Short work week

This is a short work week for me, not because of being off for Veterans day (since my company does not observe it), but because I have taken off Thurs & Fri to attend the Rehoboth Beach Independent Film Festival (RBIFF). I will post each day about the films I see so you can add the ones you like to your Netflix queue.

Since I will be posting about RBIFF films on Fri, I will not have my usual Friday fragments post then. Instead, I am including some Friday fragments items today.

I have to share this link a friend sent me a link to a site called Affectionate Men. Be sure to watch both of the slide shows. They're great! Big nod to Stephen.

Another friend sent me this:

along with the caption: "Ooops! Looks like the architect didn't consider the shadow this fence would make." This gave me a laugh.

Crush du Jour: Romain Duris

I believe

I believe that...

• a birth certificate shows that we were born, a death certificate shows that we died, but pictures show that we lived!
• just because two people argue, it doesn't mean they don't love each other. And just because they don't argue, it doesn't mean they do.
• we don't have to change friends if we understand that friends change.
• no matter how good a friend is, they're going to hurt you every once in a while and you must forgive them for that.
• true friendship continues to grow, even over the longest distance. Same goes for true love.
• you can do something in an instant that will give you heartache for a lifetime.
• it can take a long time to become the person we want to be.
• you should always leave loved ones with loving words. You never know when it may be the last time you see them.
• you can keep going long after you think you can't.
• we are responsible for what we do, no matter how we feel.
• either you control your attitude, or it controls you.
• heroes are the people who do what has to be done when it needs to be done, regardless of the consequences.
• money is a lousy way of keeping score.
• sometimes the people you expect to kick you when you're down will be the ones to help you get back up.
• when I'm angry I sometimes have the right to be angry, but that doesn't give me the right to be cruel.
• maturity has more to do with what types of experiences you've had and what you've learned from them and less to do with how many birthdays you've celebrated.
• it isn't always enough to be forgiven by others. Sometimes you have to learn to forgive yourself.
• no matter how bad your heart is broken, the world doesn't stop for your grief.
• our background and circumstances may have influenced who we are, but we are responsible for who we become.
• two people can look at the exact same thing and see something totally different.
• your life can be changed in a matter of hours by people who don't even know you.
• even when you think you have no more to give, when a friend cries out to you, you will find the strength to help.
• credentials on the wall do not make you a decent human being.
• the happiest people don't necessarily have the best of everything; they just make the best of everything they have.
• 'The will of God will never take you where the Grace of God will not protect you'

Author unknown - edited by me

Crush du Jour: Thomaz Oliviera

Weekend highlights

I was really looking forward to this weekend because it was the 1st weekend since the end of Aug that we were not out of town, hosting weekend house guests, or otherwise committed. Yes, finally a 'free' weekend after 10 weeks.

On Sat Spouse went for his personal trainer appointment and I caught up on emails and ordered my holiday return address labels. As I've mentioned before, I love to send holiday cards - I have a routine for writing/addressing them - so I like to use special holiday return address labels. Similar to last year, I ordered two types. I ordered this beachy Christmas one again, since I liked it so much last year.
Its just a subtle reminder to folks that it sometimes snows at the beach. I also ordered this snowflake design for 'holiday' cards going out to my non-Christian friends.

Its 'wintry' instead of 'Christmasy'.

After Spouse returned we ran a few errands, had lunch, and did a little shopping. Spouse took a nap while I spoke with Ray, our yard guy, about moving some plants in preparation for the pouring of the replacement driveway, then checked out an antique/collectibles store. I found a great storage piece that I believe will be perfect for our new bathroom. Then Spouse & I met up with our friends for dinner followed by 'movie night' at George & Steve's house.

I had several more things on my to-do list for Sun including breakfast with Steven & Thad, but my body had a different idea of how it was going to spend Sun. I awoke to find myself with a recurrence of vagus nerve overstimulation, which forced me to lie vertical the entire day and night due to the extreme dizziness and nausea. Fortunately I didn't vomit this time. Down the drain went my plans for a fun and productive day. I laid in bed until 11am, then relocated to the sofa to watch TV for the rest of the day/evening. Spouse brought me toast and crackers, which I could eat lying down. Today I'm feeling much better, but not quite 100% back to normal just yet.

On the positive side, I finally watched the DVD of "Doubt" from Netflix yesterday afternoon, which we've had since May.

Crush du Jour: Adoni Maropis

Friday fragments

Welcome to Friday fragments, my weekly recap of topics too big to forget, yet too small to be their own post.

Last Sun afternoon I moved my clothes and shoes into the new closet/dressing room. It was so exciting! Spouse decided not to move his yet, since we do not have any covering on the bathroom windows. As long as I've known him he's been convinced that legions of people are standing out on the street looking up and into the windows at him, despite the fact that we have no neighbors on the front of our house where the bathroom windows are located.

Mon morning I had my 1st shower in the new shower room, and it was delightful! Its so roomy and spacious I kinda felt like I was showering outdoors. It felt a little naughty, and I liked it!

In case you're still obsessing over the H1N1 or other flu strains, here's a funny video with a flu treatment endorsed by celebrities.

Tonight we'll have dinner with 'the usual suspects' and tomorrow night we'll re-join our movie group, whom we've missed for the last 2 months.

Hope everyone has a fab weekend!

Crush du Jour: Andre Bland

Business trip

I had to make a trip to my company's headquarters in Richmond, VA this week.

I left Tues morning and returned Wed night. It takes about 4 1/2 hours by car each way, if you drive a little fast like I do. It would take even longer if I flew, since I am 2 hours drive to the nearest airport.

I used to hate spending time in the Richmond office. The old management's bad energy affected everyone and it was so unpleasant to be around all that negativity. But fortunately the old management was kicked out, and so was their bad energy. Its like visiting a different office now, and I don't mind it at all.

I checked into renting a car and found that it would be cheaper to do that than expensing the mileage to drive my own car. Go figure! The small car rental office didn't have the intermediate size car I'd reserved so they upgraded me to the luxury class, so I got a fully loaded 2009 Nissan Maxima that looked exactly like this:

It was nice.

I arrived at the office at 1:30 and worked until 4:00. Then I was in a meeting from 4:00-6:00, followed by a team-building happy hour and then dinner which lasted until 10:00. The next day I was in back-to-back meetings from 8:30-4:00, with hardly any time to check email. I left at 4:00 and got home at 8:30. I'd brought an extra 1/2 of a sandwich and a cookie that were left over from lunch, and ate them in the car on the way home so I wouldn't have to stop.

It was a productive trip and it was nice to see my colleagues again. Since all of us work remotely we only see each other in person once a year, usually.

Crush du Jour: Matt Kobler

Maine approves of discrimination

I'm so upset by this I can hardly breath. This is why equal rights for GLBT people needs to be a federal issue, not a state referendum. History shows that the majority will usually fight to keep the minority from gaining power/equality. We need Congress to pass federal legislation providing ALL tax-paying citizen, straight and gay, with equal rights and protections.

Maine Voters Repeal Law Allowing Gay Marriage
By Abby Goodnough, NY Times

In a stinging setback for the national gay-rights movement, Maine voters narrowly decided to repeal the state’s new law allowing same-sex marriage.

With 87% of precincts reporting early this morning, 53% of voters had approved the repeal, ending an expensive and emotional fight that was closely watched around the country as a referendum on the national gay-marriage movement. Polls had suggested a much closer race.

With the repeal, Maine became the 31st state to reject same-sex marriage at the ballot box. Five other states - Massachusetts, Connecticut, Iowa, New Hampshire and Vermont - have legalized same-sex marriage, but only through court rulings and legislative action.

The Maine vote was particularly discouraging for gay-rights groups because it took place in New England, the region that has been the most open to same-sex marriage, and because opponents of the repeal had far outspent backers. Gov. John Baldacci, a Democrat, had enthusiastically backed the state law allowing gay marriage, passed by the legislature in May but put on hold until the referendum took place.

The repeal came a year after California voters banned same-sex marriage with a constitutional amendment. Preliminary results showed strong opposition to the repeal in Portland, the state’s biggest city, but not enough to counter widespread support in more conservative regions to the north.

Throughout the bitter campaign, supporters of same sex marriage had stressed that gay couples deserve equal treatment under the law, banking on Maine’s reputation as a “live and let live” state. Opponents repeatedly warned voters that if gays were allowed to marry, it would be taught in the public schools, a tactic that proved effective in CA last year.

The Catholic Church was a leading supporter of the repeal campaign, even asking parishes to pass a second collection plate at Sunday mass to help the cause. The National Organization for Marriage also contributed heavily to the repeal campaign; it is under investigation by Maine’s ethics commission for possibly flouting state campaign finance laws by refusing to reveal its donors.

Crush du Jour: Juan Carlos Garcia

Best things in life are free

You've probably heard the saying "The best things in life are free", and this website proves its true! Click here to check out all the good, free stuff you can get.

1. FREE VIDEO GAMES
2. FREE BIRTHDAY GOODIES

3. FREE SHIPPING

4. FREE SOFTWARE

5. FREE STOCK TRADES

6. FREE CREDIT REPORT

7. FREE TV AND MOVIES
8. FREE ATMs

9. FREE (AND RISK-FREE) INTEREST

10. AIRLINE FREEBIES

11. FREE MONEY FOR GRAD SCHOOL
12. FREE REWARDS
13. FREE FINANCIAL ADVICE

14. FREE MOBILE APPS

15. FREE BOOKS, MOVIES & MUSIC

16. FREE ONLINE BILL PAYING
17. FREE KIDS' MEALS
18. FREE DIGITAL STORAGE SPACE

19. FREE TECH RECYCLING, WITH BENEFITS
20. FREE CAPITAL GAINS

21. FREE TOUR GUIDES
22. FREE CULTURE

23. FREE FINANCIAL PLANNING
24. FREE RECIPES
25. FREE CHARITABLE GIVING
26. FREE PLACE TO STAY
27. FREE WORKOUTS

28. FREE MUSIC

29. FREE DIRECTORY ASSISTANCE
30. FREE E-BOOKS AND SHEET MUSIC

Who knew? Well, now YOU do.

Crush du Jour: Garret Dilahunt

Surreal

sur-re-al –adjective
having the disorienting, hallucinatory quality of a dream; unreal; fantastic

'Surreal' is the perfect word to describe the experience of attending my cousin's wedding on Sat.

Spouse & I picked up my aunt Mary on our way to the wedding, which was held at a country club. The itinerary called for a 30-minute ceremony, followed by cocktail hour on the veranda, followed by the dinner/reception.

As we entered the foyer Spouse whispered "I see your parents". I could feel my heart rate increase immediately. As aunt Mary finished signing the guest book my mother greeted her with a hug and they began to chat a bit. In the meantime I quickly wrote mine and Spouse's names in the guestbook and then busied myself with asking the young woman handing out programs where the ceremony was being held. She pointed to the area and Spouse & I walked that way immediately.

We ran into a couple named Fran & Dolph who were old family friends and stopped to chat with them for several minutes. Before we could get to the safety of our seats, I saw 3 of my cousins (brothers of the bride) and we greeted each other and chatted for a few minutes. Next thing I knew, an usher was asking us to take our seats as the wedding was to begin shortly. We caught up with aunt Mary at the entrance to the ceremony room and the 3 of us took seats on the bride's side, 2 rows behind my parents and my middle sister and her husband.

Fear of rejection kept me from daring to make eye contact with them, so I pretended to adjust my camera for several minutes, then read the entire wedding program twice over. Finally the music changed and the procession began.

My cousin was stunningly beautiful and radiant. As she and her fiance repeated their vows I secretly wished it were me and Spouse taking wedding vows. The traditional "You may kiss your bride" moment, which has always puzzled me.

After the ceremony ended everyone was escorted to the veranda while the club employees moved the chairs from the ceremony room to the tables in the dining/reception room. Mary, Spouse & I had lovely passed hors d'oeuvres as we waited for the bar line to subside. My cousin Ashley's mother-in-law agreed to take a picture of us.

Mary was talking with some people I didn't know so Spouse suggested I get in the bar line and bring us back drinks, so I did. After introducing myself to two young women in front me in line, I was caught off-guard when my parents appeared, seemingly out of nowhere, drinks in hand. I had not seen them at the bar ahead of me.

Silently reminding myself to relax and be myself, I smiled slightly as they approached. My father smiled and called me by a childhood nickname, which caused my smile to widen. We shook hands and he told me I was looking good. Then in his characteristically quirky way, he gestured toward my mother and said "You remember your mother..." to which I responded evenly "Of course". I kissed her on the cheek and hugged her. I'd forgotten how short they were.

My father shocked me with his next question: "Is that Joe (Spouse) over there?" I turned to confirm it was him, then replied "Yes, that's him." It was amazing enough that my parents were speaking to me and being so friendly, but to then inquire about Spouse? It was almost too much to believe!

"Do you think he'd mind if I said hello to him?" my father asked. Okay, seriously. Who ARE these nice people parading around in my estranged parents' bodies? Describing the situation as 'unbelievable' hardly seems adequate. "No, he wouldn't mind at all" I responded. "Would you like me to call him over?" I offered. "No," my father said nonchalantly, "I know which one he is now". My head was spinning.

Just then, Fran happened to be passing by as my father asked for Spouse. Without missing a beat Fran told Spouse that my father had asked about him, so Spouse walked over and joined our conversation. (I still can hardly believe we were having a "conversation". After 16 years.) My parents shook hands with him and greeted him sincerely. My head was about to explode, or I was having a stroke. There had to be an explanation.

Then my father said "So you moved to Delaware. What prompted that? Were you following a job?" Grateful for the shift to a less emotionally charged subject, I explained our years of visiting the Delaware shore on weekends which lead to our desire to live there. "So, do you still like it?" he asked, to which we both replied affirmatively.

My parents' attention was then stolen by someone else who stopped to chat with them, obviously unaware of the landmark moment they were interrupting. I told Spouse "I'm getting back into the bar line" with added gusto.

A moment later I felt a hand on my shoulder and turned to find my middle sister. We smiled at each other in that way a parent does when they send their child off to school for the first time, both happy and sad at the same time. We hugged each other longer than normal, and when we pulled apart she said "Man, its good to see you!"

I just knew that any second the alarm clock would sound and I would be woken from this crazy but pleasant dream. My sister and I talked for a few minutes, but I can not remember what about. It was just so surreal. Spouse saw the reunion and came over to meet my sister, who greeted him sincerely.

It seemed I'd never get to that bar, but eventually I did and I didn't even have time to finish my cocktail before the ushers swooshed us off the veranda and into the dining/reception room. The time just seemed to be flashing by at an abnormally fast pace.

Dinner began with a spicy Thai peanut soup that was so good I could have been happy with a gallon or 2 of it. Next came our entrees. We'd been given a choice when we RSVP'd of beef or crab cakes and Spouse & I had both chose the crab cakes. They were delicious and the presentation of them with the mashed potatoes and autumn veggies was so pretty I took a picture.
After dinner, as the traditional father/daughter dance and bouquet toss occurred, my sister found her way over to our table to hug me again and tell me how much she'd missed me. And while I was happy with such a warm reception from her and my parents, a tiny voice inside me wanted to banish all the happiness and shout at them in anger. I knew their religious beliefs forbid associating with me and others who leave or are kicked out of the religion, and their strict adherence to that was never a surprise to me. But as the hugs and smiles kept coming, part of me wanted to shake them by the shoulders and say "This is how things could be for us all the time!!!"

But I knew they couldn't. I knew that when the festivities were over they would return home and return to the shunning behavior they'd been forced into for the last 16 years. I could scream and I could shake them by the shoulders but it wouldn't help. I knew the night would end and so would this fantasy. There really was no point in ruining it for anyone, including myself.

The wedding cake, in the shape of the Eiffel Tower where the happy couple became engaged, was cut and served.

Everyone danced to the DJ's terrific song selections until he encouraged everyone to surround the newlyweds as they danced their last dance of the night.

Spouse & I made our rounds to all the friends and relatives to say goodnight and bid everyone a safe drive home. As I shook my father's hand and kissed my mother's cheek, there were no invitations to come and visit, just as I had predicted to myself. The night was almost over and my carriage was about to turn back into a pumpkin.

Spouse & I had a very nice time at the wedding and reception. I felt grateful to my cousin for inviting us. It was nice to reconnect with my cousins and other non-JW family members. My uncle came all the way from CA. It was even nice to spend that time with my parents and sister. Had they not been so friendly it could have been a long, uncomfortable night of trying to avoid one another.

But as it was, everyone enjoyed themselves and I felt as if I'd been in a fairy tale for 6 hours.

Crush du Jour: Aurelio Marks

Addition update - week 20

Week 20
This is the last installment of the addition updates, as this week the addition was finished!
Mon: Mike the builder came for a mini walk-thru to check for any missing final touches. He also put the hooks on the shelf towers.
There are 2 of these double hooks on each side of both of the shelf towers. These will hold robes and clothes you don't want to fold or hang.

Tues: Mike installed a 3rd corner shelf in the shower for use as a place to prop my foot.

Wed: Mike the builder sent over a cleaning crew since there was so much construction dust. They did not clean the entire house, but did more than 1/2 of it, which was really helpful. The masonry crew began breaking up the original stamped concrete driveway. They got about 1/3 of it done.

Thurs: Jay fixed one of the tub handles which the cleaning crew found to be loose. He & Junior removed the last of the tools from the garage.

Fri: Jay & Junior finished up the last of the interior and exterior touch-up painting, remounted the towel bar more securely, and installed the deadbolt on rear door of the garage.

With the exception of the original driveway, the addition project is complete!

On the ground level there is a 16' wide, 23' long garage. Above the garage is the extension of the master bathroom and the closet/dressing area. Care to go on a tour?

From the master bedroom looking into the bathroom:

We re-used the vanity, sinks, and mirror in their original locations.

To the right of the vanity is the walkway into the rest of the bathroom:

As you walk through the walkway there is a toilet closet (with pocket door) on the right:

We re-used the toilet and tissue holder from the original bathroom.

On the left, built into the eave, is a custom-built display/storage shelf:

Under the 3 windows is a 2-person heated/jetted jacuzzi tub:

To the right of the tub is the 2-person tiled shower room. This view shows the 'rain' shower head that extends down from the ceiling:

This view shows the 2nd shower head which has a removable, hand-held sprayer. This will make cleaning the shower tile more convenient, too.

To the right of the shower is the 'his and his' closet/dressing room. Both sides have a 7' tall shelf tower, an 8' long rod for hanging clothes, an 8' long shelf above the rod, and a 7' long shoe shelf underneath the hanging area. This is my side:

This is the center section. The door leads to storage space under the eave.

This is Spouse's side. On the wall opposite of Spouse's hanging area you can see another shelf. It is for wallets, watches, etc. Underneath it is space for dirty clothes hampers. The idea is for this to be a dressing/undressing room where all of our clothes will be centralized.

On the far right (above) are several hooks for belts.

That's it - its finally done! We are so happy with the finished project. It turned out exactly how we planned it. And now that its clean, we are ready to move in.

I hope you have enjoyed following this project with me. It has been educational for me to witness and interesting to share with you. Just in case you want to see it all over again from start to finish, click on the "addition" tag at the end of this post or on the left side of the blog and you will see all addition posts and photos.

Crush du Jour: Peter Pagan

Friday fragments

Welcome to Friday fragments, my weekly recap of topics too big to forget, yet too small to be their own post.

Spouse unexpectedly took the day off today. He slept in, we went to lunch together, and now he's running some errands. Work is rather slow for him right now, so it was a good day to take off.

I saw this and laughed out loud:

My friend Jared supplied me with this photo:
along with his caption "I didn't know Jesus was into that kind of thing." Don't you just love clever people?

Tomorrow is my cousin's wedding, which I wrote about here. I have learned that my parents will be there, as well as my middle sister and her husband. I'm not quite sure what to expect from them, but I am not worried or concerned. I have decided that if my parents and/or sister approach me and say something ingratiating like "Its nice to see you", I'm NOT going to reply "Its nice to see you, too". Instead, I will simply say "Thank you". I will not allow them to sweep 16 years under the carpet as if nothing happened.

Although Halloween is supposed to be a time for scary fun, it can be plain old scary if you are the parent of an effeminate young boy. Fortunately, The Onion has some helpful masculine costume suggestions! Check it out here.

Speaking of Halloween costumes, this is one of the BEST Halloween costumes EVER!

Have a fun, safe Halloween and a terrific weekend!

Crush du Jour: Ignacio Torres

Memories of Halloweens past

I'm disappointed that Spouse & I will not be able to participate in any fun Halloween activities this year. My cousin's wedding and reception is from 4:00-9:30 on Sat. When its over we will have about an hour's drive to get back to Spouse's mom's house where we're staying so I'm sure he will not want to go out anywhere after we've gotten out of our suits and ties.

So instead of doing anything for Halloween this year, I am just going to relive some fun memories from Halloweens past.

This is me & Spouse last year dressed as Barney Rubble and Fred Flintstone. We wore these costumes to 2 different Halloween parties last year. (All photos on this page may be clicked to enlarge.)
The Barney and Fred costume idea was Spouse's. I could have thought of at least 100 other (read: better) costume ideas, but acquiesced since I knew Spouse would be more apt to actually participate if he were happy and comfortable in his costume. We used fleece throws from Wal-Mart, sewn with the help of our friend Bugsy, and I used iron-on patches for the spots on Fred's tunic. At the party people only seemed to 'get' my costume if I was standing with Spouse. Alone my costume was ambiguous, and I was asked if I were a monk and John the Baptist. So I tried to stand and sit near Spouse the rest of the time.

Here's a photo of my Halloween 2006 costume, sandwiched between Richard Simmons and the Bride of Frankenstein.
The scary part of it is that I put together the Boy George costume completely from clothing Spouse & I already owned! The only thing I bought was the wig and the stick-on numbers. I won 1st runner up in a costume contest at Freddie's Beach Bar.

Back in 1996 I talked 5 of my female co-workers into dressing up with me as The Village People. I'm the Cowboy on the right. The other 5 are females! Check out the Leatherman with the huge mustache.

In this photo we're lip-syncing the song "Y.M.C.A." and doing simple choreography in the breakroom at work. I'm not sure I've ever laughed as hard or as long as I did that day. Good times!

In 1994 I dressed as a patient in a hospital bed.

I'm actually standing up in this picture. The 'bed' is made of cardboard, with a whole in the middle in which I'm standing. I have rope suspenders over my shoulders, holding the 'bed' up. The 'legs' are panty hose stuffed with plastic bags. I won 1st place in a costume contest with this.

I hope everyone has a fun and safe Halloween. Don't forget to take pictures and post them on your blogs!

Crush du Jour: George Sherrill

Flu prevention

With all the concerns over H1N1 (or swine flu), I thought I'd share these flu prevention tips:

1. Eat right. Make sure you get your daily dose of fruits and veggies.

2. Take vitamins and bump up your vitamin C.

3. Get plenty of exercise because exercise helps build your immune system. Walk at least an hour a day OR go for a swim, take the stairs, etc.

4. Wash your hands often. If you can't wash them with soap and warm water, keep a bottle of antibacterial hand sanitizer around.
5. Get lots of fresh air. Open doors and windows whenever possible.

6. Try to eliminate as much stress from your life as you can.

7. Get plenty of rest.

Consider your Doctor's approach: When you go for a flu shot, what do they do first? Clean your arm with alcohol because alcohol kills germs. So, do what I do...

1. Walk briskly to the liquor store (exercise)
2. Put a lime wedge in your Corona (fruit)
3. Put a celery stalk in your Bloody Mary (veggies)
4. Drink outdoors at a patio bar (fresh air)
5. Tell jokes and laugh (eliminate stress)
6. Then pass out (rest)

The way I see it, if you keep your alcohol level up, flu germs can't get you!

Remember what Gandhi always said: "A shot in the glass is better than one in the ass."

And if you want to go that extra step toward flu prevention, wear a homemade ask:
Crush du Jour: Siomon Dexter

Too much to ask

Recently I mentioned that Spouse & I are looking for a housekeeper to come every other week. We don't want to spend our evenings and weekends cleaning, especially with all the house guests we have.

So I sent an email out to my local friends, asking if anyone could recommend a good, reliable, reasonably priced housekeeper. I'd rather use a recommended resource than calling one of those maid services that sends a different person every time. I got several recommendations from my friends, which made me happy.

Then I set about contacting the recommended people. To let them know how I got their name and number, I started each call or voice mail message like this:

"Hi, my name is Mark in DE and I got your name from Mutual Friend. I'm interested in getting a quote for housekeeping, every two weeks. Please give me a call at..."

Now, you may recall that I written several times about living in a small town with no real professional employment options. People who live here are either retired, work from home like me, work in a restaurant or retail store, or own their own business. I would think that housekeepers (and others) who own their own business would jump at calls like mine, especially in these 'challenging economic times'. Its harder for business owners to get new clients in small towns.

But do you think I've been overwhelmed by the responses to my calls and voice messages? Hardly!

One guy said he has enough work to keep him busy and really couldn't take on any new clients. Surprising, but fair enough.

One woman told me she didn't have enough clients to 'make it work' so she went back to work full-time doing something else. Understandable.

After listing the rooms for her, one woman told me my "house is too big". Really? Its not exactly Buckingham Palace or the White House.

Another guy seemed less than grateful at the prospect of having me as a possible new client. He said he would call me in 2-3 days and make an appointment to come over. That was a week ago.

Two others never returned the messages I left for them.

Today a guy came to give me an estimate. We walked through the house together and he explained what they would do in each room. I must admit that if they do everything he claims, it would be very thorough. But I nearly choked when he told me with a straight face that it would be $200. per cleaning. Yes, we have a dog and a cat but they sleep 22 out of 24 hours a day. Its not like we have any 4 dirty, smelly, grimy children running amok here.

I'm perplexed. Really, is it really too much to ask for a good, reliable, affordable housekeeper?

Is it too much to ask that someone returns my call?

Crush du Jour: Robert Sepulveda

NYC highlights

Thurs it was sunny and warm, so I wore shorts and a t-shirt on the BoltBus to NYC. We came dangerously close to missing the bus because Spouse & I were talking and missed our exit. Once in NYC Lisa took our suitcase up to her office so we could roam around and explore. We met her back at her office at 5:30 and went to dinner with her and her friend/colleague Howard. We liked him a lot, as she knew we would. We had Thai food at Yum Yum Bangkok which we all liked. It was a gorgeous night and quite enjoyable to be in the city. Celebrity siting: Cole Escola from Logo's Jeffrey and Cole Casserole.

On Fri it was as if we'd woken up in a different month. It was overcast, quite chilly, and windy. The temperature literally dropped 20 degrees overnight. Dressed in jeans, long sleeves, and jackets we made our way to the tip of Manhattan to visit the Cloisters.

As I was taking the photo above, one of the guards yelled "No flash photography please!" Although he said "please", I knew he really meant "@sshole". It kind of pissed me off. I mean, what are they afraid of? The flash might cause the LIMESTONE to fade? Give me a break. The place is like a cave inside and since it was overcast there was very little light coming in from the windows. Without the flash it would be pointless to take photos. Honestly, it kind of soured the experience for me. I did take some outdoor photos though.

I thought it was neat how they trained this tree to grow vertically and horizontally, rather than at its natural angles.

The views from the gardens were gorgeous, especially at this time of the year. I took more scenic photos, but Spouse accidentally deleted some of them while trying to change a light setting on the camera.

Just outside the Cloisters we had lunch at New Leaf Restaurant, housed in an old building in historic Tryon Park. Initially we thought it might be one of those rip-off places that charges an arm and a leg because there's no competition around. But we were delightfully impressed with the quality and tastiness of our food. I took photos of our plates since they were so beautifully presented, but the photos were deleted. Then we took the train down to West Greenwich Village to browse about the many gay-owned/operated stores. As we walked down W 4th St we noticed Village Cuts, a barbershop. Spouse joked that since he'd not had a chance to get his hair cut before this trip, he should stop in. I quickly agreed, since he was looking a little shaggy. Gregory gave him a great cut and was very nice. Who'd have guessed that a haircut in Manhattan would cost less than in DE! Next we stopped in for a pastry and a hot cup of coffee at Patisserie Claude which really warmed us up. I had a pumpkin tartlet and Spouse had a chocolate eclair. Then we hopped the train back to Lisa's so Spouse could have a nap and we could change clothes.

Later we met up with Miss Ginger Grant, Howard, and David Dust at David's apt before having a tasty Afghan dinner at Ariana. Since it was raining we took cabs to "The Urges", also known as Urge Lounge, for a little 'entertainment'. A favorite among the Dust Bunnies, Urge has good-looking, well-built guys walk around the bar top for appreciative patrons to admire and tip. I must admit the 'performers' we hot!

Since we were out late the night before, we enjoyed a nice, leisurely Sat morning with Lisa. It was raining off and on, but it was much warmer than Fri. Umbrellas in hand, we eventually made our way to Chinatown and met up with David, Ginger, and Howard for lunch at the Excellent Dumpling House, which truly lives up to its name. We stuffed ourselves with all kinds of dim sum, and Spouse & I even had the audacity to order entrees! Next we walked over to the famous Pearl River Mart, followed by Jack's $.99 store, both of which were real experiences! We hopped the train back to Queens to shower, nap, and chat with Lisa. Then the 3 of us headed to Chelsea for a 25th anniversary party for Lisa's friend Bobby and his partner Bruce. It was nice. Our plan was to meet up with David, Ginger, and Howard at Escuilita to see Lady Bunny, but this was cancelled due to the yucky weather and the general lack of Dust Bunny turn out. So Lisa, Spouse & I had a late night snack (read: meal) at Pete's Grill, then returned to Lisa's and talked until 1:30.

Sun morning Lisa made omelets and biscuits for breakfast, we packed up our suitcase and took the train to meet the BoltBus at noon. Unfortunately the bus wasn't scheduled to come until 12:30 (I looked at the boarding pass wrong) so we had to stand and wait and extra 1/2 hour on top of the extra time we'd allowed. But we got home by 5:00 and had a relaxing night of TV watching before going to bed.

So ends another DDBW, al-be-it a much more tame one than before. It was great to see Lisa, David, Ginger, and Howard again!

Crush du Jour: George Vidanov

Addition update - week 19

Week 19
I'm missing all the photos taken before our trip to NYC because Spouse accidentally deleted them. I tried to fill in with photos taken after we returned home.

Mon: All the nail holes in the baseboards and chair rail molding were filled, sanded, and painted with top coat of white paint.The scrap materials were sorted for storage and disposal, and the materials for closet built-ins were delivered.

Tues: The dumpster was hauled away. All the trim and doors received a final coat of white paint. The closet built-ins were started, beginning with the rod for hanging clothes, then the shelf towers were constructed.
Wed: The other shelf tower was installed, as well as the shelf on the right wall below. Hooks for belts.The register covers were installed throughout the bathroom and closet/dressing room.Two towel rings were installed, one at either end of the vanity, for hand towels.The double towel bar for bath towels was re-installed. It was re-used from the previous bathroom.
Thurs: The stained beadboard panels were attached to the tub apron. (They can be removed to access the tub mechanicals.)The clear glass shower door was installed.The closet built-ins were completed. There is a shelf tower on either end for jeans, shorts, sweaters, and any other folded items, and spanning the full length of the long wall is a rod for hanging clothes since we hang t-shirts as well as polo-style and button-ups, a shelf above the hanging rod for addition folded items, and a shelf below the hanging rod for shoes.
Fri: A section of railing was re-installed to complete the front porch. The light fixture was installed in the bathroom (in front of the shower and closet doors).The door knobs and striker plates were installed.The toilet paper holder was re-installed. It was re-used from the previous bathroom.Glass mosaic tile was applied between the mirror and the backsplash. This brings the mosaic tile from the shower and tub to the vanity, uniting these three elements.

Crush du Jour: Russell Martin

Friday fragments

Welcome to Friday fragments, my weekly recap of topics too big to forget, yet too small to be their own post.

Its day 2 of our NYC trip and our plan is to visit the Cloisters today. I've heard its amazing.

The garage/bathroom/closet/dressing room addition should be finished when we get back from NYC. Well, not completely finished since the old driveway and sidewalk won't be poured yet, but practically finished. I suspect we will sleep in our bedroom when we return Sun night, and use the bathroom once its cleaned. I am practically GIDDY over the idea of moving our clothes and shoes from 3 separate closets into our new closet/dressing room!

Next Tues a guy is coming to give us a quote for regular housecleaning every other week. We had a housekeeper when we lived in VA and we felt it was a worthy expense, but when we moved here we just couldn't afford it. But things have changed and now we can afford it. We do not want to spend our evenings and/or weekends cleaning. We are active people who have lots of houseguests. Its time to get a housekeeper again. I hope we like this guy who's coming on Tues.

Have you seen those new Purex 3-in-1 laundry sheets? Its a sheet that contains detergent, fabric softener, and anti-static you toss in the washer AND dryer.

Spouse picked them up at the store (because he loves gadgets and this is sort of like a gadget) and I must admit they are pretty nice. Saves me from having to measure liquid detergent (which I always seem to get on my hands) and remember whether or not I tossed a dryer sheet in the dryer. Print a coupon and try them yourself. Now, if I could just get Spouse to empty his pockets before throwing his pants into the hamper.

This video made the rounds on Facebook this week. I think its very good. Imagine if straight people had to ask for their community's permission to marry? As obsurd as it sounds, that's exactly what is happening for GLBT people in states where same sex marriage is put on the ballot for community vote.

Crush du Jour: Robert Gonzalez

Off to NYC

Today we are leaving for a 4-day weekend in NYC.

As we've done before, we will drive to Cherry Hill NJ where we will board the BoltBus. Its cheap and comfortable, and will drop us off right by Penn Station. If interested in photos or our agenda from past NYC trips, click here and here (May 2009) and here (Oct 2008).

We will be staying in the home of our fab friend Lisa again, in Sunnyside Queens. Its so convenient, only 25 minutes from Penn Station to her doorstep. We're looking forward to having dinner with Lisa and her friend Howard on Thurs evening. She has talked about Howard several times and he seems like our kind of guy.

We are planning to tour the Cloisters on Fri during the day, meet up with an old high school friend of mine for drinks/dinner in the evening, then join the other Dust Bunnies later that night.
Sat we will do some sightseeing, including Pearl River Mart and Chinatown during the day, then meet up with the Dust Bunnies again for more cocktails and hijinx. If you are reading this and will be in NYC this Sat night, consider joining us!

Sun we'll have a good, hearty breakfast at Pete's Grill before catching the bus home.

Spouse doesn't like me to over-schedule our trips so we feel free to do what we want, as opposed to feeling like we have to do what's on the schedule. We travel well together so I'm sure we will have a great time.


Crush du Jour: Andre Coelho

Yoga

Back in March I mentioned taking a free yoga class at the gym where Spouse & I belong. I liked it a lot and went again the following week. At that class, the instructor informed us she would no longer be leading the class, due to personal commitments. She seemed to think the gym would find someone else to lead the class.

I showed up the following week to find an empty classroom. When I inquired at the desk, I was informed they had not yet found anyone to lead the class. I checked back several more times over the following weeks but was told the same.

A friend of mine recently joined the same gym and told me he was interested in the yoga class. Sure enough, 6 months later the gym had finally found someone to lead the yoga class again.

So I went last night. Wow... it was a real work out. The original class was an hour long and had more beginners like me, including several men. This new class is an hour and a half long and had 2 experienced ladies, 1 inexperienced lady, and me.

Since yoga is about relaxation and stretching, I am always surprised how physically demanding it is. It requires a lot of strength to hold some of those positions. The stretching some people can do simply amazes me. But I am sure I will become more flexible as I continue taking the class each week.

I made it through the entire thing without needing to stop and rest, which is just short of a miracle, although the instructor said it was fine to do so. Afterward I had dinner and watched TV with Spouse for a while, and when I got up from the sofa to go to bed, I could already feel it in my muscles. I took 2 ibuprofen before going to bed, which I believe really helped reduce my soreness today.

Anyone else do yoga?

Crush du Jour: Philip Fusco

Double standard

By now everyone has heard that last Thursday's "balloon boy" incident turned out to be a hoax perpetrated by the parents in an attempt to market themselves for a future reality TV series in which they would star.

I'd like to highlight a few things about this situation for you to consider:

• It was reported on CNN that the Heenes pitched a reality show idea to the cable station TLC which was rejected.
• The parents' "hoax" was actually a lie and a fraud for which they will likely face legal charges.
• They forced their 3 children to participate in this fraud and set a terrible parental example for them.
• Their fraud cost the police and other authorities considerable time and money, and resulted in a temporary diverting of airline traffic.
• The Heene family participated in an episode of a reality show called "Wife Swap" where two very different families live for some period of time with the other family's wife/mother while camera crews film the resulting tension and family discord.
• Richard Heene refers to himself as a meteorologist, although he possesses nothing more than a high school education.
• Heene sometimes brings the family along when he chases storms, endangering himself and his family.
• A former colleague described Heene as hyperactive, driven by fame and self-promotion.
• According to the New York Post, Heene is convinced that he was once abducted by extraterrestrials, and that Armageddon will arrive in 2012.
• A 911 call from the Heene's home earlier this year raised suspicions of possible domestic violence against Mrs. Heene. During the "balloon boy" incident authorities spoke at length with her about domestic violence as well as the children's safety.
• One can only imagine the emotional trauma inflicted upon the Heene children by their obviously unsteady parents.

Where are the Heene children now? At home with their parents. Sheriff Jim Alderden says the children remain in the home with the parents because authorities "didn't have enough that would allow us or Child Protection Services to physically take the kids."

Really? Not even temporarily, until the parents were either charged or exonerated? Does the list above sound like the description of healthy, fit parents to you? I think not.

But here's the real kicker: Imagine how different the situation would be if Richard Heene were gay and parenting these 3 children. I'd be willing to bet a week's salary that the sheriff and/or Child Protective Services would have removed the children from the home immediately if Keene were gay.

Isn't it ironic that in many states stable gays and lesbians can not be foster parents or adopt children, solely based on their sexual orientation, while the Heenes and others can endanger their children's safety, involve them in illegal activities, inflict emotional trauma, and set an example of bad choices and illegal behavior?

What a sickening double standard.

Crush du Jour: Mark Salling

Weekend highlights

Mike & Clark and Ron & James arrived Fri evening and the 6 of us went out to dinner and then picked up some supplies at the grocery and liquor stores. We talked and laughed and got caught up on each others' lives until 11:30 when we reluctantly put our tired selves to bed.

Sat morning I baked a sausage/egg/cheese casserole for breakfast while Spouse was at his personal trainer appointment. We had the casserole along with zucchini bread Clark had made and orange/cranberry scones that James had made and talked until early afternoon. It was rainy and yucky outside but a few of the guys decided to do some shopping. I stayed home to upload my photos and write about the week's addition progress. That afternoon we had cocktails and snacks, then went to dinner at Eden in Rehoboth Beach, which everyone really liked. I had an amazing entree of seared scallops with linguini and butternut squash cream sauce. Since it was Autumn Jazz Festival there was a jazz combo playing. When we got home we watched "Drop Dead Gorgeous" which everyone really enjoyed, and "Boy's Life 5" shorts, which were somewhat enjoyable.

Sun morning we had coffee, zucchini bread and scones to tide us over until brunch. We had an 11am reservation for Rigby's Sun Jazz Brunch, featuring local songstress Holly Lane. I had shrimp and grits, and all 6 of us had the curried acorn squash soup which was amazing! Everyone really enjoyed the food and entertainment. Ron & James left for home directly from brunch, and Mike & Clark left shortly after we returned home. I spent the afternoon reading the film synopsis and marking the films I want to see at next month's Rehoboth Beach Independent Film Festival while Spouse napped and computed. Later we had delicious turkey and vegetable soup at Steven & Thad's and visited with them for a while. It was the perfect way to wind up a lovely weekend with friends!

Crush du Jour: Butch Grand

Addition update - week 18

Week 18
There was a flurry of activity and progress this week! An end is in sight! As always, click the photos to enlarge them.

Mon: The 16"x16" ceramic floor tile was set. It is a light sand color, similar to travertine, but a fraction of the cost of travertine.

The attic access was cut into the ceiling of the dressing room and framed.

Tues: The floor tile was grouted and the chair rail molding installed.

Lots and lots of chair rail molding.

The radiant heat "warm wire" was fished through the wall.

The sills around the tub were set.

Wed: The blue underlyment was cut and laid in the closet/dressing room in preparation for the installation of the laminate flooring.

Some of the porch columns that were carefully removed from the wrap-around porch were re-installed to create a more formal entry from the new driveway to the porch and front door.

The radiant heated floor thermostat/control unit was installed and tested. Mmm, toasty toes! The extra cost of this feature was definitely worth it!

The tile was set on the shelf behind the tub.

The light switch plates were installed.

The white electric sockets were switched out with brown ones to blend in better with the color of the wainscoting, and face plates were installed.

Thurs: The laminate floor was installed in the closet/dressing room.

A relocated exterior light was wired, and the foyer ceiling light fixture was re-installed.

The tile on the shelf behind the tub was grouted.

The vanity was re-installed and the sinks were reconnected. The beadboard and chair rail molding on the window wall near the vanity was completed.

Fri: The baseboards were installed in the main bathroom, closet/dressing room, and toilet room.

The shower fixtures were installed.

The shower room tile was grouted. (That's the white haze seen over the tile. It had not been wiped off yet.)

The tub fixtures were installed.

The toilet was re-installed.

The crew seems to think they will be finished next week! I hope they're right. There appears to be some nail-hole filling and top coat painting needed, the installation of the beadboard panels around the tub apron, and the removal of the original driveway and the pouring of the new driveway. I can't believe its almost done!

Crush du Jour: Thomas Jane

Friday fragments

Welcome to Friday fragments, my weekly recap of topics too big to forget, yet too small to be their own post.

Pouncer is continuing to respond well to the antibiotic injection he received last week. His eating and activity level are back to normal and his wheezing is almost gone.

The Rehoboth Beach Independent Film Festival is just a month away, and the catalog of films arrived last weekend. Film titles and descriptions are also available online. I can hardly wait! If you'd like to read my synopsis of past RBIFF screenings, click the "RB Indie Film Festival" tag on the lower left side of this screen, then add a few to your Netflix queue.

I think this video is great! Oddly, it makes me laugh and feel aroused at the same time.

Our longtime friends from VA Ron & James and Mike & Clark arrive this evening for their annual weekend with us. We scheduled this weekend months ago when we thought our addition would be complete and our house would be all put back together. We provided them with 'fair disclosure' and they decided to come anyway. Although the forecast is for chilly, rainy, windy weather, it should be a wonderful weekend of talking, laughing, and catching up. The Autumn Jazz Festival is also going on this weekend, and we are planning to catch a Sunday Jazz Brunch.

My friend Dick sent me this article which I found very interesting. The judge keeps asking the defenders of the gay marriage ban to "explain how allowing gay couples to wed threatens conventional unions". This makes so much sense! I applaud this judge and hope others will follow this lead in these cases.

What is it with stores and people rushing the holidays? Large department stores take down the Christmas decorations and then dress the mannequins in swimsuits. Try to find a bathing suit on 4th of July and you'll find racks and racks of winter coats instead. And what about people who send around Christmas emails when Halloween hasn't arrived yet? Seriously, what's up with that? Can we please not rush the holidays?

Thurs evening we met Steven & Thad and The Bobs for group trivia. I was both optimistic and leary since we came in 1st place 2 weeks in a row. Could we do it again? Well, we did!! 1st place ($25. off our food/beverage tab) for the 3rd week in a row!!

Then I came across this video and can't get it outta my mind! Its been making the rounds on Facebook and I think I've watched it about 687 times. I love the lead guy.

Have a terrific weekend!

Crush du Jour: Alex Castro

Canadian billboards

Our wacky friends to the north are at it again! Please enjoy (as I did) these Canadian billboards.

Crush du Jour: Jim Parrack

A family affair

Several weeks ago I got an email from my cousin and her fiance, asking me to 'save the date' of their upcoming wedding, and letting me know that formal invitations would be sent shortly.

To clarify, this is my cousin on my mother's side of the family; the non-JWs who associate with me. She has been to our house before and we've been out together socially a few times. She knows the deal with me and Spouse.

I spoke to my aunt Mary (my mother's sister) and learned that my cousin requested email addresses from her for my parents and my siblings. This told me that they must have gotten the 'save the date' email too, and were being invited to the wedding.

My initial reaction was that I wouldn't go. My parents and siblings have not spoken to me in over 16 years because I 'came out' and left their judgemental religion. I certainly have no desire to be in the same room with them for several hours at what should be a happy family occasion.

A few weeks later the invitation arrived, addressed to me and Spouse. Not Mark in DE and Guest. No, both of our full names were on the envelope. Props to my cous! I spoke to Mary again and asked if she knew whether or not my parents were going and she said my mother told her she "guessed" they would go. One of my sisters left a comment on the wedding website indicating she and her husband and daughters would be there.

Mary asked me if I was going and I told her the truth: I really didn't know. I shared with her my concerns over the possibility of my parents and siblings being there and the potential for drama and/or discomfort that would create. She reminded me that I have as much a right to attend this family affair as my parents and siblings, and that if I didn't go, I am letting them 'win'.

Her words made sense to me. All these years I have followed the JW rules for disfellowshipped (ex-communicated) people: Do not try to associate with your former friends or family. You are dead to them. Even if you do try, they will not associate with you.

Why? That is their rule, not mine. Why should I worry that my presence at my cousin's wedding might be a problem for my parents and siblings? They are the ones that have to worry about following the JW rules, not me.

My dad's side of the family (mostly JWs) has 3 family get-togethers every year and I have been UNinvited to all of them for the last 16 years because they are JWs and I am not. But since this cousin is on my mom's side, I was invited to her wedding. Maybe I should RSVP 'yes' and see if my parents and siblings would decline!

I talked to Spouse about the situation and the conversation with Mary. He was very understanding and supportive. He basically said 'Do whatever you feel is right. If you want to go, go. If you want me to come with you, I will. If you'd prefer me not to come, I'll stay home'. Hard to argue with that kind of logic.

So I decided we would go. I entered my RSVP on the wedding website, but found it didn't allow you to see who else was invited, so I'm still not sure if my parents are going or not. Regardless, I refuse to let it stop me from being an active part of this family affair.

Mary suggested I contact my cousin and ask if Spouse & I and Mary could be seated at a table together, away from my parents and siblings, in light of 'the situation'. My cousin replied that it was fine, but that she was sorry 'the situation' had not gotten better over the years.

Spouse asked me if I will speak to my parents and/or siblings if they attend, and after sufficient thought, I have decided no. I don't believe they will approach me, and I am not going to approach them. I'm going to enjoy myself and the love I'm sure will be present at this joyous occasion, and my parents/siblings can do whatever they want.

I imagine they will be a bit surprised. People tend to look different after 16 years. I imagine they may also try to remember how long I've been with Spouse, but will then reprimand themselves for even wondering such about 'sinners'. I also imagine that if they are honest and look with unbiased eyes (not likely), they will see an authentic, well-adjusted, happy, loved, gay man and his partner. The son they gave birth to, but abandoned 29 years later. I imagine they might just feel a wee bit guilty.

But that is NOT AT ALL why we're going to this wedding. I don't even know for sure if they'll be there. Truly, we're going because we are invited and because I care about my cousin.

And if my parents/sibling do attend and do, by chance, approach me and say hello?

I will be cordial and polite. Nothing more, nothing less.

Crush du Jour: Chris Campanioni

Vintage photos

These captions may seem a bit schmaltzy, but I love old/vintage photos, and these are some great ones. Click to enlarge each one. Enjoy!

Crush du Jour: Danny Boome

Weekend highlights

Wow, what a weekend! It seemed to go by so fast.

The Newlyweds arrived and joined us for Fri Night Dinner with 'the usual suspects'. Sat morning we lingered over coffee while Spouse had his personal trainer appointment, then the 4 of us had lunch before heading to Bridgeville for the Apple-Scrapple festival. It draws out all the rednecks, but its kind of quaint in a 'small town' kind of way. There food booths where you could purchase various apple and scrapple products, arts and crafts for sale, and a car show.

Once we returned to modern civilization, the 4 of us went for a ride in Big Ella. It was the Newlyweds' 1st time seeing her. Then we had dinner at our fave Italian placed called M. Galluccio. We forced ourselves to go to bed at 11:30 since we had to get up early the next day.

Sun morning Spouse & I were up at 6:00 to get ready for the National Equality March. We joined 40+ other folks on a chartered bus that took us to DC, and I'm so glad we did that instead of driving ourselves. Here is Rusty, Spouse, and Bob on the bus:Fortunately we had fantastic weather. Here are Jeanne and Matt whom we met on the bus:
Don't you wish every mom was like Jeanne? Here is me and Spouse:

The Newlyweds arrived shortly after we did and met up with us near the start location for the march.

They left the march early to attend a friend's (gay) wedding.

Here are our good friends Rick & Nick. Rick (in the hot pink shirt) is also our personal trainer.

We met these two nice fellows while waiting for the march line-up. I nicknamed them 'The Rainbow Boys' for obvious reasons.

Our friend Scott joined Spouse as he held his sign above his head in true 'Norma Gay' style.

I was impressed with the wonderful, support straight folks who joined the march.

It seemed everyone had signs or t-shirts with messages.

Thanks to the wonder of cell phone technology, I was able to meet up with my friend Chris and fellow blogger Larry from Ohio at the march, too. Unfortunately my camera batteries went dead before I was able to get photos of them. I knew Tony from RI was there, but did not have his phone number. I know many of you were there in spirit.

The march culminated at the Capitol where the Gay Mens Chorus of Washington DC sang and an impressive number of celebrity speakers addressed the crowd. As we expected, the rally went on longer than scheduled and folks like us began leaving the rally before it was over in order to catch their buses.

When we got home shortly before 9:00 we were exhausted. We each had a snack and went to bed at 9:30.

It was a full weekend that passed far to quickly... the story of my life!

Crush du Jour: James Ramos

Addition update - week 17

Week 17
Mon: The last pieces of shower tile were set, and the new storage door got a coat of paint.
The beadboard that will become wainscoting was measured, cut, and stained to match the vanity.

Tues: The beadboard wainscoting was installed in both sections of the bathroom (but not in the closet or toilet room) to unify the 'old' and the 'new' parts.

The beadboard wainscoting is complete.

The tile trim around the shower opening was set.

Wed: The top coat of paint was applied in the bathroom, toilet room, and closet/dressing room. The tub panels were stained. They will be fixed to the tub apron, built last week.

Thurs: A top coat of paint was applied to the exterior siding and trim. The tile grid was 'snapped' onto the bathroom floor with chalk string. (No photos.)

Fri: The radiant heating system was installed, and the setting of the floor tile was started.

Unfortunately the radiant heating 'wire' was too short so it had to be pulled back up. A longer 'wire' was purchased and installed. This prevented them from finishing the floor tile setting this week.

Interior 'finish' painting took place on the foyer ceiling, the powder room ceiling and wall, around new door into garage, and upstairs where a window used to be.

This used to be a window that looked onto the porch. Now its a door into the garage.

Crush du Jour: Victor Webster

Friday fragments

Welcome to Friday fragments, my weekly recap of topics too big to forget, yet too small to be their own post.

I think mums are beautiful. Their colors are so rich and vibrant!
Seeing them pleases my eye, but also make me sad because they mean summer is practically over and fall is here. I'm basically a summer guy; I love going to the beach, wearing shorts and flip-flops, and top-down driving. So the arrival of fall, although beautiful, saddens me because my favorite things are winding down until next spring.

The Newlyweds are arriving this evening! Yes, I know, we just saw them a month ago when we spent our vacation with them in Portland, but I can't help being excited because they are very close friends. They'll join us for Fri Night Dinner with 'the usual suspects' and then we'll have all day tomorrow together. Sun morning they're off to Baltimore for a wedding, and we're off to DC for the National Equality March.

My friend Bob sent me this cartoon, which I find current and poignant.

This guy is amazing!!! And, all his costumes are made of paper. I would love to see him perform in person. Such creativity!

Today I discovered an important omission when I designed the new shower room: I completely forgot to have them build in a small shelf onto which I can prop my foot when washing my lower leg and foot. I mentioned it to Mike the builder today by saying "I've got something for you to think about over the weekend..." I'm not sure if anything can be done about it now, but I'm hoping he will come up with something.

A couple weeks ago Spouse & I started playing group trivia at the Frogg Pond with Steven & Thad and The Bobs. The 1st week we just joined them for a portion of the game, as we had a car club event to attend, but they won 3rd place. Last week we joined them for the full game and our group won 1st place: $25. off our food and beverage tab. This week we joined them again and won 1st place yet again! Coincidence??? I think not. Its a lot more fun than I thought it would be, and even if we didn't win it would be fun to hang out with these friends.

DavidDust currently has this hilarious picture on his blog, reminding bloggers and blog lovers of our next meet-up. Please join us if you can!

Have a great weekend, ma peeps!

Crush du Jour: Blake Nolan

It was my own damn fault

Take a little mental trip with me, won't you?

Its Mon, Sept 28th, and I am basking in the afterglow of Big Ella's 1st car show and all the great gay car guys I met. That evening, without a care in the world, I go for my weekly personal trainer session and Rick tells me he got his car inspected and tags renewed that day.

I think to myself 'Hmmm, I wonder when my car is due for inspection and tag renewal...' I hadn't received anything in the mail about it. So after my workout I look at the sticker on my tag and see Sept 30. Yikes, I have just 2 days to get the car inspected and tags renewed! I know the DMV is going to be crazy, but it was my own damn fault for not being aware.

Normally I try to go to the DMV 1st thing in the morning because its the least busy then. I'm in and out in just a few minutes. The worst time to go is noon (lunchtime), at the end of the month, and an hour before they close. But work was busy on Tues so I was unable to go in the morning. On Wed the DMV is open from 12-8pm, and this particular Wed also just happened to be the last day of the month, so it was the only time I could go.

At 5:00 when I finish work I head to the DMV, a 1/2 hour away. The inspection line is crazy long. Literally 30-40 cars in front of me, so I know its going to be awhile. It took a full hour before my car was inspected so I didn't keep the engine running. I started it up to move up the line and turned it off again. Why would I let the engine run for an hour and waste gas?

My car fails for 2 things: a parking light that was out and emissions. Damn!

I go inside the DMV and wait 45 minutes until my number is called, then hand my rejection to the clerk. I'm informed that I can only drive my car to a garage to be fixed and back to the DMV. I want to scream because my car is not in that bad of shape. I see people driving around in 20+ year old jalopies with broken tail lights and hoopdies with missing mirrors, spewing black smoke from their rusted-out mufflers. But my car fails for a parking light and emissions. How do they get away with this?

On the drive back home I think about how much it will cost to have a garage diagnose the reason(s) my car's emissions were too rich and fix it. Then I begin to think that maybe this is the time to get rid of my 15 year old car. Maybe I should just trade it in on something newer, in better condition, and is already inspected.

But then I think about taking money out of savings to pay for the newer car, or (gasp!) making payments for years and years. Neither is a happy thought. Besides, I know its 'old' but I still like my 1994 BMW 325i convertible. And for the little amount of driving I do in it since I don't commute to work, its just fine with me, so I scrap the trade-in idea.

I mention the inspection failure to Nick and he suggests that my turning off the engine while waiting an hour for the inspection is the reason it failed the emissions test. He asks me when was the last oil change, and I tell him about 5k miles ago. He suggests having the oil changed, adding a bottle of octane boost to the gasoline, and getting re-inspected while the engine is still warm.

So yesterday during my lunch break I did just that. I got the oil changed at Jiffy Lube and had them replace the burned out parking light bulb too. Then after work I poured in a bottle of the octane boost and ran her over to the DMV. There were 2 cars in front of me. I left the engine running and in 10 minutes my car was re-inspected and passed!

I still had to spend 35 minutes inside the DMV waiting for my number to be called, but at least I was waiting with confidence! I got my renewal sticker and stuck it on my tag, happy as a clam, knowing my 'old' car was safe for the next 2 years.

By the way, since the DMV does not send out renewal notices via regular mail, I have signed up for their email notification for all 3 vehicles. I do not want to have to repeat this situation again!

Crush du Jour: Sam Jaeger

A picture's worth a thousand words

Okay, everyone, its time for another installment of motivational posters! A few may be re-runs but they're all funny, and some are downright hilarious!

Click to enlarge them, and enjoy...

Crush du Jour: Eduardo Rico