February 28, 2007
The look of pain in my eye
Since my eye incident, Ive been wearing my glasses and who knew they were a man magnet? Not only did I have that guy from beer bust Sunday (which I have a date with Saturday night), I also was on my way to work Monday morning and on MUNI was this cute guy. We kept doing one of those "only make small eye contact to show Im looking" type of things.
So my stop is Montgomery, and I get off but see him from behind. He gets off behind me, we walk upstairs toward Market, and I saw him head the other direction on the other side. This happens often but what doesnt usually happen is the voice from behind me as Im walking up the stairs.
"are you just going to run away from me?" I heard. It was the guy from the train.
"I couldnt run away from you" I said back....(smooth right? lol).
We talked a bit till we hit the corner of Market and 1st where I needed to get to work. He gave me his card and told me he usually gets off the train at Embarcadero but followed me off because he wanted to talk to me.
Ive met people on MUNI before but dont recall having someone get off at a different stop than usual just to approach me. Its either the glasses or some guys can see the look of pain in my eyes (literally).
Posted by Des at 07:23 AM | Comments (0)
February 19, 2007
Heroes
Mohinder Suresh You scored 37 Idealism, 41 Nonconformity, 41 Nerdiness |
Congratulations, you're Mohinder Suresh! You're a curious, passionate, and intelligent person. You're prone to changing your mind about the important things in life, though. You're interested in doing what you can to help people who are gifted with special abilities. Your best quality: You're a maverick intellectual |
 |
|
My test tracked 3 variables How you compared to other people your age and gender:
|
| Link: The Heroes Personality Test written by freedomdegrees on OkCupid Free Online Dating, home of the The Dating Persona Test |
Posted by Des at 04:51 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack
In(cyst) is the best
I sat there today, waiting for the end of the day to arrive. I forgot that most companies were closed today so my job of calling insurance companies was limited. I honestly felt useless and slacked most of the day. What else was there to do?
I also waited for the end of the day because I was prepared to have a needle shoved in my head to drain a cyst thats been there for abouot 6 years or so. I was a bit nervous but also in many way excited. Is it wrong to get turned on by having an 18 gage needle stuck in your head like some lab rat? Ive heard of cyborg fetishes before and although can understand it, I never thought myself as into that scene. Somehow though I admit, having the thought of being drilled into, was rather appealing.
So needless to say, the day ended and I still have my cyst. Apparently its too old and the tissue hardens. I was poked and proded for nothing. If anything, the turn on made it worth it.
So the doctor at the office I work at doesnt want to surgically remove it. Its not that she cant do it, but rather the fact she doesnt like leaving scars on peoples heads. She said to go through Kaiser (which is my insurance... yeah I know, I hate it too) and if they make me jump through too many hoops, she will do it for me. I think Id rather just have her do it anyway.
So this evening is relaxing and Heroes. Im hoping its a good episode. Last week it was kind of jumping in a new direction it seemed, as it did once before, leaving me wondering where they are going with the story line next and how it will all be connected down the road.
Posted by Des at 04:32 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack
December 18, 2006
Sing A Long Grease
So tonight I went with Matt and Charlene to sing a long Grease. What a fantastic time. It was my first time at Castro Theater and the place was as amazing as the rumors I heard.
Upon entering we were given prop bags to use throughout the movie. It consisted of a pom pom, sunglasses,a piece of pink paper, bubbles, a comb, and a fake cigarette that smoked when you blew into it.
The festivities started with the pipe organ rising center stage, playing Summer Lovin and continued with medlies from the movie.
We were greeted by the principal and the coach who taught us the hand jive and the words to We Go Together. She also told us "If you can't be an athlete, you can always be an athletic supporter".
So we had a great time. There was one line that stuck out and I'd like to know exactlt what they meant. Of course it was a harmless line, but my mind works in weird ways.
Frenchie: Whats the matter? Arent you happy?
Sandy: Not Really, Frenchy, but I could be. Could you help me?
Hmmmm lesbians?
After the movie and singing our hearts out, we went to Daddys. I had two beers and actually went home. Work is going to be tough tomorrow and I have such a busy week ahead.
Ugh I'm soo gonna pay for it all.
Posted by Des at 11:24 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack
August 21, 2006
Enneagram Test
Main Type | Overall Self |
 |  |
| Enneagram Test Results
Your variant is social |
Posted by Des at 04:35 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack
March 06, 2006
Quick Update
So I finally broke down and joined a gym. Havent actually gotten enough courage to go but at least the attempt is made. Sure, I should use the gym since Im paying for it, but fear of looking silly is getting the best of me. Im hoping when Jay gets back from Chico, he can go with me and kind of show me the ropes.
I also bought a footed sleeper to keep me warm at night. Its fantastic!!!
Finally some quick pics of me as of last Friday night taken by Evil Gene. It was a good time hanging out with everyone.
Posted by Des at 08:36 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack
December 27, 2005
Back To Work
It feels good to be back in the land of the gay. After a busy week of traveling, and rushing to Roseville to spend Christmas with Josh's family, it was nice to get home Sunday with a few hours to spare before going to bed and waking up for work.
Now mind you, while dealing with snow, ice, and cold, it has been raining daily in SF. The ants from last year (and I'm sure they were the same ants) came back to invade our home. It seems somebody killed their sister (ste3ve and I last year).
They came in by force, and our counter was covered because one little bread crumb was laying on the counter. So a little windex and a garbage disposal later, they were gone. *sigh* they will be back to fight.
Riding Muni felt weird for some reason. I've ridden the train for 1 1/2 years now and know every stop, every shake and bump, yet it felt different.
Christmas never hit SF. I mean the day had come and passed just like any other day. It was almost like the Grinch but in the opposite way.
Off to work at 6am and my first day as a trainer. My trainee was great but I think I may have overloaded him with information. Trying hard to teach him everything in the schedule, was tough but thanks to every other place being closed, I had the time I needed.
It went well overall and the day went by quickly. After work I met Josh at Powell station and we explored Ross and the Container Store for New Years Eve ideas. We managed to get champagne flutes. Guess I didn't realize how many we needed. 24 flutes and a few candles later, we headed home.
After stir fry and some down time, Josh finally went to a moving sale. He bought some great stuff. $2 bottles of wine, $2 bottles of baileys, a nice serving tray for $5, and much much more. We bought a fondue pot for Ste3ve to go with the bottle of wine we had gotten him (who has now returned home).
Finally get to open gift with Ste3ve/from Ste3ve. Josh got hemp pants and I got the bestest Gir in the world. For those who don't know, I love Gir. For those who don't know who he is, he is the robot servant to invader Zim and the star (in my opinion) of the hit cartoon (ok, not so popular) Invader Zim series.
Finally sleep. 5 hours before work again. Tomorrows a new day.
Posted by Des at 08:59 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack
December 13, 2005
Ask And You Shall Receive
With all my feelings of being burnt out and jealousy of coworkers in the way of moving up the corporate ladder, I decided to circle the part on my time card asking for a review. Seems this is going to be the best way to speak my mind and let them know I want more than just the raise. I know, last week I was thankful, and I still am, however I deserve more if not for the sake of work, but for myself.
After having Fridays meeting postponed, and after being prepared to speak my mind, and having the weekend tp dwell on it, I came in Monday with all my thoughts that werw going to be verbalized.
It all happened quickly. They inercepted my frustrations, and came up to me before the meeting, before I had a chance to say my peace, and asked me if I wanted to do some training. I've wanted to get into training for a long time now and many people have told me I'd be good at it. So the frustration settled but was not forgotten. With this said, I had my review.
Weird that similar things were said about me in my review as the one I had two months ago. "You're doing a great job", "We consider you a go to guy", "you have a great work ethic", " you haven't missed a day yet".
With all those good things said, how could they pass me by? How could they do for others and not for me. I got my answer which was simple and understandable. I didn't ask.
Sometimes when you're doing your own thing, and doing it well, people think you're happy. When you do it with a smile, they think you're happy. Unless you tell them otherwise, they think your happy. They aren't mind readers after all.
So after all was said and done, I not only start preparing for a role as a trainer, I will also be in the next group of management trainees. It all goes to show you, if you don't ask, then you don't get. It also tells me my energy wasted on the past two weeks of being frustrated, were all wasted energy.
God, I should know this by now.
Posted by Des at 03:34 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack
August 15, 2005
Harry Potter
Finally finished The Half Blood Prince this evening. The best of the series perhaps?
Posted by Des at 08:24 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack
August 08, 2005
Back To The Basics
Back to the basics. The people I encounter day by day, the things I see.
This morning seems to be a mass hysteria. I get on Muni to find a man laughing hysterically all the way to Van Ness. No apparent reason except he was a bit mental.
Fine, its San Francisco, I expect to see this (or hear this) on occassion.
I exit and head up to Market to catch my bus. A woman from across the street starts laughing at apparently nothing. Im beginning to wonder am I going crazy?l
So every day I take the same train and the same bus. Theres a heavy set guy who is always on the same route. Nothing unusual except when we wait for the bus.
He makes a point to wait for the bus on one side and then runs quickly around to the other side in order to get in front of everyone else. Whats he in a rush for? To get a seat on an empty bus? Perhaps to get to the donut shop he runs into every morning when we get off at the same stop?
Posted by Des at 07:13 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack
April 04, 2005
Unemployed Day 1
Today was my very first day without a job. I have already decided that Im going to go stir crazy quite quickly. I woke up this morning with lots to do however a feeling came over me that was different from the normal "I dont have to work today". The feeling was more of fear as if to say "I have no place to go today. I have no job". Although Im happy to be out of CIGNA and away from most people there who were immature (and quite honestly, people who mistake stupidity and rudeness for intelligence and professionalism)I still feel a sense of loss.
Todays agenda was 1) call unemployment 2) contact both schools 3) fill out financial aid forms and 4) postpone jury duty (which I will get to in a moment). I got my unemployment taken care of but that was about it. Instead I decided to go to the library and walk downtown. I decided to chat online and buy some blank DVDs to start burning. I decided to watch TV, smoke, and pretty much do as little as possible. I feel really guilty about it but Im sure Ill be over it quickly.
So I received a summons in the mail to report for jury duty here in SF's superior court. Apparently you can be called once a year. That totally floored me. Last I remember in NY, it was once every 5 years. Guess I know I made the big time now.
Anyway, Im supposed to report on May 2nd. This is only 3 days before Josh's graduation. Theres no way Im missing his graduation because he has already been disappointed that several people backed out who said they would go. There is no way Im going to miss it.
So from what I hear its pretty easy to postpone once. Ive never had to deal with it but tomorrow is a must to do it. I want to nip it in the bud and get it out of the way before it becomes a problem. Wish me luck on that.
As for other stuff, its been a pretty good weekend. Steve, Josh and I had dinner Saturday night with Rob from SJ (who is originally from Rochester), and our friend Ken who works at Worn Out West. Nice guy and new friend to me. Steve has known him a little while and Josh had just met him that night. We seem to have quite a bit in common which is pretty cool.
Sunday Josh left back to Heartwood for another 5 weeks. This is the final stretch and hopefully things will go smoothly when he's done. I went out with my friend Rick and we went to The Edge and Moby Dicks. He met a guy who works as a bartender at the Restaurant we had dinner at the night before. They set up a date for Wednesday night and I guess he wants me to go with him for drinks tomorrow night.
It was nice to be the other guy who got to watch their friends fondle, and make out with strangers. Usually its the opposite way around. *chuckle*.
As for last night, I felt a loss and missing having Josh sleeping with me. After a week of being together, its funny how you become used to someone being there all over again. Hopefully Ill get a chance to go up there in a couple of weeks and then finally for his graduation.
Thats about all for now. Wish me luck on day 2.
Posted by Des at 07:33 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack
February 28, 2005
Update
Just figured Id give a quick update since I havent really written in about a week now.
Things here have been pretty mild. Work has been getting more frustrating. Im getting the feeling lately that several people there have decided to make me the scape goat for everything that goes wrong. Im not sure why but my guess is that people are easily influenced by bullshitters.
The girl who knows it all has been telling tall tales (im sure) and people are falling for it hook line and sinker. The funny part is that I would have expected people to be a bit wiser than that.
So needless to say, Ive been going in, doing my work, and leaving. Cant do much more than that but with all the frustration it really makes it hard to get through the next 5 weeks. Im hoping it will get better but not expecting it to. My guess says it will just get worse as time draws to an end. Sad, but there was potential there for at least a few good friendships. Stepping stones of life.
As for other updates, my futon is nice but Im wishing I would have gotten the bed now. Its definitely better than the one I was sleeping on though so I cant complain too much. I got my wireless mouse and my apple keyboard set up and ready for my computer. Its tough spending money and having stuff but not being able to use it. Soon enough though (a few more weeks that is).
I ordered the surround sound system too on ebay which Im now having problems with. Apparently the "system" didnt come with speakers so Im trying to fight it. The auction never said anything about the system not being complete and leads you to believe different. Perhaps someone who doesnt know this system would probably not have been the wiser but because I already own the same system complete, I would have expected the auction to say "subwoofer and remote only" which it didnt.
It gave the description of 5 speaker "output" which to me is misleading. Last email I sent is requesting a full refund prior to me shipping it back. If that doesnt work, I will end up disputing the charges, filing a complaint with paypal and ebay, as well as leaving my first negative feedback ever. We shall see what happens.
I did manage to spend some time drinking over the weekend. Went out for a couple of cocktails Friday night and ran into my friends Rick and Scott. I only had a few drinks and came home early.
Saturday, I went to the gay.com brunch (again hung out for a bit with Rick and Scott). The brunch wasnt as big this month as it was in January. There was a total of about 10 of us and we went to The Sausage Factory on Castro. My first time there and I wasnt too impressed. Although the food was ok, my stomach wasnt feeling the greatest afterwards. The food seemed to go right through me and I was in the bathroom most of the afternoon.
That evening I went over to see our friends Rob and Rick (whom we stayed with last year while visiting and who came over New Years Eve). They IMd me on AIM and had just come back from Costco with a huge bottle of Absolute, which they were using for white russians. It was nice to go to someones house and have *them* make *me* cocktails lol. I stayed a few hours and then came home.
Sunday another day of cocktails (mind you only a few each day so not as much drinking as you would imagine at this point). I went to brunch with my friend Logan and this guy Sean (not sure if thats the correct way to spell it or not). We started at 10am with Mimosas and then went to the Mix for a bloody mary. I was tipsy by noon so home to take a nap.
I did talk in between to Kym in Rochester for a bit and then slept for about 2 hours. I was supposed to me Logan and Sean at the Eagle but got a call from my friend Allan who was heading to Metro. Being that it was raining I didnt really feel like going all the way to the mission for beer bust, and so I joined him at Metro.
My first time there and I actually liked it which surprises me. Metro is a bar on Market in the Castro which is set on a triangular corner and on the second floor. They have an outside smoking area that overlooks Market St as well as Noe and 16th. Lots to see and every time Ive walked by there, there is always a bunch of drunk guys outside carrying on like obnoxious fools (think str8 guys of the gay community. You know the ones). So needless to say thats what I expected.
Instead it was a mild crowd, the place was nice inside, and they served food too. I had nachos. ;-)
We stayed about 2 hours while it down poured outside and watched the Academy Awards. A few cute guys (at least the drunker I got) and a few drinks later, we left. I walked with him to the Edge, and came home.
Thats about it for the update. Not real exciting but thats how its been. I do miss Josh and wish he was here. Soon enough though, soon enough.
Posted by Des at 04:56 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack
February 21, 2005
A Rainy Presidents Day
Ok, so the weather has been changing and its been raining and cloudy for the past week. Several things are going on. First of all, it appears to be like mid April weather in Rochester. The trees are budding, the cherry blossom tree in the back is a beautiful pink, and allergies are in full swing.
Today was the worst storm Ive seen yet. It was actually hailing in Oakland. Its kind of funny to watch these CA people (oh wait, Im a CA person) run to the windows to watch the ice come falling from the sky only to melt before it even gets close to the ground. It was like God had opened the sky up just to put them in a state of awe. Really folks! Its only hail.
I have to say that its a bit weird to have mid April weather in February. It kind of makes me miss the winter for a bit. I know, its odd but the change of seasons is really different here and a different feeling. Normally in mid April, I would be anticipating warmer weather, summer, and all the great things that come with it. It seems more exciting after coming off a long, cold, snowy winter, than it does when the weather really hasnt been all that bad. Either way I guess I still wouldnt trade it for the world. Just slightly miss the excitemnet of Spring.
As for the day itself, it was Presidents Day as you all know. Im not quite used to every place closing for Presidents Day. Even most restaurants were closed. It was like a real holiday where the city just shut down for observance. CIGNA of course was open.
With it, Bart was operating on holiday schedule which means there were delays. On holidays it runs on Saturday hours and run fewer cars with fewer intervals. It really sucked.
Coming home on Muni this evening, it was kind of funny. There was a black girl (and it has nothing to do with the color of her skin) but her and her bf were locked together and looking into the dark window of the cab that would normally hold the train operator. Her comment was priceless. She turns to her bf and says "if it wasnt for these lights you wouldnt even be able to see us".
Now my first thought was "if it wasnt for the lights, you wouldnt be able to see any of us". Then I thought about a guy I used to work with at Price Buster Mattress. Str8 guy and about as much smarts as a box of rocks (btw, he is white). He had just gotten his hair cut from the beauty school next door. They messed it up so this other guy I worked with decided he could fix it up in the back. Yes interesting concept.
After they were done, and there was very little hair left, we went outside to smoke. His comment was "you know, its almost like I can feel the wind blowing through my head." Did I mention, not too bright?
To give you another story about this guy, he was reading the newspaper one morning and expressed how the newpaper is so informative. Anyway you get the idea.
So now Im home and my futon should be delivered this evening. YAY, a new mattress to sleep on. Hopefully it will be more comfortable and help with my headaches. Im predicting it will.
I did manage to set up my room last night in expectations that my computer will eventually arrive. My poor desk is just sitting there now with the monitor and keyboard and they just look so lonely.
Other things I need to do is take pictures of my CD-RW and post it on ebay. I wont need it now and I am hoping to get $20 for it. If anyone wants it, its an external Memorex USB, Ultra Speed. 52X 32X 52X. Its in excellent condition.
da be da be da be dats all folks!!!!
Posted by Des at 04:51 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack
January 10, 2005
sick and twisted
Ill start by saying Im a slime ball. This Im sure you already knew.
Today I called in sick... With this, I decided to post my resume on craigslist and see what happened. Well, I lined up two interviews and a possible 3rd.
The first is tomorrow afternoon which I will probably cancel due to transportation issues. Although its definitely workable by bus and BART, its not all that convenient and would be traveling a greater distance, cost more, and the pay rate is unsure.
The second call I received was from an accountant who was hired by a PET imaging company. Apparently their biller hasnt sent out bills in 4 months and they hired this woman to try and fix it. It seemed to me like she was drilling me for free information on how to solve their problems. Basically asking me how the doctor can get his money quickest and easiest. She will let me know.
The 3rd one came later this evening which Im really excited about. Its here in San Francisco, down by Embarcadero which means I wouldnt have to take BART. Its a training position for a company that trains people for certification in medical coding and billing. Its funny but Ive always wanted to be a part of a training department so it would be a great thing for me. The pay is a little more than Im making now and combined with the savings in transportation, it seems to be a good opportunity. My interview is Wednesday evening. Wish me luck.
As for the rest of the day, Ive pretty much done nothing. I am most likely going to be sick tomorrow as well and use the time to relax more. I chatted online, took a nap, watched some TV, finally transferred the video from Rochester Pride 2003 onto VHS, and took a nice hot bath this morning. I started reading The Inferno which is a bit tough to get into but I made it past the first chapter and can comprehend most of it. It reminds me alot of The Odyssey which I remember well from high school.
As for other things, the rain stopped yesterday and it turned out to be a nice day. Today the rain held out for most of the day but started again around 5:30. The temperature was 58 today and it looks like Wednesday we should see a steady forecast of sunshine and upper 50s. Im told the past few weeks were out of the norm for San Francisco and that the rain usually changes to sunshine around the end of February. I can totally deal with that.
Everything else is one day at a time.
Posted by Des at 08:15 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack
January 04, 2005
A new year, new problems, and new joys as well
Let me start by saying Happy New Year to everyone. Ive been thinking about it and although its a new year, it still seems to be "the day after" which comes and goes like any other day of the year. The thing that stands out most for me is that its a chance to reevaluate my life and let go of old ties and incorporate new ones.
With this, Ive decided to let go of old issues including people who havent kept in touch. Ive realized that each phase of life, we meet people. In my case ALOT of people but very few seem to be there as we move on. In my case, theres about 5 people from my high school days, and now about 10 people from Rochester I really care about and will keep in touch with. The rest are pretty much specs in history. You guys know who you are.
Another problem that seems to have arrisen is the rain. I mentioned how the rainy season began, but with it came the ant problem we are currently facing. All the ants have been driven indoors and from what I can gather, its an issue for many people this time of year. God I hate insects and bugs. We set ant traps down yesterday and it seems to have helped but theres still a ton to go and quite frankly it makes me squeem every time I find one crawling on my arm. ICK!!!!
With all that out of the way, New Years was a blast. I cant go into details but I believe it was one of those nights (from what I *do* remember), that left everyone in good mood. Of course it had the potential to be more of an orgy which Im kind of glad it didnt turn into. Who knows, it may have been fun lol.
Work was long and hard. Its tough getting back into the swing of things after having more days off than working. Coming back after a 5 day weekend, it was hard to remember when I left off, what needs to be done, who I hated there and why, as well as the usual bullshit that comes with the job. I survived though.
I started reading a new book on BART. No billy its not the Andy Worhol Diaries (too expensive for me to buy retail). I started reading Sick Burn Cut which Josh has been waiting for me to read. I havent made it through the first chapter yet, but it seems like it has potential. Ill keep you posted on that. Im really looking forward to Harry Potter The Half Blood Prince to come out in July.
Speaking of releases, theres so much this year to look forward to. The new Star Wars which will tie episodes 1 and 2 to 4, 5, and 6. I cant wait. Also the release of the Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire will be out later in the year. Read the book and its going to be rather good Im imagining. Its rumored to be a 4 hour movie with an intermission. Other possibilities of movies to be released are Bewitched, and The Willy Wonka remake. Oh boy, excitement.
Other interests that have been on my mind have been volunteer work, and getting a second job. Ive just been lazy about it in all honesty. I did manage to meet a couple of people on Sunday at the Edge who I gave my number to if they need help with any events. One guy I met, who was cute, turned out to be a sister out of drag. It was cool to meet him and hopefully we will keep in touch. Im curious to know more about how he got into it and perhaps its a venue for me to help out and do some good for the community and the world.
For those who arent familiar with The Sisters Of Perpetual Indulgence should check it out. I think it would definitely be something to get into, Im just wondering about time and money. Those outfits must get expensive as well as makeup and such. But they do always seem to be the hit of the scene in SF.
As for everything else, things seem to be looking up for the year. Hopefully in the next few months Ill be able to get my new computer, new mattress, and start planning vacations. Josh and I want to take a cruise in May and I would like to head back and visit Rochester in July for pride. We will play it by ear and see what happens I guess. I cant believe Im only 5 months away from my 1 year mark in SF. Wow, time goes fast.
Thats about all to report. Hope everyone had a great holiday and hope for the best in 2005. Peace and love to all.
Posted by Des at 05:30 AM | Comments (0) | TrackBack
December 06, 2004
Time to get involved?
This morning, I woke up early and was having my coffee, and playing on the computer. I was updating my resume, not really expecting anything when I got a private chat from a guy in the bay area who does professional photography. He complimented me on pictures and it really made me think. Ive always been an ameture photographer (still am), but it made me really think about the potential.
People have complimented me on my pictures over the years which means a lot but to hear it from someone who does it for a living, it makes me wonder what my future holds. Coming into work and telling the story, a girl I work with said "so you have a reason to be in CA". Wow! What words to hear. It made me think perhaps I do have purpose here in California. Perhaps there is something different and new. Perhaps it really *is* an opportunity to do something more in life. What a refreshing was to look at it all.
With that, I made a decision to look into things more. The guy I chatted with gave me some information about a class I should look into taking as well as a group in the bay area that gets together on occasion. It really sounds like it may be time to get involved more. The fear that’s been holding me back is that perhaps Im not good enough, Im not quite up to their level, and the fact I don’t have that much knowledge on the details to photography. He asked me what kind of lighting I used in my black and white self portrait and I was a bit embarrassed to say it was an ordinary desk lamp that was flexible enough to use as a spotlight. Then I thought, perhaps Ill learn more about lighting and perhaps get some tips and pointers from people who really know what theyre doing. Perhaps with the recommendations on classes, it will all fall into place.
Its worth looking into.
Posted by Des at 05:05 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack
November 29, 2004
Nothing New Here
Not too much going on. Today I started back to a full work week after working partial weeks for the past 3 weeks in a row. Ill let you know how things are going by mid week lol.
The temps dropped today. Tonight its going down to 40 degrees. Brrrrrr... Funny thing is looking at weather.com, they have a "frost advisory" in effect till tomorrow afternoon.
Just thought that was odd.
Christmas is coming..... UGH!!!!
Posted by Des at 09:42 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack
November 22, 2004
Home Again
So this will be short but hopefully sweet. Im exhausted after delays and getting home about 2 hours later than I had planned. Sleep for me soon!
My priority now for this entry is to say thank you. Thank you Marc, Kym, Stan, Reid, Patrick, and Jeffy for giving me a place to stay on Saturday and Sunday night. Thanks to Nadine and Renee for picking me up at the airport. Thanks to Jeffy for dropping me off. Thank you Steve and Mark for your hospitality and a great dinner. The lasagna was fantastic. Thank you to my Aunt Roanne and Doug for picking me up for the memorial service. Thanks to my cousin Tony and Yvette for taking me down and bringing me back to Rochester. Finally thanks to everyone else who came out to see me. John, Marsh, Danny, Chris, Jarrod, and everyone else because Im sure I missed some people. You guys are truly great friends and I love you all.
Ill fill everyone in on my time there as soon as I get settled at *home*. I realized flying into SF that this is now my home but you guys will always be my family. I wish you all the best because you all deserve it.
Posted by Des at 11:09 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack
November 15, 2004
Awakening & The Weekend
To start with today, it was a day of awakening. To back up a few days, and fill you in, my grandfather passed away Saturday morning. I am not too sad because I knew he was getting older and knew that eventually the day of his passing would come. With that news upon waking up, I tried calling Josh and he wasnt in his room and he hadnt called when he got back to heartwood the night before like he had said. With this I was now worried about him as well as my situation. Eventually I got a hold of him which eased my mind a little. I was still a bit confused about the funeral.
So I have to admit, my first reaction was to think how this would mess up my trip to NY and get in the way of plans that I may have. My fun and my friends. I made a decision not to go to the funeral even though I would be in NY, and justified my decision by telling myself "I wouldnt be expected to be there if I wasnt already going". I also thought about the transportation situation and figured it would be hard to get to Moravia.
Today all that changed. I realized today how important it is that I make every effort to be there. Not for the reasons that I *have* to be there but I want to be there more now than ever, if not for myself, but for my mom and my grandmother. For the sake of family being there through such a time. Now to figure out how to make it happen. With this realization, it brought my spirits down and I feel like such a jerk for not realizing this before and being so selfish. I really hate myself for that.
I emailed my boss and the director at work to see if I could change my vacation time to bereavement time. They never emailed me back which upsets me a bit. Perhaps they didnt get a chance to read their email but I think all emails should be read for importance within the course of the day. Either way, I now realize that regardless if it was neglect in getting to their email or their insensitivity to my situation, this may not be the place I want to work. I at least expected an email saying "sorry to hear about your grandfather". Nothing came.
To add insult to injury at work, my department got called in one by one to discuss a transition to our grade levels. The company decided that our department should not be salary any longer and therefore are changing us all to hourly employees. This to me isnt so bad with the exception of the strict *law* enforcement they are planning to do.
To explain my work day a bit, I can pretty much come and go as I please. I work my 8 hours but sometimes will split breaks which is nice. Its also nice to have the option of leaving after 5 1/2 hours and calling it a day if theres something I need to do. Ive gotten used to coming in at 7:30 and leaving at 4 or getting there at 8 and leaving at 4:30 and everything in between.
Now, they want us to choose our start time and end time, choose our breaks and lunches, and will be enforcing the 15 minute break rule and lunches would be up to us if we want to take 30 minutes or an hour. We would have to physically work 8 hours and there really isnt no flexibility in the schedule except the fact we get to make our own.
The reason they did this? In my opinion its because many people (and I mean most of the department) comes in late, leaves early, takes over an hour lunch, and pretty much get no work done. I, on the other hand, work my 8 hours (most of the time), limit my breaks, do more than the average work load, and Im efficient. Oh well, Im sure Ill get used to it otherwise search for a new job.
So that was work today. Other things, I received my $4 check from the laundry matt, talked to Kym on the phone for a bit and Im getting more excited to see everyone again.
Other weekend stuff.... Friday night was the Pilsner with my friend Jay from Rochester as well as my friend Ron (who was celebrating the fact he found a job after living here for about 4 months without one). It was a good time. We started at the Pilsner, went to The Edge, then The Mix, and finally ended up at Moby Dicks. Ron was a bit tipsy and stayed the night.
Saturday I went with Jay apartment hunting. We looked at a few but both of us agreed that this one loft apartment was probably the best even though the area isnt the greatest. It was kind of nice because I didnt have the opportunity to do that when I moved here and its also nice to know another friend from Rochester is moving here as well.
Sunday, I went to the Eagle for their beer bust. I went to meet up with my friend Tom who is in town for an art exhibit. The exhibit ran at Somart and is titled visual aids. It was a benefit for people with AIDS and from what he told me Sunday it was a success. To sum it up, drunk by 6, home by 6:30, asleep by 6:35 *chuckle*, awake at 4am.
Well that about sums it all up. I cant wait for vacation.
Posted by Des at 07:03 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack
November 01, 2004
My First Trip To The Doctors
Well I never made it out last night to the BIG Halloween in the Castro party. I was looking forward to it but I was tired, really didnt have anyone to go with, didnt feel like dealing with 300,000 people by myself, and being sick, I decided I should just stay home and get a good nights sleep. A couple of friends did manage to call me at 10:30 but it was a school night, I was already sleeping, and figured it was a sign.
This morning I woke up and had the worst sore throat. My rash is still here and Im still having the chills. My palms and feet itch, and I had all I could do other than swallow my tonsils when I talk. With this I figured it was time to go to the doctor. How difficult could it be?
Well first I had to call my doctors office, whom Ive never talked to in my life because they were assigned to me along with their association Brown and Tolan. Ok, so easy enough you would think. They cant fit me in today even though Ive been sick for 4 days already. Jeesh, do they expect people to call at the slightest sniffle, that way they can get an appointment for when it does get worse? Thats California health care for ya. So I asked about urgent care. From the way I understand, most people out here use Urgent Care because they cant ever get in to see the doctor when the need to. "That may not be covered" she tells me.
So I proceed to talk to an advise nurse with CIGNA who tells me after listening to my symptoms, that its ok to go to Urgent Care. I call my doctors office back and as soon as they heard that, bam! theres a cancelation at 4pm. How convenient. So I leave work at 2:30 so I can be back in the city by 3:30 (allowing time before the actual appointment for paperwork).
Now one of the biggest things for me going to see a new doctor, is every new doctor I talk to, see's my icthyosis, and immediately wants to treat that. grrrrr.... Im not here for a skin condition that Ive been treated for several times over since I was about 4 years old. Although I was a bit frustrated talking about it for about the billionth time in my life, I think I may have lucked out with this doctor. He seems to have a skin condition himself (If not icthyosis), and seemed knowledgable. Ok so they got a point for that.
Vitals: fever (100.2), blood pressure (112/80 normal), I weigh 169 with my clothes on (down from 180 when I moved), and I havent shrunk (yet). lol.
So the best they could do is tell me they arent sure what the cause is. They dont think its the coffee. They made a guess that it may have been something I enhaled (fumes, pollen) that was new to my system, that I never encountered before. I think I already guessed that lol. She did prescribe an allery prescription as well as an antibiotic. Now if I can push myself to get those filled, that would be nice.
So those are the main issues. Now about the doctors office out here. Its a little odd being asked straight out on the forms about your sexual orientation. They dont just ask if you are gay but you have choices. Heterosexual Male, Heterosexual Female, Homesexual Male, Homosexual Female, Bisexual, etc... I guess it should have been expected in the Castro but it still seemed odd.
Another two things that seemed odd were signs for testing of alternative medicine. One was looking for volunteers to see if oyster mushrooms helped cholestoral levels, and the other was to see if marijuanna, helped in HIV cases. Very odd seeing *that* in the doctors office.
So if I havent bored you enough, I got home finally, the place is a mess now that St3ve got back last night, after I spent hours picking it up so he didnt have to come home to a messy apartment. Guess Ill know better now, but in his defense, he hasnt had any time since he got back late last night to pick anything up. Im sure he will get to it tonight.
Finally the furnace. They never came because the girl I spoke with forgot I was leaving a key under the matt outside. They called, I wasnt here, I never called them back, so they didnt come. I was not happy when I called her back and reminded her of the plan. They will be here in about 2 hours to take care of it. *chuckle*
So there ya have it.... If youre not asleep yet, you should be. Peace and love and best wishes to everyone. God I cant wait for Josh's visit this weekend and then Rochester in two weeks.
Dont forget to vote, which ever your choice may be. (hopefully we agree but if we dont, I still love ya)
Posted by Des at 05:22 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack
October 18, 2004
Not much to say... Its been a good day
Just figured I would share a few pictures since there really wasnt anything happening today.
Posted by Des at 08:35 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack
September 27, 2004
*cough* *cough*
So its Monday, I called in sick today and doesnt seem like too much to tell.
I woke up early and decided I not only didnt want to work today but I wanted to spend a bit more quality time with Josh. He woke up around 11:30 (actually I woke him up lol). He had to do a session on St3ve before St3ve left for Sacramento. St3ve is heading to Disney Land tomorrow and will be gone for the week. Although he will be missed around the apartment, its nice to get the place to myself.
So I cooked Josh and St3ve breakfast. I made french toast. Josh isnt a big french toast fan but did say it was the best undesirable french toast he'd had yet lol. Trust me it was a compliment.
Later in the evening we went to a new area of SF for dinner. We went to the Richmond district and had Chinese food. It was great. We walked around and looked in some unusual knick knack shops all in Chinese and Japanese. They really have some wierd stuff, especially their toys. Its a great place to buy gifts for Christmas we both decided.
Thats pretty much the day. Not a lot of excitement and pretty low key. Chatted online for a bit and now heading to bed.
Finally an entry thats fairly short :-)
Night everybody
Posted by Des at 10:17 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack
September 20, 2004
Monday Monday.....
Im wondering this morning about the evolution of man. I know, how deep is that? Lol
I came across a cartoon in this mornings paper that had a bear going into a gun shop and asking for tranquilizer guns for the start of bear season. The joke was that he wanted to even the odds. This got me thinking about how power hungry *humans* have become.
My first reaction to the cartoon was "wow if bears really did have guns and were on the same mentality as humans, it would be a war" then I thought "deer season, duck season, pheasant season, turkey season". What gives humans the right to control the world? If we are so much smarter than the average bear then why do we hunt them and who are we to control population? Are we trying to save ourselves at the cost of a life of another animal on this planet?
Another example that comes to mind about the power struggle is the whole debate on gay marriage. Why does the president and so many others hate me so much? Some may say, its an issue and not personal but how can someone just dismiss it. The fact remains they are against me. Who are they to control me and what I do or feel or who I want to be with. Who gave them this power over me?
In my opinion it's a personal attack on each and every gay man and woman out there. You should take it as a person who hates you (many for that matter) regardless if you believe in the cause. I read about the states voting on this as well as the government and think to myself "these people don't even know me and they are voting on something that affects my life". They are passing judgement on me without even knowing me. Who I am or what Im about. Its sad to think that they don't see it as one individual with feelings as well as a life and personality. They see many people under one label. Its sad when the human race is so judgemental and so blind to see out past whats in front of them. I would love to hear others thoughts and opinions on this. Email me with your thoughts if you choose and I will post them if you like. I think it would be interesting to get others perspectives and input
So the rest of the day went well I guess. I forgot I had phone duty today. That meant I never signed on until a 1/2 late and on phone days I have to be there till at least 4:30. I wish I would have remembered because I would have gotten there later than I did.
At lunch I went for Chinese food and on the way back to work I saw a woman outside Kaiser crying. It made me wonder about who we are as individuals. I mean, I really wanted to ask if she was ok but coming from a total stranger it didnt seem appropriate. So I kept walking feeling a bit down because I didnt say anything. It almost seemed inhuman to just walk by someone in that state and say nothing. Perhaps a bit insensitive but regardless, the question is would anyone else have stopped if they had the same experience? My head says yes but unfortunatly I wish it didnt.
As for the evening. Ive been home about a couple of hours now. Watched Charmed which brings me to the next topic. Charmed?
I watched the very first episode this evening on TNT. Its kind of interesting to see how all the laws of the show changed from the original. First they talk about not being able to use their powers for personal gain, however they broke that rule several times through out the show. When Piper froze the chef in order to add to the dish before he ate it. Prue moving the cream and transfering it into her coffee. The other thing was the Warlock (Jeremy), Pipers boyfriend. She froze him in the elevator, and knocked him out. When he came to, he ran off. I was under the impression that Warlocks didnt have to walk anywhere lol. Perhaps my misunderstanding but just an observation. Im sure Ive seen warlocks down the road appear and disappear at will.
I changed the letters on our refrigerator to read "Fuck Steve for two dollars". That was kind of fun. Cant wait for the roommate to see it. hehe.
Well I will wrap it up here in case the rest of the evening is really lame and in case you are asleep by now, its time to wake up.
Wishing everyone reading this the best.
****** added Tuesday Morning, reflecting on Monday *********
Its funny how we build up walls around us to protect ourselves. Walls we dont even realize we've built. For example you can go through the course of a day and people who you see every day could throw minor attacks (not knowing) and we block each one with a shrug. The attacks were small and without even knowing they have done damage. Its not till all those "little" attacks are over that we realize how major all of them were in the course of our day.
For example, around 6:30pm yesterday I sat thinking it was a good day or at least an ok day. It wasnt till around 7:30/8ish that I realized all the events through out the day had triggered a fowl mood. I can look into each moment that I shrugged off and it wasnt a big deal at the time but all those little moments contributed to that trigger and how the day ends.
So whats the best thing to do? Tear down those walls and leave ourselves vulnerable? Or do we just need to allow those days to happen? Just curious as to how others deal with it all. Do you vent your frustration or pain as it happens? I mean what if your boss or coworker is one of them? Its a professional environment so you cant very well tell him/her that "your joke hurt my feelings". I would love to hear feed back on what people think.
Posted by Des at 07:06 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack
September 13, 2004
Back to Work
Today?
I woke up, went to work, it sucked, I came home. Not really a heck of a lot to tell.
I did realize a few things today though. First thing is I’m not sure how long I want to stay with the company. The more time that passes, the more I realize how screwed up the place is. It seems like they a) take the long way in doing things, b) use a lot of guesswork, c) nothing is a set answer and can change the next day (not because it changes but because it was guessed on to begin with) and d) It also seems like there is a lot of bandage work. In other words, patching the problem for a temporary solution. So for me it’s either conform to the messed up ways or find another job. For now Ill have to wait it out and see.
The second thing I realized is how the weather works out here in regards to allergies. Because the temperatures are a couple of months behind Rochester and there are so many new plants and flowers that I’ve never been exposed to, I seem to have developed some allergies I never would have guessed I had. This morning and all day my eyes have been watering, sniffling nose, etc… Not the best feeling. At least I didn’t tell you about all the mucus lol.
Josh left and caught the train back to heartwood. Ill get to see him again in a couple of weeks for Folsom. He should have a week off so it should give us a bit more time together which I have to say I’m looking forward to. It was nice to have this weekend to reconnect and if there is one good thing that came out of the madness with the car, that is I got to have one more day and night with him. Selfish I know but still the same it was nice. Hopefully he makes it back ok which I’m sure he will and I’m sure he will call when he does.
So bottom line for this posting is a short story to a long day. Wishing everyone a happy tomorrow.
Posted by Des at 07:05 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack