Everything AND Poopie

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OEAh77W_1jE

Others embed media all the time. I however, seem to be incapable of mastering the steps it takes to do so. So... clickie-clickie on the link above to bask in one of the most horrific examples of human misery ever to be broadcast to the masses. Were I this gentlemen, I would be praying for the world to end, or at least a complete and utter annihilation of the internet and it's contents.

A complete "wipe" (if you'll pardon the pun.) from everyone's memory, including my own would seem to be in order. But instead, I shall laugh heartily and celebrate schadenfreude with the hopes that karma will overlook me for such cold-hearted mirth.

Hermititude

The months just roll by don't they?

I think s'bout time I post a little life update.

The new apartment is just about feeling like a home now. I've got much of the unpacking done at this point. Barring a pile of luggage, doggie crates, 21" tv and stand, box of books/photos and various odds and ends banished not-so-inconspicuously to a corner of my bedroom. I've lovingly dubbed it "Madame Trash Heap". It's likely to be there for a while, til I can figure out how to sell some stuff on e-bay or Craig's List.

Porthos and Cole are with me this week, and I'm happy to have them. It's amazing how happy they are to see me after a week. They just overdose on attention for the entire first night, and then sorta settle into the routine much quicker than they did before. When they're with Ted, they've got him home all day, every day, but when they're with me, they have to adjust to my schedule of not being home all day. It makes me feel awful but I try to compensate with lots of walks. Oh... and peanut butter. And I pretty-much restrict myself to a life of "hermititude" in the evenings while I have them. Although.... now that my apartment looks like a home... I can have guests!

Anyone wanna stop by and see me? : )

Blah... not very interesting for a first post in well-over a month, but it's the best I can do for today.

Discovered a fantastic not-so-new artist recently: "Skye Edwards". She's the former lead singer of a band called "Morcheeba". Her solo debut is called "Mind How You Go", and I love it. It's acoustic, yet electronic, thought-provoking and tender. Her voice is soothing and emotive.
I'm posting the lyrics to one of her songs called "Stop Complaining", but if you'd like to hear her, I'd recommend clicking "HERE" to watch her awesome, awesome, awesome video called "What's Wrong With Me". I was going to post the lyrics to that, but they're really depressing and I didn't want to go there. : )

"Stop Complaining" by Skye

I don't know why but I can't seem to find the right melody today
I can't make the words fit how I feel
I don't know when was the last time that I slept the whole night through
And when morning comes around I feel tired

I woke up from the strangest dream
With a dancing dog and a beauty queen
They said nothing
Nada
Niente
I'm empty

But you're here and I'm here
so I stop complaining
It could be raining
And I see the answer in your eyes
You're here and I'm here
I keep on singing
Just keep on singing
Singing

Do you know why I can't seem to find the right melody today
Can't make the words fit how I feel
Do you know when was the last time that I slept the whole night through
Another morning comes around I feel tired

I drive down to the rodeo
Gonna ride a bull in a video but nothing
Nada
Niente
I'm still empty

But you're here and I'm here
so I stop complaining
It could be raining
And I see the answer in your eyes

You're here and I'm here
I keep on singing
Just keep on singing
Singing
Singing
Just keep on singing
Singing
Singing
Singing
Singing
Singing
Singing

Me with Martini, Jerome in Bikini

Tomorrow night at this time I will be at a Sam Phillips concert with my dear friend Jerome. Hee!

I'm quite pleased at the opportunity to see both Jerome and Sam, having not seen him for probably a year or her... well... ever.

No, she's not a very well-known singer but I'm a fan from way back when she sang contemporary christian music under her given name: Leslie Phillips. What I didn't know, (thank you Wikipedia) was that she was marketed as the "christian" Cyndi Lauper back in the 80's. Whattayaknow 'bout that? No wonder I liked her so much. However... she evidently wasn't thrilled with that comparison. And I never made the connection on my own, nor had I read a peep about it since 1986 when I first became a fan... so how good was that marketing?

I had come to assume that she adopted a new stage name when she took a step back from her faith and began singing secular fare, but like I said, that's an assumption. She may very well still be a woman of faith. I have read some disparaging remarks she has made about the church and the gospel music industry... but that doesn't make her a full-blown heathen, like me.

Jerome is a much more loyal fan than I, I might add. He's kept up with Sam beyond the expiration of her contract with Virgin Records, whereas, I kinda let 3 albums pop up and pass me by without ever hitting my hot lil hands or gracing my eager ears. Shame on me. Of course, every time I saw one of her CD's released since 2001's Fan Dance... they were outrageously priced. That's the burden of being a lesser known artist I suppose though: music outlets don't buy your work en masse and thereby don't pass any savings on to your awaiting fans.

Luckily, Sam has had some success without fickle poopie-head fans like me, and gained a lot of exposure through the TV show "Gilmore Girls". Jerome enlightened me on that stroke of luck I might add, 'cause I'd never watched Gilmore Girls (still haven't, although I hear it was very good.) and never would have known otherwise. Yay Sam! Sell those records and keep spreading your brilliance!

Her latest album is entitled "Don't Do Anything". I vow I will own it... and Fan Dance and A Boot and a Shoe ...and then my Sam Phillips collection will be complete yet again. She really is a remarkable artist with very intelligent/insightful lyrics. I so recommend her quirky bad-self to whomever will listen.

Here's a really old song (not an actual video) from her first album as Sam Phillips: "I Don't Know How to Say Goodbye to You" from The Indescribable Wow.

And as long as I'm goin' nuts... the lyrics to one of my favourite Sam songs... "I Need Love" from Martinis and Bikinis.

I Need Love

I left my conscience
like a crying child
Locked the door behind me
put the pain on file

Broken like a window
I see my blindness now

And I need love
not some sentimental prison
I need god
not the political church
I need fire
to melt this frozen sea inside me
I need love

Driving into town
tired and depressed
Like a flare a street light
burst an SOS

Peace comes to my rescue
And I don't know what it means

And I need love
not some sentimental prison
I need god
not the political church
I need fire
to melt this frozen sea inside me
I need love

Broken like a window
I see my blindness now
And I need love
not some sentimental prison
I need god
not the political church
I need fire to melt this frozen sea inside me
I need love
I need love
I need love
I need love

Get Out the Way

Mothers with SUV baby buggies are reaching epidemic proportions. I propose that both mother (or father) and child should be destroyed on sight if attempting to board public transit in/with one of these massive contraptions.

I know it's harsh, and it may take time to implement... but really... there is no alternative. A baby should not take up the space of 3 adults (in the aisle no less) on a bus. There is no room to get around them... It's frowned-upon to climb through them... And bus windows are far too small to heft these monster-truck-prams into traffic. (not to mention they're built for off-roading and would likely survive the ejection - so why bother?)

To sound more and more like an elderly person... when I was a child we had tiny strollers that did not impose on other people's rights or ability to utilize public transit. Admittedly inferior for lack of a roof rack, curtain air-bags and a place to stow all shopping bags... these strollers held their precious cargo quite efficiently so the parental figures pushing them did not have to. And isn't that the point??? You really just need your child to be on casters so as not to break your back carryin' 'em around all day right? And to my knowledge the average human infant is born no larger than the babies of yesteryear who weathered the hardship of a lowly stroller. But I suppose in the age of baby bling... one must consider the effects of not being seen in the stroller equivalent of a Hummer.

"Oh god, there's no place to duck in this thing... the other babies will see me!"

At least I can take comfort in the fact that these behemoth baby-movers don't run on fossil fuels. *sigh*

I understand the plight of mothers who must bring baby along on the bus and even that no one can truly silence a crying child if they really wanna cry. But don't tell me you need seating for five and space for a subwoofer to cart your little one to the mall... 'cause you don't... and if you do, you should be walking to the mall and utilizing all that provisional space, not to mention the CAA membership that MUST come as an added feature.

So parents.... get a small stroller for your transit rides... or be destroyed with the knowledge that your selfish life of excess cost your precious offspring his or her life as well ('cause we will be dicing up the baby while you watch). This is how it must be.


Ludacris - Move Bitch

Move bitch,
get out the way
Get out the way bitch,
get out the way

Move bitch,
get out the way
Get out the way bitch,
get out the way

OH NO!
The fight's out
I'ma 'bout to punch yo...lights out
Get the FUCK back,
guard ya grill
There's somethin' wrong,
we can't stay still
I've been drankin' and bustin' two
and I been thankin' of bustin' you
Upside ya motherfuckin' forehead
And if your friends jump in,
"Ohhh gurrlll", they'll be mo' dead

Causin' confusion,
Disturbin Tha Peace
It's not an illusion,
we runnin the streets
So bye-bye to all you groupies and golddiggers
Is there a bumper on your ass?
NO NIGGA!
I'm doin' a hundred on the highway
So if you do the speed limit,
get the FUCK outta my way
I'm D.U.I., hardly ever caught sober
and you about to get ran the FUCK over

[Chorus]

BITCH!
Watch out, watch out, watch out
BITCH!
Watch out, watch out, watch out, move

Silly Daikini, Hang Yer Damned Curtains

Anyone who's been paying any attention to my Facebook silliness would know that I've been talking an awful lot about my lack of a phone... and my plans to hang curtains this past weekend.

Well... the curtains are still to be hung, but that's not to say I didn't have a productive weekend.

Among my discoveries... ...I can in-fact be a mister fix-it when armed with the proper tools, although I rarely ever follow paper instructions. I have a strange and meddlesome aversion to reading page upon page of diagrams and steps. Possibly because they're too concise??? I dunno... it hurts my wee man-brain to try to follow along. I need a video unless the instructions are put to an interesting story I guess.

Anyhoo... I'm quite pleased to announce that I installed a new deadbolt lock, and I drilled, and hung shelves and installed anchors for shelves... wait... switch those two steps... the anchors came before the shelves. And I did some serious closet organizing. (which won't likely last, but oh well, my intentions are golden.)

OH, and I cleaned a wall of windows, watched 2 movies ("Willow" & "The Italian Job"), ate a litre of Oreo ice cream, went to a drag show (Friday night) ("Mess In a Dress") and managed to get some major sleep time. OK, so maybe it wasn't an overly productive weekend, but I'm coping. lol And part of that coping is to keep telling myself that every little thing I do, contributes to the greater goal of setting up house. ...Something I'm very slow at under the best conditions.

It's insane how long it's taken me this time around to unpack. August is almost over, and I've still got a catastrophic living room and bedroom with boxes and displaced things just laying around. Expectations we put upon ourselves huh... Meh... I guess I'm just stressing it because it's unfinished business. I want to come home to a comfortable, livable abode and not estimate how much work is left to do. I much prefer maintenance to set-up. ...And cups of hot chocolate to refill-sized bottles of Windex... And surfing the internet for porn 'n stuff as opposed to feeling drywall grit on my bare feet upon stepping out of the shower. Of course, if it's not drywall grit, it's dog hair, or some other doggie ba'bit bi-product of half-chewed toy or treat. So I don't know why I'm complaining.

I'm getting there! I'm getting there.


PS. I love the book I'm reading right now: "The Time Traveller's Wife" by Audrey Niffenegger. I just found out it's being made into a movie, starring Eric Bana and Rachel McAdams with a release date of Christmas day this year. Hmmmm... I hope they do it justice. The book is REALLY good.

PPS... I've been listening to a lot of Madonna lately, thus the lyrics to "Erotica" from the Confessions Tour. A really beautiful re-imagining of the song. (granted it wouldn't appear as such by just reading the lyrics lol - trust me on this one.)

Erotica

You are who you are
And I
Wouldn’t want to change a thing
In spite of
All the pain that love can bring
Tell me
What can I do
I’m so in love with you

You thrill me
Surround me, you fill me
You send me
You put me in a trance
You fill me
Inside me you take me
You thrill me
You put me in a trance

(Chorus)
Erotic, Erotic, put your hands all over my body.

You are who you are
And I
Wouldn’t want to change a thing
In spite of
All the pain that love can bring
So tell me
What can I do
I’m so in love with you

You thrill me
Surround me, you fill me
You send me
You put me in a trance
You fill me
Inside me you take me
You thrill me
You put me in a trance

The Quick Brown Fox...

...Jumped over the lazy dogs.

'Just got an e-mail from my dear friend Jeff, who quite naturally wanted to know "who got the dogs?" in our separation. It's quite silly of me to not have mentioned it, but likewise one could assume that since I wasn't lamenting their absence that Ted and I had agreed on a mutually beneficial arrangement. We are doing the "shared custody" thing. One week at my place; one week at his, because really... the boys belong together no matter who they're with and both Ted and I would rather miss them both for a week at a time than to miss one of them all the time. Our babies are still our babies even though their daddies live apart. It's incredibly sad, and it brings up a lot of emotion for me. But Porthos and Cole are a comforting presence in my life when I have them, and hopefully equally comforting to Ted when they're in his loving care.

"You are my sunshine, my only sunshine, you make me happy... when skies are grey. You'll never know dears, how much I love you... Please don't take my sunshine away."

Who Y'Gonna Call?

I didn't write about my move. But it was largely uneventful as far as moves go, and the only known casualties thus far (I say thus far, because I'm still not completely unpacked.) Were my Yucca Tree and the barbecue. Hopefully both are enjoying their new homes with new owners within the same building.

So in a nutshell, I'm pretty happy with my new place. I wish I could say the same thing of Primus Canada... the home phone/long distance and internet provider I've chosen. I signed-up on August 5th, with promises of 10 business days or less, and I still have no service and I've been greeted with really bad customer service in my attempts to report it, and investigate the problem. I really... REALLY dislike outsourcing. Whether it's to India, or the United States or Mexico... I have a working theory that people from another zip code, much less another COUNTRY or another CONTINENT do not have much more than a passing interest in my satisfaction. And that is being both kind and optimistic. Think about it. Someone from another country asks you a question you have no answer for, on behalf of a company that you don't even technically work for... do you care? Not likely is what I'm finding. And I'm a very patient guy, but a language barrier does not expediate any situation. I just want my phone to work, and I'm baffled as to why a singular new jack was installed in my apartment where 4 already exist, and none of these 4 work when a phone is plugged in. I was routinely told I'd have to call "Inter Connect" company by 3 different service representatives from India, when really, I just want to speak to whomever "Primus" called/requested to install my service, which they know nothing about. Well, "Inter Connect" company is very different from "AN" interconnect company (meaning "pick one and stop bothering me".) I'm seriously the width of a hair away from cancelling the whole thing and going with a different service provider. Go ahead punks... make my day.

Blah... I wish I could just stick with my cell phone and not worry about a land line, but my apartment seems to be a wireless dead zone. Ah well... happy, happy, happy... not going to let ridiculous particulars get me down.


Ghostbusters - By Ray Parker Jr

If there's something strange
in your neighborhood
Who you gonna call?
Ghostbusters!

If there's something weird
and it don't look good
Who you gonna call?
Ghostbusters!

I ain't afraid of no ghost
I ain't afraid of no ghost

If you're seeing things
running through your head
Who can you call?
Ghostbusters!
An invisible man
sleeping in your bed
Oh, who you gonna call?
Ghostbusters!

I ain't afraid of no ghost
I ain't afraid of no ghost
Who you gonna call?
Ghostbusters!

If you're all alone,
pick up the phone
And call
Ghostbusters!

I ain't afraid of no ghost

I hear it likes the girls
I ain't afraid of no ghost
Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah
Who you gonna call?
Ghostbusters!

If you've had a dose
of a freaky ghost
You'd better call
Ghostbusters!

Let me tell you something
Bustin' makes me feel good
I ain't afraid of no ghost
I ain't afraid of no ghost

Don't get caught alone, oh no
Ghostbusters!
When it comes through your door
Unless you just want some more
I think you better call
Ghostbusters!
Ow!
Who you gonna call
Ghostbusters!

The Most Beautiful Light

I am single now. I think it's starting to sink in. (it hurts, but that's part of the reason how I know.)

Last night I spent my first night alone (with the dogs thankfully). The sun still rose in the morning. And for the first time in a very long time, I played music while I got ready for work because I didn't have to worry about waking anyone up. That's a plus. Ok, so I'm not much of a rebel, it was classical music... but it was music none-the-less, and if I want to play it all the time, I can now.

I have learned to appreciate the peace that silence and quiet time can bring. But I think it's time to let my greatest joy in life carry me through the hard times ahead.

This weekend was disgusting-hot, which was an expected conclusion to a week that was scorching hot. At long last (although I haven't documented it at all), I have found an apartment in York. Elm Ridge Drive to be more precise. I'm going to be living on the 18th floor of a high rise. Facing west again; which I'm looking forward to, as I'll be able to nurture my all of my plants with hours and hours of sunshine, just like they prefer. My apartment opens to a dining room, kitchen to the right, and a sunken living room straight ahead (which I adore). It has a nice big balcony, a nice big bedroom and a huge walk-in closet with more space than I could ever use on my own. It's a pet-friendly building with swimming pool. And it's a mere 5 minute walk to the nearest subway station. So I'm quite pleased with my new digs. May they serve me well, and house my hopes and dreams for this new chapter in my life.

Anyone wanna help me move? lol

Not Now, But Soon - Imogen Heap

Not now, but soon,
The most beautiful light
Will wake us to pillow fighting excitement

Not now, but soon,
Bright into
Every corner,
Satellites manoeuvre in beams of change,

Standing by the best days of our lives,
Magnificent, the best days of our lives,
Big bang boom, the best days of our lives
They’re coming right up
If we can just get through this one.

Who said it was over?
It’s as good as it gets
Well we’ve got a few tricks up our sleeves yet

If we swallow "it’s all over" and open wide on these make-to-believe
Sullen, chewed up, sodden soliloquies,
Oh, we’re sweet nothings anymore

Terrifying best, days of our lives
We’re hanging on the best days of our lives
No two ways about it, best days of our lives
They’re coming right up, if we can just get through this one.

I’ll hang on grab onto your feet
Someone else holds tied to my shoelaces
When their trouser leg tears, runs and stops at the seam to keep us
dangled together
Until help finds us here

Best days of our lives
Better be the best days of our lives
Bring on the best days of our lives
Coming right up, whoa
Coming right up
If we can just get through this one.

A Bookish Meme

I have been tagged. Therefore I am "it". And never let it be said that I spoil all the fun. (I only spoil "some" of the fun.) This is for the beloved Misster Kitty, that rascally "tagger".

Here's how it works...

- Pick up the nearest book.
- Open to page 123.
- Find the fifth sentence.
- Post the next three sentences on your blog.
- Then tag five people (and don't forget to name the lovely soul that thought so much as to include YOU!)

The book I grabbed was "Magical Thinking" by my absolute favourite author, Augusten Burroughs. The 5th sentence on page 123 is:
"I mean, it wasn't like he was somebody I trusted who molested or betrayed me."

The 3 (o.k. 4 - sue me for straying) sentences after:

"He was a hunky young guy in the wrong career who got my rocks off. For a straight guy, it would be like being fourteen and having one of the centerfolds from Playboy step out of the magazine and hand you a bottle of mineral oil. Like you'd complain? Like you'd go, oh my God, you've damaged me."

This passage is from a portion of the book where he discusses his first (of a few) experience (at age 14), having sex with a Catholic priest. And no, his books aren't overtly sexual in nature.

Ironically enough, I have all of my Augusten Burroughs books with me today. I'm going to see him at a book store appearance tonight in Toronto. I brought all 6 with the hopes that he'd sign them - or at least one. Like the rabid fan I am.

I don't know who to tag really. Perhaps if you're reading this and feel inspired to do so, I'd love to know what you're reading. Let me know. : )

Pain

Here folks, is how we spent most of our Sunday evening. ...Playing "Pain" for Playstation 3. It's violent, depraved and tasteless. But lordy is it funny. The goal is to inflict as much pain on your dude as you possibly can. They give you various targets to hit, and one can get into many a sticky situation. It's a complete time-waster, and so far, one of my favourite video games ever!

We did take a break to further our mind-gorging of season 3 of Battlestar Galactica. We sadly only have 6 more episodes to watch. Such a great show.

The "S" in BSG, does NOT stand for Strep Throat

My job is keeping me far too busy to do much posting of any kind. At least not during the day. So snippets:

-Ted has strep-throat. He got it from me. Where oh where does strep throat come from???
At any rate, we're both on the mend.

-We're both completely enthralled in Season 3 of Battlestar Galactica. We've watched 7 episodes over 3 nights. Suicide bombers, poisoning your own wife for treason, vigilante justice for crimes against humanity (I must say in all my years of watching Star Trek, I don't think I've actually seen someone get blown-out of an air-lock from an "inside" perspective. "Voyager" and "Enterprise" both did "external" shots. But watching Jammer get sucked-out of the launch bay and start to drift, seemed very... real.), religious zeal and occupation, a failed attempt at racial genocide.... *deep breath* I cannot effectively GUSH enough about how deeply rivetting every single moment of every episode of this season has been thus far. I'd say "Long Live BSG", if I didn't already know the 4th season will be its last. : ( Oh well. I'm enjoying the ride! : )

'Kay, that was an awfully big snippet and I have to bugger off now. : )

12 Years Today

Happy Anniversary Baby!

Cocky Ozzy, Lacking Janet, and Daddy Johnny

Alrighty, I'm up to speed on Survivor. Ozzy's getting kinda cocky, which is a little bit disappointing, since I'd come to think he was above that. Anyhoo... seems he's not. Chet is gone, and deservedly so. He seemed like a truly nice man, but he certainly was reinforcing some negative stereotypes about gay-folk and that makes me antsy. He exited with incredible grace though. I love it when people give a well-thought-out departure speech. Hell... he does have a lot to be proud about I suppose. I for one would feel an incredible sense of accomplishment for outlasting Gorilla Joel. I was a little disappointed that Jonathan went home, and I actually felt a little teary with compassion. He hasn't been nearly as obnoxious this season, and to be taken-out by an injury really must suck. I knew he was going to have to leave though. That was a huge gash in his knee, and you can't just slap a bandage on something like that under those living conditions. It would be painful in the most sterile of environments, never mind all the filth that the contestants live in for 39 days. I'm not yet certain of who I'm rooting for to take home the prize. At this point I'll be surprised if it's a fan. They seem to be an endangered species. But things can always change. If I hadn't watched last season, I think I'd be cheering for James (to get an underwear modelling contract among other things) because he's been portrayed as pretty subdued and good-natured this season. Sadly, I still don't like him very much. The wonders they can create with editing huh? I'm sure Parvarti enjoys being portrayed as the village harlot for example, but she gives them lots of footage to work with. This much is certain.

Anyhoo, enough about Survivor for now.

With regards to the "Janet" night on Friday. We had a great time. But I was under the distinct impression that it was going to be all Janet music all night. This was not the case. And so the consensus was that the music was a little weak 'cause it wasn't at all what we were expecting. I'm thinking maybe the DJ didn't have a complete catalog of her music. I on the other hand; do. And would be only so happy to put together an entire evening of ass-shakin' Janet tunes. Heaven knows she's got the repertoire.

This weekend with the nephews and nieces turned-out to be a lot of fun. Nathan (the youngest nephew) was my biggest fan for some reason and I actually started feeling pangs of paternal instincts and the desire to have a child. Luckily it passed. But I have to say; there's an awful lot of appeal in the thought of potentially raising a child to be empowered and full of love for him/herself and others, and teaching the importance of kindness, respect and grace among other virtues. I rarely ever think to myself "Gee, I'd be a great dad." ...But sometimes....

To that end... the lyrics to "Lullaby for Wyatt" by Sheryl Crow. A song she wrote for her adopted son. It's beautiful. Happy St. Patrick's Day all!

The world could fall apart
But you're my heart, my dear
I will sing this song
'Til we are gone, my dear

How do I keep you from losing your way
Hope you'll go out and you'll come back some day
But love is letting go
And this I'll know
Cause you were mine
For a time

I could shape your mind
But why waste time, my dear
There's so much more to know
Than I can show you dear

How do I keep you from losing your way
Hope you'll go out and you'll come back some day
But love is letting go
And this I'll know
Cause you were mine
For a time

I have held you close
And breathed your name, my dear
I was with you then
And will remain, my dear

How do I keep you from losing your way
Hope you will find love like I did some day
But love is letting go
And this I'll know

Cause you were mine
For a time

March is Family Month (unofficially)

Gaah... the week... this dreadfully long week is almost at a close. I've been waking up every morning wishing it was Saturday, or wishing for just another half hour of sleep at the very least. Neither happened. Go figure.

In addition to the aforementioned visit from my niece, it warrants mentioning that both Ted's nieces and nephews have been in Toronto this week and we've spent quite a bit of time with them. This weekend we'll be seeing even more of them, 'cause they'll be staying with us. All four of them, plus Mel. Then on Sunday all but Rachel will be going home. Rachel's Ted's eldest niece. She'll be staying with us until Thursday when we drive up to Timmins for the weekend. Action packed. We've promised to take her to a drag show at one of the gay bars downtown, so that should be fun. hee hee

Tonight Ted and I are steppin' out to a nightclub called "Fly" for their Janet Jackson night. Yup... all Janet, all night. I've been looking forward to it for almost a month now. And no... I'm not one to go to nightclubs. But we went to a Kylie Minogue night in December at the same club and had so much fun, we just couldn't resist an evening of Janet. Never mind the fact that we'll be two of the oldest and fattest people in the club. But screw it. We're there for the music. Not to impress anyone.

In the meantime... I need a nap.

I'd post the lyrics to a Janet song from her new album. But the video for Feedback is infinitely more entertaining than the lyrics to any of her songs. Yes. I said it. And I'm a life-long fan. Anyhoo... enjoy!!!

Dragonette and Gorilla Joel

So I finally watched last Thursday's episode of Survivor (Fans vs Favourites) last night. And I don't think I've ever been more satisfied by an ousting in my history of watching the show.

That testosterone-fueled man-ape Joel, didn't "see" it coming, but man did he "have it coming". I cannot stand "Alpha Dog" posturing, and eat-the-weak mentality from anyone but this guy was quite simply too much. I didn't like Joel from day 1, but that whole "obstacle course chase" competition made it perfectly clear that he didn't consider Chet a human being, much-less a team mate; dragging him along like a sack of meat with no consideration for his safety or injuries!

I'm sure his big gorilla frame helps him rescue many people as a firefighter, but he's not much of a human being in my eyes. Now that's not saying I'd defend Chet in his evident "uselessness", but whether or not he's a good competitor or a strong team mate, has no bearing on his status as a human being.

Thankfully it would seem that the cast of contestants this time around are a "no bullshit" bunch. Thus far I haven't shed a tear over the people sent-home. Although, I must admit I thought Mikey was extremely sexy and went before his time (at the hands of Joel the Gorilla), but he was a little weaselish in his assumption of power so early-on in the game.

Ah well. The best part about watching last weeks episode so late, is that there's a brand new one on tonight! *grin*

Oh... and I think I found the perfect pop album of 2007. I kid you not. And by a Canadian band no less. "Dragonette" is their name and their CD is called "Galore". I absolutely love every track. They're a little bit Scissor Sisters, a little bit Gwen Stefani, a little bit ABBA, and a little bit Eurythmics. Catchy tunes, saucy lyrics, and a cheeky variation of musical styles. I cannot recommend them enough. I hope they win the Juno they're nominated for, 'cause they're incredibly fantastic and sadly unknown. Clicky clicky to hear the song I'm posting lyrics to. Brilliant stuff, I swear. (it's not a real music video incidentally)

True Believer - Dragonette

I don't play well with the other kids
they know that I'm dangerous
it's evident I'm different
my punishment is imminent
they tell me that I'm no good
they say worse
I've got a curse
and I know that it's true

but you,
you make me better
you give me pleasure
it's just your effect on me ooooh
you make me sweeter
you give me fever
and I'm a believer

I've had such a wicked time,
kissed the boys and made them cry
laugh and while I wave good bye
they'd still like another try
Ordinary Dick and Tom
Matthew Mark Luke and John
if they knew who I've become
who I've become

the spell I'm under is you
you make me better
you give me pleasure
it's just your effect on me oooh
you taught me a lesson
now I'm behaving
must be what's best for me oooh
you make me sweeter
you give me fever
Now I'm a believer oooh

do u feel super
I'm the new girl curled round your finger *oh*
I've taken your potion *and now I'm*
senseless defenceless a fool
the spell I'm under is you

it's you what's come over me
you who has gotten into me
you who did this thing to me
I used to be so bad

but you,
you make me better
you give me pleasure
must be what's best for me ooooh
you make me sweeter
you give me fever oooh
I'm a believer
I'm a believer oooh
a true believer
I'm a believer oooh
a true believer

A Weekend in March

Sometimes life throws you a bone just when you need it and in a way you never would have expected.


I've known for weeks now that my niece Shannon was going to come and visit me. And in the interim, there's been a big part of me that was looking forward to it, and an even bigger part of me that was dreading it. I can't tell you how glad I am that I didn't succumb to the latter and cancel the visit before it happened.


As I've mentioned previously, this has been a really difficult winter for me. I've been on the verge of a complete emotional breakdown for weeks since the end of January. So it goes without saying that I haven't been feeling very social, or capable. Thus, stepping into the role of "good uncle" or even "stable adult", gave me great pause. 'Cause you want to put on your best, brave face and show your visitors a good time, whether family or friend, and I wasn't sure I was up to the task.

Guess what though? I didn't need to be. Because my niece has grown into a very beautiful, intelligent, and capable young woman. One that I've found a new admiration for. It took us very little time to find our common ground and bond as families should, and I discovered very quickly how nice it is to have a friend and ally in your bloodline. Her boyfriend Andrew is nothing short of a wonderful young guy, with a good head on his shoulders and Shannon's love and best interests at heart. I really can't quite put into words how much I enjoyed their visit and how good it was for me to connect with family at long last.

Amidst the late night take-out Chinese food, conversations that lasted well-beyond bedtime and the most brutal snowstorm in recent history, I discovered a family member who has never stopped loving me, even though I ran away. In fact, she understood "why" I had to, and shared the stories of why she's taken a similar path through similar circumstances. I learned about her family life. She learned about mine. And we bonded over the realization that you can survive and come out on the other side a well-adjusted and "good" person, even when you forsake what you've been taught to revere. ...It doesn't hurt that we shared a good cry all the way through a viewing of "The Notebook", as well. Vulnerability can be very endearing.

Ted was thrilled to invite members of my family into our home. Something we've done so rarely over the course of 12 years. I think that he enjoyed Shannon and Andrew's visit very much. And I know Shannon has always thought the world of him. I was very touched by her curiousity about our relationship... ie: how Ted and I met, whether or not we'd ever get married, things we've been through... etc.

I'm extremely grateful to have had the opportunity get to know my niece. I hope I adequately expressed just how welcome she is in my life, and my home. She's a blessing and a delight and I could only hope to have the opportunity to get to know her sister, brother and cousin in the same way. It's very surreal to realize your nephew and nieces are busy becoming spectacular adults. It makes me regret how much of their childhoods I've missed, but it also gives me hope that their opinions of me aren't shaped or formed by the same, oppressive upbringing that I had.
It makes me feel like I have ties to who my family is, and that I'm still a part of something bigger than my own isolated life.

Chantal Kreviazuk - Time

Time,
Where did you go?
Why did you leave me here
alone?
Wait,
Don’t go so fast
I’m missing the moments
As they pass

Now I’ve looked in the mirror
And the world's
Getting clearer
So wait for me
this time

I’m down
I’m down on my knees
I’m begging for all
your sympathy
But you (I’m just an illusion)
You don’t seem to care (I wish that I could)
You humble people
everywhere (I don’t mean to hurt you)

Now I’ve looked in the mirror
and the world's
getting clearer
I’ll take
what you give me.
Please know
that I’m learning
So wait
for me this time

I should’ve known better
I shouldn’t have wasted those days
And afternoons and mornings
I threw them all away
Now this is my time
I’m going to make this moment mine.
(I shouldn’t have wasted those days)

I’ll take
What you give me.
Please know
That I’m learning
I’ve looked
In the mirror
My world’s
Getting clearer
So wait
for me
this time

I Loathe Humanity

Hah, the garlic didn't get me... or cause testicular dysfunction to my knowledge. (have I mentioned I'm a hypochondriac Shawn? Yeah, thanks. *wink*)

Not feeling very bloggy today, but I must justify my existence somehow so let me document for my own memories sake that yesterday, late in the day my attention was brought to a very horrific video of an American soldier (presumably in Afghanistan) throwing a live puppy off a cliff. I will not post even a link to this evil display of a total disregard for life, because I wish I hadn't seen it, and I don't encourage anyone else to hunt it down. The man (and I use the term very loosely) was a complete monster. Cold and unrepentant to the point of actual pride and nonchalance. Just another example of why I believe the human race is irredeemable. The image is burned into my memory right down to his awful smile and again, for emphasis: I wish I'd never seen it.

There's no appropriate song to offer-up as a conclusion to that one.

Stinky Breath and Funky Music

Is there such thing as garlic poisoning? I mean strictly from the stand-point of someone who's never been allergic to garlic of course.

I love garlic, and I would say that there's no such thing as too much, but I'm admittedly feeling a little light-headed today after consuming (probably) about 4 or 5 cloves in the leftover spaghetti sauce, with the leftover lasagna noodles that I could not bare to see go in the trash.

No vampires in my immediate future. This much is certain.

Got the new Janet Jackson CD last night and it's really solid. I was quite pleasantly surprised. I've been a faithful fan of Miss Janet since Control (1986) and her past 3 albums have been just a little bit lacking y'know. I've never stopping loving her, and there were always at least a few gems to be found, but she hasn't really made an album of this calibre in over a decade. Once more a Janet album that makes you wanna dance (for many tracks)! I can't tell you how much fun it is (and filthy as per usual - me likey.) Even the ballads are quite good. I'm very pleased and impressed. Now... if I can actually manage to embed the video, I shall leave you with the lead single: "Feedback". The choreography and the male dancers make me melt. Very funky/erotic and decidedly masculine. BLAH! Embedding is disabled by request of Universal Music. *rolls eyes* Well... visit this link and get sexified!

Hi

Well... let the grand experiment begin. I'm giving up Facebook for a month. (gasp)

The grandest purpose of which: to stop living my life online. And here I sit and blog again, irony withstanding.

I think I've found my voice again, although I can't promise it'll always make it's way to this medium.

This has been the most difficult winter of my life, and it seems fitting that on a sunny Sunday morning, waiting for the dog food to hydrate, pining for more sleep and smarting from a very lonely Saturday night, that I just start anew with this blog.

I've been off making friends online with the hopes that those connections would translate into real, living, breathing friendships... with mixed results. And I've learned that there's not much sense in amassing a large group of friends if they're only going to equate to a big bunch of pen-pals who communicate via the digital equivalent of cyber post-it notes. It's not meaningful enough for me, and I can honestly say I've never felt more isolated and alone. Chalk another one up to what I missed-out on in my youth. Luckily I think my learning curve is much shorter now. Let's hope.

Since I last blogged (faithfully) I've gone through a very tumultuous time in my personal life. I'm now seeing not one, but two therapists, to try and wrap my brain around my depression and where it comes from.... why it's so debilitating and how to step beyond it.

For those of you who might be worried, Ted and I are still together and I won't speak for him, but for all the hard times we've been through, I'm convinced that we can -and will- love each other unconditionally for the rest of our lives. That in itself is more than just a comfort, but a life-affirming fact that we have something very precious.

Anyhoo... my self-imposed silence is at an end I think.

And with that, a return to tradition: if you haven't picked-up "Detours" the new Sheryl Crow album... do so... post haste!

Love Is All There Is

Everyone is talking about me
How my heart is broken
But they don’t see

When you’re lonely inside
The world looks so carefree
When you’re lonely inside
You just can’t see

Does anybody want you
Does anybody need you
The question is
Does anybody want you
Does anybody need you
The question is
All I really know for certain, babe
Is that Love Is All There Is

Every now and then
There comes a time
Someone comes along
to change your mind

You believe it’s unwise
To give in to careless dreams
You believe it’s a prize
You’ll never win

Does anybody want you
Does anybody need you
The question is
Does anybody want you
Does anybody need you
The question is
All I really know for certain, babe
Is that Love Is All There Is

You believe it’s unwise
To give in to careless dreams
If you don’t see that is why
You will never know

Does anybody want you
Does anybody need you
The question is
Does anybody want you
Does anybody need you
The question is
All I really know for certain, babe
Is that Love Is All There Is

Violet Precipitation

"Your lips would make a lolly pop too happy."
LOL

I watched "Purple Rain" for the first time ever last night and loved it. I've been a huge Prince fan for many a year, but never thought his movies were worth my time. "Under the Cherry Moon" was my first foray, and I loved it too. Incredibly campy fun. But I had no idea I was going to enjoy "Purple Rain" quite so thoroughly. Granted there are some hammy scenes and the dialogue is a little bit "soap opera" at times, but overall, the music goes so well with the story. I guess that's my biggest revelation: seeing the music from the soundtrack in it's proper context, 'cause honestly, "Purple Rain" has never been my favourite Prince album.

Special nod to Morris Day.... pimp-tacular gay, don't stand in his way, oh-kaaaay! (snap, snap, snap). He steals almost every scene he's in just by being uber fabulous and slimy. Completely "unbelievable" in the role of a ladies man; but that's what makes watching him so much fun.

And I couldn't help but think that "The Kid's" (Prince's character) whole romantic technique, and distorted view of how romance/relationships should be, was inherent of someone who grew up completely isolated with fucked-up parents and enormous talent. I actually got a little choked-up about how conflicted he was about how his father mistreated his mother, when he couldn't help but admire the man for being a musical genius. Sad, but compelling.

I was also thinking the whole romance with Appolonia could've easily replaced "she" with a "he", in his rough, teasing manner with her. It would've made him seem much-less like an asshole had he been getting a male-romantic interest to strip and jump in a cold lake and taken-off on his purple bat-cycle.

Also... I've never understood how anyone in their right mind could find Prince sexy. Uhhh.... I hate to admit it, but the little half-pint has quite the body in this movie, and his sexual presence is quite provocative. I'd never seen him lookin' quite so good. Wonders never cease.

Baby I'm a Star - Prince

1,2,3,4
Hey, look me over
Tell me do u like what u see?
Hey, I ain't got no money
But honey I'm rich on personality
Hey, check it all out
Baby I know what it's all about
Before the night is through
U will see my point of view
Even if I have 2 scream and shout

Baby I'm a (star)
Might not know it now
Baby but I R,
I'm a (star)
I don't want to stop,
'til I reach the top
Sing it (We are all a star!)

Hey, take a listen
Tell me do u like what u hear?
If it don't turn u on
Just say the word and I'm gone
But honey I know, ain't nothing
Wrong with your ears
Hey, check it all out
Better look now or it just might be 2 late (just might be 2 late)
My lucks gonna change tonight
There's gotta be a better life
Take a picture sweetie
I ain't got time 2 waste

Oh baby I'm a (star)
Might not know it now
Baby but I R,
I'm a (star)
I don't want to stop,
'til I reach the top
Sing it! (We are all a star!)

Everybody say, nothing come 2 easy
But when u got it baby, nothing come 2 hard
You'll see what I'm all about (see what I'm all about)
If I gotta scream and shout (if I gotta scream and shout)
Baby baby (baby) baby (baby) baby (baby)
yeahyeah yeah yeah yeah yeah (star)

Might not know it now
Baby but I R, I'm a (star)
I don't want to stop,
'til I reach the top
Sing it! (star)
Baby baby baby
oh baby I'm a (star)
baby baby baby
somebody (We are all a star)
(Baby I'm a star)
We are all a star
We are all a star

Doctor!
Baby, baby, baby, baby,
baby, baby, baby, baby
We are all a star{Backwards talking in the background}
"Like what the fuck do they know
All their taste is in their mouth
Really.
What the fuck do they know?

Surprise Surprise

Merry Christmas....


no, no, no, guess that'll never do.


Happy New Year??


A little late but, more reasonable.


At least it's not Happy Easter. ; ) Although some might argue I'm resurrecting something from the dead which might warrant that kinda greeting. Two months is an awfully long time after all.


Considering what I was talking about this time last year, I should fill you in that the ever-elusive demo tape DID in fact come to fruition long before 2007 came to a close. So the 2 things that I wanted to accomplish (as written last January) were complete before the year ended. Funny how we measure time and achievements like that huh? Before the next 365 days pass I'm going to do this, this and this. Sounds a little silly. But we all do it in some form or fashion I guess.

Anyhow, the demo has already received some positive feedback. I've just got to get it heard by more people. I'd post it here, but I don't know how to post audio on Blogger, or even if that's possible. At any rate, I'm proud of it. : )


Ted and I are doing well. With the ups and downs that come naturally of course. But "still together" is what matters most at this point I think.


Therapy seems to be my latest theme to follow. He and I are in couples counselling (have been since early November) and I just started seeing a cognitive therapist. So far, so good.


On the doggie front, we got Porthos in the 2008 Basset Rescue calendar. He's one of 3 pooches for December. And looking ever-so-handsome. (This is the winning photo.)

Anyhoo... that's just a little update of what's going on behind the deserted Everything But Poopie fort.

I hope everyone is doing well. I'm sure there'll be plenty o' surprise to see a shiny new entry here. : )

Much love.




"Right Next To The Right One" by Celine Dion

What if we were meant to be together
What if you were meant to be the one
I could hide a million years and try to believe
That any time the girl in mind will come and rescue me

'Cause you're the fire, you're the one
But you'll never see the sun
If you don't know, you're right next to the right one
And I could call it many names
But it's myself I need to blame
If you don't know, you're right next to the right one

In the end you've got a friend for lifetime
Truly there to truly care for you
I know you cry a million tears so I want you to know
That a pretty face can take you places,
you don't wanna go

'Cause you're the fire, you're the one
But you'll never see the sun
If you don't know, you're right next to the right one
And I could call it many names
But it's myself I need to blame
If you don't know, you're right next to the right one

So in the end it all depends on whether you'll find
Warm embraces when I replace the one you had in mind...

'Cause you're the fire, you're the one
But you'll never see the sun
If you don't know, you're right next to the right one
And I could call it many names
But it's myself I need to blame
If you don't know, you're right next to the right one