my mind-boggling little bag of pencil shavings. However, there isn’t room enough for me to mention them all here. Many of the uses fall into this category, and therefore, I grouped them all together. There was an episode of the Andy Griffith show where greasy saw dust was packed in an old car's engine to give the temporary appearance that the car sounded like it was smooth running and new. Pencil shavings do this, but more effectively than your average carpenter’s trash. You could dirty your friend’s room as a joke. You could use it as a cushioned ball. Or, if you simply want a souvenir from Brigham Young University, it makes the perfect object to symbolize the hardworking school it is. Every time you look at it, you’ll think of the student you have helped continue his schooling. You’ll think of the hard work he’s doing wearing those pencils down. There are thousands of other creative ways to use your bag of shavings, but I’ll leave that fun part up to you!

This product has amazing versatility. It’s always customizable, and can be used in any creative manner you desire. Purchasing this product will ensure that you don’t have to fruitlessly waste your own pencils in order to create your own shavings. My product is guaranteed perfection for whatever your shaving needs may be. I guarantee you’ll get it, and that it will serve you well in the future. As I close this description, I would ask you to remember what you are doing this for. Remember the poor college student just trying to get the most out of his experience while he is in school, and while he is still young and able. This is not for me; it is for the future of a young man who will return it tenfold into society. When you buy this product, you’ll feel just as good as you did when you bought that first car. It’s a great product, for an even greater purpose.

First Kiss

2008-08-04T07:18:00.001+02:00

Why are girls so lame? Man, I had the worst first kiss ever. Everyone is supposed to have this ideal first kiss, with someone you love and have hopefully been on more than one date with.

So, I met this girl at Campus Plaza the other day. I was really pissed at these girls in my complex because they were playing with me like a Barbie doll. I therefore decided to go and hang out with my cousin Trent at his place. He was chatting it up with people at his place. He went and played basketball and I just sat on a nearby bench. A girl came and sat next to me, but I wasn’t into it that night. I was still pretty angry about the earlier actions going on in my life. I refused to say anything, but that didn’t stop her. She had a quick phone conversation with someone. As soon as she hung up the phone, she immediately began the ever common and oh so courteous greeting.

“So do you live here?”

“No. I’m just over here hanging out with my cousin Trent, who lives here.”

“Oh… Where do you live?”

“*Sigh* Do you know where Sparks is? I live right behind Gold’s on 9^th...”

Eventually, after a relentless volley of questions, I stopped being a butt hole and just began conversing with her about her future to the movie she saw last week, and everything else in between. Before I knew it, four hours had come and gone and it was suddenly dark. Trent had long since returned to his apartment. He had even come and given me the code to his apartment because he was leaving and my bike was still in there. As the night was winding down, (due to class at eight in the morning), she asked me for my number.

To this day, I regret giving out that number. She was extremely ditsy and wasn't a great conversationalist in my mind; and I saw it from moment one. However, it had just been a while since a girl had dug me. (Who are you kidding Alex? It was the first and only girl that has dug you…). At about 2:30 in the morning, she texted me about three times without receiving a single response from me. Come on girl, I’ve got class. To get her off my back, I invited her to some lame movie I was going to watch the next day at a friend’s house for the BYU Democrats, of which I am an officer. That ended the night finally with me being more tired than usual in class the following day.

I told her I would call her later with the time, but that I thought it would be around 7:30. She kept texting, and I was in the library all day where I don’t get service. I then told her I would call her after my HEPE test, which I needed to focus all my attention on due to me bombing the previous tests. I eventually got home at around 7. I hopped in the shower cause I didn’t want to drive her completely away. Once I got out, I checked my e-mail to find the time and address for the movie. It turns out it had started at 7. I called her and explained the situation informing her that I would come over and we would find something else to do.

I ran over there, literally due to the fact of me not having a car. I was in my clothes that I had gone to school in believing that I was just going to chill with her. Turns out she had something quite different in mind. As she opened the door, I felt like the crap of the earth. She was all snazzed up and here I was in a sweaty cross-country t-shirt, a filthy pair of shorts, and a destroyed pair of Birkenstocks. My jaw dropped at the sight of her. Whoops…

I then awkwardly started a random conversation about her day; not listening to a single word of it as I became flustered at what to do now. I couldn’t just be like, "Hey, let's go play Frisbee with my friends." Nope, she was expecting something much much more. Well, after about ten minutes of, “Oh crap, what now”, she decided to go get sushi. I hate sea food, absolutely hate it… Plus, I’ve never had sushi in my life. She drove, (awkward), and we got there and waited in line for about a half an hour.

When we were finally seated, we began conversing again and I tried to get into my groove. I was totally unprepared. Going on a date takes some preparation on my part, and I’m not talking about planning the date. I literally write down topics for conversation. (Yeah, that's how horrible a date I am...) I was not in my game.

After I swallowed down some of the most atrocious matter this planet has procured from its bowels, she went to the bathroom, (I’m not surprised as to why…). I texted Brittany, my cousin. I told her the story and how I needed to get out of this horrible situation but couldn’t. She responded telling me to get off the phone and pay attention to her… Thanks Britt, I thought you had my back. I was going to 911 Britt but not now, she wasn't going to call and bail me out of this one. After we left the restaurant, (we were the last ones to leave); we began our stroll up Center Street in downtown Provo. We got up to the ghetto part, crossed the street, and headed back. It was clear what she desired that night. I didn’t know what to do. In high school, I had never so much as worked with a girl, none-the-less kissed one. I can’t give hints, nor receive them. Therefore, I just have to drop A-bombs on the girl. I basically tell them what’s up, but never actually go for anything. I’ve never held a girls hand, how am I supposed to make my way up the love chain to kissing her. She asked me if I wanted to hold her hand. *Crap…* We made our way across University Avenue. We took a bench in front of the county courthouse, the very place where I’d hosted war protests. I discussed this and innumerable amounts of other topics trying to distract away from the situation. I was such a little girl. I couldn’t stop giggling. We both knew what was going to happen, I just couldn’t… I debated with myself for approximately forty-five minutes gaining the courage to go for it. I would turn and look in her eyes. She stared right back. Her eyes seemed to pierce mine. I would get all pumped, and then look over there and pull back. Her eyes would not move away from mine. She was just waiting, and would have all night I presume. I would get right there on the verge, and then not finish.

[I would like to digress here for a second. I've been thinking about it a lot latley, and when it comes to dating and relationships, the guys have it so much harder. First and foremost, girls are way to "thinky". They read way too much into things and not enough when we're trying to drop hints. Secondly, I think it's completley bogus that we always have to do the work. We have to ask them out. That's a heck of a lot harder then saying yes or no. Then, when it comes to other things like kissing, we have to initiate it, and either feel like a fool if rejected or go for it. Dating for guys is 10x worse than it is for girls. Life's just unfair I guess. Anyways, back to the story.]

She was a stone-wall. She would not look away. Even as my head was turned away from hers, I could feel her glaring stare on the side of my neck. We were snuggled together and I couldn’t escape the situation without making an absolute retard of myself.

It’s like cliff diving. You just have to jump the second you get to the top. There’s no time or room for thought. The longer you think, the more you hesitate, and eventually give up. I kept asking stupid questions like, "Do I close my eyes", "Do you", "How long should I stay there", and "Are we going Hitch style here- 90-10," knowing well the answer to all of these, but simply trying to draw time. I would tell her that 90-10 was not fair and she would say, “Fine, how about 80-20,” jokingly. Wow, didn’t know there was negation when it came to kissing.

I couldn’t stop sniggering for about 45 minutes. Finally, I got to the edge and just went for it. It was snipe, soft, swift, and eventually a complete waste of time. The worst part of it all was when I pulled back, I said “Nice,” all cool and lame. Nice? Don’t say anything idiot! She reluctantly gives me a high five, as if this were some athletic accomplishment. Smooth move exlax. Let’s try again. It takes awhile to regain from the previous disaster. This one’s a bit longer and harder, yet ultimately still ineffective. I don’t get it, why do people like this so much? It kinda sucks, I’m not going to lie… Then it hit me, I didn’t love this chick. I was letting the physical side control me rather than the logos. I asked her what I needed to do considering she was the older and a far more experienced person in this matter. She then said, (after a couple more experimental kisses to see if I could get it right,) “If you’re going to French me, then open your mouth…” Umm… are you serious. I really didn’t want to go there considering the fact that I had just done so many firsts already and was completely overwhelmed. First hand-hold, cuddle, caress, and eventually kiss too. I played it off as cool as I could saying something like, “Oh, let’s save that for later. Plus, you do realize we just both ate sushi?” Wow, smooth Alex, real smooth… After that it was pretty much over, and my first kiss had been, nothing special. For all the hype, it really wasn’t that cool. I realized then, the physical part of a relationship is only exciting if you truly love the person.

Thanks for reading all the way to the bottom if you did. Alex appreciates it and comments you have.

PAiX

Letter to a Friend

2008-07-10T07:38:00.001+02:00

Here is a five minute rage I had on this kid's Facebook wall. I wrote a comment in a Soldier Support group on the website, which was not derogatory to our troops or their service in any manner. Then, a friend that is a Marine posted this:

I have been in the Marine Corps for over 8 months now, but i have not served any tours to Iraq. First of all Alex, The reason we chose to do this IS for the blood of are Brothers, yes it would be nice if they could all come home but WE choose and chose to join the armed forces for this very reason, and the danger is not senseless, its only becomes so as soon as its not supported by the people.
LET us do what we train to do, that would be the best way to show that we love us, to let us show that we love you all. WE FIGHT FOR YOU, so others can tuck there kids in at night, so others don't have to wipe the blood of their comrades from their weapons.

Semper Fi
PFC Cuevas
P.S. Army are Solders

After several degrading and provoking comments left on my wall by him, I finally responded instead of ignoring him any longer. Here's my subsequent response on his wall:

Listen, I'm not trying to provoke argument; but since you seem so intent on fighting, I'll indulge. Grammatical errors aside... It was still a dumb comment. It IS an unnecessary danger. Yeah, we've caught some bad guys, but unnecessarily killed thousands of Americans, and even more civilians in the mean time. You're right, you're trained beyond belief for this kind of action, but it's only to be used at appropriate times. Just because you're trained to fight, doesn't mean you have/need to. Just because the power of the Priesthood allows us to move mountains, doesn't mean it's necessary or required of us to exhort our tremendous power in that way. You can show us that you "love" us by being home and supporting your families, not out killing or destroying other families. I'm positive we'd all be tucking in our kids at night regardless of going to Iraq. How many dangers have we thwarted? How many WMD's have we found? Yet, at the same time, how many families have we broken up? How much worse off is the Iraqi nation now? No power, water, or stable government! What we seem to forget is that freedom must bubble up from the people! Just look to our nation as an example. I know you fight for me, and as I said earlier, there's nothing more honorable or admirable. You don't have to kill others to prove to us your bravery. We don't start wars just so our military doesn't get bored. We fight when provoked, such as in Afghanistan. What threat was in Iraq, huh?! Yeah, Saddam was evil, but guess what, so is nearly every African leader at this point in time. Look at a man like Robert Mugabe of Zimbabwe. You think for one second that Saddam was the biggest threat this nation faced, you're a fool. Why don't we care about Bin Laden? It’s simply due to the fact that he doesn't control a single drop of oil. America's thirst for oil and Bush's craving for money is why we're in Iraq. If we really gave a crap about the Iraqi citizens, we'd be protecting them instead of oil executives. What are the first things our troops surround when they drop into Iraq? Is it one of Saddam's hideouts or palaces? No. Is it any of the KNOWN military bases or powerhouses? No. Is it any of the supposed "WMD" sites? No. It's the oil fields that our troops secured and are securing now. Why aren't we protecting the civilians who we're "giving" freedom? (More like shooting it at them through a barrel of a gun...) Instead, our army is being used as the EPA to ensure the safety of the oil fields. Our soldiers are protecting these multi-million dollar oil tycoons, instead of a family of five, struggling now that there is complete anarchy and a huge civil war occurring as well, (which was initiated by our arrival). Oppression has never been more forceful or prevalent than it is now. We don't give a shiz about what's happening to civilians and you know it. Why do you think soldiers are raping guys in prison and filming a guy's testicles getting bitten off by dogs. NO MATTER HOW EVIL SOMEONE IS, THAT IS NEVER ACCEPTABLE!!!! Yeah, I'm sure Iraqis want freedom when they sit there watching their father being tortured, stripped down, mocked, and killed, even though he was eventually proven not guilty! I'm not blaming the soldiers for this. This blame alone falls into the laps of Dick Cheney, Donald Rumsfeld, and most importantly, King George! They wouldn't be in that position if we weren't there in the first place. I know I sound harsh, but it's out of concern for you and your family. I don't want to see you put in the same position. You can protect us when it's required, but not out of personal desires. Don't think for one second that I don't love this country and its servicemen and WOMEN! I put up a flag every day, and recite the Pledge of Allegiance, and with respect, retire it every evening. You think I take my rights for advantage? WRONG! I love and care about this country more than anything at this point in time. I just want to see your safety, and therefore, stay here. You're not required to sacrifice yourself. Thank you. PAiX

Oh yeah, I can be cocky too.

Alex Peacock
Orem 0-7 Democratic Precinct Chair
Young Utah County Democrats President
BYU Democrats VP
PAiX

Alex Graces the Front Page

2008-06-02T17:43:00.000+02:00

Well, Alex found out that he was on the front page again. Here, take a look.

http://www.heraldextra.com/content/view/268554/17/

Sweet huh?

PAiX

Graduation

2008-06-01T09:26:00.000+02:00

Well, finally Alex has Graduated. He will never again be forced into a public school, (unless it's to vote of course.) Here or some pictures of the great event. He also wanted to let everyone know that he won $50 at his all-nighter party.

PAiX

FFF (French Football Federation)

2008-05-23T05:06:00.000+02:00

Hey y'all! It's been forever since Alex posted or made a video, so he decided to give you both. Here's a video about his spectacular experience at the UEFA Euro Cup Qualifier this summer. It was France vs. Ukraine. To read the whole story read below. Alex is graduating next week and couldn't be more happy! He is extremely tired of high school and can't wait to be through with what he thinks is the most worthless part of his life. He will post pics and videos of it as soon as he's done. (Shameless plug...) Send him money if you want, he really needs it! Anyways, he really appreciates all the help he's received in getting this far. We'll see you soon.

PAiX

The Most Incredibly Amazing Sports Game of All Time

“Soccer’s a girl’s sport…” This is what I hear more often than not when discussing one of my passions; football. All to often do people, especially here in the United States, misjudge the sport that has been a worldwide phenomenon since the late 18th century. I however, have a different opinion about the sport than many of my friends do. When one truly experiences football at its finest, played where its loved and with passion, there are few things that can top it. I have had such an experience at one point in my life.

The train was becoming increasingly more and more crowded with each stop we made. The train was very sparse with people as I got on, as usual, but instead of people getting off the farther out of town we got, more and more were filling the train. By the fifth or sixth stop, there were more people on the train than I had ever seen on this particular train line. I knew what they were all doing there and where their final destination was, but it was still amazing to me to see the amount of people packed on this regularly empty train.

This train line was going to the Stade de France, a gargantuan stadium built for the 1998 FIFA World Cup, (a football event), right outside of Paris. It houses over 200,000 fans. The majority of the crowd on the train, had the same destination as I. With every individual that boarded the train, the more and more my heart began to pump with enthusiasm. Finally, as soon I started to become claustrophobic yet keyed up, our stop appeared to my right outside the window. As I departed onto the platform, all I saw, was a sea of blue jerseys.

The Stade was not too far in the distance, but I realized that it would take us a substantial amount of time to reach it, simply because of the huge crowds of fans. Along the way we passed several one-day kiosques selling scarves, jerseys, and other French football paraphernalia. Due to a serious problem of procrastination that I have, I did not yet have tickets to attend this event. My father and I figured we would be able to purchase tickets from scalpers along the way to the stadium. Right as we were marching down the train station walkway, we found our man. He was a young sketchy looking guy, and frantically waving tickets in the air. We immediately halted him and questioned him on the location and price of the tickets he was selling. They seemed reasonable, and so we purchased them, only to find out later that they were amazing positioning. We then continued on our walk down to the stadium.

More and more I became spellbound. Never had I seen so many people in one place in my short seventeen years of life. We located the section number on our tickets, and proceeded to find our way around the stadium. We eventually made an almost complete 360 circle walk around the Stade, when I realized we could have just walked about 50 yards instead of 500 yards, through thousands of sober and some not so sober fans. The little walk had not only areobic benefits, but I got to more fully experience the crowds and their traditions. What amazed actually came not from my fans, the French, but the Ukrainian fans. It astonished me that they would come all the way from Ukraine to support these eleven men. It was not just one or two fans however, there were several hundred Ukrainians there drinking and smoking their large pipes. After I got a thorough screening by a large black man, and I mean thorough, we were allowed into the stadium. Immediately I hear the roar of thousands and my stomach filled up with joy which must be weightless because I felt lighter than air with enchantment. We located our seats, and took our places. The seats were not bad at all for scalpers. Just as we sat down, I hear La Marseilles begin.

As the French national anthem was being sung very heartily, a large blue piece of heavy material was being pulled over my head, and across the whole end of our section. I estimated it covered five to six thousand people when it was finally stretched to its full capacity.. This huge object is a large blue Maillot, French for jersey, that is pulled over the North end of the stadium for every game. Never had I heard a national anthem sung quite so loud or with such vigor. I realize now, I had not heard anything yet.

The two teams then entered the stadium on the center of the field. Each player walked out along the center line holing a child’s hand with the center field line representing equality and the child’s hands representing fairness. The kids are escorted off the field after both national anthems are completed, and the players line up according to their position. Instantly, from the battle cry of an uproar, it becomes eerily silent. The referee blows his whistle, and it becomes louder than ever. Now, I figured that this game would be like most games that I had attended before. Whether it be American football, baseball, or basketball, they all quieted down and then got loud when it got exciting. This however, was not the case. While it was not as loud when there were slow parts, that is not to say that it was quiet by any means. There was a constant cheer, chant, song, taunt, rejoicing, whistling, (which is booing in football), or a combination of any of the above. Down four or five rows and to the left a bit was a man dressed in a large rooster costume that was sporting a blue French jersey. He had a large drum that hung off his shoulders. This drum was not without a stick pounding on it for more than ten seconds the entire length of the game. There were several chants and cheers, all of which I remember to this day. While all this was going on in the stands, there was a still a game being played down on the field.

It was shortly before halftime that the first goal of the night came. A nice pass from a midfielder, Nasri, to another midfielder, Ribery, set up a perfect goal. The eruption in the stadium was electrifyingly sensational. Everyone in the stadium had been given a large, not miniature, French flag. As I looked across the stadium, all I saw was a sky full of red, white, and blue dynamically waving to and fro. As we all jumped up and down for the next several minutes, there was a constant shout of joy. I was positive that all of France could hear us, and I knew that they too were up on their feet screaming at their television screens all across the nation. The drums, scattered throughout the stadium, could barley be heard incessantly beating over and over again as the stadium ignited with heartiness. Half time came to a close and another eruption of cheers came forth for the performance of Les Bleus, the nickname for the French team.

During the second half, there was another French goal, which put them two points ahead of the Ukrainians. I did not think it was possible, but at this point, the stadium had reached the height of its decibel level. By the last five minutes, the yellow Ukrainians, knew they could not come up with anything. Their fan section knew it as well. Suddenly, I look up and directly across the stadium and I see six bright red lights. As I look closer, I realize the Ukrainian fans had brought flares. They are generally used in a celebratory act, but they were just providing themselves some last -ditch condolence. The flare is a commonly used spectacle used by fans in European football; the only problem is, the team the fans belong to gets fined a considerable amount of money. They did not care, and neither did I, my team had dominated their’s The final whistle blew, and once again the stadium burst into cheers and yells. I exited the Stade to La Marseilles again. As we were walking down the street back to the train station, random people would start a cheer or chant, and suddenly hundreds of people nearby would chime in providing celebration for hours to come. People were jumping up and down cheering everywhere across the city, and presumably, across France.

Never in my life had I been in a more exhilarating situation. The fans were remarkable, and instantly cherished you if you too were a fan of the French national team. The camaraderie created at these events is absolutely incredible. I have been to exciting sporting events, such as the BYU vs. Utah game last season, but nothing compares to the way they do it in football. There was a force at that game that drew me in instantly, and would make anyone fall in love with the sport and its infatuation.

Stiches...Eww...

2008-05-04T09:17:00.000+02:00

So, Alex got in a bike accident the other day, (Monday). He was riding out to the greenhouse from school during 1st period. After increasing his speed to around 15 mph, he suddenly halted and put to much emphasis on the left handbrake; which controls the front tire. As he was turning to his right, his right foot was the one closest to the ground and his pedal clipped the asphalt. He suddenly flew right over the handlebars. Before he knew it, Alex was in a heap on the ground, not realizing the damage done. As he threw the bike off of himself, seeing as it was atop his backside, he checked for injuries. As he wiped his chin and pulled his hand away, he drew a pool of blood with him.
Not realizing how serious the injury was, he casually parked the bike and went to the front office of school requesting a bandage. As an assistant principal looked him over, Alex was then given a poor report. "You're going to need more than a band-aid for that." Dreadful. The adrenaline had made the injury not appear as bad as it apparently was. Fortunately for the silly boy, he could not review his own injury as he phoned his father to retrieve him. After being cleaned up on the rest of his body, his father arrived and they together proceed to the car.
The father gave no condolences as he proclaimed the truth about the pain his son was soon to endure. The son preferred lies of hope and no pain; yet the father did not deliver. They pulled into the parking lot of the emergency room and together signed in. After a horrid few minutes of "Regis and Kelly", (the show was the horrid part, not the increasing pain as the adrenaline wore off), he was called into the back.
A volunteer took the basic information and led Alex and his father to an open bed. As he lie there awaiting his impending doom, he feared for the worse. The doctor came and reviewed the injury, proclaiming that chins split open all the time and that it would be a simple fixer upper; words which Alex was pleading of his father.
After a few minutes time, another assistant came and removed the gauze and ice now covering the bottom part of Alex's face. As the assistant walked away he said, "I'm not going to tell you what I'm going to get." Alex could only fear for the worst! Then as the assistant returned, to his horror, a gigantic shot, the biggest ever seen to mankind was accompanying our aged assistant. Alex clenched his fist and gut in absolute knotting as the shots were dispersed in what appeared to Alex to be in at least 50 different positions around and inside the wound.
After a few minute's rest following the procedure, the assistant proceeded to poke several areas of the wound with the end of his shot. Alex felt nothing; Hallelujah!
The doctor returned and placed a covering over Alex's face. There was a circular hole placed in the cloth, which surrounded the apparent wound. It was the most peculiar of feeling to Alex as the Doctor sewed the first layer of muscle back together. Rather like a teddy bear would feel when being produced. As the doctor pulled the stitching taught, so to did Alex's chin pull in that direction. It is an odd feeling of being sewn together, yet rather impressive. After what appeared to be 10 minutes the doctor replaced the covering and sat Alex up. He was informed of what not to and to do. He thanked the doctor and signed the forms necessary; seeing as he was now 18 himself.
Now, he just sees the scabbing increase everyday, hoping soon to have a wicked scar!

Day 1

Day 2

Day 3

Day 4

Here are his bloody clothes and other paraphernalia, (no I'm not cursing...).

Shorts- Mind you it was much more terrible, but the blood soaked into this material.

Shirt-which he wore especially for his Daily Herald interview later that day.

There was a huge goop of blood all over his bike before he cleaned it; here's the aftermath.

Handbrake that caused all the damage...

Bike lock

Political Banter III:War Protest

2008-04-08T06:32:00.000+02:00

Here is Alex as he hosted a candlelight vigil on the 19th for the 5th anniversary since the invasion inside the sovereign nation of Iraq. Here are the newspaper reports covering the event.
BYU's preview of the event:
http://newnewsnet.byu.edu/story.cfm/67980
Daily Herald:
http://www.heraldextra.com/content/view/259668/17/
Deseret News:
http://deseretnews.com/article/1,5143,695263155,00.html

PAiX

Snowshoeing and Prom

2008-04-06T08:15:00.000+02:00

Alex apologizes for it being so long since he has posted. He decided to post some photos of his favorite winter activity. He went at night most of the time, but Saturday afternoons work out well too. It pains him to see the snow melting off the mountains, especially since it means that AP tests are coming up for him. He went to Jr. Prom this year as well...I know it was weird for him too. He just registered for 3 classes down at the Y for this summer. Tonight, he saw two of his uncles that he hasn't seen in over a year; Brent (dad's brother) and Roger (mom's brother). The campaign is on a slowdown; but Alex still makes calls to Pennsylvania every once and a while. "I hope everyone is doing great," he wishes for all of you. He wants you to respond to him and tell him all that everyone else is doing.

Political Banter II:Immigration

2008-03-21T00:54:00.000+01:00

"

Thanks for checking up you guys. I haven't posted in a while, sorry. I will soon, I promise!

PAiX

Vlogging

2008-02-28T06:19:00.000+01:00

I'm starting a new profile on YouTube, and starting a vlog. I will continue this one of course, but using the other one as well. Here's my first post.

My username is frenchpeacock.

The url is:

http://www.youtube.com/user/frenchpeacock

Washington DC

2008-02-12T09:23:00.001+01:00

Alex decided it was time for him to upload his DC pictures for everyone. He went to DC in the last week of November, and it was a blast. He would really want to live there for a while sometime. Check out his Picasa album for all the pictures.

Here he is the first night at the Iwo Jima memorial.
Alex stands in respect at JFK's graveside.
Here he is aboard a WWII navy vessel. Probably the 2nd coolest thing in DC was the Navy Museum.
Here is Mr. Miner's favorite food, Chinese. Alex didn't like it that much, but needed food anyways so ate a lot.
Here's the classic picture that every student group takes; looking down the Mall towards the Capitol building.

Here he is at the Capitol. "Chris Cannon, he's coming for you!"

This is him with John Adams, a significantly small memorial. (Not Quincy, Quincy was a douche.)
Here is Alex's favorite thing in DC, the FDR memorial. It is by far the coolest one there. It is all outdoors, and is rather large, but very enjoyable to walk through. It has all four of his term's represented in various ways and a bunch of timeless quotes from the man as well. He also just loves FDR.
Here is his favorite president of all time though. This is JFK's eternal flame. He is burried alongside his children and Jacquie his wife. Just down the hill is his martyred brother Bobby. Jack was an awesome man.
The last night of Alex's adventure. (He snuck out later though.) There is so much to see in DC.

Well, DC was fun, and very exciting for Alex. He wants to go back very soon and take his grandpa to the Navy Museum before he dies. Take a look at more pictures on Alex's DC album in Picasa.

http://picasaweb.google.com/alnpeacock/WashingtonDC

Till next time...PAIX

Elko Endeavor

2008-01-28T04:58:00.002+01:00

Look for Alex in the 3rd video to the left. He is wearing a scarf and blue fleece. He is on the 3rd row. He is taking a picture of Obama at the very first; after the Native American asks a question about the tribes.
Here is Michelle introducing her husband. She is way smart too.

Here is Theo, Nikki, Roger and I in the Elko office; we are celebrating our success in Nevada.

Alex met Michelle and Barack Obama this week. He got a speeding ticket on the way home from Winnemuccu Nevada. He loves his fashion strategies class, (it's pointless). He is setting up Obama for Utah. Obama is coming to SLC on February 2nd. He bought House season 1, and has a minor crush on Dr. Cameron. He went skiing yesterday, and watched Brother Jesperson break his ankle, and sprain the other; he also saw Brother Freestone break his collarbone. He can't wait to see Obama again; but in the mean time he was also called a terrorist, and accused of destroying America for his beliefs by a young men's leader of his. The leader was serious too; maybe Alex should take his yard signs down... Nah! 1st AMENDMENT RIGHT BABY!
PAIX

Obama Campaigning

2008-01-25T05:48:00.000+01:00

Alex has spent the last three weekends in Nevada campaigning. This last week, he helped Nevada's precinct captains run some caucuses in Winnemucca. Also, he got to meet both Michelle and Barack on Friday at Elko High School. Here are some pictures and videos from the eventful weekend.

Ugh... Dances

2008-01-17T07:27:00.002+01:00

2008-01-17T07:15:00.000+01:00

Life continues on for Alex. He is going to go to Elko, Nevada on Friday and will meet Barack Obama. He has spent the last two weekends campaigning for him. He is so physced! He is doing fine in his new semester. He is taking Fashion Strategies which is pretty sweet. 20 girls and Alex, good odds I'd say. He got accepted into BYU last week, and is starting in the summer semester. He can't wait for college. He is so sick of high school and has been for a year and a half; mostly of girls, but nonetheless, school sucks.
PAIX