Breach of Contract

This is how our our government thanks the brave men and women over in Iraq. How is this possible?
Please read the article.

Here are a couple of other ways our men and women over there and stationed here are getting the shaft from Uncle Sam. The following statistics are from Had Enough? A Handbook for Fighting Back by James Carville.

-- $1.5 billion in cuts to military family housing, schools, and child care centers;
-- $200 million in cust ton Impact Aid, the program that funds schools near military bases;
-- Doubling the prices that vetrans will pay for perscription drugs;
-- Cutting vetrans' medical care by suspending enrollments at VA health centers;
-- "Imminent danger pay" cut from $225 monthly to $150 monthly
-- Family separation allowance cut from $250/month to $100/month.

Good ole Shrub has done it again. Cutting taxes, but saying that the people getting shot at are not worth $225 a month.

Also, on a side note. I have heard several times over the past few weeks reports of soldiers saying that they are more grateful for the people coming over on USO tours and their visits than the Turkey Bush brought. The president should make it over there as the commander in chief. It is his duty. The USO people are going over because they want to. To show real support for our troops.

God Bless them.

On The Road, or Travel's with Homer

First of all, I hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas. Mine was great.

Monday 12/22/03

Arrive at Harrison Street Greyhound Station. Way early. Oh well, that is travel paranoia me.

Meet Mark. An actor from St. Paul. We share a seat to Milwaukee. Over half the bus departs at Milwaukee, I bid Mark adeau and take over my own row of seat. This pleasure continues for th next 7 and one half hours as I make my way to Rochester, MN. Land of 'The Brain'.

Nothing of real excitment happens on the bus. No Carnies. No Drunks. Listened to a sad story from the people behind me...eaves dropping. Let us just say that domestic abuses are even more painful during holidays.

Hightened travel alert. Means zilch, except for LaCrosse Wisconsin of all places. They had what was either the local high school ROTC or the local National Guard at their bus station.

Hopped over the mighty muddy Mississippi. Instant snow....WEIRD.

Arrived in Rochester safely and all body parts intact at 7.15 pm. Ms. Mae is there to pick up this ragged soul.

We begin the 30 minute treck to Spring Valley Minnesota. With stops at Andy's Liquor to get a bottle of wine for her Grandparents, and Fleet Farm for a gift for her dad.

Safe arrival in SV.

Lots of stars in the middle on nowhere. Absolutley beautiful. I love the city, but I love the middle of nowhere about as much if not more. No asphault jungle. No go go go. Just space. Air. Breath. Life.

Play pool. Go to Bed.

Tues. 12/23

Do not do much really. Until afternoon, when I finally meet the gaggle of friends I have heard so much about. A rather jovial bunch. Good times and libations we had by all.

Wed. 12/24/03

Finally the night of the begining of the new covenant is here. For unto to us a child is given. Gloria, In exilsis Deo.

Make it through a Lutheran Christmas eve service witout getting strung up. Actually this was less formal that the last one I went to. More of a Carols and Lessons service.

Thurs. 12/25/03

Celebrate the day with Ms. Mae's family. Have a wonderful time. Meet new folks. See some fimilar faces. Tis a blessing.

At Don and Isabelle's house I enjoyed the confusion of the children as they passed out gifts, wondering who the new fuzzy guy is. Quite fun.

Friday 12/26/03

On the road, again at 8:00 am sharp. That was weird. And EARLY. Begin the treck from Srping Valley to Springfiled, IL via Iowa. WOW. There is a lot of it. Start by taking route 63 all the way to Waterloo. Just on the other side of a river we join I 380 all the way to Iowa City where we merge onto I-80.

On this section of the trip we managed to exit for some gas, and get behind an 18-wheeler. No big deal, except we are behind it on the off-ramp. And I notice that there is a big sign on the back of the truck saying that it is a truck driving trainee. The poor fellow turns on to the road at the top of the off ramp. Must have popped the clutch or something, because the dern thing stalls. Yep, here we are in Ms. Mae's mom's nice Impala on a kind of sharp curvy incline with a stalled semi in front of us. After a few moments of cold sweat he beings moving.

We make it to Springfield unscathed.

We arrive in the Patch about 2:30 and find out that my cousin is in town and dinner is planned for everyond...fantastic.

Dinner at The Fairview is great. Ms. Mae meets my cousin and her family, along with my grandparents cousin.

We share gifts, the three of us, mom, Ms. Mae and me.

Sat. 12/27/03

Sleep. Go to lunch with Mom. Got to the mall to get more toys with gift cards. Go to Movie. Sleep

Sun. 12/28/03

Church. See familiar faces. Have a nice time. Out to lunch with family. Nap. Dinner. The road to chicago.

1,011 miles total.

That was my tripp and experinece.

Peace to all

Final Respects

I my previous post I mentioned the passing of Sen. Paul Simon. The Suntimes today ran a great recap of his memorial service in Carbondale. Please read it if you get a chance. I have such respect for this great man.

"One last thing -- by George, you were a good man, Paul Simon." -- Sen. Dick Durbin

I have returned.

After a bit of a hiatus I am back, and will try to update this thing more regularly. I just have not been inspired.

But some recent happenings in the news have got me thinking (uh-oh here he goes).

Watching all the depressing and agrivating events of the past week (suicide bombings, mortar attacks, parents drowing childern, etc) got me thinking about a passage in the great book "Once and Future King." I read this book in highs school, so please bear with me here if my memory is a bit faulty.

General Drift: Merlin and a boy Artuhr are on one of there lessons, and they have become ants. While they are ants, Arthur notices that they will randomly attack each other. Merlin note that besides fire ants, the only animals that kill each other for no good reason (self-defense, etc) are humans.

So that has me thinking.

Humans are supposed to be suprieor to the other animals, and yet we disrespect each other with such malice that I have a hard time buying that. If humans are superior, why is there so much hate between different races, creeds, neighbors, families? I belive in the existance of evil, but sometime I get so upset at its growth that I want to give up.

Several times a day, I want to break down and talk some sense into people. I have my heart broken daily, because I can not put some change in the guys cup. I am moved to tears when I read articles in the paper about mans hatred towards man.

But on the flip side, I am moved to tears of joy by some simple acts of human decency, and I am thankful all...no most humans are not evil. I am thankful when I read of donations to shelters, cooking of meals, reconciliations of families. I rejoice when I hear of people taking care of their sisters.

But we hear more about the bad than the good. Maybe if we here more good, more good will happen.

-----

Another RIP

Senator Paul Simon died. I liked him. He retired before I could vote for him. But he cared for people. In fact he was the only democrat my dad ever mentioned in a quasi postive light.

You were a special man...I respect you.

Peace...I will be back sooner than later.

Tripp ain't alone

Tripp isn't the only famous one!!

Over the weekend, oh my god's video for Get Steady went online over at Asylum13.com. Check out the backstory about how the video came into being here. Then Check out the video itself...right HERE!

And here is a new way to watch The Matrix. Make sure the brower is open all the way.

Watch this...you need quicktime. this girl is only 3...and ... wow

Soul of a Whore


Just wanted to let everyone know that this weekend the Chicago Premiere of Denis Johnson's (author of the novel Jesus' Son) newest play, Soul Of A Whore, opens this weekend.


Here is a brief description of the play:

Set in our country's execution capital of Huntsville, Texas, this divine tragicomedy follows the travails of a jailbird TV preacher with a burdensome supernatural gift as he struggles with a demonic nemesis, and absentee boss, and his fragile flock consisting of his deranged ex-cellmate, a possessed stripper, and a needy Biker-for-Jesus with a mother on Death Row.

Paul Dillon (best know as Angelo/Cracker Jack from the TV show The Pretender) stars as The Reverend William Jennings Bryan Jenks.

This is the second of Denis Johnson's plays I have worked on. He is an amazing writer with a true gift for story telling. I have been working as the stage manager/bunch of other stuff for this show.



Peace

Spooky

So, I stood up to get off the eL this morning, and I was the tallest one around -- by at least 2 inches. (For those of you who don't know me, I am 5"6").

Freaky Man.

A wandering spirit caring for a multitude of just concerns, you are an instrumental power in many of the causes around you.

And so am I, very dangerous: more dangerous than anything you will ever meet, unless you are brought alive before the seat of the Dark Lord.

Gandalf is a character from the Middle-Earth universe. TheOneRing.net has a description of him.

Well, Well, Well

I haven't posted anything lately. So, here goes!!!

Cubbies

Well, they didn't win. Oh well. Yeah, it stinks. Yeah, they choked. You can't say they didn't...up 3 games to 1, and they lost it. They choked anyway you look at it. But they had a Tremendous season. Can anyone debate that?

I am glad they choked. This would have been a Cinderella year. The could have won the rings, but then what? Now, they have a fire in their guts. They know what it is like to be almost there. They will want it more than ever next year. My only armchair managment issues are that they need to get some relife pitcher that can save games. And Sammy needs to go.

I like Sammy. He is a good player, but the team is young. The don't neeed the distraction of a "superstar" player. They need to be a team...not Sammy and the Cubs, but rather just The Cubs. One of their best winning streaks was when Sammy was out in June. Look at it this way...How many rings does Barry Bonds have...0. Look at the teams who have won the rings in past years...is there a "superstar" among them. Not that I can think of.

The Dream Teams Bulls did the same thing. They were together for a few years before they started winning rings. The 2 or 3 seasons before the run began they got their butts kicked in the playoffs....with the same team that won the 6 rings.

My prediction...The Cubs with have 4 rings over the next 8 years. They have a fire now. They want it. Go Cubs.

(Please note: this all has been written by a Cardnial fan)

California

What can I say? The democratic process has officially been put on a downward spiral. The bitter Republicans have bought another election. Gray Davis was RE-ELECTED by the people.

OK...My beef is with the whole idea of recall to begin with. It makes a farce out of our entire process. What is the point of electing officials if you can recall them on a whim? All elected officials should serve their entire term, unless some major crime or treason has been committed. We, the people, need to learn that when you vote for someone, it is your voice that has been heard. If they are goofs, then there is nobody to blame but youself. You just need to wait till next time to fix the problem. By recalling you turn the process on its ear.

Other News

I am currently working on Soul of A Whore at the Viaduct Theatre. It is a really cool show. Once I get run dates. I will let you know.

Peace

Christopher Walken and Cake

Why Christopher Walken is the coolest person ever!!!!

You are "Welcome to the Caribbean, love."
You're more than a little world-weary, but also
intelligent and you keep your head when things
get dodgy. You're everybody's favorite
drinking buddy, but your stubbornness does get
in the way sometimes.


Which one of Captain Jack Sparrow's bizarre sayings from Pirates of the Caribbean are you?
brought to you by Quizilla

Hell Yeah


You are Morpheus, from "The Matrix." You
have strong faith in yourself and those around
you. A true leader, you are relentless in your
persuit.


What Matrix Persona Are You?
brought to you by Quizilla

Life Expectancy

Just Dew It!!

You are

Andrew

"So this is my redemption at last . . . I buy back my bruised soul with the blood of my heart."

What "Buffy" Character Are You?

Allergy Free Pets

Just Click here and sign up!!!!

Irony?

Kazaa, a file sharing website, is suing the RAII (the group suing the useres of such groups) for copyright infringment.

The English Languate

Aoccdrnig to rscheearch at an Elingsh uinervtisy, it deosn't mttaer in
waht oredr the ltteers in a wrod are, the olny iprmoetnt tihng is taht the frist and lsat ltteer are in the rghit pclae. The rset can be a toatl mses and you can sitll raed it wouthit a porbelm. Tihs is bcuseae we do not raed ervey lteter by it slef but the wrod as a wlohe and the biran fguiers it out aynawy.

Sweet Home Chicago

According to MLB players...Chicago Rocks!!!

hmmmmm


You are Proverbs.


Which book of the Bible are you?
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Fur Faces

Fury Faces Rule!!!

Since I can't post pictures, Right now my beard us about half of Huw's before be went clean cut. Does this make me orthodox?

Just kidding.

Hell has frozen over

Congrats Kids...I love ya!

Kids

My inner child is one year old!

Everything is new to me. I like watching the world
go by around me, and I don't sweat the small
stuff--or the large stuff, either. Just so long
as I stay warm and safe and dry, life's pretty
good.


How Old is Your Inner Child?
brought to you by Quizilla


Hell has frozen over

Congrats Kids...I love ya!

And they walked off into the sunset...talking about what had been

Rest in peace, Johnny Cash and John Ritter.

The Man in Black
Well, you wonder why I always dress in black,
Why you never see bright colors on my back,
And why does my appearance seem to have a somber tone.
Well, there's a reason for the things that I have on.

I wear the black for the poor and the beaten down,
Livin' in the hopeless, hungry side of town,
I wear it for the prisoner who has long paid for his crime,
But is there because he's a victim of the times.

I wear the black for those who never read,
Or listened to the words that Jesus said,
About the road to happiness through love and charity,
Why, you'd think He's talking straight to you and me.

Well, we're doin' mighty fine, I do suppose,
In our streak of lightnin' cars and fancy clothes,
But just so we're reminded of the ones who are held back,
Up front there ought 'a be a Man In Black.

I wear it for the sick and lonely old,
For the reckless ones whose bad trip left them cold,
I wear the black in mournin' for the lives that could have been,
Each week we lose a hundred fine young men.

And, I wear it for the thousands who have died,
Believen' that the Lord was on their side,
I wear it for another hundred thousand who have died,
Believen' that we all were on their side.

Well, there's things that never will be right I know,
And things need changin' everywhere you go,
But 'til we start to make a move to make a few things right,
You'll never see me wear a suit of white.

Ah, I'd love to wear a rainbow every day,
And tell the world that everything's OK,
But I'll try to carry off a little darkness on my back,
'Till things are brighter, I'm the Man In Black.
-- Cash

Check it out.

My brother has posted a very cool thing about the friendships and atmosphere of his workplace. Please check it out...tis very cool.

News

oh my god has been picked up for national distribution of the their new record, Interrogations and Confessions, by WEA (that is Warnere/Electra). Congrats...good thins will happen.

Oh To Be Me

After Mae wrote her statement of belief, and Jane Ellen and I have been talking about Baptists, Tripp is always conjecturing, and Cliff philosophizing; I guess it is my turn to say what I believe ... for now. Tomorrow it will probably be totally different. But let today speak for today!

I believe in love. Love is the thing that connects us to each other. Love is that pain you get in your gut when you see someone hurting. Love is a gift everyone has, but many are afraid to show. Love is painful. Love is uplifting. Love is...

I believe in grace. Grace is a gift one receives and gives. Grace is that thing you extend to the bully who beat you up in 5th grade. Grace is forgiveness. Grace is freely given. Grace is not cheap. Once you receive grace you must work at extending that grace.

God is the creator Spirit who gives us these. God is the one who gave us free will. God is the ultimate expression of Grace and Love. God weeps. God laughs. God is among us. God is with the one who can not find love. God is with the ones who can not receive grace. God live with them. God is them. God is mom. God is dad. God is here.

Jesus is Godís Earthly manifestation. Jesus lives among us. Jesus was a man. Jesus is God. Jesus healed those who hurt. Jesus grieved with those who grieve. Jesus loved. Jesus angered. Jesus brought peace to those who needed it most. Jesus' death was for us. Jesusí pain was for us. Jesusí resurrection was for us. God did not need to prove his love. We needed him to prove it. Our culture of violence demanded a blood sacrifice to prove this love. Through Jesus we receive Godís grace and love.

The Spirit is Godís eternal presence on Earth. The Spirit is what some may call conscience. The Spirit is fire. The Spirit is water. The Spirit is Earth. The Spirit is the power of the moving river. The Spirit is the mother nursing a child. The Spirit is God on Earth.

The Word is divinely inspired writings. The Word is words of wise men. The Word is past. The Word is present. The Word is changing. The Word is a gift of The Spirit. The Spirit is God on Earth. The Word never closes. The Word heals.

The Church is the body of believers. The Church is many people. The Church is not the church. All are part of The Church. the church is where members of The Church go to worship. The Church is open. The Church welcomes. The Church holds us accountable. the church is held accountable. The Church loves.

I believe these may be expressed in different ways. I believe that The Spirit works in its time and its way. I believe I could be wrong. I believe I may be right. I understand what I do, and I let The Spirit lead me.

There...that is it. hmmmm.

Hey Tripp!!

With all your wacky postings. I thought this Harry Potter/Matrix hybrid would fit in nicely.

Thanks Zannah.

Request

Pray for Susan and her husband. They were in an accicent on Wednesday. She is ok. But he is in the hospital. He went into cardiac arrest on Thursday. He is in ICU now. Susan is a great person. She is one of the CSR I deal with on a nearly daily basis. Her husband has had some health problems that have parrelled what my dad went through. Please keep the O'Dell's in prayer as they struggle through this time.

Thanks

New

I have a new comment host...please feel free to use it...for Some reason YAACS has not appeared on my blog for awhile.

Be Ye Warned

There is a frightening thing happening. These underworld antics must STOP. God Forgive us all.

A Test

So Mae had to take a strength assesment test for seminary. I took a different one...here are my resulte...what do you think?

Very Easygoing: DRIVE: Takes commitments and responsibilities seriously, though is not upset if things change. Able to set tasks aside. May occasionally struggle with follow-through. Can work hard when required to do so. Generally achievement oriented. ORGANIZATION: Low emphasis on organization. Not one for planning or keeping schedules. Work area likely to be cluttered. Not always disciplined.



Private: Generally quiet and focused inward. Restrained; prefers to be in the background. Probably a better listener than talker. Actions are usually careful and well thought-out. SOCIABILITY: Prefers solitude. Sometimes difficult to engage in conversation. Will usually need time alone to recharge after being with others.



Critical/Agreeable Blend: Makes an effort to be cooperative in social settings. Not overly concerned with getting along. Is able to work for the benefit of the group. EMPATHY: Modest concern for the feelings and problems of others. Can seem uncaring or unsympathetic. TRUST: Usually accepts people on good faith as trustworthy. Doesn't hold a grudge.



Very Resilient: Relaxed and even-tempered. Unflappable. Thick-skinned, quick to bounce back. Confident and able to effectively deal with adversity. Shows good self-composure. ANXIETY: Usually handles pressure well. Seldom worries. MOOD: Not easily frustrated and generally even keeled.



Very Inquisitive: Curious. Seeks new experiences. Likely to have an unconventional approach to life. Enjoys intellectual discussion. Considers all aspects an issue before reaching a conclusion. CREATIVITY: Is quite original, creative and enjoys breaking new ground.

An Example

Of the kind of office I work in. My boss is in his office playing Mr. Potato head with his nephews. Our founder is running up and down the hall with his grandson in a rolly chair. (The Grandson is the Nephew's brother...Founder is my boss's dad).

Oh yeah.

New Blog

My brother, Josh, has a new blog...here is the link. I updated it in my places to wander.

Who Knew?
Thanks, Susie


You are a Folkie. Good for you.


What kind of Sixties Person are you?
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I mean, really. My favorite musician is Bob Dylan. And I like poetry.

This Week

It has been a while, but here is this week's dumbass. Actually it is a group of them...the UK costoms official who wouldn't let Brazilian tourits in because they didn't know enough about the Beatles.

Josh's Answers

1. What do you think about peanuts?

Next to beer, I think that peanuts are one of mans best friends. They are able to be consumed for all occasions. Parites, baseball games, everyday snacking. One of the greatest parts of peanuts are their near realative, peanut butter. I could go through a gallon of that a week. Thatís all I have to say about that.



2. What made you and Sarah decide to move to Louisville, as opposed to Chatanooga?

sarah and i had been looking at moving to atlanta, birmingham, chattanooga or louisville. at first we had chosen chattanooga for the simple fact that we couldn't really decide and that it was inthe middle of each city we wanted to live in. we started to get to thinking about our family and what would be best for us. we wanted to move out of springfield, but still be close enough to home to get there quick if we had to. at the time i was thinking about going to seminary and there is a really good one in louisville. sarah was thinking and still is wanting to go to dental school. u of l in louisville has one of the best dental schools in the country.



3. Beging a Civil War buff, what part of it intrigues you the most, and why?

I think that some of the most intriguing parts of the civil war are related to the men who faught it. In the North it was mainly regular average guy who wanted to join the military to see the country and have something to do. Work wasn't good in that time, and if you found work you didn't get paid much for it. The army gave you a chance to see the country and get paid for it. In the South it was men and boys who joined the military because their homeland was being invaded by an enemy. The Federal Army wanted to have all of the confederate states succeed to the union and pay taxes like them. The south wanted no part of that and like the way their "country" was being run. Boys all the way up to old men faught for the confederacy to protect their way of life as they knew it and didn't want any part with the union. on another note, not all men hated the people they were fighting. for the most part before every battle men from both armies would meet in a deserted area and trade with each other smoke together, even drink with each other. before the battle would start they would all wish each other good luck before the big battle.



4. During you 1st job at Dairy Queen, did you have to turn any Blizzards upside down, and did any spill...what is your most emarrasing sales experience?

Ha Ha, Oh yes, Dairy Queen, my first lovely job. I worked there in the summer of 1994 in the heat of Illinois weather. I made many blizzards there that summer and I can only remember that I turned a few blizzards upside down. I think that I did this most when I first started there and wanted to see if it would really work, and it did!

My most embarrassing moment was when I was making a blizzard for somebody and I needed to clean off the blizzard maker. We turned it on very slowly and used a towel to clean up and down the metal spinner of the mixer. I was cleaning it trying to look all cool because I had done it several times before that, but this was a different day. I was cleaning it and then all of the sudden the towel gets caught up in the mixer and pulls me toward it and almost gets my hand caught in there. To me that was pretty damn embarrassing.



5. What is the secert to bieng a good clothing salesman?

Ahhh, the secrets which every good salesperson would like to know. When I started working at a very nice high class suit store, I didnít really know how to sell to anyone over the age of 25. with the help and coaching of a very good friend, John Alt, I was able to accomplish many things while working. First, you much know how to impress the client coming into your store, donít go jump all over them asking what they are looking for as soon as they walk in the door. Greet them and say hi my name is Josh, if you need anything, let me or _________ (fill in whoever is working with you.) Secondly, a good clothing salesman/woman will know the exact or within 1 inch of a persons waist,to already have the clothes out and ready for them while they look around the store. A good trick of the trade for any suit salesman is to know how measuring works. The chest size, for a sport coat is exactly 7 inches bigger than what the waist would be. Lastly, lets say you were working in an urban clothing store, i.e. ìGadzooksî or ìThe Buckleî most of the people wearing urban clothes come to the store once a week in search of a new fit (outfit). The thing to do is to go scope out Foot Locker, or Champs. You go there to find out what the new pair of shoes are. Have in your mind already 2 or 3 outfits to go with that pair of shoes. It never fails, when a new pair of shoes come out, the first place they go is the shoe store and then to a very good urban store to get your Saturday night fit. Thatís all I have to say about that.

Josh's Questions

1. What do you think about peanuts?
2. What made you and Sarah decide to move to Louisville, as opposed to Chatanooga?
3. Beging a Civil War buff, what part of it intrigues you the most, and why?
4. During you 1st job at Dairy Queen, did you have to turn any Blizzards upside down, and did any spill...what is your most emarrasing sales experience?
5. What is the secert to bieng a good clothing salesman?

I will post his answers here.

The InterviewÖMy Turn

A few days ago Tripp posted this. It was about an interview process going on amongst bloggers. Being sado-masochistic I agreed to take part. These are the 5 Questions Tripp sent me. If you want to be interviewed by me, follow the directions below.

1. You are a stage director. How did you get involved in theater to the degree you are?

I first got involved in theatre my freshman year of high school. My school had a blessing/curse of having a no-cut policy for the annual musical. Knowing I would be cast no matter what I figured what the heck. (Along with the fact the girl I liked was auditioning and wanted me toÖalways a sucker.) I sang Happy Birthday, and was cast in The Music Man. I hadnít ever given a thought to theatre as a career until opening night. I had so much adrenaline pumping through me that I was as high as a kite. I was hooked.

From there I began auditioning around town and participating in community theatre. I paid my dues in community theatre. I was one of the few who wanted to do everything. I would help build, hang lights, paint (poorly), do make up, and sweep the stage. Whatever I could do to be around the theatre. To learn.

My junior year I told my mom that I wanted to major in theatre. After a minute of silenceÖI though I had just cussed her out. She looked at me. Staring through me. It took forever. ìGood for you,î she said with her smile. That was that.

As far as directing goes, it wasnít until the end of my sophomore year of college that I even considered it. I knew I would have to take directing class my junior year, so I started looking for plays to direct. I found one and fell in love with itÖThis Property Is Condemned by Tennessee Williams. During its performance, I spent more time watching the audience than the play. I saw them into it. Wanting it. I gave it to them.

I guess the simple answer as to why I love directing is that I love story telling. As an actor you have a part in that, but as a director you are responsible for telling the entire story.

2. What are your real thoughts on the Lutheran Church and their seminary in St Paul?

My thoughts on the Lutheran ChurchÖhmmm. Well, since my immediate family (Mom, Josh, Grandma and Grandpa) are the only one who are not Lutheran in my entire family that is a mixed bag. My cousinís husband is even a Lutheran minister up in the suburbs.
As for Luther Seminary in St. PaulÖPoo. Why canít it be in ChicagoÖthe very least Kenosha? (For those of you who donít know, my girlfriend will be starting there in the fall.

3. What was it like growing up Baptist? Is there anything you would change?

I guess growing up Baptist was fine. When some thing is the only thing you know, you donít know any different. If that makes any sense. My mom and dad were/are very religious people. So, I always had that influence.

Anything I would change? I donít know. I was blessed with a great extended family (that is something about growing up BaptistÖyou are family). I never felt like I was missing out on anything, or was superior to anyone. I donít think I would change any thing.

4. Tell us about your brother.
Joshua Adam. 3/31/80. Married on 8/28/01 to Sarah Anne. Currently works for Thoroughbred Technologies in Louisville, KY. We had a typical big brother beats up little brother relationship, until big brother comes home from college and Peanut is now bigger than big brother. We got along well, all things considered.

5. What job do you have that supports your theater habit?

Well, my job that pays the bills has nothing to do with theatreÖI am an office bitch. You know, fix the copies, make coffee, run the mail room, make sure stuff gets printed, and answer this interview kinds of stuff.

I am co-founder of beYond thAt. We are a young theatre company trying to get our feet off the ground. We just closed Reefer Madness, and are trying to figure out what to do next.


There---great questions Tripp. Let me know if you want to get interviewedÖmy hand is tired from all this typing.

Peace
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Official Rules

1. If you want to participate, leave a comment saying "interview me."
2. I will respond by asking you five questions - each person's will be different.
3. You will update your journal with the answers to the questions.
4. You will include this explanation and an offer to interview others in the same post.
5. When others comment asking to be interviewed, you will ask them five questions
6. And, sure, I will answer reasonable follow up questions if you leave them in my comments.

Well

Mae Mae went home today. She is on her way to seminary. Good things happen. Shit Happens. But manure is great fertalizer. I want to see where this grows.

I am waiting for her to call. She left at 10:30 this morning and was due to arrive in Rochester, Mn at around 7:30 or so tonight. She then has an hour or so drive home from there. I just pray that everything is ok. Yeah, it is only 9:30, but those of you who know me know that I can have a overactive imagination.

She is special.

Listening -- Keb Mo-Hand It Over, More Than One Way Home; oh my god-The Obligation of Joy, The Unbearable Pagent; The London Suede-asbestos.

Peace

Welcome


There is a new one in our midst...Sophie Ruth Healy. Welcome Precious little girl. Cliff and Anna...prayers have been answered. Glory be. God Bless all three.

Back Home (Updated 8/15)


1,100 miles in 4 days ain't too bad, is it?

I have enjoyed my first vaction in a little over a year. Mae and I went down to Springfield to visit Mom. We spent Friday night there, and EARLY Saturday morning we left for Louisville, KY to visit my baby bro, Josh and his wife, Sarah.

It was a pleasent 5 + hour drive. We stopped for lunch at my favorite restaurant, Cracker Barrel...mmmmmm. Upon our arrival to their very nice place, we chatted for a bit, and then Josh wanted to go to the mall. Which just so happens to be where he used to work (that is him in the picture), and where Sarah currently works. We then had a very nice dinner at a Japanese resturant, where Mae and I indulged in some Sapporo and Sake.

On Sunday we all went to the church they have been attending. Southeast Christian Church. It is one of the Louisville Mega-Churches. It was kind of neat, but lets just suffice it to say that Mae and my theologies didn't quite get along with some of what was said...we were deffinately in the south. Also, I prefer the more intimate setting of smaller congregations. Anyhoo....that is rant for another time.

After church we had a nice lunch at their house. We then ventured to Churchill Downs, Home of the Kentucky Derby. I loved it. I know next to nothing about betting on horses, but dang I love those animals. Mom, Can I get a Horsey for Christmas? For dinner we went to this great burger joint. And on the way home, we drove by where Josh now works (the parent company for where he used to work).

Monday...wake up and hit (no pun intended) the Louisville Slugger factory and museum...way cool. We then revesed and came back to Springfield...on the way home we drove through my alma mater ... Millikin University.

Tuesday, Mae and I tried to go out, but were pooped and came home. Wed...we cam back to Chicago, and went to the Shedd Aquarium. We then took some of her high school kids out to Ed Debevic's. Twas fun.

That is why I haven't posted in a while.

Peace to all, and Cliff, Where is the Kid????

Hey!


1 out of a lot ain't too bad ... http://aolsearch.aol.com/aol/search?query=wrestling+diva%27s+naked&page=2

Huzzah!!! My nefarious plot worked. Someone came to my site through this link.

Anywho

Things are well on my end. Get Well, Tripp. Cliff, be a dad already.

Almost

The Gemini of the City
it calls
books to be read
names to be learned
time

Time is almost
not certain
just about

Time Gemini
once and a while
now and then

Going soon
staying here
Gemini

You may get to hear
Time? Miles? Not Yov?

At it Again

Cliff and Tripp are at it again. This time each has allies.

This concerns me.

As I have mentioned in past blogs, My heart breaks. I know no offence is intended, but the battle that is happening is defeating what is going on at the whole core of the conversation. All sides agree that Christ is the center of the church. Good. That is what is important. That is IT. This all started because Megan (who I gather is seeking) had a question. And now a damned battle is going on, and proving exactly what I see her problem with the church to be.

We are people of Christ, are we not? Followers. Disciples. Children. ALL of us. Huh? I love all parties involved in this, and I do not want to pick sides, because I should not have to...and I won't. It is stupid. How in the world can we witness the Love of Christ when we are fickin bickering like a bunch of babies? Mine is better that yours is. Plah!

Piss on that.

All of us have a responsibilty, as Christians, to follow Christ. Maybe that is different to different folks...GOOD. We have gifts, all of us, and those are from God. Let's use them.

Cliff, your intellect is amazing. You will certainly connect and spread God's love with other. Tripp, your vunerability and honesty is what makes you special--youare able to connect with those who have been tossed to the way side. Mae, your sense of compassion and joy are able bring much needed joy to the kids you work with. Sherry, your sense of justice rights the wrongs. Leo, you have insights into urban life that most of us can not touch.

That is the Church in my opinion. Right there. All of us, using what we have to bring God's love to the world.

Peace

Tripp

Hey Tripp. This lint's for you.

Thanks for the Memories

RIP
Bob Hope
May 29, 1903-July 27, 2003

A Good Man

Today is also the 5th anniversary of my Dad's passing.

I have written about him before, so I won't say much. I can't do him justice.

Love you Dad.

How many Christians does it take to change a light bulb?

Charismatic: Only one. Hands already in the air.
Pentecostal: Ten. One to change the bulb, and nine to pray against the spirit of darkness.
Presbyterian: None. Lights will go on and off at predestined times.
Catholic: None. Candles only.
Baptist: At least 15. One to change the light bulb, and three committees to approve the change and decide who brings the potato salad.
Episcopalian: Three. One to call the electrician, one to mix the drinks, and one to talk about how much better the old bulb was.
Mormon: Five. One man to change the bulb and four wives to tell him how to do it.
Methodist: Undetermined. Whether your light is bright, dull, or completely burned out, you are loved. You can be a light bulb, turnip bulb, or tulip bulb. Church-wide lighting service is planned for Sunday. Bring the bulb of your choice and a covered red dish.
Nazarene: Six. One woman to replace the bulb while five men review church lighting policy.
Lutheran: None. Lutherans don't believe in change.
Church of Christ: They do not use light bulbs because there is no evidence of their use in the New Testament.
Unitarian: We choose not to make a statement either in favor of or against the need for a light bulb. However, if in your own journey you have found that light bulbs work for you, that is fine. You are invited to write a poem or compose a modern dance about your bulb for next Sunday's service, during which we will explore a number of light bulb traditions, including incandescent, fluorescent, three-way, long-life, and tinted, all of which are equally valid paths to luminescence.
Amish: What's a light bulb?

Nothing new.

My Jaw hurts...tense. I don't know why. Urf.

So, I got an email from a co-worker. The sent me the auto-response from a member. It says the following:

IF you don't vote conservative;
IF you don't pay enough taxes;
Send the balance to me, & I'll
attempt to help you feel better.

Iraq Gov. change in 2003
Iran change by 2004
S.Arabia change by 2008
Watch History change.

AAAARRRRGGGGHHHH. These people are our members....maybe that is why I am tense.

Failed Experiment

In a blatant attempt to attract more hits I mentioned that Trish's show had nudity in it. It did not work.

Being a wrestling fan, and knowing that one of the cutest diva's in WWE is named Trish Stratus (check out that site...cool little anime pictures of her), I would have though that little teenage boys would be hitting google trying to see what comes up when they type Trish WWE naked.

(let's see if that works...I am evil)

Say Nope to Dope

Here is this week's Dumbass:

Man severs, cooks, and eats his penis.

All Star Fever

I never thought I would say this, but you can feel something downtown today. And, no, it isn't the tourists bumping into you. There is just something about the atmosphere. Today is the All Star Game. Every other person I see down here is wearing a baseball jersey or cap...even me. I am wearing my beloved Cardinals cap today.

People are grinning and happy.

I love baseball. I don't know all the stats of who is the best in the league for this or that. What I love about baseball is one of those intangibles. Not sure what it is, but there is some thing about going to a baseball that makes it special. Sons and Dads. Daughters and Moms. Kids and Grandkids. Going to see the Springfield Cardinals play was an almost weekly occurrence. We all went. Mom, Dad, Josh, Grandma, Grandpa, Uncle Paul and Aunt Marilyn (when they were in town), and I all would go. Baseball games were at time for the family to get together and just hang out. All the problems we might of had did not matter the Lanphier park. Maybe monthly we would take a trip down to St. Louis to see the Cards play. We would try to a ball game when we went of vacation. We were at the game where Joe Niekro got busted with an emory board (Twins vs. Angels)

Baseball is a family game and truly America's Pastime.

Play ball.

Once and for all!!

We will find out the correct spelling:

Theatre
vs.
Theater

Let googlefight be the Don King of this bout!!!!

And the Winner is:
THEATRE...by 100,000

Final score is

Theatre (10,500,000 results)
Theater (10,400,000 results)

Thanks Cliff.

What the Hell

Since I just saw Pirates of the Carribean (which was absolutely awesome) I figured What the Hell:

You Are Sam From "Benny & Joon." You are very talented at physical comedy. People are in awe of your abilities. However, you have many quirks which can either win people over or completely annoy them. But you're a sweetheart through and through, and it's hard not to love you.

Take The Johnny Depp Quiz!

They're Back

Garbage Pail Kids are returning after a 15 year sabbatical.

Has it really been that long?

So

Tripp mentioned that Trish's new show has nudity in it. This is always an interesting subject. When we were going to do The Tooth of Crime I was running in to the same issue. Becky, one of the characters, has a scene in which she basically rapes herself. It was difficult to try to see how how to take it.

Anywho. This past weekend, Ziggy got married. Mae and I went up to Grayslake for the wedding. It was really pretty, and outdoor ceremony and reception. Lots of fun.

I guess that is all for now.

Peace
all

Here we go.

Here is the promised link to my new computer.

Also, since I had to reload the comments, because the old YACCS did not work with the new blogger, I changed the template. Tell me what you think

Peace

Bloggin from Home

I finally am boggin from home...bought myself a 'puter. I will put a lik up later...time to eat. bye

WOO HOO!!!

My counter just broke the 2,000 mark. Took long enough. How is it Tripp is in the 10,000 and we started about the same time and Cliff is at 7,000+ and he started after me. Come on folks...lets get this thing moving.

(yes I am evil and didn't link Tripp and Cliff...mwa hahahaha!!)

Friday 13th

Who says Friday the 13th is a bad luck day? Look at the good fortune of this family.

Open my eyes

I know sometimes I am a loud obnoxious fool
Somtimes I sit in the muck I have created
And expect everyone else to sit in it with me

I hurt people
I say things
I usually am too dumb to realize that I have done so

My tears are tears of self-loathing
My tears are those of an ass
My tears are meaningless

I think I care only to pass them
I see their tears only to ignore them
I want help but I can't

Make me weak
Break me down
Open my eyes
Let me hear
Tear my skin

I am a sinner and I ask for forgiveness
I am arragont and I ask for humility
I am hurtful, make me caring

Spirit fill me. Creator forgive me. Christ heal me.

------

Jane Ellen has written a wonderful sermon. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you.

Field of Dreams

Mae, her roommates (Kyle, John and Kris), and I all went to the Chicago White Sox v. Minnesota Twins game last night. We had a good time...well Kyle and I did, as the Sox beat Mae's beloved Twins (8-6). It was a really fun game. The Sox manager was ejected not 10 minutes into the first inning, and it just kept rolling from there. Ending with a Frank Thomas home at the bottom of the 12th inning. The count was 3-2 with 2 outs. Score 6-6 and THWACK...HOME RUN...SOX WIN. It was an ending to a baseball game that makes the almost 4 hours totally worth it. It was something that does not happen very often. And it is something I will remember for a long time.

Google Search

Please do this. It is extremely funny. Thanks Google.

OK. Go to Google.com. Type Weapons of Mass Destruction into the search box. The click the I'm Feeling Lucky button. An error message will pop up. Read the message.


Naughty Bird

Go here. You need your speakers on. Very funny stuff. Tripp, you will like this stuff. Nothing like a pigeon tanting a cat.

>via the goddess<
Peace

Nifty Newness

So, blogger has a new lay out...I likes.

It has been a little while since I have written something. Not Much to say...I shall return.

Peace

Here it is!

This week's dumbass!

This woman was pulled over while breastfeeding her baby. The thing is...she was DRIVING!!

EYE HALVE A SPELLING CHEQUER!

Eye halve a spelling chequer
It came with my pea sea
It plainly marques four my revue
Miss steaks eye kin knot sea.

Eye strike a key and type a word
And weight four it two say
Weather eye am wrong oar write
It shows me strait a weigh.

As soon as a mist ache is maid
It nose bee fore two long
And eye can put the error rite
Its rarely ever wrong.

Eye have run this poem threw it
I am shore your pleased two no
Its letter perfect in it's weigh
My chequer tolled me sew.

Sauce unknown (but courtesy of MBM & GG)

Good Bye, Mr Finch.

I just read where Gregory Peck died at the age of 87. Best know for his role as Atticus Finch in Harper Lee's To Kill a Mockingbird. For that role he was recently crowned The American Film Institute's #1 Film Hero for the last 100 years. My thought and prayers are with his family and friends. Rest In Peace.

My friend Mary became a citizen of The United States of America yesterday. She has lived here in the states for 20 some odd years, and decided to take the plunge. Also, with all the crap going on with the Sept. 11 paranoia, she was scared that she could possibly be kicked out. Eventhough she has been a business owning taxpayer for the last 20 years.

I know I have ranted about the administration many times. I did in the previous paragraph, but ,eventhough I despise this administration, I love this country. To see the joy of someone who has just gone through the citizenship process is what made me realize how much I do care about this country.

That is why I rant, and write letters to my congress people. That is why I go to the anti-war rallies. That is why i get into debates with people. This Nation was founded on those liberties, and that is what i cherish.

I don't know where I am or was going with this blog. I just felt like saying something.

Peace

Did you Know

That in Chicago these are some of the laws:

** Law forbids eating in a place that is on fire.
** It is illegal to give a dog whiskey.
** Kites may not be flown within the city limits.
** Spitting is forbidden
** In the Pullman area, it is illegal to drink beer out of a bucket while sitting on the curb.
** It is legal to protest naked in front of city hall as long as you are under seventeen years of age and have legal permits.

And My Personal Favorite
It is forbidden to fish while sitting on a giraffe's neck.

from DumbLaws.com

Peace

TORTURE

Torture!

I had a staggering urge today.
My sense of touch is like a siren.
One more day of dying, and it's...

Torture!
Not to touch her.

From toes to finger tips,
I can't survive the sight of lips.
One more day of trying!

Crested waves on summer days are crashing in her curls.
Nectar-scented laughter from a mouth that's made of pearls.
Exuberance is beauty, but sometimes beauty can kill,
Like now...

Torture!
Not to touch her.

Torture!
It hurts all over!

--oh my god

Listen to a clip of the song here!

For you know who!

A New Segment

I have decided to add a new weekly feature to my blog...

THE DUMBASS OF THE WEEK

Here is this week's.

A man running late for his plane calls in a bomb threat.

You Pencil Neck Geek

Rest in Peace, Classy Freddie Blassie. Mr. Blassie had been gravely ill for the past couple of weeks, and passed away last night. His autobiography just came out, and I intend to get it soon. A true legend. God Bless you.

I got 'em!

I got my hemp clogs. They are so nice...comfy, and 100% recycleable (sp). Since they are all stitched, no glue or rubber, and 100% hemp, I can compost them or send them to a paper factory when they are worn out. Also ... made in China ... at fair trade...how about that!

Peace

Congrats Cliff

I stole this from Cliff's Site...this is cool stuff:

This is way cool. Anna's pregnancy update sez:

Your baby's lungs and digestive tract are almost fully developed. And while your baby may soon grow more slowly in length, he will continue to put on the pounds.

This week your baby continues to open and shut his eyes. He can probably see what's going on in utero, distinguish light from dark, and even track a light source. If you shine a light on a your belly, your baby may move his head to follow the light or even reach out to touch the moving glow. Some researchers think baring your belly to light stimulates visual development. But don't expect 20/20 vision when your baby is born ó newborns can see a distance of only about 8 to 12 inches. (Children with normal vision, don't reach 20/20 vision until about age seven to nine.) And to complete the picture, new eyebrows and eyelashes now frame your little one's peepers.

A pint and a half of amniotic fluid now surrounds your baby, but that volume decreases as he gets bigger and has less room in your uterus. As you and the baby continue to grow, don't be alarmed if you feel breathless, as if you can't get enough air; it's just your uterus pressing against your diaphragm. There is a light at the end of the tunnel, though. Usually about two to four weeks before labor (or during labor, if this is your second or third pregnancy), your baby's head will drop into your pelvis ó to get ready for delivery ó and that will make breathing and eating a lot easier.

Good News!!

My friend Mary, the owner of Pat Harran's Pub, will be taking her oath of citizenship on June 10, 2003. Even if you do not know her, feel free to join the celebration later that afternoon at Pat Harran's on the corner of State and Illinois...the one with the green awning. Just south of Snickers.

Slainte...or should I say Cheers, Mary.

Why Can't I Buy A Canadian?

I just received this email. I think it is very appropiate to the whole conversation going on between Cliff and Tripp...let me know what you think.

I found the web version...here. The verses mentioned are on that site too.

For those of you that are not following the recent controversy that has to do with Laura Schlessinger: she is a radio personality who dispenses advice to people who call in to her radio show. Paramount Television Group is currently producing a "Dr. Laura" television show. Recently she has become a convert to Judaism, and now she is Ba'al T'shuvah. Recently, she has made some statements about homosexuals that has caused the Canadian anti-hate laws to censure her... The following is an open letter to Dr. Laura which was posted on the internet...

An Open Letter to Dr. Laura
J. Kent Ashcraft
May 2000

Dear Dr. Laura,

Thank you for doing so much to educate people regarding God's Law. I have learned a great deal from your show, and I try to share that knowledge with as many people as I can. When someone tries to defend the homosexual lifestyle, for example, I simply remind him that Leviticus 18:22 clearly states it to be an abomination. End of debate.

I do need some advice from you, however, regarding some of the specific laws and how to best follow them.

a) When I burn a bull on the altar as a sacrifice, I know it creates a pleasing odor for the Lord (Lev 1:9). The problem is my neighbors. They claim the odor is not pleasing to them. Should I smite them?

b) I would like to sell my daughter into slavery, as sanctioned in Exodus 21:7. In this day and age, what do you think would be a fair price for her?

c) I know that I am allowed no contact with a woman while she is in her period of menstrual uncleanliness (Lev 15:19-24). The problem is, how do I tell? I have tried asking, but most women take offense.

d) Lev. 25:44 states that I may indeed possess slaves, both male and female, provided they are purchased from neighboring nations. A friend of mine claims that this applies to Mexicans, but not Canadians. Can you clarify? Why can't I own Canadians?

e) I have a neighbor who insists on working on the Sabbath. Exodus 35:2 clearly states he should be put to death. Am I morally obligated to kill him myself?

f) A friend of mine feels that even though eating shellfish is an Abomination (Lev 11:10), it is a lesser abomination than homosexuality. I don't agree. Can you settle this?

g) Lev 21:20 states that I may not approach the altar of God if I have a defect in my sight. I have to admit that I wear reading glasses. Does my vision have to be 20/20, or is there some wiggle room here?

h) Most of my male friends get their hair trimmed, including the hair around their temples, even though this is expressly forbidden by Lev 19:27. How should they die?

i) I know from Lev 11:6-8 that touching the skin of a dead pig makes me unclean, but may I still play football if I wear gloves?

j) My uncle has a farm. He violates Lev 19:19 by planting two different crops in the same field, as does his wife by wearing garments made of two different kinds of thread (cotton/polyester blend). He also tends to curse and blaspheme a lot. Is it really necessary that we go to all the trouble of getting the whole town together to stone them? (Lev 24:10-16) Couldn't we just burn them to death at a private family affair like we do with people who sleep with their in-laws? (Lev. 20:14)

I know you have studied these things extensively, so I am confident you can help.

Thank you again for reminding us that God's word is eternal and unchanging.

Your devoted disciple and adoring fan.

The Economy, Stupid

What does it say about President Bush's Tax Plan when one of the nation's wealthiest people says it is bunk?

Basically, Warren Buffett says that the dividend tax cut is nothing more than "Enron Style Accounting." The article at money.cnn.com states the following:

Buffett posed a hypothetical situation in which Berkshire Hathaway, which does not currently pay a dividend, paid $1 billion in dividends next year.

Through his 31 percent ownership of the company, Buffett said he would receive an additional $310 million in income that would reduce his tax rate from about 30 percent to 3 percent, while his office secretary would still have a tax rate of about 30 percent.

"The 3 percent overall federal tax rate I would pay -- if a Berkshire dividend were to be tax free -- seems a bit light," Buffett wrote.

...He closed the piece by saying that the "government can't deliver a free lunch to the country as a whole. It can, however, determine who pays for lunch. And last week the Senate handed the bill to the wrong party."

Makes you wonder who our fearless leaders are really thinking about.

Peace

Let's Go

Tripp...this should be your first pastorate.

So, Mr. Thomas. That was his name. Eugene Thomas. Age 67. Recently retired. Postman. Widowed. Neighbor, father, almost Grandfather. Soon to be. Of African and Asian descent. A child of the boom. A survivor and a soldier. 6 feet 2 inches. Hair: short and beginning to grey. Temples and sideburns. Renting the top floor of his house to a vagrant rehabbing junkieÖdrunk. Me.

April 2002.
Things are not all that right here and now. I have a vice grip around my neck. Icepicks in my eyes. And that bug I was talking aboutÖwell it caused me to have this broken nose. Every time I swallow the salty sting of blood trickles down my throat. My throat is raw. Ill. I need some food, but if I do I will just loose it and destroy my throat evenmoreÖso screw it.

My day consisted of walking through the streets of this fair city. Depending on the kindness of strangers. Do you know what that is like? I donít think so. Vincent hasnít eaten in 3 days. And this is not his fault. He came back from a war ñ what 11 years ago. He just ainít been right since then. Half of his foot is gone and he sees things that donít no-one else see. (OK I seen some of the stuff, but I think that was the smack). He had a wife but she left. Donít know if heís got kids or not. Donít care. I got enough to worry about. Vincent sits on the corner of Washington and Dearborn. Till the cops make him move then he goes over to State and Jackson. Well because he donít have sense enough to ask for help. He just sits there. He donít get much help from anyone. Just stares and walk arounds. The princesses on their cell phones hoping into the cabs. Their cares are for the next dollar they are going to spendÖwell when you donít got a buckÖ

Me? Shit. I get by. Not as poorly as Vincent. I work those same areas. Just a little different. You see, I can get 15 maybe 20 bucks for one of those cell phones. 50 or so for a nice leather bag. Now though I just been to sick to go out. Been shaking a lot. I quit the shit a month ago and this is almost as bad as that.

Piss off.

uh. uh. uh.

s-hisssss.

eerrraahh.

fffffff.

Feel it coming on. The darkness is engulfing my throbbing head. The crystal of my veins is raking through my gut. My bowels jump with ever breath. I feel my spine falling, slinking. Breath. Breath. Never/Always. The eternal continuum of need. Desire. Necessity. Breath. Breath. Never/Always. Continue.

A week ago Thursday I saw a man die. Nothing too traumatic. Simple. 1 bullet thought the upper left quadrant of his chest. Very little blood. Until they opened him up. Everything that you would expect to be coming out of a man with a gunshot wound was there inside him. Apparently his heart exploded. What is that like? To know that the breath I am taking is my last. What does a person on the table of legalized murder think know that this is her last breath?

Pain and sufferingÖthat is life.

Crying/Laughing. One in the same.

Can you feel the person next to you? Can you breath their breath? Does your blood flow through the same veins? Is your sister there? Brother? Comrade? Amigo? Freund?

Can the man who died be of any use to me? Maybe. The bullet was intended for my head. You see I have this problemÖthis thing that grows inside of me. Possibly a bug. Who know? It makes me say thingsÖthings that people donít want to hear. Thing that could get Ö have gotten me arrested. Things that piss people off. That is what happened. The boy. I told him what I thought and he popped a capÖhis aim sucked. Instead of my head he hit the old man on the porch. The man whose life was in the twilight. The saviour. Savory saviour. Tasty.

So yeah, I went with him to the hospital. The morgue. The funeral parlor. The grave. This man. This saviour. This man who took my bullet.

feel it

uh uh uh

please don't call a shrink. this is a work of fiction.

New Blogs!!!

Meggo Mae has just joined is in the blog-o-veres.

And so has Leo the Lion.

Very Important

Here are 2 very important blogs:

Mr. President

Mr. Vice President

Another One Gone

Not to long ago I wrote of the death of "Mr. Prefect" Kurt Henning. Well, professionaly wrestling is full of tragedies. Any male who grew up during the 1980's more than likely know of the lovely Miss Elizabeth. She was one of my first crushes growing up...and the same to many boys of the 1980's. But women looked to her as well. Miss Elizabeth brought a touch of class to the chaotic world of the ring. Her honor was at stake. The Guinevere for the fueding Arthur and Lancelot. As of right now the details of her passing are unknown. She was only 42. God bless her family and friends. You will be missed, First Lady of the Ring. Godspeed.

Hey Bubba

Josh just forwarded this to me.

A man boarded an airplane and took his seat. As he settled in, he glanced up and saw an unusually beautiful woman boarding the plane. He soon realized she was heading straight toward his seat. Lo and behold, she took the seat right beside his. Eager to strike up a conversation, he blurted out, "Business trip or vacation?"

She turned, smiled, and said, "Business. The annual Sexual Education Convention in Chicago."

He swallowed hard. Here was the most gorgeous woman he had ever seen sitting next to him, and she was going to a meeting for sex education! Struggling to maintain his composure, he calmly asked, "What's your business role at this convention?"

"Lecturer," she responded. "I use my experience to debunk some of the popular myths about sexuality."

"Really," he said. "What myths are those?"

"Well," she explained. "One popular myth is that African American men are the most well endowed, when in fact, it's the Native American Indian who is most likely to possess that trait."

"Another popular myth is that French men are the best lovers, when actually it is the men of Jewish descent. We have, however, found that the best potential lover in all categories is the Southern Redneck."

Suddenly, the woman became a little uncomfortable and blushed. "I'm sorry," she said. "I shouldn't really be discussing this with you. I don't even know your name."

"Tonto," the man said. " Tonto Steinburg. But my friends call me Bubba."

So

Mel Gibson is working on a new movie called The Passion. What drew my attention is the fact that the entire movie will be in Aramaric and Latin. No Subtitles. I found this article. It turns out that this is going to be a very realistic portrayal of Jesus's last 12 hours and the resseruction...I can't wait to see it.

Worth a listen

I heard this over the weekend The Viaduct. Rob and Whit and David and I (and Lisa, sorry) were sitting around playin pool and drinkin beer. Pretty funny. Emenim goes Ragtime.

Job 12

Then Job answered: "No doubt you are the people, and wisdom will die with you. But I have understanding as well as you; I am not inferior to you. Who does not know such things as these? I am a laughingstock to my friends; I, who called upon God and he answered me, a just and blameless man, I am a laughingstock. Those at ease have contempt for misfortune, but it is ready for those whose feet are unstable.

The tents of robbers are at peace, and those who provoke God are secure, who bring their god in their hands. "But ask the animals, and they will teach you; the birds of the air, and they will tell you; ask the plants of the earth, and they will teach you; and the fish of the sea will declare to you. Who among all these does not know that the hand of the Lord has done this? In his hand is the life of every living thing and the breath of every human being. Does not the ear test words as the palate tastes food?

Is wisdom with the aged, and understanding in length of days? "With God are wisdom and strength; he has counsel and understanding. If he tears down, no one can rebuild; if he shuts someone in, no one can open up. If he withholds the waters, they dry up; if he sends them out, they overwhelm the land. With him are strength and wisdom; the deceived and the deceiver are his. He leads counselors away stripped, and makes fools of judges. He looses the sash of kings, and binds a waistcloth on their loins. He leads priests away stripped, and overthrows the mighty. He deprives of speech those who are trusted, and takes away the discernment of the elders. He pours contempt on princes, and looses the belt of the strong. He uncovers the deeps out of darkness, and brings deep darkness to light. He makes nations great, then destroys them; he enlarges nations, then leads them away. He strips understanding from the leaders of the earth, and makes them wander in a pathless waste. They grope in the dark without light; he makes them stagger like a drunkard.

Sacred/Profane...Profane/Sacred

This started as a comment on Cliff's blog, but it got to be too long.

I know the journey I am on, and through that have come to the conclusions I have come to. The journey I am taking is a search for, I guess, pureness. Pureness, not in the clean, white as snow, pureness, but pureness as true, raw, and honesty is what I mean. This journey has led me to my belief that one should "live the faith", but how that is done is totally different. I believe in action and have a fascination with the sacred and profane...rather the sacred in the profane. That is why you can find me in a bar at 11:30 on a weeknight. Does the make me unfaithful?

Talking to Del Toro who went to Woodstock in ë68 over a couple of beers, M-1 telling me about his latest female conquest, Bar Tender D telling me he wants a nose job, Hobos and Hookers across the street, used condoms and broken paraphernalia in the alley, Rachel who wants to be Cinderella in Into The Woods, Fish, up on Broadway, who has my back because I gave him a dime once 2 years ago, the gang-bangers who made sure I was safe leaving their hood after closing a store that helped out the hood, and their babies. These are the people I love. [Note: it is 4 hours since I started this, and well, as I tend to do, I have completely shifted focusÖoh well.] How can they not be loved? They may scare you, make you cry, break your heart, but they are the most pure people I can think of. Nothing is in the way. They donít look down on people. They donít look up to people. They just look to people. They are scraping to get by. So am I. So do my friends. But I know my ego gets in the way.

This quest for pureness is the closest I think one can get to God on this earth. Let the old blue-hair teach you how to make the sign of the cross. Enjoy the immediacy and intimacy of that moment. Look to the woman with the eyes of a child. Look to the hooker through the eyes of a child and see what she sees. It is painful. Really. ìCome back here, you mother fucking PuntoÖ.Iíll smash your God-damned window in.î As tears come down her cheeks and a bruised is developing under her eye. Pure. What can I do? I pray. Does that work? I donít know. It is what I have. I share her tears.

Purity. Wholeness. Dirt. Blood. Tears. Sweat. Grief. Pain. Redemption.

Like the junkie on the corner, blistered and bleeding. Needing the sweet nectar that is holding him hostage. Seeing the world through the haze of an altered state. Feeling the heat of disease entering the vein. Loosing the last vestiages of whatever the last meal he ate. The pain. He is doing what he must to survive the moment. He is living in the now. It is us who must help him. Take him and clean him. It is us who must move to his now, see what he sees and show him the love.

If this is throwing the pearls to the swine (I know you were not saying that, Cliff, but to use a common metaphor) then I want nothing to do with it. I really believe that to bring the Kingdom to earth we must find the pureness of the downtrodden, accept that they are wise, and then share our love with them.

Grace and Peace

Well, u-- um, can we come up and have a look?


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2 Cents

Lately Tripp and Cliff have seemed to be having some issues with their faith. Let us keep them in mind during our daily thoughts.

I have notice something these two have in common, though one is more a student of Eastern Orthodox, and the other is a Baptist seminarian in an Episcopolian school. The commonalty is that both of these friends are very intellecutal about things. Analytical. I understand that is the personalities we are dealing with here, and it has its place. But I think this, and I have said this before, intellictualism and over analysis can do more harm than good, as the analysis becomes what they are searching for...instead of letting the result arrive. I understand thier issues, they are what I have dealt with in theatre.

The state (Amenrican) theatre now has a lot to do with the overanalysis and intellectual mumbo-jumbo propogated duing the 1930's and the birth of the Strasberg method. (My ideas on his stuff is an entirely differnt post...) What has happened with so many American actors is that, a great number, have become so analytical that it has become an extremely self-concious effort. As an audience I don't want to watch a character think I want to see them do...that is besides the point...not what I am talking about. Anywho, from my own experience in acting, I know that my over analysis and over intellectualizing has caused my connection to the role to become flawed. I get so focused on the whys and hows and what ifs, that I loose the what. Does that make sense? The most pure moments I have had onstage have been those ... few ... times that every thing but the what has dissappeared.

I think by stopping...even for a moment...thinking about everything else, and just letting the what happen...Tripp and Cliff may have something. The analysis and all that other stuff is good...I am glad I know about Grotowski, Genet, et al, but they are not important in the what of now. There is a fear of veneurability that must be overcome. Believe me. The more open to letting the what happen, the more things seem to make sense. In fact by letting the what happen, all of the other things come together.

I hope my 2 cents help.

Peace

Dreams

My aunt-in-law (is that a real thing?) just had an amazing past few days. She made her Metropolitan Opera DebutÖin a leading role. Christine Brewer is her name, and let me tell yaÖthe girl can wail!!!!

She sang at Josh and Sarahís weddingÖand was out of this world.

What makes her such a unique person is how she went about forming her carrer. Every opera singer dreams of performing at the Met. Well, Chris, started humbly in the chorus of the St. Louis OperaÖand it grew from there. She has never lost the small town girl in her. In fact she still lives in Lebanon, ILÖ(exactly, I have no clue where it isÖdown by St. Louis I am told).

The neatest part about the debut is that the received a standing ovation after her first aria (a very rare thing).

Congrats Chris.

Amen Brother

As a proud person of Irish ancestory all I can say is amen to what Colin Farrell said on msnbc.com:

I get in trouble now and then, and they tell me itís a bad thing, but we Irish boys like to go out and have a good [fuck], you know. And it can be during the week sometimes, and we still do the work, one hundred percent, to the best of our abilities, and our abilities are not diminished by the night before. Itís something thatís inbred, itís part of the [fucking] genes. So that cliche about the Irish is quite true.

Not that weíre a bunch of people that sit in a bar and talk to each other like a bunch of [fucking] morons ó itís not that. We are people who like to have a good time. We like to tell stories, and we like to talk to people. We are quite lyrical and emotional ó another cliche, I suppose. Weíve very proud. As a country and as a people, we want to be great. We donít necessarily need or have to be greater than anyone else. We donít even really concern ourselves with those silly competitions. We just want to be great ourselves.

I donít know what it is. But Iím very grateful I was born where I was born. Our literature, our music. Itís a small land, but itís a land thatís full of passion and full of storytelling and full of music and full of song and full of laughter. Iím so proud of being Irish. No man is an island unto himself, but Ireland is an island unlike any other, a great one to hail from.

The Joy of a Child

Kind of. Last night I went to WWE Smackdown tapings. Most of you know I am a mark for pro-wrestling. Anyway it was the first time since I was in jr. high that I have been to live matches. I totally forgot how much fun it was. It is like going to an old fashioned melodrama with an updated twist. You cheer the good guys and boo the bad guys. I have to say that these guys and gals are some of the most dedicated performers I know of. Not only do they beat the living hell out of their bodies (wrestling fake -- scripted, yes -fake! You take just 1 back bump on ply wood with carpet padding on it, and tell me how fake it is), but they go 100% the entire time they are out there.

Any way to the point. Memories flooded back while I was there. My dad would take my bro and I to the matched whenever the old WWF would come to town. It was a great bonding time. Three guys going nuts over Hulk Hogan, Rick Rude, Jake the Snake, Junk Yard Dog, That is what we did. Loose ourselves in the moment. That is what I love about last night. Dads with their kids, Moms, Grandpa and Grandma. Just having fun. I watched the matches like I did when I was a kidÖwith an ear to ear grin. Thanks Guys and Gals for a great night.

Segue

Last nightís show did something else to me. Like I said Dad took Josh and I to the matches. For those of you who donít know, my dad died about 4 Ω years ago from complications with diabetes. So when the memories flooded backÖI got a little teary. Dad was one of those people who, no matter what, could be counted on. For a double peg leg finger missin son of a gun, the guy could go. His determination and joy for life have made me who I am. Before he died he had been ill for the 5 or so years previousÖit got worse maybe 2 year before. But even through the tough times, Dad lived for today, and never bitched or moaned about his setbackÖ

He is the one who gave me my name. He used to be stationed in Key West, Fl while he was in the Navy. Well, in Key Largo there is a church he would go by called St. Justin, Martyr Catholic Church. He liked the name and so it was given. Ha.

For Dad -- love you and miss you, and say thank you. Oh yeah -- ìWatcha gonna do, [Daddy], when Hulkamaina runs wild on you?!î

Hotel Size Soap Box

Ok. I know I haven't blogged in a while, and you are sick of my rants. BUT, I saw this this morning...and now I share.

So, I was walking up Ontario after getting my morning sausage and egg and diet A&W, and lo and behold the little lady that is supposed to be up on Michigan Ave directing traffic pops up and starts writing a ticket to a car that is getting bags thrown in the trunk in front the Best Western. (wow! beautiful Steinbeckian run on!) Anywho, there is no standing on this section of Ontario in the morning, but I saw the car come around the corner...the wife of the driver was on the side walk with the bags...he stops and pops the trunk. 15 seconds later they are in the car while the little lady is writing a ticket...freakin absurd. Now, what promted me to write this morning is the fact that the little lady should be at Michigan Ave directing traffic. You see, while she was writing the ticket I look up the block and see cabs flying around corners about clipping several pedestrains. Ummmm....a car in the wrong place when there is no traffic on the street or cabs clipping pedestrains and cutting off cars? It irks me a little.

And don't get me started on cabs.

Peace

An Apology
From blogcritics.org . I believe this to be a parody, but I agree 100%.

Apology from Natalie Maines of the Dixie Chicks

As a concerned American citizen, I apologize to President Bush because my remark was disrespectful. I now realize that whoever holds that office should be treated with the utmost respect.

I hope everyone understands, Iím just a young girl who grew up in Texas. As far back as I can remember, I heard people say they were ashamed of President Clinton. I saw bumper stickers calling him everything from a pothead to a murderer. I heard people on the radio and TV like Rush Limbaugh, Pat Robertson, Newt Gingrich and Trent Lott bad mouthing the President and ridiculing his wife and daughter at every opportunity.

I heard LOTS of people disrespecting the President. So I guess I just assumed it was acceptable behavior.

But now, thanks to the thousands of angry people who want radio stations to boycott our music because criticizing the President is unpatriotic, I realize itís wrong to have a liberal opinion if youíre a country music artist. I guess I should have thought about that before deciding to play music that attracts hypocritical red necks.

I also realize now that Iím supposed to just sing and look cute so our fans wonít have anything to upset them while theyíre cheating on their wives or getting in drunken bar fights or driving around in their pickup trucks shooting highway signs and small animals.

And most important of all, I realize that itís wrong for a celebrity to voice a political opinion, unless theyíre Charlie Daniels, Clint Black, Merle Haggard, Barbara Mandrell, Loretta Lynn, Ricky Skaggs, Travis Tritt, Hank Williams Jr, Amy Grant, Larry Gatlin, Crystal Gayle, Reba McEntire, Lee Greenwood, Lorrie Morgan, Anita Bryant, Mike Oldfield, Ted Nugent, Wayne Newton, Dick Clark, Jay Leno, Drew Carey, Dixie Carter, Victoria Jackson, Charleton Heston, Fred Thompson, Ben Stein, Bruce Willis, Kevin Costner, Arnold Schwartzenegger, Bo Derek, Rick Schroeder, George Will, Pat Buchanan, Bill OíReilly, Joe Rogan, Delta Burke, Robert Conrad or Jesse Ventura.

God Bless America,
Natalie"

Just have to

Just have to post this...funny...and true. Thanks Zander.

When Apollo Mission Astronaut Neil Armstrong first walked on the moon, he not only gave his famous "One small step for man, one giant leap for mankind," statement but followed it up with several remarks to the other astronauts and Mission Control. Just before he re-entered the lander, however, he made the enigmatic remark, "Good luck Mr. Gorsky."

Many people at NASA thought it was a remark concerning some rival Soviet Cosmonaut.

However, upon checking, there was no Gorsky in either the Russian or American space programs. Over the years, many people questioned Armstrong as to what the "Good luck Mr. Gorsky" statement meant, but Armstrong always just smiled.

On July 5, 1995 in Tampa, Florida, while answering questions following a speech, a reporter brought up the 26-year-old question to Armstrong. This time he finally responded. Mr. Gorsky had finally died and so Neil Armstrong felt he could answer the question.

Armstrong explained, "When I was a kid, I was playing baseball with a friend in the backyard. My friend hit a fly ball that landed in the front of his neighbor's bedroom windows. My neighbors were Mr. & Mrs. Gorsky. As I leaned down to pick up the ball, I heard Mrs. Gorsky shouting at Mr. Gorsky, "Oral sex! You want oral sex?! You'll get oral sex when the kid next door walks on the moon."

Michael Moore

Here is what Michael Moore said after he left the Stage.

We Want Spring! We Want Spring!

Last night was a good night:

9:30 = hungry, Ziggy and Jim head to Jewel
10:30 = they return.
10:45 = cooking of dinner commences.
3 courses as follows:
Appetizer -- Pork Chops
Main Course -- Lamb Chops
Dessert -- Steak

Yes we want spring...grilling at midnight...desperate?

Peace