Blog in the Key of G

All in Oats

2010-03-29T11:42:00.001-04:00

So I'm fighting something. I know its not a flu because it did not hit like one; just an annoying runny nose, soar throat, and stiffness. So its a cold, oh colds You Make My Dreams so weird. Initially I couldn't remember what I had dreamed about last night until I revisited the Tivo and was reminded of exactly how much the show Merlin I saw the day before. Apparently all night I was casting rather boring spells. Oh well it gave me a chance to be up early in the morning and make breakfast. Since Dave was getting up as well I thought it would be nice if I would make him a nice hot meal to start off this cold rainy day.

No stuffed french toast, designer pancakes, or yummy sausage. I'm no Rich Girl, so today oatmeal is on the menu. Nothing out of the box with the well meaning quaker guy and no instant. I Can't Go For That. Time for a little Adult Education. Most instant oatmeals are full of sugar,a surprising amount of salt and a sting of ingredients you can't recognize. You don't have time? Please, Say It Isn't So. Yes I admit that it takes longer to prepare oatmeal from scratch than those Did It In A Minute brands, but its so worth it since you can control what goes in it. I choose to use a brand of Irish cut oats, they are thicker than instant and when cooked have a little bite to them.

My favorite is to cut up some apples and fry them up with a little cinnamon and Maple syrup. When the oatmeal is done just fold the fruit into the oats and enjoy. Another great combination is Banana with Cinnamon and brown sugar. Regular oats are tastefully and nutritionally better for you, and since the oats are a whole grain and not the powdered flakes your digestive track will be working on it longer so you will feel fuller longer. Still think I'm Out of Touch with what it takes to get up and go to work in the morning? Fine here's a recipe from one of my favorites people; Alton Brown:

Ingredients:

1 cup steel cut oats

1 cup dried cranberries

1 cup dried figs

4 cups water

1/2 cup half-and-half

Directions:

In a slow cooker, combine all ingredients and set to low heat. Cover and let cook for 8 to 9 hours.

Stir and remove to serving bowls. This method works best if started before you go to bed. This way your oatmeal will be finished by morning.

Have kids? Prepare this at night, its better than any pop tart you could buy.

Yes I know I forgot Maneater, and Private Eyes but you can make it topically appropriate in the comments.

This I Believe . . .

2010-03-22T12:38:00.000-04:00

An important step in our countries history as taken place. Time will weigh in on whether it was a correct one or not. For now though it would seem it has polarized a nation. Even my own family has drawn a line in the sand and come down on both sides. Words are being thrown around regardless of their meanings intended to strike images in ones head, and civil intelligent people have been reduced to name calling. The fault lies no farther away than your own nose. Stop playing Farmville, stop listening to other people's opinions and form your own.

I had intended to write a post about the "evils" of Socialism vs. the "patriotic" Capitalism, but I am no expert and you would not read it. So instead of a litany of facts that people will twist and interpret for their own gains I decided I would do something more straightforward and heartfelt.

This is what I believe...

I believe in social and progressive organizations.
I believe the welfare and betterment of my fellow man are important.
I believe in unemployment assistance, people go through hard times and need help.
I believe that even though I will never have children, it's important for me to pay taxes towards public education.
I believe that a Nation can only be strong when it works together for the benefit of everyone as opposed to everyone out for themselves.
I believe that while not being especially religious in the classical sense, that this, is what Jesus preached.

I believe in a public option.
I believe that a healthy population is a strong population.
I believe that a healthy population will reduce the amount of illness in me.
I believe that most people want healthcare but simply can not afford it.
I believe that companies can not afford to pay the growing cost of healthcare.
I believe that Health insurance companies are out to make money, and they do a very good job of it on the backs of the people it helps.
I believe that the cost of healthcare reform should be weighed against the cost of unnecessary wars that had to be fought.
I believe that people with great healthcare really are the lucky ones and are content at not changing a system running the risk that down the road they may be dumped; just because it benefits themselves now regardless of what there relatives or neighbors may be struggling with.
I believe that our government does waste money, but public healthcare would not be that waste.
I believe that we have taken the first steps to correct our problems

I believe that Americans have gotten lazy and would rather copy and paste an opinion than create a new solution.

So with this I challenge you. What are your beliefs not your facts, not your regurgitation of talking heads on TV? What do you believe in?

Shorts

2010-03-18T16:59:00.000-04:00

I remember a little over 10 years ago when I was attending college in upstate Vermont we would get these random days in March where everything would just thaw. It was the onset of Vermont's fifth season, Mud Season. How was this occasion marked? Well the temperature would get to about 50 degrees and suddenly you would see shorts cropping up around campus. Still a little chilly for you southern folk I know but for us it was a heat wave. Windows were opened and even though there may have been a foot of snow on the ground, and there would be in all likelihood another round of snow coming until May, we would be out celebrating. Hell classes were even skipped so that people could just go outside and enjoy it.

Today feels like one of those days; at least it does down here in JC where it just reached 70F. In fact I'm wearing shorts, sneakers and a polo right now with the windows open. I know next week it will be back into the 40's but until that time I am going to enjoy it. This weekend I really have no plans and the forecast is to be around 70 degrees and sunny both days. While I may not have Lake Willoughby to visit I do want to get outside and enjoy the weather before it disappears for awhile. Who knows what we will do. Even if we just get outside at the local Biergarten I will be happy.

Beware though. My father, who although lacks the training of an official Meteorologist and does not have the trick knee that can predict rain like the old-timers in the mountains, has weighed in on this summer's forecast. His prediction is hurricanes and lots of them, right up the East Coast. My father may not have the eccentricities of official weather forecasters but that is more than made up for in accuracy. Normally Dad is correct when it comes to predicting the type of winter we will be having and when he announces something about hurricanes you may want to just listen. So even though last year we may not have had a summer, watch out this year because there just may be a storm a coming.

Irish Need Not Apply

2010-03-17T11:15:00.001-04:00

I want to thank corporate America for the inspiration for today's blog.

Hibernophobia or Anti-Irish Racism was prevalent in 19th century UK and USA leading to the crafting of the attached sign. Originally the sentiments were born out of the Irish refusal to give up Catholicism and later morphed into a series of stereotypes centering around an icon of a fat drunk loud Irishmen more familiar with the bottom of a pint glass than a hard days work. Today in 2010 we have parades in the streets in cities known for its Irish heritage, arguably illustrating our new tolerance and acceptance for public drunkenness rather than true Irish heritage.

How does this relate to me? Well my own Irish heritage is highly dubious, if you were to listen to my sister you'd think we came off the boat but to be honest in my limited research into genealogy I know I am no more than at least 25% Irish, and to be truthful I believe it to be much less. What has survived was our last name, Earley. Its definition in Old English is "eagle wood." Surnames in the UK were derived from 7 types: Occupation, Personal Characteristics, Geographical Features, Descendants of Landowners named after the land, descendants of other family members, and is most likely the case Place names. It doesn't take much research to look at a map and find Earley just west of London, England. Yep thats right England. More than likely even if we did pass by the emerald shores before our eventual settlement here we did start off in England.

Of course the rest of the family names, Bibeau, Partridge, and Lepage just scream cheese, wine, cigarettes and berets. So maybe we are much more suited to celebrating Bastille Day. Even with the mixed heritage I think we can celebrate today. I just looked out the window and I can see a Philippino man in Kelley green so if he can celebrate so can I. Its a good thing I have the corned beef and cabbage already in the refrigerator.

Besides I certainly feel Irish, or at least the Irish of old. All I would like to do is get back to work and be useful again in whatever modest capacity; however Corporate America is proving to be as uninviting as always to the point at which I don't think they want to give anyone a job. Last night around 8:30 I sent my information to a company and within less than 2 hours I was given a nicely written rejection letter. It was nicely written yet laughably untrue. Had it come in a couple of days it would have been more believable. Instead my well written resume and cover letter were churned through some computerized version of a meat grinder and somehow wasn't fit for sausage, so it sent me back my response:

We have reviewed your resume {we stuck it in a computer with no soul} as it relates to the XXXXXX position located in Englewood, New Jersey and while we are impressed with your accomplishments {we would have said this even if you spent the last 20 years with a thumb up your ass}, we are continuing our search for candidates whose skills and experience more closely align with the requirements for the position {eventhough you may have been an exact match you don't fit our demographics} and our business needs {price range} at this time.

Your resume will be kept on file {is being recycled as we speak} for one year and will be considered for appropriate opportunities should they become available. Please continue to monitor our career opportunities at www.xxxxx.com/jobs. {we are too ignorant to even realize this statement negates the previous sentence and shows that we don't keep anything on file and won't be calling you}

Am I mad? No. Just illustrates even more why corporate America is not the route for me, or at least this part of corporate America. So I'm off to join the day, and to make our dinner for this evening.

Erin Go Bragh

Question: What do you do to re-leave the stress of job hunting?

2010-03-16T17:51:00.003-04:00

Answer: You cook. Or more precisely I make meatballs.

If one thing has improved since my excursion south its definitely been my culinary repertoire. Certainly not my blogging, which I pledge to change. Today I made meatballs from scratch. I'm never a fan of the prefabricated meatballs one gets in the market since they really don't taste like meat. So I made my own and I think I have perfected the mix. My style of cooking is very simple. I prefer to make things homemade. Store bought items are often times to processed and contain GMO's, High fructose Corn Syrup, unnecessary fats and unpronounceable salts. In the long run I think the extra time I take to create a meal may actually just extend my life a little longer than those food additives could.

I think I perfected my recipe today; producing a superior ball that holds up well whether one chooses to fry them or bake them. Definitely writing this mix down for future consumption. It just has to pass one last test. That would be the taste test. I already fried up one to make sure the seasoning was right, but the final thumbs up or down goes to Dave. While it is rare I ever get a thumbs down, I do have some things I could improve on.

Tomorrow is a big dinner at home though. Dave gets to have his first traditional New England Boiled Dinner, Corned Beef and Cabbage to all of you outside the New England Area.

Searching

2009-12-29T06:26:00.000-05:00

Waking up at quarter to five in the morning has got to be one of my favorite things. ??? Yes, those who know me right now are scratching their heads in disbelief. Yes I am tired and more than a little concerned I've picked up a cough from Dave but other than that I'm good for now. Listening to a city on the dawn of a new day. It's going to be a windy one.
What do I get to do? Hmm laundry and groceries. Not that I mind this burst of domesticality I've succumbed to, but for me I've seemed to have atuned my image of self with my occupation. Since I don't have work at the moment and the prospects of one seem to be elluding me. I'm stuck with this rather awkward anxious feeling. When looking for a new job the first question I ask myself is. "Do you really want to be a ...". Fill in the blank. I mean your job is your identity these days.
Think about it. When you first meet someone, say at a party what's one of the first questions you ask someone? "And what do you do?". I suppose it's a fair question but does it really define who you are. Hell; there are half a dozen other "jobs" I'd rather have but the thing is they don't pay the bills.
A "Renaissance Man" in this day and age is almost unheard of since without a trust fund or old money to carry them through how can one survive. Relax I'm not comparing myself to Davinci nor am I lamenting not being a trust fund baby. I just really wish there was something out there that I truly want to do that would actually pay the bills that's all. Until such time, I will continue to do what I need to to get by.

Location:6th St,Jersey City,United States

For All The Places You Will Go

2009-09-24T11:23:00.002-04:00

I had no idea when the clock struck midnight on December 31 turning us over to this new year that it would go like this. Its been a wild ride and I know I haven't been there to document it like I used to. For that dear reader I apologize. I knew at the beginning of the year there was change coming and I knew I was going to have to do something. I had become stagnant and too complacent in life. Now as I reflect on the past 6 months and all that has transpired I can say that I made the right choices in my life. As faith would demonstrate, once I started making those decisions to change and actually live this life things started to open up for me in the most positive ways. Life has been rewarding and the opportunities I've had have been great. In the coming months I will be endeavoring to write more and tell you all about what has gone on in my life but for now there are two things I want to share with you.

First, the rumors and speculation are all true. Very soon I will departing this city I've made my home. At first I was reluctant to move to Boston given its expense and the prospect of living with a roommate. Fortune favored me as I was able to find both a good apartment and a better roommate. I love this city and know that there will never be a place quite like it. From hanging out at the Middle East, to watching the game at Fenway, taking the T in to South Station, sitting in the common reading or strolling down the public gardens in spirited debate I have loved every minute of it. Now though that time has come to a close and as November 1 closes in around us. I will be moving on to the mother of all cities; New York City.

Intimidating yes, but the greater the risk the bigger the reward. I've already started to carve up ever so small slices of the Big Apple to explore, and where I thought my experiences in Boston were numerous I am positive that New York will be limitless. It may be the hight of hubris to say this but I think New York needs me. While I'd never be able to tame such a fierce animal, I at least want to stand up and look in its eyes.

Last before I break for the day I want to share something with you all. Months ago when I left my work a friend of mine gave me a postcard, and on it was transcribed a quote that I've carried around with me in all my travels these past months. The quote was from Ernest Hemingway and it's been my creedo for my current adventures. I would like to share it with you in the hopes that in some way you will be able to understand and experience the same things that I have in my life.

"In going where you have to go, and doing what you have to do, and seeing
what you have to see, you dull and blunt the instrument you write with.
But I would rather have it bent and dulled and know I had to put it on the
grindstone again and hammer it into shape and put a whetstone to it, and know
that I had something to write about, than to have it bright and shining and
nothing to say, or smooth and well oiled in the closet, but unused."

Pride and Prejudice

2009-06-14T18:54:00.002-04:00

Well Pride Boston 2009 has come to a close. I think every year in Boston the Pride Celebrations get a little longer. Soon it shall encompass the entire month of June in one whimsical pink feather boa. Sadly I have no pics from the weekends events to post since I just finished figuring out how to charge my new camera battery. Not that there would have been many this year. My participation this year in events was somewhat lackadaisical. Having been traveling most of the week before, then moving my worldly possessions and finally attending a party until about 3:30 AM Saturday I was exhausted. I woke Saturday AM at 10:30 and knew I should get going if I was going to meet up with people and go to the parade. I jumped onto the B line as it was coming by, knowing full well its reputation for being the tortoise of all the green lines. I was elated when the conductor decried the train to be express. At this point really it was a good decision as I found myself surrounded by some teenage lesbians who also were destined for the parade.

Now I don't have an issue with Lesbians; it just seems that they always don't like me for some reason. Now that is not always the case but 9 times out of 10 I will get a discouraging look for my efforts to be social so I let them be merely observing the conversation they were having. Slow and steady did not win this race or get us there any faster as our forward momentum quickly came to a grinding halt. The conductor got on the PA system with his best Mushmouth voice announcing that there was a "Plaster Crane on Cerberus" or at least that's what it sounded like; what he meant was a "Disabled Train in Front of Us". JOY! and if your reading this and you know me you know what I did next. Immediately began calculating at what stop I should get off versus the risk of catching up with the parade. My calculations though were interrupted by the sudden stirrings of the lesbians. They were harping on the T until one of them called out in her best here me roar voice that "we are lesbians we can do anything". I chuckled warmly at this. About 5 minutes later we got to see exactly what her mettle looks like as the lights went out and the train jerked. Suddenly Wonder Woman became a scared little 5 year old clutching on to her lovers tattered leggings for safety as she nuzzled her pierced face in their warm embrace. "We can do anything" indeed.

Now I don't mean to pick on my "sister" here but lets face it. She's a classic example of what I see today on the streets where ever I go. Maybe its because I wear my heart on my sleeve that I don't find this need to put on some false persona. Essentially what you see is what you get. There are others out there like me but they are few and far between. See how my "sister" reacted was not bad or comedic it was instinct in response to unfamiliar stimuli. Her fight or flight response was triggered. We learned that despite her bravado she's more on the flight side of the equation. There's nothing wrong with that; so what's the need to overcompensate?

Eventually the train started moving again. I decided the risk versus return on catching up with the parade would be best if I got off at Park St. Which is where I ascended the stairs and took off for the state house. As I was getting closer to the street I could establish where the parade was by simply listening to the melodious roar of the self designated "Dykes on Bikes". Sure enough I climbed the steps in order to see the parade right on time. I watched as each groups marched, some with floats some without. There were churches with banners, social groups raising awareness for things such as domestic violence, and some sponsors and candidates who bordered on pandering to us. As if by blaring 70's - 80's club music it will get me to vote for you or buy your product. I appreciate the support, attendance and participation in the days festivities but please come up with some better material. Your attempts at camaraderie seem cheap at best.

Scattered between the above were your expected club floats, and ethnic groups. To witch I realized that we are all at this parade, hell we are all at this event but we are a separate nation. Lesbians, Transgendered, Poly, Leather, Bear, Twink hell we have more subsections than we do colors on our flag. While we may be here together on this day what the hell else are we doing during the rest of the year to bridge this gap. This is why the fight for equality is slow and steady. Like the rest of the animals we herd. We form our little groups and hierarchies to feel safe and maintain order. What does it accomplish though other than our mere survival. Left up to our own devices we've created our own little segregated nation no different from the one we want to be treated equally in. So much so that our nations are now stereotypes of what they once espoused. Fetishes taken to the extreme and now branded as the calling cards of our society.

I'm not preaching for conformity, I don't want a single person to become something they are not. I want people to be who they are not what their society tells them they should be. Even my own community which I should belong to was created as an alternative to the main stream gay culture at the time were men could be themselves and not have to conform to the main stream movement. It recognized men for what they are and we are in fact people of all different shapes and sizes. This community is called the Bear community. Even from its benign beginnings the community today has changed. It limits in its acceptance those who it considers in its population. Its message of inclusion replaced by stereotypes to exclude by. No longer can someone who just wants to associate with this group simply do so without looking the part. This attitude is prevalent throughout the society as whole not just the Bears, not just the Twinks.

We grouped together for protection for our survival, now though I fear that survival method has stunted our growth. Its time to start casting off those symbols of subculture and embrace who we really are. We are all unique individuals with a gift we can give to ourselves and our communities. Do not stifle it in the conformity of the comfortable. Challenge yourself every day to be the best person you can be. That my friends is what you should be Proud of; its not what you are but what you have become.

This is the way the world ends.

2009-06-03T09:11:00.003-04:00

So as with any life altering events I've had, this one is no different. They are usually highlighted by a period of intense dreams. Most likely my subconscious mind working on overdrive to piece together what the hell I have done in the waking world. For the past couple of days I've been having very vivid dreams which all seem to end pretty badly. I've had friends become enraged with me, particularly violent dreams, and even a nice dream or two cut short by some kind of event. It wasn't until last night that they started to come together. Its playing out in my mind like some kind of Sci-Fi flick.

My first dream last night was of no particular merit until the end. I was visiting my parents in Chicago in what will be there new apartment. I was looking at my mother who was standing in front of big window that looked out on to Lake Michigan. Suddenly I saw behind her a face in the glass peering over her shoulder at me. I looked away and then it dawned on me what I saw and I looked back. Not only was it still there but I recognized the face as well. It was my old friend from when I was growing up. He was none to happy and even less mortal, as apparently he was now dead and a ghost. Stunned I was speechless as he drifted up and over my mother straight at me. As he advanced towards me he said "Garrett, you don't have much time left". To which I remember thinking what is this a Christmas Carol? Is he the ghost of Christmas past? Then I woke. Weird. I know my friend is alive and well, married and although we don't talk as much; I know that no harm has come to him. The warning while a bit unsettling took on a different meaning the moment I fell asleep again.

Now this one was set in Boston I could tell it was an immediate future. As the dream played out the time line was skewed so I shall retell it in as best chronological order as I can. Near as I can tell I was downtown but the layout had changed. I was on Boylston St. close to the common before actually getting to it. I remember having on my backpack as I walked down the street. It was a warm day so I was sweating. I stopped and sat and opened my pack to fetch a new dry shirt. As I did so I was approached by two people who obviously wished to do me harm. Essentially they wanted me to hand over my pack and I refused they got increasingly more belligerent and I wouldn't budge. One who was bald pulled a knife. To which I had responded with my own. His partner decided I was to much effort and ran off. My bald assailant became less enthused about harassing me but was persistent enough to shadow me. Figuring he would cave in with the proposition of his easy prey turning into a hard earned mugging I advanced on him. As we entered the street I turned west and started to hear a commotion coming from down the road and saw something moving up in the clouds.

As it moved around a building I saw that it was not a thing at all but the clouds themselves. I was watching the formation of a funnel cloud as it rapidly descended onto the city. Mind you it was not a large one. More like the pencil thin variety compared to the black voluminous ones that can swallow up whole towns. I remember thinking that tornadoes don't form in cities, even in tornado alley. The only tornado I know that even hit a city was in Worcester in the 1950's. Even it though was formed outside the city and the city was no where near big as Boston. Regardless; the fact was I'm standing in a street with a tornado bearing down on me. My new friend was long gone from what he saw, maybe there was some sense in him after all; even if it did take an act of self preservation to make him realize it.

At this time I followed suit. I turned tale and ran for cover. As any person should know when trying to escape a barreling tornado there are a few things you need to do. Find shelter preferably in a basement, and second while fleeing try to run perpendicular to the path of the storm, because frankly you can't outrun mother nature but you can occasionally get out of her way. While the cloud was approaching I could not find any unlocked building to take cover in. Most having large panes of glass they were not suitable for hiding in. I got to the area where the common now stands but in its place where old abandoned buildings. Now I am literally quite thinking "Any port in a storm" so I make a dash for the closest building and as I expect its boarded and padlocked. It is at this time I realize the storm has changed direction and is coming closer but not at me. What is taking aim at me though is a continuous stream of lightning. It was a peculiar characteristic for lightning to take, while fascinating to watch my curiosity would get the better of me if I didn't find shelter soon.

I turned to the building and saw a small window that was open blocked by a piece of wood that was padlocked. Adrenaline was coursing through me as I ripped the wood away with my hands and pushed the window open to its fullest aperture. I tore off my backpack and through it in and dove in after it escaping the approaching melee. Safe at least for now. I was on the cool floor of this dusty warehouse in the dark breathing heavily thankful for my quick thinking and the building's solid construction. It wasn't until later that I would find out exactly how relative the term "safe" was.

Despite believing I was alone in the dark after a few minutes catching my breath I learned that neither was true. A light bulb turned on, it was the kind that hangs from the ceiling and usually has a string attached. On the other end of the string is a white haired man, dressed in dark slacks and shoes with a grey shirt on with a collar reminiscent of the clergy. If the man had at one time been of the cloth he no longer possessed its benefits as he was unkempt in appearance and as he spoke I could clearly tell he was disturbed. It was not in a way that one would classify a homeless vagrant but more disturbed from the knowledge of seeing something no mortal was ever suppose to see. He seemed shell shocked but he was definitely lucid.

He told me that I had stumbled upon his safe haven. As I looked around I noticed that the warehouse while abandoned by its owners was now the residence of this rag tag group of people. Who at first glance I thought were homeless. I asked the white haired man what this place was? Did they all lose their homes to the economy? He said simply no. He said that these people chose to come here, leaving behind perfectly good homes. I was stunned. The others didn't seem homeless in fact they appeared to look like a community, everyone was chipping in and helping each other. Its like I stumbled upon and underground kibbutz or commune. I asked the man, who clearly was their spokesman, why here why not outside at the very least on open land where they can at least grow their own food. He told me that they had to live there out of necessity as it was not safe in the world above.

He explained further that there is a problem with the world. He did not explain how he knew but just that our world will soon be attacked He told me that there were others outside our world who are actively working to eliminate us from it. Their actions could already be seen he said. He pointed to the current political climate and world economy. He related to me stories of other bizarre weather patterns around the globe to which I had to concede illustrated a bit of validity to his words because that storm that just hit was anything but normal. It seemed as if it had a purpose to cause as much destruction as possible.

That aside he went onto to explain that these interlopers who were meddling in Earth's affairs were still gathering information. The more people out in the world the faster they could get that knowledge, because apparently the information they needed was at the genetic level, so the more people removed from the general populace the better and longer it would take them to get to their ultimate plan. I don't know why I believed him. The whole idea was fantastic as if every element of a sci-fi book or flick were coming to reality. Despite my concerns and suspicions I too decided that I would reside there with them. At the very least it was a self supporting community and I know they could use someone like me helping. It was not soon after that I would be joined by a few other friends.

In time we all began to see what the others were talking about. I however, would not be content just staying put passively aggressively fighting what was to come. I took to the streets having become a private detective. It gave me some leeway to be able to investigate incidents without drawing to much attention. Everything I found though was pointing to a grim outcome. I soon came to understand that if I resisted and fought I would quickly be consumed and destroyed in some manner so I resigned my self to observation. It was too late to affect any change, and part of me didn't want to. Having seen what the human race is capable of I was not above thinking that maybe we deserved it for all the war and destruction we've wrought on ourselves. It was now only a matter of time before it was over, and there was a small part of me that was relieved.

Soon I found myself back on Boylston St. were this all began and sure enough my friend, the would be assailant, decided to try again. This time he had a gun, but so did I. He pulled out his handgun but I didn't even reach for mine, after all what difference would it make if I died here or in some climactic earth shattering way. With my gun at my side I threw one hell of right hook and sent him flying. He recovered running into a nearby club. I pursued and as he ran up the stairs he toppled some people down the stairs and I realized that my own personal safety aside I couldn't let him harm anyone else. I ran back downstairs grabbed my gun that had come loose in the dash up the stairs. I remember it being some gold plated handgun but it was very smooth and rather futuristic. I reached the top of the stairs and he started to fire at me. I remember shouting to him, pleading to him not to make me do this. He responded with more gunfire. I remember cocking the gun, I rounded the corner and took aim. I knew that even if I got hit I would still have time to make my shot count. He stood from behind is hiding spot and started to unload, I shot once. It hit him square in the chest killing him instantly. The force of the shot put him through a window but did not make him fall to the street below. Instead he was no slouched out the open window arm draping down over the gathering crowd below.

I went downstairs and showed my ID to the police and started to head back the warehouse that was my home now. I heard a sound behind me and I looked back up at the broken window and thought I saw something. Kind of like a small spark no larger than a gold ball, and then it disappeared. I kept on walking and the sound returned this time larger and I turned to see a small building suddenly implode. It fell inward on itself and kept becoming impossibly more dense and compact until it was gone, people and all. Then there was a burst of light from the point that it disappeared as if a small star just went nova, and instantly anything along the blast wave was incinerated. From my distance I was knocked to my feet by the pressure wave. That's when I knew. It was over. This was the event. I got back to my feet to run back to the warehouse. I don't know why it would not have helped me. Then the sound came again I looked back to see a large sky scrapper was collapsing in on itself, and I knew that each explosion was getting progressively bigger and there was no way I was going to escape this blast. Sure enough the building was gone. Erupting from its core was a fire that I knew would carry me to the next life. I saw the wave approach and wash over me like a shower one steps into that's too hot. I turned as the clothes burned away from my body. I could see the skin peel away from my arms and the watched as the people who were near me shared the same fate. The last thing I remember as the fire consumed me was collapsing to the ground as my muscles could no longer support me. Death was moments away, on the ground helpless I felt as if I was being pulled backwards my body was being drawn towards the void to fill the vacuum created by the blast wave. My body was crashing into others and debris until it was all just one indistinguishable pile of ash.

I was dead. My body was destroyed, but my consciousness existed if only for a little while. In that time it visited every other dream I have had for the past few nights and it showed me that this is how it always ended. In every dream in every scenario where ever I was or whatever I was doing it all ended the same way. I knew those dreams had ended abruptly due to something, only now did I realize that it was this event in every dream.

I don't claim to know what it all means. I have my suspicions, but let me be clear I do not believe that there are Aliens setting out to destroy us. I do know that every aspect of my life is changing again, and not much of that old one will remain when its over.

Its not a bad thing, it just is.

Peace.

The Incredibly Fabulous Life of the Un.Employed Mr. Earley

2009-06-01T22:50:00.004-04:00

I know the title is a bit campy, and despite what you may think camp is not necessarily one of my shticks. There is an inside joke there for those who see it.

Any ways today I guess you could say is day one of my new life. I didn't count the weekend for a couple of reasons. A) It all kind of blended together B) It was just the weekend. Today was the first day I would have been at work had I not decided to leave. It was weird. Unlike most other days. Normally if I were to take a day off I would have gone somewhere, since I really didn't the first half of the day felt more like a sick day. I felt like I shouldn't leave the house cause I was sick or something. I shook myself out of that funk around noon time. Just in time to get a text from my friend Melanie.

Melanie having been out of town for the past week and a half missed all the goings on and stuff so we had a sushi lunch to start to catch up. I realized as we were leaving there really was not enough time. What can I say? I had a busy couple of weekends. It was good to see her though, its unusual for me to feel so close to people at a job I once had. I know its only been a couple of days but still. These people I worked with for years. We've laughed we've cried we've kicked some serious ass. I guess it was only natural deep relationships would form. I also wanted to see her so she could bring news back to the office that despite photographic proof to the contrary (thanks Shawn) I did survive my going away party.

I think I will skip over the details of the party and the rest of events this weekend. If you were there you know what happened, if not the stories that are circulating seem far more scintillating than any description I could give. Suffice to say I had fun Friday and Saturday. Sunday was just plain weird and proof positive that I don't seek drama. It just has this uncanny ability to find me. Seriously all I did was sit at a bar stool and BAM! drama.

Its my first blog in a bit so maybe you were thinking you get a little more, maybe something a little deeper. Nah not this time. Just getting back into the swing of things that's all. I went to the gym earlier today. I'm now making it a point to get to the gym in the morning so I can start the day right. I actually did a great grocery trip today. I got these things called vegetables. I should say previous to this I did eat them but they were more pre-packaged. These are fresh I actually have to use a knife to cut them and take time to prepare them. I'm a little proud of myself. Screw that a lot proud of myself. I hadn't realized just how much of me seemed to start to slip away.

So tomorrow I am going to the beach. I haven't decided which one at this point but I know there will be one. Most likely Wednesday too. This week and next I am going to treat as an extended vacation of sorts and unwind. I think I am freaking my roommate out too. I don't think he can quite comprehend what I did or why, but in a way I even have trouble with it at times. So I can't blame him.

I bought myself a nice little compact camera tonight as well. My old one is just not that portable and frankly is getting quite old. So I picked up a nice little treat on sale and will put it to good use tomorrow. Stay tuned for pics.

Peace.

I Promise

2009-05-17T23:14:00.002-04:00

More to come soon. Its just been crazy these past few weeks. A lot of changes are happening some wanted and others less so. Either way I'm accepting them in some sort of Zen like manner that I've not had in a long time. Leads me to believe I am on the right path. The past few weeks have been hard, but change is coming soon. I'm not sure where the winds are going to take me once I set sail but I like the direction its blowing.

Set course: Second star to the right and straigt on till morning.

Where's Waldo?

2009-05-12T00:42:00.002-04:00

"To laugh often and much; To win the respect of intelligent people and the affection of children; To earn the appreciation of honest critics and endure the betrayal of false friends; To appreciate beauty, to find the best in others; To leave the world a bit better, whether by a healthy child, a garden patch, or a redeemed social condition; To know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived. This is to have succeeded." - Ralph Waldo Emerson

Maybe its because he's a local boy or maybe its because his ideas follow so closely to my own but I recently re read "Self Reliance". It only goes to show that the lessons of yesterday are well worth revisiting.

Squirrel Fever

2009-04-28T09:27:00.003-04:00

Has anyone else noticed the same trend that I have? I will overlook the sensationalist reporting about the swine flu (just something new to report besides the economy), to get to my cheif concern. Sure Swine Flu may not be as deadly as some other forms of illnesses out there that we chose to ignore on a daily basis. What concerns me most and what should concern you is the pattern. Well here is a little perspective for you H5N1, BSE/MCD, and SIV. You may recognize them more by their Colloquiel names respectively Bird(Avian) Flu, Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy/Mad Cow Disease, and finally Swine Influenza. See it yet? Poultry, Beef and Pork its whats for dinner.

I think its time the world and more importantly the US take an active interest the food chain. What we do is not sustainable. A steak on every plate is not attainable or sustainable; and nor should it be. As a society we need to start paying closer attention to where our resources come from be it the food on our tables to the clothes on our back. Its time we start to realize the true cost of the items we buy and the lifestyles we choose to live.

New Life - New Blog - Next Chapter, Turn the Page

2009-04-26T23:18:00.004-04:00

The weather is getting warmer and summer is most definitely on its way and if this weekend was a sign of things to come; I will welcome a warm not so humid season. The sights of trees in bloom, the sounds of people milling about outside, and the smell of grass and mulch around have awoken the sense of Spring in me. A very specific spring to be exact, May 2000 to be exact.

Its not just the elements that have conspired to make me reminisce. Its also the circumstances that my life has wrought. Nine years ago I graduated college and very quickly needed to decide what to do with my life; sense of urgency aside for the moment I find myself facing the same conundrum. Sure one can argue that I'm a bit wiser, maybe a little more seasoned, but still that big unknown is still out there.

I'm sure nine years ago I would have never believed I would find myself where I am today. Even if I were to have foreseen some of the trials and tribulations that I've endured would I really feel as if things would come full circle? Maybe there is a reason for it.

I remember it was a time in my life where things were coming to a close. It was a high note really one of the best years of my life. I thought I was prepared for anything, and I was ready to go wherever to find my place in this world. I was definitely smart but not knowledgeable. That would only come with time and the understanding that one can never truly know all. Although my schooling was over; my learning was just beginning. It wasn't until I graduated that I learned to ride a bike. There I was on an empty campus cruising through the court yards and parking lots on a rented bike. It was at that point I discovered I will never stop learning and like the bicycle its never to late to learn.

Of course I need to give credit where credit is due. Its not like I picked up the bike from the shop and decided that day I would ride a bike for the first time. Really it was gift from a special person in my life at the time who gave it to me. I don't think he ever truly knew or understood what he gave to me that day.

It was a hectic time for sure. I was in love, I had friends, I had hopes and dreams but despite it all I felt like I was standing on the edge of the water, at night before a dark ocean. I was not afraid of falling in; that's for certain. It was just the uncertainty and the unknown that permeated my thoughts. The desire to set my course and discover my future. My curse was that I had no instruments to guide me on my journey, no compass to plot a course. I relied on people for help and set on my journey.

Now though I find myself staring out on that same ocean. Its no less dark or foreboding, but this time I have something that my younger self did not: confidence, focus, and dare I say a glimmer of faith. While my course is not set in stone or even plotted at this point I know now that I will be far better equipped for this journey. My destination is yet to be determined. but if there is one thing I've learned in all this time it is that its not nearly as important as how I get there.

Peace

Oh Good Grief

2009-04-08T21:07:00.002-04:00

Warning the following message is a rant and has not been edited for content, spelling and or grammar. You've been warned.

AAUGH!!!!! Ok I know my life is not shit and there are far more people having a bad day right now. I know this. I have to rant though. Today's just been one of those where you just can't get ahead. I mean I find myself in bed at 9 Pm not just cause I'm sick but partly cause I want it to end.

Work is going alright, I'm still putting affairs in order and organizing as much as I can. My last day is May 29th. I still can't believe it. Even when I type it out like that. As much as it saddens me I also am looking at it as an opportunity and one which I am very greatful for.

Today though tested my patience. Oh it wasn't anything at work. Although I did say good bye to a colleague moving to a new department. It was a precursor to what I will be doing next month and it left me feeling quite a few mixed emotions. Before that though I met Dan for lunch at the Soup Factory. I enjoyed my Matzoh Ball soup ( hey its Passover in Newton, when in Rome...) as he filled me in on the many adventures of his tour. We talked about the upcoming months and the warmer weather ahead. It was nice since it had been well over a month since we had a chance to sit down and have lunch.

My temper was spurned as I made my way back having stopped for a tea at Starbucks I was waiting at the crosswalk for traffic. There was no one to my left except for Taxi way off in the distance. The other side of the street was in no rush to stop. Eventually someone took note and started to slow. The taxi however was not slowing down to my left. I locked eyes with the Jackass and all he did was wag his finger at me. WAG HIS FINGER AT ME!!! I'm a God DAMN PEDESTRIAN IN A CROSSWALK!!!! MF JACKASS!!! Veteran's Taxi no less. The other traffic stopped and allowed me to cross as I stomped back to the office questioning the dubious heritage and obvious intelligence of the driver.

I get back to the office out of breath; truly upset at the fact that I was out of breath, and quietly thankful that my Dr. had an opening today for me tonight. This afternoon dragged on as the only real thing I wanted was to be in bed. My energy is just not there. Flash forward 4 long hours and my Dr. is telling me that I do in fact have bronchitis again, and had I waited a couple more days and it would have developed into pneumonia again considering its in the same place as last time. So meds in hand I head back home but not before a little dinner at the Biltmore (my Cheers if you will).

I'm seriously tired of being sick I was very tempted to beg my Doc to put me in the hospital on an IV drip till I'm healthy but I figured I'd catch something worse there. Lets hope this dose of drugs does the trick otherwise the next course of action is a CAT scan to see why the hell its not going away. At this point I just want a little warm weather so I can sit in a field of grass and feel the breeze. At least I have some rest lined up for the weekend.

Alright sorry for the venting. I'll do better next time.

The Dawning of A.I.

2009-04-01T22:10:00.003-04:00

Ever stop to think that maybe the A.I. that they warn us about in the Terminator series may not be Artificial Intelligence. I submit its the collective American Idol A.I. that we should be worried about.

Anyway, so last night I heard it in my lungs, this morning I felt it in my chest, and this evening you can hear it in my voice. I obeyed the siren song of OJ this morning and am getting some rest. While this is not going to be any kind of blockbuster cold I know its imminent. Sigh, I have had enough of this cold season. Maybe I should volunteer and move someplace warmer. Well at least it should be a relatively slow weekend. All I am really doing is picking up a friend at the airport and going to dinner on Sunday. I'm not quite sure what I am doing yet Opening day, but I know I want to see the game somewhere if I can't snatch a ticket or two from somewhere.

I feel oddly calm these days. Yes things at work do lead me to believe that there is a thing called the Bizarro universe, but all in all I feel confident in what I am doing. Its been awhile since I've felt that way. This year is going to be fun and an adventure for sure. I've been checking out the Boston Institute of Language and looking at their Summer Immersion program. In four weeks of work I'd be speaking fluent Mandarin. The thought of studying is positively exhilarating.

Endgame

2009-03-27T23:30:00.000-04:00

The Following Post was written 3/20/09: Publication delayed due to content.

Have you ever had a shock so big it immediately unhinges you from life? An event or epiphany so profound it changes your way of thinking. Things that were on your mind yesterday, don't even get a mention today. That is sort of what happened to me this week. One moment my world was going one way and the next it changed.

A lot of people are not going to understand why I made the decision I did. That's OK, it was my decision to make not theirs. Trust me it was not made lightly or on a whim. If I had this choice even two months ago it would have been different. It happened now though. Everything happens for a reason. On the surface its tough to accept. How could someone established in their career suddenly decide to leave voluntarily in this economy at this point in time? It was not easy, I assure you. As I am fond of saying though, its all about opportunity. Knowing when to recognize it and go for it. I would much rather say I tried it than to sit back everyday and wonder what it would have been like.

I love my company it gave me opportunities and experiences that I would not have received elsewhere. I know I worked with some very strong people and forged some friendships that I know will last well into retirement. Sometimes that's not enough, sometimes passions ebb, and sometimes you realize no matter how much you love something that its time to move on. Its because of that love and commitment that my company can give me one last opportunity. A chance to go back, press the reset button, maybe rediscover that path less taken. To experience a freedom I never knew I would ever have again.

Don't worry I have a plan. I have a good head on my shoulders and a strong desire to do some good in this world. When it comes right down to it, when I think about what I want to do in this world I only really have one answer. I want to help others. Now I have a chance to explore that. In the past few years I've learned alot about life, I know and feel that existing is not enough. I've seen people who are honestly passionate about what they want become successful in what they do. While they may not have much from one person's perspective; to themselves they are living richly. My faith has been tested over the years as well, and while I may not subscribe to anyone religion I believe that if a person is truly doing good, then they will be taken care of.

Long Time, No Post

2009-03-17T21:44:00.002-04:00

Well I suppose now is as good a time as any.

So lets blog. I apologize dear reader for the lack posts. I have no real excuse. I've just been busy. One may say too busy, I have been going through this phase where I need to constantly be doing something otherwise I feel like I am missing out on something. Some think this is good others think not; I'm not sure what to believe these days. There's suddenly a lot to think about.

Two years ago I made a lot changes in my life and I don't think these next two are going to be any less eventful. Just as I feel I get a grasp on something it seems to slip away and I wonder if that is what life will always be like or have I just reached an impasse point where I just need to "evolve to the next level". So many friends I know have lost so much over the years. I've relatives who lived through the depression who didn't think it could happen again. I am beside myself when I look upon the current economic troubles.

As previous posts can attest I am a star trek fan. So for those readers like me who enjoy it I leave you with this. I feel like this hour is our "Kobayashi Maru". The question is will anyone of us be able to think of a way out of it. I don't necessarily believe in the no win scenario, so maybe its time to change the rules of the game.

I promise to write more soon but for tonight I am tired.

You Can't Go Home Again

2009-02-10T12:53:00.002-05:00

Or should I say you can go back to college but you can't ACT like your still in college. That is if you want to be productive the next day.

I'm back from the North Country where flannel and camo never go out of style no matter what season it may be. It was a good trip albeit a little short. I went up Wednesday night to visit some friends before heading over to LSC for the "business" part of my trip. The ride of was mercifully low key highlighted by an interesting audiobook a friend of mine lent me to help pass the time. Upon approaching I noticed something on my dash. It was my ambient temperature gauge and it was reading negative 1. I didn't think it could go that low. Despite that I decided to lower the window to breath in some fresh (arctic) air and hopefully catch the sent of pine. It smelled like a Donkin Donuts. Apparently I was driving through Waterbury where the Green Mountain Coffee Roasters plant is. Oh well.

NED, Ned RYERSON???!!!!

2009-02-02T20:04:00.002-05:00

Needle nose Ned?

So today's Groundhogs day. For a little levity around the office I played "I got you Babe" every hour on the hour. It produced the desired affect. LOL Well we are certainly in the doldrums of winter where it would appear that every day is the same. Tomorrow will show some change with some snow. If anyone wanted to know what life was like at my college they should have been watching the weathermen the past couple of days. Seriously the only definite that I heard in the past 3 days is that there was going to be a big storm. Nor'easter quality even, but exactly what kind of precipitation and quantity eluded them just like understanding men eludes me. I mean they definitely try to figure it out and notice patterns but really they don't know until it blows up in their faces. Case in point tomorrow, who knows what we'll get until it happens, and just like 10 years ago (ugh has it been that long?) I find myself looking to the weather for the next big event for some excitement.

So to change that at lunch today I picked up every free magazine and paper I could find to patrol the ads and postings for interesting things to do. I even started posting a few on Facebook to garner interest from others who like me are looking to quell the cabin fever the season is bestowing upon us. Thanks to my friend Shawn I am looking forward to March 1. Why? Well the House of Blues has just opened up here in Boston down on Lansdown St, and that night the one, the only TOM JONES will be performing. Naturally I jumped on the tickets and was pleasantly surprised to see several other friends and a few old college pals get tickets as well. So that will be a welcomed change in the normal routine.

Apparently I need to head back to Mohegan Sun as well. Not just to play my favorite slot machine but also they gave me free slot play credits. Let me tell you they left no time between my last visit and sending out a coupon to try and get me back. Alright time to go grab the laundry.

Peace

Our Global Economic Crisis Claims Another One ...

2009-01-29T13:07:00.003-05:00

Oh Iceland, I barely knew thee. Reykjavik was always on my list of places that I wanted to visit. Maybe some day but not now. So if the Government has failed what the hell is in its place? Is Iceland an anarchist state now? It happens to the best of us I guess. 2009 I guess is the year that job security becomes a luxury item. It has affected my immediate family and I'm sure someone you know has been affected to. Can I just tell you I think I am in shock. Enough has happened in the past two weeks and with all the stresses that have happened in it I'm feeling kind of numb. You could tell me a box of kittens was just run over in the street and I don't think it would phase me. My only fear is that I'll find myself alone one night and it will all hit me, and in case that night comes I keep a bottle of vodka under the pillow. With the exception of a few highlighted moments its been a pretty shitty January. Oh well.

February is right around the corner and bring on Groundhog Day! Not this weekend but the weekend after I get to go up to Vermont as well. Do a little visiting with friends and then its off to my old college to start my term on the Alumni Council. For those of you don't know where Lyndon State College is or for those of you want to reminisce I give you LSC-3-D.

Set Phasers for Fun

2009-01-25T22:07:00.003-05:00

Well the past 24 hours have been good. While no one really walked out of Mohegan in riches we certainly all had fun. Right Sharon? Last night was fun while also being incredibly cold. For those of you didn't know last night I went to see Back to the Future at the Coolidge. It was a midnight showing so I got to Coolidge Corner a little early I thought about getting a bite to eat but I wasn't very hungry. So after a quick run through the Bookseller I settled into Starbucks for some Apple Chai and some quiet time to read and wait out my movie. I am very into this book Isaac's Storm by Erik Larson the weather geek in me just loves it but that is just the icing on the cake. Its well written and Erik has a way of portraying the times in which he talks about in such a way that you feel like you are there. Unfortunately for me Starbucks closes at 11, so I was booted into the cold. My only other option being CVS I decided I would just go wait in line. It wouldn't be too long before they let us in.

Boy was I wrong. A whole hour later I was finally able to to warm up inside the theater. Prior to that though we waited outside in line in 12 degree weather. I fortunately was prepared mostly for the wait but I was only wearing some old New Balances on my feet which didn't insulate well from the cold. I am fully convinced had I waited longer frost bite would have started to set in. It was that cold. I fared better than my younger theater goers who doffed skinny jeans, vans, and hoodies. Why we didn't have an EMO Popsicle could only be explained by their knack for finding warm pizza out of the dumpster behind the Upper Crust. What can I say I roll with an elite crowd. Actually I didn't know them and had nothing to do with their subsequent selling of said pizza to make a quick buck.

Finally after figuring out some fancy crowd control we were let in and led to the theater. Honestly I felt like I was nine again watching this movie and despite having seen it hundreds of times before on DVD it was so much better on screen. I can't wait for March when they do Karate Kid (hear that Melanie!.)

Arriving home at 3 AM didn't give me much time for sleep as some good friends and I were heading down to Mohegan for some fun. Moe introduced me to the Wizard of Oz slots which were very playable and allowed me to experience many bonus rounds, but my true moment of serendipity arose when we ventured into the new Casino of the Wind. Or is my friends like to call it the Alcove of the Wind do in no small part to its relative size to the other casinos. It was there though that I would find Star Trek the Slot Machine. To say I geeked out was an understatement and totally what I needed at the moment. Some may remember my post in 2007 on the Top Gun. Well this blows it away in every way. So far I have only seen them in the Casino of the Wind. The most fascinating part of this slot is that you can choose a persona as you have the capability to collect medals which allow you to play other slot games on the same machine as you advance in rank. Since its all saved, in two months I can go back and continue as if I was still sitting at the machine this afternoon. Not too mention it was just cool. I think the beauty of it was lost on my other gamblers but I enjoyed it.

By the way I'm just putting this out there. Why is it that you give people a chance to smoke somewhere and they completely destroy themselves. I mean I swear these people are smoking 3 times more than they ordinarily would at any given day. And as a precautionary note if you are that ADDICTED to something then should you really be gambling in the first place? Just a thought.

Powerless

2009-01-24T17:48:00.002-05:00

I don't know what it is. Maybe its the over all melancholy day I've had so far; knowing that I am going to be out late I really haven't done much. Maybe a touch of seasonal depression, or maybe my current mood is brought about truly by the current condition of so many I know in my life. Overall I am fine. I have everything I need, maybe not everything I want but at this point in time I'll settle for that. Whats troubling me are the amount of people I know who are in distress for whatever reason. The reasons are many from financial to medical to emotional and back again. While the reasons are varied they all carry one striking similarity. I can't help them; no matter how much I want to there is simply nothing I can do to help. Short of granting wishes, miracles or even simple medical marvels I can not do a damn thing to help these people, and I believe its starting to take its toll on me. Now mind you no one has asked for my help, but I am not the type of person who can just hear bad news or tales of struggle without becoming empathic.

It was just this week that I realized just how much is going on and it arrived at the same time I realized how much I can't solve all the problems. My natural response is to do just that, but that is up to the people with the issue to solve on their own. Otherwise it doesn't really go away, it just gets put off. Knowing that the responsibility is off my shoulders doesn't make it any less harder to see and while I offer as much support as possible. I fear its not enough. So I guess my next lesson to learn is to have a little faith.

Let Me Just Say This . . . Fuck Valentine's Day

2009-01-22T19:20:00.002-05:00

Does that make me sound bitter? I hope so but not for why you think. As if Christmas didn't bring its own gifts and cards, and Thanksgiving wasn't enough to show how thankful you were. Nope you need to buy more pointless crap just to let your significant other how much you care about them. No pressure or anything, I mean it should be real easy to show them how special they are with the mass produced cards Hallmark is chomping at the bit to drive down your throat. Oh and don't forget the chocolate in any and all forms. Especially the cheap ones in CVS cause you know nothing says love like brown chocolate wax sold for $20. Wait there's more. FLOWERS who doesn't like flowers. Hell I like getting them and have given them.

Whats my beef then? Why the sudden caddishness? Maybe its the smugness of advertising, telling me that "Valentine's day is just around the corner, make sure to run right out and buy . . . " Shite! Enough, in the past week I have seen two friends lose a job, more who are still without jobs, and even more for whom job security went from being a given to a luxury. Hallmark doesn't care if you love your partner of 10 years. Hell they would sell "Thanks for the hookup last night, make sure to get yourself to the free clinic" Cards if they new it would sell and not piss off the masses. All they care about is the money. So works not going well make it up with a card. SCREW 'EM. Time to show people what really matters.

You want to send a message this Valentine's Day. Kill two birds with one stone. Do something nice, do something special. You want to make that person feel special do something unique not what every other poser is doing. At the same time send a message to the Hallmarks of the world. Your hard earned money is yours, we spend far to much of it already on things that are not necessary. Make a card, put some effort into it, make it special. Or you could always just throw some money at just to get it done. You tell me whats a better picture of your relationship?

This Valentine's Day leave corporations out of your love life, you'll thank me for it later.

Year of Projects

2009-01-19T20:47:00.002-05:00

Maybe it should be considered a character flaw, maybe its a sign of a burst of creativity; call it what you will but I find myself with a glut of projects I want to do. Of course none of this has to do with work. That's a different beast. All of it is personal and in most cases artistic or creative. Whether its writing, carving, burning, mixing or cooking I got a project for it. 2008 was the year of the ideas so 2009 calls out to me to be the year of finished works. Its time to put nose to the grindstone and make some of these lofty goals a reality. The best part is though its all fun stuff. So it doesn't feel like work. At the same time though I still want to have fun, and I need to take a more active role in the social calendar this year. Instead of looking for those events to go to and waiting for invites; I'm going out and making them and being creative about it. Its not necessary to spend a lot of money just to hang out with people. I say this as I plan on going to Mohegan Sun this weekend. But its true and I intend to be doing a whole lot more once the weather gets better outside. For now though we have to find things to do inside. Like this weekend in case your not a friend of mine on Facebook feel free to check out the Coolidge Corner Theater for Saturday nights movie hosted by Johnny Cupcakes. Yeah I know its late but live a little why don't you. Nothing is more awkward than when I meet people in a bar or out anywhere really and I ask them "So what have you been up too?". Their reply is usually something along the line of "work and then I come here". Here being the aforementioned bar and such. Well that's all fine and good, but it leads to a quick conversation since I can't usually relate to that. I prefer to go and do stuff; anything, something, not just TV, not just Karaoke. I don't mean to offend and if I do, I apologize, but my life needs to be so much more than that. Maybe that's what others are content with but I am not. I'm not proposing you kill your TV and abolish the drink, but do get out and experience something. Don't repeat a song already created by someone else. Don't settle for watching a life less ordinary when you can live a life less ordinary. Create music, go sledding, make a sauce, do something and I guarantee you a day to remember and a story to tell.

Thanks for listening.

So I'm 32, What's new with you?

2009-01-18T22:55:00.002-05:00

So another year older, fortunately the passing of this birthday also seems to be coinciding with some marked improvements in health. I no longer need my Nebulizer to breathe. My cough is almost gone. I have a lot more energy and no more pain in my lungs. In a few ways this birthday managed to pull off what others have failed miserably at. And that is to not suck. If you need to know more you can read here. Since that list was posted in 2007 the Doomsday Clock was set to five minutes to midnight due to North Korea's Nuclear testing and in 2008 we lost Bobby Fischer of chess fame.

What did 2009 bring? Well as far as world events go I believe they may have been pretty tame. My weekend has been less than innocent. My birthday festivities started early actually on Friday night as I was at a friends house in Newton when it was realized it was after midnight and technically the 17th. Melanie announced to all that it was now in fact my birthday, and I was treated to a celebratory half-yard of beer. I must admit I did a good job downing it, without the spillage and purging that befell some of my other rivals. Wii and Rockband dominated the night but not before I was introduced to a lovely party game called flip cup. I must say I always knew Melanie and I were talented but with Chuck we just dominate.

Making up for lost time over the past few weeks this was going to be a late night so when the option to continue the evening into the morning presented itself I was all game. 3:30 AM is decidedly the best time to visit an IHOP not just for the culture but also because its when the food tastes the best. Finally I strolled into my bedroom at about 5 AM and didn't wake until noon. I woke to find myself still clothed from the night before and in need of water and some ibuprofen. Not cause of a hangover mind you but because of Boxing and Tennis on the Wii that caused my shoulder to kill. Anyways it was a few short hours later I was on my way to Providence to meet up with Dan.

He was at Tom's house and upon arrival I learned that he had been making homemade sauce from scratch since 11 that day. Let me tell you it was the best damn smell I've experienced in a while. I wanted to stick my face in the pot it was so good. I'll refrain from telling what was in it for risk of upsetting my Saucier boyfriend, but I will let you know it was the best sauce I have ever had. (sorry Greg) Complete with Fresh pasta and a homemade bruschetta made with roasted tomatoes, garlic, yellow peppers and eggplant it will easily be the best meal of 2009. Of course music and company were just as pleasant. Finally a birthday worth remembering. We ended up going out later for drinks and ended up at the Providence Eagle which was pretty cool. Here another first was achieved. It was the first time in 10 years that I voluntarily requested a shot of Jack Daniel's. After a rather traumatic experience ( a blog for another day) in college I would recoil even from the mere smell of the elixir but last night put an end to that moratorium. What was also amazing was that for the second night in a row I got to see someone vomit. Oh dear. Some people just can't hold their liquor.

Heading to bed I had made some tentative plans to go to Mohegan Sun but those plans were quickly dashed when morning came and the snow fell. Having taken two hours to drive back to Boston from Providence it was decided to postpone the festivities. But even that could not put a spoil on a rather successful birthday weekend. This week will prove to be busy but also historic. I am looking forward to Tuesday with much excitement. While most likely it will transpire like any Tuesday before, but it will also go down in history as we swear in our new president. So here's to the end of a successful birthday weekend and a new era.

"LUKE, I'm your Father!"

2009-01-07T11:15:00.004-05:00

ugh

So a well over do trip to the Doctor has revealed that I in fact have not been suffering from some persistent cold with a lingering cough. I in fact have bronchitis and pneumonia. The odd thing was I didn't feel that bad and until recently did not realize how much my ability to breathe had been compromised. Near as we can tell I truly did get a cold back around Thanksgiving but before it left it developed into bronchitis, which left relatively unchecked developed into pneumonia. Did I mention that my asthma hasn't been this bad since I was a teenager. Well now that it is known what I have the next stage is getting better. This is the first time I came home from the pharmacy with a brown bag full of prescriptions, and lets not forget my new gift from the Dr. Its called a Nebulizer and its designed to deliver my inhaled steroids right to my lungs. While using it I sound like Darth Vader complete with vapor for effect. Afterwards the steroids leave my feeling and looking like Whitney Houston during the withdrawal years. I'm jittery, nervous, spastic, and for some reason can't stop shivering. I had been accommodating for this illness for so long that I forgot how sick I was. Ever since my appointment yesterday I have gotten progressively worse, almost as if I have finally given myself permission to be sick. Its very weird. So I am taking the day off from work. I hate to use it so early in the year and I know there is a lot of work to be done, but I keep reminding myself that this is what sick days are for and that if I don't take the time I won't get better anytime soon. So I will take a day and be back tomorrow just need a day to get on these meds and get acclimated and rest and I should be back on my feet again. As disgusting as it sounds with this new machine and meds I am wheezing more and coughing up more junk. The doctor says its natural because before my lungs weren't even open enough to do that much.

I am not telling you all this to complain, for what would I complain about. I am sick, and it was my own fault for not persisting on going back to the Doctor a few weeks back. Mostly I am just telling you so you know whats going on with me and second let it be a testament that there is a difference between the power of positive thinking and living in denial. If your not alright GO TO THE DOCTOR. "You don't know the power of the dark side."

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ShKEc0qumy8&feature=related

The City is Cold

2009-01-03T23:22:00.002-05:00

But it contains the hottest blood of all.

Boston is going through a particular cold snap at the moment. Just as it would seem in time for outside activities. New Years Eve was chilly as well as tonight. This evening while driving back to my apartment I was thinking to myself and reflecting on life in general. Normally I don't partake in such pessimistic notions but things today frankly are quite shitty. At least for me, but I have a hunch that something if not partially disconcerting has effected your life as well. I mean I just had a great dinner with friends I should be happy, but I'm not. Somewhere in that 10 minute ride home something took root in my mind and changed the mood around.

So given the proximity to this past weeks festivities I figure the New Year has not started off all that well. 2008 is gone and with it all the issues but here is 2009. Does anyone really believe that the mere date can affect ones personal outlook on life. One simple tick of the clock does not denote change. So if we are sitting here thinking that now that its a new year everything will be glorious we are in for a world of hurt and disappointment. The only way 2009 will be better is if we choose to make it so. If we choose to celebrate life, if we choose to let go of fear, if we choose to make change, if we choose to take responsibility, if we choose to see love. These are the only ways 2009 will be better than 2008. So my challenge to you and to myself is to find that thing that made 2008 less than all it could have been and make that your resolution for this year.

Love, its so powerful and yet so fragile, is anyone truly its master? Find me one who is so confident in love; and I shall show you a fool.

For Auld Lang Syne my Friend ( Or Mizery Loves Company )

2009-01-02T16:52:00.003-05:00

So I am a little disappointed in myself this year (er Last Year). I took a look at my posts and I have half as many as the year prior. So much for writing more. I will try and turn it into a positive though. As I have had less time here to write I can only assume I was just to plain busy doing stuff, and in a way I was.

Last Year's Resolutions:

1) To be a Good Person - I think I have been good, there were times though . . .

2) Lose weight and become fit - OK still working on this one

3) Value the friends I have and be open for new relationships - Damn Straight! Gots me some great new friends this year and I love the ones I have.

4) I believe that I am here for a reason, what that is I can not say, but I know that as long as I leave myself open to life I will find all the opportunities I could ever want - I definately had a lot of opportunities present themselves this year.

5) Infatuation is fast, Passion can be a flash in the pan, but Love is worth sticking around for. Its every bit more elusive, but I am hoping to find it one day. - Ain't that the truth.

So here's to blogging and doing stuff this year. In fact lets keep the resolutions from last year carry them forward and add blogging more.

2008 Garrett Awards

2009-01-01T21:21:00.005-05:00

Keeping up with a tradition here are my pics for this year modified a bit.

1) DRINKING BUDDY OF THE YEAR: Wow its almost a 4 way tie this year and is the reason why I'm drinking less in the New Year. Dan, Jeff, Melanie and Joey of course.
2) LIFETIME SERVICE AWARD (longest friend) Melanie I remember when I thought she was the quiet one, and not nearly as freaky as me. Alas I was wrong and relationship bloomed thats lasted for years. Bitch!
3) NEWCOMER AWARD - COOLEST NEWEST FRIEND Rob for reasons too numerous to mention.
4) HIGH POINT OF THE YEAR Two Days in May and September when I was quite literally high over the skies of Vermont and Canada in a balloon.
5) POINT OF THE YEAR YOU REGRET Jeager Bombs
6) BEST HOLIDAY Thanksgiving there was alot to be thankful for this year.
7) My SONG FOR 2008 Sinnerman-Nina Simone
8) MOVIE FOR 2008 Making their Own
9) TV SHOW FOR 2008 MSNBC and CNN Election Night 2008 Coverage
10) CELEBRITY OF 2008 Sarah Palin (you don't really expect me to consider her serious do you?)
11) WORST/HARDEST DAY OF 2008 yikes Christmas was a little rough this year.
12) BEST RELATIONSHIP?Me and Melanie
13) COSTUME OF THE YEAR Warlock- My only costume for Wally World
14) RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR Publick House
15) BEST DECISION MADE THIS YEAR Saying yes to an invitation to get drinks from a man I'd never met on facebook.
16) WHAT ARE YOUR PLANS FOR NEXT YEAR Survive it seems somewhat appropriate
17) STUPIDEST IDEA I don't think I had any this year, can you think of any Elizabeth?
18)WHO IS THE CRAZIEST FRIEND OF THE YEAR? Raisa(Allison your safe)
19) MOST LOYAL FRIEND Once again they all take the award.
20) BIGGEST CHANGE OF THE YEAR Realizing I am capable of Loving another again.
21) BIGGEST BITCH/ASSHOLE AWARD A couple people last night I think take the cake.
22) NEW YEAR RESOLUTION Keep having fun, and spreading some positive messages.
23) THE PERSON WHO INSPIRED YOU THE MOST Dan
24) THE PERSON WHO SUPPORTED YOU THE MOST Elizabeth and Nora two years in a row.
25) THE MOST ELUSIVE FRIEND Jeff Marcy HA!
26) BEST TRIP Oh Canada! and Florida
27) WORST TRIP I thought it was going to be Texas but I turned it around and had a good time.
28) BEST PURCHASE/INVESTMENT My Mazda
29) MOST EMBARASSING MOMENT Can't seem to remember one this year.
30) BEST PARTY Wally World Halloween Party/Pre-Thanksgiving Party

The Power of Fear

2008-11-06T12:59:00.003-05:00

So in the aftermath of the election I am hearing more about a topic that I thought would have moved on. It apparently was such a concern that it influenced the way that people voted. The concern is over whether or not our newly minted President-Elect would be assassinated. People are concerned that this is a very real threat. Reasons stem from politics on down to race, but regardless of the reason every President has faced this threat. You can't tell me that with his stellar approval rating there is not someone one out there plotting right now against our current President. Thats why the Secret Service exists, whether its politically motivated or racially motivated it does not negate the fact that the variable exists and it will be addressed. Don't be naive in thinking that because attention is being drawn to race that somehow it makes the threat more real. The threat was already there, and the idea that man will plot to hurt one of its own will exist for as long as man himself.

Maybe I have a different view than others and I know my humble life is not on par with the level of this country and its direction, but I know that one can not live out of fear. A little more than 8 years ago I came out of the closet officially. It was a rough time but ultimately it was a decision that relieved a great deal of stress. Like anyone else who has gone through that process you have people who understand and support and you have those that don't and ultimately leave you. I remember having a discussion with a loved one who I admire and respect above most in this world. There exposure was admittedly very little to the message I was saying and there knowledge was limited, formed mostly on stereotype. Out of love there was an effort to understand, and through that came one of their main concerns. "What if something happens to you, what if someone does something to you because of who you are"?

Having had months if not years struggling with this I had formed the belief that I still hold true to this day. I can't stop it. Neither can I stop it if I am on the wrong side of the street when a car swerves. I can't stop it because I don't know the future. I don't know what will happen but I do know what I can do today to make for a better tomorrow. I do know that had I gone down a different path, my life would have been worse and I would not be doing the things I love and would not be with the people I am now. Yes there have been difficulties and heart ache but it was the right choice. It was a positive change. If tomorrow I were to be shot for who I am I would have no regret about the path I chose. I would hope that others would see that and see that my life was better becuase I chose not to live in fear. I chose to embrace that change no matter its consequences.

If King, Kennedy, Ghandi, or Lincoln knew their fates do you think they would have done anything different? If they did where would the world be if they did live in fear and not make their contributions? History has judged these men through their actions and the positive things they have left behind as their legacy. Obama is new, but you can not deny the historic significance of what he has already accomplished and while the future is not known, the potential is there. Would you deny the world his impact by keeping him from living the way he choses out of fear? Great men live and die everyday in this world. Its tragic and true, but what is worse to lose is someone with potential that was never realized.

Laughing at Republicans

2008-11-05T08:26:00.002-05:00

No this is not a case for Shadenfreude. Just an observation. Its been what 8 hours now since Obama became the President elect. Republicans are already talking about moving to Canada. HUH?? 8 years of steady economic decline, endless war, and civil rights challenges and NOW you want to jump ship after losing one election. Man people face it your way didn't work. The Right is always telling us about being God fearing and religious well show a little Faith. At least when I would joke about such a thing it was after living with the Bush doctrine for 4 years, having my civil rights challenged and seen every promise broken. I mean don't be so full of vitriol. John McCain's concession speech was great and exactly what was needed, but what he didn't need was to quiet the booing and name calling of his opponent. At Obama's speech they cheered McCain and thanked him for his service. People thought the Dems were sore losers yikes. The Reps have just declared their emotional intelligence to be on par with a 5 year old who didn't get his way. Yell, pout, and run away. I would rather you not go though. Like Obama said we need you. Just pull it together.

Get Out and Vote!!!!

2008-11-04T12:48:00.002-05:00

Its a beautiful day so no one should have no reason to get out and vote. Of course I care who you vote for but I would rather everyone get the chance to voice their opinion in a public forum. Yes there will be lines, yes it is an investment. It is your duty as an American, and is really the highest form of Patriotism one can aspire to short of giving your life for this country. This year any website or phone number can tell you where you are suppose to vote. You have every resource available to get to the polls to vote.

I voted this morning and yes there was a line and I am damn sure it will get worse throughout the day. Some people I overheard were cranky about waiting in line to vote especially since "We are not a swing state what does it matter anyways?". True Massachusetts is not a swing state, and maybe this erroneous statement would of had an ounce of credibility if the Presidential Election was the only thing being decided on today. ITS NOT. There are also statewide representatives who need your vote. You think an incumbent shouldn't be re-elected? Tell them by voting for the opposition or a write in. I think when they see a disconnect between who the Precint votes for President and their own results, the message will be quite clear. You also have 3 major questions on the ballet. One even concerns your paycheck! How can you say your opinion doesn't matter when you have been given every opportunity to directly influence how legislature will effect you in the future?

Is it a process that needs improving? Yes. Right now though its the best way we have to preserve our democracy. So please get out and vote. Do it for the country, do it for your family, and ultimately do it for yourself. Its not about winning or losing its about the process. You can't have a voice of complaint in the future if you don't open your mouth right now and act.

A lot of ground to cover.

2008-10-28T22:22:00.002-04:00

Wow I just found its snowing in Western Mass. I know its been snowing in Vermont but that's to be expected. Not Mass though. I'm excited really. Its no secret how I feel about winter so there's no need to post again.

I however do object to the Christmas lights that already adorn my parent's neighboring condo. I mean damn, that's two months away. Are you getting the pool ready for July 4th on May 4th? Men are you really thinking Anniversary presents two months prior to the event? Women are you drawing attention to your Birthday that early. No its silly. I understand some holiday cheer and spirit, but you think that the holiday has become too commercial? No its really become too competitive. Who can play the first Christmas song? Who's got the first ad on TV? Who's the first station to go all Christmas format? Oh look there's the egg nog in the dairy section. I think the constant quest to be the first is spreading the season to thin, because you know it doesn't end on 25th of December. Soon its January and before you know it the entire 3 months one quarter of the year if not more has been devoted to this endeavor. For all its efforts was it truly worth it? Just something to ask yourself while you are stressing this year for the perfect gift and wrapping. Is it all worth your time, sanity and health to be stressing over this or would your efforts be better spent in maybe actually investing in yourself and your family and truly be thankful for what it is that you have rather than what it is that you think you need. No amount of tinsel, baked goods, turkey, garland, or nog is going to make up all those months of frustration. So this year my challenge to you is to enjoy the season for what it is, nothing more. Save the frustration and stress and stop looking to solve an issue with materialistic ventures. Think heart felt in your gifts if you can afford them, and don't let your neighbors push you into the latest inflatable snow man. Personally I'd rather forgo a gift and share in your company this season than to know you spent more than you can afford on a credit card.

On to subject number two. I admit there are times I can be mistaken, and there are times when I can be out right wrong. Can circumstances of a given time cloud the overall perception of something or someone? Yes. Can someone change over a course of time? Yes. Is it possible that two people with differing opinions on matters function together. Yes. Why am I saying all this? Because its true, and in my time on this planet I have seen a great many things change. No greater a change can come though than from one's own mind. There are always going to be disagreements, some may get heated, hell that shows passion. You do yourself a disservice though if you let that moment define an idea or a relationship. I am afraid I may have done just that. For that I apologize. In tough times a good ally is one that can keep you on your toes and provide an alternating perspective. Its that future I am looking forward to today.

On to subject number three. Ah hell who am I kidding. I'm tired and I'll save it for another day. Good night everyone.

Table Manners

2008-10-23T23:36:00.002-04:00

So this afternoon I was talking to a friend and we were comparing notes on how we eat. Of course I couldn't help but think it would make a good subject to talk about on my blog since everyone seems to have their own eccentricities when it comes to food and consumption. Table Manners are one thing. Elbows off the table and all, you'd be surprised how often these get ignored. I don't ask for much and by no means stand on etiquette BUT common courtesy should be respected. I can remember this date I had not too long ago. The "gentleman" I was dining with was sunk pretty much before he even had a chance.

So we arrive at this restaurant and we are seated immediately. As our waitress comes over and explains the specials she takes our drink orders and had I been in my right mind the date should have ended there and then. I ordered my standard and much beloved Club Soda and Lime. Admittedly a little boring, alas very refreshing for the summer, and most certainly not on everyone's drink list. He orders a very odd pairing of House Red Merlot with what will soon be an Alfredo course. Not the best mix in the world but to each their own with wine maybe he just likes that type. These days pairings are done more to the taste of the patron rather than strict rules of Whites with fish and poultry and etc.

"How can you drink that?"
"Pardon me?"
"How can you drink that shit?"

Um??? I know we don't know each other that much, but with in 10 minutes of meeting me he is criticizing me on my choice of beverage. I thought maybe he was joking. Maybe it was an isolated incident.

"Its a lot better for you then soda and its hot out I would rather have the seltzer. Why did you choose the Merlot"?
"Cause it was cheap and I saw someone drinking it the other day, and I want to look cultured". (Note to men - if you want to look cultured don't announce that you want to look cultured.)
"Still I can't believe you drink that crap".
"OK ENOUGH ABOUT THE SELTZER"

It was at this time I should have ran. To my dismay I didn't I had thought well he likes the same meal as I do maybe this can be salvaged. Besides I hadn't been on a whole lot of dates at this point so I was consigning myself to at least using this as practice. I should have gone over and chatted up the ficus, at least I would have left clean. I always thought the idea of bibs was a bit corny. After this evening though I was wishing that they carried them in bulk at Italian Eateries as well as Crab Houses, because my date upon seeing the plate of food that was set in front him, devolved into what one of co-workers can only describe as a "Beastful Creature". Truly a sight better left unseen. With pupils dilated like teacups he grabbed his knife and fork and attacked his meal with all the grace and refinement of 80's horror movie villain. I mean man, gnocchi is good but this was like air dropping food into Africa bad, and far more wasteful. Maybe he wouldn't have been so hungry if he didn't let half of it hit the table. OR ME!

Check PLEASE!!!

Anyways certainly not the worst date I have been on but thats a story for another time.

Anyways getting back to manners at hand. I don't expect much just common courtesy. With that being said I tend to notice things about people. Their little nuances that makes them who they are. For instance this one doesn't let the silverware touch their lips, that one insists on salting before tasting, this one loves ketchup, that one can't eat chicken on the bone (except for the Kowloon Wings). I don't count myself out of observation as well since I can be pretty particular when it comes to things too. For instance what Jillian and I were discussing earlier is our tendency to eat uniformly. For instance if you have three items on your plate you will eat all three uniformly (not necessarily all at once); in other words we don't eat all the potatoes then move on to something else. Every item has a little bit left until the end, because you always want to end on a good note. Instead of the asparagus end on that final cut of steak, and allow the flavor to linger. Call me neurotic ( I heard that ) but it disappoints me when I forget that and take one last swig of coffee. DAMN now that perfectly seared and peppered steak is gone to be replaced with coffee. Oh well.

In my life though I have observed many people who exhibit similar and differing foibles, maybe not as oafish as my"cultured as McDonald's Yogurt" (sorry Sharon) date; but odd just the same. There are what I call the mashers, those are the people who mix everything together, and optionally dump gravy on it all. There are the cutters, the ones who get a plate of food and spend the next 10 minutes cutting up every last bit into bite size pieces before consuming. The shifters, who move the food around the plate. The players, are usually of a younger age and "play" with the food. There are also the Pickers; they are the ones who will pick out every pea or mushroom in the dish before they can eat it. There are also the Inhalers; who eat as if they have a train to catch (note this doesn't mean they are messy just fast). There are also the Savorers who can make even the quickest fast food meal last as long as 5 course tasting menu. The list goes on and on. What are you? Does one of these hit home, or maybe your a combination. Maybe theres some new category. Maybe someone else has had a bad restaurant date, anyone care to share?

Boo!

2008-10-22T22:50:00.003-04:00

Well for some reason I'm really getting into the Halloween Spirit this year. After your done here check out my myspace page and indulge in a little Halloween Mix I made for the occasion. Of course I 99.9% sure I am not doing anything on Halloween but I have a party to go to this Friday which is sure to be fun.

So the cookbook is coming together marvelously. I am still not quite sure of the theme but I have collected alot of recipes so far and a few stories as well. Of course I am always looking for more so be sure to send any my way.

<< Warning: The Following Post Contains Sappy Language, Some Material May Be Unsuitable For Some Viewers>>

2008-10-19T23:04:00.006-04:00

All of us dream of a happy ending. Canned fairy tale love affairs coupled with castles, knight in shining armor, chivalrous and romantic to the core. I had my share of these dreams. I've stared night after night at the ceiling of my cramped bedroom starry-eyed and dreaming of that imaginary figure and in what form they would take when they came into my life. I have definitely had what I thought was my Camelot until it all fell apart in an ending befitting the best Arthurian legends. For a good long while I thought those dreams were behind me, the fancies and spirit of youth tempered by experience of age and practicality.

It is a rejuvenation of the soul to realize that all may not be lost. Be it Fate, Kharma, Magic or even downright good luck whatever it is it will turn the tables when you least expect it. I have been accused of being cryptic in my blogging. While its true I don't like to give the whole story away for the information super highway to read, I will make a brief exception in this case.

As you all know I've started dating someone. He's as kind as he is handsome. With the ability to put a smile on my face despite my worst day. He's given me back a perspective that I thought I had lost and all I can think about is making him as happy as he makes me. Fate though is not without a sense of humor. For time is running out. Very soon he will be departing for Europe for a month. It is a positive thing as he is going on tour with his band, but I can't help but feel a bit saddened. Mere months ago we had no idea of each others existence, a few dates quickly revealed how much we had in common but who knew that would include friends as well. It has been one exciting ride ever since. So Thanksgiving this year will be extra special as it will mark his arrival back here.

Until then though your going to here me go on and on from time to time. I still have my other pursuits that you will hear about. Tomorrow I have a post on the Ghost Tour coming. For now though I'm wishing you all a good night.

I just want to know how much Joe Six Pack is going to be fined?

2008-10-15T22:00:00.002-04:00

Is this the best you can do?

Is it like ripples in a pond or a bullhorn in a library?

2008-10-14T21:54:00.002-04:00

I am utterly amazed at the speed at which information is broadcast these days. Of course I should have known when I updated my Facebook profile this afternoon that word would get out. I just had no idea it would be out so fast and far. Broadcasting a change in relationship status gets a little more attention than just a normal update of what your doing for dinner apparently. After the damage was done though I could of taken down the post but I thought to myself why should I.

In all that is going on in the world it seems like some things are really coming to a turning point and where some see trepidation, I have a more positive outlook on things. Banks will crumble, jobs will be lost, will it effect me? Possibly or even more likely. I know that my heart is in the right place though. In this time of stress, really the one thing that we should all be able to count on is each other. No one person ones the rights to privilege or suffering. I have been seeing it more. People coming together bonding through common experiences to get through some trying times. Pardon me for this terribly Up With People moment but its just the little things I have been picking up on lately.

Anyways getting back to what I was talking about earlier. So I have met someone. No surprise since I have been dating off and on, but I'm surprised at how it all happened. Who knew just saying hi on facebook could lead to anything? Well it has and I'm happy. If you know me well then you either already have the story or its on the way. I won't say too much here other than to say that my life just got a whole hell of a lot more interesting, and I wanted to leave you with one final thought: The thing about fate is that it never takes you were you want to go, but to where you need to be.

Peace

Out of the Loop

2008-10-13T18:27:00.002-04:00

Hello everyone. Some busy weeks and a major illness have knocked me for a loop and offline when it comes to blogging. UGH. Finally getting better. Who knew I could be so allergic to antibiotics I have taken over the course of my life. Oh well guess I won't use those again. EVER.

But my time sick gave me an opportunity to get some stuff in order and one of the projects I have been putting together is coming to the front burner more. After spending more time at the New England Mobile Book Fair I have decided that its time for me to write a cookbook. While the theme is a work in progress I am collecting recipes with stories of people I have known throughout my life. Of course I will need more so I will be actively searching out for more contacts but for right now I am getting started with friends and family. So feel free to send me your thoughts.

I'm getting excited for the weekend already. I will be house sitting for my parents but more importantly my friend Moe is throwing his annual ghost tour. I don't know if we will end up at John Stones Tavern this year, but it is always so much fun. Just when I think we can't top ourselves we do. This year though it will be earlier in the season and not like last year when we did it in December do to several weather anomalies. I'll be sure to post our adventure and any findings. This year my camera will function normally. I can't wait.

Anywho I'm off to watch the rest of the game and indulge in some yummy mulligatawny soup and salad I got on the ride home.

Dear God . . . What's Happening to Me?

2008-09-14T21:28:00.002-04:00

First things first lets take care of a little business. I want to give an update to a previous post concerning my family member who had taken ill. As luck would have it there is not much to worry about anymore. A biopsy has confirmed that what we had thought was cancer was just benign scar tissue. You have no idea what a relief it is to hear it.

The effects that the past events have had on my life though are far from fleeting. In fact I think they have been strengthened. What does that all mean? Who knows in the long run. What I do know is that for far to long now I have been idling one could even say passionless. Its about time I find that passion again. Reignite those fires. The last thing I want to do is look back on my life after 30 years and see that I was consistent. I want to be the guy who gets to tell all those stories about his travels and adventures. I want to be happy. So its past time that I do something to get there.

So far I have been weighing several options in my life, and things that I once thought were paramount are now taking a back seat to what my life should really be about. Today I actually found myself enjoying some country music. What the Hell? Bottom line is times are a changing and so am I.

The stars aren't the only thing big and bright down here in Texas.

2008-08-20T20:54:00.001-04:00

You always have a preconceived notion about the areas you are going to visit if it’s a popular locale. Texas brings up images of Cowboy boots and hats. For my friend it was cactus and football. In reality though its all true except for the cactus part ( I haven’t seen any yet being in the city and all).

The travel gods were smiling down on us yesterday. We weren’t able to get a direct connecting account to Dallas from Boston. We were supposed to have flown by Chicago (my kind of town). Upon arriving at Logan we were asked if we wanted to fly direct. Without too much discussion we both said hell yeah. So then we were booked on the 1:25 flight to Dallas. It was however 12:45. The plane starts boarding at 1:05.

I wear flip flops to the airport in most cases because I can slip them on and off easily going through security. I am reconsidering this for future flights because they are not conducive to running a mile on concrete floors to catch a flight. We got to the security check point in time to wait in line. As we queued up to wait they started opening up more screening booths. It looked like we were going to make it after all. We only had a few people in front of us. Of course during their extensive wait in line they were just too busy to get any identification out of their wallets or from their purses. I don’t understand how someone can lose it out of the short time it took them to whip it out at check in.

Anyways the woman and the four kids standing in front of me were soon on their way. Smooth sailing from here. WRONG! The TSA agent starts saying out loud “Where is my red marker?” I’m like the other agent came over and took it. “Oh I need it though to let you through.” Then she took off and confronted the guy who took it, and he refused to give it back. They almost broke out into some bizarre cat fight. Finally she snatches the red marker and no lie puts a parenthesis around two numbers. That was it ??? Apparently this is used to highlight the code (that is already printed on the ticket mind you) that signifies we have been randomly selected for additional security screening. “Just step over there and someone will be right with you.”

Grrrr alright. Play nice don’t look inpatient it will only take longer then. Of course I have to bring my black bag which has umpteen million pockets they have wipe/swab down. Finally 1:09 I am out o security and trying to book it down the concourse in my flip flops. We arrive at the gate in the nick of time to get our seat assignments. 31 A and B essentially the back of the plane. Is that the wing out the window? No that’s the engine. I didn’t care I was on the plane would not have to sit in Chicago for hours for a connecting flight. Plus our position was right behind the flight attendant’s cabin so we had a lot of extra leg room.

The rest of the flight was peacefully uneventful. Arriving in Dallas or really the Dallas Fort Worth Metroplex (DFW) for short was really no different than most other places I have visited. It was just really flat. Even more so than Chicago I think. At least they have a lake. Soon we were on our way to our hotel just outside Dallas center. I really can’t say enough good things about the place we are staying. I opened up my door and my first reaction was “Where is my bed”. “Oh! This is the living room.” Haha. The hotel rooms are a lot bigger than I am used to, and they come complete with two 40” plasma TV’s. Hell I don’t want to leave the room. Six O’clock was approaching and that meant dinner with our Sales Reps. I’ve got to say I was looking forward to it. I never really had a burning desire to see Dallas, but once I got here I wanted to explore. Our man with the plan Harry took us on a little tour of the parts of the city, and we got to see the Texas Book Depository and the infamous grassy knoll where President Kennedy was assassinated. It looked just like the footage I’ve seen only this time in color. It was eery driving down the same road where the motorcade went down all those years ago. Being a history buff I was happy that I got a chance to see it.

We ended up having dinner at a great Mexican place in a place that has been described as Dallas’ Newbury St. Only without the high-end stores and pretentiousness. What’s left you say? Well tons of restaurants with outside dining. As we were walking to and fro it dawned on me how clean a city Dallas is. Not that I thought it was dirty. It was just very clean especially if you compare it to NYC. Sorry New York. You are many things but clean is not one of them. We ended the night at a sports bar where we had a couple of Dos Equis and watched the Olympics.
Friday was spent at the show and it went well as I took care of the business I had to take care of. Afterwards our friend Harry took us to Bob’s Steakhouse. Its one of those places that if you didn’t know about it you wouldn’t notice it driving by. I mean it was attached to auto detailing place. But hell if they don’t have the best steak I’ve had in my life. Period. I had a blue cheese salad to start and a 16 oz NY strip steak. I can’t believe it was only 16oz. I have seen toddlers smaller. It came with the signature glazed carrot, and pan-fried potatoes topped with sautéed onions and green pepper sauce. Cooked perfectly medium rare to boot. Heaven and Hell on a plate and thank god the office Weight Watchers doesn’t start till next week. The place was perfect no windows and Sinatra and his cronies filled the air. We met Bob, who was not at all as I would have pictured him. I doubt I’ll find another place like it, and it definitely gives me reason to return.

Life Interrupted

2008-07-23T20:49:00.002-04:00

Well its been several weeks since my last post. I wish I could say that its been all fun. The reality I'm afraid is far from it. While the beginning of my hiatus was marked with fun and friends the past week has been depressing. Those who know me will know whats going on but for now I will just say that some one very close to me has become ill again. While this was always a possibility it was not an inevitability. Cancer is never a certainty you are never really sure if you got it all or if its completely gone. Apparently this is the case today. Despite a quick response and a successful outcome the first time its not looking like it will be a repeat performance this time and it is not looking good at all. Truthfully I am not sure I want to blog anymore. My thoughts are not there and when they are they are far more serious than anything I've spoken of to date.

I think I need some time away...

To get to the other side.

2008-07-07T22:39:00.002-04:00

Ever have one of those days that you feel that your the punch line to some cosmic joke. That was today. I had an awesome weekend. The details to follow in a subsequent post. Today thought everyone seemed on edge and half way through the day I felt it all being projected at me. It was enough to freak me out and shut down. Come 5 I was spent and privately wishing I had another long weekend to look forward to. No such luck next one is Labor Day ugh. I'm sure its just a funk and I will snap out of it and be my normal self again. Fortunately a very good friend is a Massage Therapist and did a little work on my shoulders to destress me tonight.

So for the rest of this blog I'm just going to focus on the good things about this past weekend. I went to Vermont, no shock there. It was fun and despite the traffic the ride up was not bad as Nora had lent me an audio book. Prey by Michael Crighton. I liked it and it kept my mind off the traffic and made the ride all the more pleasurable. Upon arriving my friends were out so I entertained myself with a little TV. Definitely a treat and it proved beyond a shadow of a doubt my ecclectic taste as I was switching back and forth between the Military Channel's Weaponology and Kathy Griffin's Life on the D-List.

Friday I woke to some great wheather. Sunny mid 80's and low humidity picture perfect days really. I would later learn that the Mass weather was not so nice, as one friend of mine put it so coloquilly as "hot as a crotch". ewww Glad I could miss it. I did get a chance to do some ballooning but thats tomorrow's post. Saturday I went and saw Wall-E. Probably the BEST Disney flick I have seen in a while. Not too schmaltzy, it was just right and yes the dialogue is almost not there which is why the movie is all that more impressive. I suggest you actually go out and see this one. I also helped some friends put in some windows. Yes I can be manly and do work with power tools. In truth its not all that much different than the equipment I worked with in my grandfather's shop years ago. The only difference is its smaller and has more safety features. Windows went in well and level I might add and then we cooked out on the grill. A great reward for the days work, but then it was time to depart back to Mass. Definitely not my favorite part of trip but it gave me a chance to finish the audio book.

I look forward to the next time I get up there hopefully it will be sooner rather than later.

Only In Newton?

2008-06-23T23:23:00.003-04:00

So I am in a much better mood today. Mainly because I sucked it up and went to the gym today. I have been getting a little lax and have noticed a pound or two start to creep back on. I worked very hard to get rid of them so that's the last thing I want. So at about 7 I left work and headed for the gym, I surprised myself in my workout and will probably pay for it tomorrow but there were some aggressions that needed to be extricated. Now I'm home writing with an endorphin high, which do more wonders for you than any drug you can take. Or at least I would imagine.

So I work in Newton. If you've never been its rather a unique town. Collectively I think the population takes a dump maybe once a year. Its that uptight. The people can be so anal retentive that there ass as its own gravitational pull. I know this to be true because most times my foot just wants to kick them. After about 6 years of working here I never fail to see a week where someone tops the rudest or supremely narcissistic behavior from the week prior. Seriously some of these people are downright evil and will go out of there way to make you have a bad day. Driving is bad enough. No one stops for people in cross walks, and no one lets anyone out on to the main road even if they are stopping at a red light. Last week I wanted to pull out and this one guy saw me sitting there trying to get out and he SPED UP to a red light so I couldn't go and waited at the light. Then as it came time to go he crawled away all the while looking at me. What an Asshole. Its not like I did something wrong to him or cut him off he was just an ASSHOLE.

There is a reason why Newton is one of the safest places to live in America. It was almost the first again until that little murder last year. Criminals don't bother, they take one step in the town and go "Shit! This isn't worth that aggravation". I do need to give credit where it is due and I will say that for the most part the business that I frequent on a day to day basis are really good, and they put up with a lot of shit from there clientele. New England Soup Factory, Pie Bakery and Cafe, The Biltmore, Dunn Gaherin's, and Holly Cleaners are all superb in their customer service and know how to treat people like people. Some even, gasp!, build relationships with their regulars.

So now you know what I see and deal with on a daily basis, so tonight coming home from the gym its about 9:30 at night and I am driving down Winchester in Newton and I look over and this guy is walking down the street in full leather garb. I'm serious. Leather pants, leather vest with no shirt and gut hanging out. I had all I could do not to swerve off the road laughing so hard. I mean the guy looked like he just strolled out of the Ramrod. So is THIS what Newton is like after dark? Seriously the only thing tight on this guy had to be his chaps. Well here's hoping that the folks in Newton find a happy medium and relax a little or the town will have a stroke.

Weekend Update

2008-06-22T21:43:00.002-04:00

Smörgåsbord: 1. a buffet meal of various hot and cold hors d'oeuvres, salads, casserole dishes, meats, cheeses, etc. 2. an extensive array or variety. It is that second definition that describes my weekend. Certainly filled with its highs and lows. I watched a movie, travelled to Maine, and even went on a date. Those were definitely the highs. The lows came later with a healthy dose of introspection. Its not that I am unhappy this evening its just that I am not in the normal peace of mind I have come to expect these days. So I will try to keep this short.

1. I saw the Hulk. Not as good as Iron Man. But it has Iron Man in it. Either way 2008 is proving that Marvel knows how to transition there characters to the big screen. Its a shame so many of there other more "famous" characters are owned by Sony and can't be touched without them.

2. I was in Maine early today touring the York Harbor Inn. Nice place to stay even if the decor in the rooms is a little to ecclectic. They do have an amazing brunch. As it was comped we had no problem with having the run of the menu. I will give them major points for actually having a fresh Bearnaise sauce. Its very hard to come by and in many "brunch" places the choice is a reconstituted Hollandais.

On the way back we hit a small storm that was strong enough to knock some patio furniture into the streets. I also was able to pick some bread from the When Pigs Fly Bakery. Yumm.

3. Finally the crux of my weekend was my date. I know I was nervous on Friday. I know now that I can take a look back and laugh at myself. Its amazing how much a person can psyche themselves out. Fortunately for me my date was a charming gentleman who actually believes in the art of conversation and the art of Martini's. hehe I digress though. It started out a little rough as the outside dining turned out to be more of an outside Sauna with no shade, and I need to give thanks to the the jackass who dropped there lit cigarette down the subway ventilation shaft. It caused a small fire that required two trucks to show up with horns blazing. Not that I minded since the fire was effectively smoking us out. Had I never been to this restaurant before I would probably not be going back. Anyways some shopping and a few Martini's later and all was right in the world again.

Now my weekend is over and my work week will begin a new. Hopefully I'll be in a better mood tomorrow and right more. Sorry kind of blah tonight.

What I've been up to.

2008-06-11T22:28:00.003-04:00

Its been a busy week and a hot one to boot. The weekend saw me visiting Nashua NH and painting some rooms for my good friends Nikki and Mario. While we did not get to do all the rooms we had planned on, we did get most of them done, and it was an ambitious plan from the start. Saturday night I was treated to a nice Indian dinner in Newton Center, and a little treat from Coldstone. Despite the humidity it was a really nice night to be walking around, and the meteorologist in me really appreciated watching the heat lightning off in the distance.

Sunday was truely a day of rest. I spent most of the day staying cool has all the heat and humidity made the air truely stagnant. I did venture out in the evening with my roommate to nice place called "The King and I" on Charles St. in Boston. Amazingly there was even a patron who looked like Yule Brenner. We finished the night by walking to Karaoke and watching the Celtics on the bars TV. It was an ecclectic night, but fun just the same.

All this week at work our Sales Department from the around the country have come home for our annual sales meetings. I enjoy talking to them all face to face since I normally converse with them over the phone. My company doesn't do much advertising on this side of the Atlantic as far as TV ads are concerned; however in the UK you can bet your arse we do.

I was robbed!

2008-06-03T11:28:00.002-04:00

Of a perfectly good weekend!!! The weather was gorgeous and I had all these plans but low and behold Saturday I woke up with a headache that would last until Monday. By then it was too late. I had missed a party on Saturday and missed out on an opportunity to go to Canobie Lake. I guess it just wasn't in the cards. I did get plenty of rest but I still can't help but feel as if I was let down.

I suppose I should take some solace in the fact that I was able to make it out last Friday. coming quitting time I jumped into the car and headed out for good old Bellingham. Driving through my old stomping grounds of Millis and Medway felt odd, but I was heading to a movie with friends so I wasn't about to let it get me down.

So what did I see? Well despite only having a rudimentary understanding of the plot and having seen exactly zero episodes, I found myself in the middle of a sea of women watching Sex and the City. So many women that I think by the time the movie was over I was in sync with their cycles. As far as the movie goes. It was enjoyable for me although know there a lot references and cameos I just did not get. Oh well. The main point was to see some friends and get to socialize.

This upcoming weekend may see us with our first heat wave for 2008. I know that I will be heading up to New Hampshire on Saturday to help some friends paint there new house. Other than that who knows. I just hope its headache free whatever it is.

Zero to Hero In No Time Flat

2008-05-29T20:53:00.007-04:00

Welcome to what I hope will be a regular occurrence here at the Key of G. We'll try it weekly that way I can be sure to at least post something throughout the week that's topical. I can't promise prose but it will be contemporary, most likely political, hopefully funny, and probably bitchy. Just wanted to let you know what your in for. You don't agree post a comment, if you do agree post a comment. If I enlighten and cause you to ask question something my job is complete, but if I offend you probably haven't been on the Internet all that long because there is much more objectionable material on the net than little old me. So without further ado:

Thursday May 29th 2008

Conservative commentator and guest host of The O'Reilly Factor (da Factah here in Boston) Michelle Malkin made waves this week when she complained about the new Dunkin Donuts ad featuring Rachel Ray. What could she possibly have to say about this decades perky domestic diva? I'd complain too if I had to watch one more commercial from the overly caffeinated Up With People personality. However the criticism was not over her spunk but with her scarf.

Apparently according to Malkin's keen fashion sense; Ray's new look closely resembles that of a Keffiyeh. Although worn in many Arab nations in many different variations. Malkin is asserting that Ray's scarf is none other than a direct nod to Muslim Extremists comparing it to the one commonly adorned by Yasser Arafat. Michelle honey, that's paisley not PLO. Over my many years of visiting Dunkies I never thought my Medium Regular was covertly being used to support the destruction of Israel. If that's so why do they sell Bagels?

Malkin, you like the sound of your voice and its sad that you use your soapbox to continue to drive a wedge down the cultural melting pot that is this nation. All Muslim's are not extremists, you don't want to buy DD's coffee fine, I submit to you that you may want to hoof it from now on because where do you think the gas from your car comes from. Your claims are ridiculous although not surprising considering your support of Racial Profiling during the latest War on Terror and the Japanese Internment Camps of WWII.

Until I walk into the local Dunkies and have someone call me an Infidel; you Michelle Malkin are this week's Zero.

On the Flip side!!

Who's that out in Left Field??? Holy Crap I think its Scott McClellan!! Who knew my first Hero would be Scott. Tuesday this former orifice for Right Wing propaganda released excerpts from his first Book What Happened. In it he unabashedly criticizes his former boss. Stopping short of telling us that the President out-and-out lied to us about the reasons to go to war in Iraq, he does say "I had allowed myself to be deceived into unknowingly passing along a falsehood," and further he says that the President "managed the crisis in a way that almost guaranteed that the use of force would become the only feasible option." Well well Scott what took you so long? Maybe this is how long it takes to build a conscience, even if it is a little guilty.

The Whitehouse's response was as familiar as it was reaped with irony. "Scott, we now know, is disgruntled about his experience at the White House," said current White House press secretary Dana Perino, a former deputy to McClellan. "We are puzzled. It is sad. This is not the Scott we knew." I say ironic because it was Scott himself who back in response to Joe Wilson's book The Politics of Truth; which chronicles amongst other things his wife's outing as a CIA agent, called Joe "disgruntled" and "disappointed at his appointment in the current administration".

Well Scott for your new found conscience and ability to eat crow I crown you this week's Hero!!

I hope you have enjoyed this weeks Hero to Zero file. If you like it please comment; if you don't let me know as well. Until next time I leave you with this quote from Abraham Lincoln ~ America will never be destroyed from the outside. If we falter and lose our freedoms, it will be because we destroyed ourselves.

Let Me Tell You About My Perspicacity

2008-05-29T13:10:00.005-04:00

So while I am on lunch and over caffeinated I figure I would put up a list. As most of you know I am avid reader and as a natural side effect you expand your vocabulary. Normally I don't use words like the one in my title, its just pompous. Of course as Elizabeth would tell you I'm pompous anyways so that's why I am breaking out the big words today and one day only. I don't mean to Pontificate but over the years there have been several words that I have used over the course of my career which have vexed certain co-workers. I wish to share those magnanimous words with you today.

Malaise
Venture
Usurped
Manhandle (apparently others can use the words just not me)
Indicative
Jaunt
Pallid
Credence
Conundrum
Ambiguous
Contention
Quaint
Obligatory
Verbose (how Ironic)
Urban Sprawl
Slacks (apparently it makes me sound like I'm 50)

How about you? Is your vocabulary just copacetic or do you have any words that cause people to cringe? LOL

Back In Business . . . And Ain't It Grand

2008-05-27T22:53:00.002-04:00

Well well well. Where to begin. Last I posted online here, I was in Vermont having a great time. Sure enough the remainder of my time there was just as great as how it started. Even more important than what I did when I was there was what I took away from the experience. I was unfocused before I went. Sure I was me, but I was going through the motions, I was surviving not living, and I felt as if I was missing something. So I had high hopes for this time off, and amazingly it paid off.

Alot of things I experienced were personal and will not be shared here. Sorry but its just how I roll. Having been back down here for a few weeks now I can say that euphoria has not gone away. Sure the tasks of everyday life have resumed but I feel like my soul has been restored. That my friends is the crux of it. You see many people go on vacation and end up not wanting to come back. Its a sign of a great vacation. You question why you have to go back. Well the answer is its not sustainable. Chances are you saved and spent thousands on that great vacation. I spent nothing, well almost nothing, and had a great time. Had I wanted to do any of the stuff I did up there I would be spending some big bucks. I did not. The way of life is just that much simpler and the people that more honest. You really have a sense of community where I am afraid my experiences down here have shown that you are more left to your own devices. I concede maybe that's just my experience; however, I used to walk to lunch everyday, and everyday I saw people who could not give a damn about the person they almost just ran down. They couldn't be bothered to say thank you to the person who just made there Low-Carb burrito, with no onions, extra cheese and lite on the guacamole, even though they have to make something for 20 more assholes just like them in line. My experience is that its all a "ME" society today here, and when your focused on "me" you don't care about "you". There needs to be a balance its called "us" and its definitely out of whack down here.

So those of you that read this that have dissenting opinions (and I know your out there) should be asking "well why don't you just leave then". Have no fear I intend too. Just not right now though. Yes that was the biggest thing I took away from my vacation. I will be moving to Vermont. Those are long term plans though, and something to work toward for future plans in the years to come. Right now though I have a great job, and one that I believe I still have alot to contribute to. Its a great company its just not in the place I want to be.

Massachusetts is my birthplace and I love it for what it is, but its not my home, its not where I recharge, its not my future. So I will be looking for opportunities that will get me what I want. The more I learn here the easier it will be for me to move on later. What's important to me is not what's important to most people I meet everyday, and that's the biggest issue. City life is good and you can experience alot, but I want a house and a garden, so unless I commute in for a hour and half to work everyday its unlikely I'll get what I want. I also don't want to be the eternal college student rooming with people in ridiculously overpriced apartments. I don't want to be sitting in a bar with same people I was with 10 years before, wondering where my life went.

You can stay young in mind and spirit, but you can't relive the "glory days" those days are past and its time to write the next chapter. After all who wants to read a book if nothing ever changes after chapter 2. When I look back on my life I want to see a life of experiences, not someone trying to reclaim the good old days.

My true friends down here understand this, and support me. In fact many have the same opinion as they look to building there own futures. Whether it be moving to North Carolina, building a new house, changing a career, or even getting married they all know that life is full of changes some are forced upon you and they make you stronger. Some are chosen and that my dear reader is what defines our lives. Anyone can react to a challenge, but how have you chosen to change your life for the better. What new chapter do you want to have in your book, and is merely surviving what you really want?

Blue Skies Smiling At Me

2008-05-06T13:11:00.013-04:00

Well I just got back from my morning expedition in the woods of Vermont. Apart from wrenching my shoulder climbing over some rocks I'm in good spirits and while I rest up a bit before deciding what to do for the remainder of the day I thought I would inform you about the rest of yesterday's events. As you know from previous posts my best friend Mat flies hot air balloons as a hobby. Well he and Mitch decided to pay me back in kind for the help I gave them last year. While I would have been just as excited to crew I was told that I would be going up.

Now lets be straight with something. I like to fly. In PLANES. I kind of have a thing for heights. Its not usually a good thing either. So needless to say I was a bit apprehensious at first. Of course though there was not to much time for nerves. I really kept pushing it aside until we actually got to the fairgrounds and started taking the balloon out.

This is the Freedom II. It is just about double the size I helped launch last year. The bigger the balloon the more cargo can go. For this trip it was Mitch, Mat, James and myself. This was really the last picture I could snap before things got moving to fast. Once that thing gets filled with hot air you are on the move. So before I knew it I was jumping in the basket securing my spot for flight. For those that have not flown you should know that this is (usually) the most jostling part of the experiance. With only Mat and myself in the basket there was not as much weight and that balloon wants to fly so it pivots on the point that its being tethered too and that is the basket, so we rocked back and forth until James jumped in and finally Mitch. At that point it was time to go. So the crew time let go and we were off, and amazingly all that bumping around went away. We started to fly up and since we are only going as fast as the wind. Its as if you are just floating away. Not at all like the forces when you take off in a plane. It was really quite peaceful.

See the conditions need to be just right to fly and the Balloon enthusiast community is not that big, so when its going to be a good day. Like it was yesterday, its not uncommon to have friends fly in the sky with you. There were to other balloons flying yesterday with us. The Multi-colored one whose name I did not get was piloted by a Marketing Exec from Ben & Jerry's. The second balloon that was even bigger than ours was piloted by another gentleman who flies professionally. He also happens to be the guy who will be Marrying my friends Mat and Tina on Saturday. He flys the Inn at Essex. Coincidentally this is the maiden voyage of that balloon. It had only been flown once in Spain. This was the first time here in the states so there was much hooplah around it. We flew about an hour and I took many pictures which I have posted here. There are alot of the Inn at Essex Balloon pictures. Since it was its maiden flight I thought it only fitting to have a good record of the event. Plus I know the pilot was not in the best of spirits do to an incident that occured at the Bachelor Party. I figure a good shot or two of the balloon would raise his spirits. After all when you are flying in a balloon its kind of hard to take pictures of it. Which is why I don't have to many of Freedom.

We flew for about an hour playing Cat and Mouse most of the way. All totalled we went about 3.5 miles. As we came in for our landing which is not as bad as you would think. I have heard some stories about landings. This one was textbook. Didn't even require a drop line to help the balloon come down on target. All the while we were flying we stayed relatively close to the deck since that was where most of the wind was in the direction we wanted to be heading. It allowed us to fly over alot of houses in low enough to talk to people. Once again just want to point out how friendly Vermonters are. People stopped their cars and came out of their houses and started waving. You can't help but wave back. We even passed over a house having a party and they wished us a happy Cinco de Mayo. (Remember that) I felt like we were on parade. Once you are in the air though people don't always just watch you fly by. The try and catch up with you as well. So when we landed we had a nice little contingent of fans that showed up some were of the furry variety like our pal Iko here. We were fortunate enough to land in a parking lot with plenty of room. Remember you can't steer a balloon you land where the wind tells you when you run out of fuel. We landed about 20 minutes before sunset, and were packed up by sun down.

That's not quite the ending to our story. You see for years now I have listened to my friend talk about Ballooning not once did he talk about any of the traditions. To enhance the evening and make it more special I was given a nice ceritificate for my first flight and we all shared in a glass of Champagne. However not without a little abject humiliation first. I enjoyed it all and it was in good fun, I felt like I really was initiated into the club. We had the sabreing of the Champagne. Mitch gave us (well me) the speech of the birth of ballooning starting all the way back to Roger Bacon. Then it was time for the toast. However I knew things were going south when Margaret took my glass from my hand and placed it on the dirt. As you can see from the pictures. After Mitch said is last words, I had to then drink it. Without using my hands on my knees. There was much cheering and I as documented here able to do it. We headed out for one last tradition. There is a local pizza place nearby that is sort of a post flight haunt, and we all showed up for dinner having earned it. Remembering that it was Cinco de Mayo from our flight I drank myself to blissful inebriation on Corona, and thus ended a very very fine day. I am not sure when I will be able to fly again, but I now know why it is that they do. There is an incredible amount of freedom thats felt by being up there in the sky. What once may have been a fear is now in my blood, and I'll be honored to earn my keep by crewing for another flight. "When once you have tasted flight, you will forever walk the Earth with your eyes turned skyward, for there you have been, and there you will always long to return." -- Leonardo Da Vinci

Just Another Manic Monday - NOT!

2008-05-05T16:23:00.004-04:00

Greetings from the Green Mountain State. So far my impromptu vacation is turning out to be one of the best ones I have taken in my life. It started on Saturday by attending a Black-Tie event for the Triangle Organization. It was a fun rewarding evening, despite the fact that I was missing the festivities in Vermont I did have a good time. It also provided a good opportunity for my co-worker Katie and to bond. The Hyatt in Cambridge is a rather nice hotel. I had not realized this until I stepped foot in it Saturday night.

Its really apparent to me this weekend how varied my tastes are. As happy as I was Saturday night all dressed up, driving around the city at night, listening to Sinatra on the radio after coming home from this gala event. I was just as happy up here in Vermont. As fancy as the dinner was on Saturday, the cookout Sunday night at Mitch's house was just as enjoyable. I can't help but be reminded of how much more pleasant people in Vermont are. From standing in line at the store to letting people go in traffic. There is simply no comparison. To be honest I have met Mitch only a handful of times, the longest time I spent with him was last year ( see post: Ka-Ching ). Granted I helped him out but I felt like family at his house the other night. Honestly meeting people like that this day and age does make me sad at how cynical I have become over the years. I suppose Boston has its charm, but the city folk can be less than charming.

The sun set and so passed Sunday. Monday I awoke really without having to much planned. I knew there were a couple of things I wanted to do but really I was just going to let the day go as it unfolded. I was able to sleep in with no alarms and my own internal clock decided to shut itself off until about 10AM can't tell you the last time I slept that late. I had a nice lunch downtown at a favorite restaurant called Sweetwaters. This lead to me driving a short while down route 7 to South Burlington. There I went exploring in Red Rocks Park. I opted out of the beach and went for the trails which were so curved and looping I estimate I walked about 3 miles on the trail and and down hills.

It was time well spent as I was able to experience, even for a short time, that connection to nature. Yes the scenery was classic Vermont. Yes it was a beautiful day, not to hot and not too cold. I did though run into a few things you don't see everyday. First I was able to take notice of the various birds. While resting a woodpecker landed right in front of me on a tree and started pecking away. It was kind of fun to watch him do his thing. Shortly there after I was able catch sight of a Hawk close up. Now I've been in the city so long I forget what the birds sound like other that seagulls and pigeons. I was truly a marvel to see the Hawk in its natural environment as it stalked its prey.

Then as I was walking back I turned the bend and came across a man and his wolf. Yes wolf. It was as long as the man was tall and it was a great beast of a creature. Your don't realize how big they are when you always see them in pictures. This one was well behaved, I know it was domesticated but you can't help notice the sheer power and build of the animal. It may have been passive but you can't help but respect the creature and to my surprise I was not scared in the least. Not sure why my flight or flight never kicked in. Eventually we parted ways after a passing conversation and as I was heading back I decided to head down closer to the water to stick my feet in the lake.

The date is May 5th. Just a few short weeks ago it was still snowing in Vermont so of course the lake is no where near swim worthy, but it was refreshing just to stand in for a few minutes to cool off. As I was sitting on the rocks with my feet in the water I became aware of movement behind me. Not footfalls like a person, but of an animal. So I turned and found myself face to face with my wolf friend. Who stopped looked at me and quietly walked past me into the water. He too decided he needed to cool off. I cursed myself for not bringing my camera I only had my cell camera and it was buried in my bag. Finally he decided he had enough and went back on to the rocks and sat by me for a few minutes. I know he was a he because his owner soon started calling him and his name was Aaron.

Call me nuts or a fool, or both but I felt this connection to this creature and knew that it would not harm me. Even though it is fully capable of doing so. Soon Aaron and his owner were on there way and I decided to follow suit since I needed to be back in time for round two of my day.

To Be Continued . . .

Get Lost!

2008-05-01T18:12:00.002-04:00

So for the past few weeks I have been catching up on a little TV. In fact, I have watched most episodes of Lost online. I can't help it, its a very addictive show, and as I said I was making a concerted effort to get caught up. That is until today.

I made it all the way up to this season. There are only 3 episodes that I haven't seen yet and I would be caught up. ABC had other plans and decided to take down the most recent episodes. DAMN YOU!!! Now I can't watch tonights episode after all, and unless this is just a minor glitch I'm going to have to become friends with someone with a DVR who watches it real fast.

There could be worse things in life but this just irks me. I was planning on packing and watching some TV tonight. Some really no stress stuff oh well. Is it me or is anyone else really getting hit hard this allergy season. Normally I got a week or two of sniffles and red eyes but seriously I look like I smoke pot and sound like I have cotton balls shoved up my nose. That being said I can't help but notice that one of my neighbors must be cooking bacon. Its about the only I can smell right now.

Oh, What Fresh Hell Is This?

2008-04-30T23:24:00.000-04:00

Ever have on of those weeks were you just can't get ahead of things. This week and last were both those types of weeks. So it is with much joy and anticipation that I look to my vacation next week. There's just a few things I want to say first before I begin.

1.) Commerce Insurance / AAA have no concept of customer loyalty and must not care about there business.

2.) AMICA on the other hand does live up to its reputation as being excellent in customer value.

That being said lets move on. I had the distinct honor a couple of weeks ago in attending my friends' wedding. Finally after over a decade of dating and some major lobbying at the statehouse Jeff and Moe were able to be married. What went from being a possibility of a washout turned out to be a beautifully sunny day. Especially out in Sherborn where the wedding was held.

The reception was good and everyone had fun. Perhaps a little too much fun (eh, Sharon). All I do know is that there was plenty of dancing and fun. Although my shirt needed to be dry cleaned the very next day. Someone who shall remain nameless planted there face into me and upon getting home I discovered that my shirt looked like the Shroud of Turin. I would have taken a picture but I figure then someone would want to buy it on E-Bay. Come to think of it that's not a bad idea.

I was also able to experience my first Boston Marathon. I don't think I will ever be at the point were I could run it myself, I'm more of a sprinter. My apartment was pretty much on mile marker 22. So early that morning I set out to watch the people go by. I should have left earlier. At the point where I needed to cross to get to Rob's building there were too many runners. I figured I would be the guy that ran fell and caused a mass pile up of bodies.

So I patiently waited my turn. It was then that some old curmudgeon of a man decided he wanted to cross the street. He walked with a cane, at a snails pace and decided that the Marathon had to wait for him. I'm surprised the man did not meet his maker that day. He could have easily been trampled or worse clocked out of the way, and I wouldn't have blamed the runners if they did. Instead they sort bunched up and banged into each other as they avoided him. I guess you can be allowed to be rude when you get that old. He could have very easily been helped by the officers that were 10 feet away.

Enough about the old coot. We walked down to mile marker 24 which conveniently was Coolidge Corner and watched the people come running down, at this point they are really just a little over 2 miles from the finish and they are in better spirits then back where we were. Keep in mind I live just on the other side of Heartbreak Hill. Pretty much after that its clear sailing as far as hilly terrain. What surprised me the most was how good everyone looked, there was no crawling on the ground like they have on the news and such. Despite that fact though I had heard from one of the EMT's that there was at least 3 heart attacks. I can't imagine wanting to run that badly.

It was a great weekend and that extra day off helped. So I decided that I would extend my time in Vermont next week and make it a whole week instead of just a long weekend. I am looking forward to it. I have a few things wedding related to do, and visiting my friends will be great, but I have also sort of scheduled little expeditions for myself. Just little things here and there that I have not been able to do before while up there. I'm hoping to get outside alot more as well.

Until then I have a bunch of work to do to get ready. I have a coupon for a free audio book download I am not sure what I will get but I know I should get something for the long ride. I also have an event on Saturday night I will be attending. It should prove to be interesting. It will be the first time ever I'll be going out with a knockout blond woman. LOL Mom would be so proud.

No Mountain too High, No Valley too Deep ...

2008-04-16T08:54:00.006-04:00

... to keep me from good Indian food. Well its been over a year since I have been there so tonight the craving got the better of me so I grabbed Rob and took him to my favorite Indian Restaurant. Simply named India the place is located in Providence and has a couple other locations. To my surprise it was recently renovated and I must say it looks better than ever. The menu seems to be getting an overhaul as well, but all the favorites are there. Including a few new items that I think will be sure to please.

This afternoon was just too good of a day to waste, so I figured a mini road trip was in order. Besides I have challenged myself to be having more fun lately. This sure fit the bill, and was a good way to break up the week. I can go to the gym tomorrow.

Ever feel like something big is coming? That vague notion that you can't put your finger on. I can't help but feel that way lately. I have no idea exactly what it is, but I know its neither good nor bad it will just be a change. Its coming and I am as ready as I will ever be for it. I'll let you know more as they develop.

Get Your Mind Out Of The Gutter

2008-04-13T23:41:00.003-04:00

Well this weekend went by fast. I guess I had fun which always makes it go by faster. Went shopping and spent some time with Rob on Saturday and Sunday was spent in my old stomping grounds. Never knew a town so small would could stir up so many memories. So Sunday I found myself in Millis. The Roche Bros. specifically as I was getting some last minute things for Jeff and Moe's Shower/Bachelor Party extravaganza. The place had not changed much. Not that I had expected it to, it was just odd, like I had just stepped back in time. Finishing my errands I quickly headed over to Medway for the party. It was a good group of people and some are my closest friends most of which I had not seen since either my party in February or even as far back as the Tarot party in January.

I won't spoil Jeff's thunder by writing about his gifts, I'll let him do that on his own blog, however they did range from the tragically funny to the humorously practical. It was pot luck so we all brought something. Apparently most people had Italian on the mind since we had plenty of Lasagna, Meatballs, and Anti-pasta. I too was in the mood for Italian having brought over a bucket of Comella's Grandpa's mess. I also was in the mood for a good drink and learned that Mimosa's need not be made of just Orange Juice. I found replacing it with Pomegranate/Blueberry Juice to be even better than the original.

With plenty of food eaten and gifts open we darted over to Milford en mass to Pinz for some bowling. It was a fun time but it did illustrate how bad my wrist is getting. I'm at the point where I should really talk to a Dr. about it. I wasn't much good for more than a couple of strings and a few balls were painful to throw. We did have some cake which Martin made from scratch no cake mix, no frosting in a can. The real thing through and through and I was impressed.

Some people got to go for a ride in my new car too. Which I was very excited about. The whole day was fun and its only the first of many wedding related events going on for me in the following two months. Jeff and Moe will be getting Married next Saturday. My best friends Mat and Tina will be tieing the knot in mid May and my own sister will be rounding out the month of May. So there will be no shortage of party or events to attend.

In truth these are all important people in my life but I can't help but feel a bit of disappointment. It was only a few short years ago I thought I would be married before each of these couples. Now I find myself back at square one. I am not devastated over it mind you, because even if I had been Married before them I would have gotten a chance to experience the Ugly Divorce as well, and that would have made it that much worse.

So I say to them this: Enjoy the time you have and never take a day for granted. There are no certainties in this world but if you are honest and open with each other you will have a soul mate for the rest of your life. I couldn't think of any couples more deserving of life long happiness and I'm glad to be part of your special days.

Anagrams

2008-04-10T23:11:00.002-04:00

Is it ironic or just funny ( I have trouble with that sometimes ) that the letters of my name can be arranged to spell Rare Gay Letter. There are a couple others but there not as funny as that one. These are the things that I think of that kept me out of the good schools.

So today was a great day weather wise. Even Wednesday night was great I was able to get out and do a lap around the reservoir. Today though walking out for lunch was great. It felt odd being outside without a jacket on, but at the same time it felt good. Was also able to drive around in the new car with the windows down. It felt good. I love the Winter but even I will admit to finding enjoyment when Spring Weather comes around.

I guess it reminds me of being back at school. Where Spring came really late in the year and when it came the whole campus just about shut down that first good day. I can remember one day in particular where a certain group of classmates decided that maybe we shouldn't go back inside right away from the break. Sure enough the professor ends up canceling the rest of the class. Whats even funnier is that was my Customer Satisfaction class. Guess it didn't do any harm in the long run considering my profession. You really have to have attended the school in order to understand the full effect of a Sunny Lyndon day. That's what today felt like.

A Minor Course Correction

2008-03-31T12:35:00.006-04:00

Well the weekend did not quite go according to plan. (What ever does?) Instead of just working in the morning Saturday I worked the better part of the day. I did get to enjoy a nice dinner in Quincy at what is becoming my favorite Mexican Restaurant - La Paloma.

Its small and unassuming but its got great food, and some of the best Margarita's I've ever had. My favorite (because its the only one I order) is the Pepper-ita! Its a got everything you would expect to find in a regular one but with the addition of Tequila that has had Jalapenos fermenting in it. The result is a sweet, salty, sour, spicy drink that goes down well. Seriously almost like kool-aid but with a kick!

Sunday though we had originally planned to go to Newport, but those plans were changed when we discovered that the store we had wanted to visit was not quite what we wanted when we checked it out online. So we tabled that trip for another time. We did head up to Salem. Now I have never been to Salem so I was a bit curious about what goes on up there. To my surprise however the answer was, not much. Or at least not much right now. It was really quiet. There were a lot of shops and we checked out quite a few but I have to be honest. I understand and support Wicca as a religion, but it does nothing for the cause when you sell fake blood, fangs and fake dog poo. Don't get me wrong there were a few stores that did seem authentic but for the most part it was all very commercial.

Another thing I noticed was the proliferation of herbs all over the place. I know there are "magical" qualities that are suppose to come from them, but those are based roughly on the medicinal benefits you get from them. One would take the herbs and fashion a tea, tincture or salve from them and apply as needed and directed. No its not magic its actually science. Where do you think the pills in the bottle came from. Alot of them are chemicals these days but medicines were once made from nature so its not as strange as it may sound. Where am I going with this? Well the herbs I saw all around were all sealed up, but it was quite obvious they may have been packaged during the Nixon administration. What once was dried green, is now brown dust. At this point I doubt they would be any benefit to anyone. By now all the essential oils, and medicinal properties these items once had are long gone, so I would think that it would reason that so would its "magical" properties.

Maybe I just realized how to make a buck off all those old spices I was just going to through away.

After we stopped by The House of Seven Gables. I took some photos. One of the house and one of the view from the house. It was next door to the birthplace of Nathaniel Hawthorne, who personally is not my favorite author but I can appreciate his work. He spent time in the house growing up and lead to him writing the story of the same name.

For lunch we stopped by Woodman's in Essex. Its rumored to be the place where Fried Clams were invented. I have yet to find the truth to that but I do know they make a damn fine clam. Just about everything is award winning and its all homemade. From Onion Rings to Shrimp its all fresh and its all fried golden goodness. I skipped out on my usually Clam Chowder, I know I know! I get the clam chowder, wherever I go. Just not today and not here. I was not feeling it. Besides as I am beginning to discover this is New England, you can't go two feet without seeing someone's "award" winning clam chowder. Hell I think even Friendly's claims they have award winning chowder. So I passed on it. What I did have blow my mind was the onion rings. They were just perfect as well as everything else. Except for maybe the coleslaw I didn't try it but Rob didn't like his. Oh well nobody is perfect.

Resident Parking Only

2008-03-27T21:07:00.002-04:00

That's pretty much all you see down Commonwealth Ave. Designed to give residents enough places to park. Of which I am very appreciative of considering I live practically on the BC campus. However since I got a new car I need a new sticker, something of which I am trying to get, but our lovely state has a different set of rules for people who lease. So it requires a letter form my insurance company proving that I live in Boston, because my mail, or my registration or my driver's license is not enough.

Now this would be alright if I had that letter from my insurance but they have not been able to send one yet, nor have they been able to even fax me a copy. Thus it lead to a nice little bright orange envelope on my car this morning. $40 is the fine by the way for parking in a resident section space. I am hoping I can win the appeal I mean I even park down along the area for the St. John's seminary where Cardinal Law used to call home. No one parks there. I figure since I am not a 12 year old boy I'd safe. Today I spoke with my insurance company and they said they would mail and fax the letter. So far no fax. Tomorrow will be a pleasant morning for AAA when I call, and God help them if I have another ticket.

So this weekend I'm going to be working a bit on Saturday and Saturday night I'll be helping Rob pack to move. Fortunately he hired some movers so all we'll have to do is pack the boxes. Probably the easiest move I will have done in years. Sunday though I think we are off to Newport to do a little shopping. So I know I will have a little bit of fun then. Maybe I'll get a chance to see some friends this weekend to depending on everyone's schedules.

Any which way but back.

2008-03-23T22:08:00.002-04:00

Well I know its a little overdue but better late than never. The poll is closed and it appears that poeple like the name of the blog just fine. I thought maybe a name change would be in order, but people had some real good reasons why they liked it so "give the people what they want."

Life has been busy as of late. Works crazy, you've read already that I have a new car. I have three weddings coming up soon, and they are all for some pretty important people in my life. I just have to go out and do some serious gift shopping. LOL.

Life in general has been good lately. Don't get me wrong there's been plenty of stresses in the days but inevitably this life is what we make of it. Sure we have our setbacks, but ultimately its our choices that have brought us to where we are today. For good or for bad. Its all relative. If you find yourself in a particularly rough patch. Search your memory of the collective experiences you've had at this point. Chances are that you will have something you can use to get you through.

Everyday we live is another chance to learn.

Zoom . . . Zoom Indeed!!

2008-03-18T22:06:00.001-04:00

I gotta say I'm in love. Well its been a full day since I picked up my car and I love it. Its just so me. I love the way it drives, the way it feels, the way it looks. I suppose eventually it will loose its appeal but for now I can have a little fun. I'll post more tomorrow but for now I'm tired.

Shoulda ... Coulda ... Woulda

2008-03-12T21:17:00.002-04:00

Well another day another dollar. Its times like these that try my patience. While we are making positive changes at work I can't help but be a little disappointed when things start to back up. I know we are doing a great job but it just shows that we still have some opportunities to improve. So with that things can be a bit stressful.

When asked to today what I wanted to do, I had a laundry list of things that I should be doing. Which was immediately dismissed as an answer because it wasn't what I wanted to do. So again I was posed the question. What do I want to do? I really was flummoxed. I mean so much of my life is defined by what I should be doing so I find it difficult sometimes to sort out the "I want"'s from the "I should"'s.

So what do I want? I guess its what everyone wants. I want to be happy and I want to do those things that will make me happy. I want to do those things that inspire me, that make me want to challenge myself and ultimately be a better person. Next step is incorporating those things into my life. I mean I do like my work and I do love what I do. If I didn't it would not make any sense for me to stay. I just have to remember to treat yourself. After all "what's the point in living if you can't feel alive?" Luckily I can incorporate those things that I want to get out of life into my routine. For now I am enjoying my metro experience and I think I'll do it for a while longer. I know though that I will want to eventually move on out maybe out to the countryside and up to Vermont if not over to the coast of Maine.

That's a more long term goal. Right now I want to relax a little more and enjoy a nice stroll at night. Like I did earlier. I want to go on little day trips to Vermont or the Cape. I want to see a show or two. I want to laugh. Fortunately enough for me I have also found some who wants to share in those same experiences, and ultimately I want to be able to share it with him. So now I know what I want and oddly enough work wasn't on the list. I guess I am not hopeless.

Have a good night everyone and remember to do more of what you want and less of what you should.

Zoom ... Zoom ... Zoom

2008-03-10T20:28:00.002-04:00

Well I apologize if I have been out of contact lately. I really haven't been doing to much although last week I did manage to go out to my friend Mario's Birthday party. Truth is I've been kind of paranoid to go out. You see my car is dying. I know that now and no matter how much I pay to fix it its all down hill from here. There is something up with the engine and the electrical system is having trouble too. It may not be in its death throws but I don't want to end up stranded somewhere either, and at this point a steady payment will be preferable to unexpected bills.

I really can't complain to much. For all the difficulties I may have had with it over the years it still got me from place to place, and in the end lasted longer than I expected. In the end it outlasted more than I ever thought it could, even longer than people. Such is the way of life things.

Of course those who know me probably know by now that all I have been thinking about for the past couple of years when it comes to cars is the Honda Element. I just like the looks of it (so sue me). However its not the right car for me right now. I need something I little more fuel friendly and dare I say a little more sportier. Besides my boyfriend's got a shiny new anyways, two Elements would just be kind of gay. Don't you think?

What has caught my eye? Well if the title hasn't given it away I've decided to go get a Mazda3. With 32 mpg highway and 29 city its got it were it counts in fuel, plus its got a nice solid frame. More substantial than some of the Honda's and Toyota's these days. I'm not looking for a status symbol on wheels. Just something nice and economical which also can be fun to drive. Well that was my decision. I'll be damned if I get another Red car. I have my sights set on a nice Galactic Grey one this time.

Your thoughts?

The weekend was too short, and so is this post.

2008-03-02T21:51:00.004-05:00

Well I before I start I want to draw attention to a new blog here on blogger. You'll find the link to the right in my friends list. Rob'd For Your Pleasure, I know rather tongue in cheek humor. I have to admit I like the name. I recommend it to those who enjoy reading my own blog. I'll admit I am a little biased considering since I know the author intimately.

So last night I saw a movie, it was all be it a TV movie, but a good one just the same. The Five People You Meet In Heaven, based on the book of the same name. It really drove home the thoughts I had been having about meeting people. The premise that when you die before you go on to Heaven you meet up with five people who you have effected during your life. They teach you the lessons that you may have missed in life before you can move on. Basically the moral of the story is that we are all connected on some level and strangers are just family you haven't met yet. You are connected to everyone you interact with and the simplest actions do effect others. So think positive thoughts!

It doesn't have to be the best friends you had for years, it can also be the waitress you gave a bigger tip too that made her night. You could definitely effect your parents, but you can also just as easily effect your employees by showing them that you respect them. We are all here for a reason and unless you are planning on checking out, we all want to live and survive. Maybe its this conscientiousness that makes it hard for me when I see people being rude. Its what makes me sad when I see someone so self centered that they can't see the impact they have on others around them. Well I guess "Ignorance is Bliss" is just not a cliche' any more.

Well I'd write more but I have been told that my posts can get long. So here's a short one.

Another Hundred People

2008-02-25T12:20:00.001-05:00

Its amazing how much time can fly. Even more so I suppose when you are having fun. Sorry about the Blog neglect. I'm thinking about changing the name of my Blog by the way. While I do like it, I feel it needs to evolve. Just like so many things in my life I think its time. So I am putting up a poll that can be voted on. It should be up in a day or so. You can vote for a new one or if you really like it vote to keep the original.

So as referenced above, I have been having fun. I have even taken some time off. Work is work though and it will forever be busy, it just depends on what kind of busy it is. Right now I am in interviewing season. But that's not fun to talk about and fairly illegal I think so we'll skip to other topics.

Valentine's Day was a success, and I must give some props to the Elephant Walk for having our table available right at 7 when we walked in the door. It was definitely a full house and they are just the kind of place that does it right. So it was a good dinner, of course the company wasn't half bad either :P .

That weekend I was able to throw my first party in years. Needless to say I was a little stressed. But once the time came round it was good time. All hubris aside I think I put on a damn good party. My concern was more for the mix of people. I blended a good number of people from various circles and it seemed to work. Not everyone could attend and I understand that. They were missed and will just have to make it to the sequel. Those who could attend though got to meet Rob. The new man in my life. :) Also the reason why I have not been updating this thing as much as I would like.

So what else has been going on? Last week was a little slow but it was busy at work, but I got a nice little break on Friday. Due to the snowstorm my company let us out early. I took full advantage of this by getting a decent parking space that I could dig out from and then proceeded to go downtown for the afternoon. As I knew the rest of the city would be fleeing. I went and watched a movie Vantage Point which was better than most people say it is. Of course I couldn't have gotten through the movie without being visited my Mrs. Obvious.

It seems lately that every time I got to a show or theater I get stuck in front or behind someone who feels the need to talk through the entire show with inane conversation. Well Mrs. Obvious just repeated what was going on. Oh look the president just got shot. "Oh Harold did you see that the president just got shot." Of course Harold say it. The whole damn theater saw it!! But they didn't HEAR what happened next because you kept flapping your yap. Then as we got deeper into the movie she decided to share with us her theories on who did it. UGH!!! I gave all the signs. First there was the throat clearing. No luck. Then there was the casual glance over the shoulder. Nothing. Finally there was the turn around and stare directly at her. That didn't work either. I swear to God had I bought a concession she would have been covered in it because even the SHHHHH didn't help. I wasn't the only one doing it either.

I think theaters should set up a hotline. Something that you could call and let them know that this stuff is going on. I can deal with a little talking but when its blatantly distracting its a problem. Maybe if it was even a text message. Of course people should just learn to be a little more considerate. I think a little bit of consideration is alot to ask these days. I find myself wanting to dish out the five finger etiquette lesson on occasion. Certainly could have helped on the T ride home later.

After the movie I went out and walked around in the common in the snow. I probably looked like a crazy homeless person to most people, but I miss walking around in the snow. So I had the time and I did it. Let me tell you Greenpeace is a committed bunch since they were trying to sign people up in the height of the snow. I don't think they had to many takers though. Well after a once around the park I left for Coolidge Corner to my favorite Book Store. The Booksmith. I perused a couple of things but settled on a classic that I would try out. I hadn't read "The Fountainhead". I am familiar with Ann Raynd and her work and I needed to read something with a little more substance.

I spoiled myself at dinner with a little French Onion soup and Fish and Chips. I know totally not diet food, but it was a night to spoil myself. I headed home on the T again but there were problems on the D line so we had to pick some passengers for a stop. So all of a sudden our empty train went from empty to full. Of course by that time it was standing room only and this older woman came over stared at me to try and get me to move. Normally I would do such a thing but this woman was just so demanding. "can you move" she says. No. Which visibly pissed her off because what she failed to notice was the woman she pushed out of the way with the 4 bags of groceries and five year old. I said "I think she needs the seat a little more than you do and since its mine right now I'm giving it to her." Pointed and asked her to take a seat with her kid.

I've had to be transferred from train to train before and I know in the snow with a child and groceries and the prospect of more shuffling around at the end of the line earned her a little bit more than sympathy than crotchety middle aged woman. Of course the incident did not sit all that well with me at first because of the cranky bitch, but by the time we got to the stop the guy next to me offered to carry her groceries so she could make sure her child got across the street and it completely reaffirmed my faith in people. It just illustrates that most people are good its just the bad ones that leave an impression.

Walking back from Cleveland Circle to my apartment I came across a number of people out and about having fun on a Friday night in the snow. I even ran into one woman talking about Medway, Millis, and Medfield. No one in Boston knows those towns. I was impressed. LOL I hate to say it but we should have more storms it seems like people bond more at these times, when if this was a random summer night no one would have cared less. Instead a hundred random people getting off the train there were a hundred mutual soles trying to get home, and one bitch :) .

Yes title of the blog was inspired by Company. I watched it on channel 2 the other night. It was the revival directed by John Doyle. I have to tell you I am not a fan of the gimmick he's employing where the ensemble cast also plays the instruments. I just think you either get a good actor who plays the violin ok, or vice versa. He did this with Sweeney Todd too but it was not as well done as it was with Company. Anyways check it out if you can.

Do You Believe in Magic?

2008-02-13T21:51:00.002-05:00

You know when I was growing up I used to love watching the David Copperfield specials and thought it would be cool to be a magician. Then I got older and realised that its not magic, its all tricks.

20 years ago the only way we would be having this conversation would have been on the phone. There were no Laptops or PC's and if I were to describe to you what we are doing now it would seem beyond belief, but it wouldn't make it any less real today.

So do I believe in Magic? Yes just not the poison apples and love potions. Magic is wonderous. Its the thing that makes a dog walk half way across the country to its owner. Its the connection to a loved one that you feel despite how far away you are. Its our own ability to heal and forgive from the gravest of wounds.

Please forgive me for being so esoteric this evening. You see I can't help it. I haven't mentioned anything on here lately but I think its about time. You see I've met some one, completely unexpectedly. Which is I guess what they say will happen. To be honest I wasn't quite sure how he felt about me until today.

As my co-workers know I go to lunch at Fresh City and today was no different despite the driving rain. What can I say, Nora and I are creatures of habit. Well we made our way back in and around the corner to my desk and I immediately see two balloons over my cube. The balloons were connected to a nice little vase of purple flowers being hugged by a Teddy Bear. I barely got out the words "oh my" which let everyone know I was back and suddenly every woman who wasn't gone was at my desk as they had seen it being brought in. Yes I did turn red, I was not embarassed as much as I was taken back. OK maybe a little embarassed too. Of course the cat was out of the bag at that point so they all got the story, and while I still believe that Valentine's Day was created by Hallmark to make an extra buck after the holidays, I can't help but be giddy.

You know I once thought that "romance was dead". Now I'm not so certain. I think I may have just found the man to renew that faith I once had. I know I am breaking one of my cardinal rules about blogging about my dates but in this instance I feel justified.

Of Stones and Onions

2008-02-09T14:56:00.001-05:00

Ok so I was thinking last night of a way to describe the brain in my book and I though I would share with you my thoughts. Naturally and I think more common is to describe it like an onion. Its multi layered and you pull back layer after layer. Thats so boring though! After all each layer is almost exactly like the previous. Where does that leave you on the road to self discovery. It leads to a pretty dull person.

After all was it not Buddha who said "What you are is what you have been, and what you will be is what you do now." I don't know to many boring people. Everyone has there own story and sometime that story is not pretty. I don't think many people really understand how things that have happened years ago can affect you today. So to that point I have decided the brain is like a stone in the woods. Sometimes smooth, often bumpy, and the bigger they are the more interesting it makes them. You want to know whats beneath the surface? Move the rock. EEWWWWW I am sure you all have turned over large rocks in your lifetime. What's there? Bugs and stuff. They scurry around and avoid the light. Thats your brain. On the surface its normal and otherwise common, but the second you see whats beneath the surface you find the real story. What little pieces of your psyche are scurrying around in there avoiding the light?

I'll tell you what one of mine is. While having an otherwise normal childhood I was always socially just outside the mainstream. Not that I wanted to be the cool kid. I was just being me. Apparently being yourself doesn't score to many friends in school. While I did have good friends I can't remember being accepted by large group of peers. Egad! How sad you say. Its no big deal, after all what good is acceptance if it comes at the cost of your identity. However being 31 now, I apparently still let this factor into my daily routine. It has less to do with some strive for acceptance and everything to do with why I have the friends I do.

I have been holding myself to some archaic double standard. Why do I have the friends I do? Well I try to surround myself with genuine good poeple. That doesn't mean they are saints, but it does mean they are honest and interesting people. I very much believe you can learn something from everyone by just knowing them. Some lessons are harder learned though. The thing is I love my friends for who they are, not what they "bring to the table". A fact that I somehow forget about when I think about why people like me. Often times I find myself needing to justify my presence or needing to provide a reason why someone would want to hang out with me; other than just accepting the fact that they like me for who I am. Its something that I am working on and I think its key to rebuilding a little bit of my confidence. Of course blogging about it is my way of getting it out there into the open. Lifting that proverbial stone so to speak and seeing whats there.

Subdued Exhuberance

2008-02-03T16:01:00.000-05:00

Thats a mouthful isn't it. Well its kind of how I feel at the moment. Its February which means that our year closed at work. While I won't know for sure whether we made all our goals until Monday I can at least be happy that we did everything that we could to meet them. It really is a cause of celebration. However I ran myself ragged that I have come down with another cold. Which sucks because literally I feel like dancing but I have to take it easy out of fear that I get worse. Oh well its Sunday now and I feel a whole lot better so I'm going to say I am on the mend. I was able to have a little treat though Friday. I had originally planned to have a quiet Friday night after maybe a drink or two with some colleagues. However I found myself invited out to dinner and it was a great way to end the week if not the month.

The rest of the weekend though has been spent re cooperating. Not that I mind the time to myself but I really was looking forward to being more active this weekend. On the plus side I was able to both spend some time on my book and on my tattoo design. So soon I will be able to get my tattoo I know I have been thinking about it for awhile now, and its evolved over time but I finally have it at the point I want it. Its a little bigger than I anticipated but considering its been over a year that I have been working on the design it will be worth it.

Tonight I'm heading out to the bar to watch the game. I bought a couple of squares in a pool so here's hoping I win. Wish me luck.

Weekend Update: Believe the Lie

2008-01-28T17:00:00.000-05:00

So this was a very busy weekend as far as activities are concerned. I don't think I was even home for most of it. Saturday morning I headed into work to finish up some last minute stuff for year end (which is this Friday thankfully). I put in a good chunk of hours there but managed to take some time off for a little lunch break with someone. It was a good time although short lived since I needed to get back to work, but its always nice to get out and meet new people. So after finishing work I had some time to kill before the party so I headed to the gym. There I met up with my new friend Mr. Elliptical. A fun time was had by all and soon enough it was time to head to my friends' house where they were having a party and there would be a Tarot Card Reader. It had been awhile and I should have thought to have more questions prepared but alas I got caught up in the moment and had my overall reading and got to ask 3 questions.

Generally speaking it was a good reading "as in things looked like it will turn out OK' and she seemed to zero in on some things that I was not mentioning. Without knowing me she was able to determine that I was in the middle of some kind of personal struggle after having some kind of a major event last year. Ok a little vague but then she went into how I dealt with it and it was spot on. The real kicker was that while doing well and on the right track there is still a lie that needs to be taken care of. Its not a lie that I am broadcasting about myself but its something more that I believe in and until that is settled I won't be where I need to be. Admittedly this just about brought a tear to my eye because I know what it is that she's talking about. Whether its hooey or snake oil is beyond my means of judging but she did have a point. She also said she doesn't see it being resolved right away. It will be done over time and be completely personnel. No one else will be able to help me with it. Once it is dealt with though that leg of my journey will be complete, and I will have successfully have evolved into that next level that I am striving for. She also knew that I came from a strong Religious background and while I may not be practicing I am highly Spiritual. I could not help but to agree with that sentiment, and it is that aspect that will apparently help me move on.

That was my overall forecast. I had the opportunity to ask three questions. The first was a general question that I was almost embarrassed to ask. "Will I ever find my soul mate?" To which I got the answer "Who says you find just one?" Which kind of threw me. I guess for as much as I value friendship, trust and commitment I may find many soul mates along the way that I can learn from. As far as "the one" I was told that while I am making great strides by myself, but I will work better as part of a couple. I need to patience though as it is not (in the cards) for right now. More allusion to said lie before that will need to be dealt with. Overall though she does see a positive outlook, which she admitted was a surprise since she's more turmoil usually.

The next question was for my family. I wanted to know if things will work out for them. She said that things had been bumpy for awhile. The skeptic in me was thinking that of course one would think that if I am asking if everything will be ok. Anyways she said pretty much that the family did have a great sense of love for each other, and personally there is not much that I can do. Events will unfold that I may not be happy with but in the end my family will be happy with and it will be ok.

My last question resolved around work. Specifically I asked will I be at my job for a long time. She said that it I will be and may be there long enough to run the place. She said that I may not be thinking I am doing a good job or maybe think that I can do better, but others are taking note. She said that something big will happen this year, but could not see what it was but its positive. She also told me to do more volunteer work because that will fill the whole that's missing in my current job.

So all in all not bad. I'm not doomed, I have a lot of positive things going for me and no real obstacles to overcome sans that one lie. So its hard especially when you so want to believe the lie.

So Sunday I woke up to 4 inches of snow, and literally looked out the window and said "SHIT" It was 10:30 and my best friends Mat and Tina were already on the way down here. I had seen the forecast the day before and it did not call for that. So I was a little worried but found that it was suppose to only be on the coast. Yeah whatever! Well fortunately they made it here and we went to La Cantina in Ashland/Framingham for lunch. It was good and I'm glad they liked it. So after lunch we got to the real reason why they made the trip down from Burlington on a Sunday.

We went to the new U2 3D show at Jordan's furniture. Now Jordan's itself can be quite the sight but we were there for the show. Despite seeing several pieces of furniture that I want I did not purchase anything. We did buy 3 of the last 5 tickets to the sold out show. Wow it sold out fast, but it was a good show. It was filmed knowing that it was going to be 3D so they carefully craft the show with those elements in mind. There was only one time that seemed a little cheesy when there was a shot of Bono singing close up with arm extended. It seemed a little cliche but other than that it was a very good show. The 3D elements were in the layering of scenes. It was really kind of cool. At one point the sea of people looked exactly like a sea complete with waves. A definite recommendation if you like the music.

The two spooky things that happened though was in the film along with all the other stuff that was being flashed and displayed was the saying "Believe the Lie" so that caught me a little off guard. The other happened while I was driving to the gym. I was listening to the radio and they started to play U2, not a new song but a classic which I like called "One". I never hear it on the radio until yesterday not even an hour after I get out of the movie. Without getting too maudlin the song has some pretty deep themes that seem parallel events in my own life as of late.

After that we said our goodbyes and I headed off to the gym. Where I realized that I really should be disinfecting the equipment after AND before I use it. Really manners are just lost on some people. I know your not lazy because you are working out so you just must be rude. Its not bad enough you just sweated over the damn machine you also have a hacking cough and don't believe in covering your mouth. Maybe that's why I keep getting this damn cold.

So after another workout session I headed home and jumped on the T, and met my friends at Karaoke. It was a very quiet night maybe because it was so cold it kept people away. Either way the place was dead, and I was informed that the kid gloves are coming off. I really need to get up there and sing something. No matter how much I know I can't sing; in two weeks I'll be performing something. What song it is I won't tell you until its done. If you really want to know you should come.

It's Made of People!!!!

2008-01-25T13:37:00.000-05:00

First off let me apologize. My last post was on the seventh and it is now the 25Th. That's almost 3 weeks. A good chunk of stuff has happened since then. I had a birthday (31), I have been going to the gym, and oh yeah working! I'll be glad once its February. The good news is my company is doing well so we are looking to end the year on a good note and it makes you feel good when you know that you contributed to a part of that.

This weekend I'm going to a party and we will be having a personalized Tarot Card reading. I think it will be great fun. I know my friend Moe did one for me a couple of years ago and a lot of the stuff happened to come true. So I will be curious to see what the professional has to say. My boss gave me a good site to go and read your horoscope. Its called AstrologyZone.Com just click on that and you'll be brought to the reading for January if you want your own just select your own from the drop down list. I was pleasantly surprised to see that I will be in store for a good year. That's good news considering what a bang up year the last one was. For instance this is how it starts:

The year 2008 is just made for you! Last month, on December 18, Jupiter, the great planet of happiness and good fortune, moved into Capricorn for the first time since 1996 to stay until January 2009, a full year. This marks the dawning of a whole new era for you, one that will erase so many of the disappointments of the past.

Erasing disappointments; I like the sound of that. Well its my year to make it happen. I already made a major goal of mine this morning actually. For the first time in years I clocked in under 300 lbs. I have no particular shame in reporting that because I know it will never happen again. I thought I did that some years ago when I was on Atkins but I know the scale was old and unreliable. I feel much better this time around, and healthier I might add. I'm well on my way and with the new exercise regiment and good "diet" I am consistently losing from week to week and that matters more than a number on the scale. Plus I am feeling lighter which is always a good thing. If I keep up this trend I will be in great shape this summer. Why is that so important? Well I plan on going to the beach but something I have not shared yet was my major motivations. I want to be able to hike, not just a hill, but a mountain again. Not a big one. I don't want to delude myself but I used to do that in school and I miss it. I got so out of shape and did not realize it. I do like being outside, sans the bugs of course but I can deal. During my short lived career as a Boy Scout I got a few Badges one naturally was cooking, another was Orienteering. I loved plotting courses and hiking. So this summer I think I am going to pick a mountain and do it. Hopefully someone will want to accompany me.

OK I need to vent a little. I'm doing my weight loss thing right, and in the morning I have these Muffins that are made of sprouted grains. I have been eating these things for over a year now and despite the obvious Christian overtones to the brand I enjoyed it. You may have seen them. Ezekiel 4:9 sprouted grain muffins. Great stuff especially toasted. Since processed food is the devil this in turn must be the shining archangel of breakfast delights. Here is an excerpt from the Bible verse that inspired the food:

"Take also unto thee Wheat, and Barley, and beans, and lentils, and millet, and Spelt, and put them in one vessel, and make bread of it..."

So all good stuff, and sprouted grains means more fiber and while trying to maintain a healthy lifestyle more fiber is better. It cleanses the system and absorbs toxins and other nasty bits that you don't want in you. However speaking of cleansing the system our find friends over at Food For Life must have stopped reading after that passage because Ezekiel 4:12 says:

"And thou shalt eat it [as] barley cakes, and thou shalt bake it with dung that cometh out of man, in their sight."

WWHHAATTT???!!!! I am not lying that's the verse. One can only wonder why that was left out of the marketing material.

The Ice Man Cometh . . .

2008-01-07T11:32:00.001-05:00

January 8th, 1998

Do you remember where you were then? I do and it wasn't so temperate as it is today. A friend of mine sent me an article this morning. Talking about the events of that day and I must admit I can't believe it was ten years ago.

Most you who read won't know what the hell I'm talking abuot because for most of America it was a normal winter day. However in Vermont, Maine, New York and Canada it was distinctly different. I won't get too technical I don't want to lose you all.

Everyone who lives in a region of the country that receives snow knows about freezing rain. Normally the conditions have to be just right with the perfect amount of percipitation and temperature change. Most times it will last for a few hours coat everything and take down a tree or electrical pole. Then the next day the sun comes out and its all pretty. Such was not the case 10 years ago. A low pressure system was over the great lakes was churning up warm air from the south, a high pressure system in Northern Canada was funneling arctic from the North which normally would be the right conditions for a major snow and ice event. Well to add things to the mix there was an unsually large High Pressure system sitting in Bermuda. Normally this does not happen in Winter. What it did was cause the other to system to sit and not move.

Causing the Canadian Maritimes to be pummeled with feet of snow, and for southern New England there was a lot of rain so much so that there was flooding. For me and everyone else in the areas I metioned earlier it was nothing but freezing rain. It wasn't just one day either it lasted for at least 3 if not 4 in some places. I was living in Burlington,VT at the time and I was on break from school still, while working for Toys 'R' Us on the side. I remember work closing. I remember my roommate needing to go in to work since he worked front desk at the Holiday Inn and there was plenty of stranded people who needed room. I remember trying to drive some co-workers home and I remember how eirie everything was.

Normal business was shut down. It was worse than snow. I dare say worse than the infamous blizzard of '78 in the area of damage. Normally you could expect to receive several millimeters of ice on any given storm thats about .25 of an inch. During this storm there were places that received about 100mm's of ice thats about 4 inches. That will take down trees and electrical poles and thats just what it did. In fact, in Canada alone there were 35,000 electrical poles down which is impressive by itself. Believe it or not though in the worst part it also took down electrical pylons, those are those hug steel towers that hold up high tension wires. The ice was so thick that it managed to down about 1,000 of them as well. Needless to say we all lost power. Fortunately we had a fireplace and were able to keep warm. Others were not so lucky and needed to be sheltered which meant driving in it, or using generators which because of all the ice ended up killing a few people with Carbon Monoxide.

It was not pretty but it was exhillerating. I remember that we needed to get gas so we had to drive to the only gas station that was open. It was dark, and we road along the highway. It was not just ice that was falling for the 3 days there was plenty of thunder and lightning as well. While we drove down the highway I remember thinking there was another storm coming because I was seeing all this lightning. I was wrong there was no thunder accompanying the "lightning" in fact it wasn't lightning at all. It was downed powerlines all over the city and country causing the skies to light up periodically. It was at this point that I knew I was l living in a disaster area. Snow can be dealt with, water can flood out, but the ice stayed. It can't be shoveled and it can't run off. You could only hope that it would melt and unfortunately that would not be the case because the cold air came pouring in behind and made it all rock hard.

The area was devastated in fact damages can still be seen today. Damage estimates at the end were between 4-6 Billion dollars. I remember it was about a week later that my friend and I went to Montreal for my birthday. Half the city still had no power and the drive up was depressing. I can't estimate how many trees were damaged and destoyed but they have to be in the hundreds of thousands. By all acounts this was a natural disaster. I have lived through Hurricanes (not big ones), I have been buried in blizzards, I avoided a Tornado or two, and met a microburst headon, but never have I been in something so destructive before. For as much as I love the weather and enjoy seeing it happen I can't help but feel a bit humbled by seeing something so raw and natural happen. It demands respect and all to often forget that and thats when people get hurt. I just hope that something like that never happens again.

Happy Mungday!

2008-01-05T13:52:00.000-05:00

Ever have one of those times were you see someone and you are completely smitten with them yet you know there is no way anything could ever happen? That was me yesterday. I saw someone that I hadn't seen in years now. I can't believe its been over 5 years. Anyways despite the fact that he changed a little bit he still had that impact on me. Despite the fact that nothing could ever happen I couldn't help but feel giddy after talking with him. It just put me in a good mood for the rest of the evening.

So yes I'm working today it will be worth it when the company makes the year. I actually like it on the weekend sometimes I get alot done. I know I sound like a work aholic but I am not really. I just want to do my share so that I know that when the year ends I did everything I could plus some.

I think I may do a little shopping later then take in a movie. Of course all of that is after the gym. I think after a dose of Ibuprofen earlier today my little aches and pains are gone. I just haven't decided what to see yet. I'm thinking either Sweeney Todd or National Treasure. I think I'll be out near Natick, but if I work my way to the city I think I might see The Savages. Either way I'll be sure to write about it.

Anyone have $5 Billion laying around I could borrow?

2008-01-03T12:39:00.000-05:00

Before I start I just want to say that I have been doing lovely on my diet and exercise routine so far this year. Granted its been 3 days but its always harder in the beginning. However there have been things I have been doing all along to contribute to good health. So I am very cognizant of when everybody else decides to jump on the band wagon. Today was one of those instances. I went to Fresh City for lunch (gasp!) I know I go there all the time, and if you are reading this and you are a co-worker stop laughing. Anyways the point I want to make is that so many people have made the "lose weight" resolution that they now pack the place in. Yesterday was way to crowded and today the actually had someone stand out front and tell people how the lined moved in case it was there first time there. I can support the better eating bandwagon but if you are not careful you can be just as bad there as anywhere else. There was one guy today who it was obviously is first time there. I am not thoroughly convinced that he was there for any better eating. If he was, then just because he ate the salad bar does not mean he did himself any favors. His salad consisted of a little lettuce, a slice of cucumber, salami, turkey, shredded cheese, bacon bits, regular blue cheese dressing, and croûtons. Oh and I left out the egg. I don't think he's going to be feeling any lighter after that, but who knows it could be much better than what he normally eats. Who am I to judge.

Anyways about the $5 Billion. I need it so I can purchase something. O000 what could it be? Well apparently The Weather Channel is up for sale! OK stop rolling your eyes!!! Do you know what fun it could be. I mean imagine it! I always loved the weather and had believed at one point in time that I would be a weatherman. While shoes have been good to me I do sometimes wonder what would have happened if I stayed on that path. I think it would be fun to own the station. There would be so many graphics and stings that Fox News would be put to shame. Local weather could be updated to something a little more appropriate that muzak versions of Michael McDonald and Kenny G.

Think about it not only would it be cutting edge graphics and information, but it could get a little more personalized. We could have the Shoe Forecast. Letting people know what kind of footwear they need to put on for the weekend. The Weekend outlook will let you know if you should be heading to the movies or walking the beach. It could let you know where all the cool parties would be. Storm Stories could focus on conditions and the stupid people who ignore them and cause accidents like all those SUV's. Well its just a thought.

Day 1 of 2008

2008-01-01T22:59:00.000-05:00

Well the day is almost done and sad to say I kept this one pretty mellow. Just did some organizing and drafted up some information for the biggest loser competition I am doing at work. I needed the day to recover a bit. I spent the night at Jessica and Martin's place last night since I really did not want to be driving back to Boston at 2 AM in the morning. Plus it also allowed to have a little last hurrah with some drinks. Really can't think of a better way to celebrate the New Year than with some good friends. I know some day I'll go to Times Square but not right now. I suppose I could go to First Night Boston but I think I prefer the friends to strangers in this case. So far 2008 seems to be going well. Lets hope it stays that way. I think this is going to be a busy month. Between work, working out, and a few parties going on here and there it will most likely be February before I know it. Well I'm off to bed for now. Take care.

2007 A Year in Review

2007-12-30T20:15:00.000-05:00

Well this would mark my first successful year of blogging. Since I started posting on Blogger I have had now 100 posts including this one. I suppose if there was ever a year for the record books this one would be it. Not that I thought it would be the case going into the year but here we are another year older and hopefully that much more wiser.

I can say that this was the first year that I actually stuck to my New Year's Resolutions, at least for as long as I can remember. What were they? Well to save you the trouble of digging through the archives they I'll display them again since I think they really are going to go forward into this year:

1. Have more fun!

2. Get in better shape (not pear shape)

3. Reconnect with old friends.

4. Explore new friendships.

5. Just be a good person.

This year also brought some of the biggest challenges to this list, but so far (knock on wood) I have turned out OK. Some would say better for it. I have learned a lot this year, and experienced the gamut of emotions that it entails. I have played the part of Sinner and Saint, I've spent more time searching my sole than the channels on the TV. I forged a new sense of self out of shards of a broken heart. I learned that unconditional love is a concept beyond some, and that sacrificing one's own self in the name of love can do more harm than good. I learned that its not having emotions that can be an issue its how you act on them, the actions of one person can have a multitude of effects not foreseen.

I've met new friends and have possibly gained a few enemies along the road. I have had some great trips and late parties. I have played the hero, and have been played the fool. I have received rewards for my years of work, and have lost more than I ever thought I gained. Its definitely been a year and while some might suggest it would be one to forget, I would say it is one to remember for all time. It was one of those defining times in my life. Who knew? I always knew I dreaded 30 for some reason, but while last year I went into it with trepidation this year I go into it with hope and cautious optimism.

I have no idea what next year will bring me; however, I am determined to not let it get the better of me. It can't possibly be as turbulent as this year, but I may find myself eating those words next year. We will just have to see.

I believe that you can't force things, they have to come in time. There is a natural flow to this universe and there is such a thing as Karma. I tend to believe that I am a just person so I know that one day those that wronged me will find there own lives effected. Conversely I know that I need to lead myself in a good way otherwise it will come back to me as well. So first on the list is 1) To be a Good Person.

I had made great strides last year in getting into better shape. I am now involved in 3 weight loss competitions for this year. I plan on being a major threat in all of them. This year will be the most fit I have been in awhile. So next on the list is 2) Lose weight and become fit.

I've made some good friends this year and I'm looking forward to developing those relationships. I know alot of people too so hopefully I will have quite the social life this year. I do love all my friends otherwise I would not be spending my time with them. So next is 3) Value the friends I have and be open for new relationships.

Whether you call it the river of life, or just plane old opportunity knocking its true that we are all in it. Change is the only constant, some change is good its called evolution, you learn from it. Change can also be bad, but you need to also learn from it so as not to repeat the pattern. So next on the list 4) I believe that I am here for a reason, what that is I can not say, but I know that as long as I leave myself open to life I will find all the opportunities I could ever want.

Lastly somewhere in there with making friends and leaving myself open to exploring life's little mysteries I hope to find someone who wants to share in the adventure. I have found that you can't force it and it evolves naturally. So where I won't say that I will be stocking the next Mr. Right. I will say: 5) Infatuation is fast, Passion can be a flash in the pan, but Love is worth sticking around for. Its every bit more elusive, but I am hoping to find it one day.

I think the idea of past live is intriguing and while I am not really committed to the idea I do sometimes think that maybe if such a thing were true I was an explorer in my former life. I've been described as an old sole and that I seem to just know things. Well I don't know if that's true but what I do know is that this life is an adventure and as with the best of them they have their treasures and their sorrows. Personally I am enjoying the ride and look forward to tomorrow.

Finally I wish you all Peace in this New Year and much thanks in your readership. I look forward to talking to you all in the days to come, and for those of you who have not said hi feel free to do so.

Good Night!

Back in the Saddle Again

2007-12-26T22:25:00.000-05:00

OK so the thing about Thanksgiving is that you have a weekend to recover after it. When Christmas falls on a weekday you don't get much rest after it. So I found myself heading into work this morning. Trust me I am already working on this for next year. I guess its a sign that I am getting older, I know I have another birthday next month. They won't be so bad now until I turn 40. Remember a birthday is natures way of getting more cake in your diet.

Speaking of diet I am coordinating this year's office Biggest Loser competition. Its what spring boarded my weight loss last year and since I really haven't done much to continue to lose since fall I need to get back on that. I have to look good come swimsuit season this year. So this year in addition to the weight loss I will be attempting to convert some of this weight into muscle. All in all I am in good shape again and hoping that I can take on the competitions again. We have a lot more men participating this year so there will be a bigger challenged. Not that the ladies are not perfectly capable of keeping up its just the old belief that men lose it faster then women. I guess we'll see what happens. I for one know one remarkable woman who has lost a boat load of weight as she works her ass of quite literally in her own BL competition. Jessica you got all my love and support behind you. I hope you win. I know I kind of petered out toward the end of the year but I'm jumping back on the bandwagon again.

Wow the new year is almost here and this is my 99th post. The next will be my big 100 post year end extravaganza LOL. It won't be tomorrow but I can promise it will be by the first. Talk you all later.

And so ends Christmas 2007

2007-12-25T23:28:00.000-05:00

I'll keep it brief since frankly I need the rest. I just wanted to say Merry Christmas and soon a Happy New Year. I know I did not get to see everyone before the holiday and I hope to see you all soon; I have gifts for some special onces too. Its going to be a long week at work eventhough it will only be 3 days. I have decided that I am putting in for next Christmas off already, frankly all this running around sucks. Granted I have less places to visit on the holidays recently but I am hoping that will not always be the case.

I figured the greatest gift I could give myself this year is piece/peace of mind. When I figure out how to get such a thing I'll tell you cause frankly these past few days have been a roller coaster of emotion. I'm hoping to sweep away the rest of my woes next week with the start of the new year. I know it won't be that easy but I can try. Which leads me to letting you know I am planning a big post for the end of the year. I'll say goodbye (and good riddance) to 2007 and be celebrating my 100th post here on blogger. Stay tuned...

Do You Hear What I Hear . . .

2007-12-17T22:32:00.000-05:00

I know a lot of you liked my post from a couple of weeks ago concerning the Christmas songs that just weren't quite right. Well in what looks like to be a big cosmic foot in the mouth event it turns out that Dan Fogelberg has passed away. He died at the age of 54 from complications with his battle with cancer. It is sad really. However I believe his song came up as number 2 on my list of songs to avoid. Before it was kept to a certain few stations now they all play the song in his memory I heard it twice today in the 6 minutes it took me to drive to the hardware store I seriously contemplated sticking the drill bit in my eye as it came on the store's music system.

Sorry I've just been in a mood today. Not sure why exactly nothing has happened really. Just know Christmas is coming and while I have been looking forward to it and have actually filled out cards this year I can't help but still feel a bit out of sorts. Yes I know its because I'm single now, and this is quite a major holiday to go by without thinking about Christmases Past. Well when I look back there was definitely something there that I don't have now and it makes me sad. Its like your favorite sweater the day after it rips. It really won't work, you can't really fix it and you can't find another one just like it. You just have to find another one and hope it doesn't tare like the last one. Well I'm missing that sweater tonight.

The 2007 Garrett Awards

2007-12-16T23:08:00.000-05:00

Its that time of year when all the lists come out so I "borrowed" this list and made it my own by adding some. What do you want for 11 PM?

1) DRINKING BUDDY OF THE YEAR?
Would go to Jeff Marcy!

2) LIFETIME SERVICE AWARD (longest friend)
Mat (aka my roommate, eventhough we haven't lived together in 7 years)

3) NEWCOMER AWARD - COOLEST NEWEST FRIEND?
Chuti and Glen

3) HIGH POINT OF THE YEAR?
I can't pinpoint the exact highpoint, but each day seems to better than the previous.

4) POINT OF THE YEAR YOU REGRET?
I have none, it would imply I did something wrong.

5) BEST HOLIDAY?
I'm going to say Christmas or maybe New Years, I know they have not happened yet but I have high hopes.

6) YOUR SONG FOR 2007?
Over You - by Daughtry

7) MOVIE FOR 2007?
Transformers

8) TV SHOW FOR 2007?
Heroes

9) CELEBRITY OF 2007?
Oprah

10) WORST/HARDEST DAY OF 2007?
June 14th 2007

11) BEST RELATIONSHIP?
Me and Melanie

12) COSTUME OF THE YEAR?
I don't recall wearing any this year although watch out next Halloween.

13) RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR?
Fresh City! (those of you who know me, know why!)

15) BEST DECISION MADE THIS YEAR?
Moving to the City

16) WHAT ARE YOUR PLANS FOR NEXT YEAR?
Find myself a good man!

17) STUPIDEST IDEA?
Walk-toberfest (inside joke)

18)who is the craziest friend of the year?
Allison (I love you!)

19) MOST LOYAL FRIEND?
I'm proud to say they all are!

20) BIGGEST CHANGE OF THE YEAR?
Being Single

21) BIGGEST BITCH/ASSHOLE AWARD?
HMMM! No Comment, they know who they are!

22) NEW YEAR RESOLUTION?
To Grow and learn and continue to have fun while doing it.

23) THE PERSON WHO INSPIRED YOU THE MOST?
That would be Jessica!

24) THE PERSON WHO SUPPORTED YOU THE MOST?
Toss up Elizabeth and Nora

25) THE MOST ELUSIVE FRIEND
Dave Bruce! Maybe we can catch a drink in '08

26) BEST TRIP
I would have to say Chicago

27) WORST TRIP
My commute last Thursday was pretty bad.

28) BEST PURCHASE/INVESTMENT
My E-Book

29) MOST EMBARASSING MOMENT
Falling flat on the ground last Thursday in front of my co-workers

30) BEST PARTY
Newton Party September 29th/2007 Ghost Tour it was Tie

Confesssions of an Introvert

2007-12-09T11:12:00.001-05:00

So while in Chicago I attended my conference about Leading with Emotional Intelligence. I got alot out of it. I'll impart some knowledge here and there at times in my blog, but the important thing that I realized is that yes I am introverted. That doesn't mean though that I can't be a good leader. For years I thought I was just shy and had problems with social situations but over the past few months I have come to realize that this just isn't so. I like group situations and need to be social but I need to have time to myself as well. Its just how I recharge sometimes. I need to be with my own thoughts sometimes, and as it turns out there is a whole train of thought around Extroversion and Introversion. How the brain actually operates differently. Do you know that a persons IQ is set by the time they are 7. You see IQ is not the measure of how smart you are, its the measure of your capacity to learn. With years of training and study you can expect to increase your IQ by only a point or two. Your personality is the same way. Imagine that 7 years old and its set. If that isn't motivation for early childhood development I don't know what is.

So the class teaches you about your own Emotional Intelligence and how to deal with others. Because lets face it most people walking around today are Emotional time bombs, and if those people are going to work for your company you are going to want to know how to work with them. One of the keys is knowing yourself and to better understand that I took the Myers-Briggs test and sure enough it was pretty damn accurate. Essentially it determines your personality types. My score of INFJ plants me as having the temperament of an idealist specifically as a Counselor. What does that mean? Follow the link for Counselor. You want to find out what type you? This seems to be a good online test to take. Its kind of interesting to find these things out about yourself and see how you place. I was surprised to find that only about 2% of the people who took the test got my results.

OK enough for now. I'll chat with you later.

I left my Voice in Chicago

2007-12-04T21:04:00.000-05:00

So it has come to pass that I have returned from Chicago. Would it be an excursion of mine if I did not manage to get myself sick somehow. Its probably because I pushed myself to get through the week before. OH well at least this sickness is not a flu or even a cold. It just happens to have been my throat. I can't tell you the last time I had Laryngitis. I haven't been able to speak right since last Sunday. The trip to Chicago was good even though I was sick I was able to get a lot out of the trip. I was able to meet up with an old friend and meet someone who will one day become one. Remarkably despite my poor health they were able to have a good time while visiting. Of course who can resist a hot tub and steam room. Really the steam room at the hotel was the only thing that got me through the week since the air was so dry every where else.

I did get a chance to visit Giordano's and sample an authentic Chicago pie. Although my appetite was not the best so most of my meal ended up with the valet at the hotel. I know what its like to work at a hotel having done it for a few years so I know its appreciated. Well the front desk staff at my hotel was a bit snobby so it was there loss. Besides I think the valet guys appreciated it more.

Tomorrow I will write more on what I learned.

The Ghosts of Christmas Past

2007-11-30T22:00:00.000-05:00

NO I am not about to recant a tale of Dickensian woe. I am merely stating what it is that I shall be doing tomorrow. You may have remembered me talking about a ghost tour last month. Well unfortunately those plans never did come to fruition. The first attempt had to be rescheduled do to conflicting schedules. The second time around it needed to be aborted because there was a hurricane (well not really, there was just alot of wind and rain). Tomorrow is the third attempt and while it is suppose to be quite chilly it will be pleasantly sunny. We should have a good in not cold time tomorrow. I am looking forward to it. Of course the cold seems to be the precursor to what is shaping up to be the first significant snowfall of the season on Sunday. I however; get to miss it. Hopefully the snow keeps on its course and allows me to take off Sunday morning for Chicago. I don't look forward to being delayed at an airport again going to Chicago. Last time was enough. Either way. My camera is fully charged so I will be snapping photos.

So this leads me to what I want to talk about next. I'm going to ask for a little bit of participation here and hopefully we can have a little fun. Since every radio station this side of the temple is playing Christmas music I figure I want to know a little bit more about people. Every year these station play the Christmas songs that have been classified as "classics". They don't have to be old they just are adopted in the mix and get repeated year after year. For example Nat King Cole's "The Christmas Song" is a classic through and through, but George Michael's "Last Christmas" and Mariah Carey's "All I want for Christmas" are rather new but have been adopted as a new classics and are played year after year.

Recently we have been seeing more from Clay Aiken and Josh Groben which are sure to be classics. We have also seen some others by the latest Brit-Jessi-Christina wannabees that will be forgotten faster that you can say Happy New Year, and rightly so. However, there are a select few that beyond all sense of logic become classics and we are cursed to hear them year after year, some are so bad they make you want to change the channel. Below are my top 5 holiday songs that I absolutely despise and should be banished from the airwaves.

5. Mary's Boy Child/Oh My Lord - Boney M. What you don't know this one? Yes you do. It was released in '78. I was all of one yet this turd has continued to show up at more Christmases than Mr. Hankey the Christmas Poo. Maybe its the steel drums, or maybe its the fact that you would expect to here it come spewing forth from a fish bowling VW bus. Oh my lord indeed, crack a window. Reggae and Christmas just don't mix. Believe it or not there was an entire album of this, maybe we should consider ourselves lucky(?) that we aren't exposed to more refer madness. Final review: Mildly annoying, you may want to go get a refill on the eggnog while its on.

4. Little Saint Nick - The Beach Boys. Maybe its the same argument as the Calypso Calamity above but Beach and Christmas don't mix. Snow and sand go together like gays and football. Sure it happens every now and then but it leads to funny looks and causes people to shake their heads. In this case I'm thinking did they need the money. I just don't see the appeal of this song and once again it was part of a larger Christmas Album. This one was released in '64 so its one of the oldest on my list, but definitely not the wisest. If the Beach Boys were the three wise men it wouldn't have been Frankincense and myrrh that was being smoked. Which would also explain this release. My final Word: this song is like the kids at the store in front of you. You know the real whiny ones that have mom and dad wrapped around their little finger, and you just know if they don't get there way the explode. You know the kind you just want to slap.

3. Dominic the Donkey - Lou Monte Chiggity Ching!!! I don't know why people think animals are all that cute in songs. That aside even if I did want to introduce a new Christmas critter to replace Rudolph it sure wouldn't be a donkey!!! and whats with that other song about a hippopotamus, why can't we have Charlie the Christmas Chipmunk or the ever more useful Patty the Prancing Puma she'd at least get the toys there faster. I digress, so we are stuck with an ass for this song. Does anyone else notice that this song couldn't be any more stereotypically guido if it were played at a Soprano's convention. If I were Italian I would be insulted, and infinitely more popular. My Final word: released in 1960 its aged as well as the fruitcake you get every year. You take a bite to be polite, but then shove it to the back of the refrigerator until next year.

2. Same Old Lang Syne - Dan Fogleberg I'm sorry I know he's a great guy and is a great environmental spokes person but this song bites. No I mean it makes you want to bite the end of a rifle. Released in '81 I suspect that it may have been no coincidence that the incidents of suicide around the holidays went up that year. Maybe my own personal biasis are coming into play with this one this year, but what makes this a Christmas song? Yes he mentions Christmas Eve but it could have happened at any point in the year. I wouldn't classify lamenting on old lovers as being cheery, nor is it one of those Global Awareness songs (you know the ones where its a catchy tune, and 50 celebrities singing about ending war and poverty through the world). So why do we bring this one out every year. Is it to finally send that pathetic lonely friend of yours onto the tracks so you have one last gift to get? Someone please tell me. My Final Thought: It sucks you in just like those old relatives you only see once a year and then haunts you for days. Best if you just ignore the song and change the channel unless your a masochist.

This is it the last one. How bad is it? Oh it gets pretty bad. Guaranteed to make Santa toss his cookies and hang up the boots. Ladies and Gentlemen I present to you the worst Christmas tune of all time.

1. CHRISTMAS SHOES - NEWSONG This song makes me want destroy property, punch babies, and dismember small animals. I know I am in the shoe biz but even I can't stomach the song. My distaste for it is so strong that the opening chord is all I need to hear and the radio gets violently turned off. Also not a happy song, its premise is a poor child needs money to buy shoes for his dying mother so she can look pretty for Jesus? What kind of value is vanity? Anyways this song is to music as Beaches is to movies. Its sole purpose is to make you cry. For something I hate so much I am amazed how much know about it. It was originally an internet legend back in '96. It's too bad that Snopes couldn't have gotten to it before that crazy Christian group Newsong got it. Now we have the song, book and even a movie. I swear those Christians will believe anything these days and then want to saturate the airwaves with it. ( ooh that was really caddy of me) I know I am in good company declaring this song as the most depressing of all time. My Final Thought: Just say no: to drugs, expired eggnog, pulling your uncle's finger, last minute shopping at Cumby's, Strawberry Soda, and this "SONG". In fact do what I do and learn and memorize the first chord and flip the channel. The baby Jesus dancing to that sultry steal drum is much more preferable to this dreck.

Alright thats it. Thats my list. Maybe you agree with me. Maybe I just slammed your favorite song. Maybe you should get your head checked then. Just kidding. Its been fun and I have had an axe to grind for these songs for a long time. Let me know if you agree, or if I just ruined Christmas for you. Maybe you have Holiday Turd of your own you need to flush out.

Acquiris quodcumque rapis

2007-11-27T22:13:00.001-05:00

I must apologize. Its been awhile. Writer's block could be faulted in some accounts, but mostly I have not posted because I have not been able to think straight lately. I dare say that I am looking on things with a bit more clarity these days. For awhile I have been feeling distant and cut off from things, as if all I had to do was go through the motions and things would be ok. Such is not the case. I guess you could say its my ongoing commitment to better myself that I am trying to change my perspective on things. The past few days have been very odd for me. There have been some good times and some painful ones as well. The important thing to note is that I feel connected again. As if I am truly in this world and not just watching it go by. I can not describe to you what it is that I'm feeling other than to say that I am not only feeling connected; I think everything IS connected.

Each day brings a new lesson and while it may be odd; the result is that it is somehow connected to something else. Its almost like things flow together like water and everything happens for a reason. While things may not be better right now I can see how it could be and will be. Which for me is very refreshing. Don't get me wrong I still have plenty of healing that needs to happen and one never really should stop learning. For the risk of sounding a bit nuts I feel as if I am transcending some kind of boundary. (At this point I feel as I should tell you that I am not any illicit drugs, only a decongestant) Just beyond the border is some kind of goal. I don't know what it is but I know its there and I know that I will get it one day. I can be patient, I mean I have dealt with so much this year, so much change so much pressure I just know that there is some kind of greater lesson or understanding that I am coming too. I know I have had to endure all of this for a reason. Something is coming, I know not what but I will be prepared.

Any advice I can give would sound contrived and Zen like. But you need to think of yourself as Bamboo. You can stand tall and proud against the common ups and downs of the day, but you also need to be giving to the strong winds of change. Here endith the lesson grasshopper. Just be prepared for tomorrow or to reap what you sow.

Well aside from all of the above. I have had some time to revamp this page and my Myspace Page. It took me a little while I will be putting the other links back up on my blog soon. Just need some rest and frankly wanted to type this first. I also had time to completely do up the myspace for the holidays. Stop by some time. I have this funky Christmas Tree code that allows you to leave presents for people. Namely me. Go ahead borrow the code spread the word so we can give each other gifts this year, Its fun and its free. Hell here is the link to the Free Christmas Tree. I have also put on some nice music. The Red block autostarts and is for some rather updated holiday music. The Green block contains all the classics. I add more everyday so come back often or drop me a line and I'll add your favorite if I can find it.

I'm getting revved up for my trip to Chicago next week. It should be a good time. It is a work trip and the title of the Seminar is Leading with Emotional Intelligence. I find the subject fascinating and I know I will get alot out of the class. At the same time I will be there and visit a couple of friends. One old and one new so I am sure I will be having fun when I am not in class. Plus I'll be able to browse the Famous Magnificent Mile during the holiday season. I will have my camera with me since I have new batteries. Which reminds me, to let you know to be on the lookout for pics from Thanksgiving tomorrow. Ok I think this rounds out my post for today. Take care everyone and I'll see you all tomorrow.

Its like getting into a cold pool ...

2007-11-12T18:21:00.000-05:00

Thats what today was like. After a week of not being at work I was looking at my first day of work with a little trepidation. Whether you jump right in or torture yourself inch by inch I'm finally back in. Fortunately for me the pool was not as cold as I thought. I have alot of work ahead of me but nothing overwhelming at the moment. Which is good, I can at least rest a little bit and get some stuff out of the way.

Now I have my eyes on Thanksgiving. Its going to different this year, I won't be splitting the day between two families and traveling around the state. It also looks like I have been drafted to help make Thanksgiving dinner. Not that I mind it. It will actually be good to cook something that will be appreciated. I did get the word though that there will be no Chutney this year!!!

Huh?! Yeah every year my grandmother who's diet consists of cream of wheat, toast, and bananas (and the occasional Blue Moon) makes a chutney. What the hell. Mind you its not like I have ever seen her eat the stuff. Now I like a lot of foods and so does my dad, but the chutney is blah. But its there every year, and it doesn't get touched. Finally this year I think my Mom broke down and said, don't make it. Lord knows why she made it in the first place. But thats what the holidays are for.

I picked up my glasses today. I'll post some pics later once I unpack a little more.

All good things ...

2007-11-11T13:13:00.000-05:00

The one thing that I thought I may do more of was blog during my vacation. Apparently that was not the case. It was not for lack of substance as more than enough has happened to me in a week. I must say that I did get a chance to relax this week. So I will be refreshed when I go back to work. This will be help out alot as we now head into the end of the year crunch. I should be thinking of work for this week but I can't bring myself to think of things just yet. I suppose that will be what Monday morning is for.

I must admit I was liking living out in Charlton, not that I am planning on moving anytime soon, but I know this city life is not for me, and my time is numbered there. I'll make the best of it while I can but I need to be away from it. All in all I had fun this vacation for not going anywhere. Next time I will but here's hoping someone will be able to go with me too.

As much fun as this has been though I have to go back to work no matter how much I don't want to. I have been able to appreciate each day of my vacation since I knew it would be ending. I wish it was a lesson that could have been learned earlier. Not that I go about being unappreciative but there are some things you just think will last forever. They become so much a part of you that you can't imagine your life without it, but then when the inevitable happens you are caught that much more off guard. In the long run though you'll be fine and probably better off but if there was ever a case to prove entropy it would be life.

Dealing with what life gives you is what makes you who you are. When all to often life throws you a curve ball you have two options. Deal with it or run away. I have chosen the far more difficult one, I'll admit even to this day I feel the urge to just run away, but I am fighting it everyday to better myself. By doing that I am forcing myself to recognize the good that comes out of each day; so that nothing is taken for granted.

Vacations

2007-11-05T13:41:00.000-05:00

Well as most of you know I am on vacation this week. I'm spending it out here in Charlton Mass. LOL Why? I'm house sitting for my parents who are suppose to be cruising around the Caribbean. Before I start about what I want to talk about I need to get this off my chest first. JETBLUE SUCKS. I will be posting a seperate link officially voicing the complaint but lets just say for now that their vacation was ruined. They are on their way back now. Apparently the plain on the way down had engine toruble forcing an emergency landing in Bermuda. Jet Blue was unable to get them a flight that would get them to their ship in time for the cruise. Jet Blue's only way of making amends was a free round trip ticket. But my parents miss out on their vacation and all the money that it included. I will suggest that you not use Jet Blue in the future as they seem to not want to help there customers.

Happy Halloween or Samhain

2007-10-31T14:00:00.000-04:00

It all depends on what type of Pagan you are.

Since I have no kids, don't get any kids, and am not trick or treating myself, I had decided to go out tonight. I can't think of anything much more fitting than going to see Sweeney Todd. Normally I simply ignore the stream of junk e-mail that comes in to me, but I got one e-mail from ticketmaster about the special deal and decided to take them up on the offer. I have several friends who also wanted to take part so it will be a nice night out.

So yeah the blog had been kind of slow lately since I never know what to talk about anymore. I don't think anyone wants me to lament about my love life anymore, and I know sports is out of the question (eventhough I really did not consider it), what do I have left? How about my health. Yeah thats been bothering me lately. Not that I am going to keel over next week or anything but nothing is more distressing than going for a physical (as I did a couple of Fridays ago) thinking that everything will be ok and then finding out differently. Now I know that I have basically turned myself around and have become healthier all around so it would figure that I start to fall apart at the same time. Basically a couple of tests came back a little wonky about my kidneys. I am far from needing dialysis but it did warrant more testing. Which is why today I found myself getting an Ultrasound.

As ultrasounds go this one was disappointing. I am sure the sonographer is well trained and qualified in her field, and I know that she really is not suppose to be telling me anything specific but she did not have to be so frigid. It was not my idea to be laid out on a gurney, jellied up and proded all morning. (snicker away Elizabeth and Melanie). Could you have least had a bed side manner? Would it have killed you to be a little nicer. Anyways I guess I won't find out anything until my Dr. reviews the findings. Hopefully this was just all a false alarm. Anyways more tomorrow I promise.

5 Days and Counting

2007-10-28T17:38:00.000-04:00

Wow its another Sunday already so I figure I should write something down. Its not like I haven't wanted to its just finding the time sometimes. First off I will start by saying that I have heard the comments and the e-mails and I will not talk about sports ever on my blog. I thought I could incorporate a little but that doesn't seem to be very popular so the last thing I will say is "Go Sox".

Ok so what are the 5 days for? My vacation. Not that I'm going anywhere special I just get to get a break from everything. Which is going to be most welcome at this point. I may still travel around on day trips to places but I most likely won't decide that until the day of. I'll enjoy the time away from work. You know what they say whatever doesn't kill you makes you stronger. Well I'm thinking I should be a bit mightier in the near future.

A Funny Sunday

2007-10-21T23:15:00.000-04:00

Well its a damn good thing I got those shots on Friday. I don't know why but the combination of Flu shot and Tetanus shot threw off my system. So much so that I could not do much of what I wanted this weekend. Oh well it did allow me to rest. I never did get to that Vegetarian Festival (sorry Nikki and Mario) maybe next year. I did get a chance to e-mail several peop;le I had been meaning to talk to.

I watched a couple of games: Game 6 of the Alcs series. Pretty much after the 3rd inning I knew we had it. We had 10 runs and the Indians went through two pitchers. The Patriots performed equally as well against Miami. Their streak of 30+ points a game continues again. I'll take the wins bet there was almost no contest. We'll see how tonight's game goes. I'm not expecting any JD Drew Grand Slams but maybe Dice-K can prove his worth. Ok I know this isn't a sports blog I'll stop now.

So right now I am sitting outside what I call the Gay Man's McDonald's. Yes I am at Panera Bread. The one in Marlboro to be specific. I am waiting for Seth to arrive so we can get dinner. Unfortunately it seems the Indian Restaurant that we intended on going is closed. I don't know why and perhaps I don't want to know. I guess we'll find some place else to go. It's a nice night though and cooling off rather fast. It was rather warm today. I was out exploring Memorial Forest Reservation in Marlboro. Why? Because It was a nice little walk and since I have started up my Letterboxing hobby again. It was fun and I worked up an appetite. Tomorrow brings work but I rather not think about that yet.

What What WHHAATTT!!!!

2007-10-20T13:34:00.000-04:00

Thanks to my friend in Vermont for pointing out this little tidbit. Apparently Dumbledore from the much beloved Harry Potter series was gay. Definetly puts a an interesting twist on everything. Not that the story changes any but at least it gives you more insight to the character. I am sure this is going to cause some backlash but to be honest the crazy Christians already deplore the series so this will be just one more thing. I applaud JK Rowling she's provided a role model of a character that isn't know for being gay, he just happens to be a gay. The more exposure people get to this kind of thing the better.

So I went to the Dr's Friday and received my flu shot. I have never in my life reacted to it, but sure enough last night as I was thinking about heading out to the movies I started to get a fever. By 2AM I was shivering. Crap! I took some Tylenol and headed back to bed only to be woken at 4Am needing to get some water. At this point I was sweating I was so hot, so much so that I actually had to turn my AC on. Fortunately I had not removed it yet. After getting comfortable again I fell back asleep and woke up at about noon. There went half the day. I had so much hope for last night and today, but oh well.

What was I planning on doing? Well my friends Nikki and Mario were going to meet up with me at the Boston Vegetarian Food Festival. I may still make it there we'll see. There is also an open art studio event going on that I was considering going to as well in Fort Point. One of my coworkers uncle's has a display there.

What else is going on. I know a large Yard Sale is going on in Newton at my work. People have been donating a lot of goods to it and the time is finally here so this Weekend get yourself over to 156 Oak St. Did I mention we also have discounted shoes?

Since I just got rather tech savvy and started to see were people where coming from to get to my blog I should mention that its also time for the UnderBear party at the Alley 10 PM to close. Hows that for knowing your audience.

Do you drive stick?

2007-10-17T21:50:00.000-04:00

You know whats worse then dealing with a shitty situation you created? Dealing with one someone else did.

Well my friend would be disappointed if I did not mention her today in my blog. Her husband was trying to decide what kind of car to get, but he didn't want to get "the gay car" so whats the solution to that. She asks me, I'm not quite sure why she was so embarrassed about asking that question considering the ones thats she's whipped out before that one was utterly G rated. Well I offered up my advice saying that I did not think the car he was looking at was "a gay car" and told him what he should steer clear of because you know once you get "the gay car" there will be someone who will want to stick his tongue down your throat just because of your car. We should all be so lucky.

Anyways this led to an interesting 5 seconds of surfing the web. I figured with blogs and all someone must have a list of the top gay cars and sure enough there is. Of course my future auto purchase (Honda Element) did not make the list. It made it on last years list. LOL Surprisingly the Dodge Charger made the list this year, now I guess I don't have to feel guilty about liking it.

Well E I hope you're happy you provided the only topic for my blog tonight.

Mini-Vacation is Over

2007-10-14T21:16:00.000-04:00

Well my mini-vaction is over and I would declare it a success. I had a lot of fun, but tomorrow brings work again, and I have to admit my high has already worn off. Now mind you I am not sad about going back to work. Its just I feel like I am missing something. I feel as if there is still a piece of me thats not complete. I suppose its just going to have to take more time. I was just watching the first season of Heroes today since I got it on DVD. There was one particular episode that took place six months ago. A lot had changed in those six months and then it got me to thinking about where I was six months ago. I remember just having bought IKEA furniture to fit in my new apartment. How quickly things can change. One can make the argument that things are better now and I am on a new path but I can't help but feel nostalgic for things. Something has changed within me, something is not the same, I am on my own path now. I just wish I knew for certain it was for the better. I am hoping that this mood has to do with not sleeping all that well. Which is a situation that I hope will be rectified soon.

Well I am off to get some sleep, wish me luck.
G

A Wicked Good Time

2007-10-12T10:59:00.000-04:00

Well last night had crappy weather but even that could not dampen the evening. I had a nice dinner at Legal Seafoods and dessert at Finale. Then it was off to the Opera House to see Wicked.

I was accompanied by Mom who wants you to know that she is cool and I am not a loser for going out with her.

The show was great and the more I think about it the more I liked it. Definitely some pertinent themes throughout it. It was clever how they weaved in different characters of the original movie. I won't spoil the story for those that have not seen it. Needless to say there was more going on before and behind the original story of the Wizard of Oz.

What the evening did do was reignite my desire to go to the theater. Something that I have only done off and one during the past few years. There are a bunch of shows coming up that I am thinking about seeing, so if anyone wants to get together let me know. Some that pique my interest are Spamalot, Avenue Q, Mamma Mia, Sweeney Todd, the Devil's Teacup, and a half dozen more.

More Later.

OK so I lied.

2007-10-09T22:14:00.000-04:00

I was suppose to be healthy today. Its been postponed until tomorrow. I had a few people at work visiting from out LC in PA. So we took them to the Cheesecake Factory for dinner. It was fun and filling as I sit here and finish my Chocolate Coconut Cream Cheesecake I am pledging tomorrow will be different. I swear. Would I lie? Whoops I guess I would. I mean starting now. Really! You'll see.

I can't totally explain this other craving that is taking over me either. I suddenly have this urge to venture on down to Mohegan Sun again. Anyone interested? Normally that bug does not hit me all that often. Anyways I should curb that since I would like to make it down to the cape later on in the month.

Alright enough random thoughts for the evening.

So what have I been up to.

2007-10-08T19:12:00.000-04:00

Well there was Customer Service Week last week. It was the first time I have actually planned it as opposed to being a participant. It was stressful but I think everyone had a good time. I helped plan and develop the week but alot of the credit needs to go to my co-managers Katie and Elizabeth. I had a lot of training and development for new employees that needed to be finished. The good news is my department is almost full staffed again. It didn't help that last week I was fighting off a cold and in some ways I still feel as if I am still.

Last Thursday was the day that I would hear back from the Biggest Loser if I were to be selected. Since I received no call then I am officially out of the running. Honestly I am not suprised. I know I don't have as much weight to loose as they are looking for. (Never thought I would say that) So now I will continue this little journey by myself. I know other people who have tried out are just going to weight until next year. Or come up for a clever reason to not lose the pounds. I am determined to do this though. I like how I am starting to look and how I am starting to feel. Not to sound vein or anything but I bought some new clothes and I dare say I look positively smashing in them. I had my nice new suit on at the wedding with my new Pink (yes PINK) shirt and Pink Tie. I impressed myself so much I did not care to much about what others thought. LOL But I did pick up quite a few compliments. So tonight I had my last sinful meal. I had splurged on a steak and cheese with fries. Real bad, I know, I suppose its a good sign though that I was not able to finish it. Tomorrow all healthy again and I will be starting to work out more often not just jogging/power walking.

Also got to cut down on the booze. I think I have had something to drink every night since Thursday. Thursday was the CS Dinner so I had a couple of Mai Tai's, but after wards were a few drinks at a local place for a couple of pints of Guinness. It was cool though I got to chat with a friend I haven't seen in a while. Granted we work together but we are in entirely different departments now. Its odd how these things happen. Anyways as it turns out he lives right down the road from me so I am hoping to get together with him again soon.

Friday was the last day of CS week and I was a bit frazzled by the end of it, but I still knew I was heading to a party that night so it made it bearable. My friend Nikki's Bachelorette Party was interesting to say the least. It didn't quite go the way we expected but what does. No there was no stripper. We did have fun though and I met several new friends. Jill, Susie, Sarah and Meagan. If your reading this we should get together some time. Your all cool people in my book. We ended up going to dinner at Zuzu right next to the middle east in Cambridge. It was too late to get to our original destination of the Elephant Walk. We all had fun just the same. It got a little loud later on but we started to head out by then. The drinks and company were nice but no one would have benefited from getting trashed that night so we called it quits before things got out of hand.

Saturday brought the main event. Nikki and Mario's wedding. It was a nice all be it Catholic ceremony in St. Patrick's Church in Watertown. I am heartily familiar with the Catholic Church but many of my friends were a little odd with it. The ceremony was small and sweet and I shed plenty of tears when I saw her. She was beautiful. To say anything more would take away from the site I saw and do no justice to how she looked. The reception was held at the Hotel@MIT. Which is a rather nice swanky place in Cambridge. I was impressed with everything, from the jazzy outdoor cocktails, to the TIE fighter groom's cake, to the Vegan Dinner, and the Music. I found myself dancing more than most people their. Oh well. Seth was gracious enough to accompany me so we were both able to make a nice night of it. Also got a chance to meet up with an old acquaintance who I have been getting to know more in the past few months. Greg and his man Gary were up for the event and it was nice to see him. I hope to maybe get to see him in November when I travel down to NYC. Greg if your reading this, had I known you were going to The Alley after I would have joined you guys but we just weren't up for more dancing. There's always next time though.

So that was a late night. Sunday Seth and I met up with his friend Brendan at King Richard's Faire. It was fun, usually I go once a year but this year I got to meet a couple of people who actually work behind the scenes. I learned a little about the hierarchy that exists. LOL We all went out for drinks and dinner later it was a great time, plus we were able to see the Red Sox win and unfortunately the LA Angels of Anaheim lose. That name doesn't exactly run off the tongue what was so bad with the California Angels? So it was a busy weekend for a busy week. So much so that all I wanted to do this morning upon getting up was just lay in bed and listen to the rain. Alas that old work ethic kicked in though. I will get a break at the end of the week though. I am going out Thursday to see Wicked. It should prove to be fun. In the meantime I am trying to work in Dinner with some friends and maybe see the new Elizabeth movie when it comes out Friday. I will have the day off so I think I can find the time.

Well that is all for this evening I want to get some rest after all so I'll talk to you all later.

What a week.

2007-10-07T22:47:00.000-04:00

More to come later since its late. But so far this week I survived work and Customer Service Week and all it entailed. A bachelorette party, wedding and finally Renaissance Faire.

BLLECCCHHH

2007-09-30T18:24:00.001-04:00

Thats how I feel at the moment. I have spent the better part of the day in bed. I am not sure how I got this cold. Maybe from a co-worker, or it could have been pay back for taxing my system the other night at the party. Lets hope that it doesn't last to long. Its customer service week after all. It started in my throat and today I've had a fever.

At least I had a good time Friday and Saturday. Friday I was invited to this huge party in Newton. It was more fun that I was anticipating. Granted I didn't know most people there at first but I quickly mingled and met some people. I even got to meet some people that I had only talked to online. It was packed but it was fun and I may have partaken in too much of the keg. No mixed drinks for me that night. I think it was Sam Adams so I had no problem sticking to the beer. I guess these guys do this once a year and it shows since it was well planned. It was also cool that people were genuinely interested in getting to know me. It was a new feeling for me, and I didn't feel as if I was following in someones shadow. It allowed me to come out of my shell a little and to get out of the funk I have been feeling lately. At least for a little while. Although today's mood is based mostly on my current state of health.

It at least left me a chance to catch up with some of my writing. I have a general idea of what I want to do now and have put down a general outline. So I will definitely have some things to work on over the winter. Alright enough for now. I need to get some rest and get to bed early. Talk to you all later.

No I'm not the Phantom

2007-09-23T19:01:00.000-04:00

But I did attend the Phantom Gourmet food festival today. It was fun I got to hand out mints and when they were gone I was passing out Purple Phantom Beads. Its was fun despite the fact that the dyed beads were coming off in my hands and my arm looked purple at the end of it. Quite a number of characters came in, worked and attended the event. I know wearing purple was encouraged but alas my wardrobe is deficient in that particular color spectrum. However the people in attendance did not have that problem. I saw feathers, ties, shirts, orchid necklaces, and one guy in particular went as far as to show me his purple boxers. Now the beads are free but that gentlemen earned a handful LOL. Anyways after all the mints and beads were gone we were able to enjoy the festivities. My roomate and I actually were able to get in on alot of the booths and even a bar on Lansdowne.

First Yummies was wet up right next to us at the entrance. They were giving away free Candy Necklaces and Purple Vanilla Salt Water Taffy. As a bonus I was able to meet up with an old college friend on mine that I hadn't seen in years. Turns out his fiance's family owns Yummies and as it turns out he also lives in Brighton. Who Knew!

Next was the slightly disappointing Emma's Pub & Pizza. This guys has commercials like used car salesmen. His prices are cheap and now I know why. His offering to the festival were his teriyaki like meatballs. The only thing original may have been the sauce since the Meatballs screamed store bought and not homemade. Oh well didn't expect much didn't get much.

Next up was individual bags of Dale and Thomas Popcorn, which was excellent as always in Movie theater butter flavor. I really did not even take time to savor I was so hungry. You can get their popcorn all over now but I first saw it in Whole Foods.

We skipped over Not Your Average Joes (Chicken Satay) and b.good (baked French Fries) lines were to long and like I said we were starved. We stopped at Wholly Cannoli's booth which was outstanding, not sure what they called it, but it was the best part of a cannoli dipped in caramel, then dipped again in chocolate and finally rolled into peanuts. It was incredible so when ever you get yourself out to Worcester be sure to stop by. It also helped that the guys running the booth were cute.

Finz out of Salem and now recently Dedham offered up some chowder, which I did not partake but I did indulge in their Buffalo Calamari, which was also surprising excellent. Not only was the Calamari perfectly cooked, it was not greasy, it was crunchy and equally surprising was there decision to not use the typical buffalo wing sauce which can be quite overpowering. I don't know what it was but it provided a nice spice with very little heat. An Outstanding dish, and worth getting at the restaurant.

Palumbo's Kettle Korn was good and provided a nice little bag which was handy for consumption later on in the day. They are available for parties and festivals.

The Loft's Lobster Macaroni and Cheese sounded nice and extravagant but I am hoping the need to create close to 20k samples effected the final product cause it was disappointing. The cheese sauce was curdled and the Lobster was not even flavorful. Like I said I hope the product in the restaurant is better because this would have been Phantom Flawed.

The Suasage Guy was too crowded to get near but having already sampled his goods before I was not to disappointed. Kowloon had wings which looked divine but I was starting to be selective at this point, and the line did not justify one wing.

Beantown Cupcakes offered up an awesome Red Velvet Cupcake. The Sunset Grill's Jambalaya was good and only strengthened my desire to got there sometime. Its mammoth selection of beers intrigues me.

I skipped over Beard Papa although good I also have tried them before and really have some not so nice memories associated with them at the moment.

One of the best booth's was Carl's steaks subs. It was long but well worth it. Even though it was a small portion, I will go on record proclaiming them as the best Steak and Cheese I have ever eaten. I seriously mean that. They have a location in Waltham and I will be going there sometime. The steak was tender moist cheesy, and the bread was soft and chewy. Just plain perfect.

Wicked Whoopie was there and gave out little mini whoopies which did not disappoint. I have sent them out as gifts before.

We waited in line for a freshly grilled Hamburger from Fuddruckers, while good it lacked the creativity you get from going to the restaurant and using the topping bar.

Finally the last thing we actually sampled was at Kane's Donuts. It was there signature coffee roll. MSN called them one of the 10 best donut shops and with what I sampled I'm not going to argue. Nice fluffly roll made with cinnamon, topped with what appeared to be a cinnamon icing and finished off with Cinnamon Sugar. I could feel my teethe screaming with every bite but it was so good.

There were plenty more places that were there but we were stuffed at that point. I could not even think of standing in line for Sal's Pizza (you know home of the 3lb pizza), Black Cow, Firefly's and Trani just to name a few. We stopped into the Rocket Bar for a beer and the day was complete. So next year when you see tickets go on sale I recommend you check it out because it was Phantastic.

And no I did not see the Phantom but I did see an Andleman.

Enjoy the links and I'll talk to you later.

I'm not working this weekend

2007-09-21T17:45:00.000-04:00

There I've said it. Now I just have to follow it. I suppose its healthy in a way. Its not every day you find out that you have a neuroses stemming from an over abundance of responsibility. Can I help it if I want to do my job right and change the world for the better. Someone has to. Anyways thats a discussion for another time.

I'm going to have some fun this weekend. I'm going out tonight which should be low key, but nice, maybe a movie or something. Tomorrow is a house warming party at Seth's which I am still not sure what to bring yet. I guess I will find something at this point. That should be a fun time. Sunday I am volunteering at the Phantom Gourmet Food Festival. :) Something that I am really looking forward to so if you are out there on Sunday say HI! I'll be wearing a Sovereign Bank shirt. I would imagine it would be red.

I'm sure there will be a few other things here and there but I doubt I will have another chance to blog so I figured I pop on and talk a little before its another week without saying anything. I was not able to go up to LSC this weekend for the Homecoming. There will be other years to do so, besides after everything thats happened this year I'm not exactly sure I want to go back up there right now. A lot of memories are up there. They are all good but some I don't need to be reliving just now. How am I doing with all of that? Well you tell me because I don't know anymore really. I am just taking things day by day now. Which is different for the planner in me. Anyways no need to break into the philosophy on a Friday night.

I hope everyone has a nice safe and happy weekend.