Rants Raves Life and Anything Else That Comes

Mix Tape Mashup

2011-03-10T21:43:00.010-06:00

Mix Tape Girl: I can't believe X is getting married to Y. Y's a fucking idiot.

Me: Let's just hope he grows up.

MTG: She knows better. Everyone knows Y's problems. He's a freaking drunk. She knows better.

Me: That's what she wants and there's no talking her out of it.

MTG: I just hope he doesn't beat her.

Me: One can only hope. You just can't talk people out of mistakes when it comes to love. She loves him even though it's a huge mistake and she knows it. There's no talking her out of it.

MTG: Yeah everyone has mistakes. At least my last one fucked himself over before I fell for it. (Then catching herself and what she's saying never talking to me about the "mistake")

Me: (silent, knowing MTG's last mistake but never having asked about it only assumed the mistake, since she talked about him all the time before we ever thought we'd like each other.)

MTG: We're here.

Me: What do you say? Congratulations on marrying a drunk, hope he doesn't go crazy and beat you. Please don't do it.

MTG: You say, "I hear congratulations are order". That way you're not saying congratulations...out right anyways.

Me: Ah...

We enter the restaurant and meet up with X. We have dinner trying hard not to talk about the mess that will soon ensue. MTG and X are talking and my mind wanders off. I think of the mistake MTG mentioned. I dismiss it, who cares. But it starts me thinking about all the girls in my life. Girls from the past, my present with Mix Tape Girl and our future.

I think of songs that go with these girls. I remember the first girl I had a crush on it. Michelle. I remember giving her a Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle pin. I remember she loved it and wore it on her backpack that whole school year. Elementary was fun. I remember her mom was the crossing guard at the school. Her mom liked me. It remind me of the song Turtle Power by McHammer from the movie.

MTG and X are carrying on. MTG slipping in sly remarks letting X know of her disapproval, that make X cringe since they're true. My mind wanders off as they pay no attention to me.

I think back to middle school and Beverly whom I had a serious crush on. She was a nerd, but a hot one. It reminds me of Rob's line in High Fidelity "One moment they weren't there -- not in any form that interested us, anyway -- and the next, you couldn't miss them. They were everywhere. And they'd grown breasts. And we wanted -- actually we didn't even know what we wanted. But it was something interesting. Disturbing even." I remember her glasses which were so much cooler than mine. I remember sneaking into her posh mobile home park she lived in and sneaking into the swimming pool just to go see her sunbathing. I think, "is posh mobile home park" an oxymoron? It was nice anyways. I think of Jessica whom I had no interest in but she made sure I'd somehow touch her every time in English class. I remember Jessica....huh....not going there. I remember the Cranberries song Linger and The Spin Doctor's Little Miss Can't Be Wrong.

I remember Florence my last year of middle school and staring high school. I remember her staring at me on the field trip to the army base. I remember my friend jabbing me telling me she was looking at me. I remember looking at her and saying my ever so cool opening line of "Hi." But she was too embarrassed to that I s I remember her following me (I kid you not) so we could have lunch together. I remember knowing she was following me, and going the extra long way and taking unnecessary routes to see if she would follow, and she did. I remember her telling me, "I know you're trying to give me the slip". I just wanted to see if you'd follow. We had lunch together everyday and hung out together in gym class and always were lab partners in our Biology AP class. I remember the day I moved, and her face. I remember the kiss she gave me. I'll remember listening to The Smashing Pumpkins 1979 and Green Day's She, together.

I remember Laura when we moved out in the middle of no where. I remember her showing me that there is life in everything. Even when you're stuck in the middle of nowhere with nothing to do. I remember Tonight, Tonight and sharing music with my friends and being the social butterfly that Laura turned me into. I remember that when a girl asks you to walk with her to the "Bathroom" it doesn't really mean walk me to the "Bathroom", it means lets go get lost together. I remember getting my drivers license and driving around a tiny little town in the middle of no where jamming out to mixed tapes. I remember Laura singing and dancing and jumping around to Veruca Salt's Volcano Girls. I remember the one picture of us I have in a box outside with my old stuff. I remember moving away once again and leaving all my friends I had made behind.

I spent the whole next year basically by myself, oddly enough wanting to go back to the middle of nowhere to be with my friends. But Liliana in my account class made sure I stayed too much out of my funk. Making me wear her headphones and listening to Aqua's Barbie Girl.

Then I met Laurie who took me in as a friend. We became close and shared everything through my graduation all the way past my first encounter with Mix Tape Girl. I remember making mix tapes for each other and installing her car stereo. How she introduced me fully to country music and the Dixie Chicks and gave me a new found respect for Bon Jovi. I remember introducing her to Dido (whom I still absolutely love even if her last album was crap). She critiqued my mixes when I started making them for Mix Tape Girl. We be came so close that I didn't see that she was in love with me. I just thought of her as the sister I never had. I wouldn't learn of this until she married someone that I couldn't stand because he left one of our friends in a dire situation and I was the only one left to pick up the pieces. I'll remember sitting at I-Hop with Ashley Simpson's Pieces of Me playing, and talking with her and another friends about Mix Tape Girl, then making plans to go to a concert me and Laurie never went to. I remember walking out of the restaurant and Laurie jokingly telling me, "Guess that means you don't like me then." But I was too young and dumb to realize it wasn't a joke. I remember thinking she must be joking on my drive back home, but not picking up the phone to ask and make sure. I see her though about once a year and it's nice but things aren't the same. I can't stand her husband and she doesn't really care for Mix Tape Girl but we're cordial and play nice.

X's parents show up and we all smile knowing X is making a huge mistake. We smile politely and enjoy dinner, trying to not bring up the obvious subject except only on occasion to make X cringe a little.

We finish and say goodnight, and drive home. I have these songs floating in my head. I turn on the satellite radio in the car and the next thing I know the Beastie Boys are playing, Jimmy James.

My mind wanders again and before I know it we're home and I'm making a mix CD. The CD is nothing like I imaged it and strayed from it's original intention. The next thing I know instead of a tape for all the girls from my past, I have a CD staring with Jim Croce, You Don't Mess Around With Jim and a bunch of Neil Diamond and Led Zeppelin.

So much for the mix. Either ways it's labeled "To All the Girls I've Loved". Mix Tape laughs at the silliness of the CD every time where in my car.

Something like blood

2010-12-24T22:23:00.002-06:00

It's Dec 24 Christmas Eve. All week long it's been close to 80 degrees and foggy and muggy. I'm now sitting in the living room the glow of the outside light in the courtyard lighting the downstairs area. The wind is blowing leaves all around in circles, little whirlwinds sounding like waves crashing against the french doors to our little courtyard. From hot to cold the weather goes in this part of the country. No white Christmas but it's now supposed to be cold at least.

I sit here feeling odd, the meds that I started this week are making me feel off. At times it feels like the blood in my veins is rushing through me like a flash flood making the world move at a 100 mph, sometimes it makes me feel cold and sluggish. Sometimes my muscles feel like their expanding and I fear that I'll turn into the Hulk. Sometimes it feels like my muscles are week and my legs will buckle under me when I walk. It's kept me up last night and I got the bear minimal of sleep. All because I keep getting a rash from the allergens in the air, which no one can figure out why as I have no other symptoms than a rash. I waited for tests that came back as negative, and the doctor had no real options to stop the reactions I keep having.

Doc: We can give you meds to basically shut down your immune system to stop the physical reactions. Or we can give you these other allergy pills and see how it works.

Is all he had to offer. I chose the latter.

Thusly here I sit listening to Broken Bells and Meridene's Something like blood, thoroughly enjoying the lasting and haunting riffs at the end of Something like blood.

Mix Tape Girl has long gone to sleep since coming home early this afternoon after taking the day off to finish shopping. I laid down with her for a few hours wrapping my arms around her. Her body pressed against mine keeping me warm. Feeling her hair in my face as she slept. Feeling her touch always makes me feel better. After a while the meds pull their trick again and I get up.

The night air is getting colder and thinner and I wrap myself up in a big plush blanket and sit in a dark living room listening to music and thinking about my blog and all my dear blogging friends. I sift through the blogs that are still active and catch up with your current events. I do hope you're all well.

I re-read this post and see that it makes no sense but I decide "To hell with it" and post anyways. To my friends out there, stay safe, be happy, enjoy being with family if you can, and know that I keep going and reading your posts when I can.

It'll All Work Out

2010-11-09T22:35:00.003-06:00

It's near 11 pm and me and the cat sit in the living room. She climbs on the couch and walks on it's back till she reaches my shoulder. She sniffs the laptop and then lies down partial on the back of the couch and partially on my shoulder.

She's a new edition to our family. A stray with four paws and sharp claws, a rambunctious little critter. Mix Tape Girl can't really stand her but they get along still.

A few moments earlier I was lying in bed with Mix Tape Girl, talking about how we first met. How I had asked her out years ago and how she turned me down.

Me: I never thought I'd hear from you again after they laid everyone off.

MTG: Honestly I was hoping that you'd forget about me.

The answer surprises me and I turn from my lying on my back staring at the ceiling to my side facing directly at MTG.

Me: Why would I want to forget about you?

MTG: I didn't want to get your hopes up. I thought you'd find someone better. I...I..

Me: What?

MTG: I...didn't want an anchor.

Me: What do you mean an anchor?

MTG: I didn't mean it in a bad way. I meant..I meant that you seemed set in your ways, you worked full time, you took care of your parents, you were happy where you were. You were doing good but not really going to go anywhere else really? I just didn't know if you'd stay the same.

Me: Am I still the same?

MTG: No, you've come a long way. I just needed to be sure that if you changed you'd do it for yourself and not for me.

Me: And then a year or so later you called me out of the blue.

MTG: Yep.

I hold MTG in my arms and in a matter of minutes she falls asleep. I lie in bed staring at the dark ceiling. The bedroom recently redone, the few streams of light that come out of the sides of the new room darkening curtains MTG put up last week.

Gently rolling MTG over, I get up and brush my teeth. I'm not tired now so I go downstairs and write in my forgotten blog. Though most of my friends here have migrated to Facebook, I remain here checking on postings from others from time to time.

The cat jumps down and wanders around the living room. Looking back at me from time to time to see if I'm still there. The TV's on low and How I Met Your Mother is on. Sitting back in my chair I think to myself, am I an anchor?

I tell myself that I'm not, and slowly my eyes get heavy. I finish loading new music for work to my Ipod and publish this post into the once vast and traveled seas of Blogger.

Good night friends.

Much Too Young (To Feel This Damn Old)

2010-02-08T22:23:00.003-06:00

I know I haven't posted in a while, but I just thought I'd share something funny I received in the mail today. Here's my first WTF!!!??? moment of 2010.

That's right it's official I got my AARP card. There's one slight problem. I'm only 28. Although the thought of being able to get senior discounts did cross my mind, Mix Tape Girl put an end to that very quickly. Especially when she offered to get me my very own baseball hat that says "Where's my damn discount?" That and I have to pay $16 bucks to pretend to be a senior. I'll keep my $16 bucks for now thank you.

Tortilla Soup Blues

2009-12-10T23:01:00.002-06:00

Not long ago, a dear old friend asked me "How is Mix Tape Girls cooking?" To which I simply smiled and said, "uh...."

Albeit in good faith MTG makes dishes with recipes pulled from the net and some that her friends give her. It's hit or miss, most of the time miss. Though I'll give to her that she makes killer pork chops.

Tonight's menu was tortilla soup. Or as I'll put it, boiled chicken with chicken broth, cheese and tortilla chips, unflavored.

As we ate this flavorless dish, we both sat and looked at each other. It looked ok, but we took bites and smiled our, (Ewwww...WTF) smiles. Seeing as she had her heart set on this dish I complemented that it was mmmm..mmm...good.

And now, several hours later, my stomach is rebelling against me. MTG feeling sick, already going to bed, and me sitting here trying to keep the food down, drinking copious amounts of Malox and water. And putting music on my mp3 player. My head is pounding, my sight is slightly blurry, and my mouth watering like it does before I vomit.

Why I decided to blog about this I have no idea. Guess I'm just trying to take my mind off my stomach. Let's hope this is the last foray into Tortilla Soup land.

Off to kiss the porcelain seat I go. Think I'm calling in tomorrow.

Let Them Eat Cake

2009-10-13T22:55:00.004-05:00

See here a picture. It's the last friggin piece of wedding cake that we have. Thank God!! Normally we'd be over joyed to be showing your our last piece of wedding cake. But the truth is finally it's gone. Hurray!!!!

See this is the one left over that you're supposed to eat on your first anniversary, which we did. Now I should note one of our friends made the cake and it was to die for. So moist and soft, and full of gooey goodness. It was a delicious cake. It just wasn't really delicious after sitting in the freezer for a year and then getting defrosted.

We ate some of it during our anniversary and I thought, we'd throw away the rest. Boy was I wrong. Here's Mix Tape Girl's thinking. "We should eat every last piece of this cake. It's special." Me: "I don't think it'll take to being re-frozen again." MTG: "Sure it will". Me: "But it's all dry and icky now." MTG: "What you don't like our wedding cake?" Me: "Yeah it was great when it was fresh and less than a year old". MTG: "But it's ours. It has history we have to eat it." Me: "No we don't" MTG: mad stare... Me: "Uh...." MTG: "WE HAVE TO EAT IT....ALL". Me: "Give me the Saran Wrap."

So thusly we have been munching on this cake since our anniversary a few months ago. And now we are both overjoyed to be done with the thing. This final piece has been sitting in the fridge for about a week since last being thawed out for the....oh..I'd say 7th time. Needless to say it was hard and cruchie and the frosting was atrocious. But, here it is folks for you're viewing pleasure. This last damn piece of cake. Naturally as any loving husband, I let Mix Tape Girl have the last piece of this horrid 7 times defrosted cake.

FYI: Mix Tape Girl's response after eatting the last piece. "That tasted like crap. Why didn't we toss?"

I told you so. ^_^

Fixing a hole

2009-05-12T23:11:00.003-05:00

It's 11 pm, Mix Tape Girl has gone to sleep. I wait for the pear cobbler that she put in before she went to bed to finish. The timer she has ticks away, tick, tick, tick, tick, tick. I go into our bedroom to grab something. MTG is sound asleep. I stand and watch her sleep for a minute. She looks so tired.

The days seem to drag by. It's been so long since I posted. Things changed, circumstances different. I'm at a new job now after trying to start my own work. That didn't work out as planned. Too much overhead to get a clean start. We've both had lost our jobs, and looked together for employment. We found a job at the same company, just different departments. Doing things that I thought I'd never be part of.

I listen to people all day, tell me their sob stories. Some are genuine some are not. I foreclose peoples houses now. I have say whether they stay or they go. I hear every story that comes in, most are frightened to be close to being homeless and with just cause but some want to fight. Rarely anyone does, only rarely do you get a fighter. I see the front lines of what's happening to a good part of America. But it doesn't make sense. It's not the banks fault per say, it's not the mortgage broker or the borrowers. It's everyone's fault. I sit and listen on the phone all day story after story. Most people are preyed upon, the unintelligent, the elderly, the just plain stupid. Same story, I can't pay my loan. I look at the loan they're set on an Adjustable Rate Mortgage. That's all there is. "It's a bad loan" I'm told time and again. I agree with them, things like this should have never been allowed to come into existence. But then again no one made them sign the loan papers. Ultimately the responsiblity is the person who signed the loan papers. People just don't want to own up to the fact that being an adult means that you take responsibility for your mistakes. I have to put on a stoic face and pretend that it doesn't bother me though it does. I look at their loans day after day. I hear the same thing. "Give me a fixed rate". I retort, "Why? You have an ARM loan, your payments are $500 a month, you aren't even paying the full interest and you can't afford that, and you're accruing negative amortization. Here's how it works if you want a fixed rate. Your mortgage is $150k. One a fixed rate besides paying the interest just the principal alone is going to be at least $1500 going on what is normal rate of 1% of your principal balance. And that's not including your interest. If you can't afford to pay $500 monthly how are you going to pay $1500 plus?" That usually slaps them with a dose of reality. I don't like to do it but that's my job. You get to stay but you on the other hand don't. It's all numbers just business. And everyting is Obama says.

MTG has it worse, she's on the collections side, past due accounts. People try to dictate to her what they will pay on the loan. Doesn't work that way. Obama says that I don't have to pay my loan. Obama says you will give me a modification with 2% interest. Obama says that I don't owe anything anymore. Little do they know that Obama's plan is only for government backed loans, which few if any of the customers have. She gets yelled at, threatend and called an awful person all day. "How can you live with yourself you miserable wretch, doing this kind of job" she tells me one lady told her today. She is on the verge of tears when we get into the car. She strong, doesn't cry while at work. But she gets more depressed and bitter everyday. It helps for me to listen while she vents.

I turn on the stereo in the car on the way home. Peter Frampton's "Baby I Love Your Way" plays. We listen to it in the background while MTG vents. I tell her about my crazy calls and we find consolation in each other. She clings to my one arm while I drive us home. "This is shit" she says while we enter the highway. "We need to come up with a plan b." I'm working on it in my head, mulling things over. What to do, what to do?

As soon as we get home MTG pounces on me. We make love, and she falls asleep. She always falls asleep first. It's supposed to be the other way around, but I'm used to it now. I get up throw a load of clothes in the washer. I do the dishes while I play Alicia Keys softly in the living room so I don't wake MTG up. A few hours later she emerges groggy hair messy. She's in the mood for something sweet. She cuts up half of a bag of pears I bought and makes a cobbler and puts it in the oven. She gets sleepy before it's done and tells me she's off to bed.

I straighten up the place a little more. I shuffle through some older record albums that I have. I've been in the habit of hanging on the wall in frames as artwork lately, so I pick a few good albums while I wait for the cobbler to hang up. Sgt. Pepper, an Oceanlab mix, Billy Joel 52nd St, and a few others that I have duplicates of and have no problem framing and hanging up. I loose myself in the mindless framing project. The timer goes off that MTG set, it scares the hell out of me cause its loud and sounds awful. I take out the cobbler and set it to cool.

Opening up a cherry 7-up I sit on the couch and stare out the french doors to the patio. It's dark, I see the lime tree swaying a little in the wind. My mind wanders. I try to think of a way to get us out of our work, do something else, but it's just here say. Like MTG tells me, "As much as I hate my job, I hate not having one even more." I tell myself I'll find a way. What to do what to do? I notice a small hole in the weather stripping around the door and stare at it. In my mind the verses come to me. "I"m fixing a hole where the rain gets in, and stops my mind from wandering."

Six Things

2009-02-05T20:28:00.002-06:00

Sorry, sorry, this post is so late. We're even more sorry we've been gone for so long. Thanks for not forgetting about us. Details will come later. For now I've been tagged and I accept the challenge for the Six Sexy Ladies Meme.

The Rules

1. Link to the person who tagged you.
2. Post the rules on your blog.
3. Write six random things about yourself.
4. Tag six people at the end of your post and link to them.
5. Let each person know they’ve been tagged and leave a comment on their blog.
6. Let the tagger know when your entry is up.

Though honestly I probably won't tag anyone as almost everyone has already done this.

1. Every time someone says the word "six" as in "six" meme's, or just six in general, I giggle like crazy. Which is because I'm immature and think of the scene in National Lampoon's European Vacation where they go knocking on doors saying, "We're looking for sex. Is this sex." Immature I know. "Dad that's German for six."

2. When eating french fries, I put the ketchup on the fries before eating them. This drives Artful up the walls crazy as he hates it. I immensely love doing it now just to annoy him. he he he

3. Stay away from me in the morning if I haven't had my caffeine. When I'm decaffeinated, it's not a pretty sight.

4. I can make my ankles pop on command. Dunno how I can, but I can.

5. It may be just me, but Asian food rocks.

6. I horde napkins. I have tons of them all over the place. I'm always afraid that I will need them in an emergency. AD was stunned to find the glove compartment of my car completely stuffed with them. So much so that they came out in a big clump shaped like the compartment itself. Yes I know I need to throw the older ones away.

There's a few weird things about me, though there are many many more. Perhaps someday I might be willing to share some more.

Impending Doom and The Big Wicked Online Pageant

2008-10-29T21:47:00.003-05:00

Sorry for the lack of posts folks, things have been turbo on this end. Anyways, Monday the head attorney's that I work for shows up unannounced. This is a bad thing as since he's opened our office he's only been there twice and each time only for a few hours. Every time however he lets us know that he's coming so we rush like rabbits to make sure our desks and office looks generally clean and tidy, not that he really cares.

But Monday, Monday was the day from hell. He walks through the door unannounced, along with the office manager from the head office on the east coast. He goes into our office managers room and stays there talking with our office manager for a good hour. We all sensed the impending doom. There were no smiles when coming in no nothing. Then our manager gets our small motley crew and we gather in the corner office. We're promptly told that our office will be closing, effective immediately for some and others a little bit later. Me being the little bit later group. Sucked the wind right out of all of us.

See our office handles real estate law, for pretty much all 50 states. I basically handle problem cases where there's clouds on the property title. Not many people in the US do this. However with the housing boom going kaput, the main part of the business isn't getting that much money and well you know how it goes. Long story short, I will soon dear friends be out of a job. However knowing that we were heading down the crapper, I did a preemptive strike and started my own business doing what I do. See what I do can't really be done by that many people and well, the company may be going under but I've got more work than I can handle. So I've been away setting up my new business with Mix Tape Girl's help. So we've been like busy bees. So do excuse our lack of posting.

As we've been busy though I haven't had time to go through old photo's of myself or MTG for Beth's online pageant. I think there's a picture of my brother and myself dressed like the Joker that my mom has somewhere. (Though it should be noted it wasn't during Halloween, it was just after the first Batman movie.) But honestly after I was about 10 all photographic record of me ceased to exist as my family was never one for photos. So in light of this I thought I'd do a gratuitous back of the head shot like Beth, with a kick. Had one of my fellow workers take this for me. Oh and by the way, the mask is always at my desk, not just for Halloween.

Be fair

2008-10-12T21:25:00.005-05:00

We shuffle down the aisle. People putting carry-ons into overhead compartments. I see AD finding his seat towards the middle of the plane. Sadly I'm in the back, even though I'm with a friend. He smiles and blows me a kiss before I see him almost disappear, only the top of his head visible from the seat. I take my seat by the window. The back of the plane is crowded, but the front doesn't look so much.

We tried to get our tickets together but since AD was able to come with us at last minute that wasn't able to happen. So we traveled separated by a few chairs. The lights dim and the stewards voice comes on. I'm watching our steward, he's an old man, probably in his late 70's, I'm not kidding. He can barely stand, and he doesn't look happy. He mutters out the flight safety instructions that few people ever listen to. He looks like he's in pain as he slowly fastens the display seat belt and then uses his arms to point out the emergency exits. As soon as he's done and the plane taxis down the runway, he takes his seat not to get up again until we level off. I can't help but think that with the economy the way it is, he had to start working again as retirement money just wasn't enough, and I worry about him.

I watch out the window as the plane takes off. The engines whirring and clicking. The televisions mounted in the seat head showing what movies are available and gives you a free 15 minute preview of the Direct TV offered on the plane. I press the brightness button until the TV is turned off. I sit back and watch the land change. From over water to the city, to country, farm land, woods. I see the sun leaving us as day starts to become night. I stare out the window, and then raise myself up a little to check on AD. I see the top of his head so I know he's okay.

It feels like we're climbing forever. I want to get up and check on AD but the seat belt sign is still on. I sigh and rest my head on the head rest. I stare down at my feet and wiggle my toes. Before I know it AD is tapping my shoulder. He tells me his whole row is empty as he makes his way to the bathroom. Asides from the back of the plane the front is mostly empty. I tell him that I'll be up there with him as soon as we level off. He nods and goes to the bathroom. I watch him after he's done and makes his way back to his seat.

It seems like we climb and climb. The pilot never comes on to make the announcement that we can move about. I wait about 20 minutes before I finally just get up. I was to tell my friend I was moving but she's asleep. I hop over her and make my way to AD. There are tons of empty seats. Asides for the lady her child sitting behind AD the rows in front and beside him are all empty. I move up on him, he's asleep. I raise the arm rests and snuggle up with him, putting his arms around me.

AD: Thank you.

Me: For what?

AD: For coming to sit with me. And for being you.

I stroke his hair and he falls back to sleep, though his arms are tight around me. I feel ashamed that what ever decisions need to be made he always tells me, that let's just do what would be easier for me. He goes out of his way that things are always as easy for me as possible. I know that if I ask something that we need to do he'll respond with "Let's just do what's easier for you." And I accept the option easier for me, and for this I feel ashamed. I tell him that I can't always do what's easier for me, but he always makes it so we wind up doing it that way anyways.

I sit there and watch him, tracing his face with my finger tips. We went to visit friends on the west coast. The entire time AD only knowing one other person besides me, and being kind to my friends. I laughed and talked and caught up and cried with my friends. I didn't realize that the entire week that we were there that I was only with AD for a few hours asides from going to sleep. But I didn't realize this till the night before we left.

We were at a party that some of my friends were having. Sitting on chairs in the back yard of their house. It was just an everybody bring something kind of deal. Before we knew it there were at least a hundred people there in their tiny back yard. Sitting on the grass or wherever. AD got me a drink when we arrived and I immediately turned into the social butterfly that I am and sat down with some friends that I hadn't seen in forever. I caught up with a friend from long ago who just got divorced. We talked, I lost track of time, to my shame I lost track of AD. Fortunately my friend did not, and she reminded me of this.

My Friend: Marriage is something that you have to work at. It's give and take, and you have to be fair. It's can't always be your way. You're going to do things that he's not going to want to do and vice versa. Such as being at a party where he knows no one, even if he does so, so you can be with your friends.

And it hit me. I looked around, I didn't see him. I got panicked. My friend turned my head and I saw him, hidden in a shadow, in the corner of the yard by the fence, leaning against it and sipping his soda and doing his best to smile. I excused myself and worked my way through the crowd to get to him. He had spaced out and didn't even notice when I walked up to him.

Me: Hey

AD: Huh? Oh hey, what's up?

Me: I'm sorry.

AD: (looking confused) For what?

Me: For making you do all these things for me when I know that you'd rather be somewhere else.

AD: Don't worry about it. I want you to have fun with your friends. You only get to see them a couple of times a year anyways.

Me: But I'm not being fair to you. Make me be fair.

AD: You are being fair.

Me: No I'm not, I'm being selfish. We can leave if you want.

AD looks at me for a few moments.

AD: I'd be lying if I said that I wanted to be here and I'd like to leave. I'm not good in really big crowds, they freak me out. And I'm not the people person you are. But I want you to enjoy being with your friends right now. Go be with them, I'll be fine here holding up the fence. When you're ready you know where to get me.

Me: You're too good to me.

AD: No I'm not.

Me: You are.

I kiss him, and he smiles. He tells me to go back and visit with my friends. I sit where I can see him this time and I watch as he walks around some only to make his way back to the empty corner. He does this a few times. I only visit for another 30 minutes before I decide to take him out of here. He reminds me of a flower getting choked out by tall grass, so I have to safe him. I tell everyone goodbye and we leave taking along our two friends that we're staying with.

I wanted to ride back to the hotel to be better, but that didn't happen. One of my friends had a little too much to drink and was acting a fool. He was doing a crazy dance in the back seat to the music, talking very loud and laughing even louder. AD was driving, and I was flipping through the radio stations trying to find music that would be okay with everyone. And I flipped and flipped. After going through the stations about five times you could see a vain pop out on AD's head. He was getting upset, my friend was getting louder. Finally AD reached over and turned the radio off. He pulled into a gas station without saying a word, got out and started filling up the tank. I got out and went to tell him I'm sorry. He forced a smile and said it's ok, that he's not upset with me and just needed some air. I went inside the station to get him a Sprite and some asprin, and we continued on our way, all the way back in silence. Fortunately my friend having passed out by the time we got back in the car.

AD didn't say anything when we got back to the hotel. Just a few answers to my questions here and there. I felt bad for having to make him put up with this, even I was annoyed. The next morning we left back for home, packing etc. We talked but its the average travel we need to get here and there busy talk. And now we were on the plane heading back home.

I look out the window past AD. I see some city lights below us as we fly by. The lights sparkle light diamonds on a piece of black velvet. I hold AD's hand while he sleeps, and I whisper in his ear, "Make me be fair." Without warning I grab his head and he opens his eyes. I kiss him. The older gentleman steward walks past us without saying a word, he knows better than to interupt, but he rolls his eyes. It's ok though, two less people to have to cater to. I kiss AD, and I didn't stop till we touched down at home. And when we did, I whispered to him again. "Make me be fair."

I like moose

2008-10-04T07:57:00.002-05:00

Pterodactyl Lady: Owww..my arm and shoulder hurts so much!!

Me: Take some Advil or something.

Sane Lady: You're probably getting carpal tunnel.

Pterodactyl Lady: It hurts everytime I move my arm.

Sane Lady: Does it hurt when you're typing?

Pterodactyl Lady: Yes a lot! Especially when I'm using the moose.

All together: The moose??!!! (with a puzzled look on our faces)

Pterodactyl Lady: Yes the moose! See! (picks up the mouse)

The rest of our team busts out laughing.

Me: Yeah, my arm would hurt too if I was moving a moose around all day.

Trouble Me

2008-09-03T22:08:00.002-05:00

The night is warm and the air conditioner is blowing cool air on the bed. AD's been knocked out since 6 pm. I watch as he sleeps, his chest slowly rising and falling. I feel guilty because I know its me that has him so exhausted.

I reach over and take off his glasses. He fell asleep with them on and they are making little marks on his face. He slightly moans as I remove them from his face. I can't help but caress his stubble a little and trace the outline of his lips. He somehow smiles though he's sound asleep. Exhausted from taking me to the doctors office weekly and picking up my meds, and taking up all the extra slack that I usually try to do for us.

I feel guilty as I keep him up till past midnight almost every night simply to talk. I get up and grab his cover from the closet and place it over him. He remains motionless, and snores just slightly audible. I decide to head down stairs so not to disturb him, and kiss him before I walk downstairs.

Hunger reaches me as I get to the kitchen. I realize that I really haven't eaten a meal all day. I fix myself some tuna sandwiches and turn on the TV. "On the Waterfont" is playing on AMC and I keep the volume so low that it's hardly even audible. Not really paying attention I concentrate more on eating my sandwiches. The tuna tastes good to me, as I rarely ever eat it.

I think to myself that things are now pretty much back to normal. We went to Florida and had a wonderful time. Then I came back and got sick, and well things happen. But it's all over now. AD going out of his way to make sure that I was okay the entire time. I put the doctors visits and hospital stays out of my mind and stare at the ceiling, the light from the TV flickering and causing shadows.

The movie quickly loses my interests and I turn off the TV and sit in the light of the lamp that's on. I take another bite of my sandwich and chew it slowly, the silence of the room getting to me. Not able to take the silence I turn on the stereo. 10,000 Maniacs plays and I relax on the couch, staring at my half eatten sandwich.

I hear a loud commotion from upstairs. AD is up and rushes downstairs looking upset.

AD: What time is it what day is it?

Me: It's 9.

AD: 9!! 9!! I'm late for work, why didn't you wake me up?!! Crap Crap Crap!!

Me: Uhm...it's 9 PM Weds. It's not tomorrow yet.

AD: Oh....I thought I was running late for work. Sacred myself there for a moment.

Me: Silly boy.

AD sits next to me, his hair a mess.

Me: Can you see?

AD: Huh?

Me: Your glasses?

AD: I didn't even notice, completely forgot them.

Me: They on the dresser on my side. You fell asleep with them on.

AD: Thanks.

We sit on the couch, Trouble Me playing now. AD finishes my sandwhiches. I place my head between his shoulder and neck, smelling his cologne. We listen to the rest of the CD, as I fall asleep on AD's shoulder. I rouse myself when AD finally gets up to turn off the stereo. I smile as he picks up the plate and cup that I used, even though I tried to pick them up first.

Me: Don't spoil me too much. I can turn into a brat.

AD: It's okay.

AD: Thanks for taking care of me.

Me: Uhm...isn't that the other way around?

AD: No I don't think so.

Me: If you say so.

AD: I do.

We're back?

2008-08-20T21:54:00.001-05:00

Sorry it's been almost a month since either of us have posted. Rest assured we're okay. Well..kinda, MTG went and got all sick on me so. That's a update for later. Much to tell, so little time to do it. One of us will post soon.

Rrrraaaaarrrrr!!!!

2008-07-28T23:05:00.004-05:00

It doesn't matter how hard you try to make something perfect. Someone's bound to come along and f*%k it up.

I'm sorry I'm a bit upset. It's AD's birthday Friday and I decided earlier this year to take him to Florida with some friends to get away. I rented a condo, squared all the details and got everything ready. Then the airline comes along and screws things up. Okay I admit that airfare was cheap. I decided to try SpiritAir as their prices seemed good and well it's too good to be true. Yes we got cheap tickets but they canceled our flight.

Blast damn!! We were supposed to leave early Thursday morning so we could have the day to settle down and get supplies and stuff. But no our flight is canceled and we were put on an evening flight that won't have us there till after 10 pm, and then it's a 2 hours drive to the condo I rented.

This totally screws up my itinerary. Yes I made an itinerary, I'm far too organized for my own good. So I've been huffing and puffing all day. AD keeps telling me to calm down but I'm giving him my look that says "Don't tell me to calm down", even though I know I shouldn't. Gaaahhh!! I'm just so pissed. Damn you SpiritAir, bastard motherf*%kers!!! Ruining my plans for a small vacation.

Sorry I'm ready to stomp buildings like Godzilla here. I will have my revenge.

Eleanor Rigby

2008-07-23T23:02:00.003-05:00

Every morning for the past year on the drive to work she's there. A homeless woman at the corner intersection, sitting behind a telephone transformer, staring out into the world. Her face is ruddy and red, she's overweight, her cigarette slowly burns in her hand. Her short hair peaks over her face from time to time from the scarf she wraps around her head.

I've never seen her move, she just sits and stares. The grassy area where she sits and lays down is worn down, only the dirt is there now. Every so often a Meals-On-Wheels person stops to drop her off some breakie.

I see her for the briefest of moments everyday. No more than 2 minutes tops depending on traffic. But she's become a constant, a routine. I see her everyday while I wait at the light, waiting for my turn to move ahead and face the world.

I can't help but wonder what she thinks of when she stares out into the world. Why does she stay here? She doesn't look sick or frightening. Is she here because she can't deal with the world anymore? Did she loose someone? Did her heart break? Did she loose her job? Does she have family? Why does she always have Dr. Pepper bottles with her? Why don't the pigeons bother her? What does she think of the rap/rock/reagaeton music that blares from the cars as she sits there? Why, why why?

I can't help but look when I see her. MTG notices her too but never really looks. Usually she's leaning back in the seat with her eyes closed, or putting on makeup. I often think to myself to someday pick her up something to eat and bring it to her and simply ask her why she's there. I think this but I never do it. She doesn't ask for money from cars like so many other homeless people. She doesn't make a spectacle of herself like the church people on the corner asking for funds. She doesn't scream at the top of her lungs like the pep-rally girls collecting funds and offering car washes that stand on the corner either. She has no mess around her, no possessions. She sits and stares, ever the constant feature.

But then this past month, she disappeared. At first I thought that maybe she moved to go to the convenient store for smokes and something to drink. But day after day she's been gone. Slowly the patch of grass that was worn out has come back. I wonder if the business where she used to sit by that was forever closed but recently re-opened forced her to move. I wonder if she was picked up by the social services. I wonder if she pulled herself together and got on with her life. I wonder if the summer heat made her seek shelter at a homeless center. I wonder if she simply moved somewhere else. I wonder if she's okay. I wonder. I imagine, it's easy if you try.

And then today I see her. But not where I imagined I would. I see her in a place I don't want to see her in. MTG brings me the obits and there she is, Jane Doe, MTG points this out to me. I wish I would have seen her as the lottery winner picture instead of this. I wish she could have found what she was looking for. I wish that she didn't become a small part of my life that insignificant as it was, made me stop and think every morning about how fortunate I am. I wish I would have stopped and brought her food and talked to her at least once. I wish that she simply moved to another spot and was fine. I wished that maybe she was picked up with social services and was being taken care of. I wish she was okay. But it's not to be. There's Jane Doe, staring back. No family, no friends. Buried with no name, no one came, no one cared.

MTG: I wonder why they couldn't find her name?

Me: She has a name.

MTG: How do you know?

Me: Eleanor Rigby

MTG smiles and runs her hand through my hair as she walks past me. She grabs the clothes she was folding and takes them upstairs. I look at the obit one more time and grab a pen. I scratch out Jane Doe and write above it, "Eleanor Rigby."

Eleanor Rigby - Ray Charles

Like an MC at a Fever in the DJ Booth

2008-07-22T18:52:00.002-05:00

And so it is. Air Supply was not played at the party. But MTG had a great time anyways, even though it wasn't a party for us.

The funny thing is I prepared the list including all the songs that were on the preset list. And as I was playing the preset list this happened. One of the guests, a little old lady, (I just don't say that, I mean she was old and little and frail) came up to me while I was playing the pre-chosen song "Because you loved me" by Celine Dion (I playing this song reminding myself that this is what is wanted by the host) and said matter of factly, "This song sucks. Look you've cleared out the dance floor! Play something we can dance to."

I couldn't help but smile, I wanted to hug her. But I had to inform her that this was the set list that was chosen and it was not exactly up to me to not play these songs. Besides at that point they were cutting cake and no one was dancing anyways. But a few moments after this older lady tells me this, the husband of the couple who's anniversary it was comes up to me.

Him: Hey can we kick it up a notch. Who choose this music?

AD: Your daughter did. And heck yeah I can get this place moving.

He looked at the list and asides from a few songs to keep, he pretty much gave me free control. In no time at all I had electric slides, soul trains, twists, salsas, merengues, and everything else going. Everyone was sweaty and having fun.

Sadly I didn't get to dance but to all but two songs with MTG. My setup was less then stellar. I actually got there early but the person who had the keys to the club house was no where to be found. And when I did get there, about 30 mins till starting time, I was aghast to find that there was no where for me to set up or a table to put my stuff on like I was told there would be. So basically I set up my speakers at the far end of the dance floor, plugged in my amps and mixers and everything else; set it around a lone chair I was able to steal from a back room, and played the music from my laptop that literally had to sit on my lap almost the entire time.

And funnier is that there was nothing to drink but water and tea, so MTG brought two bottles of wine and left them in the car and snuck out every now and again to get us some drinks. Felt like we were in school. But I'm glad everyone had a good time.

Air Supply

2008-07-16T22:47:00.002-05:00

Okay this is actually a reader participation post. Mix Tape Girl uhm.."volunteered" me to DJ an anniversary party for some acquaintances. Said acquaintances are a bit older than the crowd I would normally DJ for. No biggie. It's going to be a night of oldies, disco and slow dances, I'm resigned to that, though I may sneak in a remix version of something between sets. Anyways.

Now I've been given a set list to play. Something along the lines of the following:

1. Somebody like you - Keith Urban
2. Laughter in the Rain - Neil Sedaka
3. Dancing in the moonlight - King Harvest
4. Everyday - James Taylor
5. Because you loved me - Celine Dion
6. Like a star - Corinne Bailey Rae
7. Somewhere over the rainbow - Israel Kamakawiwo'ole
8. Come away with me - Norah Jones
9. Dance party favorites Cha Cha Slide - Mr. C
10. Outstanding - The Gap Band
11. Good times - Chic
12. Electric slide
13. This will be an everlasting love - Natalie Cole
14. Love train - The O'Jays
15. Giving you the best that I got - Anita Baker
16. Stand by me - Ben E. King
17. The first time ever I saw your face - Roberta Flack
18. Fields of gold - Sting
19. You are the sunshine of my life - Stevie Wonder
20. Don't it make my brown eyes blue - Crystal Gayle
21. I'll be around - The Spinners
22. Danny's song - Anne Murray
23. The way you look tonight - Frank Sinatra
24. Let's get loud - Jennifer Lopez
25. No one - Alicia Keys
26. Quando, quando, quando - Michael Buble
27. Save the last dance for me - Michael Buble
28. Boogie oogie oogie - A Taste of Honey
29. The power of love - Huey Lewis & the News

And the rest of the 4 + hours I have to devise myself. When asked how long to play I received the vauge answer from 7:45 to maybe...midnight? Which left my mouth quite opened. Anways the debate MTG and I are having is that she thinks that I should include some Air Supply. I think that I shouldn't. I'm vaugley acquainted with these people and even though their cool, I don't know if their Air Supply folks. But MTG say yes, I say no. So I'm asking you bloggie people. What do you think? Yes or no? No is fine but if Yes, can you give some hints of your favourite Air Supply songs that might be good for an anniversary party.

A bet is riding on this so don't let me down.

And the Award goes to....

2008-07-15T19:03:00.004-05:00

After much debating, here are Mix Tape Girl and I picks for the "Arte y Pico" awards. Some are our own, some are joint picks.

1. Cup of Coffey: One of the first blogs I came across in the blogging world and to me one of the best. (Okay, amendment. Per MTG "to us one of the best") Beth's undying love for REM, her witty and funny writings, about music and life are all too good to pass up. Her Mix Tape Friday's are a tribute to her true love of music, and inspires others to think how a song can change your life or at least your day. As she isn't a DJ, she very well needs to be one. One of the sweetest gals out there, she's fun and loving and a great friend to have. (AD & MTG)

2. Restaurant Gal: I don't quite remember how I came across this gem of a site. Restaurant Gal has had me hooked since the first read. Her stories flow like poetry, and can pull at the strings of your heart. From thoughts about the restaurant business to personal reflections, this is a must read. And most importantly she answered my question to boot. Know I know to always tip even when picking up take out myself. (AD pick)

3. My Head Is A Box Filled With Nothing: Another joint favorite. Gizmorox provides sweetness and angst delivered up oh so greatly. We agree we love her quirks. She can deliver sarcasm towards work, gush over a cartoon bunny, leave you laughing or with a tear. Definately someone to have a drink with. Cheers to you Gizmo. (AD & MTG pick)

4. Coaster Punchman's World: Again I don't remember how I found out about this blog. It was probably during lunch while my cheeks were filled with Ramen Noodles. Anyways, CP is great. He and Poor George can make you smile anytime. Find out about Mama Gin, arrogant sales reps, lovely cats, what's cookin' (literally) with George and lest we forget, the Mary Tyler Moore Service. Which MTG has had the privilege of experiencing. (AD pick)

5. Culinary Concoctions by Peabody: Cooking with a personal twist. Peabody's love of cooking drew me in. What drew me in more is cooking for a picky eater. Much like AD, yes that's right he's a picky eater too. Little gold flakes of personal reflections along with receipes fill her wonderful blog. From childhood memories to cakes, I love this blog. Have a good read and try making something new, even if a Creme Brulee turns out like mine to be a chocolate omlete, there's no going wrong here. (MTG pick)

So here's your awards. Enjoy.

Sorry if we missed some of you. We'll have to do an honorary award cermiony for the others, where everybody gets a ribbon. Yay!!

And the Oscar goes to...

2008-07-13T22:45:00.003-05:00

Okay its not an Oscar but it's the next best thing. The ever so awesome and delightful "Prone to Whimsy" awarded Mix Tape Girl and myself the Arte y pico awards. I shall have to make a special shelf just for this picture.

So here are the rules of how this works.

1) You have to pick 5 blogs that you consider deserve this award, creativity, design, interesting material, and also contributes to the blogger community, no matter of language.

2) Each award has to have the name of the author and also a link to his or her blog to be visited by everyone.

3) Each award-winning, has to show the award and put the name and link to the blog that has given her or him the ward itself.

4) Award-winning and the one who has given the prize have to show the link of "Arte y pico"blog , so everyone will know the origin of this award.

5) To show these rules.

Award winners are:... "

Our committee is going over the list of nominee's, stay tuned folks.

Blackbird singing in the dead of the night

2008-07-13T22:42:00.001-05:00

It's 1:30 am, we've been tossing and turning all night. We actually went to be early and thought we'd be good and sleep. Both of us getting up early for work all week long and feeling it's effects. For a weekend we tried to keep this one quiet. Trying to avoid being sucked into an invite to a gathering from our friends. Not that we don't love them, we just need some R&R.

We literally ran (ok a running jog) away from some friends when we came across them. Knowing full well they were going to ask us over, and be stuck there till midnight or so at their house watching movies. I'm sorry but that just wasn't us this weekend. So we ran and hid, giggling to ourselves. I don't think our friends thought anything of it, knowing that we're a couple of goofs.

So we stayed in. We sat on the couches, sprawled out, reading books and magazines, listening to music. I've taken up knitting and was busy making a blanket for a friend that just had a baby. Time passed and we grew tired. We didn't say anything to each other but were happy in our silence. The music played, Otis Redding coming softly from the stereo. Eventually we were just starring at the ceiling. Listening to the hum of the ceiling fan and the shadows it made in the light.

Eventually peeling ourselves off the couches, we headed upstairs and to bed. It was only 10 pm. We fell asleep quickly, but alas it wasn't to last. Before I knew it, it was 1 pm and I was wide awake. I tried to just lay there wishing for the sleep to come back, but it didn't work. Staying quiet I reached for my mp3 player that I normally keep by my side of the bed, but it wasn't there. I forgot I moved it when I cleaned up yesterday. I turned slowly to see if AD was sound asleep. He wasn't, in the darkness his eyes were looking at me.

AD: Can't sleep either?

Me: No.

Slowly we roused ourselves up and turned on the TV. There wasn't really anything on. Old movies and re-runs, and soft core porn on the premium channels. After a while we turned off the TV and turned on the stereo. Dar Williams "Two Sides Of The River", beckoned us to sleep. Her sweet smokey voice softly speaking to us through the speakers.

AD was thumbing through a magazine, to occupy myself I grabbed his free hand and was examining its features. Old cuts, and scratches, fights from long ago, injuries from play, oddly enough even a stab wound on his left palm. After a while AD turns to me.

AD: I want some ice cream.

Me: That sounds like a great idea.

Sadly none was to be found in the freezer. So doing what most insane people do, being around 2 am faced with insomnia, we drove to the 24 hours Wal-Mart to get some. AD changed, I pretty much went in my PJ's. Fortunately this seems to be somewhat standard attire for midnight runs to 24 hours Wal-Marts.

We took the long way to the ice cream. Looking at clothes, picking up some light bulbs. I passed a mother with her little girl, with the cutest cheeks I've ever seen. The little girl was starting to fall asleep. She told me she takes her here at night when she gets fussy and they can't sleep. They walk around till she's out and then goes home.

We headed to the electronics section and rummaged through the $3 and $5 clearance DVD's, which had be just restocked. AD feeling that Lethal Weapon 4 was now worthy enough to be bought for $3 dollars. I picked out some old cartoons, of Popeye and Casper for whatever reason compeled me to do so. As we walked we noticed others who basically looked like us. A motley crew, some dressed, most in PJ's. Walking zombies of insomnia, going through clothes racks, buying shampoo's they've never tried before.

We finally got to the ice cream, which was on sale for $2.98. Yay!! Seeing as it was on sale, we stocked up. Banana Split, Snickers, Pecan Praline, Mint Chocolate Chip, Sara Lee Cheesecake, and Rocky Road. We bought nuts and banana's to mix in with the mix too.

We checked out and selected a few final non-necessities from the goodies around the register, gums and candies beckoned to us. And made the short drive home, listening to The Beatles White Album. As the street lights flicked by illuminating us ever few feet I tried to wonder who was Prudence, and the story behind Bungalow Bill. We pulled into home while George's Guitar gently weeped.

AD: I miss George, he ruled.

We put away our goodies and made us some sundaes. AD briming with excitement on the Sara Lee Cheesecake ice cream we found. Cheesecake is his kryptonite. I settled for Banana Split and added real banana's and nuts for effect. We turned the TV on in the living room and settled down to eat ice cream and watch Rio Bravo on AMC. Dean Martin is okay in the movie but I like Ricky Nelson better, to me he's much cuter.

About half-way through we finish our ice cream and I turn off the TV as we're really not watching it. We head upstairs and brush our teeth again. It's almost 4:30 am as we slink back into bed. Staring at each other and making faces, still not being able to sleep.

I move closer and put my arms around AD, his breath smelling like mint. We lay there for a few minutes in silence. Then AD almost silently starts siging.

AD: Blackbird signing in the dead of the night, take these broken wings and learn to fly, all your life, you were only waiting for this moment to arise......

Me: Blackbird signing in the dead of the night, take these sunken eyes and learn to see, all your life, you were only waiting for this moment to be free...

Before we could get to another verse in we fall asleep, I wake up and notice it's 1 pm on Sunday.

Help

2008-07-10T22:40:00.002-05:00

I'm in quite the conundrum. I've 75 songs or a couple of albums to download on emusic.com before last months downloads reset in a couple of days. I don't have any idea what to download. Anyone have any ideas. Even AD is stumped right now, but he's forgiven due to the crappy week. Any ideas? I have till Sunday when they reset.

Let me know some of your favorites that might be found on emusic. Seriously I need recommendations or else I just might waste a download on the Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull soundtrack. Yikes!!

Forgive me

2008-07-08T23:04:00.003-05:00

It's an hour till midnight. I just got home. I showered and changed and put the blood soaked clothes of mine in a bag. MTG is asleep next to me.

I just put down the dog that was too young to die but too sick to live. Dad called while I was at work, the dog had been vomiting anything it ate since yesterday, its defecating anywhere it lays. The vet said there was nothing you can do, it just happens. Make it as comfortable as possible. You can put her down too. But at the visit she still seemed too healthy to put her down, even the vet told us this.

I got to my parents house after work. They don't live in the city. It's almost an hour drive with traffic. Dad's outside sweeping the drive after the downpour we had today. I park and go inside, dad following closely behind. We pass the kitchen and the fridge is full of pictures. Of of which is our first dog TJ, or as the AKC registered him, Sir Thomas Jinxs, a pure breed Sheltie, around his picture says "World's Greatest Dog." I open the door to the gargage, where the dog mostly stays at night. It's her place to stay, it's her's. The smell of her feces is overbearing. She's crapped all over the garage. Nothing is staying in.

She wags her tail as I approach. Slowly she gets up. I try to carry her outside to the back porch, but she wiggles free and insists on limping there herself. We go outside and there is a glimmer of life in her eyes. Her tail wags slowly, not fast, not with much power. She looks happy. She tries to take a step forward out to the grass, but her hind legs give out and they fall beneth her. I try to console her and hold her close to me as I sit next to her on the floor. Slowly licking my ear as she raises herself and sits next to me.

Dad's gone back inside for something. She gets up fully and now slowly walks out to the grass. She throws up half-way out. This time its just blood. She developed some sort of bone cancer that there aren't even medicines for. I walk up and slowly pet her head. Her face warm and still young looking. I hear the back door open and dad walk out again.

He walks out behind me.

Dad: You have to do it.

Me: Maybe we can take her to the docotor in the morning.

Dad: I don't want her suffering all night.

I curse the fact that the nearest vet is 40 miles from where they live. And there are no emergency animal hospitals. It wouldn't matter her vet would be closed anyways. Dad hands me his pistol. The 9mm still warm from where he was holding it.

I hesitate as she looks at me. Her eyes seem to tell that she knows what's coming. This is the second dog that I will loose to sickness. I can't help feel that despite there not being anything we can do, that I've failed her. I imagine Sir Thomas Jinxs watching me point the pistol at her head. I manage to look her in the eye, I stroke her face, I kiss her on top of her head.

Me: If you see Sir Thomas Jinxs, salute him for me. I love you, please forgive me.

Oddly she seems to understand. She looks like she smiles and turns around on her own accord and sits staring out over the field. I again hesitate, then with one sudden "POP!" she falls to the ground. I couldn't have her dying a slow agonizing death all night.

I dig a hole out in the field and carry her out there and bury her. I can't hold back the tears as I do it. Dad asks if we should keep the collar and tags. I tell him to leave them. They're hers, she'll have them forever. We go back to the house and wash our hands with the water hose. I should have brought a change of clothes but didn't think about it. Her blood on my shirt and jeans from where I carried her.

Dad: No more dogs.

Me: No more

We head back inside. I look out to the field one last time and can't help but mouth "Please forgive me" to her. I hope she does.

Girls and their summer dresses

2008-07-03T22:26:00.005-05:00

Now from time to time I read..okay flip through AD's magazine subscriptions. No not the Playboy, though honestly PB, your magazine is basically GQ with bare tits, I've seen worse so I really don't mind AD getting them. Just yet anyways.

So I happened across AD's new GQ. Which just happens to have Gisele half naked on the cover. Hmmm..intriguing. I had to read what the interview was about and secretly loath her perfect body but wish for it at the same time. But while flipping through the magazine, I came across the article "Girls in the their summer dresses" Now its not really an article just pictures of girls in....lets say revealing dresses. But the focus is on the mens suits. So the information given is for the mens suits and accessories. Well I happened upon a dress that I really REALLY like. And now I am on the hunt. Here's a pic, tell me what you think.

All the magazine dress says is "H&M" for the designer. I tried their website but it's really weird and doesn't list much of their clothing. All in all I don't think the dress looks too bad. Hell she's practically my size. Yes I'm all health freak/run everyday kinda gal. But damn do I love that dress. Oh and AD actually already has that suit I think. Unfortunately all my Google searches has come up with dittly squat. So if any of you know where I can get this dress let me know. My search here continues. Maybe just maybe I can get AD to buy it for me.

Who am I kidding I'll buy it myself.

Smooth Moves

2008-06-28T00:24:00.003-05:00

After a long and arduous day one likes to come home and find sanity. Today was not that day. But it did make me laugh so hard that I took away a days worth of work crap.

I come home and everything is normal. I can smell the laundry being done and AD is obviously upstairs, no doubt folding clothes. And I walk into the bedroom, and to my amazement, AD is there with a puzzled look on his face staring at a bunch of my bras that have been laid out on the bed.

At first I looked shocked. At least he wasn't trying them on or anything.

Me: What on earth are you doing?

AD: I can't figure out how to fold these things. The best I can do is bunch them up and stuff them in your drawer but then they took up too much room so I had to take them out. So then I took out some folded ones to see how you did it but I got lost.

I stared blankly for a minute.

Me: How can you not know how to fold a bra?

AD: I know how to take them off. (Said with a smile and wink)

Me: Uh...no.

I grabbed one, laid it out. Grabbed it by the middle letting it fold in two and then folded it over itself. Easy peasy.

AD: Ohhhhh....

Me: Now clean up the rest.

AD: Please would be nice

Me: Sorry, please.

AD: Want me to wash the one you're wearing?

Me: Smooth move, but not right now.

AD: Curses, foiled again.

Me: No I just said not right now.

AD (Nothing but smiles.)

Waiting and hoping

2008-06-23T22:09:00.002-05:00

We've always had pets. Mostly mongrels and strays that adopted us. I currently have a cat and a dog that refuse to live with me. So be it. The cat refuses to have anything to do with me after I moved. I can deal with her. My dog can't come over as there is no place for her to go as she's an outside dog and all I have is a concrete courtyard the length of the condo.

I still pay for their food and bills. They're more my parents pets now them mine. My current dog is more my dad's then anything else. After our last dog died, (a shetland sheepdog) I knew I had to get another for my dad. My dad being retired not from old age but forced by polio spends most of his days alone while mom is at work. The animals keep him company. He complains to them and pampers them. They give him something to do. Thus is why I bought my current dog, a black lab golden retriever mix. She was a bundle of energy and basically chewed up the entire back yard. And as much as dad complained, he loved having her.

I fell bad as I was not a kid anymore when I got her so I didn't play with her as much as I probabaly should have. Though she did sleep with me at first, until she liked the way my fingers tasted and then I promptly kicker her out. But she is loved none the less. For a lab mix she's really skinny. In fact boney. I didn't think this was a problem until today.

Lately she's been getting up seeming a little stiff. Her hind legs off center, but seems to bounce back after a few good stretches. But not today. Today dad calls me.

Dad: You better come look at your dog.

Me: Be there after work.

When I get there she's smiling her dog smile happy to see me. She's moving slow. Her back legs wobbly and out of place. I think she's got that hip problem most dogs of her kind get. I feel sorry for her as she's barely 6 years old. I try messaging her back muscles to see if it helps, but nothing. She's still getting about though.

I tell my dad I'll take her to the vet tomorrow.

Dad: If they have to do surgery, don't do it. Pills okay, but no surgery. If it comes to it put her down. She'll only suffer any other way.

My dad is never really one for sympathy. This is as sympathetic as he gets.

Me: We'll see.

I go ahead and give the dog a bath while I'm there. Dad playing with her as she tries to bite the water from the sprinkler. Our last dog died of cancer, but after all he was 16 years old and grew up with me and my brother, he had a good long life. This dog on the other hand as energetic as she is didn't have much in the way of kids to play with. She grew up with...well grown ups. To be fair she's the kind of dog that didn't want to learn and I didn't want to teach her. She know how to sit though, that's about it. Not to say some friends of the family don't come over often and the kids always play with her. But it's not the same.

I didn't cry when our old dog died. Why I dunno. I think I was more happy that he did since he looked miserable for the last year or so. But as I dried this dog off with a towel, she looks into my eyes. She looks happy but confused as to what's going on. She's far too young to be having the pains and problems of an old dog. I start to cry and she licks me. I brush her off and help her inside where she spends the nights in the garage. Her routine is down. Straight through the house to the garage, unless there's cat food out. Then its eat it before getting yelled at then to the garage. But today I carry her and place her on her bed. She doesn't move but has her head raise and tail wagging furiously. I stracth her nose and ask her to just wait till tomorrow and hope for the best. My idignant cat watching from a perch above the cabinets in the gargage.

Unlimited Power

2008-06-22T22:20:00.006-05:00

It's 7 am, and the light peaks through the blinds in the bedroom. I barely open my eyes and watch as the light slowly rises through the window and finally a spot lands right on my face. I groan and pull the comforter up to hide myself from the day.

AD's already up and taking a shower. I smell the fresh scent of his lime soap and see steam from the shower. I wiggle my legs and feel the ache from dancing nearly non-stop the night before. We attended a wedding of a friend of ours. It was great, and small just like ours. In fact we helped set it up even in the same place. But everything aside we just got to be guest this time and not worry about anything. It was splendid. As soon as the music came on AD took me to the dance floor. And we danced and danced. Waltz's, two steps, cumbia, bachata, salsa, merengue, fox trot, swing, lets we forget disco and just freestyle to some 80's tunes.

But I will say that my favorite part was just slow dancing while being held close by AD. In fact when the DJ didn't have a song he requested, he went out to the record store down the street and bought it and brought it back. It was the perfect song for all the couples.

But that was yesterday. Today I'm feeling it. I'm really sore. My calves and hips, heck everything waist down is achy. Definitely need to work on the whole endurance work outs at the gym. AD finishes his shower and changes, and kisses me good morning. It's not even 8 am yet. He's a bundle of energy ready for the day. Me, I'm not moving just yet.

AD: I'll make some quick breakie and then put the brakes on your tires and then finish those cabinets for your books.

Me: (with my eyes barely opened and more groaning then speaking) ok

And off he goes. I smell the eggs, bacon and pancakes cooking, while I lay in bed. Albeit AD absolutely hates eggs, he knows how to cook them just the way I like them. I finally rouse myself up and shower and change. I'm in slow mo today. Unlike us, our friend had no booze at her wedding so I went to bed already feeling a bit tired. Oh well.

I head downstairs and find the breakfast AD made. He's already outside in the garage, I hear the clank of tools on the ground. As I peak out the screen door he's already got both back tires off and is already dismantling the brakes. I'm taking my first sip of coffee. I finish eating and thumb through the paper. I clean the kitchen and decide to clean the rest of the house. It takes me forever to vacuum and mop and sweep. By the time I finish sweeping the downstairs, AD is already done with the brakes and is proceeding to wash my car by hand.

I barely start mopping when AD comes in for some water. I yell out to wait outside the door as the floor is wet and I'll bring it to him. He waits patiently and I bring him both water and limeade in a couple of huge mugs. He heads back to the garage. And informs me he'll be right back as he needs to drive my car around and test the brakes. He leaves and I finish mopping. I feel like I'm dancing again swaying back and forth with the mop. This actually helps a little as it loosens up my legs. I bow to the mop in gratitude when I'm finished. This dancing partner doesn't talk back though.

I start dusting by the time AD comes back. The next thing I know I'm hearing the table saw going. He's starting on some cabinets he's going to make for my books and nic-nacs. I told him just to by some shelves but he was insistent on making them himself. I head outside for a bit to check on him. Already nailing the sides together as I approach, he asks what color I want the cabinets painted. I tell him black as it will fit in with the mondern look of the upstairs study.

I then notice a big gash on one of his hands.

Me: What happened? Doesn't it hurt?

AD: Oh I cut my hand on one of the old brake rotors when I took it off your car. It's fine.

Me: Let me bandage that at least.

AD: Well...can you wait till I'm done?

Me: Alright, if it's not hurting you.

I return inside and finish cleaning and doing laundry, washing his laundry still seems foreign to me. I manage to gather enough strength to change the bedding and even wash the used linens. Before I know it AD's bringing the cabinets painted in all to hang. They go up in no time. He gets ready to go grab the boxes of my books and things to put up. I have to stop him.

Me: Wait!

AD: What's the matter?

Me: Just stop for a minute and take a break. I can't believe your not tired.

AD: Oh trust me, my legs feel like jelly.

Me: We can put that stuff up later. Just take it easy okay. What do you want for dinner? As in I'm going to go buy dinner cause I'm not cooking.

After the whole, "I dunno what do you want" with the answer "whatever you want", dilema for about 15 minutes I finally decide we're doing fajitas tonight and head out to get some. BTW the brakes work wonderfully. I actually like the way they feel now then before. By the time I get back AD had already reshowered and changed. We eat and sit on the sofa afterwards.

AD: My legs their killing me.

Me: Hello, mine too.

AD: You didn't get any blisters or nothing did you?

Me: Nah. You?

AD: No.

Before he can say anything else or protest I run and grab some stuff to bandage his hand. I fix it up relatively quickly with little fuss from him. Asides from when I accidently poked it too hard with a Q-tip when cleaning out the cut. Again sorry about that sweetie.

After that we sat on the couch for a while with nothing on. Finally AD got up and turned on the stereo and put on the song he requested last night. And we danced one more time before bed.

Here it is.

Say - John Mayer

That looks good.....hey!!??

2008-06-19T23:17:00.003-05:00

I stopped by the bakery today on the way home to pick up a few things. Whilst there I picked up a few sweets too. Small things but got me a nice Pan de Huevo (you might no them as Conchas), all cocoy and everything.

I get home put the bag down change and come back down stairs. I pour me some punch, (can't do milk), and get a plate and take out my Pan de Huevo. Mmmmmm....it looks good all flaky and coco on it. Then it happens, I turn it around and....BAM!!!

Me: What the? There's a bite taken out of this!!

MTG: I just wanted a taste.

Me: Ah man.

I rifle through the bag and see some of the cookies have nibbles too.

Me: Why didn't you just eat these?

MTG: Like I said, I just wanted a taste.

Me: (sigh)

MTG: It was delicious. Thanks sweety.

Me: Your welcome.

MTG comes over and gives me a kiss, cocoy breath and all. My Pan de Huevo had been corrupted. Corrupted I tells you!!

I admit, it was me

2008-06-18T22:33:00.004-05:00

Alright MTG here's your answers

Were you named after anyone?
Not like a particular person. It's from the Bible or a Herman Mellville novel. Which many moons ago I when I used to work in customer service, you'd have no idea how many people would quote from either book to see if I knew where my name came from. Yes I know okay. I don't know how many times I had to say, no I'm not muslim, and I'm only Irish on St. Pattys Day.

When was the last time you cried?
When I broke my toe a few months back.

Do you like your handwriting?
Oh god no. Did you see my hand written note post a while back? Even I couldn't really read it.

What’s your favorite lunch meat?
Turkey Pastrami.

Do you have kids?
No. And none for now thank you. This is mutually agreed on. (Yes that is MTG)

If you were another person, would you be friends with you?
Probably not. Honestly I don't get along with people who are just like me. It's like a magnet, opposites attract (nod to Paula) and like polarity doesn't. Besides if there were two of me I'd have to off the other, I don't like competition.

Do you use sarcasm a lot?
Who me? As if.

Do you still have your tonsils?
Yep, big thingies in my mouth right. (Wait that doesn't sound right)

Would you bungee jump?
I'm a land animal, my butt stays on the ground at all costs.

Do you untie your shoes when you take them off?
It depends, but rarely do I untie them. My everyday shoes, no, my dress shoes, very much so. I even have the shoe trees for my dress shoes.

Do you think you’re strong?
I suppose. I can bench press MTG for about 5 reps. Though she is a tiny skinny thing.

What’s the first thing you notice about a person?
Their smile, it draws me to them like a moth.

Red or pink?
Blue

What’s your least favorite thing about your body?
My monkey paw. My hands do not straighten. It doesn't hurt or anything but it looks odd when you notice. I tell people its from my cage fighter training and I'm working on my cauliflower ears.

Who do you miss the most?
I don't know if this is good or bad but no one really. Though I do feel sad when away from MTG. (That'll earn me points right?)

What color pants and shoes are you wearing?
Uhm, typing in bed, not wearing either, or much of anything else.

How about your shirt?
See above

What’s the last thing you ate?
Steak and shrimp. The bosses paid a surprise visit and took us out to dinner. Although this should make me happy, I'm actually quite pissed at some ideas their kicking around. Like taking us from offices to a gigantic room and making it into a cube farm. If this really happens I'm so gone. Needless to say I paid for my own drinks tonight as the allotted 2 maximum wasn't going to do.

What are you listening to right now?
Yelle "A Cause Des Garcons"

Who’s the last person you spoke to on the phone?
MTG

If you were a crayon, which color would you be?
Rust

What’s your favorite smell?
Lately some Bath & Body works lotion MTG uses, think its cherry blossom or something. Drives me nuts. Grrrrooowwwllll!!

What’s your favorite sport to watch?
Honestly I don't watch sports, really. I know I should turn in my man card, but sports never interested me. I do say however that I get excited with World Cup and Le Tour de France. Why I like those two sports, I have no idea.

What color is your hair?
It looks Brown, but on closer inspection its red with brown, blonde, and black. Like a calico cat or something. What can I say us gyspies have a diverse background.

What color are your eyes?
Brown

Do you wear contacts?
Nope, just spectacles. I'm still debating about Lasik.

Favorite food?
Steamed rice and sauteed beef tips with brown gravy. MTG/Beth Thai? Bleech!!

What’s your favorite cereal?
Cinnamon Life

What’s your favorite ice cream?
Superman, which is pretty much extinct in this world. If anyone knows where you can get some let me know.

Favorite dessert?
Cheesecake!!!!!!!!! Om nom nom!!

Scary movies or happy endings?
I'm not picky, either will do.

What’s the last movie you watched?
Marilyn Hotchkiss Ballroom Dancing and Charm School. MTG had me watch this a little while ago. And truth be told I loved it. So not what I was expecting. Not a girlie movie in the least. And it has that delightful John Goodman. Though it may take a few viewings to put together the bouncing plot.

What book are you reading now?
The Eyre Affair by Jasper Fforde

Summer or winter?
Winter, dead of.

Hugs or kisses?
Yes please

What’s on your mouse pad?
It's a touch pad, so nothing.

What did you watch on TV last night?
Nothing, didn't watch any.

What’s your favorite sound?
The sound of silence on the weekend when no alarms go off telling me to get to work.

Rolling Stones or Beatles?
Damn, I can't decide that. That's like asking would you rather like water or air.

What’s the farthest you’ve been from home?
Europe

Do you have a special talent?
I can wiggle both my ears.

Where were you born?
On the wagon of a traveling show, my momma used to dance for the money they'd throw.

Who do you want to answer these questions?
Anyone, knock yourselves out.

Beth's meme by MTG

2008-06-17T23:11:00.004-05:00

I'm taking up Beth on her meme request. Here you go. (MTG)

Were you named after anyone?
Nope. Just a common girlie name. But a cute one none the less.

When was the last time you cried?
This afternoon, dad was having a procedure done and I was so worried but couldn't get off of work to be with him.

Do you like your handwriting?
I love it. I'm skilled in calligraphy. I'm often asked to write invitations and such for friends. I love writing in different styles.

What’s your favorite lunch meat?
Hmmm...Mickleberry ham.

Do you have kids?
No. And none for now thank you. This is mutually agreed on.

If you were another person, would you be friends with you?
I'd have to warm up to me first. I've been told I kind of give a cold shoulder if you don't really know me. But I'd eventually be my friend. But I'm working on not seeming so serious.

Do you use sarcasm a lot?
Every day.

Do you still have your tonsils?
I do

Would you bungee jump?
Not so much, no.

Do you untie your shoes when you take them off?
Yes I do. But seeing as I'm always in high heels it's not really too big of a problem.

Do you think you’re strong?
I do. I don't let myself get pushed around by anybody. I'm a take charge kinda gal.

What’s the first thing you notice about a person?
the hair. I don't know why but I always remember the hair.

Red or pink?
Red

What’s your least favorite thing about your body?
My obliques. But I'm taking classes to work on them.

Who do you miss the most?
My family, not that I don't see them, but I'm getting used to not seeing them everyday like I did before getting married. Though we do talk everyday.

What color pants and shoes are you wearing?
Just some denim cut-offs.

How about your shirt?
White tank top

What’s the last thing you ate?
Thai

What are you listening to right now?
VHS or Beta, AD got me hooked

Who’s the last person you spoke to on the phone?
Dad

If you were a crayon, which color would you be?
Peach

What’s your favorite smell?
AD's Brooks Brothers cologne. Drive me wild. ;)

What’s your favorite sport to watch?
Basketball

What color is your hair?
Brown

What color are your eyes?
Brown
Do you wear contacts?
Not since I had PRK done a few years back.

Favorite food?
Thai Thai Thai!! (Beth if/when we meet, we will go for Thai. AD hates it but still goes with me.)

What’s your favorite cereal?
Special K with Strawberries.

What’s your favorite ice cream?
Häagen-Dazs caramelized pear and toasted pecan

Favorite dessert?
Tres leches

Scary movies or happy endings?
Happy ending.

What’s the last movie you watched?
Made of Honor

What book are you reading now?
None, haven't had time lately.

Summer or winter?
Summer gal.

Hugs or kisses?
Yes please

What’s on your mouse pad?
Van Gogh

What did you watch on TV last night?
House

What’s your favorite sound?
A margarita being poured

Rolling Stones or Beatles?
Beatles

What’s the farthest you’ve been from home?
Europe

Do you have a special talent?
I've many. But few will see or know of them.

Where were you born?
In Texas (sorry I'm still too scared to give full details of me)

Who do you want to answer these questions?
AD and anyone else who cares to do so.

Vesti la giubba

2008-06-05T22:54:00.002-05:00

I suppose everyone keeps something from their past. Some embarrassing pieces of history. Like most packrats I keep a lot of unnecessary junk. Upon organizing our record collection together Mix Tape Girl and I came across THE BOX.

I think just about every man has THE BOX. You know that special place where yo keep cherished memories and or porn. No my box doesn't contain porn, I proudly display that. Just kidding. No my box contains those embarrassing letters, notes, pictures, numbers, trinkets from past girlfriends. And MTG found it, awe crap!

MTG violently shaking THE BOX: "What's in here?"

Me starring like a deer caught in head lights: "Uh"

MTG opens THE BOX and looks at me with a huge grin. Taking the box to the bed she spills the contents out. I sit opposite from her and start looking at all the junk I've accumulated.

MTG: So when did this start?

Me: Years ago, hence the box being an old British Knights shoe box. I just kept trinkets from girls from my past.

MTG: Everyone?

Me: I think so. Even the ones I really didn't like.

MTG: There's so much stuff here. Can you name all of them?

Me: I usually don't kiss and tell but I've nothing to hide so here it goes.

Kathy, Michelle, Beverly, Jessica, Beverly again (yes the same one), Florence, Maria, (picking up Flo's and Maria's pics and pointing out, same year same time, but not really what it sounds like), Laura, Lilliana, Mary, I think I have missed a few.

MTG giggles uncontrollably: What you had one every year?

Me: In school, pretty much yeah.

MTG: No way, I would have never had you pegged for that.

Me: Tiss true. To be honest most of these girls I never really went after, they came to me for whatever reason. Go fig. (It should be noted that as macho as this sounds, it's true. I never went after these girls, the exceptions being Beverly and Michelle. They stalked me, and I have no idea why to this day.)

MTG: What do you mean they stalked you.

Me: Okay take Kathy for instance. I actually didn't really like her. I just gave in.

MTG: How so?

Me: She used to corner me everyday and kiss me and drag me by the arm everywhere with her. Hence when you see her pic (holding up pic) you'll notice the scratched out eyes, the blackend teeth from my pen, and the devil horns. And she told everyone I was her BF and she was going to marry me when we grew up. I should note this is in grade school, I still hate her.

MTG: You so nuts. You're keeping a grudge from grade school?

Me: Yes of course!!

MTG: Okay, Florence next. (Holding up the pic)

Me: Florence was more of a really good friend than a GF for most of the time. Again I never went after her. I just remember the first time she sat in front of me on a bus in school (9th grade) during a field trip and starred at me the whole time. Literally starring at me. I thought she was weird or at least possessed. And then she stalked me during lunch at school, until finally she came and talked to me.

MTG: What?

Me: Yes, she would wait after my last class before lunch and then follow behind me. Like 4 yards back. I caught on and messed with her and made sudden twists and turns and literally ran down the stairs at school to get away at first. Then she finally came up and told me "Are you trying to avoid me?" I dunno how but we became instant best friends after that.

MTG laughing uncontrollably: Are you nuts? You hooked up with this girl who was obviously stalking you?

Me: Well..when you put it that way. Yeah. But she really was nice, and my only ever asian girlfriend.

MTG crying as she's laughing so much. Sorting through the pictures and picks one up: This one.

I grab the picture and look at it. It's Laura, I look at our picture hugging each other. Oh man.

Me: This is Laura. I will honestly say asides from you, this is my only other serious relationship.

MTG gets quiet.

Me: This is when my gypsy family moved out to the middle of nowhere USA (Think rural like Napoleon Dynamite), where the only school activities were the FFA or nothing. I was actually in the in crowd when I moved there. I suppose because I came from the big city. Lets just say Laura taught me a lot about growing up. "Vesti la giubba".

MTG: Put on the costume?

Me: It's a thing I will alway remember. I would say that if by some odd chance we would have stayed there things would have gotten really serious between us.

MTG: Like married?

Me: Maybe. I dunno. But as always my crazy gypsy family decided to move again just as I was getting comfortable. Pulling me out of school without warning and taking off.

MTG: Did you get to say goodbye at least?

Me: Briefly. I think she thought I was playing. Never saw her again. I spent the following year being anti-social and wearing a hoodie and black jeans everyday in protest for moving so much. That's when Lilliana stepped in. (I hold up Lilly's pic)

MTG takes Laura's pic and the others and the trinkets, boondoggle key chains, slap bracelets, notes and puts them back in the box. The box is pretty much falling apart.

MTG: I'll put this back where I found it.

Me: No you can toss it. I don't need it anymore.

MTG: But it has stuff from your past.

Me: I don't need stuff from girls from my past. I have a future with you, so what's the point. I'll always have my memories. Unless I get Alzheimer's.

MTG: Are you sure? I don't care if you keep it. It doesn't bother me.

Me: I'm sure. (I say while sorting through more of our CD's we're combining) You know between us we have like 4 albums of "Fleetwood Mac". Do you want to take a couple to trade at CD Exchange?

MTG: Yes, put it in the exchange pile on the table.

Me: BTW do you have a BOX?

MTG: I have no such thing. My trinkets are out in the open.

Me: Huh?

MTG: You see those ceramic gnomes? Let me tell you about them.

Me: Oh dear....

On another note, shout out to Coaster Punchman for the shout out on his blog. Like I say I felt like I won an Oscar when he mentioned me. I don't mind being stalked by other awesomely awesome bloggers. Go have a look over at his blog when you have a chance. Can't go wrong there. Oh and on a side side note, CP is the only person to ever have talked to Mix Tape Girl, via the Mary Tyler Moore Service. Which she loved by the way. Though CP you might not have know you talked to MTG at the time. Just thought you might like to know.

So what are you waiting for?

2008-06-01T22:14:00.003-05:00

Yay, finally back home. I'd bore you with all the wedding details but that's not me. MTG can handle that if she so desires. Very jet-lagged and really p.o'ed at my stupid laptop. Vista sucks, it's turning my word docs into unreadable formats,and it seemed to have erased or changed the format and saved the wedding/vacation/honeymoon pics in some unfindable place. Vista I hate you. Fortunately MTG has a back up on her trusty XP. Damn you Windows I will have revenge.

Anyways, today I got my first real feel for what this marriage business is all about. Things have been rosey but now I understand what dad and grandpa and every other male relative and married friend meant by being patient and understanding.

After coming home and finding rotting fruit, expired milk, moldy bread, and a slew of other perishables, that had perished, we went to the grocery store. Not that we've never gone together before but this time I learned something, I mean really learned something.

We had our list and were going down the isles. Me pushing the cart and MTG grabbing this and that. Asking me which do I prefer. Which I find funny as when I used to go with my mum as a kid, it was never, "Which do you prefer?" No, no, it was. "Grab the generic brand!" (Back then generic was this white plain package with no pictures or colour, just like "POTATO CHIPS" in black bold letters.) And my complaining, "Why can't we get real chips?" solicited the response, "You'll get what I feed you." Thusly I feel spoiled when MTG asks me which brand of a certain item I prefer. To be honest I'm used to generic, but I'm easy that way.

So anyways we get most our items and head to the register. We pass the pharmacy and on the way and MTG stops. "I forgot to get shampoo. Wait for me here." No problem, the shampoo and soaps are just a few isles over. I see MTG take off in that direction.

About 15 minutes pass and I'm standing by the pharmacy still. I try to act cool, but its hard as I'm left standing by the condoms, adult lube, and deodorant. I'd reach over to act like I'm reading the ingredients of some vitamins but they are no where near by, so I'm left staring at the brightly coloured condom boxes marked, ribbed, small, medium, large, and oddly enough this store carries flavoured condoms too. So I stand there feeling like a perv. About 5 minutes later I'm joined by and elderly gentleman and a middle aged man. Apparently this is a popular spot to leave your spouse, whilst a wife goes and get things she 'forgot'.

The two other gentlemen sit down opposite the isle on the pharmacy waiting seats. I start getting annoyed. I take out my mobile and call MTG. Her mobile rings in her purse which is still in the basket that I'm watching. 'Damn it" I mutter to myself. The two men chuckle. I think about going and trying to find her but then think that if I leave the spot she told me then she'd go looking for me and we'd be staying even longer. I think it best to keep staring at the condoms. I can't help to think that it was my older brother who taught me about condoms and not my dad. And how his advice to me was, "Don't get XL. Medium or Large will do. XL are for porn stars with horse dicks." This information was much more poignant than my dad's talk about sex which went like, "You know about sex right?" I respond, "Yes, don't right now." To which dad replied, "Glad we had this talk."

The older gentleman finally tells me, "You might as well sit down, she'll be a while longer." I smile and take his advice. My legs are getting sore from standing in the same spot for nearly 40 minutes. My hands have the store logo imprinted on them from leaning on the basket.

The middle-aged gentleman asked, "Just married?" "Yes," I reply softly, "Barely a month." "This'll happen all the time," the older man says. "You mean, just leaving me here while she goes and gets something?" I reply. They both answer together, "Yup."

The older gentleman, gets up and fishes a bag of cookies from his basket. He sits back down and opens them up, taking one out and offering the other gentleman and I some. I accept, quickly munching down the Mother's Frosted Animal Shortbread cookies. I remind myself to pick some up before we leave...when we leave.

"60" years says the older gentleman. "34" says the other. "3 weeks," I mutter. They both laugh. "You'll figure it out" the middle-aged man says, the older nodding his head in agreement. I'm told about their wives and kids while we wait, being given pearls of wisdom. Before long the middle-aged gentleman's wife comes to collect him. MTG and the older gentleman's wife happen to come back at the same time. "Just remember to get something to snack on while you wait", the older gentleman tells me while we part. "I will" I reply.

MTG: "Who's that?"

Me: "Just a nice man I met while waiting for you."

"Oh. Sorry I took so long. I found some nice pants for your nephew while on my way to the shampoo. And then this was on sale.....blah, blah,blah" I nod my head while she talks not really taking it in.

Me: "Can we get some animal cookies before we go?

MTG:"Yeah okay."

Splendid

2008-05-12T22:36:00.002-05:00

Just a quick update. Everything went splendidly, and all is well. I even got to break dance to "Da Funk" too. Oh yeah!! But I'll tell that part later. Thanks for all the kind comments. You all rock!

AD & Mrs. AD

5, 4, 3, 2, 1, 0.....

2008-05-09T21:22:00.003-05:00

I pull into my drive way. The garage opens and I pull in, there's boxes of party stuff all over the place. I try my best to avoid smashing anything.

As I walk into the courtyard I can see all the wedding supplies and table sets all over the living room. I open the door and some of the specialty napkins for the tables scatter about off the sofa. A bunch of my family wanted to throw a bachelors party, but I wasn't up for it. Not to say that they aren't currently having one without me. The last thing I feel like doing is getting drunk tonight.

The house was filled with relatives all week, but everyone left today to stay with other relatives so MTG and myself have our home to ourselves. Though tonight MTG is staying at her parents house one final time.

I remembered to pick up my tux from the cleaners as MTG was reminding me to do all day. I feel itchy because I had a hair cut too and haven't had a chance to bathe. All I could think of is everything that we did today. I place the folder with the new marriage license on the counter. I put my keys on it so that I won't forget to take it tomorrow afternoon. Note to self take this document or else the J.P. won't be happy.

I finally shower and change. Fortunately they let us into the venue we rented for tomorrow, today so we can set most everything up. But I still have to get up early and do more things. All the tables are set up, chairs, most of the arrangements, flower thingies.

I head down stairs and force myself to eat something. I'm too nervous to eat, but I know if I don't I won't feel well in a while. I heat me up a few left overs and pour me an extra large Jack and Coke.

I'm thinking about earlier when MTG was starting to go banana's. I had to pull her aside and tell her to calm down, cause when she's getting nervous she was making me nervous and everyone else nervous and we weren't getting anywhere. We got through it. I think we drove around the city about 15 times today. I had to fill up my car twice.

I pop in Lost in Translation for no reason other than I love Bill Murray and Scarlett Johansson. It's only dialogue and I'm basically ignoring it anyways. I find myself wrapping more eating utensils as I sit and watch the movie, taking care to make the bows around the napkins just like MTG's mom showed me to do. I also find that I'm quickly running out of Jack and Coke and go pour me some more.

I come across some table decorations that I have no idea how they work. I decide it best not to mess with them and have my mom or MTG's mom tell me how to set them up tomorrow. The Jack finally kicks in and I start to feel a little relaxed, not much but anything helps. I can't help but think of all the family and friends who were kinda upset that we didn't register anywhere. I told them what for, we didn't need anything.

I giggle as I think about the baker who is doing our cake and how he looks exactly like the Swedish Chef. How MTG and I had to hold back from laughing the whole time we went to check on the cake today. Fortunately he can bake and only looks like the Swedish Chef. I get a call from my uncle about the briskets he's cooking overnight for tomorrow. Asking me about certain sides to prepare. We figure it out pretty quick. My dad and my uncles will be up all night cooking. But they insist on doing it, and I don't protest.

My best friend who is the DJ for our wedding calls me with any last minute changes to the set playlist, and what kind of stuff to play when we let him decide. I make one request for later on in the night. I ask for Daft Punk's "Da Funk", because I have to break dance one more time.

I finish what I'm doing down stairs and wash the dishes. I feel odd because I have no music on and the movie is the only noise I can hear. I turn off the movie and head upstairs. Taking the tux from it's suit bag and arranging the shirt and bow tie and shoes and everything just so for tomorrow.

I notice all of MTG's things are basically here now. My one closet to her three. When we moved it all in earlier this week she joked that she was marrying me for the closet space. I knew about her shoes but didn't think she could fill one closet full of them. I turn on the stereo but turn it off. I can't find anything that I can play that doesn't make me antsy or nervous.

I lay down on my bed alone, one last time. It seems odd but I gotten used to MTG being here. I decide to try sleeping in the middle like I used to but somehow end up on the side of the bed I've seemed to have unconsciously chosen. I'm tired but I can't sleep. I toss and turn and see the clock. It's barely after 10 pm. I hear nothing from the speakers,which is odd because there is always music. I notice the lights from my cell phone, the cable box the TV standby, the stereo, and various electronics. They light the room eerie greens, blues and reds. I decided that's what's keeping me awake and get up and either unplug or cover the lights up so I can't see them. It doesn't help. I lie awake staring at the ceiling fan make shadows out of the dim light from the window. I can't sleep.

After a few minutes my mobile beeps to tell me a text has been received. It's MTG. "Can't sleep. Hope you're okay. I love you. See you tomorrow morning." I close the phone without responding. A few seconds later it beeps again. MTG is reminding me of more things we have to get done early tomorrow. I simply reply with an "K luv u 2". I set my alarm for 5:15 am, which should give me time to do some things before life gets officially turbo.

I can't stand the silence and put the stereo to random. I giggle to myself and tap my toes as Bananarama plays first. I lay in silence and think of nothing as Jeff Buckley strums on his guitar. And I find myself slowly falling asleep as Frank Sinatra sings to the girl he loves.

Let the craziness begin

2008-05-05T22:46:00.002-05:00

Me: Dammit they put cheese on my burger. I specifically asked for no cheese.

MTG: Just scrap it off.

Me: I am. (fussing while getting cheese on my fingers)

MTG: Hmmm...I'm marrying the only man in the world that thinks cheese on a burger is unholy.

Me: It is, nasty stuff.

MTG: But you eat it on other things. What's the difference?

Me: It's just nasty. Ick!! Don't be knockin' my preferences. I don't tell you you're weird cause you put ketchup on your eggs.

MTG rolls her eyes and finishes eating her left overs from last night.

Me: I can't believe you took those left overs.

MTG: There's plenty of food here.

Me: You crazy. That piece of chicken is barely bigger than a chicken nugget, and what, I count literally 6 sauteed spinach leaves. I can eat that with one bite. All of it.

MTG: Tais-toi!

Me: Want a bite of my tasty burger. Yum, yum.

MTG: Okay fine.

MTG takes a tiny nibble.

Me: That's it?

MTG: Look buster. If I even gain one pound before Saturday, I'll kill you. (She says while pinching my neck.)

Me: Challenge accepted. Muahahahahahahahaha!!! (evil laugh)

Jitters

2008-05-01T23:31:00.002-05:00

Me: What are you doing here?

MTG: I took off early today. I thought it would be nice to go to lunch together.

Me: Oh yeah sure. Let me just finish sending out this e-mail.

MTG: Did you know a car flipped in the parking lot right outside the building?

Me: No way!!

I run to the window and look at the wreck, my face pressed against the glass like a kid. The the other ladies in the office are looking out too.

Me: Awesome!

The other ladies show more concern. What can I say I work in an office full of grandmas. And I kid not when I say the median age is 58.

Me: They must have taken the turn too soon into the drive way and hit the elevated part and flipped over.

MTG: Probably on their cell phone and missed the turn. Uhmmm...lunch?

Me: Oh yeah, hang on.

I finish my e-mail and we take off. We take off and head the opposite direction to avoid the traffic and emergency vehicles in the parking lot.

MTG drives and really doesn't say anything, which seemed really odd. I try to imagine what's going on in my head.

We pull up to a cafe that's near by my work and go in. We find a booth and I slide in to one side and as normal expect MTG to slide in on the other side. Instead she slides in right besides me.

Before I can ask her what's up, the waitress comes for our drink order. We both know what we want already and order our drinks and lunch at the same time.

MTG looks tired. I'm not sure what to say so I simply ask her, "What's wrong?"

MTG: Nothing, really.

Me: Are you sure?

MTG: Yes, I just...I just wanted to see you that's all.

Me: Aww..too sweet.

MTG: I just had a hard time sleeping last night and weird dreams and...I guess I just wanted to see you.

Me: I think you're just stressing out.

MTG: I am. Just got the jitters that's all. Don't worry I'm not running.

Me: Well I'd be lying if I didn't say I got the jitters too.

MTG giggle and leans over and kisses my cheek, leaving lipstick lips on me. I reciprocate. (no lipstick though)

MTG: I got the dress.

Me: Which one?

MTG: Pic # 3

Me: Nice. You looked amazing in that one when you tried it on.

MTG: Thanks.

Our lunch comes and we talk more. MTG finally relaxes and I get her to laugh enough to have Diet Coke come from her nose.

MTG: I hate it when you make me laugh when I'm drinking. This always happens.

Me: It's a talent.

MTG: (running her finger over the rim of her glass) You know it's been almost 10 years since we meet each other.

Me: Can you believe it?

MTG: Doesn't seem like that long.

Me: If memory serves me right, it's you that really started talking to me.

MTG: Really?

Me: Yeah when we first worked together, I mean you trained me and stuff and then moved depts, then I didn't see you for a while. Then out of the blue you sent me a message saying, "Can you make me laugh?"

MTG: And you did.

Me: And I did.

MTG: And you have been since.

Me: Try to anyways.

I'm not sure what else to do so I hold MTG's hand in mine. She squeezes it hard and puts her head on my shoulder.

MTG: Do you remember when you first asked me out?

Me: Yeah, you shot me down.

MTG: Well, I said I can't. Not at the time.

Me: I still took it as a no.

MTG: I really meant yes, but I was too afraid to say so.

Me: That information could have been most useful back then.

MTG: I'm sorry.

Me: It's okay, things worked out even better.

MTG: They did.

We finish our lunch and MTG drives me back to work. I go back to my office and the grandma's are going over me.

Pterodactyl Lady: Look! Look! He's got lipstick all over.

Me: Not all over.

Lady that drinks and eats most unhuman: Ahhhhh...what were you up to during lunch?

Me: Oh you know lunch and making out.

OHHHHHHHHH!!! They all say in unison. I can't help but blush. But I didn't rub the lipstick off. That's just for me.

So much to do...can I wear jeans?

2008-04-29T19:18:00.004-05:00

Artful's the lucky one. He's already got an awesome tux to wear. And I must say the Fred Astaire tux on him makes me melt. Me, no, no I must scourer the earth for a dress. I thought I knew what I wanted, but then I changed my mind. Most important is the comfort. I mean I have to dance the night away with Artful. Thusly I changed my mind on the dress I was thinking of. That and it was the dress mom wanted me to get, can you say, "I like your sleeves."

Thusly after dragging Artful all over creation all weekend and pretty much everyday after work, I've narrowed it down to three. Here's the options:

Leaning very very heavily towards the second pic, but really loving the third pic. Fortunately all three are available. Yay!! Poor Artful, I think I taught him everything to know about A-lines, Empire Lines, lace etc. And no I wouldn't be ghetto and wear jeans. Crap, now I have to start thinking accessories.

Shut Up, Shut Up, Shut Up!!!

2008-04-28T13:44:00.001-05:00

To the woman in the office with the horrible taste in music learn to eat and drink like a human being. Honestly it sounds like a camel drinking water.

Time to update

2008-04-24T22:39:00.003-05:00

Sorry for the lack of posts, been a bit busy lately. I got my car back, Yay!!! Though it's not starting properly. Booo!!! My car has a new engine etc, from the one the dealer blew up. It runs great, but thus far I've been having a problem with it not wanting to turn on. I turn the key and nothing happens. It's done it a few times, fortunately when I'm at home and not out. I know its not the battery as I just changed it earlier this year. So I have to drop it off again tomorrow to get them to fix it right. I hope they don't finish destroying my car.

In other news, here is an excerpt from last weekend.

MTG sitting on the couch, flipping through a bridal magazine.....

MTG: There's so much to choose and do for weddings.

Me: You know we don't have to have something extravagant. Maybe something simple. Just a small place with our super close friends and family.

MTG: I'm leaning in that direction too. I really don't want a lot of people there.

Me: We still haven't made a date.

MTG: Yeah I know. Mom and Dad are getting anxious. Yours are too.

Me: I know.

I continued to do the dishes while MTG checked her e-mails.

MTG: When were you planning on doing your LASIK procedure?

Me: I haven't set a date yet. But I'm thinking June. I have my appointment Tuesday to see if my eyes qualify for it.

MTG: Hmmmm.....

Me: What?

MTG: No, I'm looking at some travel e-mails my friend sent me.

Me: Which one?

MTG: S, she's a travel agent.

Me: Anything good?

MTG: Well.....

Me: What?

MTG: Amalfi Coast...Positano.

Me: (Dropping dishes in water and running over to see e-mail.) Lemme see

MTG: See

Me: What, is that for two people or just one?

MTG: (Checking rest of e-mail) For two people.

Me: I have time off. You?

MTG: Yup

Me: Find out more info.

The next day.

MTG: S called. She said she could book us round trip and everything for $XXXX.XX (uber cheap)

Me: Really?

MTG: Yep. Her boss will give us a big discount for one catch.

Me: What's that?

MTG: It would have to be a honey-moon special.

Me: Oh...when would it have to be by?

MTG: Third week in May.

Me: Hmmm....well.

MTG: What do you think about doing a wedding in two weeks?

Me: Sure, why not.

MTG: Something really small. I don't want to get all big. I know a few relatives that would get mad but I just want something small we'll remember.

Me: That sounds fine to me. I already have a tux so I'm set there.

MTG: I know the dress I want already.

Me: Sooo......

MTG: In 2 weeks from next weekend?

Me: 2 Saturdays from now.

MTG: If that sounds okay. Or later then just immediately leave on the trip.

Me: I think the earlier date is better.

MTG: Moi aussi. We'll start a list of invites tomorrow and hopefully have it done by this Tuesday and ready to mail out.

Me: Okay. We can just get some fancy paper and do the invites on the laser printer.

MTG: Sounds good. How's 100 - 120 people sound.

Me: Is that considered small?

MTG: In my family, yes.

Me: Right then.

Thusly within the last week we've found a place to rent for the reception, etc, etc. And I got one of my friends to DJ. Uncles who wouldn't take no for an answer when asking how much to have them cater the wedding. So that's free and taken care of.

Ah and even before I thought of it, MTG already has the song she planning for us to dance to. But per her request she wants to know what you think so here it is. It's a remake of the Bee Gee's "How Deep Is Your Love" only by "The Bird and The Bee". So your input is much appreciated. I like it.

Oh and one more thing to get your opinion on. Has any of you ever had LASIK done? I'm seriously considering it but I wanted to get input from other people first who've had it. MTG had it done but she's the only one I know who's had it. So any input there is appreciated too.

Going to sleep now. Too much to do tomorrow. Will try to update more soon.

Just a note

2008-04-18T13:46:00.001-05:00

Furry Happy Monsters

2008-04-17T22:06:00.000-05:00

Muppets and REM. Yay!!!

If tomorrow never comes

2008-04-16T22:29:00.002-05:00

I'm jittery. Really for no good reason. Well..I should find out what the total cost of damage is to my car tomorrow. Although it is under warranty, but still I have to pay for small stuff I'm sure. I've been doing research since I've gotten home. It appears the Catalytic Converter/Engine problem is a huge issue with Nissan cars that Nissan refuses to acknowledge. But really it's not the car itself that has me worried and on edge.

No, no. It's much more serious. To me anyways. For just about an entire week now I have gone without a whole slew of my Mix Tapes (CD's). They're sitting in my car. Yes I have satellite radio, and even the rental they gave me has satellite. But my mixes, oh my wonderful mixes. I haven't had a chance to hear them on the way home from work. And making news ones is not the same. I want my mixes. Grrrrrr!!! Yes I know I'm a total dork for being on edge over my mixes. But that's me.

MTG thinks I'm nuts. She made me a rental car mix, just for kicks. Some how she managed to get me to help her move furniture to her office today. They bought some new desks for her employees, and some file cabinets. Long story short, me and her dad somehow ended up being the delivery guys. Me carrying furniture around with a busted toe and everything. Was not happy after moving the stuff. Or I should say my toe was not happy. Although she made up for it, by cornering me in the stair well for a quick make out. He he. Though to be honest I think she kept kissing me to keep me from complaining about my toe. Hey it worked, for a moment I completely forgot about it.

Now dammit, I want my mixes back!!! Not even the IPod can help. And after reading this over, this post makes no sense what so ever. I think I shall go to sleep now.

When it rains it pours

2008-04-12T22:18:00.003-05:00

Hello dearest bloggie people. Sorry for the lack of posts again. Life's gone turbo on this end here.

In the past week I've managed to..

A. Break one of my big toes.

B. Get sick..stupid allergies.

C. Have the service department of the car dealership destroy my car on accident.

So beginning with A. I woke up for work, took a shower etc, etc, etc. I was walking towards my dresser that's on my side of the bed. I did this in complete darkness as I didn't want to wake up MTG. I should have turned on a night light or something. I emerged from the bathroom after turning off the lights, and you know how when you turn off the light and step into complete darkness you can't see anything...yep it was like that. Being as I was all, "I remember the layout of the room like the back of my hand", I set out towards my dresser, blind as a bat. I should have at least snapped my fingers for some echo location. But no I was all Mr. Macho I don't need light. Needless to say I walked fast and totally ran into the bench/chest at the front of the bed. SNAP/CRUNCH!!! Me trying not to scream. I hobbled back to the bathroom, turned on the light and saw the damage. My big toe was facing in two different directions, with a giant gash in it squirting blood. SOB!!! It hurt like hell. Stupid as I was, instead of waking MTG up for help, I rolled up a towel, bit down on it grabbed my foot and toe and oh so painfully snapped it back into place. Then took a needle and thread and sewed up the gash and bandaged it up. Needless to say I am no doctor and this is turning out to be a bad idea. MTG woke up anyways from all the commotion of me in the bathroom and much to her protest I was all, "I'm fine" and went to work anyways. Needless to say it's not healing right and after much "I told you so," MTG has scheduled me a doctors appointment for Monday. D'oh!! I am not looking forward to it.

On to part B. This week, we had a storm front move in. Now if you've watched the news it would look like San Antonio was hammered by rain. We got NOTHING! What we got was all the dust and humidity, which kicked my allergies into high gear. Basically by Wednesday I had almost completely lost my voice. But being the odd freak of nature that I am when I get allergies or a cold, I don't get a runny nose. No, no, my sinuses stay blocked up in my head and I hear everything in echo mode. And now that I've partially got my voice back, I can't tell how loud I'm talking. So everyone is telling my that they can't hear me, since I'm trying not to yell. Or they're telling me I'm yelling. D'oh!!

On to part C. So last week I get this coupon from my car company telling me that they're doing free 100 point inspections. Huzzah!! Free!!! So I take it to the dealership, on this past Friday. (Yesterday) MTG drops me off at work which is down the street from the dealership. I figure, they do the quick inspection, do the oil change, and belts and stuff, no biggie, I'll probably have it back by lunch and can just have my friend from work drop me off. So they call me not long after the drop off, you need, yadda, yadda, yadda. I tell them okay fine do it. A few hours go by, and I get another call. The guy on the other end sounds scarred and hesitant. I finally ask him what's up. Long story short, while inspecting the car they managed to destroy the Catalytic Converter, which parts of it got sucked into the engine somehow. And what happens when chunks, of metal end up in your engine? It's not good. What happens when you turn the engine on when there are now chunks of metal in the engine. It basically blows up and catches on fire. Needless to say my jaw dropped at the news. Fortunately since it was their fault their basically giving me a new everything under the hood. And they damn well better. The worst thing is that I couldn't yell. I had no yelling voice yet. I was barley above a whisper. Double dammit!! I think the service guy thought I took the news well. I was needless to say pissed beyond belief. But they at least gave me a free rental. D'oh!!!

Needless to say I've been brooding over the past events. But it's good to vent sometimes. But there's always sunshine when it rains. I was stuck in traffic, today in highway construction, it was a gorgeous day so the windows where down. Out of no where the wind picks up and blows crap into the rental car. Ack!! Needless to say I quickly discarded it out the window. But one of the pieces of crap that blew in was a $50 bill. Hell yeah!!! And since it blew in on the highway, it's finders keepers. I must find a way to blow this money. Hmmm..the used record/CD store?

Observations - Picture time

2008-04-02T19:39:00.005-05:00

On my way out the door to work this morning, I noticed this above the door way in the hall. It's a cat, I guess. There are a few other cat silhouettes that MTG bought and spray painted black that hang throughout the house. I just had no idea what this was supposed to be.

Me: Sweetie, what is that? It looks like a Koopa Troopa.

MTG: No, it's supposed to be a calico cat. Why?

Me: Oh. Seriously it looks like a Koopa.

MTG: So you don't like my artistic ability?

Me: Uh...it's nice

I just thought I'd share this with you too. This is what I do in the unused conference room white board at work. It's my own personal graffiti board. Or I just go and draw on it when I need to clear my head. Here's my current work in progress.

I shall have to post a completed pic of Megatron once I'm done. It should fill up the whole board.

And finally I just couldn't stop laughing my butt off when I was with a friend this weekend and we made a U turn in a church parking lot. The sign says it all. See if you make it out.

Figure it out?

Give up?

It says, "Pretend It's Easter, Come To Church!"

Collections getting low me thinks?

MTG Update...Mix Tape Begins...

2008-03-30T23:17:00.004-05:00

Well everything turned out as best as can be after the accident. No one was injured. Here's what happened. I was on the frontage road on the way home. There is a on ramp from another main road to the frontage road, but I have the right of way. Unfortunately there is also another on ramp from the frontage road to the highway in just about the same spot. So people cut across really fast from the on ramp, across the frontage road to the on ramp to the highway. They rarely ever yield, they just hit the gas and cut across traffic. Well that's what happened to me. I was hit by a truck in the rear of my car as he didn't yield and took off half my rear fender. But to make things worse, he pulls up besides me and tells me to pull up into the parking lot of the mall that's there. I turn into the parking lot and he hits the gas and gets on the on ramp to the highway. Son of a b#$ch!!! It was a hit and run and I didn't even get his license plate. Bastard!! Needless to say it ruined my week. Mix Tape Boy (AD) has been extra good to me though. (Thank you again for the flowers you sent to me at work. Je t'aime, mon amour.) My car is running fine other then the gigantic half ripped off rear fender. I've been pouting all weekend. So I'm making me a new mix. Here's the start of it.

Everything But the Girl VS Noel Sanger : Wrong Perfection

The Airborne Toxic Event: Sometime Around Midnight

Stars: Take Me To the Riot

Shiny Toy Guns: Don't Cry Out

The Cinematic Orchestra : All That You Give

The National: Mistaken For Strangers

The Mary Onettes: Explosions

The Russian Futurists: Precious Metals

The Beta Band: Dry The Rain

Stevie Wonder: I Believe (When I Fall in Love It Will Be Forever)

Oh and I'm so sorry if the links don't work. I have no idea how to do this so if they don't work, truly I am sorry. I think I got it right. But if their wrong...yell at Mix Tape Boy, I've had enough stress lately.

Mmmmm..Friday

2008-03-28T16:16:00.001-05:00

I don't understand. How can a cream with the consistency of Noxema taste so damn good. When's this day going to be over? I'm freaking hungry!!!!

Guess what...

2008-03-26T22:09:00.002-05:00

So I'm making a new mix tape waiting for MTG to get home. And I get the one of those messages that you just don't want to get.

MTG Text: In accident. Waiting for Cops, be home late.

I call..and am told that she'll call back.

Crap and a half.

Crazy 8's

2008-03-25T19:06:00.002-05:00

The meme bug bit me again. Having being tagged by the splendidly wonder Beth over at A Cup of Coffey. So the game is Crazy 8's. Now it's usually just one person answering this but seeing as my blog now is joint custody of Mix Tape Girl and myself, we'll do four of each to complete the whole eight of each section. Yes the answers are lame. Enjoy.

8 Things I'm Passionate About

AD's
1. Mix Tape Girl
2. Getting more stamps on my passport
3. My family
4. Music

MTG's

1. Mix Tape Boy (Which is what I call AD)
2. Running
3. Shoes
4. My friends & family

8 Things I want to do before I die.

AD's
1. DJ a mix tape and have it printed and sold.
2. Go back to Japan.
3. Go back to the Amalfi Coast.
4. Take over the world

MTG's

1. Simply create the perfect mix tape that can be listened to time and again without getting bored of it.
2. Buy a pair of shoes from every continent.
3. See the Aurora Borealis
4. boob job...just kidding, couldn't resist

8 Things I Often Say

AD's
1. Que que?
2. For real..
3. Yes that looks good, lets go.
4. This is true

MTG's

1. Bai...(when ending phone conversations, MTB brought this to my attention)
2. I love you
3. Crap and a half
4. Don't make me....

8 Books I've Read Recently

AD's
1. Love Is a Mix Tape
2. Spellman Files
3. Robinson Crusoe
4. Then We Came To the End

MTG's

1. Among Other Things I've Taken Up Smoking
2. Peyton Amberg
3. Ludmila's Broken English
4. Song Book

8 Songs I Could Listen to Over and Over

AD's
1. Amos the Transparent "After all that it's come to this"
2. Olive "You're not alone"
3. Dido "See the Sun" plus the unnamed bonus tract that makes me melt
4. Primitive Radio Gods "Standing out side a broken phone booth with money in my hand"

MTG's

1. Minipop "Someone to Love"
2. David Bowie "Life on Mars"
3. Phantom of the Opera "All I Ask of You"
4. Mario Frangoulis "Knights In White Satin"

8 Things That Attract Me to My Best Friends

AD's
1. Sense of nerdiness
2. Sense of humor
3. Courageousness
4. Loyalty

MTG's

1. Loyalty
2. I love how some insanely jabber on and get overly excited about little things
3. They put up with my dorky observations
4. Sense of shoe styles

8 Things That Drive Me Crazy

AD's
1. When someone leaves the toilet seat up. (Grrrrr...put it down when you're done)
2. Mayonnaise on turkey (utterly disgusting)
3. When "someone" (MTG) leaves time on the microwave
4. Daylight savings time

MTG's

1. MTB leaving sticky notes on the microwave that says "Clear time when done"
2. People texting on their cell's when your talking to them
3. The Geico lizard
4. Spam mail

8 People I Think Should Go All Crazy 8's On Us

I don't think we have 8 people that regularly read this blog, that haven't already done thing. If you read this regularly and want to do it feel free.

See told ya the answers would be lame.

Be Back Later

2008-03-20T22:39:00.002-05:00

We were going to post our crazy 8's meme. But there is a live band right outside our bedroom and our neighbors invited us over. Dancing shoes are on and time to go boogie.

MTG's Thursday Mix

2008-03-20T13:49:00.001-05:00

The Airborne Toxic Event - The Girls In Their Summer Dresses
The Airborne Toxic Event - Sometime After Midnight - (Seriously crushing on this song, on continuous playback)
Fats Domino - I'm In Love Again
Muddy Waters - Diamonds at Your Feet
Jeff Beck - A Day in the Life
Tony Jackson & The Vibrations - Bye Bye Baby
Faces - Flying
Orba Squora - Perfect Thing
The Kills - Black Balloon
Editors - Blood
Mostly Bears - The Digital Divide
Radiohead - Street Spirit
Archie Bronson Outfit - Cherry Lips
The Blakes - Don't Bother Me
Digital Underground - Humpty Dance
Road to Predition (Soundtract) - Ghosts
Bodies of Water - I Guess We'll Forget the Sound, I Guess, I Guess
Bodies of Water - Doves Circle the Sky
Buzzcocks - Orgasm Addict
Cold War Kids - Hang Me Up to Dry
Young Galaxy - The Golden Coin
Lightspeed Champion - Midnight Surprise
Duffy - Mercy
Cranberries - Salvation
Sufjan Stevens - The Avalanche
Bell X1 - Flame
Chromeo - Call Me Up (Kill the Noise Remix)
Devendra Banhart - Seahorse
Espers - Mansfield And Cyclops
Fairport Convention - She Moves Through the Fair
Fern Knight - Sun Dew
Joseph Arthur - Honey and the Moon
Lavender Diamond - You Broke My Heart
The Mamas & The Papas - California Dreamin'
Reademacher - If You Got Some Magic
Shout Out Louds - Very Loud
Soundpool - Pleasure & Pain
Soundpool - The Divides of March
Soundpool - Lush (What Becomes You)
Glass Candy - Computer Love
Alicia Keys - If I Was Your Woman
Alicia Keys - Diary
Amos the Transparent - The Stale Scent of Old Beer
Amy Winehouse - He Can Only Hold Her
Mark Ronson feat Amy Winehouse - Valerie
Mark Ronson - Stop Me
Mark Ronson feat Lilly Allen - Oh My God
Feist- -My Moon My Man ( Boys Noise Classic Mix)
The Beatles - Baby You're a Rich Man
Beth Orton - This One's Gonna Bruise
The Cure - Close to Me (Closet Mix)
The Delfonics - La La (Means I Love You)
Midnight Juggernauts - Road to Recovery (Miami Horror Remix)
Calvin Harris - Merrymaking At My Place (Kissy Sell Out Remix)

100 Things

2008-03-19T23:03:00.004-05:00

I've taken the Gizmorox challenge over at My Head is a Box Filled With Nothing. It took me forever but here it goes. Next---working on crazy 8's.

List 100 Amazing Things You've Already Done in your life. They don't have to be great achievements, though they can be. They just have to be things you deem amazing, original, worthy, or worth remembering.

1. I asked MTG to marry me and she said yes.

2. Went to 12 different schools growing up and came out as normal as can be, thankfully.

3. I do graffiti stickers. As in draw them, and make stickers out of them.

4. I DJ parties from time to time.

5. I’ve read every single Nick Hornby book there is.

6. I’ve driven along the cliff hugging roads of the Amalfi Coast and felt very proud of myself. Until an 80 year old guy in a moped passed me, played chicken with a bus and won.

7. First in my immediate family to go to NYC, and all by my lonesome.

8. I learned how to build a slot machine when I was in high school. And won first place in state competition for it for the VICA.

9. I’ve touched both the Atlantic and Pacific from both sides. As in East and West of each.

10. I won an art scholarship in school. (Sadly I never used it)

11. I was loan sharking by age 12.

12. Took a 20 foot drop when I was a kid and nothing happened.

13. I’ve been to the Takato Cherry Blossom Festival in Japan.

14. Been to S. Korea. Not as nice as Japan.

15. I found the Prada outlet store in Tuscany.

16. I have an ascot. Not that I’ve ever worn it but I do have one.

17. I have once drank a bottle of Seagram’s Purple Dragon in my car at work during lunch, and nothing happened. (I will never work in a call center ever again. I see the whole customer service industry in a whole new light now.)

18. I saw Jurassic Park 5 times in a row, at the theater when it first came out. (I’m a dinosaur freak.)

19. My friend told me that I once saved her life. All I did was stop this creepo from pulling her into his car while she was walking down the street. I just happened to be walking towards her at the same time. I wouldn’t call it bravery or anything. I just did what had to be done.

20. I’ve read and listened to Love is a Mix Tape about 12 times thus far. I’m listening to it on audio at work again. It should be 13 times by the times this is over.

21. I’ve been in a helicopter tour of NYC. That was fun.

22. I’ve stayed up all night talking over drinks debating if hip-hop has become unbearable or just predictable. And we came to this conclusion: It’s possible to become obnoxious and boring at the same time.

23. I admit, I do have a small but inclusive section of “World Music” in my collection.

24. I’ve taken and completed Salsa dance classes.

25. I can drive standard. Not just cars, but big trucks.

26. I can’t really play an instrument, but I can play Depeche Mode’s: Enjoy the Silence, Van Halen: Jump, and Gigi D’Agostino: I’ll Fly with You, on the keyboard.

27. I’ve had a the over the shoulder harness on a roller coaster break and come off me while going on the loop on the ride and lived to tell about it. Damn you Sea World!

28. I successfully made bookshelves for my house and they look nice and everything. Thanks Norm Abram’s how to books.

29. I won first place in regional dairy judging when for a brief time I lived in the sticks and was forced into the FFA (Future Farmers of America) at school.

30. Yes I can dance disco. There I admit it.

31. I successfully sat through four of the seven years of the movie 7 Years in Tibet.

32. Lemme put it this way. Everything they say about Cuban cigars…it’s true so true.

33. I’ve gotten through 33 of 100 of these meme’s. Damn.

34. I was able to talk airport security out of arresting my friend when he stupidly took a picture of my other friend while he was being randomly searched. Apparently that’s a huge no, no.

35. I won employee of the month about two jobs back. The ceremony sucked. We were in a huge hotel hall with EVERYONE there and they called my name and guess what, my picture came up on this gigantic screen. I repeat a GIGANTIC screen. My face on a GIGANTIC SCREEN. Not the best picture, I looked like I had just been arrested from a night on the town. But I’m still proud I won. Even though my picture looked bad, the one they got of my brother (we worked in the same place) was even more hilarious. Good times.

36. I’ve seen Phantom of the Opera for about the 12^th time.

37. I managed (how I dunno) to have bought and paid for 2 new vehicles before the age of 25.

38. I’m proud of my Ikea art in my living room.

39. I sang In Deep’s: Last Night a DJ Saved My Life at karaoke on a competition on a cruise I went on and went to the next round. I was beat on the next round by some obnoxious lady singing New York, New York. Fortunately she was beat by some older gentleman’s rendition of Engelbert Humberdinck’s “After the Lovin’”

40. I can write with both hands equally well.

41. I manage to read every single magazine that I subscribe to every month. Cover to cover. I subscribe to about 5.

42. I can bake one hell of a cheesecake.

43. I had a small part in a homemade R.E.M. video that my brother and my cousins put together. They did a video to “Losing My Religion”, I played a janitor for some reason. I pray this video never sees the light of day on Youtube. Though it did make it on a public access channel.

44. I learned French.

45. Graduated from college for the above.

46. I finished college without ever taking out a student loan and no financial help from anyone.

47. I saved my cat from drowning when she was a tiny kitten. She’s been with me ever since. Though she now lives with my folks, as she wasn’t having anything to do with moving with me. Stuck up cat.

48. I learned how to handle fire arms at a really young age (8) and am one hell of a shot.

49. You know those guys who hold the camera cables for the big cameras on the side lines of football games? Yeah I did that too.

50. I have won free sodas from under bottle caps, several times.

51. I’ve actually told someone what was on my mind and said it exactly the way I wanted to say it at least once.

52. I made it through the ghetto on St. Maarten, after accidentally wandering into it.

53. Parasailing, so much fun.

54. I’ve watched the sunset and sunrise from a boat in the middle of the Atlantic

55. I’ve swam with dolphins in South Padre

56. I’ve meet Aretha Franklin.

57. Also Tony Bennett

58. And just about every single player who’s been on the Spurs roster. They all seem to shop at the Best Buy by work for some reason.

59. I have driven a $250,000.00 dollar car. And I understand now why people who drive those kinds of cars do so.

60. I have survived three surgeries thus far.

61. I’ve gotten to 61, damn my answers are running thin.

62. I now own 2 laptops.

63. I’ve been to Florida, if that counts. Going again in August.

64. My senior year of High School I got nothing but straight A’s the entire year. To be fair all I had was electives all year long.

65. I learned how to weld.

66. I’ve hog-tided and branded cattle. Castrated some too.

67. I’ve gone scuba diving and swam next to a whale shark in the Mediterranean.

68. I have seen Daft Punk in concert and danced to Around the World.

69. I saw the Chemical Brothers in concert too, but back when they were originally called the Dust Brothers.

70. I successful came up with a last minute speech in college for my English course after forgetting about the homework. I stood up in class with a bunch of pieces of blank paper and rattled a thesis out about how TV affects learning in kids. I got an A-.

71. I’ve had the wonderful opportunity to meet Mel Brooks.

72. Don Rickles too.

73. I took a mixology class. I may not make a great bartender, but I can make some mighty fine drinks.

74. I own at last download over 30,000 mp3’s.

75. Alternately I own at least well over 800 CD’s.

The last 25 will be done by MTG

76. I’ve been to Poland.

77. Survived the craziness in NYC last year when the steam pipe blew up the street.

78. I’ve been to Chile.

79. I wear clear plastic pumps that light up on Fridays, and am damn proud of it. My happy shoes.

80. I’ve successfully commandeered two of A.D.’s three bedroom closets. Honestly how does someone end up with 3 large walk-in bedroom closets? I put them to good use.

81. I visited the Grand Canyon all by myself and took a donkey ride to the bottom.

82. Watched the sunset in St. Thomas V.I.

83. I grew up, with six other sisters. I should get a metal for that or something.

84. AD said this but I can drive standard too.

85. I don’t know what to say…uhm…they’re all natural.

86. I always get complements on my signing voice.

87. I must own at least 60 or so pairs of shoes. Which I so totally have room for now with AD’s extra closet space.

88. I have sewn at least two full dresses for myself which I do wear.

89. I can change my own oil. I never do, but I do know how.

90. I take it as a complement even though its weird, but I get complements on my feet, a lot. AD thinks this is odd, though he says they are cute.

91. The “test” was negative. AD posted about this a while back. Not that I wouldn’t have been happy with a positive, but we’re not quite ready for that yet.

92. I have thrown my bra at the stage of a particular concert. (You should’ve seen AD’s face when I said that)

93. I have written a nasty gram on someone’s windshield with my red lipstick. What can I say, they were asking for it.

94. I can do a ten minute mile.

95. I do the breast cancer run every year.

96. I have the most rockin’ red dress ever. That and the black one are major necessities of a woman’s wardrobe.

97. I speak English, French, and Spanish.

98. I’ve ran on the beach in California and watched the sun come up.

99. Almost done.

100. I said "YES" when AD asked me.

I won't tag anyone with this monster meme. But if you should so feel inclined, help yourself to it. I'll read your answers.

Today's Playlist---Thus Far by MTG

2008-03-13T11:11:00.002-05:00

Acid House Kings - This Heart is a Stone
Sloan - Underwhelmed
Jim Cuddy Band - Five Days In May
The Thrills - Nothing Changes Around Here
The Airborne Toxic Event - Sometime Around Midnight
The Blakes - Don't Bother Me
The National - Mistaken for Strangers
Muddy Waters - Rollin' Stone
The Quik - Bert's Apple Crumble
Alan Price - I Put a Spell on You
Beach Boys - Heroes & Villains
Michael Jackson - Pretty Young Thing
Elmore James - Dust My Broom
Gene Vincent - Woman Love
Jimmy Reed - Aw Shucks, Hush Your Mouth
Curtis Mayfield & The Impressions - I'm So Proud
The Cranberries - Linger
Depeche Mode - Enjoy the Silence
Gwen Stefani - Cool
+/- - Fadeout
The Ponys - 1209 Seminary
Just Jack - Glory Days
R Kelly - Ignition Remix
Notorious BIG - F*#k You Tonight
Phantom of the Opera - Wishing You Were Somehow Here Again
ABBA - Mamma Mia
Badly Drawn Boy - A Minor Incident
Beatles - While My Guitar Gently Weeps
Belanova - Toma Mi Mano
Polkadot Cadaver - Cholorform Girl
Corinne Bailey Rae - Till It Happens to You
David Bowie - Life on Mars?
Frank Sinatra - Come Fly With Me
James Taylor - Fire and Rain
Jamiroquai - Feel So Good
Jennifer Manasseri - Memory
Kanye West - Stronger
Keane - Bedshapped
Kenny Chesney - There Goes My Life
Kenny Chesney - I'm On Fire
Kenny Chesney - Please Come to Boston
Limahl - Neverending Story
Lamb - Gabriel (Neele Hopper Mix)
Mark Morrison - Return of the Mack
The Mary Onettes - Explosions
Ottis Redding - I've Got Dreams to Remember
Metallica - Whiskey in the Jar
Minipop - Someone to Love
Minipop - Like I Do
The Muppets - Mahna Mahna/Lullaby of Birdland
The Muppets - Rainbow Connection
Nat King Cole - Unforgettable
Nelly Furtado - Man Eater
Nelly Furtado - Showtime
Nelly Furtado - All Good Things
Tito & Tarantula - Strange Face of Love
13th Floor Elevators - You're Gonna Miss Me
The Beta Band - Dry the Rain
Paul McCartney - Dance Tonight
Paul Van Dyk - Together We Will Conquer
Paul Van Dyk - White Lies
Sipping Soma - Superconcious (So Alive)
Peter Bjorn and John - Objects of My Affection

Hmmm..will post more later.

I see you - Shout outs

2008-03-12T22:23:00.003-05:00

Wow I bothered to check my ClustrMap at the bottom of my page. I totally forgot about that thingy. I'm impressed, people like me or something. So I wanted to say hello to you all. Most of you are from the states but I see one small speck over off in China. "Hello to you" I'm glad you got past the government censors to see my lame blog. I know one person in Australia and I don't even know if he still reads this thing. But if you do "Hey Jase". To the other 4 specks down under, "Hey" as well. And that looks like Indonesia but I can't tell but "Hi" to you too.

Hmm...it also looks like a have a reader or two in Chile. Hello to you. A few in Argentina. Hello to you also. Ohh..Brazil too. Most awesome. Though I should really say "Hola" to you guys. That goes for you too in Columbia and Mexico.

To the people reading my blog in Saudi Arabia, hello as well. I wonder if you have a laptop and am reading this under the stars out there from a tent. Or you in some modern city and I have this crazy Lawrence of Arabia thing going on here.

Hmmm...it looks like I have a decent reader or number of readers in the UK and Ireland. So "Hi" to you too. And to my readers in the rest of Europe who probably came across my page by accident, "Thanks for stopping by too."

And to those of you here in the States, and Canada, my biggest readers thanks too. I've updated my Cool Peeps section to include blogs I regularly...okay..try to regularly read. Sorry if I read your posts but never comment. I am a shy creature by nature after all, and fear my comments wouldn't be worth your time. But I can be tempted to talk with a cookie now and again. Holy crap!! That reminds me my cookies should be just about ready. Who wants Chocolate Chip cookies?? Yay!!!

Crap!! Where's my sugar??!!

2008-03-12T13:39:00.000-05:00

Dammit!! I ran out of Pop-Tarts!!! The box in my desk is empty!! No no NOOOOOO!!!!

Long Kiss Goodnight

2008-03-11T23:24:00.004-05:00

The clock on the stereo turns another minute forward. It illuminates the bedroom a pale shade of blue. After a while my eyes get adjusted and I see everything in the room bathed in blue eerie light. I check to make sure the alarm is set on the stereo yet again. I've gotten up late for the past few days, shown up for work late. And quiet frankly I could care less.

I turn my head as MTG turns over next to me. She was sleeping, but now she's opened her eyes and is looking at me puzzled.

MTG: You okay? (she says softly, barely audible)

Me: Yes (I whisper back)

I'm sitting up in bed, leaning against the headboard. I took my earphones off as music is not helping my sleep. I watch as another minute ticks by and leaves forever on the stereo clock.

MTG: Don't forget to wake up in the morning, or you'll be late again.

Me: I know.

MTG: What's wrong?

Me: You know when you think about work and how you just get in a funk and are tired of doing what you do and suddenly have no ambition to be there anymore?

MTG: yeah

Me: That's me right now. I literally forced myself to go to work today. I went did my job and was bored the entire time. And I didn't care that I showed up late for the 2nd day in a row.

MTG: Be careful there. It's just a funk. I don't want to go to work tomorrow, no one really does. But we have to.

Me: Let's just stay here like a couple of hermits for a day or two.

MTG pulls me back down into bed from my sitting position. She runs her hands through my hair, it always calms me down.

MTG: I wish we could too.

MTG kisses me and I can't help but taste the cinnamon on her breath from her tooth-paste. She falls back asleep. I stare at the ceiling fan making shadows of the blue light from the stereo. I'll try to get up early tomorrow and smile at work. Lest I am again asked all day if "I'm okay".

One of those days...

2008-03-11T14:00:00.001-05:00

You know it's one of those days when the only music you can listen to that works is Beth Orton & Cat Power. That and getting up 10 minutes till its time to be at work, and when you're here having everyone stop and ask you if "you're ok." FYI, I'm okay....I think. >:P

Ezekiel 25:17 - NSFW

2008-03-09T21:20:00.005-05:00

(Just a warning ladies and gents. Beaucoup, muchos, a whole hell of a lot of explicatives. I'm ranting here. Just be warned.)

I'd say that I'm a cool laid back kind of guy. Most people that know me, wouldn't think that I'd hurt a fly. It takes a hell of a lot to tick me off enough to where I'd seriously consider fucking somebody up. I was pushed to that limit this weekend. Fortunately I didn't have to fuck somebody up. Though I still don't think he got the picture...dumb motherfucker.

So here it goes. MTG and myself were invited to a friend of ours apartment for a small party. And I will say that my confrontation wasn't with our most gracious host. He was awesome, even cooked two damn pies. I call him the man, he's so awesome.

No, no, my beef was with an idiot acquaintance of mine, and semi-friend to MTG. She's known him longer than I have, and he's got issues. As in currently drinking issues among many others. I shall from here on out call him "Dumb Motherfucker With Issues" (DMFWI for short). Now don't get me wrong, he's smart, smart as a whip, but he's also fucked up like I said. Lemme splain.

DMFWI comes and goes. Sometimes you see him for a while, a month or two straight, then maybe you won't see him for few months while he roams around doing God knows what, and I don't really want to fucking know what. He's a privileged motherfucker, going to college, parents paying for everything. I repeat EVERY FUCKING THING. Food, clothing, car, insurance, gas, you name it he gets it, doesn't pay for shit. But for whatever fucking reason he like hates his parents. Whatever. Recently as in last Saturday he came back after about a three month hiatus. Not that I could really give a shit where he crawled out from, but it was good to see he was okay. At least I gave him that. As I mentioned MTG knows him better than me, I don't have a problem with that. When he showed up last weekend she talked to him for a while, and told me on the way home she was kinda worried about him. He's got drinking issues among other things she told me. At that time I was thinking poor guy he really needs help. MTG agreed, but she said damned if she was going to be the one to help him. No, no, she didn't want anything really to do with him if she could help it. Which surprised me cause she just said he needed help.

Jump ahead to this weekend. Saturday morning, I was out with some friends of mine. It was just us boys, making plans for some breakie, having some laughs. No biggie. Anyways, a mobile call and quick arrangement later he ends up with us. Whatever. My friend is driving and we head back to pick him up. None of us "really" know this fuck, but okay he can come with. We pick him up and we make small talk. He's acting all..I dunno dumb-fuck.

Me: So...how are your parents doing? (I've met them before nice folks really, very kind)

Him: How should I know?

My friend (1): What do you mean you don't know?

Him: I dunno, haven't talked to them.

Me: Alright...

We change the subject, asking him about school and stuff. Just shooting the shit. My friend knows him a little more than I do. He asks him about some girl that he apparently had been into. He gives some lame answers and most of the time just doesn't answer or shakes his head and says "No" to questions he won't answer. In fact I got tired of his crap and just stopped talking altogether. My friend though is a big talker and just tried to keep the conversation going. But he said something DMFWI didn't like and a little argument ensued. Fortunately then another friend of ours called and it cooled things off and we picked him up.

We ended up at a taco place which was our original goal. We sat down, ordered no biggie. We talked; him interjecting mindless shit every now and again. My other friend (2) whom we picked up last asked him.

Other friend: So who do you hang out with? Not like we see you around much.

DMFWI: Just people.

Other friend: Do you even have friends?

DMFWI: Yeah

All of us: Who?

DMFWI rattles off a few names. MTG is on the list, I take keen interest in this.

Friend (2): Who would you say is your best friend that your closest too?

DMFWI: MTG

I'm thinking "WTF?" I'm seconds from telling him, "Look here motherfucker, I know you two rarely if ever talk. And for a fact she really doesn't want anything to do with you and your drama." But just then waitress came with our food. Friend (2) sees me that I'm a mushroom-cloud-layin' motherfucker, Superfly T.N.T., The Guns of Fucking Navarone, I came with in seconds of ending his shit and re-enacting the scene from Layercake when one of the characters damn nears beats another character damn near to death in a coffee shop with his fists a plate of food and boiling pot of tea. I should say that he was also talking shit too besides the MTG info. Just the MTG info put it over the top. After the end of breakie, and dropping him off we decided never to allow this shmuck in our group again.

FFWD to Saturday night. MTG and I are invited to another friend of mines party. We weren't together as we had things to do so I arrived first. I pull up and get out of my car. Who should be standing on the edge of the balcony waving at me like a good friend? DMFWI. My blood pressure just spiked. As I'm climbing the stairs I'm just thinking "Fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck fucking fuckity fuck." Upon my entrance asides from my friend our host, DMFWI was the first to greet me. I walk out on the balcony, DMFWI follows. I make small talk, just "Hello, how are you?".

We go inside. I immediately head for the drinks. Yay!! Wine!! Thank God for small favors. One of the other guests uses my friends wine opener on the first bottle. Pop!! The cork is still in the bottle, but the handle to the cork-screw came off. I'm thinking, "Shit open damn you!! Open!!" I quickly go to my car and get a pair of vice grips to pull the remaining cork-screw and cork out. I got it. The wine was the nastiest shit I've ever had. Dry as hell, and obviously been sitting there forever. I drink it saying "Mmmm..nasty." So our host doesn't feel bad. The other guest who opened the bottle originally looks at me and we think the same thing. "Ick!!" We hastily open a bottle of V8 Tropical Splash and pour it into our wine glasses to make it palatable. I then promptly swallow it down like a bad shot of tequila and switch to water. I should say my friend is single and shares the apt with his brother and room mate, and they just moved in and only have a couch, two dinner tables and a gigantic TV, and a few chairs. No utensils at all in the kitchen. Fortunately other guests bring stuff so it all gets done. I wait for MTG and find a small niche for myself between a wall and table that can barely fit in the kitchen by the window. I sit out of the way watching. MTG called to confirm she's coming after earlier telling me she didn't feel like going.

MTG's friend comes and sits with me and then MTG and her sister show up and sit with me in our little niche as well. Then who should start trying to impress MTG, but none other than DMFWI. I'm not talking paying compliments, but all out flirting, with me sitting right besides her. It's not like a conversation that friendly, no, no this motherfucker is laying it on. Literally taking out his mobile to take who knows how many pictures of her, trying to reach over and hold her hand or touch her, asking her to go with him to have a drink, then inviting her to go to a movie with him right after the party, then typing messages to her on his phone and sliding it across the table for her to read, which all responses were "No". Her response to the going out to drink, as polite and as tactful as possible.

MTG: I have a better idea, why don't you stop drinking for a week. One week, let's see if you can make it. I'll do it with you.

DMFWI just laughs it off.

DMFWI: I have today's been a week.

MTG: Yeah right.

DMFWI continues flirting. I try to get up to get some air as by this point I'm just about ready to reach out and crush DMFWI's larynx but another one of MTG's friends that came to sit with us literally stops me from getting up, and tells me to sit down were I am. Separating anyway for DMFWI to get around the table to MTG. DMFWI never even notices this as he's fixated on MTG.

MTG is looking at him back and just keeps saying, "No", or "Try for just one week, to stop". But he keeps flirting. I get tired of his shit and out of no where I start saying, while I had sub-consciencely pulled out my pocket knife, which was extra long:

Me: The path of the righteous man is beset on all sides by the iniquities of the selfish and the tyranny of evil men. Blessed is he, who in the name of charity and good will, shepherds the weak through the valley of darkness, for he is truly his brother's keeper and the finder of lost children. And I will strike down upon thee with great vengeance and furious anger those who would attempt to poison and destroy my brothers. And you will know my name is the Lord when I lay my vengeance upon thee.

This gets DMFWI attention.

Me: Oh I'm sorry did I break your concentration?

DMFWI says nothing.

Me: Did I break your concentration?

DMFWI: What?

He so set himself up for this next part, and how honestly can I say that I could use a movie quote damn near word for word for a good purpose.

Me: What country are you from?

DMFWI: What?

Me: What ain't no country I ever heard of. They speak English in what?

DMFWI: What?

Me: ENGLISH MOTHERFUCKER!! DO YOU SPEAK IT?

I should say that the TV was so loud no one but those around the table could hear me scream.

DMFWI: Yeah, yeah, I speak it.

Me: So tell me something, WHAT THE FUCK ARE YOU DOING ASKING MY FIANCEE OUT?

DMFWI: No..wait...what??

Me: Say what again motherfucker!! I double dog dare your ass!!

I did something from an old evil me I haven't done since some crazy gypsy days of long ago. I slammed my knife into the table leaving it standing straight up. I was shaking in fury.

DMFWI stood up.

DMFWI: I should get going, it's late.

MTG: Bye (said in a get lost manner)

DMFWI turns to walk away.

Me: One more thing, you ever pull this kind of shit to MTG or bother any other one of these girls with shit like this again....I'll cut your fucking balls you off. (Said while forcefully pulling my knife out off the table) Don't let me see your face again you fucking fuck.

DMFWI left. I felt so bad for what I did, how I acted. I apologized to everyone seated there, and after a few minutes when I saw DMFWI's car leave I got up to leave as well. Only to be told to sit down and relax again by MTG's friend.

Me: I'm so sorry. I completely lost myself, I should never have acted in that way. (I turn and say to everyone at the table again)

MTG's friend turns to me and says. "You rock!!"

MTG: I've never seen you get so mad. And best of all you totally stood up for me. I don't think I've ever had someone fight for my honor like that.

Me: I shouldn't have to do that though, it's not right.

MTG moves over and fixes my hair which I managed to mess up during my yelling fit. She put her arms around my neck and hugs me.

MTG: Thank you.

Me: So if someone flirts like that with me you're going to do the same thing right? (I say jokingly, getting everyone at the table to laugh)

MTG kisses my cheek and looks at her sister. "Give me a knife" she says jokingly.

Things that made me smile today

2008-03-05T16:08:00.001-06:00

Currently Crushing on this song:

Everything But the Girl vs. Noel Sanger "Wrong Perfection"

Still looking for this as an individual MP3. Anyone know where to find it?

What I've Learned

2008-03-03T23:37:00.002-06:00

When MTG says..

"It's cold in here" it means....
Turn on the heater

"I can't wear my open toe shoes with these outfits, its too cold." It means....
I need more shoes.

The correct response I learned quickly to the above statement.....
"Well I'll just have to take you to get new shoes."

So much to learn.

Coloured cups are for soda

2008-02-27T22:33:00.004-06:00

Sorry for the lack of updates. In case you haven't figured out, I went and got myself engaged. Yikes. Just kidding. I like it. But that's not what this post is about. No, no this shall be a rant.

Now when you get engaged all manner of people want to take you out and talk to you, etc, etc. I had no idea about this. Tell people that yes we're engaged but there is no immediate plan for a wedding or anything, and they still start to make plans for you. Which I should say we put a hold on right away. Just see how things pan out.

But this post won't even be about that. Okay so, like I mentioned lots of people (friends, immediate family, relatives, etc) want to go out to dinner etc, now to celebrate. Okay fine. Most places we went to were okay. Not all were my cup of tea. But two this past weekend really ticked me off.

We were invited to a seafood restaurant first off. Great, I love seafood. We order, everything goes fine. Now this isn't a place where you have a waiter, no you order in line, find a table, get your own drink from the fountain. Sounds odd I know but the grub is great, it'll make your bollocks tingle. Anyways, I pay for MTG and myself. We round the corner, MTG having advanced ahead to get a table for all of us. (A party of about 8) I grab a clear cup that is very near the soda fountain. It's clear, no biggie. I proceed to get me a Coke. I finished filling my cup and turn to walk toward the table. Then:

Lady behind counter (LBC): Excuse me sir!!! (Said loudly and ugly)

Me: huh?

LBC: May I see your cup?

I hand it over thinking maybe it's not properly clean or some other thing she noticed. LBC takes my cup, grabs a coloured cup (you know those brown clear ones, standard restaurant fair) and pours my drink into that cup.

LBC: The clear cups are for WATER ONLY!! Coloured cups are for soda!! AS CLEARLY STATED ON THE SIGN ON THE COUNTER!

I look down to her finger tapping the counter and see the sign, half covered up with soda and other spilled liquid, taped there in a plastic sleeve. If you didn't look down you'd miss it. Now I should note there were ample clear cups that were right next to the soda fountain. There were only 5 coloured cups there when I got my drink. I wanted to say something, I really did, but I turned the other cheek, after giving a "WTF" kind of stare back, without saying a word. At least the food was good.

Restaurant 2. Swanky Italian place.

Nice Italian place. It's a chain place sounds like Barrabas, you probably have one where you live. Anyways, long wait, like 1 hour. Doesn't bother me none, that what's expected on Saturday night. We order drinks, hmmm...their prices went up. $2 bucks for a soda. Que lastima! Okay but it was free refills anyways. Then came dinner, it was my turn to place my order. I got what I always get at Italian places, chicken parmesan.

Waitress: Would you like garlic mashed potatoes, grilled veg, pasta, fried zucchini...etc.

Who orders garlic mashed potatoes with chicken parmesan I thought.

Me: Uhm...grilled veg.

Waitress: Very good sir.

About an hour later, we got our meal. Two chicken breasts, and grilled veg stare back at me. I think where's the pasta? Chicken Parmesan always has pasta. Looking at the menu again that was left at the table, pasta is an optional side dish. I substituted grilled veg for it. This is most unholy. But figured I don't need pasta anyways. The Sangria's made up for it at least.

Restaurant 3:

We needed a drink, and time to ourselves. So we went to another local place that we've been to, from time to time, never had a problem. Till this night, when we got the oddest waitress every. I don't think she could have been older than 17.

Waitress: What can I get you to drink?

MTG: A Midori Margarita

Waitress: What's that?

We look at each other.

MTG: It's a margarita...

Waitress: Mahr..gur..itz..ah...

Look at each other again.

Waitress: I dunno if we have those.

We both know they do we've had them before.

MTG: How about a regular margarita.

Waitress: (Looking like a deer in headlights) I don't know what that is.

MTG: Uhm...How about a long island ice tea instead?

Waitress: Oh you want regular tea?

MTG: No a long island ice tea please?

Waitress: Long..long tea?

MTG: Long island ice tea

Waitress: okay.....(she tries to write it, MTG spells it out for her)

Waitress: And you sir?

Me: Bourbon and Coke please.

Waitress: Barbara Nicole? What's that?

MTG and I look at each other then around to see if were on some practical joke show.

MTG: No bourbon and coke.

Waitress: Bur..boo..nickle.

I'm thinking this girl is on crack. I spell out for her what to give the bartender.

A few minutes later our drinks arrive. MTG Long Island Ice Tea is nothing but a gigantic glass of booze not mixed well. I get a have glass of whiskey on the rocks, not even with a coke.

Me: Uhm...excuse me? May I get a Coke as well please?

Waitress: Coook?

Me: Yeah Coca Cola?

Waitress blank stare...

Me: A soda.

Waitress: Ohhh..okay

MTG: I'll take one too.

The only plus side is the booze worked. Though MTG did get a bit wonga as her drink was nothing but pure booze. Made for fun conversation. Why we even stayed I dunno, we were too tired to go else where. Bur..boo..nickle. WTF?

Fantasia Pop

2008-02-21T15:24:00.001-06:00

We're sitting there eating our tacos for breakfast. MTG and myself. It's a new restaurant on the corner from my work. It was a few minutes into eating our meal when I noticed it. We were bobbing our heads and tapping our feet.

MTG: Who is this?

Me: I dunno, but it's awesome.

I asked the girl behind the register who was playing. It wasn't the radio as it was the same artist playing for the last two songs.

"Bellanova" she said.

Me: Who?

Girl: Bellanova. Here let me write it down.

Bellanova - song Cada Que, she scribbled on a blank receipt on her note pad.

Me: Awesome thanks.

It's not everyday you hear really good music at a restaurant, much less a Mexican one where Mariachi and Banda music is the norm. It was early so the waitresses were playing their own music on the PC instead of the mundane music on the jukebox.

The music was poppy, bubble gum pop. Not kiddie or anything but really good. I'm at work downloading it on my laptop right now as for some weird reason I was possessed to bring it. Glad I did. Best of all it's in Spanish. Really, when's the last time you heard a really great album in a totally other language. I think I'm making this my pick of the week.

There will be Spanish music dancing tonight.

Building a Mystery....

2008-02-15T22:04:00.006-06:00

A post by MTG:

It was night time, early Thursday morning. Valentine's Day. The sky was dark and no light was shining through the windows. The weather had changed once more from cool to warm and humid in a matter of hours. I lay there with AD's arms around me, my head on his chest listening to his heart beat. I couldn't sleep much. I wanted to her the CD he made and put in my bag for me. I felt more excited than on Christmas.

AD was sound asleep but I kept dosing off and on. The humidity made my skin stick to his. I finally fell asleep. At 3 am I was awoken by a phone ringing. I thought I was dreaming it at first. It was AD's cell going off. Late night calls are never good news. AD finally woke up from his slumber, reaching over to the night stand, and knocking a few things over before finally grabbing the phone. I rolled over and lay my head on his chest again. Hearing the rumble of his voice resonate from within.

AD: What's the matter?

indistinct voice of a man on other end

AD: Do you know where you're at?

more chatter

AD: Do you see a street sign? If you do tell me what it says.

more chatter

AD: And you're sure your out of gas?

indistinct "yes" and more chatter

AD: Alright sit tight I'm on my way.

He puts the phone down and reaches for his glasses, knocking more things over.

Me: What's the matter?

AD: It's my grandpa, he got out and took his car, he's lost and ran out of gas. I need to go find him.

Me: Let me go with you, you might need help.

AD: No it'll be okay. I need to get him home. Stay here, I'll call if I need something. I don't think it'll be too long. You can go back to sleep, you have work tomorrow.

Me: So do you.

AD: Yeah but I get off really early tomorrow, or today..what time is it?

AD got up and hastily threw on some jeans and shoes and was out the door. I watched as the car drove off. It was 3:15 am. My mind was going through different scenarios as to what was going on. AD's grandpa, (godfather actually, I'm not sure how this gypsy thing works, they're not blood related, I don't know how to explain, but he calls him grandpa) has recently gone through a hard time. Loosing his wife, then surgeries, being told he can't do what he used to do anymore. Changing him to a bitter old man, so much different than how he was when his wife was alive. He's loosing his memory, he can't remember people close to him. He snaps at everyone. But for some reason he remembers AD and me and is nice to us. I lay there thinking what it must feel like for him to loose the most important person to him. How that changed everything. How being able to take care of yourself and your wife, to suddenly having all your privileges taken away. No more driving, no more doing anything without permission, having someone help you eat and bathe and dress. I lay there thinking about all this, I pull AD's pillows close to me. They smell of him, his shampoo and aftershave. I think and I fall asleep.

At 4 am I am re-awoken by the sound of the door closing. I hear voices, AD and his grandpa.

Grandpa: Why can't we go?

AD: It's too early, your restaurant isn't opened yet.

Grandpa: What?

AD: It's too early.

Grandpa: Okay

AD: Do you want some coffee? I can make some.

Grandpa: Do you want some? I'll have some if you do.

AD: Yes I need it.

Grandpa: Okay

A few minutes later I hear and smell the coffee brewing.

AD: Have you eaten anything yet?

Grandpa: No

AD: Would you like some pancakes?

Grandpa: Haven't had those in years.

AD: So you want some?

Grandpa: Yes

AD: Okay, let me just go do something first.

Grandpa: Okay

AD comes upstairs. I'm sitting up against the headboard.

AD: I thought you were sleeping?

Me: No, just listening to you. Is everything okay?

AD: I don't know yet. He's acting strange.

AD calls his aunt to tell her Grandpa is with him. He apparently cut the lock to the fence at his aunts house and stole his car which he is no longer allowed to drive and had his license taken away. AD tells her not to worry he safely followed him to our house, he'll be here till they pick him up in the morning. Technically this is morning just really early. I hop out of bed to say good morning to AD's, Grandpa. He sees me and looks curious. It takes him a few minutes to figure out who I am. Finally it clicks.

Grandpa: Ohhhh..MTG

Me: Yeah, how are you?

He goes into a long explanation of what's going on, and he wanted tacos from his favorite restaurant but can't go as they aren't opened yet.

Grandpa: I'm sorry I woke you up.

Me: No, no it's ok. But I think I'll go back to bed.

Grandpa: Okay, goodnight.

Me: Night

It's now close to 5 am. As I lay back down I smell pancakes and bacon AD is making, I fall back asleep. Around 6 am, AD's aunt comes to get his Grandpa. I go downstairs to say bye. After it's all over, AD and I head upstairs. AD sits on the bed and then falls back, legs hanging off the edge.

AD: Sleep, so sleepy.

Me: You can call in.

AD: No it's okay.

The alarm goes off, it's 15 past 6. We both get up and go to work. I gleefully read my card and listen to my mix CD, AD made me. And my present, AD's watch, he gave it to me, since I wear it all the time. I like wearing his watch. I know he'll be calling any minute now.

AD: Thanks for the flowers.

Me: Ha ha ha!!

AD: All the ladies at work are jealous. This thing is huge.

Me: Well I had to go all out.

AD: I like my mix CD you made me. No......retraction, I love it.

Me: I love mine too. I gotta go though I have a meeting. TTYL

AD: Okay, bye.

I didn't get a chance to call again, I got so busy. I got home tired but happy. The door was opened in the courtyard, I saw some smoke coming out the side. "Uh oh", I ran inside. AD was cooking fillet minion on a cast-iron skillet, thus the smoke. Dinner was almost ready. Fillet minion, salad, wine, and chocolate souffle. (I know its missing the accent but I can't figure out how to do it.)

Me: When did you learn how to cook?

AD: I took classes a few of years ago when we lost our jobs. Figured on maybe becoming a cook.
(This would be between the time we originally met and then parted ways after a job layoff from the company we worked for. Though you probably didn't really need to know that. I'm a continuity freak, sorry about that.)

Me: I just might have to stick with you just for the food. (jokingly of course)

AD: Only for the food? I feel so empty.

Me: Alright that and your big Johnson.

AD choked on some salad on that one. I was just kidding. AD don't read this and get that inflated sense of self-esteem. ;) But it's true AD's cooking has improved greatly. He literally burnt microwave oatmeal when I first met him, all those years ago. Can you believe I've known you for 8 years already? Wait who am I talking to, I typed that like you're standing right here.

Then it was movie time. The Drafthouse was perfect as always. And how can one not love the Wedding Singer? And no kids. :) Huge plus. Although I will admit AD must have been on autopilot as he didn't say much. It was due to lack of sleep. Didn't even finish his beer there. I knew he was tired.

I drove back home, we both lay in bed, very tired.

AD: It's been a long day. I'm literally too tired to sleep.

Me: (moaning/yawning) yeah....

silence

AD: Would you marry me if my last name was Gulia, like the guy in the movie.

Me: AD Gulia, MTG Gulia...hmmmm.....I dunno, I might need incentive like a huge rock on my ring.

AD: Not funny

more silence

Me: So my mom told you basically that in effect, she's waiting for you to be "officially part of the family"?

AD: Yes

more silence

AD: I think your dad is expecting me to be old school and ask for his blessing first.

Me: Yeah, that was the whole point of last Sunday which you missed.

AD: Crap

Me: I thought you were going to be there.

AD: I said the night before I'm going home and going to bed and think about being there.

Me: But whenever you say "I'm going to think about it" you do it anyways.

AD: The one time I don't....

Me: I'm just giving you grief.

AD: Oh..

AD: I didn't buy a ring or anything.

Me: So?

We're lying there staring at the ceiling...

AD reaches over and grabs one of my rings from the night stand, puts in on my ring finger on my left hand.

AD: Don't say yes don't say no. Just try it and see how you like it.

Me: Okay

Holding my hand out looking at the ring, and turning to AD.

Me: I like it.

AD: (almost asleep) Okay, we'll go get a real one this weekend.

V-Day Demands

2008-02-13T19:39:00.003-06:00

MTG: Do not send me flowers at work tomorrow!!

Me: Why not?

MTG: I love them but I have too much stuff at work anyways. If you get them, just bring them home.

Me: Okay....

MTG: I'm putting your V-Day stuff I made for you in you work bag. Do not read/listen to it till tomorrow.

Me: Okay...

MTG: And stop saying okay all the time. Okay?

Me: Okay

I sit semi-listening cutting up a giant heart from red and pink construction paper. I'm going homemade this year. Somehow I've gotten glitter all over me. I just have to figure out where to put the googly eyes.

MTG comes tries to see the card I'm making for her.

Me: No don't look, it's a surprise. I can't look at mine and you can't look at yours till tomorrow.

MTG: Fine be that way. (She says putting glitter in my hair)

Me: Stop!

MTG laughs and runs out the room.

Me: (yelling down the hall) I'm going to cook dinner tomorrow!!

MTG: Okay, but were going to the movies afterwards. They're showing the Wedding Singer at the Drafthouse.

Me: Sweet!! I love that movie.

And I love the Drafthouse movie theater. They don't allow anyone under 18, no kids what-so-ever, and they serve real food and booze. Not that we need food but booze. Yay!! And Adam Sandler!! It should be pretty good tomorrow.

Today's To Do List

2008-02-13T15:30:00.001-06:00

1. Walk

2. Sit

3. See

4. Make

5. Eat

6. Rest

7. Run

8. Breathe

9. Dance

10. Play

____________________________________________________________________________________
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Chicken-Parm Sandwich

2008-02-12T16:01:00.001-06:00

Dammit if I'm not hungry again. Sitting at work counting time. Grrrrrr!!! Actually my stomach is going Grrrrrr!!! I split a meatball sub with MTG for lunch today. Now I want a Chicken-Parm Sandwich. I must stop at the market after work to pick up some fixin's. I still need a mojito though.

Unholy Cravings

2008-02-11T12:32:00.001-06:00

I'm sitting at work. My stomach is growling. And for whatever reason I'm craving Strawberry Pop-Tarts and a Mojito.

Stencil

2008-02-10T22:14:00.000-06:00

Sorry for the lack of posts. I've just been overwhelmed lately. Slept horribly last night. Too much on my mind. And the fact that I probably screwed up major this morning. Though I was assured it wasn't even a big deal, in fact it was nothing but it meant a lot to me and I...wasn't present.

Regardless. I just felt like posting something. I must admit that I, dear readers am a sticker fiend, stencil fiend, street art fiend. I love art and pictures and well just about everything arty. From time to time I get the urge to vandalize. Mostly I create stickers or use a stencil and a spray can. I've plastered my work place with stickers, in the most inconspicuous places. You have to look for them but they're there. It took forever for someone to notice the banana sticker I placed in the elevator before someone took it down. I sighed a little that day. But when I say I vandalize, I don't mean stupid tagging that looks dumb and dirty. By all means no. I like to style my work after Banksy-ish art. If you were to see something from me on the side of a building it might look something similar to a Banksy work. Like:

Although I am no where near a good as above, I try my best. Placing stickers, on stop signs or lamppost, or doing a small stencil job on a wall where it more than likely won't be noticed. A while back a friend of mine owned a building near some railroad tracks. He used to let me use the back of it as my own personal canvas. I loved it as the street ran near the building by the tracks on a main thorough-fare, so my work was exposed to all. The last time I did some stenciling I collaborated with MTG. She had never done anything like this. But we designed a picture, made a gigantic stencil and set to work making a gigantic picture on the back of this building. We did it at night even though we had permission. So people would see something new while stuck in traffic on the way to work in the morning.

Sadly my friend sold the building and the new owner promptly painted over our work. The picture had been up for about 6 months now. MTG and I drove by today on our way out running errands.

MTG: The view isn't as pretty anymore.

Me: Stinks

MTG smiles slyly.

MTG: I'm feeling in the mood for a random art attack.

Me: Let's work up some plans.

Super Bowl..Wait What Did You Say?

2008-02-06T22:40:00.001-06:00

Just a quick post that has had me thinking about things ever since it happened. I was at MTG's parents house for the Super Bowl. No biggie. But this time her dad didn't rag on me, nope he was all nice and everything and insisted I sit next to him and watch the game. Hmmmm.....most interesting. Although in guy terms watching a game with another man is the equivalent of 5 hugs and a couple of phone calls. Without actually doing anything asides from maybe a high five here and there. Double that when you watch it with your dad or potential father in law.

Although the sudden and unexpected presence of another guy showing up threw me off guard. Did her dad invite him to mack on MTG? We both looked at each other like, what are you doing here and for whom are you here for? Like to male cats looking at each other. Fortunately he was there for one of MTG's other sisters. So after that was straightened out it was just fine.

MTG's mum made ribs for us and all the fixin's. Yum yum. But while in the kitchen she told me something. They were all standing there talking about there family. Suddenly everyone left to go wash their hands etc, so me and MTG's mum were left standing there, me putting food on my plate. MTG's mum turned to me and said:

MTG's Mum: You know , if..no..when you officially become part of the family after your married, you'll find we have a lot of weird relatives.

Me: That's okay, I have plenty too. (But really thinking, "What did you just say?" Did you just give me your blessing to marry your daughter? Is that why MTG's dad is being extra nice to me? Am I being set up?)

I finished getting some food and couldn't say anything, just smile and nod. I barely ate what I got and was distracted all through the game.

Now I know what your thinking. Those questions sound like commitment phobe questions. But that's not the case. Would I like to marry their daughter? Sorry can't say here not yet. Maybe this would give you a clue. ;) But what about her, what does she want? Is what's racing through my brain. And why couldn't she had said this while we were both standing there together? See I thought about this the whole time at the Body Works exhibit, and ever since Sunday. I can't get it out of my head.

PS: Ok MTG I know you're going to read this. But you have to stay tunned for the answer to these questions very soon. Like next week. Okay.

Call Me When You Get This

2008-02-05T22:10:00.000-06:00

"You have one message" my mobile informs me.

MTG: Hey you. I wanna ask you something, call me when you get this okay?

I call back while at work.

Me: Hey what's up?

MTG: Hey I wanted to know if you want to go to the Body Works show after work? It's Tuesday so the museum admission is free, we just have to pay for the Body Works exhibit.

Me: Oh yeah!! I've been wanting to see that.

MTG: Okay, I'm getting off early so just pick me up at home. A couple of my friends are going to meet us there.

Me: Okay.

I've been waiting to see the Body Works exhibit since it opened here last week. Perhaps you've seen it. Looks something like this:

Yep it's that exhibit with the dead cadavers. Unfortunately the specimen above was not in this show. That's in the Body World's show, we got the Body Works show, which isn't nearly as big but awesome none the less.

I haven't been to our local museum in ages. The Witte Museum hasn't changed much since I was a kid, but they do get really good exhibits. The parking lot was full so we had to park across the street in the back lot behind I-Hop. We hurried across the street that is full of busy traffic and meet up with MTG's friends.

Going inside there were lots of people but no real line, which was good. We quickly bought our passes, I got an audio tour for me and MTG to share. The exhibit was dark and eerie at first. The first room you enter was almost pitch black, asides from the monitors telling about the human anatomy. Once you round the corner you're confronted face to face with a man sans skin, running towards you with his muscles fixed in various positions.

MTG quickly grabbed my hand the moment we turned the corner.

Me: Your squeezing kind of hard. (The blood in my hand quickly disappearing as MTG held tight)

MTG: Sorry, I didn't think it'd be quite so real. (She didn't lighten her grip)

We stared in awe at the body for a few minutes and made our was around the room looking at the various body parts. Legs, arms, bones, joints, ears, everything, from real people.

There were plenty of kids there with their parents, most of them well behaved, but you could tell the few that were way too scared to be there.

We took in the circulatory system, the muscles, organs. People split in half, quarters of people, a brain sliced in sections, an arm skinned to the shoulder with the muscles attached. Every organ there. MTG never loosening her grip on my hand. She was excited but scarred.

A few rounds we ended in the reproductive area. Most interesting. It's funny the audio tour of this is very thorough. The part on the man took like 1 minute and 30 secs. The part on the women took like 7 minutes. I actually turned it off cause it was taking too long. One can only hear about the menstrual cycle for so long while looking at a torso of a woman that's been sliced in half. We got in line for the blocked off Prenatal part of the exhibit. MTG jabbering away, while we waited.

We entered the exhibit and she got really quiet. We read the descriptions on the walls, and looked at the babies. From a few weeks, to 32 weeks. The first baby being smaller than my thumb. But it was there, you could see it's arms and legs, the bones barely there but you could see them. The nails it had nails, really it did. Then more babies as it grew and got larger. MTG squeezed my hand even tighter the whole time not saying a word. There were also babies that died of congenital defects and sudden death syndrome. A few kids rushed past us playing around. We stood there reading the information and examining the specimens. Finally MTG pulled me along and out of that part of the exhibit without saying a word.

MTG: I'm sorry I got all quiet in there. I just didn't realize all that, especially with my test, last week.

Me: There's nothing to apologize about. I never really gave much thought about the whole development or anything till now. I mean you see it in school but that's not the same. Its'...its' something else.

MTG: Yeah.

We stood there staring into the eyes of a woman who was skinned and her muscles and vital organ's showing. Her arms where outstretched as if she was raising them to the sun an smiling. We continued the tour, MTG getting more chatty as we got further along. We had totally lost tract of her friends by the time we finished, and ended up walking back to through the exhibit, only to find that they were already waiting for us outside in the main museum.

We perused around the gift shop, I bought a replica Velociraptor skull, that would look cool on the bookshelf at home. MTG bought a DaVinci shirt. We sat on the bench at the entrance while MTG's friends went to the restroom. MTG putting her head on my shoulder. She still hadn't really let go of my hand. Just as her friends were walking towards us the fire deparment/EMS came through the door. Apparently someone had passed out in the Body Works exhibit. One of the members of the group that was with the person who passed out was telling the EMS techs about the person while on his mobile, yelling a message into it, "Call me when you get this!!"

World Finest Mark Up

2008-02-04T23:02:00.000-06:00

The door bell is pressed, (Westminster Abbey chimes through the house)

I open the side door and step out into the courtyard and walk to the gate. A young boy is standing there with a box of World's Finest Chocolate. I've seen this kid, one of the very few in the neighborhood. (Ok I admit I live in a semi-old people place. Mostly anyone my age is either artists with no kids or people who never stop working. The rest really are old folks, which is fine with me, I'm not a huge child person. Don't get me wrong I like kids, just only for a little while.) Where was I? Oh yes. The kid I've seen him before.

Me: Hey, what's up?

Kiddo: Hello sir. Wanna buy some chocolate?

Me: Oh World's Finest! I love that stuff.

Kiddo: Each bar is only a $1.50

Me: Wow, they've gone up. Used to be just a buck.

Kiddo: Yeah well you know with the economy and all.

I look at the box. He scratched off $1.00 and wrote $1.50.

Me: Hey wait a mintue. You scratched off the original price. What are you trying to pull? Are you even selling this for school?

Kiddo: Yeah it's for school. But I need some cash for myself too. Why, what do you care? I want a new video game.

Me: That's a heck of a mark-up, 50%.

Kiddo: I'm ambitious.

Me: Maybe I'll just buy it from some other kid.

Kiddo: I don't think so.

Me: Why not?

Kiddo: Because I'm the only kid in this whole place that's selling this stuff. I've cornered the market!! Ha!!

Me: Where do you get this stuff from? Am I on TV?

Kiddo: What are you talking about? Are you smoking something? If so then you probably really want this candy.

Me: I mean where do you get this whole, "I'm cornering the market" stuff?

Kiddo: I read my dad's Wallstreet Journal.

Me: What, why?

Kiddo: To get ideas to make money, duh!

Me: How old are you?

Kiddo: 11.

Me: And you got this whole business plan from reading that stuff.

Kiddo: Yep and movies.

Me: I dare not ask.

Kiddo: The art of good business is being a good middleman.

Me: Layercake

Kiddo: Yep

(looking about for a camera just in case)

Kiddo: Look you gonna buy some or not?

Me: I suppose I don't have a choice, seeing as no one else has them do I?

Kiddo: That's sound about right.

Me: All right, then give me three.

Chocolate and money exchange hands.

Kiddo: Thanks sir.

Me: You'll make a good middle-man someday or gypsy.

Kiddo: I already am.

Me: Let me know when you corner the market on Thin Mints.

Kiddo: That can be arranged, I can work out a deal with my sister.

5 1/2 Inch Nostalgia

2008-01-31T20:57:00.000-06:00

BRRRRRRR!!!!!! Click Click Click!! Clunk!! Put put put put!!! Bamf!!

Any of these sounds, sound familiar? Maybe. Do you remember what I'm talking about? Maybe this image rings a bell.

Ah yes, now you remember dear readers. The old floppy drive computer. For you readers that were too young to remember these beasts and the fun they were, this is what started the whole modern desktop era. No no hard drive, a few bytes of memory. Enough to play the Oregon Trail. Oh and you had to run everything of DOS.

Insert disk 1, disk 2, disk 3 and so on.

run.exe
help.exe

Remember your file extensions? I don't. Why do I bring this up then? Well I was clearing out a bunch of junk from the garage. Boxes of stuff I've cluttered away through years of constant gypsy movement. One of these things happens to be my old Packard Bell computer my parents bought me. Well they bought from my uncle, well, was actually given in payment for services rendered from my uncle, but that's another story.

I took out the old PC and curious critter that I am wanted to see if it still worked. I put it together, and the beast awoke from its....I'd say 18 year slumber. DOS appeared. Ah my old nemesis, how I still despise the to this day. I dug through my floppies. A few games, operating programs that to this day can't figure out what on earth they were for if anything. I plugged in my old dot matrix printer. Again for those of you young ones who don't remember, these printers had typewriter like ribbons that you installed to print. And the paper was in reams that had to fit into a track. It was a bitch getting reports to print out right, and all hell broke loose when a paper jam occurred. But it still all worked. I printed out an old report from middle school and tore off the perforated track edges, leaving beautiful fuzzy edges. Ah memories.

Next I played an old Bugs Bunny game my parents bought me. I thought it was the coolest thing ever back then. I play it now and it's like playing Atari. Fun but slow. Unfortunately this PC was just before Windows so I never had the disks to install it. But it lives. The lights turn on, it moans, it creeks, it coughs, it screams, It's Alive!! Alive!!! So many floppies clutter a couple of boxes. I really need to throw them away. I take the beasty apart, placing it back in its cardboard box tomb. I need to find a place to recycle this beast.

I find a box from my next PC when 3 1/2 hard disks came in. I don't even have a hard disk floppy drive on any PC I have anymore. Flash Drives, and portable hard drives, is what I use now. Though looking at the contents of the box carefully I discover I better find one. My last resume I did is on a hard disk. I need to convert it, updated it and place it on a flash drive, cause you just never know.

Sympathy for the Devil

2008-01-29T23:20:00.000-06:00

So a devil, and angel, and a ninja walk into a Pizza Hut and place an order. No this isn't a joke. I was the Devil, A.D. was an angel, and a friend of ours was a ninja. Did I mention we were at Pizza Hut? Dressed up like this.

Long story short we were invited to a costume party by a friend of ours. Well they had plenty of snack food and sweets but no real food. So at A.D.'s, craving for pizza we left to the Pizza Hut down the street to pick up some pie for the party. We arrived got out of the car, and walked in. People of course stopping to stare at us as we walked in.

Now it's odd though, we walk in and order. The clerk says nothing. A lady was standing behind us, looking at us, but said nothing. Some other customers where there but said nothing. I sat on the bench while A.D. and our friend were trying to win a stuffed animal from the crane machine. The lady that was behind us sat next to me. I could see her glancing out the corner of her eye at us, but she said nothing. The clerk behind the register was looking at us but said nothing still. Finally a little girl came up to me and asked:

Little Girl: Why are you dressed up like that? Are you bad?

Me: Only on certain nights.

Little Girl: Really?

Me: You'll learn when you get older.

Little Girl: Can I see your horns?

I took off my horns and placed them on her head.

Little Girl: Hissss!!! (turning to the lady next to me)

Me: Okay, I need those back now cutie.

Little Girl: Thanks.

Me: Bye.

Finally the lady next to me spoke.

Lady: So what's with the costumes?

Me: We're at a costume party and just came to get some food.

Lady: Oh. Uhm, so why is he dressed up as an angel? (Pointing to A.D., who was pointing at which stuffed toy was easier to pick up from the machine, to our friend the ninja)

Me: I think he just got lazy and put on whatever he found.

Lady: Typical.

Lady: (Speaking to clerk) Doesn't this surprise you?

Clerk: Nah. We get Indian people and stuff in here that are dressed in all sorts of weird stuff. This is pretty tame.

Me thinking, "Great now I feel so mundane."

Just then A.D. and our friend the ninja, start yelling and hopping up and down. They were able to get a pair of fuzzy dice out of the machine. Boys are so easy to please.

After all that, it's come to this

2008-01-24T20:12:00.000-06:00

Brrrrriiiiiinnnnnngggggg!!!! I get up from bed, and head towards the laundry, placing my book on my pillow as I get up. MTG stays lying down flipping through channels on the telly. I like this dryer, it sounds much nicer than the awful buzz alarm that my last one had. Picking up the green over-sized laundry basket, I grab a Bounce sheet and use it to wipe away all the dust that's been collecting in it.

It's been almost two full weeks since I've been home. There's a hell of a lot of laundry to do. Thankfully this is the last load. I've been doing laundry ever since I got home from work. Coming home after a trip is always nice. It's nice to sleep in your own bed again, take a shower in your own bath, lounge around on your own couch. There's no place like home.

I scoop out the clothes and put them in the basket. I turn the dryer drum around a few times to make sure there are no rouge socks or undies trying to hide. While I'm at it I clean out the lint trap so I won't have to worry about it next time. I giant ball of fuzz comes out with the lint net, particles flying in different directions making me sneeze. Pushing down the clothes in the basket so they won't fall out, I walk back to the bed room and dump them all on the foot of the bed. MTG is still watching TV, looking extremely tired. It's only 6:30. I begin folding clothes. I never really thought that I would be folding a woman's clothes along with mine, yet here I am folding my clothes along with MTG's. Though to be honest I'm not quite sure how to fold some of MTG's clothes. I swear some women's clothing needs to come with instructions for men so we know how to fold them. After I while I give up and fold it into a neat ball. MTG looks at me and giggles, and reaches for the item and shows me how to fold it. It's good to hear her laugh. It's been almost a week since she's been calm and feeling good enough to giggle.

I continue folding clothes, not paying attention to what MTG has on the telly. I hear something odd that she's watching but I don't pay attention. The mound of clothes has my full attention and I intend to finish folding it all and putting it away. Suddenly without reason MTG starts laughing uncontrollably. I stare at her puzzled, wondering if it's something I did. She's turning bright red she's laughing so hard. Finally she points at the TV. I turn around, she's watching Cinemax, well one of them anyway, the complete package system has like 20 of them. She has it on one of those semi-erotic Cinemax shows. You know the ones where all they show is the ladies boobs and the guys butt and that's the amount of nudity you see. Yeah that. The guy is making this weird face and flailing his head all over the place. It looks like he's going into shock or having an epileptic seizure, it looks so ridiculous. I look back at MTG and roll my eyes, throwing a pair of socks at her.

Me: Grow up.

MTG: (laughing) Look at him! He's looks like his head is going to fall off the way he's rolling it all over the place.

Me: You know those shows, all about keeping it real. Maybe I should try moving my head like that sometime. What do you think?

MTG laughs even harder.

MTG: If you do that, I'd just have to stop you right then and there. I don't want you having a seizure on me.

I turn around and watch. Both of the actors (I guess you can call them that) look ridiculous. Fake bodies, fake love, fake everything. And the music is awful.

MTG: Look at them, no sweat no nothing.

Me: Geeze, that guys been waxed all over, there's not a hair on him.

I can't help but think how it must of hurt like hell to have the hair taken off his bum. Ouch!! MTG keeps laughing and finally changes the channel. She ends up putting it on HGTV. (Which I'll admit is my favorite channel. I dunno why. I might have point taken off my man license for admitting that though.) After a few minutes MTG puts it on the Travel Channel (My second fav.) A program on what not to do on cruises is playing. MTG is fading fast, exhausted from all the events of earlier this week and last. Her eyes start to slowly close, and she slowly starts sliding down from the headboard where she is leaning against. She pulls her legs toward her and wraps her arms around them. I leave for a moment to grab some hangers from the laundry room. When I come back she's still sitting like that, with her head on her knees.

MTG: I just came from vacation right? I'm rested right?

Me: Yes you did. You had a wonderful time.

MTG: Then why doesn't it feel like it?

I put the jeans I'm hanging up down for a minute and scoot next to her.

Me: Because unexpected circumstances happened. And you handled it superbly.

MTG: (softly) yeah....?

Me: Yeah

MTG slowly stretches out more sliding down further in the bed. I go back to hanging up the jeans. I start folding more clothes again. A few minutes later, I hear MTG snoring softly. I turn the volume down on the TV so you can barely hear it. She's fallen asleep on top of her cover so I get mine and place it over her. Another 30 minutes later, I finally finish folding everything.

It's barely 8 pm, and there's still too early to sleep. I head downstairs to clean up. The kitchen is already clean though. I place a mix CD I made on the player in the kitchen and turn it low so I don't wake up MTG. Sia's "I Go to Sleep" plays hauntingly yet beautifully from the speakers.

I have a loaf of brioche bread that I need to use before it goes bad, along with some fruit that I have. I decide to make bread pudding with caramelized winter fruit so the bread and fruit doesn't go bad. I follow a recipe I got off the Washington Post website. Per the instructions I cut the crusts from the bread leaving the top crust intact. I beat the eggs, sugar and salt, orange-flower water, (can you believe I had that?), vanilla extract (real vanilla extract in the bottle from Mexico, trust me buy the real stuff you'll never go back), I make a custard. I dip the bread in the mixture, and put it in the baking sheet. I place a large pan in the pre-heated oven and then the one with the bread inside it and pour water into the large pan. I leave it alone and start the fruit.

I follow the directions and place the orange-water, lemon juice, candied orange peel, brandy and raisins in a bowl too mix. I then cut up the various fruits that I have around, pretty much using what I have since I don't have a whole lot or in some cases any of what the recipe calls for. Apples, Pears, strawberries, a few raspberries, go into my mix. I place the fruit in a large skillet already coated with butter, and cook the fruit. A follow the instructions and add sugar and the raisin, brandy, orange water mixture a few minutes later, reducing the concoction down, then putting a large splash more of brandy in causing a glorious blue flame. Ok so the recipe said a few teaspoons, but rules are made to be broken, especially when it comes to brandy. I reduce it all down till everything is a light brown caramelized mass of gooey deliciousness. I set it aside and cover it up. I check on the bread, it still needs another 20 mintues or so.

I decide to clean up the living room some. Mostly dusting. I take my time, picking up this and that and cleaning up the dust bunnies. MTG left her purse on the coffee table, with her keys and other stuff. I pick it up to dust under it, not paying attention to it really.

Then when I set it down, I notice the pamphlet that she set her keys on by her purse. It reads "Having a Baby". I think I turned white or grayish at some point. I hadn't noticed but the smell of the food had woken MTG up and she was down stairs now. I turned around, pamphlet clutched in hand. She was standing in the kitchen looking at me. I tried to speak but nothing came out. I pointed to the pamphlet and made a sort of cavemanish grunt.

MTG: Open it up.

Inside was a folded up piece of paper, with a lot of stuff on it I didn't understand. But I did understand one part. "PREGNANCY TEST", it said in bold courier letters. RESULTS:...............................
.
......
............
.................
.................
..........................
..............................................
..............................................................
........................................................................
.................................................................................
...........................................................................................
..........................................................................................................
..........................................................................................................................
..................................................................................................................................
.....
......
...
..
.
NEGATIVE

Me: (After folding up the paper and putting the pamphlet back on the coffee table) I need to check by bread pudding. (You can tell I was dazed no?)

I checked the bread pudding, it was ready. I set it on the stove top to rest. I reheated the fruit again just to warm it.

MTG: I did one of those home tests but it didn't work so I decided to go to the doctor and check just in case. It just ended up being something else.

Me: okay (barely audible)

MTG: I just wanted to be sure before I said anything.

Me: You could have told me something, I would have liked to have known.

MTG: So you're not mad?

Me: I'm stunned, is all. My life passed before my eyes.

I cut the bread pudding and place a slice on a plate and put the fruit on the side. One plate for me and one for MTG. I sprinkle some powdered sugar on top for effect. It was better than I thought I was capable of, in fact it was amazing.

MTG: (Saying with a mouth full of bread pudding) What do you mean your life passed before your eyes?

Me: (Swallowing hard) Not like, I saw my life past and future. I just pictured your dad's hands around my throat crushing my larynx. Flashing before me in that sort of way.

MTG started laughing hard enough to almost choke. I had put in "Amos the Transparent" in the CD player, and the song "After all that, it's come to this" was playing. (By the way, Amos is awesome, I highly suggest it. Best download in emusic thus far this year.) MTG finished eating and went back to bed. I stayed down stairs and sat on the couch staring into space.

PS: MTG said to say thanks to those who sent her their condolences.

Crazy, Crazy, Life

2008-01-21T20:51:00.000-06:00

Sorry for the lack of posts. The trip was wonderful, but we came back to hell. MTG grandma passed away, and there's funeral stuff to attend. Will be back sometime soon. Hope you all are well.

On Holiday

2008-01-10T22:19:00.000-06:00

Off road-trippin' with MTG on the PCH in California. Will be back sometime next week.

"Officer the cuffs are hurting me"...

2008-01-05T23:36:00.000-06:00

Most stories worth listening to end with that line. This one won't. Nyah, nyah!! Fooled ya!! Don't worry about seeking revenge though, I've more than suffered enough these past few days to make up for it.

After my last post I was feeling splendid. Just dandy. Then I went to visit my mum and dad the following day. They were babysitting my nephew for my brother and sister-in-law. My dad had a cold and my nephew had just gotten over some sort of stomach virus. I should've turned around and left. But no I stuck around and later that night, I was crapping, vomiting and sneezing my brains out. Damn it I was sick!! And didn't sleep all night. Literally, I was up at 1:08 am, 2:08 am, 3:08 am, 4:09 am. And of course running a high fever that practically had me hallucinating. Ack!!

MTG, spending as much time as she can with her nana (who's terminal), wasn't there for me to complain to. So basically I spent two day Thurs and Friday laying in bed all day. Every time I got up to walk I'd end up going sideways. Grrrrr!!! And now to make it worse my hips hurt cause I keep falling asleep on my sides without moving. (long story) I felt a little better today so I headed back to my parents house. They were making tamales, I'm not one to pass up free food.

But when I got there fever struck and I ended up sprawled out on the couch barely able to move. Friends of my mum coming and going, walking right past my as I lay there nearly dying. In some cases putting purses on me, (literally on me) to watch for them. So turning on HGTV-HD on and putting the volume to the lowest setting, I lay there awaiting for the Coach de Bauer to come and give me a ride. As things turned out I didn't croak but I ended up just laying there, and as things usually turn out people start talking and one subject leads to another and then that subject invariably leads to you.

Mums Friend: "So I after that little girl embarrassed me, I told my sister from now on you're taking your own child to the doctor."

Mum: "Oh that reminds me of A.D., he always passes out when they stick him with needles."

Me: (Here we go again.)

My mum continuing to tell of all the times I've passed out from needles, syringes to be exact. Yes I am freaked by them. But only when directed at me. To be used by someone else I could care less. It's fight or flight, and since I can't exactly punch a nurse the flight it passing out and forgetting the whole thing. Though I did fight back when I was little, so much so that my mum, dad and anyone else around had to literally hold me or in a rare case strap me down to give me my shots while I screamed bloody murder, like, "Don't kill me!! I thought you loved me!!!" And then when they were done I was like, "Oh that was it?" Although seeing the white scared faces on the kids in the waiting room walking out (after hearing my ordeal) was fun. Muahahahahaha!!!

But the subject quickly changed and it wandered to our old gypsy days, living an a caravan. Like one of these:

Just kidding it was more like:

Ha Ha! Just kidding again, it was more like this, without the fancy add-ons, we at least had the skirting though:

It was memories long since forget, well not forgotten, but not the fondest either. And it got me thinking of when we parked it for a year in a caravan retirement park. Right on the edge across from an empty lot, and abandoned house that drunks, druggies, and all manner of vile creatures (human to be exact) would use during the night. Oh and to make it better right across the street to the corner diagonal to my room was the skankiest nude bar in town (since shut down). Although when your 12 with a new telescope, well you get the picture, but lets just say after a couple of looks it wasn't worth it. Like if you've ever seen The Cowboys where the two boys are talking about a whore house they peaked into and one says, "and that ladies bellybutton was as big as my fist" and John Wayne comes up behind him and says, "yeah I've been there myself years ago, probably the same lady" and the boys both look like hacking, yup, just like that. Besides that fatal drunken accidents, and nightly shootings were everyday happenings. Though a bullet through your room while you sleep is another thing. (It's bad enough crooks can't read addresses at night but when you have to yell at them through your window that the house they want to shoot at is next door, well that's just sad. Getting the "Ops..Sorry" was worse.)

Now seeing that there was a dark evil abandoned house across the street directly outside my room, you might think that I'd be scared. I was at first but with the telescope I'd get brave and see what was happening at night. Just average ghetto banter, druggies, drunks, homeless, prostitutes, people driving up and dropping off old trash, couches, ice boxes, etc, then driving off. But it was fun when some dummy disturbed the natural widlife that inhabited the house that really made watching worth while. Nothing like seeing a couple of crack heads run for their lives while being chased by rabid raccoons or freaky possums or how can I forget the guy gettting ready to get his thing on while his newly hired "woman" and then hitting the giant hornets nest and running out of the house with welts on his bum. This was actually in broad daylight. Needless to say we didn't spend long in that area.

So I thought about these things while lying there. Finally passing out and waking up sometime later, not even hungry and going home instead. So you may ask why on earth am I blogging about this at 12:56 am? Well here's why.

MTG: Oww!! What the? (digging under her blanket and pulling out a rubik's cube)

Me: Opps sorry I left that there.

MTG getting up and finding more stuff. Three remotes, a couple of books a magazine, Playstation wireless controler, mp3 player, cd player, box of tissue, headphones, several CD's, lint roller, and I think some change.

MTG: I've been gone for two days and you put all your stuff on my side of the bed?

Me: (saying jokingly of course) Last time I checked it was all my bed. (Thinking again: Stupid, Stupid, Stupid!!!)

MTG without hesitation dropped an elbow into my gut. Then proceeded to place all my junk on top of me.

Me: What happened to the nice "get better sweetie, and think of me" you said yesterday?

MTG: That was before you said something stupid.

Me: I'm sorry. I'll stop saying stupid things.

MTG just looking at me.

Me: Most stupid things anyways.

Me lying there with stuff on me, rattling with every move. Staring at the ceiling. Sneezing, obviously keeping MTG awake.

Me: I can't sleep.

MTG: Well go do something that'll make you sleep.

And here we are. "Officer the cuffs are hurting me..."

Pickles are Cucumbers Soaked in Evil

2008-01-02T21:31:00.000-06:00

Wow what a rush. X-mas, New Years. Although my title has nothing to do with this post. Well one part but that's to come. Hope you all had a wonderful holiday time. Now I'm not going to post about all the wonderful (and not so wonderful/manicure set, tape measure..I got from a client at work) swag I got. I won't even post about my graduation/New Years party, because it went so well, that there is nothing much to say, other than it felt great to be DJ for the night again.

I will dear readers post about what I found this past year and this year to come is most important to me. My family and my friends and most importantly the most important person to me right now MTG. (I know some of you are rolling your eyes.) First of all I promise to make sure to keep up more fully with my family and friends. Mum, I'll call every two days instead of every three or four. (Though mum you have to give me bonus points for buying you the furniture you wanted) And I'll make sure to finally answer my friends emails and texts. That is if they are actually important. You can only read so many wacky forwarded emails and videos. So you can stop sending me that one "One Week of Food: Study" email, as I've gotten it about 12 different times. I ate like a pig these few weeks, so don't remind me daily.

But on to the most important thing for me. Yes I'm going to gush over MTG so if you don't like the mushy stuff leave now or be warned.

As I woke up this morning, I felt an odd sensation. I opened my eyes and realized that I was next to a person whom this past year has utterly changed my life completely. Looking at this sleeping person, her dark brown hair strewn across her face, the curve of her neck and shoulder blending seamlessly into the cover we were sharing, I couldn't help but feel amazed. Why you may ask? Well here is a snippet as to why.

December 24 - A mutual friend of ours X-mas party. Well more MTG's friend than mine but whatever.

We were invited to this party a few weeks before. However rushing to do things one does on X-mas eve, we arrived a little late. Having no idea who else was to be invited we both arrived without any pre-set plans on "if so and so is there, we do this signal to leave." (It's a long story) So of course as things would have it we arrive and the dinners already being served, and who should be there but a couple of people we would never want to see again. (Okay, I would never want to see again. Namely The-Ex and Arch-nemesis Supreme, now Mr. & Mrs. Arch-nemesis Supreme) And as things would have it the only seats at the table available were...yeah right next to them. Blast!!

MTG: Do you want me to sit by Arch-nemesis or The-Ex? (They were sitting across [in front] from each other as opposed from next to each other)

Me: Sit by Arch-nemesis, so I won't have to punch him.

MTG: Okay.

Now MTG met both of these people only once before. So to her...well you'll find out.

We sit down and I have my best faux smile on. The-Ex immediately starts talking to me. What I used to find charming I know see (as did most everyone else there, trust me I asked) as utter useless crap coming form her mouth. Unoriginal, dumb things, words floating in the air. I nodded and answered only when things seemed appropriate to, making conversation with others around me.

The-Ex: Can you believe Arch-nemesis and I have been married for over 2 years now?

Me: Wow really? That long? (Thinking after I spoke..Nuts!! I should've kept my mouth shut)

The-Ex: Yeah we have. (Reaching across the table and grabbing Arch-nemesis hand) You remember the wedding don't you?

Me: No I don't. I didn't go remember. (At this point even our host was thinking this was utter crap. Yes, he told me so later.)

The-Ex: Oh yeah.

Now you're probably wondering why up to this point why Arch-nemesis hasn't said anything yet. Well it's because he's a kid. Okay not a kid but The-Ex is 32...he is 24. He has nothing intelligent to say. If you talked to him you would see this right away. It's always about him and how he looks and what he wants is the depth of his conversation. (Which is not why he's Arch-nemesis Supreme, that's a story for another time) However this age difference was exploited to MTG's advantage as The-Ex was trying to make me jealous and I was starting to cringe.

MTG to Arch-nemesis: Hey, Christmas in Hollis, I love this song. (MTG throwing her hands in the air and most of the table singing to the song.)

MTG to Arch-nemesis: Hey remember when this song came out on MTV? With that funky looking elf guy at the beginning? That was what, in 1987?

Arch-nemesis: Uh...yeah

MTG: You know when he's pressing the Simon. You remember the Simon right?

Arch-nemesis: Yeah, kinda sorta. I don't think we had that in school.

MTG: What do you mean, in school? How old are you?

Arch-nemesis: 24

MTG: Oh..you were just a baby still. That's okay, the Simon is like Guitar Hero, you just hit the buttons in the same order/colour that appears.

Arch-nemesis: Oh..okay...yeah.

The-Ex looking for a way to change the subject, picks up a pickle from her salad and says, "Pickles are cucumbers soaked in evil. Why do they make these pickles so small?"

MTG: Well some people like "young" things I guess, instead of finding a pickle more mature.

Ex looking like someone just dumped iced water on her was frozen. I did my best to keep myself from laughing as did a few others.

The night progressed and we did our best to avoid Mr. and Mrs. Arch-nemesis for the rest of the night. Then for whatever reason our hosts' Ipod flipped from X-mas music to regular music. Otis Redding's "Dreams to Remember". And MTG wanted to dance to it. So we danced, close and slow. MTG moving us right underneath the mistletoe which happened to be a few feet away from Mr. and Mrs. Arch-nemesis. So well you know what you do when under the mistletoe.

So we left right after that. Well almost right after, our host giving us a ton of extra food to take home. Which reminds me I must clean the ice-box tomorrow and throw a bunch of that stuff away.

I replayed that night in my mind this morning laying in bed next to her. MTG's eyes now opened looking back at me.

Me: Did I thank you for the other night?

MTG: What?

Me: At the party.

MTG: Which one?

Me: Never mind.

MTG moves right next to me, both of us staring at the ceiling fan go around in circles.

MTG: Instead of boxing up the mistletoe, maybe we should hang it over the bed all year.

Me: Good idea.

Be Back Next Year

2007-12-28T21:46:00.000-06:00

Hello wonderful bloggie people. Just an update for you. I won't be back to post until next year. (Sometime next week) Lots of things going on. As in planning my graduation party. Yep I forgot to mention, I graduated from college. Got my degree in language. (French) So per MTG's suggestion I'm throwing a NYE/Graduation bash, which me and my friend will be DJ'ing the night away. Of course you're invited if you can make it down here to TX. Anyways, have a wonderful, safe New Years. See you next year.

Crossing the line

2007-12-20T23:07:00.000-06:00

Hey there it's me again, Mix Tape Girl. I actually had a fun time posting last time so I'll do one more. Besides A.D. is too busy watching Die Hard on HBO to type anything. "They're playing a Christmas movie," he says. Yeah guys shooting each other up during Christmas time, sure gets me into the spirit of the season. Okay, so I like it sometimes but not today. Though the whole manly rampage thing would have worked wonders today at the store.

So here's what happened. I went to the store after work to pick up a few things. I took my time, browsing, grabbing this and that. (Hey I had coupons, that aren't going to use themselves. See the perfect excuse to buy that new shampoo I've seen, with a dollar off coupon.) But I surprised myself I only used a hand basket and not a shopping cart.

Anyways, I browsed around, making my way to the register. Now every place that I've been to, even with people in front of you, I've always just put my goodies on the conveyor belt. Today was no exception. The lady in front of me had just finished putting her goods on the checkout belt. No biggie. There was more than enough room for me to put my few goods on the belt too. Reaching over to grab the ever so useful separator stick, the woman in front of me interrupted me.

Evil Woman: "Excuse me. You don't put your things down till I'm checked out."

Me: (Thinking.... pardon my language. WTF did you just say? But in being stunned by reality saying...) Huh?

Evil Woman: "Your things. Do not put them down until I'm checked out. I don't want your things touching mine." (This being said in a most discourteous manner.)

Having had one of those days, I'm thinking. "Oh no bitch. Not today." (Pardon my language again, but I'm really miffed.)

Now I understand wanting to keep your goods separate. When I go to the store and put my things on the checkout belt, the last thing I want is for another persons peasant goods to be touching my caviar, capers, and....just kidding, in honesty its more like, pads, shampoo, discount hair scrunchies from the fifty off bin, Hershey dark chocolate almond bar, and few cans of spaghetti sauce and noodles, and my Lean Cuisines for lunch at work. But seriously I know that feeling of private personal property of someone touching your stuff even before you buy it. Which is why I'm a huge believer in the separator stick. That last thing you want is my Cheetos chatting it up with someone else's Jimmy Dean sausage log.

But things will touch eventually. No big deal. Well not to this lady. She was adamant that I take my things off. She was getting ready to grab my stuff and start putting them into my hand basket again. Cutting her off before she could, I slapped the separator stick down between our things. And putting on my best Jane Austen genteel attitude and forced smile, instead of the raging wolverine that was ready to rip this crazed womans' head off, I inform her.

Me: "I'm putting this separator stick down between our goods, so they don't touch. That shouldn't be a problem, SHOULD IT?" While giving my stare that says, "Know what I think of you? Nothing. I freaking own you. Bring it bitch."

The woman scoffed and turned away, the cashier already scanning her things. The people behind me where ready to jump this lady if I didn't. Some muttering some things in Spanish that even I'd rather not say towards her. But the power of the separator stick held true. Providing the "Don't pass over line", that can fend off the wars of the grocery store.

So after getting all done, I promptly ate my Hershey's bar which I so needed after that. Though I saved half to drink with some wine later in the evening.

I defer to...

2007-12-13T23:01:00.000-06:00

Hello bloggie people. Sorry for the lack of posts but I'm feeling really naff. This stupid cold I have won't go away. So seeing as I'm tired, full of snot and ready for bed, I hear by delegate this next post to someone who's been asking me to let them post for a while. So without further addo (is that spelled right? who cares), here is a post right from Mix Tape Girl.

___________________________

Okay first of all it's "ado" A.D., just so you'll know. I see you rolling your eyes at me. Hmmff..I bugged A.D. to let me write a post but now that I'm here I have no idea what to say. Hi, I'm Mix Tape Girl. (waves politely...that was lame) I'm just filling in for A.D. till he gets up on his feet again. Which he would have if he would go to a doctor like I tell him to, and stop going outside in the cold and wet weather. Men. Oh okay, I do believe I know what I'll post about. That's what this blogging thing is called right, a post? (A.D. gives me a thumbs up so I'm okay there) I'll just post about todays events from my point of view. Well events from this afternoon anyways.

My BFF: Are they still up there?

Me: Yes they are.

BFF: Does it take that long to install wires?

Me: Are you kidding? They were done over an hour ago.

BFF: So why are they still up there?

Me: They're sorting things out.

BFF: (Looking out window to roof) Huh? But their just standing there. Their not even talking.

Me: Yes I know. It's a guy thing.

BFF: So can't they do that inside.

Me: That would be too easy. Again as A.D. says, its a guy thing.

BFF: But it's cold and drizzling outside. Their going to get sick.

Me: You mean sicker.

BFF: A.D. will anyways.

Me: He loves the cold. He says it makes him feel better. The colder the better.

BFF: He's nuts.

Me: That's what I said. Besides I've already yelled at both of the to come inside just before you came. They just nodded. I told him if he gets sicker he's taking himself to the doctor. And not to say that I didn't tell him so.

My BFF and I sip our hot chocolate and sit at the table talking. I glance every so often outside to check on the boys. Their standing on the edge of the roof over looking the wooded park area of the subdivision. The steam from their mouth and noses looks like their smoking pipes from where I sit. A.D. and his BFF stand up there not moving not talking. They've known each other for years. It's creepy in a way, but utterly cool at the same time their friendship. Well they're more like brothers. Each one knows what the other is thinking without saying a word. A.D. asked his BFF to come over today after his work to help him do some computer cable thing. I don't know exactly what, something to do with a server or something A.D. bought to start his business project. In short his new office has wires everywhere and its a mess. His friend has had quite the year. Getting in a major car wreck that nearly killed him and his father. And now he just learned yesterday that company he's working for (a major electronic retailer) is going out of business and he'll be out of a job by the end of the month. After working there for about twelve years.

As they were in A.D.'s office tying computer lines together, the spoke maybe all of five words between them. But they handed each other tools and equipment that each other needed without saying a word. It's interesting just to watch them interact. Honestly A.D. is a very quiet, I would say shy person if you didn't truly know him. But his friend is even more so. He doesn't drive yet, doesn't drink, always extra cautious about doing things. I laugh to myself when I think that A.D. is the more outgoing of the two, as seeing them together you would never guess. But together they are a ever thinking unstoppable machine. And I say this because it's true. Get them together on a court for some basketball and you'd see what I mean. This in fact is true in other aspects of things they do together. It's been a long while since they've actually DJ'ed together but when they do, its amazing. I definitely need to get them to do another party and spin together, it's been far too long. Watching them work the vinyl and CD's and laptop and their other equipment is a sight to see. I shall have to think of a way to plan this.

I talk to my BFF some more. We're discussing "girlie things" as A.D. ever so eloquently puts it. I look up again out the window. No movement, yet. The drizzle is slowly turning into light rain. "A.D. get your butt in here now! You're going to get sicker!" I scream to myself in my head every time I look out. Finally having waited long enough, I get up and go outside to tell both of them to come in. I yell out at them and get a response. A.D. looks down at me and smiles. The look of deep thought disappearing from his face as he smiles at me. My BFF throws his cowboy hat up to him. He puts it on. His hair coming out from the sides. He needs a haircut, it's getting long again. A.D.'s BFF, looks at him and nods. A.D. voice is deep and says, "We have an accord then." His BFF nods approval. They both slide down the ladder and come inside.

A.D. speaks to me and I can tell he's losing his voice. He's talking from his diaphragm more than usual. His usual deep voice sounding deeper and more like a low growl than it usually is. He sounds like the way Batman talks in the movies. (Can you tell I've been watching his movies? I'm making Batman analogies.)

A.D.: I'm driving BFF home. I'll be back in a little while.

I acknowledge and they leave.

My BFF: Is he mad? His voice sounded all dark and evil.

Me: (Laughing) No silly. He's just losing his voice. You know what? Let's go to the store. I've a feeling that he's going to be needing some NyQuil tonight and I know he doesn't have any. Oh and you can help me figure out how to get them to DJ again too.

Okay as I finished typing that last line, A.D. was looking over my shoulder. Apparently men "don't have BFF's". I asked him what his kind call them. He didn't know but apparently BFF is strictly verboten, and any such reference can mean the man police can take away his man license for that kind of mention. At which point I told him that I was typing the post and he had better had taken the NyQuil I got him. He coughed and went away.

Well sorry if that post stinks. I'm sure it did. But it's my first. I would like to have typed something nice and elaborate but it's late and I want sleep.

Ninja Warrior

2007-12-11T19:46:00.000-06:00

I have found my true calling. I must train to be......a Ninja Warrior!!

Ha ha ha!! I love this show!! But dammit if it isn't cutting into my book reading time. I think I'm addicted. See what happens when you go from 80 channels to 200 when switching TV/ISP providers.

Untitled (track 1)

2007-12-09T22:35:00.000-06:00

As I write this the cool north wind finally revisits my town. The window shears blow open knocking some magazines I left on a small table by the window down. As soon as the wind hits me the cool air re-opens my nasal passages and I can breathe again. I haven't been able to breathe properly since Thursday. It's December and the temperature is 85 degrees with near 70% humidity. It's a sauna outside. The mold levels are through the roof. I know when this happens I won't be breathing right for a while.

But the wind shift drastically changes the temperature. Within an hour the temperature drops a good 20 degrees and the humidity falls to where you no longer feel it on your skin. I can breathe again, my sinuses draining properly now. My ears unclog and I can hear normal again. No more echoing.

I haven't posted anything in a while as I fired my last ISP/Cable provider (Time Warner) whom decided to up their bill a good 50 bucks. So having now switched my provider to Ma Bell, I pay less than I did before and get really good internet service (no more dropped wifi waves) and 100 extra channels on my telle. I can't stop watching the Japanese channels and their crazy shows.

MTG is out of town on a much needed vacation from work. She kept debating on going or not but I told her to get out of here before work dragged her down. And while on vacation one does not check work e-mail or anything remotely work related. Thusly I demanded she leave her crackberry and laptop, and only taking her personal mobile with her. Just get out of here and have fun. So away she went to spend a week and a half with her friend up north. Calling a couple of times to check on me.

I was pretty much ok until the stupid weather changed again. The beginning of last week was great. Temps in the 40's no humidity. Then Thursday night, the temp went from 60 to 70 and the humidity went sky high. The mold count rocketed and I damn near lost my voice from being stuffed up. It's December the weather shouldn't be getting close to 90 degrees. It was 90 further down in South Texas. Cold one day hot as hell the next. No wonder half the people are sick all the time. Oh well, I should know better. It never actually gets cold down here for a good while until mid-January.

Once more my hair is grown very long. Not to my shoulders or anything mind you but I need a hair cut. My dad told me however that the old gentleman I go to is probably no longer in business. I had to check for myself. I drove down to the projects where his shop is, located in the middle of an old shopping center. And my dad was right. He had been forced out. They owner of the center demanding five times the rent he paid, only because the government welfare office rented and remodeled half the space there. I read his sign he taped on to the glass door of his shop. "Dear friends" it begins. "Thank you for allowing me the honor of serving you for the past 40 plus years. It is with a sad heart that I retire from cutting your hair, telling stories, reminiscing of past times, talking sports, politics, or whatever came to our minds. I will miss providing this service to you, your kids, your grandkids, and other souls who walked in my door. I will not be opening up a new business anywhere else, and will retire all together. I wish you the best in your endeavors. God bless and stay safe my friends." I read the sign and stare through the windows into the open space with nothing there. The outlines of the barber chairs the only visible reminder of what used to be there. I can see myself reflection in the glass. My hair long enough to be blowing across my face. The hand painted sign of his shop the only thing left on the glass. The people coming and going from the welfare office next door now pay no attention to what used to be. I get back in my car and drove home, unwilling to stop at a Supercuts or other place where they only know how to style hair and what number cut you want. So I left my hair go.

As MTG is away I moped around the house doing paper work for my business and filling out applications for licenses that I need. I got most of it completed and my agenda's just about in order for when I'm actually going to start everything. I haven't quit my job just yet. That'll be some time later. I have to make sure that my project takes off first. But I'm planing an exit strategy as well from my current job. I had skirted around the issue of going out on my own in business but finally thought that what good are dreams if you never make them come true. So I cast my lot in, and see what cards the fates hand to me.

While feeling miserable from my allergies on Saturday, my friend called me and asked if I wanted to go to Austin with her and her folks. Thinking that I'd be miserable either in a car or at home I opted to go. It was actually a very good time. I made new friends despite being stuffed up and miserable. Though I didn't do too much talking at first, manly because I couldn't hear clearly what was being said but eventually did get into the swing of things. I must say her parents gigantic van is super nice. Telle and everything in it. And very tall as well, you literally have to climb inside of it. We were almost level with the windows on the 18 wheelers. We did some things and went to dinner with some new friends. One of which seemed compelled to continually hug me through out the night. Not that she meant anything by it but she was one of those touchy, feely people. I'm not exactly that way so I squirmed ever so slightly every time she did.

And thusly my weekend comes to an end. I finish off my pisco sour and type the final words to this post. The cool wind blowing my hair around as I sit by the window. I wrap some strands of hair around my fingers and let it fall over my face just for kicks. And think of where to look for another good barber, and I wish Mr. Amaya the best, dear friend.

She came in through the bathroom window

2007-11-29T22:53:00.000-06:00

The sun is shining right in my eyes. I'm in my car heading home. I have my sunglasses on but the sun goes right through them. I'm too tall to put the visor down. If I do then it covers my vision and I can't see anything. Fortunately I'm tall enough to get shade from the tinted top of the front window to my car.

I'm stuck at a light that is taking forever to change. In an endless sea of cars and exhaust. The former Wonder Bread truck turned contractor truck on my side is spewing exhaust all over the street. So much so that I had to close the window on the passenger side of the car to keep from suffocating. As I stare straight ahead the exhaust fumes flow over my car like thick fog.

I have my mp3 player plugged in and its currently playing Otis Redding's "Dreams to Remember". His words float around my head and make me think of everything that's been happening as of late, and how I'm getting ready to change it all again.

As the light turns I realize that I'll be sitting here longer. There is no way I'm going to make it all the way through the intersection while the light is green. I move up about 6 spaces before it turns red again, and begin the 5 minute waiting process all over again.

I touch the top of my lip where I cut myself shaving the day before. I cut it really bad but it's healed so well that you couldn't even tell now. And I think about how it happend.

Mix Tape Girl called me a few days ago. Her parents were cooking dinner, and they wanted me to go over. I thought it was weird as usually MTG is the one to ask me over. But her parents wanted me to come this time. Though extremely late at night for dinner. 10 PM? Okay?? I went over and MTG wasn't home just her parents. She had gone to the store with her sisters to get a few things. I knocked and knocked and rang the door bell once too. No one was coming to the door, I thought they were pulling a prank on me. After about 5 minutes or so her mum finally showed up in her night gown. "Oh MTG isn't back yet?" she said. She invited me in. I felt like I shouldn't be there for some reason. There were few lights on and I really didn't smell any food. Her dad was actually already laying down in bed.

MTG showed up a minute after her mum let me inside. I helped her and her sisters with grocery bags. Dinner was already prepared but was pretty cool, thus no real odor. Her dad came out after getting dressed again. I was thinking am I late or something? But I wasn't. This was odd. Her dad said hello and the usual greeting. A couple more of their friends showed up, so at least I didn't feel so alone. MTG set the table and brought out the food. Setting aside a spot for me next to her. We all sat down to eat making small talk.

Her father however seemed to enjoy me being there for whatever reason. But after some wine this kinda seemed to change. It went from polite chit chat to little playful insults that he was throwing at me in front of everyone. Having a few cups of wine myself I was quite amazed that I was able to turn these insults into jokes quite quickly. (Me being the subject of the joke that is) This went on pretty much the rest of the night. Their other friends who got back from a trip began showing her father and I some pictures of their trip. Nice pics but their laptop screen was so dark to me that I could barely see all but the brightest pictures. While looking at the pictures it ended up just being MTG's dad, one of their friends, and myself looking at them. MTG's dad sipping wine and throwing an soft insult or two every so often for kicks.

MTG was in the living room with her other friend copying a CD for her. After the second part of the dark picture show was done I decided I had enough insults that I wanted to leave. I excused myself and said a quick goodbye and left. MTG pre-occupied with putting songs on the CD that I just waved bye to her.

I was thoroughly tired when I got home. I stripped off my clothes and threw myself into bed. It had finally gotten super cold down here so I had a ton of covers on me. I wrapped myself in a cocoon of blankets and fell into a deep sleep. So deep in fact that I never heard MTG come in the house in the middle of the night. (3 am) I didn't notice until I felt the light from the bathroom come on. The dim light shining on my face while the bathroom door was partly closed. At first I kinda panicked and wondered who's in the house. But then I made out MTG's silhouetted from the light, even though I never put my glasses on.

MTG slinked across the room in the darkness. Being careful not to step on the paperwork I have lying all over the floor. I have tons of paperwork around in piles that needs to be filled out before I register my business that I'm starting. Each type in its own unique pile. I'm almost fully asleep again when I feel MTG crawl into bed. I expected her to just cocoon herself like me and go to bed but she didn't. The next thing I know she's leaning over me. I turn around to see her face. It's lightly coloured in the darkness but I can still see into her eyes. "How..when did you get in here?" I ask. "Just a minute ago, through the bathroom window," she giggles. "I'm sorry about tonight" she said softly. "Believe it or not dad really likes you. It was his idea you come over." she continues. I'm looking at her in the eyes. Mine small and sleepy, hers still awake and bright. I'm thinking though that its not the best thing to invite someone over and poke fun at them, even if you are just being playful. Well one or two is okay but not all night. But I just stare into her eyes, and say "It's okay. It was probably just the wine." My voice muffled as the only part of me showing are my nose and eyes from my cocoon. MTG leans forward more, pulling the blankets from my face at the same time, her hair falling on my face. Her breath is cold from brushing her teeth. She rubs her nose against mine. "Oh my word," she says, "your nose if freezing." I laugh as this is because that's the only part of me visible when I'm in my blanket cocoon, I still have to breathe somehow so I leave a breathing hole in it. She gently rubs my nose with her fingers and kisses it till its warm. I say nothing as she does this. I'm actually far to sleepy to respond. I end up sharing my cocoon with her, our limbs intertwined in warmth. Before we fall asleep she asks me, "How'd you know grandma would be ok?" I don't tell her how I truly know, I just say it must be intuition.

As I get ready for work the following morning, MTG comes up behind me while I'm shaving. She surprises me by putting her freezing cold hands on the back of my neck. Unfortunately I was shaving the top of my lip between my nose and nostril and the startle made me slice it my that small piece of flesh wide opened. The cut is not wide but very deep. (For some reason I'm one of the few guys left to shave with a straight edge and not a regular razor.) MTG's laughter turns to horror as blood trickles down my mouth and chin. She quickly gets a towel and smushes it into my face. It hurts worse when she does this, it only succeeds in getting blood all over my face and in my mouth, which the tang of it tastes funny when I speak to her. After a couple of minutes I stop bleeding and wash my face and finish shaving. MTG putting some anti-biotic stuff on the cut, that burns like hell. She looks sad and keeps apologizing. I tell her not to worry its just a cut, it hurts like hell but is just a cut.

It's still early so we decide to stop at a cafe for breakfast. MTG looking through a jewelry magazine she got in the mail. Cooing over a few things. Saying it would be nice to get this and pointing to something, but jokingly. I do my best to not tell her I bought her X-mas gifts already and its pretty much exactly what she's pointing at. I hid the gifts in a box that was far too heavy for me to carry yet. Placing the gifts in a box full of electronics that weighed probably 150 plus pounds, which I don't think I've been cleared to pick up stuff that heavy yet. Next time I'll think of something easier. (Sock drawer!! Hello?!?!)

As I think of this the muscle I pulled in my chest lifting that stupid box over my head in the garage starts to hurt. The light finally turns green and I have enough time to make it through. As I approach the next light the MP3 player plays "She Came In Through the Bathroom Window," and my mind starts to think again.

Standing Outside a Hospital Room..

2007-11-21T23:25:00.000-06:00

The telle in the hospital waiting room is almost on silent. The weather man's voice is barely audible, through the sounds of the hospital around me and the giant group of MTG's family that is around. People I've never met are pacing back and forth. I'm sitting in the corner by the window, looking outside then to the telle then back outside again.

No MTG is not in the hospital, thank goodness. But her grandma is. We've been going pretty much every day that she's been in there. Her health failing and her situation critical. MTG is worried and emotional, the bags under her eyes tell the story of her staying up late with her grandma at the hospital, with the rest of her family. The hospital is in another city close to where I lived many years ago during the prime of my gypsy life. I never thought I'd have to come to this place again.

I really don't know any of these people asides from MTG's parents, and siblings. I sit in the corner and make myself invisible. Friends and family come and go. I'm sitting by myself most of the time, as MTG is in the room with her grandma. Her family is worried and concerned. It's only natural. I look out the window and see that the wind if finally picking up. It almost reached 90 degrees again today. Way too hot for this time of year. The wind starts blowing violently, the cold front expected finally arrived.

From time to time MTG comes into the waiting room. This is when she takes the time to introduce more family to me. I smile politely and give my condolences. Most of them forget that I'm there afterwards. Which is best. Her dad's too busy looking after his mum to be grilling me or giving me the evil eye. But it doesn't stop a few of her other family from doing so. Particularly other uncles who give me the kung-fu grip of death when I shake their hands, I reply with the same to earn some respect. Although mostly my cheeks are a bit red and sore from the amount of pinching her aunties have done. Apparently they think I'm cute.

The doctor comes in and tells them a few things. MTG grabs my hand and we walk towards the room. I really don't want to go in there. In my life I've seen deaths face far too many times. We go in and there are nurses working about. Her grandma hooked up to machines. But she's still plenty conscience. MTG introduces me to her and she pinches my cheek. She mumbles a few words and I smile politely back. I've never meet this woman, but here I am in her hospital room watching what could be her last breaths. More and more family come in and I try to stand in the corner out of the way. Most of them say nothing about me being there, but I get a few looks like "Who the hell are you?" After a few minutes of this I take my cue to leave.

MTG's grandma, doesn't have death's eyes yet. In fact if you ask me, I say that she's not going anywhere anytime soon. But the doctors say she's critical as do the machines. I give a look to MTG and tell her I'm going to go outside for some air. I hate being in hospitals. As I walk outside, the cold wind immediately slaps my face. It feels wonderful compared to the hot 100% humidity soaked air of the earlier part of the day.

I make my way to a small courtyard with benches, apparently this is the smoking area as not long after I sit, some employees show up for a cigarette break. As I sit there watching the leaves shuffle by I think, and take in the smell of the Marlboro's that the employees are smoking. All I can think of is why I'm there. Until today I've never meet this person or the rest of MTG's family and think that I'm just in the way than anything else. And for what ever reason I have the Primitive Radio God's "Standing Outside a Broken Phone-booth with Money In My Hand," on a continuous loop in my head. My dad calls at that moment and I tell him what's going on. He tells me that I'm there to support MTG above all else, and that even though I don't know anyone else or feel like I'm simply in the way, just being there is being there for her. This makes sense to me.

MTG comes and finds me a few minutes after that. She says that the doctor gave her nanna some stuff to relax her. And that she's sleeping. She holds my hand as we walk back to the room. When we get there her nanna opens her eyes at us and smiles. I still don't see anything telling me she's ready to pass yet. How do I know this? Ever since I was a kid I've just been able to tell when someone was going to pass. I dunno how, or why I just can. I never really told anyone this, but when it comes down to it, I'm 6 for 6 on telling this kind of thing. Though I didn't share with anyone. It actually freaks me out, I hate being able to tell this, its morbid, but fortunately I can only tell with extremely sick people. When my uncle passed away earlier this year I didn't tell my cousin or aunt that the day after I visited him for the last time (2 days before he died) that night I dreamed of the day and time he would pass and funeral home he would be at. As usual I was spot on with all accounts. Would it make a difference if I told them? My uncle was tripping on morphine and was basically a veg when he passed. Could they have prepared themselves? Ill never know as I never told them.

While staring at the floor I'm suddenly roused by the sound of MTG's stomach growling. "Have you eaten anything?," I ask. She doesn't respond, she's looking at her nanna. Her dad comes towards me and hands me a 20, and instructs me to take her to eat something. She doesn't want to go but after some nudging we leave. One of her sisters and a couple of cousins come with us. We go to a small restaurant and all get hamburgers. While we wait for our food, MTG gets extremely quiet. We all sit in silence for a moment listening to "Crimson and Clover" by Tommy James & The Shondells being piped over the restaurants, P.A. system. It gets too quite so I just start saying a joke about a lady with a baby that looks like a monkey. I make MTG's sister and cousins laugh so hard that her sister spews Coke from her nose. Our tensions relax after that. While MTG's sister is cleaning the mess I made her make, she puts her head on my shoulder and whispers to me, "I don't want her to go." I think of the pain her nanna is in and know it would be for the better if she quickly passed from the cancer, instead of suffering. But I feel that will not be the case. All I can tell her is that she'll still be around for a while. I see a phone on the wall and the Primitive Radio God's starts playing in my head again.

Parlez-vous Klingon?

2007-11-19T21:56:00.000-06:00

Ah..comics. I read them regularly as I have ever since my brother got me hooked on Spider-man when I was a wee little Dodger. However note that I didn't say I collected them. I get them read them and recycle them. Or donate them to some place where kids might like them.

I couldn't really tell you all of the story arcs, or new characters. I'm only aware of a few things, in comic book land. Why do I speak of this you might ask yourself? Well, it's a most interesting story.

The comic shop where I frequent is very nice. They guys (and gal) that works there are very nice. Yeah they know their comic stuff but it's not like going in and that's all they talk about. Far from it. The best way I can describe it is like "Championship Vinyl" on High Fidelity. (Albeit they can be comic snobs from time to time. And look down on someone who thinks they know what their talking about when they don't.) They talk about the stuff with customers but they don't live it. Well most of them anyways. The manager guy that I've know for a few years is actually really smart. He just graduated from college, and is going to get married. When talking to him he doesn't talk about the latest books etc. In fact all of them really don't unless their asked by customers. (I've gone out with a few of them for drinks and we talked about anything else but comics.)
I usually go in every few weeks to see what's new and pick up a Batman comic or see what looks interesting. I like their shop because they also carry off the wall comics, that are more just pop art/poetry stuff than regular comics. This is were I found the amazing short book (The Plain Janes, which I highly recommend). Anyways, it's still a comic shop. So you get the geeks and nerds in too. I consider myself a slight geek. (As in I'm aware of geeky things but not much)

So I stop by today to browse around. The guys behind the counter are just there shootin' the shit as they say. The manager guy I know comes and says hello, and tells me what's up and we just talk. I peruse around aimlessly looking for something new and interesting. A few moments later a bunch of kids show up. The manager informs me that their going to have a "Magic" the gathering meeting for people to play in. A couple of the guys into that take care of the whole thing in the back game room they set up. (I've yet to venture into there, out of sheer fear.) It's mostly teenage kids but there's some odd adults too. The guys working there put on their best faux smiles and politely answer questions. It's their jobs.

A girl walks in wearing a red cape and I dunno who to describe it...uhm...damsel dress. (I kid you not) She talks about herself in the third person, and to make it worse she has three guys catering to her every command. All of us there stop what were doing and just stare. Having all our "WTF?" faces on. They go to the back game room. We all laugh once their out of earshot. But that was not the worst to come. Not a few minutes after that, a group of (I kid you not) Klingons walk in. The girl that works there turns around and walks towards me laughing and saying "Oh-my-God."

The...ahem..Klingons, all grunt in unison and do their salute thing. Next thing I know..the head Klingon (I kid you not) is asking the manager something, in Klingon. Me I would've busted out laughing. I guess the managers' been through this before. Without flinching or even looking up from a form he was filling out he says, "You're gonna have to speak English. I don't speak Klingon."

The head Klingon says something back to his group in Klingon and they all laugh in unison. He then proceeds to ask the manager stuff in English. After which they go back into the game room too. I'm thumbing through a comic of Last of the Mohican's, that's actually pretty well done. It's spot on with the novel. But as soon as their gone I can't stop laughing. I laugh so hard I start to cry. I ask the manger, "Parle-vous Klingon?" He busts out laughing. "Can you believe that crap? I swear next time that happens I'm calling this gaming thing off." "But it's Magic. Who the hell comes as a Klingon for a Magic game?" exclaims one of the other workers. "Or at least as something cool, like a Wookie," says another.

"I think I'm gonna stop coming here. It's too creepy." I jokingly say. Either that or brush up on Klingon.

"shQUo duCh!!" Whatever the hell that means.

On a downer though, I think MTG purposefully gave me her bugs. My throat is starting to get scratchy and my nose runny. Nuts!! I wonder if there's a phrase for "Aww..crap" in Klingon?

So much for that

2007-11-16T23:48:00.000-06:00

So it's my turn to take care of MTG. She woke up all sick today. Ewwww.....I say as I tease her. She retaliates by smearing her hand on me every times she uses it to cover her mouth when she coughs. Wretched. She's got some sort of bug and is out of it. The doctor gave her pills and told her to rest. It's not the flu but it's some bug. So it's my turn to take care of her. Although carrying her to bed when she was running a fever hurt a bit. She's still tiny but I don't think I'm supposed to carry more than 30 pounds just yet. Or so said my doctor, due to the surgery. But I got her upstairs and managed to put her to bed and wrap her in warm covers.

It's cold down here again!! Yay!!! It was almost 90 degrees for most of the week!! Can you believe that!! It's crazy. But it should get close to freezing tonight. I love the cold. I thrive in it. I get all energized and happy. I must have polar bear blood in me cause it just makes me feel so good. The colder the better. Oh and I sleep so well when its cold. Which people who stay over (and sometimes Mix Tape Girl) complain about especially at night when I drop the temp to sub-zero. But I have too if not I'll never fall asleep.

I was going to post this nice elaborate posting but it got too late. I was at my desktop putting music on a new Muvo 100 that I got just for my car. But I screwed up and basically erased 2 and a half hours of configuration and custom sorting and play-lists. All because as soon as I started syncing the music, I remembered one song that I forgot to add. So I stopped the sync. Well once you stop you can't start again without erasing everything and starting over. Stupid me didn't save the settings and it all went bye-bye. D'oh!!! All because of one song. And I had it all mapped out the way I want it. Crap. I'll have to do it all over tomorrow.

Well its late. I think I'm off to bed and wrap myself in oversized blankets and make a cocoon till morning. Have a good weekend.

Tick, Tick, Tick

2007-11-13T22:47:00.000-06:00

2:30 PM

"See you all later," I say on my way out from work. I'm on my way to my doctors follow-up visit. I thought it was at 3:30 but they called to confirm and I found out it was at 3 pm. D'oh!!

I hurry to my car as I only have 30 mins to get to the Medical Center half-way across town. As usual people get in the way and go slow. It seems like its on purpose but I know its not. I weave in and out and make my way slowly to the doctor's office. The highway is quick but it takes forever at the lights.

2:50 pm

I'm stuck at a light. I could have pressed the gas and ran through the yellow light. But it probably would have turned red and someone would have hit me, as the intersection is very large. I sit and wait.

2:53 pm

Make it past the light to the other light in front of the doctor's office. Wait at light.

2:55 pm

Light finally turns green for me to turn. I turn and rush into the parking lot. It's a pay to park lot so I have to grab a parking ticket before I can even go in. I park in the first available spot and grab a magazine/book to read from my courier bag. I rush inside the building.

2:59 pm

The elevator I get in at the building sounds like its going to fall apart. The doors clang open when it arrives on the 1st floor. I get in and hope for the best. I rush into the doctor's office with a minute to spare.

3 pm

I look at the parking pass. The first 30 mins are free, 1 hour is a dollar and so on. I don't know how long I'll be waiting. I think to myself. Does the parking attendant take the bank card? I don't have any actual money on me. There's no ATM in this building? Crap I only have $1.05 on me in change.

3:10 pm

Still in the waiting room. I'm reading my book (it's actually a literary magazine with short stories, poems, and interviews with authors) that I picked up at Barnes and Nobles. I read a couple of really interesting fiction stories and a few poems. I look at my watch. My free 30 mins is almost up, is all I can think.

3:25 pm

Oh no, still in the waiting room!! What if it takes forever? I'll have to go walk to find a bank or something to get some cash. I check my wallet. Dammit!! I left my bank card on the table at home. I took it out yesterday and put it in my shirt pocket when I picked up some take-out. When I got home I put it on the table with the receipt. I forgot to put it back in my wallet. Dammit!! Now I can't even go to an ATM to pay to get out.

3: 35 pm

Still in the waiting room. A lady walked in. She told the girl behind the fuzzy glass that she was late as her friend was driving her and got lost. She's an older looking lady. I glance up from my book and then pretend like I'm reading. The words and lines are blurred and I'm just staring at them, because all I can think of is how I'm going to pay for parking.

3:37 pm

An old lady comes out from behind the back of the office and the CNA tells her they will see her later for her other check up. She calls me back to one of the rooms.

3:40 pm

I'm in the first room by myself. It's an old office but very well kept. Parts of it has that old wood paneling which I hate. There's a nook with a bench thingy built in with storage in it. There's a sign taped that says "NOT A TRASH CAN" on it. I think this is funny as it doesn't look like one to me. But obviously someone threw trash in it so they had to tape the sign on it. The examining table is extended up-right into a chair position. I'm sitting in the other chair on the floor looking at Jessica Alba's face stare back at me from the magazine they put in the rooms while you wait. Tick, tick, tick, its so quiet I can hear my watch tick.

3:45 pm

Still no doctor. I try looking at my book again I see it as a blur. The rooms getting stuffy. The air is barely blowing through a small slit in the ceiling. It lets out a soft whistle as the air goes through. I get restless and look at my watch and worry about the time. Will I have to call MTG to come get me out of the parking lot? That's silly I think and daydream the scenario. "Sweety, I'm stuck in a parking lot and need 2 dollars to get out." I can see MTG making fun already.

3:50 pm

I start getting jittery. I feel insane. I'm stressing over not being able to get out of the parking lot. In five more minutes I won't be able to pay. I can't help but start laughing. As soon as I do the doctor comes in. He looks at me puzzled as to why I'm laughing. I say nothing. He asks me some questions and checks out my wounds. I always feel odd when letting someone else touch me. Well actually the whole removing the shirt thing and being poked is what irks me. It's just odd. I tell him a few things bugging me and he tells me that's normal and will happen until my insides are fully recovered. Just take some pepto or tums for now he says, if it doesn't go away call me. The whole thing take exactly 3 mins.

3:55 pm

I'm getting my parking ticket validated by the receptionist. Damn!! I missed my time. I'll be over 60 mins by the time I get downstairs.

4:00 pm

I saunter out of the building and get in my car. I figure I'll plead my way out of the parking lot with $1.05 and charm the lady at the booth. I drive up and hand the lady my ticket. She scans it through without even looking at me. "Okay, that's it," she says. I guess I didn't have to pay because of the validating. I drive off, and laugh at myself for getting all worked up over nothing.

It's 16 Miles to the Promise Land

2007-11-09T22:37:00.000-06:00

Rilo Kiley - With Arms Outstreched

I love this song, hell the whole album is awesome. Having to go back to work is getting ever closer. The thought alone drives me insane. My boss who happens to be one of my best friends calls me everyday to see how I'm doing. Which is a good thing. Although talking to her makes me think of work and I cringe ever so slightly, when she calls.

The last time I was at work I pretty much laid the smack down on our head office manager at the head office and the owners of the company. My team was to take the fall for miss-communication on the part of the head office and sales team. All hell broke loose because sales was trying to get a deal with a major company and didn't bother letting us know that when they sent files over they wanted us to do any and everything to get them done no matter what. They promised these people the world and left it on us to handle this. What I do in real estate legal work, I guess you could say is the special ops of the business. Pardon my language but what I do is fix people's fuck ups. Be it the current homeowners, former, lenders, attorney's, you name it. Even so there are limits as to what I can legally do to fix these problems, without resorting to things best left unsaid.

Needless to say the company the head-office is trying to get business from, gave us (me) a file that pushed the limits of what I can do. At first I was just going to close the darn thing and tell them to bugger off and take it to court and have a judge dismiss the thing. But noticing it was from a company I've never dealt with before I took it to my manager to see what wanted to be done. Sadly after giving it to the boss it was forgotten until the company raised hell about it. We got it done with no help from the company. Fortunately I already left for sick time due to doctors appointments. But when I came back the following week for a few days head-office was really putting pressure on my team. We were to get yelled at during our team meeting, the owners and managers sitting in to have it out at my team. My team was dejected and I knew that this upcoming verbal assault would do no good. So during the meeting I stopped the managers and everyone else dead in their tracks and made them run for cover when I spoke up and placed the blame back were it needed to be. I vehemently defended my team, in effect telling the office heads that what their trying to say (as John Travolta in Get Shorty says) that they "fucked up, without sounding stupid." I said so much and so truthfully that I literally left them speechless with no refute from my words. They had no answer for my statements, and there was only silence. My team and I left the meeting feeling much better. Someone had to speak and I guess it was me. That was the last time I was at work.

I dread next week coming up. Going almost no where and doing nothing all this time recovering was giving me cabin fever. Mix Tape Girl had to work today. She got up and was getting ready for work when I woke up. We've pretty much had our one day of fall down here on Weds. I actually got to wear my leather jacket, which always make me happy. Now the humidity is back and it should be close to 90 again in the next few days. While MTG was getting ready I looked outside. It was foggy and misting. A gray and ugly morning. She was taking longer than normal to get ready. Putting on her shoes she sat on the bed then layed down backwards.

"I don't want to go to work" she said softly. "So don't, stay here with me," I replied. "I can't," she said. "Yeah you can, call in and well go do something," I told her. She looked at me and smiled and then looked up at the ceiling. "Anything?" she said. "Yeah" I mumbled. She reached for her mobile and actually called in. We slept for a while longer after that. When we woke up I made her pancakes and bacon. We sat outside and ate in the courtyard.

The fog had gone now but it was gray still. "We need to get out of here," I said. "Where to?" MTG said puzzled. "Anywhere" I said. "Ok let's go" MTG smiled and said. I added more music to my Ipod, we got in my car and we left. We drove down the road and onto the highway. I set northwest toward the hill country, to no town in particular but just to the hills. I played Rilo Kiley's "The Execution of All Things". It's one of my favorite albums. MTG and I sang almost all the songs. We then set the Ipod to random and heard songs from Sleater-Kinney, The Delfonics, and anything else. We talked and talked and laughed. The sun had come out now in the afternoon. The cold of the week long gone and the heat already coming back in.

I told MTG of my plans to start my own business. Doing what I do on a different level and answering to myself. Making the plans for my brother to join me in it as he has real-estate background too. I've already purchased the equipment to do it. I just need that little "Umph" to get me going. We talked and talked and talked. The hills were beautiful surrounding us. Driving through the back roads and little valleys. After heading west for a while I turned back northeast and we ended up in Austin in the evening. We stopped and ate at a restaurant my dad used to take us to when we lived there. We did the 6th Street thing after parking downtown. We stopped at Waterloo records and picked up some new music, and then got ice cream at Amy's. MTG bought some new sunglasses and a dancing chilli pepper that dances to "Feelin' Hot Hot Hot". We drove around Austin a little bit more seeing the places I lived at, in my ever moving gypsy life. We finally headed back south on I-35 around 8 pm. We listened to Rilo Kiley again. Putting "With Arms Outstretched" on continuous play-back for half the way back home, MTG and I singing every time:

"its 16 miles to the promised land
and i promise you i'm doing the best i can
now somedays they last longer than others
but this day by the lake went to fast
and if you want me, you better speak up i won't wait
so you better move fast
and somedays they last longer than others
but this day by the lake went to fast
and if you want me, you better speak up i wont wait
so you better move fast"