TMI - Pride 2014

1. Tell me about your first Pride.

June 1970, the first Christopher Street Liberation Day march in NYC. From the Village up Fifth Avenue to Central Park. Stonewall tore the city apart the previous year and things still hadn’t settled down.  There was an uneasy truce with the NYPD and some doubted the first march to commemorate the first anniversary of the riots would happen at all.  It did, it was a mind-blowing experience, (though there was some fear) that so many gay folks came together to make the day happen. 

2. What did that first Pride mean to you?

 FREEDOM! While I was out, it hurt that so many others couldn’t be - but were there, anyway. Masked or disguised, but there. On the other hand it was also “about time” after years of protests and fighting the NYPD, Mayor Lindsey’s City Hall and the mob, who owned every sleazy gay bar in town.

3. How many different Prides have you been to?

I marched in every NYC pride event from the first in 1970 up through 1989 ( a marshal from 84 - 89) when virtually all my friends had died of AIDS. It became too strained, forced, surreal. I marched in Minneapolis Pride in 1982 because I was there on business, so what the hell!

4. Do you fly the Pride Flag and/or stick it to anything?

Used to fly the 4 X 6 size from the house in my previous life. Now there is a small one on my front door, and a sticker on the car. And whenever I write to my elected officials, there is always a rainbow sticker somewhere on the envelope. Just so they know.

5. Do you still celebrate Pride? What does it mean to you now?

I began celebrating again when I moved to Delaware, although their Pride event is an open fair with entertainment, no march or parade, and it happens in September. I don’t spend too much time there. I still get depressed when I remember friends lost and the great times in NYC.

6. Does Pride need improving? If so, what changes would you make?

The only thing I think needs more doing is educating our young’uns about our/their history. Teach them to be proud of who they are every day, not just around friends at a Pride event. A bold step for some here in the tiny state of Delaware, but more and more are choosing to come out.  Makes me proud.

7. How do you give back?

In the early days I was a member of The Gay Liberation Front and the Gay Activists Alliance. Later I worked with the Gay Men’s Health Crisis. In the 80s and 90s (before moving to DE, my then spouse and I were mentors at P-FLAG, NJ. During the height of the AIDS crisis of the 80s I worked within the Buddy System; was full-time care giver for the younger brother of my then spouse, until his death in 1987. I was spent, burned out.  Could never handle that emotional roller coaster ever again. I’ll be around for others, but only in minor supporting roles.  

BONUS

What kind of trouble or embarrassing moment have you had during Pride?

Got my head busted by NYPD for pausing in front of St. Patrick’s Cathedral - shouting “Shame, Shame” while shaking my fist at the church. Cop must have been a catholic homophobe, because I got busted pretty good. Missed the post-march event (in those days) in Central Park. Instead, I was at St. Vincent’s hospital receiving stitches and ending the evening with a bottle of Johnnie Walker Red to ease my pain and ego.

Thanks to Sean over at “Just a Jeep Guy”

And so it goes.

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TMI: MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND

From Sean @ Just a Jeep Guy…

1. Memorial Day is a day of remembrance but it also signifies the "Official" start of summer. What are your plans this weekend?

If the rains let up I hope to be out and about on the boardwalk people-watching and enjoying the ocean along with them.

2. What is your most and least favorite thing about summer?

Most favorite = seeing folks not seen since their holiday visit last summer.

Least favorite = Obnoxious, rude tourists. And we get plenty of them being a beach resort town.

3. What do you think of when I say "Bar-B-Que?"

Slow cooked meats, well seasoned and so tender it falls apart in your hands. Grilling is great and more common for things like burgers, steaks, corn on the cobb, shish-kabob.

4. What is your favorite summer food?

Summer produce like watermelon, fresh corn on the cob, ice cream and Italian ices. 

5. Are you is (in) swim suit shape yet?

Unfortunately, due to the meds I’m taking I have to stay off the beach and remain clothed.  A bummer for one living at the Ocean. But, I get my sunshine. The illness has cause such weight loss that I’m basically a rack of bones, anyway.

6. Given the choice, which do you prefer: ocean, lake or pool?

The Ocean is best.  Never a pool - too nasty. Lakes are way too cold for me - been there, done that - I shrivel up too quickly. No fun, that.

7. Which summer blockbuster movie are you most looking forward to seeing?

The only hot summer films around here at the big blowout super hero films. I am not interested in those.  Spandex makes me sneeze!

8. Summer reading: What? Recommendations?

I strted re-reading the dragons of Pern series again, and decided to continue reading the many others in the series. Anne McCaffrey loved her dragons and the world she created.  Great fun, and quick reading.

9. Vacation Plans? If you can't, what would you do if you could?

At this point I have to be transfused weekly which is hardly conducive to taking a break for any length of time. If I could, however, I would take an Alaskan Cruise, a restful visit to Amsterdam, and/or a trip to Northern Ireland to visit the new Titanic Museum. I not greedy!

10. Did you ever have to go to summer school?

No.

BONUS  

Sex on the beach?

Yes! The ocean and dunes between the Pines and Cherry Grove on Fire Island. I was 18 years old at the time. Ah, memories. (grin)

And so it goes.

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TMI: WHAT'S IN A NAME? (Quoting Shakespeare)

1. Do you have a favorite flower?

Two, actually. The Carnation and the Peony.

2. Do you like your name (first)?

Love it.  Last name not so much. Growing up no one else I knew had my name, which can be a good or bad thing.

3. Does your name have a meaning?

Wayne
The name Wayne is a baby boy name.
English Meaning:
The name Wayne is an English baby name. In English the meaning of the name Wayne is: Craftsman; wagon-wright; wagon driver. Famous Bearer: U.S. Actor John Wayne.
SoulUrge Number: 6
People with this name have a deep inner desire for a stable, loving family or community, and a need to work with others and to be appreciated.
Expression Number: 5
People with this name are excited by change, adventure, and excitement. They are dynamic, visionary and versatile, able to make constructive use of freedom. They fight being restricted by rules and conventions. They tend to be optimistic, energetic, intelligent, and to make friends easily. They may be changeable, restless, untidy, and rebellious.

4. Do you have (a) nickname?

My Russian, Ukrainian, and Eastern European friends at work call me Waynechik. An endearing nickname, indeed.

5. Would you ever consider changing your name?

Not the first name, but I've certainly considered changing the last, many many times. It’s not a family name I’m very proud of.

6. What name have you heard that you hate?

I don’t hate any name. I mean, as long as it isn’t mine and someone has to live with it, it’s all we really have on this planet that no one can take away from us. I also make every attempt to pronounce a person’s name properly and not Americanize it, if possible. It’s the respectful thing to do, is all.

7. What name have you heard that you love?

I’m prone to enjoy simple names and not those that are contractions of the original - like Bill for William, etc. Names like Wayne, Scott, Ian, Wendy, Sean, Sara, and the like. That way people can’t fuck around with it too much.

8. How did you pick the name(s) of your pets?

I can have no pets nowadays, but mine were usually named after some trait or habit they had that was endearing to me. It seemed the right way to go since as soon as I’d choose a name and use it to call them, they understood and came immediately.

9. Do you name inanimate objects? Name some of them.

Nope. I do have a stuffed Lion given to me by an AIDS buddy that he named “Leo” does that count?

10. Did you name your penis or breasts? Has anyone else?

NOPE! I dislike the common usage of words like “junk” to describe a man’s genitals. I do not have junk between my legs and if I did, I wouldn't be very proud of the fact.

BONUS

In an episode of the Golden Girls, Dorothy had a night of sex that was sooooo good they named it. Tell me about night you had like that. 

Unfortunately, that has never happened to me.

And so it goes.

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TMI – Snack Time

1. Do you prefer salty or sweet?

Salty is better than too sweet. Dark chocolate  is the best.

2. What was your favorite snack as a kid?

Fresh popped Pop Corn (no microwaves back then) and sour pickles.

3. What is your favorite snack now?

cheese and crackers & sour pickles

4. Healthy snacks are….?

The best and easiest to enjoy.

5. Milk and what kind of cookies? Do you dunk?

I don’t do cookies and milk. Never have. Ruins the individual flavors of each.

6. How do you eat Oreos?

I don’t eat Oreos. Only enjoy them when whipped into ice cream recipe.

7. What is your favorite movie snack?

Fresh popped Pop Corn

8. Cake or pie?

Both, but in small amounts. Dark Chocolate cake and fruit pies are the best. With a tea or coffee, the best.

9. Ready Whip or Cool Whip?

Cool whip smells like a petrol product, and ready whip is all air.  I prefer the work to make a good, proper whipped cream.

10. Potato Chips or Pretzels or Cheetos?

Oven baked chips and Sourdough Pretzels.

11. Favorite kind of ice-cream – flavor and brand?

Chocolate and any combination of chocolate mixed with nuts, fruit, etc., as in Moose Tracks or Rocky Road.  Double Chocolate with Walnuts and Brownies is always a  luxury.

12. Most unusual food you eat as a snack?

Fried Grits.

And so it goes.
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Let’s Put On a Show!

I just returned home from half a day at the Cancer Center (more on that in a later post) overhearing various rather scandalous conversations boldly spoken aloud by people I don’t even know.  Well, I don’t know them personally, except they’re usually getting Chemo or transfused on the same days I am.

It was only when one of the nurses got into the conversation I realized something was amiss, here. Turns out they were discussing some reality show or other and didn’t know the people they were talking about, either.  So, there!

Honest to Pete, people.  Isn’t your own life bizarre, boring, exciting, intriguing, mundane - well, you know, fill in the blank - already?  

How about this…Since they are all really  “pretend” anyway, why not pretend your life is your very own reality show?  No, really!  Think about it. If you have to set the mood, or make it worthwhile, set up one or two cameras (dummy or real) around your space (where ever that may be) so that you can occasionally break through the 4th wall, glance at one, roll your eyes, and/or otherwise show your emotions to any episode of your life. Right here. Right now!

If you set up real cameras you can record the show and play it back a few years from now when you know how it all worked out. Relive the drama as it happened, the stupefyingly dumb-ass, or brilliant decisions that helped you along your path; the best part is that you already know the ending…

No waiting for “seasons” to be released on DVD or Blu-Ray. You might even rent the "show" out to your friends, as well.  See, it’s a money-making and money-saving device, too.

From the YouTube clips that have made their way to me from sources who thought I'd give a shit - I don't, you couldn’t be anymore tacky, vulgar, or vile than many of the things on the tube.

Just my 2 cents, FWIW.  No need to thank me now. 

And so it goes.

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TMI: LET ME SEE YOUR TRUE COLORS

1. What is your favorite color?

Royal Purple. Not violet.

2. What color are your eyes?

Dark Brown

3. What color is your hair?

None.

4. What color is your bedroom?

Cream, off-white

5. Which color do you look best in?

Don’t know.  I’ve been told it’s Blue

6. Is there a color you never wear?

No.  My mood chooses the colour for the day or occasion.

7. How did you pick the color of your car?

I didn’t. It was purchased used.  Dark Blue.

8. Are your eyes ever green with envy?

Many years ago when I was young and stupid.

9. Do you have a signature color?

Purple (see #1)

10. How much do you love Cyndi Lauper!

Lots.  She is under rated.  She gets better with age and experience. That voice is simply outrageous.  She’s a true gift.

BONUS

Gray hair is sexy here_______, there_________ but never ________.

here: when clean, 

There: well groomed, 

But never: dirty. 

And so it goes.

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TMI: THERE'S SOMETHING IN THE AIR

1. Do you have a sensitive nose?

Very.

2. Do you have allergies? 

Yes. Mostly seasonal.

3. Do you have a big nose? =}

Do you mean physically? No I do not have Cyrano's Nose. If you mean big as in nosey, gossipy, it's NO again.

4. Are there any smells that trigger memories for you?

Yes.  Plenty of them.

5. What are some of your favorite food aromas?

Bacon frying, Onions & garlic sautéed, fresh chopped cilantro, BarBQ, bread baking, freshly ground coffee. Popping Popcorn.

6. What are some of your favorite smells in nature?

Many flowers (peonies, carnations, roses), the salt air of the ocean, fresh cut grass, tilled soil. Old books.

7. Do you use air fresheners?

No. Open windows whenever possible does the trick. Occasionally I like a bit of incense, but not often. 

8. Do you like scented candles?

Only in Winter when home is shut, otherwise, no. I love candlelight, but not the additional scents, which usually overpower the natural air in the room.

9. Which food smells make you want to hurl?

I can't think of that ever happening to me.

10. What is the absolute worst smell for you?

Death. Rotting flesh.

BONUS

What smells or aromas turn you on?

At some point or other, all favorites listed above. 

And so it goes.

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TMI Happy New Year 2014

Sean (Just a Jeep Guy) wants answers to these end-of-year questions.  So, here goes.

No resolutions! Just your best hopes and wishes for 2014!

1. Entertainment…
Hope I get to witness new stem cells grow in my marrow.  Pass the popcorn and wait. If not, the other answers are only wishful thinking and fantasy.  Wishes are children, after all.

2. Politically
End  spying on civilians, everywhere.  More focus on the poor and working classes in the world to see to it everyone is on a flat playing field. Better oversight of corporations and banks. 

3. Globally…
I hope humans will look beyond religious beliefs, stop killing one another in the name of their God, and learn how to live together, care for others, work for the change they want for their children, and help to renew the planet.

4. Personally…
Be patient with myself, especially on health issues and hope the stem cell surgery comes to pass and it isn't all for naught.

5. Friends…
May 2014 be less disappointing in that area than 2013 has been. Rejection and abandonment are not conducive to good health, or friendships. Trust is so easily destroyed. 

6. Family…
I have a sister who is in poor health.  We have made our peace for, and with the past, as far as it can go.

7. Your Suggestion…
Treat others with kindness and love. We are all we have in this crazy world, so we need to be there for one another.

Bonus

Sexually…

And so it goes.

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TMI - CALL ME

Another set of questions posed by Sean (Just a Jeep Guy) to share a little more info about ourselves, and our lives. This week's topic:  Telephones in all manner, shape, and form.

1. Do you still have a land line? 

Yes.  It's cheap enough ($10. monthly) and I trust it in emergencies more than a cell phone.

2. Which cell phone do you use and why?

iPhone4 - because it was free. My previous smartphone died a slow death and my carrier was recently able to offer Apple products, so I jumped on the offer. Free phone, shipping, activation and $5.00 off monthly fee.

3. Which provider do you use? Is there really a difference?

Virgin Mobile.  (Carrier is Sprint.) Yes, there's a big difference for me. Price and options are perfect for my needs and no 2-year contract.

4. If you call someone and they don't pick up, do you leave a message?

Yes. Especially if the call is important.

5. When you have a missed call (with no message), do you call the person back?

No, unless I recognize the number. "Private Caller" incoming calls go directly to voicemail - if you don't want me to know who you are, I don't want to talk to you.

6. Do you txt willingly or reluctantly? How are your skills?

Willingly.  I like texting. Used a lot at work. My skills are not great, but I do voice texting for more complicated messages.

7. Has your cell replaced your camera? 

Nope, and it probably never will.  

8. Selfies....

I believe I've done one. I enjoy being in photos with others. Self photos are not my thing. I know what I look like and see myself daily - in the mirror while brushing teeth or shaving.

9. How many apps do you have? Which is your favorite and why? I'm not sure what that means. The phone came with many apps. I've added 3 of my own, and they were free.  Google Earth is probably the fave.

0. What would life be like with no cell/smart phone for one month?

I'd prefer life completely without the cellphone. I like privacy. Don't like everyone knowing where I am every minute of the day. I don't answer calls or texts while driving, dining, or even shopping.  Dangerous and rude. That said, with current health and medical issues, I'm glad I have it for emergencies.

BONUS

How much has your cell phone become a part of your sex life? Sexting, hookup apps, selfies, video, GPS, more?

Haahahahahahahahahahahahaha!  That's funny...

And so it goes.

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TMI War on Christmas 2013

Don't know where this began, I've read it at a few of my recent stops, but I nicked it from Peter's (Tippin' The Scales) place.
(Update: Sean at (Just a Jeep Guy) is responsible for these fun, insightful, prying questions. I should have known. Thanks, Sean. And Happy, Merry - oh fuckit, Cheers!)

1. Which religion or faith do you belong to, if any?   I was baptized Roman Catholic at 2 weeks of age.  I had no choice in the ritual. Left all church in my teens, hooked up with the Episcopal Church briefly and left all religion behind now.    

2. What is your opinion of Merry Christmas vs. Happy Holidays?
I use both interchangeably. There are many holidays celebrated in a short time, it's unfair to consider one over an other.  Happy Holidays seems to cover them all. I have no preference.

3. Holiday music on the radio? When and how much?
PDQ Bach has always been a regular in my house. His NYC concerts were performed every year at this time at Carnegie Hall, or Avery Fisher Hall.  I also have a few fave CDs and listen a bit to Pandora.  A Little goes a long way.

4. When do you start decorating? Do you?
I don't decorate anymore. Friend Ron (Retired in Delaware) does a great job decorating his home. Lovely and warm.  In my previous life there was a huge tree that went up December 1 and came down on King's Day (Epiphany), January 6. 

5. White lights or multi colored?
When I was young it was colored twinkling bulbs and single color ornaments. As I got older, I preferred the clean, crisp look of clear bulbs and various colored ornaments. 

6. Gift cards, cash or actually shopped-for presents?
None, really. A surprise gift is always nice, but not expected or sought after. There is nothing that I want, or need. 

7. Christmas cards and or family update letters are…                                        Thoughtful.  Used to send over 100 cards in my previous life.  Not now.   Not working, and health issues means low funds.                          

8. Snow is…
Nice, if you're not forced into it for any reason. I especially love snow on Christmas and wish it gone by boxing day.

9. Have you been a good little boy or girl this year?
Define "good" please.

10. RAPID FIRE FAVORITES:
a. Food – Not anymore. The same old foods bore me to death these days. If I could, I'd love to roast a goose for Christmas, but it would be too much for just one person. And I'm low on energy, anyway. 

b. Dessert – Anything with dark chocolate

c. Drink – Eggnog, Wine, and maybe a Guinness.

d. Holiday movie – It's a Wonderful Life. White Christmas, A Christmas Carol (1951, with Alastair Sim)        

e. Holiday music – See # 3 above                                          

f. Holiday tradition – Used to be ice skating in Rockefeller Center. None anymore.

BONUS: Christmas sex:

What have you done under the mistletoe?
Kissed

Have you caught daddy kissing Santa Clause?
No.

Have you done it a santa suit?
No.

Did you come down the chimney?
If that's what it's called these days. ;-)

Just how merry have you made Santa’s helpers?
Worked at Macy's flagship store one Christmas, all helpers and elves had a jolly good time.  If you get my drift.

There.  That was painless.

And so it goes.

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TMI - Kiss The Cook

KISS THE COOK!

TMI questions posed by Sean (Just a Jeep Guy) for this week. My responses are below.

1. How good of a cook are you?

I've been cooking most of my life. A Pretty good cook, I'd say.  I haven't killed anyone as far as I know. I still enjoy it, but it was more satisfying when I was cooking for 2 or more.

2. Who taught you how to cook? 

First teacher was my grandfather.  He convinced me that I'd never go hungry if I knew my way around a few pots and pans and could prepare 2 or 3 dishes well. I took it from there. Experimentation is fun.

3. Who does the cooking in your home?

Me.  I live alone.  But when I prepare a huge pot of something I containerize and share it with others who may enjoy it, too.

4. Do you cook more or eat out more?

Cook more.  About 99% of the time. I like dining out if there's a favorite dish I can't make (or too much work to make) myself. If mine is better, why chance a bad experience?

5. Are you more of a cook or dessert maker?

I'm not a big dessert fan. I may indulge when dining out, but usually share something with my dining partner - and it's usually something they are dying to have.  Give me a chunk of high-cocoa content dark chocolate and I'm in heaven. That is my occasional special treat.

6. What was your worst/funniest cooking moment? 

Long story - very short. The then lover asked that I make dinner for 8 only to be told while cooking I wasn't one of them. He was in the closet, don'tcha know. My job was to cook and leave. When I learned this, three large pans of thick stuffed pork chops ended up on lawn. I left him to explain the situation as he saw fit, fend for himself, and I went out to dinner alone.  Need I mention this episode was the beginning of the end? I guess not.

7. What's your best dish?

It's been so long since I cooked for anyone other than myself. I have lots of favorites depending on my mood at the time. I especially love what I call Kitchen Sink salads. Alas, due to present health conditions fresh/raw fruits and vegetables are not allowed.  I get cravings.  Y'all get cravings?

8. Is revenge a dish best served cold? 

Absolutely, if at all. Personally, I don't believe in revenge. Negative use of time and energy.  Karma may be slow, but it's a real bitch when it's pay-back time.

9. Is the best way to a man's heart truly through his stomach?  

Not mine.

BONUS

Have you made whoopee in the kitchen? Which foods have you used to spice up your love life?

Yes. Enuf said.  And what's often said about Chocolate and Oysters (no, not together, silly!) is so true. 

Justin Wilson - Cajun Chef

Now I'm hungry.

More later.

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