Happy Holidays!

Half A Month

Has it been that long since I've updated my blog? And more importantly, can I really be that busy at work?

Unfortunately, work has been taking up more time than I'd like it to - but I won't go into that. But can I just tell you how exasperated I am by the fact that all this work is taking so much time that I haven't even started making my holiday cards yet?!

Well, between work and all those holiday parties.

Speaking about working late and being fellatiated in photos, I haven't done any gift shopping either. For other people I mean - I bought myself a cute sweater and two pairs of pants that make my ass look amazing from Brooklyn Industries.

Anyway, here's my holiday message to you: Happy Holidays and a Happy New Year!

Oh, and if you're on my card list, I'd probably expect it sometime mid-January. And probably as an e-card. Eh... Cheers!

Wicked Weather

The first snow of the season happened this past weekend; starting early Sunday morning and stopping mid-afternoon. Even though there were warnings from the weathermen, I heard story after story of car wrecks and train delays on the news.

Warning heeded. I took my snow boots out from storage. And by snow boots, I mean my mean-ass waterproof hiking boots with the rubber soles. What a mistake that turned out to be.

Going through the subway stations were like a death roller-derby; but instead of roller-babes it's puffy-jacket moms with SAKS bags. And who knew that my boots, with their rubber soles, would become ice skates on the subway floors? Not me...

...until I slipped and fell down some subway stairs.

I'm fine. Walked it off and did some shopping, had a lovely dinner in Chinatown, and was walking merrily in the rain...

...until a gypsy cab drove close to the curb and sprayed me with street water.

Damn weather!

Successful Weekend Delivery!

This past Sunday I ran GLWD's Race to Deliver. Even though the weather was overcast and cold, and I hate running in the cold, it turned out fabulous! Running with Team Storm, and it being our first anniversary, was truly inspirational. Okay, I'll stop with the Lifetime Original movie moment; after I mention this:

Not only was it my one year anniversary of running, I set a personal best! Four miles in 30:33! That's a 7:38 pace/mile! For those scratching your heads, it's pretty fast.

Later that afternoon, I bought myself a cashmere sweater in magenta (from Uniqlo) as a present for myself.

That night, I took my mom to see Wintuk, as a present to her! Good show. Not great, good; but my opinion might be skewed because I was so tired from the run.

In other news, I finally watched Adam & Steve. Cute movie. Isn't Steve the guy from Caroline in the City?

And while you ponder that, Happy Thanksgiving ya'll!

Fashion Brings Out the Crazy

Ever since the weather in New York City turned cold, I've started shopping like crazy. Okay, I'm lying - I'm always shopping like crazy. But I'm blaming all the great stuff that's coming out.

I'm extremely impressed with Uniqlo; the 2-layer gloves (glove inside fingerless glove) are fabulous! Who cares if they're "womens" gloves - plus, I have delicate hands; the neutral colors are always out of stock! Other items of note: Pantone-color cashmere sweaters are in, bright and fun! Regular cashmere is on sale; and some are exactly the same color as the Pantone ones. Choose wisely!

CB2 SoHo opened this week, and while I have yet to drop some dough, browsing through the store made me yearn for an apartment with more space; and a foyer.

And can I tell you how crazy H&M was today? Roberto Cavalli's designs for H&M (Roberto Cavalli + H&M = Hoberto Mavalli?), aka animal-prints-on-cheap-fabric, went on sale today and it was a mad house. I'm loving how fashion brings out the crazy in people:

"Bitch if you grab that, I'm going to fucking cut you."

Nice.

How Did I Go Into Work Today?

Like this... [+/-]

What's Worse Than...

What's worse than finding a cockroach in your coffee?

Finding it as it slips into your mouth on your last sip. Ew!

This didn't happen to me, but it did happen to Boopy (the poor thing). He was sufficiently grossed out that he's avoiding the corner deli and since started making coffee at home. I don't blame him.

As for me, I've never stopped going to a restaurant because I've found a roach in the food, especially if the food is good; growing up eating in Chinatown restaurants, it happens. Avoiding it for a few days? Maybe.

With Boopy, even with the strongest convictions I couldn't avoid him for a days.

Especially when today is the two year anniversary of our first date.

Cheers and Jeers to Rowling

Cheers to J. K. Rowling for acknowledging that Dumbledore is gay. Jeers to her for not writing him as gay.

Then again, what is there really to write about? His sexuality isn't at all important to any storyline in the books; including it would be an obvious political statement (of sorts). In a word, unnecessary.

I've always had an inkling that he could be gay; an old, beloved educator who was never married nor had any children. The possibility is just staring at you in the face.

Too bad it wasn't touched on. In fact, it's too bad Rowling didn't write any gay characters into the story. A pair of lesbian witches in flannel robes and mullets would have been sweet; especially if they were part of the Order.

Speaking of which, I don't remember Sirius Black ever dating a woman...

Also, Leaky Cauldron's transcript of J. K. Rowling's Carnegie Hall Reading here.

Bachelor Party = Party Bus + Stripper?

I had the privilege, no, pleasure of attending the crazy madness that was my friend Ry's bachelor party. Aside from the obvious entertainment value of being face-humped by a muscle hunk in a banana hammock, being on a moving 'party bus' brought the insanity to a whole new level.

Enjoy.

Ode to October

Oh dear October, why must you tease me with your cool, but not cool enough for a jacket, weather? Do you not realize that I've just bought a new fall coat? Oh when will you stop playing these games with me!

Anyway, if you haven't see it already - check out the SNL skit, Iran So Far. I must have listened to it a billion times by now.

The Day That Shit Hit the Fan

Do you have one of those days where every where you turn, bad news just crops up? Today is one of those days for me.

But instead of whining about it, like I have done in the past, I'll focus on what I'm doing to help myself get through it.

1. Believe in yourself. I can take what life throws at me; and I can do it fabulously.
2. Think about solutions. It's easy to be lost and spiral if you have nothing to hold on to. Thinking about possible solutions gives me footholds and helps the spinning stop.
3. Release it. Scream! Punch! Dance! Releasing it helps you de-stress.
4. Talk it out, if possible. Communication helps resolve issues.
5. Get perspective. How small my problem(s) is compared to others less fortunate than me? This is one reason that drives me to volunteer, too.
6. Think about what you have; the people you love. At the end of the day, that is what's important.
7. Realize that at the end of the day, all things have a knack for working themselves out.

And if none of that works, happy hour is from 4-8pm. I think I feel better already. :)

Start Your Mooncakes!

Hm. Is it the 15th day of the eighth lunar month Chinese calendar already? That means it's Mid-Autumn Festival time!

So light up your lanterns, eat your mooncakes, and bask in the glorious light of the full moon! Don't forget to eat something red, for good luck!

Why Is My Body Revolting?!

Before you jump to any conclusions, I do not have a body dysmorphic disorder; I'm pretty happy with how I look and acknowledge that beauty is in the eye of the beholder.

Now that I've said that, I really do think my body is revolting; against me!

My sinuses' have been acting up in the morning and I can hardly breath without hacking up a loogie. My gums started hurting a few days ago, behind my upper right molar, and it feels inflamed - ugh!

Then last night, in the midst of a huge heartburn attack (brought on by ibuprofen taken for the 'gum' issue), I find out I have a huge, painful to touch, zit! That's not on my face.

What have I done to deserve this, oh body of mine? And how can I make it up to you?

Fun at Comix

I was invited to go see Lea DeLaria's Big Gay Comedy Show last night at Comix, and it was hilarious!

I mean, I always thought that gay people, and lesbians (lest I be chided by the angry dikes), were funny in general; but the lineup yesterday shot right past funny into ludicrous. And you know it's going to be a good time when someone jokes about going down on Laura Bush... and then enacts it.

"Like a triscuit... crinkle crinkle crinkle!"

Ew.

Great performances throughout, and kudos to plus-sized burlesque star Glenn Marla! And a reality star sighting - Josie from Top Chef Season 2!

Update: Speaking of Josie, I saw this article on how she was the victim of an anti-gay assault in Long Island. Seeing her this past Monday, I'm glad to know she's out and about, looking fabulous.

Not Always Personal

In my own mind, I like to pretend that I'm a very consistent person when dealing with others - always social, smiley, and go lucky; even when, internally, my mood can be swinging like a pendulum.

But I also know that I wear my heart on my sleeve, and emotions on my face. People seem to read it easily.

Like when I'm troubled by something, my brow gets all furrowed, and I get all quiet. Even though it has nothing to do with my current company, they see it.

Knowing this, I suppose I shouldn't always expect other people to always have the same demeanor when dealing with me; and I can't possibly be expected to always know why someone has a change in demeanor. So I shouldn't take it personally if it does happen.

Ok, diary. Thanks for helping me think this through. Back to work!

Stop the Paparazzi!

Me and my adopted Nigerian baby. Angelina Jolie and Mattox's got nothing on us!

Dream #241 Comes True!

Thanks to a very generous person, I was able to get the much coveted Anya Hindmarch "I'm Not A Plastic Bag" bag that I lamented about!

We've been inseparable ever since (except when it rains - who knows what might happen when it gets wet)! We went to work, to the gym, out to dinner. Here we are shopping on Saturday afternoon!

I had to rock my "I'm Not A Plastic Fag" tee (buy that here) and my white short shorts.

So thank you generous person! You helped me take my gayness to a whole new level!

What Would You Do?

If my friend just told me that they were videotaped dancing, drunk, and it was uploaded to YouTube, I'd probably be there in half a click.

Now, what if 'dancing' was really 'having sex'; and 'YouTube', was some sex site? I might have to give it some thought...

Would you, or wouldn't you?

Two Weddings and A Funeral

This past Saturday, I attended two wedding parties.

The morning celebration was out on a beautiful New Jersey shore (who knew?). The weather was amazing and the celebration was short and sweet, just the way I like it.

My only critique was how the priests' continuous worked the "God made marriage for a man and a woman" bit into every other sentence; nearly a quarter of the attendants were gay.

That night, I went to a lovely, traditional 9-course Chinese wedding dinner celebration in Chinatown. It was held at a restaurant I don't normally eat at, but was surprised to find the food decent.

I would not recommend having two 'wedding meals' in one day.

On Sunday, I went to Sea Tea. I think that's all I need to say (refer to the title of this post).

The Beat Of Their Own Drums

Wow. Did I just spend 5 hours in a movie theater watching the Drum Corps International Division I Quarterfinals on the big screen?

Damn straight I did!

I didn't think I would like it that much, nor did I expect to stay for the entire competition, but when things got rolling, time flew by! These teams are incredible. Incredible! The skill, the talent, the imaginations!

I'll admit that, at first, I thought these groups (teams?) would be more or less half-time-show quality marching band (read: not very good), possibly glorified (and boring). But when the first group started performing, and their color guard started dancing, and all of them moved in formation, it was bedazzling. Did I just say bedazzling? I guess so.

Anyway, my favorite performance of the night was definitely the Carolina Crown (see a short clip here) - ingenious! For the best performance, I have to give up to the Blue Devils. You can check out their coverage of the quarterfinals here.

And can I just say how many gay men were also in the theater too? With all the music and dancing (being performed by hot, young men no less!), I guess I shouldn't be surprised.

Does this make me a band geek fan?!

Inspired

When Anya Hindmarch's "I'm Not A Plastic Bag" bag landed in the US, I was determined to get one. Unfortunately, I didn't stand a chance against the angry mob of (mostly) Asian women to get one (and they're on limited release).

Empty-handed, I felt inspired; I knew I could be part of the craziness, but with my own twist of course. Behold my latest creation:

What do you think it says? :)

Buy your own now for just $19.99!

Special Thanks to Louisa and Norman for helping me make this happen!

Geek or Greek?

Every time I hear there's some Comic or Sci-fi convention going on, I get giddy and this incredible urge to do anything (and everything) possible to attend wells up inside me. And even worse, I start getting pre-halloween delusions of the perfect 'outfit' (some would say 'costume') to wear. One time, it was Xena.

As a teen, I used to collect comic books and play video games (a lot). That was a previous stage in my life, though I will still enjoy a game here and there. And who doesn't like to dress up, eh?

Ultimately, I can never rationalize going and let it fall by the wayside, living vicariously through news reports and online photographs. And then I stumbled on this on Wired:

I think I might have to try harder next year...

Photo credit: Wired.com: Knights, Heroes and Vixens Converge at Comic-Con 2007

My Plans Tonight

I got the following message from the mothership tonight after dinner (in a delicious cookie container):

And when I'm done cleaning up, I'll continue to read Harry Potter (which finally arrived in the mail today). Don't you dare tell me what happens!

Can You Tell How Excited I Am?

It's the day before the seventh, and final, Harry Potter book comes out. Obviously, there are tons of events happening around the city. To me, this is absolutely insane. When was the last time you heard of a bookstore open at midnight? Oh right, when the last book came out.

It's crazy! Of course, being a Harry Potter fan myself, I'll be attending some of those events. Wand making, potion making, live owls! It'll take all my self-control not to knock those little brats over to get to the front, but I think I can do it. No promises on the squealing though.

Steam Explosion Rocks NYC

Taken en route to dinner at a nearby restaurant.

More on this here.

Sicko!

Everyone needs to watch Michael Moore's newest flick, Sicko.

While I agree with some critics who say the film is slightly propagandistic (our worst vs. their best), it is just sad and disgusting to realize how bad the lack of health care is in this country! Never mind comparing us to other countries!

The worst part of it all is the fact that not only do the uninsured suffer, but so do the insured! Co-pays! Medications! Deductibles! By no means is health insurance free! How can a middle-class family financially survive the increasing costs of a heart-attack? Of cancer?

Are there drawbacks? No system is perfect; but does that mean socialized systems never work? Think about your local policemen, firemen, public libraries, and post offices.

In the end, I'd rather be funding the government to help take care of its people, than to a bunch of shareholders - can you guess whose interest these shareholders have at heart?

I Knew Him Once

Even though I knew one of the police officers tangentially (we went to the same school; had mutual friends), I feel emotionally affected than I expected. Aside from it being a f*cked up situation, I suppose most of that feeling is coming from how similar we are in our heritage and history. I think we might have went bowling once.

And then another part of me feels melancholy about the fact that I no longer speak to those mutual friends. While they say tragedy brings people closer together, I probably won't seek a reunion. Sigh. What reason do I have to rekindle those friendships after we chose to leave them?

In any case, I hope he makes a full recovery. And that they catch the suspects. They get what they deserve.

Off to Mass.

After today, I can finally check off Ptown off my checklist for this summer!

Have a wonderful Independence Day ya'll!

Ebay Search: 8gb iPhone

6020 items found for 8gb iPhone in Cell Phones & PDAs. Hm.

And considering people can still walk into an Apple store and buy one with nary a line, I guess I'll have my mom return those extra two tomorrow.

A Tip on Freezing Water

I read (or heard) somewhere that to conserve energy, you should keep your freezer filled; if not with food, then bottled water. This helps keep the temperature cold, and when you open the door, less cold air will be lost. Additionally, if there's a power outage, you can use the bottled water to maintain the cool temperature in the fridge.

So I took some bottles from my recycling bin, washed them out, filled them with tap and put them in the fridge. By the next morning, I had a tip of my own:

Don't use glass bottles.

Happy Pride!

Recently, over dinner, a friend posed the question, "Being Pride month, what are you proud of?" My answer was, "Uhm.. I don't know. Staying at my current job for more than a year?" Not that I have a habit of switching jobs often, but that my behavior around my co-workers haven't landed me a couple of hundred sexual harassment lawsuits.

Anyway, after thinking about the question, it dawned on me that I wasn't especially proud of being gay - not that I'm not proud either. I just didn't separate myself into those attributes.

I guess I'm saying that I'm proud of myself; all 5'8" gay Asian of it. It doesn't need to be June either. Which isn't at least surprising considering how accepting New York City has become; all the gay bars, all the weekly gay parties, Chelsea, and Hell's Kitchen.

But I can understand how Pride month is still relevant, especially to demonstrate to everywhere else in the world that it's happening.

So if I was asked the same question, "What am I proud of?", I would answer, "I'm proud of belonging to this wonderful city, and how accepting it has grown to be. And not being fired yet."

Happy Pride ya'll!

Muse of the Day

Projects 85: Dan Perjovschi

I had the worst customer service experience at an unnamed New York Sports Club (on Irving Place) yesterday.

In short, the girl at the front desk was rude and curt. Especially when she didn't look at me when I was talking to her. She wouldn't even call a membership consultant when I asked to speak to one.

So I took my business to another club.

To Give or Not To Give?

If I give, I'd be lying to save people's lives. If I don't, I'll be denying to help people in need.

Which is worse?

Cause for Concern?

Ever since I ate some poorly cooked mussels (at a restaurant I used to think was good), I've been having some... issues. And by 'issues', I mean the ones that require Imodium.

Aside from being a bit gassy (and some slight cramping during the first two days), I haven't had any other symptoms. No fever, or jaundice, and my hair's not falling out (more than normal).

That is, until last night - when I dreamt that I was pregnant. And still a man. Could it be a premonition that a parasite was growing in me without any possible means for its expulsion? Should I be worried?

I'm going to try this clear liquid diet he's been raving about...

Best Moment of the Day

It wasn't the fact that Paris got sent back to jail, but the fact that it showed up on NYTimes.com. Right smack in the middle of the front page. And of her crying!

Have a great weekend ya'll! I'm headed to my birthday happy hour!

Oh the Anticipation!

I just had a fabulous pre-birthday weekend!

It started with a wonderful lunch at Isabella's; a stroll through the MoMA; a delicious vegan Sunday brunch at teany; and finished off with a home-cooked dinner complete with home-made bacon and shallot salad dressing and home-made stracciatella ice cream (not in the same dish)!

That was just the pre-celebration! And now it is my birthday!

I can't wait to see what's coming next! Whee!

Quick Note

I've started to wade my way through all my Italy vacation pictures. Click here to see what I've uploaded so far. More to come.

And more about the trip itself when I get the time.

Speaking of which, June is going to be a crazy busy month! My birthday right around the corner (hint) and so is Pride (with all the associated events).

And possibly a trip out to Fire Island, Provincetown, Rehoboth Beach, or Montreal; any of which would be my first visit. Teehee.

I Sense a Busy Weekend

Fleet Week 2007 coinciding with GB:NYC4. How is a boy to choose?!

Back from Italy!

After thirteen days, four Italian cities, three flights, three ferries, two trains, an island, and a strike (which led to a night in Terminal C of Hotel Aeroporti), I'm back in New York City.

It's just so damn good to be back home; where there's water pressure. And washcloths.

When I get over this jet lag, I'll share the over six hundred photos of numerous churches and museums with their masochistic/pornographic adornments and countless broken penises.

Love Bites

I was awoken in the middle of the night by an elbow and shove to the ribs. "I had a bad dream and now I'm mad at you," he said as he rolled away from me.

Ignoring his comment, I rolled over to him and promptly fell back asleep. Figuring out what happened can wait until the morning.

*cue Greig: Peer Gynt's Morning Mood*

The following morning, I asked him about the elbowing and this is what he said:

I dreamed that we went to a club, and it was early enough that we got in for free (author's note: which I am apt to do). But I didn't like the club and loud music, so I stepped outside for some fresh air (which he is apt to do).

When I tried to get back in, the doorman stopped me and wanted me to pay a cover charge! I told him I got in already and just needed some air, my boyfriend's inside, but he wasn't listening and still wanted me to pay the cover (don't you hate that?). $79! I wasn't going to pay that!

And then this manager lady comes outside wondering what was going on; after hearing the situation she decided to give me a discount of $59 instead. No way was I going to pay that either!

And that's when you come out asking,
"What's going on?"
"They won't let me back inside!"
"Why not?"
"They want me to pay a cover charge!"
"Oh yea, there's a cover for people over 30."

And that's when I woke up...

...mad at me.

Hear Them Howl

The best thing about working near Madison Square Garden is that when there's a dog show, you get to see all the cute animals.

Funny, it's the same thing when the Rangers have a game. Except Ranger fans are rowdier. And louder. Mm.. Ranger fans...

New Guilty Pleasure

A friend introduced me to Lily Allen. Her album Alright, Still, is just awesome. My favorite song is Knock 'em Out.

Check out this video, LDN, I found on YouTube.

I think I'm in love; and not just because she says 'crack whore' in her song.

Have a wonderful weekend ya'll!

Sympathy Pains

This past weekend was fabulous!

The weather was great. I ran the Central Park loop on Saturday. Helped this guy out of the hospital - he's looking great by the way. Saw Hot Fuzz again (with him) - it is STILL funny, if not more! Instant classic.

So why does my throat itch now? And why am I sneezing? Ugh. Karma balancing? Or sympathy pains? Nah, I'm not that sympathetic.

Oh, new theory - I caught a bug from Boopy (who was sick last week) and it was incubating all this time, waiting for this great weather before exploding the mucus membranes of my nose.

Ugh. Snot.

Horns in Trouble

"Horns" is going through a rough time - stop by and give him some love.

I'll be visiting him soon - and yes, that'll probably mean pictures coming soon, too.

Dreaming of Summer

It's mid-April and there's a chance it'll snow this weekend? What's going on?

At least the weather is improving slightly, I suppose.

Last night I had dinner at Mandoo Bar and dessert at PinkBerry, the latter recommended to me by my friend, Flo. As I was having my frozen yogurty concoction (with mochi, strawberries, and cookie crumbs), I thought about why its slightly sour, slightly sweet taste is so popular.

And then I realized it: people eat what their life is like. People like PinkBerry because it reminds them of their own life - a little sweet, a little sour, and topped with some sweet or fruity goodness^*.

Which would also explain people's fascination with sweet and sour chicken, and why I like to eat spicy foods.

Is it summer yet?

^* On a side note, while PinkBerry's yogurt is fat-free, I've also heard that it's actually rehydrated yogurt powder (imported); not fresh yogurt.

April Fools' Birthday Prank

For the birthday of a good friend (and coworker), I honored him with the following gift: What is it? [+/-]

A saran-wrapped cubicle.

It just so happens that his birthday is April 1^st. See him opening his 'present' here.

Computer Love

Yep. That's what my Cardio Video Dance instructor, Sheryl, calls me, Computer Love. I think I like it.

I've been taking this 'cardio dance class' at my gym, but it's more like they're looking for the next Pussy Cat Doll. That's why I love it. Sheryl is a choreographer who specializes in super sexy, scandalous dance moves. One time, my neck got so sore from all the head/hair whipping I couldn't give attitude the entire day!

So anyway, Sheryl is putting on a show tomorrow night: T(h)rash Through the Past, 10:30pm at the Bitter End. For those of you who can't make it, I'll let you know how it went!

Conservawha?

So I read this article on Wired.com about Conservapedia; yep, it's just what it sounds like - the conservatives' wikipedia.

As cited in the article, there's already a lot of hilarity to be found on the site; aside from the blatant hypocrisies in most of the articles I've read. Why, just take a gander at the discussion of their main page.

My favorite is their entry on Intercourse; uhm.. protected to prevent re-creation? I'm surprised their Sexual Intercourse entry doesn't include the stork.

And you KNOW I had to read their homosexuality page - how is it that Intercourse is deemed unfit, but the sections about anal sex are? Hm. But what is really interesting is the discussion of the page, especially the Biblical Relevance portion where it gives the true reason for Leviticus 'lie with man' verse.

Anyway, here's what I think about the whole thing, in a thousand words:

Shout out to my cousin, the lovely lass in the photo!

Pegg'ed!

I'm still giddy from seeing a screening of Hot Fuzz last night.

From the same guys that brought you Shaun of the Dead, this time they bring you their homage to the 'buddy cop' movies. It was really good (even though there was a bit too many of those 'cut scenes' which I assume is just part of the 'tribute' to the 'buddy cop' movies).

Even more exciting was the Q&A session afterwards with the stars and writers! Simon Pegg and Nick Frost in the flesh! It was just the icing on the cake. They spoke on writing techniques, working with veteran movie stars, and how it felt to beat The Living Daylights out of James Bond! (joke credit: Nick Frost)

And can I just say that Simon's normal speaking voice was so deep, entrancing, and British that I didn't want him to stop talking? He could be reading the dictionary or a bible for all I cared. Except he wasn't dull; he was clever and funny! *swoon*

And the rainbow sprinkles on top of the icing was the fact that the adorable Simon Pegg actually touched me! See his hand on my shoulder in that photo? He was so nice and accommodating and even said "Cheese!" when prompted by our photographer! Too cute!

I'm never washing my shoulder ever again! Well, maybe not never never.

Eidet Mobarak Obama Ya'll!

Eidet Mobarak! Translated: Happy New Year! a.k.a. Norouz.

It seems like it was only last week that there were some crazy Persians on the roof of my building jumping over a barbeq.. err.. bonfire to celebrate. Oh wait, it was last week.

Anyway, I wish all of you a wonderful year ahead; and as a gift, here's a clip of Maz Jobrani, an Iranian comic, that my roommate turned me onto:

Italy Bound!

I just booked a round-trip flight to Italy in May. I'm planning to make it a tour; flying into Milan, traveling to Venice, then Naples, and flying out of Rome.

Let the hatin' begin!

And while you're at it, leave some advice and suggestions; booking the flight was the only thing I did so far.

:)

It's True!

You can't use regular dish detergent in the dish washer because it will over foam and leak at the seams.

What? I'm used to washing dishes by hand!

I'm settling in my new apartment nicely. The new paint smell is slowly, but surely, dissipating; thanks to cleaning, cooking, and candles.

Pictures coming soon, right after I install my sling swing. Hehe.

New Tenants

I'm in my new apartment! It only took us 6 hours to move. Now I have to figure out how to get rid of the 'new paint' smell. Any ideas?

Anyway, it's slightly smaller than my old place, but what I lost in horizontal space, I gained even more vertically; the ceilings are at least 15'. It'll be a design challenge I'm willing to take!

So does anyone know where can I buy a swing?

Want to Waste Some Time?

Take the Impossible Quiz Deluxe!

I nearly wasted 4 hours doing it; and I still didn't finish it!

Warning: it's not what I would call a 'standardized' quiz... or anything close to normal. However, it is definitely clever and difficult, which makes me want finish it all that much more! ARGH!

Forecasted

"The Year of the Pig/Boar 2007 looks to be one filled with impatience, mobility, and change." - www.proastro.com

Sounds right so far; this year of the pig has definitely started with impatience, mobility (or lack thereof), and change.

In moving news, I've found a new apartment, paid the broker, yet I still haven't moved because the contractors haven't finished renovating. Of course, I'd rather they finish before I move in than after; but them being late means I can't move out of my current apartment, and March is coming up! I wouldn't make a big deal of it if they hadn't promised to be done this past weekend.

Living out of boxes isn't as fun as it sounds.

And then there's the extra-rude people on the subway. This woman thinks she owns all the space in the subway car just because she has a child with her. Someone must have cracked open her head and removed the words "excuse me" from her vocabulary, then put in the notion that she can just push people out of the way. If the child wasn't there, I would have turned on the profanity faucet.

And then all the weird dreams - probably due to the stress of my moving date and crazy subway people. Like the one where everyone has a super power and I almost had sex with a straight girl. Maybe my power was bisexualism? I forget.

Anyway, I hope this doesn't continue for the rest of the year!

Prankster Wednesday

There must have been some huge inside joke going on yesterday that I didn't know about. And why did no one tell me?

Walking down the street, I tried to be polite and tell someone they had some schmutz on their forehead and they just gave me the rudest look; like I was crazy.

Or maybe it was some giant art college/fratboy prank to put smudge on people's foreheads without them knowing? Pratt students can be so mischievous!

But the biggest prank of all was last night's episode of Lost. Answering three of the shows' biggest mysteries? Hah!

Thank goodness I had the totally awesome premiere of The Agency (on VH1) the day before, and Heroes the day before that, to carry me through.

Gung Hay Fat Choy!

Happy Chinese New Year everyone! February 18, 2007 starts the Year of the Pig (or more accurately, Golden Pig)!

Unlike the Western negative connotations for 'pig', the Chinese consider the pig (and those who were born in that year) fortunate; for they will be considered happy and healthy.

So go out there and have a Happy and Healthy Chinese New Year! Preferably with some nice, crispy bacon.

Meaningless Valentines

I don't buy into the whole Valentine's Day thing. I honestly believe it's one of those 'holiday's whose sole purpose is to drive capitalism. Now, while I'm all for making money off the saps who want to spend it, let's not confuse it with genuine intention.

It's the same as New Years resolutions. If you really wanted to celebrate the red-hot passionate, or puppy, love you share with someone, why do you need to wait until this arbitrary date? You don't. Just like you don't need a date to start 'eating healthier'.

Of course, I have no problems when couples choose to celebrate their love on this day, but the fact that this day is 'required' defeats its purpose. If you're expected to do it, it doesn't mean you want to do it. And if you don't want to do it, then it's meaningless. Choose a more meaningful date, like your anniversary.

What I consider even worse is the pressure it puts on people. A day to make those sappy singles out feel worse about themselves. And did you know that Feb. 14th is the date with the highest suicide rate? No? Probably because I just made that up - but it's something to think about next year when you're thinking about buying roses and chocolates, eh?

My main beef with Valentine's Day is it allows people to have 'lazy' relationship. "Great, here's one day of the year I say 'I love you', and I'm set for the year!" No wonder St. Valentine was a man. If it's expected, where's the spontaneity? Relationship atrophy. (It took me forever to remember that word!)

And when these expectations can't be met, they become unnecessary disappointments. Like when your Boopy is away with his family and can't enjoy a Valentine's Day dinner with you.

Fortunately I don't buy into the whole Valentine's Day thing. I realize that any day can be special enough to celebrate our love. Seriously, would you be okay with having sex just one day a year?

In Rememberance

Earlier today, after a valiant battle against cancer, Boopy's mom, Judy, passed away. I feel extremely lucky to have had the chance to meet her; she was a wonderful person. I was grateful to have been able to visit her this past weekend and bear witness to just how many lives she touched.

Throughout her ordeal, Judy kept high spirits, laughing and making jokes, and decided when it was all over that we should not be mourning her loss, but celebrating her life; and what a life!

Through the stories I've heard and the pictures I've seen (oh boy, are there pictures), I'm more than certain she lived a life full of adventure, excitement, love, laughs, drama, (not necessarily in that order) all in the while making time for family, friends, and a wine cooler or two.

And even though I will still mourn, I will follow Judy's wishes to celebrate her life. She may be gone, but she lives on in our memories.

Sweet Paprika

A few weeks ago, I was invited out to dinner and a show by this guy. My first choice was to try Rosa Mexicano at Union Square, but the maitre'd said the wait would be about two hours. For two people. To have Mexican food.

Was that the hint for me to slip her a Washington?

And isn't there a Chipotle just around the corner?

Any way, we ended up at Republic, where while the prices are slightly high, the music loud, and the tables crowded; the food is generally palatable. And therefore it attracts an attractive, younger crowd.

After some curry noodle soups and a bit of crowd watching, we met up with the fashionista and headed across the park to the weekly comedy show, Sweet Paprika.

We know the piano player, or as he put it, the Paul Schaffer, of the show. He told us it was gay night! How appropriate! After he regaled the audience with a medley of tunes (all from memory I might add), the gay funny show started.

I wish I could remember the names of the comedians, because most of them were funny; but the special mention goes out to the emcee of the night, Allison, who totally rocked.

Yes, it was rockin', it was raunchy, and the 'tenders were nice and cute. In other words, you should definitely check it out. And let me know so I can come with, k?

Apartment Hunting

Looking for an apartment is going to drive me crazy; dealing with brokers, listings, craigslist, citycribs, fees, no fees, nofees but some sort of fee; sifting through all the crap to find a decent listing, to find out that it's already rented and they just don't update their website; running into a dead end because everything is available immediately (whereas I have a March 1st move date).

Maybe I'm starting to look too early? That's what I've been told. But it never hurts to be prepared, right?

So just in case you can help me along, I'm looking for a 2 bedroom apt around $2000 in the Williamsburg area of Brooklyn (along the L train). Contact me via email or comments!

Now, since you're so kind enough to help me, I'll share some fun facts about my hunting so far:

Interesting note 1: I came across the website, Nycnofeebuildings.com, where Matt has some valuable Manhattan real estate facts. You can also buy a directory of no fee buildings. However, two attempts to contact him have been unanswered, and his license number (listed at the bottom) can't be found through the NYS Division of Licensing Services website. Hmm.

Creepy phone call 1: This guy literally had me on the phone for a good 10 minutes after I told him that his advertised apartment didn't sound like a good fit for me. Creepy quote #1: "You have a really sexy voice. Really sexy."

Belated

A Happy Belated Birthday to my baby, Boopy! (It was yesterday.)

Yes, I forgot to wish him a Happy Birthday, but to be fair, we did celebrate his birthday during the weekend; which included a "traditional" Chinese birthday dinner (see the chicken head?!), drinks at The Ritz, and some additional, unmentionable fun.

Heh.

But I still acknowledge the fact that I screwed up. So what to do now? Any suggestions on how I should make it up to him? I'll probably merge all your 'good' suggestions and come up with an amazing-super-hybrid idea! Let's get cracking!

Wack it!

I was reveling in the delicious chocolate orange smell of a coworkers' Fresh's Chocolate Orange Shea Butter when I was reminded of something else...

Chocolate. Orange. Chocolate Orange!

"What's that?" she asked.

As I tried to explain the intricacies of a chocolate orange, I thought to myself, "What ever happened to them? And wasn't there a red version (cherry?), too?" I had to inquire.

...google, wiki, youtube... Score!

I dutifully send her the link. And while giddy with my findings, I had to share with another coworker.

Me: Check out this video (see inset)!
Coworker: JESUS
Me: the chocolate orange shea butter reminds me of that
Coworker: omg TOTALLY
Me: you can [still] pick some up in long island can't you?
Coworker: prolly
Me: it's kitchy enough to make it on the island
Coworker: totally
Me: "barbara! get me one of them chocolate oranges!"
Coworker: no
Coworker: PEGGY
Me: sorry... lol!
Coworker: get me one of them fag oranges

At which point I almost sprayed a mouthful of tea at my monitor.

I must find one for coworker #1! (But from what I remember, they taste like crap.)

A Little Qr

Congrats to friend and fellow blogger, Kvn! His dreams are about to come true: His little Qr mag is about to hit it big - publication and distrubtion! Sweet!

Remember, you heard it here first! (Don't mind the little blurbs found here or here.)

Additionally, a piece I wrote might make it to the first issue, making me a published writer! Woohoo!

On the same note, I bought Showgirls a few days ago and had Kvn over for a showing. It was the first time we've seen it in its entirety; and oh my is it good. We couldn't stop laughing.

Jesse Spano is as 'exciting' as ever! But you already knew that.

Rock on sugar momma!

(Note: The clip is NOT from Showgirls, though I can see how you might get confused.)

Riddle Time!

What's the sound of a thousand mac geeks creaming at the same time?

I don't know.

But I'm guessing everyone in attendance to Macworld 2007's keynote got a good dose of it when he announced the new ApplePhone! You may have heard its other name: Guaranteed-to-get-you-laid phone.

1:31 PM: ApplePhone highlights: it's a phone, 8GB ipod, 2Mpx camera, no stylus, multi-touch screen - yes, this means you can use two fingers at once! - portable internet in your pocket! AND it features google!

But the most important question of all is: Does it come in hot pink?

1:38PM: Yahoo's on board too!

2:11PM: Cingular, priced at $499 for 4GB, $599 for 8GB!

Final thoughts: looks so delicious, I can't wait to get my hands on this one. Looks to be a great 'keep-you-connected' device. But I think the ultimate test is: How will it handle Myspace profiles?

Hm. See pics via engadget.

Quick! Check the Canaries!

Smell of Gas Covers NYC

We All Know It Happens At The Gym

But which is more gross?

(1) Seeing two guys head into the same bathroom stall or (2) the fact that one of them was barefoot?

Hm.

On the same note, seems like some maintenance workers are taking action against their former bosses at Equinox gyms. [via gawker]

Happy New Year!

I'm so glad I'm not in Times Square. Instead, I'm at home and a little disturbed they put a poor old stroked Dick on TV. (Was that a little insensitive? Tell it to the people who put him on TV!)