elgeeko’s blog

I began my previous blog entry, “my first update from Austin finds me well, engaged, in good health, and in high spirits”. Perhaps I was too subtle: I do not yet plan to marry; rather I am actively immersed in life in Austin.

I very much enjoy Austin. This city has an infectious energy of outdoor activity, music, and beer; an energy I wholeheartedly absorb. I blend my Austin experience with the extratexan world by hosting friends from California, hosting family from Ohio, and by leaving state to visit universities across the country. I miss the Bay Area, but welcome the opportunity to learn more about the country, and though only slightly and by proxy, the world.

Work has proven challenging: sixty-hour work weeks are the norm, I am challenged to contribute to other teams while shaping a new role for myself, and progress is simultaneously too fast and too slow. I haven’t yet found my place, but I will shape it soon…

Archive has surprised me this month. “Londinium” is such a graceful, beautiful album, and I found that it captures (and perhaps is central to) the genesis of trip-hop. Beautiful, ethereal female vocals paired with underground breakbeats. More on them, and the genesis of trip-hop, later.

I tried to keep my custom (e.g. mega-nerdy) California license plates, but this turned out to be a mistake. I had to change my car insurance to Texas, though this was not a big surprise. Then, I received a “notice of pending suspension” letter from the California DMV because no insurance had been submitted in California. This letter arrived despite not having ever changed my address with the DMV - I can only assume they updated my address from my change of address from with the postal service. When did these guys get so connected? Looks like a “planned non-operation” registration for me. What a mess.

I am more active in Austin - I joined a recreational volleyball league, and I continue to ride my bike and skydive. All in the name of health - both mental and physical.

I need to meet one of these trip-hop artists, they seem to follow my strange interpretation of this world…

It is again to friends I dedicate these thoughts, for without you I would be lost in a sea of music and meaninglessness. Thanks for keeping me grounded.