New to this world

I've been contemplating it for some time now, and I have decided to create a blog. Since the days of livejournaling, I haven't done much of the likeness of public blogging. So, if you're into this kind of stuff feel free to read, comment, criticize, etc.

Today's Friday, a much anticipated day for me this week. I expected these past few days to be somewhat layed-back, lacking many of the stresses prior weeks contain, but just when I felt confident to chill, I was bombarded with "must-do"s.

However, no more worries... I'm definitely on the down-slope of this semester. This year in Tuscaloosa has, without a doubt, been one of the most interesting years of my life. As a result of living in a dorm full of 19 year-old boys, I've probably seen more empty cases of Natural Light beer than anyone else will in their entire life. No where else will you hear radios blaring, people screaming, and doors being slammed at three o'clock in the a.m. At first, I was worried about how I would adjust to dorm life, but I feel I've acclimated to this 10 by 16 room better than I ever imagined. There's something about the crappy bathrooms, stinky elevators, front porch sits, Burketeria, and greasy late-night Buffalo Phil's that's really made me appreciate this first year out of the house. Of course, the noise and profanity can become overwhelming at times, but I'm thankful for this time nonetheless.

This summer will consist of me finding a job, saving as much money as possible, and enjoying the break from academics. As much fun as road trips have been in the past, I'd like to make a few spontaneous ones... especially to Atlanta or Nashville to listen to some good music. It's been too long since I've been in the confines of the Masquerade or Rocketown.

This year has spawned some new music of my own, music that I'd like to share with anyone willing to listen. So, the summer will also include me trying to schedule some small-time shows. For anyone interested, check out www.myspace.com/chaseaustinbutler (shame-less plug, I know...).

Anyways, I plan on being back in Birmingham in the fall. UAB was calling my name, and I gave in. There's something about being back the 'ham that feels really right. It's hard to describe, but I know I made the correct decision. I'm looking forward to a lot of late nights at Al's, being around my Brook Hills family, and seeing the girl I love on a more than weekend basis. At this point, I'm trying to find a place to live. I want something close enough to where the drive won't be a battle daily. I'm wide open to suggestions.

When I haven't been swamped with schoolwork, I've been reading a couple of books. I picked up the book Black House by Stephen King and Peter Straub a couple months ago. Halfway through, I realized it was a sequel to The Talisman, written in the 80's. Of course, I had to get it. So upon finishing Black House, I started up on the Talisman-- what I'm currently reading. It's definitely a genre I haven't read much of before, but I'm thoroughly enjoying it. For those who have read either, you'll understand when I say Jack Sawyer's character is unbelievable-- incredibly dynamic. The whole story has kept me hooked, and despite reading the sequel first, the story is thrilling. For those who appreciate books of the likes of Stephen King's or Peter Straub's, I would highly recommend either of these two.

I'll go ahead and stop, simply because I don't want my first post to be stupid-long.

Hope everyone has a great weekend.