tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-56664187649131165192024-03-13T09:32:03.772-07:00Thoughts on lifeA collection of thoughts and observations of everyday life.Karl Dillingerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14360640520114625818noreply@blogger.comBlogger66125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5666418764913116519.post-25854630228893793112019-01-01T16:05:00.001-08:002019-01-01T16:05:25.424-08:00The Love of a Dog<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-E0dM2H4sRrg/XCvoFC8qoUI/AAAAAAAADXA/ofEKKj79htAcPYuEu-_R0tWJms7mEBjJwCLcBGAs/s1600/44023863_10101396208135002_2152313295774679040_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="200" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-E0dM2H4sRrg/XCvoFC8qoUI/AAAAAAAADXA/ofEKKj79htAcPYuEu-_R0tWJms7mEBjJwCLcBGAs/s200/44023863_10101396208135002_2152313295774679040_n.jpg" width="150" /></a><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-b5C0DFiHwaU/XCvoIjFhWOI/AAAAAAAADXE/sDHJ4oMnlUEQboGDtGVf1_ZVfsXotxphQCLcBGAs/s1600/35840543_10105538180244282_9194005743429222400_n%2B%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="200" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-b5C0DFiHwaU/XCvoIjFhWOI/AAAAAAAADXE/sDHJ4oMnlUEQboGDtGVf1_ZVfsXotxphQCLcBGAs/s200/35840543_10105538180244282_9194005743429222400_n%2B%25281%2529.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
2018 was a year of ups and downs, but the best thing that happened to me was getting "Bird". Having a dog is the greatest thing of all time. I adopted Bird after fostering him for a month in June from an amazing organization called Wolf Trap Animal rescue. <br />
<br />
I almost didn't adopt him. I had just bought a new house and the thought of bringing in a new puppy was crazy. However, the night before the adoption event we had someone come by to potentially adopt him. I kept making comments about why it might not be the best idea for them to adopt a dog. Too much responsibility and such. In my heart I knew I couldn't let him go. The next day I formally adopted him which was the best day of my life.<br />
<br />
"Bird" was named after Larry Bird, my favorite athlete of all time. He lives up to name as he has a free bird attitude just like me. He actually reminds me a lot of my old dog Arfa with his free spirit. He is a handsome beagle mix that has grown from the little guy on the right to the big boy on the left. Sometimes I don't think he realizes he has gotten bigger as he still plays like a small dog.<br />
<br />
Bird is always the first to greet me when I get home, jumping on me like he thinks I've been gone forever. He looks through the window at me when I drive off to work which breaks my heart every time(does this ever get easier?). I love laying on the couch or bed with him, his face on my lap or beneath the covers. I love our walks and the way he gets so excited about seeing squirrels. I love how curious he is and his desire to explore. <br />
<br />
He's not perfect. He loves to chew furniture, loves to jump the fence and give me a heart attack running around like a wild man. I'd have a cleaner house without him for sure. But none of that really matters in the end because of the way he makes me feel everyday. His snoring and sighs during naps, his whimpers when he wants to play. He's the most popular dog in the dog park and and always the first to welcome a new dog or jump on a new person. He's all in all "such a good boy". Even when he runs off and jumps the fence I know its just the free spirit in him.<br />
<br />
My girlfriend and I have fostered a number of dogs over the last few months and people always ask how I never get attached. It's hard to explain, but I truly believe Bird and I were destined to be best friends. I can't wait for the adventures together over the years. The Love of a dog is like no other thing in this world. Karl Dillingerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14360640520114625818noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5666418764913116519.post-85171161293038780752015-04-12T18:41:00.001-07:002015-04-12T19:12:49.239-07:00Turning 30<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QRvZoU5X87o/VSshNgejxaI/AAAAAAAACkI/OEkGem97ocw/s1600/IMG_0282.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QRvZoU5X87o/VSshNgejxaI/AAAAAAAACkI/OEkGem97ocw/s1600/IMG_0282.JPG" height="302" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I'm gonna be 30?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
On Thursday I enter a new decade. A decade that a lot of people think means "you're old". I have to be honest, I'm excited. Life has gotten better every year since 1985. I'm not sure if that's actually true or I just choose to think it, but I have enjoyed life more and more. Here's why.<br />
<br />
When you're young it is a fun time full of adventure, but you're not settled. Sure, college was a great time, but I had no idea what I wanted with my life career or love wise. At 30 I know exactly what I want for one of those two. Hey, 50 percent isn't bad. I'm 100 percent confident in myself and what I want. Yes, I haven't accomplished everything, but have a direction. I like getting older because you know more about yourself.<br />
<br />
You know what you're good at and what you're bad at. What you want and what you don't want. What you can change and what you can't change. If you like your Dunkin coffee with almond milk or just a little cream. It's fun getting older and more mature. It's scary too though. I see all these people my age getting married and having kids and sometimes I wonder if I've had "too much fun" and not been serious enough in my 20's. But then I think about my life overall. Do you want to wonder "what if" or do you want to experience everything first.<br />
<br />
That's the main question. All I know is I love life. I love my friends, I love my job(most of the time), I love and appreciate everything. Sometimes I think we just think about getting older in the negative, but its a positive thing, We grow as people and we understand ourselves better. Here's to the next decade being even better than my 20's. Keep living the dream.<br />
<br />
For the next 30<br />
<br />
-Become a certified career coach and open up my own practice<br />
-Be an awesome dad and raise awesome kids and find a woman that loves me for the idiot I am<br />
-Get over my fear of sharks<br />
-Invent a cure for really bad sunburns<br />
-Be the Director of Recruitment for a major hospital system<br />
-Figure out a way to have 2pac and Phil Collins perform together at the Potomac River<br />
<br />Karl Dillingerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14360640520114625818noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5666418764913116519.post-21128701463063569522015-03-01T12:12:00.000-08:002015-03-01T12:12:56.787-08:00How My Health Coach changed my life<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dAOoCA8uNGo/VPNyCHk5_vI/AAAAAAAACiA/NLIUUX7YBeg/s1600/photo%2B(13).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dAOoCA8uNGo/VPNyCHk5_vI/AAAAAAAACiA/NLIUUX7YBeg/s1600/photo%2B(13).JPG" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
August 6th, 2014. The day my life changed forever. Seems dramatic, but it's true. This was the day I committed to changing my eating and exercise habits in hopes of living a healthier life. My whole life I have had no real concept of what good and bad food was. I just ate it and never thought about what I was putting into my body. I thought, "well I play basketball everyday so I can eat that pizza and it will all even out." That is how I gained 30 pounds after college and more importantly felt unhealthy. But then my health coach and also my dear friend(she will go unnamed) took me under her wing and pushed me to become a healthier and better Karl.<br />
<br />
She showed me the importance of meal prep. Now, I prepare all my meals on Sunday's so I don't have to make that decision about whether to get a 700 calorie sandwich down the street or bring my lunch. It's already prepped. She introduced me to the power of veggies. In that first month I ate more veggies than in my previous 29 years on this earth and realized I actually kind of liked them. <br />
<br />
I started eating oatmeal in the morning instead of bagels, I stopped eating pasta and kept cereal out of the apartment. Exercise wise, instead of just basketball and tennis I started doing more strength training and working on my legs and abs. I started tracking my calorie intake daily on Fitness Pal and joining apps like Weilos to check in.<br />
<br />
While their have been bumps along the way and I am still a work in progress(especially my weekend habits) my health coach has helped me develop healthy habits I am hoping will last a lifetime. She's done this by first and foremost holding me accountable. Oh, you want that slice of pizza, Karl, be prepared to do 50 burpees to work it off." Ya, she's tough but she cares and she wants to see me succeed. I'm not sure what I did to deserve her help, but I appreciate her as much as anyone in the world.<br />
<br />
I really believe for people like me that struggle with eating it is impossible to do alone. You need someone, whether it be hiring someone or having a friend help out that holds you accountable, that gives you that support, that checks in with you. I could not have been where I am today without the help of "Coach L". She has changed my life and I am forever grateful for her.<br />
<br />
<br />
5 Keys to health success<br />
<br />
1. Accountability: Plug everything you eat into MyFitness Pal or a related app. Check in with someone about what your eating and how much you are eating. Make sure you hold yourself accountable for that bagel if you eat it.<br />
<br />
2. Prep your meals: I have all my meals packed in tupperware as we speak and am ready for the week. Like everything else in life preparation is the key to success<br />
<br />
3. Don't get down on yourself for failing: I've failed a lot in this process. I could have had the whole 30 pounds off, but fell of the wagon for a month or two during football season and the holiday's. I could have said screw it, but now I am back and more determined than ever to get that last 15 down<br />
<br />
4. Have a goal: Determine where you want to be eventually then set short term goals to hold yourself accountable<br />
<br />
5. Get a coach. IF you are like me and love cheetos and pizza it will be impossible to do without help. Reach out to someone. Join fitness groups on Facebook. Don't be afraid to reach out for support.<br />
<br />
<br />
If I can do it you can do it. Let's get after it.Karl Dillingerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14360640520114625818noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5666418764913116519.post-24542253183696749382015-02-14T06:51:00.002-08:002015-02-14T06:51:13.773-08:00Top 10 Love Songs of all time<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.1999998092651px; line-height: 18.4799995422363px;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SD4Hj8q3zb4/TGibKzdk9nI/AAAAAAAABLg/gW10dp_rgkA/s1600/3911674643_e63149390c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SD4Hj8q3zb4/TGibKzdk9nI/AAAAAAAABLg/gW10dp_rgkA/s1600/3911674643_e63149390c.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.1999998092651px; line-height: 18.4799995422363px;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.1999998092651px; line-height: 18.4799995422363px;">Rewriting this blog after a couple years. Most of the songs are the same. Valentines Day should be everyday. Let's embrace Love. It's a great thing. Enjoy.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.1999998092651px; line-height: 18.4799995422363px;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.1999998092651px; line-height: 18.4799995422363px;">1. Stand By Me-Ben E. King: Who knows if I'll ever settle down or better yet find a girl crazy enough to marry me, but if I do have a wedding this will my "first dance" song or whatever they call it. I've liked this song since I was a kid and it has gotten even better with age.</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.1999998092651px; line-height: 18.4799995422363px;" /><br style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.1999998092651px; line-height: 18.4799995422363px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.1999998092651px; line-height: 18.4799995422363px;">"If the sky that we look upon should tumble and fall and the moon is the only light you'll see, no I won't be afraid, no I won't shed a tear, just as long, as you Stand By Me." Is that the greatest line in the history of music. Ya, probably. The background music is amazing as well. A great love song embodies what it means to truly be in love and this is a perfect example.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.1999998092651px; line-height: 18.4799995422363px;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.1999998092651px; line-height: 18.4799995422363px;">2. This Magic Moment: The Drifters: This was actually my first love song experience. Heard it when I was like 10 for the first time and to this day it's one of my favorites. I think oldies are the best love songs. Things were more innocent back then." Sweeter than wine, softer than the summer night, everything I want I have whenever I hold you tight. " This Magic Moment, when your lips are close to mine, will love forever, forever till the end of time." The music in this is just incredible. I've had one magic moment before but at the end of the day it didn't work out. It'd be awesome to find someone to have a lot of "Magic Moments" with.</span><br />
<br />
3. Unchained Melody. The Righteous Brothers: I know I should've been born in 1950. I listen to this on the Metro and smile. The chorus on this song is so powerful it makes me tear up. If you don't like this song what is wrong with you? I hope everyone has seen Ghost. If not, see this and not just cause Demi Moore is smokin hot.<br style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.1999998092651px; line-height: 18.4799995422363px;" /><br style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.1999998092651px; line-height: 18.4799995422363px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.1999998092651px; line-height: 18.4799995422363px;">4. Mandolin Rain-Bruce Hornsby: What a powerful song. You know it's funny, there isn't one meaning for this song. but I feel like it means different things to everyone. In fact, I don't even know what Mandolin Rain is. What I do know is every time the chorus comes on I get chills. "Listen to the Mandolin Rain!"</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.1999998092651px; line-height: 18.4799995422363px;" /><br style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.1999998092651px; line-height: 18.4799995422363px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.1999998092651px; line-height: 18.4799995422363px;">5. We've Got Tonight-Bob Seger: I love Bob Seger. Most know him for "Old Time Rock N' Roll" or the Chevy commercial song, but this is his best and most powerful ballad. " We've Got Tonight" talks about having one final night with the person you love. It doesn't matter about tomorrow. It is about enjoying that moment with that special person. I tear up a bit every time the chorus comes on because I've thought back and had moments like that in my life. " We've Got Tonight, who needs tomorrow?"</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.1999998092651px; line-height: 18.4799995422363px;" /><br style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.1999998092651px; line-height: 18.4799995422363px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.1999998092651px; line-height: 18.4799995422363px;">6. Wind Beneath My Wings: Bette Midler: Right now this may be my favorite song period. If the chorus doesn't make you shed a tear you have no soul. This was my grandparents 50th wedding anniversary song. Besides my own parents there is no stronger love I've ever seen. I want to love someone like that someday. Every spouse should be the other person's hero. " Did you ever know that you're my hero, and everything I would like to be, I can fly higher than an eagle, you are the wind beneath my wings". Wow, think about that line for a second and tell me this isn't one of the greatest songs of all time. When she sings the last part I get chills. Incredible.</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.1999998092651px; line-height: 18.4799995422363px;" /><br style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.1999998092651px; line-height: 18.4799995422363px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.1999998092651px; line-height: 18.4799995422363px;">7/8. End of Innocence/ Heart of the Matter- Don Henley</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.1999998092651px; line-height: 18.4799995422363px;" /><br style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.1999998092651px; line-height: 18.4799995422363px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.1999998092651px; line-height: 18.4799995422363px;">I'm trying not to put more than one song for each artist on this, but both of these songs are too good to leave off. Don Henley is just incredible. Next to Phil Collins he's probably my favorite singer of all time as he was also lead singer of my favorite rock band of all time, the Eagles. Yes, I love rating things and I'm not going to apologize for it. End of Innocence is something we can all relate to. It's not necessarily about romance with another person, it's about the romance of life. It's about getting older and reflecting on the days of your youth. If I had to listen to one song for the rest of my life this would probably be it. When is the End of the Innocence though? I guess it depends on the person, but life will never be the same as when you were a kid.</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.1999998092651px; line-height: 18.4799995422363px;" /><br style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.1999998092651px; line-height: 18.4799995422363px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.1999998092651px; line-height: 18.4799995422363px;">Heart of the Matter is actually a really sad song in theory. It's about dealing with divorce or a breakup. It is about being able to forgive and be happy for those that you're no longer with. "But I think it's about forgiveness forgiveness, even if, even if you don't love me anymore."</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.1999998092651px; line-height: 18.4799995422363px;" /><br style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.1999998092651px; line-height: 18.4799995422363px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.1999998092651px; line-height: 18.4799995422363px;">It takes a big person to forgive people that broke your heart but part of love is heartbreak and this is what this song is about. Unless you married the first person you loved or at least liked a lot we've all felt this. I can honestly say I cherish all the times I spent with all my ex's even though it didn't necessarily work out. There is no point in being bitter or not wanting someone who once made you smile to be happy. </span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.1999998092651px; line-height: 18.4799995422363px;" /><br style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.1999998092651px; line-height: 18.4799995422363px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.1999998092651px; line-height: 18.4799995422363px;">9. Can't Fight This Feeling-REO Speedwagon: This will always hold a special place in my heart because it's my first girlfriend and I's song. I was an idiot back then in terms of relationships but I did still love sentimental jams. " It's time to bring this ship into the shore and throw away the oars forever." Amazing line. This is another song that's so easy to relate to anyone who has liked someone but isn't sure how to act on it. It's about loving someone so much they are the only one for you. It's about stopping fighting the feeling and acting. It's awesome.</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.1999998092651px; line-height: 18.4799995422363px;" /><br style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.1999998092651px; line-height: 18.4799995422363px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.1999998092651px; line-height: 18.4799995422363px;">10. When a Man Loves a Woman: Are you still reading? probably not. In the Twitter age a paragraph is too long.This is another song I'll play at my wedding if that ever happens. This is a pretty obvious message. When you love someone you'll do anything for them. Never felt this but my parents have this type of love I feel like and maybe someday it'll happen for me. If not, at least I have this awesome jam to listen to.</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.1999998092651px; line-height: 18.4799995422363px;" /><br style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.1999998092651px; line-height: 18.4799995422363px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.1999998092651px; line-height: 18.4799995422363px;">11. Yup, needed to have an 11. Phil Collins would hold about 5 of the 10-20. He's my second favorite music artist behind 2pac, and basically all of his songs relate to certain aspects of my life and all humans lives. My top 2 are probably Find a Way To My Heart and True Colors but there are just so many. </span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.1999998092651px; line-height: 18.4799995422363px;" /><br style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.1999998092651px; line-height: 18.4799995422363px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.1999998092651px; line-height: 18.4799995422363px;">That's my list. Whether you agree or disagree the important thing is to always open up your heart and listen to sentimental jams. Happy Valentines day all!</span>Karl Dillingerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14360640520114625818noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5666418764913116519.post-85570179050244045832014-06-22T08:48:00.003-07:002014-06-22T08:48:45.346-07:00First world problems<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-t-1epCIjyhM/U6b5iPfM6fI/AAAAAAAACRQ/wO4Jble0P_w/s1600/tumblr_lew6ucpZ3q1qfnw2i.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-t-1epCIjyhM/U6b5iPfM6fI/AAAAAAAACRQ/wO4Jble0P_w/s1600/tumblr_lew6ucpZ3q1qfnw2i.jpg" height="320" width="239" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
"FML, I stepped in a puddle without my rain boots." I love most everything in life, but one thing I hate is negative people complaining about things that they shouldn't be complaining about. Seriously, get some perspective people. You missing your metro ride or missing a hair appointment is not an FML type of problem. You not being able to go out because you are studying means you are more fortunate than 90 percent of the world and can afford an education.<br />
<br />
Look, we have all complained about something at one point. It is human nature and bad stuff happens. It can be healthy to vent. At the same time it seems, especially with Facebook and Social Media, that the chronic whiners are out in full force. I don't really understand it to be honest. How does a person not realize how ridiculous it sounds when they complain about such minuscule things. Is it a cry for attention and help? Or are we just that nieve.<br />
<br />
Look at what kind of horrendous stuff is being done to people all over the world from Syria, to Iraq, to starving people in Africa. They would love the opportunity to miss a hair appointment or get the wrong type of coffee at Starbucks. <br />
<br />
The one thing I always do when I complain is look at myself first. I hold myself accountable. I think that is what we lack in the modern age, accountability. We complain and blame, but never hold ourselves accountable for the situation we are whining about. Prime example are relationships.<br />
<br />
I always hear both guys and girls complaining they keep ending up with the wrong guy or girl. Maybe that is a pattern you should recognize and change? Is that really coincidence? Maybe you have the worst luck in the world, but chances are it just means you aren't doing anything to change the situation.<br />
<br />
Let's all be thankful for what we have instead of complaining about what we don't. Look, I am a very fortunate person and have had my share of luck in my life but I've worked hard and made my own luck too and nothing is perfect. Let's all stop complaining and saying FML. Perspective people, perspective.Karl Dillingerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14360640520114625818noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5666418764913116519.post-27670000704855871482014-05-30T19:28:00.000-07:002014-05-30T19:32:03.601-07:00The Top 7 Movies of all time<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oXLrhqBO69I/U4k-izvILbI/AAAAAAAACP0/-qgPTKzxHL4/s1600/forrest-gump-hippie-running.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oXLrhqBO69I/U4k-izvILbI/AAAAAAAACP0/-qgPTKzxHL4/s1600/forrest-gump-hippie-running.jpg" height="212" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Hyperbole is what I do best even if it is over the top(which it is). I truly believe that life without passion isn't really life. Don't like things, love them. This applies to movies especially. This was an impossible list to put together, though the top 3 were easy.<br />
<br />
Please note that I know Ace Ventura is probably not a better movie than "Citizen Kane" or whatever boring movie critics like, but I liked it more. Please also note that if a movie doesn't have a romance angle to it in someway I probably won't like it. When I leave a movie I want to feel impacted and/or happy. Movies are entertainment and supposed to impact your life in a positive way and make you feel happy. At least that's what I think.<br />
<br />
I think being a great actor is probably the best job in the world. Movies are awesome. No one will agree with this list but please comment on what you think because anyone who blogs loves comments(or why would we write?). Enjoy.<br />
<br />
7. Ace Ventura-Pet Detective<br />
<br />
The scene in the dolphin tank when he starts speaking with a german accent is one of the greatest comedic sequences of all time. Jim Carrey is a genius and one of the top 4 people I'd like to have a beer with. I basically quoted this movie everyday for most of my childhood years. By the way, Dumb and Dumber is probably #8 as it is the second most quotable movie of all time.<br />
<br />
6. Good Will Hunting<br />
<br />
Of course I need a Boston movie in here and there is no better Boston movie(and there are tons of great ones) than this incredible love story. Matt Damon, Robin Williams, Ben Affleck(his best acting role ever) are amazing. If you don't like Matt Damon chances are you don't like Santa Clause or sunsets and should probably take a happy pill. The script in this movie is impeccable. "How about them apples" is probably the 8th greatest movie quote of all time. Just an amazing flick all around.<br />
<br />
5. Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade/the entire trilogy<br />
<br />
Harrison Ford is my #1 man crush of all time. Last Crusade is my favorite of the trilogy because of the relationship between Connery and Ford, two of the best actors ever. Also, when the hot blond Nazi turns out to be a Nazi and terrible person it was one of the most traumatic times of my childhood. Indiana Jones is the greatest hero of all time and it really isn't close. No super powers, no crazy ninja stuff. Just a bad ass archeologist that fights the worst people on earth(Nazis). The Holy Grail final scene is probably my favorite movie scene ever.<br />
<br />
4. The Fugitive:<br />
<br />
Can you tell I have a man crush on Harrison Ford. This movie is the best revenge movie of all time and revenge movies are the best genre in the wide world. Tommy Lee Jones is spectacular in this movie as well. The best actor duo of all time? Yup. This was my favorite movie of all time for about 10 years and it is really hard for me to put it at #4.<br />
<br />
3. Office Space:<br />
<br />
This movie gets better and better as I get older because it is part autobiography part fiction. Don't get me wrong all in all I like work more than school for the most part. I like my job, but some parts of it are really like this. We all have known a Lumberg or four in our lives. You know what though, you have to find hobbies outside of work. Most of us can't be what we want to be. I want to be a professional kayak blogger but recruiting is awesome so I am making the most of it. What a movie.<br />
<br />
2. Love Actually<br />
<br />
I love rom com's and this is the king/queen. So many different complex relationships going on. Not all end up happy but its all realistic. What it says at the end is that Love happens in all different types. Never give up on it.Why isn't there an American version that I star in?<br />
<br />
1. Forrest Gump:<br />
<br />
The most rewatchable movie of all time. Why is this the greatest movie of all time? Easy. Combines action, romance, comedy, fantasy, and life all in one. We all wish we could be Forrest Gump and just go running without a care in the world. Go dreaming. We all sympathize with him as well. Plus, the quotes are amazing. The quote about seeing Jenny for the first time on the school bus is the greatest quote of all time.<br />
<br />
I could write 9 paragraphs on each of these movies but the fact is all of these movies will always have a special place in my heart and have all changed my life for the better. I am going to watch all 7 of these movies in a row this Sunday.<br />
<br />Karl Dillingerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14360640520114625818noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5666418764913116519.post-88368911100213487382014-04-27T17:58:00.000-07:002014-04-27T18:03:21.806-07:00Life gets better as you get older<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Cl_kzlkJiRU/U12mqlzjlsI/AAAAAAAACNM/D7PHj7qA5M0/s1600/photo+5+(3).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Cl_kzlkJiRU/U12mqlzjlsI/AAAAAAAACNM/D7PHj7qA5M0/s1600/photo+5+(3).JPG" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Life keeps getting better as I have entered my last year in my 20's. It just keeps getting more fun. I don't know if I have just have a better, or rather more optimistic perspective on what is good and bad or what it is. For me, as a 29 year old I am more established and know more about what I want than I did at 22. Every day for me is pretty awesome. I think we equate getting older as life getting worse because we hear that is what is supposed to happen. Sure, there are things I wish I could do now that I can't. I can't play 6 games of basketball in a row anymore without feeling that I'm going to have a heart attack. I can't eat 6 bagels without knowing I'll have to work out for 17 hours the next day to work it off. I can't wake up after a bender and run 5 miles.<br />
<br />
Notice, what I said before were all physical symptoms. Mental is more important in life, and as you get older most of us get mentally stronger. We start figuring stuff out. I know what I want to do for the rest of my life, but more importantly what I DON't want to do. I'm as confident and comfortable in my own skin as I have ever been. I know what people I want and don't want in my life. I'm done with school and understand and accept what I want for a career. It is all coming together.<br />
<br />
It's funny, I remember 5 years ago or so my Dad and I were kayaking and he said to me, "Life is better now, better than ever." My dad is my idol and someone I try to strive to be everyday even though I can never be as great a man as him. Anyway, when I heard that I chuckled to myself thinking this was just something a Dad would say. Could that actually be true? But youth is gone? Now, as I reflect on that I can see why he said that and why it is true. He has done everything he's wanted to do. He is fulfilled, which I think is basically what we all want as humans. We all want to be fulfilled. What a cool place to be.<br />
<br />
Let's not think of getting older as a bad thing. Let's reverse that thought and realize that we are older, wiser ,stronger, and able to build more lasting relationships(I know I sound like Dr. Phil). We get to become experts in our field of choice. We don't have to choose between getting food and beer. We realize who we are. I don't know about you, but bring on 30,40 and 50. Life keeps getting better and the dream lives on.Karl Dillingerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14360640520114625818noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5666418764913116519.post-52393141223984668102014-01-01T19:05:00.001-08:002014-01-01T19:05:51.850-08:002013-What a Year it was<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9qIuNfRP_Rc/UsTV7yTmv7I/AAAAAAAACGc/xao_rPkkdj0/s1600/1468684_10101765463663552_962095679_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9qIuNfRP_Rc/UsTV7yTmv7I/AAAAAAAACGc/xao_rPkkdj0/s320/1468684_10101765463663552_962095679_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I can't believe it has been 6 months since I wrote in this blog. Unacceptable! 2013 was truly one of the best and most interesting of my 28 years on this earth. Like any year it had a few downs(getting laid off), but even that turned out for the best.<br />
<br />
Simply put, a ton of life events happened. I got let go from the only job I had ever known since college, then jumped into a completely new field all within 2 months. I graduated with my Masters during all of this all the while learning the ropes in my NOVA SHRM Volunteer role. There were few dull moments, but that is how life should be. We only get one of these so we might as well do stuff.<br />
<br />
What I am most happy about is not the actual events, parties, kayak trips, Dunkin Donuts Ice Coffee's,etc I had. Rather, it is what I learned about myself. I've always been a person that is extremely open and relatively confident in who I am, but this year I think I reached the pinnacle of accepting who I am and who I am not and not feeling bad about it. That is not to say there aren't things I still want to change or rather improve on, but I am okay with knowing I will always have my faults.<br />
<br />
I've always been hard on myself, but I realize now that I can't change who I am and frankly I wouldn't want to. I am an incredibly forward, honest person who has little to no shame. Does it frighten off some people? Probably, but they aren't worth it anyway. 2013 was the year I completely 100% realized who I am and what I value in life. This is something I don't take for granted as I realize many people never figure it out. I am one of the lucky ones.<br />
<br />
Life keeps getting better with age. I always hear people say they hate getting older, but I am having as much or more fun now than I ever had. I also feel more stable than ever knowing what I want to do in my career, finishing school, and realizing what is most important to me both in my personal and professional life. I always tell people when they ask me how I am, that I am "livin the dream" because I am totally free and at peace everyday. Nothing is holding me back from what I want to do and if that isn't living the dream I don't know what is.<br />
<br />
2014 is going to be a great year where I will keep improving and keep realizing things about myself. I look forward to new friendships, maybe even a love interest if I can find a girl that can handle my ridiculousness, and new career opportunities. Life is unpredictable and shit happens, but if you stay positive and put yourself in the position to succeed things usually turn out alright. Here's to hoping for another epic year.<br />
<br />
<b>Favorite Moments</b><br />
<br />
Day long kayak trip with my Dad<br />
Receiving Academic Excellence Award for my Grad Program<br />
Karl on the Kayak video sessions with my best friend Dan<br />
Representing NOVA SHRM at the State Conference<br />
The May Kentucky Derby Party in New York<br />
Sunday Funday in Boston in September with 3 of my best friends and basically every Boston trip<br />
Sunset Kayaking on the Potomac<br />
Red Sox and Patriots Meetups and the people I met<br />
<br />
<b>Goals for 2014:</b><br />
<br />
Lose 25 pounds<br />
Eat healthier and be healthier<br />
Handle my money better(See Mom I listen)<br />
Learn to say "No" more often<br />
Take more career chances<br />
<br />Karl Dillingerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14360640520114625818noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5666418764913116519.post-55393681457611122352013-06-08T09:22:00.000-07:002013-06-10T07:07:33.177-07:00My journey from Sequestration to Capital Caring<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-m8C9mBT50EM/UbNXJ9VfkDI/AAAAAAAAB3U/0_3t3X0oNK4/s1600/007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-m8C9mBT50EM/UbNXJ9VfkDI/AAAAAAAAB3U/0_3t3X0oNK4/s320/007.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I'm writing this to not just tell my story, but to hopefully help others who have experienced or who have known someone that was laid off. Believe it or not, getting laid off sometimes can be for the best, as it can lead you to different, more exciting opportunities. At least it did for me.<br />
<br />
My story begins around 10 am April 11th. I was called into my boss's office for a meeting where I was told that my position was being eliminated due to sequestration. I had been looking for other opportunities and all of us had known sequestration was going to hit at some point, but it didn't prepare me for the moment. The biggest thing was the finality of it all.<br />
<br />
I always had this idea in my head that I'd say goodbye to all my Alumni candidates I had worked with for so many years. That I would say goodbye to all my coworkers. But instead, I packed things up and left. Just like that, over 5 years at CACI over in an instant.<br />
<br />
My feelings were mixed. A part of me was hurt, a part sad, a part happy, a part angry. But mostly I was just kind of in a shocked daze. CACI was part of my identity for so long and now it was my past. I was lucky enough to pick up a consultant gig right away through a friend. but it was part time and short term. I was determined to treat my job search like it was a full time job(which it is). Here are some tips for those looking for work. This is what I did and it helped me land a great job at Capital Caring.<br />
<br />
<b>1) Never stop making contacts</b><br />
I know and hang out with a ton of different groups and people. If I ever get married the wedding is going to be a cluster F. It's not only because I enjoy people, but also because I know the bigger your network the better chance you have to land a job. I got my job through Capital Caring through a referral. Applying online is worthless if you don't know someone that has a say in the hiring process. 15 minutes networking and making contacts is more useful than a day of applying online. In fact, I spent whole days just reaching out to people and didn't apply to one job.<br />
<br />
<b>2) Update your LinkedIn profile</b><br />
LinkedIn is one of the best ways to get noticed by recruiters. Keep it up to date. Join groups in your skill areas. For example, Health Care Recruitment, or Financial Professionals in Northern Virginia. Once you are in groups you can reach out directly to people that work for companies and connect with them directly. This is such a great resource, but so many don't know how to utilize it to its full potential.<br />
<br />
<b>3) Join groups/associations/organizations</b><br />
<br />
It's not enough to work 9-5, go home and watch TV and expect to be successful anymore. Your job is never safe. I thought I'd never get laid off and I did. Stay active in outside groups to really put yourself out there. Also, in job interviews it looks great that you showed initiative and did things outside of normal working hours.<br />
<br />
I always get comments about my role on the NOVA SHRM Board. These groups often are the ways you hear about jobs. I got my job through an email from a NOVA SHRM Board member and I think it was the deciding factor to bring me on. If I had applied online without any contact chances are I would've been rejected because I lacked the healthcare recruiting experience.<br />
<br />
You need to be proactive and take ownership of your CAREER. Don't look at things as jobs, look at it as another stepping stone in your career. Sure life is busy, but everyone needs to make time to follow their passion whatever that may be.<br />
<br />
<b>4) Message all of your contacts that you are looking for work</b><br />
Obviously this applies to those that are not currently working, but its of vital importance. The first thing I did when I got laid off was message all my contacts my resume and career summary. You never know who may know of an opportunity available. Don't keep it a secret. If people don't know they can't help you.<br />
<br />
<b>5) Send thank you emails after interviews and to people who referred you</b><br />
This is a lost art but extremely important. These messages don't have to be elaborate. Just a simple, "thank you for taking the time to meet with me this morning. I look forward to hearing from you soon" would suffice. Showing appreciation goes a long way.<br />
<br />
<b>6) Develop a career summary and update your resume with IMPACT words</b><br />
<br />
A huge mistake people make is just sending their resume to people with nothing else in the message. In the body of the email you should send your career summary and skill matrix. Talk about your experience( 5 years of Recruiting, program management, etc) education , certifications, and anything else that describes your background. Talk about what you are looking for(be specific), your availability, whether you can relocate, and mention salary is negotiable(this will be a question answered when you talk to someone individually).<br />
<br />
For your resume don't talk about just your daily tasks, talk about how they impacted the organization's bottom line. For example instead of saying "recruited Alumni back to CACI" instead say " Increased rehires by 50% over a 3 year span accounting for over 10% of company hires."<br />
<br />
7.<b> Follow up and track applications</b><br />
<br />
The first thing I did when I got laid off was create an Excel spreadsheet documenting when I applied, what position I applied for, the POC if I had one, and mst importantly when I last followed up. Don't be afraid to follow up every week. Recruiters are busy and we can sometimes be forgetful. It helps both you and the recruiter.<br />
<br />
<b>8. Enjoy your time off</b><br />
<br />
I was lucky enough to get about a month of severance pay, but even with out it I really enjoyed my time away from the daily grind of a full time job. It's nice to be able to go to the river on a random Tuesday afternoon. Life is busy and will only get busier as you get older and are given more responsibilities. Embrace the time off.<br />
<br />
Last and most importantly, stay positive. It's tough out there, but it's not impossible. Being sad and resentful gets you nowhere. Pick up odd jobs or volunteer. Stay active. Don't hole yourself up in your house or apartment. Look at it as the companies loss, not yours. CACI was good to me for the most part, but the company I ended with is more suited to who I am. In every job you learn something you can take forward with to the next.<br />
<br />
I'm as happy as I've ever been right now and given that I'm basically always happy that is saying something. I'm excited for this next chapter of my life. I'm excited for the challenge and the impact I can have on the organization. Remember, although change is scary sometimes it can make life better.<br />
<br />
Feel free to pass this along others or email me directly with questions. Value yourself and what you can bring to to the table, both at work and in life.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Karl Dillingerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14360640520114625818noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5666418764913116519.post-4265180597375468682013-05-23T20:00:00.001-07:002013-05-23T20:00:14.013-07:00The top 11 greatest sentimental jams of all time( It's long so get some popcorn)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-t15cKL28Bcs/UZ7VrP3A0pI/AAAAAAAAB2s/DU42uIVdcB0/s1600/lovesongsimage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-t15cKL28Bcs/UZ7VrP3A0pI/AAAAAAAAB2s/DU42uIVdcB0/s1600/lovesongsimage.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
This blog has been decades in the making. For anyone who knows me, they know my favorite jams to listen to are sentimental/romance songs. Why? Well, because life is about love, whether it be with a signifigant other, family, friends, a sport, a place, an animal. Love is awesome. This list was the hardest thing I've had to do since I had to choose my top 5 favorite 2pac songs in high school, but I did my best. Comment below if you agree or disagree. <br />
<br />
1. Stand By Me-Ben E. King: Who knows if I'll ever settle down or better yet find a girl crazy enough to marry me, but if I do have a wedding this will my "first dance" song or whatever they call it. I've liked this song since I was a kid and it has gotten even better with age.<br />
<br />
"If the sky that we look upon should tumble and fall and the moon is the only light you'll see, no I won't be afraid, no I won't shed a tear, just as long, as you Stand By Me." Is that the greatest line in the history of music. Ya, probably. The background music is amazing as well. A great love song embodies what it means to truly be in love and this is a perfect example.<br />
<br />
2. Mandolin Rain-Bruce Hornsby: I'm seeing this guy in concert in August and when this song comes on I will probably run on stage and hug him. What a powerful song. You know it's funny, there isn't one meaning for this song. but I feel like it means different things to everyone. In fact, I don't even know what Mandolin Rain is. What I do know is every time the chorus comes on I get chills. "Listen to the Mandolin Rain!"<br />
<br />
3. We've Got Tonight-Bob Seger: I love Bob Seger. Most know him for "Old Time Rock N' Roll" or the Chevy commercial song, but this is his best and most powerful ballad. " We've Got Tonight" talks about having one final night with the person you love. It doesn't matter about tomorrow. It is about enjoying that moment with that special person. I tear up a bit every time the chorus comes on because I've thought back and had moments like that in my life. " We've Got Tonight, who needs tomorrow?"<br />
<br />
4. Wind Beneath My Wings: Bette Midler: Right now this may be my favorite song period. If the chorus doesn't make you shed a tear you have no soul. This was my grandparents 50th wedding anniversary song. Besides my own parents there is no stronger love I've ever seen. I want to love someone like that someday. Every spouse should be the other person's hero. " Did you ever know that you're my hero, and everything I would like to be, I can fly higher than an eagle, you are the wind beneath my wings". Wow, think about that line for a second and tell me this isn't one of the greatest songs of all time. When she sings the last part I get chills. Incredible.<br />
<br />
5. End of Innocence/ Heart of the Matter- Don Henley<br />
<br />
I'm trying not to put more than one song for each artist on this, but both of these songs are too good to leave off. Don Henley is just incredible. Next to Phil Collins he's probably my favorite singer of all time as he was also lead singer of my favorite rock band of all time, the Eagles. Yes, I love rating things and I'm not going to apologize for it. End of Innocence is something we can all relate to. It's not necessarily about romance with another person, it's about the romance of life. It's about getting older and reflecting on the days of your youth. If I had to listen to one song for the rest of my life this would probably be it. When is the End of the Innocence though? I guess it depends on the person, but life will never be the same as when you were a kid.<br />
<br />
6.. Heart of the Matter is actually a really sad song in theory. It's about dealing with divorce or a breakup. It is about being able to forgive and be happy for those that you're no longer with. "But I think it's about forgivenessm forgiveness, even if, even if you don't love me anymore."<br />
<br />
It takes a big person to forgive people that broke your heartm but part of love is heartbreak and this is what this song is about. Unless you married the first person you loved or at least liked a lot we've all felt this. I can honestly say I cherish all the times I spent with all my ex's even though it didn't necessarily work out. There is no point in being bitter or not wanting someone who once made you smile to be happy. <br />
<br />
7. I Can't Fight This Feeling-REO Speedwagon: This will always hold a special place in my heart because it's my first girlfriend and I's song. I was an idiot back then in terms of relationships but I did still love sentimental jams. " It's time to bring this ship into the shore and throw away the oars forever." Amazing line. This is another song that's so easy to relate to anyone who has liked someone but isn't sure how to act on it. It's about loving someone so much they are the only one for you. It's about stopping fighting the feeling and acting. It's awesome.<br />
<br />
8. This Magic Moment: The Drifters: This was actually my first love song experience. Heard it when I was like 10 for the first time and to this day it's one of my favorites. I think oldies are the best love songs. Things were more innocent back then." Sweeter than wine, softer than the summer night, everything I want I have whenever I hold you tight. " This Magic Moment, when your lips are close to mine, will love forever, forever till the end of time." The music in this is just incredible. I've had one magic moment before but at the end of the day it didn't work out. It'd be awesome to find someone to have a lot of "Magic Moments" with.<br />
<br />
9. Always Be My Baby- Mariah Carey: I love me some Mariah. If you ever come to one of my parties you'll see me put this song on multiple times in a row. This is in some ways about a crazy girl that won't let go of someone, but if that crazy girl was Mariah that'd be fine. In all seriousness, it's about two people that we're great together, but like most relationships it just doesn't work and people fade apart. However, in some ways they'll always be in each others lives. Some relationships end for different reasons whether it be timing, circumstance, age, etc. But the love will never end and we will always be a part of our past.<br />
<br />
10. When a Man Loves a Woman: Are you still reading? probably not. In the Twitter age a paragraph is too long.This is another song I'll play at my wedding if that ever happens. This is a pretty obvious message. When you love someone you'll do anything for them. Never felt thism but my parents have this type of love I feel like and maybe someday it'll happen for me. If not, at least I have this awesome jam to listen to.<br />
<br />
11. Yup, needed to have an 11. Phil Collins would hold about 5 of the 10-20. He's my second favorite music artist behind 2pac, and basically all of his songs relate to certain aspects of my life and all humans lives. My top 2 are probably Find a Way To My Heart and True Colors but there are just so many. Tomorrow is Fridays with Phil, don't forget!<br />
<br />
That's my list. Whether you agree or disagree the important thing is to always open up your heart and listen to sentimental jams. Nothing better in this world.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Karl Dillingerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14360640520114625818noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5666418764913116519.post-43218582393539402792013-03-03T20:19:00.002-08:002013-03-03T20:29:35.009-08:00The boo's<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sXnHXJancCw/UTQaCFyLCMI/AAAAAAAAByA/2NEsWWFvQhY/s1600/58211_10151710806638712_1879639949_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sXnHXJancCw/UTQaCFyLCMI/AAAAAAAAByA/2NEsWWFvQhY/s320/58211_10151710806638712_1879639949_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Good to be back writing on this blog. I wish I had more time to write or that blogging paid the bills. Anyway, tonight I am going to talk about my relationship with two of my best friends in the world, Sarah Sheldon and Dan Saphire. We call each other the "boos" a nickname I think we invented about 6 months after we met. Anytime we are together that is usually how we reference each other. It's strange and awesome and we embrace it.<br />
<br />
The friendship Dan, Sarah, and I have is one that I truly believe will last a lifetime. A lot of people think that your closest friendships are ones with people you've known the longest, but I disagree. Like anything in life it is quality over quantity. I've only known them for a few years but feel like they are two of my best friends I've ever had.<br />
<br />
We all met through chance encounters. I met Sarah first through another friend then met Dan through Sarah. Next to Jimbutta, Dan has become the closest thing I've ever had to a brother. Yes, we have a legit bromance and I'm proud of it. We've had talks of opening up a bar called " Boos bar" once we hit the lotto or my blog goes viral.<br />
<br />
Sarah is my rock and next to my mother and sister, there is no woman in the world I respect more. She is the person that always can make me feel better no matter what life throws my way. Her positive energy, sense of humor, and selflessness is why I always joke about wanting to find Sarah's clone and marry her.<br />
<br />
Friendship is the most powerful thing in this world. The center of friendship is love, mutual respect, and a love of Phil Collins. Though Sarah now lives in New York City we are proof that distance does not matter when it comes to friendship.<br />
<br />
I am blessed to have some of the best friends a guy can ask for. The reality is most of the friends you meet eventually you lose touch with as life happens(marriage, kids), but the best friends are the ones you'll never lose touch with. I truly believe I'll still be having chats with Dan and Sarah when I'm old and gray and we'll always be there for each other with whatever life throws at us. Boos for life.<br />
<br />Karl Dillingerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14360640520114625818noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5666418764913116519.post-71739409515795060562012-10-29T17:12:00.000-07:002012-10-29T17:12:37.357-07:00Moving On <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-r6LCdxB1sqA/UI8aHcqKRmI/AAAAAAAABsw/_ESAmYb3TgI/s1600/MovingOn.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-r6LCdxB1sqA/UI8aHcqKRmI/AAAAAAAABsw/_ESAmYb3TgI/s320/MovingOn.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
It's been awhile since my last post and a lot has happened in my life. The biggest being my breakup with a girl I had been dating for a year. At first I thought I was over it, but have realized that you don't just get over a relationship to a person you care about in a month. I think I was blinded by my desire to be okay with it that I didn't let myself be hurt. I've come to realize that it is okay to be hurt and more importantly, to let yourself hurt. It's part of being able to move on. <br />
<br />
The old me would be over analyzing the relationship and thinking about what could have been. Thankfully I think I have matured in that I am looking back at the year I spent with Jessie in a positive way. We had a great relationship and so many great times together. However, I think in both our minds we were not meant to spend a life together. I don't think you realize these things until you take a step back and really analyze the relationship as a whole.<br />
<br />
Every relationship is a learning experience. I can say with confidence that I've learned something from each of my 3 serious relationships in different ways. I feel like I've grown as a person and have no regrets. I am so thankful for my friends and families support through this time. I'm a person who likes/needs to talk about my feelings and everyone in my life has been understanding and supportive. You all are awesome.<br />
<br />
I don't know what awaits me in the future, and while the thought can be daunting, I find myself excited for this new chapter in my life. I will always remember the great times I spent with Jessie and the impact she made on my life. I know she will do great things and we will always be a part of each other's history.<br />
<br />
Like my good friend Sarah said, " this is the one time in your life you can do whatever you want". It really is true. The world awaits and this is the time to concentrate on myself and what I want to do. I can't wait to see what happens next. Karl Dillingerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14360640520114625818noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5666418764913116519.post-31014467317714411382012-08-01T20:07:00.001-07:002012-08-01T20:17:06.077-07:00Goodbye Arfa<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0YDzhLTfik4/UBnt1g3749I/AAAAAAAABpo/xa5JN6AFaDE/s1600/arfaandme.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="232" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0YDzhLTfik4/UBnt1g3749I/AAAAAAAABpo/xa5JN6AFaDE/s320/arfaandme.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
This is the toughest blog I've ever had to write. My dog Arfa passed away yesterday at the age of 12 and I'm feeling a type of sadness I've never felt before. I've lost grandparents whom I loved dearly, but for some reason this hits a different nerve. The thing is, I've known this was eventually going to happen for a few months now. Arfa was diagnosed with a tumor back in May and I knew she had at most 6 months to live. However, when I got the call last Friday from my family that she had taken a turn for the worse and we were going to put her down, it was like a ton of bricks crashing down on me. I guess nothing prepares you for losing an immediate family member which Arfa was and always will be.<br />
<br />
Instead of going into the pain I'm feeling right now I want to celebrate Arfa's life and relive the good times which were so many. I still remember the day over 12 years ago when she came home. She was a small little puppy you could practically fit in a purse. From an early age she always was kind of rebellious. She would dig holes in the yard and scratch the garage. One time she even ate the gingerbread cookies that my grandma had sent us! But, you couldn't ever get mad at her when she looked up at you with those sweet innocent eyes. Any dog owner knows what I mean.<br />
<br />
Arfa loved walks more than anything in the world. We could just show say the word "walk" and she'd start spinning around in circles and jumping around. It always made me so happy watching Arfa so happy. My dad would take her on epic journey's lasting several hours and Arfa would always keep up. I would often take her down to my spot on the river where we would just sit together and watch the river flow by. Arfa was always very curious about everything. She would go up to everyone and everything and examine them closely. I think if she could talk she'd have a lot to say. <br />
<br />
Everyone loved Arfa. Everywhere she went we would get stopped and people would want to pet her. On our last walk on Sunday one little girl asked if she could hug Arfa. She greeted any new people that she saw with a sniff and multiple licks and sometimes in her younger days would jump and try to play. Arfa always wanted to play. My dad and I would often chase her around in the backyard. We never could catch her even in her older days.<br />
<br />
My whole family had different relationships with Arfa. My own was a very special bond and not just because I gave her extra food(sorry Mom). We'd go on adventures along the river, wrestle in the backyard, chill out and watch TV. Thankfully she couldn't talk because she also was witness to my rebellious high school years when I may have thrown a party or too when my parents were gone. Thanks for keeping our secret Arf!<br />
<br />
I think Arfa and I got along so well because we both are very simple beings that enjoy the little things in life and like to explore. We're " Free Birds" and like to go on our own path which sometimes can lead to trouble but always makes life more interesting.<br />
<br />
Arfa always showed my family and I unconditional love. It didn't matter what you did or how bad your day was, Arfa would always be there with her tongue out and that little grin on her face. She would always race to the car and greet me when I got home and watch me as I left. She would lie next to me by the fire in the winter and in her spot underneath the bushes in the summer.<br />
<br />
I'll never forget how she always pawed on the back door when she wanted to come in, then would come in and go right back out. It drove my family crazy, but right now I would love nothing more than for her to do it again. I'll never forget how she would bury her head in the snow and the look on her face when she brought it up. I'll never forget her love of belly rubs and the way her eyes would light up when she knew she was about to go for a walk. She was just so appreciative of everything.<br />
<br />
Arfa may have passed away but her legend will always live on. She will always be a part of me and own a piece of my heart. No matter how many dogs I have there will never be another Arfa. I take solace in the fact that Arfa lived a great life and knew she was loved. RIP Arfa. Gone but never forgotten. Legend Forever.Karl Dillingerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14360640520114625818noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5666418764913116519.post-62812175259974819142012-04-21T18:14:00.000-07:002012-04-21T18:14:13.693-07:00Why are people on the internet so angry?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tzSCUQhT2fU/T5NbDFLDo_I/AAAAAAAABgk/_lTN3CIofjI/s1600/Internet-troll-face.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tzSCUQhT2fU/T5NbDFLDo_I/AAAAAAAABgk/_lTN3CIofjI/s320/Internet-troll-face.jpg" width="228" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Remember in high school those kids that hated anything that was great. That would never say anything to anyone's face but always had a thing to say behind someone's back? The greatest birthday present of all came when blogging became popular. Now these people who love to hate stuff can spew it out loud online! Why are they so angry?<br />
<br />
The worst thing a person can be is dishonest. That's why it always makes me kind of sad(not mad) when I hear what people comment on the Internet. The other day I was on Boston Barstool Sports who always post incredible attractive women as their smokeshow of the day(solid blog idea). All the comments were about how she was too fat on the hips or this or that. The reality is most of those dudes probably haven't gotten laid in their lives and woud probably stalk that girl via text if they talked to them.<br />
<br />
I just have never understood why people hate so much stuff. It's one thing if you live in a 3rd world country but we have these normal people hating stuff left and right. Do they not realize who they are what reality is? It just confuses me. Why not be positive and realize if a person has something that the masses read they are doing somethign right and that they are hating on this because they actually like it. Any blogger out there should know that when you get bad comments it means you made it. <br />
<br />
There is so much hate in life and I don't understand it. Maybe they aren't going to the Potomac River enough or watching enough Wonder Years. I'm not sure. Why can't we all just chill and get along. We need to realize there are some people out there we'll never get along with and just not associate with them. Just chill out, listen to Bob Seger and appreciate life. <br />Karl Dillingerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14360640520114625818noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5666418764913116519.post-7594696427041630922012-04-20T11:18:00.000-07:002012-04-20T11:19:11.634-07:00The Importance of Hiring People with Disabilities<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JPP4UekB2RE/T5Gm0R_RBVI/AAAAAAAABgA/LLSxwL9kn5I/s1600/kmartinez.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" qda="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JPP4UekB2RE/T5Gm0R_RBVI/AAAAAAAABgA/LLSxwL9kn5I/s200/kmartinez.jpg" width="124" /></a></div>
<br />
<em>“Hiring people with disabilities is not a them/us issue, it is a we issue”</em><br />
<br />
<strong>-Kathy Martinez, the U.S. Assistant Secretary of Labor for Disability Employment Policy</strong><br />
<br />
On Tuesday, April 10, I attended the CACI Learning Series on Hiring People with Disabilities with several other member of the Recruiting and Workforce Planning team. Our very own Denyse Gordon hosted the event and did a great job. The guest speakers for the event included CACI Executive Vice President Gil Guarino and Assistant Secretary for Disability Employment Policy Kathy Martinez. <br />
<br />
Assistant Secretary Martinez has an impressive background. She was nominated by President Barack Obama to be the third Assistant Secretary for Disability Employment Policy and was confirmed by the U.S. Senate on June 25, 2009. As head of the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL)’s Office of Disability Employment Policy (ODEP), Martinez advises the Secretary of Labor and works with all DOL agencies to lead a comprehensive and coordinated national policy regarding the employment of people with disabilities. <br />
<br />
Martinez’s accolades are plentiful, from being executive director of the World Institute on Disability to being appointed a member of the National Council on Disability by former president George W. Bush. Martinez has an amazing personal story of how she came was able to achieve such a high position in the federal government. <br />
<br />
First off, Martinez was born legally blind. Growing up, people told her that she had only three career choices: to become a counselor, work at a call center, or serve as a typist. However, she did not accept that for herself. “Many people would think it’s okay if I just collected disability benefits, but I wanted more,” Martinez said. With this attitude, Martinez was able to put herself through college and became involved in the disability rights and independent living movements in the 1970s. She has been working primarily as a disability rights advocate ever since. <br />
<br />
At the CACI event, Martinez made some great points on why hiring people with disabilities is so important, including:<br />
<br />
·<strong> Twenty-four percent of families have persons with disabilities in their household.</strong><br />
<strong><br /></strong><br />
<strong>· Hiring people with disabilities impacts market share. People with disabilities are the third largest market in the U.S. One way to tap into this market is to employ these candidates at CACI.</strong><br />
<strong><br /></strong><br />
<strong>· People are working later in life today and can acquire disabilities with age. It’s important that companies seek out this talent.</strong><br />
<strong><br /></strong><br />
<strong>· People with disabilities bring fresh ideas and different ways of solving problems. </strong><br />
<strong><br /></strong><br />
<strong>· People with disabilities able to adapt to circumstances and can help a company’s strategic plan. </strong><br />
<br />
This Learning Series had a huge impact on me. Two of the biggest things that stuck out to me during the interview were when Martinez quoted Olympian Scott Hamilton, who said, “The only disability in life is a bad attitude.” That is so true. Attitude is everything: we have to change our attitude and stereotypes of persons with disabilities or nothing will ever change.<br />
<br />
Also, I thought it was interesting when Martinez talked about the word “accommodations” when discussing people with disabilities. She said this term can come off as rude and make people nervous, so she prefers calling tools employees need to function in the workplace “productivity tools.” These are something both people with disabilities and people without disabilities need. It is these types of small culture changes that can make a huge impact on assimilating people with disabilities into the workplace. <br />
<br />
CACI does a great job of hiring people with disabilities and I am proud to be with an organization that has a vested interest in employing them. It’s important that we all make the effort to bring more persons with disabilities to the CACI team. I look forward to CACI being a model company for this excellent initiative for years to come.<br />
<br />
For more information on how you can help, please go to www.whatcanyoudo.org.<br />
<br />Karl Dillingerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14360640520114625818noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5666418764913116519.post-85510864064478683572012-01-12T08:26:00.000-08:002012-01-12T08:47:02.059-08:00One bad email can ruin your career<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-v6XBtmhvm68/Tw8H2c_tCcI/AAAAAAAABXA/jg8CCDHXm4c/s1600/149-bad-email-ettiquete.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-v6XBtmhvm68/Tw8H2c_tCcI/AAAAAAAABXA/jg8CCDHXm4c/s1600/149-bad-email-ettiquete.jpg" /></a></div><div style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: inherit;">I've worked in the HR/Recruiting arena for over 4 years now. If there is one thing I know for sure it is that the cliche "don't burn bridges" is never more applicable than in the employment sector. One bad email or bad comment can leave a permanent black mark on your career forever. </div><div style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: inherit;">Think about it. Every time you apply to another job the employer is going to ask for your former manager's name. While not every one's holds grudges, in my experience even the slightest slip up can mean the difference between getting a job and not getting one.</div><div style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: inherit;">It costs thousands of dollars to hire someone. When you factor in the costs to advertise the position, the salary for the recruiter sourcing for candidates for the position, the candidates salary, training, benefits, sick leave, etc. Managers aren't going to take any chances when bringing someone on because there is just too much to lose with a bad hire. With all the qualified applicants out of jobs right now, it is more important than ever to make sure you always maintain a professional attitude at all times.</div><div style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: inherit;">So what constitutes a bad email? Let's just say using sarcasm and curse words to reflect your opinion on a company is not a good thing( people really do this.) Also, don't be pushy. <b>I get emails often(which I won't put in writing) that demand me to find them a job. </b><span style="font-size: 10pt;"><b> </b><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Do you think I want to help those guys now? Sorry, but the world doesn't revolve around you. </span></span><br />
<br />
</span>I don't think the average person realizes that every action they take has consequences when it comes to jobs. Even though you may think you are some recruiter's buddy that doesn't mean you can talk to them like you were talking to your boy at a sports bar. You have to always remember that the recruiter is answering to someone who trusts that recruiter to bring him a reliable and professional candidate. We have hundreds of people to choose from, so unless you're some kind of Steve Jobs reincarnate you better realize that everyone is replaceable.</div><div style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</div><span style="font-family: inherit;">Next time you are pissed off at your boss or at work in general just get off your chair and go for a walk outside. Seriously, the worst thing you can do is write an email when you are mad. That is a permanent mark on you and something that can't be taken back. Most Employee Relations cases use email solely as their evidence to hire or fire someone. Live to fight another day and realize that even though a person may be a jerk it doesn't do any good dropping to their level. I've found the best way to shut people up is be extra nice. Jerks don't know how to handle that.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">You may think all this is obvious, but trust me I see it everyday. At a time when finding a job is harder than ever don't make it harder on yourself by sending angry email. </span>Karl Dillingerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14360640520114625818noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5666418764913116519.post-53164667442644939762011-12-14T07:07:00.000-08:002011-12-14T07:07:39.790-08:00Love Actually is the greatest movie of all time<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0dKYobRNCxE/Tui4KJM6qUI/AAAAAAAABU8/U8neRgHEuBg/s1600/61107575_LoveActually_800x445-thumb-497xauto-650.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="221" oda="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0dKYobRNCxE/Tui4KJM6qUI/AAAAAAAABU8/U8neRgHEuBg/s400/61107575_LoveActually_800x445-thumb-497xauto-650.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<br />
I just got finished watching the greatest movie of all time, Love Actually. Cynics will say it's too corny or that it's not "realistic". You know what I say to that? Who cares? I go to the movies to feel good and be happy. If I wanted to see realistic stuff I'd just go out my front door or turn on the latest horribly depressing news story.<br />
<br />
Why is this the greatest movie of all time you may ask? It has all the elements that make a great movie. Comedy, romance, realistic issues in relationships, drama, great acting, great music. What else can you ask for? For me movies are all about the characters and the relationships they have with each other. It's not as much about clever endings or twists. These people are people we can relate to. When I was a kid I had a crush on the girl down the street. I could definitely see myself running through the airport to find her. It's the romantic in me. <br />
<br />
The relationship between Liam Neeson and his son is my favorite in the movie. The way Neeson manages to still believe in love and be there for his son despite the recent death of his wife is inspiring. Or what about Hugh Grant and his secretary. That scene when the curtain goes up and shows them making out makes me tear up every time.There are just so many relationships in this movie that people from every situation can relate to. Whether it be heartbreak, new love, cheating, dealing with loss, jealousy. It has everything. <br />
<br />
I never thought a movie would impact me as much as Forrest Gump but this has. Whatever your favorite movie or movies are they should be movies that make an impact on you well after the final credits have rolled. Here are my top 5 movies of all time.<br />
<br />
1.Love Actually<br />
2. Forrest Gump<br />
3. The Fugitive<br />
4. Office Space<br />
5. Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade<br />
<br />
Honorable Mention:<br />
<br />
Ace Ventura and Dumb and Dumber. Besides Office Space, the two funniest movies ever.Karl Dillingerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14360640520114625818noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5666418764913116519.post-27457600845771327552011-10-06T06:09:00.000-07:002011-10-06T06:09:21.912-07:00The Notebook- Does Love Like That Exist?<strong>This is a follow up to my friend Sarah Sheldon's incredible story of how her grandparents met, fell in love, and stayed in love until their last day's . Please read this at it is much more powerful than anything I could ever hope to write. </strong><br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6RFQyiKnigE/To2nypZ8paI/AAAAAAAABTw/v7rNeyW0Jq0/s1600/TheNotebook008.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="210" kca="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6RFQyiKnigE/To2nypZ8paI/AAAAAAAABTw/v7rNeyW0Jq0/s320/TheNotebook008.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<blockquote><strong>"So it's not gonna be easy. It's gonna be really hard. We're gonna have to work at this every day, but I want to do that because I want you. I want all of you, for ever, you and me, every day." -The Notebook</strong></blockquote><br />
<br />
<br />
I love "chick flicks" and I am happy to admit it. In fact, I don't understand why more guys don't like them or rather don't admit they do. Don't you go to the movies to feel happy? I do. That is what these movies do. But I digress.... <br />
<br />
Tuesday night I watched the Notebook for the first time in years. For anyone who hasn't seen it I won't go into details on the storyline, but it is basically the best love story ever this side of Love Actually. As I was watching the story of Allie and Noah I got to thinking, could this happen in today's world? Does the true love they had for each other still exist? Or has it ever existed? The answer to both of these questions is; Absolutely.<br />
<br />
Let's talk about love for a second. Love makes no sense. The people that look best for us on paper often turn out to be totally wrong for us in the end. I've always thought my dream girl would be a 2pac loving, kayaker, that plays basketball and likes Dunkin Donuts, but we probably wouldn't get along. Chemistry is not something that can be explained, it just happens. <br />
<br />
I disagree with the old adage that there is one person for everyone. That's simply not true. At the same time there probably are only about 100 people in the world that you truly belong with. Only a lucky few of us ever meet that one person, but that doesn't mean we shouldn't stop looking. <br />
<br />
Back in the day there were less options. There were no phones or emails to communicate in between dates. You had your time with the girl or guy and then had to wait until the next time you saw them to continue your courtship. Yes, technology has changed love, but it hasn't changed its inner core. Sure, you can text, email, skype, and whatever else kids do these days, but you actually have to be with that person for love to grow. <br />
<br />
The culture of love has changed a lot as well. The divorce rate is 50% with another 20% probably only staying with each other out of comfort. With online dating people from all over the world can now get together. People are marrying at a later age and some choose not even to get married. We have grown into more of an independent culture, which is in itself is a good thing. However, where does that leave true love?<br />
<br />
I've never felt about anyone like Noah felt for Allie, but I do believe she's out there. I think love conquers all. Life is unpredictable. You have bad days and good days. But if you find love nothing else really matters. If at the end of the day you can go home to your Allie or Noah everything is okay in this world. We should all strive for this kind of love because all of us deserve it. Remember, you never know when you'll meet that one person that you can't live without.Karl Dillingerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14360640520114625818noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5666418764913116519.post-5752438793604234152011-08-24T17:59:00.000-07:002011-08-25T05:17:57.999-07:00The Beauty of Bromance<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BRbSTwg69Aw/TlY8XO6P0BI/AAAAAAAABTY/AolBjkxnlLA/s1600/bromance.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" qaa="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BRbSTwg69Aw/TlY8XO6P0BI/AAAAAAAABTY/AolBjkxnlLA/s1600/bromance.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<br />
There is nothing quite like a good old-fashioned bromance. Guys often don't express their feelings to each other because it isn't masculine or accepted in society. Screw that. While romantic love with the opposite sex is full of ups and downs and usually ends up in heartbreak, your relationship with your "bro's" last a lifetime.<br />
<br />
My best friend in the world Jim( Jimbutta) Gallant came into town last weekend from Medfa, MA. We had a blast playing beer pong, jamming out to 2pac, Tom Petty, and Billy Joel, and reminiscing about the college days. I miss him already. In college, we did everything together. Drinking beer, listening to Roxanne before a night out at Charlie's, talking about the girls or lack of girls in our life. It was bromance to the extreme. <br />
<br />
I have the same thing with Pogo and Dan now (Milano is coming close into that category). I can shoot the shit with them and say anything. You don't worry about being late to something, or some petty BS fight you get into. You work things out as dudes.<br />
Why don't guys express emotions to each other? Why can't we do the same things as girls (without the physical stuff because that would just be weird). Why can't we be that open? Who started this whole societal acceptance thing and why did it happen? I can tell you right now that if you get any guy drunk enough they will talk about how much they appreciate and love another person as their friend. They will do it because they mean it. Fortunately for me I was brought up with a family that encouraged me to be honest and open about everything.<br />
My favorite bromance activity is kayaking on the Potomac. Pogo and I have had some of the best discussions ever out there on the water in the red canoe. Another favorite is watching Patriots games and eating Wings with Jimbo. We would sit for hours not saying a word and it would be perfectly awesome. Also, discussing girls and life with Dan. That's my boo! Milano(Tuna) and I have pretty much just met but I can tell there is a potential bromance down the road. At any rate the beautiful Filipino girl at Adams Corner will keep us coming back. <br />
<br />
Bromance's last a lifetime. The best friendships are with people you don't see for years at a time but when you see them again it is like nothing changed. They are forever. On the other hand 50% or more romance's do not. I am a hopeless romantic. I believe in love more than anyone else I know probably. At the same time if I don't ever find that love at least I know I will have guy friends that will always be there for me. Wing men for life.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Karl Dillingerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14360640520114625818noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5666418764913116519.post-26321022138655844592011-08-03T18:03:00.000-07:002011-08-03T18:03:37.976-07:00Your Hero Should be Someone You Know<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-deWbGwBRZFQ/Tjnu7uIQD7I/AAAAAAAABTQ/tVmnm_MCi_c/s1600/1430.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-deWbGwBRZFQ/Tjnu7uIQD7I/AAAAAAAABTQ/tVmnm_MCi_c/s320/1430.jpg" t$="true" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<br />
Who is your hero? Unfortunately for a great many of the people out there they would probably say a person they have never met. I always joke about Larry Bird, 2pac, or Indiana Jones being my heroes, but they are just people I'm in awe of. They haven't been there to listen to me on a bad day or help me with my homework. I don't know know who they really are.<br />
<br />
My hero has and always will be my dad. To me, he's the greatest person who ever lived. He was there to help me with my homework in school. He's been on hundreds of kayak trips with me where we talk about stuff going on in the world and life in general. He was there to cook dinner every night for the family after a hard day at work, and still find time to help me with my Spanish afterwards. I'm horrendous at Spanish by the way. I remember the nights playing Parcheesi and listening to Oldies 100. I remember him driving me to Langley High School blasting "Hell 4 A Hustler" by 2pac. Ya, my dad even listens to 2pac, but only the hardcore songs. <br />
<br />
For all the great things my dad is, he's the most humble person I've ever met. He has a very successful career, yet you would never know it if you saw him on the weekend. In fact, I remember one day when he visited me at college he laid down under a tree and a cop came up and thought he was a homeless guy. He puts his family first, second, and third. He's always there to talk to when I need him. He always supports me in all my endeavors. <br />
<br />
To me a hero is someone you know, someone you have spoken to, someone who has made an impact in you life. It doesn't have to be your parents or even someone in your family. Some people have crappy families. It could be a teacher, a coach, some random guy or girl you met at a party. Everyone needs someone to look up to. Who is your hero?Karl Dillingerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14360640520114625818noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5666418764913116519.post-14498214613460797452011-07-24T13:31:00.000-07:002011-07-24T13:31:18.924-07:00What I've learned from writing a journal<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OVFEM49EImk/Tix-igm2B_I/AAAAAAAABTE/hzlBciv_x_4/s1600/005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OVFEM49EImk/Tix-igm2B_I/AAAAAAAABTE/hzlBciv_x_4/s320/005.JPG" t$="true" width="217" /></a></div><br />
Yesterday was the 5 year anniversary of my daily journal chronicling events of my life. I began writing the journal in the summer of 2006 after a breakup with my first serious girlfriend. It was a cathartic experience, helping me get my thoughts out in a way that made sense. After that I was hooked. I only wish I had started sooner. I start out every entry with a thought of the day. Sometimes it involves work, sometimes a funny thing that happened, sometimes a girl. There's always a topic and then I go from there.<br />
<br />
It has been the best decision I've ever made. I read the ones from years ago and am amazed how much life has changed. The stuff I used to worry about in college seems ridiculous now. It's also incredible how much life in general is different. When I was with someone, almost every entry was about the ups and downs that is a serious relationship. Now most of my entries revolve work, partying, and the river.<br />
<br />
If I've learned anything from this journal it's that no matter how bad of a day you have it will always get better. Just because you are going through a hard time at the moment, doesn't mean things will never be good again. There will always be better days. <br />
<br />
I recommend everyone write a journal. It doesn't have to be every day, but a couple times a week. 20 years from now when you are married with 3 kids and your memory isn't what it used to be, you can pick up the journal and it will all come back. In the end memories are all we have.Karl Dillingerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14360640520114625818noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5666418764913116519.post-45540174556501622272011-07-10T10:06:00.000-07:002011-07-10T10:06:48.480-07:00The little moments are what matter<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uERPnnCmzAs/Thna0wIshCI/AAAAAAAABRQ/yld_KDmxKIM/s1600/Boston.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" m$="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uERPnnCmzAs/Thna0wIshCI/AAAAAAAABRQ/yld_KDmxKIM/s320/Boston.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><strong>Drinking and grilling with my college buddies. These are the moments that matter</strong></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>I don't really remember my high school graduation, my senior prom, my first time driving. I remember nights like last Sunday night on the beach drinking Natty Light, talking about life. I remember flashlight tag games with my friends as a kid. I remember playing Parcheesi and listening to Oldies 100 with my dad every night after school. I remember walking to the bars with my best friend Jimbo after drinking and jamming out to Roxanne at my apartment. It's not the big moments that make up your life, but rather the small ones that make us who we are.<br />
<br />
A lot of my fondest memories are when I was young. Maybe it's because those are the years I'll never get back. The times my neighbor and I would spend all day building a dam on the Potomac to catch fish, or floating down on an old air mattress. I remember jumping on the trampoline with my cousins from California listening to Great Balls of Fire. I remember the countless scrabble games with my grandma at Fallen Leaf Lake. I remember the basketball games at Village Green, all the parties Jim and I went to at Umass, Billy D's famous dance moves.<br />
<br />
It's funny how we are all raised to think certain major events will be the ones we remember. But when you look back I think you'll realize it's the little ones that are embedded in your mind forever.Karl Dillingerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14360640520114625818noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5666418764913116519.post-43824722335417360312011-07-10T00:55:00.000-07:002011-07-10T00:55:02.410-07:00This is a question for the girls<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Eh4igtzsOxU/ThlaLpRyiFI/AAAAAAAABRM/Cwx_0SZsVfg/s1600/001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" m$="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Eh4igtzsOxU/ThlaLpRyiFI/AAAAAAAABRM/Cwx_0SZsVfg/s320/001.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">"This is the opposite of what I am talking about"</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>I was standing around tonight at a party. Two great guys who are very nice were chillin but the girls went to the guys that pretty much sucked. I'm facsinated by this. Do girls want deuchebags? Are they afraid if they commit to a good guy and get hurt? It actually is really interesting to me. If you are a girl what attracts you to another guy? This is fascinating to me. Guys like girls for what they look like at first but girls don't think the same. Is this biological? I truly am fascinated.<br />
<br />
Right now you think I'm some sad, pathetic, resentful guy. I'm really not. I got laid last week but I'd still say this. This fascinates me but I want to know why. Do they want a guy that makes an ass of himself so later they can say that and control the situation? The funny thing is these questions will never be answered because similar to guys girls would never admit any of this. This is a scientific experiment much more interesting than anything I could think of in Science class. What do you think?Karl Dillingerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14360640520114625818noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5666418764913116519.post-32809224943109169592011-06-22T14:11:00.000-07:002011-06-22T14:17:28.714-07:00My trip to Japan<span class="emailField" tabindex="-1"></span><br />
<div class="ContactInfoItemMenuOpenerContainer"><div class="ContactInfoItemMenuOpener" tabindex="-1"></div></div><div><span class="BrTextContainer"><wbr></span></div><div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-THQsQmpO2GM/TgJZ-eLhFYI/AAAAAAAABQ8/i6kAPEo79-g/s1600/Japanblog1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" i$="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-THQsQmpO2GM/TgJZ-eLhFYI/AAAAAAAABQ8/i6kAPEo79-g/s320/Japanblog1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-n2h9wMAN1QY/TgJaBx830RI/AAAAAAAABRA/OQbseLtCIcA/s1600/263960_223947010957185_100000256627199_882911_2673502_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" i$="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-n2h9wMAN1QY/TgJaBx830RI/AAAAAAAABRA/OQbseLtCIcA/s320/263960_223947010957185_100000256627199_882911_2673502_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
I never knew that choosing my CACI mentor, former Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy (MCPON) and Executive Director of the CACI Leadership Program Joe Campa, would lead me to Japan. Mr. Campa asked me to accompany him on his trip to learn first-hand what it’s like to be a leader. <br />
<br />
<br />
I want to thank him and the Navy Hospital Corpsmen in Yokosuka for making my trip so amazing. I not only got to experience the great country of Japan, but also got to meet some of our US Navy sailors who all treated me with great courtesy. I have such admiration for our Navy servicemen and women around the world. <br />
<br />
The flight to Japan was long, but the people around me were very nice. The woman sitting beside me actually brought her dog with her in her carry-on bag. When we arrived at the Narita Airport and got through customs we were greeted by Master Chief Randy Pringle, Chief Mack, and 1st Class Petty Officer Ramirez. On our drive to the Gateway hotel in Yokosuka I got to experience driving on the left side of the road for the first time. Definitely something I’d have to get used to!<br />
<br />
Friday was jam packed with Navy events. We started off the day with breakfast with some junior hospital corpsmen. The Navy Hospital Corpsmen are a vital part of the Navy and have helped save numerous soldiers' lives. At the end of the breakfast Mr. Campa gave out military coins to each of the young sailors to thank them for their great work. Afterward, we met with the Captain and Commanding officer of the Navy Hospital, Captain Pachuca and Master Chief Pringle. We then attended a birthday ceremony celebrating 113 years of the Navy Hospital Corpsmen.<br />
<br />
Following that I was given a tour of the Blue Ridge Navy ship which was an amazing experience. We met the captain, and Joe gave the All Hands call to the entire crew congratulating them for their excellent service and answering questions about his time with the Navy.<br />
<br />
That night we went out to an authentic Japanese Restaurant called Wan Restaurant. It was a unique experience for me. Before going in everyone had to take off their shoes and put them in a small drawer. We then sat on the ground with pillows and had a delicious meal. I even was able to use chop sticks without looking completely incompetent. Afterwards a few Navy sailors and I explored the city and the night life. There is no tipping in Japan. In fact, if you leave a tip some people will chase after you to give you your money back! <br />
<br />
Saturday Joe and I went to a Japanese restaurant for lunch and had a delicious meal. The waitress did not speak any English so we had to point to the pictures of the food to order. Afterwards we checked out the Navy Exchange shop and bought some souvenirs. Joe was asked twice for his photo by Navy sailors. He really is a rock star here. That evening we attended the Navy Corpsmen ball at the Mercur hotel in Yokosuka to celebrate its 113th birthday. Mr. Campa was the guest speaker and gave a great speech honoring the corpsemen. It was an outstanding event and a great experience. <br />
<br />
Sunday Joe and I attended the barbecue of Command Master Chief of the Blue Ridge Navy ship. Mr. Campa’s old shipmates were there as we the first ever MCPOC of the Japanese Navy which was quite an honor. The next day we were taken to the airport and back to America. <br />
<br />
<br />
I experienced so much on my trip. One my favorite things about Japan were definitely Chu-Hi's, a vodka flavored drink that tastes like soda. The food was outstanding as well though I have to admit at times I didn't know what I was eating. The Japanese people were so nice and polite. We in America could learn a few things. I was also amazed at how efficient everything was in Japan. It took us about 5 minutes to get through security and customs there. They also told me the DMV takes under 30 minutes in Japan. Can you believe that?<br />
<br />
Everyone treated me with the utmost respect. I also want to state how impressed I was with all of the Navy sailors and Chiefs I met. They were gracious hosts and I feel blessed that they are protecting our country. <br />
<br />
<br />
The respect Joe Campa received was tremendous. He is famous on base and you can tell how much admiration they all have for him. We were stopped almost everywhere we went for photos. He gave several great speeches to sailors about the importance of their service and how it can develop them as leaders in the future. You could tell everyone was ecstatic about his visit. <br />
<br />
<br />
If you had told me a month ago I would have the opportunity to go to Japan with Joe Campa I would not have believed you. I feel truly honored that Mr. Campa gave me the opportunity to travel to Japan. I look forward to my next trip there. It was truly an experience I will never forget.Karl Dillingerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14360640520114625818noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5666418764913116519.post-69675136402350300202011-06-05T09:05:00.000-07:002011-06-05T09:13:59.639-07:00It's hard to start overA couple years ago I blogged about the "comfort zone." The place we all find ourselves at some point in time. This blog encompasses the same idea. Starting over is hard. Whether it be in a new job, a new relationship, a new hobby. It takes a lot of courage to start from scratch. <br />
<br />
I like my job a lot, but even if I didn't it would be hard for me to change careers. You spend so much time becoming skilled in one thing it seems like you've gone too far along to change. We're all told that your 20's are the time to change jobs, to take chances. But no one mentions the cost of a cable bill, groceries, drinks, Dunkin Donuts. It's easier said than done. <br />
<br />
It's even hard to start a new hobby. I've still never ice skated, never played golf, never snowboarded. Not necessarily because I'm not interested, but because I don't want to fail. I want to stick with what I know I'm good at. <br />
<br />
Relationships are probably the best example of how hard it is to start over. We invest so much time with another person. So many memories are created. Photos are posted on Facebook. Common friends are made. Families are formed. Sometimes it seems people stay with each other out of comfort rather than love.<br />
<br />
I guess starting over is so hard because we are, at the core, creatures of habit. Though we all have different priorities, most follow the same general routine. We all brush our teeth , go to work or school, and go to sleep. But is that such a bad thing? Is it so bad being comfortable? Maybe not. Maybe a so called boring life is a good thing. What do you think?Karl Dillingerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14360640520114625818noreply@blogger.com0