Wednesday, July 19, 2006

It's Not Raw, It's Rare

Adam, Brad and I had a fabulous salmon dinner while watching the latest episode of Project Runway 3, but our friend Kim decided that she had better things to do. Well, Kim, you don't get off that easily. I'm saving your salmon steak until the next dinner party...


Rare meat is good for you. The doctor said so.


You think I'm kidding, Kim? I paid good money for that salmon, and you're damn well gonna eat it!

Tuesday, July 18, 2006

When You Were Young

This seems to be everywhere already, but, since I've been a fan of The Killers since before they were even signed (I know the lead singer's brother) I thought I would post a new song from their upcoming sophomore effort When We Were Young. I've seen several comments about how this song is over the top and that they are trying too hard, but I think they would have a different opinion if this wasn't an established, well-known band. I actually really like the song; however, it may take a few listens to get into it.

Friday, July 14, 2006

Let Down

I applied for a new position at work, and, I was pretty much told that the job was mine. I knew not to get my hopes up, cause there would have to be a catch. I'm actually going to have to decline the job due to the pay being considerably less than what I thought it was. I would have taken a small pay cut, but this would have impacted my current lifestyle too much. There are other factors, as well, but I'm not sure if those would have prevented me from getting the position or not.

Oh well. I firmly believe that things happen for a reason, however, I kind of wish that this week had not ended on such a sour note. It isn't just the job thing. Something else has been going on that has been emotionally draining. I think I'm just going to take it easy this weekend. Yes, that sounds like a good plan.

Thursday, July 13, 2006

Just A Thought

I was reading a post over at Adam's blog, The Kreb's Cycle, and it raised some interesting comments from his readers. One comment in particular really stuck out to me because, w/ the exception of the part about no God, it is exactly what I say when the topic of homosexuality and God come up...as it did earlier this evening. The comment (below) was made by Hypoxic.

If there is a God, and if this God gave me life, and if this God created me gay, why would he not want me to live as he made me? And why should that be so hard for the various religions to respect. (and no, there is no "choice" in sexual orientation; we are what we are and nothing we can do will change that)

There are more sins committed in the name of God than almost anything else.

I believe that there is no God and that man has created him to help control society.

That's my view.

Wednesday, July 12, 2006

Best In Show

The third installment of Project Runway debuted tonight, and, I'm somewhat disappointed. This may just be that it is so soon after the last season. Or it could be that none of the designers really stand out. The "outrageous" ones seem to be watered down version of past contestants, and, for some reason, Rick Moranis is not only on the show, he's survived the first round (w/ the below dress, no less).



The two that stand out are:


Keith - My first impression of this guy was that he was cute. When compared to the other guys on the show, he's REALLY cute. After a few minutes, though, I noticed he does this thing w/ his head and neck that remind me of a turtle. So now that's all I can think of when I look at him. He may have also won the first round, but I can tell it's gonna go to his head. He's so arrogant and full of himself. I foresee some drama in the future.








Robert Best - He's adorable and cute in a not-my-type kind of way. He's also witty and sarcastic (in a good way), so, in other words, your typical gay man. He's also a spiffy little designer (he designs for Barbie). He came in second, but I really enjoyed his dress, so I hope he sticks around.










In the end, Stacey (who I know nothing about except that she started working in fashion just three years ago) was out


Auf Wiedersehen!




Winner (Keith)/Loser (Stacey)

Crying Shame

I was having lunch with a co-worker today (thai food...delicious, btw), and my eye wandered over to a television at the bar area. CNN was obviously having a slow news day, because the headline was CONVICTED MURDERERS SUE TO GET PLAYBOY AND HUSTLER IN JAIL. Now, I'm liberal and all, but aren't they being punished for killing people? Maybe I'm wrong, but there are some things that they should not be entitled to. I think it is enough that they have television. And as a taxpayer, I certainly do not want my money going toward getting a murderer's rocks off.

To some people it may sound harmless, but I think it sounds absurd that they feel they have some right to this after taking another person's life. I hope this case is tossed out.

Tuesday, July 11, 2006

On The Run

It was my second night of walking...I'm gradually building my way back up to jogging since I'm so out of shape. I almost didn't go tonight, because today was particularly stressful. But I went, and I'm glad I did. While I'm not completely relieved of my stress, it's far better than before I went.

I still miss the uneven dirt trail and the scenery (no, not just hot guys) of Houston's Memorial Park...


But I am beginning to enjoy Katy Trail here in Dallas...


One thing that Memorial Park didn't have (although it may have one now for all I know) was a Starbucks. Katy Trail runs through residential and business areas, and, in particular, leads right into Knox Street. There are lots of restaurants and shops here, as well as my evening Starbucks...


Right now, I'm walking maybe a total of 3 miles (not exactly sure), and Starbucks just happens to be at the halfway mark. So I stop in and treat myself to an iced tea green tea. Of course, eventually, I won't be stopping at all. At least that is the plan. I want to be back to jogging the entire three miles. Hopefully even more.

Well, I am exhausted. Today was a long day and I am going to get up early tomorrow, so I'm going to hit the sack. I hope all of you have a good evening.

Sweet dreams

Monday, July 10, 2006

Something So Pleasant

I used to run at least three miles practically every day when I lived in Houston. When 5 o’clock struck on a week day evening or a weekend morning, I was out the door and headed for Memorial Park. It was my little treat to myself and the one of the few things that I truly enjoyed doing when I lived there. I’d turn on my MP3 player, tune everyone and everything out and just jog.

The best part, though, was all the eye candy! There’s one section of the trail (which is actually a three mile long loop) where shirtless guys go and lay out so they can be gawked at. It wasn’t all eye candy, though. Since I was there so often, I began to recognize the other regulars. Maybe this is mean of me, but I came up w/ nicknames for some of the more comical folks. At that time, my friend and I were nicknaming everyone. We weren’t very creative w/ the names, but that was kind of the point. Here’s a run down of my favourites:

Flailing Arm Man – This guy would run the entire track while spinning both arms in a circular motion.

Tin Foil Lady – A rather large woman that dressed (head to toe) in really shiny silver, baggy work out clothes. She even had a matching hat to top it all off w/.

Constipated Man (my favourite!) – The expression on this man’s face looked like he hadn’t shit in a week. If I was in a foul mood, seeing him somehow always lifted my spirits.

Because of my current work schedule, I don’t jog like I used to. And I really miss it. When I do go it’s never at the same time, so I don’t see the same people. Because I don’t see the same people, I don’t really get motivated to go back out. I’m not sure why this is. Maybe I just like consistency in my life.

This week I’m working somewhat normal hours, so I’ve promised myself that I will go for a jog at Katy Trail every night when I get home. Tonight was the first night, and I had a lot of fun. I know it may sound silly to say that I actually had fun walking/jogging by myself, but I did. It made me think about the old days back in Houston, and all the regulars that I miss seeing so much. My schedule may soon change to roughly the same hours, and I’m really hoping that they do now. I saw some people that I have a feeling will become my new regulars. Believe it or not, I think I may have found Constipated Man’s son! He’s not quite as backed up, but just enough to bring a smile to my face. Actually, I really just enjoyed being outdoors exercising w/ a lot of other people again. I don’t think Katy Trail can ever compare to Memorial Park (for one thing, there’s no area for the shirtless guys to lounge around at), but it’ll do for now.

Friday, July 07, 2006

Warrior

This year started off on a low note, but, just past the halway mark, I've realized that my life has really turned almost completely around. Today, in particular, I am feeling strong (emotionally). Really strong. Like I'm ready to take on whatever is thrown at me. I'm sure this high will be fleeting (no, not being pessimistic, just realistic), but, for the moment, I'm really content.

Anyway, cause I feel all tough today, I thought I would post one of my favourite tracks from Show Your Bones, the latest effort from New York City based Yeah Yeah Yeahs. It's called Warrior. The subject matter (feelings of homesickness while on the road touring) may not fit how I feel, but at least the title does.


Tuesday, July 04, 2006

So Good

Adam got all patriotic this fourth of July. He made a delicious angel food cake w/ blueberries, strawberries and whipped cream for dessert. Doesn't it look divine?

Of course, I just wasn't feeling the love for America today, and protested:


I'm joking. I just don't like fruit (w/ the exception of tomatoes and avacados).

This is the last big meal I'm eating for a while. We have had far too many dinner parties lately (thank you Mavericks). While I enjoy them, my waistline doesn't. At least I went out on a high note. Adam whipped up some delicious burgers and hot dogs, Kim made some potatoes (carbs..yum!) and Brad whipped up some adult beverages (which definitely hit the spot).

Adam - Thanks again for making a delicious meal and for always being so considerate of my diet (no beef or pork, on top of the whole fruit thing).

Made In America



er, um...HAPPY 4TH OF JULY anyway!

Holding Out For A Hero

I told Adam, Brad and Kim that I would be seeing The Devil Wears Prada with them very soon, and, to my surprise, that came much sooner than even I had thought it would. Yes, I saw it for the second time in as many days. And to be honest, it was actually better the second time around. I'm already anxious to see it for a third time.

But before I saw Devil again, I saw Superman Returns with K. He grew up watching the original Superman and Batman movies, and, of course, believing he was them. To the point that he put on a Superman outfit, and, believing he posessed all the powers that came with the outfit, took flight from the roof of his house. He got off with only some cuts and scratches. Back to my point I was trying to make...I tend to get sidetracked very easily. He was super pumped to see this new installment; however, never having gotten into any of the Superman movies, was just praying that I wouldn't be bored out of my mind. I was anything but. Yes, I found myself completely swept up in this movie. Okay, yes, I have one minor complaint (as I always do)...

WHAT THE FUCK WAS UP WITH LOUIS LANE? Aside from the train wreck that was Kate Bosworth, the Louis character, well, could have survived a train wreck and walked away looking flawless. Am I the only one that noticed this? I mean, for god's sake, she was tossed around the plane in the beginning, yet, when they finally "landed", she 1) had no bruises, cuts or scratches and 2) looked stunning (no hair out of place even). Later, she has a friggin thick metal door slam down on her head, and she wakes up as though nothing happened (sans any bumps or bruises, of course).

Okay, I got that out of the way. Aside from Lois Lane, I LOVED the movie. Bryan Singer did an amazing job of making Superman iconic. By the end, I felt like a little kid, getting all excited over all the action sequences. I don't think any movie has made me feel that way. At least none that I remember. Wow...two really good movies delivered within one week? Lets hope Hollywood can keep this up.

I do realize that I'm not a critic by any means, and that this page isn't about movies. It's just that both movies were so good that I couldn't not write something about them. As Mirand would say...

That's All

Sunday, July 02, 2006

The Devil's Right Handbag


The Devil Wears Prada is easily one of the best films Hollywood has had to offer in a looooong time. It's also hilarious. I don't normally laugh out loud at the theatre, but I did several times during this. This was mostly due to the always stunning Meryl Streep. I don'’t think that any other actress could have embodied the character of Miranda Priestly (the editor-in-chief of the magazine Runway and one demanding bitch) as well as she did. Honestly, I forgot that I was watching an actress portray a character (fictional, no less). When she was on screen, she was Miranda. Her performance is fierce, funny and damn-near flawless. It is definitely worthy of an Oscar, in my opinion..and I'll be shocked if she isn't nominated for anything come awards season.

While she is a fine actress, I didn'’t feel that way about Anne Hathaway. She plays Andrea (or Andy), a small town gal and recent college graduate who moved to NYC to pursue a career in journalism. She lands a job as Miranda's #2 assistant in hopes of getting the necessary connections to achieve her dream of being a journalist. The problem is that she doesn't really stand out. She does at first since she dresses like an average person, but I'm referring more to her acting. While Meryl is Miranda, I just saw Anne playing Anne. Which is what most other young actors seem to be doing...playing themselves. I think Anne did what she was meant to do in this film...look pretty. I mean, this is Meryl's film, not hers.

Okay, Anne really wasn't that bad. I mean, I am comparing her to a legend. As I said, she did a fine job. The rest of the supporting cast, especially the brilliant Stanley Tucci, are used very well. And Emily Blunt is deliciously wicked as Miranda's #1 assistant.

Meryl aside, the film had a smart, well written script that propelled it far beyond anything else out there that is being served up. I think that is why movie-goers are responding the way they are...actually going to the theatre to see it, that is. It just goes to show that if you put a well written, well acted commercial film out (as opposed to getting fifteen people to write/touch up a script and throwing a flavor of the month in a lead role), then people will be more willing to spend ungodly amounts of their income to sit through it.

I definitely want to see this again, so, Adam, Brad and/or Kim, if you are reading this, I'’m going to force you to go w/ me some time very soon. I don't want to wait four months for it to come out on DVD.



That's all

Saturday, July 01, 2006

In The City In The Rain

I haven't been out of my apartment at all today. Okay, that's a lie. I haven't been out of my apartment building - I did go downstairs to buy a soda. But that's because it was raining. Alright, it wasn't raining the entire day. The other reason is that I had a hang over.

My "performance review" (i.e. - probation) at work finally ended after two months. I worked my ass off, so I wanted to celebrate by getting drunk. Maybe not the best idea, since I feel like shit today. I'm glad I went out, though. I had the opportunity to hang out w/ my friends Kim and Jose (and then a few others met up w/ us later), drink some adult beverages and take in some eye candy (although there was really only about one good looker in the bunch - he was REALLY cute, though).

I should have done something productive today, but I'll save it for tomorrow. I'll probably work on my current drawing, so maybe I'll post what I've done. For now, though, I think i'm going to curl up under the covers, put 'The Simpsons' on and get some shut eye.

Good night my friends.
xoxoxo

Thursday, June 29, 2006

Juicy

Our French friend, Ben, decided to have a BBQ tonight. Here's the evening in photos:

We didn't have matches...




...or a spatula! Yes, they used the fork Adam is holding




but some of the flamers were able to brave the flames




Flame broiled...look at all the juices (ewww!!)




Well done on the outside




not so on the inside




But that didn't stop our host from having a bite




Good friends, good (?) food, good times



Kim and Aurelie (above - and obviously before the food poisoning kicks in)

Tuesday, June 27, 2006

The Secret's In The Telling

Today I received some really great news. It isn't big news for anyone other than me, but it's something that I have wanted to happen for a while now. It just couldn't be better timing. I can't talk about it at this point since I don't want to jinx it, so I just won't say anything else. Okay, one more thing:

g'nite!

Saturday, June 24, 2006

I'm Not Dead

Okay, okay, I’ve taken too long of a break. While it isn’t an excuse, I have been far busier these past two weeks than I think I have ever been. I haven’t had one free night since three Fridays ago. I’m not complaining, either. I’ve met some very interesting people, made some new friends and spent much needed quality time with existing friends.

First thing’s first. If you haven’t noticed already, I designed the logo for The Gayborhoodies, the group Adam and I are forming for the Dallas AIDS Arms LifeWalk. Now that I have that done, my intentions are to be a little more aggressive in promoting the cause and raising money. If you feel obliged, please feel free to donate by clicking here or on the logo in the right hand column.

Speaking of the AIDS Walk, I need to send out a heartfelt thank you to a few people that have made generous contributions to the cause already.

Hypoxic – thank you, thank you, thank you. This guy not only made the first two donations, he also came up with challenge via his blog (visit it if you haven’t already) and got others to contribute by matching up to $400 total. So thank you again, you are amazing.

I also want to thank Tony, Flip and Jimmi. Thanks to your more than generous donations, we were able to not only meet, but exceed our goal far earlier than ever anticipated. In fact, we’ve had to set a new goal.


Basketball is something I never thought I could ever get into. However, I was invited to a party for the second game of the finals, so I thought I would give it a shot. How bad could it be, really? I was shocked to find myself actually getting into it and looking forward to the next game. I should give credit where credit is due. I don’t think I would have enjoyed it as much had I not been in the company of Adam, Brad, Kim and their friends/co-workers. They made it far more entertaining and interesting. Now I can’t wait for the new season to start.

I’ve also been to the movies four times in the past two weeks. I’ve seen X3: The Last Stand, Nacho Libre, Cars and An Inconvenient Truth. The former two were pretty much let downs. Not a complete waste, but just your typical summer fluff that doesn’t live up to previous films (X-Men, X2 and Napoleon Dynamite). The latter two; however, proved to be surprisingly interesting.

The trailer for An Inconvenient Truth made me want to see the movie, but, knowing that it was more of a documentary, I was weary of just how interesting it would be. And while I’m sure most people don’t want to go to the theatre to think, I urge you to go out and support this. If you don’t want to sit through the movie, then at least go to http://www.climatecrisis.net/ and learn what you can do to prevent global warming. Believe it not, we do have the power to change the direction we are taking the world in.

On a lighter note, if you prefer escaping from the world for a couple hours, I recommend Cars from Disney/Pixar. Unlike An Inconvenient Truth, the trailers for this film did not make me want to rush out and see it. But I was hanging out w/ my friend David for the first time in a year and a half (outside of our daily Starbucks breaks – we work together), and we wanted to see a movie. Since nothing looked interesting, we opted for Cars because it didn’t look to be as bad as the others. Plus, it was 10 p.m., so there wouldn’t be any annoying little children. We were both shocked to find that this was, aside from being visually stunning (as most Pixar films are), it was a really good movie (I LOVE Luigi, the yellow car that owns the tire store).




I think people, including myself, have brushed this movie off too easily, so I’m hoping that word of mouth will give it long legs at the box office. I know that the theatres are being flooded with computer animated films and they have pretty much lost the drawing power they initially had, but Pixar continues to rise above the rest. They produce not only stunningly beautiful animation, but a story that has broad appeal. They really make movies for everyone, not just one demographic.

Following up on a previous post, I finally talked to my friend. It was about something he already knew and that I already knew he knew, but I had to say it for myself. And while I didn’t get to say everything that I wanted to, I got the most important thing out. It went well.

And to help Kelly over at Rambling Along In Life...With A Stern Point Of View reach his goal of having 100 blogs w/ this picture on it...



HAPPY PRIDE MONTH!!!


I know this is a long entry, so I’m going to wrap it up now. I thought I would leave you with my favorite song of the moment. It’s from a French rock band called Phoenix. They aren’t new or anything, but this is a new song called Long Distance Call. Press play to give it a listen to, hopefully you’ll enjoy it as much as I do.

Wednesday, June 14, 2006

I Want To Be In Love

This is my favourite song. Ever. I remember the day that I first heard it. My sister-in-law at the time had just moved to Dallas and was hanging out watching some television. I came out from the bedroom and she had just flipped the channel to CMT. They have this show called Crossroads where they pair up a country singer and a not-so country artist (usually someone adult contemporary or rock-lite, but very country accessible). The pairing this time was Dolly Parton and Melissa Etheridge. And the song they had just begun playing was ‘I Want To Be In Love,’ which was written by and originally recorded by Etheridge. I had never heard the original version, but Dolly made this hers.

Now, I’m a hopeless romantic (which means I'm also a fool), so that’s the main reason I love this song. I have always wanted to be in love. It is, for me, the biggest high (but, then again, I’ve never done drugs, so what do I know).

The other reason is that I really appreciate Etheridge (lesbian aspect aside, I can really relate to a lot of her songs) and adore Parton (I’ve been a fan since I was a wee lil’ one – even been to Dolly World). This was an amazing combination.

Yes, I never tire of this song. And yes, I get all giddy when I listen to it. It’s exactly what I want. I want to be in love! Okay, I am, so I guess I want them to be in love with me. Just hit play and give it a listen to:

Tuesday, June 13, 2006

Say It Right

Tonight I was the most calm internally than I have been in a while. I usually feel all wound up and I have to work hard to appear relaxed. Yet, when presented with the opportunity to discuss something that has been on my mind for a while with the person that I have been wanting to talk to, I still found myself unable to. I am a pretty open person. I have no trouble answering nearly any personal question I’m presented; however, sitting someone down and talking about something that has been on my mind (something deep, not anything like a movie, book, etc.) proves to be a rather challenging task.

I will go over and over it in my head. I’ll know exactly what I want to say and how to say it. Yet, when the time comes, I just fumble over my words. I’m usually (over) analyzing what I’m going to say even while I’m saying it. So I tend to try to go back and reword what I’ve already said. This usually just confuses (and annoys) the other person.

I’ll also just wait until it is too late. Like, when I had a crush on this guy in college. He knew that I liked him, but I never told him. And I waited until I dropped out and went back to visit some friends before telling him that. I think it was easier because I wouldn’t have to stick around and be reminded every day of what a fool I was.

Now I find myself doing practically the same thing. There is stuff that I want to tell my friend that is important for me to get out. It’s just the idea of the words leaving my mouth that proves too frightening for me to actually follow through with doing so. I was going to wait right up until he was leaving (he is moving back to Spain in a few months) to talk to him, but I know that is doing what I always do. I suspect he already knows what it is that I’m going to say, but I still have say it for myself. Because, while I don’t regret anything I’ve done in my life, I will regret not doing something.

So I’ve told him that I have to talk to him and that I’m having trouble doing so whenever the opportunity presents itself. Now, until Wednesday night, I’m probably going to feel really anxious. I also know that it isn’t going to be as horrific an experience as I think it could be and that my anxiety isn’t necessary. But not feeling nervous is a lot easier said than done.

Sunday, June 11, 2006

Like It Or Not II

I've done a little bit more to this piece, and, since I'm showing you different stages of the drawing from start to completion, I thought I would show you the progress I've made so far.

Before (left)/Now (right)


Saturday, June 10, 2006

I'm Better

WAMU (Washing Mutual for those who don't bank there) has switched from Visa to MasterCard, so I got my new debit card in the mail today. Apparently, it isn't just any old debit card. It is a GOLD debit card. I don't quite know what the difference is, but I can only assume that I'm now better than all of you out there that have a normal one. What else could it possibly mean?

Oh, and I finally got Apple to replace my old iPod. I've been in three times before to get it repaired since it keeps freezing up on me. The first time, a cute "genius" (as they are called) told me that I could send in for a replacement for $40. I was strapped for cash that week and asked if I could return the following weekend after I got paid. He said sure. When I returned, a different "genius" told me that he could not replace it since it was working now and the guy I spoke w/ the previous weekend had not made notes stating that I would be returning the following week (not much a genius now is he?). It froze a third time and I went in yet again, and was told by the cute "genius" that it was most likely due to my anti-virus software. So, fast forward another month, and my iPod's warranty is up. So I'm out jogging today and at the halfway mark, it freezes up. Thankfully, the Apple Store is on my route, so I stopped in. The cute "genius" remembered me and agreed that my iPod was pretty much FUBAR. So I sign some papers and he hands me an iPod. I go to hand him my GOLD debit card, and he flashes me a smile and says, "I've taken care of it."

A friend of mine asked if I got his number since it seems to me like he was possibly flirting, but, sadly, I did not. I'm not that smooth. I don't even know for sure if he was flirting, or, for that matter, if he really hooked me up or if all replacements are free if they are in stock at the store (although he did tell me the first time that it would be $40). Besides, unless I know for a fact that they are gay, I will never risk the embarrasment of asking someone out again. Five years ago, my best friend (the one in Houston) convinced me that Whole Foods Guy (this guy I had a crush on...try to guess where he worked) had been "totally checking [me] out" when I went through his line once. So, foolishly, I built up enough balls to go back to the store and ask him out. I was only able to get "Would you like to..." out before I saw that look of horror on his face. I quickly apologized and dashed out.

But back to the whole GOLD card thing. Is it a coincidence that all the times I tried to get a replacement and couldn't, I had my normal debit card. But now that I have my GOLD debit card, I suddenly get it replaced (and for free!)? I think not. I have a feeling that things are only going to get better for me from here on out.

Yep, I know you bitches wish you were me right now!

Wednesday, June 07, 2006

Playing The Gay Card

I'm being lazy this evening and just stealing a post from Hypoxic. Actually, I think he stole it, too. But I digress...



The picture - that says so very much about the Republican strategy - is from dondon's blog. It's awesome!


Courtesy of Karl Rove, President Bush and the Republicans have, as expected, trotted out the gay card to help energize their radical religious right base before the November elections. The only time that Bush and Company talk about gay marriage is just before an election. The same for abortion rights. Once the election is won, they all but forget about it. I don't think this strategy will work for them this time.

Even the anti-gay religious Conservatives can see it for what it is. As reported in a recent LA Times article ...

"The campaign against gay marriage is scheduled to get the full White House treatment on Monday - words from President Bush in front of assembled VIPs and a bank of television cameras. Such a carefully staged production aims to confer the grandeur of the office on the push for a constitutional amendment banning gay marriage. But even before administration officials announced the event, some invitees denounced it as a sham. "I'm going to go and hear what he says, but we already know it is a ruse," said Joe Glover, president of the Family Policy Network, which opposes gay marriage. "We're not buying it. We're going to go and watch the dog-and-pony show, [but] it's too little, too late." Such comments have raised the prospect that the debate over gay marriage,— designed to galvanize one of Bush's most important constituencies, social conservatives.— could instead exacerbate the president's political headaches".

I think most will see the attempt for what it is - pure political opportunism ... nothing more, nothing less. Hopefully, it will not have a significant impact on the turnout for the November elections (if you are not yet registered to vote, click on the icon to the right and get registered today - before you forget).

But having said that, I never, repeat NEVER, underestimate Karl Rove. I think his current strategy is to unit the major U.S. religions on this issue in an effort to get them to turn out their members in November. I don't think he can do it (I'm not sure the religions can do it) , but I know that he is working hard behind the scenes to do just that.



Tuesday, June 06, 2006

Travelin' Thru

I have the opportunity to cash in some of my stock options at work, and I’m going to do it. Some of you would never even consider it, but I’m in need of a vacation. Now, you’re probably saying, “but Jeff, you just took one two weekends ago!” No, I did not. I took a trip to a family function. Unless I have no obligations other than relaxing, I don’t consider it a vacation…especially if family is involved.

Depending on how much I can get back, I am actually considering taking two trips. In August, I’m planning on spending a few days in Boston. I have a couple friends there that I’ve known for a few years that I would love to finally meet in person. I have also never been to Boston, but it looks like a beautiful city. It’s also rich with history, so I’m eager to experience that aspect, as well.

In October (already a busy month with my sister’s wedding and my best friend’s move to Spain), I may be headed for my favourite city, NYC! Rocco, my aforementioned best friend, has never been, and he is considering going with me. Since I haven’t been in over two years and I’ve had to push back my move, it is time to go. Now all I have to do is find someone that will let us crash at their place so I don’t have to pay for an expensive hotel.

Okay, I’m off to bed.

Sweet dreams!

Sunday, June 04, 2006

Mr. Fabulous?

Nope, I'm not referring to the guy I met Friday night. He's a nice guy, but not bf material...at least not for me. We'd be bumping tacos, and, besides, I want a more masculine guy. But I digress...I haven't posted new music in a while, so I thought it was about time.

Last night, in between naps (the entire day was spent in bed, except for trips to the restroom, of course), I stumbled onto a new band while surfing the world wide web. Men, Women & Children are a new band that are disco fabulous electro pop. The most obvious comparison is Scissor Sisters. If you like that band, there’s a good chance you’ll find yourself enjoying this one. The song I have playing is “Who Found Mr. Fabulous?” It is from their self-titled debut album. I hope you enjoy it.

Project Vote Smart


Thursday, June 01, 2006

Things Have Changed

After my last break up in January, I decided on two things. I was going to pursue my dream of moving to NYC and I wasn’t going to date (at least not until I moved). There were two determining factors in my second choice. I had just gone through a break up with the first person I truly loved, and I also didn’t want another relationship to get in my way of making it to NYC.

Fast forward five months later, and I have decided that I am going to leave myself open to dating. I’m not going to pursue it, but I’m not going to close myself off to it.

Why have I brought this up, you ask? Tomorrow night I’m going out drinking with Adam. No, silly, it isn’t a date. I am; however, going to be meeting up with this guy that I’ve been talking to on Myspace for the past couple of months. We were supposed to meet two weeks ago, but it just didn’t work out. Then I was out of town this past weekend, so we agreed to finally meet tomorrow. And this meeting is far from a date, nor do I think that this is going to turn into anything more than a friendship. I guess I’m just nervous because the possibility of something more developing is there now. Had we met two weeks ago, the only possibility would have been a friendship. Now I’d be open to a date…assuming we hit it off in that way, of course.

Honestly, being open to dating is something that I hadn’t planned on feeling like doing this soon. It’s funny how one small detail can totally change your entire perspective on things. Where once I was completely hung up on someone, I’m now finding myself being able to move on. Besides, loving someone that doesn’t love you back just plain sucks, so I’m happy to be moving on.