Lesley posing with some poster Art I had for sell at the last First Thursday event.
He loved the poster! Right before Lesley arrived a gentleman approached me
holding his daughter and told me that his daughter was born early due to Lesley.
His wife was driving down Congress one afternoon and became fixed on Lesley
walking down the road thus causing her to rear end the vehicle in front of her. The
accident put her in labor. I told Lesley he was a God Mother...lol.
He loved the poster! Right before Lesley arrived a gentleman approached me
holding his daughter and told me that his daughter was born early due to Lesley.
His wife was driving down Congress one afternoon and became fixed on Lesley
walking down the road thus causing her to rear end the vehicle in front of her. The
accident put her in labor. I told Lesley he was a God Mother...lol.
Gail and Shepard
sharing a smile at
the Happy Jack fund
raiser!
sharing a smile at
the Happy Jack fund
raiser!
Happy Jack
being himself!
"Happy!"
being himself!
"Happy!"
The Sun setting at the
Thanksgiving Musical Event at
Camp Creek Lake! Sites like this
always leave me with a feeling of
appreciation.
Thanksgiving Musical Event at
Camp Creek Lake! Sites like this
always leave me with a feeling of
appreciation.
This cute little woofer
was waiting patiently
for his Daddy to get out
of the porta' potty at
Camp Creek...lol
was waiting patiently
for his Daddy to get out
of the porta' potty at
Camp Creek...lol
Hambone
harpin' his
tunes at the
Thankgiving
Rehersal
Jam.
harpin' his
tunes at the
Thankgiving
Rehersal
Jam.
1948 Rockin' Tomato Truck!
If you want a "killer
pizza/Calzone" give em' a
call! 447-3351 They deliver in
the South Austin Area!
If you want a "killer
pizza/Calzone" give em' a
call! 447-3351 They deliver in
the South Austin Area!
The booth
was located
behind The
Glass Works
on Congress
Ave.
was located
behind The
Glass Works
on Congress
Ave.
My friend snapped this shot of me
and it gave us all a big laugh! Upon
looking at it we were reminded of
Jack Nicholson poking his beady
little sadistic smile through the ax
beaten door in "The Shining!"lol
and it gave us all a big laugh! Upon
looking at it we were reminded of
Jack Nicholson poking his beady
little sadistic smile through the ax
beaten door in "The Shining!"lol
These are two of the
musicians performing
at Ribo-Raba. The Moon
is on top of the stage
and glows neon blue at
night.
musicians performing
at Ribo-Raba. The Moon
is on top of the stage
and glows neon blue at
night.
South Austin
Raggae
Shakedown at
Ruta Mayas
Raggae
Shakedown at
Ruta Mayas
: )
Freedom
Oaks New
Orleans
event ( :
Freedom
Oaks New
Orleans
event ( :
Jes the Adventurer sent me this photo a few days ago. I decided to add Abra's name to the original
photo. I loved the photo so much, I decided to get a bit creative with it! When I began this project, I had
planned to use a Sunset as the background, but before finding an admiral view this flower jumped out
at me. Jes asked me to photograph an event she performed at a few weeks ago but I couldnt make it!
This is a photo that she emailed him. I love the shot and I love Abras music!
photo. I loved the photo so much, I decided to get a bit creative with it! When I began this project, I had
planned to use a Sunset as the background, but before finding an admiral view this flower jumped out
at me. Jes asked me to photograph an event she performed at a few weeks ago but I couldnt make it!
This is a photo that she emailed him. I love the shot and I love Abras music!
I took this at Gueros on Congress
Ave. The Art of a black heart on the
chest of a friend of mine. Check out
what he had on his arm below! A
picture is worth a thousand words!
Ave. The Art of a black heart on the
chest of a friend of mine. Check out
what he had on his arm below! A
picture is worth a thousand words!
While on the
way to the
Austin City
Limits
Festival.
way to the
Austin City
Limits
Festival.
The Go Girls had a
very good line up.
Wish I could have
made the entire
show!
very good line up.
Wish I could have
made the entire
show!
Beautiful view of the Sunset at
Ruta Mayas this past Friday. I
was there for a meeting, cigar,
and Black Thorn Apple Cider ( :
Yummy : ) "Damn Telephone
wires...lol!"
Ruta Mayas this past Friday. I
was there for a meeting, cigar,
and Black Thorn Apple Cider ( :
Yummy : ) "Damn Telephone
wires...lol!"
DaViD
LaCHanCe
had a kewl
style about
him!
LaCHanCe
had a kewl
style about
him!
Prior to the Rated "L" show Marilyn
Monroe came out to sing a few
songs to prep everyone for the
show before going into the theatre
to watch the show.v
Monroe came out to sing a few
songs to prep everyone for the
show before going into the theatre
to watch the show.v
Lauren Bernick is "very"
wise! Quick to the wit and
smarter than the average
bear! Hey Boo Boo!
wise! Quick to the wit and
smarter than the average
bear! Hey Boo Boo!
Congress Ave. I love this art. So
many memories and fun evenings
spent here at the Continental Club,
Magnolia, Trophys, Great Out
Doors, Gueros, and Ruta Mayas!
many memories and fun evenings
spent here at the Continental Club,
Magnolia, Trophys, Great Out
Doors, Gueros, and Ruta Mayas!
Melissa Snowden getting crazy
on stage. One of my favorite
parts of her Act was when she
began dancing on stage
pretending to be a stripper.
Hilarious!!!
on stage. One of my favorite
parts of her Act was when she
began dancing on stage
pretending to be a stripper.
Hilarious!!!
Laren Beliveau in his diapers! lol
Great crowd pleaser indeed. The
energy he has while performing on
stage is fantastic. Keeps you on your
edge the entire time he has the stage.
Great crowd pleaser indeed. The
energy he has while performing on
stage is fantastic. Keeps you on your
edge the entire time he has the stage.
Ruta
Mayas
Mayas
Love the art painted on
this amp! The Camera
setting brought out the
effects of yellow and red
lazers.
this amp! The Camera
setting brought out the
effects of yellow and red
lazers.
The photos in this Art are of the 710 club. I love the 710 club for several reasons. This music venue is for those who "love
metal" and I "love metal". This was one of the first clubs to support my efforts in capturing some memories for future art.
The band playing is Me vs. Everybody. If you love Art this place is something to see. The murals in the club are wicked and
they support local Artist throughout the bar. Awesome Art in this place. "You HAVE TO see the radial Bar in this place!
Unbelievably Kewl!"
metal" and I "love metal". This was one of the first clubs to support my efforts in capturing some memories for future art.
The band playing is Me vs. Everybody. If you love Art this place is something to see. The murals in the club are wicked and
they support local Artist throughout the bar. Awesome Art in this place. "You HAVE TO see the radial Bar in this place!
Unbelievably Kewl!"
The two photo's above & below (the Capital is imposed with the moon!) are a few things that jumped
out at me today. The moon said cheese about 2 am this morning while in San Marcos and the Capital
on the was to an interview this morning. On the way home, I pulled up behind the car with the flowers
and thought, "Hmmm! If we all had flowers on our cars Austin would be even "more" of a beautiful
Town!" Im on my way to Michaels after this entry...lol.
out at me today. The moon said cheese about 2 am this morning while in San Marcos and the Capital
on the was to an interview this morning. On the way home, I pulled up behind the car with the flowers
and thought, "Hmmm! If we all had flowers on our cars Austin would be even "more" of a beautiful
Town!" Im on my way to Michaels after this entry...lol.
This photo was taken by a friend of mine, "Jes the Adventurer!". He
sent this photo titled, Horse on the Beach, this passed week. While
looking at it, I imagined watching this horse pull its carriage across the
salty smooth sand of the beach and felt as if I have been there. Strange
I know, but it lead to the creation of this art. Still feel as if I have been
there before though...lol.
sent this photo titled, Horse on the Beach, this passed week. While
looking at it, I imagined watching this horse pull its carriage across the
salty smooth sand of the beach and felt as if I have been there. Strange
I know, but it lead to the creation of this art. Still feel as if I have been
there before though...lol.
The Brew still play at the Copa Bar and Grill. The gentleman in the photo is
the vocalist and was recruited by the Brew not to long ago. He was in Fidel
Castro's Orchestra and his vocal are unbelievable. These 3 brothers have
been entertaining Austinites for over 15 years now. If you love to Salsa
dance to some great music then go and check em' out sometime. You will
"not" be dissapointed!
the vocalist and was recruited by the Brew not to long ago. He was in Fidel
Castro's Orchestra and his vocal are unbelievable. These 3 brothers have
been entertaining Austinites for over 15 years now. If you love to Salsa
dance to some great music then go and check em' out sometime. You will
"not" be dissapointed!
This photo was sent to a friend of mine's Father! When I looked at this photo it
angered me because it made me think of the lack of support that our
Government has provided to assist in the devastation Katrina has brought
upon our neighbors and family. More importantly it reminds me that I am an
American and that in "that" I am independent. Independence that allows me to
take effort in assisting where others may have seemed to fail.
angered me because it made me think of the lack of support that our
Government has provided to assist in the devastation Katrina has brought
upon our neighbors and family. More importantly it reminds me that I am an
American and that in "that" I am independent. Independence that allows me to
take effort in assisting where others may have seemed to fail.
This art was created late last year for a club called Red Rum on 6th
street. The club is a great place to hear local bands. The story behind
the creation of this Art is very long and very deep. I have different
versions of this Art but have not decided on which I will use for future
display at some of our local art hot spots hear in town.
street. The club is a great place to hear local bands. The story behind
the creation of this Art is very long and very deep. I have different
versions of this Art but have not decided on which I will use for future
display at some of our local art hot spots hear in town.
This photo was taken at the Lucky Lounge one evening during a benefit
to raise money for the Red Cross. Many "wonderful" local musicians
along with Lucky Lounge raised funds for the Tsunami Victims. Ruta
Maya is doing this now for the Katrina Relief Victims. On Sept. 9th: Austin
Daze & J-Dub AllStars present:
KATRINA IS A BITCH! " Hope to see ya there!
to raise money for the Red Cross. Many "wonderful" local musicians
along with Lucky Lounge raised funds for the Tsunami Victims. Ruta
Maya is doing this now for the Katrina Relief Victims. On Sept. 9th: Austin
Daze & J-Dub AllStars present:
KATRINA IS A BITCH! " Hope to see ya there!
This is Tiger! Tiger belongs to a friend of mine and we
think he looks like a Bob Cat! His hind legs are longer
than his front legs and he has a "bob" for a tail. When
you make those loud kissy noises he starts to roll on his
back! Very Kewl Kitty!!!
think he looks like a Bob Cat! His hind legs are longer
than his front legs and he has a "bob" for a tail. When
you make those loud kissy noises he starts to roll on his
back! Very Kewl Kitty!!!
Left: A friend of mine shared this with me and gave me the story behind it. While in prison
he had this tattoo put on his chest. It was in reminder of 3 other wounds/scars that you
can see one his chest! Two are knife wounds located right above the hands of Uncle
Sam and the last right above Sam's left anckle!
he had this tattoo put on his chest. It was in reminder of 3 other wounds/scars that you
can see one his chest! Two are knife wounds located right above the hands of Uncle
Sam and the last right above Sam's left anckle!
Matt White is a local here in Austin.
This was taken at the Lucky Lounge
about 6 months ago! Matt is
"awesome!"
This was taken at the Lucky Lounge
about 6 months ago! Matt is
"awesome!"
I never did get this
song named and
converted to an Art
flick! Guess I'll save
it for a rainy day!( :
song named and
converted to an Art
flick! Guess I'll save
it for a rainy day!( :
Photo's used in my last art lyric
flick! I still have not named it or
converted it into a flick! I think I
may finish the song I began this
morning (above) before I do ( :
flick! I still have not named it or
converted it into a flick! I think I
may finish the song I began this
morning (above) before I do ( :
He personalized and gave me this last
print of this lion. I love it! He likes to
share as much as I do. Guess Im "not"
alone...smiling!
print of this lion. I love it! He likes to
share as much as I do. Guess Im "not"
alone...smiling!
Josh gave me the ok to
share some of his art.
Cool Cat Eh!
share some of his art.
Cool Cat Eh!
Me vs.
Everybody...I
think!
Memory thing
again ) :
Everybody...I
think!
Memory thing
again ) :
A "Great Band that is starting out! They have
been playing at Trophys and Emos! Check
em' out! The Lions: Vocals/Guitar (Matt),
Bass (Trev), Drummer (Jake), Lead Guitar
(Austin)
been playing at Trophys and Emos! Check
em' out! The Lions: Vocals/Guitar (Matt),
Bass (Trev), Drummer (Jake), Lead Guitar
(Austin)
Art with
Gary
Clark Jr.
Gary
Clark Jr.
Ted Hall is a
Blues Master
who teaches
here in Austin.
Blues Master
who teaches
here in Austin.
Pecan Street Festival:
The cowboy is Keito of
Tropical Productions.
The cowboy is Keito of
Tropical Productions.
Art with
Michael
Shay.
Michael
Shay.
Kewl Tatt I
used in a
Art Flick!!
used in a
Art Flick!!
Eors Party
2005!
2005!
Kewl Tatt I
used in a
Art Flick!!
used in a
Art Flick!!
Art with KCee. Check
out his site.
www.Rockyroadprod
uctions.com
out his site.
www.Rockyroadprod
uctions.com
Leslie Art ( :
Art with the
APD ( :
APD ( :
Stevie Ray
Art
Art
December 23, 2005
Good Morning Austinuts! Decided to make a quick entry this morning along with publishing some Kewl photos that will be used for future
calendars and art.
Life has been moderate over the past few weeks. Like many of you, time has been spent preparing myself emotionally for the holidays.
Holidays tend to bring back memories that can be sore, but I am blessed to have family and friends that mean the world to me.
I thank the Higher Power with each day that passes for watching over my friends and family.
This morning on channel 8 I watched a group of Marines along with Santa Claus fly over the Grand Canyon on a misson to deliver
presents, spirit, and candy to young Indian children. Wonderful way to begin my morning! Laughter and Joy of children sitting in Santa's lap.
Lucky for those Marines that have the opportunity to spend the Holiday with their family rather than a place filled with uncertainty and
hopelessness!
Seeing this reminded me of the joy that comes with spending Christmas with my Son. This may play a part in the "funk" that I have been in
this week. He will be spending Christmas Eve and morning with my ex-wife this year. When my Son is away from home and with my ex I miss
him sooo much. Makes my day and life feel an absence.
Welper, Time to set off and choose some photos of Austin Personality, Musicians, and Friends to share. Enjoy the photo's and in the event
that I do not get back here before the New Year, "HAPPY HOLIDAYS TO ONE AND ALL."
November 30, 2005 (Wednesday)
Hello Friends! Hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving and that you are ready to move into December tomorrow. My mind is already taking
me to Christmas shopping. My Son is 12 and has grown out of the Pokemon toy stage (Thank God!). Those Walmart toy isle days are over.
Id tell ya what I am wanting to get him but he may read this and that would spoil my surprise...
Over the past few weeks my partner and I have completed and printed the first Calendar that we will be providing to the Continental Club.
My partner presented the Calendar to the Club last night and everyone loved it so much that the orders are already in. "Wonderful!"
Hopefully by the middle of December we will have them ready to sell at the Continental Club and at the next first Thursday Event on
Congress Ave.
I recently designed some graphics for an event that Rockin' Tomato will be sponsoring. They will be having a Comedy night on Wednesday,
December 7th at 9pm! The 3 comedians performing are Jesse Pangelinan, Carlos Ibanez, and Lucas Molandes. This is a must see show
and only the beginning of many other kewl events to come. Very soon they hope to have some of Austin's finest sharing their tunes while
we eat killer Italian Food and drink fine Spirits.
This morning I published the journal update and photos that Jes the Adventurer sent me. Jes has a great eye. Check out the photo's of the
Castle! Keep up the "wonderful photography Jes!"
Im going to break for now and decide which photos to share with you. The past few weeks have taken me to some great parties and musical
events. Two of my favorites were the Happy Jack benefit held at Ruta Mayas and the Thanks Giving Musical Rehersal benefit at Camp
Creek Lake. See ya soon! ( : WesleyJournal Entry:
Monday Nov. 8, 2005 (3:02 pm)
Hello friends! Hope everyone had a nice weekend. It saddens me to say that mine was terrible. I learned Saturday morning that my brother
moved onto his after life leaving 3 wonderful Sons and a beautiful Wife behind. I spent Saturday and Sunday with my family trying to absorb
and understand the unexpected loss that we are all going through. I’m still at a loss and do not see any closure to the mixed emotions that I
am feeling.
I did not grow up with my brother due to a divorce before I was born and did not see him as often as I feel I should have. We had planned to
spend Thanksgiving together to catch up on lost years. Time is something that can not be regained once lost and the cold reality of this
hurts very bad. I’m still in shock over all of this and can not seem to bring any closure to the pain that grows within me but what saddens me
even more is to see his wonderful family deal with the loss of a Father and a Husband.
I am going to close on this subject for the time being before I lose it again (I began this journal yesterday but was unable to finish it).
Writing and Art has always been a form of escape for me but there is “no” escape from this. The only thing one can do is keep their chin up
and focus their energy where it is needed the most. To family and friends.
I would like to thank everyone who came buy the booth that my friends and I had last Thursday on Congress. The booth was a great
success and the feedback even greater. We met many wonderful Austinites and visitors who loved our Art. The kewl part of all of this is the
feeling that comes with knowing that your Art is in a neighbours home. We plan to have another booth in December with more Art to choose
from but are unsure of where we will have the booth. In addition to this we have been invited to set up at a very kewl music hall about 5 miles
from the Airport on HWY 71 on Sundays and another location on Thursdays. I will have more info on this very soon.
I did get buy Ribo-Rama late Saturday and “freaked” on the number of people that were there. I’m guessing that there must have been
several thousand people there. I hear the Ribs along with the potluck were fantastic. When I arrived, the line for the ribs extended 50 or
more folks in length and when I returned in hopes of a shorter line the table had been cleaned. I did manage to get some great photos of
friends and a few of the bands that performed so I was happy for that. In all honesty my mind was not in the mode of photography as it
usually is. I spent the majority of my time while there listening to music and thinking about things.
Im going to break off now due to several projects that I am working on but will be back soon with some great tips on music that you do not
want to miss out on. Until then take care and stay real.
Respectfully,
WesleyJournal Entry: Monday Oct.31, 2005 (8:15 am)
( : Happy Halloween : ) Hard to believe we have already crashed October.
I just finished completed reading the journal update Jes sent this weekend. He spent the weekend in Paris and sent some great photos.
Wish I could be there adopting the energy and culture with him. Very soon I will be creating an Art Lyric story with something Jes writes and
his beautiful photography. I have not created any new flicks over the past month or so. I guess I would call it a writers block. I have been
very content with my life and when content I tend to become less creative. Weird!!! Art is another story though! ( :
This weekend was wonderful. I had a job both Saturday and Sunday but was able to check out 2 great parties on Friday. Both were here in
South Austin. Wish I did not have to work Saturday though! I missed out on about 4 others that were surely as great as the two I crashed on
Friday. Oh well!
Aside from freaking out on the daily madness that seems to be occurring within our world I have been creating art to share at the First
Thursday Bizarre on Congress Avenue. A few partners and I will have our booth in a lot located between The Glass Works and Vespaio.
This is our first attempt at this so we are all a bit nervous. We will have some great Photography Art to share. We also plan to have a music
theme calendar with our Art that is focused on the Continental Club. We had hoped to have two other calendars with an Austin Weird and
Tattoo theme. We have the Art ready but do not have the time needed for the print shop to produce the Calendar. In addition, I will be
providing personalized post card photo’s on the spot. Come buy with a smile and I’ll help you capture a memory to keep our share with
another ( :
Well I should close as the rest of this morning into the afternoon needs to be dedicated to the minds eyes. Hope to see you Thursday and If
we miss each other I’ll look for ya’ at the Ribo-Rama Bash this coming Saturday! This South Austin Party is one to be reckoned with! Great
musicians, food, and Austinites! Peas, Wesley
Journal Entry: Wednesday Oct.19, 2005 (4:45 pm)
Greetings friends! Hope everyone has been well and in high spirit. As for myself, I am wonderfully kicking as usual. The surgery I had on my
wrist last week has left me with a bionic wrist (metal plate). Still hurts like nuts but getting better with each day that passes. I am typing with
two hands again so I am thrilled. I lack the patience needed to type with one finger….
Most of my time has been spent with my Art preparation for the First Thursday in November on Congress Ave. A few partners and I are
going to have a “wonderful” booth set-up by the Glass Works business on Congress. We secured the spot yesterday ( :
One of my partners has designed an awesome display set-up for all of our Art. We will have post cards, Calendars, and Poster Art with a
few other framed original prints of some local musicians and architecture.
The fun part for me, will be photographing and printing post cards for folks on the spot. I have always enjoyed this part of my work. Seeing
the smile of another when I hand them a memory to savor. (I have a small printer that I can attach to my Cannon that I can print directly
too.) So much fun! I think we may even provide them with frames for those interested. Wonderful way to capture, send, and share a
memory.
Halloween along with cooler weather is just around the corner! I have some art I created from last Halloween that I want to share with you!
When I have the time to share some of it I will. Some of it is from an awesome Haunted House that was sponsored and held at the Great
Outdoors on Congress. Last year was the first attempt at having it and they did so well I am sure they will do it again this year. The rest is
from 6 th street.
My injury (recovery) from surgery has kept me home for the past few weeks. Its no fun going out when your in pain. I would like to share this
upcoming South Austin Party with you that I plan to attend:
Nov 5th 2pm-2am RIBO-RAMA 7
11241 Slaughter Creek Drive
Line-up
Jesse Dayton, Flounders Without Eyes, Shelley King Band, Two Hoots and a Holler, Doak Short and the Dirty Dogs, Lee Person Band,
Trent Turner Band, KCee, Leeann Atherton with Miss Lavalle White, Kim Deschamps, Steel Beam.
BBQ Provided
Potluck: Please bring a big sidedish, extra beer and lawn chairs.
Camping OK
No Pets
Info: 282-8189
The last party I attended at this residence was “awesome”! The couple who built the outdoor music hall on their estate live for music! The
place is beautiful with a stage that will totally knock your socks off. Not to mention the BBQ! Seeing/tasting is believing! I think a friend and I
may camp out! After the last band performs everyone pulls out their instruments for a community jam. Its great I tell ya! I am getting pumped
just typing about it. The last party I went to had me leaving early due to my wrist so I missed the community jam.
Be sure to check out the new photos sent from Jes in Amsterdam. He was in Barcelona last week and sent some really kewl shots.
Im going to disappear into some folders of last Halloween for now. Stay real and don’t forget to smile with someone today! Respectfully,
Wesley
10-02-05 2:30 pm
Hello folks, beautiful Sunday outside. Strange though, it is usually much cooler in the days for this time of year. The winter brings us utility
($) relief this late into our year, but I’m sure the domino effect of hardship brought on by Katrina and Rita fuel inadequacies will continue. If I
was not as accidentally prone as I am I would invest in a moped…lol. Me on a “moped”! Scarey!!!
I discovered on Friday that I am about $10,000 bones shy of the fee that the surgery is going to cost to repair the damage on my right wrist.
Last week I was trying to out-do Lance Armstrong while crusing down a hill at about a 100 something miles an hour…lol! Woe is me! The
good news is after the surgery I will not have to wear a stinky itchy cast for 4-5 months. In my early teen’s I had a cast on my left leg due to a
hair line fracture. I still remember how bad a let my Father down for hurting my leg because the following day I had a martial arts exam. My
Father was my Sensi so you can imagine how stupid I felt when I told him I hurt myself sliding down the railing of a 3rd story apt. building.
This brings me back to the thought of how awful it was to have that damn cast on! I have been carrying this Robo Cop size splint for a little
over a week now and the itching is driving me ``crazy``.
This weekend has flown by. I started the weekend off with the South Austin Raggae Shakedown at Ruta Mayas. The music was as wonderful
as the company. I have been trying to get to a Ruta Mayas event for quite some time now. Some of the photos that I am sharing here were
photographed by a friend whom I plan to share a booth at first Thursdays (SOHO) with. We hope to have Poster art, Calendars, and Post
Cards available that relate to themes that make our town so wonderful. Art, Music, and Good People ( : Should be a lot of fun! ( : It may be
another month before we have everything ready. That and I need both hands…lol
Saturday's Freedom Oaks sponsored event for New Orleans musicians brought a wonderful closure to my week. Very nice line up and a
turn-out that surely brought relief to some of these unfortunate souls. There were two separate stages at the event (one being dedicated to
the New Orleans musicians) The food was unbelievably delicious. Mouth water dripping gumbo, ribs, and smoked chicken.
That was the first gumbo that I have ever eaten. One of the cooks told me that a few New Orleans elderly came early in the day to prepare
the Gumbo, but then left prior to the gates opening at 12. I missed Leanne Atherton, whom I had really wanted to hear, but made it in time
for Z-Rock, Trent Turner, Flounders without Eyes, and a few of the others. In between acts the New Orleans artist would break out their
instruments and have everyone dancing with wonderful vibes. The stage put together for these musicians was beautiful to behold. I "love"
the photos of the N.O musician in front of the painted Sun.
Freedom Oaks will have their next event in November so hang tight if you would like to attend. I will surely let you know when and where.
I’m going to close for now so I can browse through some of this weekends photos and decide what to share. Hope all of you have enjoyed
your weekend and that the week to come brings nothing but good tides. Be sure to check-out the funny pic on the Interesting Quotes and
Letters page.It’s hilarious. Respectfully, Wesley
Journal Update Sept. 25, 2005 (12:55 pm Sunday)
Hello Folks! Hope everyone has enjoyed their weekend so far. Mine, well… its been a bit trying. Friday I was given the opportunity to work
the ACL festival, but had to pass due to other commitments. Instead I decided to ride my bike to Zilker and enjoy the company of good
friends, great music, and some spirits. On the way home, I decided to spend the remainder of my evening listening to some live tunes at
Ruta Mayas Katrina benefit and Trophys.
Unfortunately, I never made it! On the way to my first stop (Trophys), I miss-geared my cruiser while hauling butt down a hill and trashed
both my bike “and” the wrist on my right hand! Drag eh! I had really thought I may get through this year without breaking a bone. Check out
the time-line under the bio page and you will have a better understanding why this was such wishful thinking. This break puts me at 35
something plus bones I have trashed. I quit counting after 30 something (smacking forhead).
Once I made it home, I somehow convinced myself that I had just severely sprained it…NOT! Buy mid-morning Saturday my hand was
swollen so large that it turned my nerves inside out every time I looked at it. I decided to get an ex-ray at a clinic nearby and left with a splint
that has me looking like Robo Cop…lol! Really sucks! I LOVED THAT MOUNTAIN BIKE…lol!
The worst part of all this, aside from the pain "and" the cast, is that typing, creating my art, and most of all, doing what I love the most!
Photographing what my minds eye can see has me limited. It takes two hands to take a picture quickly. Not to worry myself tells me! Where
there’s a will there’s a way.
I plan to test this will today while watching the Sunset at the lake on a sail boat with some friends later this evening…lol. As for now, Im
going to attempt some one handed art of photos taken Friday prior to my mishap! Be sure to check out the journal update from Jes the
Adventurer. He sent some very kewl photos with his update that you will surely appreciate. In addition to this, I have added links to both
Austin Daze and Ruta Maya web pages. Both sites are very informative and supportive of our local artist and musicians. Great websites!!!
Well, time to attempt the one handed creative mode…to bad Im not left handed…lol! Have a wonderful week! Wesley
Journal: 18 Sept. 2005 (2:10 pm)
Greetings friends! Hope the weekend has been treating you well. Mine has been wonderful. I had hoped to publish a ton of stuff today but
can not due to another job. This week will be crazy busy for me!
The show at Real Arts Theatre with Laugh-Line Productions was a great success last night. I have some great photo’s of this show to share
with you and will utilize these photos to design some art for a DVD that they are making.
Earlier in the day I went by Bedichek Middle school to visit a friend of mine www.rockyroadproductions who sponsored and organized the
Katrina Kids Benefit! Unfortunately, I had to leave before everything got underway, so I am not really sure how it turned out. Once I have
more info. on this I’ll let you know.
I have to close so I will have time to publish a few photo’s that jumped out at me yesterday. Be sure to keep your eye’s peeled for an update
from Jes the Adventurer this coming Tuesday. He went to Berlin this weekend and always sends some great photos. See ya on Tuesday ( :
Stay real and have a beautiful week! Respectfully, Wesley
Journal: 5 Sept. 2005
Top of the afternoon to you! Beautiful day outside! I thought about going to the river, but my Son and his friend out voted me with a movie.
Transporter I think is what they want to see.
As I mentioned in my last entry, I have been to consumed with other priorities in life and have not found the time to create daily art as I am
accustomed to. With the catastrophe brought on by Katrina I find myself dwelling on the misfortunes of others. In this regard I guess I
consider myself somewhat of an amoeba. I absorb the sadness and it takes a shape within me.
Last night while at Trophys I saw a good friend of mine who met a musician from N. O. He told me that the gentleman had been stranded for
4 days prior to being rescued and the only thing he had left to his name was his guitar. The gentleman continued to tell him that he had
heard that Austin was a great place to be and that it is a city that supports Musicians efforts. Needless to say he was happy to be rescued
and happy to be here in Austin.
I have some kids waiting on me but before I close I would like to bring to your attention the help sites, links, and info. that I have published.
Much of this has been obtained and sent to me from Jes the Adventurer. He has many dear friends who like us care and have a desire to
help. Ruta Maya’s will have some great music and benefits to help raise funds. Hope to see some of you there and I wish you all a week
filled with blessings. Respectfully, Wesley
Journal Update: 4 Sept. 2005
Good morning! Hope everyone is well and in good spirit. I have been busy over the past week and finally have the opportunity to share a
little. I myself am still in shock over the devastation Katrina brought and have found myself glued to the TV over the past few days watching
the aftermath. My heart is heavy for all our neighbours and family in need. I am shocked by the lack in relief efforts our government supplied
in getting everyone out of New Orleans but am relieved to see this changing. Makes me realize just how easy our Nation can be brought to
its knees.
Jes and I are trying to figure out how we can use this site to help in some way. I’m off to check out some ideas and catch up a bit with him.
You folks have a wonderful day and I hope you enjoy some of the new Art that I have been publishing. Much more to come when I can take
the time needed to get it published. Have a good one friends! Wesley
Journal Update: 22 August 2005
Hello friends! Wanted to let all of you know that Jes has sent his weekly update along with a few photos. (Jes the Adventurer) Great stuff! Im
off to work on some Art that I may publish a little bit later today. Some of it is from this past Saturday. The Go Girls were
sponsoring/promoting a few local girl bands at Trophy’s Saturday night. I missed the majority of the show due to work but made it in time to
hear the winning band of the four that performed. You folks have a wonderful day! Respectfully, Wesley
Journal: 20 Aug. 2005 9:40 am
Get up time Sunrise ( : Hope all are well and lying easy today! Hard to believe it has been eleven days since my last entry. The past few
weeks have been filled with other priorities. Mostly work, parenting (getting my kiddo ready for his new school year), a little time for art, and
work…work and more work…lol!
Jes sent his update to me last Sunday with some very kewl photos. Jes has proven to have a great third eye when photographing his
memories. Check out his site and you will understand exactly what I am speaking of. “Incredible!” One of the highlights of my week are
receiving and publishing the journal/photos that Jes sends. Partly because I love architecture, but mostly because Jes is doing something
that I dream of each and every day of my life. Traveling and adventuring to places unknown and new to me. I have not traveled much in my
life with the exception of a trip to the Virgin Islands during the beginning of my digital photography days and Florida when my Son was 5.
Hmmmm, does Lubbock count…lol! Man!!! I am a bubba!!! LOL
Past week has been good for both me and my Son. It was difficult getting him into the mind frame of the school mode, but he has proven to
be very formidable. I had planned to spend this weekend on the river floating in New Braunsfels with him and some other friends, but other
duties call. I have a job later on this afternoon so I have decided to use this day of rest giving you friends some new art to look at and
publishing one of my first Art Flicks of Austin, Texas!
I’m going to close for the time being in hopes of this day bringing us geniality and treating us with the highest respect. Respectfully Peace,
Wesley
P.S.
What I have learned over this past week:
People are strange to me. I am different, but maybe I am “more” stranger to them. I guess it really does not matter to me in the end. What
really matters right now? The things I have taken for granted that I cannot re-obtain “are” obtainable. “This saddens you, not Me!” That is
all behind you now my friend. You did what needed to be done and you are proud for doing what you had to do! It has taught you, that a
time will always come to set everything else aside. Aside for something that is more important. Gotta love it!!!!
Good Morning Austinuts! Decided to make a quick entry this morning along with publishing some Kewl photos that will be used for future
calendars and art.
Life has been moderate over the past few weeks. Like many of you, time has been spent preparing myself emotionally for the holidays.
Holidays tend to bring back memories that can be sore, but I am blessed to have family and friends that mean the world to me.
I thank the Higher Power with each day that passes for watching over my friends and family.
This morning on channel 8 I watched a group of Marines along with Santa Claus fly over the Grand Canyon on a misson to deliver
presents, spirit, and candy to young Indian children. Wonderful way to begin my morning! Laughter and Joy of children sitting in Santa's lap.
Lucky for those Marines that have the opportunity to spend the Holiday with their family rather than a place filled with uncertainty and
hopelessness!
Seeing this reminded me of the joy that comes with spending Christmas with my Son. This may play a part in the "funk" that I have been in
this week. He will be spending Christmas Eve and morning with my ex-wife this year. When my Son is away from home and with my ex I miss
him sooo much. Makes my day and life feel an absence.
Welper, Time to set off and choose some photos of Austin Personality, Musicians, and Friends to share. Enjoy the photo's and in the event
that I do not get back here before the New Year, "HAPPY HOLIDAYS TO ONE AND ALL."
November 30, 2005 (Wednesday)
Hello Friends! Hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving and that you are ready to move into December tomorrow. My mind is already taking
me to Christmas shopping. My Son is 12 and has grown out of the Pokemon toy stage (Thank God!). Those Walmart toy isle days are over.
Id tell ya what I am wanting to get him but he may read this and that would spoil my surprise...
Over the past few weeks my partner and I have completed and printed the first Calendar that we will be providing to the Continental Club.
My partner presented the Calendar to the Club last night and everyone loved it so much that the orders are already in. "Wonderful!"
Hopefully by the middle of December we will have them ready to sell at the Continental Club and at the next first Thursday Event on
Congress Ave.
I recently designed some graphics for an event that Rockin' Tomato will be sponsoring. They will be having a Comedy night on Wednesday,
December 7th at 9pm! The 3 comedians performing are Jesse Pangelinan, Carlos Ibanez, and Lucas Molandes. This is a must see show
and only the beginning of many other kewl events to come. Very soon they hope to have some of Austin's finest sharing their tunes while
we eat killer Italian Food and drink fine Spirits.
This morning I published the journal update and photos that Jes the Adventurer sent me. Jes has a great eye. Check out the photo's of the
Castle! Keep up the "wonderful photography Jes!"
Im going to break for now and decide which photos to share with you. The past few weeks have taken me to some great parties and musical
events. Two of my favorites were the Happy Jack benefit held at Ruta Mayas and the Thanks Giving Musical Rehersal benefit at Camp
Creek Lake. See ya soon! ( : WesleyJournal Entry:
Monday Nov. 8, 2005 (3:02 pm)
Hello friends! Hope everyone had a nice weekend. It saddens me to say that mine was terrible. I learned Saturday morning that my brother
moved onto his after life leaving 3 wonderful Sons and a beautiful Wife behind. I spent Saturday and Sunday with my family trying to absorb
and understand the unexpected loss that we are all going through. I’m still at a loss and do not see any closure to the mixed emotions that I
am feeling.
I did not grow up with my brother due to a divorce before I was born and did not see him as often as I feel I should have. We had planned to
spend Thanksgiving together to catch up on lost years. Time is something that can not be regained once lost and the cold reality of this
hurts very bad. I’m still in shock over all of this and can not seem to bring any closure to the pain that grows within me but what saddens me
even more is to see his wonderful family deal with the loss of a Father and a Husband.
I am going to close on this subject for the time being before I lose it again (I began this journal yesterday but was unable to finish it).
Writing and Art has always been a form of escape for me but there is “no” escape from this. The only thing one can do is keep their chin up
and focus their energy where it is needed the most. To family and friends.
I would like to thank everyone who came buy the booth that my friends and I had last Thursday on Congress. The booth was a great
success and the feedback even greater. We met many wonderful Austinites and visitors who loved our Art. The kewl part of all of this is the
feeling that comes with knowing that your Art is in a neighbours home. We plan to have another booth in December with more Art to choose
from but are unsure of where we will have the booth. In addition to this we have been invited to set up at a very kewl music hall about 5 miles
from the Airport on HWY 71 on Sundays and another location on Thursdays. I will have more info on this very soon.
I did get buy Ribo-Rama late Saturday and “freaked” on the number of people that were there. I’m guessing that there must have been
several thousand people there. I hear the Ribs along with the potluck were fantastic. When I arrived, the line for the ribs extended 50 or
more folks in length and when I returned in hopes of a shorter line the table had been cleaned. I did manage to get some great photos of
friends and a few of the bands that performed so I was happy for that. In all honesty my mind was not in the mode of photography as it
usually is. I spent the majority of my time while there listening to music and thinking about things.
Im going to break off now due to several projects that I am working on but will be back soon with some great tips on music that you do not
want to miss out on. Until then take care and stay real.
Respectfully,
WesleyJournal Entry: Monday Oct.31, 2005 (8:15 am)
( : Happy Halloween : ) Hard to believe we have already crashed October.
I just finished completed reading the journal update Jes sent this weekend. He spent the weekend in Paris and sent some great photos.
Wish I could be there adopting the energy and culture with him. Very soon I will be creating an Art Lyric story with something Jes writes and
his beautiful photography. I have not created any new flicks over the past month or so. I guess I would call it a writers block. I have been
very content with my life and when content I tend to become less creative. Weird!!! Art is another story though! ( :
This weekend was wonderful. I had a job both Saturday and Sunday but was able to check out 2 great parties on Friday. Both were here in
South Austin. Wish I did not have to work Saturday though! I missed out on about 4 others that were surely as great as the two I crashed on
Friday. Oh well!
Aside from freaking out on the daily madness that seems to be occurring within our world I have been creating art to share at the First
Thursday Bizarre on Congress Avenue. A few partners and I will have our booth in a lot located between The Glass Works and Vespaio.
This is our first attempt at this so we are all a bit nervous. We will have some great Photography Art to share. We also plan to have a music
theme calendar with our Art that is focused on the Continental Club. We had hoped to have two other calendars with an Austin Weird and
Tattoo theme. We have the Art ready but do not have the time needed for the print shop to produce the Calendar. In addition, I will be
providing personalized post card photo’s on the spot. Come buy with a smile and I’ll help you capture a memory to keep our share with
another ( :
Well I should close as the rest of this morning into the afternoon needs to be dedicated to the minds eyes. Hope to see you Thursday and If
we miss each other I’ll look for ya’ at the Ribo-Rama Bash this coming Saturday! This South Austin Party is one to be reckoned with! Great
musicians, food, and Austinites! Peas, Wesley
Journal Entry: Wednesday Oct.19, 2005 (4:45 pm)
Greetings friends! Hope everyone has been well and in high spirit. As for myself, I am wonderfully kicking as usual. The surgery I had on my
wrist last week has left me with a bionic wrist (metal plate). Still hurts like nuts but getting better with each day that passes. I am typing with
two hands again so I am thrilled. I lack the patience needed to type with one finger….
Most of my time has been spent with my Art preparation for the First Thursday in November on Congress Ave. A few partners and I are
going to have a “wonderful” booth set-up by the Glass Works business on Congress. We secured the spot yesterday ( :
One of my partners has designed an awesome display set-up for all of our Art. We will have post cards, Calendars, and Poster Art with a
few other framed original prints of some local musicians and architecture.
The fun part for me, will be photographing and printing post cards for folks on the spot. I have always enjoyed this part of my work. Seeing
the smile of another when I hand them a memory to savor. (I have a small printer that I can attach to my Cannon that I can print directly
too.) So much fun! I think we may even provide them with frames for those interested. Wonderful way to capture, send, and share a
memory.
Halloween along with cooler weather is just around the corner! I have some art I created from last Halloween that I want to share with you!
When I have the time to share some of it I will. Some of it is from an awesome Haunted House that was sponsored and held at the Great
Outdoors on Congress. Last year was the first attempt at having it and they did so well I am sure they will do it again this year. The rest is
from 6 th street.
My injury (recovery) from surgery has kept me home for the past few weeks. Its no fun going out when your in pain. I would like to share this
upcoming South Austin Party with you that I plan to attend:
Nov 5th 2pm-2am RIBO-RAMA 7
11241 Slaughter Creek Drive
Line-up
Jesse Dayton, Flounders Without Eyes, Shelley King Band, Two Hoots and a Holler, Doak Short and the Dirty Dogs, Lee Person Band,
Trent Turner Band, KCee, Leeann Atherton with Miss Lavalle White, Kim Deschamps, Steel Beam.
BBQ Provided
Potluck: Please bring a big sidedish, extra beer and lawn chairs.
Camping OK
No Pets
Info: 282-8189
The last party I attended at this residence was “awesome”! The couple who built the outdoor music hall on their estate live for music! The
place is beautiful with a stage that will totally knock your socks off. Not to mention the BBQ! Seeing/tasting is believing! I think a friend and I
may camp out! After the last band performs everyone pulls out their instruments for a community jam. Its great I tell ya! I am getting pumped
just typing about it. The last party I went to had me leaving early due to my wrist so I missed the community jam.
Be sure to check out the new photos sent from Jes in Amsterdam. He was in Barcelona last week and sent some really kewl shots.
Im going to disappear into some folders of last Halloween for now. Stay real and don’t forget to smile with someone today! Respectfully,
Wesley
10-02-05 2:30 pm
Hello folks, beautiful Sunday outside. Strange though, it is usually much cooler in the days for this time of year. The winter brings us utility
($) relief this late into our year, but I’m sure the domino effect of hardship brought on by Katrina and Rita fuel inadequacies will continue. If I
was not as accidentally prone as I am I would invest in a moped…lol. Me on a “moped”! Scarey!!!
I discovered on Friday that I am about $10,000 bones shy of the fee that the surgery is going to cost to repair the damage on my right wrist.
Last week I was trying to out-do Lance Armstrong while crusing down a hill at about a 100 something miles an hour…lol! Woe is me! The
good news is after the surgery I will not have to wear a stinky itchy cast for 4-5 months. In my early teen’s I had a cast on my left leg due to a
hair line fracture. I still remember how bad a let my Father down for hurting my leg because the following day I had a martial arts exam. My
Father was my Sensi so you can imagine how stupid I felt when I told him I hurt myself sliding down the railing of a 3rd story apt. building.
This brings me back to the thought of how awful it was to have that damn cast on! I have been carrying this Robo Cop size splint for a little
over a week now and the itching is driving me ``crazy``.
This weekend has flown by. I started the weekend off with the South Austin Raggae Shakedown at Ruta Mayas. The music was as wonderful
as the company. I have been trying to get to a Ruta Mayas event for quite some time now. Some of the photos that I am sharing here were
photographed by a friend whom I plan to share a booth at first Thursdays (SOHO) with. We hope to have Poster art, Calendars, and Post
Cards available that relate to themes that make our town so wonderful. Art, Music, and Good People ( : Should be a lot of fun! ( : It may be
another month before we have everything ready. That and I need both hands…lol
Saturday's Freedom Oaks sponsored event for New Orleans musicians brought a wonderful closure to my week. Very nice line up and a
turn-out that surely brought relief to some of these unfortunate souls. There were two separate stages at the event (one being dedicated to
the New Orleans musicians) The food was unbelievably delicious. Mouth water dripping gumbo, ribs, and smoked chicken.
That was the first gumbo that I have ever eaten. One of the cooks told me that a few New Orleans elderly came early in the day to prepare
the Gumbo, but then left prior to the gates opening at 12. I missed Leanne Atherton, whom I had really wanted to hear, but made it in time
for Z-Rock, Trent Turner, Flounders without Eyes, and a few of the others. In between acts the New Orleans artist would break out their
instruments and have everyone dancing with wonderful vibes. The stage put together for these musicians was beautiful to behold. I "love"
the photos of the N.O musician in front of the painted Sun.
Freedom Oaks will have their next event in November so hang tight if you would like to attend. I will surely let you know when and where.
I’m going to close for now so I can browse through some of this weekends photos and decide what to share. Hope all of you have enjoyed
your weekend and that the week to come brings nothing but good tides. Be sure to check-out the funny pic on the Interesting Quotes and
Letters page.It’s hilarious. Respectfully, Wesley
Journal Update Sept. 25, 2005 (12:55 pm Sunday)
Hello Folks! Hope everyone has enjoyed their weekend so far. Mine, well… its been a bit trying. Friday I was given the opportunity to work
the ACL festival, but had to pass due to other commitments. Instead I decided to ride my bike to Zilker and enjoy the company of good
friends, great music, and some spirits. On the way home, I decided to spend the remainder of my evening listening to some live tunes at
Ruta Mayas Katrina benefit and Trophys.
Unfortunately, I never made it! On the way to my first stop (Trophys), I miss-geared my cruiser while hauling butt down a hill and trashed
both my bike “and” the wrist on my right hand! Drag eh! I had really thought I may get through this year without breaking a bone. Check out
the time-line under the bio page and you will have a better understanding why this was such wishful thinking. This break puts me at 35
something plus bones I have trashed. I quit counting after 30 something (smacking forhead).
Once I made it home, I somehow convinced myself that I had just severely sprained it…NOT! Buy mid-morning Saturday my hand was
swollen so large that it turned my nerves inside out every time I looked at it. I decided to get an ex-ray at a clinic nearby and left with a splint
that has me looking like Robo Cop…lol! Really sucks! I LOVED THAT MOUNTAIN BIKE…lol!
The worst part of all this, aside from the pain "and" the cast, is that typing, creating my art, and most of all, doing what I love the most!
Photographing what my minds eye can see has me limited. It takes two hands to take a picture quickly. Not to worry myself tells me! Where
there’s a will there’s a way.
I plan to test this will today while watching the Sunset at the lake on a sail boat with some friends later this evening…lol. As for now, Im
going to attempt some one handed art of photos taken Friday prior to my mishap! Be sure to check out the journal update from Jes the
Adventurer. He sent some very kewl photos with his update that you will surely appreciate. In addition to this, I have added links to both
Austin Daze and Ruta Maya web pages. Both sites are very informative and supportive of our local artist and musicians. Great websites!!!
Well, time to attempt the one handed creative mode…to bad Im not left handed…lol! Have a wonderful week! Wesley
Journal: 18 Sept. 2005 (2:10 pm)
Greetings friends! Hope the weekend has been treating you well. Mine has been wonderful. I had hoped to publish a ton of stuff today but
can not due to another job. This week will be crazy busy for me!
The show at Real Arts Theatre with Laugh-Line Productions was a great success last night. I have some great photo’s of this show to share
with you and will utilize these photos to design some art for a DVD that they are making.
Earlier in the day I went by Bedichek Middle school to visit a friend of mine www.rockyroadproductions who sponsored and organized the
Katrina Kids Benefit! Unfortunately, I had to leave before everything got underway, so I am not really sure how it turned out. Once I have
more info. on this I’ll let you know.
I have to close so I will have time to publish a few photo’s that jumped out at me yesterday. Be sure to keep your eye’s peeled for an update
from Jes the Adventurer this coming Tuesday. He went to Berlin this weekend and always sends some great photos. See ya on Tuesday ( :
Stay real and have a beautiful week! Respectfully, Wesley
Journal: 5 Sept. 2005
Top of the afternoon to you! Beautiful day outside! I thought about going to the river, but my Son and his friend out voted me with a movie.
Transporter I think is what they want to see.
As I mentioned in my last entry, I have been to consumed with other priorities in life and have not found the time to create daily art as I am
accustomed to. With the catastrophe brought on by Katrina I find myself dwelling on the misfortunes of others. In this regard I guess I
consider myself somewhat of an amoeba. I absorb the sadness and it takes a shape within me.
Last night while at Trophys I saw a good friend of mine who met a musician from N. O. He told me that the gentleman had been stranded for
4 days prior to being rescued and the only thing he had left to his name was his guitar. The gentleman continued to tell him that he had
heard that Austin was a great place to be and that it is a city that supports Musicians efforts. Needless to say he was happy to be rescued
and happy to be here in Austin.
I have some kids waiting on me but before I close I would like to bring to your attention the help sites, links, and info. that I have published.
Much of this has been obtained and sent to me from Jes the Adventurer. He has many dear friends who like us care and have a desire to
help. Ruta Maya’s will have some great music and benefits to help raise funds. Hope to see some of you there and I wish you all a week
filled with blessings. Respectfully, Wesley
Journal Update: 4 Sept. 2005
Good morning! Hope everyone is well and in good spirit. I have been busy over the past week and finally have the opportunity to share a
little. I myself am still in shock over the devastation Katrina brought and have found myself glued to the TV over the past few days watching
the aftermath. My heart is heavy for all our neighbours and family in need. I am shocked by the lack in relief efforts our government supplied
in getting everyone out of New Orleans but am relieved to see this changing. Makes me realize just how easy our Nation can be brought to
its knees.
Jes and I are trying to figure out how we can use this site to help in some way. I’m off to check out some ideas and catch up a bit with him.
You folks have a wonderful day and I hope you enjoy some of the new Art that I have been publishing. Much more to come when I can take
the time needed to get it published. Have a good one friends! Wesley
Journal Update: 22 August 2005
Hello friends! Wanted to let all of you know that Jes has sent his weekly update along with a few photos. (Jes the Adventurer) Great stuff! Im
off to work on some Art that I may publish a little bit later today. Some of it is from this past Saturday. The Go Girls were
sponsoring/promoting a few local girl bands at Trophy’s Saturday night. I missed the majority of the show due to work but made it in time to
hear the winning band of the four that performed. You folks have a wonderful day! Respectfully, Wesley
Journal: 20 Aug. 2005 9:40 am
Get up time Sunrise ( : Hope all are well and lying easy today! Hard to believe it has been eleven days since my last entry. The past few
weeks have been filled with other priorities. Mostly work, parenting (getting my kiddo ready for his new school year), a little time for art, and
work…work and more work…lol!
Jes sent his update to me last Sunday with some very kewl photos. Jes has proven to have a great third eye when photographing his
memories. Check out his site and you will understand exactly what I am speaking of. “Incredible!” One of the highlights of my week are
receiving and publishing the journal/photos that Jes sends. Partly because I love architecture, but mostly because Jes is doing something
that I dream of each and every day of my life. Traveling and adventuring to places unknown and new to me. I have not traveled much in my
life with the exception of a trip to the Virgin Islands during the beginning of my digital photography days and Florida when my Son was 5.
Hmmmm, does Lubbock count…lol! Man!!! I am a bubba!!! LOL
Past week has been good for both me and my Son. It was difficult getting him into the mind frame of the school mode, but he has proven to
be very formidable. I had planned to spend this weekend on the river floating in New Braunsfels with him and some other friends, but other
duties call. I have a job later on this afternoon so I have decided to use this day of rest giving you friends some new art to look at and
publishing one of my first Art Flicks of Austin, Texas!
I’m going to close for the time being in hopes of this day bringing us geniality and treating us with the highest respect. Respectfully Peace,
Wesley
P.S.
What I have learned over this past week:
People are strange to me. I am different, but maybe I am “more” stranger to them. I guess it really does not matter to me in the end. What
really matters right now? The things I have taken for granted that I cannot re-obtain “are” obtainable. “This saddens you, not Me!” That is
all behind you now my friend. You did what needed to be done and you are proud for doing what you had to do! It has taught you, that a
time will always come to set everything else aside. Aside for something that is more important. Gotta love it!!!!
Journal: 9 August 05 8:50 am
daddies with my Son until we were both stuffed. I remember the night well. He had gotten in trouble at school that day and had been
expelled. I wanted to teach him something rather than locking him up away behind closed doors, so I made him catch Then they were
begging for more….. ( :
craw daddies! You have to understand though; my son gets the hebbie geebies over a grass hopper!!!! You can imagine what a
daddie did to him. Lmao! It was classic! He created the craw daddies shmore! He melted some Pringles shmores and added some freshly
cleaned daddies to em’! Nice delicatessen! Grossed out a few friends though. Until they tried them of course. Then they were begging for
more….. ( :
Which reminds me! I need to get myself cleaned up and to Ruta Mayas for some Chess and Coffee! This is the last week my Son and I
have to crash Austin and we are losing time…lol! Yesterday and last week was spent preparing him for his new school! Man!!!! Orientation
blew me away yesterday! Our kids have to pay 2 bucks for lunch these days. When I was a kid it was a quarter. On top of this they do not
have lockers anymore! NO LOCKERS! They told us, “They only have to carry their back pack for 4 minutes in between classes!” “What
about the 15 or 20 minute walk home Miss Principle Lady!!! Imagine if your kids in band and has to carry a horn home everyday along with
6 classes worth of homework. (Yikes…starting to ramble again!)
If any of you have some time to hear some killer jams tonight go to Freddies Place and hear James Thomas! I have his music on the
Journal & Art page. He is gifted and very talented! Last night while listening to some of his music it began to remind me a little of Bob Dylan.
I love Bob Dylan….If it is not raining on his and our heads he starts at 6 pm.
As for now, Im off to clean up and then get some coffee and chess time in with my kiddo! After that I will be back here working on some art
to share and thinking of what I will write in my next song! Hope all of you have a spectacular day! Respectfully, Wesley
Email: 4 August 2005
If you have not heard Michael play try to get some time to do so. He's great ( :
To: austinithinkyoushine@yahoo.com
Subject: Michael Shay
Hi everyone!
Michael, Doug, and guitarist Chris Vestre (http://www.chrisvestre.com)
will be heading out for a week of shows in New Mexico and Colorado, but
before we go, we're gonna play an impromptu trio gig in Austin! This
Sunday the 7th, at La Tazza Fresca, at the corner of 37th and Guadalupe,
from 6-8 pm. It's a sweet little place, so come on out and enjoy this
free trio show!
Monday the 8th, the bigger, louder, 6-piece Michael Shay Band will be
at Ruta Maya, but earlier-than-usual, at 7pm-9pm. Also free.
There will be no Monday the 15th show at Ruta Maya.
Here are the August TOUR dates, and please please PLEASE! tell all you
friends in these areas to come check us out! Details about
venues/shows are on the website. All y'all in Colorado: We'll see you soon!
Thu. 11th, Eske's Brewpub, Taos, NM
Fri. 12th, Everyday Joe's, Ft. Collins, CO, with Shannon McNally
Sun. 14, Catered House Concert in Tabernash, CO
Tue. 16, Rock N Soul Cafe, Boulder, CO, with Ryan Spearman
Wed. 17, Walnut Room, Denver, CO, with Third Road Home (Tom Demask was
in the Permanent Transients with Michael and Jim Harris when they lived
in Colorado at the turn of the century)
Fri. 19, Evergreen Icehouse, Evergreen CO
Peas,
Michael
Journal: 29 July 05 1:30 pm
Long time no give attention…lol! Hope everyone is well and filled with light heartedness. I surely am! I have not had the opportunity to
accomplish much this week with my Art. I have been extremely busy, and the entire day yesterday was lost to fighting a few computer
problems with the site. I’m sure you can relate to this. Yesterday I was ready to throw this damn thing out the window. Late last night I was
able to get everything up and running but it took the “entire” 12 hours of my art time to do it! Not sure what I plan to do this weekend. I’m
kiddo-less this weekend, so I guess until I have a chance to sit back and give the Austin Chronicle a look see I really do not know where my
adventures will take me. One thing for sure is it will consist of live music.
Hate to cut you folks off short but I need to publish some more photo’s that I really enjoyed taking last Sunday at the Car Show and I need
to work on a project for one of the 1st place winners of the Car show. I plan to publish this on the home page when Im don but it may take
me an hour or so to complete it.
Have a great remainder of this Friday, try not to get to wet (its thundering like “crazy” here in South Austin right now), and have a safe
wonderful weekend. Talk to ya soon! Wesley
Journal: July 24, 2005 8:05 am Good morning friends and family! I have to make this entry short and sweet because I have a million things
to do today! Yesterday was spent at the Expo centers "The Heat Wave" car show. Wonderful and hot day yesterday. The name of the
event was quite appropriate eh! The photo's I am publishing are all I have had the time to doctor up. There are many others that I would
like to share with you but it will have to wait (hydraulic competition, free style bicyclist, bikini contest and yata yata. Stay original and have a
positive day on behalf of yourself. Wesley
Journal: July 25, 2005
Hello! Just wanted to give those of you who have been keeping up with Jes a heads up! He's just sent his most recent update with some
photos to go along. Check em' out! ( : Gotta early day tomorrow so I'm off to roll into some Egyptian cotton. Nighty night! Respectfully,
Wesley
Journal: 12:55 pm 23 July 05
Buenos Dias! Hope your day is bringing you one of celebration. I had a late night last night at Trophy’s so I slept in today and have decided
to spend the day here at home in the AC. Beautiful day outside so it may be a premature notion…lol. Yesterday was spent with the kids at
Barton Springs then the Alligator Grill for din. “GOD” it was sooooooo hot yesterday. Wonder if my friend Jes the Adventurer is missing all
of this Texas heat in Amsterdam. ( : Not!!!! Lucky Jes! He should be sending me an update in the next few days so keep your eyes peeled
up for it.
After the Alligator Grill my kiddo went to stay the night with some friends so I used this opportunity to do what I “love”! I had planned to go to
the Saxon Pub to listen to a friend of mine perform. (WC Clark) Never made it though! WC didn’t start till 11:30 pm so stopped in to here
some jams at Trophy’s. Some friends (Lions) that I met there were to play around 11:30. This was their first gig to perform for a large group
live and this was not to be missed. Prior to the Lions a band called Basin Street performed. The energy this band presented while
performing is another reason I stayed at Trophy’s last night.
I’m sure the Lions and Basin Street will perform again very soon at Trophy’s and when I have the time to get by there again I will give you a
heads up on their shows. Trust me…you “will not” be disappointed with either of these bands. The vocalist with Basin Street passed me a
CD that I am listening to now and when I decided which of the songs I like the most I will publish it for you to check out.
I’m going to close for the time being because I have so much photography to play with, doctor up, publish, and a friend in need…lol (he just
called and said he ran out of gas off Burleson…lol. You folks appreciate this day and make it impressive. Peace out! Wesley
Journal: 10:05 am 22 July 05
Hi friends! Hope everyone is well and in good spirit today. Most of us usually are on Friday. This is the first opportunity to arise allowing me
the time to sit here and share a thought. Very busy week for the most part. I got up this morning and picked a song to use in flick I just
published (a song by CCR). I have not had the opportunity to sit and begin the Art for my next flick. I Feel like a slacker…lol!
The first thought I would like to share is for a friend of mine (Laren). Check out his Web site: www.laughline.biz
Laren has asked me to create the art for a new DVD that he and the rest of his team are creating. They are fabulous stand up comedians
that use a spice of theatrical twist in their show. They have a very big gig (Rated “L”) coming up in September that I hope to be available
for. I’ll give you more details on this later, but all the info. you will need is on his Web Site. When I watched the clip of Lauren on the site it
really cracked me up. Watch it and you’ll know why…lol! The energy this Joe has just totally blows my mind. Gotta’ love it!
Last night was the first chance I have actually had to get out and listen to some live music. First I went to Rockin’ Tomatoes to shoot the
breeze with a friend who runs the joint. He was stressed but excited because today he had to fly out of town for a pizza competition. Totally
cool man….I love the pizza at Rockin’ Tomatoes and the Calzone is totally hot. I’ll let you know how he did upon his return.
I decided to have a change of pace for both music and venues after Rockin’ Tomatoes. I had planned to listen to Karaoke with a new bro’
of mine (People’s Karaoke- 914-6921). He host Thursdays at the RT and a few other hot spots (night clubs) down town on 6th. I gave you
his number because he is a great DJ and host parties and weddings. I heard him sing a few weeks ago and really enjoyed his vocals. Very
soon I will be doing some photography for him down town that I will be able to share with you! Kewl eh! I’m excited about it!
For the change of pace I decided to swing by The Broken Spoke and talk to Richard White (the owner). The last time I was there (before
my digital photo days) was back in the early 80’s. In all honesty my memory of The Broken Spoke is lost somewhere in my mind. Sad! While
I was there I attempted to recollect memories of evenings that were spent there and I was left with an absent loss. I’m gonna have to go and
eat a Chicken Fried Steak there this evening with my Son just so I can remember what it taste like…lol.
They are known for having the best!
Anyway, I’m donating a piece of Art to Mr. White (Owner). He has the most “INCREDIBLE” museum of history that fills the walls and corners
of 2 rooms that separate the restaurant and the dance floor. Most of it is photography of famous celeb’s and musicians who visit The
Broken Spoke.
HOLY!!! 11:30 already! I had better close before I lose what’s left of this morning…lol! Bills to pay and kids to entertain ( : Think I’m going
to take them to Cabello’s! Hope I spelled Cabellos right. I think that’s what it is called…lol.
Today’s Art update are a few pieces I used in the Art Lyric Flick Self Indulgent. The rest are photos that I took last night! Hope your Friday
is true and your weekend authentic. Peace out! Wesley
Journal: 17 July 05 10:20pm
Bonjour! Hope eveyone was able to get ahead today. I managed to complete my next flick, but now my brain is mush from sitting at this
computer lost in my own division. The photography used in the next art flick are photo's that jumped out at me as I began to fiddle through
300 plus folders of Austin Texas. By skipping around through my folders of photography and art I discovered that it will be impossible for
me to share everything that I would like to in this life time. The more I think about it the more it blows me away.
I had planned to share on this home page some of the art used in todays flick ( Self-Indulgent ). Instead I am going to share some art that I
created both this year and last for whatever past reason. Some for friends, some for musicians, some for me ( :
In closing I just want to say thank you to all of you who have taken the time to check out and appreciate this site. Much of my ambition
comes from knowing that I am able to give a friend and a fellow Austinite a break from their crazy world. Thanks neighbor, Wesley
Email: 17 July 05 9:45 pm
Wesley Balli <austinithinkyoushine@yahoo.com> wrote:
"JES!" Happy happy joy joy!!! Happy happy joy joy!!!
I was getting antsy! lol Pictures are great man! Im doing good! Hope all is well? Gotta go play xbox with the kiddo right now! I'll post your
pics when Im done kickin his butt Jes the Adventurer! LOL I wish, he always kicks mine on that crazy game. Peas, Wesley
Jes Garcia <retroboy@spaceship.com> wrote:
Hey Man...
...Hope you are well! An update and new music will soon follow!!! ;) Have a great Sunday my friend. Peace, Jes
Journal: July 16, 2005 1200 am
Happy Saturday! Mine will be spent in class today so I need to be getting some rest, but not until I say good morning…lol! I just completed
the Art Flick that I would like to share ( : “Other Side!” ; )
Much of the photography art in this flick is recent and consist of 25 photos. Musicians, Austinite body art, architecture, nature, and…well
everything else that I love…smiling! I will share some of this art later on when I have the time to publish it here on this webpage for you to
appreciate. No time right now. I need to get the flick on the journal and art page.
Have a wonderful weekend and stay “real”!!! Respectfully, Wesley
Journal: Tuesday July 12, 2005 4:05 am
Top of the morning to you! I just got home a little while ago and spent the majority of yesterday (into today) writing, playing music and
working. I’m not really sleepy yet so I decided to drop you line and share a bit. Yesterday I completed writing another song for my next art
flick! Now comes the fun part. ( : Art! I hope to have a new flick ready within the next day or so. For a change of pace I think I may use some
of my older art that I have completed. To early to say in all honesty. I never know where my mind is going to take me when I begin trapping,
catching, and creating new thoughts of art from my photography.
Today after completing the song I went to a friend’s house to play some music and she insisted on recording it. She has a recording
company called Cowgirls from Outer space and is a very talented guitarist/writer/vocalist. She is going to doctor it up once she gets her
equipment all set up and when she does I’ll turn you on to it. You have to promise not to poke fun at me though….lol! I was actually
surprised because I liked it. I usually do not like the way I sound on a recording but she surprised me.
Well, If I plan to be worth a dime today I had better make myself catch a couple hours sleep. Big day tomorrow…wait-a-minute…”tOdaAy I
mEaN”! Respectfully Nighty Night, Wesley
Journal: 10 July 05 8:30 am
Hi-ya! Hope everyone is well and ready for this new week we have just risen to. I have decided to dedicate this day to Art and writing. (I
need it!) My dreams lately have not allowed me to have much peace within myself. Old scars can taunt you in your dreams and easily
become an unwelcome enemy that can rule the with an iron nightmarish grip. That’s my problem though, not yours, so I’ll hush up and get
back to what brings me peace and closure as I know it.
Let’s see, the past week has been somewhat interesting. Went to 5th to hear some Karaoke on Thursday, then to Antone's for a spell.
Other than that I have been staying close to home at a few wonderful local hangouts. If you have not been to Rockin' Tomatoes you need
to check it out. I tried the buffet there yesterday and it was very tasty. Especially the Strombolli!
Several days ago I received these emails from two very talented musicians that I have come to know and recognize as friends. They are
very talented and have gigs coming up that I am not sure that I can attend (other job!).
The first is Michael Shay: FREE SHOW MONDAY 11th at Cactus Cafe / KUT 90.5 fm
Thanks to everyone who has been coming to the shows and helping US have
a such a good time. I had a funny exchange with a fan this week -
"It's all about the audience," I said. He replies, "No, man, it's all
about you!" I guess that means it's all about ALL of us! So there.
Either way:
We're happy to let you know that the Michael Shay Band (Alex Coke, Doug
Marcis, Elizabeth Suggs, Wayne Sutton, and Steve Zirkel) will be
playing an early show this Monday the 11th at the wonderful Cactus Cafe. It
is a free show, and starts at 8pm with Wayne playing a short acoustic
set of his own material. (http://www.waynesdonkey.com).
I really like what Michael wrote above about a fan of his. The reason being is that it reminds me of a quote I once wrote. (See Below…it
ends with “it’s your world too!”) I first heard Michael at Ruta Mayas and went back for seconds on the 4th of July!
The second email I have spoke of came from Larissa: Sammy Hagar/Cabo Wabo Fest (Full band (WED)...just upbeat Pop/Rock with a Jazz
TWIST!)
Hey guys,
We're playing
(LARISSA & the band) at the pop/rock (Sammy Hagar/Cabo Wabo contest) fest
at the Velvet Spade this Wednesday , July 13th.
Come out to Rock out!! And Support!! :-)
Tell everyone you know!!
The first band starts at 9 pm, and We start at 10:00 pm.
Velvet Spade
912 Red River
Austin, TX 78701
Rumor has it that they're located between 9th and 10th street over by Stubbs
CAll them for directions or Questions at (512) 482-8404
Don't go by the MapQuest Directions...they're way off track!
-LARISSA
http://www.larissamusic.com/
Larissa is also wonderful to hear! Really sucks that I am unable to go to this show of hers (kicking my can!). Get’s worse I think I have a job
on first Thursday as well. If you have not heard Larissa you will appreciate taking the time to do so. She truly has the voice of an angel!
Not sure if I can make this one or not! Wish I could have made it to the Willie Graham benefit that was held about a week ago.
Before closing I want to let you know that Jes has sent his latest update along with some photos! You’re going to love them. They brought
me a big laugh that’s for sure. The updates on today’s home page are from old Art Flicks. I made this for a friend at the Alligator Grill so
some of it is geared toward the Alligator and other cool hangouts of ours! Think I may use the photo’s of Larissa, Michael, and a handful of
other musicians captured at Blues on the Green last Week (Pinetop Perkins was great!!!) for my next flick. Hmmmm! So many photos and
so little time…smiling! Have a good one friends! Wesley
Email: Jes the adventurer Picture Update
From: Wesley Balli [mailto:austinithinkyoushine@yahoo.com]
Sent: Saturday, July 09, 2005 12:17 AM
To: Jes Garcia
Subject: Re: Pics!
VeRy kEwL Jes! I will get them published as soon as I doctor them up for ya!
Respectfully, Wesely
Jes Garcia wrote:
These were taken on a day trip to Amsterdam w/ Cheryl (from Glasgow) just
yesterday (Thursday)...more on that trip in my next update. Enjoy!!! Peace
and Love
Journal: 7 July 05 4:20
Hi! ( : Hope everyone is well. I am finally getting around to publishing the Art Flick I finished Tuesday! I had planned to update everything
this morning but fell asleep in the chair in hopes of sleeping off a headache. It worked! ( :
Past few days have been a nice break. My Son and I have been on the go since his return from visitation with his mother. We were so tired
yesterday we decided to stay in the AC rather than spend a day at a river. Same applies to today I guess. We were going to crash Krause
Springs but I ended up sleeping most of our day away. My bad!!!
When I woke up him and his friend were hyped. They began writing a story called “War of the Gods!” LoL… My son loves to write and his
friend is proving to be a very talented artist behind the pencil. I read the first chapter that they typed up and printed out and was shocked to
find that together they can be very creative (Proud Pops! Smiling!!!)
Today’s flick (Fly-by-Night) is about 25 Art photos in length (I decided to share on this home page today). Tried watching one of my flicks
through dial up yesterday while at a friends and got ticked off when it would not play. Not sure if it was the dial up or her computer. I think it
may have been a little bit of both.
While at her house yesterday (Buda) we enjoyed a nice afternoon rain shower (top right photo!). To bad the rain dried before it hit the
ground…lol. Wish it had lasted longer. It only rained for about 10 minutes, if even that!
After the rain passed we headed to the “Blues on the Green” at Zilker Park. PineTop, Gary Clark, Jimmy Vaughn and a handful of other
excellent blues musicians were tearing up the green with their harmony. This was the first show on the green that I have been to since it
began a few weeks ago. I will definitely return but this time I am going to dress a bit more appropriately. “It was hot as hell!”
Well, publishing these photos will take me a few so I need to say bye again. Enjoy the flick and if I do not get back hear before the
weekend, I hope you have a wonderful one! Respectfully, Wesley
Email: 5 July 05 12:15 AM
Fireworks were cool Jes! My Son and I went to the Alligator Grill and played some pool then ended up at Opal Divines for the fireworks.
After that we went to Ruta Mayas to play some chess and jam to Michael Shay. I’m working on the fireworks now. I was about 10 miles away
so I need to do some doctoring up (Art that is!). Check out the home page tomorrow. I think I may stay up awhile to publish what I have
before climbing into some cold soft Egyptian cotton bedding. Talk to ya soon bro'!
Jes Garcia <retroboy@spaceship.com> wrote:
enjoy the fireworks and I look forward to seeing some pics...I forget it's the 4th until u reminded me...remember the Dutch don't do it so...it's
just another day...thanks for adding the address...give everyone my love and then hug yourself a big one...I dig your poem style dude...
Peace
Email: 4 July 05 12:48pm
Done deal Bro'! I wrote this for my next Art Flick at Ruta Mayas this morning while shooting the breeze with Drake and Glen! Do you like it?
(To be published for the rest of you Austinuts in a day or so! Depends on how involved my minds eye goes when creating the Art for it! I
have decided to use exotic animals, sculptures, and Body Art of Austinuts kewl enough to allow me to photograph them!)
NICE 4th of July morning hear in Austin Jes! Nice breeze coming in from the south with a cold front behind it. It is supposed to get Texas a
little bit of rain but will miss us hear in Austin.
The reason I say it is SOOOO nice today is Saturday and Sunday were in the 100's (BRUTAL). Friday was the first day to break 100 I'm
told. Drag eh! If we do not get rain soon we will all have to migrate to Lake Travis for a swim (Unless you like chlorine all over your body!)
While at Hamilton Pool last week they closed the pool due to high levels of bacteria. We were only there like 10 minutes and they would not
give us a refund. I was “pissed!!!” $16.00 bones down the tubola!!! We ended up at Camp Ben Mc Cullough. That will be history in another
week or so!
I plan to go to Ruta Mayas this evening to watch the fire works and will send you some photos. I can hardly wait! I want to photograph the
fire works "really" bad. The last time I did something like this was about 2 years ago while in Dallas Texas.
Melanie and "D" are going to get a canoe and watch the fireworks while floating in the middle of Town Lake. Awesome idea! If I had a water
proof camera that’s where I would most certainly be.
Got to fly bro’! I’ll post your address on the opposite side of your intro. Jes the Adventurer Ciao! Wesley
Email: 3 July 05 10:45 P
Hi Jes!
Kewl update bro! Sorry to hear you got a cootie bug from the Scots...lol! Love your ideas on the Jes Page! Be sure to let me know if
something does not look right. I have a very large monitor and some computers will not show the page properly. I usually do not find out
until I go to Comp USA for supplies and stuff. I always check the page from their computers when Im there. I like the idea about selling the
photos but until I can link my bank into the site and stuff I am unable to do this. That and Uncle Sams Taxes. I still have a lot to learn.
Eventually I do plan to do this with some of my Art to keep up with supplies and to save money for the event I hope to sponsor in the future.
Seems like a million years away but my dreams are not. They live within me everyday. Glad to hear you are well and even happier to hear
about your improving skills in the kitchen.
I went by Ruta Mayas today and took a few photos that I am attaching to this mail. It is Melanie and Dustin! You’re going to like the one I
took of Melanie. She pulled your photo off the beer cooler, held it up, and gave me/you an ear to ear grin. She's so great! I am also
attaching some Art I made of the Capital that I photographed today prior to going to Rutas.
Glad you liked the Art Flick I sent you. More to come but I need to figure out what I want to work on next. I am thinking about dedicating the
next to body art, pets (snakes, spiders, scorpions, yata yata), and river art (sculptures). Well, I need to be getting back to some art! Have a
great week and try not to get the sniffy's anymore. Peas! Wesley
Journal & Flick: July 1 2005 12:10 pm
Afternoon Friends! Almost time to crash the weekend! I’m sure you are ready! I think I am going to crash Zilker this afternoon. I had a blast
yesterday listening to about 7-8 Austinites beat on their bongos while I built some rock sculptures. I took some really cool pics that I plan to
share at a later date.
Now that I have my entire house work done and my brunch on the stove its time to publish the flick I completed this morning. Most of the Art
photos were taken on 6th street of some great musicians. Not sure of the names but most of them are local. I have not been going to 6th
street because the last time I went (alone) I was leaving a club and got jacked.
Some joker clocked me from the side in a dark alley, put a hole in my lip, ganked my jacket which had my wallet in it and bolted. I came
through a few seconds later to discover I had just got my A$$ kicked…lol! Sucks! Thanks God I didn’t have my camera with me (It was in
California!). I decided at that point to “not” go downtown alone with my equipment.
I am missing my friends that work on 6th at some killer clubs so I decided to make this flick with all photos taken both this year and last while
down on 6th. Toward the end I have a few that were taken at Ruta Mayas, Zilker Gardens, and New Bayden (Relatives Home
Land…Farmers and Cattle folk!).
Well I need to cut this short because my buddy is waiting on my breakfast tacos that I made close to 30 minutes ago…lol! If you do not have
any plans yet for the 4th check out Ruta Mayas. Carolyn in Wonderland will be playing along with Michael Shay and it’s a great spot to
catch the fireworks without fighting a hundred thousand elbows. See ya there! ( : Peace out and have a great weekend. Wesleco
Journal: 30 June 05
Hello friends! Hope everyone is well today in mind and spirit. My day is blessed. As usual I am happy to say. This is because I woke up
today in tune with myself and my thoughts.
I had a funny dream last night! I can not remember it all in detail but it cracked me up. About a month ago a dear friend of mine and I made
a pinky pack. We both agreed to not cut our hair and allow it to grow long enough (10 inches) to contribute/donate to a very special
organization known as Locks of Love (I think that’s the name…scratching head!) The organization uses the hair to make wigs for children
who have cancer.
In my dream I was watching myself walk to Lu Lu’s (A friend of mine who has a salon in Buda). My hair (which is still short) was very long,
curly, and extremely thick. I used to have long hair when in high school and when long it is “very” curly! Once in the salon, my friend Lu
(Lucetta) put my hair in a pony tail and cut it off. Upon completion of this, she began to prepare it for a free cut, but I stopped her.
At that very moment I am standing in my own bathroom holding my buzzer looking at myself. In one hand I held my buzzer and the other
hand was planted on my freshly shaven bald head.
This dream is very symbolic to me. It makes me realize just how important this is for me to do and how wonderful it will make me feel. It also
tells me that I need to shave my head after I donate my hair…lol. Hmmmmmmm! Interesting concept! A bald Balli! Tee Hee!
The art photos on today’s home page are from the flick “Rogation Day”. Yesterday while at a friends (prior to going to Hamilton Pool for a
swim) I tried to show him this flick on his Mac but was unable to. Apparently he needs to download a free plug-in (more info on this later!) in
order to watch it. Mac needs this to convert files that are in windows format. In addition to this many of my friends do not have the luxury of
DSL and are unable to see the flicks. This is a drag eh! Anyway, all of the Art on today’s page are from this flick and the writings
superimposed on the art are hyque that I wrote about angels. Hope you likes.
Im about 8-9 photos away from completing my next hyque lyric flick, so until I have it ready, you Austinuts stay real. Respectfully, Wesley
Journal: 28 June o5
Evening! Hope your day was pleasing and that you’re ready for hump day tomorrow. Highlight of my day came when I heard from Jes the
Adventurer. Check out his page (Jes the Adventurer) and read about his adventurous weekend. (Whew!) Trains, Plains and
Automobiles…SMACKING FOR HEAD! Makes my tummy swim!
Today’s Art Lyric Flick in the journal & art section (Rogation Day) is a hyque writing that speaks of Angels! I came up with it last night while
preparing to call it a night. I started playing around with hyque a few weeks ago. I have a new friend (another writer) who spends a great
deal of his time at local water spots meeting and obtaining thoughts of others. He has collected some “incredible thoughts” of people
ranging in all ages (As young as a 7 year old).
Most of the photo art was taken here in South Austin, Central Austin, and Camp Ben McCullough. Upon completion of this I wrote another
that will accommodate another 20 to 25 photo’s. Not sure what I plan to title it yet. I began searching through old folders of down town night
life (I miss all my friends down there!) and decided to use 20-25 photo’s of some really talented local musicians that I have photographed in
about 10 to 15 different music venues. Until then…Ciao! Respectfully, Wesleco
Email: 27 June 05
"Thanks Michael!" I appreciate the update bro'! I'll see you again before you head out to Colorado. I was at Ruta Mayas for a a few to hear
Carolyn but had to blaze over to the Alligator to catch Larissa. I'll keep my calendar open for the 4th or the 11th. Love your music "and"
your style bro! Thanks for sharing at Ruta Mayas! I am attaching a piece of Art I created with you and your music at heart! Hope you likes!
Peas...lol Wesley
To: austinithinkyoushine@yahoo.com
From: "Michael Shay"
Subject: June 27, July 2, JULY 4, and July 11 KUT / Cactus Cafe
Date: Sun, 26 Jun 2005 02:06:23 -0700
Here are quite a variety of gigs to check out:
Monday June 27 @ 10pm at Ruta Maya, free show with the Michael Shay
Band (Alex Coke, Doug Marcis, Wayne Sutton, Steve Zirkel). Carolyn
Wonderland and Matt Hubbard play at 7pm
Saturday July 2 @ 10 am, Michael Shay solo at the Farmer's Market, 4th
and Guadalupe
Saturday July 2 @9pm, Michael Shay solo, opening for Danny Schmidt's CD
release at the Cactus Cafe
Satruday July 2 @ 10:30-11:30 pm, MIchael Shay, Raphael Bas, Ponder
East, Doug Marcis, and Steve Zirkel play for the Body Choir Benefit, a
DANCE extravaganza all night. 7 bucks
Monday July 4 @ 10pm, Michael Shay band, free show at Ruta Maya, a
GREAT PLACE TO WATCH THE FIREWORKS!
Monday July 11 @ 12noon, MIchael Shay Band goes on KUT 90.5 fm,
Eklektikos with John Ailee. Please tell your friends to listen in!
Monday July 11 @ 8pm, Michael Shay Band at CACTUS CAFE, Wayne Sutton
opens. FREE, EARLY SHOW!
Michael will be on tour in Colorado in August. Check the website for
details.
Peas!!!
--------------------------------------
Subject: Wyoming
Hi James! Great to hear you’re busy and wish I could have been there to hear you rock the house with that Les Paul. I'm sure everyone
else loved ya! Wish you still lived in Austin Bro! I still have hopes of visiting but financially I am at a stand still. I am keeping alive the dream
brother. Keep ranching and enjoy those mountains. WOW! Shooting star show from your roof top! You’re killing me man. You need to buy
a camera...lol. Which photo did I send you? I will need to resize it to accommodate your printing capabilities. Peace, Wesley
Subject: Miss Ya!
Hi Diana! Sorry I'm so belated with this response. Ive been a little bee here the past few days. I guess your on your way back from Vegas
right now. I hope it went well and that your friend had a memorable and wonderful wedding. I'm without a cell again but will check my
messages periodically from a land line. I jumped out of the car to take a photo of a train on Anderson Sunday morning about 4 am and a
car ran over my cell...lol! I give up on them things girl! Thats the 4th one in the past 8 months...lol. (smaking forhead!) Talk to ya soon
Sunshine! Wesley
-------
Date: Thu, 23 Jun 2005 10:22:34 -0700
From: larissa
Subject: LARISSA solo's at the Alligator Grill (Mon. Happy Hour)
Hear LARISSA solo:
Monday, June 27th at the Alligator Grill (on S. Lamar)
for acoustic Happy Hour on the Deck (5:30-8:30pm)
LARISSA
http://www.larissamusic.com/
---------------------------------
Subject: Burn Out Bright
Hi Matt! I have been listening to your CD (Burn Out Bright) this morning and wanted to take a moment to commend your brilliance as an
Artist. Your music “totally” sends out positive radiant energy that I pick up on.
Like yourself I am an Artist and a Musician who has not come out of his shell. I love to play my guitar and sing and by listening to your music
this morning it gave me an edge. A boost needed to keep my spirit and dream alive. I love to share my photography art and my music but
have a harder time sharing my music. Lack of confidence I think.
Well, I love your CD and will more than likely listen to it all day as I will be here at the computer creating my next Art Lyric Flick to publish on
my website today. LoL Yeah…I like it that much! ( :
I would “love” to use one of your favourite songs as the background music. Got any ideas! Peace be with your day brother! Respectfully,
Wesley www.austinithinkyoushine.com
Journal: 26 June 05 11:40 am
Greetings! Well, the mornings over ( : Kind of a drag! That means Monday is a little closer… My weekend has been wonderful. My Son and
I went camping at Camp Ben Friday night with a few other friends. While there we met some other musicians and stayed up until the wee
hours of the am playing our guitars, singing, and hitting the bongos. Great night! The only downfall of our trip was to discover how much
the river has dropped. You can still swing from the rope swing but in about a week or so that will be history. “WE NEED RAIN!”
Friday morning I overheard on channel 8 news (I hardly “ever” watch TV) of an event at the Continental Club called the Willie Graham
Benefit. (When I do have the TV on I “always” have it on Channel 8.) I have photographed and enjoyed Willies music on more than one
occasion and was shocked to hear that his Son has a rare hip disease ) :
I knew I would not be able to attend the benefit so I decided to create a piece of art to donate toward the cause. When I have attended
functions like this in the past I would photograph, print, and sell 4x6 postcards to other Austinites for $5.00 each to donate toward the
cause at hand.
Knowing I would not be able to attend I zoomed to Comp USA to buy some 13x19 Glossy Photo paper, some photo magenta for my Canon
Inkjet Printer, and a frame that would accommodate the size of the print (which was rather difficult to find!) One that I could afford that is.
The photo art I created is called Continental Illusions. The art consist of a 5-layer enhanced piece of photo art. There are 4 musicians
superimposed over the image of the entrance door of the Continental Club (you get to guess which musicians…Tee Hee! If you hang out at
the Continental or 6th street you will know who they are ( : All musicians are Local Artist who are very talented and were photographed at
the Continental Club last year prior to my decision of creating a site to capture my memories by journalising.
My idea was to leave it with Steve (the owner) and let him decide how it could best be utilized for raising money to help Willie and his family.
Once there, I was directed to a space (Bella Flora I think? Creative Floral @ Event Design) that was dedicated to nothing but Art and such
for a silent auction (did not know about the silent auction until I got there).
They had some “great” Art, Guitars, Tickets, and complimentary packages from many businesses and photographers in and around the
Austin area. VERY, VERY KEWL! My Art was to start its bidding at $100 and I am anxious to know if I was able to help Willie raise
something toward the well being of his child. They asked me if I would allow it to sell on E-BAY if it was not purchased. Apparently you have
the option of getting it back. I told them “no”…I wanted it to go toward the cause! One of the gentlemen that was helping to organise
everything said “RIGHT ON MAN!” He was a very pleasant person, wish I had gotten his name. (I think it may have been Harper Ferguson,
a co-owner of Bella Flora.)
I prayed for Willie’s Son last night while sleeping under the stars. I also prayed for mine. My heart goes out to Willie and his family.
Apparently they “thought” they had insurance but upon asking for assistance discovered that the insurance company had filed a Chapter
7. MAJOR BLEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEPIN’ DRAG!!!
Well, time for me to say Adios. I am about 3 hours away from completing 20-25 pieces of photo Art that will be used in my next Art lyric Flick
(Bringeth up Upon). I’m a few days behind because this past week has been very busy. Hope everyone has a beautiful Sunday and a
wonderful closure into Monday. Respectfully, Peace out! WB
Journal: 22 June 05 Time: Hmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm!
Hello Dear Friends! Busy week for us both I’m sure. Can you believe that tomorrow is “ALREADY” FRIDAY!
Sheeeesh!?! The past few days have been great. When not at work I have been spending some time at Zilker Park,
Alligator Grill (Next to Rockin Tomatoes on Lamar), and Rokin’ Tomatoes (Next to Alligator Grill on Lamar)…tee
hee!
Zilker has been a blessing! The drive close, the water cold, and the Austinites even cooler. By going to this special
spot that I have built a million memories and fun times at as a child and as a teenager I have reunited with a great
click of new found friends that befriended myself at both Camels Hole and Twin Falls. I’m always telling new found
friends not to worry…we will see one another again…”It’s a small Town!”. Lol! I guess the reason I am sharing this
is because genuine folks are at times far and few between, but not for me! They are abundant and around each and
every corner of our space. What I have learned through my own experience and from those whom have shared their
wisdom with me is that “good folks” are everywhere! The folks that are judgemental or untrusting for whatever
reason miss out on the opportunity to meet and establish some beautiful relationships. Easier said than done I admit
(It has taken 36 years for me to escape my shell)! Austin has such a diverse community that it can tend to be a bit
intimidating at times. Lol! Reminds me of a past relationship I was in with this Sunshine! Prior to our relationship she
was involved with this “huge SCAREY pro wrestler dude (WWF) and I remember her telling me that his looks
were, yes, intimidating but even more deceiving. He was in personality and in characteristic one of the nicest pussy
cats you could ever have the pleasure of knowing. LOL! Love ya’ BD!!!! (God rest your soul dear brother and
thanks for keeping in touch within my dream world friend!)
As for the Alligator…last night I ate dinner there after getting trashed by our Texas Sunshine at Zilker! I was starved
and a friend of mine took the honours of ordering for myself and 2 other friends. He works there and knows all the
killer stuff to order and wanted to turn us on to a “killer” sammich! (I think it was a Philly!) I ate it so fast that I am
having trouble remembering…lol! Bottom line is…..”Yummy Nummy for My Tummy!”
I have some photography to share, today and in future Art Flicks, of my friend eating his sammich and of a few
“great Musicians” who were performing on the outside deck. Writing about them right now is bringing images into
my mind of their performance which is in turn helping me to remember just how great these Cats were! 4 person
band with a Female Vocalist, awesome pianists, guitarist, and bass! Hmmmmmmmmmmm! Name escapes me!?! ) :
I miss my laptop! (It was ganked from my car when I was at a country picking party across the street from Polvos
about 3 months ago! ) : I used to journalise on the spot with this laptop while listening to music at the venues that
would allow me to! Im to lazy to hand write my thoughts on the spot but type on a keyboard like a Piano! Sniffy
Sniff! Come APD find my Lap Top!!! LOL!
In closing I want to speak of a very “real” and “hot” place to hang at! “ROKIN’TOMATOES!” The staff is “way
cool” and “WAY GENUINE!” I ate my first pizza from the RT’s last Friday! One of my family members wanted
to order a Pap Johns and I objected! We ended up ordering the tomatoes due to my stubbornness and I’m glad I
held my ground. I ate leftovers for 3 days!!! “Yummy Nummy for my Tummy!’ LOL… I need to get up there on a
Thursday evening because they have”great” Karaoke! I was able to here their karaoke last Wednesday (they do it on
Thursdays but rearranged to accommodate the game). The cat running the karaoke show was together! I know “a
lot” of DJ’s and have photographed many karaoke shows around town! Once I have a little more info. on this DJ
(with his permission) I will most assuredly share his talent with you.
Well, I still have email to weed through, deeply needed art to create (I’m way behind), and other mental thoughts to
weed through! You folks stay real and have a “GREAT” closure into your weekend! PS: Go to Camp Ben Mc
Cullough this weekdend! They have a carnival for kids and the annual re-enactment of the Rebel/Conferderate battle!
Yeah! Respectfully, Wesley
Journal & Flick: 20 June 05 7:30 am
Morning Grumpier! Smiling! Jus’ kidding! Hope your weekend was filled with good times. Mine rocked! I had a wonderful time with my kiddo,
got to see my Pops, and a “ton” of other dear family members! Todays Art flick (Faintheartedness) has some of these memories along with
a dozen others I have made over the past few months. When I began this story on Friday I had not planned on the unexpected opportunity
of photographing some very special members of my family. I decided very early this morning (4am) that I wanted to use some of these
photos for art so I could email them to my Pops and my Aunts! Yesterday was a very special memory for me friends.
One very special picture you will see in this Art flick is of my Grand Pa and Grand Ma Balli. They both passed while I was very young but
when my Aunt Corina presented the photo to me two very special memories flooded my mind (smiling).
I remember spending afternoons with my Grandfather when I was about 5-6 (Not sure on my age!?! I’m guessing!) he would take me with
him to clean the Church (Somewhere!?!) and while he would clean I remember running through the isles yelling “Grand Pa Grand Pa!”.
The echo of my voice in the empty cathedral would get me very excited and he would become tickled and laugh at me!
The second memory is of my Grand Ma! Every time my father would take me to visit her, we would walk into their home, and she would
“literally sprint” down the entire length of the hall way (which seemed as long as a 440) screaming “Leonard Baby!” (First name! tee hee!).
I remember in the beginning (a customary thing for her to do upon seeing me…lol) it would frighten me because she was screaming and
each time she would reach her little bundle of joy she would “pinch” the heck out of little “Leonard’s” cheeks…"ouchy dinky dawa"...lol!
There are "many" other memories that came back to me yesterday, but to document them all will have to come in time. Some are good and
some are painful, but now that they have come back to me I will "never" let them escape me again.
She loved me so much! Writing about these two periods of time in my life helps me to realize just how much “Family” means to me and just
how much not being able to ever get to know them hurts. It makes me see the importance of keeping face (staying in touch) with all of my
cousins, Aunts and Uncles. They were blessed with the opportunity of sharing years with two folks whom I lost at a very young age. Two
parents who still live within each and every one their hearts. If any of you guys are reading this right now I want to say, “I love all of you very
dearly!”
Respectfully,
Wesley
Journal & Flick: 17 June 05 9:10 am
Top of da’ morning to ya! Alas we enter another Friday. This week flew for me! Actually this whole year has flown. Thought I would sleep in
today because I was up till about 3:30 am working on the Art Lyric flick I am about to publish ( Don't Wanna Quit). The lyrics in this flick I
wrote both last year and this year. I have a ton of things to weed through and many times I will add new thoughts or change what I already
have. This flick actually came from bits and pieces of 4 to 5 different Poems, Songs, and Letters that I had collecting cobwebs.
The photography art consist of musicians, pets, hotrods, Gueros, Lake Way (Aunt Tillies…scrathing head?) and cool austinites who
befriended me. Because I tend to forget things from time to time I am writing a mental note of area in the bottom left hand corner of the
photo’s I “do” remember! It feels good to remember things ( : All of this repetition with my Art, Lyrics, and daily creations of what my third
eye comes to see is helping me (I think). Im very excited over this because the thought of losing and forgetting things on a daily basis is
rather tiresome.
Takes my train of thought back to a past relationship (of 3 years). Whenever my Sunshine and I would go somewhere “she” would “always”
drive because she would get us there faster by not getting lost or taking a wrong turn. She used to tease me because I was born and
raised in Austin and would “still” get lost. She knew the town better than I and had only lived here for several years. Back then I would think
I was dumb or something because of this cold handicap of forgetfulness. What I came to learn is that it was the result of the memory lapses
that were then what I would have to say not frequent enough for me to realize or notice. Actually it was not until I looked at photo’s I had
taken with my Son during his early years that memories had escaped me. Weird I would think! “I don’t remember going to Disney World!”
How do you forget something like that I thought. Oh well…. I say now what I said then! “Life Goes On!” ( :
Have a great weekend friends and I may or may not be back for a few days. Not sure yet. I have my kiddo this weekend and we plan to
crash a few parties…tee hee! Just kiddin! Today we “are” going to crash a Bat Man movie….lol! Have a great day and thanks for dropping
by! Respectfully, Wesley)
Journal, & Flick: 17 June 05 19:46 pm
Hello “homefolk!” Wonderful day today eh! I have spent “all” of mine thinking about you, my art, the world, yata’ yata’ yata’! giggle! The
majority of my day (aside from yakking with friends) has been creating today’s new art flick (A Better Person).
This flick is something that is extremely important to me. The well-being and development of my Sons Character is what led to this creation.
About a month ago I was going to give him a pounding for getting in trouble at school, but was able to see outside my circle prior to taking
any action. What I decided for both his well-being and my own sanctity is that isolation (grounding & whoopins’) is pollution…. Of the mind!
Instead I took him to a favourite river spot known as “Twin Falls!” I told him that folks real and genuine enough to walk down to the spot we
were at are tribunal in a pure way. I then gave him a spiral and asked him to “go” and “make” some new friends. He was to announce to
each new “genuine” friend what he had done to escape his education allowing him to even be there at that time of day. After his
explanation he was to kindly ask each new friend (mostly col. Students enjoying their break) for a thought of their own. The subject at hand!
“How can I be a better person?” Today’s flick consist of words that are not only my son’s interpretation of what he collected, but are the
thoughts, mentalities of genuine neighbours whom we share our wonderful town with. Part 1 of ? ...He collected half a spiral of thoughts...
smiling!
Respectfully, Wesley
Journal, Flick and Dream: 14 June 05 3:30 am
Hi Kathy! Hope all is well! It's about 3:30 am right now. Normally I would be sound asleep, but I'm a dreamer and often awake from crazy
dreams. This morning I awoke from a very disturbing dream. It troubles me because it was about a person and a time that I have worked
very hard to put behind me.
Periodically when awaking from these dreams I will document them as to not forget them (the one's I like that is). This one I would like to
forget, but feel the need to share or write about it. Hopefully by doing this it will bring the balance I presently seek within my feeble mind.
The reason I am sending this is because I consider you a friend along with the others I am attaching this mail to. That and while making
some Art a little while ago I came across that picture I took at Chuy's of you and your husband. I can not send this mail to everyone
because I have to many friends. I will send the picture taken at Chuy's to you soon, but not to everyone else. The photo attached to this is
some art I created the other day of a photo I took at the Green Belt (Twin Falls).
It is all these friends that will join us when I have the support to sponsor "A Day in The Sun!" (Musical benefit for the American Cancer
Society!)
Now for Therapy 101: Last year a person hurt me very badly and in retaliation or what I thought was a means of escape I hurt myself and
my family more than I could have ever possibly have imagined. Demons area a bad thing and can make you lose focus of "everything" that
is important in your life.
This person I thought I loved was very abusive emotionally, but at the same time was an expert at putting me back on my pedestal after
crushing me emotionally. I was too blind to see it as a form of abuse then, but now I am aware of the fact that it was abuse.
I have worked very hard for a year now to put this time and this person behind me, but occasionally I am reminded of her or this period of
time in my dreams. I "hate" these dreams. For me to say "hate" is rare and troubles me, but in heart I honestly do hate them.
The Dream:
I’m in an elevator that has no numberd floors and I am trying to figure out how I can get it to stop. The elevator, I can feel, is going down
and with each floor it passes I hear a ding, and become "very" troubled when it will not stop.
I look above my head to see if there is an escape door and discover that there is not one. In addition to this, I find that the ceiling is a
mirror. The only problem is the reflection in the mirror is not my own.
It is the reflection of the Sunshine who burned me. I wave as to gain her attention, but she is unaware that I am there. She is sitting on a
couch and screaming at something that is not within my sight. There is a monkey sitting next to her and periodically she grabs the monkey
by the tail and swings it toward the direction of her scream.
I become very scared and fall to my knees for a prayer of escape from this horrible trap that I am in. As soon as I fall to my knees, I feel the
elevator abrubptly stop, everything goes pitch black, and deathly silent. I
daddies with my Son until we were both stuffed. I remember the night well. He had gotten in trouble at school that day and had been
expelled. I wanted to teach him something rather than locking him up away behind closed doors, so I made him catch Then they were
begging for more….. ( :
craw daddies! You have to understand though; my son gets the hebbie geebies over a grass hopper!!!! You can imagine what a
daddie did to him. Lmao! It was classic! He created the craw daddies shmore! He melted some Pringles shmores and added some freshly
cleaned daddies to em’! Nice delicatessen! Grossed out a few friends though. Until they tried them of course. Then they were begging for
more….. ( :
Which reminds me! I need to get myself cleaned up and to Ruta Mayas for some Chess and Coffee! This is the last week my Son and I
have to crash Austin and we are losing time…lol! Yesterday and last week was spent preparing him for his new school! Man!!!! Orientation
blew me away yesterday! Our kids have to pay 2 bucks for lunch these days. When I was a kid it was a quarter. On top of this they do not
have lockers anymore! NO LOCKERS! They told us, “They only have to carry their back pack for 4 minutes in between classes!” “What
about the 15 or 20 minute walk home Miss Principle Lady!!! Imagine if your kids in band and has to carry a horn home everyday along with
6 classes worth of homework. (Yikes…starting to ramble again!)
If any of you have some time to hear some killer jams tonight go to Freddies Place and hear James Thomas! I have his music on the
Journal & Art page. He is gifted and very talented! Last night while listening to some of his music it began to remind me a little of Bob Dylan.
I love Bob Dylan….If it is not raining on his and our heads he starts at 6 pm.
As for now, Im off to clean up and then get some coffee and chess time in with my kiddo! After that I will be back here working on some art
to share and thinking of what I will write in my next song! Hope all of you have a spectacular day! Respectfully, Wesley
Email: 4 August 2005
If you have not heard Michael play try to get some time to do so. He's great ( :
To: austinithinkyoushine@yahoo.com
Subject: Michael Shay
Hi everyone!
Michael, Doug, and guitarist Chris Vestre (http://www.chrisvestre.com)
will be heading out for a week of shows in New Mexico and Colorado, but
before we go, we're gonna play an impromptu trio gig in Austin! This
Sunday the 7th, at La Tazza Fresca, at the corner of 37th and Guadalupe,
from 6-8 pm. It's a sweet little place, so come on out and enjoy this
free trio show!
Monday the 8th, the bigger, louder, 6-piece Michael Shay Band will be
at Ruta Maya, but earlier-than-usual, at 7pm-9pm. Also free.
There will be no Monday the 15th show at Ruta Maya.
Here are the August TOUR dates, and please please PLEASE! tell all you
friends in these areas to come check us out! Details about
venues/shows are on the website. All y'all in Colorado: We'll see you soon!
Thu. 11th, Eske's Brewpub, Taos, NM
Fri. 12th, Everyday Joe's, Ft. Collins, CO, with Shannon McNally
Sun. 14, Catered House Concert in Tabernash, CO
Tue. 16, Rock N Soul Cafe, Boulder, CO, with Ryan Spearman
Wed. 17, Walnut Room, Denver, CO, with Third Road Home (Tom Demask was
in the Permanent Transients with Michael and Jim Harris when they lived
in Colorado at the turn of the century)
Fri. 19, Evergreen Icehouse, Evergreen CO
Peas,
Michael
Journal: 29 July 05 1:30 pm
Long time no give attention…lol! Hope everyone is well and filled with light heartedness. I surely am! I have not had the opportunity to
accomplish much this week with my Art. I have been extremely busy, and the entire day yesterday was lost to fighting a few computer
problems with the site. I’m sure you can relate to this. Yesterday I was ready to throw this damn thing out the window. Late last night I was
able to get everything up and running but it took the “entire” 12 hours of my art time to do it! Not sure what I plan to do this weekend. I’m
kiddo-less this weekend, so I guess until I have a chance to sit back and give the Austin Chronicle a look see I really do not know where my
adventures will take me. One thing for sure is it will consist of live music.
Hate to cut you folks off short but I need to publish some more photo’s that I really enjoyed taking last Sunday at the Car Show and I need
to work on a project for one of the 1st place winners of the Car show. I plan to publish this on the home page when Im don but it may take
me an hour or so to complete it.
Have a great remainder of this Friday, try not to get to wet (its thundering like “crazy” here in South Austin right now), and have a safe
wonderful weekend. Talk to ya soon! Wesley
Journal: July 24, 2005 8:05 am Good morning friends and family! I have to make this entry short and sweet because I have a million things
to do today! Yesterday was spent at the Expo centers "The Heat Wave" car show. Wonderful and hot day yesterday. The name of the
event was quite appropriate eh! The photo's I am publishing are all I have had the time to doctor up. There are many others that I would
like to share with you but it will have to wait (hydraulic competition, free style bicyclist, bikini contest and yata yata. Stay original and have a
positive day on behalf of yourself. Wesley
Journal: July 25, 2005
Hello! Just wanted to give those of you who have been keeping up with Jes a heads up! He's just sent his most recent update with some
photos to go along. Check em' out! ( : Gotta early day tomorrow so I'm off to roll into some Egyptian cotton. Nighty night! Respectfully,
Wesley
Journal: 12:55 pm 23 July 05
Buenos Dias! Hope your day is bringing you one of celebration. I had a late night last night at Trophy’s so I slept in today and have decided
to spend the day here at home in the AC. Beautiful day outside so it may be a premature notion…lol. Yesterday was spent with the kids at
Barton Springs then the Alligator Grill for din. “GOD” it was sooooooo hot yesterday. Wonder if my friend Jes the Adventurer is missing all
of this Texas heat in Amsterdam. ( : Not!!!! Lucky Jes! He should be sending me an update in the next few days so keep your eyes peeled
up for it.
After the Alligator Grill my kiddo went to stay the night with some friends so I used this opportunity to do what I “love”! I had planned to go to
the Saxon Pub to listen to a friend of mine perform. (WC Clark) Never made it though! WC didn’t start till 11:30 pm so stopped in to here
some jams at Trophy’s. Some friends (Lions) that I met there were to play around 11:30. This was their first gig to perform for a large group
live and this was not to be missed. Prior to the Lions a band called Basin Street performed. The energy this band presented while
performing is another reason I stayed at Trophy’s last night.
I’m sure the Lions and Basin Street will perform again very soon at Trophy’s and when I have the time to get by there again I will give you a
heads up on their shows. Trust me…you “will not” be disappointed with either of these bands. The vocalist with Basin Street passed me a
CD that I am listening to now and when I decided which of the songs I like the most I will publish it for you to check out.
I’m going to close for the time being because I have so much photography to play with, doctor up, publish, and a friend in need…lol (he just
called and said he ran out of gas off Burleson…lol. You folks appreciate this day and make it impressive. Peace out! Wesley
Journal: 10:05 am 22 July 05
Hi friends! Hope everyone is well and in good spirit today. Most of us usually are on Friday. This is the first opportunity to arise allowing me
the time to sit here and share a thought. Very busy week for the most part. I got up this morning and picked a song to use in flick I just
published (a song by CCR). I have not had the opportunity to sit and begin the Art for my next flick. I Feel like a slacker…lol!
The first thought I would like to share is for a friend of mine (Laren). Check out his Web site: www.laughline.biz
Laren has asked me to create the art for a new DVD that he and the rest of his team are creating. They are fabulous stand up comedians
that use a spice of theatrical twist in their show. They have a very big gig (Rated “L”) coming up in September that I hope to be available
for. I’ll give you more details on this later, but all the info. you will need is on his Web Site. When I watched the clip of Lauren on the site it
really cracked me up. Watch it and you’ll know why…lol! The energy this Joe has just totally blows my mind. Gotta’ love it!
Last night was the first chance I have actually had to get out and listen to some live music. First I went to Rockin’ Tomatoes to shoot the
breeze with a friend who runs the joint. He was stressed but excited because today he had to fly out of town for a pizza competition. Totally
cool man….I love the pizza at Rockin’ Tomatoes and the Calzone is totally hot. I’ll let you know how he did upon his return.
I decided to have a change of pace for both music and venues after Rockin’ Tomatoes. I had planned to listen to Karaoke with a new bro’
of mine (People’s Karaoke- 914-6921). He host Thursdays at the RT and a few other hot spots (night clubs) down town on 6th. I gave you
his number because he is a great DJ and host parties and weddings. I heard him sing a few weeks ago and really enjoyed his vocals. Very
soon I will be doing some photography for him down town that I will be able to share with you! Kewl eh! I’m excited about it!
For the change of pace I decided to swing by The Broken Spoke and talk to Richard White (the owner). The last time I was there (before
my digital photo days) was back in the early 80’s. In all honesty my memory of The Broken Spoke is lost somewhere in my mind. Sad! While
I was there I attempted to recollect memories of evenings that were spent there and I was left with an absent loss. I’m gonna have to go and
eat a Chicken Fried Steak there this evening with my Son just so I can remember what it taste like…lol.
They are known for having the best!
Anyway, I’m donating a piece of Art to Mr. White (Owner). He has the most “INCREDIBLE” museum of history that fills the walls and corners
of 2 rooms that separate the restaurant and the dance floor. Most of it is photography of famous celeb’s and musicians who visit The
Broken Spoke.
HOLY!!! 11:30 already! I had better close before I lose what’s left of this morning…lol! Bills to pay and kids to entertain ( : Think I’m going
to take them to Cabello’s! Hope I spelled Cabellos right. I think that’s what it is called…lol.
Today’s Art update are a few pieces I used in the Art Lyric Flick Self Indulgent. The rest are photos that I took last night! Hope your Friday
is true and your weekend authentic. Peace out! Wesley
Journal: 17 July 05 10:20pm
Bonjour! Hope eveyone was able to get ahead today. I managed to complete my next flick, but now my brain is mush from sitting at this
computer lost in my own division. The photography used in the next art flick are photo's that jumped out at me as I began to fiddle through
300 plus folders of Austin Texas. By skipping around through my folders of photography and art I discovered that it will be impossible for
me to share everything that I would like to in this life time. The more I think about it the more it blows me away.
I had planned to share on this home page some of the art used in todays flick ( Self-Indulgent ). Instead I am going to share some art that I
created both this year and last for whatever past reason. Some for friends, some for musicians, some for me ( :
In closing I just want to say thank you to all of you who have taken the time to check out and appreciate this site. Much of my ambition
comes from knowing that I am able to give a friend and a fellow Austinite a break from their crazy world. Thanks neighbor, Wesley
Email: 17 July 05 9:45 pm
Wesley Balli <austinithinkyoushine@yahoo.com> wrote:
"JES!" Happy happy joy joy!!! Happy happy joy joy!!!
I was getting antsy! lol Pictures are great man! Im doing good! Hope all is well? Gotta go play xbox with the kiddo right now! I'll post your
pics when Im done kickin his butt Jes the Adventurer! LOL I wish, he always kicks mine on that crazy game. Peas, Wesley
Jes Garcia <retroboy@spaceship.com> wrote:
Hey Man...
...Hope you are well! An update and new music will soon follow!!! ;) Have a great Sunday my friend. Peace, Jes
Journal: July 16, 2005 1200 am
Happy Saturday! Mine will be spent in class today so I need to be getting some rest, but not until I say good morning…lol! I just completed
the Art Flick that I would like to share ( : “Other Side!” ; )
Much of the photography art in this flick is recent and consist of 25 photos. Musicians, Austinite body art, architecture, nature, and…well
everything else that I love…smiling! I will share some of this art later on when I have the time to publish it here on this webpage for you to
appreciate. No time right now. I need to get the flick on the journal and art page.
Have a wonderful weekend and stay “real”!!! Respectfully, Wesley
Journal: Tuesday July 12, 2005 4:05 am
Top of the morning to you! I just got home a little while ago and spent the majority of yesterday (into today) writing, playing music and
working. I’m not really sleepy yet so I decided to drop you line and share a bit. Yesterday I completed writing another song for my next art
flick! Now comes the fun part. ( : Art! I hope to have a new flick ready within the next day or so. For a change of pace I think I may use some
of my older art that I have completed. To early to say in all honesty. I never know where my mind is going to take me when I begin trapping,
catching, and creating new thoughts of art from my photography.
Today after completing the song I went to a friend’s house to play some music and she insisted on recording it. She has a recording
company called Cowgirls from Outer space and is a very talented guitarist/writer/vocalist. She is going to doctor it up once she gets her
equipment all set up and when she does I’ll turn you on to it. You have to promise not to poke fun at me though….lol! I was actually
surprised because I liked it. I usually do not like the way I sound on a recording but she surprised me.
Well, If I plan to be worth a dime today I had better make myself catch a couple hours sleep. Big day tomorrow…wait-a-minute…”tOdaAy I
mEaN”! Respectfully Nighty Night, Wesley
Journal: 10 July 05 8:30 am
Hi-ya! Hope everyone is well and ready for this new week we have just risen to. I have decided to dedicate this day to Art and writing. (I
need it!) My dreams lately have not allowed me to have much peace within myself. Old scars can taunt you in your dreams and easily
become an unwelcome enemy that can rule the with an iron nightmarish grip. That’s my problem though, not yours, so I’ll hush up and get
back to what brings me peace and closure as I know it.
Let’s see, the past week has been somewhat interesting. Went to 5th to hear some Karaoke on Thursday, then to Antone's for a spell.
Other than that I have been staying close to home at a few wonderful local hangouts. If you have not been to Rockin' Tomatoes you need
to check it out. I tried the buffet there yesterday and it was very tasty. Especially the Strombolli!
Several days ago I received these emails from two very talented musicians that I have come to know and recognize as friends. They are
very talented and have gigs coming up that I am not sure that I can attend (other job!).
The first is Michael Shay: FREE SHOW MONDAY 11th at Cactus Cafe / KUT 90.5 fm
Thanks to everyone who has been coming to the shows and helping US have
a such a good time. I had a funny exchange with a fan this week -
"It's all about the audience," I said. He replies, "No, man, it's all
about you!" I guess that means it's all about ALL of us! So there.
Either way:
We're happy to let you know that the Michael Shay Band (Alex Coke, Doug
Marcis, Elizabeth Suggs, Wayne Sutton, and Steve Zirkel) will be
playing an early show this Monday the 11th at the wonderful Cactus Cafe. It
is a free show, and starts at 8pm with Wayne playing a short acoustic
set of his own material. (http://www.waynesdonkey.com).
I really like what Michael wrote above about a fan of his. The reason being is that it reminds me of a quote I once wrote. (See Below…it
ends with “it’s your world too!”) I first heard Michael at Ruta Mayas and went back for seconds on the 4th of July!
The second email I have spoke of came from Larissa: Sammy Hagar/Cabo Wabo Fest (Full band (WED)...just upbeat Pop/Rock with a Jazz
TWIST!)
Hey guys,
We're playing
(LARISSA & the band) at the pop/rock (Sammy Hagar/Cabo Wabo contest) fest
at the Velvet Spade this Wednesday , July 13th.
Come out to Rock out!! And Support!! :-)
Tell everyone you know!!
The first band starts at 9 pm, and We start at 10:00 pm.
Velvet Spade
912 Red River
Austin, TX 78701
Rumor has it that they're located between 9th and 10th street over by Stubbs
CAll them for directions or Questions at (512) 482-8404
Don't go by the MapQuest Directions...they're way off track!
-LARISSA
http://www.larissamusic.com/
Larissa is also wonderful to hear! Really sucks that I am unable to go to this show of hers (kicking my can!). Get’s worse I think I have a job
on first Thursday as well. If you have not heard Larissa you will appreciate taking the time to do so. She truly has the voice of an angel!
Not sure if I can make this one or not! Wish I could have made it to the Willie Graham benefit that was held about a week ago.
Before closing I want to let you know that Jes has sent his latest update along with some photos! You’re going to love them. They brought
me a big laugh that’s for sure. The updates on today’s home page are from old Art Flicks. I made this for a friend at the Alligator Grill so
some of it is geared toward the Alligator and other cool hangouts of ours! Think I may use the photo’s of Larissa, Michael, and a handful of
other musicians captured at Blues on the Green last Week (Pinetop Perkins was great!!!) for my next flick. Hmmmm! So many photos and
so little time…smiling! Have a good one friends! Wesley
Email: Jes the adventurer Picture Update
From: Wesley Balli [mailto:austinithinkyoushine@yahoo.com]
Sent: Saturday, July 09, 2005 12:17 AM
To: Jes Garcia
Subject: Re: Pics!
VeRy kEwL Jes! I will get them published as soon as I doctor them up for ya!
Respectfully, Wesely
Jes Garcia wrote:
These were taken on a day trip to Amsterdam w/ Cheryl (from Glasgow) just
yesterday (Thursday)...more on that trip in my next update. Enjoy!!! Peace
and Love
Journal: 7 July 05 4:20
Hi! ( : Hope everyone is well. I am finally getting around to publishing the Art Flick I finished Tuesday! I had planned to update everything
this morning but fell asleep in the chair in hopes of sleeping off a headache. It worked! ( :
Past few days have been a nice break. My Son and I have been on the go since his return from visitation with his mother. We were so tired
yesterday we decided to stay in the AC rather than spend a day at a river. Same applies to today I guess. We were going to crash Krause
Springs but I ended up sleeping most of our day away. My bad!!!
When I woke up him and his friend were hyped. They began writing a story called “War of the Gods!” LoL… My son loves to write and his
friend is proving to be a very talented artist behind the pencil. I read the first chapter that they typed up and printed out and was shocked to
find that together they can be very creative (Proud Pops! Smiling!!!)
Today’s flick (Fly-by-Night) is about 25 Art photos in length (I decided to share on this home page today). Tried watching one of my flicks
through dial up yesterday while at a friends and got ticked off when it would not play. Not sure if it was the dial up or her computer. I think it
may have been a little bit of both.
While at her house yesterday (Buda) we enjoyed a nice afternoon rain shower (top right photo!). To bad the rain dried before it hit the
ground…lol. Wish it had lasted longer. It only rained for about 10 minutes, if even that!
After the rain passed we headed to the “Blues on the Green” at Zilker Park. PineTop, Gary Clark, Jimmy Vaughn and a handful of other
excellent blues musicians were tearing up the green with their harmony. This was the first show on the green that I have been to since it
began a few weeks ago. I will definitely return but this time I am going to dress a bit more appropriately. “It was hot as hell!”
Well, publishing these photos will take me a few so I need to say bye again. Enjoy the flick and if I do not get back hear before the
weekend, I hope you have a wonderful one! Respectfully, Wesley
Email: 5 July 05 12:15 AM
Fireworks were cool Jes! My Son and I went to the Alligator Grill and played some pool then ended up at Opal Divines for the fireworks.
After that we went to Ruta Mayas to play some chess and jam to Michael Shay. I’m working on the fireworks now. I was about 10 miles away
so I need to do some doctoring up (Art that is!). Check out the home page tomorrow. I think I may stay up awhile to publish what I have
before climbing into some cold soft Egyptian cotton bedding. Talk to ya soon bro'!
Jes Garcia <retroboy@spaceship.com> wrote:
enjoy the fireworks and I look forward to seeing some pics...I forget it's the 4th until u reminded me...remember the Dutch don't do it so...it's
just another day...thanks for adding the address...give everyone my love and then hug yourself a big one...I dig your poem style dude...
Peace
Email: 4 July 05 12:48pm
Done deal Bro'! I wrote this for my next Art Flick at Ruta Mayas this morning while shooting the breeze with Drake and Glen! Do you like it?
(To be published for the rest of you Austinuts in a day or so! Depends on how involved my minds eye goes when creating the Art for it! I
have decided to use exotic animals, sculptures, and Body Art of Austinuts kewl enough to allow me to photograph them!)
NICE 4th of July morning hear in Austin Jes! Nice breeze coming in from the south with a cold front behind it. It is supposed to get Texas a
little bit of rain but will miss us hear in Austin.
The reason I say it is SOOOO nice today is Saturday and Sunday were in the 100's (BRUTAL). Friday was the first day to break 100 I'm
told. Drag eh! If we do not get rain soon we will all have to migrate to Lake Travis for a swim (Unless you like chlorine all over your body!)
While at Hamilton Pool last week they closed the pool due to high levels of bacteria. We were only there like 10 minutes and they would not
give us a refund. I was “pissed!!!” $16.00 bones down the tubola!!! We ended up at Camp Ben Mc Cullough. That will be history in another
week or so!
I plan to go to Ruta Mayas this evening to watch the fire works and will send you some photos. I can hardly wait! I want to photograph the
fire works "really" bad. The last time I did something like this was about 2 years ago while in Dallas Texas.
Melanie and "D" are going to get a canoe and watch the fireworks while floating in the middle of Town Lake. Awesome idea! If I had a water
proof camera that’s where I would most certainly be.
Got to fly bro’! I’ll post your address on the opposite side of your intro. Jes the Adventurer Ciao! Wesley
Email: 3 July 05 10:45 P
Hi Jes!
Kewl update bro! Sorry to hear you got a cootie bug from the Scots...lol! Love your ideas on the Jes Page! Be sure to let me know if
something does not look right. I have a very large monitor and some computers will not show the page properly. I usually do not find out
until I go to Comp USA for supplies and stuff. I always check the page from their computers when Im there. I like the idea about selling the
photos but until I can link my bank into the site and stuff I am unable to do this. That and Uncle Sams Taxes. I still have a lot to learn.
Eventually I do plan to do this with some of my Art to keep up with supplies and to save money for the event I hope to sponsor in the future.
Seems like a million years away but my dreams are not. They live within me everyday. Glad to hear you are well and even happier to hear
about your improving skills in the kitchen.
I went by Ruta Mayas today and took a few photos that I am attaching to this mail. It is Melanie and Dustin! You’re going to like the one I
took of Melanie. She pulled your photo off the beer cooler, held it up, and gave me/you an ear to ear grin. She's so great! I am also
attaching some Art I made of the Capital that I photographed today prior to going to Rutas.
Glad you liked the Art Flick I sent you. More to come but I need to figure out what I want to work on next. I am thinking about dedicating the
next to body art, pets (snakes, spiders, scorpions, yata yata), and river art (sculptures). Well, I need to be getting back to some art! Have a
great week and try not to get the sniffy's anymore. Peas! Wesley
Journal & Flick: July 1 2005 12:10 pm
Afternoon Friends! Almost time to crash the weekend! I’m sure you are ready! I think I am going to crash Zilker this afternoon. I had a blast
yesterday listening to about 7-8 Austinites beat on their bongos while I built some rock sculptures. I took some really cool pics that I plan to
share at a later date.
Now that I have my entire house work done and my brunch on the stove its time to publish the flick I completed this morning. Most of the Art
photos were taken on 6th street of some great musicians. Not sure of the names but most of them are local. I have not been going to 6th
street because the last time I went (alone) I was leaving a club and got jacked.
Some joker clocked me from the side in a dark alley, put a hole in my lip, ganked my jacket which had my wallet in it and bolted. I came
through a few seconds later to discover I had just got my A$$ kicked…lol! Sucks! Thanks God I didn’t have my camera with me (It was in
California!). I decided at that point to “not” go downtown alone with my equipment.
I am missing my friends that work on 6th at some killer clubs so I decided to make this flick with all photos taken both this year and last while
down on 6th. Toward the end I have a few that were taken at Ruta Mayas, Zilker Gardens, and New Bayden (Relatives Home
Land…Farmers and Cattle folk!).
Well I need to cut this short because my buddy is waiting on my breakfast tacos that I made close to 30 minutes ago…lol! If you do not have
any plans yet for the 4th check out Ruta Mayas. Carolyn in Wonderland will be playing along with Michael Shay and it’s a great spot to
catch the fireworks without fighting a hundred thousand elbows. See ya there! ( : Peace out and have a great weekend. Wesleco
Journal: 30 June 05
Hello friends! Hope everyone is well today in mind and spirit. My day is blessed. As usual I am happy to say. This is because I woke up
today in tune with myself and my thoughts.
I had a funny dream last night! I can not remember it all in detail but it cracked me up. About a month ago a dear friend of mine and I made
a pinky pack. We both agreed to not cut our hair and allow it to grow long enough (10 inches) to contribute/donate to a very special
organization known as Locks of Love (I think that’s the name…scratching head!) The organization uses the hair to make wigs for children
who have cancer.
In my dream I was watching myself walk to Lu Lu’s (A friend of mine who has a salon in Buda). My hair (which is still short) was very long,
curly, and extremely thick. I used to have long hair when in high school and when long it is “very” curly! Once in the salon, my friend Lu
(Lucetta) put my hair in a pony tail and cut it off. Upon completion of this, she began to prepare it for a free cut, but I stopped her.
At that very moment I am standing in my own bathroom holding my buzzer looking at myself. In one hand I held my buzzer and the other
hand was planted on my freshly shaven bald head.
This dream is very symbolic to me. It makes me realize just how important this is for me to do and how wonderful it will make me feel. It also
tells me that I need to shave my head after I donate my hair…lol. Hmmmmmmm! Interesting concept! A bald Balli! Tee Hee!
The art photos on today’s home page are from the flick “Rogation Day”. Yesterday while at a friends (prior to going to Hamilton Pool for a
swim) I tried to show him this flick on his Mac but was unable to. Apparently he needs to download a free plug-in (more info on this later!) in
order to watch it. Mac needs this to convert files that are in windows format. In addition to this many of my friends do not have the luxury of
DSL and are unable to see the flicks. This is a drag eh! Anyway, all of the Art on today’s page are from this flick and the writings
superimposed on the art are hyque that I wrote about angels. Hope you likes.
Im about 8-9 photos away from completing my next hyque lyric flick, so until I have it ready, you Austinuts stay real. Respectfully, Wesley
Journal: 28 June o5
Evening! Hope your day was pleasing and that you’re ready for hump day tomorrow. Highlight of my day came when I heard from Jes the
Adventurer. Check out his page (Jes the Adventurer) and read about his adventurous weekend. (Whew!) Trains, Plains and
Automobiles…SMACKING FOR HEAD! Makes my tummy swim!
Today’s Art Lyric Flick in the journal & art section (Rogation Day) is a hyque writing that speaks of Angels! I came up with it last night while
preparing to call it a night. I started playing around with hyque a few weeks ago. I have a new friend (another writer) who spends a great
deal of his time at local water spots meeting and obtaining thoughts of others. He has collected some “incredible thoughts” of people
ranging in all ages (As young as a 7 year old).
Most of the photo art was taken here in South Austin, Central Austin, and Camp Ben McCullough. Upon completion of this I wrote another
that will accommodate another 20 to 25 photo’s. Not sure what I plan to title it yet. I began searching through old folders of down town night
life (I miss all my friends down there!) and decided to use 20-25 photo’s of some really talented local musicians that I have photographed in
about 10 to 15 different music venues. Until then…Ciao! Respectfully, Wesleco
Email: 27 June 05
"Thanks Michael!" I appreciate the update bro'! I'll see you again before you head out to Colorado. I was at Ruta Mayas for a a few to hear
Carolyn but had to blaze over to the Alligator to catch Larissa. I'll keep my calendar open for the 4th or the 11th. Love your music "and"
your style bro! Thanks for sharing at Ruta Mayas! I am attaching a piece of Art I created with you and your music at heart! Hope you likes!
Peas...lol Wesley
To: austinithinkyoushine@yahoo.com
From: "Michael Shay"
Subject: June 27, July 2, JULY 4, and July 11 KUT / Cactus Cafe
Date: Sun, 26 Jun 2005 02:06:23 -0700
Here are quite a variety of gigs to check out:
Monday June 27 @ 10pm at Ruta Maya, free show with the Michael Shay
Band (Alex Coke, Doug Marcis, Wayne Sutton, Steve Zirkel). Carolyn
Wonderland and Matt Hubbard play at 7pm
Saturday July 2 @ 10 am, Michael Shay solo at the Farmer's Market, 4th
and Guadalupe
Saturday July 2 @9pm, Michael Shay solo, opening for Danny Schmidt's CD
release at the Cactus Cafe
Satruday July 2 @ 10:30-11:30 pm, MIchael Shay, Raphael Bas, Ponder
East, Doug Marcis, and Steve Zirkel play for the Body Choir Benefit, a
DANCE extravaganza all night. 7 bucks
Monday July 4 @ 10pm, Michael Shay band, free show at Ruta Maya, a
GREAT PLACE TO WATCH THE FIREWORKS!
Monday July 11 @ 12noon, MIchael Shay Band goes on KUT 90.5 fm,
Eklektikos with John Ailee. Please tell your friends to listen in!
Monday July 11 @ 8pm, Michael Shay Band at CACTUS CAFE, Wayne Sutton
opens. FREE, EARLY SHOW!
Michael will be on tour in Colorado in August. Check the website for
details.
Peas!!!
--------------------------------------
Subject: Wyoming
Hi James! Great to hear you’re busy and wish I could have been there to hear you rock the house with that Les Paul. I'm sure everyone
else loved ya! Wish you still lived in Austin Bro! I still have hopes of visiting but financially I am at a stand still. I am keeping alive the dream
brother. Keep ranching and enjoy those mountains. WOW! Shooting star show from your roof top! You’re killing me man. You need to buy
a camera...lol. Which photo did I send you? I will need to resize it to accommodate your printing capabilities. Peace, Wesley
Subject: Miss Ya!
Hi Diana! Sorry I'm so belated with this response. Ive been a little bee here the past few days. I guess your on your way back from Vegas
right now. I hope it went well and that your friend had a memorable and wonderful wedding. I'm without a cell again but will check my
messages periodically from a land line. I jumped out of the car to take a photo of a train on Anderson Sunday morning about 4 am and a
car ran over my cell...lol! I give up on them things girl! Thats the 4th one in the past 8 months...lol. (smaking forhead!) Talk to ya soon
Sunshine! Wesley
-------
Date: Thu, 23 Jun 2005 10:22:34 -0700
From: larissa
Subject: LARISSA solo's at the Alligator Grill (Mon. Happy Hour)
Hear LARISSA solo:
Monday, June 27th at the Alligator Grill (on S. Lamar)
for acoustic Happy Hour on the Deck (5:30-8:30pm)
LARISSA
http://www.larissamusic.com/
---------------------------------
Subject: Burn Out Bright
Hi Matt! I have been listening to your CD (Burn Out Bright) this morning and wanted to take a moment to commend your brilliance as an
Artist. Your music “totally” sends out positive radiant energy that I pick up on.
Like yourself I am an Artist and a Musician who has not come out of his shell. I love to play my guitar and sing and by listening to your music
this morning it gave me an edge. A boost needed to keep my spirit and dream alive. I love to share my photography art and my music but
have a harder time sharing my music. Lack of confidence I think.
Well, I love your CD and will more than likely listen to it all day as I will be here at the computer creating my next Art Lyric Flick to publish on
my website today. LoL Yeah…I like it that much! ( :
I would “love” to use one of your favourite songs as the background music. Got any ideas! Peace be with your day brother! Respectfully,
Wesley www.austinithinkyoushine.com
Journal: 26 June 05 11:40 am
Greetings! Well, the mornings over ( : Kind of a drag! That means Monday is a little closer… My weekend has been wonderful. My Son and
I went camping at Camp Ben Friday night with a few other friends. While there we met some other musicians and stayed up until the wee
hours of the am playing our guitars, singing, and hitting the bongos. Great night! The only downfall of our trip was to discover how much
the river has dropped. You can still swing from the rope swing but in about a week or so that will be history. “WE NEED RAIN!”
Friday morning I overheard on channel 8 news (I hardly “ever” watch TV) of an event at the Continental Club called the Willie Graham
Benefit. (When I do have the TV on I “always” have it on Channel 8.) I have photographed and enjoyed Willies music on more than one
occasion and was shocked to hear that his Son has a rare hip disease ) :
I knew I would not be able to attend the benefit so I decided to create a piece of art to donate toward the cause. When I have attended
functions like this in the past I would photograph, print, and sell 4x6 postcards to other Austinites for $5.00 each to donate toward the
cause at hand.
Knowing I would not be able to attend I zoomed to Comp USA to buy some 13x19 Glossy Photo paper, some photo magenta for my Canon
Inkjet Printer, and a frame that would accommodate the size of the print (which was rather difficult to find!) One that I could afford that is.
The photo art I created is called Continental Illusions. The art consist of a 5-layer enhanced piece of photo art. There are 4 musicians
superimposed over the image of the entrance door of the Continental Club (you get to guess which musicians…Tee Hee! If you hang out at
the Continental or 6th street you will know who they are ( : All musicians are Local Artist who are very talented and were photographed at
the Continental Club last year prior to my decision of creating a site to capture my memories by journalising.
My idea was to leave it with Steve (the owner) and let him decide how it could best be utilized for raising money to help Willie and his family.
Once there, I was directed to a space (Bella Flora I think? Creative Floral @ Event Design) that was dedicated to nothing but Art and such
for a silent auction (did not know about the silent auction until I got there).
They had some “great” Art, Guitars, Tickets, and complimentary packages from many businesses and photographers in and around the
Austin area. VERY, VERY KEWL! My Art was to start its bidding at $100 and I am anxious to know if I was able to help Willie raise
something toward the well being of his child. They asked me if I would allow it to sell on E-BAY if it was not purchased. Apparently you have
the option of getting it back. I told them “no”…I wanted it to go toward the cause! One of the gentlemen that was helping to organise
everything said “RIGHT ON MAN!” He was a very pleasant person, wish I had gotten his name. (I think it may have been Harper Ferguson,
a co-owner of Bella Flora.)
I prayed for Willie’s Son last night while sleeping under the stars. I also prayed for mine. My heart goes out to Willie and his family.
Apparently they “thought” they had insurance but upon asking for assistance discovered that the insurance company had filed a Chapter
7. MAJOR BLEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEPIN’ DRAG!!!
Well, time for me to say Adios. I am about 3 hours away from completing 20-25 pieces of photo Art that will be used in my next Art lyric Flick
(Bringeth up Upon). I’m a few days behind because this past week has been very busy. Hope everyone has a beautiful Sunday and a
wonderful closure into Monday. Respectfully, Peace out! WB
Journal: 22 June 05 Time: Hmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm!
Hello Dear Friends! Busy week for us both I’m sure. Can you believe that tomorrow is “ALREADY” FRIDAY!
Sheeeesh!?! The past few days have been great. When not at work I have been spending some time at Zilker Park,
Alligator Grill (Next to Rockin Tomatoes on Lamar), and Rokin’ Tomatoes (Next to Alligator Grill on Lamar)…tee
hee!
Zilker has been a blessing! The drive close, the water cold, and the Austinites even cooler. By going to this special
spot that I have built a million memories and fun times at as a child and as a teenager I have reunited with a great
click of new found friends that befriended myself at both Camels Hole and Twin Falls. I’m always telling new found
friends not to worry…we will see one another again…”It’s a small Town!”. Lol! I guess the reason I am sharing this
is because genuine folks are at times far and few between, but not for me! They are abundant and around each and
every corner of our space. What I have learned through my own experience and from those whom have shared their
wisdom with me is that “good folks” are everywhere! The folks that are judgemental or untrusting for whatever
reason miss out on the opportunity to meet and establish some beautiful relationships. Easier said than done I admit
(It has taken 36 years for me to escape my shell)! Austin has such a diverse community that it can tend to be a bit
intimidating at times. Lol! Reminds me of a past relationship I was in with this Sunshine! Prior to our relationship she
was involved with this “huge SCAREY pro wrestler dude (WWF) and I remember her telling me that his looks
were, yes, intimidating but even more deceiving. He was in personality and in characteristic one of the nicest pussy
cats you could ever have the pleasure of knowing. LOL! Love ya’ BD!!!! (God rest your soul dear brother and
thanks for keeping in touch within my dream world friend!)
As for the Alligator…last night I ate dinner there after getting trashed by our Texas Sunshine at Zilker! I was starved
and a friend of mine took the honours of ordering for myself and 2 other friends. He works there and knows all the
killer stuff to order and wanted to turn us on to a “killer” sammich! (I think it was a Philly!) I ate it so fast that I am
having trouble remembering…lol! Bottom line is…..”Yummy Nummy for My Tummy!”
I have some photography to share, today and in future Art Flicks, of my friend eating his sammich and of a few
“great Musicians” who were performing on the outside deck. Writing about them right now is bringing images into
my mind of their performance which is in turn helping me to remember just how great these Cats were! 4 person
band with a Female Vocalist, awesome pianists, guitarist, and bass! Hmmmmmmmmmmm! Name escapes me!?! ) :
I miss my laptop! (It was ganked from my car when I was at a country picking party across the street from Polvos
about 3 months ago! ) : I used to journalise on the spot with this laptop while listening to music at the venues that
would allow me to! Im to lazy to hand write my thoughts on the spot but type on a keyboard like a Piano! Sniffy
Sniff! Come APD find my Lap Top!!! LOL!
In closing I want to speak of a very “real” and “hot” place to hang at! “ROKIN’TOMATOES!” The staff is “way
cool” and “WAY GENUINE!” I ate my first pizza from the RT’s last Friday! One of my family members wanted
to order a Pap Johns and I objected! We ended up ordering the tomatoes due to my stubbornness and I’m glad I
held my ground. I ate leftovers for 3 days!!! “Yummy Nummy for my Tummy!’ LOL… I need to get up there on a
Thursday evening because they have”great” Karaoke! I was able to here their karaoke last Wednesday (they do it on
Thursdays but rearranged to accommodate the game). The cat running the karaoke show was together! I know “a
lot” of DJ’s and have photographed many karaoke shows around town! Once I have a little more info. on this DJ
(with his permission) I will most assuredly share his talent with you.
Well, I still have email to weed through, deeply needed art to create (I’m way behind), and other mental thoughts to
weed through! You folks stay real and have a “GREAT” closure into your weekend! PS: Go to Camp Ben Mc
Cullough this weekdend! They have a carnival for kids and the annual re-enactment of the Rebel/Conferderate battle!
Yeah! Respectfully, Wesley
Journal & Flick: 20 June 05 7:30 am
Morning Grumpier! Smiling! Jus’ kidding! Hope your weekend was filled with good times. Mine rocked! I had a wonderful time with my kiddo,
got to see my Pops, and a “ton” of other dear family members! Todays Art flick (Faintheartedness) has some of these memories along with
a dozen others I have made over the past few months. When I began this story on Friday I had not planned on the unexpected opportunity
of photographing some very special members of my family. I decided very early this morning (4am) that I wanted to use some of these
photos for art so I could email them to my Pops and my Aunts! Yesterday was a very special memory for me friends.
One very special picture you will see in this Art flick is of my Grand Pa and Grand Ma Balli. They both passed while I was very young but
when my Aunt Corina presented the photo to me two very special memories flooded my mind (smiling).
I remember spending afternoons with my Grandfather when I was about 5-6 (Not sure on my age!?! I’m guessing!) he would take me with
him to clean the Church (Somewhere!?!) and while he would clean I remember running through the isles yelling “Grand Pa Grand Pa!”.
The echo of my voice in the empty cathedral would get me very excited and he would become tickled and laugh at me!
The second memory is of my Grand Ma! Every time my father would take me to visit her, we would walk into their home, and she would
“literally sprint” down the entire length of the hall way (which seemed as long as a 440) screaming “Leonard Baby!” (First name! tee hee!).
I remember in the beginning (a customary thing for her to do upon seeing me…lol) it would frighten me because she was screaming and
each time she would reach her little bundle of joy she would “pinch” the heck out of little “Leonard’s” cheeks…"ouchy dinky dawa"...lol!
There are "many" other memories that came back to me yesterday, but to document them all will have to come in time. Some are good and
some are painful, but now that they have come back to me I will "never" let them escape me again.
She loved me so much! Writing about these two periods of time in my life helps me to realize just how much “Family” means to me and just
how much not being able to ever get to know them hurts. It makes me see the importance of keeping face (staying in touch) with all of my
cousins, Aunts and Uncles. They were blessed with the opportunity of sharing years with two folks whom I lost at a very young age. Two
parents who still live within each and every one their hearts. If any of you guys are reading this right now I want to say, “I love all of you very
dearly!”
Respectfully,
Wesley
Journal & Flick: 17 June 05 9:10 am
Top of da’ morning to ya! Alas we enter another Friday. This week flew for me! Actually this whole year has flown. Thought I would sleep in
today because I was up till about 3:30 am working on the Art Lyric flick I am about to publish ( Don't Wanna Quit). The lyrics in this flick I
wrote both last year and this year. I have a ton of things to weed through and many times I will add new thoughts or change what I already
have. This flick actually came from bits and pieces of 4 to 5 different Poems, Songs, and Letters that I had collecting cobwebs.
The photography art consist of musicians, pets, hotrods, Gueros, Lake Way (Aunt Tillies…scrathing head?) and cool austinites who
befriended me. Because I tend to forget things from time to time I am writing a mental note of area in the bottom left hand corner of the
photo’s I “do” remember! It feels good to remember things ( : All of this repetition with my Art, Lyrics, and daily creations of what my third
eye comes to see is helping me (I think). Im very excited over this because the thought of losing and forgetting things on a daily basis is
rather tiresome.
Takes my train of thought back to a past relationship (of 3 years). Whenever my Sunshine and I would go somewhere “she” would “always”
drive because she would get us there faster by not getting lost or taking a wrong turn. She used to tease me because I was born and
raised in Austin and would “still” get lost. She knew the town better than I and had only lived here for several years. Back then I would think
I was dumb or something because of this cold handicap of forgetfulness. What I came to learn is that it was the result of the memory lapses
that were then what I would have to say not frequent enough for me to realize or notice. Actually it was not until I looked at photo’s I had
taken with my Son during his early years that memories had escaped me. Weird I would think! “I don’t remember going to Disney World!”
How do you forget something like that I thought. Oh well…. I say now what I said then! “Life Goes On!” ( :
Have a great weekend friends and I may or may not be back for a few days. Not sure yet. I have my kiddo this weekend and we plan to
crash a few parties…tee hee! Just kiddin! Today we “are” going to crash a Bat Man movie….lol! Have a great day and thanks for dropping
by! Respectfully, Wesley)
Journal, & Flick: 17 June 05 19:46 pm
Hello “homefolk!” Wonderful day today eh! I have spent “all” of mine thinking about you, my art, the world, yata’ yata’ yata’! giggle! The
majority of my day (aside from yakking with friends) has been creating today’s new art flick (A Better Person).
This flick is something that is extremely important to me. The well-being and development of my Sons Character is what led to this creation.
About a month ago I was going to give him a pounding for getting in trouble at school, but was able to see outside my circle prior to taking
any action. What I decided for both his well-being and my own sanctity is that isolation (grounding & whoopins’) is pollution…. Of the mind!
Instead I took him to a favourite river spot known as “Twin Falls!” I told him that folks real and genuine enough to walk down to the spot we
were at are tribunal in a pure way. I then gave him a spiral and asked him to “go” and “make” some new friends. He was to announce to
each new “genuine” friend what he had done to escape his education allowing him to even be there at that time of day. After his
explanation he was to kindly ask each new friend (mostly col. Students enjoying their break) for a thought of their own. The subject at hand!
“How can I be a better person?” Today’s flick consist of words that are not only my son’s interpretation of what he collected, but are the
thoughts, mentalities of genuine neighbours whom we share our wonderful town with. Part 1 of ? ...He collected half a spiral of thoughts...
smiling!
Respectfully, Wesley
Journal, Flick and Dream: 14 June 05 3:30 am
Hi Kathy! Hope all is well! It's about 3:30 am right now. Normally I would be sound asleep, but I'm a dreamer and often awake from crazy
dreams. This morning I awoke from a very disturbing dream. It troubles me because it was about a person and a time that I have worked
very hard to put behind me.
Periodically when awaking from these dreams I will document them as to not forget them (the one's I like that is). This one I would like to
forget, but feel the need to share or write about it. Hopefully by doing this it will bring the balance I presently seek within my feeble mind.
The reason I am sending this is because I consider you a friend along with the others I am attaching this mail to. That and while making
some Art a little while ago I came across that picture I took at Chuy's of you and your husband. I can not send this mail to everyone
because I have to many friends. I will send the picture taken at Chuy's to you soon, but not to everyone else. The photo attached to this is
some art I created the other day of a photo I took at the Green Belt (Twin Falls).
It is all these friends that will join us when I have the support to sponsor "A Day in The Sun!" (Musical benefit for the American Cancer
Society!)
Now for Therapy 101: Last year a person hurt me very badly and in retaliation or what I thought was a means of escape I hurt myself and
my family more than I could have ever possibly have imagined. Demons area a bad thing and can make you lose focus of "everything" that
is important in your life.
This person I thought I loved was very abusive emotionally, but at the same time was an expert at putting me back on my pedestal after
crushing me emotionally. I was too blind to see it as a form of abuse then, but now I am aware of the fact that it was abuse.
I have worked very hard for a year now to put this time and this person behind me, but occasionally I am reminded of her or this period of
time in my dreams. I "hate" these dreams. For me to say "hate" is rare and troubles me, but in heart I honestly do hate them.
The Dream:
I’m in an elevator that has no numberd floors and I am trying to figure out how I can get it to stop. The elevator, I can feel, is going down
and with each floor it passes I hear a ding, and become "very" troubled when it will not stop.
I look above my head to see if there is an escape door and discover that there is not one. In addition to this, I find that the ceiling is a
mirror. The only problem is the reflection in the mirror is not my own.
It is the reflection of the Sunshine who burned me. I wave as to gain her attention, but she is unaware that I am there. She is sitting on a
couch and screaming at something that is not within my sight. There is a monkey sitting next to her and periodically she grabs the monkey
by the tail and swings it toward the direction of her scream.
I become very scared and fall to my knees for a prayer of escape from this horrible trap that I am in. As soon as I fall to my knees, I feel the
elevator abrubptly stop, everything goes pitch black, and deathly silent. I