Thoughts, musings, rants, & other idle wondering..

It Could Have Been About Me And My Daughter

2012-01-31T15:37:00.000-05:00

From my favorite Washington Post soccer writer, Steven Goff, about being a soccer dad:

"It began with swarms of players suffocating the ball and a lonely goalkeeper distracted by a butterfly. During one workout, a dog blazed onto the field, clenched the under-inflated ball in his jaw and dashed off. A dozen laughing, screaming boys gave chase."

It's Mr. Goff's memories with his boy, but it could have been about any soccer parents and their respective barnstorming future World Cup stars.

(I was a pretty good coach, wasn't I, April? Until you outgrew me? :o) )

Multiply "Account Deletes" Warning

2012-01-27T03:50:00.000-05:00

Got the following from my online friend Fred:

"I just received this message from another contact of mine, please take heed:

Please set your videos and music to "Contacts" or "Friends of Friends" only.

Multiply is deleting members who leave copyright materials out to the public, aka "everyone". Please tell your friends on multiply to do the same thing.

Sounds like a good idea so Multiply doesn't suffer the fate of a few other "online digital storage" sites out there. ; )

Fred"

My Sis MN and The Shake Weight

2012-01-23T18:36:00.000-05:00

Constantly in search of more economic exercises, MN bragged to me about this newfangled state-of-the-art device: the Shake Weight. What it does: it, well, shakes. The claim: you get a 45-minute traditional full-weight exercise in 6 minutes. (Right!)

(Does that explain "economic," i.e., less times, same/better result?)

Here's a review from KTLA TV, Los Angeles (with the male anchor on the right REALLY enjoying, ummm, the exercise):

Thank You, Representative Giffords

2012-01-22T11:18:00.000-05:00

Sugar Plum Fairies, Dancing...

2012-01-14T12:45:00.000-05:00

"Send In The Clowns" -- Bernadette Peters and Steven Sondheim

2012-01-14T11:34:00.000-05:00

"Tomorrow", My Precious, "Is Only A Day Away"

2012-01-13T04:58:00.000-05:00

Asian Grandma Rocks The Blues

2012-01-10T15:24:00.000-05:00

"Res Firma Mitiscere Nescit"

2012-01-08T05:40:00.000-05:00

I will let you Google its meaning!

No, I mean your heart rate. :o)

Find your max heart rate (here), get in it, and stay in it. For as long as you can, anyway. Then, let it drop (until you can breathe normally).

Repeat.

Trust me, it does wonders!

(The process above is otherwise known as interval training. It's a workout for endurance athletes, but don't let that stop you: here are some of its benefits. The best part? It doesn't cost you a cent. It requires no equipment, no gym membership, no nothing. Just you. And your will.)

Here are some of typical interval exercises:

Running/walking
Pushups/jumping jacks combination (to my knowledge, this is still the standard fitness measurements used by the U.S Armed Forces: how many combinations you can do determine how fit you are)
Swimming fast, then slow (OK, this costs 4 bucks at my local rec center; so, give up a Starbucks visit)
Zumba classes (you can sometime find these classes for free in your church basement)
Make your own (remember, alternate high with low heart rates)

Keeping the Blues alive

2012-01-07T13:26:00.000-05:00

"With three self-produced albums under his belt, Gary Clark Jr. plays more than just blues: He cuts through a stunning blend of reggae, rock and soul. Clark can sing some sweet R&B, but at heart, he's a blistering blues-rock guitarist who's about to blow up big. In August, he released The Bright Lights EP.

"Clark began playing guitar at the age of 12, and has since expanded his arsenal to the harmonica, bass and drums. He's also the winner of multiple accolades, including the Austin Music Award for Best Blues Band in three separate years. Though still only in his 20s, Clark has shared the stage with legends like Jimmie Vaughan, Sheryl Crow, and Eric Clapton. Hear Clark's fiery songwriting and wild guitar work in this performance from World Cafe Live in Philadelphia."

You can hear him on National Public Radio here: http://www.npr.org/2011/12/16/143802964/gary-clark-jr-in-concert

Playlist:

"When My Train Pulls In"

"Don't Owe You A Thing"

"Please Come Home"

"Things Are Changin'"

"If You Love Me Like You Say"

"Bright Lights"

No-Pants Sunday Is Coming To Town

2012-01-06T16:08:00.000-05:00

...This Sunday.

Yea, It's January 2nd

2012-01-02T08:12:00.000-05:00

Happy Introvert Day.

My Assistant And Me

2012-01-02T03:25:00.000-05:00

How to go up the steps, butt-first...

2011-12-31T10:17:00.000-05:00

The Christmas Child

2011-12-27T17:25:00.000-05:00

Da Whole Fam-damn-ly

2011-12-26T03:27:00.000-05:00

For the first time in a long time, we are all under one roof again.

Beauties, 3rd Gen

2011-12-26T03:07:00.000-05:00

(L-to-R) Uy�n, April, Mira, Dana, Rachel

"Jesus Christ Superstar" is back on Broadway

2011-12-22T17:03:00.000-05:00

Starting March 22, 2012.

"Since its Broadway debut, this spectacular musical phenomenon has thrilled millions of theatregoers worldwide; mesmerizing them with its passion, captivating them with its story and entrancing them with its anthemic title song. And now, two-time Tony Award�-winning director Des McAnuff brings a bold, new vision to the classic rock opera by Tony, Grammy, and Academy Award-winners Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice."

Link: Jesus Christ Superstar at the Neil Simon Theater

Beautiful Colors

2011-12-22T15:41:00.000-05:00

This is Alamo Flag, at the corner of Arlington Blvd. and Patrick Henry Dr., in Falls Church, Va.

I have known this flag company ever since I was still living in Arlington, and it was somewhere near there.

He was flying the Republic of Vietnam colors then, and he's still doing it now.

God bless him.

Tho Thweet...

2011-12-22T15:23:00.000-05:00

A New York Christmas Story

2011-12-20T16:54:00.000-05:00

THE GIFT OF THE MAGI

by O. Henry

One dollar and eighty-seven cents. That was all. And sixty cents of it was in pennies. Pennies saved one and two at a time by bulldozing the grocer and the vegetable man and the butcher until one's cheeks burned with the silent imputation of parsimony that such close dealing implied. Three times Della counted it. One dollar and eighty- seven cents. And the next day would be Christmas.

There was clearly nothing to do but flop down on the shabby little couch and howl. So Della did it. Which instigates the moral reflection that life is made up of sobs, sniffles, and smiles, with sniffles predominating.

While the mistress of the home is gradually subsiding from the first stage to the second, take a look at the home. A furnished flat at $8 per week. It did not exactly beggar description, but it certainly had that word on the lookout for the mendicancy squad.

In the vestibule below was a letter-box into which no letter would go, and an electric button from which no mortal finger could coax a ring. Also appertaining thereunto was a card bearing the name "Mr. James Dillingham Young."

The "Dillingham" had been flung to the breeze during a former period of prosperity when its possessor was being paid $30 per week. Now, when the income was shrunk to $20, though, they were thinking seriously of contracting to a modest and unassuming D. But whenever Mr. James Dillingham Young came home and reached his flat above he was called "Jim" and greatly hugged by Mrs. James Dillingham Young, already introduced to you as Della. Which is all very good.

Della finished her cry and attended to her cheeks with the powder rag. She stood by the window and looked out dully at a gray cat walking a gray fence in a gray backyard. Tomorrow would be Christmas Day, and she had only $1.87 with which to buy Jim a present. She had been saving every penny she could for months, with this result. Twenty dollars a week doesn't go far. Expenses had been greater than she had calculated. They always are. Only $1.87 to buy a present for Jim. Her Jim. Many a happy hour she had spent planning for something nice for him. Something fine and rare and sterling--something just a little bit near to being worthy of the honor of being owned by Jim.

There was a pier-glass between the windows of the room. Perhaps you have seen a pier-glass in an $8 flat. A very thin and very agile person may, by observing his reflection in a rapid sequence of longitudinal strips, obtain a fairly accurate conception of his looks. Della, being slender, had mastered the art.

Suddenly she whirled from the window and stood before the glass. her eyes were shining brilliantly, but her face had lost its color within twenty seconds. Rapidly she pulled down her hair and let it fall to its full length.

Now, there were two possessions of the James Dillingham Youngs in which they both took a mighty pride. One was Jim's gold watch that had been his father's and his grandfather's. The other was Della's hair. Had the queen of Sheba lived in the flat across the airshaft, Della would have let her hair hang out the window some day to dry just to depreciate Her Majesty's jewels and gifts. Had King Solomon been the janitor, with all his treasures piled up in the basement, Jim would have pulled out his watch every time he passed, just to see him pluck at his beard from envy.

So now Della's beautiful hair fell about her rippling and shining like a cascade of brown waters. It reached below her knee and made itself almost a garment for her. And then she did it up again nervously and quickly. Once she faltered for a minute and stood still while a tear or two splashed on the worn red carpet.

On went her old brown jacket; on went her old brown hat. With a whirl of skirts and with the brilliant sparkle still in her eyes, she fluttered out the door and down the stairs to the street.

Where she stopped the sign read: "Mme. Sofronie. Hair Goods of All Kinds." One flight up Della ran, and collected herself, panting. Madame, large, too white, chilly, hardly looked the "Sofronie."

"Will you buy my hair?" asked Della.

"I buy hair," said Madame. "Take yer hat off and let's have a sight at the looks of it."

Down rippled the brown cascade.

"Twenty dollars," said Madame, lifting the mass with a practised hand.

"Give it to me quick," said Della.

Oh, and the next two hours tripped by on rosy wings. Forget the hashed metaphor. She was ransacking the stores for Jim's present.

She found it at last. It surely had been made for Jim and no one else. There was no other like it in any of the stores, and she had turned all of them inside out. It was a platinum fob chain simple and chaste in design, properly proclaiming its value by substance alone and not by meretricious ornamentation--as all good things should do. It was even worthy of The Watch. As soon as she saw it she knew that it must be Jim's. It was like him. Quietness and value--the description applied to both. Twenty-one dollars they took from her for it, and she hurried home with the 87 cents. With that chain on his watch Jim might be properly anxious about the time in any company. Grand as the watch was, he sometimes looked at it on the sly on account of the old leather strap that he used in place of a chain.

When Della reached home her intoxication gave way a little to prudence and reason. She got out her curling irons and lighted the gas and went to work repairing the ravages made by generosity added to love. Which is always a tremendous task, dear friends--a mammoth task.

Within forty minutes her head was covered with tiny, close-lying curls that made her look wonderfully like a truant schoolboy. She looked at her reflection in the mirror long, carefully, and critically.

"If Jim doesn't kill me," she said to herself, "before he takes a second look at me, he'll say I look like a Coney Island chorus girl. But what could I do--oh! what could I do with a dollar and eighty- seven cents?"

At 7 o'clock the coffee was made and the frying-pan was on the back of the stove hot and ready to cook the chops.

Jim was never late. Della doubled the fob chain in her hand and sat on the corner of the table near the door that he always entered. Then she heard his step on the stair away down on the first flight, and she turned white for just a moment. She had a habit for saying little silent prayer about the simplest everyday things, and now she whispered: "Please God, make him think I am still pretty."

The door opened and Jim stepped in and closed it. He looked thin and very serious. Poor fellow, he was only twenty-two--and to be burdened with a family! He needed a new overcoat and he was without gloves.

Jim stopped inside the door, as immovable as a setter at the scent of quail. His eyes were fixed upon Della, and there was an expression in them that she could not read, and it terrified her. It was not anger, nor surprise, nor disapproval, nor horror, nor any of the sentiments that she had been prepared for. He simply stared at her fixedly with that peculiar expression on his face.

Della wriggled off the table and went for him.

"Jim, darling," she cried, "don't look at me that way. I had my hair cut off and sold because I couldn't have lived through Christmas without giving you a present. It'll grow out again--you won't mind, will you? I just had to do it. My hair grows awfully fast. Say `Merry Christmas!' Jim, and let's be happy. You don't know what a nice-- what a beautiful, nice gift I've got for you."

"You've cut off your hair?" asked Jim, laboriously, as if he had not arrived at that patent fact yet even after the hardest mental labor.

"Cut it off and sold it," said Della. "Don't you like me just as well, anyhow? I'm me without my hair, ain't I?"

Jim looked about the room curiously.

"You say your hair is gone?" he said, with an air almost of idiocy.

"You needn't look for it," said Della. "It's sold, I tell you--sold and gone, too. It's Christmas Eve, boy. Be good to me, for it went for you. Maybe the hairs of my head were numbered," she went on with sudden serious sweetness, "but nobody could ever count my love for you. Shall I put the chops on, Jim?"

Out of his trance Jim seemed quickly to wake. He enfolded his Della. For ten seconds let us regard with discreet scrutiny some inconsequential object in the other direction. Eight dollars a week or a million a year--what is the difference? A mathematician or a wit would give you the wrong answer. The magi brought valuable gifts, but that was not among them. This dark assertion will be illuminated later on.

Jim drew a package from his overcoat pocket and threw it upon the table.

"Don't make any mistake, Dell," he said, "about me. I don't think there's anything in the way of a haircut or a shave or a shampoo that could make me like my girl any less. But if you'll unwrap that package you may see why you had me going a while at first."

White fingers and nimble tore at the string and paper. And then an ecstatic scream of joy; and then, alas! a quick feminine change to hysterical tears and wails, necessitating the immediate employment of all the comforting powers of the lord of the flat.

For there lay The Combs--the set of combs, side and back, that Della had worshipped long in a Broadway window. Beautiful combs, pure tortoise shell, with jewelled rims--just the shade to wear in the beautiful vanished hair. They were expensive combs, she knew, and her heart had simply craved and yearned over them without the least hope of possession. And now, they were hers, but the tresses that should have adorned the coveted adornments were gone.

But she hugged them to her bosom, and at length she was able to look up with dim eyes and a smile and say: "My hair grows so fast, Jim!"

And them Della leaped up like a little singed cat and cried, "Oh, oh!"

Jim had not yet seen his beautiful present. She held it out to him eagerly upon her open palm. The dull precious metal seemed to flash with a reflection of her bright and ardent spirit.

"Isn't it a dandy, Jim? I hunted all over town to find it. You'll have to look at the time a hundred times a day now. Give me your watch. I want to see how it looks on it."

Instead of obeying, Jim tumbled down on the couch and put his hands under the back of his head and smiled.

"Dell," said he, "let's put our Christmas presents away and keep 'em a while. They're too nice to use just at present. I sold the watch to get the money to buy your combs. And now suppose you put the chops on."

The magi, as you know, were wise men--wonderfully wise men--who brought gifts to the Babe in the manger. They invented the art of giving Christmas presents. Being wise, their gifts were no doubt wise ones, possibly bearing the privilege of exchange in case of duplication. And here I have lamely related to you the uneventful chronicle of two foolish children in a flat who most unwisely sacrificed for each other the greatest treasures of their house. But in a last word to the wise of these days let it be said that of all who give gifts these two were the wisest. O all who give and receive gifts, such as they are wisest. Everywhere they are wisest. They are the magi.

Five Things (Food-Wise) To Fight A Cold

2011-12-16T14:23:00.000-05:00

Here they are:

Limit refined-sugar
Increase healthy fat
(Cover your nose) Add onion, garlic, and ginger to everything
Drink water
Avoid dairy

(For the reasons why, please see: Best foods to fight a cold, WashingtonPost.com)

New Yorkers, Surly?

2011-12-13T14:18:00.000-05:00

You don't see this with DC's Finest

Nonsense! Absolute nonsense!

~~~

I don't know how I came upon the (now unfounded) impression that NYC folks are just a bunch of grim, surly people.

They are some the friendliest people I have ever met. [That's big; in fact, that's huge, for an introvert to admit such impression.]

~~~

As soon as I seated myself for "Godspell," my fellow audience member to the left introduced herself, and offered her hand. (I didn't know her from Eve.) After introducing myself and admitting being from out of town, she proceeded to explain to me all there's to explain about NYC ("There's uptown, mid-town, and downtown; SoHo, NoHo, [etc., etc. etc.; don't ask me to repeat it].) Somehow, we got on to the topic of Bob Dylan and Joan Baez. After telling her I practically grew up with their sounds: "If you have time, visit Greenwich Village; there's still traces of that vintage." [Proud to know I am of that "vintage."]

~~~

I had to fumble my way around the NYC public transportation system.

Boarded the Q47 with a $5 dollar bill. The driver thumbed over his shoulder: "See if anyone has change." I sheepishly asked if anyone has change for a five. Several people searched their pocket; no quarters to be found.

A fellow passenger stood up (he was a biggish kinda guy; I felt nervous!). And inserted his farecard into the meter for me.

"Welcome to New York!"

~~~

At Lucia's Pizza, Flushing, NYC:

"My girlfriend told me I had to try this place."

"She from here?"

"Was."

"Give me her address."

"Why?"

"I will mail her a pizza."

"..."

"Here's yours."

"Thanks, how much?"

"Nuthin'. Welcome to New York."

"..."

[Wow! And no, I didn't give out your address.]

~~~

Ah, the attitude of gratitude.

Everyone boarding the NYC bus(es) would say "Thank You" to driver. Everyone exiting the bus, the same.

I used to rely on the Metro buses here. Don't remember "Thank You's." Do remember a guy cussing out the driver (for whatever reason, I don't remember now.)

~~~

[You know what? Maybe all New Yorkers are really just introverts (thus, the "surly" appearance and/or misunderstanding) waiting for the right moment (i.e., meeting me!) to come out of their closet. :o) ]

~~~

I will be back.

On Broadway...

2011-12-13T13:23:00.000-05:00

...With you.

"Lullaby of Broadway," from the musical "42nd Street," performed by Tony Bennett duet with Dixie Chicks.

The Best Pizza In Queens

2011-12-09T17:14:00.000-05:00

Lucia's Pizza, hands down.

That's one gorgeous (AND delicious) slice of pizza. As recommended by the best, of course.

Thin, crispy, slightly crunchy crust; the sauce IS tomato (I mean *real* tomato), with just the right touch of sweets in it. But, it's the cheese that makes this pizza: not the tasteless drippy cheese that one would find at UNO, Domino's, etc.; this was melted just right, so one can actually taste the cheese. I got anchovies, jalapeno, and onions for ingredients: the jalapeno and onions were just hot enough, without getting mushy.

I am hooked. Best pizza I've had in a long time.

Thank you, My Precious, for the recommendation. I am coming back.

The Best Pizza In Queens

2011-12-09T17:05:00.000-05:00

God-Spellbound

2011-12-05T15:05:00.000-05:00

NYC, here I come. :o)

�i...

2011-12-04T18:59:00.000-05:00

Sh!t That Siri Says

2011-12-03T06:18:00.000-05:00

Ah, that snide, sassy IPhone personal assistant and the things she says.

For more, see Sh!t That Siri Says.

Crossing Over To The Dark Side

2011-12-03T05:42:00.000-05:00

My first-ever Apple product, an IPAD 2.

Sorry, Bill, not abandoning you or anything, but I am beginning to like this thing.

More to come.

Season's Greetings

2011-11-24T10:25:00.000-05:00

God (and certainly, my family) knows that I have not been particularly kind to my body. :o)

Perhaps above all else, I am thankful that I remain healthy. I hope that I can continue to be so (and I am the only one that can make sure of it.)

Same as I would wish myself, I wish you "Health," this Holiday Season, and all others that follow.

I am not wrong on this: with health, happiness, prosperity, etc., follow. Trust me! :o)

My first love that never betrays

(Well, OK, she goes flat every so often, but I know who to fix that... :o)

Mommy And Babies

2011-11-13T13:23:00.000-05:00

Showing Off My Seattle Memento

2011-11-13T13:04:00.000-05:00

The Things You Can Do With The Top Tube...

2011-11-13T12:41:00.000-05:00

Autumn, On Two Wheels

2011-11-01T18:48:00.000-04:00

Laughing Babies, Part Deux

2011-10-27T15:20:00.000-04:00

Laughing Babies...

2011-10-27T15:18:00.000-04:00

Lt. Dan Band

2011-10-25T14:59:00.000-04:00

The name of the band is "Lt. Dan Band." Does the bass player (and the phrase "Lt. Dan") seem familiar? Remember Lt. Dan in "Forest Gump?"

Here's what "Lt. Dan" has to say about the band and its mission:

Memo From God, To Harold Camping

2011-10-21T09:52:00.000-04:00

Date: 10/21/2011
From: God
To: Harold Camping
Subject: Your Special Message Concerning 10/21/2011

Dear Harold,

In reference to: http://www.familyradio.com/x/message.html, you continue to amuse Me.

May I remind you, only I shall know the day or the hour.

Sincerely,

God

I'd Like A Little Whiskey In My Soup, Please

2011-10-18T03:58:00.000-04:00

Only in Seattle...

Congress, You Payin' Attention?

2011-10-18T03:48:00.000-04:00

D.C., Sounders, United

2011-10-17T19:57:00.000-04:00

On any other night, we might have been at opposite ends of the field. On this night, we were one.

United!

When it's game time in Seattle, one does not need to know where the stadium is.

One simply follows the green crowd.

I am envious: D.C. United barely rates 12,000 fans per game.

When it's game in Seattle, CenturyLink field is packed. You read that right: Packed!

And we are talking about 36,000 fans.

Yes, Thirty-Six-Freaking-Thousand fans.

Every game.

Anxious...

2011-10-14T07:17:00.000-04:00

Don't know why, but I am always so anxious before a Century ride.

Ngo^. :o)

Seattle and the Bicycle

2011-10-13T19:40:00.000-04:00

Eat Your Heart Out, Copenhagen...

2011-10-13T15:25:00.000-04:00

You no longer have the corner of the "chic cycling" market. That's just how it is from now on. :o)

Pink Martinini and Seattle

2011-10-11T17:12:00.000-04:00

For some reason, Pink Martini and Seattle seem to go together well.

Scared the livin' cr@p outta me...

2011-10-11T14:26:00.000-04:00

I was focusing on one of Seattle high-risers, when the plane--out of nowhere--came into the photo frame.

My heart skipped a beat.

Damn TSA took my shampoo...

2011-10-11T02:06:00.000-04:00

The same shampoo that went through 3 airports ago.

Hangin' Out In Man Cave With Favorite Ponny

2011-10-02T13:12:00.000-04:00

Little Tiny Feet

2011-10-02T12:55:00.000-04:00

...That run Uncle H. ragged...

Uh Oh...

2011-10-02T06:56:00.000-04:00

Seagull is in two weeks. TWO!

Gotta get my bike legs back. In a hurry!

:o)

Indigo Blue [2]

2011-10-01T21:46:00.000-04:00

There's a place, a time, a moment,
That one cannot find
On a map, on a clock, or on a calendar.

It's a place that has no boundaries;
The time does not begin or end;
The moment is eternal.

That place, time, moment,
Can only be found where
Our hearts meet.

TOP GUN, Post-DADT

2011-10-01T05:09:00.000-04:00

TOP GUN, Post-DADT:

Words and Tears

2011-09-30T19:34:00.000-04:00

There are times
When I heard you cry
Softly.

I wanted to find
Words
To comfort you.

And failed.

Suddenly,
I realized,
Words
Are inappropriate.

Then I simply listened,
And

Felt your tears.

Well, Look Who Came By...

2011-09-25T09:31:00.000-04:00

For a few days now, my bird feeder ran out of seeds faster than usual.

Every so often, I'd hear grinding noises ("Man, some hungry birds out there...") as well as commotion ("Gotta be some big birds...")

By the time I came to check, whatever it was already disappeared.

As I sat at my computer desk working today, there was the same commotion.

Turns out, it was this little guy.

Caught in the act

There he goes!

Sophie Milman -- "People Will Say We're In Love"

2011-09-24T15:11:00.000-04:00

My favorite Sophie Milman, confiding one of my most favorite tunes from "Oklahoma."

Why Is Everyone Smiling At Me Today?

2011-09-24T14:41:00.000-04:00

I went for my ride fairly early this morning, hoping to beat the day's humidity.

As other riders passed me in the opposite lane, a few of them smiled at me. I even got a couple of "Good mornings."

Odd! Why? The early riders on weekends are a pretty serious crowd. They are the racers, triathletes, etc., getting out early to get a head start on the weekend warriors. "Serious" actually is an understatement; "grim" is probably more accurate. These guys really hammer, at speed close to 20+mph, their face always in a firm grimace. At that speed, one can barely look sideways.

Smiles? "Good Mornings?" Almost never. Yet, I got plenty of it this morning.

(Did the President just declare a Holiday that I don't know about?)

On my way back to the condo, I passed one of the building maintenance engineers, a black jovial gentleman. I was greeted with an ear-to-ear grin. And a "Good morning, my friend, keep smiling. It's a beautiful day!" (It's not, according the Weather Channel. :o) )

So I had one of those stupid, silly grins on my face, all morning, without realizing it?

Why?

God knows (and I don't really care. Really!) :o)

The moral of this story? There ain't none.

Keep smiling! (Or, silly-grinning, whichever suits you better.) :o)

Happy 75th Birthday to Master Muppet Magician Jim Henson

2011-09-24T07:37:00.000-04:00

Driving the 495 Beltway is like driving an autocross course

2011-09-23T16:25:00.000-04:00

Problems:

There are too many cars on course, all at the same time
The course changes every other day
Minivans and SUVs are NOT meant for autocrossing.

Hope: RELAX!

2011-09-23T03:11:00.000-04:00

You are not goal-tending. You are dancing.

Sophie Milman -- Make Someone Happy

2011-09-22T16:27:00.000-04:00

My favorite Sophie Milman, singing about my favorite sentiment.

A Complete Smile, Finally

2011-09-19T19:55:00.000-04:00

Way to go, Operation Smile.

The child's smile (and the look in her eyes, towards the end of the clip) is priceless.

Riding Up A Wall

2011-09-19T15:45:00.000-04:00

To be precise, the Westernport Wall.

They dropped like flies.

The Simplicity of Beauty

2011-09-18T15:03:00.000-04:00

The Simplicity of Happiness

2011-09-18T14:58:00.000-04:00

When was the last time we got excited over dandelions?

David Beckham Working At Target

2011-09-17T10:58:00.000-04:00

You know who David Beckham is, right?

What Is He Doing To My Hope? Part Deux

2011-09-15T16:39:00.000-04:00

This kid, a rookie for Sporting KC, trying (Trying!) to serenade Hope

He'd just better stick to soccer. No Hope for you, pal!

What Is He Doing To My Hope?

2011-09-15T15:17:00.000-04:00

NOOOO! "Dancing With The Stars?"

(Gotta get me a TV set now...) :o)

Arizona Neo-Tantra Temple: Busted!

2011-09-13T18:05:00.000-04:00

Link: Phoenix Goddess Temple Raided as Alleged Brothel - ABC News

A colleague of mine, who teleworks from Sedona, Arizona, sent me the link above. It's about the Phoenix Goddess Temple of Arizona.

Here's one of the Goddesses (as found in the "adult entertainment" section of classified ads website Backpage.com, according the ABC News link above):

The Temple reportedly uses Neo-tantric methods (you can read all about it here: http://www.phoenixgoddesstemple.org/; sounds like plain old "Sex" to me) to help a person heal. In return, said person can make a donation (read "Money".)

After you strip away all the ritualistic language bullshit, you are left with "Sex for Money."

Which is it, a sex cult, or a prostitution ring?

Phoenix Police Department thinks it's the latter.

And I got a good chuckle.

Neither here nor there, but Arizona seems to attract some of kookiest people around (and my colleague readily agrees with me on this: she lives next doors to a couple of those):

Not all that long ago, three cult members literally cooked themselves to death;
Then, there is this guy, who went and married children (second link has a pic that gave me chills);
And then, there is this. (Don't even bother to read it; it's bad!)

What is it about Arizona, anyway?

I think I know: it must be Area 51, in Nevada. You know, where all those UFO's came to visit the US (and brought along cosmic energy, I guess?)

No wait, here's one better: Roswell, New Mexico.

Mychal Judge, OFM; WTC Victim 0001, Sinner, Healer, Man of God, Man of Men

2011-09-10T14:59:00.000-04:00

Alright, Who Did The Rain Dance?

2011-09-08T16:44:00.000-04:00

Picture of Fairfax Connector North Park and Ride Lot, Thursday 9/8/11 afternoon, courtesy of Reston Patch.

Man, where did all this rain come from? It was a 3-hour commute home today. With some of the major thoroughfares being closed because of flooding, the side roads were packed. Which made it difficult for emergency vehicles to get through, and there were plenty of them today.

I hear that part of Fairfax is under mandatory evacuation order. Here's hoping that everyone is safe and dry.

Flaming Red and Body Arts

2011-09-05T17:27:00.000-04:00

Exquisite composition, as shared by Sly Vegas, from my G+ Photography circle.

I am no people photographer, but I know a good people photograph when I see one.

(I am partial to brunettes. And Harley Davidson. Body arts optional, but that's neither here nor there! :o) )

Vietnamese Idol Channeling Lady Gaga...

2011-09-04T10:06:00.000-04:00

Oh Em Gee! The guy musta forgotten to take his meds!

The Gods of the Blues

2011-09-03T09:31:00.000-04:00

Anne Hathaway and Hugh Jackman in Les Miz?

2011-09-01T16:13:00.000-04:00

That's the rumor.

I like that rumor! Lots!

O.K.L.A.H.O.M.A.!

2011-09-01T16:06:00.000-04:00

Yeah! :o)

"How to talk to a Naked Lady..."

2011-09-01T15:49:00.000-04:00

...and other photographic techniques, here (NSFW!)

I have recently joined a photographic club, consisting primarily of studio owners. There have been opportunities to work inside studios, lighting set-ups, general studio techniques, etc.; some with live nude models.

This headline for this class however got me chuckling.

The description of the class:

This is an excellent opportunity for a max of 6-8 photographers to get some awesome shotz. Working with the beautifully talented Alexandria..., we'll demonstrate how to get as many "pictures within the picture" with a single pose, usuing "the eye" for nwe perspectives. Alexandria and I will help all to better understand how to direct a model with purpose, while being clear and non-offensive, building a trusting relationship. It's essential for great images.

In this case, the model will be nude. That's a factor that makes communication more confusing and uncertain for many photographers. By the hour's end, each of you will have a variety of first rate shotz of the gorgeous Alexandria. You'll go confidently into your next nude shoot armed with inside information from a seasoned model and photographer. Ther'll be demonstations of effective communicaton and posing, and the stuff atht doesn't work, too. Both full body shotz and bodyscapes will be a part of the hour.

A Bit Of Sunshine For This Cloudy Day

2011-08-27T20:05:00.000-04:00

Strange Sighting: Hurricane Helmets

2011-08-27T11:03:00.000-04:00

As I was out and about this morning, I noticed a few people walking around with their bike helmets on (similar to the gentleman to the far right in pic above). Without their bikes and/or other bike gears. Some even in their flip-flops.

By this point, the rain was already coming down pretty steadily and the wind had started picking up.

Strange, I thought, until I realize the helmet was for protection, against potential flying debris.

What a great idea!

(Don't take me wrong: I have no plans to venture out any time soon. But if I have to, my helmet will be going with me. I know, it might look strange, but--considering that it's my head--I don't care even if I look like Bozo!)

You Cyclists Out There, Put Your Passion To Good Use

2011-08-26T16:46:00.000-04:00

Hurricane Preparedness

2011-08-26T14:46:00.000-04:00

From WTOP:

Here are some quick tips you may not have considered:

Get cash. If there's no power, there's no access to ATM machines.
Get gas. No electricity means gas stations can't pump.
Charge your mobile devices. A power failure may knock out your cellphone. And if the only other phones you have at home are cordless, you could be without any telephone service at all.
Get food. You should have several days worth of non-perishable food on hand. But if there's no power, you better have a good, old-fashioned manual can opener since your electric can opener will be useless.
Get batteries and a radio, and know your local stations. WTOP operates at 103.5, 103.9, and 107.7 FM
Get supplies for your pets. If you can't stay in your home, it's important to know in advance if shelters and hotels will welcome animals. For more storm-related pet tips, click here.
If you need to buy something, do it today. If the power is out, places like supermarkets will not have scanners or cash registers. Lines could be be VERY long.
Stock up on bottled water. If you get water from a well, you'll need jugs of water for personal use including toilet-flushing because if the power goes out, no well water. Fill up your bathtub, too.
Clean out your rain gutters. If we get heavy rains, they could be a trouble spot.
Look at large trees near your house. Find branches that could pose a potential threat in high winds, and trim them now.
Bring in or lash down lawn and patio furniture and plants. Those items could turn into missiles smashing your windows in high winds.
Make sure your sump pump is operating and that storm drains are not blocked. If the power goes out and your sump pump can't operate, consider getting items in your basement that would be ruined by water placed up on saw horses or tables.

Even if Irene misses us entirely, you and your family will at least have gone through a preparedness drill for the NEXT problem that gets thrown at us.

If it doesn't, Montgomery County offers these tips for what to do during and after the storm.

During a storm:

Avoid using candles for lighting. Use a battery-powered flashlight.
Never use a candle when fueling equipment such as a kerosene heater or lantern, since the candle flame can ignite fumes from the fuel.
Try to stay in an interior room or away from windows.
Stay calm and do not call 911 unless it is an emergency.
If flooding occurs, turn off electricity at the main breaker.
During a power outage, turn off major appliances. This will minimize losing power again through a power surge and protect the equipment when power returns.
Do not go outside. Flying debris from high winds is a danger. As the eye of the storm passes, there will be a short period of calm followed by rapid wind speed increases to hurricane force that will come from the opposite direction.

After a storm:

Do not touch fallen or low-hanging wires of any kind under any circumstances. Stay away from puddles with wires in or near them. Do not touch trees or other objects in contact with power lines.
Use phones only for emergencies. Call 911 only for life-threatening situations.
Call police or your utility companies immediately to report hazards such as downed power lines, broken gas or water mains or overturned gas tanks.
Avoid areas subject to flooding, including low spots, canals and streams. Do not attempt to drive on a flooded road -you can be stranded or trapped.
Do not operate charcoal grills, propane camping stoves or generators indoors.

For more tips and info, check out ready.gov.

If your power is knocked out, call your utility company:

Pepco: 1-877-737-2662
Dominion Virginia Power: 1-866-366-4357
Baltimore Gas & Electric: 1-877-778-2222
Allegheny: 1-800-255-3443
NOVEC: 1-888-335-0500
SMECO: 1-877-747-6326

Is That Snickering I Hear From The West Coast...

2011-08-24T15:01:00.000-04:00

...About our little tremor?

"As if New Yorkers aren't arrogant enough; now they've "survived an earthquake." So what?! We had a bigger disaster - the Kardashian wedding."

"5.9? That's what us Californians use to stir our coffee with :)"

"ATTN NYC: That wasn't an earthquake. It's a Michael Bay movie gone rogue! FLEE THE CITY."

"Lots of east coasters sent home after the #earthquake. If we got to go home early after every quake in SoCal, we'd never get any work done."

"The collective eye-rolling of everyone in California is probably moving the earth more than the east coast #earthquake."

"In Alaska, we don't even get out of bed for a less than 6.0 earthquake."

"To all my east coast friends, earthquakes are just natural events that occur when real estate values become too high."

We had a M5.8 earthquake today. The damage?

2011-08-23T19:29:00.000-04:00

I think I will have another one! :o)

Born To Be Wild...

2011-08-23T14:21:00.000-04:00

Thanks to Mr. Richter, we got some riding time in! :o)

Hot Cops, Part Deux

2011-08-19T10:43:00.000-04:00

Pretty In Pink, not! More like Deadly In Pink.

These pretty women are members of the Chinese militiawomen.

Pink miniskirt, high-heeled jack boots?

Listen honey, you would never have to point that AK-47 at me. I readily yield. :o)

Hot Cops

2011-08-19T10:37:00.000-04:00

The following clip is reportedly from an Iranian Women's Police Commando graduation ceremony:

I tell ya, Islamic women in general are a step behind their men, but these women look BA-DASS. Just imagine, one of them scaling down your wall and/or dropping in through your window; or behind your car, hanging out their police car window, popping AK-47's at you?

In their flowing black, ummm, coveralls?

You would behave, wouldn't you? I would.

What Is Jazz?

2011-08-12T16:21:00.000-04:00

Jazz has always been like the kind of a man you wouldn't want your daughter to associate with.
-- Duke Ellington

My kid brought back for me some "Coffee Weasel"

2011-08-12T10:53:00.000-04:00

"You don't park in MY bike lane!"

2011-08-08T18:04:00.000-04:00

So said the mayor of Lithuania's capital.

Link: Vilnius Mayor Crushes Car in Bike Lane With a Tank

My New Alarm Clock

2011-08-03T16:18:00.000-04:00

I forgot that I have bird feeder attached to one of my windows. Until a recent morning, at oh-dark-hundred (and that's pretty early), this little guy showed up, happily tweeting away while eating his breakfast.

I don't mind (most of the times): it's a pleasant sound to wake up to.

The Little Mermaid -- "Kiss the Girl"

2011-08-02T15:59:00.000-04:00

Don't laugh. (And I don't really care if you have to. :o) )

Have been trying to learn the Reggae beat (see previous post, "Knocking on Heaven's Door, another reggae song).

Reggae is a rather counter-intuitive rhythm to those of us so brain-washed in Western music convention. In conventional Western music, the emphatic beats, in a 4/4 time signature, are beats 1 and 3. In Reggae, the main beats are 2 and 4. It really messes with you. Once you get it though... :o)

You don't have to watch the video. Close your eyes, listen to the bass line, and you will know what I mean.

Ladysmith Black Mambazo - "Knocking on Heavens Door"

2011-08-02T15:29:00.000-04:00

One of a couple of songs I am working on.

I know "Heaven's Door" is Marley/Clapton classic, but I really get a kick (almost literally!) out of this rendition by Ladysmith Black Mambazo, performing with Dolly Parton.

The song is really not a happy song, but they manage to give it an almost upbeat vibe.

Ladysmith Black Mambazo is--at heart--a group of proud educators, bringing the sound of their South African Zulu heritage to the world. And to their own Zulu children. You can read more about the group here.

Welcome Back, Gabby!

2011-08-01T17:43:00.000-04:00

April In Saigon

2011-07-31T18:00:00.000-04:00

Generations And Worlds Apart, Together

A Tribute To The US Women's National Team

2011-07-26T17:27:00.000-04:00

By three local high-school girls who have WAY too much time on their hands... :o)

At Wolf Trap for Emmilou Harris...

2011-07-23T15:20:00.000-04:00

It's been a long time...

Memories...

2011-07-21T16:23:00.000-04:00

He reaches across, takes her hand. His hand is always so warm, almost hot. Opens her hand, traces his index finger along the lines in her palm. His dark skin a stark contrast against hers; almost black on white.

She pushes back the hand. Shakes her head.

~~~

She pulls up the cover. Then pulls his arm around her waist, tucks it underneath her breasts. Feels its warmth on her skin. Pushes her back onto his chest. Feels his heart.

Skin on skin, sated, exhausted.

"I wan to stay like this forever!"

"We don't have anywhere to go now, do we?"

Feels his lips on her earlobe. Then on her shoulder.

"Nope!"

"I almost forgot what's like to..."

"Me too!"

She looks out the window. A soft rain has come. Rain drops glisten, shimmer, on the window pane. Closes her eyes.

"It seems to rain whenever I am with you!"

He pulls her body closer.

"When you are not here, I think of the rain. It always brings you back..."

"Let it rain then! Forever, rain."

~~~

"I have to go."

He lightly nods his head. Leans across the table, wipes the tears from her cheek.

She pushes back her chair, stands up, turns to go. Then turns back. Will I ever see you again, she wants to ask, but thinks better of it. Finds his eyes, deep, soft, brown.

It's as though he senses her question. Yes, the eyes seem to say. Yes!

She opens the cafe's door, sees his reflection on its glass. Sitting very still, his fingers caressing the condensation droplets on the water glass.

Set sail, let the wind take you where it may. Maybe one day, it will bring you back to me again!

It's Gonna Be HOT, So Stay COOL

2011-07-21T02:04:00.000-04:00

... EXCESSIVE HEAT WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM NOON TODAY TO 8 PM EDT THIS EVENING... ... EXCESSIVE HEAT WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM NOON TO 8 PM EDT FRIDAY...

* TEMPERATURE... UPPER 90S TO AROUND 100 DEGREES.

* HEAT INDEX VALUES... UP TO 115.

* TIMING... THE WORST OF THE HEAT WILL BE DURING THE AFTERNOON AND EARLY EVENING HOURS THURSDAY AND FRIDAY. EXCESSIVE HEAT LIKELY WILL CONTINUE ON SATURDAY.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

AN EXCESSIVE HEAT WARNING MEANS THAT A PROLONGED PERIOD OF DANGEROUSLY HOT TEMPERATURES WILL OCCUR. THE COMBINATION OF HOT TEMPERATURES AND HIGH HUMIDITY WILL CREATE A DANGEROUS SITUATION IN WHICH HEAT ILLNESSES ARE LIKELY. DRINK PLENTY OF FLUIDS... STAY IN AN AIR-CONDITIONED ROOM... STAY OUT OF THE SUN... AND CHECK IN ON RELATIVES AND NEIGHBORS.

TAKE EXTRA PRECAUTIONS IF YOU WORK OR SPEND TIME OUTSIDE. WHEN POSSIBLE... RESCHEDULE STRENUOUS ACTIVITIES TO EARLY MORNING OR EVENING. KNOW THE SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF HEAT EXHAUSTION AND HEAT STROKE. WEAR LIGHTWEIGHT AND LOOSE-FITTING CLOTHING WHEN POSSIBLE AND DRINK PLENTY OF WATER.

TO REDUCE RISK DURING OUTDOOR WORK... THE OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH ADMINISTRATION RECOMMENDS SCHEDULING FREQUENT REST BREAKS IN SHADED OR AIR-CONDITIONED ENVIRONMENTS. ANYONE OVERCOME BY HEAT SHOULD BE MOVED TO A COOL AND SHADED LOCATION. HEAT STROKE IS AN EMERGENCY - CALL 9 1 1.

World-Class Reflection

2011-07-19T03:18:00.000-04:00

Thoughts, musings, rants, & other idle wondering..

It Could Have Been About Me And My Daughter

Multiply "Account Deletes" Warning

Top 10 questions asked of (female) cyclists

My Sis MN and The Shake Weight

Thank You, Representative Giffords

Sugar Plum Fairies, Dancing...

"Send In The Clowns" -- Bernadette Peters and Steven Sondheim

"Tomorrow", My Precious, "Is Only A Day Away"

Asian Grandma Rocks The Blues

"Res Firma Mitiscere Nescit"

Keeping the Blues alive

No-Pants Sunday Is Coming To Town

Yea, It's January 2nd

My Assistant And Me

How to go up the steps, butt-first...

The Christmas Child

Da Whole Fam-damn-ly

Beauties, 3rd Gen

"Jesus Christ Superstar" is back on Broadway

Beautiful Colors

Tho Thweet...

A New York Christmas Story

Five Things (Food-Wise) To Fight A Cold

New Yorkers, Surly?

On Broadway...

The Best Pizza In Queens

The Best Pizza In Queens

God-Spellbound

�i...

Sh!t That Siri Says

Crossing Over To The Dark Side

Season's Greetings

Mommy And Babies

Showing Off My Seattle Memento

The Things You Can Do With The Top Tube...

Autumn, On Two Wheels

Laughing Babies, Part Deux

Laughing Babies...

Lt. Dan Band

Memo From God, To Harold Camping

I'd Like A Little Whiskey In My Soup, Please

Congress, You Payin' Attention?

D.C., Sounders, United

Anxious...

Seattle and the Bicycle

Eat Your Heart Out, Copenhagen...

Pink Martinini and Seattle

Scared the livin' cr@p outta me...

Damn TSA took my shampoo...

Hangin' Out In Man Cave With Favorite Ponny

Little Tiny Feet

Uh Oh...

Indigo Blue [2]

TOP GUN, Post-DADT

Words and Tears

Well, Look Who Came By...

Sophie Milman -- "People Will Say We're In Love"

Why Is Everyone Smiling At Me Today?

Happy 75th Birthday to Master Muppet Magician Jim Henson

Driving the 495 Beltway is like driving an autocross course

Hope: RELAX!

Sophie Milman -- Make Someone Happy

A Complete Smile, Finally

Riding Up A Wall

The Simplicity of Beauty

The Simplicity of Happiness

David Beckham Working At Target

What Is He Doing To My Hope? Part Deux

What Is He Doing To My Hope?

Arizona Neo-Tantra Temple: Busted!

Mychal Judge, OFM; WTC Victim 0001, Sinner, Healer, Man of God, Man of Men

Alright, Who Did The Rain Dance?

Flaming Red and Body Arts

Vietnamese Idol Channeling Lady Gaga...

The Gods of the Blues

Anne Hathaway and Hugh Jackman in Les Miz?

O.K.L.A.H.O.M.A.!

"How to talk to a Naked Lady..."

A Bit Of Sunshine For This Cloudy Day