The Buried Life Blogspot

One More Thing Before the Big Switch...

2006-12-26T23:05:00.000-08:00

Our interview on MTV is live on YouTube, check it out! - Jonnie

Brand New Site!

2006-12-22T10:53:00.000-08:00

Well folks, I have some exciting news: The Buried Life is moving on up! We are almost finished our new website, which means joy and happiness for all. It also means that this blog, unfortunetly, will be put to rest. Have a happy holiday and enjoy some free time at home (or where ever you might be). Cheers.

We go live Christmas day!

Duncan Watches Gold Metal Boxing

2006-12-16T09:01:00.000-08:00

As my list says, I have always wanted to be in a boxing match. A real one, mouth gaurds, gloves, opponent, the whole bit.

While I am yet to box, on December 10th in Doha, Qatar I watched, while ringside, a gold metal boxing match. It was the craziest bout I've ever seen and ever since, for better or for worse, I've been dieing to get in the ring.

lets do it,

Duncan

Jonnie the Plate Breaker

2006-12-11T13:13:00.000-08:00

To honor our good friend Nikos, whose mantra 'APHAVA' (meaning no fear) is tattooed on Dave's leg, I smashed a plate. How we met Nikos is a story that remains to be told, but he is a kind and generous man who spoiled us a number of times at his greek restuarant in Penticton B.C. After running out of time on my exam today, I dediced to do as he had once told us and break a plate to express my 'passion'. It was all caught on tape. - Jonnie

Jonnie and the Punk Show

2006-12-05T17:20:00.000-08:00

I love trying to understand the sequence of events that causes people to put items on their list. Anything can plant that seed in your head: love, hate, respect, envy, chance, luck, privilage. Often it's a combination of many things. Other times, as was the case for me last week, you just go and do things that were never on your list (but should have been). Dragged out by friends on thursday, I broke character to go see a punk show, i.e. 'Me First and the Gimme, Gimmes'. I think everyone should see a punk show once in their life. They should try moshing too. If you agree and end up putting it on your list, while then I guess reading this was 'chance'. Or maybe 'luck'. Who knows. Maybe some life changing event is waiting for you right around the corner and you have no idea. All I can say is be open to the opportunity. - Jonnie

Dave's TRAINING DAY

2006-11-29T10:18:00.000-08:00

OK let me break it down to you like this - I like breakdancing. I've got two big competitions coming up soon, first at the 'Canadian Pro Ams' on the 16th in Montreal and then 'The Fight Before Christmas' on the 23rd in Vancouver. Right now all I'm doing is studying and dancing 3 hours a night (and doing my best to hit the gym as much as I can - gotta get rid of that third-year 15). Last year I came 2nd in the competition in Vancouver... this year I want the whole thing. I will post how I do!

HOLLA - Dave

Duncan and Ben: Teachers for a Day

2006-11-21T17:33:00.000-08:00

A few weeks ago The Buried Life was asked to speak to an ESL class at the University of Victoria. Ben and I (Duncan) being the only Buried Life in a 4500km radius agreed to go alone.

With our shoes tied tight, our packed lunches over flowing, Ben crying and our moms waving us off, we set off for our first day of school; as teachers.

It seems our hesitation (and Ben's tears) were for nought and an hour later after a few laughs and more tears(Ben) we were wrapping up our first presentation.

And what fun it was. Highlights included one gentleman who's life list including kissing a white blond girl, which he was certain we could help him with.

The fun continues this Friday as we set off for our second presentation. Apparently we were not that bad, even good. That or maybe they didn't fully understand us and were amused at our nonsensical flailing and crying.

thanks for listening,

Duncan

Jonnie and the Monster Trucks

2006-11-20T17:56:00.000-08:00

This past Saturday I found myself at a monster-truck event in the Olympic Stadium in Montreal. I have never in my life been brought me so close to being deaf and mute. The booming explosions and screaming motors had me cheering hard and almost left my ears bleeding, but the night also gave me an interesting look into the lives of motor-heads and got me thinking again about how personal dreams really are to people. These men and women have worked their whole lives to build and destroy cars. The bigger, faster, and more intense they can make them, the better they can break'em. While I disagree with how much they waste getting it all done, I respect that sort of dedication to a cause. It's the only way to get the job done right. Even though it's not on my list right now, who knows? Maybe one day I'll find myself at the wheel of Gravedigger smashing buses and making kids cry. Maybe.
-Jonnie

Ben: Acrylic on Canvas

2006-11-16T10:06:00.000-08:00

Check this out,
I got an email way back on Oct. 3rd from an artist and teacher named Winnie who said she was in the process of creating an art piece inspired by our segement she heard on the cbc. I just received an email from her yesterday saying her piece was finally finished, below is her artist statement:

I first heard this group on the CBC discussing their plans to complete all the items on their life list while helping other people to achieve their own dreams. I love this idea. Why not write yourself an epic list of things you would like to do before you die? If you write down your unrestrained aspirations you are at least a step closer to achieving them. Sharing your dreams with others is an even closer step. It is also self-describing to reflect on what you would do if anything were possible. Revealing your hopes reveals something of yourself and it takes a bit a courage (not to mention time) to share your desires with the world. Thank you to everyone who offered their "buried life" list!

I leave you with a quote that Duncan, Ben, Dave and Jonnie have on their website:

Ferris Bueller said, "life moves pretty fast. If you don't stop and look around once in awhile, you could miss it."

The art work is on display in St. Catherines Ontario at St. Josephs Highschool today from 5-7pm...if you're in the area, drop in and check it out for us and give Winnie a high-five for me.
-ben

Dave's LIVE IT UP

2006-11-12T12:10:00.000-08:00

Hello y'all, yesterday was a pricey one for me as my friend Marty and I booked our tickets to Trinidad and Tobago for Carnival. Ever since I was 11 years old my family in Trinidad has told me about this legendary two day party called Carnival, which I have never felt like I was ready for but at the ripe age of 20, I believe it is time. I was able to get my ticket with all the money I saved from the Calgary stampede, which was hard to say goodbye to but if I’m going to tell people to go after what they always wanted to do before they die, I better be doing the same.
-DAVE

Duncan Runs Ebay

2006-11-09T19:05:00.000-08:00

Perhaps best known for his ability to leap over large objects, Duncan is also a savvy business man, something he was quick to show off during a shoot we did at Ebay last week. What started as an informal list attempt (i.e. Run a major corporation for a day), quickly took off into something entirely different. It seems Jesus was right when he said absolute power corrupts absolutely.

The segment is being edited as we speak (or read?) and will be available shortly. It will not be for sale on Ebay.
-jonnie

The Grand Return!

2006-11-07T18:30:00.000-08:00

Well hey there strangers!

We took a bit of a hiatus there as we got going on post-production for the footage taken on tour, but we're back now and promise to hit you all with some real juicy stuff. A LOT has happened since this whole thing began and the time has come to start sharing some of our crazy adventures with all of you. We have a dozen or so episodes on their way and promise you a good time. The first should arrive in the next few weeks. Ewwww exciting!

And the picture? I went to a 90's themed Halloween gig as El Nino. My dream you ask? No. But because some of us are meeting for the first time, I wanted you to know who I am. It's nice to meet you. -jonnie

2006-09-27T09:26:00.000-07:00

We will be on MTV Live tonight at 6:30 eastern, 3:30 western (3 hour time difference right), so if you're able, check it out. We will be the four guys that aren't the hosts.

Rolling Stones!

2006-09-27T09:13:00.000-07:00

Eh! Although not an 'official' list item, it probably should be. I had the opportunity to see the Stones live in concert in Boston! There is no man alive, or dead, that rivals Mick Jagger's commitment to being a rockstar. You must see them live to understand this fully. -jp

Buried Life Squad rocks the Eastcoast!

2006-09-25T21:45:00.000-07:00

The team lands in Toronto tonight to knock some items off the list and ask Torontians the big Q: what do you want to do before you die?

2006-09-16T17:37:00.000-07:00

Diego dreamed of being a Knight. He is now Sir Diego Knight of Victoria. Sally-forth Sir Diego, god speed.

An email we received from Diego's mom:

Hi guys!

I am a proud mom of a 4-year-old Knight named Sir. Diego of Victoria B.C. I just wanted to share some thoughts with you all about the grate influence that you have brought to our life. Diego is now telling everybody that he is a real knight because Ben made him one on August the 2nd of 2006. As well as Diego I am now thinking more and more about my dreams and aspirations as a human being, in this adventure called "life" further more thinking as a mother of two wonderful kids, I have now the responsibility of teaching and guide them to live their every moment with joy and enthusiasm.

I think that this world is now getting distracted with many secondary things that fill up our "modern necessities" but not our spiritual and emotional side. We have to make everything with passion in order to love it, or other wise we will be lost in thousands of people that now don't know what the want or what is their purpose in life.

Thank you guys for making me double think on that matter.

Keep doing what you are doing and enjoy life!.

Rosy

Gary and the Helicopter

2006-09-05T17:03:00.000-07:00

Recieved an email today from Gary Siu, a now good friend and supporter of BL that we met on tour. Gary got to go up in the Calgary Police chopper and chase 'bad guys' this week and enjoy a life long dream fulfilled. A filmmaker himself, Gary shot the whole thing on his betacam and says 'if you are ever faced with a chopper following you, you'll never outrun it'. We talked about it and think that Duncan can actually outrun a chopper. He is very fast.

We love hearing more stories about list accomplishments or the making of lists period. Send them our way and we'll try to share some more around.

2006-08-25T21:19:00.001-07:00

HELLO.

This is an important announcement that the Buried Life Tour has not ended. We have successfully knocked off 31 items and helped 21 people. The response has been unbelievable. Please stay tuned because there is something big in the works that will be made public in the next month. Before then, we're uploading the masses of photos taken during our adventures.
And more is happening everyday.

We have been invited to:

-6 wedding
-3 bull rides
-1 plane piloting session

The adventure continues.
What do you want to do before you die?

Block Party

2006-08-19T22:19:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow starts with a bang as we head down to see Gary Siu (siucoharley@hotmail.com) at 5385 Lane St, Burnaby/Vancouver to MC a block party and rock concert. That means knocking off number 23 - throw a block party and number 30 - learn an instrument, as a team of local drummers are booked to teach us how to rock shimmy shimmy. If you're in the area, come join us or check out www.myspace.com/magnetizedproductions for more info on the event.

Six O'Clock

2006-08-19T21:43:00.000-07:00

The good people at Global brought us down to their Vancouver studio to 'open the six o'clock news' and officially cross off our list leader. With cameras rolling we discussed the days top news stories and challenged Bill and Pamela at CTV for the most comprehensive news coverage in the province. Stay tuned for footage of the story.

Hedley

2006-08-17T11:06:00.000-07:00

Catching something and eating it was something that was very important to Dave. Everywhere we went he tried to pull us over and stop so he could try to catch a fish. When we finally arrived to Hedley, Dave had his chance to get in the water and try his hand at nabbing a trout. As the sun slower lowered, we began to worry that he might not get a bite. As it turned out, no fish were caught. Dave did learn enough from some local 8 year olds that he might return there someday to hook himself some dinner, but until that day comes, we'll have to wait to cross #44 off the list.

2006-08-13T14:41:00.000-07:00

Met a great guy yesterday who's list included:

- Seadooing,
- Go-karting,
- and finishing his tattoos.

Needless to say it was a very fun day. Thanks Jesse.

2006-08-13T14:19:00.000-07:00

#2: Lead a Parade

Being in the Pentiction parade was one of the coolest experiences to date. Whether Longboarding alongside, backfliping off the RV or jumping in the lake along the way; being in this parade was amazing and not hard to organize. Think about it for next year, Penticiton's not going anywhere.

Trucks and Chicken Wings

2006-08-13T13:10:00.000-07:00

On Friday we got an email from Brent and he said that he needed our help. We went to see him and he told us a story of a troubled past and life on the streets. Two years ago, Brent pulled himself out of this life and started 2 business'. His dream is to raise enough money to build a half way ranch for individuals like himself who are searching for more. He began a new and used shop in Kelowna called "Consecutive Cycles" on Rutlin st. and a Landscaping operation, both of which relyed on his truck. Brent had just recently lost his truck along with the ability to carry on his 2 business'. Touched by his story, we asked him how we could help. With no mention of the truck, he replied, "I have always wanted to buy 200 chicken wings and take them down to the Friendship Centre in Kelowna". We had to find this guy a truck.

Walking onto a second hand car lot, we saw a perfect truck for $2100. We explained our story to Ed at Okanagan Motors, and offered him some money for the truck. "I believe everyone deserves a break", Ed said. He gave us the truck for $480.

The look on Brent's face when we pulled up in the truck and the reaction that ensued was the most rewarding feeling any of us have ever had. Thanks Brent.

We couldn't find chicken wings, so next best thing to the friendship centre.

2006-08-10T22:09:00.000-07:00

Recieving lots and lots of feedback, here are a couple we thought we should postL

1. HI MY NAME IS BAILEY I AM 9 YEARS OLD BEFORE I DIE I WANT TO MEET ROBERTO LUONGO GOALIE IN THE NHL I AM FROM ABBOTSFORD BC2. To whomever will read this email, If you need to do a toast at a stranger's wedding, we will be married on Sept. 16 on Newcastle Island BC and you are welcome to come to make a toast and join the festivities. 3.Hows it going? I don't usually go out of my way to e-mail a bunch of guys I don't know in person, but I just I had to send you dudes some props. What you guys are doing I think is tottally awesome. The idea, the message, the concept, the challenge...it's all there. I just wish I thought of the idea before hand! haha Good Luck! and hey, if your looking for an extra young guy like yourselves, Pick Me Up! I'm serious when I say I'd join your Tour anytime, anywhere! Cheers, and all the best to ya. -Sean 4.Hello guys: I have 2 life goal requests that I hope you can help me with: - Fly in an F-18 jet - Sing a duet with Michael Buble Can you help? Cheers,dorothea - - - - - - - - - - More in the comments section of this post, some people needing help too. Check it out and add your own story. If you can help out, let us know. Parade/Haunted House/Hot Air Balloon pics coming soon.

2006-08-09T16:12:00.001-07:00

#20 - Play a song on the radio.
I guess that means we can cross it off the list.

Went on CBC radio this morning. The call came at 6 am. Let's just say we weren't totally prepared... Dave raps - http://www.cbc.ca/earlyedition/

Also made 'The Province' with Lord Stanley:
http://www.canada.com/theprovince/news/story.html?id=ecba46bf-0b70-484b-a535-18e1c82537ec&k=75118

Also had a ribbon cutting ceremony with the mayor of Kelowna/planted a tree/became honorary members of office. Pics below.

2006-08-08T23:50:00.000-07:00

Wowza! Crazytimes are following us everywhere. The Stanley Cup finds us in Kamloops and we welcome it with open arms. Needless to say, we all get along great. Maybe a fifth member?
No. More importantly, we find two people that have always wanted to meet Stanley, but due to overwhelming turnout, couldn't. With some hard work and a little ingenuity, we arrange a one on one meeting with Lord Stanley, Mark Recci and two deserving fans.
The tour continues...

2006-08-08T22:50:00.000-07:00

lots happening in the first five days. meeting people everywhere we go and hearing stories about life and where to take it.

The Buried Life Tour - first days

2006-08-05T15:01:00.000-07:00

Whats up everyone!
We have begun our whirlwind tour across b.c. and it has been nothing less than a whirwind. We will have pictures up in the near future, but for now, here are a few highlights:

-Kicked a field goal with Lui Passaglia yesterday at B.C. Place before the Lions played the Eskimos; found out what Lui wants to do before he dies. The Buried Life Squad hooked up for a touchdown pass which included a Jerry McGuire celebration dance.

-Stopped 4 guys on East Hastings in Vancouver, gave them all tickets to Rob Zombie and moshed with them in the front row.

-Interviewed a man who has looked death straight in the eye, didn't blink, cleared his throat, and then talked to us about how his "List" has changed.

-Sent 'Scott' from 'Victoria', a guy who has always dreamed of flying, on a date with a parachute and 10,000 feet of freefalling bliss!

-Started a 30,000 people wave at B.C. Place and may or may not have been booed in the process.

-Young Diego dreamed to be a Knight, and he is now Sir Diego, Knight of the Causeway.

-Chatted with Kiprios of Sweatshop Union and got a taste of "100 things to do before you die" as a freestyle.

-check the successful completion of 'List item #23: Make the front page of the newspaper' at: http://www.canada.com/victoriatimescolonist/news/capital_van_isl/story.html?id=1d1c9337-271a-4fdb-bba5-a04515668999

-Have talked with 23 people, helped 11, so far about what they have always dreamed of doing and what it means to live a buried life.

The Tour continues...!!

Tour Begins!

2006-08-02T21:45:00.000-07:00

Media everywhere, tourists and visitors from around the globe and the whole scene is focused on us. The Knight costume blew people away and Ben had a touching moment with a little kid name Diego, whose dream, funnily enough, was to meet a knight and get knighted.

Sir Diego - changing the world one step at a time.

2006-07-05T21:15:00.000-07:00

I just recieved this email. ...so i've made a point to do something that scares me every day (things that people don't do because they are afraid of the consequences/limitations). There have been some good results, I did a 4 hour kayak trip from one end of a lake to another and back. I told a girl that works at the coffee shop down the street that she was beautiful and I would love to get to know her over dinner. She said it was the most incredible thing anyone had ever said to her, but that she was engaged (20, and engaged, crazy eh? She had the ring and everything). We did exchange numbers and are starting a wicked friendship. Other things... I went out for lunch with a successful entrepreneur and picked his brain for about 2 hours. We went to a classy joint worked up a drink and food tab of about 200$ but I paid for it all, it is probably one of the best investments i'll ever make. When I asked him what are the 3 things i need to know about starting a business he said: "1)Just 2)do 3)It" no he didn't work for Nike, but he said banks will eternally loan you money because they are greedy and that even if it doesn't work the first time you are about 400x wiser getting the experience. Bare with me, 2 more things: I saw some kids (about 10 years old) getting hassled by the cops for skating in the park. They had helmets and everything and were just looking for a place to board. I went up and talked to them and told them I am gonna help them get a skate park built. We found an old parking lot in the park (owned by the city). Mylself and one of the kids brothers and dad are in the final stages of the proposal.

This is what it's about.

New B.L Space

2006-07-05T20:36:00.000-07:00

We encourage you to offer any projects or ideas you have, really anything that's on your mind. If you don't know where to start, try:

step 1. offer ten things you want to do to do before you die.

That's actually all you have to do. Um. Ok. I'll Cya later.

-actually this place is for discussion.
Criticism or cheer. Anything.