Coffee Is Good Again

If you were horses I'd have no other breed because you'd jump anything.
But as women you are insanely difficult to live with.
-Philippa Gregory
"The Other Boleyn Girl"

Drink more coffee! Coffee often gets a bad wrap; however, a steaming cup that wakes you up can also keep you healthy. Research shows that coffee protects against a variety of ailments—from cavities to colon cancer.

There was an online article at the AARP (American Association of Retired People) website recently that was going on and on about the benefits of coffee. Some studies suggest that the more you drink, the better. The beverage lowers your risk of type 2 diabetes and can protect your liver from damage, too.
Caffeine actually gets the credit for some of coffee’s magic powers, including protection against Parkinson’s disease and gallstones. The 'MAIN' benefit comes from its wealth of antioxidants. In fact, the coffee bean, which is technically a berry, has one of the highest antioxidant contents of all berries, says Tomas de Paulis, Ph.D., formerly of the Vanderbilt University Institute for Coffee Studies.

That’s why, drop for drop, coffee has more of these nutrients than even red wine. And so, if there are any vintner folks or wine drinkers out there, "Keep sipping the espresso!"

If you have osteoporosis, be sure to follow your doctor’s advice for calcium supplementation, because in some studies, coffee drinking has raised the risk of bone fractures.


Twenty-five years ago today:

July 31, 1984
Tuesday

My training class is now getting a bit more intricately detailed about the SDC (Sales Development Center). The SDC is where I will be working most in the handling of business clientele account orders. I am excited. I just hope there will be more career doorway openings for me…eventually.

I ate lunch with Barbara Reynolds at the In-Joy Ice Cream Shop (they do serve food there as well). An elderly lady was there who happened to be visiting from Argentina. She actually joined us at our table as we tried to enjoy our salty minestrone soup.

Barbara shared a letter she received from Brent. He works for the United Nations and is currently working in the payroll department in Rome, Italy.

Tomorrow we are going to the Business Office again to observer Account Service Representatives ‘on the job’. It’s a touchy situation with regard to Karyn Kossoff. I have not spoken to her since last Friday’s ‘hot tub’ episode.

I received a lengthy letter from Bill Helbush’s Training Stable. He wrote details about certain people he knows. I found it rather interesting for him to reach out to me again. I plan on writing back to him with detailed updates about the recent happenings with me over the last six months. I will repeat my guarded feelings where he is concerned. I interpret his letter as a way to impress me. The letter has hidden passages that seem to urge me to contact him AEAP (As Early As Possible). I would like him to teach me to ride horses though. I had no idea he was so knowledgeable about horses and stables.

I went cycling to collect my thoughts. I figured the fresh air would help me to formulate the things I want to say when I write to Bill. As I was riding I saw Michael Miller, so I stopped to talk with him for a while. Suzy Miller came out of nowhere. She had just driven Bill, the dude with the moustache, to Grand Auto Parts & Service Co.

Michael Miller joined me for the bicycle ride. We stumbled upon Birda on her bike, too (she was speeding our way in the opposite direction). Here's a brief excerpt of some of our chatter:
“I dropped by last Thursday,” Birda said gasping for air as she had abruptly stopped her bike to chat with me and meet Michael Miller.
“I still want to race with you,” I said.
“Me too,” Birda said with her magical smile.

After the chance meeting with Birda I continued to ride with Michael Miller and we ended up at Suzy’s apartment. We watched her clean her pad.
“I have to clean up because my Dad is arriving from Arkansas this Friday for Renee’s wedding on Saturday,” Suzy remarked (as if we needed to hear her excuse for cleaning).
“It should be fun to have your Dad visit,” I said.

Michael continued to ride with me to Park Street and we took our own respective paths home. When I arrived home I received a surprise phone call from Suzy Miller. We talked a good while and she mentioned dinner. We made plans for a dinner outing next week (when all of the hectic activity of the wedding is over).

PHOTO: Mary G Lucero (my grandmother)
with my niece, Ashley M Armijo, Oakland, CA

I ate BBQ chicken and macaroni salad at Mom’s as I watched the USA get their butts beaten by CHINA in the Gymnastics Event at the 1984 Summer Olympics.

I am now at home and ready to begin the six-month synopsis letter to Bill Helbush.

I asked mom to switch the load of clothes from the washer to the dryer while I was out bicycle riding. She did exactly that along with making my bed. I love her.

Oh yeah, I saw Ashley yesterday because Sherri got a package from her Grandma in Iowa. Ashley is getting big now and she’s only three months old. Wow!

Read More

Blue Monday

Like any man who succeeded by his wits,
he had his own sources of information.
-Bette Bao Lord
"Spring Moon"

A dear friend, Susan Hartley, mentioned the remarkable performances of actress Irene Dunne recently. I was slightly embarrassed because I had ‘no clue’ about this movie star legend. I asked Susan to recommend a few of her favorite films and she suggested:

1. My Favorite Wife
2. Showboat
3. I Remember Mama

I watched this film clip with Irene opposite Cary Grant in ‘My Favorite Wife’ and it looks like it is worth a peek. I have added it to my Netflix list.

'My Favorite Wife' tells the story of a woman returning home to her husband and children after being shipwrecked on a tropical island for seven years. I love the ending from this 2-minute clip:
http://www.bing.com/videos/search?q=irene+dunne&qs=AS&first=21&docid=1131659395750&mid=5C1E7BC39DF60E1827505C1E7BC39DF60E182750&FORM=VIVR36#
Irene Dunne (December 20, 1898 – September 4, 1990) was an American (Louisville, Kentucky) film actress and singer of the 1930s and 1940s. She was nominated five times for the Academy Award for Best Actress, for her performances in Cimarron-1931, Theodora Goes Wild-1936, The Awful Truth-1937, Love Affair-1939, and I Remember Mama-1948. Dunne has been described as the best actress to NEVER win an Academy Award. With this reputation it is time I brought her into my living room...maybe next Monday. By any chance, did YOU know about her?

Twenty-five years ago today:

July 30, 1984
Monday
It was a very “blah-zay” day with my having to wake up at 6:30AM again. I did it though. I kept up with my new routine of driving to the Fruitvale BART station and then BARTing it into The City.

I enjoyed lunch with Barbara Reynolds at the Café Express, a place that I recalled eating with Suzy Miller one day in the past.

After work I rode my bike and returned home for a quick shower. I went to bed early: 8:30AM! I was just ‘beat tired’.

No one called me on this very 'Blue Monday'.
"Oh yeah, Blue Monday. It's one of my all-time favorite tunes by New Order."
http://www.bing.com/videos/search?q=blue+monday%2C+new+order&qs=n&docid=1018340114533&mid=F468B571F4F493409685F468B571F4F493409685&FORM=VIVR24#

Besides the call from Bruce on Sunday I had just remembered that Helen Wong telephoned, too. I think she wanted to get together or something but I told her I was too involved with watching the Summer Olympics. I love watching the cycling events but I feel guilty sitting on a couch when I should be "riding".

Read More

The Colonoscopy

Michael drifted about, carrying a drink someone had shoved into his hand and marvelling how all these people were able to discard so quickly the inhibitions which must govern their conduct during the day.
-Nial Kent
"The Divided Path"

It was my turn. It is no surprise that the “colonoscopy procedure” brings forth feelings of dread. I was dreading it but also wanted to ‘get it over with’. I was too busy having fun on my 50th birthday, so it only took me about two months later to schedule my screening procedure (on July 20, 2009).

“I’m going to give you a twilight drug to help you relax,” said my UCLA Healthcare Dr. Mark Ovsiowitz (also known as Dr. “O”).
“Okay,” I said. And then I realized a few hours later that I have no recollection of what had happened (other than the fact that one of the nurses asked me to lay on my left side).

The primary purpose of the colonoscopy is to be screened for ‘colorectal cancer’. I read a recent article that it is the 2nd leading cause of deaths due to cancer (with lung cancer being the most common). The colorectal/colon cancer often starts in small masses of cells called polyps on the walls of the colon.

One small polyp was found during my screening and it was identified, located and instantly removed during the screening process. I received a letter a few days later from my doctor informing me of the biopsy results of my hyperplastic polyp. It was non-cancerous and non-pre cancerous. I was advised to return for a screening in TEN years. Hurrah!

Although the idea of a colonoscopy seems quite uncomfortable, it is an important test that you should have on a regular basis. This is especially true if you are at a greater risk of colon cancer. The essence of avoiding colon cancer is to catch it early. Getting a colonoscopy regularly could mean the difference between life and death. Ironically, just two days after my colonoscopy, my first cousin, Lori Lucero-Plimmer, informed me that her father (my moms’ brother, my uncle) was diagnosed with colon cancer at the age of 47. He had chemotherapy and never had another recurrence of the cancer. I had not been aware of any colon cancer in my family.

I must agree with what everyone told me. It is the preparation for the colonoscopy that is the most difficult. Your intestines have to be completely emptied. Your doctor will prescribe some kind of liquid diet along with a laxative prescription. There are other colon cleansing or colonic procedures that are available.

My acupuncturist, Dr. Lauren M. Freiman, gave me a business card that reads
‘…letting go is the clear way to health within’ with the name of Talya Meldy, a Colon Hydro therapist (I-ACT Certified Instructor) inscribed on the card. She practices at 12927 Venice Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA, 90066. I ought to make an appointment with her every five years (just to be proactive). Take a look at their website and ask for a referral to a Colon Hydro therapist in your area:
http://www.clearwayhealth.com/

To prepare for your colonoscopy, your intestines ought to be completely emptied. Your doctor may prescribe some kind of liquid diet, or laxatives, or enemas. But these methods are harsh and uncomfortable, when accomplishing complete colon cleansing could be much easier. You should ask your doctor if you may use a natural colon cleanse or a colonic. Even if you must continue with the prescribed medications, getting a regular colon cleanse in the weeks and months before your colonoscopy ought to make your preparation that much easier.

In conclusion, do NOT be foolish. When you turn fifty (or are over fifty and have NOT done so) take this minor screening test for your continued good health.

Twenty-five years ago today:

July 29, 1984
Sunday
The athletes (from Colorado) won the GOLD medal in the road cycling competition for the Olympics. Hurrah! I chose to lounge on this lazy Sunday. I did manage a bit of bicycling myself. I went to moms to raid her refrigerator and napped there, too.

Michael Miller telephoned with the idea of going to the movies. I did not feel like going. He said his friend, Chris, would be going with us. I would much rather just go with Michael.

Bruce telephoned and wanted to go hiking. He is being quite persistent.
“Why don’t we maybe do the hike next Saturday,” I suggested.

Chris Cordellos has not called in some time. I keep wondering and thinking about him. What is he up to? Is he angry at me for some reason? He did say he would call me later. When exactly is later? It seems that later has come and gone. Shall I start considering it ‘his’ loss now? He must learn to communicate with me on a much better level. I don’t know why he can’t even write me a letter. Is he illiterate, or what?

Read More

A Dog Named Atticus

"And you'll always be my friend, won't you?"
The big eyes were so earnest and entreating.
"How could I ever be anything else?"
"Thank you...I knew you would. Well, I must go now. See you."
And he was gone, leaving silence and great emptiness behind him.
Michael knew only one thing--that he must get out of the house with all possible speed. He felt a movie, any movie, was what he wanted right now.
Something to occupy his mind for a while.
-Nial Kent
"The Divided Path"

There’s a new Café in the neighborhood and Alan and I wanted to try it. We were in line to order our hopeful rendition of the perfect cappuccino on a bright, sunny Saturday morning. I noticed a beautiful German shepherd dog seated in a comfortable position near me. A German shepherd is my ‘dream dog’ to have one of these days. I don’t want one until I can give it the wonderful life it deserves.

I looked at the docile eyes in this dog and ‘fell for him’ instantly. I got the dogs’ attention and he leaped up a bit to come near me.
The owner said, “Atticus!”
It was his way of having the shepherd obey and ‘stay put’. I still managed to pet him a little.

I whispered to Alan, “How cool. He named it Atticus. I bet he named it after the Gregory Peck character in ‘To Kill A Mockingbird’, one of my favorite movies.”

It was our turn to order our coffee when I looked to the side and recognized the dog owner. He was with a tall, chubby blond guy but the owner had a white ski cap and sunglasses. It was obvious to me that he was slightly disguised but he was none other than actor Jake Gyllenhaal.

Once again I whispered the news to Alan. Jake had been in line in front of us and I was too busy paying attention to his friendly dog, Atticus. I didn't even realize it was Jake until he was a further distance away.
I have a new found admiration for Jake now. It seems he takes his dog out a lot. I found photos online and I became more aware that he just wants to be a ‘regular guy’ with a ‘regular life’. I get the impression that he does not really want the extra attention. He has to be wary about who he can trust. He’s a successful actor but something tells me he just wants to feel non-celebrity at times. I especially like that he has the kind of dog I would own.
And so I say now, “Go Jake, take care of Atticus. I hope I run into you again sometime."
I ended up seated next to him as I enjoyed my cappuccino on this Saturday morning on July 18, 2009. He was speaking softly to his friend. I kind of wish I owned my very own German shepherd now. I might have to neglect my blog to take the dog out for walks though. Time will tell.

Twenty-five years ago today:

July 28, 1984
Saturday

Despite the grand awakening from my rooftop this morning I energized myself and took a drive to mom and dad’s to enjoy a good breakfast at 9:30AM.

I was watching the televised 1984 Summer Olympics from Los Angeles. The Women’s Road Cycling event was exciting to see. A Colorado ‘chick’ named Connie Carpenter won the Gold medal. This inspired me to go on my own bicycle ride.

When I arrived back at my pad I received a call from Bruce. He wanted to see about our going on that hike he had suggested to me last Thursday night. I shunned him off using the excuse of exhaustion.

I decided to pay Suzy and Michael Miller a visit on my bike but they weren’t at home.

I returned to mom and dad’s and took a nap.

When I woke up I watched “The Island of Dr. Moreau”. It was just what I needed (an escape to an island). Of course, this island was not the ideal choice (if you're familiar with the H.G. Wells' story).

I was at my pad by 11PM and went straight to bed, hoping I would not dream of sci-fi
DNA experimentation of turning animals into humans.

The telephone rang and it was a ‘hanger upper’. I had a feeling it was Nici Maurino.

Read More

Until the End

It was merely that he needed someone to think about
__someone sympathetic and understanding-
and she had filled the bill for want of something better.
-Nial Kent
"The Divided Path"
It’s time to honor a musical artist named ‘Matthew Duffy’. I heard some of his music on the cable series known as ‘Dante’s Cove’. I finally bought his HERE I COME, 2004 CD that includes this classic song (Until the End). What a great voice. I wonder why he is not more well-known. I guess there is so much competition in the music industry. It is all a matter of the 'right timing' I suppose.
http://www.cdconnection.com/details/Matthew_Duffy__Here_I_Come/392289?s=mamf5SgxsJta&source=googind
I found this video of Sam & Dean (not sure who they are—or from what show) with the soundtrack of the ‘Until The End’ tune if you care to take a listen.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TUa63sgZtgc

Twenty-five years ago today:

July 27, 1984
Friday

I woke up a half hour earlier than usual and drove to Karyn’s pad on College Avenue (near the Rockridge BART station). It’s a nice apartment. It has a cozy, homestyle atmosphere. I saw Dale Orlando and Tim. They are the ones who picked us up as the four of us car pooled together.

I had a cinnamon roll and milk with them in the cafeteria once we arrived at 633 Folsom. They’re all a truly nice folks.

I ate lunch with Barbara Reynolds and Bobbie Renbarger. I ended up eating at Wendy’s once again. Ha… Bobbie’s a neat, interesting lady. She was even sweet enough to drive me to the front of 633 Folsom because we got out of our training today at 4:55PM. She was heading out to Walnut Creek to babysit her nieces.

PHOTO: First Olympic Torch relay, 1936

I saw a lot of Pac Bell people storm out of the building at 5PM. I recognized many with smiling faces because it was ‘Friday’. David Vigil came out and he made a point of mentioning The Olympics.
“Watch for me at about four o’clock on the Olympics’ Ceremonial Opening. I’ll be carrying the torch!” David said excitedly in his usual effeminate manner.

Karyn Kossoff finally came down and appeared in front of the Folsom Building. We departed together along with Laura and Tim. Oh yea, Ryan Hargrave bid his ‘how ya doin’ remark when he left the building. I like him. He’s a nice guy, too. It’s nice to be acknowledged when you’re the new kid on the block.

The group party in San Bruno was fun. I was able to get to know a lot of the people from the office better. As the evening progressed I entered the ‘hot tub’ with Karyn (once the tub was emptied of all of the rowdy, radical types).

Karyn and I kissed in the 'hot tub'. I think she said I was number “73” or ‘up there’. I do not want to get too involved. I am glad she is going to Carmel this weekend. She is sweet but she’s really NMT (Not My Type). She smokes! She is slightly OW (overweight); although that’s no big deal. And her ‘tits’ are just plain “too big for me”. I prefer ‘hand-cupped’ size.

I was home by 2:15AM. I felt like reading, so I found a COLT magazine (I had bought randomly at one time or another) that included some muscular photo shots. I am not proud, but it was late and I needed reference material. It was more interesting than watching television.

Eventually…I hit the sack and slept soundly.

At precisely 6AM loud noises woke me up. The Islandia Homeowners had hired workers to do roof repair. How lovely that they started on my roof on my restful, early Saturday morning. It was like an earthquake. Damn!

Read More

The Assignment

“That’s where all the good writing comes from
…the imagination.”
-Joe Caldwell,
Dark Shadows TV series writer

What is your “assignment” for today?

Definition: Assignment
Noun: an undertaking that you have been assigned to do (as by an instructor or yourself)

In the Mission Impossible television show (and films) top-secret assignments are taken on by an elite group of agents. This usually involves disrupting the activities of various small foreign powers seeking to create problems for America or the Free World. I always loved the beginning message from these stories:

"Your mission, Jim, should you decide to accept it, is…as always, should you or any member of your I.M. Force be caught or killed, the secretary will disavow any knowledge of your actions. This tape will self-destruct in five seconds."

There is another intense Action-Thriller film from 1997 that remains with me to this day and it is called THE ASSIGNMENT. It stars Aidan Quinn, Donald Sutherland and Ben Kingsley. With this cast at the helm how could one go wrong? It is about an American naval officer who is recruited by the government to impersonate the most vicious and cold-blooded terrorist there is in order to catch him. Things are NOT what they really seem to be. I would highly recommend you see this one, considering the brainless other offerings at the movie theaters these days.

In memory of the fantastic journalist, Walter Cronkite, I must honor his classic way with words. He sadly passed away at age ninety-two on July 17, 2009. I will never forget hearing on the radio the other day that he had named his boat “Assignment”. It was said by close friends that he named the boat "Assignment" so that the journalist could truthfully say,
"I'm on assignment."
I would like to think he is on a very 'happy' and 'heavenly' assignment now.

Never lose track of your assignments. Get them done and you can relish in your accomplishments.

Twenty-five years ago today:

July 26, 1984
I met Karyn Kossoff at Third and Mission for lunch today. We ate at WENDY’s and sat out on this sunny day. I saw Mary Halverson (an old Alameda High School friend) pass by and she give a quick 'hello'. I also saw Michelle and Don (two people from our office). Now more rumors may start just because Karyn and I arranged our secret lunch outing together.

I was very excited yesterday because I received my Palo Alto Bicycle “road shorts”. UPS rang my doorbell with the package at 6PM as I was speaking to Geneva Wong (Helen’s sister). I had a date with Helen to see “The Good Earth” at the UC Berkeley Theater. I got dressed for my Berkeley outing and drove to San Leandro to pick up Helen and Geneva. I was home by 10:15PM.

I called Karyn Kossoff to ask her what time I should be at her house in the morning. She lives near College Avenue in Oakland and I made a deal to carpool in to The City with her and two other co-workers. We had a great talk and she made me laugh hysterically. It was when we were playing our ‘Bamm Bamm’ and ‘Pebbles’ mimicking talk that really got us ‘busting up’. Our 'new' thing was that I was 'Bamm Bamm' and she was 'Pebbles'. No one could ever know our top-secret code names.

Bruce telephoned once again. This time he invited me to go hiking this Saturday in the Hayward hills.
“That sounds like a pretty good idea, why don’t you call me on Saturday morning around nine o’clock,” I said affirmatively.
After I hung up I wasn’t sure it was such a good idea.

Read More

The 75th Kiss

She was a little in awe of Michael and uncertain what she should do next. She wondered how much experience he'd had. Could she hope for kisses...or more than that?
-Nial Kent
"The Divided Path"
PHOTO: Manly Beach
Taken Nov. 16, 2006

Did you know there is a 'Manly Beach' in Australia. Yes, I have been there (back in November 2006). I wonder how or why they came up with that name. After some online investigation I learned that Manly is an actual suburb of northern Sydney. Manly was named by Captain Arthur Phillip for the indigenous people living there, "their confidence and manly behaviour made me give the name of Manly Cove to this place". These men were of the Kay-ye-my clan (of the Guringai people). With this new insight I just remembered a rather 'manly' joke.

My dear friend, Kay Strauss, from Minnesota sent me this joke via an e-mail and it made me laugh a bit. I decided to post it here on my BLOG today. I hope you enjoy it, too.

On his 75th birthday, a man received a gift certificate from his wife. The certificate paid for a visit to a medicine man living on a nearby reservation. The medicine man was rumored to have a wonderful cure for erectile dysfunction.

After being persuaded, he drove to the reservation, handed his ticket to the medicine man, all the time wondering what was to come.

The old medicine man slowly and methodically produced a potion, which he handed to the 75 year-old.

With a grip on his shoulder, the medicine man warned, "This is powerful medicine and it must be respected. You take only a teaspoonful and then say '1-2-3'. When you do that, you will become manlier than you have ever been in your life and you will be able to perform as long as you want."

The old man was encouraged. As he walked away, he turned and asked, "How do I stop the medicine from working?"

"Your partner must say '1-2-3-4,'" the medicine man responded. "But when she does, the medicine will not work again until the next full moon."

The old man was very eager to see if the potion worked, so he went home, showered, shaved, took a spoonful of the medicine, and then invited his wife to join him in the bedroom.

When she came in, he took off his clothes and said, "1-2-3!" Immediately, he was the manliest of men. His wife was excited and began throwing off her clothes… And then she asked, "What was the 1-2-3 for?"

And that, boys and girls, is why we should never end our sentences with a preposition – or one will end up with a dangling participle!

Twenty-five years ago today:
July 25, 1984
Wednesday

Another dull training day ‘bites the dust’. I can hear the 1980 song by ‘Queen’ now.
http://www.bing.com/videos/search?q=another+one+bites+the+dust%2C+queen&qs=n&docid=941232161367&mid=50BF09170388AC2CA6B050BF09170388AC2CA6B0&FORM=VIVR22#

I had lunch all by my lonesome once again. This time I ate at 'SAX Steaks' across the street from MACY’s. It was fun walking around The City. There’s just so many more people around compared to boring Downtown Oakland.

After work I remained in The City and went to Grodins and bought a new tie and two pairs of pants that I had noticed earlier in the day (during lunch).

My work mornings tend to drag on...but after lunch (2PM) the day goes by so fast. It’s great. I would prefer a 1PM lunch. I still wonder how vacation time will be worked out in this new office.
I thought silently, "Oh shit, Chris will most likely NOT get his leave of absence approved".
I will worry about it once my training has been completed (I guess).

I saw some tall blond chick on the BART train that I recognized from a few times before. Then I saw her again on Bay Farm Island walking. She has such ‘white’ legs, but she’s kind of cute.

I also saw Birda, the avid cyclist. Ironically, she lives right across my courtyard in the Islandia Townhomes vicinity. She is nice, but she’s divorced and has an eight year old son and a five year old daughter (both of whom she has on weekends). Give me a break!
“I’ll drop by your house tomorrow before I go biking to see if you want to go ride,” Birda said.
“Okay, that’ll be great,” I replied.
I just don’t think I want any involvement with a divorcee.

PHOTO: circa 1984-Birda
I am supposed to see Helen Wong tomorrow because we made a deal to watch ‘The Good Earth’ movie together. If she does not call me tonight to confirm I am just going to forget about it.

I need to call Karyn Kossoff now to let her down softly about not going to San Bruno this Friday night. Of course, she was not at home again. I left a message on her recorder.

I decided to telephone Chris Cordellos at that married couple’s house. As luck would have it Chris was not there. I left word for Chris to call back with the dude that answered the phone.

I decided to telephone Danny Garcia. I spoke with Mary, his roommate, for a while. Then Danny took the phone and we talked for a while.
“I just don’t feel comfortable going to gay places,” I confessed to Danny in my own homophobic way.
I could hear Danny shrug with a very negative attitude towards me. He is such a “goob”.

While speaking to Danny I had a ‘call waiting’ interrupt from Karyn Kossoff. I ended up talking with Karyn until way passed 11PM. I decided to go to the little party in San Bruno after all. Karyn is sweet and I do have such fun with her.
“Oh you know what…I heard on the radio or somewhere that some lady kept a list of every man she kissed and number 75 was the one she married,” Karyn said.
We laughed.
I wondered what number I would be if/when I kiss Karyn.

Read More

Who is Amanda Harris ?

"Don't I know you from somewhere?"
-Nial Kent
"A Divided Path"
as referenced about
a dramatic play of the same name

It was October 9, 2006 and the place was Madison Square Garden, New York City. The excited whispers and exclamations were all about Barbra Streisand doing a rare on-stage appearance via her tour with Il Divo.

Before the show there was a loud, uniform gasp from the audience because Oprah Winfrey had just arrived in a long red gown. One would think the Queen of England had just arrived.
Barbra sang like a songbird. It was no surprise that the night would be entertaining.
Alan and I were there with friends in very good center (to-the-right side) seats. It was intermission and Alan and I took a walk for refreshments when we saw “her”.
“Alan! That’s Amanda Harris…look!”
“You’re right…it is!”
“Amanda!” Alan shouted.
“Yell it again, she didn’t hear, I know it’s her.”
“Amanda!” Alan shouted loudly.
She turned her head as if it were a scene from Cinderella to look at us. She smile and (I think) gave a slight awareness wave of her hand. We were star-struck and no one could understand but us.

Amanda Harris is a character in the 1966-1971 Gothic TV soap-opera show known as Dark Shadows. The character, Amanda Harris, was in several episodes playing an alluring woman with a mysterious past during the 1897 time period. She also played Olivia Corey in the present day 20th Century of 1969. We had been watching the Dark Shadows DVD collection, so ‘Amanda Harris’ was fresh on our minds. She surely thought we were crazed fanatics but it was “Amanda Harris”!

Amanda Harris is actually known as the fabulous Donna McKechnie. We learned more about her after another chance meeting.

It was 4th of July 2009 (this MONTH!) when Alan and I were invited to our friends' home (Lynn) that has views of the fireworks on the Hudson River side of New York City. It was a small gathering of a handful of friends.

In walks a woman that I recognize from somewhere. I am with Lynn when this lovely guest is introduced to me on the outside balcony overlooking New York City.
“She played Cassie in “Chorus Line”,” said Lynn excitedly.
“Oh, wow! And I thought you were Amanda Harris,” I said.
Donna giggled with a slightly surprised look on her face.
The views were mesmerizing as we continued to chat about the beauty of the skyscrapers and Central Park. Alan walks onto the balcony and I introduce him to Donna as the ‘actress who played Cassie’.
“I actually thought you were another actress I remembered from Dark Shadows named Amanda Harris,” I said.
“I am,” Donna answered.
“Oh my God, it is you,” I said in amazement.
Alan began to realize that Donna was the Amanda Harris we knew from Dark Shadows. He went on to remind her about the 2006 Barbra Streisand concert and how he yelled out her name. Ironically, she recalled the strangeness of that moment, too. We laughed hysterically. What a great ‘reunion’ of sorts.

Donna McKechnie won a TONY Award for Best-Actress in the musical Chorus Line. She is an amazingly talented dancer, singer and actress. CLICK on either of these links for more insight on her history:
http://www.collinwood.net/cast/mckechnie.htm
OR here at the BARNABAS & CO. website:http://www.darkshadowsonline.com/where-mckechnie.html
The fantastic sounds of her music are available on her ‘Inside the Music’ CD.

http://www.amazon.com/Inside-Music-Donna-McKechnie/dp/B000065UNA/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1248212678&sr=8-3

Donna is the choreographer for a Guys & Dolls In-Concert performance that will be appearing at “The Hollywood Bowl” on July 31; August 1st and 2nd, 2009. We hope to make it to one of the shows to honor her with more good cheer.

Twenty-five years ago today:

July 24, 1984
Tuesday

I mentioned to Barbara Reynolds about Nici stopping by my house late Friday night. I did not give her any further details. Barbara influenced me to pass on attending the section party on Friday night in San Bruno (the one Karyn Kossoff had invited me to attend). I think she is right. Why start something that I know will lead to nothing. Karyn is not really my type now (or is she?). She is so sweet and seems so wise. She smokes sometimes though (ugh!). Whatever happened to Katie Jones? She is the one I met in Concord who never called me back. I like what Barbara said about her.
“Well, she just wasn’t for you,” Barbara so succinctly pointed out.

At lunchtime, Barbara wanted to nap or meditate (or whatever), so I was on my own. I had to fend for myself this afternoon.

I decided to walk over to the BART station to buy a ticket. I decided to stop and talk to Bruce at his workplace. I checked out his store (Topps & Trowsers) for a while and kept the visit brief.

I ate some pizza on Powell Street at BLONDIES and saw some ‘humdinger’ type people. There were some strange ones out today! A lot of them kind of looked at me. Did I attract their eye or did they see me as an alien, too? The pizza cook at BLONDIES kept staring at me. What was that about? I got my share of double-takes today.

Training has been easy thus far.

I rode my bike a while and ate BBQ baked chicken at mom’s house. I came home and turned in for bed earlier than usual. I was just plain tired I guess. I must be mentally drained from all of the new information I am learning at work. At least I washed my car before I went bicycling. That was a good feeling of accomplishment.

Read More

Persepolis

“Men all think their ‘thing’ is irresistible.”
-as heard while watching
the 2007 film,
Persepolis

Have you seen the movie “Persepolis”? Persepolis was the ceremonial capital of the Persian Empire during the Achaemenid dynasty. The Achaemenid empire was forged by Cyrus the Great, and spanned three continents, including territories of Afghanistan , Pakistan, parts of Central Asia, Asia Minor, Thrace, much of the Black Sea coastal regions, Iraq, northern Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Palestine, Lebanon, Syria, and all significant population centers of ancient Egypt as far west as Libya.
Persepolis is noted in western history as the foe of the Greek city states in the Greco-Persian Wars, for freeing the Jews from their Babylonian captivity, and for instituting Aramaic as the empire's official language. It fell during the Wars of Alexander the Great in 330 BC.

Persepolis is a 2007 movie that is a poignant coming-of-age story of a precocious and outspoken young Iranian girl that begins during the Islamic Revolution. It came highly recommended and it gave me a new look into the trials and tribulations of IRAN. It’s an animated film but it kept my interest all the way through. It’s a ‘must see’.

It’s a great film that explores the qualities of being honest and morally upright. The dilemma of Iran’s unusual culture is still an ongoing mess as you may have read after the recent elections. I watched it in French with English subtitles, but if you have time you can hit this link and watch the entire film in ENGLISH:
http://www.bing.com/videos/search?q=perseopolis%2C+english&qs=n&docid=988816539910&mid=B3B4B5FFBBC0087C0BACB3B4B5FFBBC0087C0BAC&FORM=VIVR22#

Twenty-five years ago today:

July 23, 1984
Monday

I did not see Linda this morning at the Fruitvale BART station. I shall quit seeking her out. I have a feeling she’ll appear one day when I am not looking for her. Could that be risky?

My first day of training was a breeze. Some guy named Stan Burke is the lead instructor. He is very laid back. The training has been a real ‘cinch’ so far.

For lunch, Barbara Reynolds, Bobbie Renbarger, Joe and I went to eat at Vicky’s Restaurant. We followed lunch with dessert at Bud’s Ice-Cream.

I went to Mom’s and my $86.18 check from the Sacramento State of CA arrived. I rode my bicycle to the bank to deposit it. That song called “Free Nelson Mandela” got me going on a speedy ride. I love to RIDE LIKE THE WIND with this tune...
http://www.bing.com/videos/search?q=free+nelson+mandela&qs=n&docid=942965784910&mid=DDFC3CC50B2856E02D20DDFC3CC50B2856E02D20&FORM=VIVR24#

Tonight, I met Birda, the gal that I always see riding around on her bike quite often. She lives on Tonga Lane (just around the corner). She graduated from high-school in 1973 which makes her approximately twenty-nine years old. She mentioned a step-son that graduated in 1980, so I don’t know if she’s married or what. Oh well, we rode home together on our bicycles. She has beautiful teeth and a striking smile.

I went to eat at Mom’s and came home and left a quick message on Karyn Kossoff’s recorder.
“I give up. You’re never home,” I said after the beep.

I also gave Sue Miller a call and invited her over but she was ‘pooped out’ from her work day.

Now I am ‘jumping rope’ to QUAKE radio tunes “The 80’s”.

I decided to order a brass tricycle paper weight that caught my fancy from the TAPESTRY direct mail catalog I received in the mail the other day.

Karyn Kossoff responded to my message by calling back at around 9:30PM. It was a surprise phone call because we talked until about 15 minutes after midnight! I had a few call waiting interruptions from the geek (Bruce). Bruce wanted to invite me to see “Cheech and Chong”. I kind of shunned the idea.
“Listen, I’ll call you back,” I said.
“…but I’m calling from a public telephone,” Bruce said.
He’s weird!

I received a postcard from Bill Helbush who was in Reno, Nevada at some cowboy rodeo. I sent him a postcard, hinting about the idea of a dinner outing. We shall see if he replies to that one.

Karyn and I continued to talk.
“There was all of this hissing, oooing and ahhing about our hanging out together at the picnic,” Karyn said.
“…so let them wonder, “I said followed by a chuckle.
“Would you like to come with me to a party with my section this Friday in San Bruno?” she asked.
“Okay, why not,” I replied without thinking.
Now I am debating on whether I should go or not.

Read More

The Portrait Gifts: Janet Lance Hughes & Chris Davis

Part of growing up is learning how our actions effect other people and how we handle that power. It's kind of what it's like to be 'a parent' or 'a friend'.
-as heard while watching
KYLE-XY, Season II


Do you ever crave a Cheese Danish? Alan found the place for one in Santa Monica, CA. It’s only $1.60 for one pocket. It’s called VIENNA PASTRY. It’s at 1215 Wilshire Blvd. (and there is a convenient post-office next door to mail any letters you may need to send off).
http://www.bing.com/local/details.aspx?lid=YN79x983381&qt=yp&what=vienna+bakery&where=Santa+Monica%2c+CA&s_cid=ansPhBkYp02&mkt=en-us&q=vienna bakery, santa monica

Now, if you have some extra time and you want the BEST coffee I have had in ages go to the Intelligentsia Café at their new Coffee Bar in Venice, CA at 1331 Abbott Kinney Blvd. They are turning coffee into the science of tasting and loving (something STARBUCKS has totally missed). Look at their website for their other locations (including Chicago and New York):
http://www.intelligentsiacoffee.com/

I must honorably mention two special people who have made a point to ‘gift me’ my very own portrait in their own unique style.

Janet Lance-Hughes is a university lecturer, artist and consultant to a variety of businesses. She lives in London, England and worked as a Fashion Design and Marketing instructor and tutor at the prestigious Central St. Martin School of Fashion & Design. She is a member of the Chelsea Arts Club in London. I am excited to see her in Hay-on-Wye in May 2010 when she will present me with my portrait. She has a special method of painting and creating and it will be interesting to see the final masterpiece.

Chris Davis is from the New Castle, England area. He is passionate about photography and design. He established ‘Specular’ which enables him to produce artwork, design and photography for clients. He had a three-dimensional new concept to portraiture that he will produce for me. I am anxious to see his final masterpiece as well.

It is so kind of them to do these portrait gifts for me/of me, but the true 'GIFT' is the 'gift of them'.

Twenty-five years ago today:

July 22, 1984
Sunday

I woke up at 10AM (very late for me). I did not visit Nici Maurino last night either. She invited me but I guess I am not as anxious to f--k her as she is to get f--ked by me. I keep recalling the night she slept over and how she pressed her ‘you know what’ up against my behind. She was ‘wet’ too. She really is not my type.

Yesterday, Nici told me she left early that morning because her ‘period’ was starting and she figured I did not carry tampons. She made more intimate condescending remarks in a teasing sort of way as she spoke to me over the phone.

PHOTO: Different Spokes

I left on my bicycle at 11AM for the BART station and took a ride to the Embarcadero Station in San Francisco. I got lost for a good while as I searched for Golden Gate Park for the Company Picnic. By 1PM I found it. I hung out in The City with Karyn Kossoff. She is so cute. Her smile and laugh is irresistible. I like her mood and positive outlook. I talked to the Assistant Manager, Colleen, for a while, too. I have seen her somewhere. Maybe it was a quick sighting while I was jogging or bicycling along Shoreline Drive in Alameda. Colleen says she lives in Alameda.

I scraped my left knee playing ‘tug of war’. I drank a lot of beer and I could sense some of the guys from the office ‘checking me out’. I couldn’t take it (it made me feel uncomfortable). I like Ryan Hargrave, he’s a nice guy. I spent a lot of the day talking to Karyn Kossoff. I sensed her attempt to ask if I was gay. She did not ask because she knew the answer (per her tub mate, Bob, who probably asked my longtime pal, Barbara Reynolds). Then, Patty Reid, the overweight one, asked me at around 7PM that night.
“Are you gay?” Patty asked in a point blank kind of way.
“No,” I said with a scathing, dirty look.
I denied it because (for ONE) I hate the term. I am not gay. I am ‘happy’ and any sexual partner I choose is MY business. And my preference (be it male or female) is 'and does' depend on my mood. I know every individual has half & half concepts of sex with either/or sex because I have seen the way straight men look at me and straight women look at other women. Something ‘sexual’ crosses their minds. There is no denying it. It just depends on who and where the attraction begins and where the circumstances end.
PHOTO: Image of a boy after
being asked 'Are you gay?'

I left Golden Gate Park by 7:30PM and was home by 9PM. That's pretty good considering I had to ride from Golden Gate Park to a BART station and get off at Fruitvale and ride my bike into Alameda.

That night, I left a telephone message on Karyn Kossoff’s answering recorder. I then proceeded to drift off to sleep.

Read More

Mr. Miller & the Chicago Connections

"Naturally, with a very advanced mind you find things wrong with a lot of things a lot of the time."
-Woody Allen
in his film
"Whatever Works"

While in PARIS, France on May 23, 2009, Alan became ‘Mr. Miller’ for a few hours. We asked our concierge about a great place for seafood and the ‘Brasserie Bofinger’ was highly recommended. There were no available tables but a guest in the Hotel had to unexpectedly shorten his trip and he (Mr. Miller) had a reservation. So, Alan posed as ‘Mr. Miller’ on this evening (and we used the reservation under his name). Does Alan really look like a ‘Mr. Miller’?

When we arrived at the restaurant at 7PM at 5 et 7, Rue de la Bastille, 75004 we were seated next to Steve Flanigan and his wife, B.P., from Chicago, Illinois. The pate/fois gras that Alan and I shared was fabulous (not to mention the escargots). My salmon with flaky crust satisfied my tummy, too.

The Chicago couple were such nice company. We had a fun chat about ‘corkage fees’. Steve is a chef of a restaurant in a historic Chicago building. The restaurant he is affiliated with is known as The Gage:
http://www.thegagechicago.com/
It's on our 'must visit' list.

Now we have another reason to visit Chicago (The Flanigan's). Our friend and Hotel Manager guru (Alberto) lives in a Chicago suburb now; my photographer pal (Arlene) is in Skokie, IL; Alan’s cousin (Leslie, husband & son) lives in Peoria, IL. And another good reason to visit is that because I have only been to the O’Hare Airport between flights (never left the Airport). I really have no idea what Chicago is all about.

Twenty-five years ago today:

July 21, 1984
Saturday

I woke up on this Saturday morning and started to wash clothes. I was writing in my journal when the telephone rang at 8AM. It was a surprise to hear Chris Cordellos’ voice.
“I am writing in my journal,” I said after he asked what I was doing.
“Oh, I thought maybe you were seeing someone else because every time I call there is no answer.”

I made a deal to call him back at ‘Dan and Joetta’s’ in an hour at 707-442-1973. He could only talk for a minute because he was at a public pay phone.

Tonight I want to see a futuristic movie called ‘Kamikaze 89’ or see a band playing in The City called ‘The Translator’. Chris was going to drive down but his lower back is acting up (which means he may not). He is quite bummed out and he misses it here.

Tomorrow the Golden Gate Branch Business Office picnic takes place. I want to go, so it is best that Chris does not show up. I just hate the fact that he is up there in Humboldt County snortin’ jointin’ or whatever with all of those other semi-losers that he associates with in the US Coast Guard.

When I telephoned Chris he was not in too high of spirits. I guess I made myself sound like I was having too much of a good time these past few days. His jealousy turned into resentment. I really did not feel like listening to his negative, bummed out attitude. Again, he could not really talk but said he would call me back.

I went bicycling and it felt good. It felt so good to have my own self-therapy (with my bike). Everyone should choose some activity (even jump rope) for fun and the release of anxiety.

I stopped by to visit mom for a while. The day was rather muggy. I decided to come back to my pad and take a nap.

The second surprise phone call came from Nici Maurino.
“Were you surprised that I came over last night?” Nici asked.
“Now that you mention it, yes,” I replied.
“Tell me something. Why didn’t you take advantage of me when I was lying there next to you? I was giving it to you on a silver platter,” she said in her own curious way followed by some loud laughter.

Could I really tell her? For one thing, she smelled like sweat and dirty pussy. If she had smelled fresh and like clean puss it might have been a different story. If I wasn’t sleepy or if she was massaging or rubbing aromatic lotions on me (and I her) it might have been a different story. I, as a man, like foreplay as well (long-lasting foreplay). Who wants a ‘wham bam let’s get it on’ kind of scene (unless, of course, I was really ‘hot & horny’…which is often, I’d say).
I laughed and shrugged it off as our conversation ultimately came to an end. It is clear she really did want me to seduce her.

At 3:30PM Bruce called me about going out. I suggested the futuristic movie ‘Kamikaze 89’ in San Francisco. He was all for it.
“I’ll call you around 6:15 when I get out of work,” Bruce said.

I had told Chris that I would probably see the afternoon matinee of that futuristic movie. I ended up being lazy, sleeping and finishing up my laundry. I ate dinner at moms’ house.

Bruce called at 6:30 and we went to The City. I picked him up on Madison in Oakland where he resides with his mother. He really is a nice, harmless guy---but ‘that’s it’ as far as I’m concerned. He is funny. He is not very attractive. I know I’ve heard his laugh somewhere but I can’t seem to place it.

I finally found a parking space near 16th Street. The movie was downright ‘shitty’. It was in German and just plain not very good. After the show we left ‘The City’ and had milkshakes at Jack-in-the Box in Alameda. Then I decided to go to my house where I turned on the TV. It was weird because the TV was ‘on’ but neither of us was really watching it. I could sense that. We talked and he went on about liking my place. He made all sorts of complements over my bicycle (which I keep in my living room). It’s just easier to clean ‘in the house’. He complemented my bed and other items, too.
“You’re a good decorator,” Bruce said.
I got the feeling he was surprised by my pad.

I drove Bruce home at about 1:30AM. It got a little strange when I dropped him off.
“What are you doing next weekend?” Bruce asked as I sat parked in front of his house.
I think I was hoping he’d just hop out of my car and that would be the end of it. That was a strange question. It was as if we had gone out on ‘a date’ or something.
“I don’t know,” I answered with a yawn, making it appear that I was too tired to discuss it.
“I’ll call you,” Bruce said as he unlatched his passenger door.
I don’t know if that’s a plus on my part. He looks so ‘geeky’, but he’s super nice. I can’t be mean.

Read More