Stories from the Gymrat (well... I used to be one)
Saturday, July 04, 2009
I just returned from spending 8 days with my partner's family in South Dakota. Yes, South Dakota. One may not know but South Dakota is the home of Mount Rushmore. And that's probably all I can say about it. It is beautiful country but not to live in. Which makes it even more interesting that my "in-laws" moved there. But, I'm not here to discuss that.
Let me just say that eight days with your "in-laws" is three days too much. Especially when you find much of their behavior irritating. Like having everyone wait for them whenever there is some sort of excursion. If it were not for the fact that I love my partner, I would never spend more than a few hours with them. Because this vacation tested my patience. And more often than not, they got the gist that I was not pleased with their behavior. But, I'm not here to discuss that either.
What I am here to discuss is this: does anyone really think that hanging out with your in-laws is fun? I mean, even if you like them, at best, it can get irritating. No? I never expect my partner to have fun with my parents. I don't. My parents are someone I find fun... for about 5 hours. Then, I got to go. I can't imagine anyone would find them fun for much longer than that. So, when I ask for some away time from the in-laws, why would anyone question it? Plus, at the age of 39, I really don't feel I need to explain why. Figure it out.
Here's the thing. I like them. I don't adore them. I have little in common with them. I don't share common experiences with them. I am a gay Filipino, born and raised in Nigeria. I was an Electrical Engineer, who became a fitness instructor, who got his Culinary Arts diploma, and worked EVERYWHERE while strung out on smack. Been there, done that, bought the t-shirt, donated it, over it. Very little excites me or puts me in awe. I'm not jaded. I just need a lot to get me excited. Very little gets them excited. We're just not a match. Does that make sense? Later.
Let me just say that eight days with your "in-laws" is three days too much. Especially when you find much of their behavior irritating. Like having everyone wait for them whenever there is some sort of excursion. If it were not for the fact that I love my partner, I would never spend more than a few hours with them. Because this vacation tested my patience. And more often than not, they got the gist that I was not pleased with their behavior. But, I'm not here to discuss that either.
What I am here to discuss is this: does anyone really think that hanging out with your in-laws is fun? I mean, even if you like them, at best, it can get irritating. No? I never expect my partner to have fun with my parents. I don't. My parents are someone I find fun... for about 5 hours. Then, I got to go. I can't imagine anyone would find them fun for much longer than that. So, when I ask for some away time from the in-laws, why would anyone question it? Plus, at the age of 39, I really don't feel I need to explain why. Figure it out.
Here's the thing. I like them. I don't adore them. I have little in common with them. I don't share common experiences with them. I am a gay Filipino, born and raised in Nigeria. I was an Electrical Engineer, who became a fitness instructor, who got his Culinary Arts diploma, and worked EVERYWHERE while strung out on smack. Been there, done that, bought the t-shirt, donated it, over it. Very little excites me or puts me in awe. I'm not jaded. I just need a lot to get me excited. Very little gets them excited. We're just not a match. Does that make sense? Later.
Friday, June 19, 2009
Thanks to my friend U., I am trying out a new gym. Since I am no longer an employee of a gym, I no longer have a complimentary membership. Before I left my employment, I asked if there was any special for ex-employees who were loyal for 15 years. The answer was a resounding NO.
So, partly out of spite and partly out of curiosity, I decided to try out a couple of new gyms for the next few weeks. Currently, I am at a place where I supposedly won't be judged. So, since they supposedly won't, I will. For, if there is one thing I am good at, it's wearing a robe and wielding a gavel. Truth is, it meets it's requirements. Is it what I look for? Not really. It's a bit too dark. But the basic stuff is there. The towels are fluffy. The people are okay. There's enough eye candy as long as you stay away from the Upper West Side.
Here's the thing: I am sure this happens in other places but... if you hire a trainer, shouldn't they be paying attention to your workout rather than fiddling with their phones? Out of six trainers I spotted on the floor, five of them were on their communication devices while their clients were working out. The one that was not did end up checking his texts when the client went to get a drink of water. Seriously, if I were the client, I would so drop the weight and demand my money back. I mean.. really? Am I missing something?
Is this a phenomenon of the current training personnel out there? Am I too old school? Have I become a fuddy duddy? Personally, I don't think so. It's akin to my massage therapist taking a call while in the midst of my massage. It's inappropriate. Right? Later.
So, partly out of spite and partly out of curiosity, I decided to try out a couple of new gyms for the next few weeks. Currently, I am at a place where I supposedly won't be judged. So, since they supposedly won't, I will. For, if there is one thing I am good at, it's wearing a robe and wielding a gavel. Truth is, it meets it's requirements. Is it what I look for? Not really. It's a bit too dark. But the basic stuff is there. The towels are fluffy. The people are okay. There's enough eye candy as long as you stay away from the Upper West Side.
Here's the thing: I am sure this happens in other places but... if you hire a trainer, shouldn't they be paying attention to your workout rather than fiddling with their phones? Out of six trainers I spotted on the floor, five of them were on their communication devices while their clients were working out. The one that was not did end up checking his texts when the client went to get a drink of water. Seriously, if I were the client, I would so drop the weight and demand my money back. I mean.. really? Am I missing something?
Is this a phenomenon of the current training personnel out there? Am I too old school? Have I become a fuddy duddy? Personally, I don't think so. It's akin to my massage therapist taking a call while in the midst of my massage. It's inappropriate. Right? Later.
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
Where does inspiration come from? I wish I knew. There's been little to inspire me lately. Don't get me wrong. I love my life. I could not ask for a better partner. I could not ask for a better family. Friends are wonderful. But there is a serious lack of inspiration. Work certainly does not offer it. I've been feeling like it's been the cause of the drain. I was hoping some changes would help. But changes will just happen. I am not sure how inspiring they will be. Maybe some new blood will affect things. Maybe.
Then, maybe, what I need to do is shift my point of view. Maybe work isn't where I should look for inspiration. I do believe that companies don't want innovators. They want people to just churn out the same shit. The customer base just wants the same crap. Over and over again. Why try to do something new when they just push you down? And how does one who is supposed to inspire get inspired? I don't know.
Maybe it's by looking outside for those little things that make you feel good. Like my weekly vegetable delivery, the upcoming show Glee, or Idina Menzel. Or maybe, it's the power walks through Central Park, the sparkle in Mike's eye when he sings I Want To Be In America, or coloratura soprano Sumi Jo. Maybe that's what I need to look at. Maybe I need to remember that work is just work. That inspiration does not come from work. But from everything else. Everything else that really matters. Because, when you think of it, work doesn't really matter. It's what you do after that does. Later.
Then, maybe, what I need to do is shift my point of view. Maybe work isn't where I should look for inspiration. I do believe that companies don't want innovators. They want people to just churn out the same shit. The customer base just wants the same crap. Over and over again. Why try to do something new when they just push you down? And how does one who is supposed to inspire get inspired? I don't know.
Maybe it's by looking outside for those little things that make you feel good. Like my weekly vegetable delivery, the upcoming show Glee, or Idina Menzel. Or maybe, it's the power walks through Central Park, the sparkle in Mike's eye when he sings I Want To Be In America, or coloratura soprano Sumi Jo. Maybe that's what I need to look at. Maybe I need to remember that work is just work. That inspiration does not come from work. But from everything else. Everything else that really matters. Because, when you think of it, work doesn't really matter. It's what you do after that does. Later.
Saturday, June 13, 2009
This summer, I bought a share in a local farm. Every Thursday, I pick up my share of vegetables, which they deliver to Manhattan. This past Thursday, I got my first delivery. I could barely contain myself all day. The people involved could not have been friendlier. And the person in charge was just wonderful.
Included in this delivery were a salad mix, some red leaf lettuce, braising greens, turnips, radishes, broccoli rabe, scallions, arugula, sorrel, parsley, and cilantro. Check it out above.
On Thursday night, I sauteed the turnip and radish greens with some leeks and vegan sausage. It was delish!!! Especially on top of some Israeli cous cous. I've also made some fresh salsa (with some cilantro & some scallion), a dairy-less potato and arugula salad, a turnip & cilantro salad, and a mung bean stew that included some radishes, the sorrel & parsley. Needless to say, I am excited.
I can't wait to saute the broccoli rabe and toss it with some whole wheat pasta and pecorino romano (one of the few instances I will have dairy). The lettuces are so deliciously sweet that we are just having them with a squeeze of lemon and some good olive oil. I'm still trying to figure out what to do with the braising greens. I'm sure I will figure something out.
I can't wait for my next delivery. This may just be the inspiration I've been looking for. Later.
Tuesday, June 09, 2009
Rain, rain, go away. Come again another day. Little timmy wants to play.
I've had it with the rain. I would like a week's stretch of just sun. Not heat. Not humidity. Just sun. So that I can go for power walks in the park. I need those walks. They make me feel better. But the combination of the rain and no walking has made me feel down. I've had some fun lately but I would like a moment of just sun.
Besides the sun thing, I have a bit of a dilemma. My employment at the gym is about the terminate. Which means that my free membership is also about to terminate. I could just go ahead and join. But there is something in me that feels things need a bit of a shaking.
Here's what I am thinking: let the free membership run out, finagle some free weeks at a couple of gyms so that I can try them out, then make my decision. But, it just seems like so much work. But there is that tiny voice in me saying, "Make it so." It would be nice to see what other places have to offer. And since I have to pay for a membership, I might as well do some shopping at other places.
I'm sure I'll be able to make a decision before July. When I get back from my last vacation for the year. Because I will have to. But there is still that piece of me that dreads having to go through all of this. Any thoughts?
Right now, my only thought is that I need some sun to go for a power walk. Later.
I've had it with the rain. I would like a week's stretch of just sun. Not heat. Not humidity. Just sun. So that I can go for power walks in the park. I need those walks. They make me feel better. But the combination of the rain and no walking has made me feel down. I've had some fun lately but I would like a moment of just sun.
Besides the sun thing, I have a bit of a dilemma. My employment at the gym is about the terminate. Which means that my free membership is also about to terminate. I could just go ahead and join. But there is something in me that feels things need a bit of a shaking.
Here's what I am thinking: let the free membership run out, finagle some free weeks at a couple of gyms so that I can try them out, then make my decision. But, it just seems like so much work. But there is that tiny voice in me saying, "Make it so." It would be nice to see what other places have to offer. And since I have to pay for a membership, I might as well do some shopping at other places.
I'm sure I'll be able to make a decision before July. When I get back from my last vacation for the year. Because I will have to. But there is still that piece of me that dreads having to go through all of this. Any thoughts?
Right now, my only thought is that I need some sun to go for a power walk. Later.
Saturday, June 06, 2009
I've been hesitant to type about it but the time has come. This early in the morning. This Saturday. There is some irony to all of this.
On May 30, 2009, I officially taught my last fitness class. It had to happen sometime. So, I am bowing out gracefully. While I still look like I belong in front of a fitness class.
I had been wrestling with quitting for a while. Then, a couple of weeks ago, I was told that I needed to renew my certifications. And if I didn't, I would not be allowed to teach starting in June. Unless I did.
I thought hard about my next decision. And it came down to this: why am I holding on to something that I am ready to give up? So I did. I gave it up. It was surprisingly easy. My "boss" was not exactly pleased. But she understood. I had hired her when she first started teaching. Ironic.
After I sent the letter of resignation, I thought about all the things I could do now. Things like stay out late Friday night. Ironically, I was home by 11:30pm last night and in bed asleep. Things like not have to wake up early to prepare for class. Ironically, I woke up at 5:30am and could not fall asleep. Things like sit leisurely on my couch, sipping some coffee, and reading until about noon. Ironically, I have to be at Penn Station at 9:00am.
But, despite all that, I am satisfying calm. It's been 15 years of good, bad, fun, and not-so-fun times. It's afforded me many things. It's made me many friends. It's gotten me a wonderful partner. And it's gotten me this. This blog. This way of just writing down my feelings. This way of letting it all out. This way of catharsis yet stimulus. I started this blog to jot down my "stories from the gym". Ironically, I became the story from the gym.
It happens. We evolve. At least, if we choose to. So, I am choosing to. I am choosing to let go of some of the old to allow something new to happen. I once saw a t-shirt that said, "Those who hang on... get dragged." Ironically, there is nothing ironic about that. Later.
On May 30, 2009, I officially taught my last fitness class. It had to happen sometime. So, I am bowing out gracefully. While I still look like I belong in front of a fitness class.
I had been wrestling with quitting for a while. Then, a couple of weeks ago, I was told that I needed to renew my certifications. And if I didn't, I would not be allowed to teach starting in June. Unless I did.
I thought hard about my next decision. And it came down to this: why am I holding on to something that I am ready to give up? So I did. I gave it up. It was surprisingly easy. My "boss" was not exactly pleased. But she understood. I had hired her when she first started teaching. Ironic.
After I sent the letter of resignation, I thought about all the things I could do now. Things like stay out late Friday night. Ironically, I was home by 11:30pm last night and in bed asleep. Things like not have to wake up early to prepare for class. Ironically, I woke up at 5:30am and could not fall asleep. Things like sit leisurely on my couch, sipping some coffee, and reading until about noon. Ironically, I have to be at Penn Station at 9:00am.
But, despite all that, I am satisfying calm. It's been 15 years of good, bad, fun, and not-so-fun times. It's afforded me many things. It's made me many friends. It's gotten me a wonderful partner. And it's gotten me this. This blog. This way of just writing down my feelings. This way of letting it all out. This way of catharsis yet stimulus. I started this blog to jot down my "stories from the gym". Ironically, I became the story from the gym.
It happens. We evolve. At least, if we choose to. So, I am choosing to. I am choosing to let go of some of the old to allow something new to happen. I once saw a t-shirt that said, "Those who hang on... get dragged." Ironically, there is nothing ironic about that. Later.
Monday, May 25, 2009
Sometimes you have to just say, "Damn the weather forecast. I'm making plans."
Hence the fact I was able to do so much fun stuff this weekend. Things like go antique shopping in Brooklyn after lunch at CHARno. 4, shoe shopping with my mom after lunch at Ramen Setagaya, and a picnic brunch in Central Park with family & friends.
Plus, the husband and I even went for a power walk after the picnic. Overall, a fantastic weekend with gorgeous weather. It even makes up for the fact that the next three days will be pouring rain. Oh well. You win some, you lose some. Later.
Hence the fact I was able to do so much fun stuff this weekend. Things like go antique shopping in Brooklyn after lunch at CHARno. 4, shoe shopping with my mom after lunch at Ramen Setagaya, and a picnic brunch in Central Park with family & friends.
Plus, the husband and I even went for a power walk after the picnic. Overall, a fantastic weekend with gorgeous weather. It even makes up for the fact that the next three days will be pouring rain. Oh well. You win some, you lose some. Later.
Friday, May 22, 2009
This has been a "heavy" week and I am glad it is over. Don't you hate it when about a million things happen and you feel like you have no time to take care of the ones that matter to you most? Well, that was the week. I am glad it is over.
Most of all, I am glad my computer is up and running again. Thanks to Janice for working her magic. We caught a phishing bug and could not get out of it. Thankfully, we were and our computer is working. And faster too.
I am glad the work week is over. I have gotten to a point where I no longer worry about work. It is what it is. I feel that leadership in any company is going to do what they want to do. And we have no say. So, you go in, do your work, go home, and lead the rest of your life. I refuse to make it a burden anymore. I hope some people I know learn how to do that. Because when you feel something is heavy and you can let it go, you'll be glad it's over. Later.
Most of all, I am glad my computer is up and running again. Thanks to Janice for working her magic. We caught a phishing bug and could not get out of it. Thankfully, we were and our computer is working. And faster too.
I am glad the work week is over. I have gotten to a point where I no longer worry about work. It is what it is. I feel that leadership in any company is going to do what they want to do. And we have no say. So, you go in, do your work, go home, and lead the rest of your life. I refuse to make it a burden anymore. I hope some people I know learn how to do that. Because when you feel something is heavy and you can let it go, you'll be glad it's over. Later.
Saturday, May 16, 2009
I think I have found something new. I think I may have fallen in love. So much so that I want to find a group who I can share it with all the time. I didn't expect to go to the Southwest and fall head over heels in love. But I did. So, I am going to let it happen. I have fallen in love with hiking.
The husband and I spent eight days in the Southwest. We saw Phoenix, the Grand Canyon, and St. George, Utah. It was in Utah were we both gave in to the feeling. We hiked every morning. Through washes. Up rock formation. Into caves. Through valleys. We took in the breath-taking views that one cannot describe. We breathed the clean air. We awed at the beauty that that area of the country has to offer. And we fell in love.
So, what does one do when a new love enters your life? You accept it wholeheartedly. You plan your next vacation around hiking. You look up hiking clubs to join in your area. You proudly display your dirt-caked hiking shoes which are not just used during rainy days in the City. And you vow to return to the beauty that is the Southwest. To a fantastic spa by a Red Mountain. Because life is too short to not fall in love with something. Later.
The husband and I spent eight days in the Southwest. We saw Phoenix, the Grand Canyon, and St. George, Utah. It was in Utah were we both gave in to the feeling. We hiked every morning. Through washes. Up rock formation. Into caves. Through valleys. We took in the breath-taking views that one cannot describe. We breathed the clean air. We awed at the beauty that that area of the country has to offer. And we fell in love.
So, what does one do when a new love enters your life? You accept it wholeheartedly. You plan your next vacation around hiking. You look up hiking clubs to join in your area. You proudly display your dirt-caked hiking shoes which are not just used during rainy days in the City. And you vow to return to the beauty that is the Southwest. To a fantastic spa by a Red Mountain. Because life is too short to not fall in love with something. Later.
Monday, May 04, 2009
It's really weird how one perceives themselves. Whether in accomplishments. Or in pictures. In pictures, it's easier to justify how good or poor you feel about yourself. It's always that blemish, that angle, the lighting, the whatever that makes you less than appealing. To yourself. I hate most pictures of myself. Once in a while, I'll see one that I like. It's never a portrait. I have portraits that I am fine with but overall, not really. Still, there they are. Representing me in Facebook.
In accomplishments, I think I feel worse. I can talk all day about how it all went well. And nothing I can do will change it. So, I live with it and am happy with the outcome. But am I really happy? Not really. Whether you believe it or not, you still try to live up to something that happened as a child. And to this day, as much as I try not to, I still am looking to find that lost point. That lost point that no amount of praise or thanks brings back.
So, what does one do? I don't know. I'll never be happy with how I perform. I'll rarely be happy about how I look in pictures. But I have to accept how I come across. And not worry too much. And not be too harsh on myself. And maybe, one day I'll be happy with both. Maybe. Later.
In accomplishments, I think I feel worse. I can talk all day about how it all went well. And nothing I can do will change it. So, I live with it and am happy with the outcome. But am I really happy? Not really. Whether you believe it or not, you still try to live up to something that happened as a child. And to this day, as much as I try not to, I still am looking to find that lost point. That lost point that no amount of praise or thanks brings back.
So, what does one do? I don't know. I'll never be happy with how I perform. I'll rarely be happy about how I look in pictures. But I have to accept how I come across. And not worry too much. And not be too harsh on myself. And maybe, one day I'll be happy with both. Maybe. Later.
Friday, May 01, 2009
Is it symbolic or am I just spinning it that way?
My work week has not been the most fulfilling. It had this gritty feeling to it. So, as I booted my computer down, I decided to force myself to go to the gym to work it all off. For some weird reason, I got on the train and decided to head home. While on the train, I convinced myself to go for a power walk in the park. I thought the rain had passed and I was determined to spend some time outdoors rather than indoors surrounded by people.
I got into Central Park when a few drops began to appear. I thought, "I'm here. Just do it. It'll drizzle at most." About two minutes into my walk, it began to pour. I began to run for the part of the bridle path that had some tree coverage. I got there but I kept walking. A heavier rain began. I kept going. A quarter of the way through, it calmed down. I picked up my pace.
And that's when it happened. The sky's opened up. It wasn't stopping any moment soon. It was torrential. I was drenched. No tree coverage would help. I began to run. In the rain. It felt good. I felt cleansed. I felt the week being washed off me. It felt very cathartic.
Because, when you are soaked to the bone. When your sneakers are the total opposite of dry. When the music continues to blare in your ears. And you are alone on a running path. Nothing matters. There is a sense of cleansing. Everything feels washed away. Leaving a blank canvas of sorts. And you are free. To create you again.
I got home and stripped off my clothes. Checked to make sure my iPod was not destroyed. Stretched my legs. And got into a hot shower. It felt good to wash away the week. Something told me to go for a power walk in the park. It did a lot more than give me a cardio workout. It gave me a sense of new.
Is it symbolic or am I just spinning it that way? Later.
My work week has not been the most fulfilling. It had this gritty feeling to it. So, as I booted my computer down, I decided to force myself to go to the gym to work it all off. For some weird reason, I got on the train and decided to head home. While on the train, I convinced myself to go for a power walk in the park. I thought the rain had passed and I was determined to spend some time outdoors rather than indoors surrounded by people.
I got into Central Park when a few drops began to appear. I thought, "I'm here. Just do it. It'll drizzle at most." About two minutes into my walk, it began to pour. I began to run for the part of the bridle path that had some tree coverage. I got there but I kept walking. A heavier rain began. I kept going. A quarter of the way through, it calmed down. I picked up my pace.
And that's when it happened. The sky's opened up. It wasn't stopping any moment soon. It was torrential. I was drenched. No tree coverage would help. I began to run. In the rain. It felt good. I felt cleansed. I felt the week being washed off me. It felt very cathartic.
Because, when you are soaked to the bone. When your sneakers are the total opposite of dry. When the music continues to blare in your ears. And you are alone on a running path. Nothing matters. There is a sense of cleansing. Everything feels washed away. Leaving a blank canvas of sorts. And you are free. To create you again.
I got home and stripped off my clothes. Checked to make sure my iPod was not destroyed. Stretched my legs. And got into a hot shower. It felt good to wash away the week. Something told me to go for a power walk in the park. It did a lot more than give me a cardio workout. It gave me a sense of new.
Is it symbolic or am I just spinning it that way? Later.
Sunday, April 26, 2009
I haven't had this much fun in one weekend in a very long time. Oh, don't get me wrong. I've had plenty of fun weekends in the past few years. But this one stands out. Let's see. Well...
Friday: Karaoke day at work. As part of thanking our employees, we had karaoke in the conference room starting at noon. I heard it ended at 10:00pm. But I had left by then. I never knew that karaoke could be cardio. But it was. The team had so much fun. Laughs shared by all. I think everyone had a blast. Some were pissed about the loud music. But that even made it more of a blast.
But WAIT!!!! There's more. I attended a birthday party that evening. At 8:00pm. A karaoke birthday party. Let's just say that work was a warm-up.
Saturday: Taught my fitness classes and lunch with the man. Then, I went shopping for shorts. AND I bought some. WTF?!?!?!!?? I bought two pairs. I think I look cute in them. Then again, who buys anything without thinking they look cute in it? Probably the same people who are pissed about loud the loud music.
But WAIT!!! There's more. I attended another birthday party that evening. At 7:00pm. A ten-course birthday banquet at Amazing 66 in Chinatown. It's all that you think and more. Then, off to Therapy for a drink-fest and dancing. Didn't know that Therapy installed a dance floor upstairs. Nice surprise. Now, all they need is a good DJ. Had fun with the boys. It reminded me of when I used to make the party rounds. Even made new friends. Friends who used to make the party rounds. We may be doing this again soon.
Sunday: Had to work all day. Boo.
But WAIT!!! They had ramps. And I sauteed them with shitake mushrooms. Tossed them over some whole wheat pasta. Mmmmm mmmm good.
And now... I am exhausted. But feeling great. I think this may be a good summer. Later.
Friday: Karaoke day at work. As part of thanking our employees, we had karaoke in the conference room starting at noon. I heard it ended at 10:00pm. But I had left by then. I never knew that karaoke could be cardio. But it was. The team had so much fun. Laughs shared by all. I think everyone had a blast. Some were pissed about the loud music. But that even made it more of a blast.
But WAIT!!!! There's more. I attended a birthday party that evening. At 8:00pm. A karaoke birthday party. Let's just say that work was a warm-up.
Saturday: Taught my fitness classes and lunch with the man. Then, I went shopping for shorts. AND I bought some. WTF?!?!?!!?? I bought two pairs. I think I look cute in them. Then again, who buys anything without thinking they look cute in it? Probably the same people who are pissed about loud the loud music.
But WAIT!!! There's more. I attended another birthday party that evening. At 7:00pm. A ten-course birthday banquet at Amazing 66 in Chinatown. It's all that you think and more. Then, off to Therapy for a drink-fest and dancing. Didn't know that Therapy installed a dance floor upstairs. Nice surprise. Now, all they need is a good DJ. Had fun with the boys. It reminded me of when I used to make the party rounds. Even made new friends. Friends who used to make the party rounds. We may be doing this again soon.
Sunday: Had to work all day. Boo.
But WAIT!!! They had ramps. And I sauteed them with shitake mushrooms. Tossed them over some whole wheat pasta. Mmmmm mmmm good.
And now... I am exhausted. But feeling great. I think this may be a good summer. Later.
Thursday, April 23, 2009
The partner and I are in the middle of our week-long-vacations-every-month-until-June tour. We just returned from (almost) a week in North Carolina (for his cousin's wedding) and Savannah (for the hell of it). Let's just say that I have had enough of the South for a while. A very long while.
This vacation reminded me of the fishbowl I live in. Where do I start? Well, how about I bullet point things just for clarity? Mmmmkay...
This vacation reminded me of the fishbowl I live in. Where do I start? Well, how about I bullet point things just for clarity? Mmmmkay...
- It's difficult to follow a vegan diet down South.
- They love their meat down South, preferably deep-fried and/or processed.
- Apparently, the pairing of a Caucasian male and Asian male can attract attention.
- According to the priest who performed the wedding, marriage is between one man and one woman - and the woman is supposed to submit to the man.
- My partner refuses to submit to me.
- Wedding meals down South are way different from the ones up North. Pimento sandwiches... need I say more?
- I've never been referred to as a "Yankee"... until 4 days ago.
- A breakfast buffet is not really worth it. Ever. Since most of it is just packaged.
- Chain restaurants are the reason our country is obese with high blood pressure, diabetes, and clogged arteries. I ate at two on this trip AND will never go back to them.
- Southern hospitality is... well, not so much. Even from one gay man to another.
- If you drive the scenic route from Wrightsville Beach, NC to Savannah, GA, try to count the churches on the way down. Good luck.
- Fuck the scenic route. It isn't worth it. Get to your destination.
- Try not to get there on a Sunday. Very little is open for business.
- Do people really still ask for separate checks? Aren't we smart enough to just figure it out on our own?
- Down South, they consider Mac-n-Cheese a vegetable. Refer to the first bullet point.
Sunday, April 12, 2009
Sometimes, I hate going to Broadway musicals. Not because I think they will suck. But because I sit there and think about how I should have been a performer. And today was no different. I went to see Billy Elliott. I laughed. I cried. It was WAY better than Cats.
I enjoyed it so much that I want to take tap dancing lessons. I went with a bunch of folks and ended up not sitting next to Mike. He said that he felt bad because he knew I would be very emotional about the fact that the story was about a boy being held back from performing. I still blame my mother to this day.
I suggest you all go see it. It isn't cheap. But I think it is worth it. Trent Kowalik was great as Billy. But the highlight of the show, for me, was him and her. Later.
I enjoyed it so much that I want to take tap dancing lessons. I went with a bunch of folks and ended up not sitting next to Mike. He said that he felt bad because he knew I would be very emotional about the fact that the story was about a boy being held back from performing. I still blame my mother to this day.
I suggest you all go see it. It isn't cheap. But I think it is worth it. Trent Kowalik was great as Billy. But the highlight of the show, for me, was him and her. Later.
Tuesday, April 07, 2009
It just turned midnight and here I am typing this. I have to be up at 5:00am and I am not even mildly sleepy. I have a store function that I have to attend at 6:30am. I plan on getting my breakfast, sitting in the back, and basically be present. Not aware. Just present.
I was going to say that I at least get out early but for some reason, I set up an appointment at 4:00pm for a volunteer gig. Fuck me. Maybe I'll bring my workout gear and attend a gym near where my appointment is. Maybe I'll just walk home.
I am a bit wary about this volunteer gig. I am actually going in to be interviewed to see if I am suitable for it. Here's the thing: the person who I have been in contact with seems a bit... well, not so friendly. The emails have been curt and almost commanding. It won't be the first time I have dealt with mean volunteer coordinators. Not sure why they have to be mean. It's not like you are paying me. I have walked out of a volunteer situation because of the attitude. My final line was "If I leave, I'll still be making the same money." I then turned on my heel, tossed my hair back, and gave her the hand. Ok, I didn't do that but I should have. If only I had hair.
Anyway, here I still am. Typing away. I am going to brush my teeth and lie down in hopes of falling asleep. Here's to hoping. Later.
I was going to say that I at least get out early but for some reason, I set up an appointment at 4:00pm for a volunteer gig. Fuck me. Maybe I'll bring my workout gear and attend a gym near where my appointment is. Maybe I'll just walk home.
I am a bit wary about this volunteer gig. I am actually going in to be interviewed to see if I am suitable for it. Here's the thing: the person who I have been in contact with seems a bit... well, not so friendly. The emails have been curt and almost commanding. It won't be the first time I have dealt with mean volunteer coordinators. Not sure why they have to be mean. It's not like you are paying me. I have walked out of a volunteer situation because of the attitude. My final line was "If I leave, I'll still be making the same money." I then turned on my heel, tossed my hair back, and gave her the hand. Ok, I didn't do that but I should have. If only I had hair.
Anyway, here I still am. Typing away. I am going to brush my teeth and lie down in hopes of falling asleep. Here's to hoping. Later.
Thursday, April 02, 2009
Like many people out there, work has become... well, work. I had a talk about it with the person I work for. Who I am not currently enamored with. Actually, I used to be a big supporter. Not so much, anymore. It's sad. Sad because I hate when I catch people in a blatant lie. But it's fine. You're just trying to do you. So do you. Just let me do me. Even when I am down. What I really hate is that I had been warned. Live and learn. Not sure what to do next. But I ain't stupid.
I find it very interesting that people I work with have a hard time seeing me down. I tend to be the cheerleader of the team. The person who finds joy in everything and anything. So, when I am at the low part of my cycle, people can see a difference. What irritates me is that I am often not just left alone to let the cycle pass.
I am not sure why people feel that they need to keep me happy. Or figure out how to. It's not like I am in charge or anything like that. I would not even classify myself as essential. More periphery. But I guess I affect enough people that when I am down, they all feel it. I should listen more to what people ask me. In retrospect, I need to listen to people who I respect. There aren't that many anymore. But whatever. As I told my superior, even at what I consider below average, I still am better than 95% of my peers.
You see, I aim for very, very high standards. I've been told I need to understand that what I consider average is considered high. I've actually been told that I may need to lower my standards. Great. I would understand if they actually even aimed for average. Problem is I don't see them even aiming. Including who I work for. So, when I pull back and away from taking on things that I am not supposed to, some people perceive it as disconnecting. Fine. Take it as you want. But I am still one of the best at what I do. Ask around.
But I need to learn to do 'my" job. And not worry about the rest. It'll take some time. But I need to. So, here I am. Ready. Set. Go.
I find it very interesting that people I work with have a hard time seeing me down. I tend to be the cheerleader of the team. The person who finds joy in everything and anything. So, when I am at the low part of my cycle, people can see a difference. What irritates me is that I am often not just left alone to let the cycle pass.
I am not sure why people feel that they need to keep me happy. Or figure out how to. It's not like I am in charge or anything like that. I would not even classify myself as essential. More periphery. But I guess I affect enough people that when I am down, they all feel it. I should listen more to what people ask me. In retrospect, I need to listen to people who I respect. There aren't that many anymore. But whatever. As I told my superior, even at what I consider below average, I still am better than 95% of my peers.
You see, I aim for very, very high standards. I've been told I need to understand that what I consider average is considered high. I've actually been told that I may need to lower my standards. Great. I would understand if they actually even aimed for average. Problem is I don't see them even aiming. Including who I work for. So, when I pull back and away from taking on things that I am not supposed to, some people perceive it as disconnecting. Fine. Take it as you want. But I am still one of the best at what I do. Ask around.
But I need to learn to do 'my" job. And not worry about the rest. It'll take some time. But I need to. So, here I am. Ready. Set. Go.
Monday, March 30, 2009
It's hard to believe that only an hour away by plane is a fantastically and gloriously beautiful city that has an amazing amount to offer. A city that has the charm of Europe but the ease of America.
I just got back from my Toronto extended weekend. How glorious. It had been 18 years since my last visit. Much has changed. Much for the good.
We stayed in a wonderful B&B called A Seaton Dream. It was out of the way from the bustle of downtown but close enough to catch the stunningly-easy-to-maneuver public transportation that dropped us anywhere we wanted to be.
The food, oh, the food. Delicious and far less expensive than one would think. Stand outs: Omi sushi, Terroni on Queen West, Colborne Lane. Not a bad one in the bunch. Plus a fantastic neighborhood bar called The Cobourg.
It was wonderful catching up with my old friend Diane. Plus lunch with my cousins was just amazing. I expected to see only one of them but all three came out and brought some great company. My commented as to how much nicer this side of my family is. I agree.
We had such a good time that we plan on returning in the Fall. I suggest that everyone does. Later.
I just got back from my Toronto extended weekend. How glorious. It had been 18 years since my last visit. Much has changed. Much for the good.
We stayed in a wonderful B&B called A Seaton Dream. It was out of the way from the bustle of downtown but close enough to catch the stunningly-easy-to-maneuver public transportation that dropped us anywhere we wanted to be.
The food, oh, the food. Delicious and far less expensive than one would think. Stand outs: Omi sushi, Terroni on Queen West, Colborne Lane. Not a bad one in the bunch. Plus a fantastic neighborhood bar called The Cobourg.
It was wonderful catching up with my old friend Diane. Plus lunch with my cousins was just amazing. I expected to see only one of them but all three came out and brought some great company. My commented as to how much nicer this side of my family is. I agree.
We had such a good time that we plan on returning in the Fall. I suggest that everyone does. Later.
Thursday, March 26, 2009
I think I am taking this going on vacation a bit to seriously. I have not gotten this drunk in... I don't know how long.
I'm off to Toronto for an extended weekend.
I love Toronto. I have been a few times. It's so clean. It's so nice. I love Canada in general. They put the USA to shame.
I didn't think I would do much but an old friend is there and a cousin. And we are getting together. I will have fun. I hope I am not this drunk. Latedr.
I'm off to Toronto for an extended weekend.
I love Toronto. I have been a few times. It's so clean. It's so nice. I love Canada in general. They put the USA to shame.
I didn't think I would do much but an old friend is there and a cousin. And we are getting together. I will have fun. I hope I am not this drunk. Latedr.
Thursday, March 19, 2009
I wish I could sing like Karen Carpenter. God bless her soul.
Talking to myself and feeling old. Sometimes I'd like to quit. Nothing ever seems to fit. Hangin' around. Nothing to do but frown. Rainy days and Mondays always get me down.
What I got they used to call the blues. Nothing is really wrong. Feeling like I don't belong. Walking around. Some kind of lonely clown. Rainy days and Mondays always get me down.
Good lyrics. Amazing soul when sung by her. She makes it seem so easy. I envy that. I envy when people make things look easy. I never feel that I do. It's what keeps me striving to do better. Sometimes to a fault.
Sometimes, I wish I could sing like Karen Carpenter. So I can rest my soul. Later.
Talking to myself and feeling old. Sometimes I'd like to quit. Nothing ever seems to fit. Hangin' around. Nothing to do but frown. Rainy days and Mondays always get me down.
What I got they used to call the blues. Nothing is really wrong. Feeling like I don't belong. Walking around. Some kind of lonely clown. Rainy days and Mondays always get me down.
Good lyrics. Amazing soul when sung by her. She makes it seem so easy. I envy that. I envy when people make things look easy. I never feel that I do. It's what keeps me striving to do better. Sometimes to a fault.
Sometimes, I wish I could sing like Karen Carpenter. So I can rest my soul. Later.
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
When I was little, I was obsessed with Wonder Woman. I lived for her live-action show. If I ever met Lynda Carter, I would probably faint. When every one else got Spiderman or Superman underoos, I asked for Wonder Woman ones. I got Batman ones. Boo.
My cousins and I often played Superfriends. This consisted of us wrapping towels around our necks and walking around the block. If I didn't get to be Wonder Woman, I pouted and threw tantrums. So, my cousins decided to just let me be Wonder Woman to avoid the drama.
My obsession was bad. I wanted a Wonder Woman doll. I got Batman. Boo.
It got so bad that whenever I was stressed out, I would stand off to the side and twirl around praying that I would become Wonder Woman. I would walk off and just spin, waiting for the burst of light to change me into my tight short, bustier, and tiara. Then, I could solve all my worries by tossing people aside and strut around like I was almighty. Plus I would be gorgeous and everyone would be in awe of me. Did I mention the outfit?
So, now, when I am stressed, I run off to the gym, put on my tight shorts and sleeveless tee. I toss around heavy weight and strut around like I own the place. I have people staring at me... not sure if it's in awe... but they stare. I guess I got what I wanted. Except for the tiara. Later.
My cousins and I often played Superfriends. This consisted of us wrapping towels around our necks and walking around the block. If I didn't get to be Wonder Woman, I pouted and threw tantrums. So, my cousins decided to just let me be Wonder Woman to avoid the drama.
My obsession was bad. I wanted a Wonder Woman doll. I got Batman. Boo.
It got so bad that whenever I was stressed out, I would stand off to the side and twirl around praying that I would become Wonder Woman. I would walk off and just spin, waiting for the burst of light to change me into my tight short, bustier, and tiara. Then, I could solve all my worries by tossing people aside and strut around like I was almighty. Plus I would be gorgeous and everyone would be in awe of me. Did I mention the outfit?
So, now, when I am stressed, I run off to the gym, put on my tight shorts and sleeveless tee. I toss around heavy weight and strut around like I own the place. I have people staring at me... not sure if it's in awe... but they stare. I guess I got what I wanted. Except for the tiara. Later.
