dave hennessy

2010-04-08T04:19:00.002-04:00

close the blinds around me

shut me off if you know of a switch

closed inside a coliseum, but there is no fight

there is no lion, there is no spear

only my mind, my eyes, and the here and now

what happens in the morning will happen as the earth tries to dry

it's raining and all the lights are blurry

it's almost as if I can't see the details when I look outside

and I won't see tomorrow, I won't even try

so close me up inside a suitcase

leave me at the airport and let me think

let a few hours drone by

let me live inside the here and now.. for now

this is what I've done for myself

a life update / march 20, 2010

2010-03-20T03:45:00.005-04:00

For anyone that still reads this blog (I'm much more active on Twitter, I tweet multiple times a day - http://www.twitter.com/davehennessy), I thought I'd update my current life situation for you.. or at least a few paragraphs-worth.

It's 2:50am and I'm waiting to grow tired. In about 15 hours, I'll be back in Mass for spring break. I get a solid eight days off, so I'm pretty excited to just relax and see some friends (and spend time with my family of course). My semester is going very well - I'm definitely enjoying my classes and my grades are pretty good (like last semester), which I'm happy about. I've applied to Emerson College as a transfer Marketing Communications student for this fall (2010) and I should hear back within the next couple of weeks.. the waiting is killing me.

Apart from school, I've been putting a good deal of time into music this semester as well (which really isn't anything unusual). I recently played three shows with my roommate Seth's band Options (http://www.myspace.com/optionstheband). He had really been wanting to play his solo stuff with a full band for the longest time, and he finally decided to get serious about it. I told him I didn't have any problem jumping on drums for him, and I'm glad I did - the shows were a lot of fun. I also wrote a new single called "Tonight" which I've already started recording. I need to redo all of the vocals and possibly add a few other odds and ends before I release it.. it will probably be posted online (Myspace) sometime during April. I'm also looking to finish the EP I've been working on for a few months, Traveler, sometime during the next few weeks as well.

In other areas of life, I'm doing pretty well. I feel like this semester has really helped me find a new level of confidence and maturity for myself, as well as give me new perspectives on a lot of things in life. I'm very excited for my future (hopefully Emerson!) and am looking forward to seeing what God has in store for me over the next couple of months. The beginning of the semester was pretty rough for me, but I really gave it to God and found a renewed personal strength I don't think I've ever experienced before. We all go through hard times, some worse than others, but with God there is always hope, always someone to give your burdens to, always someone there to hear what's on your heart and mind - exactly what I've needed lately.

So, that's pretty much my semester so far. I also realized I forgot to mention I got laid off about a month and a half ago (Au Bon Pain). It's a bummer, but I guess with the economy in the state it's in, nothing is ever certain for too long (as far as jobs are concerned). I'll also mention that I'm looking for an internship for the summer (in Marketing/Advertising, preferably in Boston or NYC). If you happen to know of any companies or businesses in those areas looking for summer Marketing interns, definitely let me know.

CURRENTLY LISTENING TO
- Jon McLaughlin
- Eagles
- Matt Wertz
- Boys Like Girls

WEBSITES
http://www.twitter.com/davehennessy

http://www.myspace.com/davehennessymusic

http://www.myspace.com/figureeightsmusic

http://dave.hennessyonline.net/slowmorning.htm

2010-01-28T02:00:00.002-05:00

the forehead is a globe
eyes are islands
i'm squinting and sending off storms
trying to see what went wrong
fix it with the future
never look back on your torn sails
only look the way of the wind
take me away, I hope to feel something
anything
but i'm just out at sea
gulls and debris, my friends
come and go
and i'm lonely again

I wish my traveling wasn't my trend

2010-01-24T18:31:00.002-05:00

the day she went away
packed her suitcase and left for gray
left me sitting there
my sighs showed up on the windshield
my head as winding as a dirt track
racing around with nowhere to end
not a face in the crowd to watch me unwind
i'm alone and this is a miserable loss
is there any time for hope?

2010-01-06T00:02:00.003-05:00

whenever it's right
it's never enough
or always too much
i'm not sure where the time goes
but I'm never moved to find it
only you
I swear we'll get it right
just not this time, not tonight

2009-12-13T04:28:00.002-05:00

don't bother hiding the world from me
cause I won't seek it out
I just need to find myself
don't cancel out this love just yet
but I'm just so lost in regret to understand it
and understand myself
where I come from and where I belong
won't you play me your favorite song
and dance with me, get my mind off of things
I know once I'm asleep in your arms
my legs will fall off and my voice fall out
no speaking, no leaving tonight
just you and I
working on my redesign
help me love again, fully

2009-12-11T04:06:00.003-05:00

do we ever really belong to each other?
so hard to know everything I feel I should
so long til our problems would melt away
like an iceberg city on a summer day
sometimes I feel just as cold though
arctic running through me, mostly my mind
freezing up feelings I can't seem to find
pocket them, selfishness, I keep to myself
when there are so many words I want to let out
is this worth it?
I love the time that gives us ground
but the in between is killing me

2009-12-11T03:51:00.002-05:00

all I feel are mixed signals
all I see is days away
so soon comes the color
but feels like the gray
I'm trying to fix it
but just don't know how
can you help me out?
pull me together
cause I just can't seem to do it myself

2009-12-10T03:55:00.002-05:00

today, a day like another
footsteps away and changing weather
where am I headed, how am I sheltered?
what am I hiding, trying to find some kind of
satisfaction more than what has been given
why can't I just be content?
hair like gold and eyes are the sea
I'm lost in it all but continue to be
someone in charge or someone in luck
but luck is worth nothing when you've lost yourself
and that's exactly why I'm turning around
start me over, like an engine in trouble
give me the road and set me free from who I used to be

2009-12-09T21:47:00.004-05:00

here are a few pictures from the like so photoshoot a few weeks ago! (photos by melissa powers, www.melissapowers.tumblr.com)

2009-12-01T02:22:00.002-05:00

alot has been happening for me musically of late. for a number of weeks, I have been (and still am) working on a new ep of completely my own music called Traveler. it's a concept ep that was inspired by my love for home, back home for me of course being new england. but also, I feel that the ep conveys the idea of how a true sense or feeling of 'home' doesn't necessarily have to be a location or a place.. it can be someone or a certain feeling, or even a certain belief that never lets you down, regardless of where you are or where you're headed. the ep will have four tracks on it, and the tracklisting is as such:

-little miss california
-traveler
-miles and miles
-meant to be

I recently put the song 'little miss california' up online (http://www.myspace.com/davehennessymusic).. if you have an extra three minutes I encourage you to listen to it and see if you can identify with what I tried to describe in the last paragraph :). I feel like we all have a certain sense of home, even if it isn't a certain house we grew up in or a certain neighborhood or school we spent our time wandering around. most days, in most cases, I feel like the majority of people in this world are always wanting to be somewhere else. and by 'be somewhere else,' I don't necessarily mean get up and take a walk. I just have this feeling that most people have some special place or person or feeling that they are so incredibly comfortable identifying with, and if they could in any way be "there" they would be so much more content.... that's really what the Traveler ep is about, for me at least.

on top of working on the ep, I also released a b-side ep for my ambient project figure eights (http://www.myspace.com/figureeightsmusic). the ep is three songs that we're recorded for a full length release that never came together (because of some in-studio technical difficulties that we're apparently impassible at the time.. this was in january of 2009). they are beautiful songs, at least that's what I think.. I really think they came out great, so again if you have a few minutes, feel free to listen to those songs too.

lastly, my band out here in chicago called Like So is playing our cd release show for the record we made a few months ago called Goes To the Supermarket and Never Returns. it's really catchy high-energy mathy music, and the record has got great reception from those who have heard it so far (it was released october 17th). that record can be streamed and downloaded for free at http://likeso.bandcamp.com.

so yeah, there's a lot of music going on, which is a wonderful thing. I can honestly say that I wouldn't be the same person I am today without the influence music has had on my life. I feel that it's an absolute part of me, a natural necessity.. the same way I need my organs or bones or muscles or any other part or element of my body to function. what would I do without you mr. music??

2009-11-24T00:51:00.002-05:00

i've given my blog a complete makeover. hopefully this inspires to me to start writing in it more.. I plan to do so. we'll see how it works out. either way, thanks for reading. new posts to most likely come soon

2009-10-19T20:08:00.001-04:00

hey there! my band very recently finished our new record called Goes to the Supermarket and Never Returns! it's up online at http://www.likeso.bandcamp.com. hope you enjoy!

2009-09-23T14:28:00.000-04:00

2009-09-21T00:16:00.000-04:00

what do ya know.. my band like so is playing a show at reggies rock club next month
if you're from the I-L come watch us play, sunday october 11.. more details to come when we have them

2009-09-16T21:43:00.000-04:00

things to look forward to

getting paid on monday
ccma (columbia college marketing association) kick-off meeting tomorrow
seeing as tall as lions and mute math at the house of blues next month
getting the traveler ep done
seeing kerry in 3 months :)

2009-09-15T00:53:00.000-04:00

a teaser video and one picture update on the traveler ep

2009-09-12T22:53:00.000-04:00

http://lightboner.tumblr.com/

incredible photography, a bit weird of a blog name though

2009-09-10T22:21:00.000-04:00

after "the first hug"

2009-09-10T15:11:00.000-04:00

it's hard to love when you forget yourself - brighten

2009-09-07T17:36:00.000-04:00

lyrics on the Traveler ep coming sort of soon

little miss california

i said girl, give me something to write about
and there you were, putting on a sold out show
and i'm the only one that knows
and i'm sitting in the front row
i'll be waiting like it's all a dream
you're everything to me
little miss california
so go do your dancing in the parking lot
and show me everything you got
keep your head up

miles and miles

as i sat in the corner of a cold and empty room
my face lit up, my palms were sweating as i kept talking to you
on my computer screen the words you kept sending to me sank in
into my skin, until i found a way to say i'm sorry i can't be there when you need
i'm miles and miles from where i want to be
things are good, things are better now than how they were before
no more worrying or falling from the sky to hit the floor
i'll run around, staying busy as i think about your face
you've got me anxious to come home, i love the way you know

traveler

i sailed my ship all the way home to rest
and now i am sleeping with the thought of you in my head
cause all of this time i'm just a traveler
making my way towards a life with her
say you'll be mine
suppose we spend the rest of our lives like this
dreaming about next year
love has extinguished fear

2009-09-05T21:36:00.001-04:00

this post is mainly to talk about my happenings with music of late. i am in the process of recording a 4 song ep called Traveler. i was in the studio today and i really like how the release is shaping up to sound. my good friends (and roomates) colin lazorka and seth engel are contributing to the ep, both instrumentally and along the lines of post-production. the artwork is currently being worked on by my lovely girlfriend kerry (love you honey :). there is no release date at the moment, but it will be out sometime before the fall season really starts kickin.. i'm excited.

2009-09-04T14:54:00.000-04:00

i had no idea that chicago changed its name to 'perfect weather city'.. it's gorgeous here, everyday, incredible. being back in chai has definately turned me around as far as creativity is concerned.. i am back to writing music everyday and lately i have been researching and browsing different art/artists' galleries any time i'm online; watercolors, blended pencil, mixed media pieces, oh it's so interesting to me. i would love to hold some kind of marketing or PR position for some kind of independent/online art/media production company when i get out of school.. i think that would be the most satisfying job ever. i am in the process of writing and recording a three song ep that will hopefully be done in the next month or month and a half or so.. the music is pretty much all acoustic with programming and computer sampled beats in it, the ep will also feature some cello and possibly some group vocals, although i'm not entirely sure about that yet, but i'm actually starting to get really excited for it. my awesome girlfriend kerry is doing the artwork for it, i'm also really excited about that. when the ep is done, it will be available on myspace and on bandcamp.com.. more news to come about that when the time is right (ps _ www.twitter.com/davehennessy). on an academic front --> i just want to start classes already! i am so ready for marketing to take over my life.

2009-09-02T20:34:00.000-04:00

new apartment, yes

2009-08-31T00:21:00.000-04:00

flight back to chicago august 29, 2009

back in the chai

2009-08-30T23:33:00.000-04:00

so i'm back in the chai city, it's still windy, but i'm glad to be back. it was hard leaving summer and my girl and my friends and my family and my puppy behind, but i guess it was time i get back to being (mostly) productive. i'm settling into my new apartment and building nicely, typing this from the 19th floor in a super comfy lounge. i'm roomin with my good friends seth engel, alex huddleston, and colin lazorka.. we're already havin a good ole time. i just landed a job today at a restaurant called peppermill kitchen, so i'm pretty happy that worked out. classes start in eight days, which i'm also excited about (the marketing classes more than the others, but nonetheless). i've already begun (or continued) work on my full length (yes it's going to be a full length, not an ep). it's coming together well and the ideas are coming strong.. living amongst great musicians is a wonderful thing. my other music deal like so just practiced last night in jefferson park.. we sound pretty good for not playing together for three months. we're already working on some new material and are recording a six song demo sometime in the next one or two months, excited to hear how that comes out. also my media outlet slowmorning just released a new line of commercial designs (four dollars each); info about that on the slowmorning site - http://dave.hennessyonline.net/slowmorning.htm. that's pretty much the simple update.

this post sponsored by bahama blueberry mistic

Blogger.com vs Twitter? Finally an update after half a year

2009-07-10T18:28:00.000-04:00

So it's been over half a year since I updated this blog; I choose to blame Twitter. Either way, it's time for a serious update..it won't be super long, but long enough to count as a "catch-up."

The last time I updated this blog, I was right in the middle of my freshman year of college. I finished pretty strong; I put in so much hard work the last couple of weeks. I'm happy to say that I've since caught up on all the sleep I didn't get those last couple of weeks..lately I feel great - well-rested, keeping up with routine exercising (which I started back in March), eating pretty well....or maybe 'decently' is a better word. Also, last time I posted on blogger, I did not have a major set in stone..this has since changed. I am now a Marketing major, and to stay. I know during my freshman year I jumped from audio to thinking about film and journalism, but I really feel like I've found it this time. Weeks ago (while I was still in school actually) I signed up for fall classes and if by any chance you're curious as to what I'm taking, here they are:

Introduction to Public Relations
Consumer Behavior
Integrated Marketing
Russian and Soviet History
Introduction to Creative Non-Fiction

I am very excited to say the least; while it will be awful having to end summer and move away once again from my family, friends, and my Kare, I am at least excited that that moving away will allow me to learn so much about marketing and just things I enjoy (or am interested in) in general.

Earlier today, at 2:00 PM eastern time, I launched the slowmorning media site ( http://dave.hennessyonline.net/slowmorning.htm ). This is something I have been looking forward to for a very long time, and I'm so glad that I finally found the time to sit down and organize my thoughts and be creative and put this together. I'm definately proud of the outcome and I think the site looks great..if you have time, definately check out the site and let me know what you think.

As far as what I'm doing with music of late, well, I haven't really been recording much this summer. I have definately been playing guitar and writing music though, everyday in fact. I have so many song ideas in the works and I'm hoping to possibly get into the studio sometime this summer before I go back to Chicago so that I can record some of them. On the Chicago music front, I have been playing drums in a band called Like So..you can listen to some of our tunes here ( http://www.myspace.com/likesomusic ). It's really good music (at least I think so) and it's a blast to play with my friends (and roommates next year!) Seth Engel and Colin Lazorka..they are seriously some of the coolest dudes I know.

For the fall, I will be living in a super nice apartment with (as I mentioned) my friends Seth, Colin, and one of my roommates last year Alex Huddleston..also one of the coolest dudes I know. Our apartment (without giving out all of our information) is on the corner of Dearborn and Van Buren in the south loop, coincidentally only two blocks from where I lived last year. I can't wait, it's going to be a lot of fun.

Things are still going super duper between Kerry and I. Since this is a public blog accessible to pretty much anyone on the internet, I really shouldn't and won't talk about it (our relationship) or her in too much detail (as she doesn't yet know I'm including her in this update). But I will say that during the last year we spent 800 miles apart from each other, we did have some rough patches (as I would imagine anyone in a long distance relationship would). However we pulled it off, thanks only to God and our relentless prayers to Him every night asking Him to help work things out between us (I use the word 'our' because we've talked many times about how we were dedicated to praying for each other throughout the school year). God beyond a doubt worked so many miracles and so much "awesomeness" into our relationship last year, even as we were so far apart..I can't even begin to explain how thankful I am to still be with Kerry. She is everything to me, and I really feel like with each day that passes, we grow closer and closer and I am so excited to continue spending my days with her. :) If you're reading this Kerry, I love you baby :)

That's pretty much it. I hope this update was satisfying enough to catch up with the half a year I didn't update. And while I have no idea when I'll update this again, you can follow me on Twitter (which I do use regularly) to stay updated - http://www.twitter.com/davehennessy

Thanks for reading, God bless :)

update on january 25, 2009 ('back in chicago')

2009-01-25T17:34:00.000-05:00

I last updated this blog 2 months ago, so it has been quite awhile..but fear not; I am alive and well. My winter break spanned 6 awesome weeks. I had a ton of fun chilling with friends and spending time with my Kare(<3), playing music and more importantly playing way too much xbox 360 (which I do not regret). Despite my efforts, I was unable to get work hours. As this is unfortunate, I am trying to keep positive about it and will be looking for a job this week when I get the chances..in between/after classes. I am back in Chicago, delivering this update via laptop in a (warm!) starbucks/barnes & nobles. I am looking forward to classes, however I'm growing worried about my workload this semester. For those of you that don't know, I will be taking 5 classes this semester (16 credits) and the classes I will be taking include Aesthetics of Film, Oral Expression, Nutrition, Theories of Personality, and Introduction to Advertising. I am certain I will learn more in these classes than ever before..I am especially excited for my advertising class.
It is quite cold here..pretty much single digit-temperatures all the time (sometimes negative at night). Despite the cold temperatures, it feels really good to be back and see everyone. There was definately a certain sense of home walking down State Street for the first time in 6 months and settling back into my apartment (I do already miss the quiet of Mendon though). During my downtime from school and work, I plan on writing and playing a lot of music, including playing shows with my friend Seth's band Options which should be a great time (www.myspace.com/optionstheband). As for my own music, I am currently writing a bunch of new material and plan to record it sometime this semester. Over winter break, I did record a 4-song ambient ep under the name Figure Eights; the ep can be listened to at myspace (www.myspace.com/figureeightsmusic). The ep has been complimented a lot thus far by new friends on the 'ambient scene', and I am excited to put out more releases this summer. My website is still up and running..for those of you that don't know or have forgotten the url, it can be found at dave.hennessyonline.net. From time to time, it will be updated with quick news segments and potentially videos of live performances. Aside from my education, I aspire to make a short film or two this semester as well as continue to write and take photos. I am still essentially undecided as far as my major is concerned..I really have no idea what I want to do yet. I have many interests, but I still find myself unable to commit to any one field of study; it will come in time I'm sure. However, if I am unable to seriously commit to something before early March rolls around, there is a good chance I will be returning to Massachusetts next year for college (mainly because of money). I have no idea what will happen or what school I will attend if I do choose to move back home. All I know is that if that does end up happening, I will miss Chicago a lot. There is definately something about this city that feels like home; to leave it behind and return to Massachusetts would definately be a difficult thing to do.

As the sun continues to sink down and the night takes on its black cloak once again, I will wrap up this update and return to my building, possibly to read or write some music. I am meeting Seth at Midway in a couple hours to help him carry some extra luggage back to Congress, so I will give myself a little time to relax before I get on the L. Thanks for reading, always keep in touch. Much love everyone.

update - november 26, 2008

2008-11-26T00:48:00.000-05:00

An update? Well alright, I will inform. But to be honest, not much has been changing lately. I'm happy. I mean c'mon, there's less than a month till Christmas. And if you know me, you know that's my favorite day of the entire year. I love Kerry Christman. I love my friends, both here and of course back home...Ryan, Andrew, Austin, Boh, Matt, and everyone else, I miss you guys so much. I can't wait for all the chilling and lounging that's going down over break, just like the old days. It's been snowing here pretty consistently lately; not enough snow to stay on the ground for any period of time, but it's just awesome to watch. Actually about a week ago, on the first night that it truly snowed snowed, me and my friend Seth went over to Grant Park bundled up in everything and just took a bunch of pictures. As far as school goes, I'm still working hard, although I do feel the kind of 'just make it till break' kind of work ethic occasionally. My work load isn't terribly heavy, especially compared to what my work load will be next semester, but I'm not saying I'm "struggle-free" either. Anyway, I'm switching over to an undeclared major. I have many interests, but I haven't been able to pinpoint a definite passion yet. I hope it comes...I'm sure it will. I miss my family so much, and I miss my Bailey girl more than anything. Most days I'm freezing cold and some days I'm low on money and the will to work hard, but I carry on because I have so much hope. Reading it like that might make it weird, but thankfully for you, I'm writing a book somewhat related to such things...no joke. I have already written the first chapter and will continue to write when I can (it might be more of an 'abstract/non-fiction series of reflections and journals' than an actual book, but I'm calling it a book for now). The details or chapters will not be released or put on this blog or anywhere until the entire thing is finished, so don't ask. Even though I'm completely serious, I don't mean to be harsh, so I apologize. Other than that, Thanksgiving is only a few days away and the holiday spirit is clearly in the air. I love it. That's all for now, much love everyone.

update - november 17, 2008

2008-11-18T00:53:00.000-05:00

Wow...life is crazy. Maybe not mine in particular, and not in a way that carries a negative weight, but life is crazy. I guess when I say that I just mean that there are so many aspects of life to appreciate, and I lately out here in Chicago I have been realizing this. A few weeks back, I felt in some ways like a lost, wooden ship traveling aimlessly through a sea of everything. I was confused about school and what to do with my life, and to a point I still am, but I am beginning to see things differently. Through many conversations and cold midday walks with a warm drink in my hand, I have started to feel change in my mind and under my skin, like discovering new appreciations for an old but continuing world. I say this smartly, certainly not oblivious to the effect of improperly disregarding the importance of the future, but I believe I am recognizing that "life" (as I begin to make this sound like an over-thought and over-produced analysis) is not necessarily about recognizing a goal down the road and using everything in your power to reach it, but instead, "life" is more about appreciating the trip down that road. Recently, I have developed a new appreciation for very simple things, something that I failed to do up until this point. While I am not declaring myself a perfectly re-educated or reborn individual in any way, I am simply stating that you..take my advice? No, perhaps not..I am not one to take advice from; I have so much yet to learn and experience, so many ways yet to grow and develop. At times, I feel my mind is a kitchen pot waiting for more and more ingredients to fill the walls of my head. Like I said before, there are just so many aspects of life that I am realizing. Love, trust, honesty, commitment, inspiration, appreciation..these are only a few of the (perhaps) "arts" of life that one must find and in some way connect to in their own personal way. Being out here in Chicago for almost three and a half months now has shown and taught me so many things..I suppose I am becoming more of a developed artist than I thought. Because truly, everyone is in some way an artist in their own lives; there are always situations in which we must take what we know and use it towards attaining new knowledge (knowledge that we will gather whether we want to or not, whether we are in favor of it or not). I am always (although usually subconsciously) feeling like I missed painting a stroke on this canvas that is life (again, here is displayed the over-analysis of a situation, perhaps crossed with an incredibly artistic or abstract point of view). In other words, being confused about where to go or what to do with life is something that I believe everyone runs into at some point. But to what I believe to be an important extent, one should not consume themselves with questions like 'How will I get there?' or 'What if I look back on myself years from now and wonder why?' I'm not saying make bad decisions or cloud your mind with nothing just because you can. I'm saying that there is a certain sense of appreciation for life and all of its aspects that everyone is entitled to; I have been realizing this lately. And perhaps even though I still, at times, feel lost at sea, I must continue to journey over the deepest waters, possibly discovering new and wonderful things by doing so. One line? It's not about the destination, it's about building a ship - in other words, finding yourself - and sailing.

Update: October 27, 2008

2008-10-28T00:34:00.000-04:00

I'm sitting in a chair, by a heater, in front of my laptop. I'm warm; I feel frustrated, but calm and somewhat collected. I have no classes tomorrow so I plan to stay up somewhat late. This paragraph has the potential of a marathon runner, but it seems I have no destination. Where are the painted lines in the middle of the road? Where are the hundreds of people behind the 'caution' tape cheering me on? Where are the over-confident middle-aged women handing out water bottles?

You normally wouldn't ask these questions if you were at a marathon, watching from the pavement's sideline or maybe up in a quietly growing tree trying to spot the fastest runner (or, let's be honest, trying to spot the slowest one). I am not at a marathon, but perhaps I am running a race. I'm not trying to advance faster than my peers or pass anyone in the 'fast lane,' but instead maybe I am in a contest with myself; a test of endurance, a mental match of time and development against what I believe to be my strengths and my talents. A few days ago, I made a final ("final") decision to switch to a Journalism major (with a concentration in Broadcast for television). My legs take each step with confidence because it's something I need...I need self-conviction, I need determination that comes from within myself. But at the same time, this race seems to be getting into my head, making my legs weaker and my stride shorter.

I am trying so hard to stay collected and organized, both mentally and physically. I am trying to look into the future when perhaps I shouldn't be. It's smart to look ahead and consider the pros and cons of every decision, but I'm trying to figure it all out...I'm beginning to realize it doesn't work that way. This life, every step of the way, is a journey. Without risks, we don't grow. Without surprises, we don't learn. It's time for change...it's time for me to start living a little more unknowingly (in a stable and smart way, of course). It's time for me to take my eyes off the finish line and just put my head down and start running hard.

update october 21, 2008

2008-10-21T14:58:00.000-04:00

I'm sitting in Panera and a lot has happened since last time I wrote here, so I figured I'd give it another write.

About an hour ago, I emerged from a small meeting room where I had a discussion with a 'career college advisor' at Columbia. I discussed my definite mindset to change my major and take a new path, away from the Audio Arts & Acoustics department...I'm just not entirely positive where I'm going. I really wish I knew...I'm not going to be 'over-humble' about myself and say I don't have talents, I'm just not sure where I'm supposed to use them. I guess what I'm saying is I understand that there's a plan for me...I'm just trying to find the blueprints. At this point, I'm stuck in the middle of two ideas: switching to a Broadcast Journalism major or an Arts And Entertainment Media Management major. The past few weeks I've been leaning towards Broadcast Journalism, but I suppose I'm not entirely positive.

...Crawling away from the educational dilemmas in my life, I spent last weekend with my good, life-long friend Andrew Green ('Machine is Fine After 225 Pitches'...hahaha). Anyway, he came out with four of his friends from Ohio (Steve, Elle, Sarah, and Laura) and we had a blast just driving around the city....maybe driving for too long (sorry Steve). In any case, it was a really fun couple of days.

I've set the date to get back into the studio...DECEMBER 15, 2008. I will be flying back home for winter break on the 14th, so I plan to get back in the studio the next day...I'm so stoked. I will be making a new song available for download on Christmas, so stay tuned for that.

In other media and art-related subjects, I've been working on a new website that I believe is ready to be released to the public...and so it will be, right here and right now. The URL for my new website is http://dave.hennessyonline.net/. On this site (which will be updated on a somewhat regular basis), you will find news, contact information, and links to this blog, my music, and my photography. I'm pretty excited that it came together...it's kind of a project I've always wanted to work on and college finally gave me the time I guess. Either way, check it out and let me know what you think about anything; my (this) blog, my music, my photography, or the site in general.

The presidential election is in a couple of weeks. I'm not going to put up arguments or links to articles criticizing either candidate, especially as most of you reading this probably know who I'm voting for...I'm one of the more "vocal" or "open-minded" voters. In any case, I will try to speak for our country in general when I say I really hope America makes the right decision. The next four years will be crucial years not only for our country, but also for me as a college student and as a growing individual. I'm not trying to be selfish, but instead I realize the incredible effect the next president will have on people of all ages, races, religions, etc. I won't go on and on about it...if you're really in the mood for "politics," go watch the news; I'm sure they're unnecessarily saying something golden and glorious about Obama.

I've been thinking about Christmas and the winter season in general so much...maybe too much, although I don't think that's possible. I'm so excited to see everyone again, especially my Kerry <3.>

I'm seeing Copeland play at Bottom Lounge next week. This is terrifically exciting. (www.purevolume.com/copeland)

I will end my writing here. Much love everyone.

short update october 11, 2008

2008-10-11T18:58:00.000-04:00

Today was one of the most beautiful days I've ever seen. I'm going to go get food now and in an hour and a half, watch the Red Sox most likely destroy the Rays in Game 2.

Oh, I'm so incredibly happy these days.

update october 6, 2008

2008-10-06T01:30:00.001-04:00

So much is in front of me, yet I still think so much about the past; the sunny days, the rainy ones, spending hours writing music, eventually recording all of it in my room while thunder and lightning continued through the night. I see images of past summers spent with my best friends, around my town or in the city, walking on familiar sidewalks underneath the fall trees slowly changing colors, moving closer to the fire holding a cup of hot chocolate (with marshmellows of course) surrounded by my family, writing run-on sentences that last forever...ahemmm. It's so weird being where I never thought I'd end up...all I feel right now is love, accomplishment, friendship and promise. My future seems so incredibly bright right now in so many different ways...I can't explain it, I just know it's true and it's coming and it's so hard waiting around for it.

Above all, like I mentioned, I feel so incredibly loved. And it's all because of the girl to the upper right of these words...I honestly don't know what else to say except that I am so incredibly blessed. Having her in my life is like having healthy, colorful flowers and vegetables growing in your spring garden...it's what gardens are for, to hold life and help it grow, and grow alongside it. At this point I'm beginning to realize my grammar in this post is absolutely horrendous. But it doesn't even matter. I'm so lost in my life right now, and in a good way. At times, it feels like I have no idea where I'm going. But I think what's making me so content is knowing what I have on my way. I am living everyday, getting the most of the fresh air (yes, Chicago is a very clean city and the air quality is actually quite satisfactory), the atmosphere of the art and the politics and music and everything else. I'm finding more and more "secret places" when I go running, spots that absolutely put nothing and everything into my mind at the same time; like I said before I can't really explain it all, but I feel so loved, so alive, and what seems so crazy is that it's all very real. This is no dream.

an actual update that ISNT poetry!! - september 17, 2008

2008-09-17T13:39:00.000-04:00

So I sit on the 2nd floor lobby of my building, attempting to deliver an update through choppy and somewhat unorganized english...probably because ive got super great music (plug: GOOD OLD WAR www.purevolume.com/goodoldwar) entering my ears, acting as a bit of a distraction (fear not, the english and grammar of my papers and school work is near perfect...or so the grades tell me). Anyway, I sit here with the sun on my back and the sky a perfect blue outside just thinking about my life out here in Chicago so far.

If someone asked me to describe my life right now with one word, it would be perfect. Taking in these last few weeks, I can't settle myself on one negative thing that's happened. I mean I've got this great opportunity for a super terrific education (which I am and continue to plan on taking advantage of), I've got a great supportive family and best friends which I still talk with on a regular basis, FANTASTIC roommates and other friends here in Chicago that I just seem to click with, an incredibly incredibly incredibly loving, caring, and beautiful girlfriend who just makes my world seem to revolve unlike anything else, and on top of it all (although related to my education), I'm learning so much about what I'm studying and I'm actually interested in and enjoying every last bit of it. I will be honest and say that after a few weeks of classes I'm still not entirely sure I want to pursue audio production. It's fascinating and I do enjoy learning about it...I guess I'm just not sure if it completely suits me. I'm all into putting the work and time in to understand it (it is, afterall, centered around physics and other scientifically-related concepts, which was never my forte), but I just don't know. I've taken a huge (well, continued) interest in literature and writing; I've only had my 'intro to journalism' class once, but I have a feeling I'm in for a treat. Also, since my move-in a few weeks ago, I've been constantly writing (mostly poetry, although a good share of lyrics as well). I have picked up the good habit of only writing when I'm inspired to, and not just when I think I should. I've actually begun thinking about publishing or somehow distributing my poetry in one big collection w/ artwork (as I already have so much written and stored away on the harddrive of this computer); possibly two 'acts' of poetry, one completed this winter and the other completed next spring...or something like that.

Anyway, aside from my aspirations, I've been to a couple of spectacular shows out here in Chicago. Just a few days ago, I saw W.W.Lowman play at Morseland restaurant/venue for the 2nd time. Also a week from yesterday I saw This Will Destroy You and Oceans play at Bottom Lounge which was absolutely incredible...one of those shows that you walk out of with goosebumps on your arms and a glorious ringing in your ears. I even met the guys from TWDY and the drummer from Oceans and they're all terrific dudes, really down-to-earth and everything...it was really a surreal experience as TWDY has been one of my all-time favorite bands for awhile now (awhile being about 2 years I guess). Oh! I almost forgot to plug...(www.myspace.com/thiswilldestroyyou). Along with listening to music and hitting up shows, I've also been doing a fair amount of writing music and lyrics (what's new?). I've been working on a couple of songs with my good friend Seth and at the moment, we have two songs written completely that just need finishing touches on the lyrics. We're working on getting another song or two done so we can go play coffeehouse gigs and other 'open mic' type of events sponsored by Columbia.

So blah blah blah. Summary? I am 100% content and satisfied with my life right now (with the exception of missing some good friends and family back home and still contemplating what exactly to do with the rest of my life as far as a career is concerned). Other than that though, cheers...life is good. Maybe I should get one of those shirts...

poetry posted september 11

2008-09-11T17:59:00.000-04:00

“Willow Creek” written September 11, 2008 at approximately 1:15am

Willow Creek,
You expand my senses as I file though the flowery fold about your aura,
The greens and violets and cream whites that play meadow patriots,
Followers of the organic and in turn becoming the beauty they wish around them,
They seek the early spring chill of the Mountain dressed in its white robe for the late season,
The kind of air that sets you free when you walk along Willow Creek,
And there in turn is the reason for my escape,
Into Nature and out of dream,
To a place that really does exist in full light and lengthening secret,
Where I find myself multiplying…a diamond globe above me,
And it is all lost but only in glorious return,For Willow Creek is in fact the golden I have found in her eyes
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“Ocean Dancer” written September 11, 2008 at approximately 1:30am

I’m drenching in happiness,
Dry not my eyes until I am with her,
Holding the ocean dancer,
…Sail nor sun could move my heart along faster than she has it beating now
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“Kings of the Sky” written September 10, 2008 at approximately 1:45am

Dream not the calibrations of a plateau,
But instead make believe your cotton wings,
Come to me… for in your love I soar alike the birds and kings of the sky,
Crowns of gold will flutter and fold,
But I will steady in walking towards your eyes in such bravura daylight,
I will catch you falling through the gold, past the silver of the night failing,
And my arms become the crosshatches of a bird’s nest for your loving stay

moraaaahhh poetry (sept 8)

2008-09-08T21:39:00.000-04:00

“Fashioned” written September 8, 2008 at approximately 4:20pm
You make me a wisher,
You make me a dreaming man,
You give me a mindful of sun during the darkest voids of night,
Your spell comes and never goes,
I still sit absorbing its invisible but plainly palpable hold of my soul,
I am learning to let your love completely take me over,
And it has…I am fashioned into your mind’s eye,
And you the same to mine,
The people of a retina’s household applaud your smile,
And when it comes across my eyes as the sky,
The land is filled with light and my heart bathes in the purest form of love.

“Into Forever in Love” written September 8, 2008 at approximately 8:00pm
I’ve tried to be prescient,
But I can only be patient.
I’m waiting for your love,
Waiting,
Waiting,
Waiting,
Waiting,
…I would wait forever, so where are you now?
Careless and falling over again on a crescent moon;
It’s no way to live in hope.
Give me your hand and I’ll walk you away,
Into the sun, into forever in love.

poetry of late

2008-09-07T21:27:00.000-04:00

‘The Calling’ written September 7, 2008 at approximately 8:00pm

We’re working on working together,
The lights and sounds of the volunteers kiss the surface of the sky
And the clutter of every beautiful morning is again beautiful to my eyes.
The air fills my lungs and again I am able to breathe,
Through the void and closure of it all,
Buoyancy alive deep under my skin…this is where it all begins.
Seven times separate from the Calling,
I’m sinking down beneath the ocean,
An anchor on my ankle that I can’t see, but I know exists,
It drags me into the dark, even when I am full of light………………..

And when I create, but run out of paint,
I am starving for a connection.
Lost in fortitude,
Lost until the Calling proves itself apparent…trust your Maker I have learned.
Now the city seems in full bloom,
Not that it wasn’t awhile ago…it’s only the Calling that revolves my door.
“Oh equal of woe, won’t you let your love in?”

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'Your Light' (I have no record of when it was written, sometime around the end of August)

fill me with sun
fill me with just enough
the light deep under your eyes,
it illuminates my soul, wherever I am
slowing down on the walkway
breathing over the water
watching the far sky for hope
and I see you there
your light, your lovely light
it never gives out
and the sky is a neon sign

update? August 28, 2008 - 1:30pm

2008-08-27T14:08:00.000-04:00

I'm sitting on the second floor of my building, sitting on a rather comfortable couch with my laptop open and the sun on my neck...it's actually getting quite hot. I've been doing some online reading lately and a whole lot of thinking, which is only natural I guess; I just happen to do a lot of thinking. Anyway, I figured an update was in order as I'm about a week into life in Chicago.

All in all, I honestly have nothing to complain about. With the exception of having to get up at a completely unacceptable 9am this morning to attend a mandatory hour and a half lecture, I have nothing I have to do for the rest of the day...although I do plan on doing the tango tonight with some friends of mine. For real, actual tango dancing...we'll see how that goes.

This whole living on my own deal is obviously new and I completely dig it. I won't say I don't think about what could go wrong, but lately it's been hard not to dwell on all of the great pieces of my life; this whole puzzle including new friends, new places, and my career beginning seems to all be coming together.

(At this point in the update, I would like to draw a kind of attention to the annoying, half-trippy euro-techno music playing in the lobby/hostel where I am writing this from. If my writing reads as incomplete or choppy in anyway, that is most likely why.)

Anyway, continuing on, I've been up to a lot of chilling and just relaxing in these few days before my classes begin. There's been a lot of tea drinking, oatmeal eating, and playing of guitar/writing of lyrics and poetry. Other than chilling with some friends, I managed to get out to a White Sox game last Saturday; they lost to Tampa Bay 5-3, but Jermaine Dye did hit 2 HRs which was kind of cool to see. I've met a bunch of cool people, who are into a lot of cool music and love to have a good time...not to ignore the people I've met that are into some lame things. But it's a big city, a big college, a lot of things go down both rad and not worth my time...it's all about keeping to who you are, which is what I do.

Since I'm a musician and am pretty much constantly writing music, I feel the urge to plug the one song I have online right now. If you visit www.purevolume.com/davehennessy, you can check out "Everyone Needs A Song", which I recorded a few weeks before I moved out here. I have written a new song pretty much in its entirety, but at the moment I have no equipment to record it with...so I'll work on that. Stay in touch with the music and the updates though...it always means a lot.

So that's pretty much it for now. I think I'm going to grab a sandwich for some lunch in a little bit and eventually head off to tango with Laurel and Cait later tonight...it should be interesting.

Keep in touch.

'A Certain Calm'

2008-08-21T18:39:00.000-04:00

A certain calm’’ written August 21, 2008 at 6:30 pm

The mettle of swimming without muscle
Or holding on without an energy
Without a hope found in the summer sun
There’s no neon light to bring you home

However under your eyelash tides
Trying to hide the oceans in your eyes
There’s a calm even in the storms of distance
That keeps me peaceful from miles away

She’s a lighthouse to my everyday
The soft spirit of greenery through the window
A comfortable light for my voyage at sea
Bring me safely back home, into your arms I pray

'Gently Back'

2008-08-20T23:09:00.000-04:00

'gently back' written on august 20, 2008 (in chicago around 11pm)
Sweating brow, steadfast and reappear
Crying eyes, you wash away the years
Looking out over the city’s lights
Late at night, I know her love is right

And I’ll be home
When you find the snow
Cold and weak, your warmth is what I seek

Steady ache, you surprise the heartbreak
It tries to reign, but love is found the same
Strong inside, I long for longing eyes
Die to see your eyes come back to mine

Bring me back home
Gently back
I’ll have to wait, but never be alone

excerpt from 'surprise' written by travis bryant

2008-08-20T21:38:00.000-04:00

fall into my arms
the way you make everything better
the way i begged, my god
when i was drying up in the desert
just give me one more chance
for us to be together
and i'll come home to you

wednesday august 20, 2008

poetry written & posted august 7,2008

2008-08-07T22:28:00.000-04:00

Somewhere You Are Not

We started as a spark, growing to a flame..a fire by the end of the night.
But as the rain fell down, like distance from this town, we began to extinguish..
Now I’m alone and cold, wandering without your love.

And now I’m somewhere you are not.
I have forgotten how to catch your smile because it’s never there.
I have forgotten how to hold a hand to guide me into the sun.
I have forgotten how to dance to a song I did not know.

And now I wish I knew how to forget forgetting, because I remember everything and it’s all I think about.

writing\poetry posted june30,2008

2008-06-30T00:28:00.000-04:00

Where A Lighthouse Should Stand

Where a lighthouse should stand,
A current takes her away.
But she comes, from the bay, back into my arms.
And it is in that moment that I connect with the breeze at my back,
With the sun dipping under my eyes,
With the sand wishing to sink under my feet…
It is like nothing else…to connect, to love, to cherish, to protect
And to want it all forever.

Traveler's Kiss

Traveler’s kiss
Will it linger forever?
Will it stretch itself out across my lips?
Will it stretch itself out across never-ending time?
I will be traveling
I will be moving forward
Always moving, and always remembering her touch
How it kept me in one place
How it kept my eyes on her face
How it kept my soul alive in the essence of her grace
From heaven it came like milk and honey
Soaking my bones in glory
Soaking my bones in love
A never-ending love...
Will it linger forever?

London Square

London Square
We have been walking around in a circle
Passing the same bed of flowers, peeking up at the sun
That is looking down on London Square this morning
While grey windows lose their color
And the heat from the night before cools to comfort them
We have been walking around in a circle
Attempting to escape the café and the cluttered marketplace
Realizing the sun has woken from its slumber
And the sheets of stars that kept it covered have peeled away
Into another part of the sky
And we must peel away from this commotion, from this place
We must walk in a straight line, at an angle
Away from London Square

Diamonds

2008-06-11T21:09:00.001-04:00

Why does the word 'diamond' keep running up into my mind? Is it because I am, at the moment, perfectly content with myself, with everything? Most people see diamonds as perfect, exquisite stones carved from pieces and parts of the earth. They start sitting naturally in the earth, but are soon discovered and dug up to be moved..physically away and therefore gaining new meaning and perhaps even new symbolism to someone. The life cycle of a diamond is interesting..and lately I have seen similarities between a diamond's life cycle and that of my own.
It is summer..school is out, nights are late, and shifts at work are many (or soon to be). The sun stays out longer than ever, usually around seven-thirty or eight o clock it dips below the horizon line, making day somewhere else in the world and turning the sky above us into a dark blanket of night. Summer has always been an expected and most treasured break from routine. But this summer, I am finding, is completely different. I graduated just last Friday night, which ended up being a completely overwhelming and renewing experience..so much more than I ever thought. I guess just then, as I found myself surrounded by life-long friends, family, and other people I have met, I realized how incredible this summer's turn of events have been and will continue to be..
My friends (congratulations class of two thousand and eight) are finished along with me, and most of them are hopefully seeing similarities in their stories as their summers unfold. Some I know I will not see for a very long time, perhaps months, weeks, maybe even years..I certainly hope I see all of my friends again. In any case, this summer is purely a time of reflection of what has been and preparation for what is to come. I have two-sided thoughts about my future in Chicago and school in general..half of me wants to get on a plane right now and fly out to the mid-west, meet new people and open up my laptop on the outdoor patio of a coffee shop drinking some beverage with the word 'mocha' in its name..the other half of me wants to get in my truck, drive to my friend's house and play video games for eternity, completely forgetting about reality and where I'm supposed to be.
But I guess that's just it..all of my friends have made a choice as to where they will go to school next year, whether it's the mid-west (represent mid-western students!) or a few towns over. I am starting to appreciate the idea that everyone gets where they want to go by having been where they have been (the wording is tough, I apologize). But basically what I'm trying to communicate is that my understanding has grown..everything happens for a reason and everyone ends up somewhere for a purpose. I'm living in Chicago for the next four years (most likely, unless I transfer for whatever reason)..This isn't just a vacation I won on The Price Is Right, it's part of a calling..or at least I think so.
I'm extremely excited to go to college in Chicago, and I realized that I'm extremely blessed to be able to do so..my parents work harder than anyone else I know, and that is the main reason college in mid-west is possible for me. However, blessing me with an incredible (future) education isn't the only "diamond part of my life" right now. I am closer with my friends than I have ever been in my entire life..I'm sure the whole graduating and moving on situation plays a role in that. But it seems that even as my friends and I move away from each other, I can't get myself to sit in the dust and cry about it..all I feel is happiness for them and a general sense of accomplishment and satisfaction for what we've made it through.
As if best, life-long friends wasn't enough, the end of the school year came and went and I soon found myself in a wonderful relationship with an incredibly beautiful, talented, funny, caring (etc etc etc..Kerry you're amazing :) girl who I am still greatly connected to..I look forward to spending as much time with her as I can this summer simply because I can't stop thinking about her. It's actually quite interesting to me, especially as of late, how much someone can mean to another person. Ever since Kerry and I were in an actual relationship, my heart has grown softer, my thoughts grown more meaningful, and my outlook on life has changed..obviously for the better. It's incredible what a healthy relationship can teach you..she rubs off on me in so many positive ways, and I can't thank her enough for what she's taught me about existing on this earth and what it means to live (whether she realizes it or not). So I suppose an actual thank you is in order (however informal it may be)..so thank you kerry christman, for always being you, teaching me how to love and how to not care (sometimes!..), and mostly, thank you for simply being there for me..you're incredible, and I hope we're always friends no matter where the next part of our lives take us.
So briefly, with the help of my appendages and the interweb, I have given a quick overview of what has happened to me and what is happening to me. Of course the real question is..what will happen to me? What if my life cycle really is parallel to that of a diamond's? Perhaps by discovering myself, especially over the past few months, I have been discovered by others or the world. Perhaps my past, including my friends, family, teachers/education, and everything else, was the mass of glorious diamond stone sitting undiscovered under the ground. And now that summer has come and things are changing, thoughts are evolving, and people are moving on, this mass has been dug up and will be shipped off to be cut up into individual diamonds, perhaps rings that people will purchase and cherish for the rest of their lives. As everything has come together in my life, it all seems perfect..like a diamond. I realize these are probably just rough thoughts, the beginning of understandings I have yet to completely wrap my mind around, but I figure it's a beginning..and even precious diamonds start somewhere.