Wednesday, March 31, 2004
|
POUNDING THE PAVEMENT
I took a couple days off blogging to write my novel, so if there are any volunteers to proofread it before I submit it for publication, step right up.
Seriously, I have been looking for a second job. Still trying to get on as a stringer for a local paper, but nothing so far, so I applied at a bank close to the hotel where I work. I think I might have a pretty good chance of getting on as a part-time teller, with hours that could work pretty well for me. It's probably the only way I can save enough money to do any traveling.
I went to the library today and finally got a library card. Can't believe I put it off this long. I've always had a library card, but didn't get around to getting one when I got here. If I get the job at the bank, I probably won't have time to read, anyway, but still a good thing to have.
K is coming over for dinner next week, so I'm going to take Lisa's suggestion and try the tenderloin. It is making me nervous, though, so don't be surprised if I chicken out and make tacos.
I took a couple days off blogging to write my novel, so if there are any volunteers to proofread it before I submit it for publication, step right up.
Seriously, I have been looking for a second job. Still trying to get on as a stringer for a local paper, but nothing so far, so I applied at a bank close to the hotel where I work. I think I might have a pretty good chance of getting on as a part-time teller, with hours that could work pretty well for me. It's probably the only way I can save enough money to do any traveling.
I went to the library today and finally got a library card. Can't believe I put it off this long. I've always had a library card, but didn't get around to getting one when I got here. If I get the job at the bank, I probably won't have time to read, anyway, but still a good thing to have.
K is coming over for dinner next week, so I'm going to take Lisa's suggestion and try the tenderloin. It is making me nervous, though, so don't be surprised if I chicken out and make tacos.
Sunday, March 28, 2004
|
OKAY, I'LL WRITE A NOVEL
Last night there was a gentleman at the bar alone, drinking Courvoisier. I spoke to him a time or two and was having trouble reading whether he wanted conversation or not. He responded when I spoke to him, but made no effort to keep the conversation going, so I guessed at first that he preferred to be alone. But he kept watching me, so I finally started plying him with questions until he started talking.
He is a retired history professor and he’s working on a novel. (Am I the only person around who isn’t writing a novel?) He was interesting and I hope he comes in again while he’s in town.
Last night there was a gentleman at the bar alone, drinking Courvoisier. I spoke to him a time or two and was having trouble reading whether he wanted conversation or not. He responded when I spoke to him, but made no effort to keep the conversation going, so I guessed at first that he preferred to be alone. But he kept watching me, so I finally started plying him with questions until he started talking.
He is a retired history professor and he’s working on a novel. (Am I the only person around who isn’t writing a novel?) He was interesting and I hope he comes in again while he’s in town.
Saturday, March 27, 2004
|
SECRET WINDOW
K called me this morning at 9 o'clock and asked if I wanted to meet him for breakfast and a matinee. So I hopped on the bus and met him for breakfast burritos. We walked to the movie theatre and saw Secret Window with Johnny Depp and John Turturro. We are both fans of Stephen King, and agreed that this was not one of his best, but still enjoyable. John Turturro is scary, and Johnny Depp gorgeous and believable, as usual.
One other thing. I rented Bowling for Columbine a few weeks ago, and had pretty much the same reaction Caren did. Enjoyed parts, but couldn't quite understand why it won the Oscar.
K called me this morning at 9 o'clock and asked if I wanted to meet him for breakfast and a matinee. So I hopped on the bus and met him for breakfast burritos. We walked to the movie theatre and saw Secret Window with Johnny Depp and John Turturro. We are both fans of Stephen King, and agreed that this was not one of his best, but still enjoyable. John Turturro is scary, and Johnny Depp gorgeous and believable, as usual.
One other thing. I rented Bowling for Columbine a few weeks ago, and had pretty much the same reaction Caren did. Enjoyed parts, but couldn't quite understand why it won the Oscar.
Friday, March 26, 2004
|
STILL AT SQUARE ONE
I've been reading Caren Lissner's Starting from Square Two and it has me thinking about dating. The main characters are several years older than I am, but all the dating rules fascinate me and I wonder if I will ever find myself at the point they're at. It doesn't seem likely to me, but maybe I'm kidding myself. I've never dated very much, and have never been very good at the games. Of course, everyone wants to be liked and accepted, but as far as I know, I usually am liked by most people, so I've assumed that I will eventually find a life partner. But the characters in the book made that assumption when they were my age, too.
I'm not sure where I'm going with this and no idea at all how it relates to my dating K, but the book has certainly occupied my thoughts. Maybe by the time I finish it, I will have sorted out my reactions.
I've been reading Caren Lissner's Starting from Square Two and it has me thinking about dating. The main characters are several years older than I am, but all the dating rules fascinate me and I wonder if I will ever find myself at the point they're at. It doesn't seem likely to me, but maybe I'm kidding myself. I've never dated very much, and have never been very good at the games. Of course, everyone wants to be liked and accepted, but as far as I know, I usually am liked by most people, so I've assumed that I will eventually find a life partner. But the characters in the book made that assumption when they were my age, too.
I'm not sure where I'm going with this and no idea at all how it relates to my dating K, but the book has certainly occupied my thoughts. Maybe by the time I finish it, I will have sorted out my reactions.
Thursday, March 25, 2004
|
THE GARDEN ISLAND
The current Newsweek notes that Hewlett Packard-Compaq CEO Carly Fiorina is a Bush campaign contributor. Pro or con, plan your next computer/printer/digital camera purchase accordingly.
We had a retired couple from New York at the bar last night who were spending a week at Waikiki and then were going for a week on the island of Kauai, the Garden Island. Yes, the wettest place in the world, with its annual rainfall of 450 inches but apparently this occurs primarily in the center of the island on Mount Waialeale. The idea of these folks is to enjoy the glamor and high life of Honolulu beaches and hotels and then relax at a small bed and breakfast on the unspoiled west shore of Kauai, close to where Captain Cook discovered Hawaii and Kauai's version of the Grand Canyon, though much more verdant. This is also, according to our guests' guidebook, where the legendary 2-feet tall Menehune natives were credited with building complex dams, trails, and ditches. Throughout Hawaii, when there was an unexplainable deed or project, it was commonly attributed to these mythological people.
I'll have to keep Kauai in mind if K and I get to a point where he'd like a change of pace from the million or so population in Honolulu. To dream, perchance to scheme.
The current Newsweek notes that Hewlett Packard-Compaq CEO Carly Fiorina is a Bush campaign contributor. Pro or con, plan your next computer/printer/digital camera purchase accordingly.
We had a retired couple from New York at the bar last night who were spending a week at Waikiki and then were going for a week on the island of Kauai, the Garden Island. Yes, the wettest place in the world, with its annual rainfall of 450 inches but apparently this occurs primarily in the center of the island on Mount Waialeale. The idea of these folks is to enjoy the glamor and high life of Honolulu beaches and hotels and then relax at a small bed and breakfast on the unspoiled west shore of Kauai, close to where Captain Cook discovered Hawaii and Kauai's version of the Grand Canyon, though much more verdant. This is also, according to our guests' guidebook, where the legendary 2-feet tall Menehune natives were credited with building complex dams, trails, and ditches. Throughout Hawaii, when there was an unexplainable deed or project, it was commonly attributed to these mythological people.
I'll have to keep Kauai in mind if K and I get to a point where he'd like a change of pace from the million or so population in Honolulu. To dream, perchance to scheme.
Wednesday, March 24, 2004
|
AMERICAN GRANDSTAND
Radio commentator Dave Ross has a perspective on the Dick Clarke book and controversy alleging Bush administration failures in being aware of terrorist threats.
CLARKE CRITICISM
All this incompetence! This is Dave Ross.....
I have to tell you, it's amazing how ex-administration officials who write critical books suddenly turn out to be completely incompetent. Richard Clarke, former counterterrorism director, writes his book saying the President had his eye on Saddam from the outset, and suddenly Clarke just doesn't know what he's talking about.
The Vice President says Clarke was "out of the loop" on this one.
Interesting that the White House would keep its own director of counter terrorism "out of the loop" on ... terrorism...
Hmm.
In any case, my favorite quote was the unnamed administration official who called the whole flap over Richard Clarke's book: "Dick Clarke's American grandstand" -- a clever pun on the old Rock 'n Roll dance show hosted by America's oldest living teenager, Dick Clark, NO "E".
Unless... you know, maybe that's it! Maybe that's why Bush wouldn't meet with Clarke about counter terrorism. Bush gets into the oval office, looks at the staff roster, sees "Dick Clarke, counter-terrorism," and he says to himself -- what does a DJ know about terrorism? Especially when he didn't realize how important Iraq was to America's safety. I mean if you have a DJ in charge of terrorism, he ought to at least be able to come up with a policy that has a beat and you can dance to.
And come to think of it -- maybe that's why he fired Paul O'Neill, as treasury secretary. I mean ... what does a Yankee right-fielder batting .267 know about money?
Radio commentator Dave Ross has a perspective on the Dick Clarke book and controversy alleging Bush administration failures in being aware of terrorist threats.
CLARKE CRITICISM
All this incompetence! This is Dave Ross.....
I have to tell you, it's amazing how ex-administration officials who write critical books suddenly turn out to be completely incompetent. Richard Clarke, former counterterrorism director, writes his book saying the President had his eye on Saddam from the outset, and suddenly Clarke just doesn't know what he's talking about.
The Vice President says Clarke was "out of the loop" on this one.
Interesting that the White House would keep its own director of counter terrorism "out of the loop" on ... terrorism...
Hmm.
In any case, my favorite quote was the unnamed administration official who called the whole flap over Richard Clarke's book: "Dick Clarke's American grandstand" -- a clever pun on the old Rock 'n Roll dance show hosted by America's oldest living teenager, Dick Clark, NO "E".
Unless... you know, maybe that's it! Maybe that's why Bush wouldn't meet with Clarke about counter terrorism. Bush gets into the oval office, looks at the staff roster, sees "Dick Clarke, counter-terrorism," and he says to himself -- what does a DJ know about terrorism? Especially when he didn't realize how important Iraq was to America's safety. I mean if you have a DJ in charge of terrorism, he ought to at least be able to come up with a policy that has a beat and you can dance to.
And come to think of it -- maybe that's why he fired Paul O'Neill, as treasury secretary. I mean ... what does a Yankee right-fielder batting .267 know about money?
Tuesday, March 23, 2004
|
STIRRED, NOT SHAKEN
Heard on the radio this morning that if Pierce Brosnan can't come to terms to be in his fifth James Bond adventure, Hugh Jackman, Colin Farrell, and Orlando Bloom are being considered to take over the franchise. I could accept any of the three as Agent 007.
Still in the planning stages of a dinner for K but the suggestions and caveats (SAT word) are much appreciated. My thinking at the moment is to make it uncomplicated. My initial idea of making this elegant may be ill-advised for two reasons: it may appear like I am trying too hard; and I don't want to set a precedent of gourmet cuisine that would be a tough act to follow.
Even after 62 years, a debate lingers, so I'm told, as to whether Japan's attack on Pearl Harbor could have been prevented with better intelligence or better analysis of the intelligence that was available. So it is with 9/11. Talk at the bar last night centered around the Richard Clarke allegations that Bush was so focussed on Iraq that he did not pay adequate attention to Bin Laden. As Clarke served Reagan, Bush I, Clinton, and Bush II, his contentions are hard to ignore though the White House adamantly dismisses them as inaccurate.
At this point, what is important is that winning the war in Iraq helps stop terrorism. (NOTE: Residents of Spain should disregard this statement.)
Heard on the radio this morning that if Pierce Brosnan can't come to terms to be in his fifth James Bond adventure, Hugh Jackman, Colin Farrell, and Orlando Bloom are being considered to take over the franchise. I could accept any of the three as Agent 007.
Still in the planning stages of a dinner for K but the suggestions and caveats (SAT word) are much appreciated. My thinking at the moment is to make it uncomplicated. My initial idea of making this elegant may be ill-advised for two reasons: it may appear like I am trying too hard; and I don't want to set a precedent of gourmet cuisine that would be a tough act to follow.
Even after 62 years, a debate lingers, so I'm told, as to whether Japan's attack on Pearl Harbor could have been prevented with better intelligence or better analysis of the intelligence that was available. So it is with 9/11. Talk at the bar last night centered around the Richard Clarke allegations that Bush was so focussed on Iraq that he did not pay adequate attention to Bin Laden. As Clarke served Reagan, Bush I, Clinton, and Bush II, his contentions are hard to ignore though the White House adamantly dismisses them as inaccurate.
At this point, what is important is that winning the war in Iraq helps stop terrorism. (NOTE: Residents of Spain should disregard this statement.)
Monday, March 22, 2004
|
SERIOUS RESEARCH
Thanks for all the suggestions. Now I'm on a research mission to figure out the best choice.
Lisa's pork tenderloin sounds kind of elegant and impressive. Are you sure I can't ruin it? I will give it a try first, maybe Beryl or Joan would come over and give me an unbiased opnion.
The tuna pancakes are definitely something I'm going to try for myself, Wes, but I'm not so sure about that sandwich. The mystery ingredient just seems way too unlikely.
I'm more than willing to experiment with any of Wendy's recommended recipes, as long as they're easy, especially the lasagna.
But if all else fails, I do know how to make tacos. Thanks, Sam.
NOW, what's for dessert?
Thanks for all the suggestions. Now I'm on a research mission to figure out the best choice.
Lisa's pork tenderloin sounds kind of elegant and impressive. Are you sure I can't ruin it? I will give it a try first, maybe Beryl or Joan would come over and give me an unbiased opnion.
The tuna pancakes are definitely something I'm going to try for myself, Wes, but I'm not so sure about that sandwich. The mystery ingredient just seems way too unlikely.
I'm more than willing to experiment with any of Wendy's recommended recipes, as long as they're easy, especially the lasagna.
But if all else fails, I do know how to make tacos. Thanks, Sam.
NOW, what's for dessert?
Sunday, March 21, 2004
|
WAY TO A MAN'S HEART
Though it is a work day - or more accurately, work night - I treat Sunday mornings like other non-churchgoing people by nursing a couple of cups of coffee and nibbling on a danish (a pineapple danish, here, of course) while scanning a newspaper.
I found Beryl at her usual table at the coffee shop and she always seems genuinely happy to have me join her. Despite having such wide-ranging interest that she's probably never bored, I guess occasional human interaction is nice.
After telling her about my date with K, I asked if she had any suggestions for encouraging the relationship without coming across so strong as to drive him away. She said to make him a good home-cooked meal. This had occurred to me but I had kept it subdued as I am not much of a chef. I attribute this flaw mainly to the fact that when it comes to food, I was always very easy to please. Reading a book or taking a long walk was more rewarding to me than spending an hour preparing a culinary treat when a California burger satisfied me just fine. K noted on our first date that he cooks (microwaves, he admitted) only the simplest meals for himself yet I could see how much he enjoyed the two restaurant meals we've had together and had to admit Beryl's idea was good.
I figure even if it took one or two practice attempts for myself, with time and effort, I could make a decent meal. That idea is in place. The problem is, what to cook? His academic concentration has him very much interested in Asian culture. Should I try to cater to that? Go with a tried-and-true meat and potatoes feast? Or maybe something Italian or Spanish? Suggestions solicited.
Though it is a work day - or more accurately, work night - I treat Sunday mornings like other non-churchgoing people by nursing a couple of cups of coffee and nibbling on a danish (a pineapple danish, here, of course) while scanning a newspaper.
I found Beryl at her usual table at the coffee shop and she always seems genuinely happy to have me join her. Despite having such wide-ranging interest that she's probably never bored, I guess occasional human interaction is nice.
After telling her about my date with K, I asked if she had any suggestions for encouraging the relationship without coming across so strong as to drive him away. She said to make him a good home-cooked meal. This had occurred to me but I had kept it subdued as I am not much of a chef. I attribute this flaw mainly to the fact that when it comes to food, I was always very easy to please. Reading a book or taking a long walk was more rewarding to me than spending an hour preparing a culinary treat when a California burger satisfied me just fine. K noted on our first date that he cooks (microwaves, he admitted) only the simplest meals for himself yet I could see how much he enjoyed the two restaurant meals we've had together and had to admit Beryl's idea was good.
I figure even if it took one or two practice attempts for myself, with time and effort, I could make a decent meal. That idea is in place. The problem is, what to cook? His academic concentration has him very much interested in Asian culture. Should I try to cater to that? Go with a tried-and-true meat and potatoes feast? Or maybe something Italian or Spanish? Suggestions solicited.
Saturday, March 20, 2004
|
DREAMING
K doesn’t have a car, but when he said he would pick me up, I assumed he was borrowing one again. Not so. He arrived on foot and we walked to the bus stop. We ate shrimp and spicy noodles at a restaurant called Kirin, near the university. Dinner conversation with K is funny. He has a tendency to jump suddenly to a completely different topic from what I thought we were discussing. I’m sure there is a connection that he’s made to get there, but he doesn’t explain, just suddenly darts off in a new direction. But he is interesting, never boring. I’m afraid I will sound like my sister, who falls in love at the slightest excuse, but this guy makes me feel things I’m unaccustomed to feeling.
After dinner, we went to a movie, The Dreamers. I’m going to have to think a little more before I know what to tell you about it. I will say that I enjoyed it, but in K’s company, I would have enjoyed dragging a board.
K doesn’t have a car, but when he said he would pick me up, I assumed he was borrowing one again. Not so. He arrived on foot and we walked to the bus stop. We ate shrimp and spicy noodles at a restaurant called Kirin, near the university. Dinner conversation with K is funny. He has a tendency to jump suddenly to a completely different topic from what I thought we were discussing. I’m sure there is a connection that he’s made to get there, but he doesn’t explain, just suddenly darts off in a new direction. But he is interesting, never boring. I’m afraid I will sound like my sister, who falls in love at the slightest excuse, but this guy makes me feel things I’m unaccustomed to feeling.
After dinner, we went to a movie, The Dreamers. I’m going to have to think a little more before I know what to tell you about it. I will say that I enjoyed it, but in K’s company, I would have enjoyed dragging a board.
Friday, March 19, 2004
|
Is this the first Friday I've had off? I think it is. And I'm taking advantage of it and will be going out with K. He is picking me up at about 7:30 for dinner and then who knows what? I'll tell you about it tomorrow.
Thursday, March 18, 2004
|
NEW SYMBOL?
A friend forwarded this to me, and it gave me a chuckle:
“The government today announced that it is changing its emblem from an eagle to a condom because it more accurately reflects the government's political stance.
A condom allows for inflation, halts production, destroys the next generation, protects a bunch of pricks, and gives you a sense of security while you're actually being screwed.
Damn, it just doesn't get more accurate than that.”
I pirnted it out and took it to work with me and it started a political debate, but our regulars don't seem to get too worked up about much of anything, so no blows were exchanged, and in the end everyone was laughing. It's a fun place to work.
A friend forwarded this to me, and it gave me a chuckle:
“The government today announced that it is changing its emblem from an eagle to a condom because it more accurately reflects the government's political stance.
A condom allows for inflation, halts production, destroys the next generation, protects a bunch of pricks, and gives you a sense of security while you're actually being screwed.
Damn, it just doesn't get more accurate than that.”
I pirnted it out and took it to work with me and it started a political debate, but our regulars don't seem to get too worked up about much of anything, so no blows were exchanged, and in the end everyone was laughing. It's a fun place to work.
Wednesday, March 17, 2004
|
DRIVING THE SNAKES OUT
St Patrick's Day is a bigger deal in Chicago than it is in Waikiki. Just thought you might be wondering about that.
I worked last night and was really beat by the end of my shift, but I got up and went for a walk bright and early. I didn't walk very far because I was feeling weak and a little bit sick. Joan was outside when I returned and reminded me that we're supposed to have a night on the town soon. Sounds good to me.
Honk if I'm boring you as much as I'm boring me. I think I'll take a nap.
St Patrick's Day is a bigger deal in Chicago than it is in Waikiki. Just thought you might be wondering about that.
I worked last night and was really beat by the end of my shift, but I got up and went for a walk bright and early. I didn't walk very far because I was feeling weak and a little bit sick. Joan was outside when I returned and reminded me that we're supposed to have a night on the town soon. Sounds good to me.
Honk if I'm boring you as much as I'm boring me. I think I'll take a nap.
Tuesday, March 16, 2004
|
AND THE WINNER IS...
It appears that I am going to survive. After sleeping way too many hours the past two or three days (feels more like a week), I think I’m on the mend.
Congratulations to winners in my “Identify the Phrase” game. Sam and Deb will receive fabulous gifts baskets, with consolation prizes to Sandy and Amanda for joining in. Just send me $50.00 to cover shipping and handling and my staff will get those sent right out to you.
Lisa’s gratitude for flowers has me feeling slightly nostalgic for the pleasures of spring, but guess what? I’ve decided it’s a small price to pay for missing out on winter.
It appears that I am going to survive. After sleeping way too many hours the past two or three days (feels more like a week), I think I’m on the mend.
Congratulations to winners in my “Identify the Phrase” game. Sam and Deb will receive fabulous gifts baskets, with consolation prizes to Sandy and Amanda for joining in. Just send me $50.00 to cover shipping and handling and my staff will get those sent right out to you.
Lisa’s gratitude for flowers has me feeling slightly nostalgic for the pleasures of spring, but guess what? I’ve decided it’s a small price to pay for missing out on winter.
Monday, March 15, 2004
|
LINERS ARE IN
Can any of you out there in Readerland correctly identify the phrase in my heading? My immediate family members are disqualified, as they all heard my dad say it and know the reference.
I'm still feeling very sick, but K called this morning to check on me, and it cheered me up enormously. He offered to come by later, but I was able to convince him this might be contagious. (Having him see me at my worst at this stage of the game might not be in anyone's best interest.)
Can any of you out there in Readerland correctly identify the phrase in my heading? My immediate family members are disqualified, as they all heard my dad say it and know the reference.
I'm still feeling very sick, but K called this morning to check on me, and it cheered me up enormously. He offered to come by later, but I was able to convince him this might be contagious. (Having him see me at my worst at this stage of the game might not be in anyone's best interest.)
Sunday, March 14, 2004
|
BUGS IN THE TROPICS
This is the first time I've called in sick. I spent most of the day in bed or in the bathroom. Hope this bug doesn't last long. Didn't even feel up to reading any of my stack of books today, but I'm tired of bed, so I'm sitting here staring at Solitaire. I feel awful.
This is the first time I've called in sick. I spent most of the day in bed or in the bathroom. Hope this bug doesn't last long. Didn't even feel up to reading any of my stack of books today, but I'm tired of bed, so I'm sitting here staring at Solitaire. I feel awful.
Saturday, March 13, 2004
|
RAINDROPS ON ROSES
Cliff brought in an almanac last night in support of the news report that while Honolulu rain is not infrequent, it is often just showers rather than aquifer-filling soakers.
During respites from mixing drinks, I made some notes. Below is annual precipition in inches of rain (though it may have come down as snow in colder climes) of various cities. All figures are rounded to the nearest inch.
Boston, MA - 43
Chicago, IL - 36
Columbus, OH - 39
Denver, CO - 16
Honolulu, HI - 18
London, GB - 30
Los Angeles, CA - 13
Miami, FL - 59
Minneapolis, MN - 29
New York, NY - 50
Paris, FR - 26
Portland, OR - 37
San Francisco, CA - 20
Toronto, ONT - 31
The almanac also notes that the wettest place in the world (GWB will check Mars to see if we can include the entire solar system) is Mount Waialeale on the Hawaiian island of Kauai, with an average annual rainfall of 460 - no, it's not a typo - 460 inches. That's about 100 miles northwest of Honolulu. Perhaps when the crews finish building the tunnel for Deb from San Francisco to Hawaii, they can run a pipeline from Kauai to supply water to the holding tanks of Waikiki.
Cliff brought in an almanac last night in support of the news report that while Honolulu rain is not infrequent, it is often just showers rather than aquifer-filling soakers.
During respites from mixing drinks, I made some notes. Below is annual precipition in inches of rain (though it may have come down as snow in colder climes) of various cities. All figures are rounded to the nearest inch.
Boston, MA - 43
Chicago, IL - 36
Columbus, OH - 39
Denver, CO - 16
Honolulu, HI - 18
London, GB - 30
Los Angeles, CA - 13
Miami, FL - 59
Minneapolis, MN - 29
New York, NY - 50
Paris, FR - 26
Portland, OR - 37
San Francisco, CA - 20
Toronto, ONT - 31
The almanac also notes that the wettest place in the world (GWB will check Mars to see if we can include the entire solar system) is Mount Waialeale on the Hawaiian island of Kauai, with an average annual rainfall of 460 - no, it's not a typo - 460 inches. That's about 100 miles northwest of Honolulu. Perhaps when the crews finish building the tunnel for Deb from San Francisco to Hawaii, they can run a pipeline from Kauai to supply water to the holding tanks of Waikiki.
Friday, March 12, 2004
|
GETTING HOSED
I laughed right out loud at Lisa’s story about the sock falling out of her pant leg, and I have to share my story. My mom wears pantyhose under dress pants to work, and I guess she must somehow remove them at the same time. (I don’t wear pantyhose with pants, so I’m not an expert on technique.)
One Saturday morning, her friend called and said she was coming by to pick us up right away to go shopping, so Mom grabbed the pants she had worn the day before and threw them on and we headed off in a hurry. As we were walking toward the door of a big department store (on a busy street) I looked down and noticed Friday’s pantyhose slipping out of her pant leg, so I pointed at it. Mom looked down and thought something was attacking her or something and started shaking her foot. When she realized what it was, she bent down and tried to pull them out. (Do you have any idea how LONG a pair of pantyhose can be when you try to pull them out of a pant leg?) Poor Mom. Her friend and I were practically in hysterics and didn’t help her at all.
Amanda's generosity in allowing us to come live with her and Mr. Rainman and savor the nectar from a new holding tank has me checking air fares on Expedia. Perhaps she could set us all up as rent-a-girlfriends. I wonder what the gals' take is of each $40 or $45 that lonely guys pay for their communication. And what "booked to capacity" is. Bet it could be quite lucrative as a full time job.
I laughed right out loud at Lisa’s story about the sock falling out of her pant leg, and I have to share my story. My mom wears pantyhose under dress pants to work, and I guess she must somehow remove them at the same time. (I don’t wear pantyhose with pants, so I’m not an expert on technique.)
One Saturday morning, her friend called and said she was coming by to pick us up right away to go shopping, so Mom grabbed the pants she had worn the day before and threw them on and we headed off in a hurry. As we were walking toward the door of a big department store (on a busy street) I looked down and noticed Friday’s pantyhose slipping out of her pant leg, so I pointed at it. Mom looked down and thought something was attacking her or something and started shaking her foot. When she realized what it was, she bent down and tried to pull them out. (Do you have any idea how LONG a pair of pantyhose can be when you try to pull them out of a pant leg?) Poor Mom. Her friend and I were practically in hysterics and didn’t help her at all.
Amanda's generosity in allowing us to come live with her and Mr. Rainman and savor the nectar from a new holding tank has me checking air fares on Expedia. Perhaps she could set us all up as rent-a-girlfriends. I wonder what the gals' take is of each $40 or $45 that lonely guys pay for their communication. And what "booked to capacity" is. Bet it could be quite lucrative as a full time job.
Thursday, March 11, 2004
|
RIME OF THE FUTURE MARINER
I haven’t had a chance to read it yet, but I called Alan to thank him for sending Caren’s Starting from Square Two. It was fun to visit and catch up on all the news from the Home Front. I get emails from Amy, but I think she makes up about half the stuff she tells me, so I rely on Alan for the real scoop.
Worrying about Deb’s dad has given me a new appreciation for my folks, and I’m grateful that everyone’s well. My mom had a scare with her heart a couple years ago, but they cleared a blockage and it got her exercising regularly and she’s very healthy now.
Not much to report, except Amy’s in love again, and Alan is worried that this time it might be serious. She falls in love two or three times a year, and has since junior high, so it’s usually nothing to be alarmed about.
Talk at the bar last night was about the need for rain in Hawaii. It seems like a strange news story amid all the rich green plants and frequent showers but apparently the aquifers which provide the main source of fresh water for the islands are running low. Potable water is a concern in many places in the world and will obviously become a greater problem in the years ahead as populations and demand grow. I think we will all have to go live with Amanda and her 10,000 lakes.
I haven’t had a chance to read it yet, but I called Alan to thank him for sending Caren’s Starting from Square Two. It was fun to visit and catch up on all the news from the Home Front. I get emails from Amy, but I think she makes up about half the stuff she tells me, so I rely on Alan for the real scoop.
Worrying about Deb’s dad has given me a new appreciation for my folks, and I’m grateful that everyone’s well. My mom had a scare with her heart a couple years ago, but they cleared a blockage and it got her exercising regularly and she’s very healthy now.
Not much to report, except Amy’s in love again, and Alan is worried that this time it might be serious. She falls in love two or three times a year, and has since junior high, so it’s usually nothing to be alarmed about.
Talk at the bar last night was about the need for rain in Hawaii. It seems like a strange news story amid all the rich green plants and frequent showers but apparently the aquifers which provide the main source of fresh water for the islands are running low. Potable water is a concern in many places in the world and will obviously become a greater problem in the years ahead as populations and demand grow. I think we will all have to go live with Amanda and her 10,000 lakes.
Wednesday, March 10, 2004
|
WEDNESDAY ALREADY?
K is a busy guy, but he emailed me that he would like to show me more of Oahu. I don't know if he has any romantic interest in me or is just practicing for a career as a tour guide. But I'm not beating suitors off with a stick and fact is, K is a fun person to be with on any terms. So I'll be glad to let him show me around even if that's as far as the relationship will go.
In response to inquiries as to how K rates against the lists I posted yesterday, well...life's all about compromise, right Mom? I'll try to keep an open mind.
I was pleased to see that Al Franken and Janeane Garofalo are entering the radio wars as counterpoints to Rush Limbaugh's conservative views.
K is a busy guy, but he emailed me that he would like to show me more of Oahu. I don't know if he has any romantic interest in me or is just practicing for a career as a tour guide. But I'm not beating suitors off with a stick and fact is, K is a fun person to be with on any terms. So I'll be glad to let him show me around even if that's as far as the relationship will go.
In response to inquiries as to how K rates against the lists I posted yesterday, well...life's all about compromise, right Mom? I'll try to keep an open mind.
I was pleased to see that Al Franken and Janeane Garofalo are entering the radio wars as counterpoints to Rush Limbaugh's conservative views.
Tuesday, March 09, 2004
|
LINE UP HERE, BOYS!
Time to jump on the bandwagon with my own list of Must-Haves and Deal-Breakers.
Must Have
1. Teeth. I like perfectly straight, very white teeth.
2. Hair. My hair has no natural curl at all, so I have to have a mate with some natural curl, preferably a nice dark brown, and no thinning. (I’ll need to see his father and maternal uncles, of course, to check for baldness.)
3. He should keep himself in perfect condition. I’m not picky about specifics, as long as he falls between 5’11” and 6’1” and can bench press 300 pounds.
4. Must have green thumb to plant annual garden according to my specifications
5. Must be able to name all the women Michael slept with on “Melrose Place”
6. Must play the piano competently (Rhapsody in Blue is test piece)
7. Be able to prepare a perfect omelet (and will do so on demand)
8. Be able to dance ballroom, swing, Latin, and electric slide without embarrassing me
9. Worships the ground I walk on. Thinks I'm the most gorgeous woman in the world. (Lies, tell me lies.)
10. Enjoys waiting on me hand and foot. Lives to meet my every need.
Deal Breakers
1. Snores
2. Watches sports on TV (this taboo waived when my mother is visiting us)
3. Wears more jewelry than I do
4. Slurps his soup
5. Puts ketchup on hot dogs
6. Subscribes to any magazine featuring nude women or an annual swimsuit issue
7. Has holes in socks (or in Hawaii, wears socks - where they are not worn)
8. Questions my political or social views
9. Thinks Harlequin is a snake
10. Doesn't watch A&E
Time to jump on the bandwagon with my own list of Must-Haves and Deal-Breakers.
Must Have
1. Teeth. I like perfectly straight, very white teeth.
2. Hair. My hair has no natural curl at all, so I have to have a mate with some natural curl, preferably a nice dark brown, and no thinning. (I’ll need to see his father and maternal uncles, of course, to check for baldness.)
3. He should keep himself in perfect condition. I’m not picky about specifics, as long as he falls between 5’11” and 6’1” and can bench press 300 pounds.
4. Must have green thumb to plant annual garden according to my specifications
5. Must be able to name all the women Michael slept with on “Melrose Place”
6. Must play the piano competently (Rhapsody in Blue is test piece)
7. Be able to prepare a perfect omelet (and will do so on demand)
8. Be able to dance ballroom, swing, Latin, and electric slide without embarrassing me
9. Worships the ground I walk on. Thinks I'm the most gorgeous woman in the world. (Lies, tell me lies.)
10. Enjoys waiting on me hand and foot. Lives to meet my every need.
Deal Breakers
1. Snores
2. Watches sports on TV (this taboo waived when my mother is visiting us)
3. Wears more jewelry than I do
4. Slurps his soup
5. Puts ketchup on hot dogs
6. Subscribes to any magazine featuring nude women or an annual swimsuit issue
7. Has holes in socks (or in Hawaii, wears socks - where they are not worn)
8. Questions my political or social views
9. Thinks Harlequin is a snake
10. Doesn't watch A&E
Monday, March 08, 2004
|
WEIGHTS AND MEASURES
A reader has asked me about meeting K and what common interests led to our date. It has me thinking about attraction and how it works. I had gone to browse the book store as Square 2 still hadn't arrived from my bother (media mail to HI must travel by freighter). While this stranger (now K) and I were standing close together, looking at books on the sale table, I noticed that he kept picking up a particular book and looking at it and then putting it back down, so I said, “Take a chance. It’s only $5.”
I don’t think he had been aware of me before that, but he grinned and said, “You think it’s worth skipping a meal for?” I hadn’t noticed what the book was, except it was big and looked like a coffee table picture book, so I said, “Looks like it would come to about a dollar a pound. Skip lunch.”
He laughed then and asked if I always shop for books by the pound. You know, I’m not sure I could tell you what we talked about all afternoon, just that the time went by too fast. K is a graduate student at the University of Hawaii, studying art history.
A reader has asked me about meeting K and what common interests led to our date. It has me thinking about attraction and how it works. I had gone to browse the book store as Square 2 still hadn't arrived from my bother (media mail to HI must travel by freighter). While this stranger (now K) and I were standing close together, looking at books on the sale table, I noticed that he kept picking up a particular book and looking at it and then putting it back down, so I said, “Take a chance. It’s only $5.”
I don’t think he had been aware of me before that, but he grinned and said, “You think it’s worth skipping a meal for?” I hadn’t noticed what the book was, except it was big and looked like a coffee table picture book, so I said, “Looks like it would come to about a dollar a pound. Skip lunch.”
He laughed then and asked if I always shop for books by the pound. You know, I’m not sure I could tell you what we talked about all afternoon, just that the time went by too fast. K is a graduate student at the University of Hawaii, studying art history.
Sunday, March 07, 2004
|
THE BEST OF O'AHU
What a fun day! K doesn’t have a car, but he borrowed one from a friend and picked me up at about 8:00 (yawn) so we could get a jump on the day. He said he would let me sleep longer if I wanted, but what the heck? Besides, you already know I was too excited to sleep.
K’s “sightseeing tour” was definitely not the Polynesian Cultural Center and a luau. I still want to do those things, but it turns out K hasn’t done all of them himself. He grew up on this island, so he’s never been a tourist here. The good news is that he knows places that aren’t on the usual tours (not that I would know the difference).
I won’t bore you with every detail of our day. We hiked a trail through a kind of rain forest that smelled like heaven, and K told me stories and had me laughing the whole day. We ended up at a pool at the base of a little waterfall that just might be the prettiest place on the planet. He tucked a white flower into my hair. He even packed sandwiches for lunch.
I think I like this guy a lot. And I should learn more of the language. Aloha.
What a fun day! K doesn’t have a car, but he borrowed one from a friend and picked me up at about 8:00 (yawn) so we could get a jump on the day. He said he would let me sleep longer if I wanted, but what the heck? Besides, you already know I was too excited to sleep.
K’s “sightseeing tour” was definitely not the Polynesian Cultural Center and a luau. I still want to do those things, but it turns out K hasn’t done all of them himself. He grew up on this island, so he’s never been a tourist here. The good news is that he knows places that aren’t on the usual tours (not that I would know the difference).
I won’t bore you with every detail of our day. We hiked a trail through a kind of rain forest that smelled like heaven, and K told me stories and had me laughing the whole day. We ended up at a pool at the base of a little waterfall that just might be the prettiest place on the planet. He tucked a white flower into my hair. He even packed sandwiches for lunch.
I think I like this guy a lot. And I should learn more of the language. Aloha.
Saturday, March 06, 2004
|
I'M SO EXCITED
You'd think this is the first date I've ever had, the way it's affecting me. I barely slept at all last night, and I've been up and ready for quite some time now. K is picking me up shortly, and I decided to post my daily entry now, because who knows if I'll have time before work tonight?
It's just a day of sightseeing and we might not even get along as well as I'm hoping, but I can't help it. My stomach is filled with butterflies. Wish me luck.
You'd think this is the first date I've ever had, the way it's affecting me. I barely slept at all last night, and I've been up and ready for quite some time now. K is picking me up shortly, and I decided to post my daily entry now, because who knows if I'll have time before work tonight?
It's just a day of sightseeing and we might not even get along as well as I'm hoping, but I can't help it. My stomach is filled with butterflies. Wish me luck.
Friday, March 05, 2004
|
FOR WHOM THE BELL (?) TOLLS
I always have my phone in my bag behind the bar, but I never get calls, so it took me a while to figure out that the Waltz of the Flowers emanating from there meant that somebody wanted to talk to me. It was K!! He offered to take me sightseeing on Saturday, but he won’t tell me where we’re going, just that I should wear comfortable walking shoes.
The crew at work turned mean at this point and tormented me unmercifully for the rest of the night. Slow news day, I guess. Maybe they'll have forgotten all this when I show up at work tonight. Any bets?
Rain is in the forecast for tomorrow - I hope that won't give K an excuse to change his mind.
I always have my phone in my bag behind the bar, but I never get calls, so it took me a while to figure out that the Waltz of the Flowers emanating from there meant that somebody wanted to talk to me. It was K!! He offered to take me sightseeing on Saturday, but he won’t tell me where we’re going, just that I should wear comfortable walking shoes.
The crew at work turned mean at this point and tormented me unmercifully for the rest of the night. Slow news day, I guess. Maybe they'll have forgotten all this when I show up at work tonight. Any bets?
Rain is in the forecast for tomorrow - I hope that won't give K an excuse to change his mind.
Thursday, March 04, 2004
|
RACING WITH THE MOON
A couple of days ago, co-worker Colleen and I were talking about the Academy Awards and last night she loaned me a video of "Racing with the Moon," a 1984 movie with Sean Penn and Nicolas (there really is no h in it) Cage. They had also been in "Fast Times at Ridgemont High" a couple of years earlier. Penn was the star in both though as the future would show, Cage would become very much a star in his own right and win a Best Actor Oscar ("Leaving Las Vegas") 8 years sooner than Penn.
It's not a great film and I wouldn't suggest anyone spend his/her time or money when there are many more worthy diversions. And if Colleen hadn't imposed it on me, I wouldn't have gone out of my way to find it. But it was interesting to see Penn and Cage 20 years younger and as a slice-of-life drama, it is entertaining, set in a small town as the story of two soon-to-be Marines, living it up for 4 weeks prior to heading off to World War II.
And watching the news of our soldiers in Iraq, I realize it a story that is not so long ago and not so far away.
A couple of days ago, co-worker Colleen and I were talking about the Academy Awards and last night she loaned me a video of "Racing with the Moon," a 1984 movie with Sean Penn and Nicolas (there really is no h in it) Cage. They had also been in "Fast Times at Ridgemont High" a couple of years earlier. Penn was the star in both though as the future would show, Cage would become very much a star in his own right and win a Best Actor Oscar ("Leaving Las Vegas") 8 years sooner than Penn.
It's not a great film and I wouldn't suggest anyone spend his/her time or money when there are many more worthy diversions. And if Colleen hadn't imposed it on me, I wouldn't have gone out of my way to find it. But it was interesting to see Penn and Cage 20 years younger and as a slice-of-life drama, it is entertaining, set in a small town as the story of two soon-to-be Marines, living it up for 4 weeks prior to heading off to World War II.
And watching the news of our soldiers in Iraq, I realize it a story that is not so long ago and not so far away.
Wednesday, March 03, 2004
|
WHILE YOU WERE SLEEPING .....
Caren notes in her blog that she completed two screenplays yesterday. Thinking there might be a magic elixir in the waters of Hoboken, NJ where she works, I did a search and found it is Frank Sinatra's home town and site of the first brewery in America - started on Feb 5 1663. Unfortunately, I was unable to tie either of these significant events to Caren's prolific writing.
It’s too soon to determine whether March 2 will qualify as a Red Letter Day on my calendar, but I met another interesting person. He has an unusual name, so in the interest of privacy, I will refer to him as K. We met at a bookstore, where we happened to be browsing the same sale rack and struck up a conversation which lasted for about three hours. I was nearly late for work as a result, but I had such a nice time. I hope you will all be reading lots more about him.
Caren notes in her blog that she completed two screenplays yesterday. Thinking there might be a magic elixir in the waters of Hoboken, NJ where she works, I did a search and found it is Frank Sinatra's home town and site of the first brewery in America - started on Feb 5 1663. Unfortunately, I was unable to tie either of these significant events to Caren's prolific writing.
It’s too soon to determine whether March 2 will qualify as a Red Letter Day on my calendar, but I met another interesting person. He has an unusual name, so in the interest of privacy, I will refer to him as K. We met at a bookstore, where we happened to be browsing the same sale rack and struck up a conversation which lasted for about three hours. I was nearly late for work as a result, but I had such a nice time. I hope you will all be reading lots more about him.
Monday, March 01, 2004
|
WITH THIS RING…
Last night we were hosts to a pair of honeymooners who were as happy as any I’ve ever seen. They were recently married in San Francisco, after having lived together for eight years. There was some discomfort among a few of the other patrons, but for the most part, a “live and let live” attitude prevailed, made easy by the personalities of these two men, whose joy was infectious. They were wearing gold wedding bands, which got me wondering if that is common now among gay couples. It wasn’t something I had thought about before. It seems to me that love and commitment between any two people are something to be celebrated, and I offer my heartfelt congratulations.
The difference between a published author like Caren and unpublished authors is that when she has writer's block she bangs her shoulder against a wall; the rest of us bang our heads against it.
Last night we were hosts to a pair of honeymooners who were as happy as any I’ve ever seen. They were recently married in San Francisco, after having lived together for eight years. There was some discomfort among a few of the other patrons, but for the most part, a “live and let live” attitude prevailed, made easy by the personalities of these two men, whose joy was infectious. They were wearing gold wedding bands, which got me wondering if that is common now among gay couples. It wasn’t something I had thought about before. It seems to me that love and commitment between any two people are something to be celebrated, and I offer my heartfelt congratulations.
The difference between a published author like Caren and unpublished authors is that when she has writer's block she bangs her shoulder against a wall; the rest of us bang our heads against it.
