My grandma always has a way of brightening things when I’m down. Here’s a few of them….
“If you fail, just try again.”
“Sometimes I think you take yourself a bit too seriously.”
She is prone to singing, “Gray skies gonna clear up, put on a happy face!”
With the tone of a former cheerleader she said, “When the going gets tough, the tough get going.”
“I think it is good to make changes when you are young.”
When being cut off by a car, “You, Jackass!” Later changed to “Jackrabbit,” when my little cousin repeated it.
Also prone to singing, “You have to accentuate the positive, eliminate the negative, and latch on the affirmative; don’t mess with mister in between.”
She usually calls me Joshua, accenting the “J.”
She once danced around at a campground in her bra screaming, “I’m a nerd, I’m a nerd, I’m a nerd.”
Grandma does not “fart” she has “frogs in her basement.” Grandpa tends to think it is a fog horn and not frogs.
If you have any wonderful things your Grama has said, please feel free to leave them in the comments.
LastManOut
Friday, October 27, 2006
Thursday, October 26, 2006
Internet Dating
Ok, I confess, I’m guilty as charged from dating on the internet. So are a lot of people, some absurd statistic of people use these services. In fact, at one point nearly two years ago before I met my boi, I was even somewhat of an on-line dating junkie. I had profiles on all sorts of sites, and I’m still getting update emails even when I think I cancelled all of them. I think the obsession stemmed from the fact that I really am a people person. I have always had an introspective quality to me, however, it has always been tempered by my personal experience of being surrounded by people. I find life to be entirely more enriching when you open up and make other people a part of it. So what better a service than on-line dating to be surrounded by other people with the ability to get to know them a lot better than you often would in person?
However, there were problems along the way. You end up going a lot of dates with absolute losers. There is a very good explanation for this as well. One of the main reasons is that a chunk of the “seeking” population does not have very good people skills and as such use on-line dating as a mask. There is also the chunk of people, who do not have very honorable intentions, play games, have depression, alcoholism, or are perhaps married or supposedly in a committed relationship, et cetera. One of the most difficult things to gage with on-line dating is what the other person’s true intentions are. You literally have to have a very good lie/missing information barometer in order to get the full picture before you determine whether or not this is a good or even safe person for you to meet in person. Unfortunately, being younger than I am now when I “dated” on-line, I can now clearly see where those errors in judgment were.
Values and etiquette, while perhaps different in some ways for on-line dating, should still be observed whenever seeking for a potential mate. The internet does not make something better just because it is now accessible in a billion different places. The same goes for people. I am not one qualified to criticize how you structure you sexual behavior and what type of relationship or experience you are looking for, however, no matter what your intentions, those should be made clearly so that you give the other person the right to decide if that is what is right for them. Behavior to the contrary is and should be considered sexual harassment.
You should always consider that there is going to be a flood of potentially unwanted behavior when you post your information on the internet. There is really nothing you can do about this other than discard it or use whatever reporting means there is. Just a personal comment to all the sick freaks that do this type of stuff, it’s not funny, sexy, or appropriate. You can bet that all of the creeps are going to come out of the closet on-line.
Speaking of coming out of the closet….. The internet can be one of the best places to do that for someone who is addressing their sexual orientation. This is for the major reason that the anonymity that the internet offers can be very freeing for someone who feels quite oppressed. Though, these people should be especially cautious.
The good of dating on line is that it opens up so many possibilities for communication that might not be possible otherwise. By overcoming scheduling, geographic problems, or locating minority populations so many people have really been able to expand their horizons.
On a personal note, my partner and I met on a very saucy website and we both just clicked and are a very happy committed couple. I realize that we are an exception in many ways to the typical on-line dating experience. When my boi emailed me those few times before we met, I really felt like he was being upfront with me. He’s been that way ever since, I expect that will always continue. I met the love of my life on-line. It wasn’t easy, but the good parts of on-line dating can really work for you with some discretion.
However, there were problems along the way. You end up going a lot of dates with absolute losers. There is a very good explanation for this as well. One of the main reasons is that a chunk of the “seeking” population does not have very good people skills and as such use on-line dating as a mask. There is also the chunk of people, who do not have very honorable intentions, play games, have depression, alcoholism, or are perhaps married or supposedly in a committed relationship, et cetera. One of the most difficult things to gage with on-line dating is what the other person’s true intentions are. You literally have to have a very good lie/missing information barometer in order to get the full picture before you determine whether or not this is a good or even safe person for you to meet in person. Unfortunately, being younger than I am now when I “dated” on-line, I can now clearly see where those errors in judgment were.
Values and etiquette, while perhaps different in some ways for on-line dating, should still be observed whenever seeking for a potential mate. The internet does not make something better just because it is now accessible in a billion different places. The same goes for people. I am not one qualified to criticize how you structure you sexual behavior and what type of relationship or experience you are looking for, however, no matter what your intentions, those should be made clearly so that you give the other person the right to decide if that is what is right for them. Behavior to the contrary is and should be considered sexual harassment.
You should always consider that there is going to be a flood of potentially unwanted behavior when you post your information on the internet. There is really nothing you can do about this other than discard it or use whatever reporting means there is. Just a personal comment to all the sick freaks that do this type of stuff, it’s not funny, sexy, or appropriate. You can bet that all of the creeps are going to come out of the closet on-line.
Speaking of coming out of the closet….. The internet can be one of the best places to do that for someone who is addressing their sexual orientation. This is for the major reason that the anonymity that the internet offers can be very freeing for someone who feels quite oppressed. Though, these people should be especially cautious.
The good of dating on line is that it opens up so many possibilities for communication that might not be possible otherwise. By overcoming scheduling, geographic problems, or locating minority populations so many people have really been able to expand their horizons.
On a personal note, my partner and I met on a very saucy website and we both just clicked and are a very happy committed couple. I realize that we are an exception in many ways to the typical on-line dating experience. When my boi emailed me those few times before we met, I really felt like he was being upfront with me. He’s been that way ever since, I expect that will always continue. I met the love of my life on-line. It wasn’t easy, but the good parts of on-line dating can really work for you with some discretion.
Thursday, October 19, 2006
Female Friends of Gay Men
A friend of mine and I had a conversation last night about the age old term "Faghag." Well one is probably wondering what exactly is a faghag. So I did some research. According to The Cambrige On-line Dictionary a faghag is, "a woman who likes to spend time with homosexual men." On the surface it seems that a faghag is really not such a bag thing.
Many people both possible faghags and gay men alike take offense to the term and prefer to refer to female friends of gay men as something else. Why is it potentially offensive? Well, in sort of a traditional sense the gay community has recognized in a strict sense that a faghag is more of a woman who very actively seeks out gay men as close companions and is often in love with them romantically. It is not difficult to imagine that a woman of this sort does not command the same respect as a woman who happens to have friends that are gay men and positively affirms their sexual orientation. In most cases female freinds of gay men fall into one of the two interpretations discussed above. The line however is quite fine.
So what is the etiquette with the word faghag? The precise answer is currently unknown. However I can offer this guideline. There are a variety of women who are a "Self Proclaimed Faghag," such as Margaret Cho. Margaret Cho, a comedian, has on video proclaimed herself as a faghag. In this instance it is appropriate to refer to her as a faghag. However, in all other cases discrestion should be used.
Now onto the substitution to the word faghag. I personally do not endorse the use of the word fruitfly to describe these females because it is mostly absurd. Some like to think of it as a more polite way of refering to a faghag, but in my opinion, if it is true, call it for what it is.
So now for alternatives that matter. Since many of my female friends are just that, female friends, I prefer to call them my girlfriends. I think that this is possibly the most healthy way to term the relationship.
Gay men owe their "hags" a lot because truly they have been there through it all for them. So truthfully, there are girlfriends of mine who I do call faghags because that is simply what they are. Hag, Girlfriend, Fruitfly, what-have-you, These will always be the most important women in our lives. And we (the gays) as a community should applaud you for being some of the most loving and accepting people on the planet.
Yours truly,
LastManOut
Many people both possible faghags and gay men alike take offense to the term and prefer to refer to female friends of gay men as something else. Why is it potentially offensive? Well, in sort of a traditional sense the gay community has recognized in a strict sense that a faghag is more of a woman who very actively seeks out gay men as close companions and is often in love with them romantically. It is not difficult to imagine that a woman of this sort does not command the same respect as a woman who happens to have friends that are gay men and positively affirms their sexual orientation. In most cases female freinds of gay men fall into one of the two interpretations discussed above. The line however is quite fine.
So what is the etiquette with the word faghag? The precise answer is currently unknown. However I can offer this guideline. There are a variety of women who are a "Self Proclaimed Faghag," such as Margaret Cho. Margaret Cho, a comedian, has on video proclaimed herself as a faghag. In this instance it is appropriate to refer to her as a faghag. However, in all other cases discrestion should be used.
Now onto the substitution to the word faghag. I personally do not endorse the use of the word fruitfly to describe these females because it is mostly absurd. Some like to think of it as a more polite way of refering to a faghag, but in my opinion, if it is true, call it for what it is.
So now for alternatives that matter. Since many of my female friends are just that, female friends, I prefer to call them my girlfriends. I think that this is possibly the most healthy way to term the relationship.
Gay men owe their "hags" a lot because truly they have been there through it all for them. So truthfully, there are girlfriends of mine who I do call faghags because that is simply what they are. Hag, Girlfriend, Fruitfly, what-have-you, These will always be the most important women in our lives. And we (the gays) as a community should applaud you for being some of the most loving and accepting people on the planet.
Yours truly,
LastManOut
Wednesday, October 18, 2006
First Week On The Job
I am now a representative for Medicare Part D. I have finished all my training and Monday was my first day on the floor. I guess it is always a humble reminder that there is really very little that we actually know. The distinction between knowing and believing has been become clear this week. There has been this gradual transition from converting things I believe to be true to confirmed knowledge. I guess, for me, there is always this need to confirm something the first time I use it. Call me overly cautious, however, I feel it gives me the confidence and piece of mind to reassure the other person. I have always appreciated it when people take the time to really explain things to me.
Taking the time to be clear and explain things has become and especially important as I attempt to explain the Medicare Part D policy to people. I've noticed that explaining an insurance plan to people is not entirely different than my former job of explaining accounts as a banker. I find it especially difficult to take all this new information and make concise answers out it. Though, with some pratice it has been getting better.
We had sensitivity training today which clued us in to what it is like for people with disabilities and the trials that many face accomplishing basic tasks. These types of training always mean a lot to me because I forget a lot of the time what it must be like to have to face things like arthritis, vision problems, and hearing loss to name a few. I guess the point of it all is that we just need to listen to people and help them as an individual.
Taking the time to be clear and explain things has become and especially important as I attempt to explain the Medicare Part D policy to people. I've noticed that explaining an insurance plan to people is not entirely different than my former job of explaining accounts as a banker. I find it especially difficult to take all this new information and make concise answers out it. Though, with some pratice it has been getting better.
We had sensitivity training today which clued us in to what it is like for people with disabilities and the trials that many face accomplishing basic tasks. These types of training always mean a lot to me because I forget a lot of the time what it must be like to have to face things like arthritis, vision problems, and hearing loss to name a few. I guess the point of it all is that we just need to listen to people and help them as an individual.
Tuesday, October 17, 2006
Brokeback Bar
A cowboy walks into a bar and two steps in, he realizes it's a gay bar. But what the heck, he says to himself, "I can really use a drink."
When the gay waiter approaches, he says to the cowboy, "What's the name of your weewee?" The cowboy says, "Look, I'm not into any of that, all I want is a drink." The gay waiter says, "I'm sorry but I can't serve you until you tell me the name of your weewee. Mine for instance is called Nike, for the slogan 'Just Do It,' and that guy down at the end of the bar calls his, Snickers, because it really 'Satisfies.'"
The cowboy looks dumbfounded so the bartender tells him he will give him a second to think it over. So the cowboy asks the man sitting to his left, who is sipping on a beer, "Hey bud, what's the name of yours?"
The man looks back and says with a smile "Timex," and the thirsty cowboy asks, "Why Timex?" The fella proudly replies, "Cause it takes a lickin' and keeps on tickin!"
A little shaken, the cowboy turns to two fellas on his right, who happen to be sharing a fruity Margarita and says, "So, what do you guys call yours?"
The first man turns to him and proudly exclaims, "FORD, because Quality is Job One." Then he adds, "Have you driven a Ford lately?" The guy nex t to him then says, "I call mine CHEVY, 'Like A Rock.'" and gives a wink.
Even more shaken the Cowboy has to think for a moment before he comes up with a name. He exclaims, "The name of my weewee is 'SECRET.' Now give me a beer." The bartender begins to pour the Cowboy a beer, but with a puzzled look asked, "Why Secret?"
The cowboy says, "Because it's STRONG ENOUGH FOR A MAN, BUT MADE FOR A WOMAN."
When the gay waiter approaches, he says to the cowboy, "What's the name of your weewee?" The cowboy says, "Look, I'm not into any of that, all I want is a drink." The gay waiter says, "I'm sorry but I can't serve you until you tell me the name of your weewee. Mine for instance is called Nike, for the slogan 'Just Do It,' and that guy down at the end of the bar calls his, Snickers, because it really 'Satisfies.'"
The cowboy looks dumbfounded so the bartender tells him he will give him a second to think it over. So the cowboy asks the man sitting to his left, who is sipping on a beer, "Hey bud, what's the name of yours?"
The man looks back and says with a smile "Timex," and the thirsty cowboy asks, "Why Timex?" The fella proudly replies, "Cause it takes a lickin' and keeps on tickin!"
A little shaken, the cowboy turns to two fellas on his right, who happen to be sharing a fruity Margarita and says, "So, what do you guys call yours?"
The first man turns to him and proudly exclaims, "FORD, because Quality is Job One." Then he adds, "Have you driven a Ford lately?" The guy nex t to him then says, "I call mine CHEVY, 'Like A Rock.'" and gives a wink.
Even more shaken the Cowboy has to think for a moment before he comes up with a name. He exclaims, "The name of my weewee is 'SECRET.' Now give me a beer." The bartender begins to pour the Cowboy a beer, but with a puzzled look asked, "Why Secret?"
The cowboy says, "Because it's STRONG ENOUGH FOR A MAN, BUT MADE FOR A WOMAN."
Monday, October 09, 2006
Nursing Home Joke
An 82 year old woman and a 96 year old man at a nursing home met each other in the dining room one afternoon. They talked all afternoon and soon became very good friends. They continued to talk every afternoon and one day the topic of sex came up in their conversation. The woman commented that she probably can't do much for the man anymore. The man said, yes, that probably doesn't work like it used to, but he said you could still hold it. So, the woman would hold it for him every afternoon. One afternoon the man didn't show up and the woman was very concerned, so she went up to his room to find him. She walked in the room and there was another woman sitting there holding it for him. The woman yelled, "You two-timing asshole, What does she have that I don't." The man replied, "Parkinson's."
Tuesday, September 26, 2006
Negative Election Ads
I could not help but notice today that it really is the heart of election season because all of the groups representing either the Republicans or Democrats Political Action Committees (PAC's) are running their usual slew of dirt that they dug up on the opposing candidate. In our district, Mark Green is stepping down from the House of Representatives to run for Governor and Steve Kagen-D and John Gard-R are running to fill his seat. While I do not expressly support either of these campains I do have to wonder who the people are who are producing these commcials that focus not on issues or what really matters but on an interpretation of their view of these mens' characters. I think it is a dis-service to our country to endorse or pay any serious attention to the content of these commercials. They seek to confuse, harm, and tell many half truths.
The real problem is the people that donate money to these organizations so that they are able to run these commcials in the first place. You would think that they could find an organization that could really do some good for someone to donate their money to. Have we forgotten all about hunger, poor children, and the sick and disabled? These commercials are also a huge waste of time, which is also an even greater waste money. This air time could at least be spent marketing a product, which would potentially help drive sales. That sales boost certainly couldn't hurt the economy?
Our politicians will probably never live up to anyone's standards because they don't even have the strenth to address these people for who they are head on. And further, neither side has told their people to convince these groups not to run these commercials? These people are out to fulfill thier own purposes and their actions represent nothing that is good and true. Their intentions are mean and spiteful. Let them also meet that end.
If we keep running campains like this, we will not get candidates that are truly qualified to do their jobs. That is the saddest part of it all.
LastManOut.
The real problem is the people that donate money to these organizations so that they are able to run these commcials in the first place. You would think that they could find an organization that could really do some good for someone to donate their money to. Have we forgotten all about hunger, poor children, and the sick and disabled? These commercials are also a huge waste of time, which is also an even greater waste money. This air time could at least be spent marketing a product, which would potentially help drive sales. That sales boost certainly couldn't hurt the economy?
Our politicians will probably never live up to anyone's standards because they don't even have the strenth to address these people for who they are head on. And further, neither side has told their people to convince these groups not to run these commercials? These people are out to fulfill thier own purposes and their actions represent nothing that is good and true. Their intentions are mean and spiteful. Let them also meet that end.
If we keep running campains like this, we will not get candidates that are truly qualified to do their jobs. That is the saddest part of it all.
LastManOut.
Thursday, September 14, 2006
Wednesday, September 06, 2006
Resignation/New Job
Today marks a mile stone in my life. I have managed in the last month and a half to find a new job. Today I called my boss in the morning and she was really much more gracious about me giving her my notice over the phone than I had expected.
Why am I changing Jobs?
1) Salary
It is my discovery that for being the next best thing to having an assistant branch manager at our location, that I do not make very much more for doing that. While my salary is supposed to be confidential, I did discuss it with a couple other co-workers as well as a couple other friends of mine at other banks who are in lower positions. The result of my survey is that I make about 50 - 70 cents an hour more than them. This to me is not adequate compensation for everything that I do/am responsible for.
2) Work Environment
I have not always had the most generous employment with the Bank.
3) Career Goals
It really was never in my career goals to be a banker.
4) Other Factors
Jerad wants to open a flower shop in spring and will need my help in the mornings and on weekends. My new job would allow for that.
To make it short........ They can take this job and shove it.
I am very, Very, very excited about my new job because I am taking a position which is actually a downgrade from my current one to make subtantially more money than I do new. I will be getting a pay increase of about $1.43/hr over what I make now.
The only regret I have is that I didn't go and apply with the new company last year. - Lesson Learned.
Why am I changing Jobs?
1) Salary
It is my discovery that for being the next best thing to having an assistant branch manager at our location, that I do not make very much more for doing that. While my salary is supposed to be confidential, I did discuss it with a couple other co-workers as well as a couple other friends of mine at other banks who are in lower positions. The result of my survey is that I make about 50 - 70 cents an hour more than them. This to me is not adequate compensation for everything that I do/am responsible for.
2) Work Environment
I have not always had the most generous employment with the Bank.
3) Career Goals
It really was never in my career goals to be a banker.
4) Other Factors
Jerad wants to open a flower shop in spring and will need my help in the mornings and on weekends. My new job would allow for that.
To make it short........ They can take this job and shove it.
I am very, Very, very excited about my new job because I am taking a position which is actually a downgrade from my current one to make subtantially more money than I do new. I will be getting a pay increase of about $1.43/hr over what I make now.
The only regret I have is that I didn't go and apply with the new company last year. - Lesson Learned.
Friday, April 14, 2006
Miracles Do Happen
The last month has been a journey for the entire family. Jerad's mom Lori was struck with a staph infection mostly due from, what we can tell, a minor surgery that she had in December. About 4 weeks ago as she was returning from vacation she was hospitalized. Since then she has undergone open heart surgery to replace a valve that the bateria ate away, she had her spleen removed, they put in a direct feeding line, and a tracheotomy so she could breathe better.
When I visted Mama this past Tuesday the speech therapist was with her in her room. She had also been transferred to a regular room out of ICU. The doctors had told us that they were not sure if she would ever be able to talk. I was awestruck when Mama was saying "Yes" and "No" and names of family members. She was also putting together sentances. It was a miracle to hear her say anything after all those long weeks in the hospital where we were not even sure if she was going to make it through the weekend. Just two weeks ago she didn't seem to understand anything that was going on around her. And then yesterday, I went up to visit and she and I had a very wonderful afternoon. Yesterday I did Mama's nails up for her for Easter. When I was finished she said, "God Bless You." I've never felt so blessed in my life, not because I helped her, but because Mama simply being able to say that made my heart leap.
Yesterday was Maundy Thursday and after our parishes Passover meal and Mass Fr. Seth came up and visted Mama with us. She had said that she would very much like to pray with him. Last year on Easter was the first time that Mama had met Fr. Seth. During the sprinkling of Holy water a drop of it hit her nose and an immediate healing took place for Mama. Mama Lori had an infection on her face a few years ago and ever since she had severe pain on her nose, which were something like headaches. After the water hit her nose the pain was gone. She was finally able to tell Fr. Seth this story last night. She had written herself a note to call him about it a year ago!!! :) The most wonderful thing about her healing was that she got such a sense of peace at that moment. She had that peace again last night when we prayed. The lord has truly been with Mama through everything.
Whether Mama's healing was actually physical or spiritual last Easter, there is truly a sign of rebirth in our lives. Mama described to me yesterday that this Easter is for her a rebirth this year. Jesus's dying and rising had brought new life to us all. In baptism, Christians experience this powerful symbol as we are submersed in water three times. We are reborn when come out of the water. We are born to a life with Christ for others so that they may know the miracle of Easter too. We are all saved in the resurrection. And as we truly and profoundly aknowlege through Jesus's death and triumph, Our sins are surely forgiven. Halleluia!!
Happy Easter
When I visted Mama this past Tuesday the speech therapist was with her in her room. She had also been transferred to a regular room out of ICU. The doctors had told us that they were not sure if she would ever be able to talk. I was awestruck when Mama was saying "Yes" and "No" and names of family members. She was also putting together sentances. It was a miracle to hear her say anything after all those long weeks in the hospital where we were not even sure if she was going to make it through the weekend. Just two weeks ago she didn't seem to understand anything that was going on around her. And then yesterday, I went up to visit and she and I had a very wonderful afternoon. Yesterday I did Mama's nails up for her for Easter. When I was finished she said, "God Bless You." I've never felt so blessed in my life, not because I helped her, but because Mama simply being able to say that made my heart leap.
Yesterday was Maundy Thursday and after our parishes Passover meal and Mass Fr. Seth came up and visted Mama with us. She had said that she would very much like to pray with him. Last year on Easter was the first time that Mama had met Fr. Seth. During the sprinkling of Holy water a drop of it hit her nose and an immediate healing took place for Mama. Mama Lori had an infection on her face a few years ago and ever since she had severe pain on her nose, which were something like headaches. After the water hit her nose the pain was gone. She was finally able to tell Fr. Seth this story last night. She had written herself a note to call him about it a year ago!!! :) The most wonderful thing about her healing was that she got such a sense of peace at that moment. She had that peace again last night when we prayed. The lord has truly been with Mama through everything.
Whether Mama's healing was actually physical or spiritual last Easter, there is truly a sign of rebirth in our lives. Mama described to me yesterday that this Easter is for her a rebirth this year. Jesus's dying and rising had brought new life to us all. In baptism, Christians experience this powerful symbol as we are submersed in water three times. We are reborn when come out of the water. We are born to a life with Christ for others so that they may know the miracle of Easter too. We are all saved in the resurrection. And as we truly and profoundly aknowlege through Jesus's death and triumph, Our sins are surely forgiven. Halleluia!!
Happy Easter
Saturday, March 25, 2006
Cheezy Pick Up Line
"God you're hot! I heard your ankles are having a party. Can I invite your pants down?"
Sunday, March 12, 2006
Margaret Chow And Everything Else
Winter is really starting to get to just about everyone I know. I usually hold out the longest, not because I'm some sort of goody goody Mrs. Sunshine, but because once you jump on the band wagon, you're along for the ride. My live in lover and I now spend most of our time eating, trying to make up for eating at the gym, and watching movies. Tonight was movie night with the family(His Dad and Dad's "roommate"). Well I have been reminded not so subtely that two family movie nights ago we all watched "Margaret Chow I'm the One That I Want." Some people might not think this is unusual for the families of gay children to watch together, but believe me, some things like Margaret Chow are more of an inside gay thing in Green Bay, WI. I forget how small town our city can be; I mean I take for granted that not everyone has heard of lesbian comedians. Well "Mama," Papa's roommate, has latched on to, "Hi my name is Gwynne and I'm here to wash your vagina." I never in my wildest dreams thought that I would be having family night with Margaret Chow. Chow's own treatments on family make the entire situation even more funny. This was such an oppurtunity for our family to learn more about us as a couple and it was so successful. It's like my "in laws" finally understand a little bit what it is like to be my partner or myself. We have really grown and bonded over this. This is true progess for the gay rights movement because we have changed hearts in a fun and positive way.
The fun positive gay rights movement did however come to its ever expected screeching halt with the passage of the gay marriage and civil union ban referrendum by the WI State assembly last week. A lady from church who knows my parter and myself well was not even able to explain to another friend exactly what was happening because she was so upset by even the thought of it. Again, this sort of phenomenon happening is tremendous progress for the gay rights movement. There has to be been evidnece in the last couple years of a real allies awakening. Our heterosexual counterparts know that we really need them. Our church lady friend had mentioned how she was working with Positive Voice on educating others on the referrendum so that when it comes around this fall it will not pass. It shames me in many ways because I'm not working with Positive Voice to help educate. There are so many excuses why not. But, I'm sure if I tried, I could find the time. I really thank God for people like our friend because without her I'd be really fucked in the long run. The whole gay rights thing is such a struggle for gay people themselves. We are not unified and yet well organized. Many gay people don't even believe in the institution of marriage. I'm not sure what I believe about what marriage is supposed to be, but what I do know is that my partner and I have one of the most real relationships together. It has been inspiring to the both of us, and I truly believe as of today that is has been inspiring to others as well.
The fun positive gay rights movement did however come to its ever expected screeching halt with the passage of the gay marriage and civil union ban referrendum by the WI State assembly last week. A lady from church who knows my parter and myself well was not even able to explain to another friend exactly what was happening because she was so upset by even the thought of it. Again, this sort of phenomenon happening is tremendous progress for the gay rights movement. There has to be been evidnece in the last couple years of a real allies awakening. Our heterosexual counterparts know that we really need them. Our church lady friend had mentioned how she was working with Positive Voice on educating others on the referrendum so that when it comes around this fall it will not pass. It shames me in many ways because I'm not working with Positive Voice to help educate. There are so many excuses why not. But, I'm sure if I tried, I could find the time. I really thank God for people like our friend because without her I'd be really fucked in the long run. The whole gay rights thing is such a struggle for gay people themselves. We are not unified and yet well organized. Many gay people don't even believe in the institution of marriage. I'm not sure what I believe about what marriage is supposed to be, but what I do know is that my partner and I have one of the most real relationships together. It has been inspiring to the both of us, and I truly believe as of today that is has been inspiring to others as well.
Yet Another Joke
One day a teacher was teaching her students the different tastes of food. The teacher said to the class, "I need a volunteer for and experiment." So all the kids jumped up and down out of their seats to be chosen and little Jonny jumped first so the teacher picked him. The teacher then blind folded him and gave him a piece of food to eat. She asked, "Now Jonny what is it you're eating." Jonny replied, "Well teacher it tastes like and orange." "Very good Jonny go and sit down." The teacher asked for another volunteer and little Suzy raised her hand first. She gave little Suzy a piece of apple and she got it right too. Now, the teacher had one more test for her students and little Jerad was up for the challange. She blind folded him and gave him a chocolate kiss to eat. She said, "Now Jerad what is it that you are eating." Jerad replied, "Well teacher I just don't know." Teacher said, "Well I'll give you a hint. It's something your mother gives your father every night." Just then one little boy from the back of the room started jumping up and down and screamed, "Jerad, spit it out; it's a piece of ass!!!"
Monday, December 26, 2005
A Very Merry Christmas
My partner and I have described this Christmas mostly as "smooth." That Christmas went smoothly this year is the greatest gift of all, next to the Christ child. Now here comes the shocker; I Love Christmas. That is how this Christmas all began to unfold this year. The biggest change over last year for me is that this year I love Christmas. And it is not just because Jerad is in my life. Christmas has found its place in my heart because it is a time for beginings and I need some new beginings. I want to pick up some old projects and work at them a while. The movie "Under The Tuscan Sun" says that we should take one of those bad ideas and work on it. I want to take one of those bad ideas, like moving on with my education, and work on it (a bit). Change happens in your life when you invite in a renewal of the good that has happened before. Nothing is beyond you because you choose your attitude. I chose a very different attittude this Christmas and I am a happier man because of it. I deceided to make the most of what I have this christmas.
I also did my best to try to extend the invitation of Christmas to others this year. Christ invites us all, and I mean all, to the table with him. It should be a very Holy day. This being said it has a pratical application, Christmas means including everyone. You do not just invite those people you really like, you invite everyone who will come. Christmas is for everyone.
I wish everyone this year a very Merry Christmas. Please join in the celebrations!
LastManOut
I also did my best to try to extend the invitation of Christmas to others this year. Christ invites us all, and I mean all, to the table with him. It should be a very Holy day. This being said it has a pratical application, Christmas means including everyone. You do not just invite those people you really like, you invite everyone who will come. Christmas is for everyone.
I wish everyone this year a very Merry Christmas. Please join in the celebrations!
LastManOut
Wednesday, December 07, 2005
More Jokes
What do you call two lesbians in a cannoe?
-Fur Traders
What do you get when Elton John and Super Man have kids?
-Super-duper Men
-Fur Traders
What do you get when Elton John and Super Man have kids?
-Super-duper Men
Saturday, October 22, 2005
Recitals
This afternoon Jerad and I attended his very first organ recital at the Abbey. The series is put on by an endowment from the late Canon John O. Bruce. The organist is British performer Christopher Herrick and this is his third time playing at the Abbey. The concert was splendid aside from a few small technical difficulties. The final encore was Ueber Fantastisch. He played 'Festival Musik,' well at least I think that is how it is spelled. The piece was composed by a Norwiegen. If any one knows who, I certainaly would appreciate it as I lost the name. Anyway, the experience was just what I needed and Jerad is still spinning from the excitment.
Yesterday evening we also went to Lynn Griebling's receital at St. Norbert. Lynn is formerly my voice professor and currently is organist at St Anne's, where Jerad and I go to church. The recital was entitled 'Songs my Teachers Taught Me.' The program was a wonderful collection of songs that she has learned from her various teachers through the years and even around the world. What facinates me is that you wouldn't think that Lynn is so well versed simply in meeting her. Her natural charm stems from the loving and caring attitude that she greets you with. Her recital had much the same character. The attendants were most all people that she knew. A huge crowd of us had gathered from church and as is usually the case it was more of a family event than a prim and proper affair. I think it is wonderful how almost everyone we are in choir with at church was there to support Lynn. We have such a wonderful connection. What I enjoyed most this evening was getting to know my teacher a little bit better. There is something to be said about her program notes. She divided the recital up into phases of her life. And I do mean phases more than periods. There is in Lynn's life a reliaztion that music and singing is who she is and where she should be. Obviously there were side paths that took her away from music at some points notably right before she came to St Norbert. I was one of her first students at SNC, we were freshmen together. She had a way of welcoming me to SNC that I now know is unusual for someone who is also new. There have been more difficult times in our "relationship." Lynn has a very strong sense of will. As most people will tell you, so do I. The few confrontations we've had are perhaps the most life changing for me. Lynn has taught me the value of being yourself. The value of being yourself is so much different than "being yourself." While many people have tried to teach me that it is ok to be yourself, no one has lived it out like my dear friend Lynn.
Many Congratulations!
Lastmanout
Yesterday evening we also went to Lynn Griebling's receital at St. Norbert. Lynn is formerly my voice professor and currently is organist at St Anne's, where Jerad and I go to church. The recital was entitled 'Songs my Teachers Taught Me.' The program was a wonderful collection of songs that she has learned from her various teachers through the years and even around the world. What facinates me is that you wouldn't think that Lynn is so well versed simply in meeting her. Her natural charm stems from the loving and caring attitude that she greets you with. Her recital had much the same character. The attendants were most all people that she knew. A huge crowd of us had gathered from church and as is usually the case it was more of a family event than a prim and proper affair. I think it is wonderful how almost everyone we are in choir with at church was there to support Lynn. We have such a wonderful connection. What I enjoyed most this evening was getting to know my teacher a little bit better. There is something to be said about her program notes. She divided the recital up into phases of her life. And I do mean phases more than periods. There is in Lynn's life a reliaztion that music and singing is who she is and where she should be. Obviously there were side paths that took her away from music at some points notably right before she came to St Norbert. I was one of her first students at SNC, we were freshmen together. She had a way of welcoming me to SNC that I now know is unusual for someone who is also new. There have been more difficult times in our "relationship." Lynn has a very strong sense of will. As most people will tell you, so do I. The few confrontations we've had are perhaps the most life changing for me. Lynn has taught me the value of being yourself. The value of being yourself is so much different than "being yourself." While many people have tried to teach me that it is ok to be yourself, no one has lived it out like my dear friend Lynn.
Many Congratulations!
Lastmanout
Saturday, July 23, 2005
H. R. 2317
Recently I sent a letter to my Congressperson Mark Green - R, WI about an important issue affecting the banking industry, in which I work.
July 23, 2005
Dear Mark Green,
Second, I am a banker at a medium sized community bank. We are in fact about the size of many of the below listed credit unions. It is Baylake Bank's specific goal to enrich and empower the communities in which we live and work. This fundamental goodness of an institution such as my employer is not characteristic of many of the large national banks. Our community for profit intuitions will inevitably struggle, suffer, and potentially collapse if they have to compete with an institution that does not bear the burden of taxes. If such a phenomenon should happen as a community bank closing, the customer would be left with only 2 alternatives. 1) Large national banks whose sole purpose for existence is bottom line profit. These institutions rarely do what is best for the customer in the long run. 2) Credit Unions who enjoy all of the benefits of operating as commercial bank without giving back any of the revenue that they generate. The institution for which I work is the best mix of these two extreme. A medium sized community bank can still provide all of the full service of large bank at a competitive rate, as well as the service and community focus of a credit union.
Lastly, as we all understand, Credit unions were chartered for those of modest means. This is a particularly important point and has strong repercussions for the financial industry. Credit unions focus should be on those customers and situations where lending the lending risk is greater. Many of the customers who bank with a credit union do so because they are able to obtain a loan they would not otherwise qualify for. It is credit unions not for profit status that allows them to take on these additional risks. The question remains to be answered as to whether or not credit unions will continue to lend to these needs or if predatory lenders will usurp these needs. There is a rise of predatory lenders in every community in our state. They are a fundamental danger to our way of life in
As a member of the Wisconsin Bankers Association, I am asking that you oppose H.R. 2317, the Credit Union Regulatory Improvements Act of 2005.
Today, there are more than 100 credit unions with more than $1 billion in assets across this country. InCredit unions were chartered to serve individuals of modest means – not to make commercial loans. This major expansion of business lending authority would benefit only the largest, most aggressive credit unions, while putting both smaller credit unions and tax-paying financial institutions at a greater competitive disadvantage.
In addition, H.R. 2317 would change the definition of “net worth ratio” for the purpose of determining required minimum capital levels for credit unions. This minimum capital system was developed by Congress to ensure that adequate funds are available as a cushion against unforeseen losses. The bill would change the definition of net worth ratio in a way that would artificially inflate the capital cushion, thus reducing the actual funds available to protect depositors and taxpayers if credit unions were to experience financial difficulty.I hope you will take my views into consideration and oppose H.R. 2317.
Sincerely,
(Last Man Out)
Thursday, May 05, 2005
Michael Jackson Jokes
Here's the latest of the MJ jokes.
How do you know when it's bed time at the Neverland Ranch?
-When the big hand touches the little hand.
Why are Michael Jackson's pants so tight?
-Cause they ain't his.
Why does Michael Jackson like 29 year olds?
-Cause there's twenty of them.
Why does Michael call little boys on the phone?
-So he can reach out and touch someone.
How do you know when it's bed time at the Neverland Ranch?
-When the big hand touches the little hand.
Why are Michael Jackson's pants so tight?
-Cause they ain't his.
Why does Michael Jackson like 29 year olds?
-Cause there's twenty of them.
Why does Michael call little boys on the phone?
-So he can reach out and touch someone.
Thursday, April 28, 2005
New Job
Some of you know that I've started a new job in the last couple months. Taking time to reflect on the experience some simple truths have emerged.
(1) Relearning the same old thing a different way is far more difficult than learning it the first time.
(2) A second chance at something is the oppurtunity of a lifetime.
(3) The people you work with make it or break it.
(4) We make far too many judgements about others.
(5) Aside from people, the bottom line is still the most important.
(6) You never know what you're gonna get.
(7) Good things happen every day.
(8) Be thankful for what you have.
(9) Your effort determines your success.
(10) Changing up your lunch spot couldn't hurt.
The new position that I am in, and in the process of learning, is called a relationship manager. I work for a local bank now that has a community oriented focus. I think it is profound when you consider that the primary purpose that we exist as a buisiness is to improve the lives of everyone around us. The company I work for takes that to heart and really means it. I think that when you make people and fulfilling their needs the bottom line of business you end up with a company that is not merely a good neighbor but a partner who supports you and others. In our day and age the major focus of most banks is the numbers on the bottom line. Their corporate existence is based solely on profit. What is the biggest problem with this senario accross the board in any industry? You end up with second rate crap that you can't get service for worth a damm. That does not happen where I work. I'm proud of who I am.
(1) Relearning the same old thing a different way is far more difficult than learning it the first time.
(2) A second chance at something is the oppurtunity of a lifetime.
(3) The people you work with make it or break it.
(4) We make far too many judgements about others.
(5) Aside from people, the bottom line is still the most important.
(6) You never know what you're gonna get.
(7) Good things happen every day.
(8) Be thankful for what you have.
(9) Your effort determines your success.
(10) Changing up your lunch spot couldn't hurt.
The new position that I am in, and in the process of learning, is called a relationship manager. I work for a local bank now that has a community oriented focus. I think it is profound when you consider that the primary purpose that we exist as a buisiness is to improve the lives of everyone around us. The company I work for takes that to heart and really means it. I think that when you make people and fulfilling their needs the bottom line of business you end up with a company that is not merely a good neighbor but a partner who supports you and others. In our day and age the major focus of most banks is the numbers on the bottom line. Their corporate existence is based solely on profit. What is the biggest problem with this senario accross the board in any industry? You end up with second rate crap that you can't get service for worth a damm. That does not happen where I work. I'm proud of who I am.
Friday, January 28, 2005
Recent Jokes
My co-workers are totally awesome and totally good for a few jokes now and then. Here's the latest.
What do you call a gay bar with no stools?
-A fruit stand
What is the difference between a blonde and a washing machine?
-When you put in a load in the washer it doesn't follow you around for a week.
What do you call a gay man with the shits?
-A juicy fruit
What do soy and a dildo have in common?
-They're both meat substitutes.
What do you call a gay bar with no stools?
-A fruit stand
What is the difference between a blonde and a washing machine?
-When you put in a load in the washer it doesn't follow you around for a week.
What do you call a gay man with the shits?
-A juicy fruit
What do soy and a dildo have in common?
-They're both meat substitutes.
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