5.31.2006
My Syc sense tells me that...
...the US and Iran are already holding talks between low- or mid-level officials. We're scared as fuck of Iran causing more terrorism or actually being close to getting a bomb, probably through North Korea or disgruntled Russian scientists. And Iran is scared as fuck of us sending our troops over there when they're done in Iraq...or the US and/or Israel wiping them off the face of the earth. (Of course, the Israelis have to be involved...everyone in the Middle East is scared of them, no matter how cocky those countries act.)
The saber-rattling is cute though, isn't it? It makes Ahmedinejad look like a bad ass to the Iranians. And it takes the immigration heat off the Bush administration for a minute.
Of course, I could be wrong...both sides could be thinking, "What the fuck are they thinking?!" Maybe Condi wants a real Persian rug. Maybe Mahmoud wants a real Whopper.
Maybe they want me to help them figure things out...I'm more than willing to offer my services for the right price: $50,000 and 1000 Breakfast Jacks from Jack in the Box. Oh...and a case of Hoegaarden.
The saber-rattling is cute though, isn't it? It makes Ahmedinejad look like a bad ass to the Iranians. And it takes the immigration heat off the Bush administration for a minute.
Of course, I could be wrong...both sides could be thinking, "What the fuck are they thinking?!" Maybe Condi wants a real Persian rug. Maybe Mahmoud wants a real Whopper.
Maybe they want me to help them figure things out...I'm more than willing to offer my services for the right price: $50,000 and 1000 Breakfast Jacks from Jack in the Box. Oh...and a case of Hoegaarden.
5.30.2006
So Syc, how's the ol’ ticker doin'?
Apparently good, thank you!
Back in March, I got my yearly ultrasound done…no change. Refraction rate (the rate at which blood flows through the heart) was at 30-35%...normal is 55%. Last year, it was at 36%.
Unfortunately, my cholesterol and weight were up at the time. I gained back the weight I lost last spring and a bit extra. I let myself go to hell somewhat after coming home…something I’m not proud of. When my doctor first discovered my heart problem 2 years ago, I quit smoking right away. Why am I having such a hard time controlling my food intake and quality?
I think I’ve finally got a handle on both though. One day last month, I forced myself to eat slower...and my body seems to be finally hooked on it. And I’ve been eating a lot better: more vegetables, more quality food in general, and adding unsweetened green tea to my diet.
And I finally started using my CPAP machine for my sleep apnea last month. I got it in January 2005, but the doctor and the supply company argued over the type of mask I needed…by the time the mask finally arrived, it was less than a week before my move back to St. Louis. I still get incredibly tired a lot (probably due to the underwhelming nature of my job), but I feel a lot better when I wake up in the morning, even if I get less than 6 hours of sleep. Now I just need to stick to a normal wake up/sleep routine.
Last week, I strained the left side of my upper body for the 9000th time since all this shit started with my heart. I went to my cardiologist (who I started seeing in April after being incredibly disappointed with my first one here in St. Louis), who decided to do some blood work and another ultrasound to rule out potential failure. The blood work came back clean, but the ultrasound was even better than expected: my refraction rate is now in the 40s. That rocks!
I had some blood work done last month that should be back anytime now. What exactly it was, I dunno…I believe it was called a lipid panel…something that will give a more comprehensive look at my cholesterol (which was 224 in March). I suspect that it has gone down to the low 200s again, thanks to a small dose of Zocor and better diet and exercise.
I’ve got to be consistent though, otherwise I’ll never get better. Almost everything in my life is going incredibly well right now, and I’m not about to piss it all away.
Back in March, I got my yearly ultrasound done…no change. Refraction rate (the rate at which blood flows through the heart) was at 30-35%...normal is 55%. Last year, it was at 36%.
Unfortunately, my cholesterol and weight were up at the time. I gained back the weight I lost last spring and a bit extra. I let myself go to hell somewhat after coming home…something I’m not proud of. When my doctor first discovered my heart problem 2 years ago, I quit smoking right away. Why am I having such a hard time controlling my food intake and quality?
I think I’ve finally got a handle on both though. One day last month, I forced myself to eat slower...and my body seems to be finally hooked on it. And I’ve been eating a lot better: more vegetables, more quality food in general, and adding unsweetened green tea to my diet.
And I finally started using my CPAP machine for my sleep apnea last month. I got it in January 2005, but the doctor and the supply company argued over the type of mask I needed…by the time the mask finally arrived, it was less than a week before my move back to St. Louis. I still get incredibly tired a lot (probably due to the underwhelming nature of my job), but I feel a lot better when I wake up in the morning, even if I get less than 6 hours of sleep. Now I just need to stick to a normal wake up/sleep routine.
Last week, I strained the left side of my upper body for the 9000th time since all this shit started with my heart. I went to my cardiologist (who I started seeing in April after being incredibly disappointed with my first one here in St. Louis), who decided to do some blood work and another ultrasound to rule out potential failure. The blood work came back clean, but the ultrasound was even better than expected: my refraction rate is now in the 40s. That rocks!
I had some blood work done last month that should be back anytime now. What exactly it was, I dunno…I believe it was called a lipid panel…something that will give a more comprehensive look at my cholesterol (which was 224 in March). I suspect that it has gone down to the low 200s again, thanks to a small dose of Zocor and better diet and exercise.
I’ve got to be consistent though, otherwise I’ll never get better. Almost everything in my life is going incredibly well right now, and I’m not about to piss it all away.
5.29.2006
Freedom Isn't Free
What would you do
If you were asked to give up your dreams for freedom
What would you do
If asked to make the ultimate sacrifice
Would you think about all them people
Who gave up everything they had.
Would you think about all them War Vets
And would you start to feel bad
Freedom isn't free
It costs folks like you and me
And if we don't all chip in
We'll never pay that bill
Freedom isn't free
No, there's a hefty fuckin' fee.
And if you don't throw in your buck 'o five
Who will?
What would you do
If someone told you to fight for freedom.
Would you answer the call
Or run away like a little pussy
'Cause the only reason that you're here.
Is 'cause folks died for you in the past
So maybe now it's your turn
To die kicking some ass
Freedom isn't free
It costs folks like you and me
And if we don't all chip in
We'll never pay that bill
Freedom isn't free
Now there's a have to hook'in fee
And if you don't throw in your buck 'o five
Who will?
You don't throw in your buck 'o five. Who will?
Oooh buck 'o five
Freedom costs a buck 'o five
written by Trey Parker
If you were asked to give up your dreams for freedom
What would you do
If asked to make the ultimate sacrifice
Would you think about all them people
Who gave up everything they had.
Would you think about all them War Vets
And would you start to feel bad
Freedom isn't free
It costs folks like you and me
And if we don't all chip in
We'll never pay that bill
Freedom isn't free
No, there's a hefty fuckin' fee.
And if you don't throw in your buck 'o five
Who will?
What would you do
If someone told you to fight for freedom.
Would you answer the call
Or run away like a little pussy
'Cause the only reason that you're here.
Is 'cause folks died for you in the past
So maybe now it's your turn
To die kicking some ass
Freedom isn't free
It costs folks like you and me
And if we don't all chip in
We'll never pay that bill
Freedom isn't free
Now there's a have to hook'in fee
And if you don't throw in your buck 'o five
Who will?
You don't throw in your buck 'o five. Who will?
Oooh buck 'o five
Freedom costs a buck 'o five
written by Trey Parker
5.28.2006
Another trip to the hospital...
...but it didn't involve me.
(Incidentally, my vitals have substantially improved since March. I just had an ultrasound on my heart last week and the results were surprising. But that's another Manifesto for another day...like tomorrow.)
Last night, April and I were relaxing downstairs and had just finished off a bottle of wine when my aunt (my mom's oldest sister called).
She had fallen...again.
This happens regularly these days. My aunt's nerves in her lower legs and feet are damaged due to years of taking medicine for her epilepsy. As a result, she has difficulty walking and stumbles and falls frequently. In addition, she has severe osteoporosis. She owns a walker and is supposed to use it. Most of the time she does, but she can be incredibly stubborn. She probably should have started using a walker or a wheelchair 15 years ago, but has only used a walker regularly for a couple of years.
Last night, she was walking towards the bathroom--without her walker--and her left leg gave way. She was diagnosed with a spiral fracture from her ankle up towards her knee. It was a clean break, though, and no surgery will be required. The hospital was supposed to set her leg and put it in a cast this afternoon. She'll probably be released from the hospital tomorrow.
But to where? She may need to go to a skilled care facility for physical therapy. At the minimum, she'll be staying with another of my aunts for a while. But her doctor said something that I already told my mom this morning: She shouldn't live on her own anymore.
This is the 3rd time I've taken my aunt (who has no children...Tim and I are closest to her) to the ER since I moved home last June. April, my aunt R and I were with her until almost 2 this morning. They had to transfer her from her regular hospital to another hospital because her regular hospital doesn't have an orthopedic department anymore. She lives in a senior citizens and disabled apartment building, but nursing care or assisted living isn't available. My mom's youngest sibling is 65, and with my stepdad's increasingly poor health, the burden should not (and will not) fall on her. None of us could offer her the type of care that she really needs.
She's incredibly stubborn, though. She refused to hear of assisted care for my grandmother when she was dying...and that was a grueling 5-month process. It took us until 2 years ago to convince her to quit driving and use a walker. She's a very proud woman who feels like she's 18...but her body says otherwise.
We were worried that she would decline when she moved to the senior apartments in 1998, but she thrived there until a few years ago. New management took over, and many Bosnians began moving into the building. In addition, many of my aunt's friends have died or moved to other facilities. An assisted living facility could plunge her further into oblivion, but a good staff could really inspire her and help her thrive. April's mom is going to help us in our search...she worked for one of the area's biggest nursing care providers for many years.
When the doctor gently mentioned the cold reality this afternoon, my aunt immediately protested. It's going to be tough...but I told my mom that her and her siblings are going to have to put the screws to my aunt, no matter how much she protests and no matter how difficult it may be. Because the next time, it could be her hip. Or she could knock herself unconscious. Or kill herself.
(Incidentally, my vitals have substantially improved since March. I just had an ultrasound on my heart last week and the results were surprising. But that's another Manifesto for another day...like tomorrow.)
Last night, April and I were relaxing downstairs and had just finished off a bottle of wine when my aunt (my mom's oldest sister called).
She had fallen...again.
This happens regularly these days. My aunt's nerves in her lower legs and feet are damaged due to years of taking medicine for her epilepsy. As a result, she has difficulty walking and stumbles and falls frequently. In addition, she has severe osteoporosis. She owns a walker and is supposed to use it. Most of the time she does, but she can be incredibly stubborn. She probably should have started using a walker or a wheelchair 15 years ago, but has only used a walker regularly for a couple of years.
Last night, she was walking towards the bathroom--without her walker--and her left leg gave way. She was diagnosed with a spiral fracture from her ankle up towards her knee. It was a clean break, though, and no surgery will be required. The hospital was supposed to set her leg and put it in a cast this afternoon. She'll probably be released from the hospital tomorrow.
But to where? She may need to go to a skilled care facility for physical therapy. At the minimum, she'll be staying with another of my aunts for a while. But her doctor said something that I already told my mom this morning: She shouldn't live on her own anymore.
This is the 3rd time I've taken my aunt (who has no children...Tim and I are closest to her) to the ER since I moved home last June. April, my aunt R and I were with her until almost 2 this morning. They had to transfer her from her regular hospital to another hospital because her regular hospital doesn't have an orthopedic department anymore. She lives in a senior citizens and disabled apartment building, but nursing care or assisted living isn't available. My mom's youngest sibling is 65, and with my stepdad's increasingly poor health, the burden should not (and will not) fall on her. None of us could offer her the type of care that she really needs.
She's incredibly stubborn, though. She refused to hear of assisted care for my grandmother when she was dying...and that was a grueling 5-month process. It took us until 2 years ago to convince her to quit driving and use a walker. She's a very proud woman who feels like she's 18...but her body says otherwise.
We were worried that she would decline when she moved to the senior apartments in 1998, but she thrived there until a few years ago. New management took over, and many Bosnians began moving into the building. In addition, many of my aunt's friends have died or moved to other facilities. An assisted living facility could plunge her further into oblivion, but a good staff could really inspire her and help her thrive. April's mom is going to help us in our search...she worked for one of the area's biggest nursing care providers for many years.
When the doctor gently mentioned the cold reality this afternoon, my aunt immediately protested. It's going to be tough...but I told my mom that her and her siblings are going to have to put the screws to my aunt, no matter how much she protests and no matter how difficult it may be. Because the next time, it could be her hip. Or she could knock herself unconscious. Or kill herself.
5.27.2006
I have been to the promised land.
Wolf has the keys today.
And I didn't go overboard. I didn't really. I didn't overspend terribly, although the opportunity certainly presented itself.
I have the most stylish of fashion accessories, some of which came from the most wonderous of places, the 50% off shelving unit!
And I didn't go overboard. I didn't really. I didn't overspend terribly, although the opportunity certainly presented itself.
I have the most stylish of fashion accessories, some of which came from the most wonderous of places, the 50% off shelving unit!
5.26.2006
If you don't leave a message...
...then you haven't called.
It used to irritate me when people would hang up on my answering machine. I realize that some folks are uncomfortable with them, but it's just not that hard to leave a message: "Hi Terry, I was just calling to say hello. Call me back when you get a chance. Talk to you later."
Look how simple that is! And it's simple to say, too...even if you're a stammerer.
Now that many folks have caller ID, folks that don't leave messages feel justified in not doing so. "Well, they have caller ID, so they'll know I called."
Maybe that works with some folks...but not with me.
Not that you necessarily need a reason to call me, but generally, if you do call me, it's for a reason: to ask me a question, to catch up, etc. If you need a favor from me, it might help your case if you let me know on my voice mail. I don't like having things like that sprung up on me...I think it's rude. Not to mention, you're wasting time. Maybe I need to look at my calendar, and I can't at the moment. So, I have to tell you this, and then call you back...or you have to call me back. If you had just left me a message beforehand, I could have looked at my calendar, then called you back and said yea or nay.
So please...if you call me and I don't answer, just leave a message. I'll probably want to talk to you. But if you don't leave a message, chances are, I won't want to.
It used to irritate me when people would hang up on my answering machine. I realize that some folks are uncomfortable with them, but it's just not that hard to leave a message: "Hi Terry, I was just calling to say hello. Call me back when you get a chance. Talk to you later."
Look how simple that is! And it's simple to say, too...even if you're a stammerer.
Now that many folks have caller ID, folks that don't leave messages feel justified in not doing so. "Well, they have caller ID, so they'll know I called."
Maybe that works with some folks...but not with me.
Not that you necessarily need a reason to call me, but generally, if you do call me, it's for a reason: to ask me a question, to catch up, etc. If you need a favor from me, it might help your case if you let me know on my voice mail. I don't like having things like that sprung up on me...I think it's rude. Not to mention, you're wasting time. Maybe I need to look at my calendar, and I can't at the moment. So, I have to tell you this, and then call you back...or you have to call me back. If you had just left me a message beforehand, I could have looked at my calendar, then called you back and said yea or nay.
So please...if you call me and I don't answer, just leave a message. I'll probably want to talk to you. But if you don't leave a message, chances are, I won't want to.
5.25.2006
The most confused souls out there are...
...apparently the folks in Hamas, the organization that now runs the Palestinian government, and is considered a terrorist organization by the US and the EU. I offer the following as proof...from the BBC:
Hamas does not recognise Israel, and officially calls for an Islamic state in Israel, the West Bank and Gaza.
However, Hamas' Ismail Haniya, the Palestinian prime minister, has said recently that Hamas would observe a long-term ceasefire if Israel withdrew to its pre-1967 borders.
I can understand why Palestinians voted for Hamas. They were tired of Arafat and Fatah. They wanted change, and Hamas has done a lot of good work in Palestine. But do you ever think this crossed their minds? "Well, if we vote for Hamas, we're totally fucked." It probably did...but again, they wanted change and Hamas was an appealing alternative.
Given that the taps to the Palestinian Authority have essentially been shut off due to Hamas' election win, for them to remain so steadfastly against Israel is futile. Though it may harden the resolve of many voters, I think eventually, the Palestinians will realize that all their major achievements of the past 12 years have come as a result of being peaceful. I think Hamas will eventually realize this, too--though they'll try and come up with some face-saving plan that keeps their cred intact.
The Palestinians deserve peace. The Israelis deserve peace. And the rest of us deserve a break from hearing about the daily BS going on over there.
Hamas does not recognise Israel, and officially calls for an Islamic state in Israel, the West Bank and Gaza.
However, Hamas' Ismail Haniya, the Palestinian prime minister, has said recently that Hamas would observe a long-term ceasefire if Israel withdrew to its pre-1967 borders.
I can understand why Palestinians voted for Hamas. They were tired of Arafat and Fatah. They wanted change, and Hamas has done a lot of good work in Palestine. But do you ever think this crossed their minds? "Well, if we vote for Hamas, we're totally fucked." It probably did...but again, they wanted change and Hamas was an appealing alternative.
Given that the taps to the Palestinian Authority have essentially been shut off due to Hamas' election win, for them to remain so steadfastly against Israel is futile. Though it may harden the resolve of many voters, I think eventually, the Palestinians will realize that all their major achievements of the past 12 years have come as a result of being peaceful. I think Hamas will eventually realize this, too--though they'll try and come up with some face-saving plan that keeps their cred intact.
The Palestinians deserve peace. The Israelis deserve peace. And the rest of us deserve a break from hearing about the daily BS going on over there.
5.24.2006
The "assault" on Christianity
Mark Belling was hosting Rush's show yesterday, and he was lamenting how most Christians were apparently not outraged over "The Da Vinci Code." He felt that it was an assault on Christianity and was concerned that people would believe the principles in the movie.
First off, the movie is fiction. People can read into it whatever they want, but the book and movie have never been promoted as anything more than fiction.
Secondly--and this is where the outrage will begin in some circles--there is nothing wrong with questioning Christianity. I suspect that many--if not, most--Christians question various aspects of Christianity and its denominations. And that's a good thing...it's healthy.
For a long time, people were afraid to question Christianity...to do so was almost sacrilegious. And it still is to a degree. And to be an atheist or a pagan...heathens!
But we're a more open and tolerant society today. And we're more educated than ever before. And the establishment has been well-questioned since the 1960s...why not continue to challenge it?
And, of course...religion is subjective. Maybe the Christians have been wrong all this time. Maybe the atheists are wrong. Maybe the Buddhists have it right.
I don't know...I respect others' religious beliefs and try not to force my own upon others. Maybe we talk about religion too much and should just shut the fuck up about it...
First off, the movie is fiction. People can read into it whatever they want, but the book and movie have never been promoted as anything more than fiction.
Secondly--and this is where the outrage will begin in some circles--there is nothing wrong with questioning Christianity. I suspect that many--if not, most--Christians question various aspects of Christianity and its denominations. And that's a good thing...it's healthy.
For a long time, people were afraid to question Christianity...to do so was almost sacrilegious. And it still is to a degree. And to be an atheist or a pagan...heathens!
But we're a more open and tolerant society today. And we're more educated than ever before. And the establishment has been well-questioned since the 1960s...why not continue to challenge it?
And, of course...religion is subjective. Maybe the Christians have been wrong all this time. Maybe the atheists are wrong. Maybe the Buddhists have it right.
I don't know...I respect others' religious beliefs and try not to force my own upon others. Maybe we talk about religion too much and should just shut the fuck up about it...
5.23.2006
Competition
Wolf is on the keyboard today.
Specifically, competition for the Pimpin' Phone.
Stand back, there's a new pimp in da house, or whatever one might say to appear hip.
It is cooler than cool.
The only thing that it doesn't do that it should is make that Star Trek communicator chirping noise when you open the flip. It should totally do that.
I have also established that the best possible .mp3 ringtone is Men at Work - Who Can It Be Now.
Specifically, competition for the Pimpin' Phone.
Stand back, there's a new pimp in da house, or whatever one might say to appear hip.
It is cooler than cool.
The only thing that it doesn't do that it should is make that Star Trek communicator chirping noise when you open the flip. It should totally do that.
I have also established that the best possible .mp3 ringtone is Men at Work - Who Can It Be Now.
5.22.2006
Our first date
I surpassed Ruth before Bonds did...whoohoo!
(This is Bosque Manifesto #715.)
Technically, April and I have already had a first date: we went to one of our favorite watering holes the day I got back to St. Louis, where we had dinner and drinks…several drinks. The tab was over $100, most of it drinks. Tim and Lauren stopped by and had a few drinks with us. I think I had 6 or 7 pints of Guinness. April had 4 or 5 pints of Woodchuck cider. It was love. :)
For some time now, we’ve talked about going on a real first date, but have never gotten around to it. We (more like April) decided that it was going to happen by the end of next month. Our one-year anniversary is July 2nd. Gee…how could I say no? ;-)
As I was driving to work, listening to the main jazz station here in town, they announced that there was a tribute to Miles Davis at one of the jazz clubs this coming Friday. We all know that I love Miles, and April likes him as well. And the ticket prices were way cheaper than I thought they’d be. Not that I’m a cheap date, but I’m only gonna fork over so much money for a tribute band.
(There’s a Beatles tribute band coming to town in the not-too-distant future. Or maybe they just left. Anyway, the ticket costs were ridiculous! The same with that Australian Pink Floyd tribute band! I don’t care how good you are, if you ain’t the real deal, I’m not shelling out $40+!)
So, I asked Miss April if she’d like to go on a date Friday night, and she said yes. (Of course she said yes…how could she resist my arresting charm and sexiness?! ;-)) So, Friday night, we’re going to dinner at Brandt’s Café and the Miles Davis tribute at Finale.
Call me crazy, but I think this is going to go so well that I’ll get a second date…and/or get to second base. ;-)
(This is Bosque Manifesto #715.)
Technically, April and I have already had a first date: we went to one of our favorite watering holes the day I got back to St. Louis, where we had dinner and drinks…several drinks. The tab was over $100, most of it drinks. Tim and Lauren stopped by and had a few drinks with us. I think I had 6 or 7 pints of Guinness. April had 4 or 5 pints of Woodchuck cider. It was love. :)
For some time now, we’ve talked about going on a real first date, but have never gotten around to it. We (more like April) decided that it was going to happen by the end of next month. Our one-year anniversary is July 2nd. Gee…how could I say no? ;-)
As I was driving to work, listening to the main jazz station here in town, they announced that there was a tribute to Miles Davis at one of the jazz clubs this coming Friday. We all know that I love Miles, and April likes him as well. And the ticket prices were way cheaper than I thought they’d be. Not that I’m a cheap date, but I’m only gonna fork over so much money for a tribute band.
(There’s a Beatles tribute band coming to town in the not-too-distant future. Or maybe they just left. Anyway, the ticket costs were ridiculous! The same with that Australian Pink Floyd tribute band! I don’t care how good you are, if you ain’t the real deal, I’m not shelling out $40+!)
So, I asked Miss April if she’d like to go on a date Friday night, and she said yes. (Of course she said yes…how could she resist my arresting charm and sexiness?! ;-)) So, Friday night, we’re going to dinner at Brandt’s Café and the Miles Davis tribute at Finale.
Call me crazy, but I think this is going to go so well that I’ll get a second date…and/or get to second base. ;-)
5.21.2006
Fiancé?
I've technically had 3 fiancés. Notice how I said "technically." Let's review them, shall we?
The first was Felicia. We were over-the-top cutesy and romantic, and I don't think any of the 9000 times I asked her to marry me were really serious. She got a promise ring one of those times (not an actual engagement ring) though, so maybe that does count.
Then there was Mimi. I seriously asked Mimi to marry me...twice. Got shot down the first time, but she said yes the second time. No ring, though...I was poor. I would say that this one was definitely legitimate despite the lack of a ring.
And finally, there was Rhoda. She was strictly a fiancé in name only. Never asked her to marry me at all...it was an assumption. We were never big on getting married anyway.
So, April will be the 1st/2nd/3rd/4th fiancé, depending on how you look at it. But she is not my fiancé now. I want to make sure I do this one right, so I'm currently working on getting the pretty lady the rock she wants. Hopefully, I will propose to her in the not-too-distant future, and we will get married towards the end of next year. Yeah...I like that plan. :)
But I bring all this up because recently, April has been referred to as my fiancé at least 3 times. My mom did it a few months ago. I can't remember what situation it was in, but I remember that she definitely did it. Then my aunt did it when we were at her father-in-law's wake last Monday. Then one of April's best friends did it yesterday when we were at a party for her husband's PhD graduation.
Believe me, there is nothing I'd like more than to marry April right now. But we're just not in a position to do so...yet. We will be, but not yet. So until then, if you all could just call her my girlfriend and me her boyfriend, that'd be great! Unless you all want to donate to the Get April an Engagement Ring Fund. :)
The first was Felicia. We were over-the-top cutesy and romantic, and I don't think any of the 9000 times I asked her to marry me were really serious. She got a promise ring one of those times (not an actual engagement ring) though, so maybe that does count.
Then there was Mimi. I seriously asked Mimi to marry me...twice. Got shot down the first time, but she said yes the second time. No ring, though...I was poor. I would say that this one was definitely legitimate despite the lack of a ring.
And finally, there was Rhoda. She was strictly a fiancé in name only. Never asked her to marry me at all...it was an assumption. We were never big on getting married anyway.
So, April will be the 1st/2nd/3rd/4th fiancé, depending on how you look at it. But she is not my fiancé now. I want to make sure I do this one right, so I'm currently working on getting the pretty lady the rock she wants. Hopefully, I will propose to her in the not-too-distant future, and we will get married towards the end of next year. Yeah...I like that plan. :)
But I bring all this up because recently, April has been referred to as my fiancé at least 3 times. My mom did it a few months ago. I can't remember what situation it was in, but I remember that she definitely did it. Then my aunt did it when we were at her father-in-law's wake last Monday. Then one of April's best friends did it yesterday when we were at a party for her husband's PhD graduation.
Believe me, there is nothing I'd like more than to marry April right now. But we're just not in a position to do so...yet. We will be, but not yet. So until then, if you all could just call her my girlfriend and me her boyfriend, that'd be great! Unless you all want to donate to the Get April an Engagement Ring Fund. :)
5.19.2006
Chicago, days 3 & 4
We spent most of last Saturday either in the car or in Chinatown. I've driven through Chinatown before, but have never spent any time there. I'm not the biggest fan of Chinese culture, but it was really cool.
Saturday night, we met up with April's best friend from high school and her husband. They treated us to dinner at Bob Chinn's Crab House. That was some good eatin'. And we met Bob Chinn himself.
Sunday, we grabbed some Italian beef for lunch and headed back home. We ate at a suburban chain called Tommy's. It wasn't bad...could have used more juice.
Overall, we had a great weekend. In the future, we'll stay closer to the city. Or at least closer to the El. And hopefully the weather will be better next time.
S. Wentworth Ave., looking south from Archer Ave.:
As opposed to using the window...
A mosaic at a shopping center in Chinatown:
Along W. 26th St. in the Little Village. I've heard that the only area of Chicago that generates more money than 26th St. is the Magnificent Mile. I wouldn't be surprised if that were true:
Someone got to nap on the way home. ;)
Saturday night, we met up with April's best friend from high school and her husband. They treated us to dinner at Bob Chinn's Crab House. That was some good eatin'. And we met Bob Chinn himself.
Sunday, we grabbed some Italian beef for lunch and headed back home. We ate at a suburban chain called Tommy's. It wasn't bad...could have used more juice.
Overall, we had a great weekend. In the future, we'll stay closer to the city. Or at least closer to the El. And hopefully the weather will be better next time.
S. Wentworth Ave., looking south from Archer Ave.:
As opposed to using the window...
A mosaic at a shopping center in Chinatown:
Along W. 26th St. in the Little Village. I've heard that the only area of Chicago that generates more money than 26th St. is the Magnificent Mile. I wouldn't be surprised if that were true:
Someone got to nap on the way home. ;)
5.18.2006
Near miss
A brief look into Sycamore’s family tree (Ha! That’s a pun…kinda.): My mom met her best friend, P, in high school. P would later introduce her older brother to my mom. They eventually married, and the union produced one child—yours truly. Though the marriage only lasted two years, my mom and P have remained best friends for over 30 years.
I generally refer to my father as “Sperm Donor.” He wasn’t much of a dad growing up, and we have not had a relationship since 1994. His relationships with his sister and brother aren’t very good, either. I dunno…my father is just…in his own world. We have very similar personalities, but we’re very different people.
P’s father-in-law died last weekend, and the wake was this past Monday. I wanted to pay my respects, but I knew that there was a possibility that my father would be there. My mom and my aunt were both concerned about such a meeting. I was concerned myself, but I’m 30 years old. I’ve been the adult in this situation for a while now…no sense in changing things now. :)
I’m not particularly angry or bitter about the situation with my father…more indifferent than anything. It’s a shame that we don’t get along, but I’ve made my peace with the situation. I have a stepfather who treated me as his own child from the age of 5 and did a great job of raising me. My father’s family sees my father for who he is, and the situation no longer affects my relationships on that side of the family.
Fortunately, we missed each other. He apparently showed up at the funeral home around 4; April and I got there around 5:30.
My father and I will cross paths eventually. My mom runs into my stepmother regularly at a local grocery store, and I ran into her at a local custard stand a few weeks ago (though I explicitly avoided her). But when my father and I cross paths, I will try my hardest to be civil and avoid confrontation…things he can’t stand.
I generally refer to my father as “Sperm Donor.” He wasn’t much of a dad growing up, and we have not had a relationship since 1994. His relationships with his sister and brother aren’t very good, either. I dunno…my father is just…in his own world. We have very similar personalities, but we’re very different people.
P’s father-in-law died last weekend, and the wake was this past Monday. I wanted to pay my respects, but I knew that there was a possibility that my father would be there. My mom and my aunt were both concerned about such a meeting. I was concerned myself, but I’m 30 years old. I’ve been the adult in this situation for a while now…no sense in changing things now. :)
I’m not particularly angry or bitter about the situation with my father…more indifferent than anything. It’s a shame that we don’t get along, but I’ve made my peace with the situation. I have a stepfather who treated me as his own child from the age of 5 and did a great job of raising me. My father’s family sees my father for who he is, and the situation no longer affects my relationships on that side of the family.
Fortunately, we missed each other. He apparently showed up at the funeral home around 4; April and I got there around 5:30.
My father and I will cross paths eventually. My mom runs into my stepmother regularly at a local grocery store, and I ran into her at a local custard stand a few weeks ago (though I explicitly avoided her). But when my father and I cross paths, I will try my hardest to be civil and avoid confrontation…things he can’t stand.
5.13.2006
Chicago, day 2
The problem with where we're staying is, while it's close to Allstate Arena, it's not close to anything else, other than O'Hare.
For example, April and I went to grab some cheap Mexican food on Lawrence Ave. in the city. We left there at 12:35 (a couple of hours ago), but didn't get back to the hotel room until 1:15...and there wasn't much traffic out.
This afternoon, I wanted to go to another restaurant that I thought was at Clark & Division, near the Loop. It took us over an hour to get there. We wound up eating at the Golden Nugget on N. Clark near the Lincoln Park Zoo (long story). We then decided that we would see a movie tonight in Schaumburg, and shop at Ikea before the movie (as this is the closest Ikea to St. Louis). We left the Golden Nugget just after 3...we got to Schaumburg at 5:15.
Ikea was wonderful...we picked up a few things...nothing major. Though I got some double chocolate crisp cookies...Goddamn, they kick ass!
We saw "Art School Confidential"...great movie! April said it reflected her college days rather well.
Some photos from today's adventures:
The Sears Tower, in daylight, but still shrouded:
The Chicago Stock Exchange:
For Wolf:
A Burrito Suiza with eggs and chorizo from El Taco Loco on Lawrence Ave...mmmm!
Ouch!
No rain tonight and not as windy:
For example, April and I went to grab some cheap Mexican food on Lawrence Ave. in the city. We left there at 12:35 (a couple of hours ago), but didn't get back to the hotel room until 1:15...and there wasn't much traffic out.
This afternoon, I wanted to go to another restaurant that I thought was at Clark & Division, near the Loop. It took us over an hour to get there. We wound up eating at the Golden Nugget on N. Clark near the Lincoln Park Zoo (long story). We then decided that we would see a movie tonight in Schaumburg, and shop at Ikea before the movie (as this is the closest Ikea to St. Louis). We left the Golden Nugget just after 3...we got to Schaumburg at 5:15.
Ikea was wonderful...we picked up a few things...nothing major. Though I got some double chocolate crisp cookies...Goddamn, they kick ass!
We saw "Art School Confidential"...great movie! April said it reflected her college days rather well.
Some photos from today's adventures:
The Sears Tower, in daylight, but still shrouded:
The Chicago Stock Exchange:
For Wolf:
A Burrito Suiza with eggs and chorizo from El Taco Loco on Lawrence Ave...mmmm!
Ouch!
No rain tonight and not as windy:
5.11.2006
Aucune Mode
April and I were enjoying a deep dish pizza at Giordano's earlier, when we heard a waitress telling one of her tables that the Depeche Mode show had been canceled.
What?! No! That would suck!
Sure enough...we turned on Q101 when we got in the car...the show was canceled. Apparently, Dave Gahan (the lead singer) is suffering from laryngitis. DM had to cut their show in KC short last night, and they canceled tonight's show. Their next show is Saturday night at Jones Beach (near NYC). And it doesn't look like they'll be able to reschedule the shows.
*shrugs* I'm disappointed, but shit happens. At least I got to see them in November. And that gives April and I an extra night to hang out and do whatever. We'll probably head into the city later tonight.
And the most important thing...when I'm with April, I'm happy...the happiest person in the world at that. :)
What?! No! That would suck!
Sure enough...we turned on Q101 when we got in the car...the show was canceled. Apparently, Dave Gahan (the lead singer) is suffering from laryngitis. DM had to cut their show in KC short last night, and they canceled tonight's show. Their next show is Saturday night at Jones Beach (near NYC). And it doesn't look like they'll be able to reschedule the shows.
*shrugs* I'm disappointed, but shit happens. At least I got to see them in November. And that gives April and I an extra night to hang out and do whatever. We'll probably head into the city later tonight.
And the most important thing...when I'm with April, I'm happy...the happiest person in the world at that. :)
Chicago, day 1
Greetings from the Windy City!
Melrose Park, IL to be precise...a suburb just south of O'Hare Airport. The area looks a bit seedy, and the hotel looks like hell...it's apparently being remodeled. But our room looks nice, it was inexpensive, it's close to Allstate Arena (where the show is tonight) and that's enough for me...and April. Don't want to speak for her incorrectly, but I think I can safely speak for her in this case. :)
We're here for the Depeche Mode show tonight at Allstate Arena (formerly the Rosemont Horizon) in the suburb of Rosemont, which is next to O'Hare. I found out about this show by accident, really. I'm apparently on Live Nation's (a Chicago concert promoter) mailing list, and they sent me an e-mail in March that came through my inbox as spam. But the subject line mentioned DM in concert, and when I saw that DM was gonna do another Chicago show, well...I [b]had[/b] to be here.
I was surprised that they added a second US leg to their tour. Originally, I think they had some time off before heading to Europe for the summer. Then they signed on to headline the Coachella festival in California, and I guess they decided to play a few more US dates. Whatever...I'm here. Whoohoo!
I realize that I've been quiet past few days. After I missed Saturday, I decided to take a few days off. I've been thinking about my posting frequency...I haven't decided yet whether I am going to return to posting every day or less frequently. I'll probably post every day that we're here in Chicago. After that, we'll see. I enjoy writing the Manifestos, and I think it's important to keep a regular presence here...but I'm not sure what "regular" is gonna be.
April is currently napping...or resting her eyes. I can't tell which, but she looks cute. Okay...she always looks hot...who am I kidding?! :)
More later...time for lunch. I'm not sure if we should tackle Giordano's pizza now or later in our trip. We'll see...
Melrose Park, IL to be precise...a suburb just south of O'Hare Airport. The area looks a bit seedy, and the hotel looks like hell...it's apparently being remodeled. But our room looks nice, it was inexpensive, it's close to Allstate Arena (where the show is tonight) and that's enough for me...and April. Don't want to speak for her incorrectly, but I think I can safely speak for her in this case. :)
We're here for the Depeche Mode show tonight at Allstate Arena (formerly the Rosemont Horizon) in the suburb of Rosemont, which is next to O'Hare. I found out about this show by accident, really. I'm apparently on Live Nation's (a Chicago concert promoter) mailing list, and they sent me an e-mail in March that came through my inbox as spam. But the subject line mentioned DM in concert, and when I saw that DM was gonna do another Chicago show, well...I [b]had[/b] to be here.
I was surprised that they added a second US leg to their tour. Originally, I think they had some time off before heading to Europe for the summer. Then they signed on to headline the Coachella festival in California, and I guess they decided to play a few more US dates. Whatever...I'm here. Whoohoo!
I realize that I've been quiet past few days. After I missed Saturday, I decided to take a few days off. I've been thinking about my posting frequency...I haven't decided yet whether I am going to return to posting every day or less frequently. I'll probably post every day that we're here in Chicago. After that, we'll see. I enjoy writing the Manifestos, and I think it's important to keep a regular presence here...but I'm not sure what "regular" is gonna be.
April is currently napping...or resting her eyes. I can't tell which, but she looks cute. Okay...she always looks hot...who am I kidding?! :)
More later...time for lunch. I'm not sure if we should tackle Giordano's pizza now or later in our trip. We'll see...
5.07.2006
The end of a streak
I thought that my post about my mom's birthday was yesterday's Manifesto, when in fact that was Friday's. As such, no Manifesto was written yesterday, ending a streak of daily Manifestos that started on November 20, 2004 with this one on Sean Hannity...531 days.
All good things must come to end eventually, and so I'm not too pressed about it. Time to start a new streak...
All good things must come to end eventually, and so I'm not too pressed about it. Time to start a new streak...
White men CAN jump
From MSNBC: The Phoenix Suns scheduled a news conference for Sunday to announce that Steve Nash is the NBA’s MVP for the second year in a row.
...
The Arizona Republic reported earlier that Nash would get the award, becoming the 10th player to win it in consecutive seasons.
...
The Arizona Republic reported earlier that Nash would get the award, becoming the 10th player to win it in consecutive seasons.
5.05.2006
The party
My mom's 50th birthday party is tomorrow out at Tim's house. It's not a surprise...she basically demanded one. Hell, she planned a good chunk of it. Tim's hosting it and buying beverages. April has done the rest of the planning and made a good chunk of the food. Lauren and Patrick (Tim's roommate) are helping Tim on his end.
And me? Well, I'm basically the approver and overseer. "What do you think about this?" "Should we get this?" And I've been handling budgeting and reservations.
50 people are supposed to be coming. Should be interesting. Photos tomorrow.
And me? Well, I'm basically the approver and overseer. "What do you think about this?" "Should we get this?" And I've been handling budgeting and reservations.
50 people are supposed to be coming. Should be interesting. Photos tomorrow.
5.04.2006
Justice served?
Unlike many folks, I’m going to come right out and say that I may be biased on the sentence of Zacarias Moussaoui. I don’t believe in capital punishment. I think it’s uncivilized for a first-world nation, and that we should not be as barbaric as the people we execute.
That aside, I think Moussaoui’s sentence was fair for one simple reason: the nut wants to be killed. In his eyes (and probably in the eyes of his fans), being executed by The Great Satan would add to his legend and fulfill his ultimate goal: martyrdom for Allah.
But does he have any fans left? I definitely think so, but if he was part of 9/11, he probably lost a lot of respect when he was arrested and didn’t fulfill his part of the attacks. Now he’s going to be a bitch of the US for the next 50 years…where’s the honor in that? Not to mention, he may have only been on the fringes of Al Qaeda. You know the kid that used to be in your group of friends that thought he was the shit, but was probably the least significant of the group? That sounds like Moussaoui.
On one hand, I think the guy really wants to die. But then I think that the guy is scared shitless. If they gave Academy Awards for Best Real-Life Acting, he’d be a shoo-in. Fear makes us do things we wouldn’t normally do…and this guy is fighting for his life.
And the jury was screwed from the start: give him the death penalty, and they give in to him. Give him life in prison, and they “let him off lightly.” I give them mad props for deciding one of the toughest cases in US history, for devoting so much time to it and respect them for being able to make such a decision (life vs. death).
Do you think we’ll ever get bin Laden? And if we do, could he get a fair trial? We already know that he’s guilty as fuck, but still…everyone deserves a fair trial. Even him.
That aside, I think Moussaoui’s sentence was fair for one simple reason: the nut wants to be killed. In his eyes (and probably in the eyes of his fans), being executed by The Great Satan would add to his legend and fulfill his ultimate goal: martyrdom for Allah.
But does he have any fans left? I definitely think so, but if he was part of 9/11, he probably lost a lot of respect when he was arrested and didn’t fulfill his part of the attacks. Now he’s going to be a bitch of the US for the next 50 years…where’s the honor in that? Not to mention, he may have only been on the fringes of Al Qaeda. You know the kid that used to be in your group of friends that thought he was the shit, but was probably the least significant of the group? That sounds like Moussaoui.
On one hand, I think the guy really wants to die. But then I think that the guy is scared shitless. If they gave Academy Awards for Best Real-Life Acting, he’d be a shoo-in. Fear makes us do things we wouldn’t normally do…and this guy is fighting for his life.
And the jury was screwed from the start: give him the death penalty, and they give in to him. Give him life in prison, and they “let him off lightly.” I give them mad props for deciding one of the toughest cases in US history, for devoting so much time to it and respect them for being able to make such a decision (life vs. death).
Do you think we’ll ever get bin Laden? And if we do, could he get a fair trial? We already know that he’s guilty as fuck, but still…everyone deserves a fair trial. Even him.
5.03.2006
Oil
This morning, NBC's "Today" invited all the major petroleum CEOs on the show to answer questions from consumers regarding gas prices.
Only one showed up--ExxonMobil's Rex Tillerson. ExxonMobil is the world’s biggest petroleum company.
I didn't see the interview, but I've read about it. From what I've seen, Tillerson gave standard capitalist responses...we're not surprised, right?
But this part kills me. It's by-the-book free market fare, but it just looks so bad in print...and could inflame the issue. From Mark Finkelstein's blog on NewsBusters:
Lauer: "Would Exxon-Mobil be willing to lower profits over the summer to help out in this time of need and crisis as it's been described?"
Tillerson: "Well, we work for the shareholders. And the investors who own our stock are over two million Americans. A lot of pension plans, a lot of teacher retirement plans and our job is to go out and make the most money for those people so their pensions are secure so that they see the benefits of our work."
Lauer: "That's a no?"
Tillerson: "That's not the business -- we're in the business to make money."
I wonder if Tillerson realized how bad that would sound. Hell, maybe he did mean to say it. But the average consumer doesn't really give a shit...they want lower gas prices. Granted, I want a million bucks, but still...
Prior to last year, the highest gas prices I ever saw were in the summer of 2000...almost $2 a gallon in DC. And we were paying about $1.25 in Philly before 9/11. When I moved back to St. Louis last year, we were right at $2. Now we're at $2.80, and it's not even Memorial Day. Only recently have we started paying prices as high as they were 20+ years ago (adjusted for inflation). But we were so used to those lower prices (right or wrong) that the current ones are totally fucking us up. Our tempers seem to particularly flare at $2.50.
Couldn't big oil get a big tax credit for donating gas to consumers in the form of reduced prices?
And then we had Bill Frist on "Today" yesterday...again from Finkelstein's blog, from yesterday:
Frist pointed out that the legislation had previously passed, noting that if Bill Clinton hadn't vetoed the legislation that had been passed by both houses, we would today be benefiting from 1 million barrels a day from ANWR, more than we import from Saudi Arabia.
Which would probably make almost no difference: That's about 5% or less of what we consume every day, not to mention it would have the government's dirty mitts all over it.
The only way anything is going to really change is if we actually quit talking about conservation and actually do it and/or stay angry. I know that Americans have the ability...but do they have the stamina?
Only one showed up--ExxonMobil's Rex Tillerson. ExxonMobil is the world’s biggest petroleum company.
I didn't see the interview, but I've read about it. From what I've seen, Tillerson gave standard capitalist responses...we're not surprised, right?
But this part kills me. It's by-the-book free market fare, but it just looks so bad in print...and could inflame the issue. From Mark Finkelstein's blog on NewsBusters:
Lauer: "Would Exxon-Mobil be willing to lower profits over the summer to help out in this time of need and crisis as it's been described?"
Tillerson: "Well, we work for the shareholders. And the investors who own our stock are over two million Americans. A lot of pension plans, a lot of teacher retirement plans and our job is to go out and make the most money for those people so their pensions are secure so that they see the benefits of our work."
Lauer: "That's a no?"
Tillerson: "That's not the business -- we're in the business to make money."
I wonder if Tillerson realized how bad that would sound. Hell, maybe he did mean to say it. But the average consumer doesn't really give a shit...they want lower gas prices. Granted, I want a million bucks, but still...
Prior to last year, the highest gas prices I ever saw were in the summer of 2000...almost $2 a gallon in DC. And we were paying about $1.25 in Philly before 9/11. When I moved back to St. Louis last year, we were right at $2. Now we're at $2.80, and it's not even Memorial Day. Only recently have we started paying prices as high as they were 20+ years ago (adjusted for inflation). But we were so used to those lower prices (right or wrong) that the current ones are totally fucking us up. Our tempers seem to particularly flare at $2.50.
Couldn't big oil get a big tax credit for donating gas to consumers in the form of reduced prices?
And then we had Bill Frist on "Today" yesterday...again from Finkelstein's blog, from yesterday:
Frist pointed out that the legislation had previously passed, noting that if Bill Clinton hadn't vetoed the legislation that had been passed by both houses, we would today be benefiting from 1 million barrels a day from ANWR, more than we import from Saudi Arabia.
Which would probably make almost no difference: That's about 5% or less of what we consume every day, not to mention it would have the government's dirty mitts all over it.
The only way anything is going to really change is if we actually quit talking about conservation and actually do it and/or stay angry. I know that Americans have the ability...but do they have the stamina?
5.02.2006
If MSNBC were a newspaper...
...they could have sold a bunch of copies with headlines like these...
From Friday afternoon:
From this morning:
They remind me of the headlines you sometimes see in the New York Post or the Philadelphia Daily News.
From Friday afternoon:
From this morning:
They remind me of the headlines you sometimes see in the New York Post or the Philadelphia Daily News.
5.01.2006
44 psi?!
Malibu Barbie hasn't felt right the past week or two...it felt like the tires might need some air. And I want to make sure I keep them at the proper pressure to save gas.
I finally stopped at a gas station tonight and checked the pressure on all 4 of them. 3 of them were at 32 psi, while a fourth was at 21 psi.
Obviously, the one was really low, but the other three only needed a little air. But as I put air into one of the tires, I read the max tire pressure on the sidewall.
44 psi.
44 psi?! What the fuck?!
Sure enough...the three tires I bought last fall take 44 pounds of air. The fourth (the last of my originals) only takes 35 pounds (and that one was at 32 psi). I haven't put air in my tires in a while...usually, I let the oil change folks do it. I need to be more careful!
But doesn't 44 psi sound unusual for a car like a Malibu? I've had tires that have only required 30 psi, but normally, I've had 35 psi tires.
Needless to say, after filling all 4 tires to their proper levels, Malibu Barbie rode much better and was quite happy.
I finally stopped at a gas station tonight and checked the pressure on all 4 of them. 3 of them were at 32 psi, while a fourth was at 21 psi.
Obviously, the one was really low, but the other three only needed a little air. But as I put air into one of the tires, I read the max tire pressure on the sidewall.
44 psi.
44 psi?! What the fuck?!
Sure enough...the three tires I bought last fall take 44 pounds of air. The fourth (the last of my originals) only takes 35 pounds (and that one was at 32 psi). I haven't put air in my tires in a while...usually, I let the oil change folks do it. I need to be more careful!
But doesn't 44 psi sound unusual for a car like a Malibu? I've had tires that have only required 30 psi, but normally, I've had 35 psi tires.
Needless to say, after filling all 4 tires to their proper levels, Malibu Barbie rode much better and was quite happy.
