Another Night in the City

OMG, I can't believe how slow it has been at work today. I'm loving it. I was bitching yesterday about how busy it's been, only to find myself today with next to nothing to do. So, i decided to write up a post. JP Mac mentioned the bar, Therapy, in a recent post, which reminded me of the following experience. This goes along with one I posted back in January, One Night in the City.

The conference was a bore. Afterwards, my boss Ben and I relaxed a bit, got changed, and went for a bite to eat. After dinner we went to meet up with a friend of mine, Harrison, who lives in the Murray Hill neighborhood of Manhattan. Harrison and I met a few years ago while he was in law school at Vanderbilt here in Nashville. I was on a temporary breakup with BF. We were both bored one night and found each other on Gay.com. He invited me over for a drink and whatnot, and before you knew it, we were into the whatnot. We hooked up a couple times after that, but it never went any further than decent conversation and sex. Anyway, back to the story.

We had a glass of wine at his place then caught a cab over to Therapy for drinks. Therapy is good bar if you just want to relax with a decent crowd without the go-go boys and overly loud music. I already had a nice buzz from a couple of Grey Goose and tonics at dinner. The glass of pinot noir at Harrison's only added to the warmth. There was a good crowd that night, not so busy that you couldn't move or hear yourself talk, but enough to make it happenin'. We went upstairs and ran into some friends of Harrison's. They were very friendly and bought us a few rounds. Ben had an early morning meeting, so he went back to the hotel. I stayed for a few more drinks. After a while, I was feeling kind of randy and was hoping that Harrison and I would head back to his place for a little fun. Unfortunately, he had to be up early too, so it didn't pan out. He went back home and again, I decided to stay. His friends were nice, but I wasn't interested in any of them, so when last call cam around I decided to head back to the W and get some rest. I must have been really drunk, because I decided to walk instead of hail a cab (I love walking in Manhattan). And on top of that, it was pouring down rain. On the way, I saw a guy standing under an awning. I decided to get out of the rain for a few and joined him. I don't know why, but I spoke to him with an Irish accent (yeah, I'm weird). He was a decent looking black guy and some kind of street hustler (not the sexual kind). We talked for a bit until the rain subsided. I vaguely remember the conversation, but it had something to do with making money on the streets. I asked him if he was into guys, but he said he was straight. As we were about to part ways he asked me for a few dollars. Seeing how nothing is free on the streets, he let me cop a quick feel, I gave him 2 bucks, and we each went our merry ways. Did I mention that I was a little drunk?

I finally made it back to Times Square where it had started raining again. It was near 4 a.m. at this point. The place was dead. The usual sounds of sirens and honking taxi cabs were replaced only by the deafening roar of a heavy rain. Aside from an occasional delivery truck there was zero traffic. I walked out to the middle of 7th Ave and looked at the lights all around me and admired the way the falling sheets of rain played with the illuminations and reflections in the street. Unfortunately, Times Square isn't fully lit up at 4 in the morning, but it was neat being the only person in a spot that is usually packed with people. There was a very surreal feeling to it all. Seeing how it wasn't getting any earlier, I dragged my soaked ass back up to my room, dried off, jerked off and went to bed. I hated myself 6 hours later when I had to be at a meeting.

Much Work = Slow Posts

Ive been a bit slow at posting these past few days. One reason is that Ive been busting my ass next door in what little spare time Ive had. I swear I don't think I'll ever be done with the remodel. Actually, I'm very close. Aside from having a new front door installed and new vinyl in the kitchen, I'm just down to little things like doorknobs, switch plates, final paint touch-up, etc... However, it seems those are the things that pile up and take the longest. Another reason for the slowdown is I've been extremely busy at work. Being the end of the month it has been crazy. By the time i get home, its after normal dinner time. I eat, and then have no motivation to do more work. Luckily, the month is about over and I can slow down a little. Actually today has been oddly slow, hence having time to write this.

Another reason Ive been slow at posting is a lack of things to write about. I think inhaling paint fumes for two weeks has blocked my creative energy. I would love to post everyday, but often just can't think of anything interesting to say. Maybe I should open the blog to occasional questions. If there's anything anyone would like to know or like to see me write about, I would definitely be open to it. Hell, its an anonymous blog, so I wouldn't be shy to anything. Anyway, I'm gonna return a couple of calls and try to get out of the office at a normal time. Word to your mothers!!

Forgotten Shots

Ahh, home alone. BF left yesterday for a couple of days with his best friend who moved to SF a few years back. The boys met half way in KC where they took in a Loretta Lynn concert last night and are exploring the city. Don't laugh, Loretta's last CD with Jack White kicks ass (not to mention she's a living legend). He gets back tomorrow.

Anyway, I was reformatting a memory stick for our camera before he left and came across a bunch of pics I had taken earlier this year. I had actually forgotten all about them. Nothing spectacular, but a few decent shots. After downloading and a few necessary crops, they were ready to share. The few I'm posting here were taken in Chattanooga, TN (a small city about 2.5 hours southeast of Nashville, for those who don't know the area). I was there for business and arrived about an hour or so early. Rather than just sitting idle on my ass, I decided to check out what was around. I happened upon a neat little art district. There were a few small galleries, a bistro, and the city's art museum known as Hunter Museum, shown below.

There is a neat pedestrian bridge from where I took this picture. Chattanooga has done a great job developing its riverfront. They have a world class aquarium and modern minor league baseball stadium along the river, as well. The following pic is one of the walkways at Hunter. I took this because it sort of reminded me of Lombard St. in San Francisco.

This is a view down the center of the bridge I mentioned. I liked the blue color and symmetry of it. I wish it had been a sunny day to enhance it more. Before I knew it, it was time to head off to do what I was in town to do. After business, i was about to head out of town, but spotted a couple of cool buildings, so figured I'd take a couple more pics before hitting the road. I don't know their history, but they were really pretty and the photos don't do them justice.
Above is the Tivoli Theater. I'm guessing it's one of Chattanooga's oldest. I imagine it was probably on the verge of condemnation but restored some years back. Below, if memory serves me correct, is the Arch Building. It reminds me of something you'd see in Philly.

About 20 minutes on the way back to Nashville, I pulled over at a rest stop next to Nickajack Lake. It's a nice stop that has a few walking trails for road weary dogs, and probably road weary truckers, if you know what I mean. Anyway, I saw that one of the paths led down to the lake, so went down and got this shot (no, I was not cruising for truckers). I liked the lighting and reflection in the water. The hour of the day made the leafless trees look purple. It would be an even better photo if that damn duck wasn't leaving a wake. Oh well. It was a good day away from the office.

A Hairy Rambling

I should probably get my hair cut. Its longer now than it has been in 7 years. I'm kind of liking it, though. I'm not a big stylist queen when it comes to haircuts. I go to your standard neighborhood joint where they charge 15 bucks for a cut. They take a 4.5 guard to the sides and back, leave the top longer,use the thinning shears, and send me on my way. A couple of days with a little growth, no shampoo, but daily conditioner and you're a GQ model. I once payed $75 bucks for a quick cut, and it was no better than what I get for 15, except a fancy waiting area and a bottle of sparkling water (big whoop). I have easy hair. I wore it long through most of the 90's. At one point I had gone over two years without cutting it, after which time, I decided to just buzz it. I remember it felt like my head was going to float away. I usually get it cut once every month and a half. I don't know if I've just been lazy or forgetful, but I haven't had it cut since the end of October. I keep the nape of my neck and my sideburns well groomed, so I don't look like a caveman. I wish I could grow a beard. I mean, I'm physically capable of doing so, but It would be so uneven and gross. My only chance to do so, is to get on Survivor. I've contemplated applying. I'd be the goofiest lookin beardy on the island. It would be fun, except with all the cameras it would make it hard to masturbate. I digress. Anyway, I think I'll let my hair grow til BF complains. He has dropped a hint or two, but I'm gonna push it. Besides, its fun to have something to run my fingers through.

Piss Off, Pickler

For some reason on federal holidays (MLK day, President's Day, etc..) the Predators always play at 5:00 in the afternoon. So, yesterday BF and I took my older sister to the game, we had great seats, won the game and had a good time. After the game she took us to dinner at The Palm (its just across the street from the Arena). We met up with some of her friends and had a great dinner. The wine didn't stop flowing. There was a smattering of local celebrity there. a Couple of Tn Titans, one of the guys from Rascal Flatts, and a few Predators players. At the table next to us, they sat Vernon Fiddler and one of my favorite hockey studs, Jordin Tootoo. And who did my dreamy little Eskimo, Jordin, have with him as a date? That damn American Idol girl, Kelly Pickler. I think that bitch is stalking me. I seem to run into her everywhere. Fiddler ordered a whole lobster and kept pushing it toward Kelly. She was all squirming and squealing. What a ditz she is. Dinner was delicious and I was thankful I didn't have to pay. Anyway, as were leaving, they looked up and made eye contact with me, so I decided to congratulate Vern and Jordin on a good game. I ignored the Pickler. They were gracious. No real point to any of this, but it gives me an excuse to share this picture of Jordin Tootoo. I think its hot it, anyway.

Monday So Soon

Not the greatest weekend. Preds lost to Minnesota, after which I went to poker and lost more than I care to tell. Didn't meet my goal of the renovation next door. I was supposed to be done by now, but still have a good week or more of work left. Hell, it will probably be longer than that. I would've been better off hiring out all the work.

I should be in bed right now, but I slept so late today that I'm not even tired. BF and I had wake up sex this morning. I was having a dream about Courtney Cox (don't ask me why). She was my boss and we were in her NY apartment. It was a tiny efficiency dump. We were looking out her only window and she started caressing my ass. I awoke and realized it was my horny boyfriend who was rubbing my tush. What a relief. We did our thing, cleaned up, and went back to sleep. No more Courtney Cox.

Its now Presidents Day. After 1 am. I'm gonna finish my beer and wind it up. I'm mad that I have to be at work when I get up in the morning. My job has a lot to do with what the banking industry is doing, and they are all off tomorrow, but I still have to be in my office with nothing to do. I get a half day, but it still sucks that I have to get up. Oh well, such is life.

The Best Get Better

To any hockey fans who visit this site, you may be interested in the latest news (in case you haven't heard already) that Philadelphia has traded the great Peter Forsberg to Nashville. In a push to strengthen Nashville's run for the Stanley Cup, we gave up two players and two 1st round '07 draft picks. Well worth it considering the two we traded away weren't even a factor in the Preds current success. For those who don't know (and probably don't care), Forsberg is one of the greatest players in the NHL today, as well as in the game's history. His talent will surely keep the Predators in and around the #1 spot and take them deep into the post-season. An exciting day for sure, unless you are a Flyers fan. Sorry Philly, it's not like y'all had a shot at the playoffs anyway.

Latest Quote

Amateur Blogger, Will of Will's Way blog was quoted today saying:

"Well, you know, I hate NBA players. I let it be known I don't like NBA players. I don't like to be around NBA players. I'm ballerphobic. They shouldn't be in the world, in the United States, I don't like them."

Go to Hell, Tim Hardaway!!

Isn't It Romantic?

Well, well...a better V-day than i had actually hoped for (so lame, am I). BF and I went to the hockey game, where we had a great time. Preds beat San Jose 5- 0, retaking the #1 spot in the NHL (back at ya, Buffalo).

After the game, we came home, opened a nice bottle of wine, got naked, and...well, I'll leave the details to your imagination. Afterwards, we settled down and pushed play on the DVR. (Isn't love romantic?) Idol was boring.... watched the whole episode in 10 minutes. The only hopefuls I was glad to see it through to the finals were the Indian boy, Shamalayanamalama, or whatever the hell his name is, and that cute Jersey girl who kinda looks Indian..her name eludes me (no, i don't have a fetish for Hindus, but between Krishna and Kali, my monotheistic upbringing just gets in the way).

Lost was interesting. Desmond is one of my favorite characters. I liked the twist on his flashback episode (twist in the fact that it was totally different than the other character flashbacks). The thing I fear most about this show, is that they will never be able to answer a fraction of the questions they raise week after week. Regardless, they've had me hooked since the beginning. I'm just glad they're finally getting back to the rest of the cast. I can only take so much of Matthew Fox. Anyone else watch this show? What are your thoughts?

Correction from my last post: I actually only saw the Grateful Dead 31 times. Sorry for the typo.

Did you Know?

I really have nothing new to report on, but I hate to leave dead blog space. One thing I've always liked about some other blogs is the occasional list of personal trivia. So, for lack of better things to write about tonight, here a ten worthless personal facts:

-I prefer my steak medium rare.
-I first made out with another boy when I was 12.
-I didnt have actual sex with a guy til I was 19.
-Between 1990 - 1995, I saw the Grateful Dead 41 times.
-My favorite job was in a frozen yogurt shop.
-My least paying job was in a frozen yogurt shop.
-My favorite artist is Salvador Dali.
-I'm proud of where I'm from (Nashville).
-I fear for where America is heading.
-At present, my CD carousel includes, The Velvet Underground,"Loaded"; U2 "The Unforgettable Fire"; Dixie Chicks " Taking the Long Way..."; Scissor Sisters "Ta Dah"; and Johnny Cash "Live from San Quentin"

I hope everyone is having a great week so far.

Dinner & Cards

A little after 3 a.m. I'm just getting in for the night. Started off the evening with a birthday dinner for my dad. It was kind of a B'day dinner for me too, since mine comes two days after his on the 12th. My mom's was a little over two weeks ago, making all three of us aquarians. BF says I'm an uber aquarian. I really don't pay much attention to astrology, so I'll take his word for it. Anyway, dinner was nice. My oldest sister and her husband and 1.5 year old were in town, It was good to see them. My nephew gets cuter and cuter every time I see him. He will have a new baby brother in July. That should be interesting.

After dinner I came home and had a couple of beers with BF. He was going out with one of his girlfriends, so I went to a poker game. I was contemplating not going tonight, but I'm glad I did. One of my poker mates brought a new guy to play. What a cutie! About 6', sandy blond hair and an ass that wouldn't stop. I was glad when he was in on a hand, so I had an excuse to stare into his sky blue eyes. Great mouth too, I pictured my own meeting his in a passionate kiss. It was good for a quick thrill. I'm sure he's straight, but it was nice to have some good eye candy at the table. I bought in for my standard $60, was up and down for most of the night, then hit a good little streak and ended up cashing out for $400. One of the better poker nights I've had in quite a while. Another $360 in the vacation fund. WooHoo!! BF and I are planning to head down to Buenos Aires in the fall (more on that another time).

Well, it's late and I have too much to do tomorrow (later today). It's actually supposed to be in the 40s (heat wave), so I'm hoping to do a little outdoor work. Sorry to all my friends in upstate NY and the area buried under 9' of snow. I truly do feel for you guys. I hope everyone has a great Sunday. Peace.

Farewell, Ms. Smith

I can't say that I'm really upset or surprised over the death of Anna Nicole Smith. It is sad, yes. She was the brunt of alot of inside humor between me and BF. We thoroughly enjoyed her old reality show and making fun of her through the years on her TrimSpa commercials and many red carpet gaffes. Such a waste of what could have been. It's quite tragic really, the life she led since the death of her billionaire husband. I'm sure his family is somewhat relieved that she's gone, but I'm sure Anna's attorney/bf will continue the fight for the inheritance for the sake of their new baby daughter, assuming the paternity test comes out in his favor. Jeesh...what a soap opera. Anyway, Rest in Peace, Anna Nicole. Your spectacle will be missed. Say hi to Daniel for me.

Creeping in, Kill It Fast

Ugh....I can feel the scratchiness starting from deep in the throat all the way up through my nasal cavity. A little bit phlegmy, and a little light headed with a touch of throbbing in the temples. I'm hoping its just a 24 hour bug I've caught and not an actual cold, or worse, the flu. It's so rare that I get sick, I'm thinking it will be quick. I've already started attacking with Vitamin C and Nyquil tabs. Mixed with the scotch, it seems to be doing the trick..nah, j/k...not really drinking scotch. 17 degrees yesterday and 51 today, it's no wonder everyone isn't getting ill. I think I'll try headin to bed a bit earlier for an added kick. Wish me luck.

Job Op Update

An update on that job opportunity I posted about last week. I was at a mini-seminar today and ran into a guy that used to work at that office. He clued me in on what I kinda already knew; that I would more than likely be miserable there. He said the pay was great, but the boss is usually an A-1 asshole, and that the work conditions just aren't all that enjoyable. After hearing that, and considering the comments and emails you guys sent, I have decided to cancel the interview, which I was going to next Tuesday. I would rather be happy with where I am and make less money than have a great salary and be miserable everyday.

No, Im not drunk. Yes, I am. No, you're not. Why are we up so late anyway?

8:00am-Woke up to the glaring sun shooting through the blinds of my bedroom window. I love the sun. Went back to sleep.
10:30-Woke up again. BF's arm around me. I was feeling it. He was feeling it. Great morning sex.
10:40-(yeah....like you last more than 10 minutes in the morning) Cleaned up, ate some Kashi, and read the paper.
11:30-finished reading paper, solved Sudoku, and burned one with BF (not necessarily in that order).
11:45-BF jumped on laundry. I went next door and painted and painted and painted. (I'm sick of painting).
5:30-Painting is finally done (less touch-up). Celebrate with another beer. Take shower. Get ready to go downtown for the hockey game.
7:00: Face off between the #1 Predators and the #3 Ducks. Preds win in a shutout 3-0. #2 Buffalo Sabres lose to NJ., keeping Nashville's #1 spot in the NHL.
10:10-Make it home from the arena. Celebrate the win with a beer, the BF, and a bong hit. Contemplate going to play cards.
10:30-Sit down at the table and buy in for $60.
3:00- Cash out for $140. Far from my best win, but I'm happy with any win.
3:10-Get home, open a beer (I'm really not a lush), have a toke (I'm really not a pothead).Convince a semi-passed out BF that the bed is much more comfy than the sofa.
3:20-Jump online. Catch up on the news and my favorite blogs.
4:25-Wonder why the hell I'm still up and sharing a less than extraordinary day of my life on the blogosphere. "Y"?..Because we like you....M..O..U..S..E.......

Better Late than Never

Well, after bitching yesterday that we didn't get any snow, I woke up this morning to about an inch or so covering the ground and cars. It was pretty. I'd almost forgotten what real snow actually looked like. Luckily, it didn't stick to the streets too bad, so my commute was no problem. By mid-afternoon it had all melted for the most part.

I'd Rather Be in Miami

Oh boy, Superbowl Weekend is here and guess what, I don't really care. Though, I will watch the game, I am not too terribly excited about either team playing. However, I do wish I was in Miami for the parties and warm weather (I'm sick of the cold). I will have to say that I am pulling for Indy to win, but only because of Peyton Manning. He is undeniably the best QB in the NFL, and has led his Colts through a great season. Therefore, he deserves to be there. On top of that, we both went to UT, where I watched him break every Tennessee QB record, but never win a championship. His big V is way overdue.

Da Bears, on the other hand, have one of my least favorite QBs in Rex "Gross"man. Put that loser back on the bench. He shouldn't even be in the NFL. I mean, the guy isn't even good eye candy (not that Peyton is either). If it wasn't for a tremendous defense, Chicago wouldn't have even been a wild card this year, let alone a favorite. Rex is also a former Florida Gator, who, being a rival of UT, I loathe.

I think it will be a close game, though. If Chicago's D can put a good hurting on the Colts superior Offense, they may stand a chance. Hmmm, that statement sounds like some of the stupid observations made by many sports announcers, ie..."These guys have come to play football", "This team is playing to win", "What they want to do is get down into the end zone instead of settling for a field goal"..duh...

Anyway, Go Colts. If you lose I won't cry.

Kein Schnee

Well, as I should have guessed, the snow completely died as it got to Nashville. Barely a flurry. Of course, everwhere around us got about an inch. Oh well, I suppose it's better than getting an ice storm like ATL got.