Uneventful

I think I experienced the most low key, uneventful birthday of my life. I didn't take in a movie. I didn't go to lunch or dinner. I didn't do anything special. I spent most of the day bargain shopping for computer and camcorder accessories. After several hours of price comparisions I finally bought RAM and a firewire pci card; and installing both on my computer was the highlight of the day. Ho hum! It sure doesn't seem like I had a birthday. Considering I didn't plan a dinner or something I guess the day was exactly what I wanted the day to be - uneventful. I don't know. I doubt I'll look back on this birthday, in years to come, and be able to recall anything memorable about this day. After I've had a few days to process it, I'll be able to decide whether or not uneventful birthdays are a good thing or bad thing for me.

Happy Holidays

Wishing everyone a Happy Holiday!

Snapshots

Main Entry: snap·shot
Pronunciation: 'snap-"shät
Function: noun
1 : a casual photograph made typically by an amateur with a small handheld camera
2 : an impression or view of something brief or transitory snapshot of life back then


Ever have those moments when a distant memory sneaks up on you out of nowhere? I've been having a lot of them lately.

---

“He’s in shock” my grandmother said into the phone receiver cradled in her ear. I stared blankly at the wall while lying on my side with my back facing to Granny. I listened to her to carry on over the phone expressing her grief, remorse and concern.

Granny and I were never really that close. With the unexpected and untimely death of my mother she had taken it upon herself to become my guardian. I knew immediately that it would never work. Her being my guardian that is. I wouldn't let it work. No! Never! Not in a million years. I would never allow that woman to “care” for me. Not after the way she had treated my mother.

You see Granny had favorite children and favorite grandchildren and it affected her interpersonal relationships with all involved parties. Her favored children were never required to give her much of anything - help, gifts, money - while the other children were expected to give their last drop of blood if she deemed it useful and necessary to her survival. Granny never made the other children feel appreciated for their efforts; and that's where the disconnect existed between Granny and my mother. My mother was seeking unconditional love and appreciation from her mother; but Granny never expressed it. At least not in a tangible way that my mother understood. I know they had conversations about it but there were still lingering doubts. My mother died wondering if her mother truly loved her and I hated Granny for it.

"I don't know what I'm going to do. Ethel was the only one that ever did anything for me" Granny said as she sobbed into the phone. Listening to those words infuriated me. I wanted to stand up and scream from the top of my lungs "You got a lot of nerve woman. She died thinking you didn't appreciate anything she tried to do for you and now you want to tell the world she was the only one that did anything for you? I HATE YOU! I HATE YOU! How you could do that to my mother?" I had heard enough. I had to get away from her. I grabbed my pillow and my blanket and walked to my cousin's room. I hoped the distance would help drown out the sound of my grandmother's voice.

“He’s not saying much. He’s not saying anything at all!” she said sadly into the phone. I could still hear her through the walls and the sound of her voice was sickening. I couldn’t take much more of it. The wound was much too fresh. Just five hours before I had listened to an ER doctor tell me that my mother had died. What are you supposed to say after you’ve heard something so tragic at the age of 17? Of course I wasn’t saying much.

I laid there in my cousin's room plotting what to do to get rid of Granny. She's got to go I told myself over and over again before slumber took over.

13 seconds of glory

My fleeting moment on H.ow I Met Yo.ur Mo.th.er! Click here

Not Around Here

A question of reconciliation, if you will, was posed to me this weekend by a friend of mine. "If a former friend was in the hospital dying from a terminal illness would you go to them to make peace and reconcile your relationship?" Me being me instinctively grimaced and barked out sarcastically "hellllllllll naw!" The friend who posed the question immediately started howling with laughter then said "SHAAAAWN? Are you serious? You wouldn't want to make peace or something?" I thought about that question for a second, if that long. "Umm...no. I don't believe in that shit. That's some BS! If former friend and I couldn't reconcile while we were both healthy and in our right minds then what's the use? That's some fake BS running to someone's bedside for a makeup conversation or whatever when think they're about to die." Knowing that my friend had a particular former friend of mine in mind when she posed the question I added, "and I'm definitely not going if we stopped being friends because they wronged me. That is out of the question."

She seemed geniunely surprised by my response. In fact, she kept repeated "I can't believe it. I can't believe it."

I don't know why she was so surprised. She knows I don't think like everyone else. Further, she knows that I take the bond of friendship very seriously. Once you have violated that bond, it's a wrap. You're dead to me. It's settled very quickly in my heart and mind.

"Believe it!" I said

Mission Accomplished

Because ShellyP asked here's a pic of the vegan brownies.
















They're delicious.

To go with the brownies I baked this garlic & herb meatless chik' n cutlet, prepared vegan mac and cheese, and steamed some broccoli.

The Mission

To make Vegan Brownies using this recipe:

INGREDIENTS

* 2 cups unbleached all-purpose flour
* 2 cups white sugar
* 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
* 1 teaspoon baking powder
* 1 teaspoon salt
* 1 cup water
* 1 cup vegetable oil
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

DIRECTIONS

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
2. In a large bowl, stir together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder and salt. Pour in water, vegetable oil and vanilla; mix until well blended. Spread evenly in a 9x13 inch baking pan.
3. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes in the preheated oven, until the top is no longer shiny. Let cool for at least 10 minutes before cutting into squares.


Its my first attempt at making a vegan dessert. I'll let you know how it turns out.

Did She Really Say All That????

Got this in email last night!



This had me on the floor. Loved it! Be warned: Very offensive stand up comedy. Not necessarily for the faint of heart.

An 80s Flashback

I woke up this morning with the tune Seasons Change in my head. That inspired this week's playlist. I was such a pop music fan in those days.

Music always stirs your memory. Why is that? These songs make me remember the little, pleasant things from back in the day.

• I remember riding the Amtrak from Downtown LA to San Diego. I always had to eat a bag of peanut M&M's
• I remember being sent to Boy's Super Market by my Great Aunt. We always messed around on the train tracks and threw rocks on the way to the store. There was this open field next to the center where the store was and it always reeked of dead flesh. We would always hurry up and run through the field to avoid the smell as best we could. We'd soon encounter the unique smell of the cleaning solution from the neighborhood cleaners
  
• I remember hoping my older cousins would give me .25 cents to buy a scoop of ice cream on a cone from Thrifty's. Thrifty's always had the best ice cream when I was growing up
• I remember riding in the car with my mom listening to the radio. My mom would sing along to her favorite tunes and it would drive me crazy when she'd sing in her falsetto instead singing full out. And she always sang with lots and lots of vibrato. It would drive me insane
• I remember that we always left a lamp on the days when we knew we be coming home late with the radio playing softly in the background to hopefully convince a potential burglar that someone was indeed home so they wouldn't break in
  

A True Junkie

This was my 3-5:05am today.



I'm a real junkie to be waking up in the middle of the night to watch tennis. Its a shame. But with this being last men's tennis tournament of the season (The Te.nn.is Mas.te.rs Cup - the playoffs of tennis, if you will. Only the top 8 players in the world compete for the title) I am determined to get in as much viewing as possible before its all over.

I was so anxious to watch this match that I woke up before my alarm clock ever sounded. I first stirred at 1:30am and finally at 2:55am. Thank goodness it was worth my while. Not only did James Bl.ak.e (American) and Rafael N.a.dal (Spainiard) play a really entertaining match full of loads of drama and intrigue (N.ada.l, the higher ranked and much more accomplished player, had never beaten Blake the 2 other times they've played. N.ad.al put himself in a winning position in both sets but Blake refused to lose) but the outcome was to my liking to boot - Blake was the victor.

We spectators were treated to some spectacular tennis rallies as each player tried to outfox the other at every turn. Just when you thought one player had a decided advantage the other would up the ante and turn the tables. One rally, in particular, had me up out of my chair hooting and hollering. I'm searching the web now for a clip of the rally. The point went from offense to defense and defense to offense from both players. You couldn't tell if someone was going to win the point or lose the point until the last ball was struck. It was simply incredible and had me on my feet cheering like a damn fool at 5 in the morning.

Enjoy the highlight reel.

Just Me

Messing around with the new digital camera.

If You Could Read My Mind

this is what you would have heard me saying:

1. I don't give a fuck if you're not alarmed that my check hasn't come. I didn't ask your thoughts. I asked you to call to see when the check was coming. A 30 day turn around might work for you but not for me. Are you fucking serious?

2. Please teach your child that crying and hollering will not get him whatever he wants. If he's mad that I stopped by for a visit "too fucking bad." Stop picking his little his spoiled ass up comforting him and asking "what's the matter?" just because he's screaming bloody murder. You know the matter.

I don't have children therefore I hold my tongue in your presence because I know how touchy you parents are about being advised on parenting, especially by a non-parent, but it needs to said "sit the little shit down, tell him 'no, stop, or whatever.' Holding and kissing him and making baby talk with him because he's upset that someone dropped by for a visit is just dumb. It reinforces his poor behavior."

3. Don't get a fucking attitude with me when I call to tell you that your creditor called me looking for yo' ass! Dumbass, you listed me as a reference. No, i'm not going to lie and tell them I don't know where you are. In fact, you keep up this bullshit and your new number and new address will be extended to the creditor.

4. Creditor, who the fuck are you? Don't call me with a nasty ass, belligerent attitude. I'm the reference not the account holder. What the hell you're calling me about is news to me. Give me a reason to help you. For starters, stop screaming in my ear. Next, stop acting like finding the account holder is a life and death matter for you; and finally, stop acting like I owe you the information. News flash: I don't know you.

Undecided

Heroes was lackluster last night. I have definitely lost my zeal for the show. I had high hopes that Heroes would recover from last week's dull, uninformative episode. That proved not to be true. Boring is the best way I can desribe the episode. And where was the plot development? Did they really air a 50 minute episode where the biggest revelation was Micah - the son - is a hero too? Oh wait! I am guessing the guy that can burn people is important too. They did spend 10 minutes or so on that storyline as well. My only problem is I was lost. Who is he again? And why should I care?

I'm undecided on whether or not I'm going to keep watching. If I had to make a decision right now I'd say the hell with this show.

Pace Picante had one of the best jiggles back in the day - "PICK UP THE PAAAACCE!!!!!" The writers of this show need to adhere to that advice at once.

Midterm Election

I hope everyone takes the time to exercise their right to vote today.

Don't Get It

1. What's so funny about this Borat character? As well as Ali G? I'm missing it.

Gotta Love It

Or, do I?

"Hey waldo, does urkel have a myspace page....By the way u ruled in that show" - sent to my from a myspace user last evening.

I haven't replied yet. Any suggestions?

---

On My Tube
1 - The FoL2 reunion show was a bust. An absolute bust. I can not believe the shammockery VH-1 aired this weekend. They made us wait 2 weeks for that? You can't be serious!!!!

2 - Where my Weeds fans? Was the season finale bananas or what? I was sitting on the edge of my seat. I'll be counting down the days 'til the start of the next season.

One thing that bothers me about the show is the way they have chosen to write for the eldest son on the show. I'm continously amazed at the level of disrespect he shows his mom. It really rubs me the wrong way. I cringe everytime I watch those mother-son scenes.

3 - I think I've about had it with Heroes. I've been patient, thus far, hoping they'd pick up the pace but they've (the writers) decided to strings us along and drag this ish out. After last nights filler episode with much fluff and very little substance I'm salty. Am I the only one that believed all of the 'heroes' would have met by now? Isn't that what the previews have been indicating for the last 2 weeks? Yet the last two episodes haven't given us any real meat to sink our teeth into and the 'heroes' haven't met. I want answers to questions. Who the crap is the cheerleader's father? And why is he searching for the heroes? I think that's a pretty basic question that needs addressing.

---

If anyone watches How I Met Your Mother you'll be hearing me soon. Today I recorded a 10 sec blip as a "Radio DJ" for an upcoming episode.

Just Explain

this BS to me (those of you who use myspace). Why would a former friend I haven't seen nor spoken to in 4 years go through the trouble of adding me to their friends list, leave a comment about how great it is to bump into me on myspace, invite me to look them up if I ever visit the city where they now reside then delete me from their friends list before I have a chance to reply with a comment on their page? What kind of BS is that? Is she serious?

Wicked

I've never been one to wish ill on other people. Growing up I was always taught you wish your enemies well; pray for your enemies; and to love your enemies. Hmmph! To hell with that I say.

Those that have wronged me, know that I wish you nothing good. The day I see you fall will be one of the greatest days of my life.

Ahh...saying that makes me feel so much better.

Blog Vacation

I'm going on blog vacation. I'll be back soon...maybe.

Let me share these 2 clips from Legion


Opening Credits


Legion Pledge (my most notable moment to date)

Worth Watching?

Did anyone watch Ugly Betty last night? Thoughts? I thought the 1st 20 minutes were hilarious. Good casting choices.

Down and Out

1. Yesterday I was down for the count. I woke up feeling terrible. I didn't have a fever or a cold or anything - a mild headache at worst. Nonetheless, I couldn't muster up the energy to do anything. After a run to Trader Joe's I was bed ridden all day. I am pretty sure I slept for about 14 hours yesterday. I guess I needed the rest.

2. So cuckoo cousin seems to have made a full recovery. Though she claims that it takes 3 psychiatric pills to keep her functioning normally. Speaking of cuckoo. All those blazing fires that flared up last week have been quelled.

3. One of my other cousins got married this weekend. It was a nice ceremony. I had a great time with the family. The only issue I had was with the lone musician who chose to play music on the organ instead of the keyboards or piano. The result was the pre-ceremony music sounded like we were attending a funeral. Take a listen: pre-ceremony music. I should mention the wedding singers were TERRIBLE!!!!! One butchered For You by Kenny Lattimore; the other tortured us with a rendition of The Lord's Prayer. Both women were awful.

4. One surprising discovery for me at the wedding was learning that my cousin is still dating the guy that was the source of the argument that lead to the rumble that lead to me and cuckoo cousin's near shooting after my aunt's funeral several months ago. I told her she had betta have a great reason for still dating his behind after I nearly died. I know she won't anything remarkable to say but it needed to be said.

5. My damn near 60 year old uncle was doing the butterfly and the nasty at the reception. Very comical. Oh if you could've seen him breaking it down when they started playing Atomic Dog.

6. Last week, I sat in on a few post production sound mastering sessions with Shavar for his film. Boy oh boy what a tedious process. It takes a great deal of patience to go through every frame with a fine tooth comb to catch then tweak the errors. I was easily worn out. *Shavar if you're reading this, if you say another word to me about RVs we gon' fight.

---

More Commercials I Liked
Loved most of the ads for following brands because the jingle was fun to sing along with:
The old school Shasta Soda Pop ads back in the 80's. I loved their jingle. "Do you wanna pop? Do you wanna Shasta?"
Nair ads from the 80's. Again, another jingle I liked. "We wear short shorts."
Dr. Pepper. "Imma a pepper. She's a pepper. Wouldn't you like to be a pepper too?"
Pringles. "Betcha can't eat just one?" Very true. In junior high school I used to eat half a can of pringles a day.
7-UP ads featuring the Caribbean actor with the deep voice.

Commercials

Everytime I see those Subway commercials featuring Jon Lovitz my skin begins to crawl. I don't know what happened to Jared but he was a much pitch man for the Subway chain than Mr Lovitz. Isn't he the worst? I really want to smack that grin off his face everytime I see it. What's with that character voice he uses? Yuck!

I started thinking about pitch persons and ad campaigns I've really enjoyed through the years. For me, the best featured character and ad campaign is will always be the Wendy's Where's The Beef? ad featuring the lovable octogenarian and her crew.

I've enjoyed the Del Taco guy's goofy commercials. They've been milking it for a long time but the writing and acting has been consistently good.

OMG, that commercial with Little Richard has me in stitches everytime I see it. Mashed potatoes and gravy...WOOoooo!!!

I really get a big kick out of seeing the black guy that is featured in 90% of the Aflac commercials with the duck. The expressions of his face are so frickin hilarious to me.

Many of the Jack as Jack in the Box commercials have been gems. The newer featuring the overly hyper cheerleader is classic. Nuh nuh na na nuh nuuuhhh!!! Leave!

I have a few more to add to my list later - To Be Continued

Bad Attitude

After hibernating in the corner for a long, long time yesterday I put on my mean mug and made the necessary phone calls to get my refund. Mission accomplished. Now the hunt begins for a new designer. Sigh! Oh joy!

No sooner than I had finished putting out the fire with the designer and the payment processor (who forced the designer to refund my money) I receive a call letting me know another fire has flared up.

Immediately, I text my cousin a detail message letting her know she needs to make a very important phone call by the end of business so we can get matter resolved. She replies "nervous breakdown on my way to looney bin!" WTF? I really didn't think anything of it until I found out later that my cousin failed to make the call.

Later in the evening my cousin IMs me:
Her: Im so foreal about N/B in the hospital.
Me: told you they need info from you. But it's whatever at this point
Her: Unless u want that woman to think im crazy we need to let the valium kick in
Me: ok

I don't know if I was supposed be moved by the nervous breakdown business but I wasn't. If anything I was more irritated. Her ass is coherent enough to text me earlier in the day. Sane and rational enough to IM me later in the evening but she needs meds to prevent the on-set of her breakdown? Whatever!

Mental Meltdown

1. Shoot! I had planned to finish writing about Spiritual's reception but I am too pissed off to write anything. I ordered some design work from a company that gotten under my skin by not doing anything correctly that I've asked them to do. It's crazy. I'm trying to get a refund of my money. We'll see how that goes. It's always something I tell ya.

2. Do you guys think you'd enjoy watching me acting a fool in public? You've read some of the mishaps that I encounter occasionally. I'm considering lugging a camera around for a week or so in hopes of capturing some of my golden moments on video.

Speaking of cameras, anybody have any family or friends that work for any of the major chains e.g. BestBuy, Circuit City, Sears that can extend their discount for camcorder purchase? :-D

3. Heads up! My animated show Legion of Super Heroes debuts September 23rd on the CW network at 10 a.m. The 23rd is this upcoming Saturday.

Ok, I'm going to hide in the corner for a minute until I calm down. Right about now I could tear somebody's head off.

Trip The Reception

I immediately return to the church after my brief detour to drop kick LMBA into her carseat. I find a hostess to help me find my seat at the reception. She asked for my name then scanned the list for my table. I was told I was sitting at table "Philippians" located at the opposite end of the church hall. "I am sitting where?" I ask thinking, hoping and praying I've heard incorrectly. "The table where they have you seated is called Philippians. You'll see a card with your name on it." Only Spiritual I think as I make my way to my seat.

At the Philippians table I spend a short amount of time getting acquainted with CStarr aka the unofficial wedding mc. We have a quick laugh about wedding related stuff then I notice something that seems a little odd - the wedding party's table was smashed against a stage that had been setup. Natually I inquire with CStarr if she knows why that stage is present. She tells me that live music is supposed to be played during the reception.

CStarr is summoned to introduce the wedding party by the pushy and overbearing wedding planners. The introductions turn into an awkward moment. It seems the wedding planner gave CStarr the wrong introduction order. You'd think the wedding planners could get that straight, right?

Finally it was time to eat after the blessing was said by the Reverend Doctor. And time for our live entertainment. Folks that's when I got the biggest laugh of the day. Remember the stage? Rememeber the live music? Well, I wasn't ready for this



Your ears are not playing tricks on you. I recorded this snippet on my cell phone because I knew no one would believe me without proof. Spiritual hired a gospel quartet to be the entertainment at the reception.

CStarr and I fell out laughing. I don't know how commonplace that is for some of you but it was a first (and hopefully a last) for me.

I surveyed the room throughout dinner to gauge people's reaction to the music and there was one attendee in particular who was in heaven. She was pushing mid to late 70s, and wheelchair bound. She was having a handclapping good time.

After polishing off my first plate of food I had to make my way to the wedding party's table to thank Spiritual for the laughs. CStarr, in turn, told Spiritual that she would never sit near me at any future events because I was cutting up the entire time. :-D

Friend and Yummy inched their way into the reception at some point. I was immediately chastised by Friend for not answering the emails she had sent to my phone. I honestly hadn't noticed my phone had messages. I was too busy being entertained by CStarr and all the happenings at the reception.

Friend continued being a disruptive force in the day's events. She was ready to leave and wanted to know how much longer I planned to stay at the reception. I will admit that I am normally the cut and run type but this was not one of those times.

By then, Spritual was making the rounds greeting everyone in attendance. Friend softened her "i'm ret to go" attitude after Spiritual dropped by our table for a visit where I took pics of yummy, CStarr, Spiritual and Friend.

The friendly side of Friend was short lived however. After having a bite to eat she was again ret-ta-go. We made a plan that she would go home then come back to pick me up in 45 minutes. Phew!!!! Good riddance! Talk about a killjoy.

To Be Continued

Trip The Wedding

Friend, Yummy and I take our seats while brother bastard is singing his little heart out with his eyes closed and all...Bless his heart. I immediately take a look the wedding program to see how much of the ceremony we had missed. Fortunately, we had only missed the welcome by Ms CStarr - the unofficial wedding mc lol - and a portion of brother bastard's song.

The ceremony was enjoyable. Faith's father - the Reverend Doctor himself - conducted the ceremony. People that man can talk...and talk...and talk. And he's one of those types that only says 2 to 3 words at a time to punctuate everything he says, I am guessing. According to Friend ('cause I missed it), the Rev Doc looked rather weepy as he and his wife helped walked Faith down the aisle. I so wish you guys coulda seen the look on Spiritual's face when they first opened the sanctuary doors to reveal his bride. Friend and I tried to capture it on camera but were unsuccessful. He looked like he was trying so hard not to breakdown and cry even though he had this big grin on his face. LOL! It was hilarious....and heartwarming.

Ok, so they announce that we must remain seated until after the bride has passed our respective pews. To this point Yummy's behavior was under control. After we all stood then took our seats again your friend Yummy started gearing up to put on a show. Friend excused herself from the sanctuary because she didn't want Yummy to disturb the proceedings and ended up missing the cermony.

Like I said earlier the ceremony was nice and rather enjoyable. I don't recall anything being out of order; nor do I remember anything outstanding happening. My only gripe would be that Spiritual and Faith had their former singles ministry leaders read an entire chapter from the Song of Solomon. And I just wanted to know where's the damn sandman when you need him? Their hurky jerky style of reading or recitation, if you can call it that, was utterly dull. I think everybody went to sleep for the 5-10 minutes it took them to do their portion of the program.

Wait a minute. Wait a minute. I do remember something rather entertaining happening during the ceremony that had the church laughing. For whatever reason, lots of people look forward to "the kiss" at weddings, right? Ha! So there the attendees are all smiles and giggles waiting in an anticipation for the "the kiss." In Spiritual's true prudish fashion he laid a kiss on his bride that was as passionate as a kiss you give to grandma. Everybody started laughing. I heard "that's it" ringing through the sanctuary as well as "that's Spiritual for you." That peck, yes people it was a dry ass lip to lip peck, was so quick and passionless I doubt anybody was able to capture it on camera.

*In fairness, I will admit that Spiritual redeemed himself at the reception. Spiritual & Faith's kisses got rather wet and sloppy by the end of the reception. Get a room already!

After the ceremony I go looking for Friend to find out why she never returned. She tells me that Yummy always acts a fool whenever she takes her places. Friend can't understand why Yummy is well-behaved when she's with other people and but not with her. She thought it best that she remain outside because of the impending tantrum. Why do parents act clueless to the reasosns their children are misbehaved?

So as Friend and I are conversing and I am filling her in on the missed details of the ceremony I hear a woman calling out to me trying to get my attention.

Eva. Shaw: ERIC!!!

I continue conversing with Friend as Evangelist Shaw continues to walk closer and closer to us while staring me down.

Eva. Shaw: Eric! Eric!

I finally break off my chat

Me: umm...my name's not eric
Eva. Shaw: are you sure? you're joking aren't you?
Me: Yes, I am sure. My name is not Eric. I'm Shawn
Eva. Shaw: Oh my god. You look and sound just like Eric. He and I used to sing together. I really thought you were him. I haven't seen him in a long time but I knew just knew you were him.
Me: Oh...ok
Eva. Shaw: I have to ask Faith to show you a picture of Eric. You guys really do lookalike.

I give her that raised eyebrow- yea, ok, whatever-I'm trying to appear nice-but why are you talking to me nutjob-I don't look like no damn body but myself-closed mouth grin hoping she would disengage. Unfortunately, she didn't. She paused for a minute then giggles and smiles

Eva. Shaw: I know you probably think I sound crazy.
Me: As a matter of fact I DO think you sound crazy

I smile. She stops smiling.

Eva. Shaw: it was nice meeting you
Me: you too

*Friend later said I was mean to Eva Shaw. I disagreed. I pointed out to Friend that Shaw said she was crazy first and I just agreed. And Shaw's accessment was correct: I did indeed think she was crazy.

Friend decides she's going to her car for awhile before she enters the reception because Yummy needs a nap.

Friend: Can you carry her to the car?
Me: why?
Friend: Because I have on heels and that's an extra 25 lbs to carry

Without saying a word 'cause y'all know I am irritated at this moment I take Yummy from Friend to make my move to the car. Yummy instantly starts kicking and screaming.

Friend: oh, that's ok. I'll take her
Me: No, she gon' be fine.

I march as fast as I can to Friend's car and deposit little miss bad ass into her car seat then return to the church for the reception.

To Be Continued

Watch

The Underground on Showtime tonight at 10pm. My buddy is doing the VO work you'll hear throughout the show.

Trip Saturday

Saturday
Friend wakes up at the crack dawn, like 7 in the morning, and comes in the room to turn the tv on. She never explained why it was necessary but asked me if it were ok. Keep in mind people I'm still on west coast time. Granted I am an early riser but damn, we didn't get to bed until after 2:30.

She turns the tv on and immediately jumps on the phone to rehash the details of her evening. I am pretty much forced to wake up at this point so I jump on the internet briefly to kill time.

Friend throws on her sweatsuit around 8 then asks me if I want any breakfast. I tell her I'm not hungry and she leaves. Fifteen minutes later she returns home with Yummy who had spent the night out at her aunt's house so Friend could go out.

When Yummy enters the house I'm told that I can't keep watching my DVD because Yummy has to watch her cartoons. I protest a little. Friend tells me the tv keeps Yummy quiet. I'm all for quiet children I quickly hush and find something else to do. I read one my books for awhile; surf the internet again; and finally I decide to touch up my hair but not before I ask Friend if we can grab some breakfast. I am quickly shot down. Its too much work carrying Yummy in and out of the house. Shoulda gone out with me when I left to pick her up.

The next hour I spend touching up my hair while Friend continues reliving the exploits of the prior night over the phone, making breakfast for Yummy and halfheartedly attempting to take the cornrows out of Yummy's hair. Yummy had about 16 braids in her hair and Friend took down 4...in an hour's time.

After I finish doing my hair I iron my clothes and take my shower. As I'm getting dressed Hubby comes upstairs to begin getting ready for work. I offer "Wassup Hubby!" to which I get less then lively"Hey!" with no eye contact. I chucke to myself and finish prepping.

Time is just wasting away. I'd say its now 1pm and Friend isn't close to being ready to head to the wedding. She's still on the phone; still faking like she's taking her daughter's hair down; and now she's complaining about Yummy's bad attitude and how much she knows Yummy needs a nap.

Tick tock. Tick tock. Not much progress has been made by 1:30. I tell Friend we're going to be late and miss the wedding. She tells me we're not going to be late and if we are its no big deal because weddings never start on time.

By 1:50 she pulls herself together and we prepare to walk out of the door.

On the way to the church she informs me that she has no idea where it is. She recalls Spiritual telling her its between this street and that street but she doesn't trust his directions. Whatever route she takes ends up being a bust. The street the church is located off of doesn't go all the way through. She can't figure out what major street we're supposed to be driving down to get to the street where the church is located. We drive around in a circle making rights and lefts for a minute before she decides she wants to ask the local residents for assistance. Great! We pull up to Grandma Pearl and Granpa Earl. For the next 5 minutes we listen to Pearl give us directions to the church that include such precision as "go around this bend and when you see X kind of house you make a right." LOL!

Somehow some way we figure out Pearl's coded directions and finally make it to the church....several minutes after 2pm - the official start time of the wedding.

When we pull up to the church we think we're luck because there's a a parking space directly in front. We see hands waving us off from inside the church so we make a u-turn and search for another spot to park. Friend is griping and complaining because its rainy and she doesn't like the neighborhood. Hehehehe! Mind you she lives in Southeast. Ok, ok. I know all of SE isn't bad but its funny how uppity people get at times.

We park and head inside the church. The ceremony is already in progress. As soon as Spiritual sees us entering late he chuckles a little bit. I point at Friend and shake my head disapprovingly and laugh with him as we grab a seat.

To Be Continued

Trip Friday

UPDATED
Friday
After waiting in the house all damn day for my luggage to be delivered my next obstacle was getting from Spiritual's house to Friend's house. The original plan called for Spiritual to drop me off at Friend's house sometime during the afternoon Friday but jetBLUE losing my bag messed that up. I was originally told delivery would be between 11 and 4. I didn't actually get my bag until 6 something that evening.

I called Friend around 3:30 to let her know that I needed her to come swoop me. She moaned and groaned about having to drive 15 minutes out of her way to come get me - especially when it was Spritual's responsibility. I reminded her of the lost luggage issue and explained that Spiritual, being a groom, had other pressing issues to adhere to. The biggest being his wedding rehearsal. Friend continued to huff and puff but ceded to my request; but not before she informed me that she was going to Clinton Portis' party that evening and I had betta be ready when she was in the area because she was short on time. Agreed!!!!!

Once I retrieved my bag I called Friend immediately to let her know that I was offically ready for pick up. Of course she had to remind me of the great burden I was placing on her. She was busy shopping at the mall so she tells me it'll take her hours before she can get to me. Fine!

Around 8 pm she calls me backs to say she's on her way and asks me for Spiritual's address. I give it to her.

Around 8:20 she calls me back to let me know that she can't fit me into her tight schedule so she'd rather pick me up after returns from her party.

Around 8:45 she calls me back to say she'd rather come get me now because she'll be too tired to do pick me up at 2am.

Friend calls me back at leatst 4 more times while she's driving to me to ask for Spirituals address. Our typical exchange:
Friend: what's spiritual's address again? 5055?
Me: No, it's 5210

10 minutes later
Friend: His address is 5055 right?
Me: NO, its 5210

5 minutes later
Friend: I forgot his address again. What is it?
Me: 5210

Yes, people I know...draining as hell. Anyhoo, Friend finally picks me up and we make the mad dash back to her crib so she can get ready for her party. I get a quick tour of the house and am deposited in front of the tv with a remote. Friend makes her final preparations is gone before you know it.

After midnight Friend starts sending emails from her Sidekick to mine. What chu doing? You sleep? Then she hits me with did hubby come home? Hubby coming around is news to me. No sooner than I had emailed her "no" I hear hubby coming through the door. He walks upstairs where I am and grumbles a terse and barely audible "eh, wassup!" I respond "Hey hubby!" He does whatever in the closet then makes his way to the basement. I email Friend and let her know Hubby has returned home.

Shortly thereafter, within the hour I'd say, Friend returns home. When she gets upstairs she tells me
Friend: he told me to get away from him.
Since I'm half asleep I have no clue what she's talking about but I offer
Me: oh...why?
Friend: He's mad because I went out tonight. He didn't want me to go to the club.
Me: Oh!
I say very dryly while thinking damn, can't a man get some rest around here? And why do I feel like i'm in the middle of a war zone? Bastards.

Now that Friend has finally returned home its officially time for bed. I'm told to stay in Friend's bed while Friend sleeps in their daughter Yummy's room and Hubby sleeps in the basement with the tv blaring.

Audio Blog

I started recording an audio blog about my trip ('cause I am too lazy to write anything) but I'm not happy with it. Thus, I've trashed that crap. The stories aren't coming to life as vividly as the experiences were to me. I probably won't be revisiting all the humous things that happened to me on my trip. I feel like most of the key moments fall into the category of "you had to be there" so I won't bore you all with a long, long audio.

I'll be back later tonight with a condensed audio about Spiritual's wedding. In the meantime I'm off to wach Kinky Boots.

~Thespian Shawn off to be inspired by what I've heard is a great art house film out

Not Home

I can't really concentrate well enough to write a blog entry when I'm not home and I don't know why that is case. I feel like i'm neglecting my blogging duties when I don't get around to posting what's on my mind. I hope to get a post up by the end of the day. I really want to start sharing more details of my trip and all the funny things, to me at least, I witnessed.

Shavar and I had lunch yesterday at PF Chang's and I discovered that they'll make any meat dish with tofu. YESSSSS!!!!!! I had Kung Pao bean curd. It was so good. I love spicy food so I was in heaven. I think I may make another run by there today.

By the way, Shavar is really busting his ass working towards completing his film. I ask that you join me in supporting his work monetarily when it hits theaters and stores next year.

I don't know why this popped into my head as I was driving the other night but my driving style mirrors my sex style. I drive with focus and purpose and...

How 'bout this. Remember when I said I had a feeling one of those former friends was gonna pop sooner or later? How 'bout the chick that I mentioned the other day has found me on myspace? I knew it. I knew it. I knew it.

~Thespian Shawn coming full circle out

Because I Am Male

At least, that's how AIM girl explained my reaction to her story.

I referened in one my trip updates that AIM girl shared a story with me that had me dying on the floor. She was none too pleased that I wasn't as offended as she was by what she witnessed. I'd like to hear what you guys have to say about the incident. Perhaps she is correct that I am male and that's the reason why I, like her other male friend, wasn't fazed in the slighest.

AIM girl lives in very nice apt complex located off a major street in the San Fernando Valley area of LA. She lives in a newer building that's less than a year old. All of the tenants are well to do and she specifically chose to live in this complex because it's one building of apts with less than 60 units in the building. In addition, its very clean and quiet inside of the building and every keeps to themselves.

Ok, so the story goes that AIM girl was on her way from the airport at 2:30 in the morning Thursday evening. As she was getting ready to pull into her parking garage she noticed one of her neighbors having sex on his balcony. The neighbor and his conquest were fully naked and fully exposed for the world to see. It just so happens that neighbor's balcony is located off the front of the building which is off of a major street here in LA. AIM girl said she thought her eyes were playing tricks on her since she was so tired from her plane trip. She put her car in reverse, backed up and got another glimpse of naked neighbor and his conquest retreating inside of the apt from the balcony.

AIM girl asked me if I had encoutered the scene she witnessed would I have been offended? Because she was very much offended by the scene. She also wanted to know if I thought she was overreacting by placing a call to property management to report the incident and voice her displeasure with the episode.

I told her that if I had caught my neighbor in the act at 2:30 in the morning I woulda been laughing too hard to be offended. I'm pretty sure neighbor thought there's no way in hell anyone's gonna be driving by his balcony at that time of night. LOL! Why not take a chance, right? I further explained that considering the time of night what are the chances that I would ever catch my neighbor doing something like that in the future? If I don't keep late night hours like that then I would never be the wiser so I wouldn't trip out. However, had I caught him doing his business before midnight, I'd probably been pissed to high heavens thinking he wants to get caught.

AIM girl got pissed at me for not being offended like her. She then rationalized that its because I am male that public sex doesn't/didn't offend me like it offended her and her female friends. I told her I didn't think all women would be offended by such a thing but maybe I'm wrong.

What's would your reaction be to catching your neighboring hitting his conquest doggy style (yes, that was the position) on his balcony at 2:30 in the morning?

~Thespian Shawn out

Troublemaker

Friday turned out to be a lot more eventful than I expected. I planned to go to my voice-over audition, grab a bite to eat, meet up with fellow blogger Trent Jackson then make my way home. Never did I imagine that I would asked to leave the premises by the day's end.

Trent and I made plans to meet at 12:45 to accomodate time for my audition and for him to make his 1pm appointment. That never panned out. I thought my 12pm audition woulda been over quickly at my agent's office but for whatever reason they were behind schedule and I didn't end up going into the booth to record my auditioin until 12:40. Trent and I decided to meet after his appointment around 2ish.

I had time to kill after my audition so I stepped into the bookkeeper's office at the agency to ask him a question. Jay had a really worrisome look on his face as he was bent over his desk chatting on the phone in a loud whisper. I could tell immediately by his body language that it was a personal call. He held up his finger to acknowledge me and mouthed "1 minute." I sat down on the sofa in the office and struck up conversation with Jay's office mate Sam. Usually when I step into their office the 3 of us will shoot the breeze for a good 15 minutes discussing all things entertainment...making fun of people...sharing info about tv shows, films, etc. we've watched lately. Like normal Sam and I start up the usual banter. We're laughing and having fun when all of a sudden Jay spins around in his chair and barks "Guys! I'm going through something here. Can you keep it down?" I was startled to say the least and I didn't know whether to take him seriously or not. Jay had a smile on his face as he said keep it down. Sam however quickly made his exit from the office with his eyebrows raised so I quickly figured this was real and not a drill. I, feeling like a chastised child, sat with my hands folded in my lap while Jay finished his conversation.

Yall know I had to ear hustle since I was put on punishment. Apparently, Jay was dealing with relationship drama on company time. How dare he? He and his gf were arguing about the direction of their relationship. Thankfully, 5-10 minutes later he wrapped up the call. I had just pulled out a sheet of paper and was trying to scribble a note when he spun around in his chair to apologize for his outburst earlier. He went on to explain that he and his gf were trying to sort through some issues that were causing a riff in their relationship and needed addressing immediately. He said he couldn't think when Sam and I were chatting. I told him I understood. Then we both laughed at how ghetto and unprofessional his behavior was.

After I handled my business with Jay I decided to drop by my manager's office for a visit. I promised my manager's assistant that I would bring him a slice of that sponge cake from the Red Ribbon Bake Shop I told y'all about 2 weeks ago. He and my manager loved it. If you live near any of their locations, do yourself a favor and pick up a loaf of sponge cake.

You know, I keep running into people that are linked to former friends of mine. What is that about? While visiting my manager a woman gets my attention and says "you know meelah, right?" "Yea!" I say. We introduce ourselves properly and she proceeds to give me the latest haps on meelah including meelah's move to ATL.

I hate running into people that I know...or should I say used to know. I'm feeling like these 2 former friends are going to resurface sooner or later if I am running into their friends. It's like a sign.

Ok, back to the day's haps. I finally leave my manager's office and make my way to meeting place to hook up with Trent. We agreed to meet at Hallmark at the wonderful Ladera Center in Ladera Heights.

When I entered Hallmark I noticed that Trent was busy with the cashier trying to buy something. I sneak up behind smack him on his arm and shout "Hey, do I know you?" He jumped back like he was ready to fight until he realized it was me. LOL!

We laugh and clown around in Halmark for another 10 minutes while I shop for a few cards. Trent introduces me to his buddy M, I give Trent his STFU shirt and recap my trip back east. Trent meanwhile is intent on complaining about his numb mouth or lip. He had just left the dentist's office. I, of course, had to keep making fun of his lip since it was swollen or something. What kind of smart ass, jokester would I be if I didn't take full advantage of that moment.

We finally left Hallmark after I found the card I was looking and made our way to Jamba Juice where we were treated to the best service ever by Edward - Jamba Juice's fun-loving, spirited cashier....not! This dude so didn't want to be at work yall. Edward looked like he was stuffed into his too tight t-shirt, refused to close his mouth as he looked at us blankly while rocking his jamba juice visor cocked to the side. Pet Peeve: you're at work dude. why are you trying to look hip with your visor cocked to the side? that crap aggravates me.

Ed: Can I help you?
Me: I'll take a Kiwi Berry Burner. Regular size
Ed: One Kiwi Berry Burner. What size?
Me: Regular
I looked at Trent
Ed: We don't have anymore kiwi juice
Me: Umm...ok. I'll take...a..uh..uh..Mango a Go Go
Ed: What size?
I looked at Trent again. He's grinning and chuckling. I look back at Edward
Me: Regular
Ed: Anything else
Trent: I'll take a Peach Pleasure
Ed: What size?
Trent: Small
Ed: Anything else?
Me: You know what? Change my order please. I'll take the Caribbean Passion instead
Ed: What size?
I looked at Trent yet again then back to Edward
Me: REGULAR

I turned and walked away from the register at that point. "This kinda stuff only happens when you're around" I say to Trent. "I told you we needed cameras around the next time hung out." He replied.

We got our order from Jamba Juice and started making our way back to our cars. In the distance I faintly hear my name being called. "Shawn! Shawn!" I stopped and turned my head from side to side "I swear I heard someone calling me." I started walking again when I hear someone calling my name even louder "Shawn! Shawn!" I turned to my right and spot the culprit. Lo and behold its my friend Kim's younger brother Mel. I excuse myself from Trent and M and rushed off to chat with Mel while Trent and M lagged back.

As I'm returning to the area of the parking lot where I left Trent 2 security guards walk up to Trent. I happen to arrive just as I hear.

SG1: Are you fellas waiting for someone?
Speaking to Trent and M. Me not liking the tone of voice the security guard is using barks out with attitude
Me: YEA!
The security guard spins around to look at me
SG1: Oh ok!
I cut my eyes at SG1 and Trent, M and I begin the trek to our vehicles again.

Once we get to our cars we stand around talking, laughing, drinking our Jamba Juices for the next 10 minutes. In mid conversation we hear:

SG2: Fellas! Fellas!
We stop talking and turn to look at security guard 2.
SG2: Fellas, how are y'all doing?
M: Good
SG2: Alright fellas I'mma have to ask y'all to break this up and leave. You've been standing around a long time.
Me: What? What are you talking about?
SG2: You're breaking the rules of the center
Me: What rules? I don't see any rules posted
SG2 looks around dumbfounded for a minute until he spots what he's looking for
SG2: You see that sign over there? (he points to my left) There's the rules. No loitering
Me: Loitering? What are you talking about? We just buying something at Hallmark and Jamba Juice. What are....
SG2: Sir, I seen you come out of Jamba Juice. Don't try to tell me. Y'all been standing here too long. I'm just trying to do my job. I didn't come over here to argue.
Me: Well don't argue
SG2: Sir, I'm just trying to do my job thank you
Me: And you've done it. Thanks!
Trent: Let's just sit in the car they don't bother if you sit in your car
Me: I'm not sitting in the car. This is stupid. Loitering? I just want to know if he's serious?
Trent: Very

I was livid. Can y'all believe that? Only in a black area would they try to enforce some nonsense like that with their rent cops. SG2 didn't know if I had any other business to conduct in that center. I had just finished telling Trent that I might stop in the shoe store to look for some new shoes. You best believe I didn't do that after jackass rent cop asked me to leave the premises.

Right now I am contemplating whether or not I'm going to write a letter to the property management of the Ladera Center. They have obviously lost their minds.

Funny

Someone forward me the link yesterday. I died laughing. Take a peek at this myspace page.

My trip recap will have to wait a few more days. I have a voice-over audition today so I'll be away from the computer. I also have to go b-day gift hunting for Sterling today.

Happy Weekend Everybody!

~Thespian Shawn feeling refreshed after a great night of sleep out

It Was

a long day of flying yesterday. My day started at 3:45am west coast time and didn't end until 12:45am this morning. Needless to say I am exhausted. I'm gonna rest day. Hopefully tomorrow I'll have to the time to share more details from Spiritual's wedding and other random things from my trip.

~Thespian Shawn 'bout to get back in bed out

Back To Reality

I only have 4 hours left in my dream world before I wake up and its back to life; back to reality. My stay was almost extended for an extra few days. El wanted me to ride with her to ATL but we couldn't work out how'd I get back to Cali since JetBlue doesn't fly out of ATL. I was looking forward to that rode trip. I just found out over the weekend that a buddy of mine just moved to ATL from FL. It woulda been cool to hang out with him before I headed back west.

To continue my eating frenzy we are headed to the Waffle House this morning. Mmm!!! I shole don't feel like packing my stuff but duty calls. I'll check when I get back to Cali.

~Thespian Shawn going back to Cali out

PS - forget you Chele I'm not greedy. I just love good food.

For lunch yesterday I had veggie patties and plantains from a local Jamaican restaurant. That was a treat right there. I haven't had anything remote caribbean since my vegetarian conversion.

We capped the night off with dessert from the Cheesecake Bistro. I had the Ultimate Snickers cheesecake. It wasn't good. It was almost worth the trouble of not being able to breathe last night.

I Haven't Done

a thing but eat while here in Richmond. That's not such a good thing when have an addiction to food like I do. I've had to modify my vegetarian diet just a lil while traveling. I'll be returning to Cali more than a few pounds heavier.

Sunday was my friend El's pastors birthday. So the church threw him a surpise party after service. After El swooped me up from the amtrak station we made our way back to her church where I was treated to some good eating. I had potato salad (made with red potatoes), mac and cheese, candied yams, cabbage, banana pudding, strawberry swirl cake.

After a short recess we headed to another birthday gathering where I sampled (2 pieces that is) the most scrumptious birthday cake. The cake was a marble cake with the best icing on top I've ever consumed. And the cake was so moist.

Labor Day as you know we made our way to El's parents' house for a fish fry. My god. Her mama put it down in kitchen yesterday. I feasted on green salad, spinach, cabbage, mac and cheese, cornbread, baked beans. Mmmm!!!! I had 3 plates of food it was so good. For dessert I had peanut butter cookies while everyone else had chocolate chip cookies.

I got a chance to play Spades yesterday BUUUUUUTTTTT El ruined the game. She was so busy trying to entertain everyone that came by to visit that she kept holding up the game; and to complicate matters she wasn't paying attention to board and she cut me on at least 3 occasions. If its one thing I can't stand for my partner to do is not pay attention to the board and to cut me. I start seeing red.

El works with the youth at her church. A few were present yesterday so she asked them to bless us with the vocals. One guy in particular was sick with it. He's supposed to be working on a album. If the album comes to fruition I'm gonna have to tell yall about him. He sings gospel but his vibe is very R&B. I think you urban gospel lovers will appreciate his gift.

The best performance of the evening, however, belonged to Izzy - the 22 month old in attendance. He was encouraged by his 7 year old sister to sing for everybody. Once he got going there was no stopping him. He was singing, stomping, hopping, and banging on his imaginary keyboards. It was quite funny. I started to make a video recording on my cell phone but I was laughing too hard. Little Izzy was quite the character.

At Cracker Barrel today I had pecan pancakes, grits and hash brown casserole. El's mom is supposed to be making us a sweet potato pie tonight...can't wait. Man, I love to eat.

~Thespian Shawn and his growing waist line out

PS - I forgot to share that Friend called me while I was on the train headed to Richmond to see if I missed or made the train. She told me she waited outside of Union Station an additional 30 mins just in case I missed the train. Wasn't that nice of her?

Triflin Is As Triflin Does

I have safely made it to VA no thanks to Friend. Triflin is as triflin does.

After Spiritual's wedding Friend wanted to go to Georgetown to grab a bite to eat at The Cheesecake Factory. However, she decided she wanted to stop by her house briefly to use to the bathroom and change out of the clothes she wore to the wedding. As you can probably guess once we got inside of the house we never left. As a result did Shawn get to eat dinner? Hell no!

I was planning to hop on the 10:55am amtrak to Richmond Sunday morning so I told Friend my train left at 11am. Sunday morning I take my shower and finish repacking all of my belongings and am ready to walk out of the door at 10:18am. I tell Friend that I'm ready to make that move. She says ok. She grabs her daughter - yummy - and starts combing her hair, etc. We don't live out of the house until 10:40am. On the way to Union Station Friend is harassing me about eating breakfast.

Friend: We have time for you to get some breakfast. You sure you don't want anything?
Me: No thanks. I'll grab a banana or something at the train station if I get hungry. Plus, I have dried pineapple rings with me. I plan to eat when I get to Richmond.
Friend: I won't feel right if I know you're on the train all that time hungy. I'ma stop and buy you some fruit.
Me: Really its ok. I need to get to the station to buy my ticket.
Friend: Oh Shawn the trains are always late on Sunday. I'm going to stop and buy you some stuff, ok?
Me: Fine.

I wait patiently in the car while Friend runs into Sizzlin Express to buy me fruit. My patience quickly wore thin when I realized I stood a good chance of missing my train and I really didn't want to have to wait inside the station until the next train was leaving for Richmond. Friend finally makes her way out the restaurant at 10:49am.

Me: I'ma be late.
Friend: No you're not, I only live five minutes away. The trains are always late on Sundays I tell ya.
Me: Friend I still have to buy my ticket and my train leaves in 5 minutes at 10:55
Friend: 10:55? You told me 11. Why did you tell me 11?
Me: If you had gotten me to station when I asked you to leave it wouldn't have mattered. But thanks for making me late doing it your way as usual.
Friend: I promise you'll make it. We're right here and my car's clock is a little fast.

People! After I get to the station I run inside to the ticket kiosk to buy a ticket. When I realize I don't know what I'm doing I looking pleadingly at the woman manning the baggage drop counter and ask her if she can tell if I've missed the train. She graciously sells me a ticket then sends me on my way to my departure gate. I make the mad dash through terminal to Gate H with my garment bag, carry all suitcase, my small shoulder bag and fruit in tow. It wasn't a pretty sight. Mind you all the while this is happening the attendant is announcing "final call" for my train over the intercom. Just as I make it to the gate the attendant is trying to close the doors. "Have I missed the train?" I say. "Run down to the platform they may not have left yet." I hop skip and jump down the escalator to the platform then sprint to the first train personnel I see. "Can I board here?" He looks at my ticket and tells me to follow the group of 4 people in front of me to the last train car." I breathe a sigh of relief, wipe the sweat from my brow and walking rapidly to catch up to the people ahead of me. I board the train, stow my bags and a minute later we're off.

Too close for my comfort people. Friend has really outdone herself this go 'round. Triflin is as triflin does. I will never let her live this down. But one thing is for sure: payback is a bitch.


My friend in Richmond, VA is having bbq at her mom's house today so I get play some Spades and eat like a king. MM MM MM! I can't wait.

Happy Labor Day Everybody! What are your plans?

PS - FoL2 was magnificient last night. I was stiches in the entire hour. This show needs to win an emmy. I knew that certain somebody would be making a return this season. Next week's ep looks like it has the potential to be another classic.

~Thespian Shawn minus the baggage of Friend out

Quickly

I'm about to head to the train station and make my way to Richmond but I thought'd I check in quickly. I had a great time at Spiritual's wedding yesterday. Because I'm short on time I won't be sharing any info in this post. I do think I have one goody that you all will love.

Spiritual and his new bride whom we will refer to as Faith are a perfect match. That will make more sense once I get a chance to give more details.

Kathi sorry to tease you. I'm just trying not to forget key moments.

SP, it does look like you missed the E! thing. According to Mwabi's report I was only shown briefly so you didn't miss much.

Things to remember:
Friend and her bad attitude, her spoiled daughter Yummy, Hubby and Mr. Kitty
2 surprises at Spiritual's reception
People I met at the reception (if you're reading lurker, yes I'm talking about you)

Ok, its shower time so I can get taken to train. My welcome at Friend's house has been worn out. Hehehehe!!!! Later.

~Thespian Shawn getting kicked to the curb out

The Entry That Never Happened

Friday was a rainy, dreary day courtesy of Ernesto. Thanks to jetBLUE I spent the entire day inside waiting for the delivery of my bag.

At 9am I received a call from baggage service letting me know that my luggage had been found and scheduled for dropoff. Now why they want to call and tell me that? I had my itemized list prepared and was ready to stick it to jetBLUE with an appreciated value of the items found in my bag. Shoot!!!

Ok, I have to run. Friend is showing out and won't let me be so that I can write a decent entry. Hopefully I won't forget all the things I want to mention.

Things I have to share later:
The girl at CVS that talked slower than molasses
The delivery guys
Bad hair
Pizza
Spiritual putting me to work
AIM Girl and the sex conversation

~Thesepian Shawn being held captive out

What A Wonderful World

Great news! JetBlue lost one of my two bags. That means I currently have no other shoes than the ones I wore on my flight. I also have no toiletries or socks. The clippers I shave with are lost. My hair care products are gone bye bye. And I guess I'll be without cell phone access too because my chargers were in my lost bag. Oh joy!! How great it is to be back in Merlin.

My lost luggage came on the heels on our late arrival. We left Cali just over an hour late because of an unexplained gate change which threw off the loading of luggage on to the aircraft.

So why did Spiritual and I go into one of the local CVS drug stores in Merlin and there's a woman who broke out into praise and worship at the pharmacy counter? thrice? We were on the floor dying. By the way, ms praise & worship couldn't sing to save her life.

Something tells me this trip is gonna be full of unforgettable moments. Stay tuned!!!!

Speaking of moments. Its funny how memories you've spent days, months and years trying to suppress can all come rushing back to the forefront of your mind in an instant. I really thought I had forgetten. But as I rode along the highway on the passenger side every famaliar site reminded me of that moment in time when my trust in relationships was destroyed. I'll never be the same because of that moment.

How do you forget what doesn't want to be forgetten?

~Thespian Shawn out

PS - I was told that E! Interview airs this weekend.

Chele - I loved your approval rating question. I think I'd have a pretty low ratings with fans. hehehe! (Y'all know how standoffish I am with strangers. )
Fans (met on the streets) - 4.5 Friends - 8 Family - 7

Quiet

being the procrastinator that I am I have waited until the last minute to prepare for my MD/DC/VA trip. I'll be scrambling around all day prepping. I hope to catch up on blog reading later today.

There were 3 or 4 personal fires that broke out yesterday. All but one fire has been put out. Phew! I was majorly stressing yesterday. I was just so irritated with the crap that was happening.

My stress level drove me to seek out a comfort food to help me make it through the hard times :-). People you ain't ready. I found the best new snack. Its a sponge cake I bought at the Red Ribbon Bake Shop.

Ok, I'm off to find flaming hot fritos for Friend. I promised her I'd bring a few goodies from the west that she can't find out her way.

~Thespian Shawn out

Oh

today has been a calamity of errors. Nothing has gone well. I'm totally frustrated.

Go Look and See

You have to go watch the trailer for my boy Shavar's new film here.

I Was Sposed To

do an audio blog this weekend. Y'all know how I 'be' slacking on the audio. I'm just too lazy sometimes to pull out the microphone. It was a brief encounter I wanted to share so I'll just type it out.

So last week I'm heading into Albertson's Market when a homeless guy stops me asking for change. The homeless guy is white; 37-42; grungy looking; chubby; curly, dirty blond hair; a gummy smile with little, yellow teeth; and he is sitting indian style next to his greasy dog.

HG: Eh, bro can you spare some change? (he calls out to me)

I stop in the doorway. I turn to look at him. I pat my pockets for change then I pull out my wallet to retrieve a dollar. I walk over to where he's seated.

Me: here you go.

He takes the dollar bill from me

HG: thanks.

He smiles really big displaying more gums than teeth

Me: No problem

I turn to walk into the market

HG: Football season starts in a few weeks right?

I turn to look at him again

Me: Uhh...yea. Actually it does

HG: Who you got?

Me: You know, I haven't really decided yet.

I turn away from him again to enter the store. HG calls out to me

HG: NIGGA please!!!!!!

I stop in my tracks immediately and turn to look at him with one of the scrutinizing "no you didn't" stares. But HG is still smiling that gummy smile of his. I think for a second to say something about his apparent lack of manners then I think to myself "that's the least of his worries," so I shake my head holding back a small smile and walk in to the market.

It Is Good

funny email I received.

In the beginning, God created the Heavens and the Earth and populated the Earth with broccoli, cauliflower and spinach, green and yellow and red vegetables of all kinds, so Man and Woman would live long and healthy lives.



Then using God's great gifts, Satan created Ben and Jerry's Ice Cream and Krispy Creme Donuts. And Satan said, "You want chocolate with that?" And Man said, "Yes!" and Woman said, "and as long as you're at it, add some sprinkles." And they gained 10 pounds. And Satan smiled.



And God created the healthful yogurt that Woman might keep the figure that Man found so fair. And Satan brought forth white flour from the wheat, and sugar from the cane and combined them. And Woman went from size 6 to size 14.



So God said, "Try my fresh green salad." And Satan presented Thousand-Island Dressing, buttery croutons and garlic toast on the side. And Man and Woman unfastened their belts following the repast.



God then said, "I have sent you heart healthy vegetables and olive oil in which to cook them." And Satan brought forth deep fried fish and chicken-fried steak so big it needed its own platter. And Man gained more weight and his cholesterol went through the roof.



God then created a light, fluffy white cake, named it "Angel Food Cake," and said, "It is good." Satan then created chocolate cake and named it "Devil's Food."



God then brought forth running shoes so that His children might lose those extra pounds. And Satan gave cable TV with a remote control so Man would not have to toil changing the channels. And Man and Woman laughed and cried before the flickering blue light and gained pounds.



Then God brought forth the potato, naturally low in fat and brimming with nutrition. And Satan peeled off the healthful skin and sliced the starchy center into chips and deep-fried them. And Man gained pounds.



God then gave lean beef so that Man might consume fewer calories and still satisfy his appetite. And Satan created McDonald's and its 99-cent double cheeseburger. Then said, "You want fries with that?" And Man replied, "Yes! And super size them!" And Satan said, "It is good." And Man went into cardiac arrest.



God sighed and created quadruple bypass surgery.



Then Satan created HMOs.

Please Watch

I'm reposting this link Mwabi sent to me. I suspect many didn't take a look. It's a brief editorial on black teen girls the issue of color bias in the black. Its a good view. http://www.uthtv.com/umedia/show/2052/

SP and other PR fans Mwabi has posted her PR recap at her new blog. Stop by.


When I have time tomorrow I must do an audio post and share with you what the homeless man said to me outside of the grocery yesterday. Hilarious!

I'm off to a session. I'll see ya tomorrow.

Still Missed

Radio.Blog dedicated to Aaliyah

Big Ups!

1. I need to publicly thank Chele, SP and Princess Dominique for buying tanks. It means a lot to me that you guys are supporting my efforts to get this shirt idea off the ground. I have to give an extra special thanks to Mwabi for being my sounding board everyday. Thanks for listening to my fears, and concerns and offering up sound, reasonable solutions.

2. I was driving down a residential street this morning and saw a charming scene. Six or 7 birds were playing in the water streaming from lawn sprinklers. Two birds were flapping their wings in the water as they hovered in the stream of water while the other 4 or 5 birds hopped around in the water puddle. I love the sight of it for someone reason. I wish I had a camera to capture the moment.

3. I saw footage from my animated show this week and everything is really coming together nicely. I think it looks amazing. I can't wait for you guys to see the show. I swear I fall in love with this project every time something new develops.

4. My cousin 2M had me dying the other day. Why did this fool tell he watches the jiggle factor of ass in the mirror while he runs on the treadmill at the gym? "I don't like nobody looking at my butt. It's big. I have to make sure it doesn't get out of control."

5. Read this book profile page from B.arn.es & Nob.les. It's pure comedy. Make note of the customer review.

No Fear English Grammar (SparkNotes No Fear Skills)

From Our Editors

A step-by-step guide to English grammar presented in a fresh, lively tutorial for students who can't stand studying grammar. Covers grammar basics such as nouns, adjectives, verbs, voice and mood, adverbs, pronouns, conjunctions and prepositions, and punctuation, together with insight into writing style and organization and common grammar mistakes.

Customer Reviews

A reviewer, A Harvard undergraduate student, 11/14/2005

This book saved me!

Before I read this book. I talked so bad. It teaches you all the thing you want to know to talk good. I always had trouble in english class all my life like basically I forgot about the things. Like commas, but now whenever Forget I something, I looks it in the book. i recomend it.

6. Mwabi sent this link to me. Its a must see people. http://www.uthtv.com/umedia/show/2052/

7. Fun pics

Feels Overdue

but I can finally say you can buy your STFU shirt at

Click here to enter store



Ladies colors


Ladies Red tank


Men's Navy tee

---

I leave you this fun clip today also

I Can't Hear You

Why is that the phone never rings when you're engaged in one those irritating phone conversations where you find yourself close to unleashing a verbal assualt on the person on the other end of the call? Yesterday I found myself involved in a very peculiar chat with a caller (someone from the recent past) that was trying desperately to interpret my every statement. That in itself isn't so bad. I myself analyze people by their words, thoughts and deeds. However, I never make my analysis the focal point of conversation. In fact, if I'm sizing you up, you'll never know.

If it's one (of many) things that bothers me, its for anyone to think they can understand the complexity of me in ONE conversation. Are you serious? Do you really think I'm that simple? Not a chance. There may be a recurrent theme in the way I think but trust and believe that small window I've allowed you access will never reveal the whole story.

Personally, I think it's quite silly to assume that you categorize me or that you think you're doing me a favor by sharing with me what category of people I fit into. Ha! What a lark. As if I don't know myself. I'm silly with one, serious as a heart attack with another, a confidant to some and distant to a few. But I don't see how you would you know that? The very thing you perceive me to be is nothing more than a facade, a plastic shell that is easily discardable.

You can keep your personal insights and observations for someone who cares to hear what you have to say. I don't respect your opinion. Your observations are in fact opinion because you've never seen me - it's never been shown to you.

Always A Riot

Gosh I love Friend. I just never know when she's gonna hit me with a new relationship funny. This week's highlight:

Friend: my Redskins season tickets came finally.
Me: cool
Friend: i'm so glad i didn't put them in my name now...
Me: wait a minute...what? why would you not want the tickets in your name?
Friend: you know how people act when they're getting a divorce - real petty. I don't have to worry about any of that foolishness.
Me: FRIEND (I call out and laugh) you never cease to make me laugh
Friend: Shawn its true. He ain't getting my tickets.

---

I have an audition for a video game today. Looks like fun. Then I have to work on the webstore and the t-shirt logo. I might have been rescued from shopping cart hell. I'll know for sure later after consulting with a web designer. Crosss your fingers people.

I'll be around to visit tomorrow.

Memories. Funnies. Bad Videos.

Let's start with Memories. This following goody was brought to my attention by Mark aka MC2. Back in the day when The Box ruled, this video captured my heart. Feels just like yesterday.


I shole do miss y'all


Funnies. FoL2 highlights:


pee dance



she's still making a lot of sense



be mindful of what you say



faulty wire...somebody tell her to sit down and shut up



Flavism of the week



Bad videos.
Bianca's at it again making less than stellar music videos. Click on the link to watch the new vid. Link sent to me by Mwabi.

Is this a slow fall from grace for Bianca? It's almost hard to watch.

Heavens To Mercy

• if that ain't a dumb man then I just don't know. Yes, yo boy Flav is a DA. Sometimes its too much.
  

Flavism of the week(clip soon to come): When Flav said he was taking his dates on a Gonzilias ride.

Yea, Gonzilias = Gondolas are one in the same thing for that DA.

I was a day behind watching FoL2. But thanks to modern technology I was able to download the ep and get my fix for the week. Ep 2 was nowhere near as classic as ep 1 but still I found myself highly entertained. In fact, I took note of the fact that I had a big ass kool-aid grin on my face like a cheshire cat after my viewing.

Aren't we all happy that Sp.unkeey got sent home? The "pee dance" was too fake and her confessionals made me gag.

If somebody don't tell Wir.e she can't sing I will. If I do it it won't be pretty. Did you see the look on her face when she was singing "come to number 12?" She thought she was getting down right? NOT! Stop chick. Sit down somewhere.

Flav had his KFC bucket of chicken in hand as he chose his dates. You think we'll see him hawking KFC soon? Perhaps with the Flavettes? LOL! That would be fun. Please explain why he felt comfortable smacking while nawing on them chicken bones as he was choosing the dates? Couldn't he wait ten minutes and do that off camera?

Lik.e D.at was way too bent out of shape over Buckwi.ld's "blacccent," as my buddy Francine puts it. Let it go already.

Things look to get a little explosive up next week between So.methin and Bu.ckee.y - hands in each other's faces; threats of physical violence. Oh, I can't wait 'cause you know the source of the problem is going to be something so ridiculously petty.

• my eating habits are out of control. Friday I ate an entire large veggie pizza. It was crazy. I was full after 4 slices but my compulsion kept bringing me back to pizza carton for more. It did take me 5 hours to eat the entire thing but still that's just plain gluttonous. Mind you, I had eaten 3 other veggie pizzas in a week and half span prior to Friday. Shh!!! Don't tell nobody but I think I'ma order another one today.

• i'm eating 2 to 3 pints of soy ice cream a week. In 10 minutes flat one pint is gone. Soy Delicious Purely Decadent Mocha Almond Fudge is so dang good its ridiculous. I don't even like coffee flavors but surprisingly I like that flavor.

• I've found a new grocery and in turn a few new juices to rave about. What'chu know about Dole's Mango Lime Fiesta? Or, Dole's Orange Strawberry Banana? This is the best juice I've ever had.

• Can someone rescue me from the shopping cart hell I'm in right now? I desperately want to get this webstore running smoothly but I keep running into snags. I mean, is that too much to ask for? I had a web designer quote me a price of $300 dollars to install a shopping cart/ webstore for me. I don't know about you but that seems a bit much for the simplicity of the design I need. I just need a frickin store that can track inventory of one shirt in different sizes. Sheesh! Yesterday I was about ready to give up on the idea altogether. I was gon' through them shirts in the trash. Thankfully, I got some sleep and my stress levels have returned to normal and feel determine to 'get-her-done' within the week. I will find a solution and stop pussyfooting around. This shopping cart crap is preventing me from working on my book.

• I asked this guy who groomed his locs because I thought they looked really nice. When he replied "I do them myself" I said "hey, maybe you can do mine for me." He said "no problem. I charge $125." I said, "125 is pretty expensive." He replied "But aren't you worth it?" Is he nuts? That is way too much to be paying for that service. No thank you clown. I can groom my locs myself quite nicely. Black merchants always want to overcharge for their services then to try and make you feel like you're being cheap when you question their pricing.
  

The Manager

at Ralphs just called to tell me that he had a talk with Joanne about the incident and he wanted to let me know it had been taken care of. Wow! I didn't expect a call from him.

Social Segregation

Preference? Bad habit? Fear? Comfort? Why don't I have any friends that don't look like me? For the last few weeks I've wrestled with the fact that I've become awfully small minded in my older age. I've purposefully isolated myself socially from several different social groups. The sect of people that I call "friend" are all black, christian, and have some college education. Why is that?

A few weeks ago a nameless person said to me "she doesn't like straight people." That statement kept ringing in my head over and over again. "She doesn't like straight people." Finally, I asked "why not?" I was thinking to myself "what does that have to do with anything? The person in question answered "its not that I don't like straight people its just that I feel uncomfortable around them."

Is that what's been going with me of late? Growing up I had friends of different ethnic backgrounds, religious beliefs, etc. and those differences never, ever once bothered me nor them. In fact, I doubt that I ever noticed the differences between us.

What happened to change me? When I did I get uncomfortable with diversity? Like Adam and Eve did I partake of a forbidded fruit that suddenly revealed my nakedness? Did my sudden awareness cause me scrutinize my choices more disapprovingly? But why?

As I take stock of my current state of being and consider my upbringing, I think its pretty shameful that I have not one hispanic, asian or white friend; not one friend of a different religious persuasion; not one openly gay friend that I hang out with.

Somewhere along the way in life I stopped seeing the heart of people and stopped using that as a true litmus test for friendship. Appearances and facades have become the norm for me. That makes me sad. I was not raised that way.

I've always been one to question my own motives for decisions and choices that I have made and continue to make. I for one know that stepping outside of my homogenous social group will be extremely uncomfortable; and I don't like discomfort. However, I think its time.

I know part of my discomfort is the fear of being put in a position to explain or defend my culture/my people to those of other races. I don't want to hear stuff like "you're not like the rest of them" and then have to combat that form of ignorance. That sorta of stuff really bothered me in the past. But why? In the past I would get uptight get an attitude and remove myself from the situation quickly instead of choosing a more effective way to address my concern. We all say ignorant stuff at times before we come into the knowledge, right? Should I hold one less than informed opinion against someone for a lifetime? I don't believe I should.

I doubt I can set a goal of "making one asian friend by the end of the year." It doesn't work like that I know. I can, however, be open to the possibility of befriending someone outside my race. I know it sounds silly but I'll to have remind myself to not be so dismissive of friendly people from other walks of life. I run across friendly people all the time but I only return "sincere" friendliness to those that I discern that are like me in taste, race, religion or other attributes.

I'm open and ready for a change. We'll see what happens.