Life's Colorful Brushstrokes

TIME FOR CHANGE - I'M MOVING TO...

2006-12-31T20:00:00.000-08:00

...WordPress.com. Don't ask me why, but I felt it was time for a change with the New Year ringing in as of 12 midnight. Seems like several blogger friends have or will be making the move too. So click here to check out my new 'digs' and to see what the post of the day is. I will be leaving up this post and my Blogger blog for one month so that any of my current readers and any new readers can make the adjustment. Be sure to update my link on your blog if you have me down as a 'read.'

The new URL is http://lifescolorfulbrushstrokes.wordpress.com/. Happy New Year!

A NEW YEAR WISH AND FRIDAY'S "WHAT'S UP FOR THE WEEKEND"

2006-12-29T00:21:00.000-08:00

Well the week is nearly over and we are heading into the weekend. It's hard to believe that there are only two more days left in the holiday season and in 2006. I don't think I want to see another box of See's candy, another bundle of cookies, or another gift basket for as long as I live. All that food sitting around and 'temptation' hell. I swear at some point today it's back to the cardio and weighlifting after a 2 day hiatus.

The next to last of my siblings heads for home later this morning with the last one departing on Saturday. I am just happy that we were able to get the entire family in a single location for Christmas, including the newborn nephews. The smile on my face runs from ear to ear. I spent most of last night holding my one remaining 2-month old nephew, Angelo. The two of us even dozed off together for about an hour. I know some of you may think I am off my rocker in this next comment but "I miss not being a father." I realize that children are a huge responsibility yet I think the simple joys they bring far outweigh the negatives.

With that said, Mom is here in southern California for another week, leaving next Thursday, January 4th. Today and tomorrow (Saturday), I'll be spending my entire day measuring out my Senior Project floor plans so that they are ready for keying into CAD at the start of next week. I had hoped to have someone lined up to key in the floor plans for me, allowing me an opportunity to get out to Orlando for 4-5 days. But since things are not quite set up with a 'CAD keyer' and the potential still looming that I may have to do it, the trip is still up in the air. I so wanted to be out visiting my friends Spider, Sorted, and Derek this New Year's weekend, to be ringing in the New Year with that special someone, both in the singular and plural sense of the word.

So what do you have in line for the New Year's weekend? Will you be spending it with anyone special?

As I draw this post to a conclusion, I just want to take this opportunity to wish each of you happiness and prosperity in 2007. I am so thankful for having been blessed this past year with the expansion of my circle of friends through blogging. My only hope for this new year is that I have the pleasure of meeting and or talking with more of my blogger buds directly. One last thing, have loads of fun this weekend, but if you will be out drinking this weekend, please do not get behind the wheel of a car and drive. Sending out some huge hugs!

Happy New Year!!

A SPECIAL WISH FOR A SPECIAL BEAR!

2006-12-28T00:00:00.000-08:00

It's Thursday and we are slowly moving into the New Year Holiday weekend. Can you believe the last few days of December are upon us! Where did this year go?

But as we get ready to close out this year, there are still a few eventful moments before it concludes. One of those events is the birthday of one of my dearest friends. I've talked about him in my blog on several occasions and actually featured him in one of my earliest blogging posts on May 10, 2006, titled Sexy - A Sense of Humor. That special person is Pete from It's Just Nothing.

Saratoga, New York - August, 2006

Pete is an incredible individual. Funny, silly, devilish, angelic, sensitive, caring, thoughtful, intelligent, fun, loyal...gosh I could give you a list much longer. And I mean every word of what I say. He's not merely a blogger acquaintance but someone who I have met, who has gone on several trips with me, who is truly all-out genuine. When he's ready to find that special someone, Pete is going to be quite the catch. If you haven't given Pete's blog a read, do! And while you are there pass along some birthday wishes.

So before I embarrass him anymore... Pete I just want to wish you a very HAPPY BIRTHDAY! There isn't a day that goes by that you aren't in my thoughts. Miss you, you big lovable bear! Hugs.

WORD PLAY ~ PROTAGONIST

2006-12-27T00:00:00.000-08:00

PROTAGONIST

Main Entry: pro·tag·o·nist
Pronunciation: prO-'ta-g&-nist
Function: noun
Etymology: Greek prOtagOnistEs, from prOt- prot- + agOnistEs competitor at games, actor, from agOnizesthai to compete, from agOn contest, competition at games -- more at AGONY
1 a : the principal character in a literary work (as a drama or story) b : a leading actor, character, or participant in a literary work or real event
2 : a leader, proponent, or supporter of a cause : CHAMPION

Wednesday WORD PLAY is here once again. Thought today's word choice might be interesting to see what it conjures up in your minds. And my word choice is protagonist!

Usage: Martin Luther King was a protagonist for the civil rights cause. One has to wonder, with this past year's elevation of gay awareness, who might step forward in 2007 as the protagonist of gay rights and set the walls of 'blindness,' of ignorance, of intolerance tumbling.

Again, the "play" portion...any comment you leave must use the word protagonist in it. Your response can be about anything ~ the post, me (watch it!), something about you, something happening in your life. Knock yourself out thinking of something serious, humorous, or off-beat to comment about. Just have fun with it!

"THE DAY AFTER" and "HOW DO YOU LIKE IT? (#30)" TUESDAY

2006-12-26T00:00:00.000-08:00

Another Christmas has come and gone. Somehow it always seems so anti-climatic. But none-the -less this was an incredible Christmas for me. Our family traditionally draws one person and buys one gift for him or her with a set spending limit being established. This year we were to forego it as some individuals in the family were having tougher years financially. I say 'suppose to' as my little sister, her husband, and my mother chose to keep the tradition going by playing Santa Claus'. Needless to say I was perturbed but grateful. 'Santa' brought me some clothing items, some cash, and the real big surprise, my new LG EnV cellphone (my sister and brother-in-law's gift to me).

But what made me the most happy was merely having my family in my presence, sharing the commonalities we do have - our faith and our love for each other. I sat looking at my nieces and nephews, thinking "where has all the time gone?" This holiday is really about recalling the PAST in hopes of setting the path for the FUTURE. I'm not going to try to explain myself as it ties in with my faith (as you know I tend to retain privacy on that element). I am so fortunate for this blessing. The other item that was the 'feather in the cap' was speaking with friends and exchanging well wishes. This year I chose to thank a few close friends with simple gifts because their lives, their spirit, their generosity, their friendship has impacted me in so many ways. Admittedly the giving of the gifts brought me some pleasure but the greatest pleasure I received was merely hearing their voices. I miss not having them in my daily life in some physical location nearby.

Hmmm! I could go on but I suspect I need to shift gears over to the other portion of my post today. So without further ado....

It's time for another Tuesday "HOW DO YOU LIKE IT?" I'm curious about something so I have this question for you:

How do you like to spend your day after Christmas?

I realize that there may be some people who do have to work the day after Christmas so tell us how you would like to spend it if you had the day off. Me personally, I don't know anymore. I used to love to hit the stores the day after Christmas. I know...you're saying, "Is he nuts? Join in with all the chaotic crowds." What can I tell you. I use to love hitting the Macy's and Nordstrom's Day After and Semi-Annual Men's Sales, respectively. However, the last five years or so I have found no interest in doing it. I'd rather now sleep in and have a day of leisure. Not sure if it's age creeping up on me, my lack of interest these days with being current on fashion, or some combination thereof. If I had my way, I'd like to be lounging by a roaring fire surrounded in utter silence. Bliss!

So, care to share your thoughts on this topic.

A PICTORIAL ESSAY ~ MERRY CHRISTMAS ONE AND ALL

2006-12-25T00:00:00.000-08:00

Wishing you all a very merry Christmas today! Some pictures of my Saturday night adventure to a neighborhood about a 75 minute drive from where I am. This neighborhood does it yearly. This year we took two nieces that hadn't been before and they had a blast. Some residents were selling hot coffee, hot chocolate, churros, even hot homemade tamales. If only there was more neighborhood camaraderie like this nationwide. So enjoy! A side note: I've incorporated some photos that are a little blurry only because they often showed the full-on view of the neigborhood in it's lighted stage.

MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL AND TO ALL A GOOD NIGHT!

MY CHRISTMAS WISH FOR YOU

2006-12-20T22:22:00.000-08:00

I debated when to post this and finally decided to do so today. I wanted as many of my fellow bloggers and blog lovers to get this message. I know a good chunk of individuals on Friday and Saturday will probably begin their Christmas trips home to see family and or to special travel destinations. And therefore my posting for Thursday.

I realize that Christmas is not a holiday for all. Some people are of different religious denominations, some are atheistic, and some simply do not see reason to celebrate the day. I understand and respect this. Since moving out on my own, Christmas has been a hit or miss celebration for me. I suspect the component that drives my feelings is the holiday's commercialism. But one element I won't pass on, is an the opportunity to enjoy the day with family. My enjoyment comes from watching the people I love find happiness in the spirit of the day, especially the nieces and nephews. And well, a few gifts here and there never hurts.

This year I find myself feeling blessed with so much. My Christmas presents came early...you might say at the beginning of 2006, all because of the doors that the blogging world opened for establishing meaningful friendships - friendships that I know aren't going away. First I want to thank any and all that have come to my blog, whether you have left comments or merely remain anonymous in the background. Secondly, thanks to those on my blogroll...you keep me going with your faithful commentary. Admittedly there are a few bloggers that I know comment and that I read on occasion that I have yet to add to my blogroll. I'll get to it one of these days. Lastly, I have some special thanks for people like Rob, Pete, Brett(Cajun) Spider, Sorted, Derek, Mike, Hypoxic (retired blogger), Josh, and Tom. You have put faces and or voices to the names behind the blogs. Each of you has welcomed me without conditions or judgment. To each of you a giant hug. Because of you I am more self-confident with the person I am.

My wish for each of you is to have a day of peace, rest, and well, maybe, just maybe, a bit of self-indulgence. To those of you that may not be experiencing the best of times, I hope, for a moment, that the heavy-heart and burden will be lifted.

Merry Christmas to All!!

Don't you just love Santa?! What a hunk in the buff.

Pete, this made my day!

WORD PLAY ~ EUPHORIA

2006-12-20T00:10:00.000-08:00

EUPHORIA

One entry found for euphoria.
Main Entry: eu·pho·ria
Pronunciation: yÃ¼-'for-E-&
Function: noun
Etymology: New Latin, from Greek, from euphoros healthy, from eu- + pherein to bear -- more at BEAR
: a feeling of well-being or elation
- eu·phor·ic /-'for-ik, -'f¤r-/ adjective
- eu·phor·i·cal·ly /-i-k[&-]lE/ adverb

So we stroll into Wednesday, hump day, 5 days before Christmas, 2 days left until the weekend, and a day for yet another WORD PLAY post. Today's word is euphoria.

Usage: I have this memory of an incredible night that I spent with someone special. A king size bed, fine white lines, a fluffy down comforter, river breezes. This stud sent me in to a state of euphoria that put my body in a complete state of numbness. I think it was a whole new level of orgasm! Too much info??? I'd be in heaven if Santa could somehow grant that wish and present it to me as my Christmas gift. Hmmm! There might be one other person that could put me in a state of euphoria but that's my fantasy man! You all know who that is.

So what's your sentence for the day?

HOW DO YOU LIKE IT? (#30)

2006-12-19T00:00:00.001-08:00

Another Tuesday is upon us and we have less than a week now until Christmas. Hopefully each of you has most of your shopping done, if not all of it, and you can cruise into the holiday weekend, enjoying it. And given what today is, it's time to stroll into another HOW DO YOU LIKE IT? Tuesday post.

Let's get things started. The question for today is:

If you had a choice to spend your Christmas morning anywhere other than your home, how would like to spend it? I'm leaving the question open-ended as I feel it warrants it.

This is an easy question for me. Ever since visiting Europe my first time back in 1982, I have dreamed of returning to this one place at Christmas time. This small town is phenomenal to visit during the non-winter months but I see it so vividly as a storybook village during the snowy winter months.

What town am I referring to? It's Salzburg, Austria. I see myself staying in the old historical portion of Salzburg, criss-crossed with cobblestone streets. I see myself waking up to snow softly falling outside while lying in clean white linens, snuggled under a fluffy down comforter. I see villagers strolling the streets all bundled up, local choirs singing in the old Gothic and Baroque churches, the smell of yummy pastries and applestrudel permeating the air. I see myself sitting in the guesthouse's public living area soaking up the warm heat of a crackling fire, sipping on some rich European hot chocolate, gazing outside and admiring the snow-covered Austrian Alps with the lush forests below.

Darn...now I have myself all worked up over the thought of Salzburg. One of these days I will make this dream happen. Trust me! I don't know when, but I will make it happen.

So I just have to hear your thoughts - 'spill the beans' please!

MEME: 50 THINGS....

2006-12-18T00:00:00.000-08:00

I am opting out of the "What Would You Do?" post today. Pete challenged me to do this meme, in part to mix up my blog posting a bit. He's only one of a handful that could twist my arm. Appears Pete picked up the meme over at The Non Stop Ultimate.

1. When you looked at yourself in the mirror today, what was the first thing you thought?

I'll have to ditto Pete's response on this..."Gosh look at all that gray in my beard!"

2. How much cash do you have on you?

Physically...about $400.

3. What's a word that rhymes with "DOOR?"

Poor.

4. Favorite planet?

No laughing...Uranus. HEHEHE! I am so bad!

5. Who is the 4th person on your missed call list on your cell phone?

Oh dear...it was Spider! I should call him. HEHEHE!

6. What is your favorite ring tone on your phone?

I just use one of the generic tones on my phone called "Better Days."

7. What shirt are you wearing?

At the moment I am shirtless! Get your minds out of the gutter.

8. Do you "label" yourself?

Spinning off Pete's comment, labels are for inanimate objects. I don't put some type of classification on myself. OTHER people are the one's that do that - if they are insecure.

9. Name the brand of the shoes you're currently wearing?

AU NATURALE...translation barefeet! Lordy, am I beginning to create a picture here with some of my responses?!

10. Bright or dark room?

Oh, that depends on the activity involved as well here.

11. What do you think about the person who took this survey before you?

Well Pete already knows how I feel about him. He will always hold a special place in my heart. Hugs bud!

12. What does your watch look like?

I don't where a watch...never have. I really on my car and cellphone clocks.

13. What were you doing at midnight last night?

That would have been Saturday...I was in bed at midnight. I know, boring.

14. What did your last text message you received on your cell say?

The text message was from Spider...the message was for my eyes only.

15. Where is your nearest 7-11?

About a mile from my place.

16. What's a word that you say a lot?

It's not a word but rather a phrase..."So what else is new?"

17. Who told you he/she loved you last?

For my ears only. Hehehe!

18. Last furry thing you touched?

My roommate's girlfriend's dog.

19. How many drugs have you done in the last three days?

NO hard core drugs. Only my daily meds.

20. How many rolls of film do you need developed?

Film...I haven't bought a roll of film in five years!

21. Favorite age you have been so far?

My early twenties right out of college, when life seemed more simple, when I traveled through Europe for the summer, when I bought my first new car.

22. Your worst enemy?

My need to be perfect in everything that I do (when I know that is not humanly possible).

23. What is your current desktop picture?

It's a picture of me and my two brothers taken Easter Sunday of 2003. I was 'goatee'less. I'd love to show you the picture but family is personal at this moment.

24. What was the last thing you said to someone?

Goodnight! Hugs.

25. If you had to choose between a million bucks or to be able to fly what would it be?

I'll echo the comments of the author that meme'd me. I'd want to fly hands down as that alone could give me opportunities to see places I wanted to see and likely give me the million bucks as well.

26. Do you like someone?

I like all kinds of people!

27. The last song you listened to?

AWAKE from Josh Groban.

28. What time of day were you born?

If my recollection serves me right, I think mom told me in the early morning hours.

29. What's your favorite number?

Three. It offers so many variations for such a small number. ;-)

30. Where did you live in 1987?

South San Francisco, CA.

31. Are you jealous of anyone?

Just of Jack Radcliffe! If I could only look like him. Seriously, I have no reason, at the moment to be jealous.

32. Is anyone jealous of you?

I have no idea. I hope not.

33. Where were you when 9/11 happened?

At work (Auto/Homeowners Insurance field).

34. What do you do when vending machines steal your money?

Pound on them. Like that is going to do anything.

35. Do you consider yourself kind?

I try to be kind. Am I successful at it all the time...NO!

36. If you had to get a tattoo, where would it be?

I am not really a fan of tattoos. My first response is to say the butt to hide it. However I might be able to live with it placed above my bicep below the shoulder

37. If you could be fluent in any other language, what would it be?

Italian all the way.

38. Would you move for the person you loved?

That's a debated question at the moment. With me starting a new career and it being one that brings more success in a metropolitan area suited to it, the options are limited - at least in my mind.

39. Are you touchy feely?

Not immediately but get me with someone I like and am comfortable with, lordy watch out.

40. What's your life motto?

It's the subtext right below my blog name. It is : Seeing And Living Each Moment For The Moment It Is

41. Name three things that you have on you at all times?

Well I just loved Pete's response, "Dick, balls and the crack of my ass. All times rememberÂI never leave home without them."

42. What's your favorite town/city?

If it's U.S. based, I'd say it's a three-way tie (what's with the number three..Hmmmm! It arouses me) between San Francisco, San Diego, and New York City. If it's open worldwide, it's a tie between Salzburg, Austria and Rome, Italy.

43. What was the last thing you paid for with cash?

I can't say 'cuz it would give away a Christmas gift that is for one of my dear friends and fellow blogger.

44. When was the last time you wrote a letter to someone on paper and mailed it?

This past week as part of an inclusion in a few Christmas cards that I sent out.

45. Can you change the oil on a car?

Thank goodness that one of a few things I can do on a car. That's good for me since I am not very car oriented.

46. Your first love: what is the last thing you heard about him/her?

Honestly, I have never bee in love with anyone. As for now, we're seeing where the future is going to take me. It's still personal.

47. How far back do you know about your ancestry?

Great-Grandparents. I so wish I knew more and could go farther back much like Derek over at Past, Present, and Future.

48. The last time you dressed fancy, what did you wear and why did you dress fancy?

Friday night for my company's Christmas party (where I intern). I was wearing a pair of dressy light brown woo slacks, Italian leather shoes, a French long-sleeve shirt that was stripped in fushia, lime, white, and tan stripes, and a brown suede car coat! I 'd say I looked rather HOT!

49. Does anything hurt on your body right now?

Now why do you ask? It's private.

50. Have you been burned by love?

No. And I don't like to think of it as burned. If people are adult about it, it's a mutual understanding and separation.

So Pete, there you have it. I did it just for you. Hope the rest of my blog readers picked up something new about me. I'd love to throw this meme at the direction of a few commenters. Hopefully they'll see this post and take the challenge. Josh, CityWoof, and Derek...are you up for it?! If anyone else wishes to partake, step in. Have a good week.

FRIDAY'S "WHAT'S UP FOR THE WEEKEND?"

2006-12-15T00:00:00.000-08:00

Another Friday is upon us and only 9 more days until Christmas for those of you who partake in this celebration. Where does all the time go? Just a smidgen over two weeks and we'll be sailing into 2007!

Hey...before getting into today's post, I felt the need to clarify something in my post yesterday, entitled WE ALL HAVE SOMETHING TO BE THANKFUL FOR AROUND THE HOLIDAYS. I just wanted to let you know that my thoughts were not intended to be directed at individuals who, for whatever reason, chose not to participate in the holidays. I realize there are as many reasons to steer clear of the holidays as there are to partake. And I, for one, have on several occasions in recent years chose not to get wrapped up in it, with the exception of spending time with my family. My intent behind the post was to have each of us pause when we are feeling that urge that all is wrong in our life and carefully reflect on our current lives. So many of us don't realize what we do have, as small as those blessings may be. Then I was hoping it might be easier to see our problems sometimes are that great and that we can direct that energy toward others who do need help emotionally, spiritually, or financially.

With that hopefully dispelled, I'll move onto today's post. Here is the question I love to ask at the end of the week, "What's up for your weekend?"

Well, with my shopping done, or at least with what I intended to do, here's my agenda for the weekend...

Friday: Up early today to get my presents wrapped and out in the mail before I risk not getting them to their respective recipients before Christmas Day. Then I plan squeezing in some spaceplanning work for my Senior Project class that starts mid-January. If I am lucky I'll get in a short workout. Then I am off for an evening on the town. My employer, for which I am interning, is having it's Christmas party. It's at a dinner theater...should be interesting since I have never done anything remotely of this nature.

Saturday: More spaceplanning with intents of finishing all of it this day! I am also hoping to visit my other sister here in southern California. I have been terrible at keeping up with her and checking in lately. I know she had a rough time with a week ago with my 14 year-old autistic nephew. My brother-in-law was over in Hong Kong for a week on business. Needless to say, if you know anything about autism, the child can get fixated on some things. Lets say my nephew drove my sister nuts for several days, demanding that the Christmas decorations be put up. She finally conceded, short of my brother-in-law getting home. Oh! Did I say slip inn another workout? Have to keep this 'SEE's candy weight' off me.

Sunday: "And the Lord said 'Rest!' " Well, maybe I'll slip in a carwash and detail.

So let me know what's on your agenda for the weekend. I always enjoy hearing. Cheers!

WE ALL HAVE SOMETHING TO BE THANKFUL FOR AROUND THE HOLIDAYS

2006-12-14T00:00:00.000-08:00

It's easy to feel miserable during the holiday season and view it as a waste of time. Stores are crowded. People are pushy and demanding. Funds seem to be in short supply. Work sometimes offers year end pressures. And there is never enough time to take in all the season's events. These are only a handful of possibilities for some to view the holidays as 'Bah-Humbug!'

But if you have the remotest bit of comfort, family members, loved ones, and/or friends to share the holidays with and to offer emotional support, and a small cash reserve, then you have so much to be thankful for during this time of year. So many people battle mental illness during this time of year. Many walk the streets homeless, cold and hungry. There are those that literally live from paycheck to paycheck wondering when what little comfort they do have will fade away with the flip of a switch. And there are individuals who live each individual day of the holiday season wondering if they will make it to the next day, their bodies ravaged with life-draining diseases.

STOP! Pause for a moment. Is your life really that bad this holiday season? It's easy to 'bitch and moan' about petty things. But I firmly believe that if you can find one shining moment in your daily life and are blessed with basic life essentials, you need to give yourself a solid smack upside the head if you're playing the 'woe-is-me' violin! Trust me, it doesn't take much to find a smidgen of positivism. If you can't see it in your life, then ask a friend to help point it out. Then direct all that negative energy toward yet one more positive element. Help someone by offering some warmth, a kind word, financial assistance, emotional support, a simple smile and hello!

And now I have this to direct you to...

I have never made light of or hid the fact that I do not enjoy extensive reading. But every known and then I find a blog that reels me in with such intensity, grips the very soul of my being, tears at the emotions locked deep within, that I have to continue reading it. In this particular case, I know some of my readers may be familiar with the blog as I see your comments in it. For those of you who haven't, stop by and say hi to this individual. And you can tell him I sent you. Whose blog am I singing the praises - it's Bigg's My Confessions.

While you are at his blogsite, send him some love please. Bigg has had a rough year personally. He's trying to live his life by being true to himself. He works his tale off to support his kids while living through a marriage separation. I know that I'd be sitting in a hospital if I pushed myself like Bigg does. BIGG - you are an incredible guy (and a hell'uva writer). I wish I could somehow lighten your load. Thinking of you this holiday season. Hugs!

"That's a wrap!" as Lemeul says.

WORD PLAY - WITH A TWIST!

2006-12-13T00:00:00.000-08:00

DEFINITION

noun:
1) No silly! Today's word is not definition.
2)Gotch'ya!!!

So what do I have up my sleeve? Today's Wednesday Word Play is truly playing with words or rather word phrases. It probably will even test your memory. Give me a line from your favorite Christmas carol and by all means, if the title is not evident in some manner within the line, let us know the carol. And if you have a story behind the choice, by all means, please share it.

Guess I'll kick things off. I have to admit I found myself laughing last night with Spider as I was trying to get ideas for my post. I got on a roll with some lines and lets just say I was getting a bit warped. Example: Deck the halls with balls (oh I mean boughs) of holly....

My choice of a line from a carol is "Do you see what I see?..." WOOHOO!! (Ok Tony, don't go there. Hehehe!) That line is from DO YOU HEAR WHAT I HEAR? I just remember dear ol' Bing singing it with that deep voice of his...it really stirred the emotions for me at Christmas.

And you?

Do You Hear What I Hear?

Said the night wind to the little lamb,
do you see what I see
Way up in the sky, little lamb,
do you see what I see
A star, a star, dancing in the night
With a tail as big as a kite
With a tail as big as a kite

Said the little lamb to the shepherd boy,
do you hear what I hear
Ringing through the sky, shepherd boy,
do you hear what I hear
A song, a song, high above the trees
With a voice as big as the sea
With a voice as big as the sea

Said the shepherd boy to the mighty king,
do you know what I know
In your palace warm, mighty king,
do you know what I know
A Child, a Child shivers in the cold
Let us bring Him silver and gold
Let us bring Him silver and gold
Said the king to the people everywhere,
listen to what I say
Pray for peace, people everywhere!
listen to what I say
The Child, the Child, sleeping in the night
He will bring us goodness and light
He will bring us goodness and light

HOW DO YOU LIKE IT? (#29)

2006-12-12T00:00:00.000-08:00

It amazes me sometimes how fast time really flies. The year always seems to start of slow but as the summer comes and goes, the year goes into warp speed! And so does each week. We are already upon another Tuesday so time to ask that infamous question you are all too familiar with - How Do You Like It?

Still rolling with the holiday theme, I'd like to ask, "How do you like to spend your Christmas Day?"

For well over 30 years now, our family has always celebrated our Christmas on Christmas Eve. As many of us as possible attend Christmas Mass, followed by a huge feast of sorts, and then the opening of gifts. So on Christmas day I like to sleep in a little later while dreaming of sugar plum fairies. I get up, shower, and usually head over to the house where the Christmas activity is to be. It used to be my mom's but as of the last four years, it has been at my little sister's place here in southern California.

The day is usually very low key with us all just hanging around conversing about things of the past, current events, and often trips that we'll take in the coming year. I kind of absorb all the activity by lying on the floor, listening, while soaking up the roaring fire that is usually going. Somehow this always puts me in a meditative-like trance. And then we cap the day off with a nice family dinner, usually some beef course like prime rib or fillet mignon, the trimmings, and holiday cookies and fudge for dessert. Oh, and I can't forget the premium red wine that my brother-in-law always seems to whip out on these type of occasion. Let's just say it's not uncommon for it to be a triple-digit (cost) French wine. Pure heaven, silky smooth!

So that's how my Christmas day usually goes. Looking forward to hearing from you all how you like to spend yours.

A SPECIAL DAY FOR A SPECIAL SOMEONE / "WHAT WOULD YOU DO?" MONDAY (#13)

2006-12-11T00:00:00.000-08:00

"Afterall, how could I ignore someone that could lay such a flattering comment on me. ... If I could digress briefly, I have to share with you the first thought that popped into my head when I saw D****'s picture: 'What a big giant warm, fuzzy teddy-bear.' ... D**** is very much the sensitive, open-and kind-hearted, introspective, genuine person that so much of his writing portrays. These are just a few of the traits that I love about him. The other thing that always draws a warm smile from me is D****'s ability to be so openly blunt and real in such a southern innocent way. I love it!

We have often exchanged stories over the phone about family. He always speaks fondly of his immediate, as well as extended family. I am no different. I think some of that comes from his upbringing - family values, morals, faith...."

This was an excerpt from my November 2, 2006 post entitled A Southern Boy Friendship. It pertained to my blogger bud and someone I am proud to call a close friend. And that incredible friend is Derek, over at Past, Present, and Future. What more can I say about a man that carries a huge 'plus' mark in my Book of Life! If only we had a few more of him cloned, the world might be a much brighter place. Not to mention that I will have died and gone to heaven that many more times because the world is populated by yet another bearish southern-accented man! Heart be still. LMAO.

So what's my point for all this hype over Derek. I have an important message for him......

HAPPY BIRTHDAY
YOU BIG 'TEDDY-BEAR!!!'

As I have said in the past big fella', I am so lucky to be able to call you a 'dear friend.' Huggerz!!!

------------------------------------------------------------------

So with the hoopla all spelled out, let's get on to today's post. It's What Would You Do? Monday. I'd like to play off the above post and ask you the following question: If you had a dear friend who was turning FORTY years old and knew he/she was a little sensitive about this seemingly threshold age, what would you do - throw a surprise party, keep the celebration low key and private, or ignore any celebration of sorts? Elaborate please.

A 'toughie' for me. I so love to encourage people to enjoy the person they are and that includes their age. Part of me would want to through a big party, assuming I could handle it financially. But I do understand that some people are overly-conscious of their age. I think that I would likely probe my friend indirectly to determine if he/she would really have a meltdown if I made the bold move to throw a party. If I senses some positive feedback, I probably would make the lunge and go forth with the party. Otherwise I'd honor my friend's desires to utter privacy.

Well?.....

FRIDAY'S "WHAT'S UP FOR THE WEEKEND?"

2006-12-07T23:03:00.000-08:00

I love Fridays...at least at the moment. My work week ended yesterday. But given the hectic run earlier this week, it concluded on a very good note. I had gotten my internship review from my employer earlier this week which pleased me.

Today while the other two designers were out at lunch, my employer hit me with a statement that caught me off-guard. She started by asking me what I was going to be doing once school was done. She went on to inquire how I was feeling about commercial work. I was honest and told her that while Residential Design was still an interest, I was actually enjoying Commercial Design more. My employer went on to say that everyone at the firm thought I was doing well and that I was a welcomed edition.

So where am I going with all this babbling. In a round-about way, my employer was telling me I had a job after my internship if I wanted it. I told her I had been actually thinking about picking up a part-time job once the internship ended in January to obtain much needed income. However I emphasized to my employer that my last class was important and was taking priority with respect to my time. She encouraged me to think about it for a spell but to let her know sometime in the near future as they were getting ready to post on MONSTER.COM. There you have it. I felt quite honored to know that I am appreciated already and there is a bit of ease knowing I have something to fall back on if needed.

Guess we are at that point where I ask, "What's up for your weekend?"

Mine....

Friday: Shopping for birthday cards and X-mas presents; hitting the bank; getting my workout in for the day; then heading off for my "golden massage" and dinner with two dear friends.

Saturday: Begin to work on my spaceplanning of the two area changes given to me in my Senior Project II class before I dropped; workout; fill the rest of the day with whatever is needed; and maybe make a few personal phone calls to this person, or this person, or this person, or this person.

Sunday: Do some Christmas cards, I hope, and wrap some gifts; chill time or possibly some more Senior Project spaceplanning.

Boring, aye!!! Sometimes things just go that way.

So let me know what's on your 'table?' I always enjoy hearing. As before, Happy Holidays!!

THE BRUSH'S COLORFUL DAUBS ~ MISCELLANEOUS TIDBITS #11

2006-12-07T00:00:00.000-08:00

As I said yesterday, the week up to that point (A.M.) had been hectic. Yesterday was no different. I can't seem to find a moment to myself to get back into my blog commenting rhythm. And guys I feel bad about that so please bare with me. I am sure there are some out there thinking I may have forgotten about them...I haven't. Heck a part of me is even getting a little frustrated because I don't have time to write some more personal, thought-out posts like I used to inject into my blog. But what can I do short of losing a piece of my sanity?! So today, I'll share some weekly tidbits with you.

Art Appreciation 20 Comes To An End
This past Tuesday night was the end of my Art History class. I turned in my paper and did my 15 minute presentation on Maya Lin and the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Controversy. Let's just say I aced it! I am actually going to miss the class. I was just getting acquainted with some of the 18 and 19 year olds in the class. I was even getting use to their wise-cracks about, "Oh know, Tony's up (to do his presentation). It's all downhill here for the rest of use!" Hey, this 'DADDY BEAR' just had to show them what he's made of. I had the professor, at the end of the class, tell me that she enjoyed having me and appreciated my presence in the class. What can you say to that other than 'Thanks!' Anyhow, I am expecting an "A" in the class.

1 Down...1 And 1/2 To Do!!!
With Art History completed, I officially have my Associates in Fine Arts - Design. Now all I have left is a little under 120 of 240 hours left interning and my Senior Thesis Project part II class and school is done with for good. Finito! Caputz!! I'll have my Bachelors Degree. It won't come quick enough.

Little Sis' Rollcoaster Ride
Last week I shared with you that my sister had miscarried. I appreciate all the thoughts that everyone left. Admittedly I held back on some additional news that came two days later. Little Sis' doctor had her take some additional blood tests to confirm that the baby was dead. Well the results came back and much to my sister and brother-in-laws' shock, they were informed that the doctor may have screwed up on the calculation of the baby's due date, meaning they had here in too early for an ultrasound to effectively determine if the baby had a heartbeat, etc. See they can't determine that any sooner than 9 weeks. So up went their hopes again. From here, let me give you the condensed version. Sister goes in Saturday for more testing. Sister gets the new results this past Monday...not good! Her hormone level had not double in 48 hours as is required so baby is now officially declared dead. Sister goes in for a DNC surgical procedure yesterday, late afternoon. Brother-in-law out of town for this - I step in to get her home from the hospital. I still am not sure if she has told my little niece and nephew yet about the loss. I have such faith in doctors these days..yeh right!

1 Day And Counting Until Body Bliss!
Tomorrow afternoon I'll be lying down enjoying a much needed JOE's erotic massage. I am feeling blissful just thinking about it. But really, I am looking forward to meeting two incredible friends, having dinner, and getting caught up. They're absolute sweethearts.

Testosterone
I don't know what it is but my testosterone is raging. Can someone please tell me why?!?! ;-)

WORD PLAY ~ MESOMORPHIC

2006-12-06T00:00:00.000-08:00

MESOMORPHIC

Main Entry: me·so·mor·phic
Pronunciation: "me-z&-'mor-fik, "mE-, -s&-
Function: adjective
Etymology: mesoderm + -morphic; from the predominance in such types of structures developed from the mesoderm
1 : of or relating to the component in W. H. Sheldon's classification of body types that measures especially the degree of muscularity and bone development
2 : having a husky muscular body build
- me·so·mor·phy /'me-z&-"mor-fE, -s&-/ noun

My Bud, Joe.

Thank goodness it's Wednesday! I have been working my little 'arse' off this week between a school final paper and presentation, work, and getting myself back into weightlifting and a diet routine. It's amazing how a month of infrequent exercise and some excess 'sweets' can literally send your hard work pummeling backwards. I am so sore in my shoulder, pec, and lower back regions. But fear not, JOE is here! Joe happens to be a good friend of mine. I may have mentioned him very early on when I first started my blog. Anyway, only two more days and I'll be seeing him and his partner for dinner. And oh! Did I happen to tell you that he is a masseuse - a very good masseuse. I have a sneaky suspicion that my muscles will feel real good after my pre-dinner massage. Oh baby - Calgon (*insert 'JOE' here) take me away!! LMAO.

Enough! Time to move on with Wednesday WORD PLAY! Today's word choice is mesomorphic.

Usage: Perhaps Joe does not accurately represent the 'husky' in the definition of mesomorphic but damn, he sure has the 'muscular body build' hammered! And just think, he's all mine for two hours of pure bliss. If I can't have Jack Radcliffe, at least I have Joe.

So...again, the "play" portion...any comment you leave must use the word mesomorphic in it. Your response can be about anything ~ the post, me (watch it!), something about you, something happening in your life. Knock yourself out thinking of something serious, humorous, or off-beat to comment about. As always, just have fun with it!

P.S. Sorry guys for not getting around to your blogs in the last day or two. The presentation had me tied up and then I volunteered Monday and last night to help my two dear friends from design school with their Historical Preservation boards. I'll be around soon.

HOW DO YOU LIKE IT? (#28)

2006-12-05T00:00:00.000-08:00

Guys...before I start my post I just have to vent. Why do people resort to robbing people of there identity or manipulating it to bemean one's credibility? I have to admit that I am "pissed" right now. Upset with the indivdual or individuals that are robbing me of a person I enjoy hearing from nearly daily, either through his own postings or through comments he leaves on other blogs. Heck, I do not even know if he'll continue any email correspondence or accept my calls. Admittedly, I find myself asking if I want to continue to blog. Time will tell.

Step down from the podium and shift gears into today's post.

Last week for my Tuesday "HOW DO YOU LIKE IT?" post, I initiated a Christmas-themed question. In an effort to stay along those lines, I ask you the following question:

How do you like to wrap you gifts - in traditional Christmas wrapping paper, in decorative bags, or in some home-made packaging of sorts? (If the last item, do share your Christmas packaging idea with us.)

As of the last few Christmas, I have opted for traditional Christmas wrapping paper because it's quick, convenient, and has been the cheapest for me (given personal budget constraints). But I used to like to make the wrapping more personal. I used to do things like use the comics section of the Sunday newspaper - a friend got me started doing this. I used to also make personal decorated tins and boxes. And occasionally, there were the decorated baskets whether for prepared foods or for actual non-food items. It was fun trying to figure out what someone might be able to use in their space once the gift was removed or that they would be able to recycle in some other means.

Share with us what your thinking at the moment!

"WHAT WOULD YOU DO?" MONDAY (#12)

2006-12-04T00:00:00.000-08:00

Another Monday has crept up on us. Can You believe we are already into December and that winter is nearly upon us? Wasn't it just summer?

Anyhow, let's move into WHAT WOULD YOU DO? Monday. The question:

If you had to chose between one of the two - to be handsome or to be intelligent, what would you do, or rather chose? Keep in mind that you can only be either or - not both simultaneously.

I really don't see the need to think about this particular question too much. Lets face it, it's unfortunate but so much of gay interaction is driven by looks in my opinion. You may not agree with me but it seems to be what I have observed. I find it sad at least from a relationship standpoint. So many guys step into a relationship driven by physical appearance and never fully observe and communicate with the person they are with. What happens? - relationships that just don't last. I, for one, would much rather possess intelligence, in hopes that I could engage someone in a good adult conversation and possess the thought-process capability of making good rational decisions. I guess I am hoping that a good man would recognize the pluses in one being able to articulate intelligently rather than flashin' the dimples.

So your thoughts please and share why!

FRIDAY'S "WHAT'S UP FOR THE WEEKEND?"

2006-12-01T00:00:00.000-08:00

Well, I blew of both work and school today. Mind you I completed my class assignment for today. I just wasn't there to do the presentation portion. I emailed both my paper and Powerpoint presentation to the instructor to get partial credit. I showed up for my internship but spoke to one of the designers about leaving early. The designer told me to simply take the whole day off.

You wondering why I passed on school and work? I stopped by my little sister's house to check on her before work, only to have her break down and cry on my shoulders. I felt like 'sh*t!' I couldn't let her run around inn this state. So I said 'f*ck it' and made the decision that I did. And...I don't regret one minute of it now. It was the right thing to do. Now I just plan on crashing until the later side of tomorrow morning. Then a much needed workout as the 'tummy' is beginning to show some of the signs of the holiday excess. YUK!!! As for Saturday and Sunday, I'll be working on that final Art History paper and wrapping up coordination of my Powerpoint presentation with my personal administrative assistant! Should I complete things out early, I have no idea how I might treat myself.

So now that I have said my piece, I'd love to know, "What's up for YOUR weekend?" Remember, it can be simple and basic to something extreme. Anything is worth mentioning.

ABSOLUTELY THRILLED THAT THE WEEKEND IS UPON US!

Before I forget, with today being World AIDS Day, 'click on the ribbon' to connect to Bristol-Meyers link. Light the candle on the link and have a dollar donated by Bristol-Meyers to AIDS research. How simple is that!!!! I just hope this works. If not, the link is https://www.lighttounite.org/ .

THE BRUSH'S COLORFUL DAUBS ~ MISCELLANEOUS TIDBITS #10

2006-11-30T00:00:00.000-08:00

Well, I am having one of those BLAH days. I went to bed last night pressured to get a homework assignment done when I really should have been elsewhere. And as a result, I am not feeling too good about my decision. More on that to come. Anyway, given the mood I am in and the lack of inspiration on a post, I thought I would simply put out some weekly tidbits today.

The Latest Internship News:
I just reached the halfway point of my internship today. I have 120 hours plus at the moment. I am waiting on my employers review which I should have next Tuesday. I am not sure if I will be privy to it or if my boss will simply place it in a sealed envelop to pass along to my internship coordinator. In any event, I believe it should be a good review. I am off today at lunchtime to go see one of the firm's complete projects. I saw it in its mid stage about two weeks ago and it was already looking hot!! I can't wait to see all the works in place today. It has a contemporary, edgy, industrial image happening!!

Just A BLAH Day Today:
At the beginning of this post I told you that I was feeling a bit BLAH and down today. Last night right after getting off work at 5:30pm I returned a call to my mother. Just the way she started the conversation I knew something was wrong. I had that 'pit' in my stomach. She progressed with the conversation, telling me that my little sister had lost the baby. Sister 'T' went in to have her first prenatal visit. When they pulled up the image of the baby on the ultrasound, my sister knew something was wrong based on the size (she has two children already so she is familiar with what to expect). They could see no movement. A blood test is being run to determine if the assessment is accurate. In any event, my brother-in-law was there this morning for the office visit but had to bolt immediately after for a two-day business trip back East. My sister was pretty upset according to my mom.

I swung by the sis's house on the way home from work but apparently she had taken the kids out for a quick dinner somewhere. I had to head off to get started on my schoolwork. I should have just bagged the homework assignment, taken the loss on the points, and headed back over to my sister's place. It has to be an empty feeling and only magnified because the person you love happens to not be there to lift you through the grieving. And then there still is the task of telling my niece and nephew that "mommy isn't having that baby after all." Two years is took for them just to get pregnant again. At least I left a note for my sister telling her that I hoped she was feeling alright and that I loved her. Enough...time for me to move on here.

All Points Bulletin Out For This Man!!:

Have any of you seen or heard from this man. It seems that Mr. 'Y' has lost his way. I spoke to him on the phone last Wednesday as I was driving home to the Bay Area for Thanksgiving. He was doing fine but somehow I think Ynager may be in a bit of a funk. I think a few of us need to pop into his blog and offer some encouragement.

Ynager...COME BACK! WE'RE MISSING YOUR COMMENTS AND YOUR POSTS!

Who All Has The Holiday 'Blues':
So we are marching full on into the 2006 holiday season. Part of me is excited but a part of me is not. I've talked to a few friends as of late and so many seem down and or just not into the season. It's understandable. Some people find themselves financially strapped at this time of year, some battle depression, some don't have the closeness of family - either physically or emotionally, some suffer bad memories of holidays past. Whatever it might be that puts individuals in this state, I hope that each one of us takes a moment this holiday season to do two things. First, be aware of those around you and how they might be feeling. Take a moment to offer them some encouragement, a holiday cheer, a hug. Secondly, if it's you that is down, try to think of the little things that you have been successful at during the day. They all add up. And if you are feeling a sense of "loss of control," by all means, call a friend and talk.

Happy Holidays to you all!!

WORD PLAY ~ BUT

2006-11-29T00:00:00.000-08:00

BUT

Main Entry: 1but
Pronunciation: 'b&t
Function: conjunction
Etymology: Middle English, from Old English butan, preposition & conjunction, outside, without, except, except that; akin to Old High German buzan without, except; akin to Old English be by, ut out -- more at BY, OUT
1 a : except for the fact [would have protested but that he was afraid] b : THAT -- used after a negative [there is no doubt but he won] c : without the concomitant that [it never rains but it pours] d : if not : UNLESS e : THAN [no sooner started but it stopped] -- not often in formal use
2 a : on the contrary : on the other hand : NOTWITHSTANDING -- used to connect coordinate elements [he was called but he did not answer] [not peace but a sword] b : YET [poor but proud] c : with the exception of -- used before a word often taken to be the subject of a clause [none but the brave deserves the fair -- John Dryden]
- but that : THAT -- used after a negative [there is no doubt but that it must be done]
- but what : that...not -- used to indicate possibility or uncertainty [I don't know but what I will go]

Ah yes! Another hump day, thank goodness! I already feel whipped (watch those minds of yours) and we' re just stepping into Wednesday. Just get me to this very time next week and I'll have a smile on my face. My Art History class will have concluded and school winter break will be upon me. Yippee! But wait that won't last too long as I have that darn Studio Project to get busy on...the class that I dropped this past quarter. Oh well, I am not going to think about that just yet.

Let's get moving with Wednesday WORD PLAY! Today's choice is a play off last week's simplicity of 'verbiage'...just three letters. As with last week's word choice, today's word can leave us or someone else feeling a bit in doubt or it can provide another option or 'out.' So with that said, the word for the day is but.

Usage: I had so many options for choice of words today but none were as appealing as 'but.' I just kept thinking of all the directions this word could be taken. And yes, I know some of you may be so bold as to take 'but' and put a whole other spin on it. No boys, we are not talking about 'but'ts today but I must confess, the thought had crossed my mind!

Again, the "play" portion...any comment you leave must use the word but in it. Your response can be about anything ~ the post, me (watch it!), something about you, something happening in your life. Knock yourself out thinking of something serious, humorous, or off-beat to comment about. As always, just have fun with it!

HOW DO YOU LIKE IT? (#27)

2006-11-28T00:00:00.000-08:00

¿Lo puede creer usted? Es ya el martes. ¿Y eso significa tiempo para "COMO LE HACE LO QUIERE"? El martes. (Rough translation...Can you believe it? It is already Tuesday. And that means it is time for "HOW DO YOU LIKE IT?" Tuesday.)

We all know now that Christmas is slowly working its way into the picture as the Thanksgiving holiday has passed. Most people begin to do their initial Christmas preparation - sprucing up their living space to incorporate some seasonal decorations. With this thought in mind, I pose the following question:

How do you like your Christmas tree - artificial or real?

Quite frankly, I have grown accustomed to artificial trees. Mind you, in my mind there is no substitute for the real 'Magoo.' It's just that my mom was highly allergic to them. She endured the allergy miseries for the first six years of my life but my parents finally had to move to an artificial tree. It solved the problem. As the years have gone by, I have found that the trees now are so life-like and more cost efficient that for me, it works. I tend to by some fresh greens, such as a wreath or garland to bring some of the fresh scent into the house. If you dress up the tree with all the right trimmings and touches, you'd be surprised at how often you can fool most people. Outside that, it's easy set up and easy take-down!

What works for you?

"WHAT WOULD YOU DO?" MONDAY (#11)

2006-11-27T00:00:00.000-08:00

I am back home in southern California after spending my Thanksgiving holiday up in the San Francisco Bay Area. I hope all of you had a great Thanksgiving break. I love northern California. As far as I am concerned, nothing tops it! I had a great time seeing family and spending some quality time with my two new nephews, Sean and Angelo. Was it obvious from previous posts? I even managed a short visit Friday afternoon with my friend and blogger bud, Tom, from The Untraveled Travel Guy in San Francisco. Just a simple lunch at the Sausage Factory in the Castro and a stroll around the neighborhood. Of course I had to sneak in a hot chocolate at "Bear"buck's (aka Starbuck's)! Stop by his blog sometime to say hi. He's writing a little less frequently but if you say hi, one never knows what you might stir up.

So let's move into WHAT WOULD YOU DO? Monday. The question:

What would you do if your house was burning uncontrollably and you only had time to save one item - what would that item be and why? (You can assume that all humans and pets have safely exited the house.)

Well, you all know by now that I have six other brothers and sisters. My first response would have been to grab the most important family photo I had - something with some history or story behind it. But given the number in our family I know that many of my siblings share in a number of duplicated photos. So there would be a high likelihood of easily replacing a family photo.

What I grab then? At this stage of my life and with what I currently possess, I'd say my laptop computer. It contains a wealth of information that I rely on, such as my design portfolio, address and phone information for many people I can not store in my phone, and much more. And quite frankly, it's also a source of communication for me.

So what is running through your mind as your thinking about this question? Do share.

GET STUFFED, STUFF, GOT STUFFED

2006-11-24T00:00:00.000-08:00

Why do I feel like such a glutton after Thanksgiving? Seriously, the last couple of years I have cut back on what I eat on T-Day. I even beg the family members not to bring certain items to the family feast. But nooooooooooo! No one ever listens. And we all pay for it. So now I am stuffed or rather "I GOT STUFFED." Please someone take a barbecue fork and pop me. I need to relieve some of this pressure rolling around in my stomach. I so could use a workout today but being out of town, visiting family, I have no access to gym equipment - though I might just go out for a long fast walk or a jog.

I have to admit, I had an enjoyable Thanksgiving, my first at home in four years. We went up to my sister's in Sacramento to celebrate it. She is still recoop'ing from her shoulder injury sustained after my nephew's birth. So she thought it would be easier to have it at her place, with each of us bringing something, and my brother-in-law to do the turkey roasting. Everything was tasty as usual! And as for new nephew #2, Sean, he is as cute as Angelo. My sister sent me a picture of the two of them together and it's scary...they literally look like twins. I could not tell them apart in the picture until studying it good for about 5 minutes. I'll have to post it when I get it. Its not the best quality picture but you'll get the gist when you see it.

As for the balance of my Friday, it looks like I'll attempt to work on my Art History final paper and its annotated bibliography. But I will be getting together with my friend, Tom, from The Untraveled Travel Guy in San Francisco. I am looking forward to the visit. He's a great guy and a perfect catch for someone. I had hoped to meet up with Rob but he and his handsome hunk, Fuad, are gone for the holiday weekend. He deserves the time away.

So, after stuffing yourself to the max, assuming that was the case, what are you doing this holiday weekend?

THANKFUL FOR....

2006-11-23T00:00:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving conjures up a number of things for me, past and present. I am thankful to have been graced with...

...my faith,
...family,
...family get-togethers and dinners,
...friends,
...an abundance of food,
...freedom,
...financial stability (though currently am wondering about that),
...success in interior design school (though admittedly there have been times I still don't envision my self as good enough),
...and the hush and tranquility around the neighborhoods on this day.

These are only a few of the items that cross my mind. But on this day I also take time to remember. Remember...

...the homeless and the hungry throughout our cities and throughout the world,
...family members and friends who have passed on,
...those men and woman who gave their lives for us at time of war to live amidst freedom,
...and those individuals who do not benefit the freedoms we do socially, religiously, and economically.

I hope each of you finds a moment to be thankful and to remember. To all of my family, to all of my closest friends, and to those of you that read and /or communicate with me from Blogland, I wish you the happiest of Thanksgivings and so much more as we step into the 2006 holiday season. Wish I could reach through the computer and give each of you a holiday hug. Enjoy yourselves and please think 'safety' too.

Addendum: I am so happy to be home for Thanksgiving after 4 years. I just saw the first of my two new nephews, Angelo, and guys, he's killer handsome. Let's just say that I don't think any guy I've kissed has received as many as my nephew did in one sitting. And tomorrow I see little Sean. Wahoo!

Some Turkey Day Humor

WORD PLAY ~ IF

2006-11-22T00:00:00.000-08:00

IF

Main Entry: 1if
Pronunciation: 'if, &f
Function: conjunction
Etymology: Middle English, from Old English gif; akin to Old High German ibu if
1 a : in the event that b : allowing that c : on the assumption that d : on condition that
2 : WHETHER
3 -- used as a function word to introduce an exclamation expressing a wish
4 : even though : although perhaps
5 : and perhaps not even -- often used with not
- if anything : on the contrary even : perhaps even

Wednesday WORD PLAY is up again! Today's choice is rather a simple word...just two letters. But such a small word with so many meanings and contextual uses. Who would imagine that such a basic word could create so much doubt in an individual's mind. So with that said, today's word is If.

Usage: 'If' is such a simple word. If I knew that I was talented in interior design years ago, I would not have wasted any time in learning the necessary skills to have been successful early. Live and learn. If I had sufficient income, I'd invest some of it in my own 'branding' line of design to incorporate furniture, accessories, fabrics, linens, and much more. If I knew this word 'If ' was going to depress me like it's doing with all of the doubt created in my mind, I would have never chosen it for today's WORD PLAY. LOL.
Again, the "play" portion...any comment you leave must use the word 'If ' in it. Your response can be about anything ~ the post, me (watch it!), something about you, something happening in your life. Knock yourself out thinking of something serious, humorous, or off-beat to comment about. Just have fun with it!

HOW DO YOU LIKE IT? (#26)

2006-11-21T00:00:00.000-08:00

What comes after Monday? Tuesday! And what does that signal at this time of the week? Well...here at this blog it means it is time for How Do You Like It? Tuesday.

In honor of Thanksgiving Day fast approaching, I have this question for you:

How do you like your Thanksgiving turkey cooked - oven-roasted, barbecued, or deep fried?

In days gone by I would have told you that I want my turkey to be traditional...which means baked in the oven. But guys, as of lately, like the past two to three years, I have had it deep fried. And let me tell you, if you have never had turkey deep-fried, you are missing something incredible. It takes no more than 45-50 minutes for a 20-25 pound turkey and you get the most moist meat throughout the entire turkey, white and dark meat. We usually inject the bird with lots of butter and have gone with a spicy Cajun seasoning the last couple of cookings. To die for is all I can say!!! Now all you have to do is throw in my brother-in-law's restaurant style garlic mashed potatoes, mom's homemade stuffing (I have yet to taste any stuffing that tops it), French-style cut green beans with almond slivers, and mom's homemade pumpkin pie....I'm in heaven.

So fill us in on how you like your turkey and if you want to divulge more about your yearly ritual feast then feel free, by all means.

P.S.> Heading on home to the SF Bay Area tomorrow morning, bright and early, most likely around 4:30-5am. I may just be giving some of my buds personal calls while I am on the road. I hope I have Internet connectivity at my mom's house - of course, that all depends on my mom's neighbors *wink*.

"WHAT WOULD YOU DO?" MONDAY (#10)

2006-11-20T00:00:00.000-08:00

So the weekend was a bit laid back for me. I did get my Tuesday Art History paper completed. I got a couple of workouts in as well though I opted for a day of rest yesterday - the biceps and the shoulder muscles were feeling a little sore. But managed to sneak in washing my car, so not all was lost. I also spoke with my buds, Pete, Derek, Brett(Cajun) and Spider between Friday and Saturday. We got all caught up with our news. I also got a very brief phone call from Smiley (Josh) yesterday. He had to cut it short because he was dealing with an emergency situation. Guys, Josh's issue wasn't life threatening but keep him in your thoughts. That poor soul just seems to get hit with one too many 'one-two punches.' I'm thinking about you my friend!

Guess I should move my sweet little tail into today's weekly topic of WHAT WOULD YOU DO? Monday. I must tell you in advance that I have often pondered this question I am about to pose to you. And if I am correct, I bet many of you have thought about it too. If you haven't, it may be an eye-opener. The question:

What would you do if you must lose one of your five senses - chose to lose your sight, your hearing, your sense of smell, your ability to taste, or your sense of touch (feeling). Mind you, on your sense of touch, I am talking about loosing your ability to feel any sensation through your skin.

Making a decision on this subject it not easy. There are far too many variables to consider about the loss of any one of the five senses. But I have thought about this question too often to even hesitate any more. I would, without reservation, chose to lose my sense of taste. Hopefully I could rely on my sense of touch to tell me if I was going to put anything scalding in my mouth. I could make a list a mile long on my reasons but I think my one example is enough to give you an idea about the "why."

As for the other senses, I'd miss simple pleasures like a baby's cooing or cry for that matter, the trickling of a meandering brook, the subtle chirps of birds in a distance far too much to part with my hearing. I gain so much from seeing. The element of vision is what stirs me the most. Seeing beauty is what captures my imagination. Seeing a human's reaction grounds me. To me smell helps identify the environment your are in. It creates a sense of pleasure but it also alerts you to harm. I think one's ability to touch/feel also evokes similar sensations as smell.

Having read the question and my thoughts, what is running through your mind? I'm curious!

ANOTHER FRIDAY'S "WHAT'S UP FOR THE WEEKEND?"

2006-11-17T00:03:00.000-08:00

12:06 am Work seems to be kicking my butt more and more these days...mind you it's a good thing. The bad thing is that I am finding in hard to do Friday posts 'cause, come Thursday night, all I am doing is thinking about going to bed and sleeping in a little on Friday. I don't know about you, call me weird, but I actually enjoyed hearing what you all had plans to do last weekend.

So with that mentioned , I'd love to know, "What's up for the weekend?" Remember, it can be simple and basic to something extreme. Anything is worth mentioning.

I tend to incorporate Friday days into my weekend accountability. Plan on sleeping in this morning. Then heading on out to get my long-overdue haircut. I will then make a few phone calls to friends (hmmm! Spidie, Pete, BrettC, Audrey), including yet another series of tries to this hard-to-reach individual. Oh yah ~ much like the Cajun, I need to squeeze in a workout. In fact, I need to get myself back on a committed weekly schedule of diet and workout like I had three to four months ago. Then its off to the local library to do some research on Mia Lin, the designer of the Vietnam War Memorial.

On Saturday, I need to meet with my brother-in-law to share some of my thoughts on his company log. Remember, that was the logo I designed, or at least I thought. I knew he was going to have to get a graphic designer to finish out the color element and clean-up of the logo. But I never thought this designer would nearly scrap all the ideas I had and design something that in my mind looks awfully close to the Chase Manhattan log/credit card. Guess I am a little biased toward my efforts. I'll also start a short paper I have to do on the International Style of architecture.

Lastly Sunday. Probably I will be stuck finishing the short paper I just described to you. Beyond that I have no idea other than I am liable to be on the phone fighting for Josh Groban concert tickets that go on sale for a March Staples Center concert (L.A.).

SIMPLY THRILLED THAT THE WEEKEND IS UPON US! Let me know what you have planned.

"YA THERE DAD?'

2006-11-16T00:37:00.000-08:00

I lay here tonight, my mind drifting as I listen to Josh (Groban). My spirit wanes momentarily as thoughts flash back to times past. I wish I could share this new album (Awake) with you. Do you remember how you intently listened to Josh's words, attempting to snatch those catch lines and sing with him? I do. You always did enjoy a good tenor or baritone. **chuckling a bit** Hell, you use to drive us all nuts on occasion as you attempted to give us your vocal version of the 'greats.' I'm not sure Mario Lanza will ever sound the same. I am here right now, eyes welling a tad but with the biggest smile across my face.

How can I forget those goofy moments of yours when you'd belt a Sinatra tune out for mom, that silly smirk on your face, those eyes rolling over to the side, the eyebrows moving slyly up and down, those lips puckered right in front of mom, and mom meekishly (intentionally I suppose **one more chuckle** ) fending you off, taking a swat at you but laughing as she did it. And you just grabbing her back until you stole that one kiss.

Damn...I wish I could capture that last real hug and kiss that I gave you. I can still see that Sunday night. You feeling totally down, the depression almost worse that the cancer itself. It was time for me to head home but part of me wanted to stay longer...to forget about work the following day. I began to leave after saying goodbye and as I passed you, I remember simply feeling compelled to give you that kiss I so seldom gave you. My hands slid under your lifeless arms, arms that had represented all the strength in the world at one time. I squeezed you, gave you the biggest hug I had ever given you, pulling you partially up off your recliner. And then that big kiss on your left cheek and that half-choked "I LOVE YOU DAD."

I know I have said this far too many times to ever recall a number....but I MISS YOU DAD, SO SO MUCH! At least I find comfort dad in the strength that your death has given me in sharing my experiences about it with others. And I have met a few. I hope someone finds meaning in what I do share...if it generates one smile, if it lessens someone's grief a wee bit then I know you are near by. "Dad...can you do me a royal favor and ask the good Lord to help me sleep tonight, 'cause right now it ain't lookin' to good. Night!" (12:38am, Thursday morning)

***Sorry guys...a bit melancholy tonight thanks to listening to Josh Groban. My dad loved him. And well next Wednesday will be 4 years since he passed away. Smiley and Rob...guess tonight I'm in unison with the way you two have felt over the last couple of months as those anniversary dates have come and gone. ****

WORD PLAY ~ EXASPERATE

2006-11-15T00:00:00.000-08:00

EXASPERATE

Main Entry: ex·as·per·ate
Pronunciation: ig-'zas-p&-"rAt
Function: transitive verb
Inflected Form(s): -at·ed; -at·ing
Etymology: Latin exasperatus, past participle of exasperare, from ex- + asper rough -- more at ASPERITY
1 a : to excite the anger of : ENRAGE b : to cause irritation or annoyance to
2 obsolete : to make more grievous : AGGRAVATE
synonym see IRRITATE
- ex·as·per·at·ed·ly adverb
- ex·as·per·at·ing·ly /-"rA-ti[ng]-lE/ adverb

HUMP DAY! We're rollin' into another Wednesday WORD PLAY. The word is: exasperate!

Usage: I am exasperated over the thoindividualssome indivduals can not step up to the plate and take ownership of their lives as an adult. Instead they find the means to make tresponsibilitiessponsibilitites those of others. Heck I am exasperated that I had to even mention this issue.

Again, the "play" portion...any comment you leave must use the word exasperate in it. Your response can be about anything ~ the post, me (watch it!), something about you, something happening in your life. Knock yourself out thinking of something serious, humorous, or off-beat to comment about. As always, just have fun with it!

HOW DO YOU LIKE IT? (#25)

2006-11-14T00:00:00.000-08:00

I have to say again...you guys were all great about pondering and responding to my What Would You Do? question on friendship. I have to admit that many of you got me thinking about the way I have handled the two friendships I shared with you. In all honesty, one of them is probably well behind me, though it will remain one that definitively effected my life. The other friendship, may just be salvageable if the person should come back into the picture. I hope you all found the subject worth while.

On to today's HOW DO YOU LIKE IT? post. Again, I have opted to make this a bit more light-hearted and it should be a blast seeing what direction you all go with this one. Only your minds will inhibit you as to how you respond. The day's question is:

How do you like it - slow and easy, fast and hard, or slow and easy to start with a fast and hard finish?

The truth be told, I like it slow and easy to start with a fast and hard finish! Nothing can be more invigorating than to work the body in slowly, get it relaxed, and ready to handle what is about to come. And then step right into the fast, hard workover to release all that tension and ultimately rejuvenate the 'body.' Doesn't that sound incredible?! Well, what were you thinking? I was referring to the type of massage I love to receive. But you know, come to think of it, the sex I enjoy seems to work best that way. I wonder if that was what you all were thinking when you first started to read my response. Gotch'ya!!

So everyone have fun with this one and give us some of the details? You can take it from any angle you like.

***Addendum 11/14/06 6:58am PST...Just so you all know, just because I responded to my post the way I did, doesn't mean the post has to do with the answers I gave. It might just be something else.

"WHAT WOULD YOU DO?" MONDAY (#9)

2006-11-12T13:55:00.000-08:00

Well...I don't know about all of you but I had a respectable weekend. I managed phone conversations with Pete, Derek, and Spider this weekend. During our chatting we talked about all getting together sometime in the coming year for a vacation...perhaps somewhere off the coast of Florida, perhaps D.C., perhaps New York, perhaps somewhere in a mountain cabin off in Tennessee. Somehow I think we'll make it happen. I also got my daily text message updates from that darlin' but crazy Cajun from Luz'iana, BrettCajun. In singles and doubles, he lost in the first round of the Winner's bracket but came back strong in the Loser's bracket to make it to both finals. Unfortunately his legs just had no more energy in them. Now Bretster, didn't I tell you in the past you needed to pick up the cardio. Just kidding bud! Great effort on your part.

Anyway, I have digressed a bit from today's post. It's Monday and it's time again for my "WHAT WOULD YOU DO?" post. Today's post is:

If you saw that a long-time and/or very good friendship was beginning to wane, what would you do?

I realize that this question could be approached in several ways but I am going to leave it stand as is so that you can interpret and respond to it as it applies to you. I actually have had several long-time friendships that go back to my high school days, diminish over the years. For me, it has been a heart-wrenching trip. Most of you probably have a good sense of how important my friends are to me and how I value those that are still apart of my life. Anyhoo, the friends that I was just referring to were both good high school buddies and one went on to be my room mate in college freshman year. They became part of my family extension. As we graduated from college, work seemed to dominate our lives. Then my college room mate married. We didn't do much together after that and my contact with him became limited to the holidays. Even then the contact became one-sided...me always initiating it.

My other friend, lived closed by, and ran his own deli. It was extremely successful. He was perhaps my closest friend. That changed when I moved from the San Francisco side of the Bay Area over to the East Bay. I was about a 45 minute to an hour drive from him. Our contact became more of a phone call escapade. He put extremely long hours into his deli and eventually moved and commuted from Woodlands to his work location. Lets just say that Woodlands is about an hour and a half drive to San Francisco. He had to go another twenty minutes from there to get to his deli. Phone calls became infrequent and we were down to a Christmas card exchange. Again, this diminished to a one-sided contact at Christmas...yes, me sending the card. I finally got a card one Christmas out of the blue. It was a personalized photo card and right smack on the photo was a picture of him and his new bride from four months earlier. He talked about how happy he was and also about what my dad used to tell him on finding a woman (all this coming from a friend who did not even show up at either my dad's wake or funeral). My best friend, even though the communication had waned, did not even give me the courtesy of a call to tell me he was even engaged (I would have been perfectly fine not being a part of the wedding given the time lapse...it was just the lack of letting me know of the change.). At the very moment I finished reading his Christmas card, I let go of the friendship. I have not corresponded since...he knows where I am currently. So if he desires to reach me, I welcome it then. But I think we all grow tired after awhile when someone can't even exchange a simple, "Hello. How are you doing?" by means of their own volition.

My answer to the question then of 'what would I do?' is: as long as I sense there is still a viable connection between myself and my friend, I will make every effort to maintain that friendship, initiating calls, trying to set up some fun gathering event, whatever. But if there is no reasonable reciprocation, then I chose now to devote my efforts to other new, evolving friendships, to family, and to personal endeavors. Mind you, I don't hold animosity or a grudge against the friend. I just recognize that life is too short, and sometimes everyone has to refocus there energies in areas where they are welcomed. Make sense?

Hopefully I haven't hit you with another heavy topic on a Monday morning like last week, but you know, the mind needs some good stimulation every now and then. So what better way to get the brain jumpstarted?!

FRIDAY'S "WHAT'S UP FOR THE WEEKEND?"

2006-11-10T01:08:00.001-08:00

So it's 1:00am Friday morning. I just spent the last two hours reading all my blogroll and commenting. I so love to check in with everyone. In any event, I need to post something but have no inspiration. I start to ponder what I plan to do this weekend and then the little "lightbulb" in the ol' noggin pops on! I know what I'll be doing this weekend but I have no clue what you are all doing.

With that mentioned, I'd like to know, " What's up for the weekend?" Tell me what you have planned. It can be as simple as picking your nose to as extreme-charged as parasailing the Grand Canyon. In other words it's all worth mentioning.

I have a make-up time on weightlifting and cardio workouts to do, a paper and presentation to proof (more like learn about...thanks Spider), a niece to visit to wish her a happy belated birthday and give her the gift I have, and a theatrical production of Riverdance to see Sunday evening. Am I glad it's the weekend.

Spill those beans!

THE STROKER'S NEWEST ADDITIONS AMONGST HIS PLETHORA OF FAMILY

2006-11-09T01:18:00.000-08:00

As I mentioned in yesterday's WORD PLAY post very slyly, I was going to introduce you to part of the plethora of family I have. So here are the newest additions to the Stroker's clan - my two nephews. Gosh darn, they are the cutest little buggers, aren't they? This is one UNCLE with a big smile on his face. One of my sisters finally got some of the photos put on-line and I have had the other, via a birth announcement, for a while. I can't wait to go home for Thanksgiving and just smother these two with kisses and tender hugs.

Sean at 10 days old...darn, he looks like he is already 1-2 mos. old.

Sean in yet another outfit, about 5 days old.

SEAN THOMAS
7 lbs.- 12 Ounces
19 inches

Little Angelo on the day of his birth.

ANGELO JOSEPH
(A.J.)
7 lbs.- 0 Ounces
19.25 inches

Guys... this is what life is all about as far as I am concerned! It will always be an element in my life that I will miss from a personal perspective. Now if we can just get my little sister through her pregnancy without complications, I'll have number 11 to cuddle with come next July. Fingers crossed and lots of prayers going out there.

Aren't you glad!... One more day and the weekend is here. Wahoo!

WORD PLAY ~ PLETHORA

2006-11-08T00:00:00.000-08:00

PLETHORA

Main Entry: pleth·o·ra
Pronunciation: 'ple-th&-r&
Function: noun
Etymology: Medieval Latin, from Greek plEthOra, literally, fullness, from plEthein to be full -- more at FULL
1 : a bodily condition characterized by an excess of blood and marked by turgescence and a florid complexion
2 : EXCESS, SUPERFLUITY; also : PROFUSION, ABUNDANCE
- ple·tho·ric /pl&-'thor-ik, ple-, -'th¤r-; 'ple-th&-rik/ adjective

So here we go rollin' into another Wednesday WORD PLAY. I just thought that since we guys are blessed with an 'abundance' of thangs, yes that's thangs, that this was the perfect word for today. The word is: plethora!

Usage: I have to say I am blessed to have the plethora of men in my life....oh baby, life is so good these days. Add the plethora of family that I have and all I can say is I am 'SOARING!! Stay tuned for tomorrow's post that will show a portion of that family plethora. Now could I have used plethora one more time...oops, I just did!

Again, the "play" portion...any comment you leave must use the word plethora in it. Your response can be about anything ~ the post, me (watch it!), something about you, something happening in your life. Knock yourself out thinking of something serious, humorous, or off-beat to comment about. Just have fun with it!

HOW DO YOU LIKE IT? (#24)

2006-11-07T00:00:00.000-08:00

First, I want to thank all my readers who commented yesterday on my post. I realize that the subject matter was an intense issue to start with on a Monday. I had contemplated not posting it but it fit all too well with my weekly topic of What Would You Do. What I am appreciative for is the time that each of you took to really offer a thought-provoking opinion. To me this is what blogging is about - being able to mix up the serious with the light-hearted. And getting people to respond not merely with a one line comment but a brief opinion statement. Again thanks!

So...Tuesday's here! Oh yes, Tuesday's here! And with it comes another How Do You Like It? question. It just hit me, even though we are seven days into the month...it's fricken November already. Ok Tony, snap out of it...on to the question for today:

How do you like it - with the lights on or with the lights off?

Well, in all honesty...I outgrew the boogey man a number of years ago, so I find it much more restful these days sleeping with the lights out! OK, did I catch you in one of those "WTF is he talking about" moments. Gotch'ya! You know damn well where I was going with this question, don't you? I have to say that I like doing it in the dark, butt-naked, most of the time - probably more so when it is very sensual, romantic love-making. It's just the perfect opportunity to really feel every element of the experience that your partner is sharing and giving you. OOOOO! The tingling sensations I am getting already thinking about it. Now, if I want to get plain down and dirty, I'd have to say that I would want the lights on. The adrenalin only gets pumping from seeing all that hot sweaty action...ok I need a Jack Radcliffe video now. Hey Spo, can you help me out here?

So everyone have fun with this one and give us some of the details!
And you?

"WHAT WOULD YOU DO?" MONDAY (#8)

2006-11-06T12:10:00.000-08:00

It's Monday, the start of a new week. Part of me is excited 'cause I get to go into work - my internship. The other part is not excited. Why? The two darn midterm papers I have due between my art history class and the internship bi-quarterly class meeting. I have the 'biggy' done for the Internship segment but the other I'll be working on today. Anyhoo....

Let's get to today's post. Hopefully you all had a great weekend. After a week absence, it's time again for my "WHAT WOULD YOU DO?" post. Today's question is:

If a friend called you and gave clear indication to you based on comments that he was struggling with depression, what would you do?

I've been wanting to ask this question for a while now. I have even contemplated writing a post about it ~ though perhaps later. For now, I comment briefly. If I had a friend that in the course of the conversation was sounding off-beat, down in his or her responses. I'd probe more but in a tactful manner. I can't simply let people go if they are giving me an unsettled feeling, especially if they are friends. See I had a cousin who had depression but who, unfortunately, was never diagnosed. He let the weight of the world throw him into a tailspin. He had reason to go in that direction but people didn't listen to him carefully. As a result, he is a Golden Gate Bridge statistic. It hurts saying that right now but it's the truth. I remember when I heard the news how torn I was so much so that I broke down at work.

In any event, back to the point. I've learned to ask people how they are, if something is upsetting them, if they want to talk. And I don't back off too easy, 'cause what sometimes may be a short-lived, simple bout of depression turns into a more serious, long or life-threatening depression. And if I had to make the call to someone to get my friend help, I'd do it in a heartbeat. I won't see another person lose his/her life or be institutionalized in some manner because I chose to sit back.

So as heavy a topic as this is, how would you respond?

THE BRUSH'S COLORFUL DAUBS ~ MISCELLANEOUS TIDBITS #9

2006-11-03T00:00:00.000-08:00

It seems like my internship work is really 'zapping' the energy out of me these days but in a good way. It just makes it harder for me though, at week's end, to really pull a blog piece together. Mind you, I still have ideas to write about in my head. I just find it hard to want to spend time putting them to words, especially when all I am doing these days is writing papers for my Art History class. In any event, I thought this would be a good time to toss out some weekly tidbits to my reading public.

You Do Mean The World To Me!:
There is a certain "arachnid" out there that just doesn't seem to get enough credit for the person he is. He, much like Derek, is a true friend - perhaps a special friend! Of course that incredible arachnid is SPIDER. What can I say about a person who shares in the ups and downs of your life's experiences, is there to pull you up when you need pulling up, and often just doesn't get enough credit for being the loving and giving person that he is. He even does homework too! Sometimes I am not sure how I would keep my sanity on certain days. So Mr. Spidie!, Muchos gracias! (and don't correct me on spelling here...hehehe!) for being there, for being you, for all your help. Sending the hugs your way.

All Points Bulletin Out For This Man!!:

Have any of you seen or heard from this man. It seems that Smiley has lost his way. I know I haven't heard from him via phone or blog comments. We need to pull him from the depths of his Baltimore isolation and get him back into BLOGLAND as well as out-and-about amongst the rest of the world. Maybe coax him outside of the state of Maryland.

So Smiley...COME BACK! WE'RE MISSING YA!

The Latest Internship News:

Well, I finished out week three of my internship. I am loving it - I love the stuff I am being exposed to and I love the people I am working with. And it is becoming more apparent that they love having me. I got such an indirect compliment yesterday. I have been working on proofing, correlating, and transferring 600 plus pages of scheduled furniture data to the new process book for a large medical center project - 120K square feet project. I almost finished it today after working three days on it - 60 pages short. The designers were blown away. But that wasn't the compliment portion. The firm's principle told me that the designer heading the project I was working on, specifically wanted me to do the CAD updating on the project because she knows I have the coding down 'pat' and that I understand what's going on with the furniture scheduling. The principle (the owner) was originally going to have another full-time employee do the CAD entry. So I was pleasantly surprised. Plus I am also getting subtle hints that they would love to have me on board as a paid employee. The opportunity is there but I am playing it cool for now until I know whether I am in my last class next quarter.

Family Woes This Past Week:
Since I last posted about the birth of my two nephews, each of my sisters had some unexpected woes. Sister A, little Sean's mom, was getting ready to check out of the hospital last Friday. She happened to reach across the bed to get something of hers and as she did her shoulder dislocated. The male nurses there tried for 15 minutes to get her shoulder back in place, to no avail. She was writhing in pain, the nurses growing 'greener' by the minute. She finally had to order them out because they were making her feel worse. Only two long hours later was she in surgery getting her shoulder placed back in its socket. Now she is in a sling for three weeks and once that is over, she has to get in for MRIs and surgery. The doctor said she can't put off the surgery any longer. So here Sister A is a brand new mother for the first time and can not even enjoy holding her son in a normal manner. I feel for her.

Then there is Sister K, little Angelo's mom. She gave birth 2 1/2 weeks ago. Well, Halloween night, as my brother-in-law was running the niece and nephew around the neighborhood (the newest one at home with my sister, passing out candy), my sister began hemorrhaging. Without totally freaking you all out, she said she was bleeding all over the house...it was like a scene from CARRIE. Her words, not mine. She made that emergency call to my brother-in-law, got him home, and then made the call. My brother-in-law called an ambulance and had her taken to the hospital while he stayed home with the three kids. Unfortunately none of my family in that immediate area were in town at the time to call for help. She spent the night and had out-patient surgery the next day. DAMN OB-GYN...he left in a chuck of the placenta. I won't say any more about what ran through my head as she was telling me this. Sister K is doing well now and is home.

Who Said Things Stopped At 1o!:
If you recall from last weeks tidbit post, I said that the two newest nephews brought the niece/nephew count up to 10. Well, dear ol' Pete made a premonition-type comment about that topic in my comments section that day. He said something to the effect, 'so why not eleven?!' Well guess what? Last Saturday, my little sister, Sister T, and my brother-in-law informed me they were expecting. She still needs to get into the doctor's office for the first check-up and confirmation, but it looks like number 11 is on the way, due sometime around the beginning of July. YIPPEE!

A SOUTHERN BOY FRIENDSHIP

2006-11-02T00:00:00.000-08:00

Yesterday's post was on the word 'contemplative.' And admittedly I have been in one of those contemplative moods for the past couple of days. One of the many things I found myself thinking about, as I periodically do, was friendship. My circle of friends has grown in leaps and bounds. You all know from past blog entries that I often find the time to write about some of my friends, whether it be in a 'singled out' post or through a birthday wish post.

Well, today I just need to share some thoughts about one of my good ol' southern boy friends. It happens to be Derek over at Past, Present, and Future. I look back now at how I first came to know Derek and a big smile crosses my face. While my bud, Brett(Cajun), probably was the catalyst for me entering the blogworld, I'd have to say that Derek was the stoker of the fire! It was the following comment Derek made that, for the first time in my life, made me feel important.

"...is that hottie in green a fellow blogger? Woof."

Imagine when my eyes caught the comment in Brett's April 21, 2006 post?! I was floored, seriously. Let's just say that opened the door to more frequent visits to Derek's site. Afterall, how could I ignore someone that could lay such a flattering comment on me. And mind you, when I caught glimpse of those piercing eyes and that infectious smile in Derek's profile, I was sucked further into reading his blog. If I could digress briefly, I have to share with you the first thought that popped into my head when I saw Derek's picture..."what a big giant warm, fuzzy teddy-bear." Ok, now I said it so back to the point on hand. As I read his blog, it became apparent that Derek was similar to me in many ways. After having met him, after numerous phone conversations, I can honestly say it's even more apparent. Derek is very much the sensitive, open-and kind-hearted, introspective, genuine person that so much of his writing portrays. These are just a few of the traits that I love about him. The other thing that always draws a warm smile from me is Derek's ability to be so openly blunt and real in such a southern innocent way. I love it!

We have often exchanged stories over the phone about family. He always speaks fondly of his immediate, as well as extended family. I am no different. I think some of that comes from his upbringing - family values, morals, faith. While I tend to be convicted to my faith, Derek probably lies more on the spiritual side (*my impression only). I appreciate his open-mindedness in his attempts to understand my Catholic faith position.

I have not only been blest with meeting Derek, but now I have met his "better" half (I am an equal opportunity person here - I want to be sure each gets his share of 'equal ego-stroking!' LMAO). I'm excited that Mike is now part of my life and I hope the friendship there develops as mine did with Derek.

Guess I could ramble on but I don't want Derek's ego to get too inflated. Just kidding my friend! So I end this post with a personal message to Derek, "If I could only begin to say exactly how much having you in my life means...and now Mike. I'd surely squeeze the life out of you and Mike with death-grip hugs. You embody all the elements of what a friend is to me. Miss you two lugs."

WORD PLAY ~ CONTEMPLATE

2006-11-01T00:00:00.000-08:00

CONTEMPLATE

Pronunciation: 'kÃ¤n-t&m-"plAt, -"tem-
Function: verb
Inflected Form(s): -plat·ed; -plat·ing
Etymology: Latin contemplatus, past participle of contemplari, from com- + templum space marked out for observation of auguries -- more at TEMPLE
transitive verb
1 : to view or consider with continued attention : meditate on [contemplate the vastness of the universe]
2 : to view as contingent or probable or as an end or intention [contemplate marriage]
intransitive verb : PONDER, MEDITATE
synonym see CONSIDER
- con·tem·pla·tor /-"plA-t&r/ noun

Another hump day is upon us so it's time for Wednesday WORD PLAY. Since we often find ourselves doing acting this way by this time of the week, thinking about the weekend ahead, I thought today's word should be contemplate.

Usage: Sometimes I find myself in a mood that just seems out-of-sync for the day. I was in a funky mood yesterday, contemplating what my friends mean to me, wondering if everything in their lives was in order, thinking of ways I could help them if it was needed. I was even contemplating what my life would be like now if all my dearest friends lived in "my backyard." Y'all know what I mean!?!

Again, the "play" portion...any comment you leave must use the word contemplate in it. Your response can be about anything ~ the post, me (watch it!), something about you, something happening in your life. Knock yourself out thinking of something serious, humorous, or off-beat to comment about. Just have fun with it!

HOW DO YOU LIKE IT? (#23)

2006-10-31T00:00:00.000-08:00

Another Tuesday is here and with it comes another How Do You Like It? question. Of course we all know that today is Halloween. In staying with the festivities of the moment, my question to you all today is:

How do you like to spend your Halloween? I am not posing any answers because I want to hear your truthful responses which I know will vastly vary.

For me...I personally do not get into this particular celebration. Just being honest. I would rather, and typically do, spend Halloween evening running around with the nieces and nephews, laughing all the way as they remind me of what I used to do as a child on this 'scary' evening.

And you?

HAPPY HALLOWEEN

WHO AM I

2006-10-30T00:00:00.000-08:00

I am changing things up a bit this week. What Would You Do? Monday will return next week. Every now and then I want to do something that gives you a little more insight into me. I have found that some of these memes seem to assist in that manner, while being fun and light-hearted. Derek introduced this meme and posted his response to it this past week. Shortly after, Pete stepped in and took the challenge. I found the meme to be interesting myself so I have responded. Yet...that much more revealed about me.

I am – a simple person.

I want -to feel a connection to this world that I have been searching for all my life and have yet to sense or feel.

I have – a family that means more to me than the world.

I wish – the inhabitants of this earth, people of all ages, gender, race, and faiths could just coexist in peace with no boundaries set.

I hate – trite, shallow people.

I miss - my dad so, so, so much!

I fear – two things: dying alone with no one near me and being homeless.

I hear – my inner self telling me I am being called to something greater. I can’t explain it.

I wonder – what life would be like if I was financially secure for the rest of its duration.

I love – to travel and experience new places. More than you will ever know!!

I always – wished I had been blessed with a good singing voice.

I am not – as easily and automatically outgoing as many may think.

I am not always - quite as “together” as some people may perceive me. Afterall, I am human.

I need – to feel that I will be successful in my new interior design career.

I should – laugh a little more at myself.

I like - ,cherish, and love my friends! You know who you are!

THE LATEST, GREATEST NEWS

2006-10-27T00:00:00.000-07:00

Well...if you caught my tidbit segment from yesterday, you know that I was anticipating the news of being an uncle again. Yet there were some worries about my sister, given the lack of contact from either my brother-in-law or my mom. Thank goodness its all over with. I am an uncle again. Number 10!!! My sister did have a problem with dilating the last few centimeters. Plus the doctor found the baby improperly rotated in the womb. The baby had not turned around in my sister's womb so that his face would be looking at the floor when he came out (not to be confused with a breach birth). And the little bugger would not cooperate turning around. As a result, the Doc had to perform a "C"-section.

But all is well. Sean Thomas was born around 10:30pm yesterday (25th) at 7lbs. 12 ounces and 19 inches. He's fair-skinned and has blondish hair...so the name seems to fit the 'profile.' Now recently-born Angelo Joseph has a cousin just about two weeks younger than him. By the way, Angelo is dark-haired with somewhat of an olive complexion. I think the Italian name befits Angelo's looks as well. He came in at 7lbs., 19.25 inches.

As I mentioned yesterday, I sooooooooooo love being an uncle. I just wish I could see them in person. I am hoping to post some pictures of the two darlin' babes within a week or two.

Guess I have nothing more to say. Plus I am running tired these days. Seems like the job (my Internship) is reminding me what real work was like. Ya know though...I am so glad to be part of the working world again. School is for the youth! Not to say that I am old in any means...I just don't think we, as adults, need to revisit the mondaneness of homework, etc.

Hope you all have a great weekend!

THE BRUSH'S COLORFUL DAUBS ~ MISCELLANEOUS TIDBITS #8

2006-10-26T00:05:00.000-07:00

I apologize for no real post today other than to share a few morsels of news and other tidbits with you.

What city are you?:
Well, I got this from Dave over at David's Daily Dramas. He actually pulled it from someone else's blog. I think my result suits my personality!

You Are New York

Cosmopolitan and sophisticated, you enjoy the newest in food, art, and culture.
You also appreciate a good amount of grit - and very little shocks you.
You're competitive, driven, and very likely to succeed.

Famous people from New York: Sarah Michelle Gellar, Tupac Shakur, Woody Allen

What American City Are You?

An Uncle - Twice Over?:
Part of me was not real motivated to post as I am waiting on one of my four sisters to deliver her first child. She has been in labor, at various stages, over the past three days. She finally went into the hospital yesterday morning, Wednesday, and at 4:30 she was 7-8 centimeters dialated, having already received an epidural for pain. 9 centimeters is delivery stage. The concern though at the time that this post was written, nearly midnight, was that I had not received any news of my sister having delivered little Sean Thomas yet. I don't think that's the best news - generally when a woman reaches 8 centimeters she probably is ready to "pop" within 1-2 hours later if not sooner. It's been nearly 8 hrs since reaching 8 centimeters. I ever called the room and the nurse's station. No responses.

One bit of good news those was that another sister of mine delivered a healthy boy, Angelo, almost two weeks. So now I am an uncle to 4 nieces and 'soon-to-be' 6 nephews. Two brand newborns...damn I wish I was home in the Bay Area. I'd be babysitting in a flash!

EXTRA!! ~Internship News:
I am about ready to wrap up my second week of internship. And quite honestly...I am loving it. I don't think I could ask for a better group of people to be working with. We work as a unit. My fellow co-workers have been so good to patiently explain procedures. Who knows? I may actually find that I like doing commercial design work after all. We'll just have to let that play out. Now I just have to worry about the 10 page paper I need to eek in within the next week as part of the internship program. It's not that hard but part of it involves interviewing a Residential Designer, in my case. I still need to find one, and find a moment of spare time to get out and meet this person.

Giving Out A Shout!:
I just wanted to say that if any of you are interested in good-looking 'bears' and what they have to say, you might want to pop into My Weblog - A Life of a Bare Bear. The furry critter happens to be Mike, Derek's partner. Mike has been playin' around a bit with webcam so you can actually hear a voice associated with the face and get a bit of his personality. I think he happens to be a 'keeper.' "Knock 'em dead MIKE. Just get out and visit some blogs too!"

WORD PLAY ~ AROUSE

2006-10-25T00:00:00.000-07:00

AROUSE

Main Entry: arouse
Pronunciation: &-'rauz
Function: verb
Inflected Form(s): aroused; arous·ing
Etymology: a- (as in arise) + rouse
transitive verb
1 : to awaken from sleep
2 : to rouse or stimulate to action or to physiological readiness for activity : EXCITE [the book aroused debate]
intransitive verb : to awake from sleep : STIR
- arous·al /&-'rau-z&l/ noun

Wednesday WORD PLAY is upon us. Think I have one today that ought to "stir" up some emotion, or at least something! So to get to the point, let's get started. Today's word is arouse!

Usage: Many things arouse me but nothing is more arousing than life itself. Believe me and I'll tell you another lie. If you only knew how hard I am trying to keep this post at a G-rating. LMAO!

Again, the "play" portion...any comment you leave must use the word arouse in it. Your response can be about anything ~ the post, me (watch it!), something about you, something happening in your life. Knock yourself out thinking of something serious, humorous, or off-beat to comment about. Just have fun with it! Oh, and here are some pictures to arouse, I mean inspire you as you ponder your answer for this post.

HOW DO YOU LIKE IT? (#22)

2006-10-24T00:00:00.000-07:00

Yesterday's post was a little intense and thought-provoking! So let's lighten it up with this Tuesday's HOW DO YOU LIKE IT?

The question buzzing in my head today is:

How do you like to sleep - butt-naked, in your underwear, or in full on pajamas? Does it make a difference depending on whether you are sleeping with someone or not and what time of the year it is?

I don't have to think about this one too much...at least not the first half of the question. I sleep butt-naked generally during the spring and summer months - most definitely during the summer. Come fall and winter, I'd say that 95% of the time I'm in underwear and often a t-shirt of some sort. See I tend to sleep with the upper part of my body uncovered and during the winter I become very susceptible to stiff necks and upper shoulder stiffness. Hence the t-shirt.

I will sleep in the 'birthday suit' only if I am comfortable with the other person and assuming they are comfortable with it. I probably tend to limit this though. As for the time of the year, I think I gave you the gist in the first part of my answer.

Now it's your time to share......

"WHAT WOULD YOU DO?" MONDAY (#7)

2006-10-23T00:00:00.000-07:00

Hopefully my posted pictures on Friday's blog entry made up for the lengthy commentary. But as I had said in my opening statement, my first Pride experience was important to me. I wanted to share it. So now reality sets back in as I start my first full week back home, doing my internship work and hitting the books head on in my Art History class. And alas, the mondaneness of my life stomps forward again, with unclear sight as to what lies ahead. I so miss the companionship of my friends. This is the one time I am probably thankful for cellphones. I can at least stay in touch 'whenever.' I miss ALL of YOU GUYS and you know who you are.

I have one big dream and that is to get all of you in one location for one hell'uva time! Do you think I can pull it off? Honestly?! Game for Hawaii?

Now let's get to today's post. It's Monday! Hopefully you all had a great weekend. It's time again for my "WHAT WOULD YOU DO?" post. Today's question, I hope, is meant to be thought-provoking. It is:

If you had an opportunity to make one lasting impression to the world, one that you would always be remembered for, what would you do?

I laid in bed last night thinking about this. I so often do. See part of what stirs inside me, that eats at me daily it seems, that makes me restless, is finding my purpose here in this world. In reality I know what it is and my faith speaks of it. But I guess I have always had a bit of the "Doubting Thomas" syndrome. See, I tend to place a need for some acknowledgment on my accomplishment - the human side of me I guess. I can't begin to explain how many times I have come close to doing some volunteer work for a few years in a place like Africa, India, or South America doing some type of work with underprivileged children to enrich their lives, to provide them with a moments peace and dignity, to place a smile on a face so often left hollow and empty. But inevitably, fears have overcome me. Fear of being in harms way, fear of leaving my own family behind, fear of my health, fear of the loss of personal comforts. But do you see how really these fears are drown from selfishness of sorts. I wish I could step beyond those fears. I keep thinking that there is a world out there so much richer for me. Am I making some sense here or merely rambling? Anyway, my desire would be to make myself available to help underprivileged children and if that lead to some type of remembrance for my actions, all the better.

Maybe one day, after digging deep within for that courage, I'll go for it! Who knows, maybe my answer lies here in my own 'neighborhood.' So let me hear what you'd do to be remembered.

MY SPECIAL MEMORIES ~ ORLANDO PRIDE WEEKEND

2006-10-20T00:56:00.000-07:00

I apologize for the late Friday post but there was a blogger issue that prevented me from finishing out my post last night. Warning in advance...this is a longer post than I have been doing...but then again it's my blog and it's about an important event in my life since coming out!

So my first Pride has come and gone. I can't begin to tell you how much fun I had. I am certain that some of those bloggers and their partners whom I met in Orlando for the first time this past weekend had other impressions. Admittedly I was more reserved than normal. But there were two reasons. I was meeting a new group of people who I really did not know much about and secondly, probably the primary reason for my 'quietness,' was that I was soaking up the entire experience. I absolutely could not believe how many people were at Pride. All I kept thinking was, 'My gosh, if this is how big it is here, I can only imagine how large the event is in places like New York City, Chicago, San Francisco, and Los Angeles."

But let's step back for a moment. I spent five days in Orlando - so what did I do? Thursday was primarily a travel day. It all started at the Orange County (So. CAL) airport at 6 am. Had a one-stop flight through Denver to Orlando. Didn't see any of Denver from the air but I was impressed with the airport! I landed in Orlando Thursday evening at 6pm to be greeted by a familiar face and beaming smile from Spider. That familiarity was beginning to feel like home again! What are good friends for?! We had dinner at Pei Wei's and spent the rest of the evening 'just chillin' and getting caught up on things.

Friday started off as a beach day. We drove out to Playlinda beach near Cape Canaveral, to bask in the sun 'au naturale.' Let's just say my experience was exhilarating, none the less. Nothing like feeling the wind and water against your skin, unrestricted. We had one hunky couple come plant themselves about 10 yards from us, so we did get a tad bit of eye candy. At about 2:30pm we headed on up to Jacksonville. Spider and I planted ourselves at the Hyatt Hotel along the St. John's River. What a view! After quickly showering, we headed on over to see Derek and his partner, Mike. Spider and I got a wee bit lost finding their place so we got on the phone and ended up getting directed in verbally over the phone. And BOY! did we get an eyeful of candy as we drove up. TWO GORGEOUS SHIRTLESS HAIRY BEARS waving us on up the block. I just wish I had a photo of that moment to show you all what Spider and I saw. WOOOOOOOOOOOOOF!!!!!! Lots of hugging! Mike and Derek took us out to three local hangouts for drinks and dinner but the best part of the night was the company. We chatted about several things. And now I have met Mike officially. He is a great guy...what can you say about a person who knows nothing about you but makes you feel welcome in his space. What a conversationalist. THANKS MIKE! I truly hope that our meeting turns into an evolving friendship. And of course, if you all didn't know, guess Spider and I some how inspired Mike to join the blogging world. He now has his own blog called The Life Of A Bare Bear (a partial blog here too). We all just need to encourage him to make some routine posts.

Saturday was a day to enjoy Jacksonville. Mike had to work (we were bummed) but Derek came downtown to join Spider and me for a cruise of the area. The three of us just had a great time hanging, chatting about a variety of stuff, and simply being silly. As you may already know, some of the silliness extended over to posing and doing rather provocative poses with some of the famous landmarks in Jacksonville. You'll have to mosey on over to Derek's blog to check those photos out. Derek also took us over to his neighborhood so we could get a nice perspective of what he sees everyday and where he hangs at times to simply find a moment's peace. There are some really incredible views of the Jacksonville cityscape and the St. John's River from the riverbank in his 'neck of the woods.' And then it came, I had to say goodbye to Derek. I gave him the biggest "squeezing hug." What else do you do to someone you truly care about as a friend and in who you see so much of yourself. It's just hard leaving that infectious Southern-boy smile of Derek's. Spider and I had hoped he and Mike would drive down for Pride for the day but we knew it was a dicy call.

So with a bit of a heavy heart, Spider and I hit the road again, back to Orlando. We had a 6:30pm dinner engagement with Sorted and the new Florida bloggers I was to meet, Mikell of How Does One Deal? and Doug of Whisper In The Void, to include their partners. Spider and I managed to get back to the Cottage (his house) around 5:30pm so we got ourselves all "beautified." The guests all strolled up on time with the exception of Sorted. My lordy, what in the world was keeping him...he's always so punctual. Hehehe! Just playing with ya Sorted. We headed off to Friends, the local gay-friendly restaurant, for lots of conversation and an opportunity to get to know each other better. From there we walked two blocks to Studs for drinks and more conversation. We had the owner, "D" and his partner "S" join our group. All I can say is, "Damn, what one hot couple." You'll see them (or portions of them), hehehe!, in the photos to follow. It was a wrap at about 11:30 pm. Had to get our beauty sleep for the big Pride day. Anh-hah!

Sunday strolled in. We were greeted with absolutely phenomenal weather. Comfortable low 80s or so and virtually no humidity. The gang all go together at Spider's place again and we walked down to Central Market for brunch. We worked our way down to the central plaza in Orlando where all the booths and stage were set up. Of course we checked everything out, and I mean 'everything,' including anything walking on two legs...hint, hint! Trust me, there were a few hotties! Just bummed though as the bear crowd was next to nil. I guess all the events of the simultaneous Bearbust kept the bears away. *sigh* Eeked in lunch and then strolled down to lake and planted ourselves along part of the parade route. Once it all started, I just was amazed at the mix in the crowd, gays, straights, parents with children. Really a neat, fun, festive feel...the way it should be. I had to laugh at those guys twirling the batons and spinning those flags. They really got into the beat of the music and the cheering from the crowds. Every now and then you could hear a shout, "You go G-U-R-L!" LMAO! I even saw Colaboy in one of the vehicles pulling a parade float. We also ran into another blogger I read, Wenchy, who happens to be a very good friend of Sorted. Once the parade finished the gang headed back over to the square for drinks and to watch some of the stage performances. The local Orlando Theatre crew did a few numbers from WICKED and of course, we had the drag queen comedians going at it. Around 6pm we headed back to Spider's pad to clean up and get in some dinner. We lost Mikell and his partner, "S," but the rest of us headed over to Wildside in Thornton Park for our last moments together. I can't begin to say what wonderful people Doug, his partner Chris, Mikell, and his partner, "S," are. It continues to blow my mind how people connected merely by a computer, have been able to intermingle in person with such ease. And even Doug's and Mikell's partners...here are two guys who don't blog, yet they mixed in with the crowd as if we all had been long-time friends. WOW!

And with the weekend passing along came this past Monday - my last day in Orlando. Spider and I were up early and worked our way over to Central Market for brunch. My last moments with him for a spell. I have no idea when I'll be back out to Florida though I will be back...too many people there that mean the world to me. Then it was off to the airport to begin what became my nightmare trip home - 24 hours virtually of travel time and dead time in airports with nothing to eat for the longest spell and a sleepless night. All this thanks to a major storm in Houston, the city I had to go through on the way home to get out to So. CAL.

Hope you enjoy some of the photos below that, to me, summed up my Pride weekend experience!

To all of you bloggers in Florida - you are my 'family.' Thanks to each and everyone of you for making my first pride experience so memorable. An extended thank you to Derek and Mike for showing me a part of their home town. And a very special thank you with a big, squishy hug to Spider for putting up with me for the entire weekend, for offering me a place to stay, and for carting me in his own vehicle up to Jacksonville to see Derek and Mike (after I had to told him I was renting a car for that trip). WARM HUGS TO ALL!

Playlinda Beach

Downtown Jacksonville at St. John's River - evening.

My two gorgeous, hunky friends, Derek and Mike (l to r). Aren't they the cutest couple?!

Downtown Jacksonville moment to the ol' Jacksonville fire o fthe early 1900s, as seen from my hotel room.

Oh! If only I could live this lifestyle!!! Do you think they would have seen me standing naked at the window in my room?

More Jacksonville cityscape - this city has so much DAMN potential to be a hotspot if it is developed right.

Unique fountain, non-operable at the time, at the pier in Jacksonville.

This Chart House Restaurant caught my eye as unique in style from the typical ones I see back in California. It was partially sunken in the ground and the entire backside of the restaurant offered its customers one killer view of the St. John's Riverfront and downtown.

My, Spider looks to be heavily contemplating something here! I wonder what?

The sailor's monument at the Jacksonville riverfront.

Derek and me with a DAMN third wheel, Mr. Sailor Man! My, he looks familiar - where did I see him last...Mr. Sailor Man that is?!

Jacksonville had these jaguars all over the city painted out differently in each location.

Me on Orlando Pride Day.

Me pulling off a BRETTCAJUN pose. Damn, I should have removed my t-shirt...my ratings could have shot through the moon. LMAO!

Arms looking okay. Now if I can work those abs a bit more as my bud, BrettCajun, always says.

Doug and his partner, Chris - two of four new people I met in Orlando. Doug's the blogger of the two.

Pride staging area.

Oh boy! What a few Bloody Marys can do to a group of guys! (l to r, Mikell, his partner "S", and Sorted)

Now I couldn't get enough of this incredibly HUNKY stud. I literally sat at the restaurant with this view, fantasizing about him. I really wish I had had the balls to go up and introduce myself. IS HE NOT A DISH OR WHAT?

It's them bikers on wheels!! Dikes and all.

The parade!!!

Where are all those young bears and cubs?!

My, Dorothy from Kansas is all grown up!

Pul-leeze. Tell me another story!

Now don't gays do color good!!!

'You go G-U-R-L-S!' as Sorted says.

I never new a guy could look so hot waving a flag. This guy was totally into the routine.

Doug and Chris (far lt and middle) find there first mate at the parade wearing kilt. Who said guys can't look sexy in skirts?!

It's the Tupperware Lady!! Oh baby, she gave me the tongue!

OOOO! this guy could 'ram' me any day!

It's the UNIVERSAL Studios float!

Remember earlier I told you about "D", the bar owner, and his partner "S." Well this is "S" and I couldn't get enough of those sweet cheeks!

The crowd and the main gathering center.

Sorted and Wenchy. My, you have matching shorts!

Here are "S" and "D" again (l to r). Seems the Orlando police made "S" cover up those gorgeous cheeks of his. *sigh* Can you imagine this shot of him without the shirt in place. *bigger sigh!*

Orlando Pride's Grand Marshall this year along with the events two drag comedian host'esses.' Does he look familiar? Guess!

The Orlando Pride Gang!
(l to r)
Me, "S"- Mikell's partner, Mikell, Sorted, Spider, Chris - Doug's partner, and Doug
P.S. This shot came off of Doug's camera!

A BIG THANK YOU / "WHAT WOULD YOU DO?" MONDAY (#6)...LATE

2006-10-19T00:00:00.000-07:00

I wanted to start my post of by saying thank you to a few people with respect to helping me out with my first ART HISTORY homework assignment. To all of you who left comments as of 7:00pm PST, and you know who you are, thank you! Your comments gave me the catalyst that I needed to start the assignment. Lastly, a tremendous THANK YOU from the bottom of my heart to Spider for helping me get the assignment into Powerpoint. You will never know how much pressure that took off me bud!! It meant the world to me.

As for posting about my Orlando Trip and Pride, I am saving that for this Friday's post. I hope you will pop in and read it. I know Friday tends to be an off day for reading but it will be up all weekend. I have some other homework that is keeping me busy. My first day of internship went quite well. I think I am going to like working with the people in this particular design firm.

Now for today's post. I decided to do my usual "What Would You Do?" Monday
post...late! Here is the question to ponder and respond to:

What would you do if you were granted one wish?

Think about it as I don't believe it is as easy to answer as you might think. Classic example...often people ask for money. But with excessive money, there are inherently other problems to deal with in one's life. My one wish - the gift of self-confidence (but balanced with humility). I ultimately think it would relieve so many stressors in my life and make me an even happier person.

So time to share your thoughts on today's question.

HOPING THE BLOGWORLD CAN HELP ME OUT?

2006-10-18T00:00:00.000-07:00

Well I am back from Orlando Pride. I had such a great time overall. It's amazing how fast it went, all of it spent with an incredible group of guys. I'll share more with you later about my perspective of Pride this past weekend and include a group of photos.

So here are the main questions I need answered for this Thursday evening's class. I'll need to pull what I have by late Wednesday afternoon to get my presentation done in the evening.

*What adjectives would you use to describe art? (and) What do you think the function/or purpose of art is?
I NEED 10 peoples comments

If you could take a moment to read my post, generate your response to my questions, and then answer the questons, I'd be ecstatic! Be sure to identify who you are, your age, and your state location (minimum). If you have a favorite piece of contemporary art that expresses your adjective and statement, feel free to include the Internet link where it may be found.

I apologize in advance if you see less of me commenting and or posting this week. Part of that is due to me getting acclamated to my new course scheduling this quarter. But know I always miss hering from y'all. Hugs everyone!

BOUND FOR ORLANDO PRIDE

2006-10-12T00:00:00.000-07:00

Well, as most of you are reading this, I should be Orlando-bound or near bound. Yes, I'm heading off to Florida to experience my first Pride with friends I care about very much. Can you think of a better way to enjoy your first time around? I can't. I'll be reuniting with Spider and Sorted. Spider and I will be driving up to Jacksonville late Friday to see Derek and his partner, Mike. We're hoping to convince Mike to come down to Orlando Saturday night for Sunday's Pride festivities. I know Derek wants to go. We'll just see what works out. My only regret is I am going to miss Hypoxic. Seems as if his work has him out of town for the whole weekend. I'll miss you Hypoxic. Missing him is even harder with the fact that he has announced he is shutting down his blog for now. I am blessed to have met you in person and I hope that friendship remains. As with this past August, I wish Pete could round things off again too in Orlando...but I know he'll be there in spirit.

Spider also invited Doug of Whisper In The Void and his partner, Chris, out to Orlando as well. A number of us plan on getting together with them Saturday night for dinner and probably meeting up at the Sunday events.

I simply can not wait! Can anyone do anything to speed up the 6-plus hours of travel time? I'll do what I can to post from Orlando but the slated activities scheduled may bog me down. And of course, there will be pictures. Stay tuned.

WORD PLAY ~ GRATUITOUS

2006-10-11T00:00:00.000-07:00

GRATUITOUS

Main Entry: gra·tu·itous
Pronunciation: gr&-'tü-&-t&s, -'tyü-
Function: adjective
Etymology: Latin gratuitus, from gratus
1 a : given unearned or without recompense b : not involving a return benefit, compensation, or consideration c : costing nothing : FREE
2 : not called for by the circumstances : UNWARRANTED [gratuitous insolence] [a gratuitous assumption]
- gra·tu·itous·ly adverb
- gra·tu·itous·ness noun

It's Wednesday WORD PLAY once again. I pondered sticking with the 'Seven Deadly Sins' theme I had going but greed, anger, sloth, gluttony didn't seem to have any appealing 'kick' to them. So I am moving onto something else today! In keeping it short and sweet, today's word is gratuitous.

Usage: I have to admit, I shocked myself by tossing out that gratuitous HNT-style picture of me at y'all last Friday in my 'Tidbits' post. But I seemed to have raised some eyebrows. Eat your heart out BrettCajun! LOL.

Again, the "play" portion...any comment you leave must use the word gratuitous in it. Your response can be about anything ~ the post, me (watch it!), something about you, something happening in your life. Knock yourself out thinking of something serious, humorous, or off-beat to comment about. Just have fun with it!

HOW DO YOU LIKE IT? (#21)

2006-10-10T00:00:00.000-07:00

I have been thinking about this week's post addition of HOW DO YOU LIKE IT? Tuesday for a couple of days after a suggestion from a dear friend.

So let's get it out now and then talk about it. The question is:

How do you like to kiss - with your eyes open or with your eyes closed? And DO share why.

For me personally, I like to kiss with my eyes open more often than closed. I find it incredibly sexy to watch the expression on the other individual's face. And I think it can be very hot if the other individual is doing the same, looking into each others' eyes, seeing how each reacts, charges up, whatever.

I will say this though...I tend to close my eyes when moving into the more physical elements of touching those "erogenous zones," if you know what
I mean. Your brain, at that point, seems to focus more on all the sensations going on physically between your lips & mouth and your nether regions. Waaa - hoo!

So right back at ya - what are your responses and reasons.

"WHAT WOULD YOU DO?" MONDAY (#5)

2006-10-09T00:00:00.000-07:00

I had a great weekend. I guess all the stresses of needing an internship, needing to get into an Art history class, and worrying if I'd be able to go to Orlando for Pride just melted away with their resolution by the end of last week. I took in my little 5-year old and 6-year old niece's and nephew's soccer games. They always managed to give me a laugh. I did some more manipulating of my brother-in-law's log for his start-up company. And I spent some time lounging by the pool. See, we Californians still get nice temperate 70s at this time of year.

Anyway, let's get rollin' with "WHAT WOULD YOU DO?" Monday.

Today's question is: What would you do if your friend invited you to a clothing optional beach/location?

Hmmm! Should I be honest here? Well, yes...I've always been honest so why change now. It's what makes me 'ME.' I have never been to a clothing optional beach. I attempted to take the bull by the horn for the first time last December when I was in Maui. I had gone with my brother for the week. The day I decided to do it, he was to be in the hotel for about three hours on an important business deal. I headed down to Little Makena Beach, the one spot on the island where generally there is not harassment of people desiring to go in the buff. I was no more than a fifty yards from my rental vehicle when my cell phone rang. It was my brother. I answered it and he was in a panic. He said he could not get Internet access at the hotel and that I needed to come back immediately. He had said I might need to drive him to another hotel to get access. Man, was I pissed. Here I was in paradise with an opportunity to be naked and crash, it all came to an abrupt end. Needless to say my brother had a connection by the time I drove 20 minutes back to the hotel.

I had one opportunity when I was in Florida in August to do the same. Let's just say the space shuttle launch put an abrupt end to it. The base closes off any beach access when a launch is to take place within the week. But to answer the real question above, yes, I would go to the clothing optional beach if asked by a friend, as long as discretionary judgment is used with respect to any children in the area. Sorry that's just me at this stage. I try to respect other adults' parameters especially when it comes to their children.

So there...my thoughts on this topic. Let us know what you would do in this uniquely 'freeing' situation. ;-)

THE BRUSH'S COLORFUL DAUBS ~ MISCELLANEOUS TIDBITS #7

2006-10-06T00:11:00.000-07:00

I had a busy day yesterday, extending into the evening, so I didn't really have much time to think about a topic for a blog post. But I do have all kinds of tidbits to share with you. So let's rattle them off...

LATEST NEWSFLASH! ~ Brett Cajun Sighting!

I just wanted to let y'all know that I spoke with that crazy Cajun about 10 minutes ago, 8:50am Pacific Coast Time. Seems he is quite 'chipper' which only means that he and E. Shrew have been all lovey, dovey!! ;-) He says look out for a sh*tload of pics on his blog when he gets back. The lovebirds head back to the 'Southland' tomorrow (Saturday)..."Awwwwwwwwwwe! so sor-weeeee Brett, but all good whittle tings must come to an end!" LMAO! Of course I had to tease him that I was cutting into his share of blogland by posting a near scandolous HNT pic of me. Needless to say that got a rise out of him.

12,350+ Hits:
Can you believe I am just a tad over five months into blogging and I am essentially at the 12,350 hit mark. I am blown away. I "love" my regular readers and appreciate all of those just checkin' out my blog, including all you lurkers (that term seems oh so familiar...I think Moby coined that nickname for me before I created my own blog). My 6 month pivotal date is October 29th!

Incredible Edible 'EYECANDY!':
Ok... Check this eyecandy out. Hehehe! LOL. Does this guy's backside look somewhat familiar. Let's just say it is about as brazen as the individual will ever get here. And the last. ENJOY!

Giving A Shout Out To Other Fellow Bloggers!
I'd like to encourage you all to take a gander at these individuals' blogs. I have been reading Jake's Jakely Justified for several months now. As for Damien's The Examined Life I just started to read him within the past month. Each blog is uniquely quirky, both individuals are very open, and each shares a different stage of life. Lastly, each are definite lookers in my book. P.S. Damien's a green-eyed, redhead Irishman I believe, for all you readers who have that redhead fetish. Hehehe!

I Found An INTERNSHIP ~ HURRAY!!!:
Well, I had an interview yesterday at 5 pm with a small design firm that specializes in institutional and office design - medical offices, some business offices, car dealerships, churches, and educational facilities. They do a very small amount of residential design too. In any event, they are willing to work with me and help me develop my CAD skills, for which I am grateful. I think this should be a pretty good fit for me as I know the work that I am exposed to will also help me out next quarter with my final Senior Project II class. There are 5 people in the firm - small like I said. But the most important thing is we hit it off as a group. I believe they honestly liked me and were impressed with me, even before I came in for the personal interview. Likewise, I found each one of them to be personable to the extent I could make the assessment. So I start October 17th.

I am also set to take my outside-college, Art History class. That will start on the 17th too in the early evenings from 4-7pm every Tuesday and Thursday for 8 weeks. It's a condensed program. All I care and want out of this class is a fricken 'C.' With that completed my associate degree element is completed.

Headin' to Orlando for PRIDE:
Yes, I am headin' out to Orlando next Thursday, October 12 for 5 days to enjoy Orlando Pride, to visit with my bud, Spider, and to see Sorted and Hypoxic again. I'll also be heading up to Jacksonville to see Derek and his partner, Mike, who I have yet to meet directly but have spoken to on the phone. I am getting the impression that he (Mike) is a kick in the pants, loves to talk, etc. I believe I may be seeing one or two other bloggers from the Florida area that I have yet to meet. Wahoo! If there is anyone out there that can make it down to Orlando, come on down. That goes for you Smiley!

Guess there is no paint left on my brush to create more colorful daubs. Have a great weekend! I know I will. Lots of good thoughts running through the ol' noggin now!

WORD PLAY ~ ENVY

2006-10-05T00:00:00.000-07:00

ENVY

Pronunciation: 'en-vE
Function: noun
Inflected Form(s): plural envies
Etymology: Middle English envie, from Anglo-French, from Latin invidia, from invidus envious, from invidEre to look askance at, envy, from in- + vidEre to see -- more at WIT
1 : painful or resentful awareness of an advantage enjoyed by another joined with a desire to possess the same advantage
2 obsolete : MALICE
3 : an object of envious notice or feeling [his new car made him the envy of his friends]

It's Wednesday WORD PLAY - A DAY LATE! My bud's 100 THINGS post took precedence yesterday. That would be Smiley of course! Anyway, you know this post generally is short and sweet. So I am firing today's word at you now...it's envy. Thought I'd just go with last week's little theme of the seven cardinal sins! Plus I know you guys can come up with some 'doozies' on this word.

Usage: I envy the guy who can just walk into a bar he has never frequented, feel comfortable, and strike up a conversation with a total stranger...an incredibly hunky stranger. Come to think of it, I envy a few things: like the fact that Mark from Zeitzeuge got to have his picture taken with my favorite male hunk, Jack Radcliffe. Check his pics out from the Folsom Street Fair; like the fact that one crazy Cajun is basking in the sun of St. Croix showin' his 'bum' (you bum!-hehehe!); like the fact that my friend Rob can be off his weightlifting schedule for some two years, lose weight, gain some of it back after starting up weight training, and look like Mr. Musclebear all over again...but even better in only 8 months (I'll double-'bum' you on that!).

Again, the "play" portion...any comment you leave must use the word envy in it. Your response can be about anything ~ the post, me (watch it!), something about you, something happening in your life. Knock yourself out thinking of something serious, humorous, or off-beat to comment about. Just have fun with it!

100 THINGS ABOUT... JOSH!

2006-10-04T00:00:00.000-07:00

Well...if you know my blog routine by now, you know that today is typically my Wednesday WORD PLAY. But every now and then routines need to be broken. And I'd break a routine for a friend any day. Seems like Spider got the ball rolling on this post topic several weeks ago by coaxing several of us into sharing ourselves with the 'world.' I rather enjoyed it, so much so, that I had to do it with two people I have been dying to know more about. See I love a good mystery! One of those individuals was Josh. But I call him Smiley! That evolved after a nickname post I did in the not-to-distant past. Hmmm! I wonder if that is why his blog is called SMILEY now?

In any event, this is Josh's day - his moment to share himself with the us. I know part of him was a little bashful about doing this. I am glad he did 'cause he is a classy guy who has retained his classiness amidst a rather difficult year. And you know...he's not bad on the eyes either. I think he's just more proof that we older men are just as hot and rockin' as those young 'cubs' out there. He's a welcomed addition to the blog world and someone I am glad to say is becoming part of my 'family of choice.'

Tony's conscience: "OK Tony let's speed it up here. They want to get to Josh's List. OK, ok!"

Ah-Hmmm! So without further ado, here's Smiley! (Josh...I know what today is...he's smiling, I'm sure.)

I am 51 years old

I am 6'2"

I am a Leo

I weigh
200
pounds

I have green/brown eyes

Depending on the season,
lighting, and what color shirt I'm wearing.

I have dark brown
hair
with dabs of grey.

I refuse to dye my hair

I went to
undergrad
in NYC and medical school in California

I owned/ran a dental
practice
in Beverly Hills. While the money was great, I got tired of it. Once I
got
over the 'starstruck factor' of my patients - the pampering quickly
became
annoying

Then I started a family practice in Seattle. After
that, I
ran a gay-centered practice in Minneapolis - before
retiring.

I've never had sex with a woman (and have no
desire. Sorry ladies! LOL)

I admitted, to myself, that I was gay
- at
age 14.

I came out when I was 18.

My first sexual encounter
was
a blowjob in a parking lot, outside a bar. Who knew some warm lips
would
make me feel - less cold - on that cold January day? LOL

My
first -
all the way - encounter; was with a professor at NYU

I think I
got an
'A' that semester, LOL.

I love to cuddle and kiss.

I don't
have
a fantasy man

I've been in 2 long-term relationships

The
first
was for 7 years, and the other for 21 years.

They are the only 2
guys
I've ever dated!

Everyone else has just been a trick

I am
presently single - as the 20+ relationship abruptly ended - with him
passing
from a brain aneurysm

I like masculine men who are comfortable
with
their sexuality

I've been a homeowner in Laguna Beach, Portland,
Seattle, Minnepolis, Chicago, Atlanta, and Paris

But I'm
currently a
squatter in my deceased brother's home

I came here - a year ago
- to
take care of him

He passed away in August, and I'm planning on a
move
back to Seattle

I've owned 7 cars in my life

I am the oldest boy out of 8 kids

Unfortunately
only 5 are still alive - and it now makes me the oldest in the family.

I was very close to my younger twin brothers (both of which were
gay
- and are now dead).

My other brother is straight and lives a
strange, isolated life in the middle of nowhere (about 5 hours from the
nearest neighbor - in Alaska)

I get along with my sisters, but
wouldn't define us as close

Their lives are in the limelight -
and
they enjoy the riches which come along with their success

We were
once
a close family.

But my Mother held it all together

When
she
died - in the 1980's - my family started crumbling

I am an Uncle
of 5
nieces and 7 nephews. I am a great-uncle of 3 nieces and 9 nephews. I
am the
great-great-uncle of a niece!

As far as friends, I have many of
them

Unfortunately they're all on the west coast!

I am
Jewish

I am not an observant Jew - meaning that I don't go to
temple

I follow the secular teachings and consider myself a spiritual
person
- in an 'unorganized religious' way

From Kindergarten through high school - I went to
a
Friends School. I loved it!

I have been all over the world

My
favorite places are Capri,
Italy (my mother's birthplace), Bangkok, Sydney, Amsterdam,
Istantbul,
Hong Kong, Buenos Aires, and Stockholm.

I've been to almost
every
American state

The only ones I haven't been to are: Hawaii,
Michigan,
and Nebraska.

I love the outdoors

I love skiing and
snowboarding.

I love camping; especially with a special guy by my
side

My favorite sex is in a tent or somewhere remote - while
camping

I love hiking and bicycling

I am neat and organized
-
but lean on the pack-rat side

I would probably be considered a
'sloppy' dresser by the average gay man

Give me a T-shirt and
jeans -
and I'd be happy!

It takes me a long time to make decisions

I've always been like this - and it's probably the biggest thing
which got on my lover's nerves!

I love to swim and surf

I
was a
lifeguard in Laguna Beach back in the 70's

I used to have long,
sun-bleached - blonde hair; back in the day, LOL.

I'm a huge fan
of
professional football

There is no better team than the Ravens (end of story, LOL)

I'm a news junkie!

Cussing is a normal part of my
vernacular -
so you better get used to it!

I love all kinds of music

Although I'm not a big fan of country or rap.

I can't
stand
American Idol or any of the musical spin-off's one hears on the
radio

I'm not a fan of television in general

It seems to
be
nothing but junk!

My favorite bands are:

The Beatles

Nirvana

The Eagles

The White Stripes

Red
Hot
Chilli Peppers

Dave Matthews Band

The Smiths

The
Rolling Stones

The Talking Heads

Simon &
Garfunkel

I
love going to live shows

I love eating out and hate
cooking!

My
all-time favorite, general food is seafood

Give me some steamed
crabs, shrimp cocktail, and a cold beer - and I'm in heaven!

My
ideal
appearance in a guy?

Dark, thick hair and green eyes -
preferably not
taller than I, LOL - and height/weight proportionate

I don't
care if
they're buff; so long as they take care of themselves

A nice
smile,
eyes, and disposition - will get me everytime

My favorite meal is
Israeli Chicken
and
rice. My mother made it the best.

My favorite dessert is
Strawberry
Pie with an almond crust. Once again, my mother made it the best,
LOL

I love buying gifts for people. I have a habit of 'taking
notes'
on things my friends and loved ones desire. They may innocently blurt
out
something they love, enjoy or want - while we're in conversation - but
I'll
remember it and buy it - when they least expect it.

My favorite
alcoholic beverage is beer

I'm boring when it comes to
alcohol

I've never met a blogger.

I would like to meet
many of
them

Particularly Tony and all the
guys in
Florida

HOW DO YOU LIKE IT? (#20)

2006-10-03T00:00:00.000-07:00

So here we are...October 3rd. You're thinking, "Yah! So is this something significant?" Well in my books, it is important 'cause it's that time...time for HOW DO YOU LIKE IT? Tuesday.

Today's question is a bit of Americana, so ponder this:

How do you like your Mac 'n' Cheese? And by gosh!, if you don't like mac 'n' cheese then I feel sorry for you.

Personally, "I'm sooooooo confused!" Why? 'Cause I like mac 'n' cheese so many different ways. My dad had a technique down for baking it, and finished it off with seasoned-sourdough French bread crumbs. I'm salivating now just thinking about it...but I must watch those carbs! Not good for the weightlifting/diet regime I have myself performing. Oh, then there is traditional, extra cheesy mac 'n' cheese. Dynamite if you can take natural sharp cheddar cheese with just a hint, and I mean hint of Velvetta mixed in to the batch (can you tell I am not a Velvetta fan). So creamy and rich! And lastly there is the mixed-cheese version of mac 'n' cheese. You know, the kind where you mix in a little Velvetta, a little sharp cheddar, some swiss cheese, and a hint of gorganzola. OK, I know what I am having for dinner tonight! The heck with the protein diet for one night.

Guess I am waiting to hear what you all have to say to this primo pasta dish!

"WHAT WOULD YOU DO?" MONDAY (#4)

2006-10-02T00:00:00.000-07:00

ANOTHER WEEKEND HAS COME AND GONE. WHERE DOES TIME GO?!

Found myself doing a little side project this weekend. My brother-in-law is in the processing of starting up his own company with a project that I think is simply killer...the more we talk about it, the product just seems to have so many applications it can be applied to which will make the average consumer's life simpler and potentially save the consumer money too. Anyway, he had me working on a logo for his new company. I gave him about 6 sheets with a variety of logos drawn up. He plans on sharing them today with a few of the people that he is assembling to be part of the company's managing team, etc. Then I'll know if there is any refinement needed. From there we'll nail color down. In any event, my payment may be a new Apple MacBook Pro with dual-core Intel processors. What does that mean? I'll be able to run both Apple's OSX system and also Windows...with that I can finally run CAD on my system since it is Windows-based. SWEEEEET!!! As for my brother-in-law's product, wish I could say what it was, but that's a secret for now! I'll say this...just imagine all the clutter of computer equipment reduced to a very nominal scene. Heck, some shares in the company might be better!

I have stalled long enough...it's time for "WHAT WOULD YOU DO?" Monday.

Today's question is: If you just found out that your partner, boyfriend, parent, sibling or other significant loved one had 24 hours left to live what would you do with that individual in that remaining time? (You would be limited to doing something merely within the means that you could. And your loved one has not been ill - it's merely a matter of he/she being fine today but gone tomorrow.)

I think I will answer this questions in two parts. First, since I am single at the moment and my mom is probably the dearest person to me next to my siblings, all I would want to do is have the day off to share in my mom's favorite thing to do and to experience what I have enjoyed doing most with her. From my mom's perspective, I would be driving her around to see all the children and grandchildren in the area. To mom, we, her children, and her grandkids are what give her purpose for living. As for my moment, I'd want to just find some model homes in the area and meander through the homes with mom. We've done this in the past. And I love it. We'll sit and go through model homes, critiquing the design work, coming up with alternative design solutions, just bouncing a bunch of 'what-ifs' back and forth.

My second response to this question is - if I had a partner, all I would want to do is to be together holding each other at sunrise, to hold each other in a quiet shaded pasture for the day, to end the day holding each other even closer as the sun set and the stars came out, and ultimately, to be holding my partner as he fell asleep, knowing that I had told him a hundred times throughout that special day how much I loved him.

So there...you have my thoughts on this topic. Let us know what you would do in this unusual situation.

OUT FROM BEHIND THE MASK OF ANONYMITY

2006-09-29T00:00:00.000-07:00

The blog world can be a challenge at times but rewarding similarly. I believe we all recognize that the greatest challenge in blogland is accepting the other person at the other end to be genuine, real, and sincere on all levels. The mask of the computer, with all its ability to ship information around at incredible speeds, does not provide that personal interaction, enabling an individual to make a proper assessment of a counterpart. It also provides a buffer that allows individuals to remain in the background safely, to some degree, assessing situations, conveying opinions without fear of retaliation, perhaps even studying an individual. Sound intimidating, eerie, perhaps creepy? It should be...we all need to approach this environment with some degree of caution. Otherwise, we risk the chance of being hurt - physically depending on the situations, but most definitely emotionally.

Then there is the opposite spectrum. Blogland provides more overt individuals, publishing blogs and/or commenting in those environments, an opportunity to interact with people having similar views, to possibly befriend readers in a positive way, to even meet some of those individuals and create long-term friendships. We live in an entirely different yet progressive environment when compared to twenty years ago. And the Internet is part of that progressiveness. It is only natural that it would become a place to acquire knowledge on a broad spectrum, a place to express our freedom of speech, and a place to meet and interact with other human beings.

I am part of that progressiveness I guess. The Internet has been a place for me to meet other people, to meet other gay individuals. And like any other person, I am human. I do have my inherent fears still of the Internet. Obviously that would encompass the blog world. Fortunately, I have had a positive experience blogging to date. I think one element of blogging that has caught my attention, as of late, is monitoring my readership. I like seeing where my readership is coming from....is it local? is it regional? is it within the U.S.? is it from other countries? It gets me thinking, "why or how did they come to my blog." As of lately, I have found several repeat readers stopping by my blog. But these are readers that my sitemeter picks up...not readers that are identifying themselves openly through comments.

So, I have found myself wondering why are these anonymous readers coming back yet never stepping out to identify themselves and express their thoughts. Why not share your thoughts? If you have reached a point of wondering how this post is to conclude, here goes. I'd like to take this opportunity to say to those of you who read my blog, but chose to remain in the background, come out...introduce yourself...share your thoughts and opinions openly...say HI! I know I have some readers from San Francisco, the San Francisco Peninsula, south unincorporated Orange County, and even San Diego that stop by regularly. If you fit the profile, I'd love to hear from you on my blog. I am pretty low key, generally shy initially, but love to make new acquaintances. Just come in as "anonymous," maybe type in your first name at the end of your comment if you are comfortable with it.

That's my post! Ya'll have a great weekend. Thanks to those of you that left the most gracious comments about my design work and skills in yesterday's post. I think it should help my self-confidence a tad. Hugs!

INTERIOR DESIGN - RESIDENTIAL AND MODELING

2006-09-28T00:15:00.000-07:00

It has been a while since I have posted anything related to my design schooling - I guess three months probably. You have seen my perspective drawings, my color renderings, and my original certificate program boards (these boards did not show any detailed renderings, full house spaceplanning, multi-room finishes and furniture/in other words they were basic). What I have to show you below evolved from my RESIDENTIAL DESIGN I class. This particular class was amongst the last of my associate degree classes. It was to demonstrate an accumulation of my conceptual, spaceplanning, perspective/rendering, color, and period style skills. It also involved using the modeling techniques that we had learned to demonstrate our finished interior and spatial design.

The project was a New York City LOFT which was to house three generations of women - basically involving a youth, a middle-aged woman, and an elderly woman. So if you think this through carefully, you will realize that each has certain needs in addition to desired items in a household. We created our own scenario of these three women, what they desired, and what ultimately would be needed. Based on the image created, we were asked to chose a period style and apply color based on that to finish the design picture while considering the clients' opinions. Because the project involved NY City, I thought of the many Art Deco buildings in that city. I had stated that my clients' residence building was of that period. To keep things consistent with the client profile and the architecture of the building, I opted to do Art Deco for my period style. From there, appropriate furniture was selected, appropriate fabrics suggesting the period, and appropriate color was chosen . In selecting color I also had to consider the art inspiration I had chosen from the Georgia O'Keefe's collection. The piece that I chose is seen below in the first board, upper left corner.

As you look at the boards, the renderings are what I envisioned the spaces looking like. I even designed the chandelier that you see in the dining room drawing. I went with black and white boards since that was one color combination of the Art Deco period.

Initial board showing the 1st floor spaceplan, models, and the dining room rendering.

Board showing the dining and living room furniture and accessories.
Board showing the second floor spaceplan, the master suite furniture, materials, etc.
Board showing the master suite bathroom, the materials, lighting, accessories, etc.

To give the client a better idea of the full home interior design and how it relates to the building, we create a 3-dimensional foam core model. Other materials are used in the model to get our point across visually. Trust me this is not an easy task. Modeling is an art in itself and if you're good, can be a pretty decent paying profession. But darn....you have to have a lot of patience and great vision! I spent hours on this model...hours. And its not the best model I have ever done.

Full view of residential design showing what would be the top of the building only.

View showing the interior / second floor of the two-story loft in place.

View of the interior / showing the first floor after the second floor is removed.

So there you have it! You have now seen what one of my more extensive projects has involved in my Associate and Bachelors degree programs. I take a lot of pride in what I have accomplished and done. I know I have weaknesses as a designer but who exactly is perfect. I look at these weaknesses as opportunities to excel, to challenge myself. Admittedly, I do have a hard time feeling confident in some of the challenges but I am working on it. Hope you enjoy what you see.

***Note: Current status on what I chose to do with this quarter given the needed CAD skills in my Senior Studio (Project) class...I chose to drop the Senior Studio II class in hopes of picking it up in the Winter Quarter (keep your fingers crossed please), to stick with my internship program (I am looking at the moment), and to seek an outside Art History class (to complete my FIDER GenEd. requirement that I was surprised with last quarter even though I have a degree and adequate GE credits already). It looks like I will also try to obtain some short two - five day crash coursework in CAD - that's computer-aided design.

WORD PLAY ~ LUST

2006-09-27T00:00:00.001-07:00

LUST

Pronunciation: 'l&st
Function: noun
Etymology: Middle English, from Old English; akin to Old High German lust pleasure and perhaps to Latin lascivus wanton
1 obsolete a : PLEASURE, DELIGHT b : personal inclination : WISH
2 : usually intense or unbridled sexual desire : LASCIVIOUSNESS
3 a : an intense longing : CRAVING [a lust to succeed] b : ENTHUSIASM, EAGERNESS [admired his lust for life]

It's Wednesday WORD PLAY! Short and sweet, so I am shootin' today's word at you now...it's lust. Gosh, will I be in trouble with what might be posted here today?!

Usage: I long for his gorgeous smile...I lust for the warmth of his muscled body. Or is that... I lust for his gorgeous smile and long for the warmth of his muscled body. Ah heck, with my luck it's the later. LOL!

Again, the "play" portion...any comment you leave must use the word lust in it. Your response can be about anything ~ the post, me (watch it!), something about you, something happening in your life. Knock yourself out thinking of something serious, humorous, or off-beat to comment about. Just have fun with it!

HOW DO YOU LIKE IT? (#19)

2006-09-26T00:00:00.000-07:00

Hope your week is rolling along, lookin' good! It's time for HOW DO YOU LIKE IT? Tuesday.

I think I'll just step right in and ask the question:

How do you like to present yourself in attire?

Personally, I have changed over the years. I use to want to present myself in a more sophisticated light. I had a small closet merely housing my suits, dress shirts, slacks, and sportcoats, not to mention the 150-200 ties I had at one time. Today, they collect dust (albeit that may change once I rejoin the working force, depending on where I am employed...and that's if even half of it still fits me...see I am a bit fuller in the chest and arms these days). In the last ten years I have gone totally casual though trust me, I can put on a mean 'dressy casual.' Were talking in-style jeans, dressy chinos (if you desire to call them that) along with Tommy Bahama slacks, shorts, and camp-style shirts. In fact, much of my shirt selection these days is short-sleeved versus the long-sleeve of years past. Even a variety of T's are part of my wardrobe. Some of this is due to better 'body image' - and well, having 'come out,' one has to flaunt it a smidge (eyes rolling... a slight chuckle). And the shoe of choice for me, and I am sorry if I offend, is sometype of zorrie or sandal. Hey, I live in southern California. For now, it's me, and I don't much care what others think...even my gay compadres!

So me and the rest of blogland are waiting to hear your response. Make it good! Tomorrow, look for Spider's post on me. It's suppose to be revealing. Oh brother!

"WHAT WOULD YOU DO?" MONDAY (#3)

2006-09-25T00:00:00.000-07:00

After a week last week that started high and spiraled downward by Friday, I had a ho-hum weekend with some occasional blues mixed in. If it hadn't been for some quality phone conversations with friends like Spider, Pete, Derek, and Tom this weekend and a Smileygram, I'd probably been "sittin' in the dumps." I wish I had gone with my impulse late Thursday and headed up to homeland, San Francisco Bay Area, to see family and hit the Folsom Street fair (lions and tigers and BEARS, oh my! - more like sweet!). Well, I have done my wallowing. It's a NEW WEEK... time for "WHAT WOULD YOU DO?" Monday.

Today's question is: What would you do today (Monday) if you had it off? A simple question but I am sure one that will have a whole spectrum of answers.

Since I actually have no class on Mondays and am still looking for an internship at the moment, I guess I can disqualify myself here. I will say this, if I didn't have to worry about calling all new companies tomorrow to inquire about that needed intern spot, I'd have been up in San Francisco this past weekend staring at all those gorgeous men struttin' their stuff on Folsom. **sigh**

Here wondering what you will hit me with in terms of comments this week. Don't you dare hold back. Have a great week! Just think, only 4 more days until the weekend and two more days until Spider's special post.

MUSIC SPEAKS 'OF' ME

2006-09-22T00:44:00.000-07:00

My dearest Spider over at A Spider's Web in Thornton Park just had to beat me to the punch and post his results off a borrowed meme from Jake over at Jakely Justified. He seems to be doing that a lot these days. Didn't he just do this to Sorted on a meme?! Hehehe! In any event in this meme you describe yourself using five (5) song titles. Mine have no thematic thread tying them together. They merely befit my personality traits or describe me. And unlike my east coast friend, Spider, I stick to the rules...I have five, not ELEVEN! (Again LOL - you're such a good sport Spidie!) I have left a brief description of what the song says of me.

Over The Rainbow (Eva Cassidy version)......Speaks of my desire to dream.
Get Over It (Eagles)......Talks about that occasional urge to be impulsive, to literally tell the world sometimes, "take this and shove it!" Gosh, I wish I did this more often. TO LIVE!
Once in a Lifetime (Only You Soundtrack - Michael Bolton)......It tells of the romance within me and the hope in finding that one element in my life that says 'LOVE.'
Mayberry (Rascal Flatts)......Tells of my simple nature, perhaps the occasional naivete that still exists in me. How I miss those days when my life was simpler!
Climb Ev'ry Mountain (Sound of Music Soundtrack - Peggy Wood)......Perhaps best speaks of the inspirational/spiritual being within me. Of the tenderness locked inside searching to come forth, to be accepted and embraced unconditionally.

Now, without breaking any rules, every GREAT album (ME) has a bonus track. Mine is: Ain't No Mountain High Enough (Michael McDonald)......Have to say that I am true to the bone as a friend.

So there you have it, ME.....a dreamer, a searcher of life, a romantic, a simplistic man, a spiritual being or rather a man of faith, a true friend. Do I embrace all these readily everyday of my life? I sure try but I am human. I don't always succeed. Nor am I in perfect sync with them - yes conflict does exist. But this is who I am.

Thanks to Jake for sharing this post. I actually enjoyed putting some thought into this meme challenge. Y'all have a great weekend. Be sure to check out Spider's blog next Wednesday, 9/27, 'cause there's gonna be a special post about me. You never know what you might learn. And a special shout out to 'Smiley,' that would be my bud Josh! Wishing you the best as you take those steps onto the path of the next phase of your life...they'll be just as memorable as those gone by! Hugs!

A STORY BORROWED ~ "THE CAB RIDE"

2006-09-21T00:00:00.000-07:00

Today a received an emailed story that really offered an incredibly beautiful and powerful message. Apparently it is a from a chain email. It came by way of Derek from Past, Present, and Future.

Thank you Derek for taking the time to send it to me. It really tells us that we reap rewards a hundred fold when we give of ourselves unselfishly, without hesitation, and demonstrate compassion. I thought the message was important enough to share with you all. If someone desires to pass it along to a friend, a family member...great. So without further ado...

THE CAB RIDE
Twenty years ago, I drove a cab for a living. When I arrived at 2:30 a.m., the building was dark except for a single light in a ground floor window. Under these circumstances, many drivers would just honk once or twice, wait a minute, and then drive away. But I had seen too many impoverished people who depended on taxis as their only means of transportation. Unless a situation smelled of danger, I always went to the door. This passenger might be someone who needs my assistance, I reasoned to myself.

So I walked to the door and knocked. "Just a minute," answered a frail, elderly voice. I could hear something being dragged across the floor. After a long pause, the door opened. A small woman in her 80's stood before me. She was wearing a print dress and a pillbox hat with a veil pinned on it, like somebody out of a 1940s movie. By her side was a small nylon suitcase. The apartment looked as if no one had lived in it for years. All the furniture was covered with sheets. There were no clocks on the walls, no knickknacks or utensils on the counters. In the corner was a cardboard box filled with photos and glassware.

"Would you carry my bag out to the car?" she said. I took the suitcase to the cab, then returned to assist the woman. She took my arm and we walked slowly toward the curb. She kept thanking me for my kindness.

"It's nothing," I told her "I just try to treat my passengers the way I would want my mother treated."

"Oh, you're such a good boy," she said.

When we got in the cab, she gave me an address, and then asked, "Could you drive through downtown?"

"It's not the shortest way," I answered quickly.

"Oh, I don't mind," she said. "I'm in no hurry. I'm on my way to a hospice."

I looked in the rear-view mirror. Her eyes were glistening.

"I don't have any family left," she continued. "The doctor says I don't have very long."

I quietly reached over and shut off the meter. "What route would you like me to take?" I asked.

For the next two hours, we drove through the city. She showed me the building where she had once worked as an elevator operator. We drove through the neighborhood where she and her husband had lived when they were newlyweds. She had me pull up in front of a furniture warehouse that had once been a ballroom where she had gone dancing as a girl. Sometimes she'd ask me to slow in front of a particular building or corner and would sit staring into the darkness, saying nothing.

As the first hint of sun was creasing the horizon, she suddenly said, "I'm tired. Let's go now.

We drove in silence to the address she had given me. It was a low building, like a small convalescent home, with a driveway that passed under a portico. Two orderlies came out to the cab as soon as we pulled up. They were solicitous and intent, watching her every move. They must have been expecting her.

I opened the trunk and took the small suitcase to the door. The woman was already seated in a wheelchair.

"How much do I owe you?" she asked, reaching into her purse.

"Nothing," I said

"You have to make a living," she answered.

"There are other passengers," I responded. Almost without thinking, I bent and gave her a hug.

She held onto me tightly. "You gave an old woman a little moment of joy," she said. "Thank you. "

I squeezed her hand, and then walked into the dim morning light. Behind me, a door shut. It was the sound of the closing of a life. I didn't pick up any more passengers that shift. I drove aimlessly lost in thought. For the rest of that day, I could hardly talk. What if that woman had gotten an angry driver, or one who was impatient to end his shift? What if I had refused to take the run, or had honked once, then driven away?

On a quick review, I don't think that I have done anything more important in my life. We're conditioned to think that our lives revolve around great moments. But great moments often catch us unaware-beautifully wrapped in what others may consider a small one.

PEOPLE MAY NOT REMEMBER EXACTLY WHAT 'YOU DID, OR WHAT YOU SAID ~BUT~ THEY WILL ALWAYS REMEMBER HOW YOU MADE THEM FEEL.

You won't get any big surprise in 10 days if you send this to ten people. But, you might help make the world a little kinder and more compassionate by sending it on. Thank you, my friend...
Life may not be the party we hoped for, but while we are here we might as well dance.

WORD PLAY ~ ENAMOR

2006-09-20T00:00:00.000-07:00

ENAMOR
Pronunciation: i-'na-m&r
Function: transitive verb
Inflected Form(s): -ored; en·am·or·ing /-m&-ri[ng], -'nam-ri[ng]/
Etymology: Middle English enamouren, from Anglo-French enamourer, from en- + amour love -- more at AMOUR
1 : to inflame with love -- usually used in the passive with of
2 : to cause to feel a strong or excessive interest or fascination -- usually used in the passive with of or with {baseball fans enamored of statistics}

It's time for another Wednesday WORD PLAY! As always, I'm keepin' the post short and sweet! Today's word is enamor.

Usage: The smiles of many men enamor me in such a way that I go "GA-GA" ~ handsome men such as Spider, Josh, and Pete. And let's not forget Derek, BrettCajun, Rob, Hypoxic, Sorted, CW, Jake, Kel, Ynager..gosh I could go on. Hell, did I just name off half of my blogroll?! I knew you all were here for some reason. I'm just a sucker for a man with a great smile.

Again, the "play" portion...any comment you leave must use the word enamor in it. Your response can be about anything ~ the post, me (watch it!), something about you, something happening in your life. Knock yourself out thinking of something serious, humorous, or off-beat to comment about. Just have fun with it!

HOW DO YOU LIKE IT? (#18)

2006-09-19T00:00:00.000-07:00

What question comes after, "What would you do?" I believe it's, "How do you like it?" That's right, it's HOW DO YOU LIKE IT? Tuesday.

It's a 'hopping, snap-to-it' week for me so moving right over to the question that I have for you today...

How do you like to view your sunsets? I am leaving this as an open-ended question rather than providing a couple of choices because I know the number of choices is far more than two.

My ideal view of a sunset is to be on a grassy knoll or bluff at the shores of Maui, Hawaii, lying in a hammock, sipping on some tropical drink or cervesa, soaking up nature's painted skies as the sun slips slowly past the horizon. Ah! The perfect sunset. The perfect end to the day! Trust me...I've seen that view and it's somehing to behold. Slip in someone special on that hammock and I'm probably looking at heaven's sunset.

And your thoughts? I'm anxiously awaiting.
By the way, if you didn't catch my WHAT WOULD YOU DO? post from yesterday, take a gander. I had some fun with it!

"WHAT WOULD YOU DO?" MONDAY (#2)

2006-09-18T00:00:00.000-07:00

Yah, it's Monday. The start of another week, another work week for most! Hopefully your weekend provided a bit of a respite. I trust you're ready to get step into another "WHAT WOULD YOU DO?" MONDAY.

This Monday's question is: What would you do if your dream fantasy man had a free evening to spare you? (And tell us who he is, unless it's an acquaintance that you must retain his privacy. If that is the case at least give an idea of his relationship to you, ie. long-time college buddy.)
**More text content below pictures.**

SOME OF MY FANTASY HUNKS!

I hide absolutely nothing here. And for some of you this will not be eye-opening news. My dream fantasy man is Jack Radcliffe (we'll leave his real identity alone here), gay adult movie star. If I had him willingly for one evening, I'd pass on any activity outside my pad. This may sound 'hokie' to a few of you but I'd have an incredible dinner for two prepared and we'd be having lots of conversation, just enough for me to get plenty of that great smile. I've heard he's got the sweetest personality. I sincerely would be happy just getting to know him, finding out similaries and dislikes, and sharing some laughs. And I am only human ~hopefully there might be a special moment slipped in there too ~ a kiss, a cuddle. I'd be one happy man.

And now we're all waiting to hear what you have to say! Don't you dare hold back.

Jack Radcliffe
Photographed by Chris Komater.
Pose in the 'Giovanni Bellini' style.
"To think I came so close to meeting him at a housewarming party...damn!"

****Sigh!***

PET NICKNAMES

2006-09-15T00:00:00.000-07:00

I was reading Curtis' 9/12 post, PONY BOY CURTIS, the other day and got a good chuckle. It brought back some old memories ~ memories about nicknames. I am not talking about merely a shortening of your name such as Anthony to Tony or Joseph to Joe. I mean 'pet' nickname, ~ nicknames that people, friends have given you due to traits, particular events, or as a joke. I can think of only two that have been bestowed on me in the course of my life time. Well, maybe four, but the additional two are, hmmm, 'personal.' Yah right!

The first was a high school nickname from a few of my old schoolday chums. It was merely a play off my last name so don't go on a tangent with your dirty imaginations here. Come to think of it, maybe it does say something about me. Only one other person, Large Tony, as of late has been given the OK to use this nickname. Should I dare disclose this....BALLS. There I said it.

The only other nickname came to be during my time as a bodily injury claims adjuster (personal injuries - auto accidents/homeowners) in San Francisco. You would have to have known me back then. See I was this very shy, quiet 27 year old man. I really think my work in claims slowly changed my personality due to the type of interactions I had with customers, peers, business entities, etc. As a bodily injury adjuster, I had to deal with exceptionally pushy claimants and attorneys, all demanding more money than what a claim was worth. That shy, quiet man got pushed around for a spell and went through his claim authority fairly quickly. I even had my supervisors concerned that I might not be able to cut the position. But something finally sparked in me.

I can remember this one aggressive demanding paralegal, Nadine Z., that I had to deal with on a frequent basis. I had had enough of her blatant rudeness to me one day. I did something I had never done before...I lashed back. I told her, "Now you listen to me. Your client's claim is soft tissue and not worth a damn penny more than $***.00. There was a damn ding in the bumper. Take the offer to your client and if she doesn't like it then I guess we'll see you in court." Does this sound a bit out of character for me? Well it was, and in some respects still is. Anyhow, let's just say I was loud enough that many of my peer adjusters seated around me overheard most of the conversation, including my lead supervisor. After I got off the phone, feeling a bit guilty, I went over to my supervisor's desk to tell him about my conversation and that he should possibly expect a call from Nadine Z. He merely looked at me, said "Don't worry about it. You know... you were quite the ANIMAL," and gave me a big smirk. From that day forward through the time I was in that position, I was ANIMAL any time I got aggressive with a claimant or an attorney. When I was promoted to Main Office Claims, the BI Department threw me a party and one of the parting gifts was a small trophy. On the engaving they had included ANIMAL in the quote.

Those were the days. Now that I have totally embarrassed myself I'd like to know...have you ever had a 'pet' nickname? Spill the beans! What was the story behind it?

SADNESS BROUGHT ABOUT A FRIENDSHIP

2006-09-14T00:00:00.000-07:00

With my whirlwind vacation trip to Orlando and New York, and now the nightmare start of what I thought would be my last quarter in school, I really haven't had an opportunity to write a meaningful post ~ something that gives away the real me.

Well, I happen to go into a friend's blog yesterday morning. You may recall me mentioning him before in a few prior posts. His name is Rob from ROBLOG. I was reading his Tuesday (9/12/06) post called ONE YEAR. While this post was about Rob 'remembering' a dear friend and ex-partner who had passed away, it brought about another sort of remembrance for me. I think the easiest way to start with what I have to say in this post is by giving you a portion of the content I left under Rob's blog article Comments section:

"So you posted about the anniversary. Strangely it hit me yesterday (9/12) while I was getting ready to bolt out the door for my first class of the fall quarter...I had quickly checked your blog to see if you had posted. I caught a glimpse of the DIVERSION post and it triggered.

I remembered. I remembered when I first read your blog and those posts about Chuck, thinking Chuck past away on my first day of Fall Semester class 2005. See the connection again...the anniversary yesterday was on my first day of class again, and there was no guarantee I would have had classes the same day.

When I got home last night from classes, I checked your blog to see if you had posted any article. It was too late to call you, I thought. You were in posting about 25 mins after I was in your blog.

So to the point...you're just where you should be. We all told you you'd get there in your own time, that the pain would diminish, but that a part of you would always miss Chuck. And look at the other things it has helped you to do...focus on your relationship with F***, write about your brother's death, etc. And well, hopefully, brought another friend into your life...at least I hope you feel that way as your openness about that event brought me into blogland for good, gave me only my second gay friend (at the time), and the courage to start to be comfortable with my gay self.

Perhaps this is too much to place here on your blog, but quite frankly, I want those that read your blog to know what an incredible person you are. So indulge me bud!..."

It is funny how people come into your life and effect it in so many ways. They can be a support system, a source of friendship, a true confidant, a 'savior' of sorts, and so much more. I was fortunate enough to have stumbled across Rob's blog back on November 3, 2005. I actually found him through his ex-partner's profile on BigMuscleBear.com one night as I was trying to pull myself out of long bout of depression (over another on-line profile situation which I have blogged about here too). Somehow the pain I read about in the posts over his ex's death and about Rob's own feelings transcended my own. So I left my first blog comment on his site and from there somehow started to pan out to other blog sites. In fact, I met Pete, through Rob's site and there's another friendship that is not going away anytime soon.

Rob began to communicate back through replies on the comments I left. From there a dialogue initiated and the 'door cracked open' for a friendship. The kicker for me was when he got wind that I was going to be in San Francisco in late December '05. He actually asked me if I would like to meet up somewhere for coffee or a bite to eat. I was floored and, of course, I had to say yes. Here was my first opportunity to really see if I could interact in this new community I was now part of. We met up that one day in late December and since then the friendship has evolved. It continues to evolve.

Rob has come a long way since that day. His hurt over the loss of his ex seems to have healed (I know it has!). I have come a long way. Rob's willingness to be open, to be genuine, to be himself, to invite me into his life...gave me a chance to feel comfortable in my shoes. For that I am extremely grateful.

So on this day I remember a friend too! Hugs Rob!

I borrowed this from your site Rob...hope you don't mind. (Rob, Summer '06)

WORD PLAY ~ INDOCTRINATE

2006-09-13T00:00:00.000-07:00

INDOCTRINATE

Main Entry: in·doc·tri·nate
Pronunciation: in-'d¤k-tr&-"nAt
Function: transitive verb
Inflected Form(s): -nated; -nat·ing
Etymology: probably from Middle English endoctrinen, from Anglo-French endoctriner, from en- + doctrine doctrine
1 : to instruct especially in fundamentals or rudiments : TEACH
2 : to imbue with a usually partisan or sectarian opinion, point of view, or principle
- in·doc·tri·na·tion

It's time for another Wednesday WORD PLAY! As always, keepin' the post short and sweet! Today's word is indoctrinate.

Usage: If I were to look back and determine who indoctinated me into the world of blogging, I'd have to say that nod goes to Mr. BrettCajun, the crazy Cajun from the Bayou! Was that good or bad? Lordy, you tell me. Now if I could only indoctrinate that pistol-whipping, SLAB smackin' southerner into the world of tasteful sportsmanship. HEHEHE!

Again, the "play" portion...any comment you leave must use the word indoctrinate in it. Your response can be about anything ~ the post, me (watch it!), something about you, something happening in your life. Knock yourself out thinking of something serious, humorous, or off-beat to comment about. Just have fun with it!

P.S....If you haven't already done so, why don't you join me in indoctrinating Pete's new blog, IT'S JUST NOTHING. It really reflects his personality... a great sense of humor (maybe a little warped at times, God love him), silly, heartfelt at times. Give him a read if you haven't. Hugs bud!

HOW DO YOU LIKE IT? (#17)

2006-09-12T00:00:00.000-07:00

Tuesday, Tuesday. Tuesday is here! Time for my HOW DO YOU LIKE IT? Tuesday post. What surprise answers will you throw my way.

My question for you today is:

How do you like your cheesecake ~ traditional New York style, coated with some sort of fruit topping, or made up in some specialty form (ie. chocolate chip cheesecake)?

Why am I asking...'cause I have dessert on my mind. When I get stressed my 'sweet tooth' magnifies a hundred fold. AND DAMN, I COULD EAT A WHOLE CHEESCAKE RIGHT AT THIS MOMENT. I tend to love the traditional New York style cheesecake as long as it is creamy. I have had a number that come off as exceptionally dry. But my favorite cheesecake is made by dear ol' mom. She has a recipe that utilizes a vanilla wafer crust that is just phenomenal. Its appeal increases even more as a morning snack. I am gaining 5 lbs just thinking about this subject.

So how do you like your cheesecake? Fess up!

"WHAT WOULD YOU DO?" MONDAY (#1)

2006-09-11T00:01:00.000-07:00

First and foremost today...take a moment to remember those who lost there lives back on 9/11/2001 and for those military personnel who have given their lives in defense of the values we hold true to America as a result of this incident.

As for today's post.............
School is just about to begin for me as of this Tuesday in some shape or form. I may be dropping one class. Yes, it's those damn Senior Project floor plans that I have been trying to transfer over to AutoCAD. Lets just say this past weekend was one problem after the other, enough to essentially put me behind for good with this project. I'll be speaking with my counselor who happens to be one of the class' instructors to determine what the ramifications are, if there are any, for withdrawing from the class and delaying it for a quarter.

So enough said there. Back to my point...with school starting, I have found that time is limited for heavy thought on posts. Plus I like to read some of the comments my readers leave. With that in mind, I have dubbed future Mondays to be "WHAT WOULD YOU DO?" MONDAY.

To kick things off today, here is the question. What would you do if you won the LOTTO today, netting a mere $1.5 million?

While $1.5 million is not chump change, it is not the biggest lotto pot ever to be given. I'd see myself buying a house outright and seeking the assistance of a financial advisor to maximize the returns on the remaining money for trips and retirement down the line. Yes, I'd likely be working for a spell but at least I'd know the money was there to enjoy myself and that I could afford to retire out early.

We're all waiting to hear what you have to say!