Last night, Karen and I decided to watch a show that we had recorded on our DVR. To the possible dismay of my friend (Hot Amy), the show was not a public access television show. Nope, the show that Karen and I recorded was ABC's FlashForward.
Now, I suck at Flash Forward. According to my friend, Wikipedia, the show is based on the novel of the same name written by Canadian science fiction writer Robert J. Sawyer.
For anyone curious, the premise of the show is that one day everyone in the world blacks out for 2 minutes 17 seconds. During that black out, each individual experiences a feeling that they flashed forward in time and received a glimpse of the future. From there, it's basically a mystery about why did it happen, how did it happen, who is responsible, will the events in the "flashforward" actually happen, etc.
It's an interesting premise. I thought the first episode was pretty good. I actually got a little chuckle during the show when I noticed a billboard in the background of one of the scenes. The billboard was an advertisement for Oceanic airlines, which is a reference to ABC's well-written show, Lost. (Too bad this is the final season of Lost.)
Speaking of Lost, FlashForward stars Sonya Walger as the wife of the FBI agent in charge of uncovering the mystery between the flashforward. (Sonya Walger is Desmond's constant... Penny.) Also slated to join the cast is Dominic Monaghan, another Lost actor. Dominic Monaghan played Charlie in Lost.
Interestingly enough, the main character of the show (Joseph Fiennes) looks like he could also be a Lost actor. At first, I thought he looked a lot like Nestor Carbonell, the actor who plays Richard on Lost... just without the eyeliner. Needless to say, he's not. Joseph Fiennes, by the way, is better known for his starring role in Shakespeare In Love opposite Gwyneth Paltrow.
All in all, I enjoyed the first episode. I will be curious to see how the show turns out.
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Sunday, September 27, 2009
I Suck At The Boston Belle Charters
Today, Karen and I took a charter cruise around Boston Harbor via the Boston Belle Charters. Unfortunately, I suck at the Boston Belle Charters.
The cause for the charter was the annual memorial for a friend who I grew up with (Greg). Greg passed away on Valentine's day some time ago. Unfortunately, I do not know what was the cause of the unfortunate circumstance. Anyway, I knew Greg since middle school. As well, we ended up running track together. He had attempted running hurdles along with my friend (Marc) and I at one time, but found running long distance easier.
Needless to say, Greg's mother, who happens to be a teacher at the high school that all of us went to, holds an annual fundraiser for a scholarship in his name. The fundraiser this year involved the Boston Harbor cruise.
With the inclement weather today, I was a little hesitant about the cruise at first. Luckily, mother nature cooperated and the cruise turned out to be pretty good.
My friends (Cass and Ellen) were also on the cruise with us, which was great. Aside from Cass and Ellen, Karen and I did not know anyone else on the cruise except for Greg's mother and our old track coach (Geoff). Technically, that's not totally true. Cass's parents were on the cruise too. So I knew them.
(Pictured below is Cass, impersonating the Gorton's fisherman.)
Speaking of Cass's parents, Karen and I got to see the scar on Cass's father's thumb. When my friends and I took Cass out to celebrate his birthday, Cass's father cut his thumb with a saw. The cut required 16 stitches and was an interesting way to end the birthday celebration.
As the story goes, Cass's father was cutting a post with a table saw. The piece of wood kicked back and apparently by instinct, his father pushed the piece of wood down to the rotating blade. The only problem... his thumb caught the blade. Obviously, that is a big no-no. Safety safety safety. As Cass said, his father is lucky to still have his thumb. Parents...
Anyway, it just so happened that Cass's father... and his scarred thumb... won one of the raffle items for Greg's scholarship fund. Cass's father seems to win things. When we were in Las Vegas, he won money at a slot machine at the airport. It was bizarre. But, the raffled item he happened to win was the large gift basket of wine that my favorite sister-in-law (Janine) had donated to the fund.
Needless to say, it was an interesting time.
The cause for the charter was the annual memorial for a friend who I grew up with (Greg). Greg passed away on Valentine's day some time ago. Unfortunately, I do not know what was the cause of the unfortunate circumstance. Anyway, I knew Greg since middle school. As well, we ended up running track together. He had attempted running hurdles along with my friend (Marc) and I at one time, but found running long distance easier.
Needless to say, Greg's mother, who happens to be a teacher at the high school that all of us went to, holds an annual fundraiser for a scholarship in his name. The fundraiser this year involved the Boston Harbor cruise.
With the inclement weather today, I was a little hesitant about the cruise at first. Luckily, mother nature cooperated and the cruise turned out to be pretty good.
My friends (Cass and Ellen) were also on the cruise with us, which was great. Aside from Cass and Ellen, Karen and I did not know anyone else on the cruise except for Greg's mother and our old track coach (Geoff). Technically, that's not totally true. Cass's parents were on the cruise too. So I knew them.
(Pictured below is Cass, impersonating the Gorton's fisherman.)
Speaking of Cass's parents, Karen and I got to see the scar on Cass's father's thumb. When my friends and I took Cass out to celebrate his birthday, Cass's father cut his thumb with a saw. The cut required 16 stitches and was an interesting way to end the birthday celebration.
As the story goes, Cass's father was cutting a post with a table saw. The piece of wood kicked back and apparently by instinct, his father pushed the piece of wood down to the rotating blade. The only problem... his thumb caught the blade. Obviously, that is a big no-no. Safety safety safety. As Cass said, his father is lucky to still have his thumb. Parents...
Anyway, it just so happened that Cass's father... and his scarred thumb... won one of the raffle items for Greg's scholarship fund. Cass's father seems to win things. When we were in Las Vegas, he won money at a slot machine at the airport. It was bizarre. But, the raffled item he happened to win was the large gift basket of wine that my favorite sister-in-law (Janine) had donated to the fund.
Needless to say, it was an interesting time.
I Suck At The Honey Pot Hill Orchards
On Saturday, I got to hang out with my BFF (Kerry) and my friends (Marc, Kelley, and Jen). Kerry was kind enough to organize the little get together. On the agenda for the day: apple picking at the Honey Pot Hill Orchards in Stow. Unfortunately, I suck at the Honey Pot Hill Orchards.
Anyway, I had an absolute blast... not because I enjoy apple picking, but more because it was great to just hang out with a bunch of friends. The Honey Pot Hill Orchards were packed. It seemed like everyone in the state of Massachusetts was going to the Honey Pot Hill Orchards to pick apples.
(Pictured below are Kelley and Jen at the Honey Pot Hill Orchards.)
That is not to say that I did not enjoy the picking of the apples. That was fun too. Of course, there were some issues like hoodlums throwing apples at one another (kids these days...), people picking apples in the prohibited sections, and the huge number of wasted apples on the ground which is a waste. But once you get past all that, the act of apple picking was enjoyable.
So as to not have Karen feel left out, we also waited for over half an hour to buy cider donuts for her. Karen was not feeling well and so could not make the day's festivities.
Probably the most interesting part of the day took place, not at the Honey Pot Hill Orchards, but within the car ride. While on our way home, we passed a truck near the South Shore Mall in Braintree that was literally on fire. The intense burning heat could be felt within our car as we drove past the inferno. The truck had recently caught fire as we approached. So the fire trucks had yet to arrive, leaving only a single police car to direct traffic.
Luckily, we had our own emergency management specialist (ie. Kerry) within the car. Kerry, by the way, cracks me up. On our way to the Honey Pot Hill Orchards, Kerry would tell all of us about the fire chiefs of the towns we had driven by... in Rainman-like fashion. The whole thing reminded me of the learning technique known as flash cards. So say a flash card of a town was displayed, Kerry would blurt out the name of the fire chief. It was interesting... and sadly, no one in the car could either confirm or deny the accuracy of who the fire chief was for the named town.
I have also decided that if I were ever to participate in the Amazing Race show, I would want Kerry as my partner. Originally, I thought my friend (Joanna) would make a good choice because Joanna would do probably anything... which would come in helpful during the numerous challenges. I have since come to see the light that Kerry would make a better choice... because Kerry knows things. She seems to have a knack for knowing her way around Massachusetts. Plus, she can drive standard. That is always handy for the game show. Unfortunately, I don't think Kerry would want me as her partner for the Amazing Race. Oh well.
Anyway, I had an absolute blast... not because I enjoy apple picking, but more because it was great to just hang out with a bunch of friends. The Honey Pot Hill Orchards were packed. It seemed like everyone in the state of Massachusetts was going to the Honey Pot Hill Orchards to pick apples.
(Pictured below are Kelley and Jen at the Honey Pot Hill Orchards.)
That is not to say that I did not enjoy the picking of the apples. That was fun too. Of course, there were some issues like hoodlums throwing apples at one another (kids these days...), people picking apples in the prohibited sections, and the huge number of wasted apples on the ground which is a waste. But once you get past all that, the act of apple picking was enjoyable.
So as to not have Karen feel left out, we also waited for over half an hour to buy cider donuts for her. Karen was not feeling well and so could not make the day's festivities.
Probably the most interesting part of the day took place, not at the Honey Pot Hill Orchards, but within the car ride. While on our way home, we passed a truck near the South Shore Mall in Braintree that was literally on fire. The intense burning heat could be felt within our car as we drove past the inferno. The truck had recently caught fire as we approached. So the fire trucks had yet to arrive, leaving only a single police car to direct traffic.
Luckily, we had our own emergency management specialist (ie. Kerry) within the car. Kerry, by the way, cracks me up. On our way to the Honey Pot Hill Orchards, Kerry would tell all of us about the fire chiefs of the towns we had driven by... in Rainman-like fashion. The whole thing reminded me of the learning technique known as flash cards. So say a flash card of a town was displayed, Kerry would blurt out the name of the fire chief. It was interesting... and sadly, no one in the car could either confirm or deny the accuracy of who the fire chief was for the named town.
I have also decided that if I were ever to participate in the Amazing Race show, I would want Kerry as my partner. Originally, I thought my friend (Joanna) would make a good choice because Joanna would do probably anything... which would come in helpful during the numerous challenges. I have since come to see the light that Kerry would make a better choice... because Kerry knows things. She seems to have a knack for knowing her way around Massachusetts. Plus, she can drive standard. That is always handy for the game show. Unfortunately, I don't think Kerry would want me as her partner for the Amazing Race. Oh well.
I Suck At Castle
On Thursday, Karen and I got caught up on one of ABC's new television series: Castle. Now I suck at Castle.
For anyone curious, the show stars Nathan Fillion (of Firefly and Dr. Horrible fame) as Castle, a crime novelist who works with the New York police department to solve homicide cases with a detective who is the basis for one of his characters.
The show is rather quirky and reminds me a little bit of Murder She Wrote for the next generation. Karen and I accidentally stumbled upon the season premier as Karen was watching Dancing With The Stars on Monday night. While Karen was watching the show, I was tinkering with our garage door opener.
Done working on the home improvement project for the night, I caught the tail end of Dancing With The Stars. After the show, Castle aired and both Karen and I were sucked in. Although we did not watch much of that particular Castle episode, we knew we wanted to catch up on the series.
Luckily, the past episodes were available on demand. Thankfully, there were only three episodes to catch up on. So Karen and I were able to catch up quickly and easily. Having caught up on the past three episodes, we then watched the episode that aired on Monday.
So as of Thursday night, we are caught up on ABC's new series: Castle. Hopefully the rest of the season will be good.
For anyone curious, the show stars Nathan Fillion (of Firefly and Dr. Horrible fame) as Castle, a crime novelist who works with the New York police department to solve homicide cases with a detective who is the basis for one of his characters.
The show is rather quirky and reminds me a little bit of Murder She Wrote for the next generation. Karen and I accidentally stumbled upon the season premier as Karen was watching Dancing With The Stars on Monday night. While Karen was watching the show, I was tinkering with our garage door opener.
Done working on the home improvement project for the night, I caught the tail end of Dancing With The Stars. After the show, Castle aired and both Karen and I were sucked in. Although we did not watch much of that particular Castle episode, we knew we wanted to catch up on the series.
Luckily, the past episodes were available on demand. Thankfully, there were only three episodes to catch up on. So Karen and I were able to catch up quickly and easily. Having caught up on the past three episodes, we then watched the episode that aired on Monday.
So as of Thursday night, we are caught up on ABC's new series: Castle. Hopefully the rest of the season will be good.
Friday, September 25, 2009
I Suck At Margaritas
On Wednesday, Karen and I hung out with my friends (Marc and Kelley). We began the night by delivering the ramp that I had made for their cat (Audrey). It was interesting because I don't think Audrey knew what to make of the ramp. Marc and Kelley tried to entice her to use the ramp with food... but to no avail. Eventually, she got on the ramp. (I'm just glad that she actually used it.)
Shortly after, we headed out for dinner. Since Marc's birthday was earlier this month, he had received a coupon from Margaritas Mexican Restaurant to be used this month to receive a discount. So off to Margaritas in Weymouth we went. Unfortunately, I suck at Margaritas. I have not been to Margaritas in some time. It was quite delicious.
After dinner, we headed back to Marc and Kelley's to catch a couple of episodes of the greatest television show ever: Buffy the Vampire Slayer. The episodes that we watched were: "The Body" about the death of Buffy's mom; and "Forever" about Dawn's attempt to bring back Buffy's mother from the grave.
Needless to say, neither of the episodes were too uplifting. Regardless, I had a good time as usual.
Shortly after, we headed out for dinner. Since Marc's birthday was earlier this month, he had received a coupon from Margaritas Mexican Restaurant to be used this month to receive a discount. So off to Margaritas in Weymouth we went. Unfortunately, I suck at Margaritas. I have not been to Margaritas in some time. It was quite delicious.
After dinner, we headed back to Marc and Kelley's to catch a couple of episodes of the greatest television show ever: Buffy the Vampire Slayer. The episodes that we watched were: "The Body" about the death of Buffy's mom; and "Forever" about Dawn's attempt to bring back Buffy's mother from the grave.
Needless to say, neither of the episodes were too uplifting. Regardless, I had a good time as usual.
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
I Suck At Getting My Car Fixed
Yesterday, I took the car to the local Firestone in Hingham to get the car fixed. Sadly, I suck at getting my car fixed. If I could, I would fix the car myself. Unfortunately, learning about the intricacies of a car is on my to-do list. It's on the list of things... after fixing up the house. So someday, I hope to get to it.
Anyway, on Sunday while driving to visit my BFF (Kerry) in Salem, the service light on the dashboard of the car came on. Usually, warning lights on the dashboard are never a good thing. Not to let the thought of a possible breakdown ruin our day, Karen and I hoped that we could visit Kerry and get back home to lovely Norwell in one piece. Thankfully, we were able to get home on Sunday.
Rather than chance another long drive, I took the car to Firestone to have it looked at. Naturally, this would be an expensive endeavor. Among the list of problems for the car: the brake mounting, some busted hose, and a bunch of burnt out brake lights. Those were in addition to the much needed oil change.
Well, the problem seemingly has been fixed. The service light no longer comes on. The car does appear to be driving smoother. And the good news is that the car does brake without squeaking. We'll see how long this condition lasts. I sometimes wonder if the mechanics put a timer in the car to have things break down ever so often.
Oh well. Needless to say, I'm a little bummed by the car. Perhaps it is time to get a new car.
Anyway, on Sunday while driving to visit my BFF (Kerry) in Salem, the service light on the dashboard of the car came on. Usually, warning lights on the dashboard are never a good thing. Not to let the thought of a possible breakdown ruin our day, Karen and I hoped that we could visit Kerry and get back home to lovely Norwell in one piece. Thankfully, we were able to get home on Sunday.
Rather than chance another long drive, I took the car to Firestone to have it looked at. Naturally, this would be an expensive endeavor. Among the list of problems for the car: the brake mounting, some busted hose, and a bunch of burnt out brake lights. Those were in addition to the much needed oil change.
Well, the problem seemingly has been fixed. The service light no longer comes on. The car does appear to be driving smoother. And the good news is that the car does brake without squeaking. We'll see how long this condition lasts. I sometimes wonder if the mechanics put a timer in the car to have things break down ever so often.
Oh well. Needless to say, I'm a little bummed by the car. Perhaps it is time to get a new car.
Sunday, September 20, 2009
I Suck At Richardson's Ice Cream
On Sunday, Karen and I visited my BFF (Kerry) in Salem after spending much of the time wandering the streets of Marblehead.
I had recently found out that Kerry had a kidney stone. I suppose had I logged in and checked my Facebook account more often, I probably would have known earlier than a couple of days after that Kerry had a kidney stone. Someday, I will use Facebook more. Of course, by the time I get around to using Facebook, there will be a new next big thing...
Anyway, thinking that Kerry would be in a lot of pain while waiting for the kidney stone to pass, Karen and I decided to visit her in Salem. As it turned out, Kerry was actually feeling a lot better when Karen and I visited because she had already passed the 4mm stone. 4mm. Yikes! So no percocet needed on Sunday. Yay!
With Kerry in good spirits, the three of us did what comes natural... we went out for ice cream. The three of us ending up going to Richardson's Ice Cream located in Middleton.
(Pictured below is a cow at Richardson's.)
For anyone curious, Middleton is located near Salem. Now I suck at Richardson's Ice Cream. I have heard good things about Richardson's from my boss. In fact, my coworkers were discussing ice cream places one day and Richardson's came up. (I, of course, could add nothing to the conversation because they were talking about the North Shore.)
Anyway, the thought of going to Richardson's did sound intriguing. Neither Karen nor I had ever been. And as it turned out, Kerry has never been to Richardson's either. So it was great to hang out and go there together.
I must say, the ice cream was delicious. I had the apple crisp ice cream. (Cue Rachael Ray's "Yum-O" sound.) It was very good. Truth be told, I still think Kimball's in Westford is the best. That's just my opinion.
Needless to say, I had a great time on Sunday. It was good to see Kerry. It's also good to know that she's doing well after the kidney stone. And of course, it's always good when ice cream is involved.
I had recently found out that Kerry had a kidney stone. I suppose had I logged in and checked my Facebook account more often, I probably would have known earlier than a couple of days after that Kerry had a kidney stone. Someday, I will use Facebook more. Of course, by the time I get around to using Facebook, there will be a new next big thing...
Anyway, thinking that Kerry would be in a lot of pain while waiting for the kidney stone to pass, Karen and I decided to visit her in Salem. As it turned out, Kerry was actually feeling a lot better when Karen and I visited because she had already passed the 4mm stone. 4mm. Yikes! So no percocet needed on Sunday. Yay!
With Kerry in good spirits, the three of us did what comes natural... we went out for ice cream. The three of us ending up going to Richardson's Ice Cream located in Middleton.
(Pictured below is a cow at Richardson's.)
For anyone curious, Middleton is located near Salem. Now I suck at Richardson's Ice Cream. I have heard good things about Richardson's from my boss. In fact, my coworkers were discussing ice cream places one day and Richardson's came up. (I, of course, could add nothing to the conversation because they were talking about the North Shore.)
Anyway, the thought of going to Richardson's did sound intriguing. Neither Karen nor I had ever been. And as it turned out, Kerry has never been to Richardson's either. So it was great to hang out and go there together.
I must say, the ice cream was delicious. I had the apple crisp ice cream. (Cue Rachael Ray's "Yum-O" sound.) It was very good. Truth be told, I still think Kimball's in Westford is the best. That's just my opinion.
Needless to say, I had a great time on Sunday. It was good to see Kerry. It's also good to know that she's doing well after the kidney stone. And of course, it's always good when ice cream is involved.
I Suck At Building A Ramp
Interestingly enough, Karen and I had no plans on Saturday night.
During the day, Karen got her haircut while I watched. Fun, I know. I actually felt a little nauseated at the hairdressers... probably because 1) I was at the hairdressers; and 2) one of the customers was getting her hair dyed. The smell of the chemicals was harsh. I don't know how women do it. Of course, if it were up to me, I'd probably have all women dye their hair blonde. Shiny! Yay!
Anyway, the reason I was waiting and watching Karen get her hair cut was because we had to pick up her parents at the Black Falcon Cruise Terminal in Boston. Her parents were coming back from their cruise and needed a ride home. One of the bonuses of picking up her parents was that we got to go out for lunch. (We ended up at the 99 Restaurant in Quincy.)
After lunch, Karen and I were able to watch my nephew (PJ) play his first game of soccer in Hingham. It was interesting. I actually spent most of the time playing with my niece (Kaleigh) because she was bored out of her mind watching PJ play.
Anyway, that was about all the excitement for the day. I spent the rest of the day (and technically part of Friday night) working on building a ramp. Unfortunately, I suck at building a ramp.
(The picture below is the ramp I built.)
My friend (Marc) recently asked if I could build a ramp for one of his cats (Audrey). Audrey is getting old in her age and is starting to show signs of her age by not being able to jump as high as she used to. Consequently, in an effort to help Audrey, Marc asked if I could build a ramp for her.
Naturally, I agreed. If the ramp helps make the cats like me more, so be it. I actually hope Audrey uses the ramp. I have visions that the cats will just hide underneath the ramp. We'll see.
Anyway, it was fun building the ramp. I don't think anyone outside of Karen has ever asked me to build something for them before... so it was nice. And like most things, I find it always easier to work on someone else's project as opposed to my own. (Yes, that first floor bathroom project... is still in demolition mode.) Plus, building the ramp was a good way to reuse a lot of the scrap pieces of wood that I have cluttering my garage. It was a win-win situation.
Needless to say, I got into "work" mode on Saturday. My "work" mode generally consists of my focusing on the task at hand and completing it with due diligence. It is sometimes the reason why I forget to eat lunch and all of that. What can I say? I just get caught up with what I'm doing.
Well... several hours later... the ramp was complete. And now, I can be paranoid and hope that everyone enjoys the finished product.
During the day, Karen got her haircut while I watched. Fun, I know. I actually felt a little nauseated at the hairdressers... probably because 1) I was at the hairdressers; and 2) one of the customers was getting her hair dyed. The smell of the chemicals was harsh. I don't know how women do it. Of course, if it were up to me, I'd probably have all women dye their hair blonde. Shiny! Yay!
Anyway, the reason I was waiting and watching Karen get her hair cut was because we had to pick up her parents at the Black Falcon Cruise Terminal in Boston. Her parents were coming back from their cruise and needed a ride home. One of the bonuses of picking up her parents was that we got to go out for lunch. (We ended up at the 99 Restaurant in Quincy.)
After lunch, Karen and I were able to watch my nephew (PJ) play his first game of soccer in Hingham. It was interesting. I actually spent most of the time playing with my niece (Kaleigh) because she was bored out of her mind watching PJ play.
Anyway, that was about all the excitement for the day. I spent the rest of the day (and technically part of Friday night) working on building a ramp. Unfortunately, I suck at building a ramp.
(The picture below is the ramp I built.)
My friend (Marc) recently asked if I could build a ramp for one of his cats (Audrey). Audrey is getting old in her age and is starting to show signs of her age by not being able to jump as high as she used to. Consequently, in an effort to help Audrey, Marc asked if I could build a ramp for her.
Naturally, I agreed. If the ramp helps make the cats like me more, so be it. I actually hope Audrey uses the ramp. I have visions that the cats will just hide underneath the ramp. We'll see.
Anyway, it was fun building the ramp. I don't think anyone outside of Karen has ever asked me to build something for them before... so it was nice. And like most things, I find it always easier to work on someone else's project as opposed to my own. (Yes, that first floor bathroom project... is still in demolition mode.) Plus, building the ramp was a good way to reuse a lot of the scrap pieces of wood that I have cluttering my garage. It was a win-win situation.
Needless to say, I got into "work" mode on Saturday. My "work" mode generally consists of my focusing on the task at hand and completing it with due diligence. It is sometimes the reason why I forget to eat lunch and all of that. What can I say? I just get caught up with what I'm doing.
Well... several hours later... the ramp was complete. And now, I can be paranoid and hope that everyone enjoys the finished product.
Friday, September 18, 2009
I Suck At Angel
On Thursday, Karen and I hung out with my friends (Marc and Kelley). Normally, Karen and I hang out with Marc and Kelley on Wednesdays. This past Wednesday, however, Karen had a meeting with the Friends of the Library. So Thursday it was.
Marc was gracious enough to make dinner for all of us which consisted of Uno's Deep Dish pizzas. I have not had an Uno's Deep Dish pizza in quite some time. If you look at the nutritional label for their Deep Dish pizzas, you'll know that they are not the best things on the menu. But, if you can get past the whole calorie thing, Uno's Deep Dish pizzas taste very good. Thursday was no exception.
In fact, the Deep Dish pizza brought back memories of probably when I last had a Deep Dish pizza, which may have been in college. I think it was just Kelley and I. We had gone to Uno's in Braintree for lunch one day. That's about all I remember. I have been to Uno's since, but I have not eaten the Deep Dish pizza... until Thursday.
Needless to say, it was good. Anyway, on the agenda for the night were more episodes of Angel. Yes, I suck at Angel. The episodes we managed to watch were: "Blood Money" about a fundraiser for a teen shelter; "Happy Anniversary" about a physicist who discovers a way to freeze time to save his relationship; "The Thin Dead Line" about zombie police officers; and "Reprise" about Angel's visit to the "home office".
As usual, all the episodes were good. I do like how the show used the Anne character from the Buffy series. For anyone curious, Anne runs the teen shelter and was involved in the zombie police episode. Previous to that, Anne was a cult-like teenager who wanted to become a vampire on Buffy (then named Lily)... and she also appeared in the Buffy episode that featured demons putting homeless people through hard labor in another dimension (in which she changed her name to Anne).
Interestingly enough, I had to leave after the fourth episode of Angel. I pretty much turned into my friend (Cass). Like Cass, I am allergic to cats. Marc and Kelley's cats do not really bother me like they do with Cass. (They do, but it generally takes a while before I start showing symptoms of my allergies.) As for Cass, he gets congested pretty quickly.
Anyway, my allergies triggered quite quickly at Marc and Kelley's. I think it has something to do with the oils from the poison ivy that is covering my entire body. I have a feeling that it has made me somewhat more sensitive to their cats. This is another reason to curse poison ivy. I would shake my fist at poison ivy... if the act of shaking my fist did not itch so much.
Regardless, hopefully I can recover from this rash soon. I am getting annoyed with having poison ivy.
Marc was gracious enough to make dinner for all of us which consisted of Uno's Deep Dish pizzas. I have not had an Uno's Deep Dish pizza in quite some time. If you look at the nutritional label for their Deep Dish pizzas, you'll know that they are not the best things on the menu. But, if you can get past the whole calorie thing, Uno's Deep Dish pizzas taste very good. Thursday was no exception.
In fact, the Deep Dish pizza brought back memories of probably when I last had a Deep Dish pizza, which may have been in college. I think it was just Kelley and I. We had gone to Uno's in Braintree for lunch one day. That's about all I remember. I have been to Uno's since, but I have not eaten the Deep Dish pizza... until Thursday.
Needless to say, it was good. Anyway, on the agenda for the night were more episodes of Angel. Yes, I suck at Angel. The episodes we managed to watch were: "Blood Money" about a fundraiser for a teen shelter; "Happy Anniversary" about a physicist who discovers a way to freeze time to save his relationship; "The Thin Dead Line" about zombie police officers; and "Reprise" about Angel's visit to the "home office".
As usual, all the episodes were good. I do like how the show used the Anne character from the Buffy series. For anyone curious, Anne runs the teen shelter and was involved in the zombie police episode. Previous to that, Anne was a cult-like teenager who wanted to become a vampire on Buffy (then named Lily)... and she also appeared in the Buffy episode that featured demons putting homeless people through hard labor in another dimension (in which she changed her name to Anne).
Interestingly enough, I had to leave after the fourth episode of Angel. I pretty much turned into my friend (Cass). Like Cass, I am allergic to cats. Marc and Kelley's cats do not really bother me like they do with Cass. (They do, but it generally takes a while before I start showing symptoms of my allergies.) As for Cass, he gets congested pretty quickly.
Anyway, my allergies triggered quite quickly at Marc and Kelley's. I think it has something to do with the oils from the poison ivy that is covering my entire body. I have a feeling that it has made me somewhat more sensitive to their cats. This is another reason to curse poison ivy. I would shake my fist at poison ivy... if the act of shaking my fist did not itch so much.
Regardless, hopefully I can recover from this rash soon. I am getting annoyed with having poison ivy.
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
I Suck At Poison Ivy
I have to say it... I suck at poison ivy. Poison ivy is uncomfortably annoying.
Last week, I thought I would be helpful and do some weeding near the side of our house. With the recent weather, the weeds by the side of our house have been crazy.
Naturally, like I do with most things, I went headstrong into the project. With nothing but a pair of gloves... (and some clothes because I was not naked... although I may have well been), I started to remove weed after weed. The experts say that the best way to not get poison ivy over your body is to know what it looks like and avoid it. I beg to differ.
Sure, I may not exactly know what poison ivy looks like, but I have a general idea: Leaves of three, let them be! The area where I was weeding did have poison ivy at one time, but Karen and I sprayed poison ivy killer on it a while ago. As there were no more leaves growing there, we figured the ivy had died.
Obviously, that was my first mistake because I may have yanked out the roots to the poison ivy during my headstrong weeding. For anyone curious, the roots of poison ivy are just as bad, if not worse, than the leaves themselves. The vine produces an oil known as urushiol, which is a skin irritant.
Unbeknownest to me, I had gotten urushiol over me when I was weeding. Shortly thereafter I took a nice warm shower. That was my second mistake. Although I suppose, the one bright side is that I must thoroughly dry myself with my towel after the shower... because the poison ivy spread to every nook and cranny of my body.
Unfortunately, me entire body is covered with what is known as urushiol-induced contact dermatitis. In other words, I have a poison ivy rash. It is not fun. The rash is on both of my forearms, my armpit, my chest, my waist, my legs, even the top of my ear. You name the body part, and the rash is probably there. (Although, luckily I do not think the rash is on my manhood.)
According to my friend, Wikipedia:
"Urushiol binds to the skin on contact, where it causes severe itching that develops into reddish colored inflammation or non-colored bumps, and then blistering. These lesions may be treated with Calamine lotion, Burow's solution compresses or baths to relieve discomfort, though recent studies have shown some traditional medicines to be ineffective. Over-the-counter products to ease itching - or simply oatmeal baths and baking soda - are now recommended by dermatologists for the treatment of poison ivy. In severe cases, clear fluids ooze from open blistered sores and corticosteroids are the necessary treatment.
The oozing fluids released by itching blisters do not spread the poison. The appearance of a spreading rash indicates that some areas received more of the poison and reacted sooner than other areas or that contamination is still occurring from contact with objects to which the original poison was spread. The blisters and oozing result from blood vessels that develop gaps and leak fluid through the skin; if the skin is cooled, the vessels constrict and leak less. If poison ivy is burned and the smoke then inhaled, this rash will appear on the lining of the lungs, causing extreme pain and possibly fatal respiratory difficulty. If poison ivy is eaten, the digestive tract, airway, kidneys or other organs can be damaged. A poison ivy rash can last anywhere from one to four weeks, depending on severity and treatment. In rare cases, poison ivy reactions may require hospitalization.
Urushiol oil can remain active for several years, so handling dead leaves or vines can cause a reaction. In addition, oil transferred from the plant to other objects (such as pet fur) can cause the rash if it comes into contact with the skin. Clothing, tools, and other objects that have been exposed to the oil should be washed to prevent further transmission. People who are sensitive to poison ivy can also experience a similar rash from mangoes. Mangoes are in the same family (Anacardiaceae) as poison ivy; the sap of the mango tree and skin of mangoes has a chemical compound similar to urushiol."
Currently, I am covered in calamine lotion. I am so not happy about this. Unfortunately, I have a few more weeks to go. Ugh...
Last week, I thought I would be helpful and do some weeding near the side of our house. With the recent weather, the weeds by the side of our house have been crazy.
Naturally, like I do with most things, I went headstrong into the project. With nothing but a pair of gloves... (and some clothes because I was not naked... although I may have well been), I started to remove weed after weed. The experts say that the best way to not get poison ivy over your body is to know what it looks like and avoid it. I beg to differ.
Sure, I may not exactly know what poison ivy looks like, but I have a general idea: Leaves of three, let them be! The area where I was weeding did have poison ivy at one time, but Karen and I sprayed poison ivy killer on it a while ago. As there were no more leaves growing there, we figured the ivy had died.
Obviously, that was my first mistake because I may have yanked out the roots to the poison ivy during my headstrong weeding. For anyone curious, the roots of poison ivy are just as bad, if not worse, than the leaves themselves. The vine produces an oil known as urushiol, which is a skin irritant.
Unbeknownest to me, I had gotten urushiol over me when I was weeding. Shortly thereafter I took a nice warm shower. That was my second mistake. Although I suppose, the one bright side is that I must thoroughly dry myself with my towel after the shower... because the poison ivy spread to every nook and cranny of my body.
Unfortunately, me entire body is covered with what is known as urushiol-induced contact dermatitis. In other words, I have a poison ivy rash. It is not fun. The rash is on both of my forearms, my armpit, my chest, my waist, my legs, even the top of my ear. You name the body part, and the rash is probably there. (Although, luckily I do not think the rash is on my manhood.)
According to my friend, Wikipedia:
"Urushiol binds to the skin on contact, where it causes severe itching that develops into reddish colored inflammation or non-colored bumps, and then blistering. These lesions may be treated with Calamine lotion, Burow's solution compresses or baths to relieve discomfort, though recent studies have shown some traditional medicines to be ineffective. Over-the-counter products to ease itching - or simply oatmeal baths and baking soda - are now recommended by dermatologists for the treatment of poison ivy. In severe cases, clear fluids ooze from open blistered sores and corticosteroids are the necessary treatment.
The oozing fluids released by itching blisters do not spread the poison. The appearance of a spreading rash indicates that some areas received more of the poison and reacted sooner than other areas or that contamination is still occurring from contact with objects to which the original poison was spread. The blisters and oozing result from blood vessels that develop gaps and leak fluid through the skin; if the skin is cooled, the vessels constrict and leak less. If poison ivy is burned and the smoke then inhaled, this rash will appear on the lining of the lungs, causing extreme pain and possibly fatal respiratory difficulty. If poison ivy is eaten, the digestive tract, airway, kidneys or other organs can be damaged. A poison ivy rash can last anywhere from one to four weeks, depending on severity and treatment. In rare cases, poison ivy reactions may require hospitalization.
Urushiol oil can remain active for several years, so handling dead leaves or vines can cause a reaction. In addition, oil transferred from the plant to other objects (such as pet fur) can cause the rash if it comes into contact with the skin. Clothing, tools, and other objects that have been exposed to the oil should be washed to prevent further transmission. People who are sensitive to poison ivy can also experience a similar rash from mangoes. Mangoes are in the same family (Anacardiaceae) as poison ivy; the sap of the mango tree and skin of mangoes has a chemical compound similar to urushiol."
Currently, I am covered in calamine lotion. I am so not happy about this. Unfortunately, I have a few more weeks to go. Ugh...
Monday, September 14, 2009
I Suck At The Endless Summer Waterfront Festival
On Sunday, Karen and I spent the afternoon in Hull as the town hosted its annual Endless Summer Waterfront Festival. Now, I suck at the Endless Summer Waterfront Festival. Unlike my friends (Jen, Bill, and Hot Amy), I have never been to the Endless Summer Waterfront Festival. So this was my first experience.
For anyone curious, the Endless Summer Waterfront Festival is basically a sidewalk sale along Nantasket Beach. I believe the majority of the proceeds from the festival go to various things like the public school, the public library, etc.
It just so happened that Hot Amy's sister (Terri) was participating at the festival. Terri works part time for Nantasket Therapeutic Massage and Reflexology, who were donating their proceeds to the noble cause of fighting cancer.
Naturally, I could not resist the cause. More appropriately, Karen and Hot Amy convinced me to get a chair massage from Terri for my donation. I have never been one for massages, probably because I am not the "touchy" type... unless I become totally inebriated. So hugging for me is rare... as is the greeting kiss on the cheek. I'm not opposed to those actions... I guess I am just reserved.
Add to that the fact that one of your friends is giving you a rub down and the whole massage thing seems a little peculiar. Don't get me wrong, I do thoroughly enjoy it when someone massages my neck. (Jen is good at massaging necks.) I enjoy it more when that someone is a trained professional like Terri.
Needless to say, I felt rather relaxed after my chair massage from Terri. According to Terri, I was quite stressed... particularly on the right side of my back by my neck. Me... stressed? What could I possibly be stressed about, especially with the anniversary of my son's (Braden) passing the day before?
Anyway, the chair massage was great. I'm glad I did it because it probably was much needed. Plus, anytime I can get someone (preferably a woman) to rub my neck and back is always a bonus.
From there, Karen, Hot Amy and I simply wandered around the festival.
(Pictured below are Hot Amy and Karen... and a dolphin.)
I thought having Karen and Hot Amy by the dolphin would be "Cute as Hull". For anyone curious, Hull has some cute slogans... like "Go to Hull" and "Cute as Hull". It almost reminded me of the "There's a lot to like about Lowell" slogan, except shorter.
Anyway, the three of us did not do much. We eventually ended up at the Red Parrot for lunch. It was good to hang out with Hot Amy. I don't think I have hung out with her in quite some time. The last time I saw her was probably at her birthday celebration at the Sports Depot for country night... and even then I did not really get to chat much with her.
Apparently, Hot Amy is quite excited about her plans for her public access television show. Without revealing too much about her show (because I have to keep the city of Quincy all abuzz and generate some interest), her plan is to have a game show for the elderly. Personally, I think it would be awesome to have a final elimination round much like Wipeout. Seeing old people run through an obstacle course would be classic! Of course, that's just my opinion.
Regardless, it was a fun day. I think Karen enjoyed the day out.
For anyone curious, the Endless Summer Waterfront Festival is basically a sidewalk sale along Nantasket Beach. I believe the majority of the proceeds from the festival go to various things like the public school, the public library, etc.
It just so happened that Hot Amy's sister (Terri) was participating at the festival. Terri works part time for Nantasket Therapeutic Massage and Reflexology, who were donating their proceeds to the noble cause of fighting cancer.
Naturally, I could not resist the cause. More appropriately, Karen and Hot Amy convinced me to get a chair massage from Terri for my donation. I have never been one for massages, probably because I am not the "touchy" type... unless I become totally inebriated. So hugging for me is rare... as is the greeting kiss on the cheek. I'm not opposed to those actions... I guess I am just reserved.
Add to that the fact that one of your friends is giving you a rub down and the whole massage thing seems a little peculiar. Don't get me wrong, I do thoroughly enjoy it when someone massages my neck. (Jen is good at massaging necks.) I enjoy it more when that someone is a trained professional like Terri.
Needless to say, I felt rather relaxed after my chair massage from Terri. According to Terri, I was quite stressed... particularly on the right side of my back by my neck. Me... stressed? What could I possibly be stressed about, especially with the anniversary of my son's (Braden) passing the day before?
Anyway, the chair massage was great. I'm glad I did it because it probably was much needed. Plus, anytime I can get someone (preferably a woman) to rub my neck and back is always a bonus.
From there, Karen, Hot Amy and I simply wandered around the festival.
(Pictured below are Hot Amy and Karen... and a dolphin.)
I thought having Karen and Hot Amy by the dolphin would be "Cute as Hull". For anyone curious, Hull has some cute slogans... like "Go to Hull" and "Cute as Hull". It almost reminded me of the "There's a lot to like about Lowell" slogan, except shorter.
Anyway, the three of us did not do much. We eventually ended up at the Red Parrot for lunch. It was good to hang out with Hot Amy. I don't think I have hung out with her in quite some time. The last time I saw her was probably at her birthday celebration at the Sports Depot for country night... and even then I did not really get to chat much with her.
Apparently, Hot Amy is quite excited about her plans for her public access television show. Without revealing too much about her show (because I have to keep the city of Quincy all abuzz and generate some interest), her plan is to have a game show for the elderly. Personally, I think it would be awesome to have a final elimination round much like Wipeout. Seeing old people run through an obstacle course would be classic! Of course, that's just my opinion.
Regardless, it was a fun day. I think Karen enjoyed the day out.
Saturday, September 12, 2009
I Suck At Remembering My Son
My son (Braden) passed away one year ago today. Braden, who I sometimes referred to as Little B, was a fighter. He put up a valiant fight for his survival. Unfortunately, it was not meant to be for my Little B. Braden was born too premature. He only lived a week after he was born, but it was one week that I was thankful to have because I got to meet my son. Some fathers are not lucky enough to do that.
It being the one year anniversary of his passing, I do what I do best: I suck at remembering my son. As one might expect, neither Karen nor I were too keen about today. Last week was a little easier because we were celebrating Braden's birth. There is a connotation of life and joy with a birthday. Unfortunately today... well... people don't really celebrate deaths. There is no joy on the anniversary of people's passing, especially a child's.
Interestingly enough, the weather today was dark and gloomy. In fact, there was a constant downpour of rain today. It seems somewhat fitting that today would be a day of heavy rain. Like the famous spin that is mentioned about rain on one's wedding day, I like to think that today... the angels were crying tears of joy because one of their own returned to them one year ago on this day. With the constant heavy rain, it made me feel good to know that the angels really really adored my Little B.
Never one for pity, Karen and I decided to get out of the house and do something today. After a visit to Braden at the cemetery, Karen and I headed off to Foxwoods Resort Casino in Connecticut. Our plan: to go to the Bodies Revealed exhibit that was showing there.
Karen and I had originally planned to be spontaneous and go yesterday. Unfortunately, my work threw a little wrench in the plans. So, we decided to go today, which was actually nice because it gave us an opportunity to get out of the house. Otherwise, we probably would have sat around our house, watching the pouring rain with nothing to do.
For anyone curious, the Bodies Revealed exhibit is basically a bunch of cadavers sliced up in certain ways in the name of science. The cadavers provide a more authentic learning medium when it comes to muscles, bones, circulatory systems, digestive systems, etc. Truth be told, I thought the exhibit was well done.
I even had the opportunity to hold a preserved liver (and a stomach) in my hand. According to the exhibit, the liver is the heaviest organ in the body... weighing it at approximately 3 pounds. Naturally, I thought of my bff (Kerry) doing her 30 day shred workout, complements of Jillian Michaels of the "Biggest Loser" fame, holding a liver in each hand. Yeah, I don't know why.
Nonetheless, the exhibit was great. Afterwards, Karen and I grabbed a bite to eat at the California Pizza Kitchen that was located at Foxwoods. It was almost as though Braden planned it as such because just the other day, Karen had mentioned how she was craving a dish at the California Pizza Kitchen. And then lo' and behold... there was the California Pizza Kitchen at Foxwoods. Now if only Karen would crave a million dollars.
Speaking of which, being at a casino, Karen and I thought that we had to at least play something while we were there. We ended up playing the slot machine because it was quick and easy. Sadly, the one armed bandit took our money... all one dollar of it. We actually must have looked odd at the slot machine because neither Karen nor I are gamblers. The extent of my gambling is wagering against my friend (Hot Amy). And really, that's not really gambling because it is practically a given that I win those wagers. It's a sure bet. Of course, it helps that Hot Amy has a genetic predisposition to losing.
Anyway, it took Karen and I awhile to figure out how to even play the slot machine because it did not accept coins... only bills... with five being the lowest. It was comical.
With our new found gambling addiction, we then decided to head to Mohegan Sun, a casino also located in Connecticut. Neither Karen nor I have ever been to Mohegan Sun. As we were in the neighborhood, we figured we should at least check it out.
So, we took a leisurely drive down to the other casino and walked around. In terms of size, Mohegan Sun is huge. To me, it almost seemed like we were driving to the airport when we arrived at Mohegan Sun. And truth be told, I think I actually like Foxwoods better than Mohegan Sun.
Sure... Mohegan Sun has the Jonas Brothers coming in October. Sure... Karen and I won fifty cents at the slot machine. (We also lost fifty cents.) But the place is rather dark in terms of lighting. Plus, the smell of cigarette smoke is much more obvious at Mohegan Sun.
Foxwoods seemed to be brighter. It's shopping and restaurants were further spread out from the casino itself, which somehow seems to translate to less cigarette smoke. Plus, Tyler Florence is coming to Foxwoods in October. My friend (Marc) has a man-crush on Tyler Florence.
Anyway, all in all, I had a good time being with Karen today. I think the quick trip was a much needed break with all things considered. Truth be told, we should probably get out and do more things. It would probably be good for us.
It being the one year anniversary of his passing, I do what I do best: I suck at remembering my son. As one might expect, neither Karen nor I were too keen about today. Last week was a little easier because we were celebrating Braden's birth. There is a connotation of life and joy with a birthday. Unfortunately today... well... people don't really celebrate deaths. There is no joy on the anniversary of people's passing, especially a child's.
Interestingly enough, the weather today was dark and gloomy. In fact, there was a constant downpour of rain today. It seems somewhat fitting that today would be a day of heavy rain. Like the famous spin that is mentioned about rain on one's wedding day, I like to think that today... the angels were crying tears of joy because one of their own returned to them one year ago on this day. With the constant heavy rain, it made me feel good to know that the angels really really adored my Little B.
Never one for pity, Karen and I decided to get out of the house and do something today. After a visit to Braden at the cemetery, Karen and I headed off to Foxwoods Resort Casino in Connecticut. Our plan: to go to the Bodies Revealed exhibit that was showing there.
Karen and I had originally planned to be spontaneous and go yesterday. Unfortunately, my work threw a little wrench in the plans. So, we decided to go today, which was actually nice because it gave us an opportunity to get out of the house. Otherwise, we probably would have sat around our house, watching the pouring rain with nothing to do.
For anyone curious, the Bodies Revealed exhibit is basically a bunch of cadavers sliced up in certain ways in the name of science. The cadavers provide a more authentic learning medium when it comes to muscles, bones, circulatory systems, digestive systems, etc. Truth be told, I thought the exhibit was well done.
I even had the opportunity to hold a preserved liver (and a stomach) in my hand. According to the exhibit, the liver is the heaviest organ in the body... weighing it at approximately 3 pounds. Naturally, I thought of my bff (Kerry) doing her 30 day shred workout, complements of Jillian Michaels of the "Biggest Loser" fame, holding a liver in each hand. Yeah, I don't know why.
Nonetheless, the exhibit was great. Afterwards, Karen and I grabbed a bite to eat at the California Pizza Kitchen that was located at Foxwoods. It was almost as though Braden planned it as such because just the other day, Karen had mentioned how she was craving a dish at the California Pizza Kitchen. And then lo' and behold... there was the California Pizza Kitchen at Foxwoods. Now if only Karen would crave a million dollars.
Speaking of which, being at a casino, Karen and I thought that we had to at least play something while we were there. We ended up playing the slot machine because it was quick and easy. Sadly, the one armed bandit took our money... all one dollar of it. We actually must have looked odd at the slot machine because neither Karen nor I are gamblers. The extent of my gambling is wagering against my friend (Hot Amy). And really, that's not really gambling because it is practically a given that I win those wagers. It's a sure bet. Of course, it helps that Hot Amy has a genetic predisposition to losing.
Anyway, it took Karen and I awhile to figure out how to even play the slot machine because it did not accept coins... only bills... with five being the lowest. It was comical.
With our new found gambling addiction, we then decided to head to Mohegan Sun, a casino also located in Connecticut. Neither Karen nor I have ever been to Mohegan Sun. As we were in the neighborhood, we figured we should at least check it out.
So, we took a leisurely drive down to the other casino and walked around. In terms of size, Mohegan Sun is huge. To me, it almost seemed like we were driving to the airport when we arrived at Mohegan Sun. And truth be told, I think I actually like Foxwoods better than Mohegan Sun.
Sure... Mohegan Sun has the Jonas Brothers coming in October. Sure... Karen and I won fifty cents at the slot machine. (We also lost fifty cents.) But the place is rather dark in terms of lighting. Plus, the smell of cigarette smoke is much more obvious at Mohegan Sun.
Foxwoods seemed to be brighter. It's shopping and restaurants were further spread out from the casino itself, which somehow seems to translate to less cigarette smoke. Plus, Tyler Florence is coming to Foxwoods in October. My friend (Marc) has a man-crush on Tyler Florence.
Anyway, all in all, I had a good time being with Karen today. I think the quick trip was a much needed break with all things considered. Truth be told, we should probably get out and do more things. It would probably be good for us.
I Suck At Blue-22
Last night, Karen and I went to Blue-22. Now, I suck at Blue-22. Blue-22, located in Quincy, is a sports bar co-owned by one of my friends (Garv). Garv... however much my friend (Hot Amy) thinks is an intellectual... was not the reason why Karen and I were there.
The reason why we were at Blue-22 was to celebrate my friend's (Marc) birthday. My friends and I have been celebrating birthdays for everyone in our circle of friends for quite some time. The annual birthday celebration cycle runs every month from August to January. The month of September happened to be Marc's month.
Originally, Marc wanted to go to Blue-22 for his birthday celebration to dethrone the reigning chicken wing champion. So, my friend (Kelley) organized the celebration. For anyone curious, Blue-22 has a gimmick whereby a patron has one and half hours to consume as many chicken wings within the allotted time. Currently, the reigning champion has consumed somewhere in the vicinity of 66 wings. There is now even a woman's category... whereby the reigning female champion consumed 30 wings.
Needless to say, Marc thought he could break the current record. Truth be told, Marc, my friend (Cass), or I could probably eat more than 70 wings in the given time. We're big guys after all. As it turned out, Marc decided against the wing challenge last night. He still, however, may partake in the challenge some day. As Cass pointed out, Mondays would be the best time to take on the challenge because wings are a quarter on Mondays at Blue-22.
Anyway, it was good to see my friends yesterday. In addition to Marc, Kelley, Cass, and Garv, my bff (Kerry), and my friends (Jen, Andrea, Ellen, Leeann, De, and Carol) were in attendance. There definitely were a lot of us there last night to celebrate Marc's birthday.
Of course, with so many people, it does get hard to chat with everyone. Hence, that is one of my reasons for disliking the rectangular table set up. (Granted, we had a circular table next to two square tables, but the end result was a rectangular table.) I sometimes feel bad that I don't get the converse much with people at the other end of the table.
Regardless, I had a blast. For me, one of the highlights was when Kelley shoved both ends of an onion into her nose in an attempt to make a bull ring. Yes, she was sober... but I had dared her to create the bull ring in her nose. Apparently, onions can burn.
Another bizarre happening was our discussion of tampons and vodka. I don't remember how that topic even came up. I could be mistaken, but I think Jen may have been the culprit. Interestingly enough, somehow that topic led to the male equivalent of beer funneling through the butt.
(The video below is about vodka tampons.)
For anyone curious, the principle behind the whole concept is having alcohol enter the bloodstream faster. As much as I enjoy booze, I prefer the old fashioned method of imbibing it. Although, a picture of that would be quite interesting for a photo scavenger hunt.
Anyway, it was a fun and silly time. I hope Marc enjoyed his birthday celebration.
The reason why we were at Blue-22 was to celebrate my friend's (Marc) birthday. My friends and I have been celebrating birthdays for everyone in our circle of friends for quite some time. The annual birthday celebration cycle runs every month from August to January. The month of September happened to be Marc's month.
Originally, Marc wanted to go to Blue-22 for his birthday celebration to dethrone the reigning chicken wing champion. So, my friend (Kelley) organized the celebration. For anyone curious, Blue-22 has a gimmick whereby a patron has one and half hours to consume as many chicken wings within the allotted time. Currently, the reigning champion has consumed somewhere in the vicinity of 66 wings. There is now even a woman's category... whereby the reigning female champion consumed 30 wings.
Needless to say, Marc thought he could break the current record. Truth be told, Marc, my friend (Cass), or I could probably eat more than 70 wings in the given time. We're big guys after all. As it turned out, Marc decided against the wing challenge last night. He still, however, may partake in the challenge some day. As Cass pointed out, Mondays would be the best time to take on the challenge because wings are a quarter on Mondays at Blue-22.
Anyway, it was good to see my friends yesterday. In addition to Marc, Kelley, Cass, and Garv, my bff (Kerry), and my friends (Jen, Andrea, Ellen, Leeann, De, and Carol) were in attendance. There definitely were a lot of us there last night to celebrate Marc's birthday.
Of course, with so many people, it does get hard to chat with everyone. Hence, that is one of my reasons for disliking the rectangular table set up. (Granted, we had a circular table next to two square tables, but the end result was a rectangular table.) I sometimes feel bad that I don't get the converse much with people at the other end of the table.
Regardless, I had a blast. For me, one of the highlights was when Kelley shoved both ends of an onion into her nose in an attempt to make a bull ring. Yes, she was sober... but I had dared her to create the bull ring in her nose. Apparently, onions can burn.
Another bizarre happening was our discussion of tampons and vodka. I don't remember how that topic even came up. I could be mistaken, but I think Jen may have been the culprit. Interestingly enough, somehow that topic led to the male equivalent of beer funneling through the butt.
(The video below is about vodka tampons.)
For anyone curious, the principle behind the whole concept is having alcohol enter the bloodstream faster. As much as I enjoy booze, I prefer the old fashioned method of imbibing it. Although, a picture of that would be quite interesting for a photo scavenger hunt.
Anyway, it was a fun and silly time. I hope Marc enjoyed his birthday celebration.
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
I Suck At Buffy The Vampire Slayer
Tonight, Karen and I hung out with my friends (Marc and Kelley). On the agenda for the night were more episodes of season 5 of Buffy the Vampire Slayer. Now, I suck at Buffy the Vampire Slayer.
I always have a great time hanging out with Marc and Kelley. For dinner, Marc made turkey burgers. They were quite delicious, especially since they had bacon on them. Kelley also made her famous chocolate chip cookies. I must have eaten a dozen of them. Her cookies are just that good.
Anyway, the episodes that we watched were: "Checkpoint" about Buffy preparing for a Watcher's Council test to get information about Glory; "Blood Ties" about Dawn's self discovery of being the key; "Crush" about Spike's unrequited crush on Buffy; and "I Was Made to Love You" about a robot searching for her creator, who happens to be Warren.
Of course, they were all good episodes. I probably enjoyed "Crush" the most because I enjoy the character known as Spike. Spike and Angel are throwbacks to when vampires used to be cool. Sadly, vampires are pretty lame now... thanks to the whole Twilight books and their ability to sparkle in the sun. (I have not seen the Trueblood series yet, so hopefully that show will return my faith in vampires.)
To end the night on a high note, we also watched the latest episode of Wipeout. Apparently, the episode of Wipeout took place down under... in Australia. As it turns out, the people down under are equally bizarre as the ones here.
Another one of the highlights for the night was Guitar Hero 5. Marc and Kelley recently got the video game. For anyone curious, Guitar Hero 5 is a game where you play guitar to certain songs. Heck, you can even play drums and sing in the game.
Marc tried to get Karen to sing vocals for Rick Springfield's "Jessie's Girl" while he played guitar. Unfortunately, Karen gave up too quickly... giving me the honors of doing my best Rick Springfield impersonation.
Normally, I don't like to do karaoke. After singing awful renditions of "Jessie's Girl" (and Blink-182's "The Rock Show"), I'm slowly warming up to performing karaoke. You would think with my genetic makeup that I would enjoy karaoke. Sadly, that is not the case. But the way I figure it now, who cares when you're with friends. If you can't be comfortable about yourself when you're with friends, then it's a little unfortunate.
Besides, it's always good to laugh at yourself once in a while. And with this week in particular, laughing at myself is always better than imbibing copious amounts of booze... not that there is anything wrong with that. I just needed to be silly for a little while.
I think Marc is looking forward to playing Guitar Hero 5 during the sleepover celebration for Kelley's birthday. That should be fun and interesting.
I always have a great time hanging out with Marc and Kelley. For dinner, Marc made turkey burgers. They were quite delicious, especially since they had bacon on them. Kelley also made her famous chocolate chip cookies. I must have eaten a dozen of them. Her cookies are just that good.
Anyway, the episodes that we watched were: "Checkpoint" about Buffy preparing for a Watcher's Council test to get information about Glory; "Blood Ties" about Dawn's self discovery of being the key; "Crush" about Spike's unrequited crush on Buffy; and "I Was Made to Love You" about a robot searching for her creator, who happens to be Warren.
Of course, they were all good episodes. I probably enjoyed "Crush" the most because I enjoy the character known as Spike. Spike and Angel are throwbacks to when vampires used to be cool. Sadly, vampires are pretty lame now... thanks to the whole Twilight books and their ability to sparkle in the sun. (I have not seen the Trueblood series yet, so hopefully that show will return my faith in vampires.)
To end the night on a high note, we also watched the latest episode of Wipeout. Apparently, the episode of Wipeout took place down under... in Australia. As it turns out, the people down under are equally bizarre as the ones here.
Another one of the highlights for the night was Guitar Hero 5. Marc and Kelley recently got the video game. For anyone curious, Guitar Hero 5 is a game where you play guitar to certain songs. Heck, you can even play drums and sing in the game.
Marc tried to get Karen to sing vocals for Rick Springfield's "Jessie's Girl" while he played guitar. Unfortunately, Karen gave up too quickly... giving me the honors of doing my best Rick Springfield impersonation.
Normally, I don't like to do karaoke. After singing awful renditions of "Jessie's Girl" (and Blink-182's "The Rock Show"), I'm slowly warming up to performing karaoke. You would think with my genetic makeup that I would enjoy karaoke. Sadly, that is not the case. But the way I figure it now, who cares when you're with friends. If you can't be comfortable about yourself when you're with friends, then it's a little unfortunate.
Besides, it's always good to laugh at yourself once in a while. And with this week in particular, laughing at myself is always better than imbibing copious amounts of booze... not that there is anything wrong with that. I just needed to be silly for a little while.
I think Marc is looking forward to playing Guitar Hero 5 during the sleepover celebration for Kelley's birthday. That should be fun and interesting.
Sunday, September 6, 2009
I Suck At Celebrating My Son's Birthday
Yesterday was my son's (Braden) first birthday. Happy birthday Braden! Please don't forget that daddy will always love you!
It probably goes without saying that my life drastically changed one year ago. It remains to be seen whether my change has been for the better or for the worse. After all, some days I seem great. Other days, I am a total wreck who gets teary eyed at the drop of a hat.
Previous to last year, I was pretty much happy go-lucky without a care in the world. Things were going great in my life. I had a new job that I was excited about. My wife, Karen, and I were expecting our first child in Braden. We were doing the normal pregnancy things that couples do when they expect their first child... like registering for a baby shower, taking pictures of Karen's belly, etc.
I guess Braden was eager to meet his parents, because he surprised everyone when he was born prematurely... extremely prematurely. I remember his birth well. Karen was absolutely terrified. As she clutched my hand, she pushed with all her might and then out came Braden.
Well, technically a lot of other things came out too. I remember thinking at the time that it was odd that the doctor had a face shield on. I was thinking "What is that for?"... and then I found out the answer.
I think it's true what they say, that once you see your newborn baby... you absolutely fall in love all over again. Your heart simply melts with joy and excitement. I know I did with Braden. Karen did as well.
Unfortunately, not every story has a happy ending. Because Braden was born extremely premature, his chances of survival were pretty slim. His body was simply underdeveloped. Karen and I hoped for a miracle, but it was just not to be. Braden passed away after putting up a good week-long fight.
It's hard to believe that was one year ago. The moment seems like yesterday. Yet at the same time, the year seems like it has been endless. I realize those statements make no logical sense. For me, not a lot makes sense any more. I sometimes wonder if things ever will make sense again in my mind.
The only thing that I am certain of is that I love Braden. I wish I could celebrate my son's birthday like any normal father... but I suck at celebrating my son's birthday. Instead of buying my son presents, I can only imagine what if.
Heck, I cannot even do something asinine like update a Facebook status to tell everyone in the world what my son is doing, because I do not know what he is doing... not that other people would really care what my son is doing.
Needless to say, Karen and I celebrated Braden's birthday at the cemetery. We brought him a little Elmo "Happy Birthday" balloon and some ice cream. I know it's not much. I just hope he enjoyed it.
Anyway, happy birthday Braden, my little B! Daddy misses you and will always love you. Please do not forget that.
It probably goes without saying that my life drastically changed one year ago. It remains to be seen whether my change has been for the better or for the worse. After all, some days I seem great. Other days, I am a total wreck who gets teary eyed at the drop of a hat.
Previous to last year, I was pretty much happy go-lucky without a care in the world. Things were going great in my life. I had a new job that I was excited about. My wife, Karen, and I were expecting our first child in Braden. We were doing the normal pregnancy things that couples do when they expect their first child... like registering for a baby shower, taking pictures of Karen's belly, etc.
I guess Braden was eager to meet his parents, because he surprised everyone when he was born prematurely... extremely prematurely. I remember his birth well. Karen was absolutely terrified. As she clutched my hand, she pushed with all her might and then out came Braden.
Well, technically a lot of other things came out too. I remember thinking at the time that it was odd that the doctor had a face shield on. I was thinking "What is that for?"... and then I found out the answer.
I think it's true what they say, that once you see your newborn baby... you absolutely fall in love all over again. Your heart simply melts with joy and excitement. I know I did with Braden. Karen did as well.
Unfortunately, not every story has a happy ending. Because Braden was born extremely premature, his chances of survival were pretty slim. His body was simply underdeveloped. Karen and I hoped for a miracle, but it was just not to be. Braden passed away after putting up a good week-long fight.
It's hard to believe that was one year ago. The moment seems like yesterday. Yet at the same time, the year seems like it has been endless. I realize those statements make no logical sense. For me, not a lot makes sense any more. I sometimes wonder if things ever will make sense again in my mind.
The only thing that I am certain of is that I love Braden. I wish I could celebrate my son's birthday like any normal father... but I suck at celebrating my son's birthday. Instead of buying my son presents, I can only imagine what if.
Heck, I cannot even do something asinine like update a Facebook status to tell everyone in the world what my son is doing, because I do not know what he is doing... not that other people would really care what my son is doing.
Needless to say, Karen and I celebrated Braden's birthday at the cemetery. We brought him a little Elmo "Happy Birthday" balloon and some ice cream. I know it's not much. I just hope he enjoyed it.
Anyway, happy birthday Braden, my little B! Daddy misses you and will always love you. Please do not forget that.
Saturday, September 5, 2009
I Suck At Celebrating My Friend's Birthday
Today (well, technically yesterday since it is past midnight) is my friend's (Marc) birthday. Happy birthday Marc! I hope your day ended up better than you expected. Unfortunately, I suck at celebrating my friend's birthday.
I've known Marc for a long time. In fact, it's pretty much pure luck that we even became friends in the first place. It just so happened that we had mutual friends in common growing up. He thought I was the weird kid with the giggle (which I still am). I thought he was the weird band geek with the tuba. But luckily, it all worked out.
I'm glad it did because Marc is an exceptional friend. Of course, I'm not going to praise his selflessness when it comes to his friends or anything like that because I don't want to inflate his ego any more than I have to. Marc already thinks he's correct all the time as it is. Just kidding.
Needless to say, I have many memories of Marc while growing up. Probably one of most memorable ones for me was when we were running track together in high school. In fact, I have Marc to thank for getting me involved in the track event known as the hurdles.
Prior to running hurdles in track, I was simply the run-of-the-mill sprinter. Sure, I had speed, but sprinting was where all the able-bodies were. It was tough to stand out in the vast crowd unless you were blessed with wings on your feet. Enter: hurdles. Sure, anyone can run fast... but can they run fast and jump over things at the same time?
Anyway, Marc was already running hurdles for the team and he suggested I try it. At the time, Marc and a lone senior were the only ones running the hurdles on our team. I remember my first attempt at hurdles... THUD. My second and third attempts probably yielded the same results. THUD. THUD.
The problem was always my "trail leg". For anyone curious, the trail leg is the last leg that goes over the hurdle. My trail leg generally caught the top of the high hurdle. The end result would usually be painful. I have many scars on my knee to prove it. (The intermediate hurdles, where the hurdles are shorter but the amount of distance to run is longer, were much easier in comparison.)
It's amazing that I even ended up being fairly decent at running hurdles. Of course, it took a lot of hard work and determination on my part (and maybe some reckless abandon with my body) to turn around my ineptitude in jumping over the hurdles, but for the most part I did it.
That, however, is not the memory I have of Marc when it comes to running track. One of the main memories I have is during a meet we had at the track/football stadium in Quincy. Marc and I were running the intermediate hurdles, which cover the span of 330 meters. (In essence, we have to sprint 330 meters while jumping over hurdles along the way.) Because the track did not have many lanes, the event had to be split up in heats.
As I generally had faster times in the event, I was running in the first heat against a member from the other team. Marc was running in the next heat against another member from the other team. My heat went by without any fanfare. And then Marc's heat started.
I watched with excitement as Marc bolted out of the starting blocks. He was literally flying. He made it over the first hurdle. He made it over the second. To me, the race simply looked fast. A coach who was standing near me was looking at his stopwatch. At the halfway split, he turned to me and showed me the time. The time was very impressive... like record breaking impressive. (I think the coach may have even muttered something about how the pace was record breaking.)
Hoping Marc could break the record, I screamed and cheered him on. For me, it was simply exciting to watch. It looked like Marc was going to do it. All he had to do was clear the last and final hurdle.
Unfortunately, that last hurdle was his undoing. CRASH! Marc collided with the last hurdle and just wiped out on the track. The record that was within his grasp... gone. Needless to say, Marc was rather disheartened... first for wiping out... then probably for finding out that he was so close to setting a record.
I can imagine how frustrating that must feel. Yet despite it all, Marc dusted himself off and continued.
Sure, it's a bizarre memory to have about someone on his birthday. I think the reason why the thought of that particular race even came into my mind today is because I have been a little off kilter of late. My son's (Braden) birthday is tomorrow. Unfortunately, Braden passed away last year.
Anyway, the memory seemed like a metaphor to me. It's like... you're running as fast as you can... no direction or whatever in life... overcoming obstacles that arise here and there... and then suddenly BAM! Something hits you and you crash and fall. So then what is the only recourse left? Get up, dust yourself off, and continue running again.
Maybe that was too deep. What do you expect? It's the wee hours of night right now. Regardless, happy birthday again Marc. Hope you ended up having a great day!
I've known Marc for a long time. In fact, it's pretty much pure luck that we even became friends in the first place. It just so happened that we had mutual friends in common growing up. He thought I was the weird kid with the giggle (which I still am). I thought he was the weird band geek with the tuba. But luckily, it all worked out.
I'm glad it did because Marc is an exceptional friend. Of course, I'm not going to praise his selflessness when it comes to his friends or anything like that because I don't want to inflate his ego any more than I have to. Marc already thinks he's correct all the time as it is. Just kidding.
Needless to say, I have many memories of Marc while growing up. Probably one of most memorable ones for me was when we were running track together in high school. In fact, I have Marc to thank for getting me involved in the track event known as the hurdles.
Prior to running hurdles in track, I was simply the run-of-the-mill sprinter. Sure, I had speed, but sprinting was where all the able-bodies were. It was tough to stand out in the vast crowd unless you were blessed with wings on your feet. Enter: hurdles. Sure, anyone can run fast... but can they run fast and jump over things at the same time?
Anyway, Marc was already running hurdles for the team and he suggested I try it. At the time, Marc and a lone senior were the only ones running the hurdles on our team. I remember my first attempt at hurdles... THUD. My second and third attempts probably yielded the same results. THUD. THUD.
The problem was always my "trail leg". For anyone curious, the trail leg is the last leg that goes over the hurdle. My trail leg generally caught the top of the high hurdle. The end result would usually be painful. I have many scars on my knee to prove it. (The intermediate hurdles, where the hurdles are shorter but the amount of distance to run is longer, were much easier in comparison.)
It's amazing that I even ended up being fairly decent at running hurdles. Of course, it took a lot of hard work and determination on my part (and maybe some reckless abandon with my body) to turn around my ineptitude in jumping over the hurdles, but for the most part I did it.
That, however, is not the memory I have of Marc when it comes to running track. One of the main memories I have is during a meet we had at the track/football stadium in Quincy. Marc and I were running the intermediate hurdles, which cover the span of 330 meters. (In essence, we have to sprint 330 meters while jumping over hurdles along the way.) Because the track did not have many lanes, the event had to be split up in heats.
As I generally had faster times in the event, I was running in the first heat against a member from the other team. Marc was running in the next heat against another member from the other team. My heat went by without any fanfare. And then Marc's heat started.
I watched with excitement as Marc bolted out of the starting blocks. He was literally flying. He made it over the first hurdle. He made it over the second. To me, the race simply looked fast. A coach who was standing near me was looking at his stopwatch. At the halfway split, he turned to me and showed me the time. The time was very impressive... like record breaking impressive. (I think the coach may have even muttered something about how the pace was record breaking.)
Hoping Marc could break the record, I screamed and cheered him on. For me, it was simply exciting to watch. It looked like Marc was going to do it. All he had to do was clear the last and final hurdle.
Unfortunately, that last hurdle was his undoing. CRASH! Marc collided with the last hurdle and just wiped out on the track. The record that was within his grasp... gone. Needless to say, Marc was rather disheartened... first for wiping out... then probably for finding out that he was so close to setting a record.
I can imagine how frustrating that must feel. Yet despite it all, Marc dusted himself off and continued.
Sure, it's a bizarre memory to have about someone on his birthday. I think the reason why the thought of that particular race even came into my mind today is because I have been a little off kilter of late. My son's (Braden) birthday is tomorrow. Unfortunately, Braden passed away last year.
Anyway, the memory seemed like a metaphor to me. It's like... you're running as fast as you can... no direction or whatever in life... overcoming obstacles that arise here and there... and then suddenly BAM! Something hits you and you crash and fall. So then what is the only recourse left? Get up, dust yourself off, and continue running again.
Maybe that was too deep. What do you expect? It's the wee hours of night right now. Regardless, happy birthday again Marc. Hope you ended up having a great day!
Thursday, September 3, 2009
I Suck At The Last Lecture
Last night, I finished reading an interesting book. Needless to say, this book was a gazillion times better than that dribble about sparkling vampires known as "Twilight".
The book I read was called "The Last Lecture" by Randy Pausch. Now, I suck at the Last Lecture.
The book is about a professor (Randy Pausch) from Carnegie Mellon who has pancreatic cancer... like Patrick Swayze... only without the cool dirty dancing moves... or the ability to rip throats out... Given a few months to live, Randy decides to give what is known as a last lecture (literally).
Apparently, a last lecture is commonplace in the world of academia as professors are asked to consider their own death and lecture about what matters the most to them. In Randy's case, he was determined to give his last lecture so that he could impart some final wisdom to others, as well as leave something for his children to remember him by. (Randy has three children, all of whom are quite young and would probably not remember him when they grow up.)
Needless to say, the book was a quick read and quite touching at times. Without revealing too much, I will just say that the book was very good. I admired Randy's optimism given the unfortunate hand that he was dealt. On a personal level, the book almost gives me hope that I can become equally optimistic following the death of my son (Braden).
Regardless of the unfortunate circumstances, I would definitely recommend the book to anyone just for his life lessons alone. Time is precious and we should make the most out of it.
The book I read was called "The Last Lecture" by Randy Pausch. Now, I suck at the Last Lecture.
The book is about a professor (Randy Pausch) from Carnegie Mellon who has pancreatic cancer... like Patrick Swayze... only without the cool dirty dancing moves... or the ability to rip throats out... Given a few months to live, Randy decides to give what is known as a last lecture (literally).
Apparently, a last lecture is commonplace in the world of academia as professors are asked to consider their own death and lecture about what matters the most to them. In Randy's case, he was determined to give his last lecture so that he could impart some final wisdom to others, as well as leave something for his children to remember him by. (Randy has three children, all of whom are quite young and would probably not remember him when they grow up.)
Needless to say, the book was a quick read and quite touching at times. Without revealing too much, I will just say that the book was very good. I admired Randy's optimism given the unfortunate hand that he was dealt. On a personal level, the book almost gives me hope that I can become equally optimistic following the death of my son (Braden).
Regardless of the unfortunate circumstances, I would definitely recommend the book to anyone just for his life lessons alone. Time is precious and we should make the most out of it.
I Suck At Wendy's
Last night, Karen and I did something that we hardly do: we went out for fast food. Normally, going out for fast food is not a big deal... unless of course your spouse happens to be a registered dietitian. But occasionally, Karen does get a craving for fast food... and not just any fast food, mind you. The fast food that she will crave is Wendy's fast food. (And really, what's not to like about redheads?) Too bad I suck at Wendy's.
It also happened to be the case that my friend (Marc) was craving Wendy's. It's funny. Marc and Karen have a lot of similarities. In high school, an underclassman mistook Marc for being Karen's brother. It was pretty comical back then. I would divulge the unfortunate underclassman's name, but I can't say his name and do it justice anymore. I used to say his name with such a high pitched tone. Damn puberty!
Anyway, it is rather odd that Marc and Karen share some similar traits. Interestingly enough, my friend (Kelley) and I share some similar traits. Perhaps that is why the four of us get along so well. It's also probably why Kelley and I booze it up as drinking buddies when we can.
Needless to say, as it was our normal day to hang out with Marc and Kelley, the four of us went to Wendy's for dinner. Dinner was interesting. I can't really say much about fast food these days because I hardly go out for fast food. I did, however, feel somewhat nostalgic while at Wendy's because I remembered when Wendy's had the salad bar.
Back in the day... a bunch of my friends and I were going to hangout and play some football. We made a quick pit stop at Wendy's for lunch. At the time, the salad bar at Wendy's had strawberries lathered in red strawberry sauce. Needless to say, I must have eaten a gallon of strawberries and the sauce. The sugary goodness was hard to resist... oh the memories!
Anyway, besides Wendy's the four of us also went to Tedeschi's located on Adams Street in Quincy. I had never been to that Tedeschi's since the place became a Tedeschi's. Keeping with the nostalgic theme, I remembered the place being a Curtis Farms. (Man, I'm old.) But it was pretty nice inside.
Regardless, the four of us finally ended up back at Marc and Kelley's to watch a few episodes of Angel. The episodes that we watched were: "The Trial" about Angel's mission to save the now dying Darla through... a trial of challenges; "Reunion" about Darla's eventual rebirth as a vampire complements of Drusila; and "Redefinition" about Angel attempting to stop Darla and Drusila after firing Cordelia, Wes, and Gunn.
It's hard to say which episode I enjoyed the most out of those three because they were all good. Again, what's not to like about a blonde with fangs? Okay, so maybe I am attracted to shiny objects... Blonde... Shiny... Pretty... (Caveman voice.) Of course, the loads of chocolate chip cookies that I devoured during the episodes of Angel may also have contributed to my enjoyment of the show.
After Angel, we also watched the latest episode of Wipeout. Wipeout is always good for a laugh or two. All in all, I had a great time yesterday. It was fun.
It also happened to be the case that my friend (Marc) was craving Wendy's. It's funny. Marc and Karen have a lot of similarities. In high school, an underclassman mistook Marc for being Karen's brother. It was pretty comical back then. I would divulge the unfortunate underclassman's name, but I can't say his name and do it justice anymore. I used to say his name with such a high pitched tone. Damn puberty!
Anyway, it is rather odd that Marc and Karen share some similar traits. Interestingly enough, my friend (Kelley) and I share some similar traits. Perhaps that is why the four of us get along so well. It's also probably why Kelley and I booze it up as drinking buddies when we can.
Needless to say, as it was our normal day to hang out with Marc and Kelley, the four of us went to Wendy's for dinner. Dinner was interesting. I can't really say much about fast food these days because I hardly go out for fast food. I did, however, feel somewhat nostalgic while at Wendy's because I remembered when Wendy's had the salad bar.
Back in the day... a bunch of my friends and I were going to hangout and play some football. We made a quick pit stop at Wendy's for lunch. At the time, the salad bar at Wendy's had strawberries lathered in red strawberry sauce. Needless to say, I must have eaten a gallon of strawberries and the sauce. The sugary goodness was hard to resist... oh the memories!
Anyway, besides Wendy's the four of us also went to Tedeschi's located on Adams Street in Quincy. I had never been to that Tedeschi's since the place became a Tedeschi's. Keeping with the nostalgic theme, I remembered the place being a Curtis Farms. (Man, I'm old.) But it was pretty nice inside.
Regardless, the four of us finally ended up back at Marc and Kelley's to watch a few episodes of Angel. The episodes that we watched were: "The Trial" about Angel's mission to save the now dying Darla through... a trial of challenges; "Reunion" about Darla's eventual rebirth as a vampire complements of Drusila; and "Redefinition" about Angel attempting to stop Darla and Drusila after firing Cordelia, Wes, and Gunn.
It's hard to say which episode I enjoyed the most out of those three because they were all good. Again, what's not to like about a blonde with fangs? Okay, so maybe I am attracted to shiny objects... Blonde... Shiny... Pretty... (Caveman voice.) Of course, the loads of chocolate chip cookies that I devoured during the episodes of Angel may also have contributed to my enjoyment of the show.
After Angel, we also watched the latest episode of Wipeout. Wipeout is always good for a laugh or two. All in all, I had a great time yesterday. It was fun.
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