Jan 4, 2009
Retired for now...
My posts have been somewhat sporadic and non existent and to be honest I really haven't had much to say. I don't feel the urge to write these days so I am going to retire this blog for now. The last year it has been filled with many of my political views and the occasional posts intermingled. I think it's time for a shut down, but who knows I maybe back....
Labels: Blogs
Dec 21, 2008
Only 4 day's till Christmas...
Only 4 day's to Christmas, so get out there fast! My favorite has to be the My Little Pony Glue Factory... ;)
Nov 29, 2008
Coldplay in Phoenix
Wednesday night Kevin and I went to the Coldplay concert here in Phoenix. It was a great show. Originally the show was suppose to be in June but it was postponed to this month for whatever reason. One thing I want to definitely write about is the showmanship this group has. They are so great, and they play with their audience in mind. They not only had a great visual show, but they came out into the audience and had mini stages set up in 2 places in the audience so everyone got a pretty good view at times. It was really a lot of fun and it was a great concert overall. We saw them back about 3 years ago and that concert was pretty good too, but this one I think raised the bar. I hate to say this, but it think this show was honestly better than Madonna's show last month in San Diego. As much as her last show was full of surprises, her last one left me feeling like a lot was missing.
Anyway, here are some photos from our seats. Not close but hell the band always says the best way to view them is from as away as possible :) ha ha
Anyway, here are some photos from our seats. Not close but hell the band always says the best way to view them is from as away as possible :) ha ha
Labels: Concert
Nov 26, 2008
Feet.Ground.Running
Talk about hitting the ground running. Obama has had 3 press conferences in the last 3 days. He is determined to get a handle on this economy. I like that he is keeping the nation informed. This is more than we have heard from our current Regime in the last year. I see great things coming our way. I just hope that people don't get sinical and blame if things don't happen right away. He has a BIG mess to clean up!. That's
my 2 cents.Tonight Kevin and I are going to the ColdPlay concert here in Phoenix. We went 3 years ago on their last tour and it was a great show. They were suppose to be here in June but they delayed it till tonight. Good way to kick off the Thanksgiving weekend. I am really into a couple of their songs and the album "Viva la Vida" is overall a good CD. The title song "Vida La Vida" and "Violet Hill" are my favorite so far. Of course im sure they will play some of their other great hits. I expect this to be a pretty great show.
Hope everyone has a great thanksgiving!
Labels: Concert, Obama, Politics
Nov 17, 2008
National Protest for Propostion H8
Ok so you better believe I took my sorry lazy butt out to the Old City Hall in Phoenix this weekend. The Protest of Proposition 8 was arranged to be a National Protest. It was the first time I've ever participated in such and event but it was long overdue. I think its so important that we all as gay men and woman get involved in this. This is no longer about Gay Marriage, this is about our civil rights and how we are looked upon in the country. We live in a great country that allows us to vote for a president elect who's culture/race has had its own ups and downs. Now we need to fight for our own rights and I think we can do it if we stay on it. It will take all of the gay communities voice not just a few that want to get married. I have to admit that when I was single these rally's and protests didn't mean as much as they do now that I am in a partnership. I feel I wasn't informed enough but now its our turn to education as many people as we can that this is not ok. That we are not to be taken lightly. We are not going to go away and we are not going to let churches interfere with our right to live as any other citizen of the United States of America.
Me and My Partner Kevin
Darin & His Partner Marty
The march to the capital building
The sign i designed
Working it for a cause ;)
Fight the H8 (nice colors)
Marty, Kevin and Darin at the capital
March to the Capital
This makes such a strong statement. He was pretty popular on this rout too :)
At the old City Hall
You got that right!
Darin & Jimmi with our designed signs. Make it work designers!
Labels: Anti Gay, Gay, Hate, Politics
Nov 12, 2008
Simply Human Rights
This is probably one of the best reports I have seen regarding gay marriage. Whether you are for or against gay marriage you should give this a watch and just think. Think about the prejudices that have been going on regarding this issue. This is more than about marriage, this is about human and civil rights.
Here is also a nice little note from Melissa Etheridge:
You Can Forget My Taxes
by Melissa Etheridge
Okay. So Prop 8 passed. Alright, I get it. 51% of you think that I am a second class citizen. Alright then. So my wife, uh I mean, roommate? Girlfriend? Special lady friend? You are gonna have to help me here because I am not sure what to call her now. Anyways, she and I are not allowed the same right under the state constitution as any other citizen. Okay, so I am taking that to mean I do not have to pay my state taxes because I am not a full citizen. I mean that would just be wrong, to make someone pay taxes and not give them the same rights, sounds sort of like that taxation without representation thing from the history books.
Okay, cool I don't mean to get too personal here but there is a lot I can do with the extra half a million dollars that I will be keeping instead of handing it over to the state of California. Oh, and I am sure Ellen will be a little excited to keep her bazillion bucks that she pays in taxes too. Wow, come to think of it, there are quite a few of us fortunate gay folks that will be having some extra cash this year. What recession? We're gay! I am sure there will be a little box on the tax forms now single, married, divorced, gay, check here if you are gay, yeah, that's not so bad. Of course all of the waiters and hairdressers and UPS workers and gym teachers and such, they won't have to pay their taxes either.
Oh and too bad California, I know you were looking forward to the revenue from all of those extra marriages. I guess you will have to find some other way to get out of the budget trouble you are in.
...Really?
When did it become okay to legislate morality? I try to envision someone reading that legislation "eliminates the right" and then clicking yes. What goes through their mind? Was it the frightening commercial where the little girl comes home and says, "Hi mom, we learned about gays in class today" and then the mother gets that awful worried look and the scary music plays? Do they not know anyone who is gay? If they do, can they look them in the face and say "I believe you do not deserve the same rights as me"? Do they think that their children will never encounter a gay person? Do they think they will never have to explain the 20% of us who are gay and living and working side by side with all the citizens of California?
I got news for them, someday your child is going to come home and ask you what a gay person is. Gay people are born everyday. You will never legislate that away.
I know when I grew up gay was a bad word. Homo, lezzie, faggot, dyke. Ignorance and fear ruled the day. There were so many "thems" back then. The blacks, the poor ... you know, "them". Then there was the immigrants. "Them." Now the them is me.
I tell myself to take a breath, okay take another one, one of the *thems* made it to the top. Obama has been elected president. This crazy fearful insanity will end soon. This great state and this great country of ours will finally come to the understanding that there is no "them". We are one. We are united. What you do to someone else you do to yourself. That "judge not, lest ye yourself be judged" are truthful words and not Christian rhetoric.
Today the gay citizenry of this state will pick themselves up and dust themselves off and do what we have been doing for years. We will get back into it. We love this state, we love this country and we are not going to leave it. Even though we could be married in Mass. or Conn, Canada, Holland, Spain and a handful of other countries, this is our home. This is where we work and play and raise our families. We will not rest until we have the full rights of any other citizen. It is that simple, no fearful vote will ever stop us, that is not the American way.
Come to think of it, I should get a federal tax break too...
Labels: Anti Gay, Gay, Gay Marriage, Politics
Nov 7, 2008
Perfect....
Ok I got this from a gal at work... It's nice to know your co-workers support you. And have a good sense of humor. ha ha
LOVE the Rainbow one.
Labels: Anti Gay, Gay, Politics
Nov 1, 2008
The Count Down Is On...
Only 3 days till Madonna... Not what you expected me to say huh? Well Actually we are heading to San Diego, California for the Madonna concert on Election Night, Tuesday November 4th. This election night is SO important this year.If I cannot spend it in my state fighting Prop 102, I am happy that I can spend it with my fellow gay neighbors for their fight against Prop 8. And who better to celebrate the victory of both, but with Madonna!In light of the concert, I have already voted NO on Prop 102!
Labels: Anti Gay, California, Gay, Madonna, Politics, Voting
Oct 29, 2008
Crazy 8
It just seems gay Americans are constantly behind the "8" ball when it comes to equal rights Appropriately enough the Proposition in California to "Eliminate the Right of Same-Sex Couples to Marry" is called "Proposition 8". California like Arizona is having to defend our rights in order for equality.Bottom line... Americans didn't vote for straight people to get married, why do we have to vote in order for gay people who love each other to marry?
I've heard these commercials running that say things like "Commitment" and "Loyalty", "Family", "Preserving Values"... What does that mean? Does it mean because we are gay that we cannot love like you, that we are not loyal like you, trustworthy,as much as you are, or as family-oriented as you are, or have as many moral values? Sorry to say, but there are many straight people that get married that don't hold up to these standards. Should there be a vote on these people being able to marry?
Like it or not, we are in this country and WE WILL be in this country for a long time and WE WILL demand equal rights just as many other minorities did before us.
Thanks to Dan for pointing me in the direction of the "Write To Marry Day". If you are a gay blogger, lets hear what you have to say!
Labels: Anti Gay, Gay, Politics
Oct 25, 2008
The American Dream?
In reading some comments and watching more and more of the news, I was fueled to write again on my previous post about gay marriage.It baffles me that a group of people are able to influence and bring propositions to repeal a ruling (Prop 8 in California) or make us vote again here in Arizona in an election for our rights, are clearly people who HATE gays. This being an organized religious groups that sticks their noses into everything and expect the world to follow their beliefs. This being said, they are no better than the terrorist that we are trying to settle down in the middle east for taking away the rights of their citizens. I really don't understand this blind sided governmental approach to listen to the radicals of people trying to take away peoples rights. Sure we get to vote, but the voters that pay more money, or who are more influential get to win? Why should we have to vote on something like this in the first place? Straight couples didn't' have to vote on their right to marry, why should gays? I thought our country was built on Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Happiness? The Constitution and the Declaration of Independence have been morphed into some "Corporate Mission Statements" twisted for a few peoples misuses and agendas. It may "seem" we are using our civil liberties to make the country a better place but when you look into the eyes of hate and you are on the other side, like I am, its clear. Some people in this country are out to make themselves and THEIR families more wealthy, and THEIR way of life exactly what they want and screw everyone that gets in their way. They want this land to be theirs and no one else. Our country is divided for sure, and it's not that long ago we had regimes in place in foreign lands that took out people they didn't want in line of sight.
I hope any of you that are in Arizona or California think about others and think about what this country needs to become. We are at a turning point, and it can very easily be turned back into the dark ages.
Life, Liberty and the pursuit of happiness shouldn't be limited to a few, it should be for all of us! Just think that this is only one issue, your rights might be on the line next time.
If Marriage is too strong of a word, call it Union, call it Partnership, call it whatever! Just give us our rights!
Side Note: The "YES on Prop 102 - Yes For Marriage Campaign in Arizona is funded by "The Knights of Columbus" a religious group. They are funding this to "Preserve" Marriage. You should hear the commercials its ridiculous!!!
Labels: Anti Gay, Gay, Hate, Politics
Oct 24, 2008
Arizona Vote NO on Prop 102
Prop 102 is a bill that pretty much a church is trying to get past. They are trying to use the government to pass a law because of something they believe is wrong. No matter what other Americans or Arizonians think. Its really so messed up.. We voted on this back in 2006 and now they are back to try again.
To be honest all we want are equal right like married couples get. We don't get the same as our families, friends or co-workers simply because of who we love. Laws should be used to help the Americans, not have one group use it against another because of what they feel is right and wrong. I really don't understand why there is such hate...
To learn more or go to www.votenoprop102.com
Vote NO on Prop 102 on November 4th!
Labels: Anti Gay, Gay, Hate, Politics
Oct 21, 2008
Joe the Plumber
Ok this "Joe the Plumber" crap is getting old. How many times do we need to hear about this guy in one campaign. Sounds like someone put a lot of effort into this one and if you ask me his persona sound like a plant in the campaign. I think the McCain campaign found this guy and is using this to "reach America" and to slander Obama. I mean how much airtime can you get out of one person who just happened to be in the audience of your rival? Then McCain seemed all too prepared when it came time for the debate armed with "Joe the Plumber". He almost seemed anxious to release this prepared slam. If memory serves me, i think I even remember him diverting from the asked question just to get Joe the Plumber into the mix.Then Gov. Palin starts using this in her speaches? Common get some new material. Now this guys name and career are a household name and its all because McCain mentioned him 20+ times in the debates. Sorry I don't buy it.
Labels: McCain, Obama, Politics
Oct 8, 2008
This is Genius!
Tina Faye NAILED this character! This is going to go down in SNL history!
Sep 30, 2008
Freedom Of The Seas Cruise
Our Ship "The Freedom of the Seas"
So Kevin and I went on another cruise. This time Kevin was a little tricky and surprised me with First Class Tickets to Florida. Then another surprise was that he tricked me into thinking we were staying at some random hotel, but actually booked the South Beach Marriott, were we stayed after our first cruise 2 years ago. This was such a treat!
This cruise we tried something different and went on Royal Caribbean. Its a little sportier, younger crowd and has beautiful ships so we thought we would try it out. I am hooked!
We met some great people that we had a blast with. I even tried my hand at "Buggie Boarding" on the Flowrider on the back of the ship.
Our cruise when from Miami, Florida to Labadee, Haiti to Ocho Rios, Jamaica to Grand Cayman, Caymon Islands to Cozumel, Mexico and then back to Miami. The weather was WONDERFUL!
We lounged on the beach in Labadee. We climbed the Duns River Falls in Jamima. We snorkeled with the Stingray in Grand Cayman and we hung out at the beach in Cozumel.
Kevin and I said this was probably all around the best vacation we have taken together.
This cruise we tried something different and went on Royal Caribbean. Its a little sportier, younger crowd and has beautiful ships so we thought we would try it out. I am hooked!
We met some great people that we had a blast with. I even tried my hand at "Buggie Boarding" on the Flowrider on the back of the ship.
Our cruise when from Miami, Florida to Labadee, Haiti to Ocho Rios, Jamaica to Grand Cayman, Caymon Islands to Cozumel, Mexico and then back to Miami. The weather was WONDERFUL!
We lounged on the beach in Labadee. We climbed the Duns River Falls in Jamima. We snorkeled with the Stingray in Grand Cayman and we hung out at the beach in Cozumel.
Kevin and I said this was probably all around the best vacation we have taken together.
Now here are some pictures in no particular order
Kevin with View of Downtown Miami
Jackie & Jimmi Snorkling with the Stingray in Grand Cayman
Starfish that our tour guide got out of the water in Grand Cayman
Jimmi & Kevin in Cozumel, Mexico
Our friends from Seattle Alex & Tara in Cozumel
Tara & Jimmi being silly
Lunch in Cozumel with Alex, Tara, Jimmi & Kevin
Me with the bird in the Solarium (Adults Only Pool)
Kevin and I climbing the Dunns River Falls in Jamaica
On the front of the ship in Miami waiting for the ship to leave
Our friend Jan from Atlanta swimming with the Stingray in Grand Cayman
Kevin & Jimmi at the Meet & Mingle
Tara & Alex at the Meet & Mingle
Sergio & Jan at the Meet & Mingle
Lounging on the Red Sofa. (I bet 20,000 people have this same picture)
Ok make that 20,002 :) ha ha Sergio & Jan
Jackie trying out their new Under Water Camera
Kevin & I underwater
This was a fun night. I think its the night we first all met.
Also discovered the "Strong Island Ice Tea"
Well actually I think this was the "Strong Island Ice Tea" day
Kevin & Jimmi in Labadee, Haiti
Snorkeling with the Stingray in Grand Cayman
A shot of South Beach from Our hotel Balcony
The Pool at our Hotel
Building on Ocean Drive in South Beach
Ocean Drive in South Beach
The Royal Promenade Deck on our Ship
Kevin on deck
I love this picture of us!
Having dinner with some GREAT people
Loly, Kevin, Jimmi, Jackie, Jan & Sergio
Ok here I go. Buggie Boarding on the Flowrider.
THIS WAS SO MUCH FUN!!!!
Kevin on the Flowrider
Look who sneaks in on me. This was SO hilarious!!!
Jacky on the Flowrider.
She didn't want to do it but she ended up having SO MUCH FUN!!!
Royal Promenade decorated for that night's event "The Circus Parade"
And the End... :(
Thanks to Sergio, Jan, Loly, Jackie, Tara & Alex (aka Adam) for making this trip so awesome!
Labels: Cruise, Photography, Vacation
The Great Schlep
This is worth posting about...
Thanks to Joeseph at Memoirs of a Gay Chia for passing this Jem on.
Remember to vote November 4th!
Thanks to Joeseph at Memoirs of a Gay Chia for passing this Jem on.
Remember to vote November 4th!
Labels: Elections, Funny, Obama
Sep 4, 2008
Isn't She Sweet as Candy? Hardly!
So I am taking a quote from Sarah Palin's speech last night. Amidst all the Obama/Biden Bashing She said "I'm going to Washington to serve the people of this great country".Sarah Palin's Positions
For someone that is going to Washington to "Serve the People" it makes me wonder which people she is referring to... It certainly isn't the Gays. It certainly isn't the woman who have the right to do what they want with their own bodies. No she is talking about the Americans that tote guns and beat the bible each week and HATE other people for not believing in what they believe in.
We don't need more politicians trying to overturn the constitution in favor of "Hate" for another American!
Aug 30, 2008
Aftermath
Here are some pictures I took yesterday of the aftermath of the storm on Thursday night. This is considerably cleaned up from earlier in the day. Still getting used to my new camera so hope these turned out somewhat ok.
Aug 29, 2008
There's a Hurricane-A-Commin'...
Last night I witnessed the worst storm I have ever seen in Phoenix.
There were reports of 100 mph winds and just devastating things going on. We were at a friends in the suburbs and watched the sky as the clouds were constantly lighting up non stop with lighting. We though, this is great. Well that was till we got home and found that we had no power, our living room was flooded and that the area around us was just a complete mess. Then came the next part of the storm that lasted about 20 min and poured rain and winds so strong it ripped a roof off the high rise across the street from our condo and it landed on the light rail station. We then went out and found that one of the buildings in our condos had several windows broken. The FOX 10 news van was out filming it when i was leaving for work today. (See News Clip Here)
As of 11am today we still had no power and they say that about 80,000 people last night were without power, and about 50,000 this morning. Unbelievable! Our condos are pretty new and this has just tested it for sure.
I will put some pictures I took this morning on here later.
There were reports of 100 mph winds and just devastating things going on. We were at a friends in the suburbs and watched the sky as the clouds were constantly lighting up non stop with lighting. We though, this is great. Well that was till we got home and found that we had no power, our living room was flooded and that the area around us was just a complete mess. Then came the next part of the storm that lasted about 20 min and poured rain and winds so strong it ripped a roof off the high rise across the street from our condo and it landed on the light rail station. We then went out and found that one of the buildings in our condos had several windows broken. The FOX 10 news van was out filming it when i was leaving for work today. (See News Clip Here)
This is the Regency House Condos that the roof blew off.
This is part of the roof on the Light Rail in front of our condos. This looked a lot worse last night but they seemed to have taken away most of it by the time this picture was taken. There was actually a lot more, and it was hanging off the light rail lines, etc...
This is part of the roof on the Light Rail in front of our condos. This looked a lot worse last night but they seemed to have taken away most of it by the time this picture was taken. There was actually a lot more, and it was hanging off the light rail lines, etc...
As of 11am today we still had no power and they say that about 80,000 people last night were without power, and about 50,000 this morning. Unbelievable! Our condos are pretty new and this has just tested it for sure.
Jul 22, 2008
Shady Pines MA!!!!
Today is a sad day! Estelle Getty, Sofia from Golden Girls, died at age 84.I grew up watching the Golden Girls. Back when it was first on, my grandmother and I used to watch it every week. It was kind of our thing. Now as an adult I guess its no surprise why I liked it so much besides the fact I am a gay man.
One of my favorite lines:
Blanche: I have writer's block. It's the worst feeling in the world.
Sophia: Try ten days without a bowel movement sometime.
Estelle you will be missed! Here's to you....
Jul 19, 2008
Thank You For The Music...
Today Kevin and I went to see "Mamma Mia! The Movie." We were pleasantly surprised as to how well they did taking it from stage to screen. I was worried it was going to be a lame attempt with an"all star cast" ect.. but they really pulled it off well. Meryl Streep looked like she was having so much fun in the roll, and the other actors were just a lot of fun. Meryl is such an impressive actress with her versatility in the rolls she has chosen. I kept wondering if she saw the musical and said to herself "If this is ever a movie, I am in it!!!" LOLI wasn't as impressed with Peirce Brosnan's singing but what are you going to do? He did alright in the roll but the singing was a little "Karaoke" as Simon Cowell would say.
Regardless, there are some hot guys in it. This one in particular played a very small part as a gay guy. The music is great, and you will most likely find yourself singing along at some point. Now if you haven't seen the Musical, no worries, but I you might want to catch it in Vegas or NYC if you get a chance.
You really should plans to see this. It's very light hearted and makes you laugh a lot so its a good pick me up if you need it.
I of course was exceited to see if they did the end like they did in the musical and they didn't let me down.
Very cute!
Labels: Movies
Jul 7, 2008
San Francisco Pride 2008
Ok so it took long enough for me to post this, but I have just been NON STOP since I got back from San Francisco. As usual I had a great time and was hosted by my buddy Dan (Mary). The great news is that this was Dan's first free weekend away from work that he could spend just to have fun.
Dan at Pride
I got to San Francisco on Friday morning and spend the day wondering around town and checking things out on my own. I did a ton of walking but I loved it.
Castro Theater
I just liked this building.
Pride Flag at Castro and Golden Gate Street
I met up with Brad in the afternoon and got to see Adam and Brads new apartment in the Castro. It's really a cute place and they have done a nice job getting themselves comfortable and decorated.
Brat with a view of Castro and Pink Saturday Party
Later Friday night, Dan, Donnan & I went to dinner at a great french restaurant around the corner from there house in SOMA. YUMMO! Then Dan and I met up with Adam, Brad, and cameo appearance of Chad Fox at "The Cinch Bar". It's off the beaten track away from Castro and it has some interesting "Drag Performance Art" Very different, that's all I will say about that...
Adam and Dan acting the fool at The Cinch Bar
Adam: Cluch the Pearls!!! Dan: WERK IT!!!
Brad & Adam at The Cinch Bar
Chad and some kid, Not sure who he is.
Saturday was low key for Dan and I while we cured our hangovers from the night before. Then it was off to a couple of parties. One of Dan's friends we stopped by and I got to see Nick quickly. I am so pissed I didn't have my camera out then. What was I thinking?
Then we went on to Adam and Brad's party. Cozy with a few people, most of whom I knew. We were joined by Kalvin and Joseph, Moby, and a few of their friends. With Adam and Brad living so close to Castro we had the best view of the "Pink Saturday" in Castro. It was fun yelling out the window as some of the people passing buy, and even found some CUTE straight Irish boys that were visiting for the summer. They were so cool, and friendly and had a great time. Thank you Adam and Brad for a great party!
Adam teaching Dan Wii
View from Adam & Brad's of the Pink Saturday Party
Moby, Frank from Phoenix, and Brad
Adam, Dan & Jimmi
I think they are looking at pictures or something...
Cute Irish Boy! HOT!
A couple of the cute Irish boys.
Kalvin being pink
Sunday was Pride day and we made our way over to the festival in the Civic Center. Unfortunately we missed the parade again this year, but no big deal. We still had fun!
Adam at Pride
Joseph at Pride
Dan & Jimmi at Pride
Not sure, but they were colorful!
Kalvin is Pretty!
Can't keep me out of the streets!
Sisters of Perpetual Something...
Joseph the GayChia
Don't I look lovely?? LOL
Not sure what is going on here...
Monday was a day of rest and as Dan and Donnan took me to the airport, I snapped this shot for the smoke haze in the distance. It is from the fires in Northern California. It's amazing because it looks like mountains but its actually smoke.
Smoke Haze from Northern California Fires
I want to send a special thanks out to Dan and Donnan for putting me up again this year for Pride.
Louie!
Labels: Gay, Pride, San Francisco
Jun 13, 2008
Lauren didn't you listen to Whitney? Crack is WACK!!...
Ok so what was going on with Lauren Hutton on Bravo's A-List Awards tonight? Below is the unedited version but they actually cut out a few of her lines. Why if she was up for 48 hours (which I don't believe) would she then go on TV? THIS is a Kathy Griffin dream joke! Common!!!!
Enjoy
Labels: Reality TV, TV
Jun 12, 2008
Pride-a-monium
Kelly's Pride challenge is back again in full swing and this year he want us to add a little pride story of our own. I don't know if I really have a good pride story but In two weeks I will be in San Francisco for pride and I can't wait. I have made some really great friends there and even a couple that have moved there since. We had such a blast last year I know we will again this year! Unfortunately, there will not be a "Gay Blogger Summit" this year. As well as last year went, I think it's time to let Dan rest.
Jun 8, 2008
The Senator Sings...
Well the time has come that Hillary is not able to be our Democratic nominee. This makes me sad but at the same time her speech today conceding to Barack Obama was wonderful. She is a truly strong woman and her inspired speech makes me feel confidant in our Democratic Party. Her tireless efforts she has put on her campaign is a true testament to the kind of person she is and the kind of leader she would have been. With her in your corner you can't loose now! She's a classy lady!I will keep my eyes on Barack for awhile and see how I feel about his campaign and his promise to America. It's hard for me to just switch gears and be supportive of him since I had such strong feelings for Hillary. I truly believed she would make a wonderful president if he can "walk his talk". The issues he will be hit face on with in the first few months will be: Iraq, our poor economy, gas, global warming, and health care. Some issues I would like to see him tackle are gays in the military, gay marriage (unions) and human rights issues. It's time to get certain peoples religions out of our government and stop the hate!
I will say this, listening to his speech the other night it made me think he was really a true gentleman and good sport about the race. His comments for Hillary were very kind. Who knows he might be a breath of fresh air for our country. We honestly need something new, this Bush administration is for the birds! 2 terms was 2 to many!
So with Hillary graciously conceding and her hopes to have our party unite makes me really take heart in what she says and as long as nothing too crazy comes up between now and November, I think I will feel comfortable voting for Barack Obama.
My thoughts on Hillary as a V.P.? Well I think a reporter on CNN said it best. Barack as to find the right person for him. They have to be a good fit. I just hope he picks someone that everyone can get behind. Who knows Hillary certainly would be a good choice. She is strong with foreign affairs (we all know Bush has the whole world hating America right now), Health Care, and economics. She also has quite a few supporters in many states, some that Barack did not.
Labels: Hillary, Obama, Politics
Jun 4, 2008
It's Official and Yet Bitter Sweet...
On my way to work today I glanced over at a local gas station and it said $3.99 a gallon for Regular Unleaded. On my way home for lunch I see the price jumped to $4.09 a gallon at the same station. A 10 cent jump? What the hell is going on around here? These oil companies are making money hand over fist and our gas prices are ever increasing. This just means that everything else we purchase will increase in price because stores are trying to offset their costs. This is the 70's all over again.The only good thing to come out of this is that you will see less and less of Hummers and other over the top large vehicles (which I think is part to blame for the supply and demand price increase, along with the greedy oil companies) Now all these SUV drivers are crying because they are stuck with a monster vehicle that are now polluting their checking account.
Hmmm this is bitter sweet isn't it?
Labels: Gas, Global Warming
That Which Does Not Kill Us, Only Makes Us Stronger...
Well in all fairness, Obama received all the delegates he needed to secure the nomination. As much as I am disappointed in Hillary not be able to secure the nomination, I have to reflect and say I am still very happy I chose to support such a wonderful woman. For the tenacity and strength she endured and her tireless efforts throughout this campaign she has shown she is passionate to do the job and do it well.Obama showed some major class last night in his speech after he secured the delegates. His speech congratulating Hillary on her win in South Dakota and went on to say “Our party and our country are better off because of her, and I am a better candidate for having had the honor to compete with Hillary Rodham Clinton.”
What's next? Well I don't know how the Obama Campaign feels but I think if he wants to really win this, he needs to have her in his corner as V.P. Some might say, "Oh she will try to get Bill Clinton in there or she will try to take over", but I disagree. I think she knows her place and will work hard in a V.P. roll to tackle the Health care and economic issues that face the road ahead. They have both said they have a very similar platform and agree on most of the same issues. I also think she can do a great deal of good when it comes to how the U.S. is viewed overseas. The Bush administration has brought the countries approval rating down right along with his own sad number [28% approval as of last week's Gallup Poll] and it needs to be built back up.
If Hillary is the Democratic running mate, I can see myself voting for Obama. That will make some serious history!
Labels: Hillary, Obama, Politics
Jun 3, 2008
That's The Point
As I mentioned last week I have been going to Weight Watchers. I started at 196.2 lbs five weeks ago, and after tonights weigh-in I am at 187.2 lbs. I have lost 9 lbs and I am SO thrilled!! This has been so much easier that I thought it would be and I am totally feeling the difference! The thing is, it's SO easy to do too. I have struggled with loosing weight since I quit smoking almost 3 years ago. I am glad to see that my weight is now going in the other direction.I'm not trying to sound like Kirstie Ally or some spokesman for a diet company. I know she did well on "J.C." and I Don't discount that... But I just want to give a real perspective. I think when you have to buy a companies food or survive on shakes and chicken breast just to loose the weight it doesn't seem realistic for the long term. Who isn't going to go back to Cake, Pizza, and Chocolate when they are off a diet? It seems like a short term solution to me and you will end up right back where you left off.
I am not innocent by any means when it comes to eating. I have done my fair share of eating crap. I just keep thinking back at some of the things I used to eat when I got hooked on them, like McFlurries, or Sonic Blasts. Here is an example:
On the Flex Plan you get Points. I get 30 points per day to use how I see fit. And just so you know, I don't go hungry...
I found the point value for some of the things I used to eat and it kind of shocks me to think about how badly I was eating. It's not that I will say I won't ever eat these things again, but I think I made bad choices when it came to eating.
SONIC
Oreo Sonic Blast - Regular (14 oz) Points: 15.5
(One of these and that's half my points for the day. I can see why I was gaining weight. There was a time Kevin and I were hooked on these and maybe had 2 or 3 a week. The good news we got tired of them quick)
BURGER KING
Whopper Sandwich Points: 16.5
Small Fries Points: 5.5
(One meal at BK and I am at 22points)
SUBWAY
6" Italian BMT at Subway Points: 10
(I used to get the 12" so make that 20 points for me)
On the Bright Side: The "6 Turkey Breast Sub is only 5 points
PAPA JOHN's Pizza
1 slice: 14" Large Cheese Origional Crust Points: 7
Who doesn't eat at least 2 or 3 of these? Just think about adding on the meat!!!
I am not innocent by any means when it comes to eating. I have done my fair share of eating crap. I just keep thinking back at some of the things I used to eat when I got hooked on them, like McFlurries, or Sonic Blasts. Here is an example:
On the Flex Plan you get Points. I get 30 points per day to use how I see fit. And just so you know, I don't go hungry...
I found the point value for some of the things I used to eat and it kind of shocks me to think about how badly I was eating. It's not that I will say I won't ever eat these things again, but I think I made bad choices when it came to eating.
SONIC
Oreo Sonic Blast - Regular (14 oz) Points: 15.5
(One of these and that's half my points for the day. I can see why I was gaining weight. There was a time Kevin and I were hooked on these and maybe had 2 or 3 a week. The good news we got tired of them quick)
BURGER KING
Whopper Sandwich Points: 16.5
Small Fries Points: 5.5
(One meal at BK and I am at 22points)
SUBWAY
6" Italian BMT at Subway Points: 10
(I used to get the 12" so make that 20 points for me)
On the Bright Side: The "6 Turkey Breast Sub is only 5 points
PAPA JOHN's Pizza
1 slice: 14" Large Cheese Origional Crust Points: 7
Who doesn't eat at least 2 or 3 of these? Just think about adding on the meat!!!
Labels: Weight Loss
May 29, 2008
Give it 2 Me Madonna!
Well we got our tickets to the Madonna Tour "Sticky & Sweet" this morning. We got advanced purchase on the tickets using a Citi® Credit Card. Otherwise we would have to wait till Saturday. The way Vegas sold out, we had to get tickets for San Diego quickly or risk not seeing her this year. Last time we went in 2006 and had a blast. We liked the show so much, we ended up getting more tickets for another show that she added.At first when I got the album I wasn't sure I liked it, but the more and more I listen I am really starting to LOVE it! My favorite song so far is Give it 2 Me.
So the show in San Diego is at Petco Stadium which is an outdoor ball park. That should be interesting... Well at least she won't be having the AC turned off!!! That was our only grievance last time.
Now to wait till November.... Sigh
Labels: Concert, Madonna, Music
May 27, 2008
Put DOWN the Donut!!!
I know it's been awhile since I have posted. I have been just so busy. So what is new?Well a few weeks ago, Kevin and I started Weight Watchers. I wasn't sure about the program at first. I had tried other ways of loosing weight with little success. The South Beach Diet, Exercise, and Kevin and I even got into a little friendly competition with our friend Chuck to do a "Biggest Looser" Challenge. None of these seemed to have worked to where i was seeing any weight loss. Then we were at the Grand Canyon a few weeks ago and after seeing some of the pictures, I was mortified to see what I looked like. I think the shirt I had on that day didn't help it was a bit "Blousy" but still I felt I needed a serious change. I made the comment to Kevin and said, something needs to change QUICK! I need to join Weight Watchers or something and he quickly replied, "We should". Hmmm I thought, maybe we really should? Then it was set in our minds and we would then join on Tuesday. My first weigh in was 196.2 lbs. This has been the most I have weight in my entire life. What had I been doing to myself? I am only 5'9" and I should be somewhere around 162 - 170 lbs for my age. The sad thing is, I never thought I was eating that badly. I always thought the occasional splurge was ok, but apparently I wasn't doing anything good to myself. We eat out WAY too much and when you see how much you are allowed (point value) each day, one meal at a restaurant can almost be 2 days worth of points. It's shocking!! My personal goal is to loose 26lbs, and anything more than that, will be great.
After being on this program for 5 weeks and I can really seem some results. I haven’t weighed in this week because of the holiday yesterday so we are going to go next Monday. We could go another night but we really like the group we go with and because of the holiday we won’t be penalized (have to pay) for missing the meeting.
Now most of you might be wondering what this is all about. On this program you can eat normal foods. You don't have to eat a frozen dinner, or buy the food they sell. What we do is go to a meeting once a week. We first weigh in, at the beginning, and then sit though a short meeting of about 30 minutes. For the most part, the meetings are there to give you tips, help people along that might need the extra boost of confidence, and to just give you encouragement. They also hand out milestone awards to people that have lost large amounts of weight. It does make you feel good to see others succeed. It’s very little time to give up for what I am now seeing as a successful weight loss. I am eating better. I rarely eat out anymore, and when I do, I make healthier choices. I have learned a very important thing in portion control. I used to eat WAY to much in one sitting. I always felt like I was about to explode after eating a meal somewhere and that is because I was overeating. Finishing what I was given at a restaurant.
I never felt like I was obese but I surely had some weight gain. This started when I quite smoking almost 3 years ago, and then kept slowly going up.
So next week, after my weigh in on Monday, I will give you the details of my weight loss, to date. Just feeling better in my clothes is a relief, but I want to be back down to what I was 3 years ago at least.
Labels: Weight Loss
May 15, 2008
Someone Waited till the last Minute...
