Tuesday, November 29, 2011
Tuesday, October 25, 2011
My feeble attempt at lyrics
So, one of my recent adventures is doing some song writing. Feeling a little creative; I came out with this a few months ago. My band has it a full song version now; hopefully it gets some legs. I'm not a pro, but so what. I named it "siren call"; influenced by the Greek Mythology of Sirens, "portrayed as seductresses who lured nearby sailors with their enchanting music and voices to shipwreck on the rocky coast of their island. "
SIREN CALL
LYRICS: MIKE HOOPER SUMMER 2011
We once traveled this road together
Our team, an island in the sea
Back to back, we faced the world
But we stopped facing each other
I’d give it all away
For you to see me again
cause the man that stands before you now
Hollow, from what he was then
Chorus:
can you hear the siren calling
can you hear the siren calling
It was the answer that you gave
a life i couldn't save
A life full of promise
but caught in your wake
and i know this is fake
a life full of promise
It’s time for me to go away
To reap what I sow from this sad tale
My best wasn’t enough to keep you here
Fade to black, ashamed, fade away
Our team, an island in the sea
Back to back, we faced the world
But we stopped facing each other
I’d give it all away
For you to see me again
cause the man that stands before you now
Hollow, from what he was then
Chorus:
can you hear the siren calling
can you hear the siren calling
It was the answer that you gave
a life i couldn't save
A life full of promise
but caught in your wake
and i know this is fake
a life full of promise
It’s time for me to go away
To reap what I sow from this sad tale
My best wasn’t enough to keep you here
Fade to black, ashamed, fade away
Saturday, October 15, 2011
Random thoughts
So this is not a motorcycle post; more of some of the thoughts that occupy my mind these days. Its been 6 or so months since my separation, and it's been nothing short of an emotional roller coaster since that time. At some point, I would say it's turned into quite a blur. I find that these days my current state is quite unusual, at least to me.
I'm normally quite busy, focused, and assertive with the day to day experience of life. Now, on one hand, I'm finding that my role as a father is sharpened and clear, and moving in a very positive direction. My son had a very rough patch for a while, but thank God he is such a bright and resilient little dude, and has shown such a tireless promise of happiness and growth that leaves me in awe of what a miracle he truly is. He has given me a gift I cannot begin to describe, and it really brings tears to my eyes when I consider the gravity of what being his Daddy really means.
My own internal struggle however, is that in direct contrast to the connection I feel with him, everything else is somewhat surreal. I guess in some strange way I'm detached from all else that was once normal to me, but there is some degree of comfort with that. I have absolutely no clue what the future holds, but I do know that I need to evolve somehow. I feel that in large part I became my job, my bills, my possessions, etc. How strange it is to want to be rid of everything I thought gave me comfort. The transition is as vague as ever right now, but what has been absolutely destroying me is not knowing the depth of my own strength to make the right decisions as I go forward. I know that I crave some serious change, but have not yet found my path. Hell of a time to need to "find myself" at almost 40 years old, lol. I guess my fear is the fact I know exactly who I am. I just haven't found my place in the world, and that is tearing me apart.
For now, it's all about my son. Beyond all the other stuff, I absolutely cherish every moment I have with him. Watching him grow and learn, seeing him smile, being a big part of his life truly puts perspective on everything else. Perhaps I can find the right path after all.
I'm normally quite busy, focused, and assertive with the day to day experience of life. Now, on one hand, I'm finding that my role as a father is sharpened and clear, and moving in a very positive direction. My son had a very rough patch for a while, but thank God he is such a bright and resilient little dude, and has shown such a tireless promise of happiness and growth that leaves me in awe of what a miracle he truly is. He has given me a gift I cannot begin to describe, and it really brings tears to my eyes when I consider the gravity of what being his Daddy really means.
My own internal struggle however, is that in direct contrast to the connection I feel with him, everything else is somewhat surreal. I guess in some strange way I'm detached from all else that was once normal to me, but there is some degree of comfort with that. I have absolutely no clue what the future holds, but I do know that I need to evolve somehow. I feel that in large part I became my job, my bills, my possessions, etc. How strange it is to want to be rid of everything I thought gave me comfort. The transition is as vague as ever right now, but what has been absolutely destroying me is not knowing the depth of my own strength to make the right decisions as I go forward. I know that I crave some serious change, but have not yet found my path. Hell of a time to need to "find myself" at almost 40 years old, lol. I guess my fear is the fact I know exactly who I am. I just haven't found my place in the world, and that is tearing me apart.
For now, it's all about my son. Beyond all the other stuff, I absolutely cherish every moment I have with him. Watching him grow and learn, seeing him smile, being a big part of his life truly puts perspective on everything else. Perhaps I can find the right path after all.
Friday, October 14, 2011
Darin Martin Music: A Conversation
Darin Martin Music: A Conversation: This morning I had a few friends respond to my blog post which is on my website @darinmartinmusic.com and she suggested that it would be go...
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
Just a maintenance update
I've been fiddling a bit with my KLR, and I thought it would be good to log some maintenance. After the 685 installation, I have now ridden about 3200 kms into the break-in. I'm almost ready for synthetic oil, and the engine is performing very well. I managed to squeeze 16000 kms out of the rear michelin anakee, and the stock dunlop front(!?!), - I had these tires on my old KLR. Now, at 15357 on the odometer, I have installed Avon "gripsters, and flushed the brake fluid. I'm anxious to see the overall performance of these tires; not sure they'll last like the michelin, but they were very cheap (yay) and they seem well suited to my style of riding.
Monday, June 13, 2011
Got a few days off!
http://s1116.photobucket.com/albums/k562/Mike_Hooper/
I FINALLY managed to string a few days off, so it was time for a ride. My original plan was to do the Finger lakes in upper New York state, but the forecast was dismal at best. So, I ended up heading North instead, starting my exploring in Parry Sound, ON, and continuing on up to Cartier. Lots of cool little paths and trails to see, and followed the weekend up with a boat ride to McDougal bay to my buddy's cottage. I'll be doing more of this riding area this summer for sure.
I FINALLY managed to string a few days off, so it was time for a ride. My original plan was to do the Finger lakes in upper New York state, but the forecast was dismal at best. So, I ended up heading North instead, starting my exploring in Parry Sound, ON, and continuing on up to Cartier. Lots of cool little paths and trails to see, and followed the weekend up with a boat ride to McDougal bay to my buddy's cottage. I'll be doing more of this riding area this summer for sure.
Thursday, May 19, 2011
Some kind of update
So, I don't know if this kind of blog is the right place to go on about more personal details, but I'm not really the kind of guy who wants to "talk" with people when life's stresses get you down. This post has both good and bad news, so if you can't stomach my bad news, I 'll start off with the good stuff first.
The Good: I've started a new company, Avant-Garde Mobile Detail. I'm looking to provide mobile detail and restoration services for Boats, RV's, trucks, motorcycles and some cars. So far, the response has been overwhelming; my biggest challenge is keeping up with the demand. For those that know me well, I've spent a lifetime in the trucking business. This new venture is both rewarding, and has all the earmarks of turning into a profitable business, with a growth potential that my prove to be significant one day. My only regret is not starting on it sooner; it's amazing just how much fulfillment you can get by truly working for yourself.
The BAD: I'm sorry to report that after 12 years, my wife Julie and I are parting ways. This is a mutual decision, and as painful, humbling, and scary as it is, we both know it is a necessary step. I can say without a moments hesitation that I have no regrets, and I owe her more than I could ever repay for the years we had together. We have mutually decided to make this transition as painless and respectful as humanly possible, and I am very confident that we will truly remain as caring friends, and equal parents to our young son. There is little doubt that i am going to have to endure some emotionally brutal days as this sets in, but if I can be so bold as to offer advice to others, I would say that staying positive, busy, and most importantly well intended, is going to be the key in being able to continue living as a complete person. Those who know me well would agree that I'm too much of a stubborn prick to just lay down and die. I remain committed to the well being of both Julie and Ivan, and with the uncommon patience and consideration she has always shown me, I expect that we both will realize our potential in whatever direction we pursue.
It is not my intention to make anyone feel awkward reading this on here. It was not easy for me to write about this, but for all of our friends and family, it is important to know that we are doing what we feel is right, and there is no animosity in this situation. I'm not too sure about using social media to share this sort of thing, but as I said from the onset, I really don't feel comfortable with those heavy one on one conversations. I don't want any misconceptions or speculation on what has occurred, just some understanding and encouragement.
So how does this all relate to the namesake of my humble little blog? I'm a complicated guy, and spiritually I truly believe that we have many journeys to take in life, and my "clearing" is the final moment of reckoning. My path is now very uncertain, and will be pretty bumpy for a long time to come. Rest assured, I WILL still push forward, and above all I want to live life to the fullest. And for those who are fortunate enough to know Julie, please also know that she is a huge part of what I am today, and I will forever be in her debt. See you somewhere along the path............
The Good: I've started a new company, Avant-Garde Mobile Detail. I'm looking to provide mobile detail and restoration services for Boats, RV's, trucks, motorcycles and some cars. So far, the response has been overwhelming; my biggest challenge is keeping up with the demand. For those that know me well, I've spent a lifetime in the trucking business. This new venture is both rewarding, and has all the earmarks of turning into a profitable business, with a growth potential that my prove to be significant one day. My only regret is not starting on it sooner; it's amazing just how much fulfillment you can get by truly working for yourself.
The BAD: I'm sorry to report that after 12 years, my wife Julie and I are parting ways. This is a mutual decision, and as painful, humbling, and scary as it is, we both know it is a necessary step. I can say without a moments hesitation that I have no regrets, and I owe her more than I could ever repay for the years we had together. We have mutually decided to make this transition as painless and respectful as humanly possible, and I am very confident that we will truly remain as caring friends, and equal parents to our young son. There is little doubt that i am going to have to endure some emotionally brutal days as this sets in, but if I can be so bold as to offer advice to others, I would say that staying positive, busy, and most importantly well intended, is going to be the key in being able to continue living as a complete person. Those who know me well would agree that I'm too much of a stubborn prick to just lay down and die. I remain committed to the well being of both Julie and Ivan, and with the uncommon patience and consideration she has always shown me, I expect that we both will realize our potential in whatever direction we pursue.
It is not my intention to make anyone feel awkward reading this on here. It was not easy for me to write about this, but for all of our friends and family, it is important to know that we are doing what we feel is right, and there is no animosity in this situation. I'm not too sure about using social media to share this sort of thing, but as I said from the onset, I really don't feel comfortable with those heavy one on one conversations. I don't want any misconceptions or speculation on what has occurred, just some understanding and encouragement.
So how does this all relate to the namesake of my humble little blog? I'm a complicated guy, and spiritually I truly believe that we have many journeys to take in life, and my "clearing" is the final moment of reckoning. My path is now very uncertain, and will be pretty bumpy for a long time to come. Rest assured, I WILL still push forward, and above all I want to live life to the fullest. And for those who are fortunate enough to know Julie, please also know that she is a huge part of what I am today, and I will forever be in her debt. See you somewhere along the path............
Sunday, May 1, 2011
Thursday, March 3, 2011
Tuesday, February 8, 2011
Back to basics
I recently have been evaluating how I want to re-enter the world of drumming. For those who don't know the history, I played drum corps style and rock drumming for the better part of 15 years as a young man, and became very proficient in that capacity. I never had formal training on a full drum kit, but like many teenagers, that mattered very little.
Due to the usual struggles a guy has when first venturing out on his own, I lost interest in drumming, largely due to the lack of rehearsal space. That coupled with injuries to my wrist, that break ended up lasting 16 years.
A few years ago, I decided to at least deal with my carpal tunnel issue, so off to surgery I went. Then, about a year and a half ago, my buddy Dan relentlessly persuaded me to attend a jam session with a friend of his, who also happened to have a drum kit. Needless to say, I quickly went to my reliable (and cheap) resource, aka "kijiji" and found a very reasonably priced Pearl kit. This was followed by many more good used equipment finds, and now I have what I like to call a comfortable home practice set. Practicing on a regular basis has brought to a level where I am kind of happy, but mostly recognizing that I am hitting a wall, and I need to push forward in a more intelligent fashion instead of rehearsing my mistakes.
I finally took the plunge and booked lessons. At 39 years old, it is both humbling, and motivating at the same time. I was very fortunate to find not only an enthusiast for a teacher, but a truly skilled musician. I have a long way to go, but I am very excited to be finally taking that journey. At first when I posted some video links to my drumming, I was worried that it would come across as egotistical and foolhardy, given my limited ability. I never told anyone that I was a great drummer, but I intend on becoming one. It's never a bad idea to give it a go.
Due to the usual struggles a guy has when first venturing out on his own, I lost interest in drumming, largely due to the lack of rehearsal space. That coupled with injuries to my wrist, that break ended up lasting 16 years.
A few years ago, I decided to at least deal with my carpal tunnel issue, so off to surgery I went. Then, about a year and a half ago, my buddy Dan relentlessly persuaded me to attend a jam session with a friend of his, who also happened to have a drum kit. Needless to say, I quickly went to my reliable (and cheap) resource, aka "kijiji" and found a very reasonably priced Pearl kit. This was followed by many more good used equipment finds, and now I have what I like to call a comfortable home practice set. Practicing on a regular basis has brought to a level where I am kind of happy, but mostly recognizing that I am hitting a wall, and I need to push forward in a more intelligent fashion instead of rehearsing my mistakes.
I finally took the plunge and booked lessons. At 39 years old, it is both humbling, and motivating at the same time. I was very fortunate to find not only an enthusiast for a teacher, but a truly skilled musician. I have a long way to go, but I am very excited to be finally taking that journey. At first when I posted some video links to my drumming, I was worried that it would come across as egotistical and foolhardy, given my limited ability. I never told anyone that I was a great drummer, but I intend on becoming one. It's never a bad idea to give it a go.
Thursday, January 27, 2011
"The List"
Lol, so I was trying to remember the vast collection of bikes that have entered my life over the years, and here is what my memory was able to come up with:
1978 KE250 enduro (4 stroke)
1978 Suzuki 250 enduro (2 stroke)
1978 GS750
1983 KZ440 ltd
1981 CB650
1989 RM250
1998 Shadow 750 ace
1999 Shadow 1100 aero
1981 GS750
2001 SV650 - track bike
2003 SV650 - track bike
2001 600 ninja ZX6R
1998 PW80
2002 Blata pocket bike
2003 Honda jazz
1982 550 vision
1983 GS 400
1983 CB450
2005 CRF250X
2001 XR200
2003 Firestorm 1000
1985 Interceptor 500
2007 CBR 125
2003 PW50
1997 KLR 650
2008 KLR 650
1981 KZ750
Overall mod list on the bike
So far, this is all I have done. I'm really on the fence about how much one should modify a KLR; they were intended to be an affordable bike, and that is why I bought one. I really don't want to put "pearls on a pig", so I'm hoping I can stick with a pattern of the most cost-effective and realistic mods to make this bike work well for me. Some of these mods are a direct result of my size alone, as the suspension just doesn't work well from stock. For a point of reference, I am 6'4, 235lbs.
The list:
1. Kawasaki gel seat & cover
2. Doohickey
3. 16 tooth countershaft sprocket
4. Heated vest plug
5. 685 kit
6. Mild port & valve clean up
7. Remove emissions air intake
8. Carb shim
9. Progressive fork springs
10. Elka shock
11. EBC - HH pads
12. Exhaust (removed and put back to stock, unsure what to do next)
13. GIVI monokey trunk
I'm hoping to find some decent soft bags for it, and hopefully someone is now making bag stays for this year. The old style do not work
The list:
1. Kawasaki gel seat & cover
2. Doohickey
3. 16 tooth countershaft sprocket
4. Heated vest plug
5. 685 kit
6. Mild port & valve clean up
7. Remove emissions air intake
8. Carb shim
9. Progressive fork springs
10. Elka shock
11. EBC - HH pads
12. Exhaust (removed and put back to stock, unsure what to do next)
13. GIVI monokey trunk
I'm hoping to find some decent soft bags for it, and hopefully someone is now making bag stays for this year. The old style do not work
Suspension stuff
So, I caved in and went with a set of progressive fork springs, and an elka shock. It was not in my original budget to do the shock, but honestly when I priced out a spring, linkages, and a "freshening up" of the stock shock, the money was the same. With the intentions I have with spending some time with my wife on this bike this season, and my own heft on the poor bike, it was simply required to address the suspension. That's my story and I'm sticking to it.
Wednesday, January 19, 2011
Tuesday, January 18, 2011
First time at this
So, I've never blogged before. I guess my intention/interest in doing this is to primarily review my experiences with my motorcycle, and sometime to reflect on things in my daily life.
As it stands right now, it is freaking cold and nasty this week, and I am awaiting the call from my buddy that is doing the engine job on my bike. It's a 2008 KLR 650, and it is in the process of getting the 685 big bore, some mild porting, and if the funds allow it, heavier springs in the fork. The bike is pretty much stock, save for going up a tooth on the front sprocket, and I have since reverted back to the original exhaust after trying out a supertrapp pipe. That pipe by the way, turned out to be a real piece of crap. Packing blew apart right away, end cap blew off, crushing the can in the process, and the factory did NOTHING when I sent them photos of the pipe. Never again.
As it stands right now, it is freaking cold and nasty this week, and I am awaiting the call from my buddy that is doing the engine job on my bike. It's a 2008 KLR 650, and it is in the process of getting the 685 big bore, some mild porting, and if the funds allow it, heavier springs in the fork. The bike is pretty much stock, save for going up a tooth on the front sprocket, and I have since reverted back to the original exhaust after trying out a supertrapp pipe. That pipe by the way, turned out to be a real piece of crap. Packing blew apart right away, end cap blew off, crushing the can in the process, and the factory did NOTHING when I sent them photos of the pipe. Never again.
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