Monday, December 16, 2013

Monday



Cavotu: Local independent clothing company

Public: Why you? Why why why?


As a small brand in the apparel business, we face many many obstacles such as limited funds, limited connections, limited staff, limited blah blah. The list of "limited' is damn near endless. One of our biggest challenges is proving to the public why they should take chance on US. Why Cavotu? 

Yes, I agree it is just a silly name (Cav-Oh-What?) that most people pronounce wrong (Not Cavuto!) and have no idea why they represent (stoked on YOU!) other than the fact that they like ME or know me somehow/someway..."well it's Joey's thing so yeah." But unfortunately I am not a celebrity, I am not the coolest adult on the block (shit I almost typed "kid" instead of adult, lies...) or maybe I am (NO). I do not have the right connections to get my product into the right persons hand (or do I?) and BAM instant success. So what's the point right?

The point is that I design/produce high quality products in limited numbers. Every article of clothing that I release has gone through multiple stages of tender loving care. The entire process is far from rushed, down to the very last detail. Anyone can put their name on a tee shirt and sell it for $30, blows my mind that people pay $30 for a $2 AAA shirt with thick plastisol ink but the reality is that they do…not pointing any fingers but you know who you are, it is not about quality, it is about HYPE. The Hype is real son!

If funds are limited then I should just mass produce a crappy product? No way. Cavotu is a reflection of ME. I am honest, true and loyal. I am real, not crappy (maybe a negative nancy) but still a quality character. Keep in mind we offer a high quality product at pretty low price point. I know what it is worth and I am not here to sell myself short. I am not in this business to make money (unfortunately dollar signs are not the end all answer).

I am doing this CAVOTU life because I enjoy it. As an artist/designer I really enjoy seeing people wearing my product. I also like the fact that they have no idea about the back story that goes along with that particular snapback or tee shirt, nor does it matter to them. I am a natural story teller and I can't help but remember every detail, the good and the bad, the journey is important. And to all the doubters, the negative feedback, the people who don't support or believe in any of this, I am the fucking elephant not forgetting a damn thing.

Rolling out these boxes, processing the weekend orders from yesterday, grateful indeed, Christmas is right around the corner. When I say "support your local independent clothing company" I fucking mean it from the most sincere and genuine part of my heart. Thank you. Big hugs and all that good shit.


Thursday, December 12, 2013

The Aquaholic

Hey hey hey,

I am stoked (apparently "stoked" is one of those words that only people in California use, hmmm)...ok I am excited to announce that Cavotu Family artist SLEEPYFACE will be releasing their much anticipated album The Aquaholic on Christmas Day. I have been fortunate to hear this record in its entirety and it is freaking rad. Mind blown! New Jersey's finest SF has been down with Cavotu since day one. My brothers…my sisters…much love to the East Coast. I am looking forward to the upcoming tour. Listen and love.

Monday, December 2, 2013

CYBERMONDAY



Starting Monday (12/02/13) at 12am PST everything in our entire ONLINE STORE will be 20% OFF. 

This is a one day only sale. 

Enter discount code: CYBERMONDAY in the shopping cart before you checkout. 

Wednesday, November 20, 2013

Charge Heavy

Hey hey hey,

Our first week of sales in the NEW ONLINE STORE have been amazing!!!! Thank you to all the friends, family, lurkers, and strangers who picked up some fresh Cavotu tees, hats, socks etc. Much love. Much respect. Much appreciation. Yes, this whole Cavotu idea is "my thing" but it is really cool when people jump on for the ride and truly represent this lifestyle on the daily…its like Cavotu all day everyday.

Let's keep the ball rolling…


Stoked to announce that there will be an official BLACK FRIDAY drop on 11-29-13. A small collection of NEW NEW will be released to finalize our 2013 season. I have never reprinted any previous designs (and I never will) but this drop will include a remastered version of a popular favorite from back in the day. Stay posted. Stay stoked!

Tuesday, November 12, 2013

The New New

#Cavotuesday


I started using the word "Cavotuesday" in 2006. It served two purposes back then: 

1. Tuesday was the only day I had off from my regular job. I would devote the entire day to working on all things Cavotu whether it was visiting screen printers, setting up wholesale accounts, picking up samples, web design, sketching etc. Sure I could stay up super late every night after work and burn the candle at both ends but that was never very productive. As much as I used to say "I will sleep when I am dead" the reality is that it eventually catches up with you and then you crash.

2. The name is not Cavuto or Cavoto. It is Cavotu (pronounced CAV-OH-TU) and easier if you can remember the clever Cavotuesday combo then you can't go wrong.

So this particular Cavotuesday happens to be a special one since the official ONLINE STORE is now LIVE. I apologize ahead of time incase some bugs occur. I am probably forgetting something, please feel free to yell at me later.

Accomplishing goals is pretty cool however I am still struggling with that "being an asshole" goal, no one said this was going to be easy.

Thursday, November 7, 2013

Why

Hey,

I was thinking of doing a video blog but then I thought not today buddy…

So for years and years (est.2005 feels like ages ago) I have been plugging along with my idea, my thing, my boutique brand aka my passion project (great alliteration) but I really haven't had any huge success. The only one I blame is…myself. My list of reasons is a mile long, of course I lack ____ and I can't help but dabble in so many other things (working/parenting) that I don't justify why Cavotu should be more than a backseat passenger. first. Maybe I lack the selfish gene (is that a bad thing?) or maybe it is just fear/afraid of failure. At age 33, I have grown to embrace the life of the apathetic, on paper it sounds wonderful but reality is that it sucks. I care too much, I think too much yet I do too little (I do a lot) but I could always do more, (ugh more) I guess we all could…

This past six months, I decided to bump Cavotu up on my list of priorities. Why? Why now? Well why the fuck not. It has never made sense. Period. I am not going to lie and say that I was destined to be the next fashion guru in the apparel game. I enjoy art. I enjoy fashion. I still have an eye for style. I am tired of my own excuses. The time is now because I say so. The risk/the gamble (I miss gambling) is super gnarly but far better than the feeling of regret. 

As of today, I am still on schedule for a 11/12/13 release date. As I stare at the current mountain of boxes stuffed with "new" off in the distance, I just realized that I have not grabbed my own personal stash yet, as much as I am dying to wear a new fucking tee shirt, I hesitate, I wait patiently…as do you.

Steady the course…storms don't last forever.

Tuesday, October 29, 2013

PW

#Cavotuesday


First thing that came to mind when I said "shit, I gotta write a blog before I leave the house" was the Pennywise anthem Same Old Story. Unfortunately I have not heard the song in ages but my mind is a wandering fool in this moment. Same old story as in forgetting to write blog entries, not because I am lazy, not because I have nothing interesting to say but just because I never make it a top priority. But in looking back at this month. I blogged 21 days out of 29 which is pretty good. So yeah, one of my goals was "blog every fucking day" in October so I failed but it was a strong effort if that counts for anything.

I am headed over to Santa Monica today to handle some business near the Santa Monic Civic Center which happens to be one of the first places or possibly the first place I saw Pennywise in concert. PW hails from Hermosa Beach and my memories/stories of all things PW are endless. But this show, I want to say August 1995, I was at the beach earlier in the day and busted up big toe to the point where I could barely walk, I would have normally went to the hospital right away but I had these PW tickets and that shit was the priority. I remember the intense pain and hobbling inside the venue with my friends, who instantly rushed the pit area to get their spots, I had no choice to but to hobble back to the seating area. It was a cool show but the energy in the back is completely different than being up in the front. The next morning I went to the hospital and got my toe taken care of. Stories like these I will never forget. I should write a fucking book, or maybe a blog, ha. Steady as she goes!

Thursday, October 24, 2013

Hi My Name Is

I have been a fan of all things Blink 182 since their first record circa 1994, which is damn near two decades. Blink as a whole is rad but it is also pretty cool that each band member has his own independent clothing project going on as well. Tom Delonge holds it down steady with Macbeth, Travis Barker charges heavy with Famous Stars and Straps and Mark Hoppus recently joined the club with his label (Hi My Name Is Mark).

Hi My Name Is Mark is a clever apparel brand concept. The products seem simple enough with super soft black graphic tees with designs all centering around this octopus character. The thing I dig most about this label is that it bleeds Mark's personality and character, one can easily see that it is his brand and not just his name on it. Mark appears to be the one behind every aspect whether its the design, website copy and selecting the artists etc. I am sure it helps that Mark has tons of disposable income to just dump into whatever he wants. Not jealous or anything, but this business is expensive, especially if you want to produce a quality product.


I am excited to release this coming Cavotu collection (Nov 12th if all goes as planned). The past couple years of my life have royally fucked me up as a human being. I was never like this before (crazy) and its hard to imagine how I can get back to normal, yes it is all rather confusing.  Let me it be known that as much as I complain about the storm, I am still just as grateful for what I do have. I am thankful of those who still believe in my vision, my brand, my label, my passion aka my baby! 

Tuesday, October 22, 2013

Forty Three

#Cavotuesday

I spaced on this one.

The past several days had me on a tailspin. Not sure which way was up. I made a mental note to write a blog on Speed's birthday (10/20) but I lost the thought in the forrest.

3 years I ago I wrote a lengthy piece about Speed (read it here).

He would have turned 43 on Sunday.

I copied and pasted the last paragraph....I still trip on this.

I often wonder what our relationship would be like at this point in my life. Our friendship after all was pre college grad, pre Cavotu, pre wife, and pre kids. I can't even imagine the possibilities. Despite his battle with his disease, Speed was a cool guy. I am grateful for our memories...




Character

#Cavotuesday

You are who you are.

Some people are of good moral character and some folks are shady as fuck, it is quite simple.

Lining up ducks.

Feeling great.

11/12/13 is the day.

Get ready.

Saturday, October 19, 2013

The calm before the storm

In my youth I skated. My dad bought me my first board for my 8th birthday. It was pretty cool, I can still remember the graphic and matching fluorescent pink wheels, neons were huge in 1988.
I was pretty scared of falling so it took me quite awhile to finally learn how to ride it. In high school, I skated from point A to point B with my crew. I never bothered learning tricks or taking my skills beyond the basic riding skills. In college I skated to campus every morning, it was about a 10 minute drive by car so kind of a hike on my board. But it was worth it because parking on campus was super expensive. Now as an adult/parent my fear of breaking my arm or cracking my skull is definitely increased. About once a month I venture down to Hermosa Beach and ride my skate on the strand. It's cathartic in a way, the sun, the sand, the ocean breeze, bikini clad females...yeah I should skate more often.

So I wandered down to the local skatepark on Friday. Channel Street has a great story behind it and although I have never actually skated the park, I totally admire and appreciate everything that those founding fathers did to lay that concrete and build the gold mine.

So I climbed up to the top of the main bowl. I sat and watched the locals shred for about an hour. It was peaceful in a strange way, didn't motivate me at all to drop in with them but rad to watch the action....

Changes are happening. I feel good about what's to come...11/12/13 is still on my goal sheet.

I have been slacking on the "be an asshole" category but what can I say, it doesn't come natural for me like some people I know.

Kill kill kill


- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Thursday, October 17, 2013

Well

I rarely make it out to see films in the theatre, not that I rent DVDs either. It's not that I'm lazy, it's just that I don't make time for "media" so it doesn't come natural, like hey let's go sit in the dark for 2 hours and stare at a screen. It often feels like a waste of time no matter how amazing the film is.

I usually drag myself to see the movie that everyone can't stop talking about. I would say about 80% of the time I agree with the hype but sometimes I just don't connect, and this was one of those times. Gravity was ok, not as amazing as I hoped. I walked into to it blind as a bat, not knowing anything about the plot and have never even seen one preview. I appreciated the solitude theme, the talking to yourself, the drive to not give up and die today, funny how even if I didn't care for the film I still found ways that it related to my life.

Clooney is great at what he does, but I was bored with his typical blah blah jibber jabber. Bullock, never cared for her but she played a believable character. The theatre crowd was particularly rowdy and large groups of people were talking through out the film, super ghetto if you ask me.

Why did I bother?

I had just left a heavy weighted mind fuck situation. I just wanted to be distracted. My reality kills me at times. I get it as to why people watch TV/movies- to forget - to escape - to decompress.

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Wednesday, October 16, 2013

Who you calling Snapback?

Stoked on these bad boys.

Limited edition Cavotu brand snapback hats coming soon. Just a small taste of the 2013 Fall Winter Collection.

Stay posted to the blog for the 411 or follow us on Instagram ( CAVOTU)

More videos on the way but here is a little FIRE for your viewing pleasure!!


Tuesday, October 15, 2013

I'm human

#Cavotuesday

Life happens...my 13 day blog streak ended yesterday. Proud of that one though, especially coming from me aka the streak guy. Daily blogging is not easy, my hat always goes off to people that consistently roll it out everyday. And no I am not talking about people who get paid to write a blog everyday because that is totally different, it's a job, it's not the same as free writing about random subjects ranting and raving etc.

I have been faced with quite a few challenges these past couple days. Jumping thru rings of fire like some sick and twisted circus act, the show must go on, work harder despite the fact that no one cares. I care. I care too much.

How hard is your life?

How hard did you try today?

Did it matter?


- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Sunday, October 13, 2013

Here's Johnny

I am pretty sure I have raved about Johnny Cupcakes in the past but it has been some time since I talked about people in the industry who continue to inspire me. JC is definitely on the LIST!

Johnny is in a league of his own. A truly brilliant mind, I am blown away by his creativity. His cupcake bakery themed clothing company is so simple yet so clever. One has to assume that the people behind popular street wear, surf, skate apparel are just normal folks like you and me. But you never think they are the awkward nerdy kid from grade school who were somehow likable. That is the vibe I get from Johnny, a real genuine dude, doing what he loves and humbly rolling in the dough. I attended a JC college lecture a few years ago, the main takeaway was that Johnny never wasted a dime on booze, weed, woman, cigs anything. He obviously had different priorities but look how it paid off.

JC released their new crop of classic Halloween shirts this week. The fat kid design has really turned in to quite the signature character. Its fun, colorful and always festive.


JC also released the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles collaboration a couple weeks back. Again we have the fat kid making another appearance in full costume. Shredder rules!

Saturday, October 12, 2013

Change

They say everything happens for a reason. Life keeps throwing curve balls my way. I don't even want to play the game most days but I am locked in for life. My teammates need me.  So I trained harder, perfected my batting stance and my swing is truly subpar. I really need to hit this next pitch out of the fucking park. I am ready, are you?


Friday, October 11, 2013

Sleepy


Burning the candle at both ends, tis the season to do more and sleep less. Lining up ducks is never as easy as it sounds. Pressure is building, haha, not tripping. So I came across this photo above, it was taken off my balcony while I was vacationing in Hawaii. The ocean is amazing, I live literally 5 minutes away from the Pacific Ocean yet all my days/night I end up driving East. East to go do life and leave the ocean at my back. I have been talking to my daughter about teaching her how to surf, she is stoked on the idea. I am not fully committed to getting her a toddler wetsuit but when the water warms up we are definitely hitting the waves.

Thursday, October 10, 2013

Thirsty Thursday

Thursday nights in college were the BEST. Most cats didn't have class on Friday or if you they did they most likely skipped that day. Thursday was basically the start of the weekend festivities. I don't know about your college but mine liked to party party and I joined in without any hesitation. "Thirsty Thursday" became the mantra for all the house/apt party hooplah...SDSU was fuckn fun. Period.

Fast forward to right now, Thursday night, um yeah rather uneventful as an adult. My kids are asleep in their beds and we another long day/night of back to back school, activities, sports, therapy etc. Not complaining...just noticing the drastic lifestyle changes yet I am totally grateful and lucky to have such wonderful children.

Life is a roller coaster, or at least mine feels that way. I have been working on the incline, the ride is finally starting to go up again as it should, long over due but gotta run with the momentum while it's here. Keep pushing forward!

Wednesday, October 9, 2013

Ideas

The weather shifted slightly today with random rain, wind and cooler temperatures. I like it. Change is great. Rain or shine, I still rock a t-shirt, shorts and sandals...what can I say? I live in California.

I am pretty excited about releasing this new apparel collection. I must say that it has been awhile since I took the brand this serious. Cavotu has been releasing random product sporadically over the past few years with no general idea or plan. Like I have said before, life happened and things got shitty but now this idea feels right, timing is everything.

Tentatively looking at Nov 12th as the release date assuming I can get all the last minute details completed. Currently brainstorming some fun contests via social media, get the good folks involved, fun stuff.

Do more of what makes you happy!


- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Tuesday, October 8, 2013

It's nice to have nice things George

#Cavotuesday

I believe all parents spoil their children in one form or another. I have a hard time saying "no" to the people that I love the most (my kids...and yes their mother too despite it all she still holds this special place in my heart, I know I know) but I tell myself "no" all the time without any hesitation. I would never say I am a selfish person especially when I rarely do ME.

I found myself riding shotgun earlier in the homey's 5 series BMW, I couldn't help but touch the shiny wood grain dash that wrapped around the navigation screen. No this it not the first time I have been inside an expensive vehicle but once removed you tend to forget about the little details that make the car  visually appealing. I had a brief flashback of my previous BMWs when my life was "different" and I had only one mouth to feed aka ME.

I was instantly reminded of one of my favorite quotes from the movie Blow. It was the scene when George (Johnny Depp) is showing his expensive car collection to his father. All of the cars obviously were purchased with drug money yet the son just wanted his dad to be proud of his wealth/success. "It's nice to have nice things George" said the father. Simple and to the point. Nice things help to certain degree, they help define/mask reality depending on how you see things.

In the past several years I went from having a lot to having virtually nothing. I have come to appreciate material things on a new level. They really are just things, just stuff, often times totally unnecessary. But when you throw the word feelings in the mix well sometimes material things act as a buffer to over ride those feelings and help get one through another miserable hour/day/night.

My takeaway, spoil your offspring, spoil your loved ones, and don't forget to spoil yourself. They say we only get one shot at this thing called life so make it the best!

Monday, October 7, 2013

TM

pro·cras·ti·nate  (pr-krst-nt, pr-)
v. pro·cras·ti·nat·edpro·cras·ti·nat·ingpro·cras·ti·nates
v.intr.
To put off doing something, especially out of habitual carelessness or laziness.
v.tr.
To postpone or delay needlessly.


I have been lagging on this trademark renewal process so tonight I just knocked it out. Filed the shit myself and locked the Cavotu TM in for a couple more years. Last year the spam mail started pouring in from various renewal companies and law agencies offering their services. Then the emails started up shortly after. Everyone and their mom was asking for money aka "pay us this fee and we will do this for you" but on top of that you still have to pay the government for the flat fees as well. WTF?

I filed the Cavotu trademark on February 13, 2007 and it was officially registered on October 30, 2007. I remember that being a pretty HUGE step towards something cool/real/official/all mine bitches. Crazy to trip on how much has happened since then.  Unfortunately the brand didn't quite rocket launch into orbit like I hoped but it was definitely a smart move to lock in my "TM" because this world we live in is so DTA...like yeah totally (ha)

So I am thinking this rocket launch is finally going down. The hiatus is officially dead. Cavotu is coming out with some straight fire. Im stoked!

Please submit an image that shows how the mark and/or word is being used...


Sunday, October 6, 2013

I am your Father

Today, I took my son shopping for a Halloween costume. Yes, it sure is easier to do this online but going to an actual Halloween store is a way cooler experience for the kids. When I was a young, I always struggled with the decision of choosing the right costume. They say the apple does not fall far from the tree...

When my son was a baby, I dressed him up in "cute" outfits from bumble bee to teddy bear to puppy. Two years ago he was set on being "Alpha Pig" a character from a cartoon called Super Why. I had to special order that online, but then a few days before Halloween he changed his mind so I had to beg for a refund/return. Handy Manny over ruled the pig so we had to rock that one. Last years choice was a no brainer, Venom and this year followed in the same path of black, darkness and evil aka Darth Vader. I am pretty sure the cool light saber was the factor that sealed the deal.

My daughter asked me what I was going to be, I failed to come up with a cool idea on the spot. I think I said something dumb like I'm a daddy and daddy is not dressing up this year. Their mother has dressed as a witch for the past several years, hopefully someday she will take off the costume and realize that its um April, May, June...

Saturday, October 5, 2013

Sticker Attack

Regulators, mount up.

I got a few riders out today, lacing the streets with the good word.

Hey do you have what it takes to represent in your city? Looking for some dedicated high school cats with too much time on their hands. Hit me up info@cavotu.com

Subject: I want to be a Cavotu Foot Soldier

Message: Why?

Friday, October 4, 2013

Friday night

Another weekend is here, time is moving quickly, Xmas is totally around the corner...

Piecing together something special aka coming soon. I am fully focused and dedicated to keeping that ball rolling in the right direction. Also highly aware of bad vibes and must avoid all negative energy if possible.

Continue to kill kill kill.

I have been hitting the weights and working on my asshole status...the combination is physically and mentally exhausting, go mode is fun.

Today was a good day.

Thursday, October 3, 2013

I jumped...

I was watching my 3 year old (she is almost 4 but technically still 3 for another month) as she danced and sang alone to beat of her own drum. First thought was damn my baby is growing up fast (sad face)...I swear in the future she will be the raddest pro surfer/beach volleyball player. Stoked on my girl! Second thought was focusing on her playfulness and endless imagination. Children are so free, filled with energy as they"just live"....I felt inspired. I too wanted to sing and dance but I am Dad and it is just not the same, so I danced/sang in my mind...the catalyst for something good brewing or so I hoped.

Today I received an email that made me smile. I actually jumped in the air like a kid after opening it. It was one of those "fuck yeah" moments. I have a nice set of teeth but unfortunately I don't run around like Mikey Taylor cheesing it up. As Eeyore as I feel, there are still things that make me happy. My latest run has been shit, hence the frown but everyday I hope and pray for a better tomorrow. Somethings gotta give, don't give up, stay strong and some other retarded nonsense is tattooed on my forehead. I have been practicing the "do more of what makes you happy" thing...I know there is way more to life then just money and stress. I miss love though, part of my puzzle that has fucked me up the most. Sure I feel love from my children but in all honesty they are kids, babies some say, toddlers is a better term, yes they love their daddy, but not the love that I miss as an adult.

"Love is gnarly" as Davey said quite simply on that day at the mushroom farm, yes it is my friend, yes it is.

Wednesday, October 2, 2013

America's Pastime

This last Sunday, I attended the final game of the regular season for the Los Angeles Dodgers. I am not a HUGE baseball fan in this stage in my life but I still follow the basic headlines/drama. I grew up on baseball. I never played as a kid but I was fortunate to attend hundreds of games during my childhood and teenage years because my parents always shared Dodgers season tickets with their friends/family. As an adult, I still enjoy the excitement of being in the stadium and watching the live game. But now that I am no longer drinking, trying to impress a lady and/or betting on the games...the whole sense of "fun" that I accustomed with going to the game is gone. I can't help but notice how expensive everything is and how boring the game can be during innings. I ruined it for myself. Associations are brutal, what can I say.

So the Dodgers ended up losing the game but on the bright side they still made the playoffs so their season continues. I have always enjoyed the day game experience because it is still a rarity, I would say 90% of the professional baseball games that I have attended have all been at night.

let's be honest here, I will never have enough money and enough time to justify it so I will just make it happen. Someday in the future I will plan a nice vacation getaway where I visit multiple ballparks in various cities. It will be nonstop baseball after baseball. Maybe then I will have an overpriced adult beverage in one hand, a beautiful non-bipolar female by my side and fat run line bet pending via my smart phone. Cheers to dreaming BIG. F yeah!

Tuesday, October 1, 2013

Cavotuesday

#Cavotuesday

Goals:

1. Blog every fucking day in October
2. Release something on 11/12/13
3. Be an asshole
4. Think positive

I have been arguing with strangers lately. I am normally the non confrontational type but what can I say, we all have our moments, our breaking points, sometimes you can't help it. Wrong place, wrong time situation. I feel like these strangers are asking for it...

I do not own a television. Some may find that to be very strange. I do not see the need for one or why I need to be connected or tied down with another bill. I have a Mac, I have an iPhone, I have the "Internet" so who needs TV? But after reading tons of social media about this final episode OMG shit greatest show ever etc...now have to look up ______ so I can be prepared for the water cooler discussions, haha, do people actual talk around the water cooler, is that real? I never understood meth heads...

Monday, September 30, 2013

Monday (Who cares?)

Stay busy. (Ok)

Stay distracted. (Ok)

Stay busy. (Didn't work)

Stay distracted. (Didn't work)

This is reality. (Sounds fake as all fake can be)


Don't think so much. (Where is the off button?)

Don't look back. (My head is glued on backwards, I never liked glue)

Don't dwell on the past. (It has shaped me, this is me now aka Crazy)

Don't feel sad. (I am fucked)

Don't feel anything. (I am really fucked)

Embrace apathy. (People really do this?)



Don't go down the path of no return. (Ah shit, I already did)

Don't lose yourself along the way. (Too late buddy, way too late)



These thoughts are going to kill you. (I believe you)

Half dead. (Half alive)

Ready to die. (Thumbs up)



And I have no idea why, but this song came into my brain when I typed "Monday..." in the subject line...I am no fan of this band, I do not own any of their music, but like I said this song came into my head...you can explain it. I am done!

Wednesday, September 25, 2013

Is it just me...

...or is society (aka people) just screwing up lately...

In the past 2 days, I have dealt with 6 different scenarios where something was wrong and it was not on my end. I was the one pointing it out, I was the one red flagging it, I was the one saying "hey hold on here"....and the 6 other people, completely separate scenarios and situations let me remind you. All 6 of them, let me repeat all 6 came back at me with the same blank stare look...identical responses.

One can't but help feel a tad bit crazy when confronted with stuff like this. No I am not just complaining, the odds of the timing of all of this is what really blows my mind. Yes, shit happens as they say but not like this, not like with this frequency...or does it? And people just don't care enough to reflect on it...just brush it off and move forward, no big deal, back to chewing on my piece of straw...

I am not an idiot but there are some people out there, not calling out any names or anything but some people out there who amaze me, amazes me how they made it this far...how many passes did you get today? I am at about negative 200, so go ahead and match me. Thumbs up!

Line up kids...line up

Tuesday, September 24, 2013

3 Eyed Monster

There are moments in life where you can't help but take a step back, observe and soak in as much as possible. Life is happening, people are living, people are dying. Is there really a difference between feeling dead and being dead?

I am a sucker for anything labeled "timeless"....lining up to hit the birthday piñata is one of those genuine moments. The simplest event yet it teaches the youth so much. Be patient, wait your turn as the  anticipation builds and your mind wanders about what might come bursting out once it breaks open.

Cavotuesday was originally the day when I knocked out all things Cavotu, it was my one "weekend" day to get shit done...now its a reflection day, a reminder day. This adventure continues, slow and steady.

Monday, September 23, 2013

The Hat Game

I have never been a "hat guy". I blame my childhood and the fact that I never played little league like most young dudes growing up. I can recall rocking beanies when we visited the snow but I never wore baseball hats, even refused costumes with head pieces for Halloween. My own son has issues with wearing things on his head, being that he is so fair skinned I have to force him to wear a hat when we are outdoors, he is ok with it now but I am pretty sure I never wore hats with as much regularity as him when I was 5 years old.

Here at Cavotu, we are always thinking about ways in which we can add more depth to our apparel line. Obviously this fashion game is expensive. My creative ideas are always beyond the actual budget but I can't help it. I want to dream. I want to hope. Did I say I want to dream?

In the past we have offered seasonal collections with mens tee shirts, female shirts, sweatshirts, jackets and even socks but never hats.  New Era still believes that Cavotu is too small and a few other options just never worked out until recently. Yes, I finally worked a hat deal and I am pleased to say that we will be dropping some heaters soon.

Now as much as I love the fitted hat game, it is really hard to pull off being a small fish in the industry so I went ahead with fully customized snapbacks and they came out great. My inspiration came from baseball, yes a sport that I never played yet I enjoy watching for some odd reason. Yes, I am a Dodger fan, not a bandwagon fan. I have bled blue for years but there are quite few ball clubs that I have always admired and respected, Oakland being one of them. I always show love to the Bay.... but seriously- F the Giants.


I need to surround myself with new products every day because it sure helps my motivation. Stoked on these hats!

Monday, September 9, 2013

Joe P- OG Shredder


What's a brand without a team? What's a team without fans? What's a team without a leader? What's a winner without a loser? What's coffee without caffeine? What's a berry without a straw?

Monday madness here at ground central. Usual chaos ensues, wait I stand corrected, life is indeed happening, my chaotic interpretation of it is pure opinion, purely my own.

I witnessed a gnarly car accident last night right before my eyes...the cars went crash/bang/ahh shit...I instantly left the scene, no one was hurt (physically)...like Sweet Brown said "Aint nobody got time for dat..."

Speaking of accidents....we are looking for some new riders to spread the Cavotu love..the more broken bones the better...we want our riders pushing the limits beyond impossible...the ocean is a magical place and I gladly bow down to those who have learned to master the waves with great ability...also fond of that good old fashion thing called the street/concrete, those who rock the 4 wheels on a piece of wood type of thing...HMU on the IG. Jokers need apply!

Tuesday, September 3, 2013

Fun socks

Random conversations with random people often spark great ideas, I know this is not some amazing world changing theory but its damn true. During one of our daily therapy sessions for my son, his therapist mentioned that her boyfriend was making some socks for his future clothing line (so Rob Kardashian of him). I was instantly tuned in, socks huh, I forgot about the socks, maybe the socks are the answer, the spark that I need to get the fire going...

I actually wear sandals like 24/7, not just any sandals but brown leather Rainbows. I am a creature of habit. I designed my first pair of Cavotu socks in 2009, had them manufactured here in the USA and never released them until November 2011 (you can read more about those HERE).

So the sock idea wheels started turning and I began the design process. Design for me equals tons of colors, starting off with random freehand drawings, then comes the markers and the color show continues from there. The final product for this round was these gems...



Still nameless and ready for some cool packaging, naked in their pure form but they will be ready for release soon...time to turn some heads....its been a while but thanks for riding with me. Cheers!

The Islands...


I over heard an older gentleman on the Hermosa Beach strand yesterday complaining to his significant other "why do we need to go to Hawaii? Especially when we have this..." The "this" he was referring to was a beautiful day on the beach, the scene was actually rather picturesque with the white sand, blue water, bikini clad females wandering about...yes Hermosa is beautiful (no pun intended) but its a far cry from Hawaii.

I have been fortunate to visit Hawaii a handful of times in my life. It truly is a magical place, I highly recommend it if you can save up because its far from cheap...but soooo worth it. Here are some classics from the past...

The constant contrast of blue vs green is all over the islands. I love it.


I was never a big fan of sweet drinks but when in Rome you can't help but order multiple umbrella drinks. This Mai Tai was mighty tasty!


Little geckos running around all over the place...


My son when he was only 11 months old. Taking a baby to Hawaii was challenging to say the least but super fun. The shirt I was wearing was a sample that never made the official cut. I still have not been able to pull the trigger on releasing a red shirt....never say never. Hint HINT


The condo we rented was literally right on the ocean, cant complain about that, every room had a killer balcony with an amazing view. In this picture I am rocking the Feint shirt in Orchid. Orchid was a tough sell, most dudes don't rock shades of purple on the regular but I have always liked this colorway more than the Tan shirt with Brown print. I was pretty stoked in this selfie, dare I say HAPPY...I need a vacation dude, sign me up, my bags are already packed.


Friday, August 30, 2013

full circle

I have been working on a writing piece for ______ and I find myself struggling. I know exactly what the F I want to say, I know exactly how I want to come across but something (ME) is getting in the way.

I went to college. I graduated from college. Yes I was a good student, damn near straight A's but always had that one B lingering in the mix. In college I wrote tons of papers, I killed at the bullshit format, convey the message, get it done type of shit.

Now as an adult, a single dad, a dude with a "unique look" as my son just said earlier....I rarely write. Sure I try to dabble in my thoughts on this blog but from my track record and my subject matter well it is like why even bother. No pressure, no expectations, no hype, no bullshit...I do it for ME. I keep the small flame, smaller than ever yet still lit.

Listening to tracks to feel inspired, to feel....its funny when I catch myself utilizing a "go to" catch phrase over and over. I have done this since I was a young child, I pick up on something and then apply it to everything. I still remember hearing "my bad" used for the first time and thinking that I would never use that ever. I still hate "my bad". But this week its "dare I say" and I don't even know where it came from but it stuck in my head and it wants to come out like after every 4th sentence. I was never this crazy. I know I know

Monday, August 12, 2013

on a sunday

I am awake and designing some tags that will be placed on the inside of something cool. I say cool with mad confidence because the reality is that I have not even seen the final product but on paper it looks rad and in my head its looks even better. There is nothing wrong with believing in the power of turning things into gold.


Saturday, August 10, 2013

Saturday Night Live

Weekend nights were once something special! Now everyday/night feels the same. It's always Wednesday in my world, just another...Wednesday.

I have been running this Cavotu blog for 8 years (feels longer) and I have tried really hard to keep the swear words out. As a writer (me) or as one who appreciates writing, I am well aware that the English language is filled with thousands of eloquent descriptive words yet there are times when the F word gets the point across so well.

I over heard this female the other day dropping the F bomb in every sentence. It didn't even sound cool or tough or dare I say necessary in my opinion after piecing together the topic of her conversation. Bottom line, talking like trash is just lame so don't fucking do it.

I've been working on several different projects this past week and I am feeling super productive. I am actually making progress toward my goals which in my world is really really cool. My cheerleading team consists of two lil monsters (age 3 and 5) so I don't get a ton of "so proud" yadda yadda moments...but I'm proud. I'm clapping. I'm cheering.

I stumble across random stuff on IG...words to live by or common sense or total nonsense.

I have always been a loyalist. It's hard to just walk away. Firing up the middle finger is easy. But giving up on something you have tried soooooo hard for just sucks.


This one below always kills me, such a tough pill to swallow. How long does one suffer before they say enough is enough? I mean at some point you completely go insane, you lose yourself, nothing makes sense anymore, one can only suffer for so long...love is gnarly and hope is a motherfucker!!



- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Tuesday, July 30, 2013

Good Samaritan, I forgot to say "FUCK YOU"

Four years ago tonight I was in jail. No it wasn't my first time in the slammer but fuck I made sure it was my last. Today has been a long day to say the least. My memories of my last four years have been haunting me all day. I actually took a nap from 5:30pm to 6:30pm just so I could escape. Sleep is really the only way out. My mind is exhausted. My body is pretty much in that same boat.

Do the right thing (easier said than done).

Stay distracted (easier said than done).

Get lost in music....I can do that.

I was never a super fan but Jimmy Eat World had its moments in my life. I love/loved this track. Rad energy.


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Thursday, July 11, 2013

Seven Eleven



A friend of mine who recently turned 33 was telling me that 33 is considered to be a mystical number, "you know like Club 33 at Disneyland dude." I really wasn't sure what he was talking about so I did some research. Apparently the number 33 has its share of stories... Jesus performed 33 recorded miracles, Bird/Kareem/Pippen all wore the number 33 with valiance and it is also the highest degree in the Scottish rite of Freemasonry.

I have always been stoked to say my birthday was on seven eleven. I am not a big fan of the actual store though and believe or not but I never gone to 711 to get a free slurpee. I am sure someone will remind me today that I can do that.

My kids are stoked about my birthday. I easily forget how powerful birthdays are in their little eyes. The cake, the presents, the celebration of all things...ME!

I can't help but look back on this past year. Look at my accomplishments and my failures. I still have yet to do anything substantial with the brand. Sure I have a few big things in production as I type but as usual I let my head/emotions dominate most of my decisions this year.

I wrote this blog entry on my birthday last year. I am obviously a rearview mirror thinker lately. At the time, I thought I did a nice job breaking down some of my most memorable birthday moments. I was asked about my 25th birthday today and for the life of me I could not remember what I did. Our conversation was mainly about birthdays after 25 not really having much significance. I think if I was in a better mood I could have argued that they just keep getting better but now that I have kids, I truly feel the age factor, I feel time passing faster and faster.

My expectations are low. I do not foresee any gifts or any surprises. Hello 33, I hope you treat me better than 32.

Tuesday, July 2, 2013

Time



In the past couple years I have been taking notes, I guess you could call it a diary. I have always enjoyed writing and it just felt natural to document my thoughts and reflections. Let's face it, real therapy is expensive and never really did much for me besides drain my bank account. Someone suggested that I take up yoga (pass). Another friend suggested that I read books about peaceful topics like the art of zen (not there yet). Instead I chose the journal method, writing small entries on the daily. I am not planning on releasing any of these notes to the public, just acknowledging my overall action. Obviously the better I feel, the less I write (those days are rad). The themes are truly the only constant: heartbreak, loss, starting over, hesitation, defeat, hope, and love.

I have performed 360 degree backflips only to realize that the world around me is basically the same. I am well aware that I cannot change anyone. I am convinced that most folks just get older and never change. I am coming up on another birthday (711)...another year older (who fucking cares?)... I am also coming up on my 4th year anniversary of my sobriety (who fucking cares?) To be honest, I don't care to think about it anymore. I am not proud of my sobriety, it has not been a hard thing to do so I am not  looking for any "good job" or pat on the back. I am like an elephant, I never forget but as the time goes on I think less about it. Sure life is totally boring without substance but I have come to accept this. I never said never but timing is everything and now is not the time to be fucked up. I know a few heads who would argue that statement with me till the cows come home but at this point I will keep on keepn on.

I still have my hope. I still have my small list of "never give ups" but I am highly sensitive to where I stand lately. My list has possibly stunted my growth as a human being. I have never been the type to run with the wolf pack but the more i trip on that concept I think maybe that would have saved me from falling into this big ass hole. If everything happens for a reason then I am supposed to go thru this crap (my destiny, ugh). Lessons will be learned and mistakes will not be repeated (fingers crossed).

I was once a night owl, becoming a dad changed that, my kids are exhausting but I love them dearly.

Fuck you groundhogs day, fuck you.


Thursday, June 6, 2013

Osker

I grew up on punk rock....

(side note) My previous blog entries have been totally lame. I just asked myself why I bother leaving them on here but then I answered my own thoughts. Any idiot can delete away but what idiot has the balls to post it publicly. I need to see my own reality. "Never forget"shall be my status. Anger is real. Pain is a fucking joke. I have had some really great ideas for future blog entries but I cannot seem to get into the flow of daily blogging (boring topic but a constant challenge). A valiant effort will be made towards something and/or anything. (hopefully not all lies, I am actually a horrible liar...) (fuck side notes)

So this dude aka the lead singer, Devon Williams went to high school with some dudes that I call my friends. Treatment 5 was one of those albums that I borrowed, dubbed and listened to over and over. The band, Osker actually got pretty big at one point, signing with Epitaph (which used to be a big deal but not sure if anyone cares anymore??) and touring. And like all good things, the band came to a crashing halt and died. Call it creative differences, call it drugs, booze, woman aka rock n roll but in the end it doesn't really matter. The music was good and I still enjoy listening to their music. Idle Will Kill is a great album too, super mature compared to T5 but still all good.

Taste it. You might like it.

Tuesday, May 14, 2013

Life

"What is happiness to you David?"

#Cavotuesday

During my prime, yes there was a time when I was on a GOOD ONE, I found myself watching the film Vanilla Sky all the time. It seems silly now but back then I was stoked on it. I have never been a super fan of Tommy Cruise, although I give him a ton of credit for some of his more classic roles over the years, maybe I am just partial towards Cameron Crowe or maybe this movie was just rad, I mean it still is rad.



Certain quotes from the film often ring in my ears at random points through out my days/nights of thinking. I think too much. I have been tripping on the happiness thing for a minute. Also Maslow's hiearachy of needs with the concept that one cannot function properly and will ultimately fail if their physiological needs are not met. These needs are breathing, food, water, sleep, sex, homeostasis, and excretion...I am pretty sure that I have the breathing one taken care of.

Yet the happiness question lingers, it is a heavy one. Happiness is never constant, never a given yet should be a priority. I am tired of saying that I am grateful, I am appreciative...I just want to say "I am happy"....but those 3 words don't quite roll off the tongue that easily.

I came across this quote earlier this week and I wrote it down over and over

"If you change nothing, nothing will change."

My problem with this is that my idea of change is some major drastic shit and that scares me. I have never been a risk taker, maybe that is part of the problem. And now when I read that last sentence over I realize that I need to come up with solutions. I need to push myself more. I have to learn a new way to play the fucking game. I hate games.

Tuesday, April 23, 2013

cool grey


#Cavotuesday

The theme of the week is a simple task.

Find something NEW to obsess on.

If time is precious, ok. And if this is my one shot at life, ok. Why did I get so stuck? I find myself coming full circle with everything, no really EVERYTHING. I can easily say nothing matters and then feel as if everything matters five seconds later. I feel as if I am entitled to get stuck but what bothers me the most is that I do nothing about it. Character flaws if you will, sure we all have them and I must remind myself that I still have some damn good qualities in the mix.

Let it be known I am grateful. Let it be known that I was once a completely different person. My life has changed before my eyes and I totally get the "only you can change it" idea. Retraining your brain to think differently is by far the hardest task I have had to come to terms with. No, it is not just acceptance, I will not believe that statement. The challenge of going against ones natural inclination "to do" is mind blowing. Like seriously, the whole don't think...just do...I clearly do not understand.

I will repeat this over and over...stop trying to control the things you have no control over.

I think its time...

Wednesday, March 13, 2013

Listen Up

Word of mouth is often the best form of advertising. I told ___ about ___ and then he/she loved it and then he/she told ___ and so on and so forth. Well the homey, Pete, said "hey do you like Radiohead?" I replied "yes" and then he said "well dude you gotta check out Atoms For Peace." True story. Enjoy.

Tuesday, March 12, 2013

Get Barreled #2

#Cavotuesday

Daily blogging is damn impossible in these shoes (I am actually barefoot) but I am the story teller here so let's pretend I am wearing shoes, not just any shoes but fancy dress shoes, that you only wear on special occasions. Fancy shoes are never comfortable because you never wear them enough to break them in. Shoes are meant to be broken in. I am clearly not a shoe person but I really need some new shoes. Obviously the shoes are a metaphor por mi vida. No I don't speak Spanish (lies) but yes I have quite a few stories in this bag, not a purse, just a bag. I will go easy on the tangents (never).

In 2012, Billabong began using the tagline "Life's Better in Boardshorts!" in their major ad campaigns. Every Sunday while I sold mushrooms at the Santa Monica farmers market, I would stare at the tagline prominently displayed in the surf shop window directly across the street. I fell in love with this tagline. Life is what we make it and if we can make it better, yes please do so. I associate boardshorts with warm weather, sand beneath my toes, ocean mist in the air, scantly clad females, less responsibility, the list goes on. Yes life IS better in boardshorts (truth spoken). I might add life is also better barefoot. Barefoot is the business.

Last Cavotuesday I was spitting fire about my barrels. I added the possessive on purpose. I am taking ownership here because no one was talking barrels in 2006. After I wrote the blog, I thought ok you talked about the Nolan tee, cool, nice little summary piece now let's go back to our regularly scheduled program then I saw this today...

Jack O'Neill is a legend. In 1952 Jack invented the wetsuit and changed the world of surfing forever. The dude is clearly an icon and yes he also rocks a pretty sweet eye patch on the daily!
Pabst Blue Ribbon is a dinosaur in the game of beer but has proven itself lately to be quite the popular kid on the block. PBR can thank the good old fashion American public for bringing their brand back from the dead. Great read right here.
So the two icons got together and created a collection for Spring 2013 release. First off, as I mentioned before I played with the idea of a single keg barrel and my tagline (get barreled) for quite some time but it never looked right. It was hard for me to visualize a person wearing a tee shirt with a huge keg barrel on it. Then I saw this chick on the Internet and I thought well thats um creative...
I guess I still find humor in all this. I appreciate branding collaborations. Sure they don't always make sense but I like the idea of merging two different target audiences and taking a chance. It sort of comes off as one brand piggy backing on another or maybe just one brand looking for new life from the other. One could argue that surfing and beer go great together. But then not all surfers party and not all beer drinkers are alcoholics...you can see where this is going. Personally I am not a fan of PBR in the surfing world but hey that is just me. Me as in the guy who coined "get barreled" in 2006. Hype or not, bottom line is that I am happy that the barrel is finally getting its time to shine.
Call it a coincidence or not but this just popped up in my News Feed on FB. This proud father and his happy FAM BAM live in Sydney, Australia. A little international love is all good. What can I say? I am sucker for Dads, kids, babies and people who support my project. Thanks Kyra! Much love.