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)
Saturday, September 30
Friday, September 29
Worth Watching?
Did anyone watch Ugly Betty last night? Thoughts? I thought the 1st 20 minutes were hilarious. Good casting choices.
Wednesday, September 27
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.
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.
Monday, September 25
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
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
Thursday, September 21
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!
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!
Wednesday, September 20
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.
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.
Tuesday, September 19
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
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
Friday, September 15
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
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
Thursday, September 14
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
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
Wednesday, September 13
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.
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
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
Tuesday, September 12
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
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
Monday, September 11
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
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
Sunday, September 10
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.
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.
Friday, September 8
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
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
Thursday, September 7
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
~Thespian Shawn 'bout to get back in bed out
Wednesday, September 6
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.
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.
Tuesday, September 5
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?
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?
Monday, September 4
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
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
Sunday, September 3
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
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
Saturday, September 2
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
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
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