Tick-Tock-Tick-Tock-Tick-Tock + 1

This, my last post for 2009... A winter post of some kind...

What a year, huh?

Since my last visit to On My Sleeve, it has snowed on us on a couple of occasions. The snow on Christmas Eve was amazing to watch. I thought it was beautiful. For the first time in a long, long time, we had a white Christmas. As a result, I left Santa 3 more cookies than usual as a sign of "thanks." He gobbled them all up leaving 2 with a note, "1 for you, 1 for Charles."

It's perfectly normal to keep the spirit alive inside. It will always be okay. If you lost it or let it go somewhere along the way, make a special effort to retrieve it in 2010 and believe that it can make the impact you might need to get by... Certain things work in mysterious ways. Just believe.

2009. How was it for you? Did you accomplish what you set out to accomplish? Did you light it up? Did you make a difference? Did you do the right things? Did you set yourself up for an amazing 2010? Did you find something new? Did you forget about you found in 2008? Did you learn something about yourself? Did you grow? Did you say everything you needed to say? Did you laugh enough?

My year flew by... As I write to you, there are so many areas that I can dive into to describe my year. You've seen some of my year through On My Sleeve and like everyone, it can only tell some of the tale. To say that I am anxious for 2010 to begin would be an understatement. I'm ready. And I'm smiling...

Hope your year was good-to-great. Yes? No? There's always next year, right? Stay positive.

We're approaching an end of a decade and all I've seen (as of late) are lists of the best and worst of everything... The past 10 years have produced so many things to recall and remember... I wonder what our decade will come to represent when it's being compared to other decades at the dinner table over the next few years. I like to make lists. Not today, however.

I will say this about music... Wilco's Yankee Hotel Foxtrot might by my album of the decade. Yesterday, it was Takk... by Sigur Ros (really, any one of their efforts could be #1). On Christmas Day, it was Death Cab For Cutie's Transatlanticism. On 12/15, it was Boxer by The National. But on Thanksgiving, Heartbreaker by Ryan Adams was on top. Sometime during the days leading up to Christmas, Explosions In The Sky had my heart with The Earth Is Not A Cold Dead Place. Of course, I have to reference Oh, Inverted World by The Shins. It could be #1, but not today. Kill Them With Kindness by The Jealous Sound is perfect, but is it my album of the decade? Three weeks ago, it was... Powder Burns by The Twilight Singers truly bends my mind, but I had I settle on Wilco. For so many reasons... No list is ever perfect and mine really isn't really a list, but I kept going back to what YHF means on a larger scale. If you have it (and you should), you know exactly where I'm coming from... It's a good shotgun passenger for the moments that.......... Does it define the decade in music? No and I'm cool with that... Music evolved over the last 10 years and in many ways, it went out of its way to be 100% terrible. Honestly, what's spinning out there now has found at least 77 ways to annoy my inner ear. In other cases, so much music took my breathe away and challenged my ears over and over again. (Pause) Ten years of anything will age in different ways, but YHF really turned into a fine wine that rewards with every sip. Still, to this day, it makes me think. So, there you have it... My #1.

Be careful as you cross into next year. Keep both eyes open and stay away from the pink champagne. When midnight hits, hold someone close to you and make the embrace last. Steal a kiss or two and smile. Don't be shy. Do this under the full moon that will be glowing above you... I especially like that we're getting a second full moon this month. A "blue moon," if you will... A New Year's Eve blue moon only happens in 19 year increments. Remember where you are when you see it... Protect the memory.

And as you make your new year resolutions, think about where you were and where you want to be... Oh, and sometime next year, remember to enjoy a slice of key lime pie with an Oreo cookie crust. Somewhere, anywhere.

Reminder to myself: Pick up suit from tailor & start list.

So...

As 2009 comes to a close, I want to end my 12/30 post with something that has floated in and around my mind for a little while... This isn't as odd as it may seem, I assure you. I have my reasons. You should know that a couple of things lifted me to this point...

On my knees, looking down, with my thumbs overlapping... I give you "her prayer..."

God, please open your heart - for her sweet dream is about to start.
Guide her through our snow - and give her my angel, so to share.
And give her the assurance that we will always be there.
My heart, there's room - give it to her to create and consume.
You brought her here for me to see, me in her and her in me.
Allow her to see clearly, hoping for gentle days.
Hearing your music, letting our spirits stay.
So, God, please protect her and give her sweet dreams each night.
And for me, always fill her soul with our love and light.

Goodnight.

Yours,

bsm*

flurries, hope & the spirit of...

Checked the forecast this morning and it looks like I might get some flurries sometime today. Nice. Exciting, actually.

Need to take care of a few things before Santa rolls in...

I'd like to wish you and yours a very Happy Christmas. From my tree house to yours... A day early, I know, but Christmas Eve means just as much to me as Christmas Day. My parents always made it that way.

I'm feeling some morning cider right about now. Need something warm. A little drafty up here...

Hey Charles*.

Keep warm today, tonight, tomorrow and don't forget your gloves...

Sing.

With my goggles on,

bsm*

$8.03

Just a few more days until Santa makes his annual stop... Hope you were good this year... I bet you were...

Do you know what today is? Today marks the winter solstice. This day, our 21st of December, will be the shortest day of the year and this will also be the longest night of the year. I think this is fascinating... And I really dig the fact that it is also the first day of winter. To commemorate, I just took a long sip of something so very good. Yummy, in fact. Here's to feeling the sun standing still. I enjoy these kinds of things.

So... Going anywhere for the holiday? If so, where? How long will your journey be? I ask because it seems that this is a natural question people ask when holidays are nearby. Personally, I'll be by my campfire near my family watching the clouds turn into their usual holiday shapes and sizes. I really enjoy being close to them during this time.

I was just thinking...

The warmth of the season can really be overwhelming for some, but there is also a part of the season that can really affect people in strange ways. It really is the season to be with your family and in that, we recognize the ones that may not have what we have... For many, it's quite possibly the happiest time of year. But for some, this can be the loneliest time of year. It can be so sad for so many for so many different reasons. There is so much under the layers. Do you agree? During this holiday season, find your holiday comfort somewhere and embrace it with with everything you have... I truly hope that you have someone to celebrate your emotions with and I want to know that you have someone to share that perfect holiday memory with... If it's a friend, right on. If it's family, even better. If it's a relative of any sort, embrace it... But if you're alone or are feeling like you are all alone, so be it. Just know that you'll never be alone with me around. I'm here.

The holidays and the spirit of giving and receiving... Sometimes, we help where we can and sometimes we give what we can... Choices. For them, for us. The acts of kindness around this year probably tip the scales as opposed to April and May. This is a good start.

Here's an example of what I am talking about... On Friday, the 4th, I found myself back in Austin. Trying to parallel my auto on a busy 6th Street during Happy Hour, I found the perfect spot near the spot I wanted to enjoy a pint in... I was so thirsty. Clearly struggling to make the perfect park, I noticed a dude in a wheelchair rolling my way from about 20 feet away... He passed me by and as I looked over my left shoulder, I saw him back up... He started waving me in and gave me the best hand signals ever (world-class to be honest)... Two feet here, 1.5 there, hold, come back another foot, etc... You get the picture. After a minute or so, I successfully parked, but before I turned the ignition off, I lowered the window and said, "Dude, thanks for your help, as you can see, I suck at parking, so I really appreciate your help. How 'bout a beer, my treat? You name the flavor and size."

This is what happened next...

Him: "Actually, I can't drink, but I could use some money for a warm meal."
Me: (at this very moment, I made a choice and went with my gut throwing all reason away)
Me: "Check this, what if I just buy you some grub and we'll call it even. I'd like to help you because you really helped me out..."
Him: "Wow, you'd do that? That sounds like a plan. My name is Matthew, by the way." (he offered his good hand)
Me: "And I'm (insert bsm* here). (we shook hands, my right, his right)
Matthew: "Nice to know you."
bsm*: "Right on. What do you have in mind? Lots of choices around us..."
Matthew: "There's this 24 hour place a block up that serves some really good fried chicken. That'll work. (it was 5:05pm)
bsm*: "Fair enough. Chicken it is! Let's go there... I have to ask, how did you get jammed up in a wheelchair?"
Matthew: "I was crushed in a car accident in Florida 7 years ago. It was bad. I came here to Texas to find some better luck."
bsm*: "Gotcha, well, I'm sorry about the accident, that sounds terrible, but you're in a good city. There are worse towns to be in... I'm from Benbrook, myself. Cool. Looks like this is the place!" (the 24 HR sign was huge - could be seen a mile away)
Matthew: "All you have to do is walk to the back and the chicken is there on the left. It's so good!"
bsm*: "Sweet, I'll be back in a few.

(this convenient store had a deep fried aroma to it that was unforgettable in a good way - possibly the best scent ever if you're starving - I wasn't, but still - anyway, I scored the meal (picked 2 pieces out of the 4 remaining) and improvised on a couple of things - so I walked out and waved Matthew over - there was a massive crowd around him and I needed some privacy - just for us)

bsm*: "Okay, dude, here you go... A good lookin' wing, a decent thigh, a bag of Ruffles Sour Cream & Onion potato chips, a chocolate chip cookie (it was as heavy as a small pizza, seriously) and a 20 oz. Coca Cola... I hope this helps, man. You're right, the chicken smells delicious."
Matthew: "You have no idea, bsm*, this is great! Thank you. Thanks a bunch. This will help tonight."
bsm*: "We're good, dude. Merry Christmas, Matthew."
Matthew: "Have a good Christmas, bsm*!"

As I walked towards the corner of the street, some older dude approached me... He walked up next to me and said this, "I saw what you did, man, that was a great thing you just did, saw the whole thing!" I half-replied (as I walked passed him) with, "Not sure what you're talking about, nothing happened..." Something told me that I needed to keep some anonymity, but I'm not sure why... Odd.

I finally made it to a darkened Shakespeare's where 3 people sat watching ESPN. Given the time of day, it looked happily lonely, but it was the perfect place to sit down and think about the season. I placed my order and took my stool. I will say this... The barkeep looked to have poured me an average looking Guinness. Keep in mind that there is a science to pouring the perfect pint (this was far from perfect), but I was not going to complain... Not on this day. It was delicious, but in a different kind of way. My second was even better (thanks to Scooter & Milo). I sat and thought about Matthew and wondered if he enjoyed the meal the way I was enjoying my beer... I also wondered if he flipped it for drugs or bartered it away for a small steak or something... Those were fleeting thoughts and they lasted about 2 seconds each. I really don't care what he did with the bag of grub I bought for him... Like anyone, I hope that he really did enjoy the meal and, as I type this to you, I feel like he did and I would like to believe he even remembers my name. It's not likely that he did, but there is a chance he did and that makes me feel good about the short time I spent on the 300 block of 6th Street. Unlike some things, overanalyzing this encounter was really not an option for me. An hour later, my time there was up and I was off to another something or other.......... I'll always think about my few minutes with Matthew and what that whole tiny episode meant because there was a bigger message at hand.

You might wonder why I would recall such a story because people all over the world do these kinds of things on an hourly basis. Or at least have these kinds of encounters on a weekly basis... Not that it was foreign to me or new to my world, but it was one of those "you had to be there, you had to see the story his eyes told..." I trust you'd do the same, but maybe not... It's cool either way because Matthew's act of kindness towards me will always be remembered in my mind as just that... An act of kindness. My "thank you" to him came in a different form. An edible one that could be considered an act of kindness, but really, it was just another way of saying, "thanks, man." He didn't have to help me and I didn't have to help him. We didn't have to help each other out, but I'm glad we made the effort.

My story's not that special, but I feel like talking about it because it affected me on a certain level that I'll always keep close. I'll never forget his smile because I'm not sure I've ever seen a more thankful smile.

Was I suckered? Maybe. Was I taken advantage of? It's possible. Does it matter? At this time of writing... No.

Is your heart in the right place? I feel like mine is... And here's to keeping it there... Cheers.

Sleep well.

- me

One more thing. Sing your favorite Christmas carol with someone tonight. Make it count.

Everything came back to me. (for you)

Some things just come full circle and this post is no exception. I want to share something with you that I keep close. Something that is as close to me as anything or anyone I have ever adored... It begins here...

Tom and Jerry, "The Night Before Christmas," 1941

I looked and looked for this... Going back in time to find something that touched me as a kid is hard, but I found it. For you. No one knows this about me, but I have a favorite Tom & Jerry cartoon. Like most humans, I grew up eating cereal in front of the TV. Usually in the dark and before everyone woke up. Before school, before whatever my day would bring, before water showered my body, but always after I brushed my teeth. I ended up falling in love with the idea of the cartoon. Old cartoons that stood on their own as short movies that would eventually win awards and ultimately stand the test of time. I can't imagine my life without them, providing some of the building blocks for the person I would become years later... Cartoons taught me certain things. Many things that I have told you about over the hours we have managed to steal from life. They didn't teach me everything because I didn't like all cartoons, just certain ones and certain characters. Not because I could relate to them, but because, in my own way, I lived by them and dreamed through them. It was make-believe, but through images, sketches, drawings, color, musical scores, etc... Something amazing.

I remember seeing "The Night Before Christmas" as a little guy in Benbrook, TX in our living room. It was cold outside and it was so dark outside, it was blue-black. Early in the morning and on a school day. I was probably 6 or 7 years old. I had my robe on... It was so choice. I'll never forget that robe. It was before Thanksgiving because our Christmas tree wasn't up yet... Some of the memory is vague, but I remember exactly where the TV was positioned... In the corner in front on the bookcase and next to the hearth. A big console color TV that my dad was so proud of... A real piece of furniture where the wood casing defined it's worth. I loved that TV.

I would end up catching this special cartoon over the years and even caught a glimpse of it a few years ago. I did my homework and looked up its history. I learned that it was nominated for an Academy Award and that it was the third Tom & Jerry cartoon ever... Kind of cool because I had many cartoon favorites, but this one was different. It was different because as I grew up, I would look back on this one with a certain sentimental point of view. It had its place inside that I would reflect on with so much happiness. It showed me so many things... I felt like I was part Tom and part Jerry. I could honestly see myself being both of them at the same time. Jerry's playful, yet curious innocence and child-like spirit... Tom's natural ways with his vulnerability along with his sense of compassion and regret... - I won't spoil it for you, okay? - I could go on about my feelings for each character, but I will let the short speak for itself. All of these things that encompass me, your Benbrook Bulldog...

The music will take you back to better days. The score is a total throwback to a period where carols felt more divine with a warm religious zeal. It feels so right. The narration, the music carrying the 8+ minutes... It's perfect. To me, it's absolutely perfect. Watch their behavior and look into their eyes. Watch closely. It tells the greatest of stories. Live it with them.

Life is full of surprises.

"The Night Before Christmas" taught me so much... It's me in a certain nutshell. I don't know what you will see in it, but maybe you'll see some of me. Maybe not.

Do me the best favor ever and share this with someone. Someone you know, someone you love, someone you once knew, someone you work with, someone who owes you, someone who helps you, someone who looks up to you, someone who needs you, someone who protects you, someone who makes you laugh, someone who understands you, someone who doesn't even know that they are a "someone" to you, someone who is looking for something more...

Let them know... They just don't make them like this anymore.

Once again, life is full of surprises.

Sleep in heavenly peace.

http://blip.tv/file/828425

Yours tonight,

bsm*

Strutter.

Hello again.

It's time to (officially) recognize the upcoming Christmas holiday... Seems we're approaching the end of a decade. Your "Best Of" list is waiting for you.

Shite, gotta bolt. I'm late.

FYI: Seeing KISS 30 years after seeing them for the first time yesterday was something to behold. In my world, they still matter... Scotch-tape and all...

Thanks, Mom & Dad, for keeping me company. I love you both so much.

Your son.

More later...

Eye before E, except after See!

Just be in love.

Those 4 words are not used nearly enough to matter anymore. This is my take on something that popped into my head earlier today. It came and went in between conversations about expensive skips, Trident Original Flavor chewing gum, Texas A&M banter, interview questions, Benbrook, explaining my presence at the koi pond, cereal choices and why they are important, Play-Doh, security guards, Diet Dr. Pepper, hotels on piers, the song "P.Y.T.," staying up until 4:00am, Slush Puppie cups, Fadoh in Denver, nachos, the significance of soft lamp light and snow days.

If you could hear what is pumping through my eardrums right now, you would be so excited about what's coming up next...

I have some action items that need tending to over the next couple of hours. Marking them off the list is key before tomorrow finds me.

Moving on... "Just be in love." Think about those 4 words and think about the last time you let yourself drift in that moment. Where nothing was forced and where nothing was expected... Was it a moment? Was it a person? Pick one and go with it. Enjoy it for what it is and give in to it. Give yourself that treat and count your blessings that you are capable of having a moment like that at any given time if you just let some of the thought process go...

I'm just sayin'... Don't over think what shouldn't be thought about in the first place. Sometimes, thinking ruins the point. There's a bigger topic here and I'm merely scratching the surface. I'm not going anywhere with this, but I tried... I may have to re-visit this post, but maybe a point has already been made... Not sure. You decide.

The phone's ringing...

I have to play the last song over again. I wasn't ready for it to end. Of course, the next one is totally boss.

Goodnight to you.

- your fan

P.S. The moon was gorgeous last night.

No introductions... Charles*

Your holiday rainbow lights spoke volumes...

Cheers.

It's the first day of December and I'm back from my holiday. Mine was as perfect as perfect can get. I'm biased, of course, but I'm betting that yours kicked ass, too. How was it? Like me, did you need an extra day to just be?

"I'm not sure that all of my dreams will come true, but right here, somehow, I'm that much closer..." - Me (to a stranger on Thanksgiving Day in Astoria)

When I said this, I had one casual eye on the person in front of me... Her name was Irina. And I had my good eye focused on the window over her left shoulder. It was cold and it was raining and it was beautiful. Rainwater on glass does one of two things... 1) It either distorts what's behind the window so much that you can't see anything beyond the blur or 2) It creates a different point of view giving you endless points of reference to let your internal poetry run wild. The one who is looking in or the one who is looking out benefits one way or the other. Tracy said that I picked a good place to sit. Irina agreed. These two kept us engaged on this national holiday and it felt right. Spontaneous, but right. This is not as significant as it may seem, but it merits being mentioned...

Quick thought: [scrubs] (version 2) premiered tonight. Thoughts? A resurrection? Did it satisfy? Did it rock? Did the encore measure up to the full set? In a word, "yes." Damn, Bill's good, scary good. Me? I see something and someone in...

So, here are 10 things that are on my mind right now...

1) Bring it on. Bring reserves. You'll need 'em.

2) I (now) know 5 people who go by the name, "Joy." In March of 2008, I met the second one. And over the last month, I've encountered 3 more... I find this interesting. You won't... But in that group, I now have a favorite.

3) I still need to scrawl about a field trip I took back in September. I'm waiting for the right time. And song...

4) Speaking of songs, I recently added this song to a playlist that I unknowingly built... "Now That You're Gone" It's funny what a drive in the rain is capable of...

5) I have to return two phone calls. They even left messages... Thanks. That was nice of you.

6) This band name is possibly the best band name I've heard in 6 years. "We Were Promised Jetpacks" They deserve a medal.

7) "It all started in a playground....................." Finish that story for me, please. I can't.

8) To me, "The Goonies House" is just as significant as Graceland. Prove me wrong.

9) I can't believe that it's really Christmas time again. And yes, I think it's okay to believe in Santa Claus. He never lets me down the way that other Dude does...

10) For the record, when entering the aircraft, I'll always give him a quick pat... As long as I live... We all need some good luck. A superstitious move, I know, but it's my thing. It took and I'm keeping the move. It's not very often that we get to do these kinds of things. This will make sense to one person I know.

So, that's it! Ten things on the first...

I'm sleepy. Let's connect later over a couple of peanut butter jellies and Tom & Jerry.

Sweet. bsm*

For John...

Press "Play."

"Wise men say, only fools rush in......... But I can't help falling in love with you. Shall I stay? Would it be a sin if I can't help falling in love with you?"

Dear readers,

This week is a special week and we all know why... Thursday, we will celebrate Thanksgiving. Let's give "thanks" and count our blessings, shall we? Let's reflect on our lives and remember why the day exists for us to celebrate. Don't forget to eat big and remember to leave something for Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Watch a parade or two and watch a football game or two. Maybe sing a song that you haven't sung in ages... Give your loved ones a big hug and tell them that you're saving a spot for them at the kid's table.

In the spirit of the holiday, I want to say a few things...

I had to say "goodbye" to John Hughes on the 6th of August and it affected me on a very inspired level. If you knew of him, you know exactly where I am coming from... If you didn't, you lived in a box without windows. Or you just didn't care... And that's cool, too. Just do some research and call me in the morning.

Let me provide some background. By the way, I'm officially dedicating this post to John because he deserves some Benbrook love. Actually, he deserves so much more...

Let's take a look at what the man has produced, written and directed over the years. Not everything, but a strong sampling, if you will... You should note that these aren't Academy Award-worthy, but they won so many kinds of emotional awards in so many hearts around the globe. The genius (that was John) was behind these gems:

- Mr. Mom
- National Lampoon's Vacation and Christmas Vacation
- Sixteen Candles
- The Breakfast Club
- Weird Science
- Pretty in Pink
- Ferris Bueller's Day Off***
- Some Kind of Wonderful
- Planes, Trains & Automobiles
- She's Having a Baby
- The Great Outdoors
- Uncle Buck
- Home Alone 1, 2 & 3
- Career Opportunities
- Dutch
- Curly Sue

Do you have a favorite? I do. But it's a secret. As I typed that, I just realized that there could be a three-way tie working here... I'm a sucker for this kind of stuff, I know.

If you've seen any of these films, I'm betting you've been touched by something you've seen or heard in at least 6 of them... There is a limousine full of movie stars that will always be indebted to John. He made films that sent some important messages that just might hold up today. It was another time, another place, but the stories he told were special. Maybe you laughed, maybe your smirked, maybe you blushed, maybe you cried and maybe you fell into his vision and into his keen ability to identify with real people and their real problems, hopes and dreams. John told the kinds of stories that were never to far from the truth and that meant the world to me in my adolescence. Hell, it means the world to me now.

Take your pick and think back on the dialogue, important and silly. Remember the relevance. Live it again just because it's okay to remember these kinds of things... Embrace what John was trying to do... There are so many memories that can be extracted from his films. I honestly feel like I knew the man behind these movies. Like he was an old friend or a school teacher that re-enforced right from wrong. Like a mentor who appreciated that my heart was probably more reliable than my brain. Like a leader who had my back when she didn't return my call. Like a pen pal who understood that not all tears are bad. Like a wizard who knew how to open the doors to something pretty. I followed his path and, in a way, I'm still following his path. Kind of... In my own way. Limping along, I'm right behind you, John.

** smiling sadly **

I could go on and on about my admiration for John Hughes and if you catch me over the next week or so, I would love to tell you of my plans to teach the next "What would John Hughes do?" class at the local college.

Lastly, I'd like to leave you with this... I'm happy. I'm lucky. I'm thankful. In short, my life as I know it seems insignificant on so many levels, but in many ways, it's as relevant as the next big thing. So is yours... When you strap on your boots and walk your walk, everything is possible. You can turn anything into something and that something can mean everything to at least one person. Make it count. John did...

Am I really a broken record? Perhaps, but the needle may need some work, as well.

"Like a river flows, surely to the sea. Darling, so it goes... Some things are meant to be. Take my hand, take my whole life, too. For I can't help falling in love with you."

Thank you, John, for everything. I'm forever grateful for what you have given me.

Press "Stop."

- Me (Del Griffith)

*** The museum scene in this film (arguably) changed the way I viewed music supervision in a motion picture. The Dream Academy's "Please, Please, Please..." instrumental added something to FBDO that I will never fully be able to explain to the non-dreamers, but I have shared my appreciation with many... And you know exactly who you are... It's perfect.

"all for one economical price... 10."

Ten months. Ten interesting months. Ten months where so much has been explored. Ten months with so many things that have been left out...

In short, over the last 10 months, seasons have changed, moods have swung, hearts have been challenged, minds have probably spun out of control, and I'm betting other cool things happened... This must be what they talk about when the leaves turn colors to be new again. I guess...

Ten months ago today, "On My Sleeve" began its trek through the year and opened up an avenue for me to... Well, you know what happened...

So, a short 10 months ago, I started something that I really have enjoyed... While personal, yet somewhat open, I hope that you have found something to think about... Something to laugh about... Something to talk about... Something to ignore... Something to possibly question something, anything, someone, anyone.
I trust that you know me now. If you knew me then, you know why something like this exists. It could not exist without you. In reality, it could, but you and I both know that it just wouldn't be the same.

So, together, tonight, let's celebrate the number "10." Let us raise our glasses. Here's to time together. To time with full moon glow on our minds (just go w/ it). Here's to water falling, washing slowly on our memories making room for new ones. To reaching for the brightest star (again, just go w/ it). Protecting each sparkle and kissing the time goodbye. Here's to growing up and growing young. Here's to us. We deserve something big... Let it shine for us tonight. Here, here! Clink, clink.

Sip with style.

Don't forget to think about horned frogs tomorrow. I still think about the one that ran away from me when I was ten.

So long for now. See you at the top...

- me

Play with what's left, will you?

First things, first.

On this very important Veterans Day, I'd like to welcome first time readers.

I'd also like to say that I am continuing to be amazed by the rate at which time flies when you're just trying to live the best life you can... So much transpires on any given day... These things expedite life on many levels. It can be all-consuming taking you away from the big picture. Of course, many of us spend the entirety of our professional days trying to figure out what that BIG PICTURE looks like, but I trust that you get my point. And when we get a glimpse of what color the soul of the picture is, it all disappears leaving you wanting more... A leftover for tomorrow to get on with it and just live... Time is truly flying and we're approaching 2010 like a comet without a name.

I rarely read what I write, but I just read the passage above... I'm sorry, but it does make "some" sense to me. I'm allowed to be "that guy" from time to time. I assure you that every aspect of OMS means something, even if it's just for me. Thanks for scrolling my way, friend. You, too, my dearest friend.

Next up: This is the part where I will date myself and make myself seem older than I am... According to a manufacturer's sticker on a bicycle I recently spied, I learned these 4 things...

1) Always wear a helmet.
2) Check brakes before riding the bicycle.
3) Do not ride at night.
4) Read Owner's Manual.

Okay, here we go... I must treat this topic with gentle gloves. The reasons are obvious to anyone raising a family. Or to anyone who has dropped some coin on a bicycle for someone under the age of 18 over the last several years... Keep in mind that I am not talking about 10 or 12 speeds or any other incarnations of a bikes with speeds. I'm talking about a good old fashioned bike that is meant to speed up and down dirt trails.

Let's look at #1. I know, I know... Before you say it, I'll shout it.

(cut to me shouting at a group of Benbrook residents in front of the Fire Station on Mercedes with a red dry-erase marker in my right hand with a salty tall boy in my left hand)

"Where have you been? This is the law and we have to live by it because if we don't, we'll get into trouble and we might even be sent to Time Out by someone in a uniform. They said that we might pay a price, too, because they need more security personnel at the Arts Festival in May. Listen up, it's not about how well they ride, it's what they're wearing to protect themselves from getting hurt. That's what counts. Expect the crash, but soften the blow. It's a safety thing because common sense now has a price. Tighten up your chin straps and quit complaining, okay?"

Let me just say that I appreciate rules and I respect things that turn into laws... And, for our purposes tonight, everything from this point on is me reading these 4 rules as the 6 to 12 year old that I was when I was 6 to 12 years old, but with my modern day spin.

I will say this about #1... As a little dude, helmets were not a thing you pimped while you popped wheelies and jumped mounds with your buddies. If I showed up to the scene donning a protective helmet, I would have been exiled to the other side of 377 where Stum's used to be... (this will only make sense to the ones who lived in my neighborhood) Or I would have been asked, "Is everything okay, man? Are you in trouble?" It was our time and it was our place. Our stupid makeshift haircuts were meant to blow in the wind. The feeling still rocks, by the way. Harnessing your mullet in by styrofoam covered in plastic? Whatever. As a kid, if you had hard plastic on your head, you must have been hitting baseballs on a baseball field. That was the ONLY excuse that counted...

Here's a related, but unrelated secret... I'm 87% certain that if I were told I had to wear a helmet to ride my bike to the Qwik Sak up the street as an 8 year old, my confidence rate with Lesli Thompson would have shriveled up before I even hit the 5th grade. And asking Jessica Smith to hold my hand would have not even been on the table as I would have been less than who I was meant to be. I needed that confidence, y'know? It mattered then... I suppose it doesn't matter now, but I wasn't afraid of the fall and the scuffed up knees. As dudes, bruises were our tattoos. Some people might even say that a little crash and burn can make you feel more alive than ever... I'm getting off topic here...

About #2... Brakes? Huh? What brakes? Oh, you mean halting the pedals and steering to one side kicking up dirt all bad-ass-like? Those brakes? If you're referring to handle brakes (and I feel like you are), I have no idea what you're talking about because those came into play late in the game. If you had them, you had a Mongoose. I didn't... Check your brakes... Right. Roger that.

#3. You're kidding, right? Someone is playing a joke on me, right? I'm being punk'd, right?

Side note: Right now, I hate myself because I just referenced Ashton Kutcher in my beloved blog. I feel dirty. Not good.

Moving on... Riding my bike at night was like eating Neapolitan ice cream right out of the bucket in front of a good "I Love Lucy" episode. I didn't have many opportunities to ride at night, but when I did, I cherished each minute with so much of my spirit. Riding at night was a gift and while it was somewhat dangerous, it was thrilling to be out there under the stars where the car noises sounded so much softer. It was always understood that riding your bike at night was not to be a Best Practice, but to be told not to, would make me want to that much more... That's just the way I feel.

And finally, #4 and the Owner's Manual. Not much to say here because you know where I'm going with this... A manual of any kind for a toy of any kind was not a part of the deal in my neck of the woods. When a bike came onto the scene, like a dog in a pond, you just went for it... You thanked your parents and began the next stage. Don't ask questions, just go. If you needed training wheels, you needed training wheels. So what, who cares? You had a bike! In a matter of minutes, you learned what you could do and what couldn't be done on a bike. An owner's manual would just slow me down. I had asses to kick down the street. I had a bike and I was the captain.
I loved my first bike. A black Huffy with a blue and orange accents. A number plate with a "40" across the handle bars and a million spokes. And the softest banana seat ever... No shit. My second and last "kid" bike was a slight upgrade only because it had a yellow frame with a blue seat. The yellow mags killed and the blue tires turned heads. And as he grew older, every paint chip signified something big. I loved it as it was my best friend for a long, long, long, long time. It made me a champion in my own mind. And I will forever be grateful to my parents for giving those bicycles to me. They started something I'm still finishing... And that, to me, is special.

Hey, look at the time. Time to wrap it up...

I guess I'm behind the times with my rant, but I know what it was like when I was young. You remember in your own way, too. I can only speak for myself, but it was golden. I (sometimes) feel that if we altered that path, it would take something away from our sons, daughters, brothers, sisters. Don't you ever feel that way? That was then, I know, and times have changed. I suppose that our young ones will grow up the same way we did, but I'm not convinced that this is true. But it's not worth arguing because society has changed and the paths we are being asked to take are changing...

Suddenly, I hear a certain drumbeat calling my name. In the background, there it is...

And for all I know, I should have been wearing a helmet on my head when I made my inaugural jump down Devil's Drop in Timbercreek that summer. But I know, deep down, that I'm better off because when I strap on my helmet today, I think about how I had a choice then... Actually, it was freedom. That's it. Maybe that was the choice.

Be kind to the lawmakers. And always look both ways. Right on.

This post is dedicated to the boys who rode by my side. You know who you were... Thank you.

Goodnight.

bsm*

"Look, no hands!"

Thursday's post for him.

So much to get to these days...

The leaves are really starting to fall. And on that note, I seem to think better in these kinds of conditions. Or, rather, I think that I think more clearly during the autumn months. Opinions vary, but I feel good about my place here. People whose first names start with a J, L, & M may have something to say about this "almost" fact. I just made that up. But I do feel confident in my posting abilities these days... We'll see.

Where did the week go? Five days removed from Halloween... I hope that you had a nice Halloween weekend. Did you happen to catch the moon over the last few days, Lucas? Did you go as "Grimace" again this year, Liam? Did you happen to spot the brightest planet, Lori? Did you enjoy the hayride, Lois? Did you make the big score at Old Man McGee's down the street, Lance? Did you save some of the good candy for a rainy day, Larry? Did your costume turn heads, Lana? Did you use that old broom, Lauren? Did "It's The Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown" bring back the memory you hoped it would, Lester?

The previous questions were brought to you by the letter "L."

Hi, Charles. Good one.

Okay, gotta run. Many apologies for the brief post. Something might be burning...

bsm*

By the way, I love the word, "peninsula," but will always......

My plastic Frankenstein and his parachute. Her kitchen? Really? Seriously? For real?

Ten thirty. The day before Halloween. It's that time where jack-o-lanterns rule the evening streets and haunted houses come alive to let you know that everyone needs a little "spooky" in their lives... If you live where I live, the weather is cooperating with us. It's perfect outside. As I type this note to you, I will say it again... It really is perfect outside.

Tricks, treats, pumpkins, witches and a killer broomstick, the moon (oh, my moon), good candy, shite candy, hay rides, spooky music, mangled tree limbs, caramel apples, laughing skeletons, scary movies, wicked costumes, silly masks, screeching owls, corn stalks, screaming cats, more candy, crows and ravens, cobwebs, grave markers bent by the wind, you get the picture, I hope. Oh, and more candy.

Three things to watch...

1) Find "Dark Night of the Scarecrow" and watch it with an open "made-for-TV" mind. Please. Do that for me. My VHS copy is wearing thin... It's probably not as good as I remember, but it is something that reminds me of Halloween in Benbrook, TX. I remember watching it in the living room with my parents and I remember being oddly fascinated with life after death. I also internalized this idea: One stem of one flower can mean everything to someone who believes in something more...

2) Search for "Fat Albert's Halloween Special." Chill out with Fat Albert, Russell, Bill, Dumb Donald, Weird Harold, Mushmouth, Rudy and Bucky. Watch this gem with a friend and sip on a soft drink. Don't laugh. This special is hard to find... It doesn't carry the weight of the more touching Christmas Special, but it's something different and it provides a different spin on Halloween. Well, maybe not, but it's worth a look. Remember: Soft drinks.

3) Relive your elementary school cafetorium (I feel like I've referenced that word here before) action with "The Adventures of Ichabod and Mr. Toad." First up, we get a fun take on "The Wind in the Willows," but for these purposes, I'll only reference the "The Legend of Sleepy Hollow" part. However, give Mr. Toad your time. In 1949, Walt did it right and escorted the Washington Irving classic into my personal Animation Hall of Fame. Narrated by Bing Crosby, this short feature came to life and influenced my sense of imagination with bold hints of uncertainty and wonderment. My "what if" attitude towards just about everything was spawned at an early age and I'm forever grateful to Mr. Disney for making me a believer. The message is clear, people. Important Note: For maximum effect, this should only be viewed with the lights off.

So, tomorrow, as you enjoy your Halloween festivities, think about your earliest Halloween memories and don't forget to make a silly face in the mirror before you leave to show off your ridiculous costume. I chose "The Hamburglar."

Save one Junior Mint for me. And maybe a Twix. We'll share.

Lastly, don't forget to fall back.

- Ichabod

Any minute now, seventeen words.

Just had to sign in and write this out for you... Repeat it to the next person you see.

"To fear love is to fear life; and those who fear life are already three parts dead."

A dude whose first name was "Bertrand" said this once upon a time ago. A long time ago, actually.

I'm feeling you, B. I truly feel you.

Besos!

- dude who dreams

Trains, townies and yellow brick roads.

This weather... It's been raining as of late and the temperature outside has been right on target for a welcoming harvest season. In short, I dig it. This is my favorite time of year. There is so much to say about this season. And I'll get into that another time. Now, I have some things I need to tend to...

Like most of you, I've been carrying quite the load over recent weeks and months. Challenges, tests, problems that are problems, problems that aren't really problems (but mask themselves as such)... I've met them all head on and I'm working on finishing this year out with a certain bsm* bang or, at least, a bottle rocket-like pop that would make my sister proud.

These things take time.

My plan of attack was blueprinted out during the summer months and my ammunition came in various incarnations and disguises. (not exactly sure where I'm going w/ this) The weapons I chose were my stand-by tools of choice. My pencil, my hands, my sleeve. My battle armor, polished, but wearing the tarnish well. My secret weapons, my goggles, beautifully tattered from the last campaign. (this is starting to sound weird) My boots, my 10/92 Setters, lovingly at my side ready for the gravel road. (ok, this is silly) But I am serious about 99.7% of what was just typed out... And because of a few things I have encountered this year, I feel like there has to be some kind of preparation. (be ready) And because this is my favorite time of year, I have taken measures of ensuring that yours truly will end 2009 in good, if not proper, form. Like most things in my life, it all begins with a song. And, in this case, it began with a comet of a song. Get ready.

Soon.

Some observations and thoughts over the last several days, weeks, maybe months... My super-short list, if you will:

-- Any meal with shrimp in it is usually good.

-- When there is an opportunity for kids to watch the President of the United States on TV during school, take advantage of it. Make arrangements for the kids. Make it a learning exercise, good or bad. Who cares what the topic is about? It just might be about the importance of tree houses and how a simple tree house can solve most of our social and economic problems. Kids should be exposed to our Commander-In-Chief because it does hold hands with academics and recess and sour milk at lunch. Let them learn something new. Sacrifice textbook time for some tube time. Don't project your fears about your own political beliefs and agendas onto your kids. Protect them, we must, but don't steal the remote.

-- I have successfully purchased a stoic wolf pumpkin that I may name soon. He's that mean.

-- The band, KISS, is still relevant.

-- Believeme.Loveme.2009. // Last of the BMLM09 OMS short sleeve t-shirt designs. Available in Onesie (3-6 mo), XS, M (2 left), L & XXL. Faded yellow w/ grey print. Small OMS* logo on left sleeve. Onesie comes in powder blue w/ red print. Toddler 2 yr, S & XL's are no longer available. $14. Long sleeve 2010 version TBA. New designs are being drawn up as we speak.

-- I'm not sure how [scrubs] v.2 is going to work, but I'm not as concerned as I should be.

-- September 17th, 18th, 19th. Portland, OR. I referenced a field trip a few posts ago. This will be explored... Buckle up.

-- Ran a 5K recently where I raised some scratch for an important cause... Interesting and bold messages all around. "Jogging For Jugs." "Racing To Save 2nd Base." Solid. I appreciate the humor and I respect the sentiment. Seriously, it was a powerful event that stood for so much and for so many... I was truly touched by the whole experience. I ran for my Aunt Sally. She was 39. And she was a beautiful soul. She loved Sinatra...

-- Based on certain observations, I'm not sure anyone truly cares about Major League Baseball. I can name 3 people and there names are Paul and Paul and Jeff. This is just my opinion. Or a sign that I may need to expand my network.

-- Scarecrows should never wear a smile on their face... Ever.

-- U2 on 10/12. The 10th time. This should really get its own post on its own day, but it's on my mind now. I'll try to be brief. Because I have seen them so many times, I'd like to consider myself a vanguard kind of critic. They have given me so much over the years and I have stuck by them (even through the weird, ill advised Pop Mart phase). I owe it to them to be the best critic possible and I have been asking them for several years to let go of the idea of the idea of preparing 30 songs for each tour and giving us the usual 20 or 22. What I mean is that of those 30, at least 22 of them have been in the rotation for the last 12 to 15 years. I don't focus so much on the hammy metropolis shout outs, but I do dissect the set list... It has become somewhat predictable and safe, but they did tear through some of their stuff with a new resurgence and attitude. They clearly know what they're doing and they have mastered the art of playing it up for the crowds... I love certain aspects of every U2 show I have had the honor of seeing, but I'm not the typical listener or voyeur. I loved that they broke out "MLK" and "The Unforgettable Fire." I love the "Stand By Me" and "Amazing Grace" snippets and I always get goosebumps inside and out when I hear "Ultraviolet." And hearing it live for the first time since the early 90's was awesome. It's those kinds of throwback songs that make a set. Not hearing "Vertigo" or "Elevation" or "Mysterious Ways" for the 3,487th time. The new stuff sounded road worn and felt right in the mix. Overall, it was a solid set and I loved the show. I felt special just being there... The closer was odd, but it has been a staple closer for them all tour long, so it means something to them... There's no perfect closer for them anymore... Only a true U2 fan will understand that last sentence. They were all "on," however, and it was nice to see them smiling...

-- Listen to your instincts and pay attention.

-- For Halloween… The Hamburglar, Papa Smurf, Tin Man or Mr. Belding?

-- Never underestimate the power of a "thank you" note.

-- Reading from the newspaper is more enlightening than reading from the internet.

-- Seven words. "Waiting For My Real Life To Begin." Alone & intimate on 10/18. Standing ovation for Mr. Hay. I'm still clapping...

-- Did they finally lay Michael Jackson to rest? This is not an illegitimate question.

-- I recently asked someone if they could recommend a menu item for an upcoming pot luck event. This person told me that they only attend such events and participating is off the table. This response came from a person who LOVES to eat. I thought it was odd. I also thought it was lazy. (Important Note: Yes, I have willingly put myself in a place where the phrase 'pot luck' is common. 100% rowdy... I love it.)

-- Witnessing "Slideshow" on 10/14. Just perfect. A big "THANKS" to Fran & Andy...

-- One sip at a time. It's not a race. Enjoy it, will you? I'm talking to you.

Clearly, there's more to say... But I feel like I need to relax and enjoy this rainy weather. My trees are always so happy when it rains on them...

Tonight, let it be Rooster. That one's for me.

Goodnight. bsm*

One glance is all I ever needed........

"Misha." 1991-2009. The sweetest one.....................

I'm singing her song tonight.

Monday.

Begin.

Eight Mondays ago, I participated in something that I'll probably never get over... A lesson was learned... I said 'goodbye' in the most unusual way. It was the kind of moment that you would want back if you knew that the scenario would be different. Honestly, the memory has scarred my heart. I remember wanting one more peaceful look into her eyes... Her heartbeats were awkward and her bravery was confused. Her peace would come sooner than mine. The salt in the tears in my eyes burned my last glance. I wanted her to know it was me. I was the last to tell her it would be okay even though none of what was about to happen was going to be okay. I wanted to be the last one she saw...

We met in 1998. September. She wasn't sure about me. I was unsure about her. Finally, over time and over a Connells song in the wee hours of some random November morning, we accepted each other. Over the years, we bonded in so many different ways. It was a rewarding relationship as it was decided early on that I would end up loving her with so much of my heart. I never saw it coming, but it's likely she knew all along that I would, one day, be jelly in her presence. She was right. Ever have that feeling? I caved early, I suppose. That's just the way it is... She had that kind of effect on people.

It was 9:33am. In a matter of seconds, it was over. The sun was out. The shade in the back was just so. The grass was wet. The air was soft. Softer than usual. A cardinal, a male, stared my way chirping away. Perched on bird bath #2, he looked beautiful. I guessed, but knew, as much... The gloss in my eyes was heavy. I mean, c'mon... We were about to part ways with her. I was scared...

Her name? "Misha." We had no part in what she would be called, but it fit and we're grateful. It is believed that her name stands for "Gift from God." I'd thank him, but we're not on speaking terms. Mixed pride.

I'll never forget her... Her face. Her fuzzy paws. Her whiskers... Oh, the few she had left... She just wasn't the same towards the end. Life was slowly slipping away from her and she fought and she fought and she fought. In that fight, she taught me a lesson. She fought through the cancer like Rocky Balboa did with Apollo Creed. She didn't know how to give up. No surrender. No awareness of the inevitability of death. No fear. Never letting the pain show... Enduring it all. It was remarkable to witness. I'll say this... Misha lived with so much grace and even at the end, she passed with the dignity of a queen.

Early on, it was decided that this angel was born on St. Patrick's Day. 1991. Just because. And on the 24th of August, she gave us her last heartbeat... It was "goodbye, forever."

It was hard. Hell, it's still hard.

As responsible owners, we had to make the call. Our hands were tied. Up against a wall, you have to make choices. At times, you have to take yourself out of the equation. Bravely, we had to assess the situation for it was... Her eyes said so much... She needed rest and she needed her peace. She needed something more. She needed solutions that we simply couldn't give her. She loved us and trusted us. To make decisions on her behalf. To put her peace before our own. The trust that we loved her as unselfishly as she loved us. We came to this conclusion a few days before it all went down. The weekend was tough as we made (what we thought were) the right mental arrangements. It was a numbing weekend and it was confusing to know that it was all coming down to this... One decision for her, for us. From us. However, during those last days, we worked through the usual routine that she was on to keep her comfortable. As comfortable as we hoped she was... All the way up until the end. Knowing that everything we were doing would be the last time.........

There was not going to be another "today, we press on" day. We marched through each stage and we did our best. I did my best. I know I did my best. I know she did her best. We embraced each step along the way. The highs, the lows, the in-betweens... Everything. To the end.

What a year.

bsm*

My radio ballet...

I just want to say... I wanted to say... I'd like to say...

Forget it. I'll try again later.

Don't count me out.

- bsm* (nervous for some reason)

Ten, one.

Umm....

I'll try harder.

me.

Tomorrow, the 17th...

It begins...

One journey to something stunning... Be happy. Look for me in the crowd. Be prepared. Look for the stars to line up. Be ready. Look for the sky to open it's chest up and look for the moon to weep with bravery. Be hopeful. Look for the sense of peace in the air. Be aware. Because it's "on."

It will all be explained somehow and I can't wait... I just need more time. Can you give that precious commodity to me? I never really ask for much...

Meet me there...

Counting seconds as I type. So... Meet me there. I mean it. Above the waves. bsm*

His anxious arms and a set of plans...

Hello. Hi...

It's me. Again.

Haven't been around in recent weeks... I went dark in August. Left it behind, but I have my reasons. I'll admit that I haven't been very diligent with my posts as of late, but I've taken some time off to think it all up again. And that means something to me. I'll also admit that I have some unfinished business to tend to... I've missed it and I've missed the moments. So much has transpired in my little aquarium that I really don't know where to begin, but I have a few topics that I will dive into soon. Very soon.

The list goes on, but I will say that a dear friend of mine from my yesterdays will be discussed along with a mighty, yet precious memory that I've lived with for the last 11 years. I have some thoughts on education, Eureka Springs (yes, that place in Arkansas), music, chapels (I know, nuts), things that are meant to be music, but are really just digital pieces of manure, people who talk to their food, etc... Y'know, the usual... I may even throw in my plastic penny's worth of thought on what it means to be utterly disappointed in something/someone who doesn't really know what it means to finish the game.......

It's Monday. It has been raining in my fish tank for days. Solid. So very, very solid.

OK. This is ridiculous, but I had a craving for a Slurpee about a week ago. I didn't make that wish come true, but I did have this thought... Something I wondered as I stood in line waiting my turn... The things we think of when a yogurt parfait is on the line... Me. Just watching people... If it's OPEN 24 HOURS A DAY, why are there locks on the doors?

Two words: Field. Trip.

bsm*

Smile.

The blue and the jay.

I have a few things that I am trying to say to you. Not sure how, but they will come out in waves... Just warning you. Or maybe just putting you on notice.

I heard a joke today. Something about a boot, a paper cup and a water hose filled with apricot preserves... Can't really get into it all as I was passing by, but somehow, I felt the urge to jot the following words down on a pastel pink post-it note: "Must leave town soon."

I'm kind of sleepy right now, but as I stated a couple of days ago, I'll get there...

- Corner kicker #1

"Summer's kiss is over, baby..."

Just thought I'd throw that in... Y'know, for good measure. And as a simple reminder. Thanks, Greg. I'll hook up with that thought sometime when it dips below 67, alright? It's coming...

I'll get there...

- gallo negro

How does she do it?

You there?

I'm asking...

I'm off to a wedding later today. A family engagement of sorts...

My checklist looks something like this... The suit I have in mind "should" be steamed and ready for action. Water bottle? Half full. Directions to the event? Check. Mapped it a few minutes ago... My goggles are nearby. Lenses were cleaned earlier this week. May need them for toasting purposes... My handkerchief will be pressed momentarily and I have a decision to make on which necktie I will go with... My skips may need a buff or two. We'll see, but it wouldn't hurt... No real worries there... The shirt. Not in any real mood for French cuffs today, but will see what's in store... Chewing gum. Two pieces. Just enough. One church key. Perfect. The iPod (her name is "November") is being juiced up downstairs... The playlist this afternoon will be a mashup between Phish, Ben Folds, Thin Lizzy, The National, New Order, Prince, Matthew Ryan, Pixies, Nick Drake and Cheap Trick. A thin shot glass on the counter (for good luck). Best before one leaves the house. Starter cash ($32 left over from the other night). Just in case. The invitation is on the counter. May need to take it if I need to prove that I made the cut. Need to make sure I have an extra Burt's Bees Beeswax lip balm in the middle console. Camera? Maybe... Rely on someone else. And there you have it... Done.

Gotta run. That's all for now. More news at 11...

Oh and please pencil me in for a cold glass of sweet tea sometime over the next week. I just know I'll be in the mood. Don't forget. K?

Smile big.

- rooster

"Sometimes even the right is wrong."

On at 9:10pm with sparklers in their hands... Six in and "Glass Of Water" proved its might. At 9:43pm, "Fix You" stunned the crowd. "Postcards..." reminded everyone how lovely the piano can really be... A lonely "Trouble" so fresh out of retirement. Well done. Then a gentle "Green Eyes" from 10 feet away with an acoustic "Billie Jean" to bring the fans to a new level of appreciation... It poured butterflies for "Lovers In Japan." "Death And All Of His Friends" completely took over as it should... The first encore... "The Scientist." A proper version that serenaded the faithful at 10:49pm. And... Thanks, guys... The 5th time was the charm. I needed that charm and I needed that one song at 10:34pm.

"And give me love over.......... Love over..................... Love over this........................................."

My nickel on where I was last night. Good morning to you.

- fan for a day or two.

Earth, Sun, Moon. Where it starts, it ends.

Here I am... A few weeks removed from OMS and back in play after a brief intermission. Feels good to be back. Have you missed me? Didn't think so, but a dude can dream... Yeah, I love you, too.

So, today marks a few things... My 50th post, the 40th anniversary of the moon landing and something else...

We made friends with the moon in 1969 and right now, all I can think about is how MTV benefited from the historic lunar photos in between Pat Benatar and REO Speedwagon videos in the early '80s. Go figure...

Now, I'm thinking about my golden entry and I'm thinking about the last time I reached out to you. I decided I would wear a tuxedo for the occasion. I've never typed anything with a bow tie fastened around my neck. Weird. The champagne flute next to my HP is still bubbling... Cool. The bowl of strawberries to my left is adorable. Nice. And the flowers in front of me are just fragrant enough that the... Riiiight. Whatever.

Let's begin. #50...

Have you ever received news that you wish could be taken back? I ask this because I believe in the "no takeback" concept and it's a time like this that I wish I didn't subscribe to that line of thinking... Don't live by a code if you can't live by that code, y'know? I stand by my words, but when something comes back at me in such a sobering way, I have to know that it will never be taken back. It's out there and once the reality of it settles in, we must embrace it and get on with it... Take the emotional clobbering and sleep with your eyes open. Find a way to pretend to look the other way. Lie if you have to... Y'know... To keep the buzzing bees away. Protect the integrity of it all and guard it with both fists up...

Why couldn't they just take it back? I know that it wouldn't change anything, but the sobering aspect of it all can (sometimes) be hard to handle.

God, you there? You didn't listen, man... I'm sure that the excuse is that someone needed you more, but dude, I don't ask for much... As a matter of fact, I don't ask for anything other than a decent seat at the rock show. And maybe good vibes and a little protection for the ones in the "loved ones" category. And when you come through with a killer moonscape, I'm yours. But c'mon, man... Really? There are two kinds of beings out there... The ones who make excuses and the ones who don't... I'm not pointing fingers, but if I could see you right now, I'd try to sweep your leg like Johnny did to Daniel in 1984. Yeah... It's like that.

Fix it. Please?

Looking in the mirror...

Me: "I mean, I'm no angel and I've had my share of misfires... And before you bring up the "karma" thing, I want you to know that I've thought about that, too... You've already made me pay for 7/82, 3/90 (I'm so sorry, GJ), 8/93, 4/94, 6/94, 2/95 (big time), 7/95, 8/03, and every other time I made decisions that would (ultimately) teach me a lesson or two."
God: "True, you did learn a few lessons and you have been a good student. Plus, you're from Benbrook, TX. And you've spread my word in one way or another over the years. In your own way, of course. I would, however, like to see you on Sundays a little more often."
M: "For better or for worse, it was my heart that did the talking then and to this day, my heart still speaks on my behalf. What are you going to do about it? I've paid, alright... I've paid over and over again. Do you need more from me or something? I'm working with a bent heart and it's fragile at the moment."
G: "Listen. You're still in the red for the 2/95 nonsense and I just can't think of a good reason to let you off of the hook for the 3/90 episode. Of course, I have to take into account your age at the time for that one. Overall, you're good people and you do seem to wear your heart on your sleeve, which is commendable, but..."
M: "But what? I feel like I am one of the lucky ones and I am grateful for everything you've given me and my crew. I am who I am, y'know? You didn't answer my question, dude. Do you need more from me?"
G: "I know you're upset, but shit happens and I'm not always responsible... You can blame me, but it will not change anything. You must accept what fate is giving you.
M: "Did you just say, 'shit?'"
G: "Yes, I did. Build a bridge and get over it, bsm*."
M: "Noted. I suppose you're right, but I still want to drop you like a cheap book. Just because. It will take some time, but I still believe that you are responsible in some way. I have to blame someone and you're the only one in the room... And for the record, in March of 1990, I had to do it... Two months later, it changed everything for me. It was a safe bet, okay? For me, man. For me."
G: "Okay, geez! Still a little selfish, but I understand. Who isn't a little selfish every now and again? I get it. What are you going to do now?"
M: "As always, I'll press on. I'll weather the storm and I'll keep looking up. You?"
G: "I'm scheduled to attend the solar eclipse on Wednesday. I find it fascinating how the moon cruises between the Earth and the sun, completely obscuring the light. And on Friday, I am probably going to see the new Katherine Heigl movie where she hangs out with that lad from 300. Beyond that, I'm just trying to score some McCartney tickets just like every other bloke on the planet. As it is, I had to call in a favor to secure some U2 tickets for their tour opener in Spain."
M: "I heard that they are playing 'Ultraviolet' and 'The Unforgettable Fire' on this leg."
G: "It was divine. Literally."
M: "That's righteous, but don't change the subject, G. I asked you a question earlier. What else do you need from me? Because what I need is a little understanding... And a little love. Can you handle that, Chief?"
G: "Yes. I think I can handle that... I know what you mean about the love and understanding... I happen to need those things, too... I can't believe you just 'chief'd' me. I'll let it slide this one time. Only because you're from Benbrook, okay?"
M: "Right on. Just know that we haven't settled up just yet."
G: "Noted."

Turning away from the mirror...

I'm waking up now. My heart is tired. Just mend already... It's tough to watch and I wouldn't wish it upon anyone. I just can't seem to get my arms around it, but I know I'm close to it.

Today's almost over. It's been a commemoration of sorts... He would have been 15 today. She's 18 now. And her eyes still tell me something every single time. Damn. This is hard. Blow by blow... It's the trial we are all a part of... I'm thinking of them in so many different ways... It just can't be... Not now. I should probably stop. I've said what I needed to say... I think.

It rained this morning. I suppose that's a start. And the song that's running through my ears is making me smile.

I have to go now, but check this... Keep the loved ones close and make sure they know, okay? To remember them is to celebrate them. Forever.

There is hope for us...

Love,

bsm*

We were five feet from the curb.

It's Friday and another weekend is upon us... It's warm outside. Be careful out there...

Have fun. Don't forget the sunscreen. And don't forget to smile for the camera...

Song of the day: "No More May" by Owl

Song for the weekend: "Please Let That Be You" by The Rentals

Songs for the parts in between: "Amie" by Damien Rice & "Powder Blue" by Elbow & "So Long" by Face to Face

3............

- gallo (bsm*)

"Ben, the two of..."

Today, the world lost a couple of celebrities.... We knew Farrah and we knew Michael. One better than the other, but maybe not... We knew what we saw, what we read, what we heard...

We were somewhat prepared to say 'goodbye' to Farrah as her road has been a rough one. Red was your color. With Mr. Jackson, it was sudden and without fair warning. This guy, Michael, was an icon on many levels. Farrah was an American icon of sorts, but Mike was an icon that affected the globe, it seemed...

His song about Ben will always be my favorite...

My memory... In 4th grade, I (along with my friends B & H) stood up in front of our homeroom class and sang "Billie Jean." Someone brought the "Thriller" LP in and like most classrooms (I hope) in America, we had a record player on cue for spontaneous musical moments. For some reason, we thought we would be "those 3 kids" who would use our free time to show off our ridiculous singing voices to our classmates. We even snapped our fingers to the beat... All we needed was a street corner. We sang our hearts out for the class. I remember the temperature in my skin was boiling because it was really happening... A pop show in a classroom. In a way, it was awesome, but considering the PG-13 lyrical content, I'm wondering why we were able to get away with such nonsense. Of course, this was Michael Jackson we were talking about... The world was enamored by his charm. He was THAT big... It didn't matter... Billie Jean could have been about stealing milk for the janitor or killing butterflies and it would have been appropriate for that setting. Any setting... Why did Ms. Markos let us do this? To watch us wilt under the pressure of imitating Mr. Jackson? To watch us shine? To prepare us for something bigger than the 3 of us combined? Was she THAT cool or was she THAT crazy?

Wait a minute. Killing butterflies? Sorry about that... It just came to mind. Just making a point...

MJ was huge at one point and in many circles, he is still on top. This thing is just getting started... The King of Pop is gone. He's there with the King of Rock and Roll now.

Wow... I just don't know what to say...

I wonder how John and George will greet him... R.I.P.

All of a sudden, I feel a little older.

Protect the record player, people.

Out.

bsm*

I'm moved, by the way.

Y'know, the most random things come to mind when I'm sitting in traffic... Here's something...

"We were in a race with the stars above through the understanding of the guide who brought us here just to leave us... Only to solve the riddle that faith left us in the sky. It's there for the taking and it will belong to us for eternity. He looks down. She looks up. As she sorts through the wisdom that runs through her, everything known becomes unknown. With one blink of the eye. And it's there where they are welcomed to something new... The stars are watching us."

Had to toss that into the ring... Something compelled me to...

Summer. It's hot.

I'm thinking about all of the times I followed my dad with my aluminum lawnmower. It made this rowdy rattling noise... I cherished that thing. It even grew rust just like the family mower... I remember following his pattern. The weight and speed of my fake mower would hit the clippings just right making it appear that I, too, was cutting the St. Augustine that we worked so hard to grow. It made me so happy. I was 5 years old and I'll never forget following those paths on Duane Street.

I hope you took care of your dad today... It's his day.

I love you, Dad. Goodnight.

Your son, always... bsm*

flitter, flutter...

Today, I learned that a hummingbird weighs less than a penny.

I love the fact that these kinds of nuggets can sometimes be hidden underneath a bottle cap. Thanks Snapple. Your "Real Fact" #17 made my day. Truly.

bsm*

Me: I need it like the ocean needs the waves.

Just thinking... Each day needs a chance. A chance to prove something... A chance to begin again. A chance to make wrong things right. A chance for something new. A chance to turn a page. One chance to make a difference. A chance to change the odds. Its chance to wake up... Each day deserves that chance. One chance. That's all... Just thinking... - Me

Oh... This post is brought to you by the believers I met today.

"dime stores in the brittle air..." - MR

Cheers.

This is a short piece on where I was exactly one year ago today. Written after a few... Wrote it to keep the memory alive somehow. Something kept it around for the occasion. Just keep it breathing for me. Thanks.

Many thanks.
________

Matthew Ryan Vs. The Silver State (MRVSS)
Cambridge Room inside the House of Blues, Dallas, TX
Friday, June 13th, 2008

A warm night in Texas... All of this happened as I recall and remember it all...

A handful of people were milling around the dark, yet sleek shed inside this monster house of supposed blues with doors to a handful of stages large and small. Then this anonymous gent carried himself to the stage. This was Jon Dee Graham. He opened and played a lonesome, yet blistering set. He was late to the gig, so he borrowed Matthew's guitar... And with pick in hand and a chilled Tecate in the other, he went to work. Midway through his acoustic set, he asked the multi-talented Molly Thomas onstage to play the fiddle on a couple of acoustic jams... They looked great together as he really appreciated her presence. She added just the right touch to his brawny style. Jon even brought out Matthew Ryan's drummer to help him out with a song. Jon was full of stories and even played a couple of songs with the Super Villains (aka MRVSS). He brought this motley crew out to help him with a song his 8 year old son created... Turned into a full-blown crowd-sing-along... It was so respectful that the Villains didn't steal his thunder. What an opener... Not expecting much from him, but his brief, heroic set showed me exactly why there is a documentary made of his life. His story about his song in the movie, "Ladder 49," brought the house down. Loved how he laughed all the way through his slotted time. This set the stage for MRVSS.

When MRVSS walked onto the stage, his curious band rolled out with a subtle confidence that echoed through the small, yet intimate venue. One would not know that this was the second show of an ultra-short run. My wife and I were up front and center along with some faithful followers who were clearly there to show our respect and appreciation for great music by a talented and hopeful artist. When I saw Matthew Ryan in Boston, MA last year, he played to a crowd of 21... Just him and his guitar and a harmonica. It was a special night and it set up my expectations for a full band assault. Because his latest release is a stellar body of work that packs a potent punch, I was intrigued with how it would correspond to the live stage... I wondered how it would all connect... We were not disappointed and the band delivered and went above and beyond to make sure that we, the listeners, had the kind of experience worth writing about... As I type this, I cannot recall the names of the players, except for Molly who was introduced as such... So I will just label them by the instruments they played on this great night. The guitar/bass duo looked like brothers as they laid it all down and brought a certain sonic appeal to each tune. The drummer attacked his drums as if he were mad at them because they had called him names, but treated them with a sweet sincerity when certain songs called for it. Very, very tight on the trap set. I loved the snap of the snare... Molly was all over the keys and strings... She would use her voice to accent Matthew's and would sprinkle cool little musical vignettes into each number as if she had been playing these songs all of her life. It was apparent from the beginning that this band was having fun and it showed through each song. Their appreciation for the moment was obvious as they were a tight, crisp group looking for an audience who cared... Matthew held them all together and was noticeably proud to have them by his side for this tour.

'Could've Been Worse' started the night out with its ominous beginning and we were off... Early in the show, Matthew asked the barkeep to turn off the TVs that lined the back of the room. They were bright and he said this... "Hey, I don't want to come across wrong, but is there any way you can turn the TVs off back there? There's enough entertainment in the room, tonight. Thanks." This singular moment is something that I can appreciate... Like buying my first copy of "The Bends" by Radiohead. It was the right thing to do in 1995. And on this night in 2008, he was right. Who needs additional distractions? Thankfully, the barkeep obliged and Matthew went into a dedication story of how 'Dulce Et Decorum Est' was written for his mom. Then he laughed and said that it was written about her... and did not want to confuse anyone...

Every song was true to form, but some left room for some subtle improvisational wordplay, which was nice as Matthew enjoys referencing his heroes and for the faithful ones, these types of things are a welcome gift. He went deep into his catalog early and broke 'Guilty' out... Solid and swift, it complimented the new songs well... I hoped that he would dig into his previous lives and we were not disappointed... The newer takes on his older stuff sounded so fresh and it was nice to see that he had not given up on where he came from... The crowd was ecstatic as we shouted out requests from each album. Matthew was appreciative of our efforts to influence the set list. I said (3 feet away), "Play your favorite Clash song!" His reply, "Hey, that's not a bad idea, that could be cool." But this was his night and he was going to do it his way. He would thank us later (in his own way) for our requests. 'They Were Wrong' was up next and was gorgeous. I remember it as an acoustic highlight from my journey to Boston last year. I was thrilled that it saw the light of day on his latest effort. And after a beautifully paced 'And Never Look Back,' he said, "This next one is my favorite song of the last 10 years." MRVSS then tore into a raucous 'Johnny Appleseed,' by the late, great Joe Strummer. This was a proper homage to someone that Matthew admires and holds a great deal of respect for and it was a true rocker from start to finish. Joe would have been proud had he heard what Matthew did with it... I'm sure of it...

For 'Closing In,' Matthew left his guitar on stage and walked into the audience to sing the album closer... He walked through us and we gave him his space and watched the guy say his piece. It was a special touch to an already special night and we were not even close to being through with it all... As the night heated up, each song from then on took on a sweet swagger that left us wanting more... Matthew's confidence was building and the band was clicking on all cylinders. We really couldn't ask for more... MRVSS even squeezed in a 'Happy Birthday' to an adoring fan who was just excited to be alive. Then they blazed, relentlessly, through some oldies and wrapped it up with 'Misundercould.' This was the last hurrah for the band as they rolled off... We were left wondering what was next...

Matthew then grabbed his acoustic and hopped down from the stage and started taking proper requests. From the second song of the night, a guy to my left repeatedly asked him to play '3rd Of October.' This guy would be rewarded for his patience when Matthew serenaded him and his wife who were celebrating their anniversary. We all watched him work and when he was finished, he started walking around and asked for more requests... Then, 'Me & My Lover' took us by surprise (also serenaded to another group of people) and melted into my request for 'Skylight.' While 10 different songs were requested during this brief acoustic-troubadour-like moment, the minute I said 'Skylight,' I was met with a "There you go, that's the one!" So there he stood on the floor in front of us all and sang it like it was the last time he would ever sing this song. It was amazing...

We knew that we were on borrowed time and this acoustic set was a real treat for us... Would it end and if it did, what would he go out with? Matthew jumped back on stage and looked at us all one last time and started the first strums of 'Return To Me.' Enough said... As he concluded this quietly majestic masterwork, he snuck this cluster of words in, just like he did in Boston last year... "The world is held together by the wind that blows through your hair." Powerful, I think. And very appropriate for personal reasons... This is all true. Then, he thanked us again and shuffled off to the dark corner of the stage. It was over.

The fact that he stuck around and visited with everyone after the show was just a nice touch. That was best encore of all...

Thank you, MRVSS. We would be happy to play host again if you'll have us...

The set...

01. Could've Been Worse
02. Sweetie
03. American Dirt
04. Dulce Et Decorum Est
05. Babybird
06. Guilty
07. Jane, I Still Feel The Same
08. Meet Me By The River
09. They Were Wrong
10. And Never Look Back
11. Johnny Appleseed
12. Closing In *
13. I Must Love Leaving
14. Irrelevant
15. Misundercould
16. 3rd Of October **
17. Me & My Lover **
18. Skylight **
19. Return To Me ***

* Matthew sans guitar, mic only, in crowd facing the band
** solo w/ acoustic guitar serenading crowd
*** solo w/ acoustic guitar on stage
________

- bsm*, fan of all things real

No, really...

I have a question.

What is a "Jon & Kate Plus 8?"

I suppose I live under a rock, but good grief... These made-for-tv-faux-celebrities are everywhere. Like mosquitoes in July. Here I am... trying to score a watermelon and some grapes and I see 5 magazines-turned-gossip rags spilling their guts all over my shopping experience.

When it was my turn, I asked the cashier if he watched the show... He said "no," but said his older sister did because she liked the Posh Spice character........

Enough said.

- Clueless shopper

Follow the leader.

Something about this bridge... Something about that April

afternoon a couple of years ago... It just made sense to go.

To get up, to leave and go. I followed it. I'll say this much...

The butterflies never left me. They don't know how to leave.

Once you have them, they're yours... They tattoo your insides

with a certain kind of ink. They are a part of who you are...

Your tummy will forever be grateful. And that, to me, is

beautiful. To the non-believers? Look inside. Let go. What

are you afraid of? It's just a bridge. - #19, Holding Midfield

Press "Play" and look away...

Playlist for today (for the book club or something):

a) matt pond pa "halloween"
b) jason lytle "brand new sun"
c) haven "say something"
d) the verve "blue"
e) strays don't sleep "cars and history"
f) cassettes won't listen "freeze and explode"
g) peter murphy "hit song"
h) the church "the unguarded moment"
i) lakes "photographs"
j) liam finn "second chance"
k) unbunny "nothing comes to rest"
l) lewis "the path that strays"
m) the police "so lonely"
n) sonic youth "superstar"
o) ned's atomic dustbin "twenty three hour toothache"

In no particular order... Just some songs to sort through as you're sorting through your cabinets for that perfect seasoning blend...

Letter "h" was my favorite today for some reason. Later.

Part VII

I threw something out there on the 9th of March... That was #4. This is the seventh part.

He never really knew what to say when she walked through the door, but he felt like saying everything, both right and wrong, from the bottom of his heart. When she said, "hi," it was always met with simple applause from the others in the room, but it spoke volumes about her as a person, given her past and possible future. She was coming out of her shell, scratching at the walls she had built around herself. She found herself in a circle of friends and felt safe and in control. She shifted with a certain delicate sway and questioned even the little things with her "I challenge everything, so what" eyes. Protected from it all, reluctant to shred the singular emotional agreement that was cast in stone so many seasons ago. Giving pieces of herself away had a price and lending an ounce to anyone meant giving away a ton of something that had little in reserve... It was a fear of the known and a genuine calling to something more... The crooked smiles and the sudden stares... They all spoke up, but when noticed, they crawled away for fear of being remembered... Her tentative nature lead some to believe that she may not have always cared, but to the trained soul, it wasn't that she didn't care, but it was that she cared enough to be tentative... Her choices to engage? Always calculated. When he sees her, he sees someone he always thought of and may have possibly met... In a dream, perhaps, or maybe in 4th grade. When he hears her laugh and when he listens to her talk, he thinks about the feelings he calls home. When she shares and, to an extent, explores, he remembers what it's like to believe in something pure and unconditional. And when she stands alone quietly in the shaded room, he recalls times spent with a friend in a backyard on the second floor of his fort reading under the flashlight, counting random satellites orbiting above... One, two, nine. Also alone, quiet and near dark light. It conjures up the understanding of who he is as a person and what it's like to be near and inside certain moments. When together, even in silence, the calming nature of her spirit makes one elicit thoughts only a blooming flower would understand. On any given day, one could only hope to see what he sees... And when it becomes clear that there is more behind her eyes and even more behind her mind... It's there... The foundation and the colors for the painting that could only be on display inside the walls of the most personal of hearts. Does she knows this? Will she know this? Will it matter? Does it matter that he may never tell her that when she has the time, there will always be a place in his story for her? Can she see what he sees? Will she keep it nearby and if so, where? Will she put it away with reservations for a rainy day? Tucked away under her skin? Her protective canopy shimmers, it seems, and she guards it with everything giving bits and pieces to imagine... With hopes of seeing more... To be cherished like a first kiss on Friday night. Her thoughts, channeling everything forgotten and everything asked... With everything in mind... He leaves room for her. So many things come to mind as he looks at the cards on the table. One card stands out as bright as a full moon on Christmas Eve. Her name is Piper. To see her like he does... Is she here? Was she there? His thoughts are clear. Made with conviction. For her. For him. Where is she? Is she coming back?

bsm*

I need a mason jar.

Of note: I just spotted my first firefly of the year. A little early, but it was exactly what I needed...

I'm ready whenever you are...

Have a good night and a better tomorrow. bsm*

A lonely, single thank you.

That's it?

Really?

Here's the deal. My money's on the scientist.

"Sierra Nevada Pale Ale is a completely natural ale. There are no additives, only the finest malted barley, whole hops, brewer's yeast, and crystal-clear water. The fine layer of yeast in each bottle is a result of the traditional bottle-conditioning process that produces carbonation naturally." - Lifted right from the bottle and why not?

I must say that there is something entirely killer about those three sentences.

About that 'thank you.' If found, drop in any mailbox. Postage guaranteed.

Any takers?

Okay.

One cup of heavy whipping cream + a half a cup of confectioner's sugar = whipped cream. Once you see the peaks, but before you see something resembling butter, fold in some lemon curd and see what happens...

Pamper it.

I want to say that Kelly Kapowski shared this with me. Or was it the dude working the counter at The T-Shirt Shack? Can't quite remember.

- bsm* on the 1st

lantern + broken ladder

Every now and then, I feel like ... Well, if I lived in a tree house, life would be a little more adventurous. A little more stripped down. Perhaps more basic. With that, I bet life would be slightly more defined in its intent to be...

I've seen houses that are called "tree houses" which are actually half-a-million dollar palaces with DirecTV dishes that are bigger than a 1987 Yugo that are built between mammoth trees in the backyards of gazillionaires in remote parts of the nation... I've even seen television programs on the ins and outs of building said houses...

Me? I'm thinking of something a little different. Something with a little bit of something special that has been built without the aid of an architect, but designed more with heart. More from the inside and less from the outside. Does that make sense?

To keep me company, I would enlist my favorite.........

- dreamer (bsm*)

Thinking sweet things, always...

Do you remember what you did on Monday? Thought I'd ask. What about last Friday?

Have you ever sold anything out of the trunk of your automobile? I have...

Not sure if you heard, but the music community lost a great contributor on the 24th... Jay Bennett, who was a key component to the early Wilco vibes, passed away. His contributions before and after Wilco were solid and some of my favorite Wilco tunes were driven by him... His arrangements always came alive and his legacy will always be rich in my eyes. truly. Jay, despite the drama, I thought you rocked... May you rest your heavy heart, man.

Do yourself a favor and listen to Wilco's "My Darling" today, tonight, soon. It's only right.

Later on, bsm*

I want a Pink Thing.

More flags, more fun. Six Flags.

!!! Huh ???

How in the world does it go? Can someone please turn his voice off?

And how exactly will a dancing bald guy in a tuxedo prompt me to want to drop everything and go? Why is he pushing summer passes through EVERY media vehicle known to man? Why does he exist? To attract new visitors or to scare them away? This is best that they can do? "He" is the best gimmick that they could come up with? Why not choose "Gizmo," the little mogwai? Or Cate Blanchett? Or H.R. Pufnstuf? Or Ace Frehley? Or Aslan of Narnia? Or Adrian Zmed? Or Tina Yothers? Or Sigmund and The Sea Monsters? Or Elvis Costello? Or "Ming" from the ridiculous 1980 Flash Gordon movie?

I'll be honest. The bald dude bothers me and he bothers me in a way that I don't ever want to set foot in the park again... Granted, the last time I was there (in 2001), he didn't exist, so I am happy that my last trip was not tainted by this weirdo, who is probably wanted in 30 counties.

Just thinking about the fall from grace that Six Flags has endured over the years is making want to.......... It's just not the same... What happened to this once beloved park? Like all things, everything goes through a change and rides are re-tooled and re-named... Some go away. Some stay too long. Some get better with age. Some don't... And the........... Y'know what, I'm going to stop right here...

They're probably not even called Pink Things anymore.

1, 2, 3,

4, 5, 6, seven, 8, 9, 10.

What a week this has shaped up to be... I found a business card that I haven't seen since 2003 and I met 12 people that have a certain degree of dignity to them... I even shook hands with a dude that I haven't seen since 2001. Also, connecting with a cousin that I haven't seen in 6+ years was entirely rewarding... I can't wait to finally break bread with him... I'm betting that the first topic of discussion will be around the fate of his lucky left shoe that was abandoned once upon a time ago. We might even talk about how we both lost because the scratch was on the one with the wooden leg.

It's Wednesday. Yesterday was the 19th... One month later... I miss him. It doesn't feel any better...

If you had a slice of pie or a slice of chocolate cake yesterday... Or even some creamy ice cream, I hope that it was delicious and I hope that it provided the perfect compliment to your day or night. He had a sweet tooth, but only in small, supervised portions...

I'm thinking about "CW" and how one cotton lid changed everything...

As I said, what a week... Life will throw you a few surprises from time to time. It's what you do with them that will surprise people. Not sure if that adds up, but I feel like it should to someone.

Onenumberatatime, onedayatatime, oneweekatatime, oneyearatatime.

"What's the frequency, Kenneth?"

Who's Kenneth?

Bye.

Please smile. Pretty please?

bsm*