iumpa05

Back, even if temporary...

2008-08-02T04:42:00.003-04:00

I realized today that I have not made an entry since July. Oh, it was not my epiphany rahter I have been getting hate e-mail over the past month. So below is my update:

I got a cat since July. Isn't she cute? I named her Precious.

A Bug...

2008-07-14T13:53:00.003-04:00

I swallowed a bug today and not just a nat or a fly, this monster was a voting member of the neo-conservative party. What makes it worse is that I even saw it coming. I was sitting outside a cafe in Amsterdam reading this book about about the Green Zone and just embracing all the pot smoking that was going on aroundme but I was ready to go. You know how you get; you ready to go so you start fussing with stuff and drinking a bit faster.....

Well, I safely placed the book back into my backpack and lifted the beer for one last gulp....at the last second I looked at the contents coming my way and sure enough there was a moth doing the backstroke...anyway, its over now.

The Hookup That Wasn't...

2008-07-14T02:22:00.002-04:00

During my brief stay in Budapest last week I met this nice American boy that piqued my interest. Both being from Indiana; both being current and/or former government employees; both DC residents; both living in foreign lands; and both "recovering" from the dissolution of long-term relationship had enough in common to hold a conversation. Not only that, he is pretty intelligent, disciplined, determined and confident - all characteristics I admire. After a fun night of drinking, laughing, and chatting with others in the group we decided to meet up a couple days later for some sight-seeing which was a lot of fun as well and it was a good feeling and after a bit of persuading I convinced him to let me visit him in Frankfurt on my way to Amsterdam.

No seedy details to report but in short, it was a fantastic trip. I keep telling myself that it didn't turn out the way I wanted it too, but actually it did. I wasn't looking for love or a hook-up, I was seeking that sort of connection you get from someone you are comfortable with someone you can sit in a room in complete silence and you just get it. We weren't prefect matches by any stretch of the term but we clicked and that was cool.

As I sit in the airport now waiting for my next flight and all the excitement of the visit is beginning to subside, I am replaying the entire experience in my head to try to figure out what I learned about myself from the experience:

I am a lot smarter than I give myself credit. The world is full of intellectual people that don't shit. However, I'll sit quietly while they pontificate but be warned morons - I know your secret.
I pick friends very well though I am less successful when it comes to partners. When I make friends I have a take me or leave me attitude but when I meet potential partners I find that I try to become what I think they want and I end up a mess.
I'm far more interesting that most people. This sounds arrogant, but in my head I have always seen myself as a small-town simpleton but as I travel the world I realize that I have far more depth to personality and character that others.
I LOVE people. Whether it be new friends, old friends, family, or even strangers on the metro, I thrive in a world where I have constant interaction.

Ok, plane is boarding I got to go.

Thank you E!

Prague...

2008-07-11T05:33:00.005-04:00

This is the museum near the center of the city. I didn't actually tour the building I used it more as a guide when I became lost. If your standing on the steps in the front looking down you are looking at the town center and tourist grand central.

Here is the clock tower which is pretty cool. On the hour all those gadgets start to move and grind. Myself I was more impressed with the center dials.

You know you are a metropolitan European city when you have a Sex Machine Museum right next to one of the oldest churches in Europe. Oh, those Czechs do it right!

And for fun, here are bunch of other pictures that I took. I didn't have time to do any editing or cropping, but at this pace I won't have that much time until I'm back in the states sometime next year.

Germany...

2008-07-10T20:16:00.002-04:00

I remember when I was planning this Euro trip a good friend mentioned that if I stayed in Germany more than one day then it was too long - well I disagree. So far I have been to Chemnitz, Dresden, Germany, Munich and tomorrow I'll headed to Frankfurt for a few days and I have been nothing short of amazed by this country. It is beautiful!

Berlin...

2008-07-08T17:05:00.006-04:00

After a bit of arm twisting Sophie and Anne convinced me to put off Prague for a few days and make a trip up to Berlin before heading to the Czech Republic. I am so glad that she did, it was one of the most amazing cities that I have been too. What was most impressive was that they did not hide from their past; Nazi or Cold War. Instead they put it right out there for everyone to see, discuss, and learn from. I took several pictures, about 200 total, but the ones below are my favorite. I hope you enjoy.

Nothing to this picture really, I just like how it turned out.

What's your sign? As you can see I'm in the bottom right hand corner; can you figure out where your hate symbol is?

I'm guessing this is some sort of German house alarm system. I'm not sure if the cat has something going on with the dog, but the thing looks suspect.

This is "Checkpoint Charlie" where allied forces and diplomatic personnel were allowed to move freely between East and West Berlin. The link is pretty interesting if your into cold war history.

Budapest Destiny (Besheret)...

2008-07-07T15:51:00.006-04:00

I met a pretty cool guy here in Budapest over this past weekend and even though I'm old enough and wise enough to know that it was just a vacation boy crush I did enjoy the "what if?" feelings such as: what if we lived closer; what if we met sooner; what if we both wanted kids (that's for you E). And even though I know the answer to all the questions it was fun have those feelings and the nervousness and jitters that come along with hoping that someone thinks your as cool as you think they are.

Putting the school kid crush aside, it was a affirmation that I am growing through a pretty difficult time in my life. When asked rather bluntly whether I seriously thought that M and I would get back together when I return from Iraq I could honestly say no. I'd like to say it was a sobering reality, but it wasn't; it was something I knew back in December but just hid from.

So, here is to E who I am pretty sure is sitting in Frankfurt reading this thinking "what the fuck did I step into?".

Gay Pride, Hungarian Style...

2008-07-07T15:48:00.003-04:00

By complete coincidence I stumbled across Budapest's gay pride parade this past weekend. I have been to several city-wide marches in my day as well as the national events in Washington DC, but nothing prepared me for this one.

The night before I met a group of fellow Americans at a local drinking hole and we discussed meeting up and enjoying the celebration the next day. There was some talk about it not being all that welcome here in Budapest but being from the States we were no stranger to a few protesters - we were in for a big surprise.

As you are leafing through the slide show pay close attention the the number of police officers protecting the marchers as well as the number of protesters - for quick reference; all the people you see dressed in non-police attire are protesters.

Whats your sign???

2008-07-03T05:35:00.002-04:00

Berlin was far more interesting that I could have imagined. In my mind I assumed that most Germans, especially the government, would want to put the its communistic history, the war and the Berlin wall behind them but that wasn't the case.

Ok, tired for an hour now to upload some pics, but the internet here is extremely slow. I will try to upload an album at a cafe later today.

Peace on Earth...

2008-06-30T05:04:00.003-04:00

Yes folks, your eyes do not deceive you. That is a beer vending machine - enough said!

June 28...

2008-06-29T05:29:00.002-04:00

Journey Begins
My journey has begun. Early Saturday morning I flew out of Kuwait to Dubai then onto Frankfurt. Both flights were good and once again Emirates proved they are leaps and bounds above United in customer comfort and service (thank you for letting me sleep).

Lessons Learned
I understand that Americans are a bit ethnocentric and I try to overcome that personally, but I still get surprised by my behavior when something simple or common completely stumps me - see: I'm a moron.

Excuse me, but what country am I in?- Sounds silly, but unfortunately that question came out of my mouth within an hour of me arriving in Frankfurt. You see, in Germany instructions to say ... the GPS in the rental car... are in in German. For a simple guy like me, that was easy enough to fix, simply change the language setting. So here I sit at a gas station outside the airport finally nailing that task when I realize that there are no maps for Germany. How can that be, I rented the car in Germany??? Well the little secret kept from me was that the rest of the world refers to Germany as Deutschland.
OMG, Sophie (German friend), did I drive on the Autobahn? - I was very excited about the possibility that I drove on the Autobahn. As a boy growing up in Indiana me and my brothers always dreamed about the fast cars we should drive, I was always partial to the Porsche. Anyway, Sophie' response was a bit of bad news. It turns out that the Autobahn is not an actual road, rather, it is the word that German's use for highway. The good news is that most Americans won't know that little nugget of information so I'll still sound cool back home.

That's it for now. Sophie and Anne are waiting for me. We are in Chemnitz now and we're driving up to Berlin today for Gay Pride.

The Last Shout...(maybe)

2008-06-27T16:04:00.004-04:00

Since arriving in Baghdad last year I found that I stopped counting hours in a day or even days in a week because neither really matter. Due to the nature of life in the International Zone and our living and work situation we never really stop working and never really stop socializing – there is no line that differentiates the two. As a result, I started counting was the number of R&Rs that I have left in me (read: how long can I take this shit?).

When I came to Baghdad last year it was with the understanding that I would commit a year to this project and to Iraq and at the end of that year I would reevaluate the situation and make a determination as to future. This is the point where I find myself now. As I round the corner of trips out of Iraq, I realize that after this current trip I only have one remaining – then the decision! From the beginning I planned that the last R&R would be spent home in DC in preparation for a possible return to normal life. After Michael and I split last year it was clear that a trip home would be a requirement to settle remaining financial and legal issues. Which all of this brings me to this entry – the Last Shout!

Because this is potentially my last trip I wanted it to be significant and I wanted it to be Europe. Since I could not think of just one place to go or one thing to see I decided to repeat the South Africa model and rent a car and just drive. I am in Kuwait now and by 1:00 pm tomorrow I will begin my journey in Frankfurt Germany and 20 days later I will end up in Amsterdam where I will begin making my way back to Baghdad. The map below illustrates those cities or countries that I want to visit along the way. Some cities I may spend a day or two in while others may simply be a drive through.

I Can See Clearly Now; really I can...

2008-06-04T02:46:00.002-04:00

I did it, I went under the knife - well, a series of three machines at least. This past week while in Montreal I had Lasik Vision Correction done at The Montreal Eye Clinic or La Clinique De L'ceil De Montreal. Mostly because I hate wearing glasses and I am horrible about removing my contact lenses as scheduled, I have wanted to have this done for years. The day I went in was on a complete whim. I wouldn't recommend this to everyone or anyone for that matter but I just walked to the concierge (Chantale) and asked her for a recommendation. So, within 48 hours I was sitting in a chair about to get my eyes corrected.

It was honestly a cinch and with the exception of getting braces the best decision I've made. I highly recommend it to anyone even considering it.

Exhausted...

2008-03-24T06:10:00.002-04:00

Today will go down as one of the most adventurous days of my life. I'm not sure why I did it (actually, I probably do) but early this afternoon I climbed the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Now for those reading this that reside in the United States that may mean that you took an elevator to the lookout deck or perhaps walked up a little latter for a better view. Well in Sydney for a mere pittance, you can actually "climb" the bridge. It was by far the neatest experience of my life....yes, my life. Unfortunately we couldn't take cameras, but they did snap a few. I''ll post them once I get them scanned. In the mean time, check out the website...its crazy fun.

A Bridge, an Opera House, and 2 ODs in 24 Hours...

2008-03-20T23:05:00.003-04:00

To all of my faithful readers, I have safely made it to Sydney Australia and my first reaction is: this place is beautiful. Not only beautiful, but remarkably clean. I was chatting with a native (in a pub of course) and he indicated that it was a result of the 2000 Olympics - I say DC should win the bid for the next games!

So far I have taken it pretty easy here. The time difference from the states (DC) is 15 hours and 8 for Baghdad so I am completely jet-lagged. I am wide awake at 4 am and dead asleep at 4 pm; which in the bigger picture is no big deal. As a matter of fact it has made for some interesting adventures. As the title would indicate, I have seen the Opera House, the Sydney Harbour Bridge, the AMAZING Botanic Garden and 2 over doses - all in 24 hours. Ya see, I'm staying in Kings Cross which I did not know WAS the equivalent of Skid Row in LA. It is a lot different now, so they say, but still rather sketchy. The bars go here til 5 am and if you walk around long enough you can see a couple needle pushes, pills popped, and CPR. Fortunately there were no casualties, but it was a bizarre experience nonetheless.

Plenty of pictures to come...

One of the more Bizarre Moments...

2008-03-18T21:00:00.003-04:00

Picture this: Steph and I am completely blowing off work this one afternoon last week and we decide to head to the Green Bean inside the old US Embassy Compound inside the International Zone. As a notable point for those unfamiliar with the compound the US Embassy is currently being housed in Saddam's Presidential Palace while a new one is being constructed. So we are just walking into the compound and we come across this guy with a bunch of rifles strapped over both shoulders. Being in a light-hearted mood we start joking loud enough so that he can hear "hey, did you just get fired today" then I'd respond (as him), "leave me alone, I'm in a hurry to get to the clock tower" - well, we thought it was funny. But appreciates the humor and stops to chat for a minute. It turns out that the guys that he is carrying are "props" owned by the US State Department and are used for training and education purposes. He goes on to inform us that one of the guns he is carrying was once owned by Uday Hussein.

First reaction: How fricking cool is this. I'm holding one of Uday Hussein's guns. Just the historical aspect alone is significant - let alone I'm about about to walk into his dad's house.

Second reaction: Holy crap, how many people did he murder with this thing?

Erbil, Kurdistan Region...

2008-03-16T08:53:00.008-04:00

I'm being drug out the door so that I don't miss my PSD for R&R. Oh yeah, in case I didn't mention yet, I'm headed to Sydney Australia. I'm pretty excited and franklyI need it. Baghdad is nice right now and relatively quiet, but I need to see green grass, normal people (no M9s or M14s) and have a beer that doesn't taste like it has been on a shelf for 30 years...not that I'm complaining of course; beer is beer!

Trip to Erbil

This picture above was taken at an antique shop which sits in the Citadel. We visited this historical site during a visit to Erbil which is the capital city of the Kurdistan Region. The Citadel is this massive compound that was built in layers over archaelogical ruins of several consecutive settlements which rises out of the center of the city. Even though the Citadel lays in ruins compared to the rest of the city, it has been continuously inhabited for more than 6000 years. The goverment is working to restore or at least put it to some use, but as a rule there is always one family living inside.

For those interested in learning a little bit, do yourself a favor and google Erbil (Arbil) and the Kurdistan Region. It was during the mid-late 1980s that Saddam began an aggressive genocide campaign, called al-Anfal Campaign, on the Kurdish people. This 3 year campaign saw the elimination of 4000 villages and an estimated 170,000 deaths. As a result of the Persian Gulf War in 1991, Saddam retreated but instituted very strict embargos against the north with the intent of starving the people to death. And because Kurdistan is technically part of Iraq, they were also impacted by the UN's embargo against Iraq. But, as I learned this week, these are a very strong people. Even after 3 decades of domination by Saddam, the UN and its own parliment, the region is the most progressive in all of Iraq. One can ride around freely and enjoy the shops, restaurants, and even a stroll down the street.

Oh yeah, I couldn't resist. I bought the sword.

Morning Time-out

2008-02-25T23:24:00.003-05:00

Its early Tuesday here in Baghdad and I'm waiting for a co-worker to get ready to go. I got a semi-frantic call last last night asking if I could come in the office early to make some changes to a training brief that is set to go live at 10:00 am. I said sure of course and popped up early only to find that the poor soul that made the request stayed up too late working on other things and overslept - I can tell this is going to be a long day.

On other fronts, we survived another rocket attack this week. It is funny how the mind works. I only hear them after they have struck, but even then I don't really do much. I was laying in bed when the first hit. I thought to myself, hmmm, that sounded like a rocket but before I could get that thought out, another, then another, then another. Obviously I was fortunate wasn't impacted, but it did make me think about how normal this place becomes.

In other news, it looks like I am off on another adventure. I sealed the deal yesterday on my next R&R; I am headed to Australia. Every since I was a kid I wanted to go down under - hehe. Anyway, the trip is set and I leave for Sydney on March 17 and will return on or about April 1. I will definitely be taking my camera and I will try to be better at posting throughout the trip. If anyone has been there and had some good tips, please send them my way. You can click the contact button under my picture to the right and it will go straight into my e-mail.

That's all for now. I hope everyone is doing well, keeping warm, and happy.

Oh, and an adorable picture I took in Bangkok. A dog waiting on a call - how funny?

And We're Back...

2008-02-18T05:22:00.006-05:00

It took a few days (a week to be exact) but I finally feel like I have my groove back. I am back to hectic days and sleepless night; which actually feels familiar. Following the pictures of Cape Town I started to develop a slide presentation for Bangkok and realized it wasn't worth it. I can sum it up for anyone that is interested: Filthy. however, for my own entertainment and hopefully your enjoyment, I had the following pictures taken of me.

Betrayed...

2008-02-14T11:12:00.004-05:00

Look for the dual meaning

The Most Bizarre Starbucks Ever...

2008-02-10T08:03:00.000-05:00

I am kind of stranded in the Kuwait airport today. It has nothing to do with weather or anything like that; really it was a scheduling oversight on my part. So I have been sitting at this Starbucks now for about 8 hours and it really has not been all that bad. The seats are comfortable, there is coffee, food, and the internet - all basic needs are met. Now you have to be mindful that there are not a lot of American's running around Kuwait let alone the airport. However, I'm sitting here and there has been this steady stream of American's in what seems to be some organized chaos listening to ITunes and talking goverment acronym steak, none of which I am familar with. It is like there is some sort of American mafia and they keep interviewing different people. I have been approached a couple of times, but I merely point behind to the crowd of bizarre people and they scurry off. It is some sort of US Federal entity but I'm not sure.

Bizarre...

One Vacation, Two Worlds...

2008-02-07T10:44:00.000-05:00

Well, I am on my way back to Iraq for another six weeks and as crazy as it might sound, I'm actually missing the place a little bit. What I miss are the people, the work, and the ability to plunge my head in the sand and forget the world around me. That said, this has been an amazing trip. The short story is that I went to Cape Town South Africa for a week and then onto Bangkok Thailand for another week. Well, the long story is that I decided early on to make an adventure out of it. Being that I have never traveled alone before I was nervous and then add to that the fact that I was going without Michael which was very sad at times. Knowing these two factors could doom my trip, I decided to jam in absolutly anything and everything that I possibly could; within my budget of course. I also made a lot of friends, which I'll highlight later, that gave me great advice on what to do and what to avoid. For now I am going to start with pictures of South Africa. These are not just of Cape Town but also Franshhoek and Stellenbosch, both in the winelands. Because I did so much I will have to put this up in phases. The pictures below were tken in South Africa.

Missing Michael...

2008-02-02T02:06:00.001-05:00

Just wrapping up the first leg of my vacation and hard as I try, I can't stop thinking how much Michael would have enjoyed this trip.

"We're flying first class....."

2008-01-25T22:27:00.002-05:00

Ok, I had the Fergie song in my head all the way to Duabi. Thought some strange luck most nearly all of my flights got upgraded to first class. To me I thought this just meant that my seat might be a bit bigger and I would get a free glass of wine (or 7). Well, seems that there is more to it.

I arrived in the Dubai International Airport at around 6 am and believe it or not, this place was nuts. It is crazy packed with people laying all over the floors. It reminded me of what you see on the news at O'hare each Christmas. So I walk in and I happen to look up at a sign. Turns out they have a little lounge for first class passengers. The frosted glass doors opened and holy crap, I was transported into a totally different world. One of flat screen plasma TVs, full buffet, and a complete open bar. And yes you would all be proud, I drank at 6:30 am like it was last call in 10 minutes.

Thats it, just thought I'd throw it out there. I am also attached a couple pics. As you can see I have still not mastered my camera.

"We're flying first class.....

2008-01-25T22:27:00.001-05:00

I'm back, kinda...

2008-01-25T15:50:00.000-05:00

I have not updated in nearly a month - wow. I know that it is not a really good excuse, but honestly I just wanted to be left alone. Getting past the idea of being without Michael has been very difficult. Even after a pretty honest and emotional visit to DC last week I am still gripping on to any and every shred of hope. I know, I can own it - I'm pathetic!

At any rate, I have shaved my head and I'm heading to South Africa. I'm a bit nervous, but I'm going to run straight at this adventure.

Big props to Stephanie too for being there when I got back to the IZ this week - your a kick ass friend.

Christmas 2007...

2007-12-25T11:08:00.000-05:00

I was a little apprehensive, but today has turned out to be a pretty good day. The measures that the military had taken in the two previous days made a huge impact and as a result there were no significant attacks on the green zone. I resisted the temptation of laying in bed all day and went into the office around noon. I am glad I did because when I got there I realized that the Iraqi restaurants were not open (there are very few places in the IZ where Iraqi's can eat) so I quickly went to my dining facility to pick up box lunches. It was kinda neat because I took back a traditional Christmas dinner which included turkey, stuffing, green beans, corn, green beans, and of course pumpkin pie. We all sat around and ate our lunches out of white styrofoam, but it was pretty cool.

This evening we went to the main dining facility at the Presidential Palace. I don't go here too often because I honestly want to keep it as a bit of a special treat, but this places does holidays very well - as you can see from the picture above. Tonight I passed on the traditional dinner and went for the lobster, prime rib, shrimp and sweet potatoes. I twas nice to sit with friends and enjoy the holiday music and sip on non-alcoholic champagne.

This was not the best Christmas that I have ever had, but it did have the potential to be the worst; but I wouldn't let it - I just keep looking forward. Tomorrow I will go out into the red zone again. I enjoy these trips, not because of the danger, but because they are an opportunity to get more involved; to become part of a bigger solution.

Well, its getting late here and so I'll wind down.

December 24 Roundup...

2007-12-24T11:15:00.000-05:00

One of the reasons that I don't blog more often is that I don't see my entries as diary, instead I see them as story driven. The problem is that by time I write the entry, something else has happened or I have lost interest. Well, I'm going to try one tonight that is a bit more brief, but covers a few topics...we'll see how it goes.

Christmas - I'm sad. That's right, I said it - I am hide in a cave and hate the whole fucking world sad - I miss MKO pretty bad. Of course it doesn't help that I am sitting in the middle of a desert either if you know what I mean. I'm pretty good at work and around Friends of hiding my personal life and masking my feelings, but the sadness is there and it is pretty profound. I keep telling myself that it will get better and I'm sure it will, but getting better means putting that part of my life behind me and I don't want to do that. I miss the familiarity of our life and two cats that are the closest things to kids I'd ever have. I have tried to maintain an upbeat but this Christmas thing is kicking my ass.

Oh Yeah, the War - By time anyone gets around to reading this Christmas day will have come and gone and you will have found out if I got "hit"or not. I am not saying this in jest, this place is crazy scary today. Typically the insurgents strike us on 1) major American holidays, 2) major Muslim holidays, and 3) other significant events...well, let me tell you the stars are aligned for a good time tonight. You see, tomorrow is Christmas day, which by the way slightly conflicts with the Muslim religion. Add to that this week is Eid, the celebration that begins with the full moon marking the end of Ramadan. Simple enough, right...be aware...nothing more nothing less. But wait...theres a third. This week marks the 1 year anniversary of Saddam's execution. In short - it is going to be a bumpy 48 hours.

Breaking-up with the Father-in-Law - Because your gay and you can't technically get married (Ok, some states you can) most people don't think of gay couples as having in-laws and up until recently, I guess I never put much thought into it either. Well, its simply not true. Though I never called him that for fear of his poor heart stopping, I did consider MKO's father to be the closest thing I ever had to a father. MKO kinda had the same situation on the mother side, so it always made me feel good to hear him call my mother "Mom". Without judgement MKO's dad always respected each of us as individuals and our relationship and God knows I tried that mans patience. But what I do know is that he loves me like a son. After what I deemed an appropriate amount of time, I sat down and wrote him a letter. I did not delve into any personal or relationship issues I just told him how much I respected him, how I thought he was an amazing father and friend, and how much I had grown to love him. It took me a bit of time, several drafts, and more than a few gulps but I finished it and sent it off. I realized when I was writing it that I may never see him again and that makes breaking up a bit more suckier.

Baghdad is Cold - Holy Christ, it never occurred to me that the Middle East could get cold, but it does. Maybe I am just acclimated to the heat during the day, but at night its crazy cold. Add to that, there is no such thing as insulation here. You just put a sweater on. Well, I need a sweater for my damn room!

New House - Starting tonight I have new digs. I'm kind of excited because I currently life in a mud-hut. Its a bit of an exaggeration, but seriously folks, its a hut. I can't tell you specifically where it is or anything about its past, but it is nice. There is a lot of work still to be done on it, but I will be so glad to get out of here.

Vacation - For my first R&R I am going to Cape Town South Africa. Though I am very excited about the journey, I am also sad that I will be going it alone. These kind of vacations and experiences are the kind of things a couple works years to achieve and here I am am, going it alone. I will not be deterred though!!! This job is affording me opportunities that I will never have again and if dumb ass wants to sit around and wonder what good thing might be coming around the next corner then go for it - I'm going to S. Africa....hehe, that's what you all really want to see...i know...

Well, that's it for now. I apologize for being so melancholy, but I guess its best to get it out. I hope that everyone back in the states has a great holiday season and to those in Poland, Switzerland, N. Korea, Thailand, Australia, Canada, Brazil, Germany, Italy, Israel, Moskow...ect...enjoy December???

And then there was one...

2007-12-20T10:27:00.000-05:00

After a grueling two weeks, and yes they were intense, Stephanie is making her way to South Dakota to spend the holidays with her family. Having her these past two weeks has made this little spot in the desert very tolerable.

We had a great conversation last night about our lives where we are and how both of our worlds have been turned upside down over the past year and how despite it all, we continue to trek through the storm.

We have all heard the saying that"if life gives you lemons, then make lemonade". Well, it is kinda true. When Steph got here earlier this month I was forced to deal with some pretty intense personal issues. Adding to that, my job freakin insane; its truly a love-hate relationship. She wasn't on the ground 30 minutes and there we were, making lemonade.

2008 is going to be amazing, I can feel it. I am still reluctant to let go of things from the past, but as each day passes, I'm becomming more excitied about grabbing onto what is next...inevitabley one arm will be stronger than the other.

What sucks is...

2007-12-17T23:30:00.000-05:00

Running across your ex's new online profile and finding out that you weren't even their type!

2007-12-07T10:14:00.000-05:00

Its 5:14 am and I can't sleep. The work here is not getting any more intense, rather more complicated. Its going on 8 weeks now and sometimes I am really not sure what I am doing here.

Fanny got in late Wednesday. Its kind of funny how it was the high point of my time here as well as the low. The high for obvious reasons; she is a fantastic friend and an all out cool chick to roll with. The low has nothing to do with her, rather she reminds me of the life I left back in DC. I don't regret my decision to come here and giving the chance, I would not reverse my decision, but in spending time with her over the past few days I am taken back to the nights we would walk from the apt on the Hill to Hawk & Dove to watch dancing boy, or those 3:30 am amazing dinners she would cook because Pizza-by-the-Slice wasn't gonna cut it, or the Baltimore water taxi ride that really cemented us as friends.

Over the past few weeks my life has changed in a way that I could have never imagined. I am in one of the most fascinating places in one of the most important times in history and I am still stunned by the break-up. Having Fanny here has made the situation real. I am beginning to think that breaking-up is like quitting smoking, you never want to tell anyone or talk about it in the beginning.

Well, morning prayers have started, so I guess thats my sign. For my five readers, good night.

So, Thats that...

2007-12-01T14:38:00.000-05:00

I have spent the past couple of weeks holding out hope that things would work out at home, but tonight I got handed a heavy dose of reality. So I got to spend the past two hours on the phone itemizing the past seven years of my life then negotiating financial terms and the distribution personal items - typical Saturday night, right? Its all right. This is not what I wanted, but I am going to take it in stride. I love my job and have never been more excited about what I am doing. I will spend the next two years traveling the world and finding some sort of peace in who I am - I know, sounds corny!!!

On a positive note, today was a beautiful day here in Iraq. The temperature was mild and the winds were low. There were a few car bombs, but they were a bit distant. I am surprised however about how cold it gets here at night. They warn me that it gets worse, but coming from N. Indiana, I think I can manager a winder in Iraq. In other exciting news, Stephanie is heading out next week, which I am looking too. Everyone needs a Steph in their life. In early December I am heading to Amman, Jordan for a conference. That will cut my time short with Steph, but it is an amazing opportunity.

Now, what your all waiting for...the vacation decision. Though I have not decided, I am leaning toward Greece or Italy. My goal is travel over my birthday (Feb. 19) but that's a long time in Iraq.

Heading out, again...

2007-11-29T01:33:00.001-05:00

I'm heading out on another "mission" this morning and for the first time I am feeling anxious. Perhaps because this is my first journey alone or because the expectations on me are higher...not sure.

At any rate, wish me luck.

Another Day in Iraq...

2007-11-28T15:13:00.000-05:00

Its 11:45 pm and I am just getting back to my "hooch". I can't tell you how much I hate that term. I haven't had a lot of time of update, but I am constantly "planning on doing it tonight". Well, its finally tonight and I am a bit tired. But, since I cannot call each of you individually, I just wanted to drop a quick not to say hi.

Things are going very well here and even though I work a lot, I wouldn't trade this for anything in the world. I am taking more and more trips out to the red zone, which kinda worries me a bit. Not because of anything specific, its just the statistics; the more often you go out the higher your odds of an incident.

On a more positive note, I want everybodies help. I have been in Iraq since October 21. The funny thing is, I was supposed to return the following week. Well, fortunately for me, that never happened. I had another trip scheduled for home in early December, but because of a conference in Amman, Jordan, that is not going to take place either. What I have decided is that God does not want me to go back to DC and frankly, I'm cool with that. Here's where you come in. I need a vacation destination.

I am taking a vacation in late January or early February. I want to go some place that is reasonable, but fantastic. The only condition I have is that it is warm. I have had a lot of suggestions from my colleagues, but I would like to hear from you. Use the e-mail address below to tell me where I should go and why.

IUMPA2005@gmail.com

Trips to the Red Zone...

2007-11-25T23:29:00.000-05:00

I'm headed out into the "red zone" again this morning. For those that don't know, the red zone is the opposite of the green zone. It is not secured and frankly it is not safe for anyone, including Iraqi's. I will go in with an amazing amount of protection, but of course there is risk regardless. It is pretty hard to sleep the night before a trip.

Everything else is running smooth. We launched our website and application this weekend, so I am pretty excited about that. We did suffer a pretty heavy mortar attack, which I can say because it was covered by the media. And as far as whats next, I didn't forget about my list, so I will start putting my thoughts down this evening.

Sunday, November 25...

2007-11-25T00:41:00.000-05:00

The Thanksgiving weekend is nearly over and I think I have survived yet another. This was a little more different than those past, but not completely different. Isn't it funny how a mother to one is mother to all. As I was feeling a bit sad for myself because I was not among my family I thought about all the mothers over here and how much they miss their children. But we know we are all in this together so there is a family-like quality as well.

One other tradition that I missed, but don't miss....the weekend after shopping trip. I have been following it on the news here and realized, "dam, we American's have strange habits!".

Thanks for your e-mail comments. I will hopefully have up the functionality that allows readers to click a button to submit an e-mail.

Thanksgiving Turkey and a Mortars Attack...

2007-11-22T17:18:00.000-05:00

I woke up this morning knowing that I was going to completely dread this day. This is the first holiday since the split and I had no idea how I was going to deal with it. Up until today I didn't have to thinking about it. The one good thing about being is Baghdad is that it is very easy to forget about your problems. First off, is is easy to look around and see that your problems are minor compared to others and second, when your working 14 hour days you don't have a lot of free time to think about those sorts of things. You march on an dhope like hell there are no significant breaks in the day. However, on days such as this, you can't escape your own memories.

My day start off slow. The alarm went off only to be complete ignored. I simply laid there staring at the ceiling thinking to myself, "why am I here?" "Is there a purpose?" When I left DC five weeks ago I was in absolute bliss. My personal life was in order, I had been selected for a coveted project, I even felt that I was evoloving as a person; I was finally growing up and I had a plan for the future. I was focused on our future. However, as I lay there this morning I realized that its just me now, it is my future and I have to decide what I want to do with it. Most can relate to this, but when your a couple nearly everything you do or every decision you make is a joint effort. When to go on vacation, what car to buy, where to move, should you take this job, etc. Personally, even with myself, I always saw it as a crutch; an excuse in the event you make the wrong decision. However, you grow to rely on this counsel.

An hour and a half later I roll out of bed. Considering I have not taken a day off since arriving here, I did not rush out the door. After an hour or so of prep work, I head into work. Usually I am one of the first into the office, so rolling in two hours late was a bit intimidating. I was anticipating a certain degree of razzing, but I got now. Instead as I turned into the office all of my Iraqi team members approached me one by one to shake my hand and wish me a Happy Thanksgiving (of course there variations in pronunciations). This folks made my day! I really like these guys! After an hour or so of work we all convened downstairs for a catered lunch and a disucssion on what Thanksgiving means to us Americans.

So, my day is getting better. It is about 5:00 and I am meeting with the Office Manager to go over our web application and all hell breaks loose. I have heard car bombs go off several times, but this was no car bomb. Because we are in an environment where gun fire and blasts in the distance are common, there is little conversation. But as we sat there and heard the first explosion - we paused - then the second - we paused again - the third....the look in one anothers eyes indicated that the meeting was over. As we ran out to join the others huddled in a stairway I wasn't afraid, rather curious. It wasn't until the lock down was lifted 3 1/2 hours later that I realized how terrified I should have been. (if your interested in hearing the specifics then e-mail me)

I find the day has come in full circle. I am sitting here now thinking about my life hoping like hell that tomorrow will be another 14 hour day.

Liberal Media - not in Baghdad...

2007-11-17T12:26:00.000-05:00

It may sound hard to believe, but one the thing that is not talked about here in Iraq is U.S. politics. Don’t get me wrong, you will hear an occasional light-hearted jab directed toward the President and of course Hillary is fair game, but for the most part there is no serious conversation about the Presidential race, the senate and Lord knows congress doesn't make the list. So, for a guy who loves politics and has spent the last two years in DC, this is pleasant surprise. Though I haven’t spend a lot of time thinking about it, it wasn't until today that it occurred to me why we are not more interested in the race here: because there is no media here telling us we have to be.

This afternoon I was showing my pictures from the trip to Karbala. Being a native Iraqi he was able to teach me about the Prophet Muhammad and the holy site the Shrine of Husayn ibn Ali. The pictures depict us at different stages of the day such as traveling in the Blackhawk, being received the Chief of Police and then by the Governor of Karbala, the town and its people, and three farms. In addition to these planned visits two press conferences were held. It was when I was thumbing (clicking to be exact) through the pictures that I had an “ah ha” moment; a revelation about the media.

There are some important things to note about this meeting in Karbala. First of all Karbala is the only province that has been completely handed over to the Iraqi Military. The handover happened took place on October 29. The purpose of our trip was to demonstrate to the Governor, the people of Iraq, and the rest of the world that the U.S. Government is the first in line to establish business relationships. As mentioned in my previous entry we were accompanied by representative from the Prime Minister’s office, the Department of Defense, the State Department and members of the U.S. business community. To capture this historic event many – the rise of a province heavily affected by the way – two press conferences were held. Please see the picture below and tell me what is missing.

It is a bit small, but what you don't see is CNN, MSNBC, BBC, ABC, NBC, CBS, AP, Washington Post, LA Times, Fox News....but wait...this is a signficant event. The United States Government is doing what it has been slammed for not doing; rebuilding Iraq.

Security, Security, Security...

2007-11-16T02:04:00.000-05:00

Due to security, I am making a few minor changes. I have removed the "Friends Blogs" link and the ability to comment. Sounds silly, but this is done for safety of the commentor. This might change, but right now any information is useful information.

One Crazy Day...

2007-11-15T15:19:00.000-05:00

To be honest, I had no intention of making another entry. After the phone call this morning (see previous entry), I was resigned to take cover and wait for the emotional storm to pass. Fortunately for me however life in the IZ doesn't work like that. The reason I am making a second entry is because the experience I had today here in Iraq I really want to share this experience.

So, as the story goes I got a phone call last night asking if I was up for a trip out of the IZ. This was a luck break for me but since none of the other guys in the office will set foot out, I got the call and quickly snapped up the opportunity. Now, I need to be very careful about what information I give out from the military perspective, but I am comfortable saying that I spent the day with a high ranking official from the Department of Defense, the Governor of Karbala, a high ranking official from the Prime Minister's office ,and media like you wouldn't believe. The purpose of meeting is to show that Americans, and eventually other countries, are interested in investing in Iraq's business.

Early this morning we boarded a blackhawk to Karbala. I have never flown in a helicopter nor did I have any desire to do so, but I sould not show weakness. I was expecting a horribly bumpy ride, but it was quite different. It was smooth the entire way. The flight out lasted awhile (can't even tell how long), but it was awesome. I was finally able to see what Baghdad looks like, what the Iraqi countryside looks like and on top of that some pretty amazing castles and mosques. The evidence of the 2003 war is very obvious. For me, when I think of war or targets, I think of military installations, leadership centers, or some other high profile location. However this is not necessarily the case. As a result you see the impact of the bombings all over the country. I could go on and on, but in short, it was an amazing trip. I was privileged to have spent five hours with the leaderships of the US, Iraq and of Karbala. We toured farms, factories, and small villages. Because of the immense security force surrounding us, we were able to walk around without personal armor and to interact with the Iraqi's. I took several pictures but unfortunately, I cannot post them. I did post one of me, but only because I am so damn cute in it.

What I learned from today is that our lives are dynamic yet not indefinite. After a rough morning I had the opportunity to overcome and to give of myself to my company, the US government, and to Iraq. Don't get me wrong, I am still sad but I still have a great friends and family.

A Significant Change...

2007-11-15T08:55:00.001-05:00

I hate to just push this out there, but after a great run Michael and I have decided to part. This was a very difficult decision for both of us and we appreciate all who have supported us over seven year history. I know there may be some questions and a strong desire to offer support, and in time I think it will be appreciated.

To Michael I want to say how proud I am of you. You have changed so much in so many ways. you will always be in my heart. When I met this shy boy in 2000 I felt as if the whole world had stopped and now, 7 + years later, I am having the same feeling.

Life in the (Green Zone) International Zone…

2007-11-12T10:46:00.000-05:00

Today marks the completion of my 26th day here in Iraq. It some ways it has been very difficult, yet in others it has been rewarding beyond explanation. I know that I have attempted to do the series thing before and failed, but I want to try again. Unless something more interesting or noteworthy comes along, I going to talk about my experiences thus far. This is however going to be interactive. My first entry will be "No Complaining in Iraq". From there, it is up to you...the reader. Immediately below this entry I have listed several topics that I would like to eventually expand upon, but I want you to choose the topic. At the end, simply comment, with name or anonymous, it’s up to you. Also, if you have something specifically you want to ask or you want me to expand upon, feel free to let me know that as well.

No complaining in Iraq

One of the things that you catch onto first here is that as American civilians you do not complain in Iraq. Before I explain in any detail I think it might be helpful to give you an idea of what my life consists of here in Iraq (the things I would complain about...but I'm not!).

First off, I work an incredible amount of hours per day and after nearly four weeks in country I have yet to take a day off. Second, the living conditions are not ideal to the western world, for example, I am routinely chased around my room by the biggest cockroaches you have ever seen. Third, the only place to have a drink is a tiny bar on the camp where the guy pushing swill goes by "get-er-done". Four, you cannot drink the water anywhere in Iraq. Five, I live between two practice firing ranges for the military. You have not heard shit til you've been blown out of your bed by the sound of a 50 Caliber. And six, helicopters will damn near land on your roof anytime of the day or night. Now, I will explain why you, as an American civilian do not complain.

As an American living and working for an American firm here in Baghdad I have the absolute full force protection by the U.S. Military. This may sound a bit trite, but I assure you that from the first step off of the plane you can feel it. It is a surreal feeling to be in a war zone in one of the must tumultuous periods in modern history and have no concern for your personal safety because the presence of 160,000+ soldiers making sure that you go home alive is palpable.

Prior to coming to Iraq I had little use for the military. I did not come for a military family nor did I really know anyone that did. To me the military was a place to send an unruly boy. That said, on the list of things that have changed in my life since coming to Iraq, that is number one. It gives me chills each time I look up and see soldiers hanging out of helicopters or the one kid sitting in the cat-bird seat as M1A1 Abrams rolling into the red zone (yeah, its what you think). I honestly don't know how they do it. As a comparison, when I travel out into the red zone I have a task force (I can't tell you who or how many) that can and will take out a small village should anything obstruct my path. When I travel I am in personal body armor from head to toe and the coordinates of my travels are plotted out days in advance. The irony is that these soldiers who put there lives on the line for us each day make a fraction of what we make and live in conditions much more sparse than anything I have seen. I would never excuse an outright crime conducted by anyone, but for these guys, I would certainly look away as they punched the shit out of anyone who suggested that they are baby killers, rapist, or murders simply because they are soldiers serving in Iraq - read blogs, this is a common sediment.

The other side of the coin here is the Iraqi people. Regardless of how you feel about the war, these people are literally caught in the middle. From Washington DC it was so easy to sit at the Wonderland and to make grand statements about the war, the administration or the obscene amount of money being wasted on the reconstruction. However, from this view point, it is quite different. I realize that anyone reading this is likely to be left leaning, and I don't mean to offend anyone, but this is not a war anymore. It is not about just about politics, religion, or ethnicity; it is about the survival of a nation and future of the Middle East. I remember earlier this year becoming numb to war information...soldiers killed...car bombs...insurgents...surge...I had heard enough, the war wasn't real. That all changed my first week in Baghdad and for me it was sobering. You see, there is this really big kid (22 +/-) 7' tall gentle giant that works with me. I was pretty new, so I didn't talk much. He was a nice guy who each morning would walk in and shook your hand and talk to you about your morning then turn around and do the same thing in the evening before he left for the day. Anyway, I began to notice one day that he (can't use his name) was being visited by everyone in the office. I could not hear what they were saying, but I would hear him give a sincere thank you and soft "enshala" which translates to "Gods Will". What I quickly learned was that my new co-worker and now friend had the week before experienced a death in his family because of the war. I can't tell you the specifics, but you did hear about it and it was not a "military" action. He went on with his day, his week, and his life because here, you have too. Upon discussing this with another Iraqin in the office I was informed "John, every Iraqi you will meet while you are here has lost a brother, sister, mother, father, or child to this war. He must continue as must all continue or we should all leave." I was dumbfounded. I don't mean to suggest that they are cold to death, because they are not. For them, they grieve, but they go on. They are very well aware of their mortality and that because they are working for the "Americans" they are targets, their lives are literally at risk everytime they walk through a gate. One young man in our office recently married and he did not tell his wife where he worked until after they exchanged vows because her family would not allow the marriage to happen.

I may have taken the long way around to make this point, but for all of the hardships that I must endure to be here, the one thing I am assured is my safety and protection. The irony is that of everyone here in this country, the American civilian is the most privileged and least deserving of his rewards. So, I hope that wasn't too long---it looks like a lot of words.

Shhh, don't say Green Zone.

Cruising the Red Zone.

"LOCKDOWN, LOCKDOWN, LOCKDOWN...-"

Surprisingly... no politics.

Members of the Coalition get armour, Iraqis are not members of the Coalition.

Money, who needs money?

This is not a life.

The International Zone is NOT Iraq or Baghdad.

Who is the enemy?

Being stupid will get you killed.

Touchdown Baghdad.....

2007-11-11T00:12:00.000-05:00

This is pretty much a required picture for every American that touches down in Baghdad. In this picture I am in the green zone in the middle of Saddam's parade ground. This is road in which the troops would walk by Saddam's presidential box to be inspected. This is a very interesting monument because like everything else in Baghdad, it celebrates war.

Heading to the Red Zone now, so more later.

Love everyone!

Some brief thoughts on Kuwait City...

2007-10-17T04:00:00.000-04:00

Upon arriving in the Middle East I had a layover in Kuwait City. Being the typical American, all I really knew about Kuwait was that Saddam attempted to invade the country in the early 90's. I wasn't there long, but I am able to offer a few observations:

1. A minibar without alcohol is not a minibar...its just a mini refrigerator with lame ass non-alcoholic beer!
2. The country smells like dust and Oil, that's it folks...dust and oil.
3. Lot of men walking around, but very few women. I am not sure of the social implication here (oppressed gender), but it is noticeable.
4. When you think of Kuwait, think Khaki.
5. No OSHA - this place is a huge fine waiting to happen.
6. Transportation Security Administration - Nothing close!
7. Everyone smokes. Seriously, everyone, everywhere....even in an elevator.

Unfortunately, I did not get to get out much, so my impression of the city and country is pretty limited.

Going, going, gone...

2007-10-17T03:42:00.000-04:00

It may have taken a little longer than expected, but I am finally in the middle east. I am currently in Kuwait City awaiting the puddle jumper (dune jumper?) that will shuttle me for the last leg of my trip into Baghdad. Early this morning I took a walk around the city, then ran back and quickly started to put down some thoughts - oh yeah, its different over here - but something else was on my mind.

Maybe I am already getting a bit home sick, or perhaps I am a bit anxious about the new job, but since leaving DC Monday night, my family and friends have been at the forefront of my mind. Oh, now don't go thinking I'm getting all sappy, on the contrary, I am enjoying the experience but I keep thinking how much more fun it would be if Michael, Stephanie, Colleen, my sisters, or even my mother were with me to share this experience. By nature, I am not a loner; I thrive around others. So, that said, I will you all were here.

I am also posting some pictures of family and friends that took time out of their lives to stop by and have a drink or dinner before I headed out. In particular, special props to Michael and Stephanie whom had to endure several long nights out and Connie, Michelle, and Colleen for driving halfway across the country to see me off.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/89974963@N00/sets/72157602467692667

Time to Come Clean...

2007-09-26T21:13:00.000-04:00

I have known this for a quite a while now, and I probably should have shared it earlier, but late next week I am beginning my path toward Baghdad. I was asked to join a team that will help build the Iraqi government's financial infrastructure and payment system. Now I know that this does not sound exciting to most, but for me this is a very exciting opportunity to do what what I went to school for (Public Policy / Public Financial Management).

Below are the most popular questions I have answered since finding out about the project:

Are you kidding? I am very serious; besides my jokes are much better than this.
Are you worried? I am not worried, at least as far as my safety is concerned. It is important to remember that I will be shielded by the U.S. Military and Blackwater (no jokes please...I'm sensitive).
Are you concerned about anything? Yes, of course. First of all, I will miss the love and security provide to me by Michael on a daily basis. I am also a bit concerned about missing the luxury of being around my friends, the oppressive heat, and the constricted travel. However, what I am most concerned about is a concern that Stephanie made; spending day in and day out surrounded by death and those that are callous to it...I am concerned about how that will change me.
How is Michael with this decision? He is extremely supportive. For those that know us well, we have had a very difficult year and have come out much happier and stronger than we have ever been. He is a bit concerned, but he is much more independent that I, so I don't think the solitude is a factor. On the contrary, I'm sure he'll enjoy the peaceful evenings.
How long will you be there? I have "signed on" for a year. This will of course depend on the project and the current state of Iraq. If our safety cannot be secured, we will be sent packing.
When do you leave? Tentatively I am scheduled to leave for Combat Readiness Training in Fort Benning GA October 6 then depart for Iraq October 13.

That's it for now, but I welcome any questions or advice that anyone may have. This is going to be an amazing year.

Some things you just can't pass up...

2007-09-19T08:41:00.000-04:00

Over the past few months I have taken a brief hiatus from blogging, but fortunately for my adoring fans, I have recently jumped back in. Now perhaps I am alone on this, but after these breaks (i.e. not focusing on what I might want to post on my blog) I become a bit rusty even unsure of what still meets the mission of my blog which is to provide: Thoughts and musing from a twisted and sporadic.

Therefore in the absence of witty musings or legitimate content about my personal life, professional life, and the every entertaining Republican Party I will do the ole standby: Post a picture for comment....I will go first.

Adarsh inflating Matt.

John and Mike Protest...

2007-09-17T16:06:00.000-04:00

It took more than two years, but Michael and I attended our first protest in Washington DC this weekend and man was it a learning experience. The event took place this past Saturday and to be quite blunt, we really did not know what we were getting into.

More late, but for now a cute pic of my lil protester.

The Wonderland Ballroom...

2007-08-13T10:03:00.000-04:00

I want to give a big shout out to the management of The Wonderland Ballroom because this past week they made a business decision that I am sure will have immediate if not long term returns on their investment: The Fired Kara

I want to be the first to congratulate them on this business defining decision. You see for the most part I really don't care who works behind the bar, regardless of the establishment, because frankly I understand the relationship and it is pretty simple; I want a beer; they hand me a beer; I give them money for the beer and something additional as a tip. Don't get me wrong, I do not think that the relationship needs to be that sterile, but it is the foundation. That said, I have been to a lot of bars in the DC / Northern Virginia region (yes, I do stay out of MD) and have experienced many different types of bartenders (good, bad, mediocre) but I have never experienced anything quite like Kara and honestly it is a story in itself.

I have been going into the Wonderland for nearly two years now. Me and my friends were originally turned onto the place by other friends who had been going since the bar opened and we liked it a lot. I would not call us frequent visitors, but we did go on Saturdays for a little dancing, Monday's for trivia, and an occasional after work drink. Now I tell you about the frequency of my visits and the time frame for which I visited because they will become an issue later in the story. As the story goes, one mild DC afternoon some friends and I walked (dragged) our asses down to 11 th and Kenyon for a bit of the hair of the dog that bit us. In addition to our small group (5ish), because of the bars close proximity to us, we convinced three other friends to make the trek to Columbia Heights to meet us. We showed up about ten minutes late as they already had their drinks. I made my way to the downstairs bar and patiently waited at the end of the bar. I was in no hurry, so I just kinda stood there and waited for the bartender to make her way down the relatively empty bar. What came next I can only recount as my mind will let me. This bartender, Kara ( (see Rosmary's Baby) lost her GOD DAMN MIND. Standing no more than the width of the bar from he she screeched to me (paraphrased):

"Who the fuck do YOOOOUUU think you are? I have customers at the other end of the fuckin bar, go down there if you want something"

(Internal Voice: Despite not seeing a trailer anywhere in the neighborhood, I'm sure I recognize her from Indiana, possibly Corn School, the county fair, or was she one of those frequent guests on the Jerry Springer Show /Maury Show where she spends the entire show trying to figure out which of the 18 guys on stage that have been in her are the father of her baby? Hint: I am of the feeling that the ladder doesn't apply in this girls situation.)

However, being the nice "midwesterner" that I am, I simply gave her the stink eye and walked back out to the patio where I encouraged my entourage to finish their drinks. We abruptly left and headed over to this lovely place on Georgia Ave. However, as we were waiting for our friends to finish their drinks, I couldn't contain myself. I was in shock and and as I relived the nightmare to my friends the bar helper leaned into me and whispered, "at least you don't have to work with her". So we left and you would thing the story would be over, right? Clearly not or this would be a pretty lame story.

This past weekend one my friend who was sitting with us that afternoon sent me a link to a myspace blog (public and open mind you) that he had run across. At first I didn't really consider it as I get a lot of Myspace and Youtube e-mails. After boredom set in I finally clicked the link...oh, it was pure joy. It seems that Kara got her as shitcanned. This of course was no news, but she broadcast it to the world through an myspace blog rant. Unfortunately you cannot read it any longer because she locked her page, but if you ask nicely, she may make you a friend and you can read it (http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewprofile&friendid=14986890) . Her rant was pretty predictable (unfair management, fuck head this, dick head that...), but what was most interesting was one comment she made that seemed to be the only bit of honesty in her tirade. That she was fired because the neighborhood was changing and that the Wonderland management wanted higher standards for the treatment of their customers...WOW. She actually understands she was fired because she is a horrible human being and she still doesn't get it. Immediately following her speech were several comments from her loyal patrons that have committed to following her to next haunt. Well, as did another, felt compelled to share our experience with the little skank. So I basically recounted the above mentioned story to her and informed her that while I sincerely hope that she lands on her feet, I really would like to know where so that I will not make the same mistake of ordering a drink from her again. The following is her e-mail response to me:

And, in the event you can't ready it...here is the transcription:

"who the fuck asked you?

midwestern whities like you would have been eaten alive in that neighborhood 5 years ago. now you thnk you own the city. im sure you and your friends bored me to tears at that bar and got me depressed about what the wonderland was coming to. btw, there was no patio service there, so youre damn right you got your drinks from inside! sorry that was such a burden, fatty. you dont know me, so stay the fuck away from me and my myspace. "

I won't say anything else (spell check), because honestly, this chick is such an easy target. However, to the management of The Wonderland Ballroom, I say congratulations and after a long drought, We'll see you soon.

Somethings are just...Funny!

2007-07-30T10:45:00.000-04:00

For those of you that have no idea what is going in my personal life, this will make absolutely no sense to you. However, for those few that are "in the know" this entry is absolutely hysterical.

First let me state that in no way shape or form do I believe in astrology...but for some reason I always read the horoscopes, and not just mine. I read all of my friends in an attempt to gain some sort of insight as to how I should interact...bizarre, I know. That said, per Friendster.com below is my horoscope for yesterday, Sunday, July 29.

Try not to resist transitions in any of your relationships -- especially the romantic ones -- right now. If you can stay open to changes a little bit longer, then you will benefit from some important new information. Feeling uncomfortable for a short period of time is a small price to pay for an enlightened sense of who you are, and what role you are meant to play in this partnership. Just let things take their course, and you will be able to bob and weave along with the changes.

There are several reasons this makes me laugh. The first is timing, and frankly that is what the horoscope is all about. The second is patience. If this is MY horoscope, then they should know I have zero patience. Finally, this is the same conversation I have had with everyone that I am close to. Its funny how life just keeps pounding on you til you really get the point....got it!

Something new

2007-07-26T10:41:00.000-04:00

Since I cannot think of anything to blog about in my personal life, I have decided to try something new in hopes of curing my writers block and to hopefully learn something along the way. What I am going to try to do is provide an online progress report on the home renovation project.

The house was purchased in May 2006 and we moved in early July of 2006. Because of the extreme cost of homes in the District of Columbia, a starter house needing improvements was the only realistic route. The result was the house that is pictured above. Since moving in last July, we have made some changes, however we still have a long way to go. Below is a summary of what has been done to date and below that what still needs to be done:

Performed to date:

Hardwood floors have been sanded and stained
8 Windows have been replaced

Evolving list of tasks to be performed:

4 Windows need replaced
Renovate Kitchen
Gut and renovate bathroom (upstairs)
Gut and renovate dining room (50% complete)
Gut and renovate living room
Paint 2 bedrooms
Gut and renovate 1 bedroom
Add additional electrical outlets throughout the house
Add heating and cooling ventilation systems
Replace plumbing as needed
Renovate basement (convert into apartment)
Install new gutters
Repair garage roof
Repair front porch
Landscape the yard.

Wow, I have never really put all of that down on a list before. But there it is. My intentions are to upload pics of each room and the progress as it happens. Then, once complete, I will provide a slide show of the before and after. Mind you, this is my intention. Assuming this whole effort will take a couple years, it could change.

So, until improvements have been made...

Oh, and I'll still write about other things when I'm feeling the vibe.

Still waiting...

2007-07-06T12:55:00.000-04:00

...for what, I am not sure.

Favorite Song day...w/lyrics

2007-06-25T21:40:00.000-04:00

It's a little bit funny this feeling inside
I'm not one of those who can easily hide
I don't have much money but boy if I did
I'd buy a big house where we both could live

If I was a sculptor, but then again, no
Or a man who makes potions in a travelling show
I know it's not much but it's the best I can do
My gift is my song and this one's for you

And you can tell everybody this is your song
It may be quite simple but now that it's done
I hope you don't mind
I hope you don't mind that I put down in words
How wonderful life is while you're in the world

I sat on the roof and kicked off the moss
Well a few of the verses well they've got me quite cross
But the sun's been quite kind while I wrote this song
It's for people like you that keep it turned on

So excuse me forgetting but these things I do
You see I've forgotten if they're green or they're blue
Anyway the thing is what I really mean
Yours are the sweetest eyes I've ever seen

Something new...

2007-06-25T21:31:00.000-04:00

Ok, heres the thing I have not written anything new in about a month. Even the last few entries have been youtube videos to entertain the masses. I have tried for over a week now to put something worth while in a post and I just can't. I don't know why, I'm not a good enough writer to actually have writers block, so this draught is unexplainable.

OMG, I just got it...I'm afraid to write about my life over the past few weeks because a) it will be a lie, or b) I don't want to face it...

Mood: Not sad, not happy, not stressed, not elated....I am absolutely blah!

Braces, Diet Pills, and Capitol Hill...

2007-06-15T08:08:00.000-04:00

I haven't posted anything significant in a while so I feel like I owe some news to the faithful. As you can probably tell from previous posts, I have been going through a lot lately on the personal front. To protect the privacy of others, I won't dwell on that too much. However, I will share with you this, without the unrelenting support of Michael and the wisdom of Stephanie, I would have gone completely nuts a week ago. So, as the heading suggests, I do have a few pieces of news to share.

Braces - The orthodontist removed my bottom braces yesterday afternoon. I have to admit that I wasn't expecting much except the wisdom from another that they would "be slimy". Well, they are not slimy and they are beautiful!! I can't wait to get the tops off.

Diet Pills - I have been running for over a year and not just a casual trot. I spent most of last year running 20+ miles a week. While I am very proud to have been able to run a marathon last year, I really wanted to shave off some lbs. Well, it didn't happen so I have recently resorted to Lipodrene. I know this is going to draw some criticism (KT), but I'm not crazy. I am being very careful. Let me tell you this though, these fuckers make you nuts!

Capitol Hill - I am moving out of the house in NE DC and back to Capitol Hill.

Lazy saturday post...

2007-06-09T09:40:00.000-04:00

Videos that I have to sit and wait hours to see on MTV...brought to you with one click...

Fergie - Hate the girl, love the song:

Snow Patrol - Awww, hidden meaning song:

Blue October - Love, Alcoholism, Drugs, Suicide = Intense Self Loathing:

Hoobastank - The words more than the video (its lame):

Jennifer Holliday - This Folks is Pain!:

Ok, thats it for now. I am looking for a few others, but with little success. This does irk me a bit, because I give myself a lot of credit for knowing music. Therefore, when I do find them I will certainly make a big deal out of it.

Its Saturday morning and the weather in DC is pretty good. Headed to they gym then a long run. Have a good weekend.

Mood: Pretty Good!

Back to the grind...

2007-06-07T08:18:00.000-04:00

Since coming back to work this past Monday I realized something; this whole being out of college and working and being a responsible really sucks.

On a positive note, I have now received feedback and scores on all of my annual reviews (mid-year engagement review, year end engagement review, annual performance assessment). I received "exceeds expectations" across the board, which based on the recent challenges made me feel pretty good. What does exceeds expectations really mean you maybe wondering...well, its a good question. Based on past experience, it is a trivial score used by my firm to allocate % increase in annual salary and your share of the bonus pool. However, this year the scores hold a slightly different meaning for me as I am putting myself up for a promotion.

Unlike most private companies or even the federal government, at my firm individuals must petition to be promoted, it is not involuntary nor automatic. The process for petition for promotion is a promotion package similar to the security clearance package I completed last year. It is insane and what they fail to tell you is that everything that you have ever done (proposal work, special projects, community / professional events) must be documented with all of these forms that you have never seen before. You try remembering why you went to some lame ass lunch discussion by some tool from the OMB...they explain what you learned...but I did it...all of it. I obviously never given birth, but I imagine it feels similar to what I experienced over the past fee weeks.

Other than that things are good and by good I mean I'm not dead and that's good...LOL Some days I have moments of crystal clarity that really surprise me, others are mundane and "going through the paces" kinda thing, and still others are a complete fog.

Picture of the day: For you clown lovers...

Another reason to like beer...

2007-06-05T06:01:00.000-04:00

Kissing the ex...

2007-06-04T10:07:00.000-04:00

I don’t care who you are, each one of us has that one ex that we keep safely tucked away in our past. If you are completely honest with yourself then you are very familiar with this person. He is the first person you think of when times get rough; the one that understands you when the rest of the world seems to have gone nuts; the one that you know for certain that if things would have been a little more different he would still be at your side; the one that made you understand the bliss of true love and then as swiftly made you feel the hollowness of a broken heart. I will call this the Phantom Ex, or in my case, David R.

The dictionary defines a phantom as “a person or thing of merely illusory power, status, efficacy, etc”. Therefore, the Phantom Ex as I described above does not actually exist to the extent that you remember them; rather they only exist as you remember them. Meaning; all of that understanding, compassion, intimacy, and love while real in your memory might not necessarily be real, rather it’s a wanton desire to remember things they way you wanted them to be. For me, one of my fears was facing that reality because so much of who I am is tied into who I thought I was and how far I have come…if that makes any sense. Well, I did not have to wait long to face this fear.

This past weekend during at brief visit to Indiana to take a break from DC life, a stressful job, and relationship issues that have provided their own challenges in recent months I was faced with the opportunity to spend some time with my Phantom Ex. Because we have maintained a friendship, though distant, over the years, it was an easy decision to meet for a few drinks, or so I thought.

It is really hard to explain the flood of emotions when I walked into that nasty little bar this past Thursday night. He was sitting at the end of the bar smoking a cigarette; making it look good. I walked toward him and he stood and gave me the biggest hug telling me “you look good baby”. My first though was “god damnit, will you ever age!” – I think I actually said that. My second thought was a lot more telling of my inner perceptions as I thought “why are you here…in this dump?”

We began our pleasantries and as we sat chatting, drinking, taking pictures, and playing pool my mind would spin back to that person that I had put on an unachievable pedestal and wonder where is he now. While he was distracted or talking to another patron I would steal glimpses at him and different scenarios would run through my head…if the stars were more in line would this be my life?...what I am going to do if he says that he always loved me and wants to run away with me tonight…doe he still think I’m hot?...what did that comment mean?...etc.

In looking back on that evening I realized how much time we spent talking about our lives today and what we are doing to achieve success and happiness and very little time talking about our life back then. And even though I now realize that my Phantom Ex does not exist to the extent the way I remembered him, I did learn that 1) David has always been there for me during my low periods, 2) he does know me a lot better than most, 3) thank god those stars were not in line all those years ago, and (4) you don’t need to be in love with someone to love them.

For those waiting to hear salacious details about the rest of the evening, I have to disappoint. We drank, laughed, and genuinely had a great time. I won't deny the that some subtle flirting too place, but nothing sorted or unhealthy.

(Two of my goodest friends; David and Andrea)

The Indiana Trip...

2007-05-29T08:45:00.001-04:00

As wrote last week, I am back in Bloomington this week to relax and spend some time with family and friends. The drive was smooth and went by quickly; which I attribute to anticipation. My time here has been great. It is certainly the break I need from work and DC in general.

One of the great things about Bloomington is that it changes very little. Within the parameters of the University (five blocks each way), IU is truly a campus in a college town. Whether you are jogging down 3rd street past the fraternities and sororities after class or stumbling up Kirkwood toward the Sample Gates on your way home from Nicks after few failed rounds of Sink the Biz, the campus has that special vibe. In visiting Blooming this week, I had two goals. The first was to spend time with friends and second, was to spend some time on campus.

This first night in town I stayed on campus in the Memorial Union (hotel). Since graduation took place earlier this month, securing a room was not difficult at all. Becoming accustomed to nicer hotels lately, I wasn't expecting much from the union so the surprise when I walked into the room was even more rewarding. Not only was the room amazing, but the windows looked out across the campus, particularly over the Beck Chapel and the main creek that runs through campus. The first few hours I laid in the bed with reading a book with the windows open listening to the sound of the water running over the rocks below. That bliss was briefly disturbed by one of Indiana's other great attributes, the beetle. This damn bug flew into the room and like all idiot beetles, started running into things. For the most part, I have no problem with insects. I do draw the line with landing on me, but other than that, "mi casa, su casa". So I lay and read and this god damn thing keeps hitting the wall, TV, lamp, door...everything. Being the passive nature lover I am, I moved toward the insect to escort the little fella out the window, then quickly realized that I'm a DC'ite now, so I whacked it....done, back to reading.

Monday I woke up at 6:30 and started my own personal tour of campus. I was going to do a quick jog for old times sake, but I'm on vacation, so I walked and walked then walked more. After hitting the highlights, the Kelley School of Business, SPEA, HPER, and the fountain, I made my way down to Starbucks for morning coffee. Kirkwood was exactly as I left it two years ago and I couldn't help just walking down the street. The only thing that was missing from my adventure; friends. Rarely did I ever do anything in Bloomington without friends. I couldn't help thinking about Steph, Elena, Jessica, Josh, Chester....

After my trip down memory lane I fed my affinity for IU by stopping by every campus bookstore, the TIS bookstore, and anyone that sold anything with IU on it. I will come back to DC truly "representin" the IU.

Well, theres been a lot more, but I will share that later.

Caution...too much clicking on myspace leads to this...

2007-05-26T15:49:00.000-04:00

Your Heart Is Purple

For you, love is about establishing and developing a deep connection.
If it's true love, it brings you more wisdom and inner strength.

Your flirting style: Sincere

Your lucky first date: An afternoon at a tea house

Your dream lover: Is both thoughtful and expressive

What you bring to relationships: Understanding

What Color Heart Do You Have?

2007-05-24T13:29:00.000-04:00

I have been living in Washington DC for nearly two years now and it never really occurred to me that I have not been back to Indiana since moving out here. I have made one day trips for Christmas or other special occasions, but never because I wanted too. Well, I want too.

I've thought some about it and I realized that I really miss the Hoosier State. At first I thought that I just missed the people like my cool as hell former boss Judith, my ex-best friend Andrea(we're friends now), and even an ex David, who despite a ridiculous relationship and the passing "X" number of years has turned out to be a bizarre life coach to me in recent years. What I miss is my former life, I miss the simplicity of making a quick dash to the grocery store or the ability to drive through the streets without having dodge taxicabs. I miss people like Chester and Jeremy who are the kind of friends that just want to sit, have a beer and chat about how fun this or that was. I feel like I'm a character in a Lifetime Movie and have to go home to get in touch with who I am.

Now I feel like I need to give DC a "shout-out". I do love DC and even as I eagerly await my journey this week, I know that the likely hood of me ever living in Indiana again is pretty slim...but I can sure sit at Yogi's and have a $2.00 beer

I'll take pics for all you IU Fans.

One Fun Sunday...

2007-05-22T15:55:00.000-04:00

I am not a big fan of crowds at all and for the most part have successfully avoided events like Taste of Arlington in the past. However, since Alberto was leaving for two weeks (PA then South Africa), we said hell with it, and headed toward the metro.

It was a blast. Perhaps its because the girl at the beer truck screwed up and didn't check off our first two drinks or maybe because P.F. Changs had a stand, either way we had a great time. So, to Alberto, Michael, Andrew, Charlie, and Rudi...holla!

Below are some pictures from the event. Enjoy.

The hardest thing I've ever done...

2007-05-21T16:42:00.000-04:00

There's a Hole in My Sidewalk
by Potia Nelson

Chapter One
I walk down a street and there's a big hole. I don't see it and fall into it. It's dark and hopeless and it takes me a long time to find my way out. It's not my fault !

Chapter Two
I walk down the same street. There's a big hole and I can see it, but I still fall in. It's dark and hopeless and it takes me a long time to get out. It's still not my fault.

Chapter Three
I walk down a street. There's a big hole. I can see it, but I still fall in. It's become a habit. But I keep my eyes open and get out immediately. It is my fault.

Chapter Four
I walk down a street. There's a big hole. And I walk around it.

Chapter Five
I walk down a different street.

A friend sent me this poem earlier today. At first I thought of it like every other"pep-talk" e-mail that is circulated, but then I read it. It's pretty amazing in that it illustrates that as complicated as we make life out to be, in the end it is amazing how simple it is.

I said good-bye to Stephen today, one of the hardest things I have ever done. Stephen is a great guy that I got to know over the past six months. During that period I learned a great deal about myself and the world around me and for that I cannot be more grateful. I wish him the best in his life, love, and career.

So the hard part, Chapter 5, walking down a different street....

Hmmmm...

2007-05-20T09:31:00.000-04:00

There is not really much that I can add here except that I thought that V.P. Cheney had straighted out the Iraqi Parliament a week or so ago. I mean, hell, he scared the shit out of me, and he was thousands of miles a way. Perhaps he should take a couple of these boys out on a "Texas Style" hunting trip...that should do the trick.

For Stephanie...

2007-05-18T09:32:00.000-04:00

Ok, I couldn't resist seeking this video out and posting it for you. Our mutual love for this song only demonstrates how strange we really are...

Also, we had a great time last night with Nicki. Ryan was very successful in keeping it a surprise. Of course our group gave her liquor. It was also interesting sitting with a group of Hill Rats that work for Hil. Even our usually composed KT fell into the trap "OMG, you work down the hall in blah blah dumb asses office"....OMG, do you know who I rode in the elevator with??? Oh and finally, the Cuban gets big props. Not once did he point at something and fart and he gave everyone a ride home. You would have been proud!!

Anyway, love ya...come home soon.

Crazy Crap...

2007-05-15T17:57:00.000-04:00

I've got this song in my head today:

I know, I know...I have not been good lately at updating my loyal legions on the arbitrary occurances of my life. I don't have the time or energy to really dedicate this week, but since I know Steph is watching from a distance, I thought I should leave something here for her to look at.

First of all, I'm a freaking moron. Last night I took a break from the insanity of life / work to enjoy a baseball game. Rob and I headed to the stadium, stopped and enjoyed a few on the way of course, to watch the Nats play the Braves. Now, I'm not sure if I was excited about the Nats winning, the beautiful evening, or the stop along the way, but I was having a great time. So, after the game, Rob and the wife wanted to have a drink....a drink you say...OK. So, we head up to Capitol Hill for a little drinky drinky. After a few pictures we make our way home, them to their car me to the metro. Now, considering the time, I had to bust ass, but when I got there I had plenty of time (8 minutes). So, I sat down, flipped out my phone and started reading the news. Now, heres where I am an idiot. I actually heard over the loud speaker that the approaching train was the last train for the evening...so I sat. It wasn't until I saw the red lights leaving me behind that the message sank in...I was stuck. So, no big deal, hail a cab. I walk outside laughing at how stupid I am... I heard then say "last train, but I sat". At any rate, I hail a cab and give my directions (twice). I'm in a shirt and tie looking professional you know. We get about ten blocks away and he says, "you know I am only taking cash" Hmm, I don't know why I felt this the time to listen. I said, I don't have cash...and just like the movies, you heard the tires squeal as the brakes were swiftly applied. If you know anything about DC then you know that H Street is the new "up and coming" neighborhood. Well, that might be true near Capitol Hill, but at H and Maryland Street, its another story. This damn driver put me out right there. No ATM, no I'll pay you with the cash when I get there...get out. So, I walked and walked and walked. Morale of the story, I'm drinking and driving next time!

Second, the Y-Me walk was this past Sunday. In case you don't know what it is, the Y-me is a annual 3-mile walk to raise money for breast cancer patients and surviors. On a personal level, it was an amazing experience. To walk next to those who have fought through the disease, to walk next to those still fighting the disease, and to walk next to those who are walking as a show of love for those that did not survive, was a complete humbling experience. For those who don't know, and I'd say thats most of you, things have been a bit rough for me lately. I am struggling with a lot of personal issues. I could go on, but the point is that my issues are so little compared to the people that I surrounded myself with Sunday. I am truly lucky. And on one final Y-Me note, through the kindness of family and friends, I was able to raise $1165. So, to those that contributed, THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU.

Work Sucks!
I am really struggling with my job lately. I thought after we lost the one trouble maker that things would be fine. Funny thing about someone that causes you grief, you know the beast you fight. I am finding out that I'd rather fight her than to have to learn the punching strategy of another. I'm not sure if its the personal life impacting the work life, but I feel constantly defeated at work. I go in with a positive perspective, only to be sucker punched in the first 15 minutes. I'm really not sure how much longer I can take it. I'm not talking anything severe mind you, perhaps a shift to another project or even another firm. I really like the nature of my work, just the constant struggle sux.

Other Random Thoughts:
The weather is amazing!

The Men Date...

2007-05-11T08:01:00.000-04:00

Since Fanny jumped ship and headed out of the country last month, MKO and I have taken advantage of the opportunity to get to know the Cuban a bit better. While he can't sling back a Yuengling as good as our Fanny, he has surprised me lately by keeping up and being a hell of a lot of fun. The three of us have taken to "man dates".

Our last man date was last night. Being that maven that he is, MKO and I were invited, along with three other guys to join the Cuban at a reception to celebrate public servants - I am not a public servant. Anyway, we meet up and this reception wasn't half bad. It was held at the Old Postal Museum near Union Station. To our surprise the food was good and the beer and wine was free. The six of us closed that mother down! This new character that joined our group was hysterical....made me laugh, and that takes some effort. Hes a little older than me and single, so hes talking up a group of 40-something women. The only funny thing about this story was as me and the other four guys are standing in a circle talking (while hes trying to score come granny-stuff) we hear him say "anal probe". Well, goes without saying that it went downhill from there. As the ladies were getting up to leave however they made one final gesture; one offered him the rest of her beer...really! She actually handed him a half-empty bottle of beer - who does that?. This dude looked normal to me, not like he was having the DTs from lack of alcohol.

After the reception we trekked over to the Irish Times to chase our beer down with more beer. it all, it was fun. MKO and I departed for home and as we were getting on the train I realized that we were all on a man date. No one was "looking" for anything, rather just a group of guys hanging out. We're totally getting our nails done tomorrow...LOL

Random stuff

2007-05-10T15:27:00.000-04:00

I'm trying the facial scruff. Not really sure if I like it or not, opinions welcome...

One for Steph...

Whoever said it wouldn't work....was correct...lol

A Great Weekend...

2007-05-09T11:16:00.000-04:00

As indicated in previous posts, I traveled back to Cincinnati this past weekend for the Flying Pig Half Marathon. It is not my intent to hop all over the country running in random races, but I did this one for two reasons. First, to support my niece in her first real run and second, to return to the city that symbolized my first real step into adulthood.

The Race: This is Ash and I the day before the race. Look at that smile, the poor child is so unaware of what awaits her the next morning. Being a good uncle however, at her insistence, went a nice pub just east of Downtown for a few drinks...you know, to prepare. Still trusting that she knew what she was doing as far as training for the race, I heeded her advice and enjoyed a icy cold beer. It was a great afternoon. We ate, drank, and I doled out advice on race "preparations". Saturday evening my family started to roll into town. It was pretty low key, mostly chilled, had some dinner, then watched some TV. I'm not sure what I was nervous about, but I didn't sleep at all that night, maybe 2.5 hours. Up at 4 am, Ash and I headed downtown for a 6:30 am gun. It was a bit brisk, but we were "in it to finish".

The race was a bit more intense than I had imagined. I have been training since Chicago last year, so my race pace is just under a 9 minute mile. Ash's was a bit slower, but pretty good for her first race. The hills were much more intense than I had imagined they would be. We literally ran up hill from mile 3 to mile 10. It was at mile 5 that she confessed that she really hadn't been training as she had previously stated. Determined, we kept our mantra that we were going to finish either way.

Once we hit mile 10 and realized that it was "downhill from here" we were relieved. Here is us between 10 and 11 (don't we look remarkably fresh?). In the end we did very well. We finished the race in 2 hours 44 minutes.

I am so proud of her. For someone that had never run more than 4 miles in her life but ran 13.1 non-stop up hills out of sheer determination and ambition, I am in awe.

Here's to Ash!!!

Coming home...sorta

2007-05-05T10:13:00.000-04:00

For those that don't know, I lived in Cincinnati from late 1989 to early 1993 ish... I was the first of my large family to move more than an hour from my mother, so it was a big step. I moved to Cincinnati in 1989 in pursuit of a girl (looking back, I really dodged a bullet...a BIG one). At any rate, it was during my stay in the Queen City (I know, irony right??) that I met Colleen. I have two very distinct recollections of that meeting. The first was her insatiable curiosity about dead animals (she had skeletons everywhere) and the second was that she borrowed my car and didn't come back for four hours...when your 20, that's a long time. Well, needless to say, the first meeting was not so wonderful. Fortunately for me, all that changed.

Fast forward 17 years now and I can honestly say that she is the best friend that I have ever had. She has seen me through serious relationships and not so serious relationships, a long drive cross country towing her car with two kittens on the dashboard, I watched her fight with the waiter in Little Italy NY over an egg plant parmesan lunch (remarkably our lunches came out an hour later,in an empty restaurant!), and become so pissed at me in Boston that she would not eat the freshly caught lobster. But through it all, she has been there. When I was sad, she'd drive through the night to sit with me, only to turn around 2 hours later and make the same 4 hour trek back home. Time was never an issue if you I needed a friend.

It is seeing her and spending time with her this weekend that re centers me on what friendship and happiness means. Colleen was there when I literally had nothing (I was fired from a Dunken Donuts) and now that we've both established our lives and we're moving toward old age together, she still looks, talks, and acts the same way as ever...a best friend. I do not get to see her as often as either of us would like, but when we do its so familiar, non-judgemental, unprotected, and unreserved. She is one of these rare people that is sincere in what she says and I know shes my friend...

Finally, I want to say how much I really hate the term "best friend" because it is so singular, it implies that only one can be the best. So, to all of my other "best friends" get your ass home!

Headed to the Flying Pig

2007-05-04T11:28:00.000-04:00

Wish me luck...13.1 miles. Actually, it won't be too bad. I'm doing it more to support my niece who is running her first big race. I'll post some pics when its complete, providing that they are not horrible....trust me, after 10 miles, we all look like hell!

Have a great weekend!

Friendster Update...

2007-05-02T12:52:00.000-04:00

I didn't realize how much a social tool the Internet was until I hit grad school. It was early on in the first semester and every time I turned around someone was asking what my screen name for this site or that site was. So, like most everyone else in the modern world, I signed up for them....The Facebook, MySpace, Friendster, Classmates...and probably others I've forgotten about. As grad school became and smaller image in the rear view mirror of life, I stopped checking or updating the sites...nearly forgot about them until today.

While doing my favorite past-time today, cyber-stalking, I googled a name from my past. I'm not sure why I did it, but curiosity got the best of me. At any rate, I put the name in, clicked "Google Search" and just like that, it was there in front of me. The friendster profile. I clicked and read (its always interesting to read how people view themselves in the world) looked at pictures, clicked at some friends. It was nice, cathartic (emotionally purging, not strongly laxative). Anyway, it was fun. So, I'm moving on, getting ready to close then I see a little image that says you are linked to blah through blah and the second blah is NS (five links).

I just laughed....

...and then she marched right up to the hopper.

2007-05-02T12:15:00.000-04:00

With all the excitement in my life lately (or lack of), I totally forgot to give a virtual high-five to our own real-life Elle Wood. See, my good friend KT is doing a brief stint in Senator blah-blib'd-blah's office. This is supposed to be a 3-month excursion from her permanent position, a vacation if you will. KT could have easily sat around for those three months, enjoying lattes with Hillary, Nancy, and maybe even Dick (probably not Dick), but she didn't.

See that sat KT in a corner and gave her a random assignment having to do with economic development of the ______ (my listening faded here). That ho took the assignment and ran. So, to make a long story short, in the two months that she has been in the Senate a bill that she initiated was sent to the floor (I hope I'm using the right terminology). Unfortunately, the bill is currently dead, though they may introduce it with other legislation later.

KT, I speak for all of your IU friends and I say great job!!

Snaps for KT....*SNAP* *SNAP* *SNAP* *SNAP* *SNAP*

Tuesday Entry...

2007-05-01T14:40:00.000-04:00

I realized earlier this morning that I have not provided an update in a few days. I am beginning to realize how much time and effort it takes to do daily entries. Actually, I have started a few, but have yet to finish them for one reason or another. One is really funny, another is a folksy friendship entry, and yet another I realized is a bit too personal...however, I do want to provide some updates for those of you at home still watching.

DC is absolutely beautiful right now. Its warm, but not oppressive. A cool breeze sweeps through the house. The evenings are even better, bedroom windows wide open. I've been spending as much time outside in the yard as I can. I don't think I am accomplishing much, but I'm getting a hell of a tan, among other things...

Yes, that's right. I managed to get poison ivy. I do wish there was a seedy story, you know, a romp in the woods, but unfortunately, there is not. I was helping the neighbors cut down their rain forest and got into the nasty plant. I don't realize for several days. As you might imagine, I'm not looking too hot. I haven't had the rash since Camp Pottawatomie in the 3rd grade. I had a girlfriend at the time, here name was Tina (random memory). At any rate, I have kept myself busy around the house for a couple days. I finally broke down and went to the urgent care clinic today to get a medical opinion and some meds. Of course I was right and I got my meds. The lotion works well, but I'm honestly concerned about the Prednisone; one of the side effects is depression. I'll just think happy thoughts.

Planning a vacation soon. This year has been my roughest year ever. It has not been one thing, but a culmunation of many things. Dealing with difficult personalities at work, worrying about promotions, selling new business, the incredible amount of work the house needs, the exercise, and even some relationship issues. I spend a lot of time overwhelmed. I know a vacation won't fix anything, but it will sure make the anxiety tolerable.

The Flying Pig Half Marathon. Despite my aches and pains, I am still running a half marathon this Sunday. Trust me, if it weren't for my niece, I would have bagged this sucker long ago. But I'm a good uncle. Leaving early Friday and coming back late Sunday. It a bizarre way, I don't want to leave DC. I have the sensation that I am leaving something behind...hmmm.

Ok, that's all I got for now. Hopefully I will be more responsible and update more often.

You lead, I'll follow...

2007-04-28T16:44:00.000-04:00

Taking my Luzernian friends lead, I give you the Wikipedia birthday game. Ok, its really not a game, and you don't get prize, but its interesting and educational. Best yet, I don't have to be creative...this blogging shit is hard. But to my loyal subjects, I am compelled..

Ok, here is the jist....

1. Go to Wikipedia and enter your birthday without the year: February 19

2. List three events that occurred that day:
1847 - The Donner Party is rescued. It is noted that some of the survivors seem to be remarkably well-fed considering their ordeal. (Top that one!!)
1964 - Paul Simon writes "The Sounds of Silence," the song which, in a year and a half, will catapult him and Art Garfunkel to stardom as Simon & Garfunkel. (Irony?)
1968 - National Educational Television (the predecessor to the Public Broadcasting Service in the United States) debuts the children's television program Mister Rogers' Neighborhood (I have nothing here....just astonishment)

3. List two important birthdays:

1946 - Karen Silkwood, American activist (d. 1974) (interesting...)
1960 - Andrew, Duke of York (Not a Prince, but I'll settle)

4. List one death:
2003 - Johnny PayCheck, American singer (b. 1938) (still can't resist this little do wop - "Take this job and shove it..."

5. List one holiday or observance:
Astrology: First day of sun sign Pisces
Astrology: Can also be last day of sun sign Aquarius depending on the time of birth and the astrologer's viewpoint. (I'm a cusp baby...if that explains anything)

Ok, so that was a little fun. Now, you try it. I guarantee you will tell your grandchildren about tit..or not.

Mood: Pretty good, however if one more tall blonde catches me off guard by innocently standing next to me at another cross walk, hes getting a punch in the neck!!

Not your average Thursday...

2007-04-26T15:52:00.000-04:00

When I moved to DC in July of 2005 it purely out of my love for politics. Mind you, I do not now nor have I had an interest in running for office or working in a congressional / executive office. I am not even crazy for that "sense of power" thta one gues once they get tothe hill. With few exceptions, I avoid hill staffers like the plaque. Rather, I like the sense of rightness and fairness that can be the byproduct of these amazing bodies. Hand to God, every time I walk by the Capitol I break out in song (if you know me, you know the Capitol has nothing to do with it) and...you know where I'm going here...

...come on, you know damn well you'll be singing that damn song the rest of the day. At any rate, something changed a few years back. At some point rightness and fairness slipped out of the city under the darkness of night to an undisclosed location where until recently it has been hiding.

So, as I move into my third year of existence in this crazy city, I am encouraged by the changes that are occurring around us. Not in who is winning the most recent debate between Republicans and Democrats on Hardball or the latest alleged ruffle between Hillary and Obama, but in the renewed debate on what is good for country. On that note, I leave you with the following video. If you haven't seen it yet, please take the eight minutes. It is Rep Jack Murtha's closing comments last night. They are heartfelt, honest, and unafraid.

Mood: My mood is very good today. Maybe its because I worked from home most of the day or because I'm feeling the effects of all that running, but its very cool!

Two Crazy Bitches....

2007-04-25T17:06:00.000-04:00

Arent' these two a lovely lot?

I don't even know how to start this entry. I just keep staring at these two pictures and thinking about how much I really do not like Rosie and Condi....but why?

I really can't think of anything profound to say except I'm glad Rosie is out of another job and I cannot want for the photo-op of Condi with her hand in the air being sworn in before the House Oversight Committee. I really do not think much is going to come out of it, but it will be good TV.

Other notable happenings in my life:

I've taken to reading again. I resisted it for a while, but now I'm back. Currently I am reading Harry Potter #6 and Kite Runner. We'll see which has a better ending.
I am completely frustrated with my job. The new manager has not helped and the old bitch is still driving me nuts - no the bitch is not gone! I am really not sure what I am going to do. The program I am supporting wants to hire me, but I have only been with my current firm just over a year. Of course, as attractive as the program job is, working with some of these people for the rest of my career could cause some real damage.
In one week I pulled two muscles which has put a stop to my gym visits. I still intend on running the Cincinnati Flying Pig Half Marathon next month. I am sure that I will not top my Cherry Blossom time, but running with my niece, I knew that would be the case. Seeking healing hands for my ribs and my neck --anyone???
From a personal perspective, I am working hard to fit in around the house. Over the past few months I have spent too much time at work and doing other things and spent less time with MKO and the home place. It feels really good, we dug a tree up yesterday. To be honest, I think MKO would like it if there was a balance if you know what I mean...LOL In addition, I have really cut back on the number of hours I am working lately.
As of yesterday, Steph has been in S. Africa for one week. With only five more to go until she gets home...I am excited. I do hope she is having a blast.
Thinking Vacation....where? Any ideas?

Ok, well, that's it for now. But before I go, I want to give some shout outs. It seems that folks in Auckland New Zealand, Bonner Springs Kansas, Beijing China, and Luzern Switzerland have become fans...or stalkers??? Thanks for dropping in, leave a note.

Category: Holy Shit!!!

2007-04-24T08:47:00.000-04:00

I ran across this commercial a week or so ago when I was looking for the "Gay Kiss". I had read the summary, so I knew what to expect, but in the end I still found myself staring at the screen in disbelief. This was obviously not produced for American TV, but in my humble opinion, it is very effective in getting the point across.

Robot Chicken - Giraffe

2007-04-23T07:50:00.001-04:00

Happy Monday Morning Everyone!!

I love this cartoon. I mean really, how often do you really get to hear a giraffe curse.

I'm getting ready to schlep to the shower in an attempt to start my week. Hitting trivia tonight at the Wonderland in Col. Heights. This should be a lot of fun sober. The last two times I went I hurt the game organizer's feelings....oops. (in my defense, this guy was wearing skin-tight capri pants)

Weekend recap

2007-04-22T20:26:00.000-04:00

Happy 30th Birthday Tracy

Let me start by saying right off that this has been the best weekend I have had in several months! Don't bet me wrong, its not that all the other weekends were bad, but somehow all the stars lined up for a great time.

Friday - Ok, to be honest, this day did not start out well for me. Early on I had an emotional flashback or two that put me on an anxious path (not ambiguous at all..right?). After a roller-coaster of a day I suddenly realized that it didn't have to be that way. I'm not sure what happened, but at some point my whole perspective changed. Not to sound trite, but I decided that I wasn't going to let someone else dictate my happiness (personally or professionally).

As a matter of fact, I was completely calm during the 1.5 hours it took me to drive the 15 miles home from work. Friday night was the key...

After work, MKO and I headed over to Col. Heights to scoop the Cuban for a night on the town. We headed to Rosemary's Tyme for a modest birthday celebration. Hanging out with others was cool, but to be honest, being able to walk around in shorts was the freaking bomb! After ducking out of a cook out in VA, we headed home for an early night.

Saturday - This day was amazing from start to finish. It started at about 7:00 a.m. After sucking down a bit of coffee and leafing through the Sunday's Washington Post (delivered on Saturday if you didn't catch that), I shook MKO out of bed. Cruel I know, but it was crazy nice out and I need to get in a long run and this boy needs sun. So with bike in tow, we headed to the National Mall for a nice 8 mile run. It is really days like this that remind me why I love DC. The tourists, the traffic, the monuments, museums, and even the ever-honking cabs...its all amazing.

After leaving the mall, we hooked up with Steph's man again and headed out to the base for an $8 haircut. Its funny, I know. I did this once before and it was a nightmare. But with my new attitude, I could not have cared less what my hair looked like...well, kinda. It actually turned out really good. We quickly departed en route to my very first visit to Costco. It is true, I have never been to a Costco. After grabbing a few items and a $1.50 hot dog, we headed back toward the fort. Oh, and for those that have never been to a Costco, think Wal-mart in the city. Really, this place was nuts. I saw an old woman standing there contemplating a pack of 30 home air fresheners...how fricking back can her house smell for God's sake. Glad I went ONCE.

Yes, it continues. Headed out to Celebrate Tracy's birthday (again) we head home to chill for a bit. But being that its so nice outside, a car was was necessary. For anyone that knows me, I want a new car soooo bad. Trust me, I have tried every angle, but no luck. So after spending

about 3 hours on the car and OMG...its beautiful...what do you think? I'll keep it another year. (did the truck on Sunday)

After washing up we all headed to Adam's Morgan for a night on the town. A good friend of my recently turned 30 ( and I swear we celebrated it last Saturday), but being a good friend, I headed up to Bourbon on 18th street. This place is actually pretty cool. The vibe is good, music good, and it doesn't get crazy crowded. The only drawback is that I am not drinking right now, so people can get a bit annoying.

Sunday - Despite going to bed at 2:00 a.m., I was back up at 7:30 this morning. There is
something to be said for not being hung-over. Forcing MKO out of bed again, we headed out back to give the truck a good scrub. Looks good, doesn't it?

We finished out the day by meeting a good friend from IU at Eastern Market. We walked around a bit then headed to a sweet rooftop restaurant near the Marine Barracks. We finished by strolling through Capitol Hill (I really miss that neighborhood).

Summary - This weekend was so much fun, and not the kind of fun that one usually things about. I was more focused and productive than I have been in months. Maybe its the sun, the greenery sprouting up everywhere, or a maybe I just like myself better.

Things I miss - Beer!

Saturday open...

2007-04-21T09:16:00.000-04:00

Woke up early this morning to a crazy beautiful day here in DC. Have a busy day ahead, but wanted to drop a quick note. Still preparing to run the Cincinnati Flying Pig Half Marathon in early May, so headed out in a bit for a long run (wish my knees luck), then to the base for a haircut (wish me luck), and finally to Costco (wish mankind luck). Actually, I've never been to a Costco, but I imagine that it is the Wal-mart for city-folk.

Other than that, mood is very good today.

Recent Obsession:
Chemical Romance, The Black Parade

Oh My God, they killed my AIM guy...those bastards!

2007-04-19T11:14:00.000-04:00

For all of you worker bees out there that refuse to do anything at work, but work...turn away. You do not want to know how the other half lives.

This morning I signed on to my laptop, and yes it is a work computer. Anyway, I run through the motions. I open the wireless card, open the Internet explorer to the drudereport (one of my guilty pleasure) and eventually I check the work e-mail account to make sure that I still have a job. At some point during this process AOL AIM starts up. It is not something that I intentionally open, but its there...like an old friend. Well, that old friend did not come around today.

You see, this is my own fault. As a rule, we are not allowed to access any chat services via our laptops. However, somehow, when my new machine was configured they left that door open and I walked through it. Don't get me wrong, I do not spend all day chatting, as a matter of fact, my buddy list is quite sparse. But it is there, it was my little place in the cyber world. I even went so far as to create my own little identity with animations, backgrounds, and even a dog on occasion (yeah, I know what your thinking 14 yr old girl).

So, dumb ass me signed on to the company network yesterday to access some files from our corporate shared drive. That was it, in seconds it was over. The system realized that the program was on my machine and denied me access.

I am going to miss that little guy!

Funny Web Shit 2

2007-04-18T09:31:00.000-04:00

I ran into this video a couple of weeks ago and lauged my ass off. It is totally inappropriate in a couple levels, but sometimes you gotta say "hell with it" and laugh at wit.

Tell me what you think...

Has anyone seen my eye?

2007-04-17T21:27:00.000-04:00

Well, it looks a whole lot like this...

I had one of those trying days today. You know the ones, its like a premonition...regardless of how hard you fight to change it, you know what the outcome is going to be, and it won't be pretty. This is about my visit to the eye doctor.

Okay, a little background. I have not had my eyes checked since my final semester of grad school, which even then was part of a university study (I'm a cheap ass!). After wearing the same pair of contacts for nearly a year, I decided it best (rather the contacts decided for me) that I get another check up and get some new sporty ones...frankly, I look so old in glasses. So...I made a date.

I went in approximately two weeks ago for the eye exam. If you know DC at all then you know that anything that starts out with "Princes Georges..." can't end good (think any bridge into Virginia = lost). That being said, this experience was normal, with a few exceptions. First of all the technician, who did not speak fluent English, could not quite get the glaucoma test just right. That Ho shot air into my eyes five times. I'm not sure what "HEY" in Spanish means, but it got her attention. So, either the final shot worked or she said "screw it!

Then the Dr. came in and I have to say I always hate this exchange; he wanted to discuss the health of my eyes and all I could think about was how he had to know I was not paying a bit of attention to what he was saying....I was hoping like hell there wasn't a test at the end. I mean, we pay them to be specialists and worry about stuff. I pay you, you worry...that's the deal. Anyway, I relate it to getting stoned with your friends. You become so paranoid that everyone thinks your stoned...including those you smoked with...Anyway, out of nowhere I hear him mention my "condition"...what? I have a condition? I just came in because my last contact lens finally curled too much on the edge and it wouldn't stay in my eye any longer...I don't have a condition! Turns out I do...I have a astigmatism. Finally, after embarrassing this humiliating condition I get the bill...$383.

On, and on a quick side not...I DIDN'T GET CONTACT LENSES

That's right, I had to go back into today for a "quick" check up. I guess to make sure my newly discovered plight did not eat my face or something. Well, this jackass had something else in store for me...he felt he needed to dilate my eyes. I strongly objected (if you've had this done before, you'd understand). They put these drops in your eyes then wait. After a few minutes your eyes completely dilate so that Dr. Charge-Me-For-Something-Else can look at the back of my eye. Basically what happens is your eyes are fooled into believing that there is no light, so the little black center gets huge. So, I succumb. They do their thing, charge me another $90 and put me out in the parking lot...eyes fully dilated....that was a fun drive downtown. Oh, still no contacts!

Mood: Pretty good. I went to the gym twice today...bones are tired, but I feel really good.

Listening to: I have got Glamours absolute stuck in my head. I love that song.

Emotionally Drained...

2007-04-16T20:37:00.000-04:00

I can't take it anymore. What the hell is wrong with this world? I had the most bizarre sense of deja vu this morning. I was stopped in the hall at work and someone said with an urgent tone "have you seen the news?" My heart just stopped. I knew it was bad...you can tell because the person telling you won't actually tell you, rather they make you watch with your own eyes. I tuned in and like everyone else, I just stared...who would shoot kids? Better yet, who would exploit such a thing? Oh wait...MSNBC, CNN, Fox, ABC, NBC, CBS.....you get the point.

Is this what it takes to get Al Sharpton's face off the TV every 15 minutes? don't worry true believers, old Al will find a way to conjure up the race issue just as Bush is sure to make the 9/11 connection.

To the media...who are you people? Do you grow up with the hope of being the most inappropriate and insensitive people or is that something your tuition buys you? It baffles me how an "investigative reporter" won't call a politician on being a liar- when its public knowledge that he is - but will ask the police chief (commander) at Virginia Tech "why are you so dispondent about this shooting? Are you not moved?" - ARE YOU FUCKIN KIDDING ME? This asshole is sure to go back to his other reporter friends and brag about his amazing insight and how he fought to get the "real answer" I don't know who that guys was that asked that question, but after seeing the look on the officers face, I wanted to give him a hug.

On a personal note, work is going well. There still seem to be some "transition issues" but hopefully all will be smoothed out soon. As far as the workout, I have gotten more aggressive. I have taken to the Ipod more, which is actually a big issue for me.

Ok, well its late the taxes aren't done and I'm alone...spooky.

Weekend in Review

2007-04-15T20:44:00.000-04:00

Well, its 8:41 pm on Sunday, this means that the weekend is officially shot. My work clothes are laid out and my gym bag is packed...I am ready for Monday. Since I really don't have anything to say I thought a quick weekend recap might be appropriate.

Friday Night - As I mentioned last week, Stephanie is heading to S. Africa on Tuesday for a six week adventure. We sent her off good by having a little throw down and Recessions near Farragut North. To say the bar is "ok" is being polite. Its in the basement of a hotel, a hotel to this day I do recall the name. The night was fun. A couple of highlights:

I got to meet her crazy friend Erin Marie and this bitch is NUTS. It is so bizarre to meet someone that gets you....no, not in a romantic sense, but in a level of thinking...or in this case, sense of humor. Bottom line: I think we were separated at birth, well except she is black and 29...but you get my point.
After leaving Recessions, we went to the bar inside the Jury's Hotel for one more (which I did not need). It was fun, but if I had not enjoyed the previous bar so much, I am sure there is a blog-worthy story...but at this point, it would merely be speculation - don't read into that....I was perfectly happy to sit in a corner and talk about people.
Tracy was nice enough to let me crash on her couch...Christ that was a long walk. I did however get the pleasure of listening to her brother throw up his evening.

Saturday - This was definitely a great day to stay in and be hung over. The weather throughout the entire weekend sucked. Michael picked me up and we pretty much hung out around the house. Later on in the evening a small group went out to celebrate Tracy's 30th. I can't believe it...my young friends are in their 30s.

After a pretty good dinner at Rock Bottom Brewery, we walked around Ballston Commons. I've never been so it was a mall. I did buy a new camera. I'm pretty excited about that. Steph her crew and Tracy went to see a play. We skipped out, but I heard it was good.

Sunday - Another rain soaked day. The basement is leaking again, which pretty much sucks. I went for a run today, not the 12 miles I wanted to do, but good enough. It only took a year, but I really enjoy running. I enjoy the challenge of pushing myself and the peacefulness of doing something by myself. I feel really weird going to the gym lately. I don’t feel uncomfortable, rather out of place.

Well, that’s it. I am sure more happened, but odds are, if anyone is even reading my blog anymore, you’ve stopped reading this entry. If, however, you made it this far, thank you for listening.

Saturday...open

2007-04-14T13:38:00.000-04:00

Today is a nice day to be in DC. Reading the International Phenom's blog this morning I ran across a funny video (http://www.nbc.com/Saturday_Night_Live/uncensored.shtml) I will never look at Justin Timberlake the same again.

Not a whole lot going on today. I was going to do long run this morning, but since we stayed out way to late celebrating Steph's pending departure to S. Africa, I decided to put it off until tomorrow.

Mood: Pretty good

Friendship....

2007-04-13T15:56:00.000-04:00

I discovered yesterday that I have been de-linked from the blogs of two of my friends. Of course I don't blame them, its not like I have kept up with this whole blogging experiment, but to remove someone from your link list...thats like ripping up or throwing away a picture of an ex, you have to keep it...its good karma.

Of course a link on a blog is trivial in the bigger picture. And I know that these two people are not heathens (well one is), but it did put the whole idea of friendship into my head...what does it mean to be a friend. I don't mean that category of people you keep in your cell phone because you will eventually need a drinking buddy or a warm body to act as filler for a party you will eventually throw, but a person(s) that you truly connect with and trust. For me that group is rather small. Don't get me wrong, I have a lot of friends, but very few that I “let in". That list was reduced in the past few weeks and with Steph getting on the plane for S. Africa this Wednesday, will go down again. I’m sure gonna miss her.

So, you see. The de-linking on someone else’s blog is really no big deal, but it is symbolic of what is going on in my life.

I hate feeling depressed.

Homage to great friend...

2007-04-12T13:49:00.000-04:00

Since I am in the blogging spirit lately, I spend way more time than I should figuring out what I am going to type. And, if you know me at all, you know that I am completely random and keeping me trained on one thought is a task. Point is, I dreamed the prefect blog...one part political statement, one part social commentary, and two parts funny (at least in my dream).

However, something changed all that this morning. Yesterday, April 10, my sister Michelle celebrated another birthday and due in large part to personal and professional distractions, I completely forgot and was only reminded when I received instant message early this morning. Therefore, this entry is dedicated to her on her blah blah blah birthday.

Being from a close knit family, I have always had a tight relationship with all of my brothers and sisters (7 of us in total). So, being close is not special to us, however, what is interesting is how defined and unique each relationship is. My relationship with Michelle is definitely unique.

At risk of sounding trite, Michelle has supported me all of my life. Since breaking out on my own ten years ago, she has been at every major milestone in my life, regardless of the distance...she made the trip. Each year when my birthday comes around, I will inevitably get a phone call and from the other end of the line I will hear a terribly sung version of Happy Birthday from her and her brood. I always laugh and tell her/them that I love her/them.

Over the past few years Michelle has said to me "man, I'm jealous..." then references a new car, a degree, the house, or a vacation that I went on. And it is true that some fortune has come my way over the past couple years, but it is her that should be envied. And to find out why, simply keep scrolling….

Happy Birthday Sis. You are one of my best friends and I love getting older with you....makes that stupid shit on Warsaw so much funnier.

Identity Crisis....

2007-04-11T14:38:00.000-04:00

Work is driving me absolutely crazy....and its all my fault.

Do you ever feel like that stupid ant that is the first out of the rubble of his freshly demolished ant hill to start rebuilding, one piece of sand at a time? That is how I am feeling lately. It seems that no matter how many times I make things right, the next day I am rebuidling the same damn hill.

Other Random Thoughts:

Steph is leaving for S. Africa next week. I am sad....
I am bidding on new work for our client...nervous, my stomach is turning
Supporting my niece by running in Cincinnati's Flying Pig Half Marathon in May...yay, training again
Refocusing on home inprovement...it is so easy to avoid when you have a comfy couch and a charged remote control

Thats it for now people....

Spring sprang, then get the hell out of town...

2007-04-10T09:24:00.001-04:00

Michael and I, along with Rob and Alley, bought season tickets to the National's this year. It is not looking good for the hometown team, but we're in it for the long haul...or at least until we can get seating priority for the new stadium.

Opening Day was cool. Adarsh (grad school), played hookie that afternoon to sit in the sun and soak up beer. It was a great day. The Nats got beat and we got trashed....either way, expectations were met.

Next game: April 16.

Family, Friends, and Future

2007-01-03T14:52:00.000-05:00

2007 is here!!

Yes, it is here and I for one could not be happier. As I mentioned in my previous post, each January 1st I celebrate the passing of an old friend, the cigarette. After 13 years I was finally bid farewell to the habit, or at least shove it to the side. As I was reminiscing about my smoking days, I began feeling a bit nostalgic for changes that have come and gone over the past 12 months. Listed are a few of the highlights:

In the spring Michael and I said goodbye to our beloved swanky Capitol Hill apartment for a roomy hut on a spot of DC's finest dirt in the NE quadrant. Though it took us a while to get settled, it is now a place we are thrilled to call "home".
In late summer, Katie G left us for her new life as a medical student. To my joy the crazy life has not jaded our friend. Like old times, we spent New Years Eve doing what we do; looking for crazy shit on the internet.
Katie F struck out on her own, finding a coolio pad in Georgetown. We don't see much of Katie anymore; funny how a beacon of the liberal left settles so comfortably into the most elite neigoborhood of DC.
Julian left the great USA to pursue a life in Dutchland, dragging his mother and father along for the purpose of light entertainment.
Michael procured what has to be one of the coolest jobs in DC; working for the National Gallery of Art.
After 30 some years or second guessing and putting it off, I got braces!!
Somewhere along the the line my 9 yr old neice turned 22...whats up with that? Whats the age of consent now, 25?
Bush, Rove, and Fat Bastard Denny Hastert got their asses handed to him in November. It was an awesome night. Steph did the robot, Chester just showed up, and I'm pretty sure I have a a permanent scar inside my mouth where I got slapped.

I am quite sure there were plenty more items that are missing, but lets be honest, its not like a remember everything/anything when I'm drinking. Heres to 2006, we'll miss you old girl!

Happy New Year

2006-12-29T12:11:00.000-05:00

I am not a huge fan of New Year Resolutions, but as I stare 40 right between the eyes (it hasn't flinched yet, but I'll keep you posted), I am becoming more contemplative and open to this silly form of the outward expression of my vunerabilities. I am resolved to becoming a better and more considerate friend. I know what you are thinking; "but John, you are so calm, patient and tolerant with all of us, how could you do more?". And my response...are you that stupid? I'm an ass!

So, here are some things that I am going to fucus on:

Answer my phone when it rings

Respond more quickly to voice/e-mails

Be more tolerant to nice people that do/say stupid things

Quit doing/saying stupid things

Forgive rather than plot and scheme

Listen and restrain the compulsion to comment or advise

Drink less, talk less, sleep more

Be more inclusive and less snide

Compliment rather than Critisize (except for thongs that hang out)

Well, I think thats a good start. Certainly a big task, but hell, I have a year finish it. Oh, and the first person that says; "You know John, remember rule #3, your not being very tolerant..." ITS ON! This is my resolution not your checklist for my entry into heaven....opps, just broke rule #4

Remember this, my 2000 resolution was to quick smoking, and that has been wildly successful...heres to 2007, and 2010...bring it bitch!

Saturday June 10....just a day

2006-06-10T10:05:00.000-04:00

This week went by with lil fanfare. Fanny is in some foreign land (Elsalvador) for eleven days, NS has smuggled my baby to an even more foreign land (Nebraska) and Katie is laid up or getting laid, I'm not sure. MKO and I are busy with the new house and preparing for Mom and Gran to come rolling through next week. I think that the cats are becoming suspicious that something is happening. I mean, we do remove furniture, and from their perspective, it is never seen again.

I put the apartment out on the SPEA listserv this week in my first attempt to "give back" to my alumni. It is a sweet apartment and has served us well. I have fond memories of the Fondu party, Wine & Cheese Party, and the "Welcome to D.C." party last fall. Anyway, I'm gonna miss this old place.

You know your old when...

2006-03-08T10:34:00.000-05:00

**This is funny as hell. I sat down this afternoon to update my blog. If you can believe it, Fanny had the nerve to scold me for not updating my blog...yep...I did say Fanny (the nerve). Anyway, I opened this draft with the intention to deleting it and laughed. I have no idea where I was going with this thought. It is now clear that I have reached that point in life where it is not just others that and I am not listening too, but myself as well....damn pitty.**

So here is the game. Lets each come up with an ending to this story. You know the players and you know my twisted mind.....lets see what Chrissy does next.

Sweet Taste of Being Right....

Being "Mr. Know-it-all" has finally paid off for me. Not in real U.S. American dollars of course, because that would be gambling, but rather something much closer to one's heart, Bryers Ice Cream. I love this story, not so much because of the ice cream, but because of the irony.

Picture this...

The whole episode started this past Monday morning. MKO and I had decided to travel back in time, I mean... fly back to Indiana this weekend. Having not been back since September I was amazed that NOTHING had changed. I mean it folks, those of you that were in Bloomington with me, believe me when I say it is the same. Fortunately that played to my advantage when I wanted a beer...ole reliable was propped up on a bar stool when I entered the Alley Bar....that was fun, but not the point. Ok, the rest of the weekend want well...blah blah....you don't say, well...blah blah....OMG, fax me later.....!

Monday Morning (Ice Cream D-Day)
My flight leaves at 7:15 which means to the airport by 6:15 which means, leave by 5:15 to make the hour long trek to the IND airport, which means, get up at 4:00 to get ready for work before leaving for the airport = TIRED AS HELL WHEN I GOT OFF WORK!

MKO wasn't due to arrive until the following morning and, because I didn't feel like being responsbile (i.e. lanundry, dishes), I decided beer was a good alternative. So I sent out "the call" and it was not long before myself, Skechko, Fanny, Interenational Pheonom, Schwenny, and Lil KA assembled at a small cafe/buffet for an evening of antics.

Having a blast we are, then it happens. International needs a glass of wine, this is shortly after Schwenny decided that no one should ever drink out of her glass again and breaks it. So she hails down the bartender.

Ok, lets be honest

2006-02-15T13:26:00.000-05:00

I am about to round out my fourth week in the private sector and I think its time to come clean. Since leaving the GAO back in January I have had a lot of friends, family, and acquaintances inquire about my new job.

How is the private sector different from the public?
Are you working crazy hours?
What cool projects are you working on?

Thus far my stock answer to all has been that things are going great, which for the most part is true but with one small caveat: I have not done anything yet. The highlight today was finding the cupboard that houses the steno pads. I am not sure why I thought I needed one, but I can now proudly call one my own. That being said, considering the seven months I spent at the GAO, the new place is great.

What GT has that the GAO does not:

professionalism,
positive reinforcement,
strong work ethic, and
blatant favoritism.

So, until I become inundated with tons of work, keep an eye on my blog and I'll keep an eye on yours.

2006-02-13T15:14:00.000-05:00

NS, this ones for you...

2006-02-12T20:14:00.000-05:00

Sunday, February 12, 2:30 am

Last night was on of my favorite since moving to D.C. last July. For the most part it was pretty routine. Me, MKO, Skecko, TJ, & Tim met at Union Station had a quick beer at Capitol City Brewing Company, save me (still abstaining), after which the three "dudes" walked to the Hawk and Dove for some fancy tw0-stepping. Like I said, with the exception of the absence of some key players, it was a pretty routine night. What made it so exception was the snow.

I guess I am a kid at heart because I love snow! I hope everyone is enjoying this weekend as much as I did.

2006-02-09T08:24:00.000-05:00

Think Spring