space dog

Sometimes the only way to break the curse is to leave it all behind

2006-04-02T19:19:00.000-04:00

I've learned a lot by using this medium to formulate reactions, observations, and commentary on life, relationships, music and more.

My graduation is coming up, bringing an overwhelming sense of transition.

It's time to move forward.

I plan on writing more - different space. I want to take it a bit more seriously, more planned, more thought-out. If you're interested, e-mail me for the link.

And now for something completely different

2006-03-19T09:09:00.000-05:00

Well that's all over. I've got my brain back now. And I even found my self-respect. Somebody told me it was a pair of socks, but I'm convinced it was my self-respect. It did smell a little funny, but I guess you'll have that from anything when you drag it through the mud.

Part of me wants to go through and delete all that shit that I wrote. But I remind myself that that's where I was, what I was feeling, and what I was going through. Part of the reason that I started this thing years ago was to document my reflections and reactions on my experiences, which can't simply be deleted (and why should they?), so I'm leaving it all up.

I was contemplating whether or not to make a post on a different kind of site, but I guess my particular situation doesn't conform to the posting requirements there.

It's rather a pity...but at least I know I'll do better next time. Lived and learned.

XCIV

2006-03-05T13:45:00.000-05:00

They that have power to hurt, and will do none,
That do not do the thing they most do show,
Who, moving others, are themselves as stone,
Unmoved, cold, and to temptation slow;
They rightly do inherit heaven's graces,
And husband nature's riches from expense;
They are the lords and owners of their faces,
Others, but stewards of their excellence.
The summer's flower is to the summer sweet,
Though to itself, it only live and die,
But if that flower with base infection meet,
The basest weed outbraves his dignity:
For sweetest things turn sourest by their deeds;
Lilies that fester, smell far worse than weeds.

Duration calculation results

2006-03-04T03:45:00.000-05:00

From and including: Sunday, November 27, 2005
To and including: Saturday, February 25, 2006
It is 91 days from the start date to the end date, end date included

Or 2 months, 30 days including the end date

Alternative time units
91 days can be converted to one of these units:
7,862,400 seconds
131,040 minutes
2,184 hours
13 weeks

5 Years
you think you're denying me of something
well, i've got plenty
you're the one who's missing out
but you won't notice
'til after five years
if you'll live that long
you'll wake up
all love-less

i dare you
to take me on
i dare you
to show me your palms
i'm so bored of cowards
who say what they want
then they can't handle

you can't handle love
baby, it's obvious

i dare you
to take me on
i dare you
to show me your palms
what's so scary?
not a threat in sight
you just can't handle
you can't handle love

I wish...

Three (?)

2006-02-27T09:10:00.000-05:00

Daily Horoscope for Capricorn

This New Moon in your 3rd House of Communications shows you new ways to relate as you let go of the restrictions that have held you back from full expression. Even if it is scary, you must trust your intuition now. Forget about calculating your odds or developing complex strategies. You are moving into new terrain and the old compass and rational maps you have won't be much help. Just let your imagination be your guide.

This is not real - this - this is not really happening

2006-02-26T09:15:00.000-05:00

You bet your life it is.

Well hey there love
And I hope you don't mind
Blindsided and sided-
blind
I sure didn't know this was coming.

Happy trails

2006-02-15T21:52:00.000-05:00

...to one of the coolest people I've met in this town.

There is never too much Matthew

2006-02-13T22:26:00.000-05:00

At night - after we've talked and held each other, wrapped ourselves up in each other, kissed each other and started to settle together into sleep - I know there is never too much Matthew.

Invariably I fall asleep first (much to his polite dismay since I snore like a Radioactive Polar Bear). And when I fall asleep with him in my arms - right at that moment between awake and dream - I feel so peaceful, happy, and complete that I smile. I literally fall asleep smiling. How can contentment be so overwhelming? What could be better? Only the wonder of waking and feeling him next to me. Then rubbing my heavy eyes as I roll over, yawning and stretching, squinting and blinking as his face comes into focus and I slowly see all him there next to me, starting my day off in the best way it could start. And then I smile, and I wake a little bit more grateful than I was the night before.

Falling asleep smiling and waking up smiling. Living is made of these moments, simple but astounding in their beauty, and I just don't know what could possibly be better.

Is he really back?

2006-02-13T22:15:00.000-05:00

Music Video Codes By HotGet.com

I think he could be.

Class Action Settlement

2006-02-10T22:26:00.000-05:00

Hard to belive, but I don't own a single cd on this list.
Here's info on the settlement:

If You Bought, Received or Used a SONY BMG Music Entertainment CD Containing Either XCP or Media Max Content Protection Software, Your Rights May Be Affected By a Class Action Settlement, And You Should Download Updates For That Software.

What is this about?

A settlement has been proposed in a lawsuit brought against SONY BMG Music Entertainment, Inc., SunnComm International Inc., and First 4 Internet, Ltd. ("Defendants"). The lawsuit, In re SONY BMG CD Technologies Litigation, Case No. 1:05-cv-09575-NRB, is pending in the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York and relates to XCP and MediaMax content protection software installed on certain SONY BMG music CDs.

The Settlement resolves claims that the Defendants manufactured and sold CDs containing XCP and MediaMax software without adequately disclosing the limitations the software imposes on the use of the CDs and the security vulnerabilities it creates. The Defendants have denied that they did anything wrong.

Who Is Included, And What Does The Settlement Provide?

The settlement provides relief for persons who bought, received or used SONY BMG CDs with either XCP or MediaMax software. Under the settlement, any person in possession of an XCP CD can exchange it for a replacement CD, an MP3 download of the same album, and either (a) cash payment of $7.50 and one (1) free album download from a list of 200 albums, or (b) three (3) free album downloads from that list.
Purchasers of CDs containing MediaMax 5.0 software will receive a free
MP3 download of the same album and one (1) additional free album download. Purchasers of CDs containing MediaMax 3.0 software will receive a free MP3 download of the same album.

The settlement also requires the Defendants to stop manufacturing SONY BMG CDs with XCP or MediaMax 3.0 and 5.0 software and, until 2008: (1) make available updates to fix all known security vulnerabilities caused by XCP and MediaMax software; (2) provide software programs to uninstall XCP and MediaMax software safely; (3) fix any future security vulnerabilities discovered in MediaMax and any other content protection software placed on SONY BMG CDs; (4) provide independent verification that personal information about users of SONY BMG CDs has not and will not be collected through XCP or MediaMax; (5) waive certain provisions of the end user license agreements for XCP and MediaMax software; and
(6) ensure that any other content protection software will be clearly disclosed, independently tested and readily uninstalled.

At 9:15a.m. on May 22, 2006, the Court will hold a hearing at the United States District Court, Daniel Patrick Moynihan United States Courthouse, 500 Pearl Street, Courtroom 21A, New York, New York 10007-1312, to decide whether to approve the settlement and the class attorneys' fees and costs.

How Do I Participate In The Settlement?
If you bought or received a SONY BMG Music CD containing XCP or MediaMax software and want to receive the relief you may be eligible for under the settlement, you must submit an online claim form at www.sonybmgcdtechsettlement.com, or mail a claim form to:

SONY BMG CD Technologies Settlement
P.O. Box 1804, Faribault, MN 55021-1804

All claim forms must be submitted by December 31, 2006.

What Are My Other Options?

If you bought, received or used a SONY BMG Music CD containing XCP or MediaMax software, and you do not want to be legally bound by the settlement or receive a replacement CD, cash, free downloads or other relief, you must exclude yourself by May 1, 2006. If you do not exclude yourself, certain of your claims against the Defendants that were or could have been asserted in the lawsuit will be released, meaning you may not be able to sue the Defendants for those claims.
To view the detailed legal Notice of Proposed Class Action Settlement, Motion for Attorneys' Fees and Settlement Fairness Hearing and to download the software updates, visit www.sonybmgcdtechsettlement.com.
You may obtain further information by contacting the claims administrator at the address above or by calling toll free 1-800-242-7610.

Rzine # 668

2006-02-05T16:05:00.000-05:00

Rhino -- The Lefsetz Letter - Rzine # 668

Stumbled onto this article on Kate Bush's new record and found that the author holds sentiments similar to my own:

Obviously, print media didn't penetrate the public. There was a story in every publication known to man [about Kate Bush's new record]. Turns out the old record label saw is true...nothing promotes music like radio, like the ability to HEAR it.

We trusted the deejay. We counted on the deejay. It was his job to pick out the good tracks. And, if we liked them, we bought the album.

This game died in the nineties. When we purchased albums based on one track and found out they were complete trash. A whole bunch of people resigned from the record-buying marketplace. And then, trying to reach who was left, the major labels forced OBVIOUS stuff down our throats at Top Forty. And the margins...they disappeared on radio. The whole scene inverted upon itself and sucked itself down the hole in the center. We need someone to reach down into that hole, at the center of a long playing record, at the center of a CD, and pull the music back out.

I heard another band on the Nude Music Review entitled Winterpills. Go to their Website, http://www.winterpills.com/ (click on "music" and launch the player), and listen. They're a slightly more energetic Elliott Smith.

I love new music. I love the kind of stuff that doesn't get played on terrestrial radio. Not the kind of stuff you dance to, not the kind of stuff that hits you in the face, but the kind of stuff that PENETRATES you, and changes your life.

Perhaps ironically, I bought the Winterpills album a couple months ago based on a Paste Magazine cd sampler - the song "Pills for Sarah" hooked me. Wouldn't necessarily call it life changing - but good stuff nevertheless.

Roll in the red carpet

2006-01-30T18:53:00.000-05:00

I've become obsessed with Joan Rivers lately. Christ, the woman is seventy three years old. Seventy-three! SHE SHOULDN'T LOOK LIKE THIS.

Clearly she's made some kind of pact with Satan - the lightning she wields in this photo to destroy all who oppose her is proof. And I hear from my sources at the cable channel guide that Melissa Rivers found out the hard way:

"Mother, maybe you shouldn't have another face lift. People are starting to talk."

"Talk? Did you say talk? Can we talk? Oh! Oh-hhh-hhh!" CRASH, BOOM, ZAP - no more pesky daughter; enter replacement robot.

Further feeding my newfound obsession: Click.
Laugh.
Repeat.

Last night I dreamt you cut off all your hair

2006-01-30T18:04:00.000-05:00

Personally I don't think we look anything alike (but you should see us in matching sweaters).

2006-01-30T11:28:00.000-05:00

Two

2006-01-28T16:35:00.000-05:00

You Put The Light Inside This Man

1. Everywhere – Fleetwood Mac
2. Heroes – David Bowie
3. This is Love – PJ Harvey
4. Love Song #3 – MeShell Ndegeocello
5. Stay (Wasting Time) – Dave Matthews Band
6. Disappear – INXS
7. Aching For You – Kristin Hersh
8. In Your Room – The Bangles
9. New World – Björk
10. Pig Latin – Imperial Teen
11. You’re All I Need To Get By – Aretha Franklin
12. Do Anything – Natural Selection
13. Such Great Heights – The Postal Service
14. Lightness – Death Cab for Cutie
15. Your Love Is A Drug – Puffy AmiYumi
16. We Could Be Landowners – Miranda Sound
17. I’ve Been Thinking – Handsome Boy Modeling School w/ Cat Power
18. America – Simon & Garfunkel
19. Never Alone – Rob Crowe
20. Tsunami – Res
21. For Me This Is Heaven – Jimmy Eat World

At work

2006-01-27T14:59:00.000-05:00

At work

Relatively twisted

2006-01-25T07:51:00.000-05:00

I found out that a certain ex of mine is dating a certain ex of his. This is beyond small-world coincidence. It's pretty fucking twisted weird. How funny would that double date be? I smell a sit-com in the making...

Time after time

2006-01-22T20:27:00.000-05:00

There are times, usually when we're holding each other, that my heart beats faster and the only thoughts going through my head are how grateful I am, how in LOVE I am, how amazing he is, and how I never want to let him go.

There are times, like when I get a completely random, intensely sweet text message on my phone at the same time that I'm composing one to him, that I'm so overwhelmed with pure joy that I have to sit down and catch my breath.

There are times, like when we rushed into the bar at the last minute and slow danced to show tunes while wearing matching sweaters, that I'm sure people must have been absolutely gagging when they looked at us - but I never noticed since I only opened my eyes to look into his.

There are times, like when he says "I can't see tomorrow without you," that I simply loose it and cry.

For Matthew

2005-12-26T20:45:00.000-05:00

Well hey there love
And I hope you don’t mind
Blindsided and sided blind
I sure didn’t know this was coming.

Now I’m stringing words
Like garlands for Christmas
And madly rushing in like a happy fool.

My, how tricky gravity’s become.
How peculiar to float so high
While fast falling forward
For you.

And could you be a cook
Concocting
Sweet confections,
Stirring emotions,
Heating affections?

Or am I just a simple fool
Not full, hungry for more?
(Savoring signs of all that’s in store.)

A fool, perhaps,
But only for your touch;
Only to wake up next to you.

Without rhyme
And with no reason
I’ve found a peach tree
Out of season.

Well hey there love
And I hope you don’t mind
Blindsided and sided blind
I sure didn’t know this was coming.

~mrd, 12/2005

M & Ms

2005-12-17T09:59:00.000-05:00

Several weeks ago, the afore mentioned gentleman I was "dating" decided it best to quit calling me. Still not completely sure why, though I'd imagine it because he was wrapped up in school and work (and I wrapped up in waiting tables and drinking). The last time I saw him at the coffee shop I told him, "I know you're busy, so I'll leave it up to you to give me a call when you're able." Though I expected at the least a phone call confirming the end of our brief fling, I also knew somehow that it would be the last time we'd see each other that way. I was strangely fine with the ending of such a new beginning. I lit a cigarette as I turned from him and walked down to the Union Station for a few showtunes, thinking we'd given it a good, albeit short, go and c'est la vie.

I walked in to the Union Station and was invited over to a table of co-workers from the restaurant, which I gladly joined. As cocktails turned into conversation and showtune singing, our little group decided to move up the street to the Havana for "Church", the weekly Sunday night drag & strip show. More cocktails, and a surprising confession from Matthew, who'd invited me to join the group earlier in the evening. "Sir, I should admit to you that I might maybe perhaps have a little tiny bit of a crush on you. Perhaps." I beamed. I'd thought fondly of Matthew and had actually met him for the first time some months ago.

I've been slipping down in the grass
counting the steps to your back door

I've been praying you'd see me pass
knowing somehow you've seen me before

Before I worked at the restaurant, and with Small World irony in mind, I'd met up with someone else on showtunes night who also worked (and works) at the restaurant. He went to another bar with some friends, one of which was Matthew, and I joined up with them. I remember Prince on the jukebox, and Matthew singing loudly - and anyone who sings Prince loudly gets unquestioned kudos from me. I realized he was the same person when I started waiting tables, though we didn't talk much about it.

Some time after "Church" a group of us ended up back at Matthew's apartment, along with several strippers, most of which were quickly dismissed. Matthew and I talked and flirted and smiled. "Well, I think I'm kind of dating someone right now, but I'm not really sure what's going on," I remember telling him. He was understanding, as he is apt to be, but night turned all too quickly into morning, and found us sleeping softly together (completely clothed) and holding each other tightly.

I've been sighing more than I should
spilling my glass there's ice on the floor

But I've been busy gathering wood
hoping our fire will burn all the more

Every night, every moment, we've spent together since has been amazing. We've danced, laughed, kissed, talked. We've held each other tightly. And much too quickly we've realized that we've fast fallen in love.

I've been stealing hundreds of bells
ringing my way along your shore

And I've been smiling all to myself
savouring signs of what's in store

How can love come so quickly? How dare it show its face when and where I least expect it? But really, how marvelous - because isn't that how it's supposed to go anyway? "The minute you stop looking," they all say, "is when it happens." I guess I just didn't expect it to be so punctual.

I've been climbing branches and vines
gathering leaves for long festoons

And I've been rhyming myriad lines
full of your face and the gleam of the moon

When we hold each other, the feeling I get is indescribable. Like something is surrounding us, holding us, quietly rushing in and out of us creating a beautifully unparalleled and unpredictable serenity. I smile when I think of him - in the elevator at work, in the kitchen at the restaurant, driving my car, falling asleep, as I type this. I long for him when he's away. Friends say I glow when I speak of him. And I completely melt when I see him. I see that we will challenge each other - and become stronger individuals together.

And I simply can't wait.

lyrics from I've Been Slipping by Over the Rhine

You need schoolin'

2005-12-17T09:51:00.000-05:00

I received the following from my professor yesterday:

Hi Matthew,

I have received your final assignments 6-1 & 6-2.

Thank you,

I will say that more than any of the other students, I appreciated your willingness to bridge the silence when I asked for comments. I believe you made a difference every time when you were in class. You are bright and very intelligent. You were a pleasure to have in the class.

Good luck in the future,

I thought it very kind of him. Throughout the course, my lazy ass couldn't seem to get assignments in on time (what else is new, right?), and this professor took a keen interest in following up with me consistently (read "riding my ass") to make sure I got the work in so he could grade it. I'd written him telling him how much I appreciated it, and how much I still need that extra motivation sometimes (read "all the times"). Regardless, it's good to get such positive & complimentary feedback. Two more courses to go, and I'm set for graduation in May. Assuming I passed this class and the Compensation & Benefits class I just finished. Next term I'll be taking my "Capstone" business class, and my final elective, a film class, to round out my undergraduate studies.

There is a light at the end of this tunnel.

Flown Free

2005-12-11T13:55:00.000-05:00

A shining example of why this is my favorite band. Caught a bit of the show last night after work, and it was quite possibly the best they've ever sounded at Little Brother's. The crowd was about half the size of the summer concert, but twice as energetic and connected to the band. Save the yearly December Taft Theatre show (next Saturday) it seems intimacy is truly what drives this band - they always seem to perform at their best when the crowds are small. A stunning cover of Son of a Preacher Man (with Kim Taylor providing harmony vocals) was the highlight of what I'd seen, I was sure, until they played Drunkard's Prayer, which ended in an a cappella repeat of the first verse ("You're my water, you're my wine, you're my whiskey from time to time") that completely stilled the crowd. No glasses clinking, no cell phones ringing, not a whisper could be heard as Karin's rich voice softly soared above the low whirr of a large cooler behind the bar - an almost complimentary hum adding to the song's breathgiving ending. The audience demanded three encores, and the band seemed happy to deliver. They finished the evening with an apparently unrehearsed version of Poughkeepsie ("we haven't played this one in a while, but someone really wanted to hear it...") that pulled the audience in close enough to feel more than music - a talent Over the Rhine seems to master more with each show. Take a listen to the freshly released studio mp3 rarity below. I think you'll see what I mean.

December 2005

Flown Free
Voices: Karin Bergquist
Piano: Linford Detweiler

Various musicians were asked to contribute an original song to a cd based on a new translation of The Book of Psalms by Eugene H. Petersen, and Karin and Linford recorded Flown Free, their simple composition based on lines from Psalm 129 & 124. It just so happens Flown Free is their first attempt at recording a little something in their new, 170-year-old farmhouse that they now call home. This December, we thought you might enjoy this simple song. Set it free.

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year from Over the Rhine

download 3.8 meg MP3 file

David LaChapelle

2005-12-08T22:18:00.000-05:00

Selected as 48th GRAMMYs' Official Artist
GRAMMY.com

Union Rally

2005-12-08T12:55:00.000-05:00

Union Rally

December 1

2005-12-01T14:51:00.000-05:00

Off On It

2005-11-30T14:11:00.000-05:00

...You know how
One thing tends to
Lead to another
Before you know where you are
You’re there, tied to the chair...

Class-a-frass

2005-11-29T10:48:00.000-05:00

Lost interest in last week's lecture and decided to turn Organizational Ethics into a mini photo spread. I need a new knit hat. And I kind of want to start wearing blazers - I like that looook. It appears a thrifting trip is in order, which is something I haven't done in years. But sounds like a good time today...certainly more enjoyable than this dreadful homework I should be finishing. Feh.

PS It's freakishly warm here in Ohio, which I interpret to be a sign of the apocalypse (everybody duck!).

Romancing the Bird

2005-11-16T21:25:00.000-05:00

Gearing up for Turkey Day with the fam next week:

Good Eats Roast Turkey
1 (14 to 16 pound) frozen young turkey
For the brine:
1 cup kosher salt
1/2 cup light brown sugar
1 gallon vegetable stock
1 tablespoon black peppercorns
1/2 tablespoon allspice berries
1/2 tablespoon candied ginger
1 gallon iced water
For the aromatics:
1 red apple, sliced
1/2 onion, sliced
1 cinnamon stick
1 cup water
4 sprigs rosemary
6 leaves sage
Canola oil

Combine all brine ingredients, except ice water, in a stockpot, and bring to a boil. Stir to dissolve solids, then remove from heat, cool to room temperature, and refrigerate until thoroughly chilled.
Early on the day of cooking, (or late the night before) combine the brine and ice water in a clean 5-gallon bucket. Place thawed turkey breast side down in brine, cover, and refrigerate or set in cool area (like a basement) for 6 hours. Turn turkey over once, half way through brining.
A few minutes before roasting, heat oven to 500 degrees. Combine the apple, onion, cinnamon stick, and cup of water in a microwave safe dish and microwave on high for 5 minutes.
Remove bird from brine and rinse inside and out with cold water. Discard brine.
Place bird on roasting rack inside wide, low pan and pat dry with paper towels. Add steeped aromatics to cavity along with rosemary and sage. Tuck back wings and coat whole bird liberally with canola (or other neutral) oil.
Roast on lowest level of the oven at 500 degrees F. for 30 minutes. Remove from oven and cover breast with double layer of aluminum foil, insert probe thermometer into thickest part of the breast and return to oven, reducing temperature to 350 degrees F. Set thermometer alarm (if available) to 161 degrees. A 14 to 16 pound bird should require a total of 2 to 2 1/2 hours of roasting. Let turkey rest, loosely covered for 15 minutes before

It turned out really well last year; here's hoping this one is even better.

Interview tomorrow with ODJFS - cross your fingers.

Started dating someone. He's already got a mix cd from me, so you know I'm digging him. Sweet guy, finishing his master's at OSU. He's actually partici [funny, he just called] pating in the London Honor's trip that I went on during my brief OSU stint. More on that later.

58 Shopping Days...

2005-10-27T10:26:00.000-04:00

I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but there are only 58 days left until that dreadful holiday of Christmas. If you're a card sending kind of person, check out Steph's Store for her exquisite and original 2005 holiday card. Your friends and family will think you're totally cool if you send them one of these. She might not guarantee it, but I will.

Any buyers?

2005-10-25T09:17:00.000-04:00

My blog is worth $7,903.56.
How much is your blog worth?

I've Got a Life

2005-10-23T12:08:00.000-04:00

It appears The Eurythmics have quietly released a new single via iTunes called "I've Got a Life". While this is the first I've heard of it, a quick Google showed that once again arjanwrites was right on top of the news. Their new album, The Ultimate Collection, is a retrospective to feature a second new song ("Was It Just Another Love Affair") and is set to be released in November. The video for "I've Got a Life" is available for viewing here.

The song is mediocre and unfortunately begs to be remixed into souless cheesy gay club anthem obscurity. A pity considering the vocal strength and solid writing Annie Lennox exemplified on her last solo record, Bare.

Politics Test

2005-10-23T00:32:00.000-04:00

You are a
Social Liberal
(76% permissive)

and an...
Economic Liberal
(20% permissive)

You are best described as a:

Socialist

Link: The Politics Test on OkCupid Free Online Dating
Also: The OkCupid Dating Persona Test

Will you be having wine with dinner?

2005-10-20T13:45:00.000-04:00

I guess the cool thing is that I left the apartment yesterday and said, "I will have a job when I come back." I must have really meant it. While it's not my dream Human Resources job, it is something to tide me over for a while.

As far as restaurants go, Liu Pon-Xi seems pretty cool so I really can't complain. And their Grilled Sea Bass, marinated in saikyo miso and sweet soy reduction, is simply outstanding. Check their website at http://www.liuponxi.com/

My name's Matthew and I'll be your server this evening. Tip me well.

4 Sale

2005-10-19T12:28:00.000-04:00

eBay View About Me for spacedog26

I'm selling my Simpsons DVDs on eBay - and maybe a few other goodies as well. Click the link if you're interested.

You've hit Rock Bottom

2005-10-18T11:58:00.000-04:00

I used to wait tables at a brewery in Cincinnati called Rock Bottom. In fact, that's where I met Tori Amos. She wrote my name on her hand and got me tickets to her show the next day, where I had autographed my Hey Jupiter 12" and Past the Mission 7". While working, we cleverly answered the phone, "You've hit Rock Bottom, how can I help you?" As of late, it seems this is the greeting each day brings.

Upon my return from the East Coast, I entered my apartment expecting two angry cats to greet me but was instead met by a disconcerting silence. After a thorough inspection of the place, they were nowhere to be found. I thought perhaps maintenance had paid a visit and allowed them to escape. "The window is still nearly closed so they couldn't have gotten out that way," I thought. Closer inspection revealed the shredded screen, courtesy of one Garfield the Cat. One of my kind neighbors had found, kept, and promptly returned Garfield, but Elijah was nowhere to be found. "Kitty karma," I thought to myself. Elijah was a stray when I found him years ago. He wondered up onto our porch, a tiny little thing with a ratty collar (no tags) and a scratched up face. I took him in and he's been my little guy ever since. I made up some posters, after replacing my printer which decided not to work any more, and posted them around the complex. I got one lead - he'd been hanging out with a black cat by the laundry room - but each time I looked for him, catnip in hand, he wasn't there. Finally, while I was at King's Island with my little brother, I got a call from another kind neighbor who found him ("He answered to his name when I called," she told me) and Andy fetched him for me. So now both cats, surely much wiser for having experienced the outside world, are safe and sound.

The day before my King's Island excursion, my car window had been shattered. Turns out it was a STRAY BULLET that came from gunfire at one of the trashy bars across the street. I filed a police report and had the window fixed - the cost of which didn't meet my deductible so it came out of my pocket (and when I say "pocket" I mean my exponentially increasing credit card debt). Though I played the "what if" game ad nauseum ("What if I'd gone out that night and was just returning?" "What if I'd gone out to the car to get something when the gun fired?"), it again seems if all is safe and sound.

I guess I'm just ready for some *good news*. Hopefully my job interview today will go swimmingly well. That would be good news. Or maybe I'll win the lottery without actually playing. You know I have gotten several e-mails telling me that I've won the Swiss lottery - maybe I should explore one of them.

I've kept my chin up for most of this year, believing good news must be right around the bend, but my chin is starting to sag now and I feel like I'm losing the energy I need to maintain a positive outlook. However, a new friend (actually, I have a bit of a crush on the guy) loaned me a yoga DVD that I think I'm going to try. And I'm also planning on returning to the gym after nearly a year long hiatus. And I'm going to land this job today by hook or by crook. And dammit, things are going to start looking up for me. Rock Bottom, though it has a lovely selection of local brews, won't be hitting me any time soon.

I hope.

King of the Mountain

2005-10-18T11:27:00.000-04:00

The (disappointing) video for Kate Bush's much anticipated new single, King of the Mountain, is available for viewing at her website. I like the song, but the video, perhaps too literal of an interpretation of the song, is rather silly.

Is HIV still a big deal?

2005-10-18T11:11:00.000-04:00

Just took part in a survey that asks frank questions about sexual activity and HIV disclosure. It includes a very well done video that contains a situation I'm sure more than a few gay men have experienced at some point. Click the link if you'd like to participate anonymously.

Template

2005-10-16T13:11:00.000-04:00

This new template isn't working in IE, but shows up fine in Firefox. If anyone has suggestions on how to correct the IE display, kindly let me know.

I certainly haven't been shopping for any new shoes

2005-10-11T14:04:00.000-04:00

Guess who's looking for a new job. Again. Yeah. Actually it's surely for the best. While the company had some good points, the culture was rather odd and I found myself not fitting in. Requests for assistance were generally being met with, "Figure it out for yourself," and suggestions for improvement were met with, "Piss off, we've always done it this way." Not really the environment that was sold to me during the interview, as clearly expressed in the longing expression seen in my eyes on a day when I knew things were not working out the way I wanted them to:

The time off allowed me to visit Rhode Island, of all places, to help out a friend. A brief stop in the Big Apple was a welcomed (though rather costly) distraction.

The city is so amazing, and it reminded me of how badly I want to get out of Ohio. I reflected a great deal on whether or not I could make it in a city as big as NYC (as opposed to my first choice of Chicago). It seems first impressions are key in NYC - whether you're "in" or "out" is determined in the first ten seconds of interaction. When meeting new people, I tend to be a bit more observant and quiet, which may appear to others that 1)I'm disinterested, 2)I'm meek, or 3)I've got nothing to say that's worthy of the conversation or attention of those around me. As I become more comfortable and open up I think folks realize that I'm a pretty cool person, clearly worthy of conversation at least and friendship at best. But I don't think I've have that chance to "prove myself" in a setting that relies so heavily upon first impressions when I present myself the way that I do.

Of course, the fact that I'm even contemplating whether or not I'll "fit in" shows I've still got some work to do on my self confidence. It's hard to adopt an attitude that's less reliant on others' acceptance when I've been seeking such acceptance for nearly my entire life. I just need to redirect my search from approval from others to approval from self.

I know I'll get there - and I also know I'm well on my way. This year has been one of (if not completely) the most challenging of my life, but it's forced me to grow and learn so much that I never would have otherwise. I guess this search for self is just like looking for a job - shaping my self-esteem like a cover letter, building my experiences like a resume, presenting the best first impression that I can...

Now if I could just find out who's hiring.

Changes come

2005-10-07T12:41:00.000-04:00

Once again I fear my lack of consistency in updating this ol' thing has caused me to loose some readers. Fear not, I'm working on updating my template and have I ever got some juicy stories for you.

Not really, but maybe you'll check back sometime anyway huh?

Who's that Spartan in my teepee? (It's me, it's me)

2005-09-25T12:31:00.000-04:00

Brad told me that there's an online version of the magazine with the ad in which I appeared (RIS Media Real Estate). I'm so geeked over this. Check it, I'm on the left in the suit:

Vote for this site at Freedom Forum

I'm a fan of Liberace, too

2005-09-18T04:05:00.000-04:00

4:05 am on a Saturday night/Sunday morning, and I'm completely sober...unless you count that allergy pill I just took. I had plans to go to the disco tonight - got my hair cut and felt particularly fetching in my red Brooklyn shirt. I took a nap, though, and slept right through my alarm. Just as well, I really didn't need to spend the money.

New job is going well, but keeping me quite busy. Odd how I'm more broke now getting a paycheck than I was while unemployed. Of course that 20% off sale at Half Price Books today didn't help matters.

So the ad that I was in has been published - the magazine is called RIS Media Real Estate and I'm in the September edition. I called bookstores today and couldn't find anyone who carries it, so I'm not really sure where to get copies. If anyone can help, I'd be much obliged indeed.

Benedryl is telling me that it's time to dream. Until next time...

Vote for this site at Freedom Forum

A Picture Share!

2005-09-02T19:59:00.000-04:00

Over the Rhine's line

The band was a little somber, the venue was terribly hot. While still a solid performance, I'm sorry to say they've had better shows here.

My small screen debut

2005-08-31T22:07:00.000-04:00

Directed by Ben, Surprise Party is now available for viewing on Google Video. Click here to watch. Since the Papparazzi have finally left me alone (click, click, click, flash, flash), I will be available to sign autographs on Tuesdays and alternate Thursdays. Enjoy.

Vote for this site at Freedom Forum

Judy Garland's Famed Ruby Slippers Stolen

2005-08-31T20:02:00.000-04:00

This just in:

GRAND RAPIDS, Minn. (Aug. 29) - A pair of ruby slippers worn by Judy Garland in "The Wizard of Oz" and insured for $1 million is missing from a Grand Rapids museum.

Police Chief Leigh Serfling said the slippers were stolen late Saturday or early Sunday. Someone entered the museum through a window and broke into the small display case holding the slippers.

"There's not a whole lot of evidence," Serfling said. "We're hoping that someone in the community has seen something."

Children's Discovery Museum director John Kelsch said the slippers belong to a Los Angeles man who loaned them to the museum for several weeks this summer.

The children's museum houses the Judy Garland museum, which displayed the same pair of slippers last year. Garland was born in Grand Rapids in 1922.

"The slippers are a major attraction at our museum," Kelsch said in a news release Monday. "It is our hope that the slippers can be recovered immediately."

Four pairs of ruby slippers worn by Garland in the movie are known to exist, including one pair on display at the Smithsonian Institution. Another pair sold at Christie's auction house in 2000 for $666,000.

I do wonder what kind of criminal would be daring enough to steal ruby slippers. Well, besides Winona Ryder and her "sticky fingers" of course. Maybe she's making some kind of Oz sequel in her head, and wanted to really "become" the character. Don't get me wrong, I'm a big Winona fan. She's by far my favorite Strangers with Candy guest star. And in fact, for months after her shameful escapade my car proudly carried a home made "FREE WINONA" sticker for all to see. I may have to resurrect it if she's indeed up to her old tricks again.

Vote for this site at Freedom Forum

How You Can Help The Victims Of Hurricane Katrina

2005-08-31T19:09:00.000-04:00

I didn't realize how bad things were until watching the news this evening. Charity Navigator - How You Can Help The Victims Of Hurricane Katrina

Vote for this site at Freedom Forum

But honey, I'm rich - on personality

2005-08-30T20:08:00.000-04:00

After the Over the Rhine show on Saturday, I went to a little bar in Cincinnati of which I've grown quite fond called Jacob's. I went in originally because I knew they had a computer with internet access and wanted to see if my friend Vinnie's band, Le Techno Puss13s, was playing the same night. As I opened the door I saw a sign that said "All Prince: The Purple Rain Party" with his majesty's symbol adorning the windows.

I about peed my pants.

Raspberry Beret, Baby I'm A Star, Darling Nikki, Strange Relationship, U Got the Look, Controversy, The Bangles, Sheila E, Vanity 6.

I spent the entire time I was there reveling in the Prince music that was blasting from the speakers, invading my loins, and making me shake my groove thing like it's never been shaken before. I danced through the smoke and the purple streamers that were hanging from the ceiling. I made goofy faces at the people standing on the sides of the dance floor. I kept thinking, "I should check the bar across the street to see what's going on there." Then another song would come on and I'd realize what an absurd thought I'd just had.

Clearly this is my new favorite bar in Cincinnati, thanks to this aMAZing night. Check it out the next time you drive through. You never know - maybe they'll be having an all night Madonna party (as they did on her birthday - HELLO, Columbus, Ohio bars - get with it). Or maybe they'll throw some Janet Jackson your way. And when Janet Jackson comes your way, you know a good time is not too far behind. Besides, the owner is a really sweet guy. And pretty damn hot too.

Vote for this site at Freedom Forum

Unbelievable

2005-08-30T20:04:00.000-04:00

From the article, It's Time to Mess with Texas by Richard S. Ferri, PhD, ANP, ACRN, AAHIS, FAAN.

Apparently, the state of Texas will be producing health education books and curricula that simply state abstinence is the only way to avoid HIV. Not only will information about safer sex not make it to the printed page, these students will be told any other form of birth control is just as risky as unprotected sex.

Thirty years into an infectious disease pandemic that has killed tens of thousands of people, why are we still having this debate? If the Texas Board of Education produced a geography text book that stated the world was flat, there would be an outcry. I find this situation amazing and sad.

This is well beyond sad. This is well beyond an injustice. This is lunacy. This is Nazi Germany. This is the state of our country under our current administration. Can they do this? I need to find out more before my head pops off.

Vote for this site at Freedom Forum

Workin', workin' day & night

2005-08-30T08:11:00.000-04:00

First week of work was a doozy. Thinking about quitting the Cirque job - an extra $50/week hardly seems worth the agony of being on my feet, sucking up to people, bussing, cleaning, washing dishes and being denied smoke breaks after an eight hour day. Although I'm glad I've done it thus far...some of the people are pretty cool. And I'm totally crushed out over a guy there (le sigh). We've hung out a couple times and I can't quite tell just exactly how interested he is in me. But even if nothing comes of it, at least I've made a new friend. However, the work really does suck and I really am thinking of quitting. Especially with classes coming up - assuming I can take them. Financial Aid isn't too happy with me right now, and I may have to come up with a Plan B in order to graduate in December as I'd orginally anticipated. Bloodsuckers.

Vote for this site at Freedom Forum

Equality Ohio - Volunteers Needed

2005-08-29T20:54:00.000-04:00

On Saturday, October 1st, Equality Ohio is hosting a "Homecoming for Equality" on the Statehouse Lawn in Columbus, Ohio. "Homecoming" will bring people from across Ohio to the Statehouse for a rally that will begin at 3:30pm and feature a diverse group of speakers from around the state. The rally’s speakers will honor the past equality work of Ohioans, will address the current situation in the Buckeye State, and will look to the future. At the rally, we will send a message to those in state government and those across Ohio about what LGBT Ohioans and our allies seek from our elected legislators. We expect over 1,00 people to join us. (visit www.equalityohio.org/homecoming for more information).

Volunteer opportunites exist for:

a.) Crowd Management
b.) Voter Registration
c.) Tabling to do sign-ups for people who are willing/interested in telling their stories
d.) Handing out the take-away bags
e.) Registering new members/people on the action center
f.) Anything else that becomes apparent that must be done.

If you can help, please respond with the following information:
Full Name
Email Address
Phone Number (best # to use)
Preferred Task (please refer to the above)

Send your response to Lynne at Lynne@equalityohio.org.

Vote for this site at Freedom Forum

A Picture Share!

2005-08-27T19:13:00.000-04:00

Over the Rhine

Vote for this site at Freedom Forum

Right 'round, baby, right 'round

2005-08-18T12:34:00.000-04:00

Got a needle for my turntable on Tuesday (just after a lovely lunch with Neil and just prior to an evening of full on debauchery with the same). It had been broken for...oh, four years or so? Talk about procrastination. Well, I just hooked it up and I'm listening for the first time to records that I've purchased since then. I'm quite happy. The cats are certainly intrigued by the new spinning toy that they think I've repaired for them. Must be sure to keep their furry little paws away from it - they already have a knack for coating the rest of the apartment with little yellow hairs (you should see my curtains - bleaugh). But at least the three of us can dance around to Wham or Tina Turner or obscure Hedwig & the Angry Inch remixes. Indeed, these are good times.

Vote for this site at Freedom Forum

Happy birthday, Mrs. Ritchie

2005-08-16T09:00:00.000-04:00

This has always been my favorite picture of her.

Vote for this site at Freedom Forum

Turning the page

2005-08-12T16:10:00.000-04:00

E-mail to my references:

Kind folks -
Just an update to let you know that I'm about to begin the next step in my career. I've accepted an offer from Xx, and I couldn't have done it without the kind references that you each provided. The position is an HR Generalist role to support 700-1000 employees (but no recruiting - woo hoo). It will be paying a bit more than my last position and the HR Director seems very pro-education, employee-oriented, and flexible (all things I love in a supervisor as you all know). I'm hopeful and confident that I've made the right decision (I passed up an offer from Limited Brands to accept with Xx), and I'm excited to finally be back in the workforce.
Thanks again to you all - I owe you.
Warm regards,
Matthew

I've also contacted Adecco to let them know my scheduling conflict has been eliminated. Not sure if they can take me back, but if they do be sure to say hi if you happen to be in the Cirque du Soleil VIP tent.

Vote for this site at Freedom Forum

Top five

2005-08-12T14:20:00.000-04:00

I must admit - it tickles me when my profile is rated in the Top 5 on OIC.

Vote for this site at Freedom Forum

We've gone andromeda

2005-08-10T13:28:00.000-04:00

Saw that my blog has been listed as "outstanding" at http://www.nosolomusica.org/enlaces.htm

The babelfish translation reads:
"Newspaper in English of Matthew, a likeable and handsome boy Capricorn of Ohio, the United States. It really can surprise the firecracker that gets to be this boy, enchants to us!"

Dios mio! Muchas gracias!!

Vote for this site at Freedom Forum

Before & After

2005-08-10T13:13:00.000-04:00

I finally organized my cd collection. Now to tackle the rest of my apartment.

I'm not a businessman, but I play one on TV

2005-08-09T12:26:00.000-04:00

In addition to my appearance in Ben's smashing directorial debut, Surprise Party, in which I played a snappy businessman, I recently participated in an advertisement for a real estate company headquartered here in town. My friend Brad phoned and said that he and his company had come up with an ad concept for a real estate magazine with a distribution of about 500,000. I joked and said, "as long as you're not using me for the 'before' picture, I'm up for it." He needed someone to dress as a businessman, and since he'd seen me in a suit (bless that damn suit) he thought I'd be good for it. I'll be scanning it and posting it when I get my copy.

Funny how easily I can seemingly portray a businessman without actually being one.

Vote for this site at Freedom Forum

Pretty good day, so far

2005-08-09T11:44:00.000-04:00

Up: I interviewed with Limited Brands last week for a position in their HR Direct department, a call center environment supporting all of their employees nationwide. They extended an offer today and I tentatively accepted. It'll be a little bit more money than I made in my last position (remember February?), and I'm hopeful that it will be a good stepping stone for greater opportunities within the company. Plus it comes with a 40% discount after 90 days (just in time for the holidays; guess what you're getting everyone), and we all know how much I love Express for Men.

Down: Last week I also interviewed with a temporary agency downtown for an HR position at a local nursing home. During the interview, we talked about my previous experience with temp agencies, and I started pondering why I hadn't contacted the one I worked for back in 2000. After the interview, I decided on a whim to stop in and drop off my resume at the other temp agency. Feeling quite dapper in my suit, I walked in and the two office reps there took immediate interest (score). We chatted a bit about how I had worked there before. They told me they didn't have anything full time at the moment, but that they were recruiting for part-time positions for Cirque du Soleil's Varakei while it's in town. While completely illegal to say, the rep told me, "You would be perfect as one of our servers in the VIP room. You've really got the look for it - we really need people like you." I couldn't help but beam. I checked it out and when I interviewed for the position (again in my smart suit) the Cirque rep told me, "You're the only person I've seen today who looks like he wants to work VIP." They told me I landed the VIP position the next day. Unfortunately, I won't be able to take it if working for Limited since the shifts would overlap. While only a part time gig, it would have been a helluva lot better than being a Subway Sandwich Artist. When I told them of my full time offer today, I explained that I had to take the opportunity for both my career and my pocketbook. I asked them to keep me in mind if something should change and they would allow weekend only shifts.

Up: I received the following e-mail from one of my teachers about an hour ago:

It was a pleasure to have you in class this past semester. As you may be aware I work for the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services.
From time to time we have opportunities in our human resources office.
Given your writing skills, communication style and energy I would like to put you in touch with our HR Director.

Wow. I immediately responded with multitudinous thanks and forwarded my resume. A State job? Yes, please.

Finally, it looks like things are looking up. Here's hoping it continues.

Vote for this site at Freedom Forum

Tori Amos to Release Live Bootleg Series

2005-08-09T02:00:00.000-04:00

This is indeed good news - happy to see my front-row-show is the first to be released.
Tori Amos

Starlight, starbright

2005-08-05T21:44:00.000-04:00

When I first started re-introducing myself to the "scene" here in glorious Columbus, Ohio - I remember walking into Havana one night and seeing a gentleman at the end of the bar. Tattooed and very well lit, he sat chatting with several other people. His eyes twinkled. He threw his head back when he laughed. I walked by to go to the restroom and heard him speaking with an English accent. Instantly, I dubbed him the hottest man in Columbus, and continued on my restroom trek - fanning myself the whole way.

As my social network grew, I came to find that the gentleman's name was Anthony (pronounced, "Antony"), and had the pleasure of getting to know him a bit at several after hours parties. An engaging conversationalist and fashion aficionado, he quickly earned my respect. In fact I once made a mix cd for him, but never gave it to him. We'd really only briefly talked about music, and I feared that he would think me some sort of loon. As the social network evolved, I didn't have the chance to really talk with him much again, but always looked forward to his polite greetings at random discos.

His memorial service was today. At only thirty years old, my understanding is that he had several heart attacks in a row on Sunday and died shortly after. Lucky Star was playing when I walked in.

Life is short. Treasure it. Make mix cds and give them to random bar buddies that you admire. You'll be happy that you did.

Vote for this site at Freedom Forum

Another broken promise to myself

2005-07-24T22:57:00.000-04:00

Minding the Store

The remote control made me do it. And I confess...I giggled.

Take Action: Reject Bush's Supreme Court Nominee

2005-07-21T16:44:00.000-04:00

Take Action: Reject Bush's Supreme Court Nominee

When your bad isn't good enough

2005-07-18T08:05:00.000-04:00

The whole family came up yesterday - Mom, Dad, Brother, Grandmother. I'd planned on having my disheveled apartment immaculately clean and smelling daisy (or pansy, more likely) fresh by the time they would have arrived at 4:00. I even planned on having a small tray of yummy french onion dip and pumpernickel bread waiting for them - the ingredients for which I was picking up at the grocery when my voice mail light came on at 3:00. "Hi, Matt," said my mother, who will never call me "Matthew", "we're at your apartment but you aren't here...give us a call." I dialed, "Hey! I um...thought we said 4:00 yesterday?" "Oh, didn't you get my voicemail this afternoon when we left?" "Um, no, but that's okay, I'm on my way back from the Grocery now - about two seconds away - it's just - well I only got about half the cleaning done, so - just keep that in mind."

I pulled in, greeted everyone and started grabbing grocery bags from the trunk - my father and brother helped. We walked in and I began madly throwing everything into the fridge. In my rush I even caught myself putting cleaning supplies in there. I then tried to finish cleaning - or at least to clear surfaces. My coffee table was a mess - I hadn't had time to windex it, leaving it covered with sticky and crumbs. Gross.

Grandmother, who'd never visited one of my apartments in the past six years (that whole boyfriend thing would've freaked her out), was preoccupied with the cats, while Mom & Dad were telling me not to worry about cleaning. I, on the other hand, was quite worried about cleaning. Grabbing bottles of pills (all prescription, unfortunately) and throwing them into the closet, running into my bedroom and throwing stacks of papers and books under my desk, quickly hiding the bottle of lube, making sure the computer was turned *off* so my brother wouldn't stumble upon gigs of (really hot) gay porn, throwing socks into the closet, and so on. Finally things were halfway decent. I offered my father a beer, and sat down with everyone to chat.

Which we did for a good while, occasionally distracted by cute kitty shenanigans. I offered a couple suggestions on where to eat, trying to think of places that were specific to Columbus - Barcelona, Schmidt's...

I decided to take them to Buca di Beppo for the kitsch-y decor and staggering amounts of garlic in the food (mmm, garlic). Not necessarily Columbus, but they enjoyed it nevertheless.

I love my brother - more than anything really. Watching him grow from infancy to his now hulking 14 year old frame (he wears shoes a size larger than I) has been enjoyable and astounding. While we're still extremely close, I sometimes wish that I had been around a bit more. I was somewhat estranged from everyone when I first moved to Columbus because Dad & Mom were so very against my being gay.

But the funny thing is how opposite we really are. I was usually quite mature for my age when growing up - at least when it came to certain social graces. My brother on the other hand, has quite a bit of learning to do. Granted, he's only 14, and 14 is a very awkward age to begin with.

After opening the straw for his Mountain Dew, he somehow managed to land the plastic wrapping right into my mother's glass of wine. "My bad," he said.

I have *always* hated the phrase "my bad". It started surfacing when I was in high school, and I found it to be the most absurd and infuriating avoidance of actual apology. If you wrong somebody, apologize for it. "My bad" does nothing of the sort.

My brother did something similar a bit later which elicited the same half-assed apology of "my bad" and I leaned over to whisper, "Sometimes your bad isn't good enough." I thought I'd been quiet enough that only he heard me, but my father bellowed a "listen to your big brother, Chris." I hadn't meant to draw any more attention to his actions but I continued to lecture a bit, "You know you're going into 9th grade now..."

I don't want to alienate him by being the preachy big brother - I certainly hate it when anyone preaches to me. I know he's still a kid and everything...and I know I shouldn't compare him to myself at that age, but I guess I just want him to raise his standards a bit. I'm sure that will come in time.

My brother and I have a now long standing tradition of going to King's Island each summer, and I'm afraid my unemployed status might prevent us from going this year. Hopefully soon I'll land a job - I had a 2nd interview recently and a retail company contacted me about and assistant manager position.

My fingers are crossed.

The rest of dinner was great, and as we said our goodbyes I winked at my brother, offering my own half-assed apology for putting him on the spot during our meal.

Guess I still have some growing up to do, too.

Vote for this site at Freedom Forum

Abercrombie & Fitch

2005-07-13T14:16:00.000-04:00

Information for Claiming Monetary Relief Under Abercrombie & Fitch Consent Decree

Came across this while researching a paper for class.

If you are a woman, African American, Asian American, or Hispanic who: 1) applied for employment or management (or attempted to do so and were discouraged), or 2) were employed at an Abercrombie & Fitch store (including Abercrombie kids and Hollister Stores) at any time between February 24, 1999, and November 16, 2004, YOU MAY HAVE A CLAIM.

Skrimp

2005-07-09T11:52:00.000-04:00

Found this on myspace and have been posting it like a rabid donkey. And it keeps getting funnier, every single time I look at it. I want to meet this girl. Fo rilllll.

Vote for this site at Freedom Forum

How come you don't call me anymore

2005-07-08T04:43:00.000-04:00

It's amazing how one song can open a floodgate of memories.

You know, the first 12" single I ever got was actually Janet Jackson's Alright. I was so happy to find remixes of the song; the whole concept was amazing to me. Remember 12" singles? They still have them, in case you're curious. Anyway, very very closely following that purchase I remember buying two Prince 12" singles - When Doves Cry (b/w 17 Days) and Raspberry Beret (b/w She's Always In My Hair). [Side note - Madonna's Vogue 12" was purchased at the same time as the Prince singles.] I even remember the store where I bought them - a little record place in College Hill that was across the street from the LaRosa's where I held my very first job - I was a pizza cook.

This trip down memory lane is brought to you courtesy of Prince - The Hits - The B Sides. I've been missing a needle on my turntable for quite some time now, and I haven't heard the afore mentioned b-sides in *years*, but I sho' nuff listened to them tonight thanks to the modern wonders of compact discs.

I ran into two old friends tonight. First was Keith, who I waited tables with at Tapatio. Now defunct, the restaurant served mainly Mediterranean cuisine - good stuff. Keith was adept at assigning nick-names to his co-workers. At first, I was Tardy Tammy. Then one day Keith asked me, "Are you Jewish?"

"No, not as far as I know. I'm adopted."

"Well, you look Jewish. Yeah, you're Jewish. I'm going to call you Jewdy from now on."

The name stuck. For years after I quit, any time I walked into Tapatio folks that worked there screamed, "It's Jewdy!!!" I swear it was like a terrible episode of Cheers or something. But I did get a drink named after me - the Bluedy Jewdy.

That's hot. I don't care what anyone says.

It was good catching up with Keith - we exchanged numbers, and hopefully I'll get to hang with him sometime soon.

I later met Ashley, who I worked with at TEAM America. I was pretty krunked by the time I saw her...but we giggled a lot which equals good times for me. She got me a fantastic Bloody Mary from the tapas bar she now manages. Yum.

And by the way, I think "Strange Relationship" is my new favorite Prince song. I don't know how I survived this long without it. I've always passed up Sign o the Times because it's *still* relatively expensive for a double album...but trust me - it's worth picking up.

For now though, that Sexy MF is crooning Power Fantastic, and I'm off to dream.

Vote for this site at Freedom Forum

No war, no more lies

2005-07-06T16:27:00.000-04:00

Got the following e-mail from the Kim Taylor mailing list today - she's got a couple new mp3s on her website at http://www.kim-taylor.net/mp3free.html. Kim is a primarily local singer/songwriter from Cincinnati - she's toured with and opened for Over the Rhine on several occasions - often quite mellow, her music is folk/blues/pop and generally just damn fine.
If you visit the download page, check out "No War" to get a good idea of her sound.

Hi hi hi . . . hello all . . .

I'm sweeping by and through to let you know that I've got a dandy little gig at the Southgate house on July 15. So please do come and cheer. Wave your flag. Cell phone. Lighter. Glow stick. whatever. Come dammit!

And I'll be starting the new full length record this fall with a tentative release set for Spring of 2006 (!). Boy that's far. So for now, I'm continuing to post mp3's of new songs that are getting their little selves recorded at various shows. A big thanks to Shawn Fenton for the recent recordings. You can check out the mp3's at
www.kim-taylor.net/mp3free.html

I hope you're well. That your summer is full of good barbeque. And iced coffees. Lots of iced coffees. Especially ones from the Pleasant Perk in Pleasant Ridge. ;)

Cheers and all good things thrown you general direction. See you on the 15th . . .

kT

www.kim-taylor.net

Vote for this site at Freedom Forum

I could buy you and sell you

2005-07-06T12:43:00.000-04:00

I just found a new time waster - this may even replace myspace...for a minute.

It's called Blogshares.com and it's a virtual "stock market" used to publicly trade blog ownership. Some blog shares are way out of my buying grasp (as to be expected with such high quality material), so I figured it best to start small with buying a few shares of my own blog.

I must say I felt quite violated finding out that I'm being publicly traded...but even more violated that I'm only worth B$29.62 a share! C'mon, guys - this ain't no cheap meat you're lookin' at here...

Vote for this site at Freedom Forum

Drinkin' in my Sunday dress

2005-07-05T11:06:00.000-04:00

Your Capricorn Drinking Style

Capricorns are usually described as practical, steadfast, money-hungry and status-thirsty -- no wonder you get left off the astrological cocktail-party list.
But this is the sign of David Bowie and Annie Lennox, not to mention Elvis.
You are the true rock star.

Independent, powerful and seriously charismatic, you're not too eager to please.
And if you make money being yourself, who is anyone to quibble?
But just like most rock stars, you're either totally on or totally off...
And you generally need a little social lubricant to loosen up and enjoy the after party, especially if you can hook up with a cute groupie.

Your Signature Cocktails

Old-fashioned Capricorns like an old-fashioned just fine or a dry martini, or a gin and tonic, or a gimlet -- or any other no-nonsense quaff. You prefer drinks that taste like alcohol and generally hate drinks with more than three ingredients. However, you like the flavor of cranberry and will order a cosmo if you can handle the wait for it to get mixed.

Your Celebrity Drinking Buddies

Orlando Bloom, Kate Moss, Jude Law. Marilyn Manson, Dolly Parton, Howard Stern, and Kirstie Alley.

What's Your Alcohoroscope?

Vote for this site at Freedom Forum

Murphy's Law #26

2005-07-05T07:18:00.000-04:00

If you're on a morning walk without an umbrella, and it looks like it might rain, it will. Hard.

Vote for this site at Freedom Forum

Survey says

2005-07-03T17:59:00.000-04:00

Vote for this site at Freedom Forum

The Axis

2005-07-01T18:19:00.000-04:00

AJ and "Irish" Mike inside the Axis.

Neil, me and AJ on the patio at the Axis. I'm lookin a liiiiitle krunked. Good times, indeed.

Vote for this site at Freedom Forum

MW cont'd

2005-07-01T18:10:00.000-04:00

Me and the lovely, sweaty Martha Wainwright after her set. She worried about her sweaty shirt - I told her not to worry about it, "it's hot." If she was annoyed with how many cds I brought for her to sign, she didn't show it. In fact, she seemed impressed that I brought the McGarrigle Hour cd (from which she performed "Year of the Dragon" during her solo segment). Check how much grey you can see in my pompadour - yikes!

Vote for this site at Freedom Forum

MW

2005-07-01T18:04:00.000-04:00

Me & Dana at the Martha Wainwright show.

Vote for this site at Freedom Forum

Egos like hairdos

2005-06-29T12:11:00.000-04:00

Taken today from my phone. Sunny days make my lips curl and my eyes squint.

Vote for this site at Freedom Forum

Who knew?

2005-06-28T08:26:00.000-04:00

Yesterday I decided to start taking morning walks. Today I altered my return route slightly and wondered around my apartment complex for a bit - much to my surprise I found that this complex has a swimming pool, sand volleyball court (although not kept up very well), tennis courts, and a pretty good sized lake. There are multiple buildings here and oddly enough I had never bothered to explore anything behind my own. I even found another laundry room - which makes sense as I never understood how a place with hundreds of units like this could get away with having just six washers and dryers.

This is totally killer. I decided tomorrow I'm going to take some bread with me on my walk to feed the geese and ducks.

Vote for this site at Freedom Forum

Sugar is sweeter

2005-06-28T06:33:00.000-04:00

Can't someone just find me one of these?

There really is a first time for everything -

2005-06-26T23:35:00.000-04:00

- including letting your dear friend shave your head while you are both semi-drunk/mostly hungover/crazed with sleep deprivation at about 9:00 a.m.

"Don't be a slave to your hair," he said.

"Okay," I said.

And with a quick buzz-buzz, my apparently once trademark pompadour is a pomp-no-more (couldn't resist that one).

No regrets, except that we should've finished the entire bottle of red first. Maybe next I'll go for the trendy FauxHawk,

or even start using a part...

But then I'd just become a slave to my hair again, and the whole point of my drunken shenanigans would be void.

Vote for this site at Freedom Forum

Fire, walk with me

2005-06-21T04:46:00.000-04:00

Why did I decide it would be a good idea to watch the first season of Twin Peaks at 4:00 in the morning? God, I forgot how much that creepy guy (Bob?) gives me the chills. Soooo creeeeeeepy.

Vote for this site at Freedom Forum

Not guilty

2005-06-13T17:24:00.000-04:00

Hope

2005-06-10T14:16:00.000-04:00

Andy played this for me once.

you want to go out friday
and you want to go forever
you know that it sounds childish
that you've dreamt of alligators.
you hope that we are with you
and you hope you're recognized
you want to go forever
you see it in my eyes.
I'm lost in the confusion
and it doesn't really matter
you really can't believe it
and you hope it's getting better

you want to trust the doctors
their procedure is the best
but the last try was a failure
and the intern was a mess.
and they did the same to Matthew
and he bled 'til sunday night
they're saying don't be frightened
but you're weakened by the sight of it
you lock into a pattern
and you know that it's the last ditch
you're trying to see through it
and it doesn't make sense
but they're saying don't be frightened
and they're killing alligators
and they're hog-tied
and accepting of the struggle

you want to trust religion
and you know it's allegory
but the people who are followers
have written their own story.
so you look up to the heavens
and you hope that it's a spaceship
and it's something from your childhood
you're thinking don't be frightened

you want to climb the ladder
you want to see forever
you want to go out friday
and you want to go forever
and you want to cross your dna
to cross your dna with something reptile.
and you're questioning the sciences
and questioning religion
you're looking like an idiot
and you no longer care.
and you want to bridge the schism,
a built-in mechanism to protect you.
and you're looking for salvation
and you're looking for deliverance
you're looking like an idiot
and you no longer care.
you want to climb the ladder
you want to see forever.
you want to go out friday
you want to go forever.

This really hits home for me. For too many reasons to list at 2pm.

Juice is better

2005-06-08T17:01:00.000-04:00

There's a Gilda Radner skit on her old live album where her character Lisa Loopner sings "The Way We Were" from the movie of the same name. She becomes an emotional wreck in the middle of the song and talks about how she saw the film (and she "calls it a 'film' not a 'movie'") five times, but cried six times because she knew the movie so well after the fourth time that she cried on the way to see it the fifth time.

Well, you can start calling me Lisa. For some reason I decided to force myself through Steel Magnolias on Sunday. I usually skip the Julia Roberts/Halloween scene (you know the one) because I can't handle it. And I really do start crying before the Sally Field scene (you KNOW the one) because I know it's coming up...and "hit Ouizer" still makes me laugh through tears every time. I know how much of a big fag I sound like - but nobody can deny the performances in this movie are outstanding.

Regardless of my sapiness, one man in Columbus makes me laugh about all of it. Occassionally when I wear my pompodour, my hair is...well...poofy. So when I explain it to people I adopt my best Steel Magnolias accent a la Daryl Hannah and proclaim, "it's a little bit poofier than I would normally do..."

Out drinking one night I said this and Taffy's friend starts screaming "Shelby! Shelby drink your juice!" I laughed REALLY hard and tried to reply, "I have some hard candy." "No!" he snapped, "Juice is better, juice is better!" Now when he sees me he reminds me that "juice is better" and I continue to laugh every single time.

Yeah.

There is a Network Columbus meeting tonight but I can't go because I have class.

P.S. Today is my 3rd day without a cigarette.

Vote for this site at Freedom Forum

She's so pretty

2005-06-07T11:19:00.000-04:00

Martha Wainwright - Indianapolis, IN 06/03/05

2005-06-05T08:25:00.000-04:00

[Edited 07/05/05]

Martha Wainwright - Indianapolis, IN 06/03/05 - I snagged this handwritten set list after her show.

The solo set included:

Who Was I Kidding
Bring Back My Heart
Tower of Song

She listed "You've Got A Way" on here, but I don't think that she actually performed it (I was writing the songs down as she went on a now well worn napkin). I may have gone to the bathroom and forgotten to write it down, though.

Before she played "When the Day is Short" she mentioned that she's trying to get some radio play with it and hopes it's the single that brings her a bit more to the forefront. She talked a bit about being in Indy and racing cars - I guess there was some kind of race coming up (not the Indy 500 though). Not being from Indy, I had even less of an idea than she did about it all.

After the show, she said she'd be out to sign autographs - of course I sprinted to the merch table to wait for her. There were a couple folks in front of me when she came out, and she asked us what we thought of the show. She seemed a little unsure, I guess she couldn't hear very well from the stage. She was ready to sign some autographs - there were maybe 15 people waiting and nobody had a Sharpie...nobody except for yours truly. "I have one!" I piped up (yeah, I learned a long time ago to come prepared to these things). Because I was the only one with a Sharpie I kind of bumped myself to the front of the line.

I brought several things for her to sign - the cover from the indie Factory EP, the cover from the Bloody Mother Fucking Asshole EP, the cover from her new album, and the McGarrigle Hour digipak. I apologized for bringing so much, but I told her that I didn't think I'd get to see her in such an intimate setting for long. She seemed flattered and was quite gracious by signing everything. I told her I'd driven in from Ohio to see her, and she mentioned that they were playing Cleveland and was sorry I'd driven so long - I told her it was about the same drive time and I was happy to do it.

When she was done signing my stuff, I asked if I could get a picture with her and she graciously obliged.

It really was an excellent set - here's hoping she makes it to Columbus sometime soon.

A friendly reminder

2005-05-26T15:03:00.000-04:00

JoeStump pointed out this quotation from a recent speech given by our fearless leader, President Moron:

I'll probably say it three more times. See, in my line of work you got to keep repeating things over and over and over again for the truth to sink in, to kind of catapult the propaganda. (Applause.)

Just didn't want anyone to forget about the kind of thoughts that are scuttling through the hallways of our savvy president's crowded little head...

Vote for this site at Freedom Forum

Matthew recommends...Feist

2005-05-25T10:12:00.000-04:00

So there's this Paste Magazine thing out there. It's an excellent folkie/indie kinda mag that I discovered about a year ago, focusing on music, movies, books, & culture. They did a six page write up on Over the Rhine which had thus far been pretty much unheard of for a national publication, so I was immediately hooked. They have another website, Paste Music, where much music and merch can be found (including OtR's latest, Drunkard's Prayer).

I find the articles and reviews to be very well thought out and written. Based on their recommendations and sample cds (included with every issue - you also get a DVD with a paid subscription), I've picked up a few new albums that I might have otherwise overlooked. The new Marianne Faithful was one - great album by the way; much of it co-written by Polly Jean Harvey and Nick Cave. Their musical and lyrical style is abundent throughout the album, but you can tell these are songs that are really for Marianne Faithful to perform.

Well, yesterday I picked up a copy of Let it Die by Feist based on a blurb I read in their most recent issue. The cd was only $10 at Best Buy and is just more and more astounding with each listen. Apparently she's already been nominated for (and I think she's won) a couple Juno awards, and from what it sounds like she's really picking up steam.

The Amazon.com reviews are glowing, and the ones I read are pretty damn accurate. The album is jazz tinged in places (comparisons to Sade aren't far off track), and delightfully warm and sparse in others. It focuses on her voice, reminicent of Dusty Springfield, but her songwriting skills are also solid and quite humbling. The title track states:

The saddest part of a broken heart
Isn't the ending so much as the start
The tragedy starts from the very first spark
Losing your mind for the sake of your heart

I stopped what I was doing when I heard that. And that's kind of what the album does - deliciously demands complete attention (and perhaps a glass of red wine).

This is good music. Check her out.

By the way, thanks to Andy I also purchased my first Kylie Minogue cd - I think Sweet Music is my new favorite song.

Vote for this site at Freedom Forum

After the money's gone

2005-05-22T10:23:00.000-04:00

Birthday mix for Ryan:

Free – Cat Power
Filthy Gorgeous (Superbuddha Remix) – Scissor Sisters
Is You Is Or Is You Ain’t My Baby? (Rae & Christian Remix) – Dinah Washington
High on Life – Rasputina
Plash – Takako Minekawa
Ivanka – Imperial Teen
Walk the Line – Dani Siciliano
How Long Have You Been Stoned – Over the Rhine
Sledgehammer – Peter Gabriel
Pocketbook – MeShell Ndegeocello
Betty Bowers Answers
Addicted to Love – Robert Palmer
Drinking in LA – Bran Van 3000
You Rock My World – Michael Jackson
Trailer Music – Pizzicato Five
Runaway – Nuyorican Soul
Hey Now – Leslie Gore
Once In A Lifetime – Talking Heads
Vicki Waiting – Prince
Can’t Fuck With Queen Bee – Lil’ Kim

Vote for this site at Freedom Forum

From factory to factory

2005-05-20T15:11:00.000-04:00

It looks like the divine Martha Wainwright is touring this summer, so I have some decision making to do:

Tuesday 05/31/05 - Chicago
Friday 06/03/05 - Indianapolis
Monday 06/06/05 - Pittsburgh
Tuesday 06/07/05 - Cleveland

While Chicago is obviously my first choice, Indy would probably be the most realistic since it's on a Friday. I must call Dana to see if he can put me up for the night. I might have to skip out on it though - I think two very dear friends named Steven and Rachel might be in town that weekend? I would hate to miss their visit.

Also, I think festival season is gearing up and there are quite a few that I don't want to miss - namely the Arts Festival and the Latino Festival. They're my two favorites. Well, those and ComFest. And the Jazz & Rib fest. And the Italian fest. And the Asian fest.

Hrm. I never realized I was such a sucker for festivals.

Indeed.

If I do end up going to Indy to see Martha Wainwright, believe me when I say I will do everything in my power to ensure that there are no repeat occurrences of the incidents that...occurred the last time I ventured to Indy. I know it's hard to imagine, but the clink was actually *not* my favorite place to spend the night. Very not.

If you haven't yet checked it out, I do recommend picking up Martha Wainwright's proper debut album. The lyrics are good, the music is fine...but that voice of hers is like butter. Butter, I tell you! Butter! A festival of butter!

Vote for this site at Freedom Forum

My close up now

2005-05-19T09:05:00.000-04:00

So yesterday morning I got to flex my flabby acting muscle for a brief moment. Ben, one of the cutest straight boys in Columbus, was shooting a five minute movie for a film class he's taking, and I got to play the part of Alex, an angry business man.

I kept thinking about Romy & Michelle. "Hi, we're business women. Do you have any business women lunch specials?"

The direction I got: "Um...could you be a little more angry?" I giggled.

The film culminated in party scene with all the characters dancing to David Bowie's Magic Dance. That's hot.

This was actually my second venture in front of the camera. In high school I had a small part in my cousin's public service film, "The Rules are the Tools". I was supposed to sexually harass a girl.

The direction I got: "Um, could you be a little more menacing?"

I wonder why I get picked for the angry, menacing roles? Perhaps because of my angry menacing eyebrows.

And speaking of films:

1) Total number of films I own on DVD/video:
My database software says 201 including television show box sets, but not VHS movies.

2) The last film I bought:
I bought volume 2 of Family Guy last week. Prior to that, I got the Scissor Sisters' DVD in Chicago.

3) The last film I watched:
9 to 5

4) Five films that I watch a lot or that mean a lot to me:
Into the Woods (my favorite musical and first exposure to Bernadette Peters)
The Exorcist (the first movie where I really noticed direction - why scenes were shot the way they were, etc.)
Flirting with Disaster (I imagine the search for my birth mother may go something like this)
The Color Purple (Oprah should act more)
Hedwig & The Angry Inch (I could barely speak by the end. I don't think Steven & Rachel know what they got me into)

5) Tag 5 people and have them put this in their journal:
Chadfox
Steph
WDL
Amy
Scooter

Vote for this site at Freedom Forum

When you wish your bed was already made

2005-05-18T13:05:00.000-04:00

Manic Monday evening presented a series of unanticipated events that became either the most liberating sexually-charged experience I've ever had, or the most surreal, or quite possibly a little bit of both.

The people/places details aren't really appropriate, nor are they entirely relevant to my reflections here. However, before you label me as some pervy house plant molester (which I might not deny - is that a fern in your pocket?), I'll let you know that nothing extremely deviant or bizarre happened. It was just a new experience for me...I mean, hanging out with a couple of friends after the bar typically involves more clothing.

The funny thing is, I've lately been thinking about the reservations I've had expressing my sexuality - the tendency I've developed to separate my sexuality from the rest of my life and being. Only recently have I started to work on integrating that aspect of myself with the other components of my personality (I'd say Monday night shows clear signs of progress).

Tori Amos talks a bit about this subject in her book - ironically I had internally acknowledged the need to start this integration process just prior to reading her take on it. While she recognizes the difficulty we have in accepting the fact that we are sexual beings much more eloquently than I ever could, the point she makes is that we are the same good person (in most cases) in the bedroom as we are behind the wheel of a car, or when we're brushing our teeth, tying our shoes, etc. Simply being sexual does not make us bad people, even though many of us have been raised with the idea that enjoying sex is shameful. She writes at great length about the integration of sexuality with personality, and where she believes the root of this intimidation lies.

Back to Monday. Even though I was rather nervous, I did find a certain release in being able to put aside some of my inhibitions in a setting like that. While I don't intend to run and join the nearest nudist colony or anything, the idea of being comfortable with myself as a sexual being is becoming very important to me. I think embracing that side of myself and being able to publicly acknowledge it rather than pretending it doesn't exist will be a very important step in my own emotional growth as a person.

Vote for this site at Freedom Forum

It's a twister!

2005-05-16T12:26:00.000-04:00

It looks like the Muppet Wizard of Oz tv special will be shown on ABC this Friday at 8:00. While Ashanti doesn't really do much for me, there are a couple clips on the site that look amusing.

Pepe the King Prawn, who is my favorite "contemporary" muppet, is playing the part of Toto.

The thing is, I was obsessed with the Wizard of Oz as a kid. With the advent of the VCR (god I feel old - does anyone else remember betamax?) I used to watch it twice a day. And then I would cry my eyes out if I couldn't watch it when it was actually being shown on tv annually. My mother would shake me, "But you've already seen it twice today!! We are going to dinner!!" and I would stomp my feet...and click my heels.

I mean really, how could they not know what was coming? I used to play pretend Wizard of Oz with my Grandmother...and I always played Dorothy. Mm hmmm.

My brother was obsessed with Home Alone when he was a kid...I wonder what that says about his future?

Vote for this site at Freedom Forum

A Picture Share!

2005-05-15T00:19:00.000-04:00

Neil on Saturday night, before we went out with Andy to the Axis.

It's all who you know...

2005-05-12T13:29:00.000-04:00

Yesterday I went with my friend Chris to a Network Columbus event. Neither of us had been to one before, and his mention was the first I'd heard of this group.

According to their website, "Network Columbus is a chamber of commerce for gay-owned and allied companies and gay and allied business professionals offering networking events, educational programs, business advocacy and linkages with other business and professional organizations to lead and support economic growth within the central Ohio gay community."

I had expected the event to have more of a stuffy, no-nonsense atmosphere. I guess I should have known 65+ gay men & lesbians wouldn't settle for that. We walked in to find soft techno videos (mostly U2 remixes for some reason) on a big plasma tv, complimentary appetizers and cocktails, door prizes, and much mingling - it was actually quite enjoyable.

Though if you had seen me there you probably would have thought I was either miserable or just plain rude. I have a *terrible* time approaching people in settings like that - I become a total wallflower. The funny thing is, once I'm comfortable with the setting and the people, I turn a 180 and become a total social butterfly.

Anyway, Chris found a few folks that work for his company so while he was talking to them I popped outside for a cigarette and called Neil.

Me: "Hey, what are you doing?"
Neil: "Nothing. What are you wearing?"
"My bright red jumper. With the floral print."
"Sounds dirty. So how's the thing?"
"It's okay - but you know how I am. I'm so bad at these things. It's kind of crazy though. A room full of gay men and they all have their clothes on."
(laughs) "That's your opening line, dear."
"Oh, I don't think it'll fly here. You never know though. I think you're supposed to talk about work or your job or something. Besides, my delivery sucks."
"That's not what I heard, Mary."
"Exactly. Heh, speaking of - I could just ask people what industry they're in...and when they ask me I'll say 'shipping and receiving'."

Neil laughed. We went out later and he and spent the rest of the night asking people if they were in shipping or receiving (in his best Bette Davis - I think he does Bette Davis better than she did).

Neil later got to do some shipping and receiving of his own, but that's another story entirely.

I digress - back to the social mixer and my phobia of starting conversations with random people. Now, I'm usually never opposed to folks approaching me - in fact I had a lovely conversation with a gentleman who'd driven up for Dayton for the event. He was a lawyer and invited me out to dinner, but I declined as I'd already told Neil I'd be hanging out with him.

I guess the point is that I'll need to get over this absurd fear if I really do want to "network" my way into a new job. At least I got my face out there - maybe at the next meeting I'll be a little more comfortable and thus more social. Or maybe I'll have two glasses of wine instead of one. Then I'll be able to use that opening line all night long.

Vote for this site at Freedom Forum

Tumbleweeds, blowin' through my head like Toledo, Ohio

2005-05-11T12:28:00.000-04:00

Hm. I fear my lack of updates may have frightened some casual readers away. Perhaps this little meme type quiz, found over at Jeffriguez, will lure them all back to my little pool of sick on the web.

TEN Random Things About Me:
10) I sang in Salzburg Cathedral, where Mozart was baptized, with members of my high school choir and ensemble.
9) I'm terrible about keeping in touch with people I don't see on a regular basis.
8) I bite my nails.
7) I very suddenly fell in love with the color orange a couple years ago.
6) I have a disease, not a death sentence.
5) I really don't care about Paris Hilton or her shenanigans, but I do say "that's hot" quite often (I only recently learned it was a catch phrase of hers).
4) I'm consciously fighting my insecurities and trying to build my self-esteem more than I ever have before.
3) Pickles and mushrooms are just about the only foods I've hated my whole life.
2) I like the mountains more than the beach (but I'd settle for either right now).
1) I want the hell out of Ohio.

NINE Ways To Win My Heart:
9) Talk to me about music.
8) Raffirm what I need to hear.
7) Teach me.
6) Be willing to wait for the first car of the roller coaster with me.
5) Laugh with me.
4) Show me your real side.
3) Be humble, but confident.
2) Appreciate my creativity & curiosity.
1) Encourage me.

EIGHT things I want to do before I die:
8) Direct a music video.
7) Learn about music production and produce a song.
6) Change someone's life for the better.
5) Travel.
4) Make lots of money to buy lots of things.
3) Learn how to be less materialistic.
2) Sing.
1) Live in London.

SEVEN ways to annoy me:
7) Lie about me.
6) Devalue diversity and eclecticism.
5) Settle/resign yourself to less.
4) Hold a grudge against me after we've argued or fought.
3) Be socially conservative (sometimes referred to as "a republican").
2) Talk during a movie at the theater.
1) Make unrealistic demands.

SIX things I believe in:
6) HR is my chance to change the world a little at a time.
5) Real friends are for life.
4) Music can bring cultures together and open minds...beautifully.
3) The work day does *not* need to begin at 8:00.
2) Presentation is everything.
1) Fate.

FIVE things I'm afraid of:
5) Going deaf.
4) That my friends are not my friends.
3) Death.
2) Making mistakes.
1) Pro-wrestling.

FOUR favorite items in my room:
4) My music collection.
3) My Tori Amos autographed "Hey Jupiter" 12" framed record.
2) My kitties (Elijah and Garfield)
1) My wall-hanging tapestry.

THREE things I do everyday:
3) Listen to music in my car.
2) Pet the cats.
1) Check e-mail.

TWO things I want to do right now:
2) Land the perfect job.
1) Smoke.

ONE person I want to see right now:
1) Neil.

Vote for this site at Freedom Forum

You're still the missing line in my favorite song...

2005-05-06T13:31:00.000-04:00

Well, where the hell have I been (besides turning into that which I despise most - an inconsistent blogger)? Hope you're all settled in - here's the update:

Job.
Hot Job #1 fell through. At the end of my first week there, management decided the position I was sitting in would indeed be changed to become a more senior level position (which is really why they couldn't hire me in the first place). I knew going in that nothing was set in stone (or wax for that matter), but it still sucked to have a small taste of that great salary and then have it yanked away.

Kind of like trying to take only one bite of really good cheesecake. Mmm, it's so rich and delicious and you put your fork down and say to yourself, "Oh I couldn't possibly." But everyone else is still eating so you go ahead and take one more bite. And another. And of course by the time everyone else is finished you're licking your plate clean and snorting the crumbs off the table, moaning in ecstasy over the little slice of heaven you've just devoured. (Don't lie, it's happened to all of us.)

Yeah, well imagine if the waiter took away your cheesecake after that first bite. Now you see where I'm coming from.

I'm currently doing some part time temp work for a former boss of mine while she has an employee out on leave - the work is a bit menial, but hey, it's better than doing nothing all day. I actually got a call from a temp agency yesterday - the same one I passed up to take Hot Job #1 - and they have a direct hire position for a Payroll/HR Generalist. We haven't talked pay yet, but it sounds like it could be promising.

AIDS Walk.
Beautiful weather brought out the best in everyone at this year's Central Ohio AIDS Walk. The donations I raised (thanks to people like you) totaled over $500, which is really quite impressive. I went by myself this year. When the walk started I plugged in my headphones and marched, as always, to the beat of a different drummer.

Kinda cool - my name was printed in the day's program guide as one of the top donors of 2004. I was one of only 25 people who raised over $1,000 in 2004.

Thank you thank you thank you to all who donated.
-----------------
Um, at this point I clicked the "preview" button and blogger decided to eat the rest of my post for a late lunch. The "recover post" link does me no good. As I'd spent *way* too much time composing the rest of this post - I can't go back and try to re-finish it now. I'll try to write more this weekend. Dammit, I had some halfway decent stuff written, too.

Jokes from Neil

2005-04-22T17:14:00.000-04:00

Q: What do you call a teenage alcoholic detective?

A: Nancy Brew

Q: What do you call a teenage nymphomaniac detective?

A: Nancy Screw

Q: What do you call a teenage detective cowgirl?

A: Nancy Mooooooooo

This year's Central Ohio AIDS Walk will take place on May 1. Please click here to visit my donation page and make a contribution.

The set list for Tori's April 15, 2005 concert in Chicago, IL

2005-04-19T02:29:00.000-04:00

Matthew,

Congratulations! You have been upgraded!

Your current seat is in orch, row B, seat 501 for the April 15th concert at the Chicago Auditorium Theatre.

In order to claim your fantastically located seat, you need to:

1. Reply to this email ASAP to let us know you've received notification of your upgrade.

2. After 2pm on the day of the show take your ticket, a copy of this e-mail, a picture ID and yourself to the box office of the venue where you'll be seeing Tori.

3. Show the people in the box office this e-mail and your picture ID and they will exchange your not-so-wonderful seat for one of the best seats ever.

Congratulations again and thank you for being a great team member!

The Tori Front Row

Set List

Original Sinsuality
Father Lucifer
Mother Revolution
Yes, Anastasia
Apollo's Frock
Parasol
Mother

Operator (Jim Croce cover)
Circle Game (Joni Mitchell cover)

Cars and Guitars
Space Dog
Marianne
Barons Of Suburbia
Cool On Your Island
The Beekeeper

1st Encore

Honey
Sweet The Sting

2nd Encore

Cloud On My Tongue
Ribbons Undone

-----
More to follow.

2005-04-15T21:53:00.000-04:00

Betty

2005-04-12T11:10:00.000-04:00

I'm thinking about changing my mobile phone message to this Betty Butterfield greeting. If only I didn't use it for "business" purposes as well...