I'm off to Mama Crash's for a while. Expect blogging to be light while I'm gone. However, people should send me lots of e-mails because I will probably be stir crazy after a couple of days.
Beginner
17 hours ago
Friday, August 27, 2004
Thursday, August 26, 2004
Caroline, Mom and Booze
Three completely unrelated things in one entry.
Caroline, or Change . . . first of all, there was a return, so I got a ticket fifth row on the aisle, center orchestra. Fucking amazing. I had a hard time getting into the show. Either my hearing isn't as good as it used to be, or I was too close to the orchestra (which was loud at times), but I had a hard time understanding the lyrics. Then I caught my groove, realized that I was hearing the important stuff and started to get into it. By intermission, I was enjoying it. The second act was amazing. By the end of the show, I realized that it was one of the most important musicals I'd seen. I'll rank it up with Ghetto (which was truly brillian). If you haven't seen Caroline yet, you only have a couple more days. It's well worth it.
Mom . . . out of ICU, improving. Probably out of the hospital on Saturday.
Booze . . . XES (24th St. and 7th Ave.) tonight at 7 p.m.
Caroline, or Change . . . first of all, there was a return, so I got a ticket fifth row on the aisle, center orchestra. Fucking amazing. I had a hard time getting into the show. Either my hearing isn't as good as it used to be, or I was too close to the orchestra (which was loud at times), but I had a hard time understanding the lyrics. Then I caught my groove, realized that I was hearing the important stuff and started to get into it. By intermission, I was enjoying it. The second act was amazing. By the end of the show, I realized that it was one of the most important musicals I'd seen. I'll rank it up with Ghetto (which was truly brillian). If you haven't seen Caroline yet, you only have a couple more days. It's well worth it.
Mom . . . out of ICU, improving. Probably out of the hospital on Saturday.
Booze . . . XES (24th St. and 7th Ave.) tonight at 7 p.m.
AIDS Walk/Run Part II
After you donate to Patrick's AIDS Walk, please click here to donate to Mark's. Come on. You can afford it. I know how much you spend on drinks.
Wednesday, August 25, 2004
Caroline in the City
I've decided to go see Caroline, or Change tonight. MAK has been talking it up so much that I've just got to see it. Plus, it's closing soon and I'll be out of town while the Elephants are roaming, so I only have a couple of days left to see it.
If for some reason I can't get tickets, I'm going to go see Little Shop of Horrors. Either way, should be a good night. And after the morning I had with Painbringer, PT, I deserve it.
If for some reason I can't get tickets, I'm going to go see Little Shop of Horrors. Either way, should be a good night. And after the morning I had with Painbringer, PT, I deserve it.
So, Is This Correct?
Taken from Crisafer and FARB.
eXpressive: 3/10
Practical: 3/10
Physical: 3/10
Giver: 3/10
You are a RSIT--Reserved Sentimental Intellectual Taker. This makes you a Archetypal Older Child.
You are a hard nut to crack. You have a wicked sense of humor. Despite your reserved nature, you are more comfortable (and successful) in the meeting and courting mode than you are in a long term relationship. You feel misunderstood, and usually you are. When you're in a good mood, you're funny, fascinating and a sexy firecracker, but when you're in a bad mood you are moody, broody and impatient. In courtship mode, you don't have to let anyone see your moody side. If you had your way, even in a long term relationship you would have enough time apart to deal with your bad moods yourself; unfortunately, it rarely works that way. You stifle *a lot* of anger and frustration -- from all areas of your life -- so when it comes out it comes out nasty.
More than any other type, your conflicts tend to turn on one tiny thing -- the dishes, the laundry -- that's really a scapegoat for your larger dissatisfactions with your relationship. You're baffled that your partner just can't do the dishes -- your partner is baffled that it's such a big deal. The only way around it is to let the dishes go entirely and try to get at the real root of what's bothering you. I'm making you sound like a bear, but the fact is that you're so warm and charming most of the time that it effectively offsets the times you're unhappy.
You will make a weirdly good parent.
Don't pair up with someone who'll make sexual demands of you. That's just not going to fly at all.
Of the 2609 people who have taken this quiz, 2.7 % are this type.
Take the Quiz: 20 Questions to a Better Relationship
eXpressive: 3/10
Practical: 3/10
Physical: 3/10
Giver: 3/10
You are a RSIT--Reserved Sentimental Intellectual Taker. This makes you a Archetypal Older Child.
You are a hard nut to crack. You have a wicked sense of humor. Despite your reserved nature, you are more comfortable (and successful) in the meeting and courting mode than you are in a long term relationship. You feel misunderstood, and usually you are. When you're in a good mood, you're funny, fascinating and a sexy firecracker, but when you're in a bad mood you are moody, broody and impatient. In courtship mode, you don't have to let anyone see your moody side. If you had your way, even in a long term relationship you would have enough time apart to deal with your bad moods yourself; unfortunately, it rarely works that way. You stifle *a lot* of anger and frustration -- from all areas of your life -- so when it comes out it comes out nasty.
More than any other type, your conflicts tend to turn on one tiny thing -- the dishes, the laundry -- that's really a scapegoat for your larger dissatisfactions with your relationship. You're baffled that your partner just can't do the dishes -- your partner is baffled that it's such a big deal. The only way around it is to let the dishes go entirely and try to get at the real root of what's bothering you. I'm making you sound like a bear, but the fact is that you're so warm and charming most of the time that it effectively offsets the times you're unhappy.
You will make a weirdly good parent.
Don't pair up with someone who'll make sexual demands of you. That's just not going to fly at all.
Of the 2609 people who have taken this quiz, 2.7 % are this type.
Take the Quiz: 20 Questions to a Better Relationship
AIDS Walk/Run
Hey, kids. Patrick at Traveling Spotlight is planning to do the 2004 Dr. John Carey Memorial AIDS Walk/Run. For those of you who are looking to give a little tax-deductible love, click here and make a donation.
Patrick's goal was $100 which he already made. Let's see if we can double or triple that. Come on, he's a good guy and it's a great cause.
And now for something completely different . . . no news on my mom, but as soon as I hear something, I'll let you know. Thanks again for all the support. I really appreciate it.
Patrick's goal was $100 which he already made. Let's see if we can double or triple that. Come on, he's a good guy and it's a great cause.
And now for something completely different . . . no news on my mom, but as soon as I hear something, I'll let you know. Thanks again for all the support. I really appreciate it.
Tuesday, August 24, 2004
Monday, August 23, 2004
Just a Quickie
Mama Crash is fine. Talked to her today and the surgery went well. Thanks to all of you who sent me notes of encouragement. And yes, calling her Mama Crash is a play on Mama Cass. It's really just meant as a joke since my mom is this tiny, petite woman . . . very unlike Mama Cass. In fact, she is a younger, German/Irish version of Sophia from the Golden Girls.
Of course, that makes me Dorothy, which is sadly appropriate on so many levels.
So, pretty boring weekend, other than worrying about mom.
Saturday my plans fell through again, so I hung out at the house all day. That evening, I went to see Bright Young Things which was rather good. I need to read some Evelyn Waugh one of these days.
And here is a picture of my crush for this movie. Sadly, the photo is not from Bright Young Things, rather it is from Children of Dune. But still, James McAvoy is hot. I can't wait to see him as Mr. Tumnus in The Chronicles of Narnia. I imagine he won't be particularly hot in that movie, however. As I recall, Tumnus is a satyr.
Sunday, I just hung out at the house, reading and watching tv.
Since I was anxious yesterday, I had a hard time sleeping. Due to the lack of sleep and my physical therapy appointment this morning, I'm wiped. I may try to leave early today.
Of course, that makes me Dorothy, which is sadly appropriate on so many levels.
So, pretty boring weekend, other than worrying about mom.
Saturday my plans fell through again, so I hung out at the house all day. That evening, I went to see Bright Young Things which was rather good. I need to read some Evelyn Waugh one of these days.
And here is a picture of my crush for this movie. Sadly, the photo is not from Bright Young Things, rather it is from Children of Dune. But still, James McAvoy is hot. I can't wait to see him as Mr. Tumnus in The Chronicles of Narnia. I imagine he won't be particularly hot in that movie, however. As I recall, Tumnus is a satyr.
Sunday, I just hung out at the house, reading and watching tv.
Since I was anxious yesterday, I had a hard time sleeping. Due to the lack of sleep and my physical therapy appointment this morning, I'm wiped. I may try to leave early today.
Well, Screw Them
Taken from Sixth Borough:
From The Washington Blade:
Circuit City may be the second-largest retailer of electronics in the United States, but some gays are saying they’ll go somewhere else for their DVDs and home electronics. That’s because the Circuit City Stores, Inc. Political Action Committee has a long record of donating money to anti-gay legislators. “I think it’s important that we know who our friends are and who our friends aren’t, and if we choose to vote with our checkbook, that’s completely appropriate,” says Equality Virginia Executive Director Dyana Mason . . . The records further show that, since 2001, the Circuit City PAC has given money to 52 Republicans, compared to just eight Democrats. Among those who have received contributions from the PAC in that time are Sens. John Warner (R-Va.), John Cornyn (R-Texas), Lamar Alexander (R-Tenn.) and Wayne Allard (R-Colo.), as well as Reps. Jim Gerlach (R-Penn.), Charles Pickering (R-Miss.) and Marilyn Musgrave (R-Colo.). Allard and Musgrave are the lead co-sponsors of the Federal Marriage Amendment in the Senate and House, respectively, and Cornyn help lead debate in favor of the measure. Receiving the most money since 2001 is Sen. Jim Talent (R-Mo.), who is also a co-sponsor of the Federal Marriage Amendment. In 1999, he also voted to ban gay adoptions in D.C. Since 2001, he has received $5,000 from the PAC. . . . “I don’t know why a company would go out of its way to lend support to candidates who are that far out of the mainstream,” Porter says. “If they want to have customers who are diverse and hold diverse political views, its unclear why they would want to support candidates who are not indicative of that diverse mainstream nature. “For a company to skew its donations that way shows a lack of respect for all of the people who patronize them.” . . . Circuit City also does not offer domestic partner benefits to its gay employees’ partners, nor does it offer diversity training covering sexual orientation or gender identity. Mason says she hopes that Circuit City will see the damage it could sustain if it continues to alienate gay customers. “It’s disappointing that Circuit City seems to be writing off a really important part of their potential customer base by making these contributions,” Mason says.
From The Washington Blade:
Circuit City may be the second-largest retailer of electronics in the United States, but some gays are saying they’ll go somewhere else for their DVDs and home electronics. That’s because the Circuit City Stores, Inc. Political Action Committee has a long record of donating money to anti-gay legislators. “I think it’s important that we know who our friends are and who our friends aren’t, and if we choose to vote with our checkbook, that’s completely appropriate,” says Equality Virginia Executive Director Dyana Mason . . . The records further show that, since 2001, the Circuit City PAC has given money to 52 Republicans, compared to just eight Democrats. Among those who have received contributions from the PAC in that time are Sens. John Warner (R-Va.), John Cornyn (R-Texas), Lamar Alexander (R-Tenn.) and Wayne Allard (R-Colo.), as well as Reps. Jim Gerlach (R-Penn.), Charles Pickering (R-Miss.) and Marilyn Musgrave (R-Colo.). Allard and Musgrave are the lead co-sponsors of the Federal Marriage Amendment in the Senate and House, respectively, and Cornyn help lead debate in favor of the measure. Receiving the most money since 2001 is Sen. Jim Talent (R-Mo.), who is also a co-sponsor of the Federal Marriage Amendment. In 1999, he also voted to ban gay adoptions in D.C. Since 2001, he has received $5,000 from the PAC. . . . “I don’t know why a company would go out of its way to lend support to candidates who are that far out of the mainstream,” Porter says. “If they want to have customers who are diverse and hold diverse political views, its unclear why they would want to support candidates who are not indicative of that diverse mainstream nature. “For a company to skew its donations that way shows a lack of respect for all of the people who patronize them.” . . . Circuit City also does not offer domestic partner benefits to its gay employees’ partners, nor does it offer diversity training covering sexual orientation or gender identity. Mason says she hopes that Circuit City will see the damage it could sustain if it continues to alienate gay customers. “It’s disappointing that Circuit City seems to be writing off a really important part of their potential customer base by making these contributions,” Mason says.
Friday, August 20, 2004
I'M THE KING OF THE WOOOORRRRLLLLLDDDD
Man, I am in the best f-ing mood.
Why?
I've started work on the not-for-profit I'm setting up. And despite the number of things that could go horribly wrong, I'm excited and enthusiastic. For once, I'm not letting the fear of failure stop me in my tracks. Worse case, it fails. Big deal. Best case, it does a lot of good for a remarkably underserved section of society.
And going along with that, I've started work on a film treatment/screenplay. I've never done one before. I'm pretty sure it will be crap. But I don't care. I'm having a great time writing it.
Woo hoo!!!!!!!!!
One serious note, though. Mama Crash is going in for surgery on Monday. I'm sure she'll be fine, but if you wouldn't mind saying a little prayer, thinking good thoughts, or something like that, I'd appreciate it.
I'll be on a regular blogging schedule next week, but after she gets out of the hospital, I'm taking some time off work to go home and care for her, so my blog will likely be on haitus for a week or so .
Why?
I've started work on the not-for-profit I'm setting up. And despite the number of things that could go horribly wrong, I'm excited and enthusiastic. For once, I'm not letting the fear of failure stop me in my tracks. Worse case, it fails. Big deal. Best case, it does a lot of good for a remarkably underserved section of society.
And going along with that, I've started work on a film treatment/screenplay. I've never done one before. I'm pretty sure it will be crap. But I don't care. I'm having a great time writing it.
Woo hoo!!!!!!!!!
One serious note, though. Mama Crash is going in for surgery on Monday. I'm sure she'll be fine, but if you wouldn't mind saying a little prayer, thinking good thoughts, or something like that, I'd appreciate it.
I'll be on a regular blogging schedule next week, but after she gets out of the hospital, I'm taking some time off work to go home and care for her, so my blog will likely be on haitus for a week or so .
Thursday, August 19, 2004
Wednesday, August 18, 2004
To Sleep, Perchance . . .
Weird dreams recently.
This weekend I had one where I was in the jungle being stalked by a huge snake with brightly colored legs. In order to get away from this thing (which local natives had sicced on me . . . it was an animal that was worshipped as a god), I had to crawl under a branch teeming with smaller snakes. I hate snakes.
Two nights ago, I had a dream where I was attacked by wasps. I hate insects; I especially hate wasps.
Last night's dream had me making wild monkey love with Spike from Buffy the Vampire Slayer. I hate vampires, but this was still really hot.
This weekend I had one where I was in the jungle being stalked by a huge snake with brightly colored legs. In order to get away from this thing (which local natives had sicced on me . . . it was an animal that was worshipped as a god), I had to crawl under a branch teeming with smaller snakes. I hate snakes.
Two nights ago, I had a dream where I was attacked by wasps. I hate insects; I especially hate wasps.
Last night's dream had me making wild monkey love with Spike from Buffy the Vampire Slayer. I hate vampires, but this was still really hot.
Drunk Sober Dialing
Fun night with the blogger boys last night (FARB, Michael, PatCH, MAK, Bob). Cocktails, conversation and cruising at the Duplex. For some reason, PatCH was on his best behavior. No stealth shots. It was strange waking up without a hangover today.
As usual, we drunk dialed, but since we weren't actually drunk (maybe three or four drinks each) it was sober dialing. Perhaps buzz dialing at most. We called Zenchick (but she couldn't hear us according to PatCH . . . I don't know since no one handed me the phone), MAK's mom, Homer, Zenchick again (who regaled me with tales of Goblin's birthday party), Bradykins, and Hot Toddy who had the audacity to be out. Since I still haven't heard his voice, I am forced to continue with my assumption that he sounds like Karen Walker on Will & Grace. I'm sure Patrick and BoBo will back me up on this.
Fun night. Three social nights in a row. Look at me, Mr. Not-Sitting-at-Home-Brooding-About-My-Lack-of-a-Boyfriend-and-Wondering-If-I'm-Doomed-to-Die-Alone. Yea me!
Forgot to mention that I met Dogpoet and Jennie the other night when I joined them, Jeff and Sam for coffee. Very fun night. Lots of laughter which is always a good thing. I hadn't read Jennie's blog; it's worth checking out. I've been reading Dogpoet for a while; fucking amazing writer. If you've never read his stuff, go there immediately.
As usual, we drunk dialed, but since we weren't actually drunk (maybe three or four drinks each) it was sober dialing. Perhaps buzz dialing at most. We called Zenchick (but she couldn't hear us according to PatCH . . . I don't know since no one handed me the phone), MAK's mom, Homer, Zenchick again (who regaled me with tales of Goblin's birthday party), Bradykins, and Hot Toddy who had the audacity to be out. Since I still haven't heard his voice, I am forced to continue with my assumption that he sounds like Karen Walker on Will & Grace. I'm sure Patrick and BoBo will back me up on this.
Fun night. Three social nights in a row. Look at me, Mr. Not-Sitting-at-Home-Brooding-About-My-Lack-of-a-Boyfriend-and-Wondering-If-I'm-Doomed-to-Die-Alone. Yea me!
Forgot to mention that I met Dogpoet and Jennie the other night when I joined them, Jeff and Sam for coffee. Very fun night. Lots of laughter which is always a good thing. I hadn't read Jennie's blog; it's worth checking out. I've been reading Dogpoet for a while; fucking amazing writer. If you've never read his stuff, go there immediately.
Tuesday, August 17, 2004
All's Well That Ends Well
I actually like the new template, despite having to go through all sorts of hell to make it work. I still haven't figured out how to get the 'terror warning' back up, so I'm in Oompa Loompa withdrawal.
Well, what doesn't kill us makes us stronger.
I watched more of the Olympics yesterday. Thorpe, Van den Hoogenband and Phelps . . . just in case anyone has already started shopping for my Christmas present, any one of the three would be just fine. All three would be divine.
I also watched the Japanese kick major ass in the team gymnastics competition. Hard to believe just what the human body is capable of.
Or not, as the case may be. To illustrate, I pinched a nerve in my back this morning. I can barely move my head. How did I do it? I stretched. Just lifted my arms over my head, let out a big yawn, lowered my arms and, bingo, lots and lots of pain.
Brilliant.
Word to the wise, don't get old. If I'm in such a sorry state, I can only imagine how horrible it must be for Famous Author Rob Byrnes.
Speaking of FARB, did you know we share a birthday? It's a fact.
Of course, my first one happened way after his.
My pinched nerve will be my official excuse for missing rugby practice tonight. I believe I may go see a movie. Resident Evil II isn't out yet, is it?
Well, what doesn't kill us makes us stronger.
I watched more of the Olympics yesterday. Thorpe, Van den Hoogenband and Phelps . . . just in case anyone has already started shopping for my Christmas present, any one of the three would be just fine. All three would be divine.
I also watched the Japanese kick major ass in the team gymnastics competition. Hard to believe just what the human body is capable of.
Or not, as the case may be. To illustrate, I pinched a nerve in my back this morning. I can barely move my head. How did I do it? I stretched. Just lifted my arms over my head, let out a big yawn, lowered my arms and, bingo, lots and lots of pain.
Brilliant.
Word to the wise, don't get old. If I'm in such a sorry state, I can only imagine how horrible it must be for Famous Author Rob Byrnes.
Speaking of FARB, did you know we share a birthday? It's a fact.
Of course, my first one happened way after his.
My pinched nerve will be my official excuse for missing rugby practice tonight. I believe I may go see a movie. Resident Evil II isn't out yet, is it?
I finally heard back from my Representative. I thought it was a pretty good response.
Thank you for informing me of your opposition to the so-called "Marriage Protection Act," H.R. 3313. I appreciate your taking the time to share your views.
I am pleased to inform you that I voted "no" to H.R. 3313, the Marriage Protection Act. Regretfully, the bill passed in the House by a narrow margin of 233-194 on July 22. This bill would strip jurisdiction from all federal courts, including the Supreme Court of any cases involving the Defense of Marriage Act. This blatantly political bill would set a dangerous precedent which would undermine such constitutional protections as equal protection, due process and separation of powers.
I believe the debate on this bill was much more than just bashing an unpopular minority for political reasons, it was about whether Congress can adopt unconstitutional legislation on any subject and protect that legislation from constitutional challenge by stripping the courts of their jurisdiction to consider any such challenge. We have never done that before in our history, and we should not do that now.
Rights on paper are meaningless if there are no means of enforcing those rights. We depend on the courts to enforce our rights against majorities represented in Congress or State legislatures. We must have a Federal forum to protect liberty, otherwise that liberty will not exist.
It is our very system of government and the constitutional system of checks and balances which is under attack with this bill. If the Congress by statute can prevent the Federal courts from applying the Constitution on any subject matter, then the protections of an independent judiciary, the protections of the Bill of Rights, the protections of the United States Constitution, become no more than a puff of smoke. It will, of course, be unpopular minorities, whether religious minorities, political minorities, ethnic minorities, racial minorities, lesbians, gays, whoever is unpopular at the moment, who will lose their rights. That is why I will continue to do all that I can to prevent this bill from ever becoming law.
You may also be interested to know that I oppose the Federal Marriage Amendment, H.J. Res 56. This is just another attempt by Members of Congress to pander to the extreme right. Attempting to rewrite our Constitution to deny a group of people equal rights is inherently wrong and is offensive to the democratic process. Please be assured that as a member of the House Judiciary Committee, and ranking member on the Subcommittee on the Constitution, I will continue to fight against this proposal as well as any others that seek to discriminate against gays and lesbians.
Eliminating discrimination based on sexual orientation has long been a priority of mine. Please be assured that I will continue to be an outspoken proponent of universal human rights.
Thank you again for conveying your views. Please do not hesitate to contact me in the future if I may be of further assistance on this or any other issues of concern.
Sincerely,
JERROLD NADLER
Member of Congress
I've said it before, and will undoubtedly say it again, you have to let your elected representatives know what you think about the issues. Otherwise, only the lunatics and cranks get heard.
Speaking of which, I was watching one of those CSPAN call in shows where they were looking for comments from Bush supporters and Kerry supporters on various aspects of the campaign. Someone called in complaining that the Democrats (who are apparently all Jewish) had chosen Kerry because both he and his wife are Jewish (Catholic Jews . . . just like Kennedy, m'kay?) and the Democrats are trying to put the U.S. under Israeli control.
As we used to say at the Young Democrat meetings back home in Texas, oy vey, y'all.
Well, mazel tov, President Bush. With supporters like that, there's no way you can lose.
Thank you for informing me of your opposition to the so-called "Marriage Protection Act," H.R. 3313. I appreciate your taking the time to share your views.
I am pleased to inform you that I voted "no" to H.R. 3313, the Marriage Protection Act. Regretfully, the bill passed in the House by a narrow margin of 233-194 on July 22. This bill would strip jurisdiction from all federal courts, including the Supreme Court of any cases involving the Defense of Marriage Act. This blatantly political bill would set a dangerous precedent which would undermine such constitutional protections as equal protection, due process and separation of powers.
I believe the debate on this bill was much more than just bashing an unpopular minority for political reasons, it was about whether Congress can adopt unconstitutional legislation on any subject and protect that legislation from constitutional challenge by stripping the courts of their jurisdiction to consider any such challenge. We have never done that before in our history, and we should not do that now.
Rights on paper are meaningless if there are no means of enforcing those rights. We depend on the courts to enforce our rights against majorities represented in Congress or State legislatures. We must have a Federal forum to protect liberty, otherwise that liberty will not exist.
It is our very system of government and the constitutional system of checks and balances which is under attack with this bill. If the Congress by statute can prevent the Federal courts from applying the Constitution on any subject matter, then the protections of an independent judiciary, the protections of the Bill of Rights, the protections of the United States Constitution, become no more than a puff of smoke. It will, of course, be unpopular minorities, whether religious minorities, political minorities, ethnic minorities, racial minorities, lesbians, gays, whoever is unpopular at the moment, who will lose their rights. That is why I will continue to do all that I can to prevent this bill from ever becoming law.
You may also be interested to know that I oppose the Federal Marriage Amendment, H.J. Res 56. This is just another attempt by Members of Congress to pander to the extreme right. Attempting to rewrite our Constitution to deny a group of people equal rights is inherently wrong and is offensive to the democratic process. Please be assured that as a member of the House Judiciary Committee, and ranking member on the Subcommittee on the Constitution, I will continue to fight against this proposal as well as any others that seek to discriminate against gays and lesbians.
Eliminating discrimination based on sexual orientation has long been a priority of mine. Please be assured that I will continue to be an outspoken proponent of universal human rights.
Thank you again for conveying your views. Please do not hesitate to contact me in the future if I may be of further assistance on this or any other issues of concern.
Sincerely,
JERROLD NADLER
Member of Congress
I've said it before, and will undoubtedly say it again, you have to let your elected representatives know what you think about the issues. Otherwise, only the lunatics and cranks get heard.
Speaking of which, I was watching one of those CSPAN call in shows where they were looking for comments from Bush supporters and Kerry supporters on various aspects of the campaign. Someone called in complaining that the Democrats (who are apparently all Jewish) had chosen Kerry because both he and his wife are Jewish (Catholic Jews . . . just like Kennedy, m'kay?) and the Democrats are trying to put the U.S. under Israeli control.
As we used to say at the Young Democrat meetings back home in Texas, oy vey, y'all.
Well, mazel tov, President Bush. With supporters like that, there's no way you can lose.
Monday, August 16, 2004
Great fucking weekend! Just what the doctor ordered. Though I suppose the doctor would have told me to drink slightly less.
Let's see. Thursday night was my friend Will's 60th birthday. His party was at Wild Ginger, a great Thai place down on Grove St. It was a really good mix of people, old/young, men/women, gay/straight. A very fun and interesting evening.
Friday . . . well, Friday sucked ass.
Saturday. Mostly sat around the house watching the Olympics. Mmmm . . . Olympians. Talked with Mike for a little while which was an uncommon enough occurance to merit mention (yes, Mike, that was my passive-aggressive way of saying you should call me more often). Bought $20 or so worth of tomatoes at the farmers' market. Also managed to get a rotty cantaloupe. Damn it.
Sunday . . . fun, fun, fun. I hooked up with Peaches andHerb Sam. Jeff (a/k/a God of Biscuits a/k/a Peaches) and Sam were both amazing. First of all, just as hot as in their pictures. Just as smart as on their blogs. And so much more.
I hooked up with the boys down on Bleeker after they'd had lunch. We went on a mini-pub crawl. Dugout (where we ran into a SF pal of Jeff's), Hangar, Ty's, Boots and Saddles (a/k/a Bras and Girdles where we ran into one of the rugby boys), Monster (where we were joined by a couple of Jeff's friends who were great guys, too), Stonewall and the Eagle (where we ran into several more of the rugby boys and a former co-worker of mine). We had dinner along the way at Bruxelles on Greenwich, which I've wanted to try for a while. The food was amazing.
Actually, looking at it, we hit seven bars. I think that qualifies as a full-fledged pub crawl. Toward the end of the evening, I was getting hot (not quite in the same way Sam was . . . ah, to be young again) and I still had to do laundry and I had to get up early today for my appointment with Painbringer, PT, so I cut out earlyish. I was so full, it was so hot, the Eagle was so crowded and loud, that I just needed to take off. Jeff and Sam left, too, so I didn't feel like I was ditching them.
Fortunately, I'm supposed to be getting together with them again tonight since they are leaving tomorrow. I can't wait.
Now I just have to find a way to get out to San Francisco for a visit.
Today is off to a brilliant start. Despite my general dislike of pain, my sessions with Painbringer, PT, seem to be working. The pain in my legs is getting better. At this rate I should be back to rugby playing form (or what passes as rugby playing form for me) right about the end of the season. As Painbringer, PT, asked, "Why are you doing your physical therapy now? You should have started in the spring." Ah, well.
What can you do?
Anyway, I'm off to lunch.
Let's see. Thursday night was my friend Will's 60th birthday. His party was at Wild Ginger, a great Thai place down on Grove St. It was a really good mix of people, old/young, men/women, gay/straight. A very fun and interesting evening.
Friday . . . well, Friday sucked ass.
Saturday. Mostly sat around the house watching the Olympics. Mmmm . . . Olympians. Talked with Mike for a little while which was an uncommon enough occurance to merit mention (yes, Mike, that was my passive-aggressive way of saying you should call me more often). Bought $20 or so worth of tomatoes at the farmers' market. Also managed to get a rotty cantaloupe. Damn it.
Sunday . . . fun, fun, fun. I hooked up with Peaches and
I hooked up with the boys down on Bleeker after they'd had lunch. We went on a mini-pub crawl. Dugout (where we ran into a SF pal of Jeff's), Hangar, Ty's, Boots and Saddles (a/k/a Bras and Girdles where we ran into one of the rugby boys), Monster (where we were joined by a couple of Jeff's friends who were great guys, too), Stonewall and the Eagle (where we ran into several more of the rugby boys and a former co-worker of mine). We had dinner along the way at Bruxelles on Greenwich, which I've wanted to try for a while. The food was amazing.
Actually, looking at it, we hit seven bars. I think that qualifies as a full-fledged pub crawl. Toward the end of the evening, I was getting hot (not quite in the same way Sam was . . . ah, to be young again) and I still had to do laundry and I had to get up early today for my appointment with Painbringer, PT, so I cut out earlyish. I was so full, it was so hot, the Eagle was so crowded and loud, that I just needed to take off. Jeff and Sam left, too, so I didn't feel like I was ditching them.
Fortunately, I'm supposed to be getting together with them again tonight since they are leaving tomorrow. I can't wait.
Now I just have to find a way to get out to San Francisco for a visit.
Today is off to a brilliant start. Despite my general dislike of pain, my sessions with Painbringer, PT, seem to be working. The pain in my legs is getting better. At this rate I should be back to rugby playing form (or what passes as rugby playing form for me) right about the end of the season. As Painbringer, PT, asked, "Why are you doing your physical therapy now? You should have started in the spring." Ah, well.
What can you do?
Anyway, I'm off to lunch.
Friday, August 13, 2004
Thursday, August 12, 2004
Today's Song That's Stuck In My Head And Is Making Me Pray For Death
The Devil Went Down to Georgia by the Charlie Daniels Band
Not the whole song, mind you, just this part:
Johnny rosin up your bow
and play your fiddle hard
'cause Hell's broke loose in Georgia
and the Devil deals the cards
And if you win
you get this shiny fiddle made of gold
but if you lose the Devil gets your soul (oul-oul-oul)
Followed by manic fiddle playing.
Over and over and over and over for the last 3 hours. And the truly annoying twist is that it is playing through my head really quickly, like a record (remember those?) playing on the wrong speed.
This is making me miserable.
The Devil Went Down to Georgia by the Charlie Daniels Band
Not the whole song, mind you, just this part:
Johnny rosin up your bow
and play your fiddle hard
'cause Hell's broke loose in Georgia
and the Devil deals the cards
And if you win
you get this shiny fiddle made of gold
but if you lose the Devil gets your soul (oul-oul-oul)
Followed by manic fiddle playing.
Over and over and over and over for the last 3 hours. And the truly annoying twist is that it is playing through my head really quickly, like a record (remember those?) playing on the wrong speed.
This is making me miserable.
Wednesday, August 11, 2004
Brave Taxi & Limousine Commission "cops" wrestle unarmed, elderly man into handcuffs and offer to arrest bystanders who object to their harsh treatment. See the heroic story here.
Slowly but surely, the scourge of 'freedom of speech' is finally being eradicated from New York's streets. Just in time for the Republican convention.
Idiots.
Slowly but surely, the scourge of 'freedom of speech' is finally being eradicated from New York's streets. Just in time for the Republican convention.
Idiots.
Tuesday, August 10, 2004
That Don Wildmon is a hoot!!
The current bug up his heinie is a series of Sketchers ads featuring Xtina Aguilera in a series of PG (maybe PG13) rated poses. He finds them demeaning to women . . . yep, that Reverend Donny's always been a big supporter of women's rights.
Anyway, here is a link where you can send a letter to Sketchers telling them what depraved and evil people they are. Unfortunately for the Wild Mon, you can change the text to whatever you want (the AFA normally doesn't allow you to alter the text . . . they must be slipping).
Here was my letter:
Dear Chairman Greenberg,
I am highly amused by your "naughty and nice" ad campaign.
It shows a great understanding of the sort of ridiculous sexual stereotypes (nurses, cops, teachers, students) that have fueled males sex fantasies. By bringing these fantasies to life in an exaggerated, cartoonish way, you've made a sly point about men, women and advertising, all while selling your shoes. Good job.
I'm sorry that you're the victim of a negative e-mail blitz from folks who don't have a clue and have way too much time on their hands.
Your timely response to my concerns will make absolutely no difference in whether or not I buy your shoes. I buy Sketchers because they are comfortable, sturdy and stylish.
So if you are so inclined and are not, indeed, offended by Ms. Aguilera (or at least not by her Sketcher ads. I mean, she will certainly wind up in hell for her 'music'), drop by the AFA site and send in aprotest support letter. And if you are offended by the Sketchers campaign, send in a real protest letter. This is America . . . make your voice heard.
The current bug up his heinie is a series of Sketchers ads featuring Xtina Aguilera in a series of PG (maybe PG13) rated poses. He finds them demeaning to women . . . yep, that Reverend Donny's always been a big supporter of women's rights.
Anyway, here is a link where you can send a letter to Sketchers telling them what depraved and evil people they are. Unfortunately for the Wild Mon, you can change the text to whatever you want (the AFA normally doesn't allow you to alter the text . . . they must be slipping).
Here was my letter:
Dear Chairman Greenberg,
I am highly amused by your "naughty and nice" ad campaign.
It shows a great understanding of the sort of ridiculous sexual stereotypes (nurses, cops, teachers, students) that have fueled males sex fantasies. By bringing these fantasies to life in an exaggerated, cartoonish way, you've made a sly point about men, women and advertising, all while selling your shoes. Good job.
I'm sorry that you're the victim of a negative e-mail blitz from folks who don't have a clue and have way too much time on their hands.
Your timely response to my concerns will make absolutely no difference in whether or not I buy your shoes. I buy Sketchers because they are comfortable, sturdy and stylish.
So if you are so inclined and are not, indeed, offended by Ms. Aguilera (or at least not by her Sketcher ads. I mean, she will certainly wind up in hell for her 'music'), drop by the AFA site and send in a
Okay, I try to support the artistic endeavors of my friends, especially when they do something really, really good. Below is some info on my friend (and college classmate) Heather's one-woman show. I saw this a year or two ago and it was absolutely amazing. And NPR loved it, which says a lot in my book. I highly recommend this show and, if nothing else, it will be an evening spent away from the Elephants in Midtown.
After the Storm
Final Four Performances!
As part of New York City's Imagine Festival, timed to coincide with the Republican Convention.
August 27th at 7:30pm
August 28th at 2:30 and 7:30pm
August 29th at 2:30pm
PS 122
150 1st Ave. (@ E. 9th St.), NYC
BOX OFFICE: 212-477-5288
www.ps122.org
Tickets $15, $12 students/veteransTDF vouchers accepted
This is no Jessica Lynch story...
About the show
Set in the midst of a deadly ammunition accident during the first Persian Gulf War, After the Storm is a young girl's saga of high hopes, shocking betrayal and a struggle for identity.Grayson allows us to hear a woman soldier's point of view, courageously sharing her military coming-of-age experience, her disillusionment with the system and her private battles with our nation's largest military service.
Press for After the Storm:
"Richly involving . . . for all the intensity of her play and performance, Ms. Grayson went out of her way to make us laugh at the myriad lunacies of military life."
— New York Times
"As timely as tomorrow's headlines. . . . After the Storm isn't an angry rant or a piece of self-indulgent onstage therapy; it's a slice of frighteningly real life turned into gripping theater by a smart writer who also knows how to act. And, it's funny — even about serious things. Especially about serious things."
— NPR Weekend Edition Sunday(click for RealAudio / MP3 )
"A gripping solo."
— Time Out New York
"The biggest and most gratifying art-related surprise . . . Both serious and funny, a blend that hits the spot in times like these."
— The Washington Post
After the Storm
Final Four Performances!
As part of New York City's Imagine Festival, timed to coincide with the Republican Convention.
August 27th at 7:30pm
August 28th at 2:30 and 7:30pm
August 29th at 2:30pm
PS 122
150 1st Ave. (@ E. 9th St.), NYC
BOX OFFICE: 212-477-5288
www.ps122.org
Tickets $15, $12 students/veteransTDF vouchers accepted
This is no Jessica Lynch story...
About the show
Set in the midst of a deadly ammunition accident during the first Persian Gulf War, After the Storm is a young girl's saga of high hopes, shocking betrayal and a struggle for identity.Grayson allows us to hear a woman soldier's point of view, courageously sharing her military coming-of-age experience, her disillusionment with the system and her private battles with our nation's largest military service.
Press for After the Storm:
"Richly involving . . . for all the intensity of her play and performance, Ms. Grayson went out of her way to make us laugh at the myriad lunacies of military life."
— New York Times
"As timely as tomorrow's headlines. . . . After the Storm isn't an angry rant or a piece of self-indulgent onstage therapy; it's a slice of frighteningly real life turned into gripping theater by a smart writer who also knows how to act. And, it's funny — even about serious things. Especially about serious things."
— NPR Weekend Edition Sunday(click for RealAudio / MP3 )
"A gripping solo."
— Time Out New York
"The biggest and most gratifying art-related surprise . . . Both serious and funny, a blend that hits the spot in times like these."
— The Washington Post
Last week I decided to start going to practice again. Need to get into shape, need to remember how to play, blah, blah, blah. Point being, tonight was to be the first night.
That was before my encounter with Painbringer, PT.
I woke up this morning almost unable to move. My hips, knees, ankles, shins and hamstrings hurt like a sumbitch (as we say back home).
So rather than practicing, I'm going to go to the gym and do the bike for an hour or so to loosen things up. Hopefully I'll be in better shape on Tuesday next so I can practice then.
Last night I walked home (trying to get in shape, after all). Right after walking in the door, I received a call from Michael telling me that he, Rob and Patrick were at XES Lounge for drinks. I was to cancel my plans (I had none) and join them. Great time. XES is a nice bar, clean, dark, nice patio, good crowd. The drinks were twofers during happy hour. The bartenders . . . well, they were pretty, but I wouldn't want them on my team at the Academic Decathalon. The manager (or at least I guess he was the manager . . . he was older than the other two bartenders) was this little crew cut sportin', camo wearin' hottie. Best part of the evening, other than being joined by Bob who lives nearby, was watching 'West Side Story' on a big plasma TV hanging over the bar. Of course, the sound was off so we could enjoy the house music. But this added to the general amusement. Sure we did the usual joking about the white 'Puerto Ricans', the extremely gay dancing gang members (kick, twirl, rumble), and the overblown emotions, but the best part was watching the dance numbers with modern dance mixes playing where Bernstein's score should be. Best one for me was Natalie Wood dancing on the rooftop to Britney Spears' 'Toxic'. It sort of worked.
Though it might have worked better over Anita's 'A Boy Like That'.
That was before my encounter with Painbringer, PT.
I woke up this morning almost unable to move. My hips, knees, ankles, shins and hamstrings hurt like a sumbitch (as we say back home).
So rather than practicing, I'm going to go to the gym and do the bike for an hour or so to loosen things up. Hopefully I'll be in better shape on Tuesday next so I can practice then.
Last night I walked home (trying to get in shape, after all). Right after walking in the door, I received a call from Michael telling me that he, Rob and Patrick were at XES Lounge for drinks. I was to cancel my plans (I had none) and join them. Great time. XES is a nice bar, clean, dark, nice patio, good crowd. The drinks were twofers during happy hour. The bartenders . . . well, they were pretty, but I wouldn't want them on my team at the Academic Decathalon. The manager (or at least I guess he was the manager . . . he was older than the other two bartenders) was this little crew cut sportin', camo wearin' hottie. Best part of the evening, other than being joined by Bob who lives nearby, was watching 'West Side Story' on a big plasma TV hanging over the bar. Of course, the sound was off so we could enjoy the house music. But this added to the general amusement. Sure we did the usual joking about the white 'Puerto Ricans', the extremely gay dancing gang members (kick, twirl, rumble), and the overblown emotions, but the best part was watching the dance numbers with modern dance mixes playing where Bernstein's score should be. Best one for me was Natalie Wood dancing on the rooftop to Britney Spears' 'Toxic'. It sort of worked.
Though it might have worked better over Anita's 'A Boy Like That'.
Laura Bush Endorses Kerry?
At least that's what I'm taking away from this quote.
"In a few months, we will face a choice. Yes, between two candidates and two parties, but more than that. We have a chance to take a giant stride forward for the good of all humanity. We can choose between the future and the past, between reason and ignorance, between true compassion and mere ideology. This is our moment, and we must not falter."
- Laura Bush
Update: Silly, silly me for taking something from the NY Daily News website. The quote above was actually Ron Reagan, Jr., not Laura Bush. The Daily News has since fixed it. Laura's real quote was:
"My father died of Alzheimer's disease ... I hope that stem-cell research will yield cures and therapies for a myriad of illnesses. But I know that stem-cell research is very preliminary right now, and the implication that cures for Alzheimer's are around the corner is just not right, and it's really not fair to the people who are watching a loved one suffer with this disease."
-Laura Bush
And really, who knows more about cutting edge medical research than a woman with a degree in library "science"?
At least that's what I'm taking away from this quote.
"In a few months, we will face a choice. Yes, between two candidates and two parties, but more than that. We have a chance to take a giant stride forward for the good of all humanity. We can choose between the future and the past, between reason and ignorance, between true compassion and mere ideology. This is our moment, and we must not falter."
- Laura Bush
Update: Silly, silly me for taking something from the NY Daily News website. The quote above was actually Ron Reagan, Jr., not Laura Bush. The Daily News has since fixed it. Laura's real quote was:
"My father died of Alzheimer's disease ... I hope that stem-cell research will yield cures and therapies for a myriad of illnesses. But I know that stem-cell research is very preliminary right now, and the implication that cures for Alzheimer's are around the corner is just not right, and it's really not fair to the people who are watching a loved one suffer with this disease."
-Laura Bush
And really, who knows more about cutting edge medical research than a woman with a degree in library "science"?
Monday, August 09, 2004
In an effort to play rugby this season without having my legs pull a Mr. Burns and shatter beneath me when I try to run, I've resumed physical therapy. With a new guy. I'll call him Painbringer, PT. Today was my first appointment. After an excruciating 2 hours with him, during which, inexplicably, only 30 minutes actually passed, I had been stretched, prodded, pushed and poked to within an inch of my life.
Painbringer, PT's assessment was that I should come in three days a week. I will stretch, lift weights, get ultrasound, do cardio and get ice packs. Woo hoo. Of this, the only thing I really enjoy, and hence, the thing that takes the least time, is the ice packs. 10 minutes of bliss. Which unfortunately comes at the end of 80 minutes of pain.
I know that all of this will eventually pay off. I may even be able to play a couple of games this season. But right now, all I can see is the clock ticking away the hours until I have to meet Painbringer, PT again.
I need a drink.
Painbringer, PT's assessment was that I should come in three days a week. I will stretch, lift weights, get ultrasound, do cardio and get ice packs. Woo hoo. Of this, the only thing I really enjoy, and hence, the thing that takes the least time, is the ice packs. 10 minutes of bliss. Which unfortunately comes at the end of 80 minutes of pain.
I know that all of this will eventually pay off. I may even be able to play a couple of games this season. But right now, all I can see is the clock ticking away the hours until I have to meet Painbringer, PT again.
I need a drink.
Hell of a weekend. In a good way.
Thursday, as I mentioned, I saw the first public performance of 'Medea in Jerusalem'. Overall, I enjoyed the production. The set and lighting were well done; frankly, they were better than I expected from a theater of this size. There were very interesting theatrical touches including a radio voiceover with news stories that didn't have anything to do with the play, but set the stage, as it were, for the Jewish/Muslim tensions.
The idea of setting Medea in Jerusalem and making Medea a Muslim worked rather well. Clearly, it makes perfect sense to use the Israeli/Palestinian tension to create a frame of reference that a modern audience might understand. The same could be done by playing with race or class.
My only problem with this production (and this is a bit of a spoiler) is that in this version, Medea's daughter is complicit in the killing of Jason's new wife. In the original, if memory serves, Medea sends her children to Jason's wedding bearing a robe coated with poison. The children present the gift to the new wife, not knowing that it will kill her. When the children return, Medea kills them, leaving Jason bereft of family.
In this version, Medea sends her son to Jason's wedding bearing a bomb in his backpack. She tells the boy that it is a gift for the bride. Her daughter takes the backpack from the boy at the wedding and sends him away, offering herself as a 'martyr' and saving the boy. The boy returns home where he is killed by Medea.
I'm not sure I liked this. Part of the horror of the original story was that Medea's hatred of her treatment at the hands of Jason led her to sacrifice her children, whom she loved, in order to hurt him. They were innocent in all of this. In this new production, the daughter wasn't. Again, I'm not exactly sure what I think of this.
Overall, the acting was good, though there were some scenery-chewing moments. The actress playing Medea (whose name I will look up when I get home and can look at the program) was very good at showing Medea's happiness, growing frustration, anger and eventual madness. The actor playing Jason seemed a little wooden, but I assume this had more to do with Jason's character than with the actor. I would have liked to see a little more emotional range.
All in all, this was well worth seeing, if for no other reason than to see a new take on a classic. For more info on the show go to the Rattlestick Theatre Company's website.
So moving on. Friday night was Nicole's going-away party at Oscar Wilde. It started with a couple of drinks at the Townhouse with Michael Vernon. Fun times were had. Cocktails were drunk. Partygoers were drunk. Pants were dropped. Photos were taken. And posted. Twinkie waiters were engaged in dicussions of theater. Phone numbers were exchanged. All in all, one of the best nights out I've had in a long time. Sorry Nicole is leaving, but it's nice to know I have someone to drink with when I visit Nashville.
Saturday was all about rugby. I was meant to attend the youth rugby day that my team was holding concurrent with our rugby bootcamp. Oddly enough, heavy drinking the night before combined with my inability to remember to set my alarm thwarted that particular endeavor.
Ah, well.
I did show up for the Third Half party and got to meet several of the new recruits. We had 45 people attend bootcamp, our largest so far. It was due in no small part to the excellent work done by our new recruiting chair, but I imagine that the recent spread in Out magazine and The Village Voice didn't hurt either.
Sunday was the Lord's day (to quote an old rugby song). Or rather, it was to be my date with Buddha, as I was planning to attend the meditation class at the local Shambhala. Best laid plans of mice and men . . . Instead, I slept late and watched cooking shows all day. That evening I hooked up with English David and saw 'A Home at the End of the World' which was amazing. Not exactly a feel-good movie, but an excellent one.
Thursday, as I mentioned, I saw the first public performance of 'Medea in Jerusalem'. Overall, I enjoyed the production. The set and lighting were well done; frankly, they were better than I expected from a theater of this size. There were very interesting theatrical touches including a radio voiceover with news stories that didn't have anything to do with the play, but set the stage, as it were, for the Jewish/Muslim tensions.
The idea of setting Medea in Jerusalem and making Medea a Muslim worked rather well. Clearly, it makes perfect sense to use the Israeli/Palestinian tension to create a frame of reference that a modern audience might understand. The same could be done by playing with race or class.
My only problem with this production (and this is a bit of a spoiler) is that in this version, Medea's daughter is complicit in the killing of Jason's new wife. In the original, if memory serves, Medea sends her children to Jason's wedding bearing a robe coated with poison. The children present the gift to the new wife, not knowing that it will kill her. When the children return, Medea kills them, leaving Jason bereft of family.
In this version, Medea sends her son to Jason's wedding bearing a bomb in his backpack. She tells the boy that it is a gift for the bride. Her daughter takes the backpack from the boy at the wedding and sends him away, offering herself as a 'martyr' and saving the boy. The boy returns home where he is killed by Medea.
I'm not sure I liked this. Part of the horror of the original story was that Medea's hatred of her treatment at the hands of Jason led her to sacrifice her children, whom she loved, in order to hurt him. They were innocent in all of this. In this new production, the daughter wasn't. Again, I'm not exactly sure what I think of this.
Overall, the acting was good, though there were some scenery-chewing moments. The actress playing Medea (whose name I will look up when I get home and can look at the program) was very good at showing Medea's happiness, growing frustration, anger and eventual madness. The actor playing Jason seemed a little wooden, but I assume this had more to do with Jason's character than with the actor. I would have liked to see a little more emotional range.
All in all, this was well worth seeing, if for no other reason than to see a new take on a classic. For more info on the show go to the Rattlestick Theatre Company's website.
So moving on. Friday night was Nicole's going-away party at Oscar Wilde. It started with a couple of drinks at the Townhouse with Michael Vernon. Fun times were had. Cocktails were drunk. Partygoers were drunk. Pants were dropped. Photos were taken. And posted. Twinkie waiters were engaged in dicussions of theater. Phone numbers were exchanged. All in all, one of the best nights out I've had in a long time. Sorry Nicole is leaving, but it's nice to know I have someone to drink with when I visit Nashville.
Saturday was all about rugby. I was meant to attend the youth rugby day that my team was holding concurrent with our rugby bootcamp. Oddly enough, heavy drinking the night before combined with my inability to remember to set my alarm thwarted that particular endeavor.
Ah, well.
I did show up for the Third Half party and got to meet several of the new recruits. We had 45 people attend bootcamp, our largest so far. It was due in no small part to the excellent work done by our new recruiting chair, but I imagine that the recent spread in Out magazine and The Village Voice didn't hurt either.
Sunday was the Lord's day (to quote an old rugby song). Or rather, it was to be my date with Buddha, as I was planning to attend the meditation class at the local Shambhala. Best laid plans of mice and men . . . Instead, I slept late and watched cooking shows all day. That evening I hooked up with English David and saw 'A Home at the End of the World' which was amazing. Not exactly a feel-good movie, but an excellent one.
Thursday, August 05, 2004
The poetry reading went really well last night. The anthology is called Bend, Don't Shatter, and the poems deal with gay, adolescent desire. I was blown away by some of the poems, so much so that I'm planning to buy the book when I actually have a little money to spend. I was pretty impressed by one of the poets, T. Cole Rachel, and will probably pick up one of his earlier books as well.
Lord, I wish I were made of money.
As I mentioned, one of my teammates is featured in this anthology, so I got to hear him read. Very interesting. I really liked the poems and his delivery. More than that, though, was the whole 'seeing someone you think you know in a different light' thing. Pretty cool.
Lord, I wish I were made of money.
As I mentioned, one of my teammates is featured in this anthology, so I got to hear him read. Very interesting. I really liked the poems and his delivery. More than that, though, was the whole 'seeing someone you think you know in a different light' thing. Pretty cool.
Wednesday, August 04, 2004
I hate shopping for clothes and only do it when absolutely necessary. However, I love buying new shoes. I don't do it often, mind you, since shoes are expensive.
Today, I had no choice. My favorite pair of shoes was just about to give up the ghost, so I wandered over to Johnston & Murphy to check out their selection. I tried on a few pairs and bought two cap-toe oxfords that were on sale. Love them. J&M make the best shoes as far as I'm concerned.
That being said, I don't think I'll walk home tonight like usual. The shoes are too new for that.
This evening's fun activity is a poetry reading at Barnes & Noble featuring one of my teammates. Should be interesting.
Tomorrow I'm going to the opening (well, the opening of the previews) of 'Medea in Jerusalem', which is, as you no doubt figured out, an updated version of Medea, set in Jerusalem. Medea is Palestinian and Jason is Israeli. Could be interesting.
Today, I had no choice. My favorite pair of shoes was just about to give up the ghost, so I wandered over to Johnston & Murphy to check out their selection. I tried on a few pairs and bought two cap-toe oxfords that were on sale. Love them. J&M make the best shoes as far as I'm concerned.
That being said, I don't think I'll walk home tonight like usual. The shoes are too new for that.
This evening's fun activity is a poetry reading at Barnes & Noble featuring one of my teammates. Should be interesting.
Tomorrow I'm going to the opening (well, the opening of the previews) of 'Medea in Jerusalem', which is, as you no doubt figured out, an updated version of Medea, set in Jerusalem. Medea is Palestinian and Jason is Israeli. Could be interesting.
Tuesday, August 03, 2004
The city didn't blow up. Yea!!!
New Meme (sort of)
Take a photo of a part of your body. Doesn't matter what. E-mail it to me. Don't worry about me posting it; I wouldn't, and besides, I have no idea how to do it. Then cut and paste this onto your site. See if anyone e-mails you (that's the meme part).
Okay, now in reality, this is more than just a meme; it's part of an art project I'm working on. While it is highly unlikely that anyone will ever see said project, if you don't want me to use the photo you send, let me know in the text of the e-mail.
So, if you are up for it, send me a photo.
New Meme (sort of)
Take a photo of a part of your body. Doesn't matter what. E-mail it to me. Don't worry about me posting it; I wouldn't, and besides, I have no idea how to do it. Then cut and paste this onto your site. See if anyone e-mails you (that's the meme part).
Okay, now in reality, this is more than just a meme; it's part of an art project I'm working on. While it is highly unlikely that anyone will ever see said project, if you don't want me to use the photo you send, let me know in the text of the e-mail.
So, if you are up for it, send me a photo.
Monday, August 02, 2004
What? Me worry!
As you can see by the terror alert at right, NYC is now in a full blown Oompa Loompa Alert. Head for the hills, there's trouble a-comin'.
Or not.
As usual, this will probably turn out to be nothing. I'm sure when the next big one comes, no one will see it coming.
Anyway, major anti-social weekend. Invited to go out Friday and Saturday nights. Didn't. Stayed at home. Cleaned a little. Took remarkably long walks. Watched TV.
The high point of the week was to be my first Shambhala meditation class (I wanna be like Zenchick . . . only taller . . . and male). So I waddled over to the class only to find that the Shambhala Center was infested with monks. All (non-member) classes had been cancelled for the day. I presume it was so they could fumigate. As you know, for every monk you see, there are at least ten that you don't.
While I do wish that I could have taken my class, I'm not too upset. The monks were there to make sand mandalas, which I guess is more important than my spiritual enlightenment.
I kid. I'll go next week. No big deal.
Sunday night, instead of watching Six Feet Under, The 4400 and Dead Like Me (who the fuck decided to put all of these on the same freaking night?), I started reading Marc Acito's soon-to-be-published book How I Paid For College: A Novel of Sex, Theft, Friendship & Musical Theater.
This book rocked. I stayed up until 1 a.m. reading it.
But I can't review it just yet. Mostly because I still owe a certain Famous Author a review of his latest novel, which is fantastic, by the way.
Anyway, that's all I got.
As you can see by the terror alert at right, NYC is now in a full blown Oompa Loompa Alert. Head for the hills, there's trouble a-comin'.
Or not.
As usual, this will probably turn out to be nothing. I'm sure when the next big one comes, no one will see it coming.
Anyway, major anti-social weekend. Invited to go out Friday and Saturday nights. Didn't. Stayed at home. Cleaned a little. Took remarkably long walks. Watched TV.
The high point of the week was to be my first Shambhala meditation class (I wanna be like Zenchick . . . only taller . . . and male). So I waddled over to the class only to find that the Shambhala Center was infested with monks. All (non-member) classes had been cancelled for the day. I presume it was so they could fumigate. As you know, for every monk you see, there are at least ten that you don't.
While I do wish that I could have taken my class, I'm not too upset. The monks were there to make sand mandalas, which I guess is more important than my spiritual enlightenment.
I kid. I'll go next week. No big deal.
Sunday night, instead of watching Six Feet Under, The 4400 and Dead Like Me (who the fuck decided to put all of these on the same freaking night?), I started reading Marc Acito's soon-to-be-published book How I Paid For College: A Novel of Sex, Theft, Friendship & Musical Theater.
This book rocked. I stayed up until 1 a.m. reading it.
But I can't review it just yet. Mostly because I still owe a certain Famous Author a review of his latest novel, which is fantastic, by the way.
Anyway, that's all I got.
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