There is an article out today that needs some clean up, Obama's five rules of scandal response, Carrie Budoff Brown, Kenneth P. Vogel Carrie Budoff Brown, Kenneth P. Vogel – Wed Dec 24, 6:52 am ET. http://news.yahoo.com/s/politico/16836
The article above constructs together five "rules" for how the incoming Obama administration is handling the Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich scandal with respect to Mr. Obama's Senate seat replacement. The rules outlined are interesting enough, however, the reporting that is strung together is trying to bleed out that Obama is not as removed from the scandal as he might appear. There's really no evidence that Obama had anything to do with Blagojevich's malfeascence. The media just thrives on drama.
The article ended with a question that has a very obvious answer, so obvious it is possibly rhetorical:
"To the extent that the report succeeds in its goal of establishing the distance between Obama and Blagojevich, it necessarily raises the question: Why was the president-elect and leader of the Democratic party playing no role in a key appointment to national office being made in his home state, and by a Democratic governor?"
It is no real secret in Illinois politics that Gov. Blagojevich has been running a corrupt administration from the begining. In fact, anyone who is familier with him, is not surprised by the allegations made against him. So, with all honesty, Obama has probably been trying to keep his distance from Blagojevich in general. What Presidential Candidate would even want their name associated with Blagojevich? When reading the statement above from today's article the authors are either out of touch with long list of news worthy scandals that Blagojevich has been associated with or they are trying to imply that Obama has some interest in influencing the selection of his suceessor, which he does not. Furthermore, The article's own reporting states that, "Craig said Obama 'was not engaging on this in any personal way and had no interest in dictating the result of the selection process.'"
Wednesday, December 24, 2008
Thursday, December 18, 2008
They Don't Make 'em Like They Used To
As a staunch modernist, I am nearly always in favor of new things over old things. However, in these uncertain economic times, I am yearning for basic things that just work well. There is within our economy widespread intentional public deception with regard to the quality of a product that is produced. We will likely never reach a point in our civilization that the sage advice "Buyer Be Ware" is outdated. The problem is that consumers themselves facilitate products that are of low quality because demand truly comes down on the side of inexpensive. In a majority of the cases, Inexpensive = Low Quality.
Here are some not so obvious modern day caveats:
My number one irritation when I am shopping is seeing a product that doesn't explicitly state what it is for. Not only is this bad marketing to not list the benefits of a product to the consumer, it is deceptive in that you may buy it thinking it does one thing, when it's really designed to accomplish something else. Quality products clearly state what they can do.
Beware of products that come with instructions that are difficult to understand. Products lacking clear instructions for use often lacked good planning in their conception. To review thus far, Quality products clearly state what their purpose is and also how to use them.
The real test of a product is the extent to which is can be reused. Recyclibility is not as important. Most things can be recycled, but very few can be reused. Let's start with the consideration that more or less we live in a throw away society. Which raises an important question. Why do we throw things away? Simply put, stuff breaks. However, just because something is broken, meaning it cannot be used for its original purpose, is not enough to explain why so many things are thrown away. A product must also be reasonably replaceable for most people to throw it away. This illustrates why we fill landfills with tons of plastic packaging because no one has a reasonable expectation that we will stop producing inexpensive plastic bottles, containers, and plastic wrap. Out of these three things, not one of them is truly a reusable product. Plastic wrap is often too thin and breaks before it can recover a container. Plastic bottles and containers eventually begin to leak toxins when reused and are prone to adapting odors, cracking, and misshaping. What is unseen by the consumer is that there is a significant cost added to the product because of the container the product is packaged in. Case in point, the bottle in bottled water probably costs more than the water in the bottle.
Reusable is not exactly the same as durability. A wool coat may or may not be durable, meaning it will wear well for a long period of time, depending on the quality of the construction of the garment and the fibre content. However, a wool coat regardless of durability as a coat, could be dismantled, cut up, and braided into a throw rug. This may sound ridiculous today, however, before shelves were flooded with inexpensive throw rugs, people made their own. To take this example a little further, when the wool coat became throw rug and was no longer suitable for inside the home, it probably still had life in the back hallway, and then later outdoors. When it finally outlives its usefulness, the wool rug could be used to keep weeds down in the garden where it will naturally biodegrade. You cannot make the same claims about man made materials and fibers that you can about natural ones with respect to reusability.
To work the green angle, products made from renewable materials present a minimal risk to the natural environment, assuming their manufacturing process is "green." If a product is made all from renewable materials, but in the process we expended a greater amount of energy and subsequently greater carbon emissions, then we've only displaced the harm to the environment in another area. It pays to familiarize yourself with the type of company you purchase products from. Is the product made locally or do you have no idea where it came from?
In Summary, Look for products that indicate what their purpose is, how to use the product, what is it made out of, where the product came from, and who made it. It is also useful to examine what other uses a product has beyond its original purpose and what other uses you may have for a product. And as a matter of common sense, "If it tastes like a lemon, it probably is one."
Here are some not so obvious modern day caveats:
My number one irritation when I am shopping is seeing a product that doesn't explicitly state what it is for. Not only is this bad marketing to not list the benefits of a product to the consumer, it is deceptive in that you may buy it thinking it does one thing, when it's really designed to accomplish something else. Quality products clearly state what they can do.
Beware of products that come with instructions that are difficult to understand. Products lacking clear instructions for use often lacked good planning in their conception. To review thus far, Quality products clearly state what their purpose is and also how to use them.
The real test of a product is the extent to which is can be reused. Recyclibility is not as important. Most things can be recycled, but very few can be reused. Let's start with the consideration that more or less we live in a throw away society. Which raises an important question. Why do we throw things away? Simply put, stuff breaks. However, just because something is broken, meaning it cannot be used for its original purpose, is not enough to explain why so many things are thrown away. A product must also be reasonably replaceable for most people to throw it away. This illustrates why we fill landfills with tons of plastic packaging because no one has a reasonable expectation that we will stop producing inexpensive plastic bottles, containers, and plastic wrap. Out of these three things, not one of them is truly a reusable product. Plastic wrap is often too thin and breaks before it can recover a container. Plastic bottles and containers eventually begin to leak toxins when reused and are prone to adapting odors, cracking, and misshaping. What is unseen by the consumer is that there is a significant cost added to the product because of the container the product is packaged in. Case in point, the bottle in bottled water probably costs more than the water in the bottle.
Reusable is not exactly the same as durability. A wool coat may or may not be durable, meaning it will wear well for a long period of time, depending on the quality of the construction of the garment and the fibre content. However, a wool coat regardless of durability as a coat, could be dismantled, cut up, and braided into a throw rug. This may sound ridiculous today, however, before shelves were flooded with inexpensive throw rugs, people made their own. To take this example a little further, when the wool coat became throw rug and was no longer suitable for inside the home, it probably still had life in the back hallway, and then later outdoors. When it finally outlives its usefulness, the wool rug could be used to keep weeds down in the garden where it will naturally biodegrade. You cannot make the same claims about man made materials and fibers that you can about natural ones with respect to reusability.
To work the green angle, products made from renewable materials present a minimal risk to the natural environment, assuming their manufacturing process is "green." If a product is made all from renewable materials, but in the process we expended a greater amount of energy and subsequently greater carbon emissions, then we've only displaced the harm to the environment in another area. It pays to familiarize yourself with the type of company you purchase products from. Is the product made locally or do you have no idea where it came from?
In Summary, Look for products that indicate what their purpose is, how to use the product, what is it made out of, where the product came from, and who made it. It is also useful to examine what other uses a product has beyond its original purpose and what other uses you may have for a product. And as a matter of common sense, "If it tastes like a lemon, it probably is one."
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
The Worst Idea We've Had Yet
Let's look at the Bush Administration's legacy:
- Ran on a platform of reform
- Didn't reform anything - Just spent more money than ever and then "cut taxes."
- Ignored information that could have prevented 9/11
- Refused to accept information from the UN that there was no Weapons of Mass Destruction
- Attacked a country that had nothing to do with 9/11
- Underfunded the war in Afghanistan, where the terrorists from 9/11 actually came from.
- Still to date hasn't found ... YouKnowWho .... Osama Bin Laden
- Sent our troops in to war in Iraq without all the protection they really needed.
- There are thousands of dead troops.
- There is the tragedy of Hurricane Katrina
- There is the slow and steady decline of the economy
- Now we're spending $700 billion to bail out his friends.
Great times ain't it.
Go back to Texas you dumb mother f*cker.
That's what I think.
LastManOut
- Ran on a platform of reform
- Didn't reform anything - Just spent more money than ever and then "cut taxes."
- Ignored information that could have prevented 9/11
- Refused to accept information from the UN that there was no Weapons of Mass Destruction
- Attacked a country that had nothing to do with 9/11
- Underfunded the war in Afghanistan, where the terrorists from 9/11 actually came from.
- Still to date hasn't found ... YouKnowWho .... Osama Bin Laden
- Sent our troops in to war in Iraq without all the protection they really needed.
- There are thousands of dead troops.
- There is the tragedy of Hurricane Katrina
- There is the slow and steady decline of the economy
- Now we're spending $700 billion to bail out his friends.
Great times ain't it.
Go back to Texas you dumb mother f*cker.
That's what I think.
LastManOut
Thursday, September 04, 2008
Today's Fortune's
We ordered Chinnese again. Here are the Results:
"You are the center of every group attention."
"You will be unusually successful in business."
"You display the wonderful traits of charm and courtesy."
"You are the center of every group attention."
"You will be unusually successful in business."
"You display the wonderful traits of charm and courtesy."
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
Gratitude
There was a blind girl who hated herself because she was blind. She hated everyone, except her loving boyfriend. He was always there for her. She told her boyfriend, "If I could only see the world, I will marry you."
One day, someone donated a pair of eyes to her. When the bandages came off, she was able to see everything, including her boyfriend.
He asked her, "Now that you can see the world, will you marry me?" The girl looked at her boyfriend and saw that he was blind. The sight of his closed eyelids shocked her. She hadn't expected that. The thought of looking at them the rest of her life led her to refuse to marry him.
Her boyfriend left in tears and days later wrote a note to her saying: "Take good care of your eyes, my dear, for before they were yours, they were mine."
This is how the human brain often works when our status changes. Only a very few remember what life was like before, and who was always by their side in the most painful situations.
Life Is a Gift
Today before you say an unkind word, think of someone who can't speak.
Before you complain about the taste of your food, think of someone who has nothing to eat.
Before you complain about your husband or wife, think of someone who's crying out to GOD for a companion.
Today before you complain about life, think of someone who went too early to heaven.
Before whining about the distance you drive, think of someone who walks the same distance with their feet.
And when you are tired and complain about your job, think of the unemployed, the disabled, and those who wish they had your job.
And when depressing thoughts seem to get you down, put a smile on your face and think: you're alive and still around.
One day, someone donated a pair of eyes to her. When the bandages came off, she was able to see everything, including her boyfriend.
He asked her, "Now that you can see the world, will you marry me?" The girl looked at her boyfriend and saw that he was blind. The sight of his closed eyelids shocked her. She hadn't expected that. The thought of looking at them the rest of her life led her to refuse to marry him.
Her boyfriend left in tears and days later wrote a note to her saying: "Take good care of your eyes, my dear, for before they were yours, they were mine."
This is how the human brain often works when our status changes. Only a very few remember what life was like before, and who was always by their side in the most painful situations.
Life Is a Gift
Today before you say an unkind word, think of someone who can't speak.
Before you complain about the taste of your food, think of someone who has nothing to eat.
Before you complain about your husband or wife, think of someone who's crying out to GOD for a companion.
Today before you complain about life, think of someone who went too early to heaven.
Before whining about the distance you drive, think of someone who walks the same distance with their feet.
And when you are tired and complain about your job, think of the unemployed, the disabled, and those who wish they had your job.
And when depressing thoughts seem to get you down, put a smile on your face and think: you're alive and still around.
Saturday, August 02, 2008
Ruht wohl
Remember when ... St. Norbert & UWGB performed the St. John Passion, J. S. Bach?
I have to say that it was on of those first choral works for me that really helped grow as a singer. The second last Chorus, Ruht wohl, No. 67, is perhaps one of my favorite pieces ever. It means, Rest well. It's a lullaby to Jesus as he is laid in his tomb. It has long sweeping lines and the melody is haunting. It's in c minor and Bach does something truly astounding musically with the violin melody in measures 8 - 11 (this theme repeats often throughout). The melody is haunting because Bach goes from the tonic to the V and then rips open the iv chord (iv with a lowered 6th), like one of the wounds of Christ, and then slowly back down using vii and vii diminished.
The point of this whole complicated musical explanation is that from a theoretical standpoint it takes hours to truly understand how Bach put together what is really something quite whimsical. My question is whether or not Bach was truly conscious of how he put together this melody, or whether or not it was just such a talent and strength of his that it just sort of happened naturally and logically as he moved along on the keyboard.
Even if from a theoretical standpoint, Bach consciously understood the nuts and bolts behind his melody, then it is an even greater testimony to his strengths, both as a person and a musician. Bach created a melody that sticks with me because he realized that you can't lay Christ to rest with just anything, it has to sound like the heavens from which it came.
I have to say that it was on of those first choral works for me that really helped grow as a singer. The second last Chorus, Ruht wohl, No. 67, is perhaps one of my favorite pieces ever. It means, Rest well. It's a lullaby to Jesus as he is laid in his tomb. It has long sweeping lines and the melody is haunting. It's in c minor and Bach does something truly astounding musically with the violin melody in measures 8 - 11 (this theme repeats often throughout). The melody is haunting because Bach goes from the tonic to the V and then rips open the iv chord (iv with a lowered 6th), like one of the wounds of Christ, and then slowly back down using vii and vii diminished.
The point of this whole complicated musical explanation is that from a theoretical standpoint it takes hours to truly understand how Bach put together what is really something quite whimsical. My question is whether or not Bach was truly conscious of how he put together this melody, or whether or not it was just such a talent and strength of his that it just sort of happened naturally and logically as he moved along on the keyboard.
Even if from a theoretical standpoint, Bach consciously understood the nuts and bolts behind his melody, then it is an even greater testimony to his strengths, both as a person and a musician. Bach created a melody that sticks with me because he realized that you can't lay Christ to rest with just anything, it has to sound like the heavens from which it came.
Wednesday, July 30, 2008
Torn
So lots of things are going on in my life right now. Things are picking up at the real job and the flower shop is full steam ahead. Not to mention the dog is still not feeling 100%, we are considering the house remodel, and mother's birthday is coming.
Everyday I wake up and the day goes on and by the time I get to the end of it; I'm a nervous, twisted, and totally messed up. The anxiety that builds is crippling. I feel this way not because I have to make choices, it's because there is a lack of choices to make. All I have are options that lead down a very dark road.
The problem is that while I see the changes coming on the horizon, I don't have the patience to wait anymore. It's like the anticipation of not knowing what is going to happen is driving me crazy!!!
It's like I would give anything to just give up and walk away. Maybe then I'd be doing something that I actually want to do.
LastManOut
Everyday I wake up and the day goes on and by the time I get to the end of it; I'm a nervous, twisted, and totally messed up. The anxiety that builds is crippling. I feel this way not because I have to make choices, it's because there is a lack of choices to make. All I have are options that lead down a very dark road.
The problem is that while I see the changes coming on the horizon, I don't have the patience to wait anymore. It's like the anticipation of not knowing what is going to happen is driving me crazy!!!
It's like I would give anything to just give up and walk away. Maybe then I'd be doing something that I actually want to do.
LastManOut
Friday, June 27, 2008
This Could Save Your Life!
The Centers for Disease Control has issued a medical alert about a highly contagious, potentially dangerous virus that is transmitted orally, by hand, and even electronically. This virus is called Weary Overload Recreational Killer (WORK). If you receive WORK from your boss, any of your colleagues, or anyone else via any means whatsoever - DO NOT TOUCH IT. This virus will wipe out your private life completely.
If you should come into contact with WORK you should immediately leave the premises. Take two good friends to the nearest grocery store and purchase one or both of the antidotes - Work Isolating Neutralizer Extract (WINE) and Bothersome Employer Elimination Rebooter (BEER).
Take the antidote repeatedly until WORK has been completely eliminated from your system. You should immediately forward this medical alert to five friends. If you do not have five friends, you have already been infected and WORK is controlling your life.
If you should come into contact with WORK you should immediately leave the premises. Take two good friends to the nearest grocery store and purchase one or both of the antidotes - Work Isolating Neutralizer Extract (WINE) and Bothersome Employer Elimination Rebooter (BEER).
Take the antidote repeatedly until WORK has been completely eliminated from your system. You should immediately forward this medical alert to five friends. If you do not have five friends, you have already been infected and WORK is controlling your life.
Tuesday, June 24, 2008
Friday, June 13, 2008
Oh the Dress...
...Is finally done. For all of you that know when I take on sewing a dress, it is somewhat like giving birth. There is always a learning process that takes place. Here are a couple great sewing tips that may guide you.
Check online for answers:
- Threads Magazine's website was of ueber help. I loved them so much I subscribed to it. Here's why: The had the best article on how to create your own dress form using either duck tape, paper tape, or plaster. http://www.taunton.com/threads/
- Also really helpful is the website for the manufacturer of your sewing machine.
LastManOut
Thursday, May 29, 2008
Oh California, I daresay it's been a long haul.
This week is a landmark in the rights for proponents of same-sex unions, commonly known as "gay marriage." We do not forget the recent history when Mayor Gavin Newsom ordered that GLBT people should be able to wed, in San Francisco, 2004; It was a day full of Political Bravado. I remember the news and the spewing of opinions by everyone as our country watched in some shock on both sides of the issue as to what had just happened.
As we know, the affair was quickly shot down and the marriage licences granted that hopeful day were rescinded. Four years later we have a decision from the Supreme Court in California by a majority of Justices who were appointed by Republicans stating that Mayor Newsom's earlier decree really is supported by California's Constitution. While the decision could be put off, it probably will not be.
What does this mean. Well for starters the State of New York has said recently it will recognize gay marriages performed from outside the state. However, NY is not currently on board for granting them in NY. So the Gay New Yorker will now be flocking to California to get married. You still have to be a resident of Massachusetts to get married there.
There is always a trade off however when big decisions like this happen. I find it interesting that both of these landmark items have happened in an election year. I feel some trepidation that instead of truly focusing on the economic and social issues that so plague our country, we will let yet another hot button social issue dominate our Presidential election. It's just the sort of fire the right wing wackos need to slander an Democratic candidate. I hope they look foolish doing it, because Lord knows these people were raised with righteous anger and hate. It makes for great TV, but piss poor public image.
I do not like to speculate and I certainly do not want to start any sort of rumor. Food for thought though: A Republican appointed Supreme Court in CA made a decision regarding a hot button social issue during a Presidential election year that is dominated by Democratic candidates. First, it's probably the only time the justices will scathe through without terrible reproach from Republicans. Note: Republicans can always use this opportunity to triangulate. Second, it could be great sabotage. Third, something really great could happen: a Republican candidate commenting on same-sex unions might reveal just how short sighted their positions really are for our nation.
Personally, I pray that same-sex civil liberties are not advanced this year in vain. It is too painful for the people who live these issues in every day life. If the Republicans manage to come into power again, we will just have 4 more years (or more) of the same.
LastManOut
As we know, the affair was quickly shot down and the marriage licences granted that hopeful day were rescinded. Four years later we have a decision from the Supreme Court in California by a majority of Justices who were appointed by Republicans stating that Mayor Newsom's earlier decree really is supported by California's Constitution. While the decision could be put off, it probably will not be.
What does this mean. Well for starters the State of New York has said recently it will recognize gay marriages performed from outside the state. However, NY is not currently on board for granting them in NY. So the Gay New Yorker will now be flocking to California to get married. You still have to be a resident of Massachusetts to get married there.
There is always a trade off however when big decisions like this happen. I find it interesting that both of these landmark items have happened in an election year. I feel some trepidation that instead of truly focusing on the economic and social issues that so plague our country, we will let yet another hot button social issue dominate our Presidential election. It's just the sort of fire the right wing wackos need to slander an Democratic candidate. I hope they look foolish doing it, because Lord knows these people were raised with righteous anger and hate. It makes for great TV, but piss poor public image.
I do not like to speculate and I certainly do not want to start any sort of rumor. Food for thought though: A Republican appointed Supreme Court in CA made a decision regarding a hot button social issue during a Presidential election year that is dominated by Democratic candidates. First, it's probably the only time the justices will scathe through without terrible reproach from Republicans. Note: Republicans can always use this opportunity to triangulate. Second, it could be great sabotage. Third, something really great could happen: a Republican candidate commenting on same-sex unions might reveal just how short sighted their positions really are for our nation.
Personally, I pray that same-sex civil liberties are not advanced this year in vain. It is too painful for the people who live these issues in every day life. If the Republicans manage to come into power again, we will just have 4 more years (or more) of the same.
LastManOut
Attitude
"Attitude is more important than the past, than education, than money, than circumstances, than what people do or say. It is more important than appearance, giftedness, or skill." -Charles Swindoll
Saturday, April 26, 2008
Why Walmart Works
Sometimes it's more subtle when it comes to a pricing strategy. And very often, you may not even realize when your getting deal or when you are paying too much. A couple weeks ago when I did my grocery shopping I was in the market for a new green tea. I found a variety at Festival, our neighborhood grocer, and it was a little over $4 for the box. I thought it was a little high, but said to myself, "I probably can't get this just anywhere."
I was mistaken. Yesterday I got a few pickups at Walmart; I try to stay away from shopping there too much. However, when going down the tea isle, there was my gourmet green tea. It was priced a little over $2. Now I said to myself, "What the fuck!" I was so pissed that the chronic shopper in me bought not just one box of tea but three boxes. To be fair, I bought one of each kind.
Sitting here now I realize that in the whole scheme of this shopping experience I've really been had. Walmart under prices so that you'll buy more than you need and spend more than you would have. Other retailers either just mark things up too high, or they are not getting a competitive price on the goods. Isn't there any place that I can shop in Green Bay that is just sensible?
I was mistaken. Yesterday I got a few pickups at Walmart; I try to stay away from shopping there too much. However, when going down the tea isle, there was my gourmet green tea. It was priced a little over $2. Now I said to myself, "What the fuck!" I was so pissed that the chronic shopper in me bought not just one box of tea but three boxes. To be fair, I bought one of each kind.
Sitting here now I realize that in the whole scheme of this shopping experience I've really been had. Walmart under prices so that you'll buy more than you need and spend more than you would have. Other retailers either just mark things up too high, or they are not getting a competitive price on the goods. Isn't there any place that I can shop in Green Bay that is just sensible?
Thursday, April 24, 2008
Today's Fortune's
Jerad and I had Chinese again for lunch today. Here were the results:
Josh - Don't pass up a once-in-a-lifetime offer.
Jerad - Keep your feet on the ground even though friends flatter you.
:)
LastManOut
Josh - Don't pass up a once-in-a-lifetime offer.
Jerad - Keep your feet on the ground even though friends flatter you.
:)
LastManOut
Tuesday, April 22, 2008
Gays On Ice
Sometimes I long for some good old fashioned gay fun. Wouldn't it be just splendid to have an entertainment feature like Gays On Ice? You can just imagine all the skinny bitches stapped in spandex twirlling around the rink. Totally Hot. The guys could toss each other in the air, wear sequenced costumes, and imitate their favorite Disney characters. Oh wait ... what's the difference between this and any other "On Ice" show. Sad.
Friday, April 04, 2008
Hitch Hiker II
I seem to take particular notice of the occasional hitch hiker along Hwy 29 each time I drive by during the noon hour on my way to United Health Group in Howard. Hwy 29 is what connects Green Bay to such great Western places as Wausau, Eau Claire, and The Twin Cities. Today's particular Gentlemen was holding a well made cardboard sign with thick black letters that stated, "Wausau."
The hitch hiker was wearing an African looking cap, large and bowl shaped, with sage, ivory, and terracotta stripes. There was a green army coat and a bag of some sort, a rustic beard completed the ensemble. I noticed that he would flash his sign as people drove by. I found this interesting because, if I was advertising for a ride, I would want to bear my sign proudly. The entrepreneur in me also thinks the hitch hike effort is possibly more successful if the sign lists the benefits of having you as a travel companion. I, at least, have the expectation that if I'm going to pick up a hitch hiker, he or she should be a good conversationalist. They wouldn't last long if they just sat there like a bump on a long.
Returning to the reason why I'm writing about him, as I looked at this guy on the side of the road today, I wanted nothing more than to stop and say, hey buddy, hop in let's drive to Wausau. Instead of wasting my life away today in my boring corporate existence, I was seriously thinking of having a skip day. I was actually jealous of this guy. He was like totally just standing there on a Friday afternoon and bumming his way to Wausau. I would give anything to have a Friday afternoon where all I needed to do was kill time. That just doesn't ever happen anymore.
LastManOut
The hitch hiker was wearing an African looking cap, large and bowl shaped, with sage, ivory, and terracotta stripes. There was a green army coat and a bag of some sort, a rustic beard completed the ensemble. I noticed that he would flash his sign as people drove by. I found this interesting because, if I was advertising for a ride, I would want to bear my sign proudly. The entrepreneur in me also thinks the hitch hike effort is possibly more successful if the sign lists the benefits of having you as a travel companion. I, at least, have the expectation that if I'm going to pick up a hitch hiker, he or she should be a good conversationalist. They wouldn't last long if they just sat there like a bump on a long.
Returning to the reason why I'm writing about him, as I looked at this guy on the side of the road today, I wanted nothing more than to stop and say, hey buddy, hop in let's drive to Wausau. Instead of wasting my life away today in my boring corporate existence, I was seriously thinking of having a skip day. I was actually jealous of this guy. He was like totally just standing there on a Friday afternoon and bumming his way to Wausau. I would give anything to have a Friday afternoon where all I needed to do was kill time. That just doesn't ever happen anymore.
LastManOut
Ok kids ... I'll admit it. I have a problem. I'm getting addicted to Facebook. In fact, before I got my new Blackberry, which has Facebook piped directly into it, I had never even visited their website before. I think the really huge thing for me is that all of the people that I know and love from college, high school, church, etc are all right there. I honestly haven't felt so connected to the people in my life in a long time. I was a total junkie about uploading photos. However, What I'm really jazzed about is that my friends, many of whom I hardly ever see, have been there, just waiting for me. I guess I've finally crossed over.
Visit me there: Joshua M Steger.
:)
LastManOut
Visit me there: Joshua M Steger.
:)
LastManOut
Tuesday, April 01, 2008
Today's Fortune's
We got chinese for lunch. Here's what came of it:
Jerad: "Theories get you thinking. Sweat gets you results."
Josh: "You need to talk to somone about what's on your mind."
If you only knew how appropriate these really are right now.
Go figure.
LastManOut
Jerad: "Theories get you thinking. Sweat gets you results."
Josh: "You need to talk to somone about what's on your mind."
If you only knew how appropriate these really are right now.
Go figure.
LastManOut
Monday, March 24, 2008
Easter Egg
What did the easter egg say to the boiling water?
-Its going to take awhile for me to get hard I just got laid.
-Its going to take awhile for me to get hard I just got laid.
Vintage Steevie
He was so macho when we met. Photo taken January 2005. If you look closely you can see his little goatee!
Thursday, March 20, 2008
Happy Birthday Steevie!
As many of you know today (March 20th) is the birthday of the nearest and dearest person in my life. He turned 24. I wanted to recount some of the memories over the last four years. Jerad and I met when he was 20 and one has to wonder where all the time has gone that we are celebrating birthday #4.
Ok, So let's fess up a little ... How did Jerad and Josh really meet? It has been perhaps a contentious item of speculation among many. Truthfully, Jerad and I met online, and not on some warm fuzzy place like Match.com or Eharmony. It was more like the back alley behind a gay bar ... only digital. We emailed for a couple weeks, almost lost touch because Jerad was without the Internet for a couple weeks. But then, He sent me a message not long after New Year, 2005, We hung out one night at my place (Jan 8th the boys "anniversary") and hit it off by "watching a movie."
It was not long after our meeting that Jerad extended the invitation for me to sleep over at his place, which I was more nervous than he knows because he lived with his mother. It was winter and I was living on Michigan St, De Pere, the trappings of independence at my old place were well tempered by a lack of heat. Before long I was more or less living with Jerad and his mom and Mark (her BF) stayed over quite a bit as well. I'll never forget that Jerad was not out when we first met, and came out to his mom after I made him promise to tell the truth the next time she brought it up. The many many conversations that my mother-in-law and I had regarding the gays stemmed from the new revelations during this time. It was truly an educational time for all, Jerad really discovered and opened up to who he is and in new ways, so did I.
Neither Jerad or I will forget the moment that I accredit to us seeing the need for our own place. Mama, bless her, was not shy that the boys slept together. In fact Jerad and I were naked as jay birds under the sheets when she climbed up on the bed between us. I don't recall what we talked about specifically, only thinking that I hope neither of us tent the sheets.
Running along throughout Jerad's formative gay years is our relationship with St. Anne's Episcopal that continues to evolve to this day. I credit a large portion of the success of our relationship due to the support from our Church family. Without our good friends that we have made along the way, I'm not sure that we would have the strength and skills to make it long term. The couple that prays together .... Stays together. There's a lot to be said for a spiritual connection as well and a community connection with a shared faith and passion. I'll always have Lynn to thank for being the organist at St Anne's, and funny enough for breaking her wrist (the first time around), for bringing be back to St. Anne's. I took Jerad along with me, hehe.
Jerad and I moved a bit in the first couple years. First from my place and his mom's to our apartment, and then 11 months later we moved into our house. The moving did no really stop when we got our house because our families are still finding things to have us move to our place. And, Jerad's Dad's basement ... well that was a household and a half.
Jerad and I have had two business endeavors develop since we met. It was not long after we met that we launched his landscaping business. Everyone was very excited to see him grow into this new role. Also May 1, 2007, Jerad and I opened the doors of Buds 'n Bloom Design Studio, http://www.budsnbloomdesignstudio.com/. Living, Loving, and Working with someone is an experience that not all couples are able to accomplish. One of the unique things about Jerad and I is our ability to work together as a team. The things that we have accomplished could not have been done by either of alone at this point in our life.
Well, Sweetie, I hope you've enjoyed this trip down memory lane. I know I have. And even though we face many new challenges and tests this year, I have faith that we will pull through and be better for it. I know you'll do your best yet this next year.
Happy Birthday Steevie,
LastManOut
(Joshy to You)
Ok, So let's fess up a little ... How did Jerad and Josh really meet? It has been perhaps a contentious item of speculation among many. Truthfully, Jerad and I met online, and not on some warm fuzzy place like Match.com or Eharmony. It was more like the back alley behind a gay bar ... only digital. We emailed for a couple weeks, almost lost touch because Jerad was without the Internet for a couple weeks. But then, He sent me a message not long after New Year, 2005, We hung out one night at my place (Jan 8th the boys "anniversary") and hit it off by "watching a movie."
It was not long after our meeting that Jerad extended the invitation for me to sleep over at his place, which I was more nervous than he knows because he lived with his mother. It was winter and I was living on Michigan St, De Pere, the trappings of independence at my old place were well tempered by a lack of heat. Before long I was more or less living with Jerad and his mom and Mark (her BF) stayed over quite a bit as well. I'll never forget that Jerad was not out when we first met, and came out to his mom after I made him promise to tell the truth the next time she brought it up. The many many conversations that my mother-in-law and I had regarding the gays stemmed from the new revelations during this time. It was truly an educational time for all, Jerad really discovered and opened up to who he is and in new ways, so did I.
Neither Jerad or I will forget the moment that I accredit to us seeing the need for our own place. Mama, bless her, was not shy that the boys slept together. In fact Jerad and I were naked as jay birds under the sheets when she climbed up on the bed between us. I don't recall what we talked about specifically, only thinking that I hope neither of us tent the sheets.
Running along throughout Jerad's formative gay years is our relationship with St. Anne's Episcopal that continues to evolve to this day. I credit a large portion of the success of our relationship due to the support from our Church family. Without our good friends that we have made along the way, I'm not sure that we would have the strength and skills to make it long term. The couple that prays together .... Stays together. There's a lot to be said for a spiritual connection as well and a community connection with a shared faith and passion. I'll always have Lynn to thank for being the organist at St Anne's, and funny enough for breaking her wrist (the first time around), for bringing be back to St. Anne's. I took Jerad along with me, hehe.
Jerad and I moved a bit in the first couple years. First from my place and his mom's to our apartment, and then 11 months later we moved into our house. The moving did no really stop when we got our house because our families are still finding things to have us move to our place. And, Jerad's Dad's basement ... well that was a household and a half.
Jerad and I have had two business endeavors develop since we met. It was not long after we met that we launched his landscaping business. Everyone was very excited to see him grow into this new role. Also May 1, 2007, Jerad and I opened the doors of Buds 'n Bloom Design Studio, http://www.budsnbloomdesignstudio.com/. Living, Loving, and Working with someone is an experience that not all couples are able to accomplish. One of the unique things about Jerad and I is our ability to work together as a team. The things that we have accomplished could not have been done by either of alone at this point in our life.
Well, Sweetie, I hope you've enjoyed this trip down memory lane. I know I have. And even though we face many new challenges and tests this year, I have faith that we will pull through and be better for it. I know you'll do your best yet this next year.
Happy Birthday Steevie,
LastManOut
(Joshy to You)
Logic Quiz
Questions:
- If there are 3 apples and you take away 2, how many do you have?
- If you have only one match and you walked into a room where there was an oil burner, a kerosene lamp, and a wood burning stove, which one would you light first?
- How far can a dog run into the woods?
- A doctor gives you three pills telling you to take one every half hour. How long would the pills last?
- Why do you always find something in the last place you look?
- Two men play five games of checkers. Each man wins the same number of games. There are no ties. Explain this.
- A man builds a house rectangular in shape. All sides have southern exposure. A big bear walks by. What color is the bear? Why?
- What is the beginning of eternity, the end of time and space, the beginning of every end, and the end of every race?
- Divide 30 by 1/2 and add 10. What is the answer?
- A woman gives a beggar 50 cents; the woman is the beggar's sister, but the beggar is not the woman's brother. How come?
Answers:
- 2
- The match
- Halfway
- 1 hour (Other exceptable answer: not long enough.)
- You would not continue searching other places after you found the item, therefore finding it in the last place you look.
- The men were not playing together or The men played a total of 10 games against each other and each won 5.
- The bear is white, a polar bear. The house in on the North Pole.
- The letter "E"
- 70
- The begger is the woman's sister.
Friday, March 14, 2008
The Bishop
A new Bishop came to town and after he was settled in he decided to go visit a church downtown. So the Bishop started out on his walk downtown and out from the side street a hooker jumps out and says, "Hey Father, how about a blow job, $25." The Bishop is dumbfounded and just keeps walking. As he gets downtown another hooker jumps out at him and says, "Hey Father, how bout a quickie, only $15." The Bishop is not sure what is being offered and politely refuses; he decides it is time to return home. When the Bishop returns to the rectory Sister Mary is sweeping the steps, he stops her and asks, "Sister ... ah ... what is a quickie?" Sister Mary replies, "$15, Same as downtown."
Thursday, March 13, 2008
Stress
A lecturer when explaining stress management to an audience, Raised a glass of water and asked "How heavy is this glass of water?"Answers called out ranged from 20g to 500g. The lecturer replied, "The absolute weight doesn't matter. It depends on how long you try to hold it. If I hold it for a minute, that's not a problem. If I hold it for an hour, I'll have an ache in my right arm. If I hold it for a day, you'll have to call an ambulance. In each case, it's the same weight, but the longer I hold it, the heavier it becomes."
He continued, "And that's the way it is with stress management. If we carry our burdens all the time, sooner or later, As the burden becomes increasingly heavy, We won't be able to carry on. " "As with the glass of water, You have to put it down for a while and rest before holding it again. When we're refreshed, we can carry on with the burden."
"So, before you return home tonight, put the burden of work down. Don't carry it home. You can pick it up tomorrow. Whatever burdens you're carrying now, Let them down for a moment if you can. "So, my friend, Put down anything that may be a burden to you right now. Don't pick it up again until after you've rested a while. Here are some great ways of dealing with the burdens of life:
* Accept that some days you're the pigeon,And some days you're the statue.
* Always keep your words soft and sweet,Just in case you have to eat them.
* Always read stuff that will make you look goodIf you die in the middle of it.
* Drive carefully. It's not only cars that can beRecalled by their maker.
* If you can't be kind, at least have the decency to be vague.
* If you lend someone $20 and never see that person again, It was probably worth it.
* It may be that your sole purpose in life is simply be kind to others.
* Never put both feet in your mouth at the same time, Because then you won't have a leg to stand on.
* Nobody cares if you can't dance well. Just get up and dance.
* Since it's the early worm that gets eaten by the bird, sleep late.
* The second mouse gets the cheese.
* When everything's coming your way, You're in the wrong lane.
* Birthdays are good for you. The more you have, the longer you live.
* You may be only one person in the world, But you may also be the world to one person.
* Some mistakes are too much fun to only make once.
* We could learn a lot from crayons... Some are sharp, some are pretty and some are dull. Some have weird names, and all are different colors, but they all have to live in the same box.
*A truly happy person is one who can enjoy the scenery on a detour.Have an awesome day and know that someone has thought about you today... I did.
He continued, "And that's the way it is with stress management. If we carry our burdens all the time, sooner or later, As the burden becomes increasingly heavy, We won't be able to carry on. " "As with the glass of water, You have to put it down for a while and rest before holding it again. When we're refreshed, we can carry on with the burden."
"So, before you return home tonight, put the burden of work down. Don't carry it home. You can pick it up tomorrow. Whatever burdens you're carrying now, Let them down for a moment if you can. "So, my friend, Put down anything that may be a burden to you right now. Don't pick it up again until after you've rested a while. Here are some great ways of dealing with the burdens of life:
* Accept that some days you're the pigeon,And some days you're the statue.
* Always keep your words soft and sweet,Just in case you have to eat them.
* Always read stuff that will make you look goodIf you die in the middle of it.
* Drive carefully. It's not only cars that can beRecalled by their maker.
* If you can't be kind, at least have the decency to be vague.
* If you lend someone $20 and never see that person again, It was probably worth it.
* It may be that your sole purpose in life is simply be kind to others.
* Never put both feet in your mouth at the same time, Because then you won't have a leg to stand on.
* Nobody cares if you can't dance well. Just get up and dance.
* Since it's the early worm that gets eaten by the bird, sleep late.
* The second mouse gets the cheese.
* When everything's coming your way, You're in the wrong lane.
* Birthdays are good for you. The more you have, the longer you live.
* You may be only one person in the world, But you may also be the world to one person.
* Some mistakes are too much fun to only make once.
* We could learn a lot from crayons... Some are sharp, some are pretty and some are dull. Some have weird names, and all are different colors, but they all have to live in the same box.
*A truly happy person is one who can enjoy the scenery on a detour.Have an awesome day and know that someone has thought about you today... I did.
Monday, March 10, 2008
Things only a whore would say...
- If you can't have a happy home, wreck one.
- Because I can.
- I prefer thinner.
- Better now than never.
- I don't do windows.
- Because I can.
- I prefer thinner.
- Better now than never.
- I don't do windows.
Wednesday, February 20, 2008
Tuesday's Primaries
I dreaded voting yesterday, and a great deal of me was torn over who to vote for, for President. I have not ever felt compelled to vote in the primaries for anything before this, mostly because it never seemed important. Well after 8 years of Bushisms, Iraq, and WMA's...let's say I care. Of coarse for Democrats, like me, it comes down to 2 choices, Clinton or Obama. They are both strong candidates and they offer real choice to a degree. And if they both would hunt down John McCain with the ferocity that they are battling each other, then I would say they would both be fabulous Presidents. Maybe, they will really end up working for the good of all and the runner up take V.P. That's probably a pipe dream though.
So I voted for Obama for several really good reasons. Now, Y'all know I love my Hill's, but I just not convinced that she is the one to lead the Democratic Party into the 21st Century. I really want to believe that because Obama is younger, that he is trying to distance the lobbyists, and most significantly that he hasn't been associated with the White House before that he is the candidate to win the election in November.
I think once Clinton is history, his campaign will steam roll over McCain, because he will appeal to younger voters in a way that McCain just can't. You know the Republicans are on the mortality tables when they're putting up an old guy like McCain.
I also voted for Obama because he is from the Midwest and it's about time we have a real Midwesterner as President. I'm sick and tired of these people from down south running our country. Yeah, so Bill and George turned their crappy ass states around as governors, that doesn't mean they are the answer for a nation that needs real leadership, not a band aid. The Midwest is one of the hardest working areas of our country, and I really think we get overlooked in policy decisions. So yes, It's about time we get one of our own in there. Hillary might say she grew up in Chicago, but we all know where her heart really lies.
LastManOut
So I voted for Obama for several really good reasons. Now, Y'all know I love my Hill's, but I just not convinced that she is the one to lead the Democratic Party into the 21st Century. I really want to believe that because Obama is younger, that he is trying to distance the lobbyists, and most significantly that he hasn't been associated with the White House before that he is the candidate to win the election in November.
I think once Clinton is history, his campaign will steam roll over McCain, because he will appeal to younger voters in a way that McCain just can't. You know the Republicans are on the mortality tables when they're putting up an old guy like McCain.
I also voted for Obama because he is from the Midwest and it's about time we have a real Midwesterner as President. I'm sick and tired of these people from down south running our country. Yeah, so Bill and George turned their crappy ass states around as governors, that doesn't mean they are the answer for a nation that needs real leadership, not a band aid. The Midwest is one of the hardest working areas of our country, and I really think we get overlooked in policy decisions. So yes, It's about time we get one of our own in there. Hillary might say she grew up in Chicago, but we all know where her heart really lies.
LastManOut
Tuesday, February 05, 2008
It's a good thing...
Here's a few things in to keep in mind that I've learned along the way:
Every room needs a little bit of red in it. Even if it's only something very small.
Nice is different than Good.
"It's not mean if it's true." - Michael Thomas Ford
Hard work is not required; but smart work is.
Ambition without purpose is dangerous.
Every room needs a little bit of red in it. Even if it's only something very small.
Nice is different than Good.
"It's not mean if it's true." - Michael Thomas Ford
Hard work is not required; but smart work is.
Ambition without purpose is dangerous.
Everyone deserves to have a good day, everyday.
A smile goes a lot farther than a frown.
In the real world, you really are graded on the end result, effort doesn't count for much.
There really is someone for everyone out there.
Thursday, January 31, 2008
Remembering Betty Rose Meyer
Saturday, January 19th, 2008, 11:00 a.m., I had the honor of being chosen to sing at funeral of Betty Meyer, who had recently passed away. She was just shy of 95. Betty had requested a baritone to sing the show tunes that she had selected to be sung at her funeral. Our Choir director called me because she knew I would be just the one to do it. The music selections were all in all quite, "unforgetable." Betty had chosen as a reflection the song "I believe," for the Offertory "You'll Never Walk Alone" from Carousel, and as a recessional, "Unforgettable," by Irving Gordon.
I have to say that since the funeral I have not been able to get the melody and words from "Unforgettable" out of my head. I think it has even been tormenting me in my sleep. Betty, I have you to blame. Truy, Betty, "Never before has someone been more.....Unforgetable...." The real clincher is that she was wheeled out of church to this song. You can imagine the image that comes to me. It's true, I'll never forget it as long as I live.
However, the other music selections seem to give a little more insight into the person that her family and friends knew so well. Three very different, and very insightful reflections were given by Steve Swan, UWGB, Mary Jane Herber, Friend, and Robert Meyer, Nephew.
Steve Swan spoke about Betty's generosity to the community, most notably the scholarship funds that she helped establish at UWGB. What touched me inside about this gift she gave was that she had said that she wanted the scholarships to go to regular students; people who maybe didn't have the highest grades, but had to work hard. She wanted them to go to people who exihbited leadership in their communities. That's a very profound observation Betty made; support the people who keep it all going in everyday life.
Mary Jane Herber told us very much about Betty as a person. She told the story of how at a dinner party she was introduced as being a bit "peppery." We were told how Betty was a very direct person who wasn't afraid to speak her mind. Mary Jane Herber told us about Betty's humility and that while she generously supported almost every major project in Green Bay, she really didn't want the recognition for it.
Read more about Betty Rose Meyer at:
http://www.uwgb.edu/univcomm/news/logarchive/logarchive39/2008jan15.htm
http://www.meyertheatre.org/about/index.html
I have to say that since the funeral I have not been able to get the melody and words from "Unforgettable" out of my head. I think it has even been tormenting me in my sleep. Betty, I have you to blame. Truy, Betty, "Never before has someone been more.....Unforgetable...." The real clincher is that she was wheeled out of church to this song. You can imagine the image that comes to me. It's true, I'll never forget it as long as I live.
However, the other music selections seem to give a little more insight into the person that her family and friends knew so well. Three very different, and very insightful reflections were given by Steve Swan, UWGB, Mary Jane Herber, Friend, and Robert Meyer, Nephew.
Steve Swan spoke about Betty's generosity to the community, most notably the scholarship funds that she helped establish at UWGB. What touched me inside about this gift she gave was that she had said that she wanted the scholarships to go to regular students; people who maybe didn't have the highest grades, but had to work hard. She wanted them to go to people who exihbited leadership in their communities. That's a very profound observation Betty made; support the people who keep it all going in everyday life.
Mary Jane Herber told us very much about Betty as a person. She told the story of how at a dinner party she was introduced as being a bit "peppery." We were told how Betty was a very direct person who wasn't afraid to speak her mind. Mary Jane Herber told us about Betty's humility and that while she generously supported almost every major project in Green Bay, she really didn't want the recognition for it.
Finally Robert Meyer, nephew, spoke on Betty's behalf. I don't recall how exactly it was worked in, but I did appreciate that Robert stated that she was "one classy broad." You got a huge sense of Betty's love for her family and her hospitality from Robert. Robert let us know that his "Milwaukee" side of the family was always received with openness and warmness whenever they would visit Green Bay. Also, He told a cheeky story that, as he accepted his Aunt's invitation to stay over in Green Bay when he was on business, she offered him her bed. He was elated of coarse because hers was much more confortable than the other option. Only to find, that along with her bed came her husband, who snored like a locomotive.
So really Betty, I have to hand it to you, I've been to a lot of funerals, and yours was quite...Unforgetable...
Yours Truly,
LastManOut
Read more about Betty Rose Meyer at:
http://www.uwgb.edu/univcomm/news/logarchive/logarchive39/2008jan15.htm
http://www.meyertheatre.org/about/index.html
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