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        <title>deviantART: by:Flashlight-Antics</title>
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        <pubDate>Thu, 26 Nov 2009 23:31:49 PST</pubDate>        
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                <title>The Greatful Dead</title>
                <link>http://Flashlight-Antics.deviantart.com/journal/28282878/</link>
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                <pubDate>Wed, 11 Nov 2009 00:16:25 PST</pubDate>
                
                <description><![CDATA[ Yet again I find myself awake and ranting about one thing or another. Now when I rant I tend to keep things a little on the biased side. I leave out personal feeling and what's been going on in my life. This time is different. I need to vent and this is the venue for such things. <br /><br />Lately I've found myself going through a stage of self pity. I've had this happen to me before...it's not a rare occurrence by any means. But this time is different. It feels almost like four years back. A feeling I thought I had put behind me...<br /><br />For those of you that don't know, I went trough a two year stage of clinically diagnosed depression four years ago. It was the worst two years of my existence and it literally pained me to wake up in the morning. It mortified me to look in a mirror and suicidal thoughts dwindled through my mind on the simplest of whims. It almost killed me. <br /><br />I now feel the same way. Not quite that strong but I'm getting feelings similar to the beginning of that two year darkness. I suppose this is where I start to explain why. But I warn you, it will be quite vague. I don't endeavor to share my problems with others...especially when they include people I care for.<br /><br />Lately, my other half has been going through a few rough spots in her life. I won't say what, but needless to say she's been emotional of late. For those of you that know her, this isn't exactly all that common. Her attitude is usually very level and cheerful. Now she snaps at me for the strangest of reasons and cries her head off over things that would normally never bother her. <br /><br />In addition, my family is going through a bit of a monetary crisis. They live paycheck to paycheck and often call on me for aid in some cases. This isn't made easier when I'm still trying to pay off my credit card as well as rent, insurance, the utilities and food. <br /><br />This can seem overwhelming to some...a cake walk to most...but these things in themselves aren't my problems. I can and have dealt with them. Money isn't an issue for me and Kitty won't be this way forever. No, these simple things aren't enough to drive me to the edge of depression...<br /><br />...it's a realization I had. Everyone in my life looks to me. I'm the glue that holds it all together. They all look to me to be brave...to be strong. But how can I do that? How can I carry the world on my shoulders? I've never thought of myself as a strong person...matter of fact I've always thought I was rather weak. But they ask me to be strong. Not directly, of course. My father hasn't approached me asking "son, I need you to be strong for everyone". They've done it through action...through thought. <br /><br />I've always reveled being called an adult. I cherish the responsibility that comes with it and think that I have lived up to it rather nicely. But being asked...nay, TOLD...to carry the world on my back is overstepping things. <br /><br />Oh, and don't mind the title of this journal. It was just meant to grab your attention. Nice, huh? It must have worked if you got this far. It's strange, really...I talk to you all as if you were here with me. As if you cared about my problems. As if you were my friends. But in times of hardship...one starts to question the word "friendship". Don't take me for an ungrateful fool. I merely wonder how many true friends I still carry on the world-wide-web. I don't visit much...so I don't blame you for choosing otherwise. I guess I just cherish things like friendship in times like this. <br /><br />I rather appreciate the song I'm listening to at the time. "Love Hurts" by Incubus. give it a listen sometime...tell me if you like it.<br /><br />-Flantics out<br /><br /> ]]></description>
                <author>~Flashlight-Antics</author>
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          <item>
                <title>Late Night Rant</title>
                <link>http://Flashlight-Antics.deviantart.com/journal/27551125/</link>
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                <pubDate>Sat, 03 Oct 2009 03:16:24 PDT</pubDate>
                
                <description><![CDATA[ ItÂs strangely neurotic to find myself here again. Awake late one night with nothing better to do except post a new journal. I guess itÂs an escape to me...some kind of emotional comfort blanket or drug for the soul. <br /><br />I suppose my excuse for being up late once more is my new bed that Kitty and I recently purchased. We used to sleep on a double...crammed together in a possession I found to be comfortably uncomfortable (donÂt ask how that works). But now we have a queen. For those of you that donÂt know, a queen-sized bed is six inches larger then a double. Basically, itÂs like shifting from sleeping on a cot to sleeping on an open prairie made of soft cotton and foam. <br /><br />This shift, however has thrown my norm into whack. I am a creature of habit...when I have gotten used to one thing, it is physically and emotionally difficult for me to change over to something else. A good example would be my preference in instant messengers. I started out using and enjoying Yahoo. Ages ago, however, I switched over to MSN. The change was gradual and took much coaxing from my friends. After getting used to it, however, it has been ages since IÂve last been on Yahoo...frankly, IÂm not even sure I still have it on my computer. <br /><br />That being said, imagine how I would react to a completely new bed. My old bed was mine long before I began dating Kitty. So my sleeping habits had carved a nice little nitch into the bed itself, a crease that cradled me much like a mother does her child. This, of course, was not very healthy for my back. But what did I care? It was comfortable! However, after Kitty began complaining of back pain after work (with a frequency not unlike a broken record) I decided it was time to search for a replacement.<br /><br />DonÂt get me wrong...sleeping on that sucker is like sleeping on clouds with an angel embracing me from behind. I sleep (for lack of a better analogy) like a baby! When I awake it actually FEELS like I slept. It actually gives me some semblance of rest. A feeling I have not felt on my old bed for quite some time. However, being the creature of habit I am, it takes me some deal of time to actually fall into that state of slumber. I cannot blame anyone but myself for this. Regardless, it is still my excuse for being here now.<br /><br />As I write this I tend to have a thought, though. A contemplation of sorts. My thought is Âwho the hell actually READS this shit?Â That is to say, I have a hard time grasping the idea of someone actually enjoying my rants. It seems like all IÂve done lately is complain about one thing or another and post it here to accost your eyes. Ironic, though...this paragraph itself is hypocritical in many ways. <br /><br />That bit of irony aside, I have a favor to ask anyone that reads my rants. From now on, should time allow you, if you read one of my rants all the way through post a comment. I canÂt begin to explain to you how much I enjoy knowing that my words have not fallen on deaf ears. Just humor old Flantics here. We all know heÂs already losing his mind...hell, heÂs talking in third person. That should be proof enough alone!<br /><br />Remember, people...itÂs always good to see the flaws in yourself. After all...how can you improve if you donÂt know what there is to improve on?<br /><br />Stay thirsty my friends,<br />-Flantics out<br /><br /> ]]></description>
                <author>~Flashlight-Antics</author>
            </item>
          <item>
                <title>Lonely Night</title>
                <link>http://Flashlight-Antics.deviantart.com/journal/27440182/</link>
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                <pubDate>Sun, 27 Sep 2009 01:48:42 PDT</pubDate>
                
                <description><![CDATA[ This feels somehow familiar. Here I sit at my computer one late night finding it hard to drag myself into slumber. Only this time I have no partner to lure me back...no loving arms to fall into and forget about life with. No, for this is the second to last night of loneliness before my other half returns from a two week trek to California. I never knew that I would miss her voice calling me back to bed when my keyboard strokes awoke her. But how I long for her voice now.<br /><br />Today was rough. In many ways I thought it would be a great day. It started out with me feeling refreshed and well rested. A feeling not often known by my body of late. So with that, the day was starting great. I soon came to realize that I was late on my phone bill, however, and had to deal with half the day without any communication whatsoever. Upon paying it I got a message from work saying they needed my help at the office today...a fact that, would I have paid my phone bill, I would have seen soon enough to make a difference and had a chance to make more money. Instead I come to find that another employee (one that is seeking the same management position I have been pursuing since my hire date) decided to cover it for me...this no doubt has given him a good name for the hire-ups...joy.<br /><br />I then tried to spend the day with a friend. All of which, however, were busy in one way or another. The only friend that could hang out couldn't hang out until later...better then nothing. After hanging out (boring as hell considering we had NOTHING to do) I made my way back home. On the way back home, however, I am pulled over by a police officer. An officer that was, no doubt, looking to fulfill his quota for the month...because the reason I was pulled over was for my FUCKING REGISTRATION BEING EXPIRED!!! Not speeding, not doing something stupid...no...that would have made sense...this asshole had to pull me over because my registration was over dew by TWO FUCKING MONTHS!!!!!! <br /><br />The day ended with me coming home hoping to talk to Kitty...you know, to vent or get some kind of reassurance or something. That fails, however, because she had already gone to bed and her aunt didn't want to wake her (I don't blame her, Kitty can be snappy sometimes). So now I didn't even get the release of hearing my love's voice before bed. <br /><br />Now I sit here contemplating where I when wrong. At what point did I do something so wrong that an entire day had to start with the deception of it being a possible gem and then ended with a $100 fine and the thought of having to pay for registration for my car? I was under the illusion that karma only effected those deserving of it. <br /><br />Whatever...I don't care. Life has it's way, right? Things work themselves out and as long as I stay true to myself I'll be fine...right? That's the illusion I'll tell myself as I slip into fatigue-guided slumber this morning. <br /><br />I need a hug -_-<br />-Flantics out<br /><br /> ]]></description>
                <author>~Flashlight-Antics</author>
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          <item>
                <title>A Question to the people</title>
                <link>http://Flashlight-Antics.deviantart.com/journal/27169770/</link>
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                <pubDate>Sat, 12 Sep 2009 12:23:12 PDT</pubDate>
                
                <description><![CDATA[ Well, for those of you that didn't know, I have finally found a new job and have settled into it nicely. While that isn't the reason I'm writing this journal, it is the basic keystone to the reason behind my purpose. <br /><br />I imagine that, now that my job situation is stable and Kathryn will be out of town for a couple weeks, I will most likely have a little more time on my hands to use for whatever suits my fancy. The problem being, I'm not exactly sure what tickles said fancy. <br /><br />This is where you guys come in. I'm looking for opinions from those that enjoy my work. I can do one of three things (though I'll likely do them all in one form or another) and I'm curious to know what you guys think I should focus on.<br /><br /><u>Here are the choices:</u><br /><br />1. Drawing more. This possibility may open up a small request line of 2 to 5 people...depending on how much time I actually manufacture.<br /><br />2. Writing more. I have a few stories that have gone untouched of late and I feel it necessary to touch upon some of them...but should I make that my primary focus?<br /><br />3. Sprite more. I got a lot of comics that have been neglected lately. Think I should start shelling out a good buffer for a couple of them?<br /><br />I'm unsure exactly how MUCH time I'll be given but seeing as I won't be focusing all of my time on my other half when I DO get time, I might be able to focus some of it on the more menial things. Let me know what you guys think.<br /><br />Stay thirsty my friends,<br />-Flantics out<br /><br /> ]]></description>
                <author>~Flashlight-Antics</author>
            </item>
          <item>
                <title>Memories</title>
                <link>http://Flashlight-Antics.deviantart.com/journal/27086551/</link>
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                <pubDate>Tue, 08 Sep 2009 01:05:58 PDT</pubDate>
                
                <description><![CDATA[ <b>Have you ever had a moment of realization? One of those rare points in your life that you look back at everything youÂve done up till now and say to yourself ÂdamnÂIÂve done whatÂs right by meÂ?</b><br /><br />I donÂt often start my journals off with a question but in this case IÂll make an exception. Why? Because, IÂve actually come to that point. <br /><br />Before I actually start my explanation, let me first clarify something. I am a man of sound. I associate most of my memories with a song that I liked that was playing at that time. For instance, every time I hear ÂGet BusyÂ by Sean Paul I remember my senior prom. That explained I can continue.<br /><br />Recently I heard a song that reminded me of an old friend. Who that is isnÂt important but letÂs just say that she holds a piece of my heart still to this day. Either way, that memory brought about more memories. Memories of my time here at DA. Memories of my adventures on MSN. Good memories. Bad memories. Memories that make me think ÂDamnÂIÂve done whatÂs right by meÂ.<br /><br />Incase youÂre curious, the song I heard was ÂBelieveÂ by The Bravery. Give it a listen. Tell me what you think.<br /><br /><i>Past, present and future,<br />Good, bad or ugly,<br />Never forget,<br />Never give in,<br />Live well,<br />And never regret.</i><br /><br />-Flantics out<br /><br /> ]]></description>
                <author>~Flashlight-Antics</author>
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          <item>
                <title>The 3rd of August</title>
                <link>http://Flashlight-Antics.deviantart.com/journal/26369805/</link>
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                <pubDate>Mon, 03 Aug 2009 22:39:13 PDT</pubDate>
                
                <description><![CDATA[ It's been wonderful at my new place. Being on my own, away from distraction, and utterly alone...okay, so none of those are actually true thanks to my other half, but hey, it's the thought that counts, right? XD<br /><br />On that note, I bring this to you now because we are currently here at my parent's place for the night. My love decided that we were too tired to drive across town back to our apartment so we're here tonight. Why? Well, normally the answer would be something along the lines of "we needed our laundry done" or "we wanted to visit for awhile". But today, on the 3rd day of August, that reason is my birthday. That's right...I am now 23 years of age. That's a hard pill to swallow when my other half is now 2 years younger then me and waves it in my face like it's a banner of pride. For lack of a better explanation (and to spare you my TRUE feelings) I feel old. <br /><br />I requested this week off from work so I can have my birthday week off...time I can use to be spoiled to death by my better half...who, by the way, suggested all of it. I'd rather be off making money for us to survive on but that will be less "needed" for this month's rent. My landlord decided to give us a discount on this month's rent. As it turns out, we were overcharged last bill - a fact I failed to notice in the haste to get the nearly late bill out. So we only have to pay a little under less then half of the rent. Now THAT'S good business. Needless to say, we're staying there another month or so more then planned.<br /><br />For my illustrious day of birth I ended up getting money, Rock Band Track Pack 2, Force Unleashed, and a SHITLOAD of X-Box Live Gamer Points from a correlation of my friends and family. A successful birthday if I do say so myself. Especially since I didn't even expect to get anything this year XD. Hell, I nearly forgot about the damn thing myself until about five days ago. The ever important question from my better half arose..."what do you want for your birthday on Monday?". <br /><br />I decided to stay up late and lost interest in Tetris...so I decided to come here and pop this little tid bit on. Oh, and as for the fans of my comics, CR will be updating within the week and you might even be surprised with a Katt's Eyes update. Who knows. <br /><br />Keep it real, my friends.<br />-Flantics out<br /><br /> ]]></description>
                <author>~Flashlight-Antics</author>
            </item>
          <item>
                <title>One last night of unrest</title>
                <link>http://Flashlight-Antics.deviantart.com/journal/25809415/</link>
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                <pubDate>Wed, 08 Jul 2009 02:15:31 PDT</pubDate>
                
                <description><![CDATA[ So this is it...the final night here at my parents place. Me and Kitty have found a place and we start the move tomorrow. It is currently 2 AM and we are scheduled to wake up at 7 AM. Another long, sleepless night. Thus has been the story of my life of late. But while I look forward to settling down in our own place, completing this torment that is the nerve wracking event of moving, and maybe getting some sleep for once (one can only hope...), I do not look forward to the lack of internet. This will be the first time in many years that I have gone without internet for a time longer then a couple weeks...at least readily available internet. While me and Kitty looked hard for a place with free wireless, none of them were in our budget. Go figure that a two bedroom, two bath apartment with a decent sized balcony and kitchen WAS in our budget...irony has a way of telling us that life is still crappy sometimes. <br /><br />So this is it. The next step in the stairway of life. Next steps: marriage, family, a real HOME, and happily ever after (not necessarily in that order <.< ). While all of that seems like a real possibility right now, it's all very far off...distant on the horizon as it were. And while it feels like I'm an adult now - a working force man with something REAL to live for - I still feel like my inner child cries out like a baby for its blanket. Almost like I'm leaving some part of me behind...forgetting about a piece of me. That's how much effect you guys have had on me. THAT'S the feeling of family. So in a sense, while I leave for a new path, a new experience in life, I leave behind a piece of my heart here with you. I dare not say goodbye for I know in my heart I will still have opportunities in the future to converse with you. But I still feel lost in some way or another. <br /><br />Usually I have something witty to say...some kind of worldly wisdom to share with you at this point. But now...now I have no words. I only wish to say thank you. Everyone. <br />-Flantics out<br /><br /> ]]></description>
                <author>~Flashlight-Antics</author>
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          <item>
                <title>I hope you had the time of your life...</title>
                <link>http://Flashlight-Antics.deviantart.com/journal/25687141/</link>
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                <pubDate>Thu, 02 Jul 2009 02:57:23 PDT</pubDate>
                
                <description><![CDATA[ <b>"Another turning point, a fork stuck in the road<br />Time grabs you by the wrist, directs you where to go<br />So make the best of this test, and don't ask why<br />It's not a question, but a lesson learned in time<br /><br />It's something unpredictable, but in the end it's right.<br />I hope you had the time of your life.<br /><br />So take the photographs, and still frames in your mind<br />Hang it on a shelf in good health and good time<br />Tattoos of memories and dead skin on trial<br />For what it's worth it was worth all the while<br /><br />It's something unpredictable, but in the end it's right.<br />I hope you had the time of your life."</b><br /><br />I thought I'd share this song with you all. It's called "Good Riddance (Time of Your Life)" and it's by the great old boys of Green Day. Why do I share this song with you? I'll explain. But first, I must set up the scenario. <br /><br />I haven't been getting much sleep of late. It's been a battle trying to grapple me into a state of slumber, the computer chair often winning out over the pillow and bedsheets. And the sleep I do manage to get is ravaged by dreams and nightmares of various degrees. Ranging anywhere from dreams of future-past to nightmares of things that are often accompanied by the all too common term "what if?". Taking a new step in life can often incur such states. Almost like a sickness - a contagion if you will - that spreads from the situation in question to your very soul, infecting it with a haste known only by cheetahs and other fast animals of the sort. <br /><br />Upon one of these stints (the very stint that I am using to write this now) I sat down and listened to this masterpiece of a song. I had listened to it in the past and had heard its lyrics. But never before now have I actually HEARD the lyrics. Never have I listened to them as I have now. And upon hearing it for the first time...TRULY hearing it...I realized how relevant it was to me. How true those faithful lyrics seemed. How truly poetic it is to hear in a time like now. It seems all too strange to actually hear the song when I feel it's lyrical effects on me. <br /><br />I have often grappled with the words I would use to say "Goodbye for now". So I share this song with you now to give you those words. Because of what was stated in the last journal I wrote only a short time ago now, I needed a way to finally say this. But Green Day, bless their hearts, have found them for me. <br /><br />So while I doubt this will be my last journal here ever, I do wish to use this opportunity to say "thank you one and all". If you read this then you know me, either as a reader of my comics or as a friend via-chat (or some combination of two). I want to thank you all...thank you for being a valued part of my development. Without this place of venting, this ranting space, this sacred ground of emotional release, I would be lost. And without you guys, each and every one of you, I would have no way to tell that I am not alone. So I say this to you sincerely when I say...<br /><br />"...I hope you had the time of your life."<br />-Flantics out<br /><br /> ]]></description>
                <author>~Flashlight-Antics</author>
            </item>
          <item>
                <title>Life's like that</title>
                <link>http://Flashlight-Antics.deviantart.com/journal/25579338/</link>
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                <pubDate>Sat, 27 Jun 2009 01:33:08 PDT</pubDate>
                
                <description><![CDATA[ It's been quite some time since my last update here...such is the story of my now established relationship with DA. But I can't sleep (as often is the reason for me posting here) so I believe I'll give a little update on things happening of late.<br /><br />First off, I want to start by saying that I haven't been on the internet much lately. Mostly do to my need to attend to my life OFF the web. My comics, drawings, writing, and even my gaming life have all taken a back seat to my primary focus right now. I've moved on to trying to build my own life outside my little bubble I've built under my parent's roof. Seeing as my girlfriend and I have taken the steps of advancing our relationship to higher levels, we are both in the process of looking for a place all our own. THAT is the primary reason I have been all but non-existent on the web. <br /><br />But alas, as this is the case, my time on the web will take an even BIGGER hit upon our faithful trip to our own path. Seeing as we are both on minimum wage jobs right now, all we will be able to afford are insurance, utilities, the rent, and gas (as well as a few of the other amenities of living such as food...and the occasional night on the town XD). Meaning, there is a very good chance that we won't have the internet. I might be able to hack into someone elses lan or wireless network (if they don't have a password) or even hit my parent's place and bum the interweb off of them (as I'm doing now). But for the most part, I will be a scant sight some time in the near future.<br /><br />Secondly, I would like to address a matter that has recently BOMBARDED the media. That's right, the ever growing story that the once chart topping Michal Jackson has died. News that is, in deed, tragic. No matter how you viewed the black man turned white woman, it still cannot be taken away from him that he was a revolutionary. He helped set the tone for the next wave of popular music and without him, the world would be a different place. I remember a good time, almost as if it was yesterday, that I was listening to his chart topping, ear bending music and enjoying every lyric. Now I go back and listen to them out of nostalgia or to get a good laugh. But no matter the controversy he brought up, no matter the overwhelming number of jokes and puns that have been made at his expense, there is still no changing that he will be missed. So here's to you, Mike...may you forever be "bad" and "thrill" the cosmos in your own flamboyant way.<br /><br />Now for less pressing matters. Me ranting about a movie that I'm SURE that you have (or will, at some point) seen. That's right, Transformers 2. While I'm certain that you will all have something good to say about this movie and how awesome it is or even how much you want to see it. Well my opinion on it grows more and more strong each day. And that opinion is...I FUCKING HATE IT!!!! You heard me! I hate that movie's god-awesome, heart-pounding, stupendously created guts!!! "Why is that, Flantics?" you may be asking, "Why do you hate this masterpiece so?" I'll tell you...it has been the very BANE of my existence for the past half-week. I have gone into work EVERYDAY for the past THREE MOTHER-FUCKING-DAYS and walked into that concession stand to serve the MILLIONS AND MOTHER-FUCKING MILLIONS of people who choose to come in and "grace" my theater with their service. FIVE FUCKING THEATERS!!! FIVE! All of them SOLD OUT!!! For THREE DAYS!!!!!!!!! So you go on and keep praising that movie for being godly and giving us such awesome entertainment value...but some part of me...no matter HOW much I enjoy watching it when (not IF, but WHEN...because I WILL see it) I see it...there will still be some part of me that hate's that movie to the very soul of it's wretched existence. <br /><br />Rant done. See you on the flipside.<br />-Flantic out<br /><br /> ]]></description>
                <author>~Flashlight-Antics</author>
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                <title>Just another Flantics rant</title>
                <link>http://Flashlight-Antics.deviantart.com/journal/23146808/</link>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">http://Flashlight-Antics.deviantart.com/journal/23146808/</guid>
                <pubDate>Wed, 11 Feb 2009 20:30:29 PST</pubDate>
                
                <description><![CDATA[ ItÂs been awhile since IÂve posted anything here, so I figured that since I canÂt really get to sleep at the moment, IÂd hop on and rant for a little while. <br /><br />First off, IÂm not dead. IÂve said this a few times and if it isnÂt obvious by now, IÂve kindÂa given in on ever returning to dA as a full time deviant. IÂll still add a pic from time to time or throw on a new part/chapter to one of my fics, but for the most part, IÂm basically gone. Most of you who I talk to on a regular basis already know that I tend to check my dA regularly anywayÂbut IÂm still not that active.<br /><br />I also want to address dA itself. And this next sentence is for you, dA mods. You fucking suck ^_^. Yeah, you heard me. You suck big fat monkey testicles. You never do your job how its supposed to be done and you let piece of shit ÂartistsÂ stay while driving away the good ones. <br /><br />Let me also point out one other detailÂand if youÂre younger then 18, donÂt say I didnÂt warn you to not read thisÂbut if you want, go ahead, I donÂt give a damn. <br /><br />A picture of a vagina in black and white is more offensive then a couple of Sonic characters screwing. IÂm sorry, but it just is. At least with cartoons, thereÂs a certain comedic value to it. With a pictureÂyeah, thatÂs real life. You canÂt fake that. In short, there is nothing ÂartisticÂ about nudityÂgranted the human body is a beautiful thingÂbut itÂs still deemed as pornography. Comparing an ÂartisticÂ nude pic to a pic in Â Playboy Â is like comparing a red apple to a green appleÂin the end, theyÂre both the same damn thing. Flavor and color donÂt change the fact that theyÂre both fucking apples!<br /><br />Anyway, that note aside, I also have a little screwball to pitch at you. If Obama doesnÂt put the economy as his tip top priority then (and IÂm sorry for my French) heÂs a fucking idiot. The economy is (at least they think) in just as bad shape now as it was before the stock crash and Great Depression. I, being an usher at a movie theater, feel this effect the most. Sure, my pay just went up at the start of the year. That doesnÂt change the fact that so did all the prices of things I wanted to buy. <br /><br />On that note, I also hate my job. As easy at it is, I still hate it to the core ^_^. Let me give you an example why. My manager, someone who treats me like IÂm a fucking 12-year-old when IÂm a grown ass man of 22 years, told me to clean up some vomit in one of the theaters. When I refused (because I donÂt get paid enough to clean THAT kind of mess up) she tried to push the Âeveryone needs to pull their own weightÂ bullshit on me. Yeah, thatÂll work. IÂm 22 years old with nearly 8 years of work experience and a family that has always been tied strongly to the WorkerÂs Union. <br /><br />Â Pull their own weight ÂÂ phe, give me a fucking break. Harkin's Theaters has a night cleaning crew that I GUARANTEE gets paid $10 plus an hour to clean up the shit me and my fellow ushers miss between cleaning jobs. I get paid ROUGHLY $7 an hour and she expects ME to clean up VOMIT?! I know my rights as a worker and if I donÂt want to do somethingÂESPECIALLY if I think IÂm being discriminated againstÂthen I donÂt have to fucking do it. WhatÂs more is she canÂt do shit to me if I do say no. IÂm not a janitor, I donÂt get paid $10 plus an hour to clean. IÂm an usher, I get paid $7 plus an hour to pick shit up and OCCASIONALLY mop. ThatÂs it. <br /><br />On that bombshell, I think IÂll hit the sack. Who knows when IÂll be seen ranting again, so until next time, keep your minds open and your spirits high. Cause life is only what you make of it and wisdom is only wise to those who are willing to listen. ^_^<br /><br />-Flantics out<br /><br /> ]]></description>
                <author>~Flashlight-Antics</author>
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                <title>Nice guys STILL finish last...</title>
                <link>http://Flashlight-Antics.deviantart.com/journal/21544517/</link>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">http://Flashlight-Antics.deviantart.com/journal/21544517/</guid>
                <pubDate>Tue, 18 Nov 2008 01:50:01 PST</pubDate>
                
                <description><![CDATA[ <b>...But isn't last first when going in descending order? Or is that ascending? o_0</b><br /><br />Anyway, I saw this on <a href="http://cupcake--the--fox.deviantart.com/"><img class="avatar" src="http://a.deviantart.com/avatars/c/u/cupcake--the--fox.png" width="50" height="50" alt=":iconcupcake--the--fox:" title="cupcake--the--fox"/></a>'s journal and I thought it was very interesting. I also saw the last part that said "I guarantee 90% of the men on your page will not repost this cuz they care more about their image" and considered that a challenge. I personally don't give a flying frell about my image...I only care about my girls (you know who you are). <br /><br />So to cap this off, I issue a personal challenge to EVERYONE that reads this...if you care for even one person more then yourself, then repost this.<br /><br />---<br /><br />â¥ To every guy that said, "Sex can wait"<br /><br />â¥ To every guy that said, "You're beautiful"<br /><br />â¥ To every guy that was never too busy to drive across town to see her<br /><br />â¥ To every guy that gives her flowers and a card when she is sick or down.<br /><br />â¥ To every guy who has given her flowers just because that's how he rolls<br /><br />â¥ To every guy that said he would die for her.<br /><br />â¥ To every guy that really would.<br /><br />â¥ To every guy that did what she wanted to die for<br /><br />â¥ To every guy that cried in front of her...<br /><br />â¥ To every guy that she cried in front of...<br /><br />â¥ To every guy that holds hands with her.<br /><br />â¥ To every guy that kisses her with meaning..<br /><br />â¥ To every guy that hugs her when she's sad.<br /><br />â¥ To every guy that hugs her for no reason at all.<br /><br />â¥ To every guy who would give their jacket up for her.<br /><br />â¥ To every guy that calls to make sure she got home safe.<br /><br />â¥ To every guy that would sit and wait for her for hours just to<br />see her for ten minutes<br /><br />â¥ To every guy that would give his seat up...<br /><br />â¥ To every guy that just wants to cuddle.<br /><br />â¥ To every guy that reassured her that she was beautiful no matter what.<br /><br />â¥ To every guy who told his secrets to her.<br /><br />â¥ To every guy that showed how much he cared through every word and every breath.<br /><br />â¥ To every guy that thought maybe this could be the one.<br /><br />â¥ To every guy that believed in her dreams.<br /><br />â¥ To every guy that would have done anything so she could achieve them<br /><br />â¥ To every guy that never laughed at her when she told him her dreams.<br /><br />â¥ To every guy that walked her to her car and opened the door<br /><br />â¥ To every guy that gave his heart.<br /><br />â¥ To every guy who prays that she is happy even if you are not with her.<br /><br />Not many girls appreciate nice guys anymore...<br />And because of this, there are not many left out there...<br /><br />I guarantee 90% of the men on your page will not repost this cuz they care more about their image<br /><br />If you are a nice guy repost this with: "Nice guys STILL finish last."<br /><br />If you are a girl that thinks every guy should treat a girl this way<br />repost this with: "To Every Guy."<br /><br />---<br /><br />Oh, and don't forget to go back one journal entry to check out one of the quiz's I was tagged to do. I kind'a posted this one really soon after that one so I'm not sure how many of you actually got to see the first one XD.<br /><br />Image isn't everything...matter of fact, its not even a thing, really...just a reflection in the mirror that you take with you.<br />-Flantics out<br /><br /> ]]></description>
                <author>~Flashlight-Antics</author>
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                <title>OMG...wow O_O</title>
                <link>http://Flashlight-Antics.deviantart.com/journal/21537134/</link>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">http://Flashlight-Antics.deviantart.com/journal/21537134/</guid>
                <pubDate>Mon, 17 Nov 2008 15:46:38 PST</pubDate>
                
                <description><![CDATA[ O noez, i'z bin tagged XO<br />Quiz made by <a href="http://cornflakee.deviantart.com/"><img class="avatar" src="http://a.deviantart.com/avatars/c/o/cornflakee.png?1" width="50" height="50" alt=":iconcornflakee:" title="cornflakee"/></a><br />Rule's<br />1. Put your music player on shuffle<br />2. Answer with the music tittle<br />3. You HAVE to put "In My Pants" at the end of each one<br />4. Comment if you can<br />5. there has to be at least 15<br /><br />1. Falling On...in my pants<br />2. Never Again...in my pants<br />3. Bad Girlfriend...in my pants (okay, that one made me laugh XD)<br />4. Let Me...in my pants (oh...my...GOD. Okay, that one wasn't planed, seriously)<br />5. Evolution...in my pants (wow...just...wow)<br />6. Hero...in my pants (when will the hilarity end XD)<br />7. What's the Difference...in my pants<br />8. The Only...in my pants<br />9. Hate Me...in my pants (its okay to hate me...as long as you do it in my pants XD)<br />10. No Rain...in my pants (I hope not o_o)<br />11. Fine Again...in my pants<br />12. Driven Under...in my pants<br />13. Hanging by a Moment...in my pants (*snicker*)<br />14. The Call of Ktulu...in my pants (O_O)<br />15. Dirty Little Secret...in my pants (._.)<br /><br />The possibilities were FAR worse...<br /><br />I tag <a href="http://shawnguku.deviantart.com/"><img class="avatar" src="http://a.deviantart.com/avatars/s/h/shawnguku.png" width="50" height="50" alt=":iconshawnguku:" title="shawnguku"/></a><a href="http://cupcake--the--fox.deviantart.com/"><img class="avatar" src="http://a.deviantart.com/avatars/c/u/cupcake--the--fox.png" width="50" height="50" alt=":iconcupcake--the--fox:" title="cupcake--the--fox"/></a><a href="http://starthehedgecat.deviantart.com/"><img class="avatar" src="http://a.deviantart.com/avatars/s/t/starthehedgecat.png" width="50" height="50" alt=":iconstarthehedgecat:" title="starthehedgecat"/></a> and anyone else who thinks they have the guts to do it.<br /><br /> ]]></description>
                <author>~Flashlight-Antics</author>
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                <title>Metallica...24 years and still ROCKING!!!</title>
                <link>http://Flashlight-Antics.deviantart.com/journal/21104068/</link>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">http://Flashlight-Antics.deviantart.com/journal/21104068/</guid>
                <pubDate>Wed, 22 Oct 2008 00:39:31 PDT</pubDate>
                
                <description><![CDATA[ Okay, so for those of you that do not yet know, I went to the Metallica Death Magnetic tour kick off here in Arizona! In the front row within spitting distance of the stage, no doubt! Beautiful, is it not? Well, honestly, how the heck would you know, you didn't go XD<br /><br />But worry not, my friends, I will tell you now that it was the greatest show I have ever had the absolute pleasure to witness. It was opened up by a band called "The Sword". I haven't heard of them before tonight, but let's just say that I intend to look them up some time soon. After them, another band called "The Down" played. They were a lot like Pantera...hard, driving, metal rock. Not exactly my style, but the lead singer REALLY knew how to get the crowd going.<br /><br />Then, glory upon glory, after waiting two hours, Metallica finally made their way out to the stage. Being introduced by the fan favorite, "Ecstasy of Gold" the kicked the show off in grand style, playing one of their newer songs from their latest album. They then took the time to play a lot of their older stuff...songs like "One" (my personal favorite), "Enter Sandman", and "Wherever I May Roam". They also (of course) got around to eventually playing their newest (and super f-ing awesome) single, "The Day that Never Comes".<br /><br />Let me finish by saying that there is nothing quite like hearing, in a brilliant choirs, thousands of collaborated voices singing "Seek and Destroy" all at one moment while the house lights are lit in an outstanding encore. It was beautiful.<br /><br />Now if you'll excuse me...I have to crash until my ears stop ringing and my voice comes back X_X<br />-Flantics out<br /><br /> ]]></description>
                <author>~Flashlight-Antics</author>
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                <title>Just an Update, People</title>
                <link>http://Flashlight-Antics.deviantart.com/journal/20970910/</link>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">http://Flashlight-Antics.deviantart.com/journal/20970910/</guid>
                <pubDate>Mon, 13 Oct 2008 14:14:43 PDT</pubDate>
                
                <description><![CDATA[ Well, things have been on the up and up lately. Nothing to complain about, that's for sure. <br /><br />I've been fighting writer's block the past few months, but recently I've gotten over that *points to the two new fics in my gallery*. So expect to see more writing out of me really soon. Also, I might give you guys a taste of some poetry, too ^_^<br /><br />I'll be getting a job soon, so that will take up time but what it will also do is give me a lot more time for thinking. That means better inspiration. So se la vi. <br /><br />Optimism is the drive that keeps one going. It is not wrong to think life is great, it is wrong to look for the bad things that make the good better. <br />-Flantics out<br /><br /> ]]></description>
                <author>~Flashlight-Antics</author>
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                <title>I'm not dead...really!</title>
                <link>http://Flashlight-Antics.deviantart.com/journal/20211164/</link>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">http://Flashlight-Antics.deviantart.com/journal/20211164/</guid>
                <pubDate>Thu, 28 Aug 2008 23:44:58 PDT</pubDate>
                
                <description><![CDATA[ ItÂs been ages since my last journal entry here. DonÂt get me wrong, people, IÂm still alive. I still view all your art and IÂm still the same old guy. <br /><br />HoweverÂin my latest fit of internet absence, IÂve taken time to notice things. Things that no matter how I look at themÂno matter how good or bad they always areÂthey are still part of life. DonÂt worry, IÂm not going to complain or yammer on about how crappy my life isÂthatÂs not what IÂm about. No, I insist on sparing you of that particular drama.<br /><br />I do, however, wish to thank each and every person for visiting my DA site and faving (or even viewing, for that matter) my pictures. All IÂve ever wanted from life is to show people how beautiful it can beÂ<br /><br />Âbecause no matter how dismal life may seem, no matter how down you get, no matter HOW much crap you catch from itÂthere is always a light at the end of the tunnel. <br /><br />Trust yourself, never lose hope, always learn from your mistakes, never regret anything, and love life for the good times it gives you. <br /><br />ThatÂs all I really have to say right now. Thanks again, everyoneÂ<br /><br />ÂTry notÂdo or do not, there is no try.Â<br />-Flantics out<br /><br /> ]]></description>
                <author>~Flashlight-Antics</author>
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                <title>Review 2: The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion </title>
                <link>http://Flashlight-Antics.deviantart.com/journal/18282399/</link>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">http://Flashlight-Antics.deviantart.com/journal/18282399/</guid>
                <pubDate>Mon, 12 May 2008 00:12:43 PDT</pubDate>
                
                <description><![CDATA[ My choice of games this week is a game that had been out for a while now but is still pumping out new material every day! Its ÂTES IV: OblivionÂ. This game rocks on multiple different levels on multiple different platforms. <br /><br />IÂve been playing this game on and off for about five months now and its keeps getting better with every new character I make. The story is captivating, the game play is exciting and the freedom is endless!<br /><br />I literally canÂt say enough about this game. ItÂs the best game I have ever played to date and the flaws are completely outweighed by the ups. Speaking of flawsÂthe biggest problem I have with this game is the hundreds of loading screens it has. You can spend just as much time playing the thing as you can waiting for it to load.<br /><br />My platform of choice for playing this multi-platform game was the computer. Not only to I not yet own any of the other systems its for but also the computer version has so many options available to it that its ridiculous. I have roughly 30 mods for that game and each one is more impressive then the last. <br /><br />I honestly wouldnÂt be able to sleep at night if I didnÂt give this game a full 10 out of 10. Its story is beyond epic, its game play is interactive and easy to use, and the graphics are next to only a few games.<br /><br />My only suggestion to you is that you donÂt run this game on a crappy system. If your system has a history of freezing games (or over heats easily) then donÂt bother playing this game. Also, the better graphics card you have (for the computer version) the better. This game has A LOT to look at.<br /><br />Off to save the world from Oblivion, brb!<br />-Flantics out<br /><br /> ]]></description>
                <author>~Flashlight-Antics</author>
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                <title>Review 1: Sonic RPG</title>
                <link>http://Flashlight-Antics.deviantart.com/journal/18158460/</link>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">http://Flashlight-Antics.deviantart.com/journal/18158460/</guid>
                <pubDate>Sun, 04 May 2008 03:02:10 PDT</pubDate>
                
                <description><![CDATA[ Well, this is the first game review that IÂve ever really done. LetÂs see how it turns out.<br /><br />I havenÂt really been in the mood to play video games of late, so IÂm going to kick things off by reviewing a game I havenÂt even played yet. ThatÂs right, the fist review and IÂm already pulling out the unreleased games.<br /><br />My game of choice for review? Sonic RPG. Also known as ÂSonic Chronicles: The Dark BrotherhoodÂ for the Nintendo Game Boy DS. Everything I hear about this game is good. Honestly, though it has no exact release date yet, I have already reserved myself a copy of it.<br /><br />The graphics for it are on par with many of the great Super Nintendo RPGs and it has even been compared to one of that systemÂs greatest gamesÂMario RPG. Strange, isnÂt it, how SegaÂs superstar is now making an RPG that is being compared with his former competitorÂs already super successful RPG? Frankly, I donÂt think so. <br /><br />Sonic has long been waiting for his time to shine thin this category and I donÂt think the slow, turn based, system will slow the Âfastest thing aliveÂ down at all. Quite the contrary, as a matter of fact. From what I have heard, the map based travel will have the same kind of feel to it as ÂSonic 3D BlastÂ. <br /><br />Also, another great perk is the makers of said game. The same guys that brought us such titles as ÂMass EffectÂ and the critically acclaimed ÂKnights of the old RepublicÂ games are now running the project for ÂSonic ChroniclesÂ. This means that the ÂRPÂ part of this RPG will be in great detail and make it all the more captivating and entertaining. <br /><br />If you have never liked slow paced games and turn based styles, then this game isnÂt for you. This would include the old hardcore Sonic fans in some cases, but if youÂre like me, you enjoy RPGs as much as the next guy.<br /><br />All and all, I give ÂSonic Chronicles: The Dark BrotherhoodÂ an 8.5 out of 10. I havenÂt played it yet so this ratting probably wonÂt stand forever. Expect me to revisit this one when the game is actually released. <br /><br />Super speed away!<br />-Flantics out<br /><br /> ]]></description>
                <author>~Flashlight-Antics</author>
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                <title>A much needed change</title>
                <link>http://Flashlight-Antics.deviantart.com/journal/18110231/</link>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">http://Flashlight-Antics.deviantart.com/journal/18110231/</guid>
                <pubDate>Thu, 01 May 2008 17:12:55 PDT</pubDate>
                
                <description><![CDATA[ I have made many deliberations of late. With the free time IÂve spent over the past couple days, IÂve had time to come to a conclusion that will only prove to make me happier in the long run. <br /><br />IÂm quitting the DA community. <br /><br />What this means is that I will no longer be in the chatrooms and I will not further my on-line relationships that I have already made. I will only be coming here to check on various deviations and to do work on my own.<br /><br />IÂm sorry if you donÂt like this decision but there is nothing anyone can say to make me change my mind. This isnÂt a spur of the moment thing. I have spent hours thinking this over and this is what I wanted from DA to begin with. <br /><br />So, I will still continue to be friends with those of you that know me, but I will not chat with you anymore. <br /><br />Also, starting next week, my journals will become weekly video game reviews. IÂve been wanting to do a weekly review for quite some time, so this will be the perfect opportunity to do so. <br /><br />Also, for the most part, I wonÂt respond to notes anymore. <br /><br />I know many of you will miss me and other will not. But for the most part, I have made my mind. This decision isnÂt negotiable and this is a decision that will make me happy. So supporting me in this matter will be the best thing to do.<br /><br />Oh, and no one forced this decision on me...I made it all on my own. <br /><br /><img src="http://e.deviantart.com/emoticons/n/new.gif" width="30" height="27" alt=":new:" title="New" /><br />Yup...I found another reason to stay away from DA. I had just about half of my deviations deleted for no good reason. So...<img src="http://e.deviantart.com/emoticons/f/finger.gif" width="35" height="16" alt=":finger:" title="I am unintelligent and resort to petty name calling to get my point across" /> F*** YOU DA ADMINS!!! Not that I care, but don't expect anymore deviations that aren't either hand drawings or fics from me anymore. <br /><br />Truth be told,<br />-Flantics out<br /><br /> ]]></description>
                <author>~Flashlight-Antics</author>
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                <title>Taking a break</title>
                <link>http://Flashlight-Antics.deviantart.com/journal/18088005/</link>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">http://Flashlight-Antics.deviantart.com/journal/18088005/</guid>
                <pubDate>Tue, 29 Apr 2008 14:59:06 PDT</pubDate>
                
                <description><![CDATA[ WellÂSylvia has officially broken up with me. She believes that she will be happier with Scoot and her being happy is all that I ever wanted for her. So I leave her to go to whom she sees fit. I love you, SylviaÂand I am still here for you when you need me.<br /><br />In light of this new development, I have decided to take a break from DA for a while. I need time to take a rest from all the drama here and I also need some time to clear my head out a bit.<br /><br />Another reason I am taking a break is because I need to show myself that I can differentiate between the drama here at DA and the real world. IÂve let myself get caught up in a web of sorts here and now I need time to untangle myself from said web.<br /><br />Worry not, friends! I WILL return. How long I will be gone is yet to be determined, but I will come back. Lets put it this way, if IÂm gone longer then a month, then you have grounds to officially hate me XD<br /><br />I can also say that I will return as a changed man. Whether the change will be for better or for worseÂI cannot say. Fate will guide me to whatever path it will and I will accept the path willingly. <br /><br />Do not worry about me, friends, for if you worry for me then I will only feel more burdened by my decision. Just welcome me warmly when I return. <br /><br />My friends here at DA mean a lot to meÂand so many of you have done things for me that I could never DREAM of doing for you. I am a better man today because of all of you and I thank you from the bottom of my heart.<br /><br />May the path of fate guide you wellÂand IÂll see you when I see you!<br /><br />ThatÂs life,<br />-Flantics out!<br /><br /> ]]></description>
                <author>~Flashlight-Antics</author>
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                <title>Pray for my Sylvia, guys!</title>
                <link>http://Flashlight-Antics.deviantart.com/journal/18072447/</link>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">http://Flashlight-Antics.deviantart.com/journal/18072447/</guid>
                <pubDate>Mon, 28 Apr 2008 14:53:46 PDT</pubDate>
                
                <description><![CDATA[ Sylvia recently found out that her mom may be dying. I refuse to believe this fact and I insist that she will be fine. But my saying that isn't enough. I would love to be there in person for Sylv but with my current funds, I just can't. So my best course of action is to promise her that I will be there for her and to pray.<br /><br />But my prayer is only one. I need you guys to pray with me. I know many of you are already doing so...and it comforts me to know that. But I need to know that you are prying. If you comment on this Journal then all you need to say is "I will pray for her, Star". That is all. Sylvia needs us now more then ever, guys....she needs someone to tell her that everything will be fine and that we love her. <br /><br />I love you Sylvia. I love you SOOOO much. I am always here for you. You know that. Keep your spirits high and pray for your mom's well being. I know she will pull through, babe...I KNOW IT!<br /><br />pray...pray and hope...<br />...I would say "Flantics out"...but in this case...I'll be right here...praying with all my soul!!!<br /><br /> ]]></description>
                <author>~Flashlight-Antics</author>
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                <title>Music Quiz...why? Hellifino!!!!</title>
                <link>http://Flashlight-Antics.deviantart.com/journal/18048123/</link>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">http://Flashlight-Antics.deviantart.com/journal/18048123/</guid>
                <pubDate>Sun, 27 Apr 2008 03:05:55 PDT</pubDate>
                
                <description><![CDATA[ Okay, so I was tagged by my friend <a href="http://utahgy.deviantart.com/"><img class="avatar" src="http://a.deviantart.com/avatars/u/t/utahgy.gif" width="50" height="50" alt=":iconutahgy:" title="utahgy"/></a> to do this quiz/meme thing. I have no idea where it originated nor do I really care...but I told him I'd do it so yeah...I like keeping to my word.<br /><br />RULES!<br />1. Put your music player on shuffle<br />2.answer the question with the song that it lands on (posting a comment after the song is optional)<br />3. tag 3 people after this.<br /><br />1. How is your life?<br />"No Rain" by Blind Melon (thatÂs fitting ^w^)<br /><br />2. What do you want to be when you grow up?<br />"Scum of the Earth" by Rob Zombie (okay, now thatÂs just weird)<br /><br />3. Who do you have a crush on? is it your Bf/Gf?<br />"Hey There Delilah" by Plain White TÂs (Sylvia, actually ^^Âand yeah, sheÂs my girl friend.)<br /><br />4. What will your marriage be like?<br />"Trust" by Megadeath (okay, now this is just starting to creep me out)<br /><br />5. If you get reincarnated, what will you be?<br />"Photograph" by Nickelback (hmmmÂthat would be interesting)<br /><br />6. What will they play when you die?<br />"Harder to Breathe" by Maroon 5 (<img src="http://e.deviantart.com/emoticons/r/rofl.gif" width="29" height="27" alt=":rofl:" title="rofl" />)<br /><br />7. How do your friends see you?<br />"Times Like These" by The Foo Fighters (hmmmÂnot sure what that means, but okay)<br /><br />8. What does life think of you?<br />"Through With You" by Maroon 5 (well I hope not O_O; )<br /><br />9. What is your family like?<br />"Everything You Want" by Vertical Horizon (interesting)<br /><br />10. What would your grandparents listen to?<br />"Lips of an Angel" by Hinder (okay, this one doesnÂt make any sense what so fricking ever!)<br /><br />11. How do the people at school see you?<br />"Crawling in the Dark" by Hoobastank (waitÂI go to school o_O)<br /><br />12. What would be your best best bestest friend's theme song?<br />"Thoughtless" by Korn (holy crapÂthatÂs frickenÂ hilarious XD)<br /><br />13. How do you feel when youÂre happy?<br />"Afterlife" by Avenged Sevenfold (while a great song, it makes no sense for this question)<br /><br />14. What song would you strip to?<br />"Wasted Years" by Cold (my first choice would have been ÂIÂm too SexyÂÂbut okay)<br /><br />15. What will your children be like?<br />"Kryptonite" by 3 Doors Down (hmmmÂwell I hope not <img src="http://e.deviantart.com/emoticons/a/animesweat.gif" width="19" height="19" alt="^^;" title="Sweating a little..." />)<br /><br />16. What is your personality?<br />"Gone Away" by The Offspring (ya knowÂmaybe its my song preference thatÂs doing this to me)<br /><br />17. What is thy darkest secret?<br />"Califonication" by The Red Hot Chili Peppers (HmmmmÂinteresting cause the meaning behind that song is controversial)<br /><br />18. Where do you hang out on weekends?<br />"Drift and Die" by Puddle of Mudd (againÂno sense what so ever)<br /><br />19. Will you go far in life?<br />"The Pretender" by The Foo Fighters (pretending to go farÂyeahÂsounds like me <img src="http://e.deviantart.com/emoticons/a/animesweat.gif" width="19" height="19" alt="^^;" title="Sweating a little..." />)<br /><br />20. What is a sad moment for you?<br />"What IÂve Done" by Linkin Park (hmmmÂthat can be taken multiple ways)<br /><br />21. What was your first concert?<br />"Make Me Bad" by Korn (it was actually the Warped Tour of 2003Âit rocked cause I got to get within three feet of one of the speakers as Bad Religion was playing XP)<br /><br />22. How do you feel right now?<br />"Getting Away With Murder" by Papa Roach (<img src="http://e.deviantart.com/emoticons/m/mwahaha.gif" width="29" height="15" alt=":evillaugh:" title="EVIL Laughter!" />)<br /><br />23. What is your favorite movie?<br />"Hanging by a Moment" by Lighthouse (Face/Off actuallyÂnot sure why)<br /><br />24. What is your favorite book?<br />"Santa Monica" by Everclear (The HobbitÂitÂs probably the only book that IÂve ever read both intentionally AND all the way through <img src="http://e.deviantart.com/emoticons/a/animesweat.gif" width="19" height="19" alt="^^;" title="Sweating a little..." />)<br /><br />25. Who is your favorite actor/actress?<br />"Weight of the World" by Saliva (if I had to choose just one IÂd say Nicolas CageÂhe rocks)<br /><br />26. What are you watching on TV right now?<br />"Rain" by Breaking Benjamins (I donÂt watch TV anymore)<br /><br />27. What are you listening to?<br />"Minerva" by The Deftones (okayÂthis has got to be the most truthful of all answers yetÂwhy? Because itÂs the only one that is 100% true!)<br /><br />28. What do you think of this quiz?<br />"Seek & Destroy" by Metallica (Âthe answer says it all)<br /><br />29. Did you enjoy it?<br />"Creeping Death" by Metallica (ÂagainÂthe answer says it all)<br /><br />30. LAST QUESTION!!!!!!... ]]></description>
                <author>~Flashlight-Antics</author>
            </item>
          <item>
                <title>Life is like that</title>
                <link>http://Flashlight-Antics.deviantart.com/journal/18031524/</link>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">http://Flashlight-Antics.deviantart.com/journal/18031524/</guid>
                <pubDate>Fri, 25 Apr 2008 23:58:42 PDT</pubDate>
                
                <description><![CDATA[ Just thought IÂd update everyone on my life as of late. <br /><br />IÂve been in a great mood lately. Mostly because of Sylvia. She just makes me happy, I guess <img src="http://e.deviantart.com/emoticons/a/animesweat.gif" width="19" height="19" alt="^^;" title="Sweating a little..." />. We grow closer and closer every day and my love for her can only grow stronger. I love you, Sylv <img src="http://e.deviantart.com/emoticons/h/hug.gif" width="38" height="15" alt=":hug:" title="Hug" /><br /><br />Also, I bought a new game yesterday for the computer. Neverwinter Nights 2, for the PC. Great game from what IÂve heard but I just found out today that I canÂt play it. Apparently, my video card is one step lower then what I need. So now I need to look around for a video card that WILL work that wonÂt take a $100+ chunk out of my already low funds.<br /><br />Also, I reserved the new Sonic RPG coming out in September as well as ÂForced UnleashedÂ for the Wii. Both games I really look forward to ^^<br /><br />Another thing that IÂm having trouble with is my work. IÂm currently having to look for a new job because the one I have now is both physically taxing AND refuses to give me hours. So, while I try to get more hours I will ALSO be looking for a new jobÂfun times <img src="http://e.deviantart.com/emoticons/a/animesweat.gif" width="19" height="19" alt="^^;" title="Sweating a little..." /><br /><br />Other then that, nothing else is really new. IÂm still the same old Flantics with the same old life. But now that Sylv is part of my Âsame old lifeÂ IÂve found meaning to it all ^^<br /><br />ThatÂs life!<br />-Flantics out<br /><br /> ]]></description>
                <author>~Flashlight-Antics</author>
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          <item>
                <title>Peanut, peanut...who's got the peanut?</title>
                <link>http://Flashlight-Antics.deviantart.com/journal/17952665/</link>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">http://Flashlight-Antics.deviantart.com/journal/17952665/</guid>
                <pubDate>Mon, 21 Apr 2008 01:55:32 PDT</pubDate>
                
                <description><![CDATA[ I honestly have to say that IÂm a little sick of the drama IÂve been having of late. So, to counteract said drama, IÂm going to say that I am officially going to try and avoid it ^^.<br /><br />When in doubt, avoid it all together, right? RIGHT?!<br /><br />Meh, I know thatÂs not a good philosophy but frankly I feel another blue funk coming on from it and IÂm not ready for another one of those. So lets move away from that and talk about the good things of lateÂshall we!?<br /><br />First off, for those of you that havenÂt heard, IÂm madly in love with Sylvia <a href="http://starthehedgecat.deviantart.com/"><img class="avatar" src="http://a.deviantart.com/avatars/s/t/starthehedgecat.gif" width="50" height="50" alt=":iconstarthehedgecat:" title="starthehedgecat"/></a>. I canÂt say enough about her, really. SheÂs smart, funny, kind, fun as all hells to talk to, and to top it all off, she loves me back. What else could a guy ask for, hu?<br /><br />I also have been doing a lot of video gaming of late. Why is that relevant? WellÂnormally it wouldnÂt be. But when I took a near four week break from playing the things IÂd say that itÂs a pretty relevant thing now. I usually see playing video games as an escapeÂa way to express myself without worrying about who is going to judge me. Lately, though, itÂs been just out of pure boredom. <br /><br />I end this journal with a quoteÂ<br /><br />ÂFriends donÂt care about your flaws but love you in spite of them,Â ÂI donÂt know who said it but it wasnÂt me.<br /><br />Flantics out!<br /><br /> ]]></description>
                <author>~Flashlight-Antics</author>
            </item>
          <item>
                <title>Happy Days (My DA Family)</title>
                <link>http://Flashlight-Antics.deviantart.com/journal/17889827/</link>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">http://Flashlight-Antics.deviantart.com/journal/17889827/</guid>
                <pubDate>Fri, 18 Apr 2008 16:12:51 PDT</pubDate>
                
                <description><![CDATA[ My days of late have been very good. Even having to deal with work has been relatively easy compared to other weeks. Its as if my stress has melted away and now when it tries to cling on again it just continues to fall off to no avail.<br /><br />If you have been paying attention to my previous journals, I'm sure you can figure out what to attribute this to. So I won't even bother to say it...because...well...if you read my journals then you know.<br /><br />And now, to do what I came here for to begin with. Post the most recent and accurate version of my DA family and friends. Each person has their own catigory now ^^<br /><br />My one true love: <a href="http://starthehedgecat.deviantart.com/"><img class="avatar" src="http://a.deviantart.com/avatars/s/t/starthehedgecat.gif" width="50" height="50" alt=":iconstarthehedgecat:" title="starthehedgecat"/></a><br /><br />My lovable little DA Daughter: <a href="http://cupcake--the--fox.deviantart.com/"><img class="avatar" src="http://a.deviantart.com/avatars/c/u/cupcake--the--fox.gif" width="50" height="50" alt=":iconcupcake--the--fox:" title="cupcake--the--fox"/></a><br /><br />My energetic DA Brother: <a href="http://tailsxcreamx25x.deviantart.com/"><img class="avatar" src="http://a.deviantart.com/avatars/t/a/tailsxcreamx25x.gif" width="50" height="50" alt=":icontailsxcreamx25x:" title="tailsxcreamx25x"/></a><br /><br />My cuter then a button DA Sister: <a href="http://angelthahedgehog1.deviantart.com/"><img class="avatar" src="http://a.deviantart.com/avatars/a/n/angelthahedgehog1.jpg" width="50" height="50" alt=":iconangelthahedgehog1:" title="angelthahedgehog1"/></a><br /><br />My DA father's brother's nephew's cousin's former roommate: <a href="http://majin-tobias.deviantart.com/"><img class="avatar" src="http://a.deviantart.com/avatars/m/a/majin-tobias.gif" width="50" height="50" alt=":iconmajin-tobias:" title="majin-tobias"/></a><br /><br />My friendly DA neighbor girl: <a href="http://sonic-fan-girl555.deviantart.com/"><img class="avatar" src="http://a.deviantart.com/avatars/s/o/sonic-fan-girl555.png" width="50" height="50" alt=":iconsonic-fan-girl555:" title="sonic-fan-girl555"/></a><br /> <br />My DA father's brother's nephew's cousin's former roommate's evilly spawned half-brother: <a href="http://copafire.deviantart.com/"><img class="avatar" src="http://a.deviantart.com/avatars/c/o/copafire.png" width="50" height="50" alt=":iconcopafire:" title="copafire"/></a> <br /><br />My supposed DA secret admirer and chatroom friend: <a href="http://queen-of-dreams.deviantart.com/"><img class="avatar" src="http://a.deviantart.com/avatars/q/u/queen-of-dreams.gif" width="50" height="50" alt=":iconqueen-of-dreams:" title="queen-of-dreams"/></a> <br /><br />My DA friend of misery (thats a Metallica joke): <a href="http://wesley76.deviantart.com/"><img class="avatar" src="http://a.deviantart.com/avatars/w/e/wesley76.jpg" width="50" height="50" alt=":iconwesley76:" title="wesley76"/></a><br /><br />My DA friend and confidant: <a href="http://hanakurai-san.deviantart.com/"><img class="avatar" src="http://a.deviantart.com/avatars/h/a/hanakurai-san.png" width="50" height="50" alt=":iconhanakurai-san:" title="hanakurai-san"/></a><br /><br />My DD Ghost Co-Author and Partner at Arms: <a href="http://inalus.deviantart.com/"><img class="avatar" src="http://a.deviantart.com/avatars/i/n/inalus.gif" width="50" height="50" alt=":iconinalus:" title="inalus"/></a><br /><br />My DA/DD friend and padiwan: <a href="http://utahgy.deviantart.com/"><img class="avatar" src="http://a.deviantart.com/avatars/u/t/utahgy.gif" width="50" height="50" alt=":iconutahgy:" title="utahgy"/></a><br /><br />My DA/DD loyal fan and icon: <a href="http://thknnofnul.deviantart.com/"><img class="avatar" src="http://a.deviantart.com/avatars/t/h/thknnofnul.png" width="50" height="50" alt=":iconthknnofnul:" title="thknnofnul"/></a><br /><br /> ]]></description>
                <author>~Flashlight-Antics</author>
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          <item>
                <title>Mish Mash Mosh</title>
                <link>http://Flashlight-Antics.deviantart.com/journal/17863530/</link>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">http://Flashlight-Antics.deviantart.com/journal/17863530/</guid>
                <pubDate>Tue, 15 Apr 2008 12:02:38 PDT</pubDate>
                
                <description><![CDATA[ I donÂt really have one topic for this journal. I have a few. So lets get started, shall we?<br /><br />My recent bout with myself last week over the idea of keeping my job has come full circle. I went from wanting to quit to not caring anymore. IÂm not entirely sure why this is, but IÂm sure thereÂs more then one reason to it. But I can safely say that my reasons are not selfish this time. <br /><br />You see, I can sometimes commit to something simply because it will help only myself out. ItÂs a bad way to work things, I know, but letÂs just pretend that IÂm not always selfish for a few seconds. The primary reason, IÂd say, for me keeping my job is my mother. SheÂs been in a tights spot lately (her blood pressure isnÂt on the safe side) and I feel that if I stick to it and make her more proud then she already isÂthen it will at least help. I have other reasonsÂbut I donÂt feel like going through them right now.<br /><br />I guess I should update you guys on my love life, hu? WellÂwhat little there is to say about it. Since breaking up with Angel, IÂve been jumping around in the emotions department. Ranging from extremely happy and joyous, to even a few low points. Mostly, though, IÂve been in a good mood. <br /><br />This good mood can be largely blamed on one personÂ<a href="http://starthehedgecat.deviantart.com/"><img class="avatar" src="http://a.deviantart.com/avatars/s/t/starthehedgecat.gif" width="50" height="50" alt=":iconstarthehedgecat:" title="starthehedgecat"/></a>. I donÂt think this is much of a secret anymore so IÂll just go ahead and say itÂIÂm deeply in love with Sylvia. SheÂs a great friend, fun to talk to, and sheÂs truthfulÂsometimes brutally so. All things I love. Now, I can sit here and swoon over her all day, but thatÂs not why I did this part of the journal. No, I just want you all to knowÂwe are NOT seeing each other. Not yet anyway. We are both still single and IÂm willing to stay that way as long as she wants. <br /><br />But itÂs good to profess your feelings and thatÂs what IÂm doing. She makes me feelÂlikeÂfeel likeÂwell, in truth, itÂs really hard to explain how she makes me feel. The best way to say it is that she makes me smile with the mere thought of her. Now you know about my heart so no need to ask anymore.<br /><br />Now time to list my DA family and friends. This isnÂt yet fully accurate, so bare with me if you donÂt find yourself on the list.<br /><br />A special place in my heart: <a href="http://starthehedgecat.deviantart.com/"><img class="avatar" src="http://a.deviantart.com/avatars/s/t/starthehedgecat.gif" width="50" height="50" alt=":iconstarthehedgecat:" title="starthehedgecat"/></a><br /><br />DA Daughter: <a href="http://cupcake--the--fox.deviantart.com/"><img class="avatar" src="http://a.deviantart.com/avatars/c/u/cupcake--the--fox.gif" width="50" height="50" alt=":iconcupcake--the--fox:" title="cupcake--the--fox"/></a><br /><br />DA Brother: <a href="http://tailsxcreamx25x.deviantart.com/"><img class="avatar" src="http://a.deviantart.com/avatars/t/a/tailsxcreamx25x.gif" width="50" height="50" alt=":icontailsxcreamx25x:" title="tailsxcreamx25x"/></a><br /><br />DA Sister: <a href="http://angelthahedgehog1.deviantart.com/"><img class="avatar" src="http://a.deviantart.com/avatars/a/n/angelthahedgehog1.jpg" width="50" height="50" alt=":iconangelthahedgehog1:" title="angelthahedgehog1"/></a><br /><br />DA Crazy step brother from another state: <a href="http://majin-tobias.deviantart.com/"><img class="avatar" src="http://a.deviantart.com/avatars/m/a/majin-tobias.gif" width="50" height="50" alt=":iconmajin-tobias:" title="majin-tobias"/></a><br /><br />Chat Room Pals: <a href="http://sonic-fan-girl555.deviantart.com/"><img class="avatar" src="http://a.deviantart.com/avatars/s/o/sonic-fan-girl555.jpg" width="50" height="50" alt=":iconsonic-fan-girl555:" title="sonic-fan-girl555"/></a> <a href="http://copafire.deviantart.com/"><img class="avatar" src="http://a.deviantart.com/avatars/c/o/copafire.png" width="50" height="50" alt=":iconcopafire:" title="copafire"/></a> <a href="http://queen-of-dreams.deviantart.com/"><img class="avatar" src="http://a.deviantart.com/avatars/q/u/queen-of-dreams.gif" width="50" height="50" alt=":iconqueen-of-dreams:" title="queen-of-dreams"/></a> <a href="http://wesley76.deviantart.com/"><img class="avatar" src="http://a.deviantart.com/avatars/w/e/wesley76.jpg" width="50" height="50" alt=":iconwesley76:" title="wesley76"/></a><br /><br /> ]]></description>
                <author>~Flashlight-Antics</author>
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          <item>
                <title>The Real Me</title>
                <link>http://Flashlight-Antics.deviantart.com/journal/17783885/</link>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">http://Flashlight-Antics.deviantart.com/journal/17783885/</guid>
                <pubDate>Thu, 10 Apr 2008 17:25:49 PDT</pubDate>
                
                <description><![CDATA[ I have the feeling that no one really knows me anymore. IÂm not trying to be a downer here, IÂm just saying that I donÂt feel that people understand my motives. So, I have decided to introduce myself again. This time, IÂm going to be flat, blunt, and straight. No lying to make you like me, no hiding anything just because I donÂt like that part about me. NoÂthese are my demons. And I am going to introduce you to them.<br /><br />Where to start? Well, IÂm lazy. I donÂt really like physical work and thatÂs probably why I weigh as much as I do (at a staggering 285 last I checked). I procrastinate when I can and my favorite past time is to sit in front of my computer for the better part of the day.<br /><br />I hate my job. I work as a tire technician and yesÂI only hate it because itÂs physical labor. I am usually very selfish and my thoughts often start with the phrase Âhow will this affect me?Â I get jealous easily and I hate the idea of one of my friends falling in love before meÂwhich has actually happened, by the way.<br /><br />When I want something enough I will do anything to get it. This is usually a good trait but in my case it has proven to be the bane of my love life. IÂm a little egotistical but my self esteem is practically zero. I want nothing more then to make people like me and I often find myself reaching for pity from others even though I hate being pitied. <br /><br />I have a sick sense of humor and a foul mouth. IÂm not afraid to flip someone off on the road but if I saw the same person out of their car I wouldnÂt even think about it. IÂm shy and, though I hate to admit it, a little anti-social. I hate the heat and love the cold. Sometimes I come up with ideas to help me get out of going to work. IÂm also a chronic hypocrite. Meaning I will say one thing the first minute and the next IÂm preaching the opposite side of what I just said. <br /><br />These are my demonsÂglad you could meet them.<br /><br />And now for a few redeeming properties. IÂll try to be modest, but these are the things I KNOW are my good qualities. How do I know, you ask? When youÂre told them enough by enough people, theyÂre bound to be true. <br /><br />I have a good heart and my head is in the right place. I would never DREAM of doing drugs and I hate hearing about how other people use them. I donÂt drink. I am a good listener as well as a good advice giver. <br /><br />My best trait, however, is how highly I hold my friends. I would kill for many of my friends and would die for many more. I always have my friendÂs backs and if they donÂt know that I try to make sure they do. I fight fiercely for a friend and would rather die then give up on a friend. I help my friends when they need me and feel like I have failed them if I canÂt help. <br /><br />This rant isn't because I'm sad, mad, happy, or any of that. I just feel that people should face their demons from time-to-time. So I give you a challenge...do what I did. See if you have it in you to face your demons and spit in their face. It feels good, to tell the truth. And if your friends hate you because of your demons...then they aren't friends.<br /><br />My name is Kyle. I am 21 years old. I live in Arizona and those are my demons.<br /><br />Truth told,<br />Flantics out.<br /><br /> ]]></description>
                <author>~Flashlight-Antics</author>
            </item>
          <item>
                <title>My Angel</title>
                <link>http://Flashlight-Antics.deviantart.com/journal/17757501/</link>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">http://Flashlight-Antics.deviantart.com/journal/17757501/</guid>
                <pubDate>Wed, 09 Apr 2008 01:41:56 PDT</pubDate>
                
                <description><![CDATA[ Two nights ago I fell in love with <a href="http://angelthahedgehog1.deviantart.com/"><img class="avatar" src="http://a.deviantart.com/avatars/a/n/angelthahedgehog1.jpg" width="50" height="50" alt=":iconangelthahedgehog1:" title="angelthahedgehog1"/></a>. We shared with each other our secret loves and found that we loved two people that were in love with each other. Fate had brought us together on that night. When we were alone, we fell in love. We saw that the moment was too perfect to be true. <br /><br />Yesterday was the best day of my life. I had finally found what I had longed for. Something I have wanted for so long. Love. There was an extra spring in my step the whole day. It was amazing. But at the turn of the next dayÂat 12 A.M. almost exactlyÂAngel told me that she no longer wanted to be with me. <br /><br />This devastated me. When I asked her why, she remarked that we should be seeing people our own ages. I didnÂt agreeÂI still donÂt. DonÂt judge meÂbut I am 21 and Angel is 14. 7 years difference. Do I think this is strange? Do I find the difference in age to be a bad thing? NoÂI believe love does not cater to age. I love her and I donÂt care if you think IÂm a sick personÂbecause I know IÂm not. <br /><br />We separated and now we are nothing more then close friends. But I will never stop loving her. She is still my AngelÂthe one that pulled me out of my depression that was making me feel 21 going on 70. That will never change. But for her sakeÂfor the sake of my own well beingÂI must move on. I wonÂt allow myself to be pulled into another depression because of Angel. She wouldnÂt allow it. So I move onÂI care for her now as a brotherÂand I would give my life to protect her.<br /><br />I love you AngelÂI will never let you go. But I am not sad. Because if I was sadÂthat would make you sad. And all I want for youÂall I EVER wanted for youÂ.was for you to be happy.<br /><br />In a closing statement...I don't want ANYONE to worry about me. I don't want you to feel sorry for me and I DEFINITELY don't want you to feel mad/sad for Angel. I don't want you to get the wrong idea. Angel chose to cut off our relationship because she felt it was best for both of us. She still cares for me...but she is not as comfortable about our age difference as I am. And the last thing I want is her feeling uncomfortable because of me. So don't feel sorry for me...please...its the last thing I need right now. If you are to say anything in comment to this...tell me that me and Angel will find the right people. That we will move on and be fine. That's what would help...<br /><br />*raises mug* hereÂs to the nightÂ<br />Flantics out.<br /><br /> ]]></description>
                <author>~Flashlight-Antics</author>
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          <item>
                <title>Oh captain my captain!</title>
                <link>http://Flashlight-Antics.deviantart.com/journal/17708450/</link>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">http://Flashlight-Antics.deviantart.com/journal/17708450/</guid>
                <pubDate>Sun, 06 Apr 2008 01:36:06 PDT</pubDate>
                
                <description><![CDATA[ I've made quite a few friends here at <img src="http://e.deviantart.com/emoticons/d/devartlogo.gif" width="32" height="17" alt=":devart:" title="deviantART" /> I've spent so very little time here but already I have so many great friends. This place has changed my life as have the friends I have made.<br /><br />I want to do some name dropping now. These are the people that have helped me here as both a friend AND a critic. I thank each and every one of you from the bottom of my heart.<br /><br /><a href="http://starthehedgecat.deviantart.com/"><img class="avatar" src="http://a.deviantart.com/avatars/s/t/starthehedgecat.gif" width="50" height="50" alt=":iconstarthehedgecat:" title="starthehedgecat"/></a> A great fic writer and sweet friend. She has a good heart and is very easy to talk to. Thanks for the inspiration, Star <img src="http://e.deviantart.com/emoticons/w/wink.gif" width="15" height="15" alt=";)" title=";) (Wink)" /><br /><br /><a href="http://majin-tobias.deviantart.com/"><img class="avatar" src="http://a.deviantart.com/avatars/m/a/majin-tobias.gif" width="50" height="50" alt=":iconmajin-tobias:" title="majin-tobias"/></a> We have a lot in common. His heart is in the right spot and I pray (with what little faith I have) for his success with Kar (his long time girlfriend). Keep your head held high, Majin...and thanks for your support!!!<br /><br /><a href="http://tailsxcreamx25x.deviantart.com/"><img class="avatar" src="http://a.deviantart.com/avatars/t/a/tailsxcreamx25x.gif" width="50" height="50" alt=":icontailsxcreamx25x:" title="tailsxcreamx25x"/></a> A nice kid. He's a little crazy sometimes but he has a pure heart. He's also very easy to talk to. Don't forget our promise, brotha'...I'll hold you to it.<br /><br /><a href="http://thknnofnul.deviantart.com/"><img class="avatar" src="http://a.deviantart.com/avatars/t/h/thknnofnul.png" width="50" height="50" alt=":iconthknnofnul:" title="thknnofnul"/></a> A great comic maker. He doesn't have much of anything at his DA account, but that don't matter...his bang up comic making makes up for that. Thanks for all the support you've given me, THK. Keep at the comic!<br /><br /><a href="http://utahgy.deviantart.com/"><img class="avatar" src="http://a.deviantart.com/avatars/u/t/utahgy.gif" width="50" height="50" alt=":iconutahgy:" title="utahgy"/></a> Another sprite comic maker. He's also an aspiring fan fic writer. His works are a good read, so check them out! Thanks for your support, too, Utahgy. You keep writing those fics...you'll enjoy every bit you put in!!!<br /><br /><a href="http://sonic-fan-girl555.deviantart.com/"><img class="avatar" src="http://a.deviantart.com/avatars/s/o/sonic-fan-girl555.jpg" width="50" height="50" alt=":iconsonic-fan-girl555:" title="sonic-fan-girl555"/></a> Her art is cuter then heck and she's very fun to talk to. If I could explain her in one word I'd have to use "sweet". Thanks for chatting with me, Ay-Chan. You were a big help when I was feeling low.<br /><br /><a href="http://extwist.deviantart.com/"><img class="avatar" src="http://a.deviantart.com/avatars/e/x/extwist.png" width="50" height="50" alt=":iconextwist:" title="extwist"/></a> Another aspiring artist. His work is pretty nice, I'd say. Meaningful, that's for sure. I have to thank you for the great chat we shared, Tarek. You helped me rise out of the blue that I was sinking into.<br /><br /><a href="http://angelthahedgehog1.deviantart.com/"><img class="avatar" src="http://a.deviantart.com/avatars/a/n/angelthahedgehog1.jpg" width="50" height="50" alt=":iconangelthahedgehog1:" title="angelthahedgehog1"/></a> A fan fiction writer and great friend. She's sweet, caring, and a whole lot of fun to be around. I must say...I'm quite stricken by her. I love you, Angel...I will always be there for you!<br /><br />If I left anyone out, I must apologize...that's all that came to mind. But again, thank all of you....greatly...what you have done for me is beyond words and I am truly blessed by some god to have friends as nice as all of you.<br /><br /> ]]></description>
                <author>~Flashlight-Antics</author>
            </item>
          <item>
                <title>Here it is&amp;#133;my heart for you to see!</title>
                <link>http://Flashlight-Antics.deviantart.com/journal/17689498/</link>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">http://Flashlight-Antics.deviantart.com/journal/17689498/</guid>
                <pubDate>Fri, 04 Apr 2008 20:06:04 PDT</pubDate>
                
                <description><![CDATA[ I had a rough day. Emotionally more so then physically. If there were ever a point in my life that I could ever say that I had an emotional breakdown, now would be it. The following is just me spilling my heart out onto paper so if that kind of crap doesnÂt interest you then donÂt bother reading this.<br /><br />I feel that the number one problem is that I want so much and I want it all now. I want a good job, I want great friends, I want to be a killer writer, I want to make comics and fan fics that will change peoples lives. Dreams. They are healthy and under normal circumstances, I would be seen as normal. But I donÂt just want those things. I want them NOW! I donÂt want to work for themÂI just want to be loved and remember for what I do without having to work for it!!!<br /><br />DonÂt preach to me that Âyou get what you put inÂ. I know that. My father tells it to me on a daily basis and I understand it like no one else. I KNOW that IÂm never going to get what I want unless I work for it. I never said I didnÂt know that. I just want it now and I donÂt know how to get those thoughts out of my head. <br /><br />Another part is that my heart has not been the same since I got out of high school. God, this sounds so stupid as I write it. I know that IÂm a flippinÂ kid still. I havenÂt lived yet. The hardships I know now are bottom rung compared to what others have seen and done. But the more I go on the more I want what I canÂt have. NoÂsaying it that way isnÂt fair. The more I go on the more I want what I canÂt have unless I work to obtain it. <br /><br />Today I make a stand. IÂm throwing that part of my out the window. I need to stop being a frickinÂ idiot and start doing. I sit in my room and escape reality but when reality catches up to me it sucker punches me. No more. ItÂs time for me to get the jump on life. IÂm sick of not having what I want because I donÂt have the frelling BALLS to go get it myself. <br /><br />ThatÂs it. I feel better now. IÂm sorry if I worried anyone with this. IÂm fine, reallyÂI just needed to get that shit off of my chest. I always told myself that the key to life is determining the difference between reality and the escape there-of. I got lost in my own teachings. I forgot what reality mattered and now IÂm not going to do that.<br /><br />Expect a few changes in old Flantics. Though I might be different emotionally, IÂm still the same old guy. <br /><br />Rant done,<br />Flantics out!<br /><br /> ]]></description>
                <author>~Flashlight-Antics</author>
            </item>
          <item>
                <title>Still not there...</title>
                <link>http://Flashlight-Antics.deviantart.com/journal/17668112/</link>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">http://Flashlight-Antics.deviantart.com/journal/17668112/</guid>
                <pubDate>Thu, 03 Apr 2008 13:57:13 PDT</pubDate>
                
                <description><![CDATA[ I still don't feel completely back to 100% me, but I'm getting close. My heart is still feeling the need for something, but thanks to <a href="http://starthehedgecat.deviantart.com/"><img class="avatar" src="http://a.deviantart.com/avatars/s/t/starthehedgecat.gif" width="50" height="50" alt=":iconstarthehedgecat:" title="starthehedgecat"/></a>'s chat room, I was AT LEAST able to get some much needed interaction with the opposite sex. <br /><br />I had time to get a few things off my chest and even made some new friends. I enjoyed the time I spent there and it helped me clear my head. So thanks to everyone that was in there last night (you know who you are <img src="http://e.deviantart.com/emoticons/w/wink.gif" width="15" height="15" alt=";)" title=";) (Wink)" />) <br /><br />I want to let you all know that I'm very grateful for your support. The fact that I have 600+ page views in only a month's time is great. I really enjoy doing everything I post here and the fact that it brings joy to others makes me feel like I have achieved what I had set out to do with my life.<br /><br />So thank you...thank you so very, VERY dearly.<br /><br /> ]]></description>
                <author>~Flashlight-Antics</author>
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          <item>
                <title>Getting something off of my chest</title>
                <link>http://Flashlight-Antics.deviantart.com/journal/17651584/</link>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">http://Flashlight-Antics.deviantart.com/journal/17651584/</guid>
                <pubDate>Wed, 02 Apr 2008 13:23:17 PDT</pubDate>
                
                <description><![CDATA[ Okay, I really feel stupid doing this...but with the way I've been lately, I feel that this is a way to help.<br /><br /><br />-------------<br /><br /><br />My name is Kyle. I'm 21 years old. My hight is 6'1" and I weigh about 260 lbs. I enjoy playing video games, reading manga, and most of all, I LOVE writing and making sprite comics. I'm a good listener and I don't mind talking for hours on end. I live in Phoenix Arizona. I've never had a grilfriend in my life and now I feel the need to fill a hole in my heart. If I sound like your kind of guy, let me know. I'm sick of talking with nothing but guys and I need some kind of interaction with the opposite sex. <br /><br /><br />-------------<br /><br /><br />okay, that felt weird. But I've been in a sort of blue feeling lately. The best way I can explain how I've felt is that my heart hurt. Not physically, though...I mean emotionally. I don't care if I don't get any takers on this one...I just needed some way to vent this. Where better then a place that no one reads, hu? XD<br /><br /> ]]></description>
                <author>~Flashlight-Antics</author>
            </item>
          <item>
                <title>A stupid question</title>
                <link>http://Flashlight-Antics.deviantart.com/journal/17631738/</link>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">http://Flashlight-Antics.deviantart.com/journal/17631738/</guid>
                <pubDate>Tue, 01 Apr 2008 12:34:03 PDT</pubDate>
                
                <description><![CDATA[ Here is a question for you ladies out there.<br /><br />"What kind of boyfriend would you rather have (and be truthful here), an ugly one with a great personality or a beautiful one with much to be desired in the personality department?"<br /><br /><br /><br />(read below to find out why I ask)<br /><br /><br /><br />Recently I have been reading Choices - Serendipity by <a href="http://starthehedgecat.deviantart.com/"><img class="avatar" src="http://a.deviantart.com/avatars/s/t/starthehedgecat.gif" width="50" height="50" alt=":iconstarthehedgecat:" title="starthehedgecat"/></a>. The read was very good. I know this for a fact simply because there are very few stories that I can get so into that I can't stop reading them. I was literally up till 5 a.m. reading the second part of the fic knowing full well that I would have to go to work the following morning. I don't care...the fic was good enough to justify my sleepiness. On that matter, my only suggestion is to go read it for yourself. <br /><br />Now to the matter at hand (and don't worry, I'll try to keep this one short). I have constantly told myself that I can get a girlfriend anytime I wanted one. The more time goes on and the more stable my life becomes, the more I want to put this statement to the test. But the only reason I've never tried in the past is because I've always said "I'm not ready to dedicate any time to a girlfriend right now, it would be too distracting." But now I'm starting to think that I gave that excuse just to hide the fact that I don't really think I am capable of getting a girlfriend.<br /><br />Gods, I sound like a loser, don't I. No, scratch that, I sound emo. <br /><br />Don't feel sorry for me, please...I mean, you can...but that's not what this rant is for. FAR from it. I just get so damn emotional in times like this that I feel like I need to tell someone about it or it's just going to fester inside of my head and push me closer to insanity. Thats my reasoning for asking that question. I need to know that an ugly chap like myself has a chance with my dream girl...<br /><br /> ]]></description>
                <author>~Flashlight-Antics</author>
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          <item>
                <title>My empty heart...</title>
                <link>http://Flashlight-Antics.deviantart.com/journal/17599922/</link>
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                <pubDate>Mon, 31 Mar 2008 03:05:09 PDT</pubDate>
                
                <description><![CDATA[ I'm not sure why, but when I'm in one of these moods, I tend to be more creative. My juices get flowing and I just need to mimic what I just read. The feeling afterward is usually an emptiness followed by a long lasting deep blue funk lasting anywhere from a few days to a few weeks. Let me explain...<br /><br />I guess this is all attributed to my heart. I am a very emotional guy and though I don't like to show the fact, I am very aware of it. I read something sad and/or romantic and I enter into this state of longing for love. I want to feel the same way...<br /><br />...I guess I have once before. But the time in between the blue funks I get into there is little feeling in my heart in terms of love. I get to craving any kind of feeling. ANYTHING! Even that feeling of heartbreak. I don't care, I just need to know that my heart is still there. So I read something sad or romantic to bring that back. To remind me that I'm still human and that I can still love.<br /><br />Make a guy happy...let me know if you have the same kind'a thing!!!<br /><br /> ]]></description>
                <author>~Flashlight-Antics</author>
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          <item>
                <title>Life has one HELL of a learning curve&amp;#133;</title>
                <link>http://Flashlight-Antics.deviantart.com/journal/17499250/</link>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">http://Flashlight-Antics.deviantart.com/journal/17499250/</guid>
                <pubDate>Mon, 24 Mar 2008 19:39:26 PDT</pubDate>
                
                <description><![CDATA[ IÂve noticed that as life goes on, the days seem to shorten. Three days off of school back when I was a kid was an eternity! But now, three days off of work seems like it didnÂt go by slow enough. I got rest, sure, but I didnÂt really accomplish everything I would have liked to. The day is, however, far from over for me. Its only 7:26 P.M. and my day usually ends at around 3:30 A.M. (the following morning). <br /><br />Strangely enough, I have also given much more thought to the past because of this realization. Looking back, I remember the good things first. All the great times I had in California as a kid. Much of it is a blur, however, and shortly after that blur I can remember only the bad times.<br /><br />I remember my senior year in high school. While, in whole, it was a good time for meÂsome of the worst things in my life happened at that time as well. To kick off the year, my great grandmother (whom I knew well enough to miss) passed away. I used to spend hours in her backyard enjoying her monstrous redwood tree. <br /><br />Many other small thing happened as well (most of which are not large enough now to remember) but then if we skip to the senior prom, we can witness my lifeÂs only regret. The only thing that I have EVER done that I regretted so much I pleaded to God to give me a second try (and IÂm agnostic). <br /><br />I donÂt like talking about it, so I will leave it at thisÂI totally BLEW my only chance with the only girl I have ever like enough to say I ÂlovedÂ her. It was with that action that I was thrown into a depression. Thoughts of suicide crossed my mind daily. And while I hid it wellÂthose days still crept by with a slugÂs pace. It was as if time slowed down just to allow me more time to regret the worst mistake I have ever had to weather. <br /><br />I eventually Âgot over itÂ. But that thought still lingers in my mind. Every time I long for companionship, every time I dream of a life better made for me, every girl I look at with longing eyes brings back those memories. So let me just give you this warningÂa thing I told myself every time a bullet started to seem real friendlyÂ<br /><br />Love has a harsh learning curveÂbut lifeÂs is KILLER!<br /><br /> ]]></description>
                <author>~Flashlight-Antics</author>
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          <item>
                <title>Interesting Times</title>
                <link>http://Flashlight-Antics.deviantart.com/journal/17400496/</link>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">http://Flashlight-Antics.deviantart.com/journal/17400496/</guid>
                <pubDate>Tue, 18 Mar 2008 18:36:34 PDT</pubDate>
                
                <description><![CDATA[ After being technically fired from two jobs in the past (if you can call the first one a job) this new job I recently got hired into would be nothing new. WellÂactually, it WILL be something new. My previous jobs were both in retail. Basically, the only issue I had to deal with on a daily basis was a pain in the ass manager and griping costumers (the latter of which I donÂt mind). But with this new job, there are certain risks involved. <br /><br />To clue you in on what this job encompasses, I am working as a tire technician for a company called Discount Tire. Basically, I rotate, change, and repair tires. ThatÂs all I do there. Now, this may seem like a generally safe job, but when youÂre working in an industry that has developed a machine called a Âtire cageÂ (made specifically to inflate the tires in) for the soul reason of a guyÂs face being torn off from an exploding tire, you tend to be a little apprehensive. I have been told countless times by countless people that I WILL be hit in the face by what is known as a Âhub hammerÂ (the tool used to remove those stubborn hub caps/covers). Not just warned about it MAYBE happeningÂno, they specifically stated that it will happen with some degree of guarantee. <br /><br />Also, I must admit that I am not in the lightweight class. I wouldnÂt consider myself a welterweight either. No, IÂm more in the heavyweight class in terms of body size and this isnÂt exactly going to work in my favor during this job. Especially with summer approaching quickly in the Valley of the Sun (A.K.A. Phoenix Arizona). So it can be construed that I WILL be losing weight, which (albeit painful) will be an extra bonus. I say EXTRA bonus because the primary bonus is the payÂmy starting wage is about $9 an hour. <br /><br />Needless to say, a learning curve is requiredÂbut hopefully, old Flantics here can handle whatever challenge lay ahead!<br /><br /> ]]></description>
                <author>~Flashlight-Antics</author>
            </item>
          <item>
                <title>A word on spriting...</title>
                <link>http://Flashlight-Antics.deviantart.com/journal/17349893/</link>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">http://Flashlight-Antics.deviantart.com/journal/17349893/</guid>
                <pubDate>Sat, 15 Mar 2008 15:57:21 PDT</pubDate>
                
                <description><![CDATA[ I wouldnÂt say that I am talented or gifted or anything like thatÂbut I have a lot of skills. I write, draw, do sprite comics, and work on sprites. In this respect, I am a Bard. I can cast spells, heal, fight, and even be good at support. However, I am not the best at anything I doÂI leave most of that to the fighters and clerics using my skills to further amplify their own.<br /><br />If that Dungeons and Dragons reference flew over anyoneÂs head, then let me explain in terms better suited for you. While I can do a lot of things, from drawing to spriting, I am far from the best in any of my fields. I focus on doing all of these things well but donÂt put enough time into any of them to become the best at them. That should explain it well.<br /><br />I explain this for the ground basis of this rant. You see, I need to explain that I can see every side of this argument as I am ÂskilledÂ in most of the clashing art styles. The argument I talk about, of course, is hand drawn comics and art compared to sprite comics and pixel art. I have heard all of it from every side of the argument ranging from the stereotypical artist bashing the spriter for Âusing otherÂs artÂ to the stereotypical spriter bashing the artist for Âbeing a close minded prickÂ.<br /><br />Most of this is just banter, however, as neither side is entirely wrong. IÂve seen spriters claim that a customized sprite is ENTIRELY theirs and belongs to no one else in this world. In truth, they have to give a great deal of credit to the person who ripped the sprite they edited to begin with. Not only that but they have to give even MORE credit to the person who originally made the character. Unless a spriter made a sprite completely from scratch (as in not editing any part of a preexisting sprite) it is not entirely theirs.<br /><br />On the other hand, I have also seen artist claim that Â pixel art and spriting is theftÂ. In some respects that can be trueÂbut over 85% of the custom sprites out there came form public domain sprites released by the companies that made them. Thus they were indirectly given permission to use them in any way they see fit. Another thing about that is when you bring fan art into the picture. When you look at an original character and draw your own version of him THAT can technically be seen as the same thing. <br /><br />Where I fall in this argument is general toward the spriterÂs side. Why you ask? Because the ones that antagonize more then half the time are the artists and hand-drawn comic authors. The asshole spriters are usually only being assholes backÂnot antagonizing the artist. For some reason, hand-drawn artists canÂt seem to understand that what spriters do takes just as much time and effort as most drawing do. A single sprite is nothing; it takes 15 min. at most. But when you make whole sheetsÂthen it starts to add up. It actually took me less time to draw two pictures then it did to do my entire sprite sheet for Atril (one of my original characters). <br /><br />All IÂm saying is that both sides need to understand both views. If artists gave spriters more credit for their work IÂm sure it would make this argument far more civil. And if spriters learned to understand the effort it takes for a good drawing then maybe they would stop getting criticized so heavily by the artists.<br /><br /> ]]></description>
                <author>~Flashlight-Antics</author>
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          <item>
                <title>The so-so life I lead</title>
                <link>http://Flashlight-Antics.deviantart.com/journal/17315769/</link>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">http://Flashlight-Antics.deviantart.com/journal/17315769/</guid>
                <pubDate>Thu, 13 Mar 2008 13:00:25 PDT</pubDate>
                
                <description><![CDATA[ Well, my life is pretty mediocre if you ask me. I don't really have anything happen to me on any kind of regular basis, but on occasion something interesting decides to bump its way into my life. My best example of this would be my high school years.<br /><br />Why use four years as an example to interesting things happening? Because my life was full of interesting things in those days. More so then others, I believe, but still not the kind of things that would "thrill crowds and awe critics". In short, my life is mostly boring, but things happen often enough to keep it interestingly entertaining. <br /><br />My only boon of late has been my comics. The pixilated forms of entertainment that are known as "sprite comics" have been the only tether I have to the reality known as life. It's strange, really, to think that my only windfall of life is in the form of these simple yet effective modes of entertainment. In all actuality, my comic writing has replaced my story writing. <br /><br />But honestly, the change ups and near-misses throughout my life have left me the way I am now. I can't really complain, though, as I am a decent human being on the surface. Hard to believe, then, that I once seriously contemplated suicide as a "reasonable way out". Now, I have strayed far from that path and haven't looked back, but this is what my inner mind is like...a roller coaster of emotional jargon and endless teen hormones beating at my skull for a decent way to escape. <br /><br />Funny how life throws curve balls.<br /><br /> ]]></description>
                <author>~Flashlight-Antics</author>
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          <item>
                <title>My computer sucks...</title>
                <link>http://Flashlight-Antics.deviantart.com/journal/17189174/</link>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">http://Flashlight-Antics.deviantart.com/journal/17189174/</guid>
                <pubDate>Wed, 05 Mar 2008 02:45:09 PST</pubDate>
                
                <description><![CDATA[ Well, I own an old Dell Inspiron 9100. It has crashed once already and has a bad history of giving me trouble. Its heavier then hell as far as laptops go and the battery life sucks for the things I use it for. <br /><br />In all honesty, I have a lot of bad things to say about my computer. But on the other hand, I do have a love/hate relationship with it. Sometimes it treats me with the same love and care I tend to treat it with. Other times, like today, it treats me with hatred and un-found benevolence. <br /><br />The thing I talk about in this rant is the fact that it nearly wiped out my entire system. It usually gives me a "blue screen of death" from time-to-time, and I usually turn it off and back on and go about my business as per the usual. Today was not such a case. Today it decided that, as part of the "blue screen of death" fiasco, it would delete all of my precious websites that I had favorited in my Firefox browser. <br /><br />This not only sent me into a state of pissed off that I haven't been in for a long while, but it also got me overly anxious about the fate of my other important files...such as ALL of the things I need to keep my multiple on-line comics running. Thankfully, my computer saw fit to spare my precious files and only left me at a minor setback in terms of internet browsing. <br /><br />Shortly after (and as I type this out) I preceded to copy all of my important files to a hard disk as backup. It is things like this that force me into getting off my lazy butt and doing something technologically intelligent. <br /><br />For all of its drawbacks and quirks, I do have to say that, at the very least, it is a computer. I am thankful for owning it and am doubly thankful for getting it as a gift...not having to pay for it myself. At the very least I have to say that it is my computer and no one else's.<br /><br /> ]]></description>
                <author>~Flashlight-Antics</author>
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          <item>
                <title>Um...I'm not sure...</title>
                <link>http://Flashlight-Antics.deviantart.com/journal/17166976/</link>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">http://Flashlight-Antics.deviantart.com/journal/17166976/</guid>
                <pubDate>Mon, 03 Mar 2008 15:36:08 PST</pubDate>
                
                <description><![CDATA[ So this is basically the place that I talk about myself, I guess...<br /><br />I have never really done anything like this...at least not a journal entry...so I guess I'll just say what I'm like in a nutshell. <br /><br />First off, lets start with the fact that my name is Kyle, but my on-line name is Flashlight Antics (or Flantics if you prefer). I really enjoy writing fanfics and drawing kind of a side hobby of mine that I don't do NEALY as much as writing or spriting. I am also an accomplished sprite comic author. Well...not accomplished, really...I have one popular comic over at Drunk Duck but thats about it. <br /><br />I like Megaman and Sonic, and I would have to say that I like Megaman X a lot more then just the original Megaman. Most of my art is inspired by various things, ranging form Dungeons and Dragons to anime. <br /><br />It should also be noted that I love video games. I have pretty much given up watching TV in exchange for my video games and computer...but I don't really find that unusual. I am also a big music buff...I like a lot of music styles but Rock catches my ear the most. I also like video game re-mixes (the music that is). <br /><br />Well...I guess thats me in a nutshell. Not much else to say really.<br /><br /> ]]></description>
                <author>~Flashlight-Antics</author>
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