I am a member of the Rehoboth Beach Film Society so I receive periodic emails from the Society announcing special film screenings.
About every other month the film society invites me to a screening called 'Second Take'. I guess the idea is that the featured film is not a recent release (it has been traveling the indy film circuit for a while), so the screening offers me an opportunity for a 'second take' at the film. So far Spouse & I have been to 2 of these screenings, not having heard of either film prior to receiving the description in the invitation, and have really enjoyed them both.
The first one we attended was called "Coffee Date". It was smartly written and directed, and we found it genuinely funny! Here is a condensed version of the synopsis written by Kevin Thomas of the LA Times:
"Good-looking 35-year-old Todd has just been divorced. He allows his deadbeat brother (and roommate) Barry to set him up on a blind date via the Internet. The uptight and square Todd is surprised and uncomfortable when he realizes that the meeting place, a coffee shop, has a virtually exclusively gay clientele. While waiting for his date to show up he warily strikes up a conversation with a buff young gay man named Kelly.
Todd eventually realizes that Barry has played a prank on him — that the gay man is 'Kelly', the date he has been waiting for. By then the two men have discovered they share a passion for movies, and Todd invites Kelly to take in a Bergman double feature. Todd now sees a chance to oust his brother/roommate Barry, a decided homophobe, by taking Kelly home and leading him by the hand to his bedroom. (Kelly climbs out a window and goes home.) Not only does this send Barry packing but also inspires him to call his mother, who promptly gets on a plane to lend support to Todd, who she says she always knew was gay.
Todd's life soon becomes a nightmare, with friends, neighbors, co-workers — even his boss - smothering him with acceptance and absolutely refusing to give any credence whatsoever to his assertions that he is straight. At the same time his friendship with Kelly flourishes. As Todd's predicament intensifies, he becomes less confident about his sexual orientation. Could it be that mother knows best after all? Or could it be that Todd is discovering that a straight man can be good friends with a gay man? If they end up in a friendship rather than a relationship, Todd will forever face assumptions from others that he's gay when he is with Kelly."
For scenes and photos from "Coffee Date" visit http://www.myspace.com/coffeedate
The 'Second Take' screening we attended last Friday was for "East Side Story". Again we found the writing and directing to be better than average for an indy film, with many funny parts. Here is my expanded version of the film's synopsis as found on its MySpace page:
"Young, handsome Diego Campos has long felt trapped working in his family's restaurant in East LA and plans to move away and open an upscale restaurant with his ultra closeted boyfriend, Pablo Morales. But Pablo, an up-and-coming realtor, views their "down low" relationship differently. When Diego confronts Pablo about making plans for their future together, Pablo decides he was just going through "a phase", and to prove it he starts dating Bianca, Diego's hilarious and spirited young aunt.
Meanwhile, openly gay white men like Wesley and Jonathon are moving in, gentrifying the Latino neighborhood. The attraction between Diego and Wesley is immediate and electric, forcing both men to re-examine themselves, their boyfriends, and their futures. Tension mounts between Diego and Bianca after Pablo proposes to her, and between Wesley and Jonathon when Jonathon gets wind of Wesley's feelings for Diego."
For scenes and photos from "East Side Story" visit http://www.myspace.com/eastsidestorymovie.
Unfortunately neither films are available on Netflix yet, but make a note of these as they are definitely worth adding to your queue.
Drag Queen name of the day: Holly Wood
Tuesday, May 22, 2007
Saturday, May 19, 2007
Unexpected lovely day
Yesterday it was very cool and rainy all day. The forecast was for more of the same for this weekend. However, when we woke up this morning it was cool but sunny.
After toast with strawberry preserves and coffee, we decided to go for a little walk in town. As we walked down our street we saw our neighbor Brenda getting out of her vehicle with a new plant in her arms. We greeted her and made some pleasant comment about the plant, to which she responded "Its like an addiction: I can't seem to pass a nursery or any place that sells plants without stopping and buying something to bring home." We laughed and commented on how lovely her yard and existing plantings looked. She told us about what she'd been doing in her back yard and invited us to see it, so we walked through her garage and into her back yard. There we saw her yard and talked about real estate, gardening, architecture, the historical society, and lots more. We had a lovely conversation with her and promised to get together again soon.
Next we walked down Mulberry St and saw a woman whom we'd seen several times before, sitting on the steps of her porch. As is the Lewes custom, everyone greets one another so we said 'good morning' to her. She stood up and introduced herself as Georgia, and we introduced ourselves. She asked if we lived in town and we said 'yes' and told her where. We chatted with her for several minutes about houses, real estate, schools, working from home, and her yard until Dan the mailman walked up. We told Georgia it was nice meeting her and left her to talk with Dan.
We walked down to Second St, then walked up Savannah until we saw the house of Steve & Mike. Joe's personal trainer/friend Rick told Joe that Steve & Mike lived in the blue house across the street from the diner and we'd hoped to meet them at some point. Rick had also told them about us, and they'd driven past our house a few times when we weren't home. As we walked past their house we saw them in the side yard, weeding a flower bed. They looked at us and I said "Are you Rick & Nick's friends?" I'd forgotten Steve & Mike's names. They said yes so I said "We're Mark & Joe. Rick told us that you lived here and that we should meet you."
They had a gentleness that appealed to me immediately. They greeted us, told us their names, and we chatted for a few minutes, mostly about flowers and gardens. They invited us to see what they'd done with the back garden so we followed them to the back of the property and admired their beautiful, blooming paradise. Then the conversation shifted to houses and we told them that Rick had told us that they'd bought the house and remodeled in beautifully. They thanked us for the compliment and asked if we'd like to see inside. "Oh, yes, thank you!" we responded.
They showed us around the house and mentioned the features they'd restored, the ones they'd added, and the things they'd changed. The house was as lovely inside as it was outside. The conversation flowed easily with these kind gentlemen, and as we were leaving they said they'd love for us to come back sometime for dinner. We told them we'd enjoy that, and would like them to come to our house too. Incidentally, like everyone else in Lewes, they'd been inside our house too, before it was our house. We've not met anyone yet who hasn't been inside our house.
We walked back home and decided to go for a walk in Rehoboth, since the downtown area was having its semi-annual sidewalk sale. The temperature was warming up and we no longer needed our jackets as we strolled the sidewalks crowded with racks and tables of discounted goods. We decided to have lunch at the Purple Parrot, then took a walk on the boardwalk. On the way back to the car we stopped at a yard sale and purchased a handmade stained glass for only $30. for one of our guest bedrooms.
When we got home I put the 'boom box' on the front porch and listened to an old vocal jazz cassette as I pulled some weeds from the beds. The weeds come out so much more easily here than in VA because the soil here is so sandy. I got all the weeds pulled out by the roots in just under an hour, which would have taken an entire weekend in VA.
After the weeding Joe joined me on the front porch and we relaxed in the rockers for a few minutes. Suddenly the wind picked up, the sky got dark, the temperature dropped dramatically, and it really looked like it was going to storm. We came inside just in time. Within minutes the rain began and it really seemed like we were in for a doozey. But just as quickly as it had begun, the storm ended. Now, an hour later, the street is not even wet anymore.
We'll have dinner at home tonight and then watch a DVD from Netflix. That reminds me, I should probably write about some of the films we've watched recently, perhaps giving you readers some tips on films you might want to see.
Drag Queen name of the day: Rose Petals
After toast with strawberry preserves and coffee, we decided to go for a little walk in town. As we walked down our street we saw our neighbor Brenda getting out of her vehicle with a new plant in her arms. We greeted her and made some pleasant comment about the plant, to which she responded "Its like an addiction: I can't seem to pass a nursery or any place that sells plants without stopping and buying something to bring home." We laughed and commented on how lovely her yard and existing plantings looked. She told us about what she'd been doing in her back yard and invited us to see it, so we walked through her garage and into her back yard. There we saw her yard and talked about real estate, gardening, architecture, the historical society, and lots more. We had a lovely conversation with her and promised to get together again soon.
Next we walked down Mulberry St and saw a woman whom we'd seen several times before, sitting on the steps of her porch. As is the Lewes custom, everyone greets one another so we said 'good morning' to her. She stood up and introduced herself as Georgia, and we introduced ourselves. She asked if we lived in town and we said 'yes' and told her where. We chatted with her for several minutes about houses, real estate, schools, working from home, and her yard until Dan the mailman walked up. We told Georgia it was nice meeting her and left her to talk with Dan.
We walked down to Second St, then walked up Savannah until we saw the house of Steve & Mike. Joe's personal trainer/friend Rick told Joe that Steve & Mike lived in the blue house across the street from the diner and we'd hoped to meet them at some point. Rick had also told them about us, and they'd driven past our house a few times when we weren't home. As we walked past their house we saw them in the side yard, weeding a flower bed. They looked at us and I said "Are you Rick & Nick's friends?" I'd forgotten Steve & Mike's names. They said yes so I said "We're Mark & Joe. Rick told us that you lived here and that we should meet you."
They had a gentleness that appealed to me immediately. They greeted us, told us their names, and we chatted for a few minutes, mostly about flowers and gardens. They invited us to see what they'd done with the back garden so we followed them to the back of the property and admired their beautiful, blooming paradise. Then the conversation shifted to houses and we told them that Rick had told us that they'd bought the house and remodeled in beautifully. They thanked us for the compliment and asked if we'd like to see inside. "Oh, yes, thank you!" we responded.
They showed us around the house and mentioned the features they'd restored, the ones they'd added, and the things they'd changed. The house was as lovely inside as it was outside. The conversation flowed easily with these kind gentlemen, and as we were leaving they said they'd love for us to come back sometime for dinner. We told them we'd enjoy that, and would like them to come to our house too. Incidentally, like everyone else in Lewes, they'd been inside our house too, before it was our house. We've not met anyone yet who hasn't been inside our house.
We walked back home and decided to go for a walk in Rehoboth, since the downtown area was having its semi-annual sidewalk sale. The temperature was warming up and we no longer needed our jackets as we strolled the sidewalks crowded with racks and tables of discounted goods. We decided to have lunch at the Purple Parrot, then took a walk on the boardwalk. On the way back to the car we stopped at a yard sale and purchased a handmade stained glass for only $30. for one of our guest bedrooms.
When we got home I put the 'boom box' on the front porch and listened to an old vocal jazz cassette as I pulled some weeds from the beds. The weeds come out so much more easily here than in VA because the soil here is so sandy. I got all the weeds pulled out by the roots in just under an hour, which would have taken an entire weekend in VA.
After the weeding Joe joined me on the front porch and we relaxed in the rockers for a few minutes. Suddenly the wind picked up, the sky got dark, the temperature dropped dramatically, and it really looked like it was going to storm. We came inside just in time. Within minutes the rain began and it really seemed like we were in for a doozey. But just as quickly as it had begun, the storm ended. Now, an hour later, the street is not even wet anymore.
We'll have dinner at home tonight and then watch a DVD from Netflix. That reminds me, I should probably write about some of the films we've watched recently, perhaps giving you readers some tips on films you might want to see.
Drag Queen name of the day: Rose Petals
Tuesday, May 15, 2007
Falwell falls
Everyone's heard the news: Jerry Falwell has died.
When I was talking to my aunt I said "Well, there's one less opponent to equal rights in the world now." She said "You put it much more kindly than I would have. I was going to say that there's one less ignorant bigot causing trouble now". We're both right, I guess.
I try not to wish bad on anyone, even those I feel deserve it. But I was reminded how terribly Falwell behaved in the months after Sept 11, 2001 when he blamed that tragedy on homosexuals and women who have abortions, saying God was paying us back. If that's true then I wonder how the families of the heterosexuals and women who've never been pregnant who died on Sept 11 felt?
For sure Falwell is not the only one who is misguided. Fred Phelps claims that Jerry Falwell is going to Hell instead of Heaven because he preached "God loves everyone" and Phelps says that's not true. http://www.godhatesamerica.com/ God help us. Really.
Drag Queen name of the day: Clara Path
When I was talking to my aunt I said "Well, there's one less opponent to equal rights in the world now." She said "You put it much more kindly than I would have. I was going to say that there's one less ignorant bigot causing trouble now". We're both right, I guess.
I try not to wish bad on anyone, even those I feel deserve it. But I was reminded how terribly Falwell behaved in the months after Sept 11, 2001 when he blamed that tragedy on homosexuals and women who have abortions, saying God was paying us back. If that's true then I wonder how the families of the heterosexuals and women who've never been pregnant who died on Sept 11 felt?
For sure Falwell is not the only one who is misguided. Fred Phelps claims that Jerry Falwell is going to Hell instead of Heaven because he preached "God loves everyone" and Phelps says that's not true. http://www.godhatesamerica.com/ God help us. Really.
Drag Queen name of the day: Clara Path
Monday, May 14, 2007
My new old friend
When I was at Freddie's last time I was chatting with some friends when some of their friends walked up. Because the friends with whom I was chatting are good men with manners, they immediately introduced the walk-up friends to those of us who were already chatting together.
Once the initial introductions were out of the way one of the guys, Ricardo, who was standing next to Chris, looked at me and said "So, what's your story?"
"My story? Did someone tell you I had a story?" I responded, a bit caught off-guard.
"No, I just mean, what's your story? Are you from here, you know, that kind of stuff" he clarified.
"Oh..." I chuckled, "Yes, actually, I am a native Washingtonian. I was born in Washington DC and my parents moved the family to Woodbridge when I was a toddler. That's where I grew up."
Chris spoke up and said "I went to high school in Woodbridge."
"Really? Which high school?" I asked.
"Gar-Field" he replied.
"Me too! What year did you graduate?"
"81" he said.
"I graduated in 82! We went to the same high school during the same years! That's amazing!"
"That IS amazing" Chris agreed. "Ever since I returned to the DC area after college and working abroad I've never met anyone who's actually from here, much less went to my high school."
Ricardo asked why we didn't know each other if we'd gone to the same high school during the same years, so we explained that our high school had over 4,000 students so you didn't even know everyone in your own graduating class, much less know everyone from other classes.
From that point on Chris and I kept asking each other "Did you know so-and-so?" I was surprised how many friends we had in common. Finally he asked me if I'd known this one friend named Lisa and I said "Yes, I've known her since we were kids."
Lisa lived in my neighborhood so we had gone to the same elementary, middle, and high school together. We'd "starred" in the Junior Variety Show, the fundraiser put on by the junior class to raise money for the senior class's prom. The show got such rave reviews from people who'd seen it Fri night that on Sat night the auditorium was filled to capacity, they had to turn people away at the door, and they asked the performers to do the show again the following weekend. Needless to say the seniors had a most excellent prom that year!
Chris said he'd kept in touch with Lisa for a few years after high school but had lost touch. I told him that she and I had gotten reacquainted 2 years ago and that I'd seen her when she came back to VA for Christmas.
I got Chris' email address so when I returned home to DE I sent him and Lisa an email, telling Lisa that I'd met Chris, and giving each other their email addresses. Lisa was thrilled to reconnect with Chris.
The rest of that night Chris and I talked and talked, and despite us really not having known each other in school, we really connected. It was kind of like meeting a long lost relative, someone with whom you're familiar but don't really know. It was a lot of fun and Chris told me to let him know when I was coming back to DC to visit again. And I definitely will.
Drag Queen name of the day: Gwen D. Lottery
Once the initial introductions were out of the way one of the guys, Ricardo, who was standing next to Chris, looked at me and said "So, what's your story?"
"My story? Did someone tell you I had a story?" I responded, a bit caught off-guard.
"No, I just mean, what's your story? Are you from here, you know, that kind of stuff" he clarified.
"Oh..." I chuckled, "Yes, actually, I am a native Washingtonian. I was born in Washington DC and my parents moved the family to Woodbridge when I was a toddler. That's where I grew up."
Chris spoke up and said "I went to high school in Woodbridge."
"Really? Which high school?" I asked.
"Gar-Field" he replied.
"Me too! What year did you graduate?"
"81" he said.
"I graduated in 82! We went to the same high school during the same years! That's amazing!"
"That IS amazing" Chris agreed. "Ever since I returned to the DC area after college and working abroad I've never met anyone who's actually from here, much less went to my high school."
Ricardo asked why we didn't know each other if we'd gone to the same high school during the same years, so we explained that our high school had over 4,000 students so you didn't even know everyone in your own graduating class, much less know everyone from other classes.
From that point on Chris and I kept asking each other "Did you know so-and-so?" I was surprised how many friends we had in common. Finally he asked me if I'd known this one friend named Lisa and I said "Yes, I've known her since we were kids."
Lisa lived in my neighborhood so we had gone to the same elementary, middle, and high school together. We'd "starred" in the Junior Variety Show, the fundraiser put on by the junior class to raise money for the senior class's prom. The show got such rave reviews from people who'd seen it Fri night that on Sat night the auditorium was filled to capacity, they had to turn people away at the door, and they asked the performers to do the show again the following weekend. Needless to say the seniors had a most excellent prom that year!
Chris said he'd kept in touch with Lisa for a few years after high school but had lost touch. I told him that she and I had gotten reacquainted 2 years ago and that I'd seen her when she came back to VA for Christmas.
I got Chris' email address so when I returned home to DE I sent him and Lisa an email, telling Lisa that I'd met Chris, and giving each other their email addresses. Lisa was thrilled to reconnect with Chris.
The rest of that night Chris and I talked and talked, and despite us really not having known each other in school, we really connected. It was kind of like meeting a long lost relative, someone with whom you're familiar but don't really know. It was a lot of fun and Chris told me to let him know when I was coming back to DC to visit again. And I definitely will.
Drag Queen name of the day: Gwen D. Lottery
Sunday, May 13, 2007
Mother's Day
We went back to DC for Mother's Day weekend.
Fri night I met some friends at Freddie's for karaoke. It was really fun and I got to sing 4 times.
Sat Spouse's mother, Spouse & I had breakfast at Silver Diner, then hung around the house most of the day. We went for a brief excursion to Bed Bath & Beyond so Spouse could pick up the latest gadget: the Swivel Sweeper. At least he used a 20% coupon. I watched TV and he napped until his sister came over for a quick visit between her son's baseball games. Later that evening his sister and her family met us for an easy dinner at the Olympian restaurant.
Sun Spouse & I showered while his mother was at church. When she returned we gave her the Mother's Day gifts we'd brought. She loved them and immediately put on the jewelry. At 2:00 we all met up at Tokyo Inn for a Mother's Day meal. Its one of those places where everyone sits at tables in a horse shoe shape around a big, hot grill where the chef entertains you while cooking for you. We had a nice time. I must admit that I am not crazy about those Japanese dinner/entertainment places. First, I find Japanese food to be rather bland. Second, its hard to have conversation because everyone is seated next to one another - no one is across the table, and the chef's performance prevents people from feeling comfortable talking. Its almost as if it would be rude to ignore his performance in order to talk. But I can understand why Spouse's sister chose the place. It can accommodate a large party like ours with no problem, they accept reservations even on Mother's Day, and it never seems to be crowded. We returned to the house shortly before 4:00, packed our bag and got Jordan into the truck, and left shortly after 4:00. We made it home in the usual 2 1/2 hours and watched a Netflix DVD.
Drag Queen name of the day: Carrie A. Grudge
Fri night I met some friends at Freddie's for karaoke. It was really fun and I got to sing 4 times.
Sat Spouse's mother, Spouse & I had breakfast at Silver Diner, then hung around the house most of the day. We went for a brief excursion to Bed Bath & Beyond so Spouse could pick up the latest gadget: the Swivel Sweeper. At least he used a 20% coupon. I watched TV and he napped until his sister came over for a quick visit between her son's baseball games. Later that evening his sister and her family met us for an easy dinner at the Olympian restaurant.
Sun Spouse & I showered while his mother was at church. When she returned we gave her the Mother's Day gifts we'd brought. She loved them and immediately put on the jewelry. At 2:00 we all met up at Tokyo Inn for a Mother's Day meal. Its one of those places where everyone sits at tables in a horse shoe shape around a big, hot grill where the chef entertains you while cooking for you. We had a nice time. I must admit that I am not crazy about those Japanese dinner/entertainment places. First, I find Japanese food to be rather bland. Second, its hard to have conversation because everyone is seated next to one another - no one is across the table, and the chef's performance prevents people from feeling comfortable talking. Its almost as if it would be rude to ignore his performance in order to talk. But I can understand why Spouse's sister chose the place. It can accommodate a large party like ours with no problem, they accept reservations even on Mother's Day, and it never seems to be crowded. We returned to the house shortly before 4:00, packed our bag and got Jordan into the truck, and left shortly after 4:00. We made it home in the usual 2 1/2 hours and watched a Netflix DVD.
Drag Queen name of the day: Carrie A. Grudge
Friday, May 11, 2007
Free car wash
In preparation for our trip back to VA this evening, we decided to get gas in the Suburban last evening, since gas prices often go up on Fridays. Might as well drop off our recycling at the center while we were out. As we approached the Suburban we noticed it was covered in pollen and bird crap! Joe said we should get it washed before driving it back to VA.
As we were leaving the recycling center I decided to take the 'scenic' route called Gills Neck Rd, which runs along the edge of several crop fields. We saw one of those long irrigation machines was running, spraying the field with water. Since the irrigation machine was very close to the road and the wind was blowing, it was showering the road quite a bit. A little light went off in my head. A free car wash?
As we approached the 'shower on the road' I checked my mirror: no one behind me. I slowed down and as we got under the 'shower' I stopped the truck. We sat under the shower from the irrigation machine for about 20 seconds. Then, thinking the other side of the truck hadn't gotten as good a cleaning, I drove up the road a bit, turned around and drove back under the 'shower' facing the opposite direction, and stopped for about 20 seconds again. Then we pulled out from under the 'shower', turned back around and headed to the gas station.
At the gas station we remarked at how great the 'free car wash' had been. It had removed all the pollen and some of the bird crap. During the 4 hours it takes to fill that huge, 42-gallon tank I got a damp paper towel and wiped off the remainder of the bird crap while Joe used the window washer/squeegee to clean and dry all the windows. The truck looked great!
This evening we're heading to Joe's mom's house, and I'll go sing karaoke. Sat we're hanging out with the family, and Sun we're celebrating Mother's Day with the family at one of those Japanese restaurants where everyone sits around that huge grill and watches the chef make the meal. Returning home Sun evening.
Drag Queen name of the day: Meg Azine
As we were leaving the recycling center I decided to take the 'scenic' route called Gills Neck Rd, which runs along the edge of several crop fields. We saw one of those long irrigation machines was running, spraying the field with water. Since the irrigation machine was very close to the road and the wind was blowing, it was showering the road quite a bit. A little light went off in my head. A free car wash?
As we approached the 'shower on the road' I checked my mirror: no one behind me. I slowed down and as we got under the 'shower' I stopped the truck. We sat under the shower from the irrigation machine for about 20 seconds. Then, thinking the other side of the truck hadn't gotten as good a cleaning, I drove up the road a bit, turned around and drove back under the 'shower' facing the opposite direction, and stopped for about 20 seconds again. Then we pulled out from under the 'shower', turned back around and headed to the gas station.
At the gas station we remarked at how great the 'free car wash' had been. It had removed all the pollen and some of the bird crap. During the 4 hours it takes to fill that huge, 42-gallon tank I got a damp paper towel and wiped off the remainder of the bird crap while Joe used the window washer/squeegee to clean and dry all the windows. The truck looked great!
This evening we're heading to Joe's mom's house, and I'll go sing karaoke. Sat we're hanging out with the family, and Sun we're celebrating Mother's Day with the family at one of those Japanese restaurants where everyone sits around that huge grill and watches the chef make the meal. Returning home Sun evening.
Drag Queen name of the day: Meg Azine
Wednesday, May 09, 2007
Its official
Today I went to the DMV and traded in my VA drivers license for a DE one, and registered to vote while I was at it. Its official... I'm a Delawarean.
Going to the DMV is a totally different experience here. Believe it or not, I got my number from the receptionist, confirmed my information and paid at the window, got my photo taken and walked out the door with my new license... in 10 minutes. This procedure would easily have taken 30-40 minutes in VA. With such a positive DMV experience under my belt now, I believe I am just about ready to tackle the registering of our 3 vehicles.
To their credit, the DE DMV has a very informative website, detailing the steps and required documentation for all DMV transactions. So when I can find the titles I'll take each vehicle, one at a time, to the DMV for inspection, registering, and titling. Oh joy.
Drag Queen name of the day: Allison Wonderland
Going to the DMV is a totally different experience here. Believe it or not, I got my number from the receptionist, confirmed my information and paid at the window, got my photo taken and walked out the door with my new license... in 10 minutes. This procedure would easily have taken 30-40 minutes in VA. With such a positive DMV experience under my belt now, I believe I am just about ready to tackle the registering of our 3 vehicles.
To their credit, the DE DMV has a very informative website, detailing the steps and required documentation for all DMV transactions. So when I can find the titles I'll take each vehicle, one at a time, to the DMV for inspection, registering, and titling. Oh joy.
Drag Queen name of the day: Allison Wonderland
Friday, May 04, 2007
Big weekend planned
We've got a full weekend planned. And its not just full of stuff to be done, but rather, enjoyable stuff!
Our friend Susan should arrive about 5pm today. I met Susan about 10 years ago when we both worked for the same start-up telecom company. We became friends and she's the one who turned us onto Lewes where we now live. This will be Susan's first time here at our new house so I'm sure she'll want to look around first, then we'll sit and chat for a while. We've already decided that we're going out to dinner tonight, but haven't decided where yet. Then after dinner, the 3 of us may meet up with John & Marty for dessert.
I met Marty at a party about 14 years ago, but we did not stay in touch after I moved away. Then I met John at the same start-up telecom where I met Susan. After learning that Marty was John's partner I realized that Marty and I had already met. John & Marty live in VA, near where I grew up, but they have a weekend/summer house in Rehoboth. Spouse & I ran into John & Marty last Sept at the Rehoboth antique car show. They have a robin's egg blue Edsel. Hopefully we'll get to see them tonight for dessert.
Susan is staying overnight with us tonight, then Sat morning Susan, Spouse & I are meeting up with John & Marty for breakfast. Susan is taking the ferry to NJ to visit some relatives, so Spouse & I will have a little time in the middle of the day to shop for a Mother's Day gift and make sure Jordan gets walked.
Sat evening we're meeting up with our friends Steve & Paul at their house and will carpool to Dover for 'Movie Night'. A small group of guys have 'Movie Night' on the 1st Sat of each month. Whomever hosts gets to pick the movie and provide light refreshments. This will be our 1st time attending a 'Movie Night' when them. We know 6 of the guys who'll be there and they are all very nice.
Sun we are expecting a visit from Kerry & Hugh around mid-day. They will be working at their rental condo in Ocean City on Sat, spending time with Hugh's parents in Bethany Beach Sat night, and visiting Hugh's cousin who just had a baby this week on Sun morning. We're glad they're squeezing in a visit with us before they head back to VA.
Sun evening we're going to Rick & Nick's for dinner and a movie. Rick is Spouse's personal trainer/friend and Nick is Nick's partner, a rolfer who's studio is next door to Rick's gym, so Spouse sees them both weekly. A month or so back we had them over for dinner, and now we're going to their place for dinner and a movie.
I'm excited about this weekend and am sure we'll have a good time.
Drag Queen name of the day: Crystal Ball
Our friend Susan should arrive about 5pm today. I met Susan about 10 years ago when we both worked for the same start-up telecom company. We became friends and she's the one who turned us onto Lewes where we now live. This will be Susan's first time here at our new house so I'm sure she'll want to look around first, then we'll sit and chat for a while. We've already decided that we're going out to dinner tonight, but haven't decided where yet. Then after dinner, the 3 of us may meet up with John & Marty for dessert.
I met Marty at a party about 14 years ago, but we did not stay in touch after I moved away. Then I met John at the same start-up telecom where I met Susan. After learning that Marty was John's partner I realized that Marty and I had already met. John & Marty live in VA, near where I grew up, but they have a weekend/summer house in Rehoboth. Spouse & I ran into John & Marty last Sept at the Rehoboth antique car show. They have a robin's egg blue Edsel. Hopefully we'll get to see them tonight for dessert.
Susan is staying overnight with us tonight, then Sat morning Susan, Spouse & I are meeting up with John & Marty for breakfast. Susan is taking the ferry to NJ to visit some relatives, so Spouse & I will have a little time in the middle of the day to shop for a Mother's Day gift and make sure Jordan gets walked.
Sat evening we're meeting up with our friends Steve & Paul at their house and will carpool to Dover for 'Movie Night'. A small group of guys have 'Movie Night' on the 1st Sat of each month. Whomever hosts gets to pick the movie and provide light refreshments. This will be our 1st time attending a 'Movie Night' when them. We know 6 of the guys who'll be there and they are all very nice.
Sun we are expecting a visit from Kerry & Hugh around mid-day. They will be working at their rental condo in Ocean City on Sat, spending time with Hugh's parents in Bethany Beach Sat night, and visiting Hugh's cousin who just had a baby this week on Sun morning. We're glad they're squeezing in a visit with us before they head back to VA.
Sun evening we're going to Rick & Nick's for dinner and a movie. Rick is Spouse's personal trainer/friend and Nick is Nick's partner, a rolfer who's studio is next door to Rick's gym, so Spouse sees them both weekly. A month or so back we had them over for dinner, and now we're going to their place for dinner and a movie.
I'm excited about this weekend and am sure we'll have a good time.
Drag Queen name of the day: Crystal Ball
Tuesday, May 01, 2007
Meme from Tornwordo
I'm answering 5 questions from Tornwordo on my blog and then if anyone wants to play along, I can ask YOU 5 questions that you can answer on YOUR blog. If you want to play, leave a comment on this post and I will send you your questions.
1. Do you still wonder what you want to be when you grow up?
Yes, and I hope I will always wonder. I never want to feel like 'this is my life, this is my job, this is what I want to be/do when I grow up'. I hope I will always be open to new opportunities to be and do something different if it feels right.
2. What is your favorite dessert?
Ugh! To me that's like asking a parent which of their children is their favorite. I love desserts. I really love chocolate so if I have to pick one, I'd probably pick a chocolate fudge brownie. But then again, I have several non-chocolate favorites too, like my aunt Mary's hummingbird cake, coconut cake, and cherry pie.
3. What is the most frightened you've ever been?
Sept 11, 2001. After learning of the plane crashes into the twin towers, the Pentagon (3 miles from my house), and that field in PA I really didn't know what to expect next. Living so close to Washington DC and the metro system I wondered if the Capitol, the White House, or the underground train system would be next. I knew that I had family members working downtown. I was truly frightened for them and for myself.
4. How did you discover the joys of the male machinery? Did it scare you?
Hmm, I suppose the same way most other boys learned: self exploration! I knew my parents (and their religion) forbid it so I was often afraid of getting caught. I do recall being alarmed the first time my self exploration 'came' to fruition, if you will. I didn't quite understand what had happened. I was pretty young. My dad's "birds and the bees" talk was a little late I guess.
5. Ever done drag?
No. One year I was going to dress up as the 'Coffee Talk' lady Linda Richmond for Halloween because I could imitate her voice and monologue so well. My friend Debbie loaned me a wig and some clothes. But when I put on my costume I just felt uneasy. I wanted to have fun on Halloween so I decided to drop the 'Coffee Talk' costume for something more comfortable. That being said, I love to watch others appear/perform in drag, and I have an affinity for drag queen names.
Drag Queen name of the day: Ida Hoe
1. Do you still wonder what you want to be when you grow up?
Yes, and I hope I will always wonder. I never want to feel like 'this is my life, this is my job, this is what I want to be/do when I grow up'. I hope I will always be open to new opportunities to be and do something different if it feels right.
2. What is your favorite dessert?
Ugh! To me that's like asking a parent which of their children is their favorite. I love desserts. I really love chocolate so if I have to pick one, I'd probably pick a chocolate fudge brownie. But then again, I have several non-chocolate favorites too, like my aunt Mary's hummingbird cake, coconut cake, and cherry pie.
3. What is the most frightened you've ever been?
Sept 11, 2001. After learning of the plane crashes into the twin towers, the Pentagon (3 miles from my house), and that field in PA I really didn't know what to expect next. Living so close to Washington DC and the metro system I wondered if the Capitol, the White House, or the underground train system would be next. I knew that I had family members working downtown. I was truly frightened for them and for myself.
4. How did you discover the joys of the male machinery? Did it scare you?
Hmm, I suppose the same way most other boys learned: self exploration! I knew my parents (and their religion) forbid it so I was often afraid of getting caught. I do recall being alarmed the first time my self exploration 'came' to fruition, if you will. I didn't quite understand what had happened. I was pretty young. My dad's "birds and the bees" talk was a little late I guess.
5. Ever done drag?
No. One year I was going to dress up as the 'Coffee Talk' lady Linda Richmond for Halloween because I could imitate her voice and monologue so well. My friend Debbie loaned me a wig and some clothes. But when I put on my costume I just felt uneasy. I wanted to have fun on Halloween so I decided to drop the 'Coffee Talk' costume for something more comfortable. That being said, I love to watch others appear/perform in drag, and I have an affinity for drag queen names.
Drag Queen name of the day: Ida Hoe
Monday, April 30, 2007
Cheap and free equals fun!
Sat morning we went to Milton (about 10 miles away) to a multi-family yard sale we'd heard about from our neighbors Jim & Barb. We bought a beautiful wood end table (circa early 1960s) with harp-shaped legs and leather top for only $35. It was a little dusty and had a few scratches, so later that day I dusted it off and used some Old English scratch cover (which I already had) on the scratches, then gave the entire piece a light coat of Old English, buffed it up, and it came out gorgeous. You'd NEVER believe we got it at a yard sale for $35. It is next to the sofa in the living room now.
After the Milton yard sale we drove around looking for more yard sales. We were really hoping to find 2 men's bikes since the arrival of summer has heighten mine & Spouses desire to start bike riding. We did see several more yard sales, but none with bikes, so we didn't get out of the car. We have a patented "drive-by" yard sale technique which we often implement when we're looking for something specific.
It was a little overcast when we started yard saling, but by the time we were done the sun was out and it was about 75 degrees. So we drove into Rehoboth and went for a 2-mile walk on the boardwalk. There were lots of boardwalkers and even people on the beach in their swimsuits.
Then we decided to look for a 'cheap eats' restaurant we'd heard about called Whitecaps Cafe, which literally sits on the bank of the Indian River. The drive out Rt 24 was lovely and we found the place easily. Its not fancy at all, and very out-of-the-way, so that combined with the spectacular water views makes this a place I think we will escape to when we want to eat out in the heart of the summer season and all of the Rehoboth and Lewes restaurants are packed. We had a very inexpensive and tasty lunch: Joe had the fried fish basket with french fries and I had a fried oyster sandwich, each of which was under $7. Then walked out onto the pier. Lovely!
That afternoon I decided to finally tackle a project I meant to do several times in the last 6 years: prime and paint a set of two matching 2-tiered end tables that Joe picked up at a yard sale for $10. each about 6 years ago. One of them was a little banged up, the other was a lot banged up. We used them along with our 50s furniture in the basement of our VA house for a few years until we got a fab set of vintage 'blonde' tables to replace them. At that point, we used the end tables as night stands in the guest bedroom. They looked so ratty I told myself I should prime and paint them, but I never did. Then we brought them up to the beach house and put 1 in a guest bedroom and 1 in the bedroom Spouse & I used as nightstands. Again I told myself I should prime and paint them, but I never did. Then we moved them to our current house and put them in a guest bedroom. They still looked ratty so on Sat afternoon I told myself I would procrastinate no more. After all, I already had the primer, which we had bought and used on the Victrola stand, and I found some left-over white semi-gloss paint the builder had left behind, so my only expense to transform the ratty tables into chic night stands was a paint brush, which I bought at the dollar store. So I primed the tables on Sat afternoon and let them dry/cure overnight.
Sun after breakfast we did a whole-house cleaning, which is always lots of fun. (Insert heavy sarcasm here.) But with both of us working hard, we were done in a little over 2 hours. Then we showered, had a bite to eat, and I changed the bathroom towels and the bed sheets while Joe walked Jordan. Then we switched out our wicker love seats. The one the movers put in our bedroom is part of a set. The two matching chairs were placed on the screened porch. The love seat the movers placed on the porch with the chairs is the one that should have gone up to our bedroom, so we switched them so that the 3 matching pieces were back together again.
Then we drove into Rehoboth and went for a walk on the boardwalk again. It was 82 degrees and there were TONS of people at the beach. When we came back home I painted the top coat on the 2 night stands and talked with our neighbor Barb. Spouse & I had dinner and watched TV the rest of the night.
Today I did a little touch-up on the night stands before returning them to the bedroom. They look great! I was really impressed that we got a beautiful wood end table for our living room for $35. and I transformed those 2 old yard sale end tables by painting them white for $0. Cheap and free equals fun!
Drag Queen name of the day: Vera Cruise
After the Milton yard sale we drove around looking for more yard sales. We were really hoping to find 2 men's bikes since the arrival of summer has heighten mine & Spouses desire to start bike riding. We did see several more yard sales, but none with bikes, so we didn't get out of the car. We have a patented "drive-by" yard sale technique which we often implement when we're looking for something specific.
It was a little overcast when we started yard saling, but by the time we were done the sun was out and it was about 75 degrees. So we drove into Rehoboth and went for a 2-mile walk on the boardwalk. There were lots of boardwalkers and even people on the beach in their swimsuits.
Then we decided to look for a 'cheap eats' restaurant we'd heard about called Whitecaps Cafe, which literally sits on the bank of the Indian River. The drive out Rt 24 was lovely and we found the place easily. Its not fancy at all, and very out-of-the-way, so that combined with the spectacular water views makes this a place I think we will escape to when we want to eat out in the heart of the summer season and all of the Rehoboth and Lewes restaurants are packed. We had a very inexpensive and tasty lunch: Joe had the fried fish basket with french fries and I had a fried oyster sandwich, each of which was under $7. Then walked out onto the pier. Lovely!
That afternoon I decided to finally tackle a project I meant to do several times in the last 6 years: prime and paint a set of two matching 2-tiered end tables that Joe picked up at a yard sale for $10. each about 6 years ago. One of them was a little banged up, the other was a lot banged up. We used them along with our 50s furniture in the basement of our VA house for a few years until we got a fab set of vintage 'blonde' tables to replace them. At that point, we used the end tables as night stands in the guest bedroom. They looked so ratty I told myself I should prime and paint them, but I never did. Then we brought them up to the beach house and put 1 in a guest bedroom and 1 in the bedroom Spouse & I used as nightstands. Again I told myself I should prime and paint them, but I never did. Then we moved them to our current house and put them in a guest bedroom. They still looked ratty so on Sat afternoon I told myself I would procrastinate no more. After all, I already had the primer, which we had bought and used on the Victrola stand, and I found some left-over white semi-gloss paint the builder had left behind, so my only expense to transform the ratty tables into chic night stands was a paint brush, which I bought at the dollar store. So I primed the tables on Sat afternoon and let them dry/cure overnight.
Sun after breakfast we did a whole-house cleaning, which is always lots of fun. (Insert heavy sarcasm here.) But with both of us working hard, we were done in a little over 2 hours. Then we showered, had a bite to eat, and I changed the bathroom towels and the bed sheets while Joe walked Jordan. Then we switched out our wicker love seats. The one the movers put in our bedroom is part of a set. The two matching chairs were placed on the screened porch. The love seat the movers placed on the porch with the chairs is the one that should have gone up to our bedroom, so we switched them so that the 3 matching pieces were back together again.
Then we drove into Rehoboth and went for a walk on the boardwalk again. It was 82 degrees and there were TONS of people at the beach. When we came back home I painted the top coat on the 2 night stands and talked with our neighbor Barb. Spouse & I had dinner and watched TV the rest of the night.
Today I did a little touch-up on the night stands before returning them to the bedroom. They look great! I was really impressed that we got a beautiful wood end table for our living room for $35. and I transformed those 2 old yard sale end tables by painting them white for $0. Cheap and free equals fun!
Drag Queen name of the day: Vera Cruise
Wednesday, April 25, 2007
Neighbors' blossoms
Since the neighborhood is bursting with beautiful spring blossoms I decided to bring the good ol' $139. digital camera with me when I walked Jordan today. The following were taken at neighbors' houses. Unfortunately none of these are in our yard.
I thought these purple tulips were gorgeous. You see lots of red, yellow and pink tulips, but you rarely see purple ones. I love tulips. My mother grew them in our front yard and the sight of tulips still congers up memories of early spring.
These lavendar-colored phlox are one of my favorites, too. We had phlox in several colors in our front yard when I was growing up. Lavendar, purple, magenta, pink, and white. Creeping phlox are great because they spread. Each spring they're larger and fuller.
This is a Bradford pear tree in full bloom. Beautiful!
These are super-sized yellow tulips. The yellow is so deep yet bright at the same time.
Drag Queen name of the day: Dinah Sore
I thought these purple tulips were gorgeous. You see lots of red, yellow and pink tulips, but you rarely see purple ones. I love tulips. My mother grew them in our front yard and the sight of tulips still congers up memories of early spring.
These lavendar-colored phlox are one of my favorites, too. We had phlox in several colors in our front yard when I was growing up. Lavendar, purple, magenta, pink, and white. Creeping phlox are great because they spread. Each spring they're larger and fuller.
This is a Bradford pear tree in full bloom. Beautiful!
These are super-sized yellow tulips. The yellow is so deep yet bright at the same time.Drag Queen name of the day: Dinah Sore
Tuesday, April 24, 2007
From functional to decorative
You likely remember all the 'drama' we had over our mailbox installation. If not, check out my blog entry on Feb 13, 2007. Last Wed our neighbor across the street Jim (whose mailbox post we attached our mailbox to) was approached by our neighbors 2 doors down, Barbara & Ann, about adding their mailbox to his post, too. Apparently they had just been picking up their mail at the post office periodically but now want to have it delivered at home. Jim loves Barbara & Ann so of course he said yes. He was going to take his mailbox off the top and ours off the side, attach a long board to the top, and mount all 3 to the long board. But then the wheels of creativity started churning.
Jim & his wife Barb are weekenders. They live in PA and come here to their Lewes home every weekend. In Feb Jim had back surgery and was given a note from his doctor to take 6 weeks off to recover. He decided to spend the 6 weeks recovering here in Lewes. Barb comes down on the weekends since she is still working. At the end of the 6 weeks the doctor gave him another 6 weeks, so Jim is still here in Lewes and has been loving all the free time to work on house projects, hence what follows.
So Jim, an engineer who always likes to have a project going on, decided to construct (not purchase) an 8-foot long section of white picket fence to which he would attach the 3 mailboxes, for a more decorative look. As he was working on the fence/mailbox holder, our next door neighbors John & LaVon who just returned from wintering in FL asked if they could add their mailbox to the fence/mailbox holder too. They had a separate post for their mailbox, but it kind of cluttered that side of the street. Since our street is a 'driving route' the mailman doesn't get out of the Jeep to delivered the mail, so all the mailboxes must be on the same side of the street.
Jim loves John & LaVon too, so he agreed to add their mailbox to the fence/mailbox holder.
I'm not sure why Jim didn't simply buy a section of fence. Maybe he thought it would be "fun" to build it himself since he's got every tool in the world in his shed. But I think the project became a bit more involved that he thought, since it took him about 5 days, working practically 8 hours a day, to finish the fence/mailbox holder.
When it came time to attach the pickets, Jim cut about 6 different tops so we could select the one we liked best. We all decided on the rounded top with the hole in it. Jim cut all the pickets to match, primed and painted them, and finally attached them on Sun. So now we have a section of white picket fence with 4 mailboxes attached. I think it looks really cute.
When I mentioned in front of Jim's wife Barb that I thought it was a funny coincidence that we all have the same metal mailbox, but in 4 different colors, she suggested that the fence/mailbox holder would probably look even better if we eventually replaced the metal mailboxes with wooden ones that look like houses. Then Jim suggested that she shop online to find 4 of the same kind so they'd all be the same size. Then I suggested that if they're all the same mailbox, maybe we should get some craft paints and paint the house-looking mailboxes the same colors as our houses. We 4 home owners could do this together and bring a dish, making it a party! They chuckled and said something about it being a great idea, but when I mentioned that last party (bring a dish, making it a party) Joe said "Leave it to the gay neighbor to turn a conversation about mailboxes into a party." I just rolled my eyes and defended my idea.
Drag Queen name of the day: June Bride
Monday, April 23, 2007
Promise kept
Mother Nature kept her promise: spring finally arrived. (These beautiful, huge tulips belong to a neighbor.)
Fri was a pretty day: sunny and temperatures in the upper 60s. Sat was a gorgeous day: sunny and temperatures in the mid-70s. Sun was another spectacular day: sunny and a high temperature of 79. Today it is sunny with a current temperature of 81. I love it!
Fri when Joe came home from work we went for a walk before dinner. We walked the 2 blocks to the 'main' street of Lewes, crossed the canal bridge, and walked the 1/2 mile to the bay. We sat on a bench and looked out at the water, gulls, and the ferry approaching the depot. Then we walked back home. It was about 1 1/2 miles round trip. After dinner we went to the grocery store and did our weekly shopping. Then Joe made banana nut muffins for our neighbors across the street, since Barb's mother was visiting and Jim had been working on a new picket fence mailbox center to include our mailbox. More about that including a photo tomorrow.
Sat morning we drove around checking out yard sales. Lord knows we don't need any more furniture or household items! We just find it fun to look. Also, since we really want to get bikes we thought we might find some at yard sales, but not that day. Then we drove into Rehoboth and walked down to the boardwalk. It was such a beautiful day there were a lot of folks on the boardwalk. As we walked the entire length of it and back we saw several people on the beach with their chairs and books and magazines. Including the walk to and from car/boardwalk, that walk about about 2 1/2 miles. On the way home we stopped at KMart to look at bikes and the dollar store to pick up a few essentials. When we returned home we ate lunch on the screened porch. Jordan and Pouncer were on the porch with us and we chuckled as we watched Pouncer's reactions to all the unusual sounds. Since his front claws were removed he never goes outdoors. Being on the screened porch is the closest thing he gets to being 'outside'. After lunch we took Jordan for a walk around the pond in the park near our house. That walk is probably 1/2 a mile. Later that afternoon we walked the 2 blocks to the 'main' street in Lewes again, where Joe got a piece of chocolate from the chocolate shop and we strolled up and down some of the streets looking at homes and yards. We had dinner on the screened porch, watched some TV, and then got ready to go out.
Our friends Doug & Jim from VA had called earlier and we'd accepted an invitation to meet them at Cloud 9 in Rehoboth at 9pm for drinks. Shortly after we arrived a group vacated a table with 4 stools so we promptly took over the table. We hadn't seen Doug & Jim in several months so it was great to see them and get caught up. We had a great time and stayed until almost 12:30.
Sun we went back to Rehoboth to walk the boardwalk again. Since it was even warmer than the day before, we saw lots of folks on the beach in the swimsuits! Nobody was in the water though, so I'm sure it was just too cold. Upon returning home we had lunch on the screened porch, then decided to clean the white wooden rockers on the front porch. Armed with paper towels and a spray bottle, we sprayed and wiped down all 4 chairs, then sat in them and rocked in the shade. A dog walker passing by looked at us and said "You look like you could be selling porches." Joe took Jordan for a walk around the pond while I picked up sticks that had fallen from the trees during last week's Nor'easter. We had dinner in front of the TV.
It was such a beautiful weekend, and I had been looking forward to spring's arrival for so long that we really tried to spend as much time outdoors as possible. In doing so we both got a little too much sun, despite having put on sunscreen. But it was worth it!
Drag Queen name of the day: Ginger Bread
Fri was a pretty day: sunny and temperatures in the upper 60s. Sat was a gorgeous day: sunny and temperatures in the mid-70s. Sun was another spectacular day: sunny and a high temperature of 79. Today it is sunny with a current temperature of 81. I love it!
Fri when Joe came home from work we went for a walk before dinner. We walked the 2 blocks to the 'main' street of Lewes, crossed the canal bridge, and walked the 1/2 mile to the bay. We sat on a bench and looked out at the water, gulls, and the ferry approaching the depot. Then we walked back home. It was about 1 1/2 miles round trip. After dinner we went to the grocery store and did our weekly shopping. Then Joe made banana nut muffins for our neighbors across the street, since Barb's mother was visiting and Jim had been working on a new picket fence mailbox center to include our mailbox. More about that including a photo tomorrow.
Sat morning we drove around checking out yard sales. Lord knows we don't need any more furniture or household items! We just find it fun to look. Also, since we really want to get bikes we thought we might find some at yard sales, but not that day. Then we drove into Rehoboth and walked down to the boardwalk. It was such a beautiful day there were a lot of folks on the boardwalk. As we walked the entire length of it and back we saw several people on the beach with their chairs and books and magazines. Including the walk to and from car/boardwalk, that walk about about 2 1/2 miles. On the way home we stopped at KMart to look at bikes and the dollar store to pick up a few essentials. When we returned home we ate lunch on the screened porch. Jordan and Pouncer were on the porch with us and we chuckled as we watched Pouncer's reactions to all the unusual sounds. Since his front claws were removed he never goes outdoors. Being on the screened porch is the closest thing he gets to being 'outside'. After lunch we took Jordan for a walk around the pond in the park near our house. That walk is probably 1/2 a mile. Later that afternoon we walked the 2 blocks to the 'main' street in Lewes again, where Joe got a piece of chocolate from the chocolate shop and we strolled up and down some of the streets looking at homes and yards. We had dinner on the screened porch, watched some TV, and then got ready to go out.
Our friends Doug & Jim from VA had called earlier and we'd accepted an invitation to meet them at Cloud 9 in Rehoboth at 9pm for drinks. Shortly after we arrived a group vacated a table with 4 stools so we promptly took over the table. We hadn't seen Doug & Jim in several months so it was great to see them and get caught up. We had a great time and stayed until almost 12:30.
Sun we went back to Rehoboth to walk the boardwalk again. Since it was even warmer than the day before, we saw lots of folks on the beach in the swimsuits! Nobody was in the water though, so I'm sure it was just too cold. Upon returning home we had lunch on the screened porch, then decided to clean the white wooden rockers on the front porch. Armed with paper towels and a spray bottle, we sprayed and wiped down all 4 chairs, then sat in them and rocked in the shade. A dog walker passing by looked at us and said "You look like you could be selling porches." Joe took Jordan for a walk around the pond while I picked up sticks that had fallen from the trees during last week's Nor'easter. We had dinner in front of the TV.
It was such a beautiful weekend, and I had been looking forward to spring's arrival for so long that we really tried to spend as much time outdoors as possible. In doing so we both got a little too much sun, despite having put on sunscreen. But it was worth it!
Drag Queen name of the day: Ginger Bread
Thursday, April 19, 2007
Promise of spring
Regardless of your location on the planet, you've probably heard me whining about the tardiness of spring. I am really, REALLY ready for spring.
Then I read Tornwordo's blog citing a recent dumping of snow, mid-April, and I tell myself I should count my blessings. At least we haven't had snow in a few weeks; just these annoying overcast skies and mid-40s temperatures that make me agitated at Mother Nature for delaying my hay day.
I love warm weather. I love taking an enjoyable after dinner walk around town, on the boardwalk overlooking the ocean, anywhere really. I'm a convertible owner, the kind that puts their top down as long as the temperature is above 55 and its not raining. I love the blasts of color from springtime trees and flowers that accompany spring's arrival. I sometimes get a little blue in the gloomy, grey doldrums of winter. I am really, REALLY ready for spring.
But today it is not spring. Its 46 degrees, cloudy, with a stray sprinkle now and then. Even the dog is 'hunkered down', asleep on her bed the way she does on the coldest of winter days.
But according to www.accuweather.com spring will arrive this weekend! On Sat it will be sunny and 64; on Sun it will be sunny and 71. Next week is looking pretty darn good, too. On Mon it will be sunny and 74; on Tues it will be sunny and 72. This is the kind of weather we should have had 2 or 3 weeks ago. But I will enjoy it when it arrives, and forgive Mother Nature for her torment.
Drag Queen name of the day: F. Ida Hammer
Then I read Tornwordo's blog citing a recent dumping of snow, mid-April, and I tell myself I should count my blessings. At least we haven't had snow in a few weeks; just these annoying overcast skies and mid-40s temperatures that make me agitated at Mother Nature for delaying my hay day.
I love warm weather. I love taking an enjoyable after dinner walk around town, on the boardwalk overlooking the ocean, anywhere really. I'm a convertible owner, the kind that puts their top down as long as the temperature is above 55 and its not raining. I love the blasts of color from springtime trees and flowers that accompany spring's arrival. I sometimes get a little blue in the gloomy, grey doldrums of winter. I am really, REALLY ready for spring.
But today it is not spring. Its 46 degrees, cloudy, with a stray sprinkle now and then. Even the dog is 'hunkered down', asleep on her bed the way she does on the coldest of winter days.
But according to www.accuweather.com spring will arrive this weekend! On Sat it will be sunny and 64; on Sun it will be sunny and 71. Next week is looking pretty darn good, too. On Mon it will be sunny and 74; on Tues it will be sunny and 72. This is the kind of weather we should have had 2 or 3 weeks ago. But I will enjoy it when it arrives, and forgive Mother Nature for her torment.
Drag Queen name of the day: F. Ida Hammer
Tuesday, April 17, 2007
Newlywed's visit
I was super-excited all last week in anticipation of the Newlywed's visit!
Michael & Jamie (aka: the Newlyweds) arrived shortly after 10:00 Fri night. We showed them around the house and then sat in the living room and talked until almost 2am. They told us all about their vacation/scouting trip to Portland, OR and Seattle, WA. They really 'clicked' in Portland and feel that is where they will relocate later this year.
Sat morning after a light breakfast we went to a flea market at the Seaside Nature Center inside Cape Henlopen Park. I'd been seeing signs for it for all over town for about 2 weeks, so I thought it was going to be really good. The Newlyweds love flea markets too, but it turned out to be quite disappointing; only about 4 tables with mostly junk on them. Not that we were looking to buy anything anyway, but we were hoping for something bigger and better considering all the advertising.
Afterward we drove through the park a little, then got out and walked on the beach a little. It was bright and sunny, although chilly. Michael & Jamie had brought their kites so they quickly put them together and we tried flying their kites for a while. The wind was great, but our kite navigation abilities were limited. It was fun anyway.
Then we had lunch in Rehoboth, browsed a few of the shops, walked on the boardwalk, and returned home. We talked in the living room until almost 8, then went to the Miltonian Pizzeria & Wing House for dinner. We watched the comedy show 'Wisecrack' on the Logo channel from 10-11 and then went to bed.
Sun morning it was raining and very windy as we began feeling the effects of the Nor'easter, so it was great to have a leisurely breakfast of pancakes, bacon, juice, and coffee. We all showered and then just before noon we went to some of the outlet stores. Michael was looking for a rain jacket in anticipation of moving to Portland. All that shopping worked up our appetites so we had lunch at La Tolteca followed by ice cream from Dairy Queen, which we ate in the car looking out at the bay.
When we returned home they packed up and left shortly before 5. It was really great to visit and catch up with them. I'll really miss seeing them when they move to Portland. Joe & I will visit them, but not as often as we're used to seeing each other.
Joe talked to his mom and sister on the phone and surfed the internet while I watched TV. I watched a DVD from Netflix of a PBS show about the creation of the Tupperware company. (Joe had seen it already.) It was really interesting and had lots of vintage footage. We watched the Sopranos, Mind of Mencia, and the new episode of Reno 911, then went to bed.
As I sit here typing I can hear the wind still whipping around outside, and our dog Jordan is snoring. Don't you wish your life was hot like mine?
Drag Queen name of the day: Rhoda Letter
Michael & Jamie (aka: the Newlyweds) arrived shortly after 10:00 Fri night. We showed them around the house and then sat in the living room and talked until almost 2am. They told us all about their vacation/scouting trip to Portland, OR and Seattle, WA. They really 'clicked' in Portland and feel that is where they will relocate later this year.
Sat morning after a light breakfast we went to a flea market at the Seaside Nature Center inside Cape Henlopen Park. I'd been seeing signs for it for all over town for about 2 weeks, so I thought it was going to be really good. The Newlyweds love flea markets too, but it turned out to be quite disappointing; only about 4 tables with mostly junk on them. Not that we were looking to buy anything anyway, but we were hoping for something bigger and better considering all the advertising.
Afterward we drove through the park a little, then got out and walked on the beach a little. It was bright and sunny, although chilly. Michael & Jamie had brought their kites so they quickly put them together and we tried flying their kites for a while. The wind was great, but our kite navigation abilities were limited. It was fun anyway.
Then we had lunch in Rehoboth, browsed a few of the shops, walked on the boardwalk, and returned home. We talked in the living room until almost 8, then went to the Miltonian Pizzeria & Wing House for dinner. We watched the comedy show 'Wisecrack' on the Logo channel from 10-11 and then went to bed.
Sun morning it was raining and very windy as we began feeling the effects of the Nor'easter, so it was great to have a leisurely breakfast of pancakes, bacon, juice, and coffee. We all showered and then just before noon we went to some of the outlet stores. Michael was looking for a rain jacket in anticipation of moving to Portland. All that shopping worked up our appetites so we had lunch at La Tolteca followed by ice cream from Dairy Queen, which we ate in the car looking out at the bay.
When we returned home they packed up and left shortly before 5. It was really great to visit and catch up with them. I'll really miss seeing them when they move to Portland. Joe & I will visit them, but not as often as we're used to seeing each other.
Joe talked to his mom and sister on the phone and surfed the internet while I watched TV. I watched a DVD from Netflix of a PBS show about the creation of the Tupperware company. (Joe had seen it already.) It was really interesting and had lots of vintage footage. We watched the Sopranos, Mind of Mencia, and the new episode of Reno 911, then went to bed.
As I sit here typing I can hear the wind still whipping around outside, and our dog Jordan is snoring. Don't you wish your life was hot like mine?
Drag Queen name of the day: Rhoda Letter
Wednesday, April 11, 2007
Sick weekend
Joe & I both had off work last Fri for 'Good Friday'. But rather than leave Thurs night for DC, we decided to leave Fri morning. That way he could give Jordan a bath and we could drive in the daylight. Plus, I didn't want to sit around with nothing to do all day Fri while Joe's family was in church.
So we left at 9:30 am on Fri and arrived just before noon at Joe's mom's house. We brought our things inside, got the dog settled, and had a little visit with her. Then I left Joe with his mom and I picked up my aunt Mary. We went to lunch at a new place (new for us, anyway) called Cafe Deluxe and had a delicious lunch. She had the tilapia sandwich, I had the grilled chicken with avocado sandwich, and we split the Gruyere mac 'n cheese. Mmm mmm good! But all morning I'd been having post-nasal drip and a bit of a sore throat.
We walked next door to the Crate & Barrel store. My aunt has been oogling several pieces of furniture for what seems like years now, and wanted my opinion on the pieces. (Side story: my aunt has always had very traditional furniture and now at the age of 63 she wants to trade it all in on more contemporary stuff. Lucky for me, I got her English tea cart and set of 3 nesting tables.) I liked almost all of the items she showed me, but I believe I audibly gasped at the high prices. My aunt likes the store because most of the furniture is solid wood and made in America or Europe. Apparently there is quite a premium to be paid for that. I think I'll stick to furniture that is partially made of wood-like products in China. Then we stopped at Trader Joe's (there are none in DE) and the regular grocery store before I took her home.
I met up with Joe at his mom's house to find that he had accompanied her and his sister and niece to the Catholic church for confession. Joe said he "sat in quiet, contemplative prayer" as his relatives confessed their lying, cursing, and cheating ways to the priest in exchange for a few Hail Mary's. His mother was returning to church at 7pm for another ritual so Joe & I met up with Kerry & Hugh for dinner. We had a great time chatting and catching up.
Sat morning I woke up a little more congested and snotty, so I took some over-the-counter pseudophedrine-something-or-other before Joe, Ev, and I went to breakfast at the Silver Diner. Later we went to Joe's sister Mary's house to visit. The kids wanted to dye Easter eggs and Joe and Mary wanted to make pizelles using the pizelle iron their grandmother received as a 50th wedding anniversary gift in 1955. They were delicious! Mary ordered pizzas for dinner.
At 9pm I met some friends at Freddie's in Arlington to sing karaoke. It was pretty crowded and there were a lot of singers, but I had a good time. My friend Kelly and I sang the Sonny & Cher classic 'I Got You, Babe' - only Kelly sang Sonny's part and I did an impersonation of Cher! (I know, how gay, right?) But the crowd loved it and we had fun.
Sun morning I was REALLY congested and felt a lot of pain and pressure in my sinuses. On a scale of 1-10, my energy level was about 2. I took more of the fake sinus decongestant along with some ibuprofen and muddled through the morning. After showering and dressing we sat in the living room and talked with Joe's mom who had just returned from Easter service. A few minutes later Mary, Eric, and the kids came in and they took Easter pictures. Joe left with them and went to the store with his sister Mary. I picked up my aunt Mary and brought her back to Evelyn's house. (Later I noted that it was the 2nd time that weekend that we'd separated in order to "be with our respective Marys".) At 4pm we went to Joe's brother Louis' house for Easter dinner. I really felt like crap, and took another dose of ibuprofen. The food was good and we enjoyed the time together.
We left Louis' at 7pm, dropped of my aunt Mary, went back to Evelyn's to get our bags and Jordan, and left at 8:15. We got stuck in a bad traffic jam on the Beltway between Eisenhower Ave and the Woodrow Wilson bridge. It took us 45 minutes to make that part of the journey. We got home at 11:15. Fortunately Joe drove home since I was feeling so poorly.
Mon I struggled to make it threw the day. Fortunately it was not a busy or hectic day, and since I work at home, it was nice to be able to go and lie down for a while between tasks. Although I showered, I never got dressed; I wore my flannel pajamas all day. Joe stopped at the drug store on the way home from work and got me the generic of Clariton-D, which had been recommended to me by Kerry who was also suffering with sinus trouble. I took it Mon evening and within an hour I could feel the difference. It really helped with the congestion and allowed me to be able to breathe with my mouth closed. I continued to take ibuprofen for the pain and pressure. Tues I did the same 'part-time' work from home, with rest periods. Again I stayed in my pajamas all day.
Today my energy level was much higher and I worked a full day. I showered, dressed, and even took the dog for a walk and took the recycling to the recycling center. That (generic) Clariton-D really works! Then I remembered having a similar serious sinus problem about this time last year, so I checked my blog. Sure enough, this exact week in April 2006 I missed 3 days of work due to acute sinusitis. (Check the April 2006 archive, entry dated April 17.)
Drag Queen name of the day: Callie Flower
So we left at 9:30 am on Fri and arrived just before noon at Joe's mom's house. We brought our things inside, got the dog settled, and had a little visit with her. Then I left Joe with his mom and I picked up my aunt Mary. We went to lunch at a new place (new for us, anyway) called Cafe Deluxe and had a delicious lunch. She had the tilapia sandwich, I had the grilled chicken with avocado sandwich, and we split the Gruyere mac 'n cheese. Mmm mmm good! But all morning I'd been having post-nasal drip and a bit of a sore throat.
We walked next door to the Crate & Barrel store. My aunt has been oogling several pieces of furniture for what seems like years now, and wanted my opinion on the pieces. (Side story: my aunt has always had very traditional furniture and now at the age of 63 she wants to trade it all in on more contemporary stuff. Lucky for me, I got her English tea cart and set of 3 nesting tables.) I liked almost all of the items she showed me, but I believe I audibly gasped at the high prices. My aunt likes the store because most of the furniture is solid wood and made in America or Europe. Apparently there is quite a premium to be paid for that. I think I'll stick to furniture that is partially made of wood-like products in China. Then we stopped at Trader Joe's (there are none in DE) and the regular grocery store before I took her home.
I met up with Joe at his mom's house to find that he had accompanied her and his sister and niece to the Catholic church for confession. Joe said he "sat in quiet, contemplative prayer" as his relatives confessed their lying, cursing, and cheating ways to the priest in exchange for a few Hail Mary's. His mother was returning to church at 7pm for another ritual so Joe & I met up with Kerry & Hugh for dinner. We had a great time chatting and catching up.
Sat morning I woke up a little more congested and snotty, so I took some over-the-counter pseudophedrine-something-or-other before Joe, Ev, and I went to breakfast at the Silver Diner. Later we went to Joe's sister Mary's house to visit. The kids wanted to dye Easter eggs and Joe and Mary wanted to make pizelles using the pizelle iron their grandmother received as a 50th wedding anniversary gift in 1955. They were delicious! Mary ordered pizzas for dinner.
At 9pm I met some friends at Freddie's in Arlington to sing karaoke. It was pretty crowded and there were a lot of singers, but I had a good time. My friend Kelly and I sang the Sonny & Cher classic 'I Got You, Babe' - only Kelly sang Sonny's part and I did an impersonation of Cher! (I know, how gay, right?) But the crowd loved it and we had fun.
Sun morning I was REALLY congested and felt a lot of pain and pressure in my sinuses. On a scale of 1-10, my energy level was about 2. I took more of the fake sinus decongestant along with some ibuprofen and muddled through the morning. After showering and dressing we sat in the living room and talked with Joe's mom who had just returned from Easter service. A few minutes later Mary, Eric, and the kids came in and they took Easter pictures. Joe left with them and went to the store with his sister Mary. I picked up my aunt Mary and brought her back to Evelyn's house. (Later I noted that it was the 2nd time that weekend that we'd separated in order to "be with our respective Marys".) At 4pm we went to Joe's brother Louis' house for Easter dinner. I really felt like crap, and took another dose of ibuprofen. The food was good and we enjoyed the time together.
We left Louis' at 7pm, dropped of my aunt Mary, went back to Evelyn's to get our bags and Jordan, and left at 8:15. We got stuck in a bad traffic jam on the Beltway between Eisenhower Ave and the Woodrow Wilson bridge. It took us 45 minutes to make that part of the journey. We got home at 11:15. Fortunately Joe drove home since I was feeling so poorly.
Mon I struggled to make it threw the day. Fortunately it was not a busy or hectic day, and since I work at home, it was nice to be able to go and lie down for a while between tasks. Although I showered, I never got dressed; I wore my flannel pajamas all day. Joe stopped at the drug store on the way home from work and got me the generic of Clariton-D, which had been recommended to me by Kerry who was also suffering with sinus trouble. I took it Mon evening and within an hour I could feel the difference. It really helped with the congestion and allowed me to be able to breathe with my mouth closed. I continued to take ibuprofen for the pain and pressure. Tues I did the same 'part-time' work from home, with rest periods. Again I stayed in my pajamas all day.
Today my energy level was much higher and I worked a full day. I showered, dressed, and even took the dog for a walk and took the recycling to the recycling center. That (generic) Clariton-D really works! Then I remembered having a similar serious sinus problem about this time last year, so I checked my blog. Sure enough, this exact week in April 2006 I missed 3 days of work due to acute sinusitis. (Check the April 2006 archive, entry dated April 17.)
Drag Queen name of the day: Callie Flower
Tuesday, April 10, 2007
Absence
I know its been a little while since my last post. We were back in VA last Fri, Sat, and Sun to be with the family for Easter. While gone I began having sinus congestion, post-nasal drip, sore throat, sneezing, and runny nose. Yesterday and today I have really been suffering with full-on sinusitus. Fortunately Joe bought me Clariton-D 24 hour decongestant pills and they are really starting to help. Hopefully I'll feel more like writing soon.
Drag Queen name of the day: June Bug
Drag Queen name of the day: June Bug
Wednesday, April 04, 2007
Crackle
Last year about this time the Newlyweds gave us a Victrola stand they'd gotten at a yard sale. They were trying to simply their furnishings and thought we might want to use it at our beach house as a bedside table. They were right. The curvy lines of the Victrola stand appealed to our 'glam' sensibilities.
One problem: it was a hideous shade of green with a dark faux wood treatment done with glaze. Green is my favorite color and there aren't many shades of it I don't like, but this was one of them. But we decided to use it in our bedroom at the beach house, which had a bright color pallet of orange, yellow, pink, green, and blue so we decided we'd paint the different sides and top of the piece with those colors, giving it a funky updated look.
We tried spray painting the top first with bright pink spray paint, but after using the entire can we just couldn't get good coverage. So the next time we were at the beach house I bought a can of primer and primed the entire piece. That should allow us to get a good, solid coat. But the spring turned into summer, the summer turned into fall, and the unfinished Victrola stand remained in the garage at the beach house until we vacated it in late Jan.
In the new house we decided not to use the bright color scheme in any of the rooms so I was a little relieved we hadn't spent much more time painting the Victrola stand all those bright colors. Instead, we decided to use the piece as a stand for Joe's briefcase, near the door. A new color scheme was chosen.
We decided to paint the Victrola stand matte black, then apply a crackle medium, then paint a metallic gold top coat. When the gold top coat crackled, it would reveal the black underneath. I was psyched! So we bought the paints and applied the black base and then the crackle medium.
The crackle medium said to allow 24 hours to dry, but after about 2 hours it was dry to the touch so we tried a little of the gold on the back as a test patch. Nothing happened so we decided it must need to dry the full 24 hours. Unfortunately we got busy and weren't able to get back to working on the piece for a few days. We figured it surely was dry now, so we tried another test patch on the back but nothing happened.
Thinking that we must have waited too long, we applied another coat of the crackle medium, let it dry for 24 hours, and tried another test patch. Still nothing. Frustrated, Joe decided to paint the entire piece in the metallic gold. It was... a bit much.
Now that the entire piece was metallic gold we needed to modify the plan. We decided to leave the metallic gold as the new base coat, apply a different kind of crackle medium, and then apply a top coat of rich barn red.
After applying the new crackle medium and allowing it to dry we tried a test patch of the barn red on the back. There was only minimal crackling, so according to the directions, to achieve more crackling we gave it a 2nd coat of crackle medium, allowed it to dry, and then gave the entire piece a coat of the barn red.
Once again, the crackling affect was minimal; only visible up close. From 5 feet away it just looked burgundy. Even more frustrated, Joe decided to use the left over metallic gold paint to 'enhance' the crackle. I warned him not to do it. I could visualize unnatural-looking streaks of gold paint along with the gold crackle, but he didn't listen.
I'm not exactly sure how he confused 'streaks' with 'blobs', but when I saw what he'd done I told him it looked as if a flock of golden geese had pooped on the Victrola stand. It looked horrible.
So after 3 coats of paint and 4 applications of crackle medium, I am now tempted to simply sand the piece down and re-apply the black matte finish paint and call it a day. I really liked the look of the piece in the black matte finish paint when I was painting the original base coat. It seemed to accent the curves but still remain understated. So that will be my last attempt to transform this free piece of furniture. Check back later for a progress update.
Drag Queen name of the day: Dinah Might
One problem: it was a hideous shade of green with a dark faux wood treatment done with glaze. Green is my favorite color and there aren't many shades of it I don't like, but this was one of them. But we decided to use it in our bedroom at the beach house, which had a bright color pallet of orange, yellow, pink, green, and blue so we decided we'd paint the different sides and top of the piece with those colors, giving it a funky updated look.
We tried spray painting the top first with bright pink spray paint, but after using the entire can we just couldn't get good coverage. So the next time we were at the beach house I bought a can of primer and primed the entire piece. That should allow us to get a good, solid coat. But the spring turned into summer, the summer turned into fall, and the unfinished Victrola stand remained in the garage at the beach house until we vacated it in late Jan.
In the new house we decided not to use the bright color scheme in any of the rooms so I was a little relieved we hadn't spent much more time painting the Victrola stand all those bright colors. Instead, we decided to use the piece as a stand for Joe's briefcase, near the door. A new color scheme was chosen.
We decided to paint the Victrola stand matte black, then apply a crackle medium, then paint a metallic gold top coat. When the gold top coat crackled, it would reveal the black underneath. I was psyched! So we bought the paints and applied the black base and then the crackle medium.
The crackle medium said to allow 24 hours to dry, but after about 2 hours it was dry to the touch so we tried a little of the gold on the back as a test patch. Nothing happened so we decided it must need to dry the full 24 hours. Unfortunately we got busy and weren't able to get back to working on the piece for a few days. We figured it surely was dry now, so we tried another test patch on the back but nothing happened.
Thinking that we must have waited too long, we applied another coat of the crackle medium, let it dry for 24 hours, and tried another test patch. Still nothing. Frustrated, Joe decided to paint the entire piece in the metallic gold. It was... a bit much.
Now that the entire piece was metallic gold we needed to modify the plan. We decided to leave the metallic gold as the new base coat, apply a different kind of crackle medium, and then apply a top coat of rich barn red.
After applying the new crackle medium and allowing it to dry we tried a test patch of the barn red on the back. There was only minimal crackling, so according to the directions, to achieve more crackling we gave it a 2nd coat of crackle medium, allowed it to dry, and then gave the entire piece a coat of the barn red.
Once again, the crackling affect was minimal; only visible up close. From 5 feet away it just looked burgundy. Even more frustrated, Joe decided to use the left over metallic gold paint to 'enhance' the crackle. I warned him not to do it. I could visualize unnatural-looking streaks of gold paint along with the gold crackle, but he didn't listen.
I'm not exactly sure how he confused 'streaks' with 'blobs', but when I saw what he'd done I told him it looked as if a flock of golden geese had pooped on the Victrola stand. It looked horrible.
So after 3 coats of paint and 4 applications of crackle medium, I am now tempted to simply sand the piece down and re-apply the black matte finish paint and call it a day. I really liked the look of the piece in the black matte finish paint when I was painting the original base coat. It seemed to accent the curves but still remain understated. So that will be my last attempt to transform this free piece of furniture. Check back later for a progress update.
Drag Queen name of the day: Dinah Might
Wednesday, March 28, 2007
Dog walking
On Tues the weather was crazy-warm. It reached 83 degrees, and its still March!
I took advantage of the super weather by taking Jordan for a nice walk at lunch time. We often walk around the pond near our house, but on Tues I decided we'd walk over to Second St, the 'main street' of Lewes. I thought walking there would give me more opportunities to see/meet people. Working from home has removed much of the social element of work so I think about walking Jordan where I might encounter more people.
As we walked down Mulberry St. and rounded the corner onto Second St. Jordan decided it was as good a time as any to relieve her bowels. Unfortunately, rather than being in the grass close to the sidewalk, she was way up in the homeowners yard, near the walkway to their front door. I suppose it was my fault. If I'd kept her leash tighter she wouldn't have been able to get that far up into the home owner's yard.
Normally I am not overly concerned about where she relieves herself. Its just that Second St. is a very prestigious, desirable, and historic St. Many of the homes there are from the 1700 & 1800s, and are very expensive. Even the smallest of the few houses on Second St. will sell for over a million easily. So, although the location she chose was less than optimal, I told myself there was no need to worry about it. I always bring a plastic bag to collect her poop; we'd be gone in a few seconds. Besides, what are the chances the homeowner would even be at home, much less be outside?
Well, on that day, the chances were very high! Just as Jordan was pushing one out, the homeowner rounded the corner of the house and saw me and Jordan standing in his yard. She was pooping, and I was just standing there. I felt I should say something.
"I'm sorry. She usually goes closer to the sidewalk" I offered.
"I understand" he replied. "As long as you pick it up. You are going to pick it up?"
"Oh, of course" I responded, showing him my plastic bag covered hand. As Jordan walked away from the scene of the crime, I leaned over, picked up the poop and tied the bag closed.
"Did you get it all?" he asked suspiciously.
"Yes." I answered back. I hurried Jordan out of the man's yard as if I'd just heard that my house was on fire.
As we walked down Second St. I began wondering why the man had asked me if I'd gotten it all. Even if I'd been tempted for some reason to leave some behind, I certainly wouldn't have done that with him watching me. I just felt it was odd of him to questioned me about it, as if I were an inexperienced teenager. Then I simply chalked it up to his age. Compared to him I probably looked like a teenager.
I did learn a useful lesson from the experience: only walk Jordan down Second St. AFTER she's relieved herself in a less expensive yard.
Drag Queen name of the day: Eunice Ikle
I took advantage of the super weather by taking Jordan for a nice walk at lunch time. We often walk around the pond near our house, but on Tues I decided we'd walk over to Second St, the 'main street' of Lewes. I thought walking there would give me more opportunities to see/meet people. Working from home has removed much of the social element of work so I think about walking Jordan where I might encounter more people.
As we walked down Mulberry St. and rounded the corner onto Second St. Jordan decided it was as good a time as any to relieve her bowels. Unfortunately, rather than being in the grass close to the sidewalk, she was way up in the homeowners yard, near the walkway to their front door. I suppose it was my fault. If I'd kept her leash tighter she wouldn't have been able to get that far up into the home owner's yard.
Normally I am not overly concerned about where she relieves herself. Its just that Second St. is a very prestigious, desirable, and historic St. Many of the homes there are from the 1700 & 1800s, and are very expensive. Even the smallest of the few houses on Second St. will sell for over a million easily. So, although the location she chose was less than optimal, I told myself there was no need to worry about it. I always bring a plastic bag to collect her poop; we'd be gone in a few seconds. Besides, what are the chances the homeowner would even be at home, much less be outside?
Well, on that day, the chances were very high! Just as Jordan was pushing one out, the homeowner rounded the corner of the house and saw me and Jordan standing in his yard. She was pooping, and I was just standing there. I felt I should say something.
"I'm sorry. She usually goes closer to the sidewalk" I offered.
"I understand" he replied. "As long as you pick it up. You are going to pick it up?"
"Oh, of course" I responded, showing him my plastic bag covered hand. As Jordan walked away from the scene of the crime, I leaned over, picked up the poop and tied the bag closed.
"Did you get it all?" he asked suspiciously.
"Yes." I answered back. I hurried Jordan out of the man's yard as if I'd just heard that my house was on fire.
As we walked down Second St. I began wondering why the man had asked me if I'd gotten it all. Even if I'd been tempted for some reason to leave some behind, I certainly wouldn't have done that with him watching me. I just felt it was odd of him to questioned me about it, as if I were an inexperienced teenager. Then I simply chalked it up to his age. Compared to him I probably looked like a teenager.
I did learn a useful lesson from the experience: only walk Jordan down Second St. AFTER she's relieved herself in a less expensive yard.
Drag Queen name of the day: Eunice Ikle
Tuesday, March 27, 2007
Netflix
We joined Netflix a few weeks ago. I'd been wanting to join since last year, but because I knew we'd be moving I decided to wait until we got settled at our new address.
I love the concept: select a bunch of DVDs from their vast library and add them to your queue, arrange the DVDs in the order in which you want to see them, change the order at any time, and Netflix will send you a DVD from your queue each time you send one back. They provide you with return envelopes with prepaid postage so you never have to worry about having stamps. There are no late fees; keep the DVD as long as you want. There are DVDs in every genre you can imagine and the library contains films you can't find at traditional video/DVD rental locations. And unlike Blockbuster, Netflix does not edit the content of the DVDs.
Netflix has a nifty feature that allows you to add 'friends' so you and your 'friends' can see the DVDs in each others' queues, read and post comments about DVDs you've already seen, and make recommendations to each other.
And speaking of recommendations, Netflix has a system by which you can rate films you've already seen, either in the cinema or via rental. Based on the films you rate highly Netflix will offer you recommendations of DVDs to add to your queue. "Since you said you really liked 'Now, Voyager', we recommend 'All About Eve'", since both of those films are classics and both starred Bette Davis. The recommendations will often recommend DVDs with the same actors, the same director, the same genre, and the same topic. The more films you rate, the better the recommendations can be.
Last night I watched 'The Night Listener', based on the book by the same title by my favorite writer Armistead Maupin. I really enjoyed the book; couldn't put it down. I enjoyed the movie too, but as I have found with other books made into movies, the movies just don't capture the depth and richness of the books. And sometimes they change big things for no apparent reason, like in 'The Divine Secrets of the Ya-Ya Sisterhood'. But I still enjoyed 'The Night Listener' and recommend that anyone who sees it also be sure to watch the bonus features.
Last Sat we watched 'The Sandpiper', starring Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton. I really liked it a lot. I thought the concept of Elizabeth Taylor as a single mother who chose not to marry her baby's father to be quite controversial for 1964, the year it was made. The scenery is gorgeous too, filmed on location in Big Sur, CA. I like the fact that Netflix carries classics and older films that pre-date DVD. Most traditional video/DVD rental centers don't do that.
Drag Queen name of the day: Tara Nova
I love the concept: select a bunch of DVDs from their vast library and add them to your queue, arrange the DVDs in the order in which you want to see them, change the order at any time, and Netflix will send you a DVD from your queue each time you send one back. They provide you with return envelopes with prepaid postage so you never have to worry about having stamps. There are no late fees; keep the DVD as long as you want. There are DVDs in every genre you can imagine and the library contains films you can't find at traditional video/DVD rental locations. And unlike Blockbuster, Netflix does not edit the content of the DVDs.
Netflix has a nifty feature that allows you to add 'friends' so you and your 'friends' can see the DVDs in each others' queues, read and post comments about DVDs you've already seen, and make recommendations to each other.
And speaking of recommendations, Netflix has a system by which you can rate films you've already seen, either in the cinema or via rental. Based on the films you rate highly Netflix will offer you recommendations of DVDs to add to your queue. "Since you said you really liked 'Now, Voyager', we recommend 'All About Eve'", since both of those films are classics and both starred Bette Davis. The recommendations will often recommend DVDs with the same actors, the same director, the same genre, and the same topic. The more films you rate, the better the recommendations can be.
Last night I watched 'The Night Listener', based on the book by the same title by my favorite writer Armistead Maupin. I really enjoyed the book; couldn't put it down. I enjoyed the movie too, but as I have found with other books made into movies, the movies just don't capture the depth and richness of the books. And sometimes they change big things for no apparent reason, like in 'The Divine Secrets of the Ya-Ya Sisterhood'. But I still enjoyed 'The Night Listener' and recommend that anyone who sees it also be sure to watch the bonus features.
Last Sat we watched 'The Sandpiper', starring Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton. I really liked it a lot. I thought the concept of Elizabeth Taylor as a single mother who chose not to marry her baby's father to be quite controversial for 1964, the year it was made. The scenery is gorgeous too, filmed on location in Big Sur, CA. I like the fact that Netflix carries classics and older films that pre-date DVD. Most traditional video/DVD rental centers don't do that.
Drag Queen name of the day: Tara Nova
Thursday, March 22, 2007
Outsiders
I’ve heard many gay people express in different ways the common theme of feeling like an outsider.
As teens their puberty often results in feelings of confusion because they are both curious and terrified about showering in the junior high locker room. They wear their towels wrapped tightly around their wastes into the shower. These teens are often disproportionately uncomfortable there when compared to their straight classmates. This leads to feeling like an outsider.
Later when in high school they witness their classmates inviting one another to dances and to the prom. Most young GLBT folks do not have the confidence or the support from their parents to invite a same-sex date to the prom. Doing so would mean outing oneself to the entire student body and most faculty, something that would equally horrify adults twice their age. They either invite a plutonic opposite sex date or, more often, forego the entire experience. Either way they know they are not like the rest, and they continue to feel like an outsider.
Then in college when their peers are dating and having sexual experiences, young gays and lesbians again feel like outsiders because they are often not participating in these activities too, at least not openly.
When the email invitation to the company holiday party arrives many gays and lesbians fantasize about attending with a same-sex date, but few wish to think about the possible career ramifications of doing so. Instead they tell their co-workers they’ve already accepted an invitation for the same date, and then the day after the party they listen over the cubicle to hear who did, said, and wore what.
Later in life when gay people finally find someone with whom they want to share their lives, hopes, and dreams they are again confronted with being different: unable to marry like their straight friends. And when they move into suburban neighborhoods populated mostly with married couples with children, again it is drilled into their heads that they outsiders; different because they don’t have children.
It seems that at almost every milestone in life gays and lesbians are reminded that they just don’t quite fit into their straight surroundings, leaving many to feel like outsiders.
Fortunately most of us learn to adjust. We stop caring so much that we don’t fit in; we embrace our diversity and claim our right to live with our same-sex partner (even if we can’t marry them) in whatever neighborhood we want or can afford. Eventually we may casually out ourselves at work and even take our partner to the company holiday party, if we’re fairly secure in our selves and our jobs. Many gays and lesbians create comfortable lives for themselves and live happily ever after. But do they ever really shake the feeling of being an outsider? I began asking myself this question due to my own recent experiences. But first, a step backward.
In 1993 I visited Rehoboth for the first time. I had just come out and had only been dating my boyfriend for 5 weeks. He and some friends were about to spend a week’s vacation in Rehoboth, and being so absolutely smitten with me, he lamented that we would be apart for an entire week. He arranged for me to catch a ride to Rehoboth with some friends on Friday after work so we could spend the weekend together. Although that weekend is now barely more than a blur in my mind, I knew then and there that Rehoboth was a special place. I knew I’d come back some day.
In 1998 I returned to Rehoboth with my partner Joe and our friends Gene and Tracy. Tracy had a few clients with homes in Rehoboth and they generously allowed him to use them off-season. The 4 of us enjoyed walking on the boardwalk, outlet shopping, and eating in many of the fine Rehoboth restaurants. We saw 2 films at the very 1st annual Rehoboth Beach Independent Film Festival without advance ticket purchase. (You know that doesn’t happen nowadays.) Gene and Tracy spoke of a desire to own a place here, which we completely understood. We returned to Rehoboth several times in the off-season with them.
In 2000 another friend, Susan told us she’d bought a vintage mobile home in Lewes, and invited us to stay there anytime. I knew Lewes was near Rehoboth but had never been there. We stayed in Susan’s ‘little trailer that time forgot’ and fell in love with it. Two years later when she decided to sell it, we bought the little trailer and looked forward to reading Letters from CAMP Rehoboth during our monthly visits to Lewes and Rehoboth. In 2004 we sold the trailer to another couple who equally appreciated its vintage charm, and purchased a townhouse in Lewes, continuing to spend at least one weekend every month there off season, and almost every weekend during season.
It was then that Joe & I began talking about the possibility of living here full-time. We thought of it like the realization of a dream. We love being close to the water, the slightly slower pace of life here, and the charm of Rehoboth and Lewes. But both of us had jobs that tied us to the DC area. What would we do for work here? We loved our house. Would we be able to find something we liked as much here? Could we leave behind all of our friends and family and once again become ‘outsiders’? We pondered these questions for well over a year.
In Feb of 2006 Joe decided to quit his job and try self-employment. Not long after that I learned that my company planned not to renew the lease on the office space that I shared with 2 colleagues. The company was planning to ask us to set up home offices. Suddenly both Joe and I were no longer tied to the DC area. We decided it was the right time, professionally and personally, to make our move. Rather than continue his self-employment, Joe got a good job working for the State of DE and moved into the townhouse in Lewes so he could start his new job. I stayed behind until our house got rented, and then we both moved into a new house in downtown Lewes in January.
So, now here we are: full-time residents who barely know anyone; ‘outsiders’ to the small and close-knit communities of Rehoboth Beach and Lewes. We still read Letters from CAMP Rehoboth religously and dream of the day when we’ll feel like locals who belong here. It’ll just take some time. In the meantime we’re meeting our neighbors, looking to get involved in community activities, and just being open to whatever new and unexpected opportunities we may find. We’re sure that one day we’ll outgrow that curious and frightened 12 year old in the locker room, and eventually become comfortable enough to leave our towel on the bench outside the shower. Outsiders no more.
Drag Queen name of the day: Verna Chelly
As teens their puberty often results in feelings of confusion because they are both curious and terrified about showering in the junior high locker room. They wear their towels wrapped tightly around their wastes into the shower. These teens are often disproportionately uncomfortable there when compared to their straight classmates. This leads to feeling like an outsider.
Later when in high school they witness their classmates inviting one another to dances and to the prom. Most young GLBT folks do not have the confidence or the support from their parents to invite a same-sex date to the prom. Doing so would mean outing oneself to the entire student body and most faculty, something that would equally horrify adults twice their age. They either invite a plutonic opposite sex date or, more often, forego the entire experience. Either way they know they are not like the rest, and they continue to feel like an outsider.
Then in college when their peers are dating and having sexual experiences, young gays and lesbians again feel like outsiders because they are often not participating in these activities too, at least not openly.
When the email invitation to the company holiday party arrives many gays and lesbians fantasize about attending with a same-sex date, but few wish to think about the possible career ramifications of doing so. Instead they tell their co-workers they’ve already accepted an invitation for the same date, and then the day after the party they listen over the cubicle to hear who did, said, and wore what.
Later in life when gay people finally find someone with whom they want to share their lives, hopes, and dreams they are again confronted with being different: unable to marry like their straight friends. And when they move into suburban neighborhoods populated mostly with married couples with children, again it is drilled into their heads that they outsiders; different because they don’t have children.
It seems that at almost every milestone in life gays and lesbians are reminded that they just don’t quite fit into their straight surroundings, leaving many to feel like outsiders.
Fortunately most of us learn to adjust. We stop caring so much that we don’t fit in; we embrace our diversity and claim our right to live with our same-sex partner (even if we can’t marry them) in whatever neighborhood we want or can afford. Eventually we may casually out ourselves at work and even take our partner to the company holiday party, if we’re fairly secure in our selves and our jobs. Many gays and lesbians create comfortable lives for themselves and live happily ever after. But do they ever really shake the feeling of being an outsider? I began asking myself this question due to my own recent experiences. But first, a step backward.
In 1993 I visited Rehoboth for the first time. I had just come out and had only been dating my boyfriend for 5 weeks. He and some friends were about to spend a week’s vacation in Rehoboth, and being so absolutely smitten with me, he lamented that we would be apart for an entire week. He arranged for me to catch a ride to Rehoboth with some friends on Friday after work so we could spend the weekend together. Although that weekend is now barely more than a blur in my mind, I knew then and there that Rehoboth was a special place. I knew I’d come back some day.
In 1998 I returned to Rehoboth with my partner Joe and our friends Gene and Tracy. Tracy had a few clients with homes in Rehoboth and they generously allowed him to use them off-season. The 4 of us enjoyed walking on the boardwalk, outlet shopping, and eating in many of the fine Rehoboth restaurants. We saw 2 films at the very 1st annual Rehoboth Beach Independent Film Festival without advance ticket purchase. (You know that doesn’t happen nowadays.) Gene and Tracy spoke of a desire to own a place here, which we completely understood. We returned to Rehoboth several times in the off-season with them.
In 2000 another friend, Susan told us she’d bought a vintage mobile home in Lewes, and invited us to stay there anytime. I knew Lewes was near Rehoboth but had never been there. We stayed in Susan’s ‘little trailer that time forgot’ and fell in love with it. Two years later when she decided to sell it, we bought the little trailer and looked forward to reading Letters from CAMP Rehoboth during our monthly visits to Lewes and Rehoboth. In 2004 we sold the trailer to another couple who equally appreciated its vintage charm, and purchased a townhouse in Lewes, continuing to spend at least one weekend every month there off season, and almost every weekend during season.
It was then that Joe & I began talking about the possibility of living here full-time. We thought of it like the realization of a dream. We love being close to the water, the slightly slower pace of life here, and the charm of Rehoboth and Lewes. But both of us had jobs that tied us to the DC area. What would we do for work here? We loved our house. Would we be able to find something we liked as much here? Could we leave behind all of our friends and family and once again become ‘outsiders’? We pondered these questions for well over a year.
In Feb of 2006 Joe decided to quit his job and try self-employment. Not long after that I learned that my company planned not to renew the lease on the office space that I shared with 2 colleagues. The company was planning to ask us to set up home offices. Suddenly both Joe and I were no longer tied to the DC area. We decided it was the right time, professionally and personally, to make our move. Rather than continue his self-employment, Joe got a good job working for the State of DE and moved into the townhouse in Lewes so he could start his new job. I stayed behind until our house got rented, and then we both moved into a new house in downtown Lewes in January.
So, now here we are: full-time residents who barely know anyone; ‘outsiders’ to the small and close-knit communities of Rehoboth Beach and Lewes. We still read Letters from CAMP Rehoboth religously and dream of the day when we’ll feel like locals who belong here. It’ll just take some time. In the meantime we’re meeting our neighbors, looking to get involved in community activities, and just being open to whatever new and unexpected opportunities we may find. We’re sure that one day we’ll outgrow that curious and frightened 12 year old in the locker room, and eventually become comfortable enough to leave our towel on the bench outside the shower. Outsiders no more.
Drag Queen name of the day: Verna Chelly
Tuesday, March 20, 2007
Shower Curtain
Thought I'd post a photo of our new shower curtain. It is a fairly heavy fabric; almost upholstery weight, which is surprising since we bought this at an outlet store for $15. The background color is dark brown and the pattern has terra cotta, gold, and lime green. We already have a set of lime green towels and I'm hoping to get a set of terra cotta towels too.
Drag Queen name of the day: Joy N. Hope
Monday, March 19, 2007
Unexpected weekend
Here’s what we had planned for this past weekend:
- Fri evening drive to Springfield, drop off the dog at Joe’s mom’s, drive to Takoma Park for our friend John’s 40th birthday, drive back to Springfield
- Sat morning take Evelyn with us to Kerry & Hugh’s in Manassas for breakfast, followed by watching the St. Patrick’s Day parade, then drive back to Springfield
- Sat evening/night have dinner and visit with Joe’s family
- Sun morning meet Michael & Jamie for breakfast
- Sun afternoon meet Greg & Gerry for lunch
However, things didn’t go as planned. The weather in the DC area and here was crazy. In DC they had rain, sleet, and snow which crippled rush hour traffic. There was a dense fog warning for the Bay Bridge, and a reported 10-mile back-up on the eastbound side. Here in Lewes it had been raining all day and was extremely windy. So we decided not to put ourselves out there in all that mess. We stayed in and planned to leave Sat morning.
After showers, breakfast, etc we left bright and sunny Lewes in the Suburban. About 10 miles up the road we began noticing an unusual sound coming from the engine. About 5 miles later it seemed to be getting louder. After a short discussion we decided to return home. The noise got louder as we drove back to Lewes, so we felt justified (instead of like sissies) for returning home. We thought about switching to one of the other cars, but realized Joe’s car has an expired Jan VA state inspection sticker on it. (We’ve not yet switched our driver’s licenses and vehicle registrations over to DE.) The passenger side door of my car needs to be fixed and can not be opened at this time. So despite having 3 vehicles, none of them were in suitable condition for the trip. So we called everyone with whom we had plans and cancelled.
Determined not to waste the weekend, we decided to do a little shopping. We returned a small product at Lowes and did some price comparing. Then we bought a new shower curtain for our bathroom at Springmaid Wamsutta (I love that store), had lunch at Mr. P’s, and then went grocery shopping.
After putting away the groceries Joe watched a little TV and I started hanging pictures. I hung 3 prints in the TV room, 3 pieces of original art in one of the guest bedrooms, and 3 more in the hallway outside of our bedroom.
Then I ironed the pillow cases and the lace top of the sheet for the top floor bedroom, and Joe helped me put the new bed skirt on, and make the bed with the new, freshly washed and ironed sheets. The guest bedroom looks great!
Sun morning we decided to hang the large mirror and 4 pictures in the living room. Due to the size and weight of these, we needed to drill pilot holes, sink plastic anchors, and screw in screws in order to hand them. Of course, all of that was after lots of careful measuring to ensure the mirror and pictures on the same wall were exactly the same height and distance from each other. Next we moved another mirror onto the mantel and accessorized with candles and framed photos. Then we hung 2 small pictures in the powder room; piece of cake. Then we hung 2 pictures and a clock in the breakfast room. Then I hung a key ring holder on the wall near the front door. Then to wrap up our day of productivity, we took the ‘extra’ TV and TV stand (previously used at the beach house) up to the attic along with 2 boxes of stuff, and put away some recent paperwork, mail and CDs.
It may seem repetitious that I keep documenting all of our unpacking, organizing, and decorating, but it makes me feel good to write and review all that we are accomplishing, and lessened some of the disappointment about our foiled weekend plans. Although I love organizing and decorating, most of the time I would prefer to be with family and friends... or watch a movie or surf the internet!)
Drag Queen name of the day: Sharon Aride
Friday, March 16, 2007
Richmond
On Mon I had to go to Richmond for a sales meeting and training. Previous posts are sufficient to describe my lack of enthusiasm for these trips, but just in case you've forgotten, I really don't like them. But for some reason, this trip was different.
I arrived Mon at 6:30 and planned to spend the rest of the evening in my room. The other team members usually go out and drink in a smokey bar. But as I was about to get onto the elevator I ran into my boss who instructed me to meet everyone in the lobby at 7:30 to carpool to a restaurant for a team dinner. I did, and on the way to the restaurant one of my team members said "So, you heard the CEO got canned, right?"
"Are you kidding?" I replied in genuine shock. As it turns out, part of the reason for this sales meeting and training was to announce that the Board had relieved the CEO, and to give us a chance to meet the new acting CEO (an executive consultant). At dinner my boss told everyone about this and suggested we think about any questions we wanted to ask at the next day's meeting. But more surprises were in store.
After Tuesday's formal announcement of the sacked CEO and the introduction of the new acting CEO, we found out that the sales team structure was also changing. No one was loosing their jobs; their products and sales areas were changing. My duties, products and sales areas did not change so this part was not nearly as dramatic for me as it was for others. They were all given a choice between 2 products and sales areas, along with 24 hours to report their decision. It was also announced that additional sales positions would be filled as soon as possible.
Later that evening the team once again went out for drinks and dinner. I thought I would stay a respectable amount of time and then head back to my room but I wound up staying out with the team longer than I expected. I was actually having a good time! I'm not sure if it was because we'd all been through such a wild day, or if it was because I finally let my guard down and just went with the flow. Or maybe, it was because the former CEO wasn't there.
On Wednesday we all met one at a time with my boss and his boss to discuss our goals and comfort level with all the changes, then worked the rest of the day from that office on our 'regular' activities. I got permission to leave at 3:30 since I had a 5 hour drive to make.
Wednesday's weather was incredible. In Richmond it was 80 degrees - outrageous for March 14. I put the top down on my car and drove all the way home that way. It was glorious! I didn't run into too much bad traffic and actually made it home in less than 5 hours.
Drag Queen name of the day: Tara Wrist
I arrived Mon at 6:30 and planned to spend the rest of the evening in my room. The other team members usually go out and drink in a smokey bar. But as I was about to get onto the elevator I ran into my boss who instructed me to meet everyone in the lobby at 7:30 to carpool to a restaurant for a team dinner. I did, and on the way to the restaurant one of my team members said "So, you heard the CEO got canned, right?"
"Are you kidding?" I replied in genuine shock. As it turns out, part of the reason for this sales meeting and training was to announce that the Board had relieved the CEO, and to give us a chance to meet the new acting CEO (an executive consultant). At dinner my boss told everyone about this and suggested we think about any questions we wanted to ask at the next day's meeting. But more surprises were in store.
After Tuesday's formal announcement of the sacked CEO and the introduction of the new acting CEO, we found out that the sales team structure was also changing. No one was loosing their jobs; their products and sales areas were changing. My duties, products and sales areas did not change so this part was not nearly as dramatic for me as it was for others. They were all given a choice between 2 products and sales areas, along with 24 hours to report their decision. It was also announced that additional sales positions would be filled as soon as possible.
Later that evening the team once again went out for drinks and dinner. I thought I would stay a respectable amount of time and then head back to my room but I wound up staying out with the team longer than I expected. I was actually having a good time! I'm not sure if it was because we'd all been through such a wild day, or if it was because I finally let my guard down and just went with the flow. Or maybe, it was because the former CEO wasn't there.
On Wednesday we all met one at a time with my boss and his boss to discuss our goals and comfort level with all the changes, then worked the rest of the day from that office on our 'regular' activities. I got permission to leave at 3:30 since I had a 5 hour drive to make.
Wednesday's weather was incredible. In Richmond it was 80 degrees - outrageous for March 14. I put the top down on my car and drove all the way home that way. It was glorious! I didn't run into too much bad traffic and actually made it home in less than 5 hours.
Drag Queen name of the day: Tara Wrist
Monday, March 12, 2007
Bubble glass
Kerry & Hugh planned to visit relatives in our neck of the woods this past weekend so we made plans for them to stop in and visit us, too.
We'd seen Kerry's application of 'bubble glass' film to the bathroom window in their new addition and thought it would be the perfect solution for us, too. I asked Kerry to bring some bubble glass film with her so we could apply it during their visit.
Since we had limited time I watched, listened, and learned while Kerry did the actual application. She measured the glass to be covered, cut the bubble film slightly larger than the measurements, sprayed the window and the film with water, applied the film, smoothed out the air pockets, and then trimmed the edges to fit. She applied the bubble film to 6 of our windows and I absolutely LOVE it! The top sashes are divided into 6 panes and all of them are unchanged. The lower sashes are are not divided at all - just one large pane - and that is what got the bubble film. We did the window in our bathroom, the windows on the main floor bathrooms, and the hallway windows (which face the bedroom doors).
The bubble film looks completely authentic, like the old bubble glass from the early 1900s. Since our house is a reproduction Victorian, it is really enhanced by the bubble glass look. But what I like the most is that you still get all the natural light of the window but people can't see in. I don't want curtains and blinds on every window, but Joe insists on lots of privacy so this is the perfect compromise. And even better, you can't tell from the outside that the bubble film has been applied unless the sun is shining directly on the window. (The screens partially obscure the view.) So from the outside its difficult to see which windows have been 'bubbled' and which have not. I couldn't be happier with this!
I love it when a plan comes together.
Drag Queen name of the day: Sally Putty
We'd seen Kerry's application of 'bubble glass' film to the bathroom window in their new addition and thought it would be the perfect solution for us, too. I asked Kerry to bring some bubble glass film with her so we could apply it during their visit.
Since we had limited time I watched, listened, and learned while Kerry did the actual application. She measured the glass to be covered, cut the bubble film slightly larger than the measurements, sprayed the window and the film with water, applied the film, smoothed out the air pockets, and then trimmed the edges to fit. She applied the bubble film to 6 of our windows and I absolutely LOVE it! The top sashes are divided into 6 panes and all of them are unchanged. The lower sashes are are not divided at all - just one large pane - and that is what got the bubble film. We did the window in our bathroom, the windows on the main floor bathrooms, and the hallway windows (which face the bedroom doors).
The bubble film looks completely authentic, like the old bubble glass from the early 1900s. Since our house is a reproduction Victorian, it is really enhanced by the bubble glass look. But what I like the most is that you still get all the natural light of the window but people can't see in. I don't want curtains and blinds on every window, but Joe insists on lots of privacy so this is the perfect compromise. And even better, you can't tell from the outside that the bubble film has been applied unless the sun is shining directly on the window. (The screens partially obscure the view.) So from the outside its difficult to see which windows have been 'bubbled' and which have not. I couldn't be happier with this!
I love it when a plan comes together.
Drag Queen name of the day: Sally Putty
Friday, March 09, 2007
Frozen drips
Today the sun is out in full force, so the snow is melting from the various roof lines of our house. Since our house is a Victorian it doesn't have gutters. Since there are no gutters the melted snow drips off the porch roof into the planting beds. Apparently the air temperature is still cold enough to cause the melted snow to freeze. These bushes looked pretty cool with their frozen drips so I thought I'd post them.
Drag Queen name of the day: Lynn Gweeney
Wednesday, March 07, 2007
Snow
It is snowing today. Its quite beautiful. The snow began at about 8:00 this morning. There have been times when its been light with small flakes, and other times when its been heavy with large flakes. This is our house covered in snow. They're calling for 3-5 inches.
Drag Queen name of the day: Faith N. Charity
Tuesday, March 06, 2007
Back to DC
We had a great weekend back in DC.
We left Lewes at 5:00 and arrived at Joe's mom's at 7:30. We said hello, got the dog situated, and then met our friends Bugsy & Roger at the Taco House. We had a great meal (as usual) and got caught up with them. They are preparing to go on a cruise to Hawaii! I'm so jealous. I've wanted to go to Hawaii ever since I was a kid when my dad got to go for a business trip and my mom tagged along. Bugsy & Roger are coming to visit sometime after they return from their trip so we can see their photos and hear about all their adventures.
Sat morning Joe & I had coffee and visited with Joe's mom and brother Frank. Frank told us about his new job, and Evelyn told us about her plans to take a cruise to Bermuda in June. After showering we left to meet our friends Clara and Susan for lunch in Fairfax.
Susan, Clara, and I all worked for the same company years ago and although we've all moved on we still stay in touch. Wed was Clara's birthday and since she just announced she was pregnant we decided to meet for lunch. We had a great time talking, laughing, and eating. They are great friends. We were there for 3 1/2 hours!
On the way back to Springfield we stopped in Tyson's at my aunt Mary's. She gave us an English tea cart and a set of 3 nesting tables that had belonged to her and my grandmother. Mary is wanting to change her decorating style to something more contemporary so was looking to rid herself of these more traditional items. Since our living room has an eclectic design I thought they would fit in well. We had a nice little visit with Mary and then loaded the furniture into the Suburban. Mary came with us back to Evelyn's and the 4 of us went to dinner.
After dinner I dropped Joe & Evelyn off at the house, took Mary back to her place, and then headed to Freddie's to meet up with a few friends. It was karoke night so I was looking forward to singing. It was very crowded and there were lots of singers so even though I was there for 2 hours I only got to sing once. It was fun to see my friends though. While there I recognized a guy I hadn't seen in about 14 years. Oddly enough his name popped right into my head so I approached him to confirm it was him. He was surprised I remembered his name and apologized for not remembering mine. Chris and I met at the Prince William County Gay & Lesbian Association in the spring of 1993. Chris was the president/organizer of the group and I began attending some of the social events prior to 'coming out'. I gave him my email address and hope he'll stay in touch.
Sun morning Evelyn, Joe & I went to Kerry & Hugh's for breakfast and to visit. Kelly, George, and Ana and her family were there as well. We had a great time talking, laughing, and eating. (Sounds familiar...) We got back to Evelyn's around 1:00 and tried to get in touch with Joe's sister Mary. Sat night she had said she'd hook up with us after we returned from breakfast. But since her phone was busy for quite a while we decided to pack up and go home. We left at 2:00 and got home at 4:30.
After unloading the furniture from the Suburban Joe put a load of laundry in the washer and we went to the grocery store to do our weekly shopping. We had dinner at home and watched TV. We went to bed shortly after 10 but I couldn't sleep so I got up at 11:15 and watched more TV. I went back to bed at 12:30.
Drag Queen name of the day: Stella Doro
We left Lewes at 5:00 and arrived at Joe's mom's at 7:30. We said hello, got the dog situated, and then met our friends Bugsy & Roger at the Taco House. We had a great meal (as usual) and got caught up with them. They are preparing to go on a cruise to Hawaii! I'm so jealous. I've wanted to go to Hawaii ever since I was a kid when my dad got to go for a business trip and my mom tagged along. Bugsy & Roger are coming to visit sometime after they return from their trip so we can see their photos and hear about all their adventures.
Sat morning Joe & I had coffee and visited with Joe's mom and brother Frank. Frank told us about his new job, and Evelyn told us about her plans to take a cruise to Bermuda in June. After showering we left to meet our friends Clara and Susan for lunch in Fairfax.
Susan, Clara, and I all worked for the same company years ago and although we've all moved on we still stay in touch. Wed was Clara's birthday and since she just announced she was pregnant we decided to meet for lunch. We had a great time talking, laughing, and eating. They are great friends. We were there for 3 1/2 hours!
On the way back to Springfield we stopped in Tyson's at my aunt Mary's. She gave us an English tea cart and a set of 3 nesting tables that had belonged to her and my grandmother. Mary is wanting to change her decorating style to something more contemporary so was looking to rid herself of these more traditional items. Since our living room has an eclectic design I thought they would fit in well. We had a nice little visit with Mary and then loaded the furniture into the Suburban. Mary came with us back to Evelyn's and the 4 of us went to dinner.
After dinner I dropped Joe & Evelyn off at the house, took Mary back to her place, and then headed to Freddie's to meet up with a few friends. It was karoke night so I was looking forward to singing. It was very crowded and there were lots of singers so even though I was there for 2 hours I only got to sing once. It was fun to see my friends though. While there I recognized a guy I hadn't seen in about 14 years. Oddly enough his name popped right into my head so I approached him to confirm it was him. He was surprised I remembered his name and apologized for not remembering mine. Chris and I met at the Prince William County Gay & Lesbian Association in the spring of 1993. Chris was the president/organizer of the group and I began attending some of the social events prior to 'coming out'. I gave him my email address and hope he'll stay in touch.
Sun morning Evelyn, Joe & I went to Kerry & Hugh's for breakfast and to visit. Kelly, George, and Ana and her family were there as well. We had a great time talking, laughing, and eating. (Sounds familiar...) We got back to Evelyn's around 1:00 and tried to get in touch with Joe's sister Mary. Sat night she had said she'd hook up with us after we returned from breakfast. But since her phone was busy for quite a while we decided to pack up and go home. We left at 2:00 and got home at 4:30.
After unloading the furniture from the Suburban Joe put a load of laundry in the washer and we went to the grocery store to do our weekly shopping. We had dinner at home and watched TV. We went to bed shortly after 10 but I couldn't sleep so I got up at 11:15 and watched more TV. I went back to bed at 12:30.
Drag Queen name of the day: Stella Doro
Friday, March 02, 2007
Crazy weather
Last night it got very windy and rainy. I assumed it was getting colder. Yet this morning when I took the dog outside I was shocked by how warm it was. Crazy warm.
Later in the morning I looked outside and saw several birds taking a bath in a puddle of water in the street. It was so cute, I thought of taking a picture. But I wasn't sure where the camera was, and was fairly certain the birds would be finished their bath by the time I returned with the camera. But it was a cute sight to behold.
A few minutes ago I checked the weather website to find it is 60 degrees outside. March 2 and 60 degrees. But lest we get our hopes up for an early spring, the forecast for the next 5 days includes temperatures back in the normal 30s and 40s.
We're leaving in about 1/2 an hour for a weekend visit in VA.
Drag Queen name of the day: Tara Dactile
Later in the morning I looked outside and saw several birds taking a bath in a puddle of water in the street. It was so cute, I thought of taking a picture. But I wasn't sure where the camera was, and was fairly certain the birds would be finished their bath by the time I returned with the camera. But it was a cute sight to behold.
A few minutes ago I checked the weather website to find it is 60 degrees outside. March 2 and 60 degrees. But lest we get our hopes up for an early spring, the forecast for the next 5 days includes temperatures back in the normal 30s and 40s.
We're leaving in about 1/2 an hour for a weekend visit in VA.
Drag Queen name of the day: Tara Dactile
Thursday, March 01, 2007
Donations
As I've shared earlier, prior to moving from our VA home we donated clothing and household items to Goodwill. I also like donating to Value Village because they will pick up the donations from your front porch.
When we were moving our stuff from the beach house to our new house we literally did not have time to sort the stuff to be donated. Everything had to be moved out of the beach house right away so it could be cleaned and made ready for its tenants. So as we've been unpacking and getting organized we've come across some furniture and other items we don't need or want. At first Joe's brother said he wanted everything, so we stacked it in a corner of the living room and waited for him to pick it up. Long story short: a month has passed and he's not called or come to pick up the stuff so I decided to donate it.
GoodWill, Salvation Army, Value Village - they're all great organization. But this time I asked local folks where I might donate items so that they go directly to people in need. Our former neighbor at the beach house is a minister and she said she would check to see if anyone she knew was in need. Another friend suggested SCAC (Sussex County AIDS Committee). They have a team of case managers who can assess the needs of their clients and put donors in touch with clients in need, so I called them too.
I'm happy to say that a dinette table and 4 chairs, a coffee table and matching end table were picked up by an SCAC referral on Wed, and a sofa, chair, and 2 twin headboards will be picked up on Mon evening by the minister's referral. Stuff in good condition that I don't need going to people who are in need. I think that's the way its supposed to work.
Drag Queen name of the day: Katie Didd
When we were moving our stuff from the beach house to our new house we literally did not have time to sort the stuff to be donated. Everything had to be moved out of the beach house right away so it could be cleaned and made ready for its tenants. So as we've been unpacking and getting organized we've come across some furniture and other items we don't need or want. At first Joe's brother said he wanted everything, so we stacked it in a corner of the living room and waited for him to pick it up. Long story short: a month has passed and he's not called or come to pick up the stuff so I decided to donate it.
GoodWill, Salvation Army, Value Village - they're all great organization. But this time I asked local folks where I might donate items so that they go directly to people in need. Our former neighbor at the beach house is a minister and she said she would check to see if anyone she knew was in need. Another friend suggested SCAC (Sussex County AIDS Committee). They have a team of case managers who can assess the needs of their clients and put donors in touch with clients in need, so I called them too.
I'm happy to say that a dinette table and 4 chairs, a coffee table and matching end table were picked up by an SCAC referral on Wed, and a sofa, chair, and 2 twin headboards will be picked up on Mon evening by the minister's referral. Stuff in good condition that I don't need going to people who are in need. I think that's the way its supposed to work.
Drag Queen name of the day: Katie Didd
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